Gifts That Keep on Giving: Best Subscription Boxes for Travelers

These 14 easy-to-gift subscription boxes are perfect for travelers.

Apollo Box Surprise Box

Look forward to the mail every month, with Apollo Box’s Surprise Box. Simply fill out a short survey about your likes/dislikes, and Apollo Box will deliver a fun box full of unexpected treats to your doorstep. Sign up for a monthly or quarterly shipment, and get ready to be surprised!

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Vegancuts Beauty Box

Discover new, cruelty-free skincare and makeup brands through Vegancuts’ Beauty Box. This monthly delivery sends you 100 percent vegan and Leaping Bunny certified brands (which means absolutely no animal testing) to try. Each box includes a minimum of $60 in skincare, makeup, and other fun beauty items.

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Horti

Know someone who just can’t keep a plant alive? Help them grow a green thumb with Horti’s subscription box. Horti’s boxes start at just $28 a month, and will send you a hard-to-kill plant, along with a pot, and simple instructions for planting and caring for your new greenery. You can even choose to receive pet-friendly plants, for households with curious cats or dogs.

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Simplicity Teas

Help the globetrotter in your life unwind after their last trip with a soothing cup of tea. Simplicity Teas boxes come in two sizes, Mini and Deluxe, with each featuring a selection of loose leaf teas, a reusable tea infuser, and brewing and tasting instructions. Each package, depending on the size, is good for roughly 20 to 40 cups of tea per month!

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Spice Madam

Gift your favorite foodies the Spice Madam subscription box so that they can bring culinary travel home to their own kitchens. They’ll receive a curated box of global spices, recipes, a downloadable soundtrack to cook to, and fun facts every month.

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Scentbird

For a taste of travel-sized luxury, you can’t go wrong with gifting a Scentbird subscription. Each month, Scentbird sends subscribers a generously-sized tester bottle of a perfume or cologne of their choice. Users can start with a quiz to narrow down their fragrance preference and see top suggestions, or browse the entire catalogue. Best of all, the tester bottles are TSA-compliant, so they can throw them in their carry-on.

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Universal Yums

Not every foodie is a master chef. For the subset of snackers on your list, Universal Yums is the perfect way to get international treats delivered to their door. Each box contains several snacks from the featured country of the month along with a booklet of trivia and games. Spring for the Super Yum Box for an additional drink, recipes, and more. Prices range from $17 to $45 per box, so there’s an option for every budget.

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VINEBOX

Send the vino-lover on your list a package from VINEBOX. Available in one, three, and six month subscriptions, each package includes six 100ml glass vials of wine, sourced from small vineyards across the world. Recipients can level up their wine knowledge with sommelier-led tasting videos and pairing recommendations.

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That Road Trip Mom’s Escape and Explore Box

Designed “for RVing and road tripping families”, the Escape and Explore Box from That Road Tripping Mom is a subscription that the entire family can enjoy. Each box contains items based on the monthly theme such as “Getaway Game Night” and “Autumn Adventures.” Subscribers will receive anything from snacks to keep them energized as they hit the road to gear and accessories to make their outdoor adventures safer, cleaner, and more comfortable.

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FabFitFun

For the trendy traveler on your list, this is one of the best subscription boxes to give. Delivered quarterly, each FabFitFun box contains beauty, wellness, and “just for fun” products. Each box (priced at $54.99) contains up to $300 worth of full-sized products. You can purchase a gift card for any traveler to put towards their membership.

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The Wordy Traveler

If you have a bookworm on your list, then consider this subscription box. Choose between options like The Backpacker, the Full Suitcase, and the Overflowing Suitcase, each featuring a different number of books and other small items such as coffees, teas, fine art prints, and more. Subscribers can choose to receive fiction books, non-fiction books, or a mix of both.

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Little Passports World Edition

Give the gift of travel to any kid on your list. The Little Passports World Edition subscription box starts with the “Explorer Kit” and continues monthly, every 6 months, or every 12 months. Items include a wall-sized map, activity sheet, passport, souvenirs, and access to online games. It’s recommended for ages six to 10.

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Explore Local Box

Travel the U.S. without leaving your house. The Explore Local Box provides the perfect inspiration to those who are always itching to go on their next trip. Subscription boxes are sent monthly and include locally made and sourced food and specialty items from that month’s city. The box also includes a fact sheet about the city and the products in the box.

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BloomsyBox

Make being at home a little brighter for your favorite traveler, with a subscription from BloomsyBox. This floral subscription company will send a beautiful bouquet to a loved one’s doorstep on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis. Choose from the original box, Bloomsy Deluxe, or Bloomsy Premium.

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For more of the best subscription boxes for travelers, check out Cratejoy.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

The post 14 Best Subscription Boxes to Gift Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Carl Friedrick Palissy Weekend Bag

Crafted to be the most dapper and sophisticated of the bunch, this handcrafted leather bag is one of the sleekest men’s weekend bags on the market. Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge, but its classic design makes it particularly versatile; it’s equally at home on a business trip and on a casual weekend away. The bag can fit several outfits plus shoes, so it works as a weekend bag or personal item on a plane.

