Qantas’ “neighbor-free” seating option is now available on domestic and international flights when space is available. If eligible, passengers will receive an email invitation to reserve two seats together 48 hours before the scheduled flight departure time.

The price to purchase the empty seat varies by route but will typically range from $20-$40 for domestic flights and around $140 for international flights.

According to Qanta, “Neighbor-free seats are subject to availability and may need to be changed for operational, safety or security reasons, even after boarding the aircraft.” If you pay for an empty seat and the seat ends up being occupied, you will automatically receive a full refund of the fee. 

Reserving the additional seat will only give you access to extra space—it does not include additional baggage allowance or meals. You also won’t earn Qantas points on the purchase of an extra seat. 

Neighbor-free seats cannot be used for infant seating or to store carry-on baggage or musical instruments. 

The post This Airline Will Let Passengers Pay to Have an Empty Seat Next to Them 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.

The State Department advises travelers to:

1. Stay alert in tourist destinations.

2. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive information and alerts while traveling and so that you can be easily located in an emergency. 

3. Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter for emergency alerts.

In a briefing on October 19, State Department spokesperson Matt Miller explained the new travel advisory: “We are constantly assessing the safety and security of our personnel in every place where we operate overseas.” According to Miller, U.S. citizens overseas should exercise increased caution: “Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations, or violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests.”

In response to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the State Department recently raised the warning levels for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza to Level 3: Reconsider Travel and Lebanon to Level 4: Do Not Travel.

The post State Department Issues Worldwide Caution to Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The new process will allow passengers to board in the following order:

1. Customers who need additional time to board
2. First-class and business-class passengers
3. Window and exit row seats
4. Middle seats
5. Aisle seats
6. Basic economy passengers

United Airlines officials hope the new process will save time during boarding, as aisle seat passengers won’t have to get up and block the aisle to let the window and middle seat passengers in their row sit down. 

With increasingly packed overhead compartments, getting to board in the first few groups can make the difference between bringing aboard your carry-on or being forced to gate-check it—so if you’re concerned about getting your bag on the plane, make sure you choose a window seat next time you fly United.

The post United Airlines Is Changing Its Boarding Process appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Part of the city’s famously-laid back, partying reputation can be attributed to the fact that it’s one of the few destinations in America where you can legally drink on the street, which can contribute to a raucous atmospher that leaves some visitors to wonder, is New Orleans safe? 

According to a study conducted by finance site Money Geek, which analyzed the most recent crime statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), New Orleans ranks as the seventh most dangerous city in the country.

Don’t let this deter you from visiting New Orleans—the majority of crime that occurs in the city does not involve tourists. The main crimes tourists need to worry about are petty crimes, such as scams or pickpocketing.

Tips for Staying Safe in New Orleans

The New Orleans tourism board has issued a visitor safety guide, which recommends travelers  “use the same personal safety precautions and to stay vigilant as they would at home or in any metropolitan destination. This means following common sense safety tips, including:

• Traveling in groups and avoiding walking alone on unlit streets at night
• Paying attention to your surroundings
• Not flashing valuables or cash
• Never leaving your drink unattended 
• Not leaving personal belongings unattended

Whether you’re in a packed bar, watching an impromptu street performance, or participating in a festival, you’ll likely find yourself in a large crowd at some point during your New Orleans trip. Make sure to practice anti-pickpocket techniques in these situations, such as keeping your wallet in your front pocket, wearing a cross-body purse, and monitoring your bag. 

Common New Orleans Scams

There are a few (relatively harmless) notorious scams that you may encounter on a visit to New Orleans.

One popular one is a stranger stopping to tell you that they bet they can “guess where you got your shoes.” If you agree, they’ll answer “on your feet” and try to get you to give them money to settle the wager. The best response to this scam, and most others in the city, is to just ignore people who shout random things at you—avoid eye contact and keep walking, or offer a polite “no thank you.”

Another frequent scam that you may see, especially in tourist areas, are aggressive shoe shiners, who may try to shine your shoes (without your permission) and then harass you for money. Again, just say “no thank you” politely, and keep walking. 

Places to Avoid in New Orleans

New Orleans is an eclectic mix of neighborhoods. The most popular ones for tourists to visit are the French Quarter, Uptown (The Garden District), Treme, and the Arts/Warehouse District. All of these neighborhoods are very safe as long as you’re following the same common sense safety tips you’d practice in other cities. 

Central City and Hollygrove are the neighborhoods with the highest crime rates, according to GIS Geography, and so tourists may wish to avoid those areas or exercise extra caution when visiting.  