Lands’ End Weekender Duffel

With a max capacity of 200 lbs, this bag offers great organization even when packed to the brim. A zippered side pocket keeps important items easily accessible while multiple internal pockets keep things neatly sorted. Carry this bag two ways, by the 9″ handles or the detachable shoulder strap.

Etsy Personalized Weekend Bag

A quality, personalized weekend bag that ships fast and won’t break the bank sounds like it would never exist, right? Wrong—GiftsForGuysCo on Etsy offers exactly that. Featuring numerous stylish options and thousands of top reviews, this bag is a solid self-buy or gift for a good buddy.

London Fog Brentwood III Drop Bottom Duffel

For something clean and classic, the London Fog Brentwood has you covered. While it may have an old-school look, its design is anything but, with a padded laptop sleeve, adjustable shoulder strap, and an extra wide opening. At just three pounds, this bag will elevate your look without weighing down your luggage.

The North Face Base Camp Large Duffle Bag

Anyone that’s experienced a brutal winter in the Northeast knows that The North Face builds some quality items, meant for wear and tear—and this duffel is no exception. No matter the weather conditions, this bag will get you through it with a water-resistant and sturdy PVC-coated exterior.

Herschel Supply Co. Bennett Duffle

From backpacks to totes to messenger bags, Herschel Supply Company has been getting people’s stuff where it needs to be since 2009. Its Bennett Duffle in light grey merges the brand’s grade-A design (complete with a shoe compartment and removable shoulder strap) with its recognizable look and logo, creating a classic weekend duffel bag for men.

S-Zone Canvas Weekend Bag

The perfect weekend bag comes oversized in six classic colors from S-Zone. Because this has the most spacious design of the bunch, you can literally carry anything you need for a night or even a week if you have to.

Samsonite Foldaway Duffel

A spacious bag is a lifesaver during a weekend away, but between-trip storage can be a nightmare. The Foldaway Duffel from Samonsite is made to be as convenient at home as it is on the road, collapsing down into a self-contained carrying pouch when not in use. At full size, this bag features a zippered external pocket, extra wide opening, and adjustable shoulder strap.

Peak Design 35L Travel Duffel

Considering the world feels like it’s ending these days, you may think it’s a bit late to get in on the sustainability game—but I can assure you, it isn’t. Peak Design’s 100 percent recycled, waterproof travel duffel is a timeless tote that’ll make you feel as good as you look carrying it. Whether you’re an all-black kind of guy or willing to spice it up with a bit of sage, this bag looks great no matter the choice.

Filson’s Medium Duffle Bag

An abrasion-resistant exterior is key when it comes to getting your wardrobe to and fro in one piece—especially when it looks this good. Filson’s well-designed Medium Duffle has top-carry handles, an adjustable shoulder strap, leather trimmings, and rust-proof zipper.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Tyler Schoeber is a production specialist, photographer, occasional writer, travel style guru, and general Renaissance man. Follow his adventures on Instagram at @tylerschoeber.

The post The 10 Best Weekend Travel Bags for Men appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Bookmark this page—we’ll be updating it frequently with can’t-miss Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023 sales as they’re announced.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Travel Gear

Travel Gear Deals

Amazon: Amazon is having a mega-sale spanning from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, with great deals on travel gear including luggage, clothing, and electronics. 

Korres: Get 40 percent off sitewide and 50 percent off select items during this skincare sale (which includes travel-size).

Nordstrom: Nordstrom is heavily discounting traveler-favorite brands both in-store and online Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

Target: You don’t have to wait for Black Friday to save on travel gear from Target! The retailer is offering a “holiday price match guarantee” and will offer a refund for the difference in price if something you purchased sells for a lower price. The match is valid on items purchased between October 22 and December 24.

Unbound Merino: Save up to 40 percent off sitewide during Unbound Merino’s only sale of the year, which runs November 28-29.

Travel Deals

Vacation Deals

Brendan Vacations:  Get up to $250 off per person for Private Chauffeur and Lux Self Drive trips or $200 off per person on Self-Drive and Locally Hosted Rail experiences in Ireland and Scotland.

Contiki: Get up to 25 percent off more than 60 trips across six continents. The sale runs from November 17 through November 30.

Costsaver: Save up to 15 percent off trips worldwide from November 16-December 5.

EF Go Ahead Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours’ Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale runs for more than a month, from October 24 through November 30. Various destinations will be discounted each week. On November 11, in honor of Singles’ Day, there will be free private rooms on limited departure dates and all solo tours will be on sale. EF will offer $100 off all tours on Black Friday, plus surprise lightning deals and extras including free excursions.

Insight Vacations: Get up to 15 percent off select 2024 itineraries when booked between November 16 and December 5.

Trafalgar: Save up to 15 percent on select 2024 departures during the sale that will run November 16 through December 5.

Cruise Deals

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises will offer 75 percent off a second guest plus up to $300 in onboard credits for nearly all itineraries through April 30, 2026. This sale will run November 10 – December 5.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: During Uniworld’s 12 Days of Christmas Event, a new deal will be offered every day starting on Black Friday.

The post The Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Travel Deals appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Ski Trip Packing List: Clothes and Shoes

Ski jacket: Columbia’s Whirlibird IV Interchange Hooded 3-in-1 Jacket is a great option. It features underarm vents to keep you cool while you’re bundled up and a ski pass pocket for easy access on the mountain. Helly Hansen’s Alpha 3.0 Jacket is a great option for men, as it’s lightweight and breathable but still warm enough for below-freezing days.

Base layers: Unbound Merino’s base layers provide a warm foundation with lightweight, odor-preventing Merino wool. Their moisture-wicking designs mean you won’t freeze in wet layers when you cool off if you work up a sweat.

Ski socks: The Falke SK2 Thermal Ski Socks feature thin cushioning on the shin, heel, toes, and ankles to save you from ski boot agony.

Apres-ski outfits: After a long day on the slopes, you’ll want comfort more than style. Pack cozy things like leggings or sweatpants if you’re just lounging around your vacation rental, or jeans and a fleece if you’re checking out the local nightlife.

Hat: Keep your head warm with a cozy hat when you’re not wearing your helmet. Turtlefur’s Leira Lambswool Pom Hat has super warm wool on the outside and a high-pile, plush fleece on the inside.

Mid-layer: A mid-layer, like a thin jacket or fleece that fits under your ski jacket, is essential for unpredictable weather. Patagonia’s Nano Puff is thin enough to fit under most jackets without restricting your movement.

Shells: If you’re skiing on a warm day or doing trekking or touring, waterproof shells that can be custom-layered are a better bet than a full jacket or insulated pants. Fjallraven’s Keb Eco-Shell Jacket and Bergtagen Eco-Shell Trousers are made from a lightweight, recycled material that blocks out all moisture without overheating you or making annoying “swishing” sounds like most rain layers. Both have the important RECCO reflector built-in, which could save your life in an avalanche.

Glove liners: Wear glove liners under mittens to give your hands extra warmth. If you get touch-screen compatible ones like these from Columbia, you can use your smartphone without exposing your skin to the elements.

Ski pants: Obermeyer’s Bond Pant are my favorite women’s ski pants, as they are super stretchy and easy to move in. The Saloman Brilliant Snow Pant is a solid choice for men, with a built-in insulating layer.

Slippers: After a day spent in ski boots, you’ll be glad to slip into some warm slippers at your hotel or rental.

Swimsuits and flip-flops: You’ll want these if your lodging has a hot tub or heated pool. Click here for our round-up of active swimsuits.

Helmet liner: Make your helmet even warmer by wearing a liner underneath. This one by Turtle Fur is thin enough that it won’t interfere with your helmet’s fit, and can be worn alone as a hat once you take off your helmet.

Gloves: Tired of cold hands on the slopes? Invest in Hestra’s Power Heater Gauntlet Gloves. These waterproof gloves have heated panels built into the fingertips for extra warmth on those below-freezing days.

Neck gaiter: A neck warmer is a must for skiing, keeping that gap between your jacket and face from freezing—plus it can be pulled over the lower half of your face for those cold lift rides. I love Turtlefur’s Chelonia, which is made from two layers of water-resistant fleece.

Casual boots: Don’t clomp around the lodge in your ski boots. Pack a change of footwear in your bag for after the last chair and you’ll be grateful. The Shellista IV tall boots from The North Face are my favorite as they reach the knee (for extra warmth).

Ski Trip Packing List: Skis and Gear

Skis: Romp Zorro Skis are a versatile pick, designed to handle any condition on any mountain. These skis are handmade in Crested Butte, Colorado, and can be customized to show off your personal sense of style.

Ski Poles: Leki’s Bold Lite S Lightweight Ski Poles are made from strong aluminum weighing 8.57 ounces per pole.

Helmet: A helmet is the most important piece of gear to pack for your ski trip. Look for one with MIPS technology (which protects your head from rotational forces in a crash), like this one from Smith Optics.

Ski Trip Packing List: Toiletries

Of course, you’ll want to pack the essential toiletries that you always bring when traveling (toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.)

For a ski-specific trip, you’ll definitely want to add:

Leave-in serum for hair: If you have long hair, you know that no matter how you wear it during skiing, it becomes a giant tangle during the day. Working in a leave-in serum like this one from Pureology can help prevent that.