New Orleans Nightlife Safety Tips

New Orleans’ nightlife is famously raucous. Follow the same safety tips here that you would on a night out at home, including:

• Remaining aware of your surroundings
• Watching your drink at all times/not accepting drinks from strangers
• Taking a taxi or rideshare in lieu of walking in unfamiliar areas after dark
• Confirming the license plate and driver photo when being picked up by a rideshare
• Not drinking and driving
• Staying with your group

New Orleans Weather Risks

New Orleans is one of the rainiest cities in the country, experiencing an average of 62 inches per rain each year. The low-lying city has a tendency to flood, and it’s also vulnerable to hurricanes. 

Before traveling to New Orleans, sign up for NOLA Ready emergency alerts from the city. You can choose to be notified for emergency alerts (including severe weather or an active shooter) or seasonal info (with tips on how to prepare for hurricane season). Emergency alertss will be sent via text, email, phone call, or app. 

If you do find yourself in the city during an emergency weather situation, follow instructions from local officials and be prepared to evacuate if needed. 

The post Is New Orleans Safe? Neighborhoods to Avoid and Other Warnings  appeared first on SmarterTravel.

J.D. Power just released its Annual North America Airport Satisfaction Study to find the best and worst airports to fly through. The study surveyed passengers on six factors:

1. Terminal facilities
2. Airport arrival/departure
3. Baggage claim
4. Security check
5. Check-in/Baggage check
6. Food, beverage, and retail

For the survey, airports were broken down into three categories: Mega airports (33 million or more passengers per year), large airports (10 to 32.9 million passengers per year), and medium airports (4.5 to 9.9 million passengers per year. 

Flyers’ overall satisfaction with the airport experience increased slightly this year compared to 2022. “It has not been an easy year for North American airports, but major capital improvements they’ve made over the last several years and new investments in getting food, beverage and retail operations back up and running at full capacity have helped them manage the crush of passengers,” said Michael Taylor, managing director of travel, hospitality and retail at J.D. Power. 

Next time you fly, you might want to consider avoiding the lowest-ranked airports if you can. 

The Worst Mega Airports

1. Newark Liberty International Airport
2. Toronto Pearson International Airport
3. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
4. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
5. Boston Logan International Airport

The Worst Large Airports

1. Philadelphia International Airport
2. Honolulu International Airport
3. Montreal-Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport
4. Oakland International Airport
5. San Diego International Airport

The Worst Medium Airports

1. Kahului Airport
2. Hollywood Burbank Airport
3. Bradley International Airport
4. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport
5. Eppley Airfield

For an easier trip, try to plan your travels to take you through one of these top-rated airports.

The Best Mega Airports

1. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
2. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
3. Harry Reid International Airport
4. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
5. Miami International Airport

The Best Large Airports

1. Tampa International Airport
2. John Wayne Airport, Orange County
3. Salt Lake International Airport
4. Raleigh Durham-International Airport
5. Sacramento International Airport

The Best Medium Airports

1. Indianapolis International Airport
2. Southwest Florida International Airport
3. Ontario International Airport
4. Palm Beach International Airport
5. Albuquerque International Airport

The post The Best and Worst Airports in North America 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.

Make Your Bed More Comfortable 

Relegated to a futon, air mattress, or pull-out couch? There are a few things you can do to make your sleeping arrangement more comfortable. Air mattresses get colder than real beds (the air inside cools overnight, making you chilly). Pad it with extra blankets, or use a sleep sack, which is easy to pack and provides a ton of warmth.

Push the air mattress up against the wall if possible so your pillows don’t fall off while you sleep, and put a blanket or a yoga mat underneath the mattress to make it less noisy when you move around.

For futons or rock-hard mattresses, an inflatable sleeping pad is easy to use and will save your back.

Even if you’re staying in a great guest room, most normal bedrooms don’t come with blackout curtains like those you’ll find at hotels, so be sure to pack an eye mask that will block out light. This mask is contoured to allow for eye movement during sleep, but still prevents light from getting in.

Earplugs are also essential if you’re a light sleeper (or just go to bed earlier/get up later than other people in the house). Or bring a travel-sized white noise machine if you really want to drown out the world.

Stuck in the living room? You could go all out and pack a privacy pop-up indoor bed tent if you want to make a statement about the importance of alone time.

Don’t Forget to Breathe

Getting stressed? Take a deep breath to help relax. If you’re staying in an environment that you’re not used to (for example, sharing a house with smokers or pets when you’re allergic), bring along a tiny travel air purifier for your room. This can make a big difference and help you breathe easier.