Hairdryer: Odds are, wherever you’re staying will have one. But if not, a travel hairdryer is worth bringing, as going out to dinner with wet hair in the cold is pretty miserable. T3’s Featherweight Compact Folding Dryer is as lightweight as the name implies, plus it folds up for easy packing.

Hair elastics: So you don’t have to deal with your hair flying in your face as you speed downhill.

Pain relievers: Aspirin and ibuprofen are both recommended to help with sore muscles.

Lotion: Cold air dries out your skin faster, so make sure to pack an ultra-moisturizing lotion.

Ski Trip Packing List: Gear

Boot bag: I’ve had High Sierra’s Deluxe Trapezoid Boot Bag for years, and it’s held up perfectly. It can hold enough for a weekend trip, plus has two zippered side compartments with drainage that keep your snowy boots separate from the rest of your gear.

Ski bag: A ski bag makes it so much easier to carry your poles and skis (especially if you’re flying). This one from Athletico is a stellar option that won’t break the bank.

Skis: Nordica Enforcer 94 Unlimited skis are lightweight and efficient.

Ski poles: Rossignol Tactic Ski Poles have a comfortable grip designed for all-day skiing and a lightweight aluminum shaft.

Ski boots: Check out this Ski Boot Buying Guide from REI to find your perfect fit.

Helmet: For the safest option, look for a helmet with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System), which will better protect your brain if you fall at an angle. Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet is one of the most lightweight and comfortable helmets featuring this technology.

Goggles: Zeal Optics’ Fargo goggles are sized for smaller faces. I like these because they have Optimum Lenses that help with visibility by cutting down on snow glare. They also offer 100 percent UV protection and are virtually fog-proof.

Ski Trip Packing List: For Your Jacket Pocket

Tissues: When your nose is running on the lift, you’ll be glad to have a pack in your pocket, and these ones are much softer than ski lodge napkins.

Skin Protecting Balm: Skiing means subjecting the sensitive skin on your face to windburn and sunburn. Avoid both with this perfectly-sized tin of Dermatone Skin Protector, which offers sweat and water resistant SPF 23 protection and prevents irritation from the wind. It also works as a lip balm!

Snacks: Granola bars or anything else pocket-sized can save you from both an energy crash and from spending all your money at the waffle cabin.

Credit card: In case you need to buy anything.

Cash: Some spots on the mountain might be cash only.

ID: No matter how old you look, you might get carded at the bar—or need it in case of an emergency.

Extra hair elastic: In case you lose the one in your hair.

Hand sanitizer: You don’t want a winter cold or flu to slow down your ski season, so use this before eating those aforementioned snacks (or a meal).

Ski Trip Packing List: Miscellaneous

Cell phone with shatterproof/waterproof case: If you yard-sale, your pride might be damaged, but at least your phone won’t be.

Backup portable charger: Phones die quicker in the cold weather, so a backup portable charger is a must.

Insulated bottle for hot drinks/food: If you don’t want to pay resort prices for a hot coffee or meal, pack an insulated bottle or thermos and stash your own in your ski bag. The Hydro Flask keeps food hot for up to three hours, while this bottle keeps drinks hot for up to six or cold for 24 if you’re bringing water.

Hand and foot warmers: HotHands have kept me out on the mountain longer on those ultra-cold days. (The toe warmers are the best.)

GoPro and harness or helmet clip: In case you want to film your adventures.

Download and Edit Your Own Ski Trip Packing List:

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

We’ve done the research (and the product testing) and found the best heated gloves, mittens, and socks for cold-weather travel.

What to Look for When Buying Heated Gloves, Mittens and Socks

Here’s what you need to know to buy the right heated gear that will actually work:

Fit: Size up in your gloves and mittens. Your hands need circulation to stay warm, and tight gloves or mittens will restrict that blood flow. However, you don’t want to go too big. The right gloves should fit snugly without being super tight. According to Swedish glove company Hestra, “The right size is important to ensure the heated panels work properly. Too big a glove will mean a greater distance between the heated panels and the fingertips, reducing the heating capacity.”

Material: For gloves and mittens, look for heated options that will be warm even when the rechargeable heat is turned off—which means wind- and water-proof styles.

Battery Type: Some heated gloves, mittens, and socks run on non-rechargeable batteries, but we don’t recommend those. Cold weather causes batteries to drain quickly, and you’ll burn through a lot of batteries. Instead, look for gear that uses rechargeable batteries, preferably ones with extra battery packs that you can swap out as needed.

Battery Life: Battery life varies widely depending on the product you choose. Make sure to check the estimated amount of time the gear you choose can run on a single battery charge. You don’t want to get used to having heated hands and feet and then lose power halfway through the day, as you’ll feel extra cold without the heating element. 

The Best Heated Gloves, Mittens, and Socks

Hestra Power Heater Gauntlet

Don’t let the temperature determine whether or not you make it until last chair—Hestra’s Power Heater Gauntlet Gloves were designed to help skiers’ hands stay warm all day. Made with a waterproof CZone membrane to protect against wet snow, and a moisture-wicking fleece liner, these gloves will keep hands toasty even if you don’t turn on the heating element. On extra frigid days, however, you’ll be glad to have the additional help from the heated panels built into the fingertips.

An easily accessible control on the back of the gloves allows you to change the heat to three different settings without removing the gloves. The rechargeable battery can last up to 10 hours on the low setting, up to 5 hours on medium, and up to 2 hours on high.

Fieldsheer’s Mobile Warming Technology Premium 2.0 Merino Heated Socks

Keep your toes toasty all day long in Fieldsheer’s Mobile Warming Technology Premium 2.0 Merino Heated Socks. Wear these with any shoe or boot (including ski boots), as the rechargeable battery packs sit in a dedicated pocket at the top of each of the calf-length socks. 

Heating elements under the front of the foot provide warmth exactly where you need it, and targeted cushioning in the arch and heel add extra comfort and support. The socks are Bluetooth-enabled, so you can control the temperature of these socks from your phone, making it easy to turn the heat up or down as needed (and see exactly how much battery power you have left).

There are four heat settings available, and if you leave the socks on the lowest setting, you can get around 11 hours of power before needing to recharge them. 

Although the merino wool socks are odor-resistant, they can be machine-washed after removing the battery pack.

ActionHeat Rechargeable Heated Insoles

Make any pair of boots heated with ActionHeat’s Rechargeable Heated Insoles. Cut the insoles down to create a perfect fit for your foot, and then place them in your slippers, ski boots, or shoes. 

The rechargeable insoles have three different heat settings that can be changed via an included remote control. On the lowest setting, these insoles will keep you warm for up to eight hours on a single charge. 

The thin insoles won’t change the fit of your footwear, and have a deodorizing feature that will keep odors away.

Aroma Season Heated Mittens for Kids

Kids get cold hands too! Help them stay outside longer with Aroma Season’s heated mittens. Available in sizes for ages 4-12, the gloves come in bright pink or blue to suit your kids’ preferences. 

An oversized button makes it easy for kids to control the temperature themselves, and a full charge can last up to 10 hours on the lowest setting.

These mittens can be used with or without the heat, thanks to a waterproof fabric and extra-long cuff that keeps out the snow.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post The Best Heated Gloves, Mittens, and Socks for Cold Weather Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Bring too much, and you’ll be weighed down by hefty bags that you have to drag between hotels. Underpack and you’ll spend your time on the road scrambling to find everyday essentials. Packing for a long-haul journey is a challenge that requires a different strategy than packing for a short vacation. 

This customizable packing list for long trips will help you prepare for your next extended vacation. 

Clothing

On a long trip, you’ll likely be experiencing different climates (or even seasons), so packing versatile items that can be layered is a must. You’ll probably also be going for long stretches without access to laundry facilities, so choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics made from odor-preventing materials such as merino wool.

Pick neutral colors that can be mixed and matched to create many outfits from just a few pieces. 

Tops

Depending on the weather at your destination, you’ll want to pack a mix of short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeve tops, and sweaters. Two or three of each type of item should be more than enough, and you can adjust based on the temperature (for example, three short-sleeved shirts, one long-sleeve shirt, and one lightweight sweater for a hot climate.) 

Some of our favorite tops to pack for a long trip include:

• Outerknown Blanket Shirt: This heavyweight shirt is perfect for layering, as it can be worn open or buttoned up and is super soft and cozy.
• Mott & Bow Light Ribbed Sweater: The most warmth for the lightest weight, thanks to a cashmere and cotton blend. 
• Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere II T-Shirt: This Merino wool t-shirt can be worn multiple times without starting to smell.

Pants

Jeans can be safely worn many times without washing, and they’re so versatile that you can wear them in most weather conditions and social situations. Wear one pair of stretchy jeans on the plane and pack a second lighter pair of pants in your suitcase for hot days.

The best pants to pack for a long trip are:

• Levi Totally Shaping Straight Leg Jeans: Ultra-stretchy jeans that move with you and don’t bag out after multiple wears.
• Tommy Bahama Wide Leg Linen Pants: Perfect for hot weather destinations where you want to be covered up. 
• Spanx Jean-ish Leggings: Feel like leggings, look like pants.

Shoes

Pack at least two pairs of shoes on long trips in case one pair gets wet or starts giving you blisters. We recommend bringing one pair of casual shoes that you can wear to workout in or walk around in, a pair of waterproof boots (for cold or damp destinations), and sandals for any beach or water adventures.

The best shoes to pack for a long trip are:

• Ariat Wexford Waterproof Chelsea Boots: These boots are stylish but fully waterproof, and the slip-on design makes airport security easy.
• Danner Logger Moc 917 GTX: For long trips that involve outdoor adventures, pack Danner’s Logger Moc boots. These versatile boots will work for both rugged trails and city streets. They’re completely waterproof and can shed snow and rain.
• Cariuma Knit Sneakers: A good pair of white sneakers fits any outfit.
• Tevas Original Universal Sandals: Great for the beach or walking around your hotel room, Tevas sandals are lightweight and easy to pack. 