Get Some Quiet Time

Spending time with other people 24/7 can be tough. But you’re going to be a better guest and family member if you take some solo time to decompress each day. Take a walk, or excuse yourself to take a nap and use the time to sleep or read. If you’re coming home to a deadline-driven family, you could appear busy while also carving out alone time by offering to run errands on your own.

Stay Charged and Connected

If a big group is staying at your family’s house, the Wi-Fi will get overwhelmed quickly. If it’s important to you to stay online, bring along a Wi-Fi hotspot so you avoid the frustration of slow internet. A travel-sized power strip can also save the day if everyone is fighting over one outlet to charge gadgets.

Work Out

There’s a reason the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot is so popular. Whether you head out in the morning for a quick run or get a day pass to a local gym, working out can give you an excuse to get out of the house for a bit. Exercise is also a proven stress reducer and mood enhancer, and will also make you feel less guilty about eating all that home-cooked food.

Knit running shoes like Nike Frees are lightweight and easy to pack, so bring a pair with you. You can also use them to go for a walk with the family after a big holiday dinner.

Can’t get out of the house? Pack exercise bands, which take up minimal space and can be used for an easy at-home workout (or to stretch after a long travel day or a rough night on the couch).

Don’t Dominate the Bathroom

Chances are, you won’t have a private bathroom while staying with family, so don’t leave your toiletries scattered all over the sink and shower. This innovative bag is a great solution, as it lets you lay out all your toiletries on a flat surface to use; when you’re done, simply fold it up and take it back to your room.

Be Your Own Climate Control

Unlike at a hotel, you don’t get control over the thermostat when staying with family. If you know the house is going to be cold, pack extra layers. In shoe-free houses, travel slippers keep you comfy. Merino wool sweaters are easy to layer without looking out of place, and a pashmina can double as a blanket. House too hot? A portable fan can be a lifesaver, and also act as a white noise machine at night.

Pack Modest Pajamas and a Robe

You probably don’t think twice about what you pack for sleepwear at a hotel, but you might want something a little more modest if you’re staying in someone’s home. Don’t forget to pack pajamas and a robe you won’t be embarrassed to be seen in, for those middle-of-the-night bathroom trips.

Bring Board Games

Worried about being bored? Pack travel-sized games that are fun for the whole family. Family Feud, UNO, and Scrabble are all good choices (depending on how competitive the crowd is).

Offer to Grocery Shop, Cook, or Buy Dinner

Try to make your visit as easy on the host as possible. Just because it’s your family doesn’t mean they’re responsible for cleaning up after you and cooking every meal. Show up with a restaurant gift card to let them know a few meals are on you, or offer to go grocery shopping and cook for everyone while you’re there.

Be Appreciative

Your presence is not your present. Make sure to show appreciation to your host for putting you up. A thank you note is never a bad idea. Some good gift ideas include: a bottle of wine and a wine chiller, a gift basket full of tasty treats, an easy-to-care-for plant, or a framed family photo.

Caroline Morse Teel is a Managing Editor at SmarterTravel. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from around the world. 

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 10 Strategies to Survive Staying with Family Over the Holidays appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Group tour company FTLO Travel invites travelers to do just that, offering Phone-Free Departures. These trips are designed to help participants completely disconnect and focus on the experience without distractions—plus encourage travelers to be open to spontaneity by leaving behind Google Maps. 

Founder and CEO Tara Cappel says they launched the phone-free trips to help travelers connect. “In today’s digital age, we have become increasingly dependent on our smartphones, and it is negatively impacting our mental well-being and our ability to be present.” Cappel hopes that by removing phones, “travelers can fully engage with the destination they’re visiting and build new relationships with like-minded trip mates.”

Participants on the trips will be provided with printable maps and itineraries to help them navigate the destination, and trip leaders will still have cell phones.

FTLO Travel won’t be searching participants’ suitcases for contraband phones—these trips will operate on an honor system, and travelers can still use their phones in emergencies or if they need to contact someone back home. FTLO Travel recommends bringing a digital or disposable camera instead of a phone camera to capture memories from the adventure. 

The phone-free trips start in 2024 and will be available to book in a variety of destinations, including: 

• Havana, Cuba
• Costa Rica
• Portugal
• Tuscany and Rome, Italy
• Iceland
• Oaxaca, Mexico

Prices for the trips start at $1,999 per person.

The post FTLO Travel Launches Phone-Free Group Trips 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.