Electronics

Pick chargers and electronics that serve multiple purposes to save space on a long trip.

Essential electronics to pack for a long trip are:

• Kindle Fire: The Kindle Fire can be used to read books, browse the internet, and stream entertainment.
• 3-in-1 Charge Cord: A fast charger saves time, and this one has three different cords so you can charge any type of electronic you bring.
• Anker Portable Charger: This slim backup battery can charge an iPhone to 50 percent in just 30 minutes.
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds: Noise-cancelling earbuds will be handy on planes and in hotel rooms. 

Toiletries

For a truly long trip, it will be best to replenish your toiletries on the road rather than carting around full-sized bottles of everything you need. To get started, pack travel-size versions of all the necessities, including:

• Flexpower Sunscreen: A scent-free sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white cast.
• Over-the-counter Medications: This variety pack includes travel-sized packets of Advil, Pepto, and other key medicines.
• Travel-size toothpaste: This multipack from Colgate is an economical option.

Miscellaneous Items

• Tracker Tag: The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 or Apple Air Tag can help you track any luggage you must check.
• Loop Earplugs: A good night’s sleep is essential if you’re traveling for a long time. Loop’s Earplugs can help block out any noise in a hotel or hostel.

The post What to Pack for a Long Trip: The Ultimate Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

These are the best plus-size clothing brands that offer travel-friendly gear in sizes up to 40.

SuitShop

For your next destination wedding or business trip, look no further than SuitShop, an inclusive brand that offers sizes 00 to 28 for women and 34 to 64 for men. The brand makes stylish suits and tuxedos that look sharp on all genders.

SuitShop allows you to get a perfect fit by selecting the size and tailoring of your suit jacket and suit pants separately. 

Best of all, the suits come in eye-catching colors like burnt orange and light blue that add a little fun to dress clothes. 

Good American

Good American specializes in travel-friendly denim that will fit all sizes: from 00-32. On the brand’s website, every piece of clothing is shown on three different size ranges of models, so you can see how it will look on your body type.

The Always Fits jeans line is impressively stretchy and is guaranteed to fit up to four sizes. 

Nuuly

Keep your travel wardrobe fresh with Nuuly, a clothing rental company. Nuuly partnered with Eloquii to offer a variety of options in sizes 14-32. Subscribe and you’ll get six styles sent to your door every month. Pack them and wear them and then send them back to get more options (no laundry required). 

Fall in love with one of the items? You can opt to buy it and keep it instead of sending it back.

Universal Standard

Universal Standard offers an impressively wide range of sizes in all of their clothing styles, from 00-40. The brand has their own sizing chart that’s based on what the average American body type looks like, so check out their Find My Size page before buying.

There are plenty of travel-friendly items to choose from, from a polished (but comfortable) pointe pants line to cozy cashmere. 

L.L. Bean

As L.L. Bean says, “the outdoors is for every body.” The brand offers petite, regular, and plus size options in its clothing. L.L. Bean is a great place to shop for adventure gear, as hiking pants, jackets, and more are available in sizes 1X to 3X and 18W to 26W.

Unsure if you’re going to like the fit? L.L. Bean offers a year-long guarantee on all its products, so you can easily return it for a refund if it doesn’t work out.

The post The 5 Best Plus-Size Travel Clothing Brands appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Columbia Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket

Travel clothes that do double duty are invaluable, and this jacket from Columbia gives you three outerwear options in one. The waterproof shell and fleece lining can be worn independently or zipped together for extra warmth. Although thin and lightweight, the outer shell is designed to lock in body heat, perfect for rainy autumn days. The removable hood and adjustable cuffs add extra customization.

Arc’teryx Men’s Atom Hoody

The Arc’teryx Men’s Atom Hoody is a packable jacket that delivers the warmth needed in a whole host of situations and environments. Insulated with lightweight, water-resistant Coreloft, this hoody maintains thermal performance if exposed to moisture, and compresses into the tiny nooks of your backpack when not in use.

L.L.Bean Quilted Riding Jacket

Most easy-to-pack winter jackets look like activewear and are tough to pull off on a city trip, but L.L.Bean’s Quilted Riding Jacket is the ultimate winter coat that can do both. Its classic design goes with any outfit and won’t make you look like a tourist who just wandered into town off a hike. Thanks to the insulated synthetic lining, it will keep you warm without weighing you (or your suitcase) down. Want to layer this jacket? It has adjustable waist tabs that let you customize the fit based on what you’re wearing.

The North Face ThermoBall Eco Hoodie 2.0

The ThermoBall Eco Hoodie, available for women and men, is water-resistant and made of recycled polyester and nylon, made with ThermoBall Eco Insulation that performs even in wet conditions. Best of all, this jacket packs down into its own chest pocket, which transforms into a zippered carrying case when not in use.

Columbia Women’s Mighty Lite Hooded Jacket

Omni-Heat lining and insulation give Columbia’s Mighty Lite Jacket plenty of warmth. It comes in a range of colors and can be found for a surprisingly low price when on sale. This lightweight coat won’t add much bulk to your bag and has a handy interior security pocket to stow valuables.

Obermeyer Women’s Tuscany II Jacket

Based in the snow sports mecca of Aspen, Colorado, since 1947, Obermeyer knows a thing or two about cold and wet weather. It’s developed a patented HydroBlock Sport fabric tested to resist nearly 400 inches of rain (and roll stain-causing liquids right off). Find it in the Tuscany II Jacket, which also uses another unique Obermeyer material: Thermore Classic insulation, which is thin and light but still warm. The hood is removable and adjustable, as is the faux fur trim.

Patagonia PrimaLoft Nano Puff Coat

Patagonia’s PrimaLoft Nano Puff Hoody (available for men and women) is the lightest jacket I’ve ever owned. The women’s version weighs just 10 ounces (the men’s is 12.8 ounces), yet is ultra-warm and water-resistant. Unlike some other methods of insulation, you can feel good about this jacket: Its 60-g PrimaLoft Gold Insulation Eco is made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester.

The Antora Triclimate Jacket

The North Face’s versatile Antora Triclimate Jacket (available for women and men) is a three-in-one coat that’s perfect for travel: You can wear the waterproof shell or comfy inner liner by themselves, or combine them to make a warm winter jacket. The hood and wrist cuffs are adjustable for a better fit and to accomodate ski and general winter gear. This breathable coat is designed for hiking and other outdoor activities.

Lululemon Pack It Down Jacket

The Pack It Down Jacket can be folded up into its own small carrying case, making it one of the best packable down jackets for women. The fabric is weather-resistant, and the 700-fill-power goose down is certified to the Responsible Down Standard. You can remove the hood to further cut down on weight and space.

Arc’teryx Men’s Cerium Hoody

The Cerium Hoody from Arcteryx is incredibly lightweight—just 11.9 ounces—yet it’s surprisingly warm thanks to its combination of goose down and synthetic insulation. (Note that on rainy or extremely cold days, it’s best combined with a weatherproof shell.)

Caroline Morse always packs lightweight winter jackets for travel to cold destinations. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for style and travel photos from around the world.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post 10 Warm, Lightweight Jackets and Coats for Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

After dramatic technical failures, we’ve tossed one too many umbrellas into public trash cans (popped hinges! Ripped fabric! Sound familiar?). So, we decided it was high time for a more methodical approach to finding an excellent travel umbrella. We’ve narrowed down the field to 10 umbrellas, which we’re confident packing in our bags when we hit the road.

Best Compact Travel Umbrellas

Traveler type: Carry-on only is your travel mantra, but you want something a little sturdier than traditional budget options.

These compact travel umbrellas are made for travelers who want something small and light that also delivers a higher quality than budget options, with automatic open-and-close functionality and more durable construction.

EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella

As far as compact umbrellas go, this one delivers solid construction for its price tag. The umbrella folds to 11 inches and weighs just over 14 ounces for easy packing. Its not-your-average-mini-umbrella construction, including a double canopy with nine ribs, adds durability in wind gusts.

Davek Solo Umbrella

A bit heavier (1 pound 2 ounces) and longer (11.75 inches) than the EEZ-Y model, the Davek Solo makes up for the added weight and space with a wind-resistant frame designed to withstand more than a breeze. It’s a little pricier than your traditional mini umbrella; however, the brand’s Loss Protection Card offers you 50 percent off a new umbrella if you lose yours, and there’s a lifetime guarantee to protect you in case of mechanical problems.

Most Durable Travel Umbrellas

Traveler type: You don’t mind the extra weight if it means your umbrella won’t turn inside out as often.

If you’re the type of traveler who always seems to be wrestling with your umbrella in the slightest breeze, these umbrellas are for you. These travel umbrellas are made to withstand wind thanks to details like venting systems of overlapping fabric layers, additional springs at joints, and more robust materials.

Blunt Metro Travel Umbrella

While it’s a little longer than other travel umbrellas (14 inches), this Blunt model is still light at just over 12 ounces. It has been designed to withstand winds up to 55 miles per hour and has blunt edges, so it won’t puncture holes in anything when you stash it in your luggage (or hurt passersby in crowded cities). Despite its manual close, we also found that this umbrella had the smoothest opening and closing of any umbrella we’ve ever tried.

GustBuster Metro

Like the Blunt Metro, the GustBuster Metro is designed to withstand 55-mile-per-hour gusts. Its double canopy waterproof construction also makes it one that can protect you from the heavy rains that often accompany the wind. At 16 inches and 1.1 pounds, it’s one of the bigger options on this list, but if you’re looking for your sturdiest option, this is it.

Best Cheap Travel Umbrellas

Traveler type: You always leave your umbrella behind at restaurants, on trains, in cabs….

While these umbrellas aren’t the toughest, you won’t mind losing them. Fortunately, some of the most inexpensive umbrellas are also the lightest and most packable, meaning you’ll almost always have space for them in your luggage or day bag.

Totes TRX Manual Mini Trekker

Coming in at eight ounces and 6.5 inches when folded, this option from Totes is one of the best mini umbrellas—ideal for throwing in your day bag if there’s a chance of rain. It also doubles as a shade source during warmer days with built-in sun guard UPF 50 protection. With nearly a dozen colors and patterns, you can find the one that best matches your travel outfits.

Lewis N. Clark Travel Umbrella

This 10-ounce, 10.75-inch-long umbrella will likely turn inside out on you when it gets windy, but the good news is that it’s proven to pop back into shape time and time again easily. It’s also easier to close with an auto open/close button.

Best Travel Umbrellas for Heavy Rain

Traveler type: Even a monsoon won’t stop you from exploring on your trip.

If you know you’re going to a particularly rainy destination or must keep your outfit completely dry in a storm, look for an umbrella with a larger canopy. The tradeoff for better coverage is often a longer umbrella and more weight.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Coated with Teflon, this umbrella dries faster than umbrellas without a Teflon coating, so you can easily stash it in your bag when the rain (hopefully) stops. The double-vented canopy gives this umbrella extra flex that helps it stand up to powerful gusts. Measuring 11.5 inches long and weighing under a pound, this Repel umbrella is still a relatively small, light option.

Bodyguard Windproof Travel Umbrella

Reinforced with ten flexible ribs for higher winds, this umbrella is another Teflon-coated option, ensuring water runs off your umbrella and not onto you. The 46.5-inch canopy is slightly larger than the Repel’s, giving you added protection (or allowing you to squeeze in another travel companion if you feel like sharing). It is, however, an inch longer.

Best Large Umbrellas for Couples

Traveler type: You and your companion don’t mind huddling together to stay out of the rain.

Ultra-packable umbrellas are often designed for one person, meaning if you’re traveling with family, you might want to equip each member with their own. However, vacationers traveling in pairs can get around packing multiples with these umbrellas designed to shelter two.

Prospo 62 Inch Large Travel Umbrella

With an oversized canopy (62 inches), this umbrella has plenty of room to fit two but folds up to only 15 inches so it won’t take up space in your bag. 

Kalolary 62 Inch Extra Oversize Large Compact Golf Umbrella

With a 62-inch diameter, this umbrella has plenty of room for two people. The best part? It closes up to 11.8 inches, putting it on par with more compact travel umbrellas. While it’s a bit heavier at just over a pound, the size of it open outweighs the extra weight.

The post The 10 Best Travel Umbrellas for Every Type of Traveler appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Don’t leave home without these six essential travel safety products. 

Sabre Portable Door Lock

Ensure no one can access your hotel room (even if they have a key) with the Sabre Portable Door Lock. This small but mighty gadget works on most doors and prevents intruders from getting in from the outside.

No tools are required to use the door lock, which can be set up within minutes. 

Travel Carbon Monoxide Detector

Cases of carbon monoxide poisoning at hotels have been in the news recently. Hotels may not always have working carbon monoxide detectors in every guest room—so protect yourself by bringing your own. 

Kidde’s Carbon Monoxide detector is small and can be set up anywhere, plus the battery lasts for 10 years (so no need to worry about making sure it’s charged). 

Personal Safety Alarm

Solo travelers should pack a personal safety alarm that they can use in a threatening situation. This alarm by Birdie can be worn on a keychain for easy access. Pull the top pin to activate a loud siren and flashing strobe to draw attention to you and scare off attackers. 

Hidden Camera Detector

Worried about being watched in your vacation rental? Pack a hidden camera detector to find any audio or video devices in a room, no matter how small. 

Read our guide on checking for hidden cameras for further tips on how to find secret recording devices. 

AAA Road Trip Kit

If you’re headed out on a road trip, especially to isolated locations, you should always pack an emergency kit in your car. This kit, created by AAA, has everything you might need if you get break down or get into an accident.

The compact carrying case houses 76 preparedness items, including a booster cable, air compressor, poncho, and bandages. 

Power Bank and Emergency Light

Having a dead cell phone can certainly be a safety risk—you won’t be able to call for help in an emergency or navigate yourself out of a bad situation. Pack the NRG Emergency Light and Power Bank, which can fully charge your phone or other electronics.

It also doubles as a flashlight, another essential item for your emergency toolkit, so you can utilize it during a fire, earthquake, or power outage to light your escape path out of a hotel room.

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