Tag: underscored-travel-gear

The must-have items to make flying more comfortable, according to airline crew | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

It doesn’t matter if you’re hopping on a short-haul domestic flight or you’re embarking on a transatlantic red-eye, proper flight preparation will always make your in-flight experience that much more comfortable and stress-free.

Ensuring your carry-on bag must-haves are always packed will allow you to sit back and enjoy your flight. And, not to mention, bringing all of your favorites with you from home will save you from overspending at the duty-free or overpriced airport convenience store.

Who knows better what makes for a comfortable flight than the people who spend their lives traversing the skies? We spoke to a handful of flight attendants and long-haul pilots to get their insights on the best products to make flying a more comfortable and streamlined experience. And, as it turns out, all it really takes is a little extra planning to streamline your experience like a professional. Here’s what airline crew suggest adding to your packing list for a more comfortable flying experience.

According to former flight attendant Zoila Streich, a comfy change of clothing and a pair of casual shoes that you can slip on and off will make the entire airport experience so much less of a hassle — especially if you’re traveling for the good part of a day. Slipping in and out of your shoes at security and being able to change into a fresh shirt between layovers can make a world of a difference.

We love Allbirds Wool Runners as a travel shoe because they’re incredibly versatile. They’re made from sustainable and ethical ZQ Merino wool, so they’re soft to the touch while also offering moisture-wicking and odor-stabilizing features. You can wear them from the airport to touring around your favorite destination.

Flight attendant Sydney Key always recommends traveling with cash. “You never know when a credit card machine might be down, or when you might find yourself somewhere tap-to-pay technology hasn’t yet arrived,” she says. “A bit of extra cash on hand can save you from a bind if plastic or digital currency won’t cut it.”

This tear-resistant, durable leather cash envelope is a terrific option for carrying bills if you want to keep them separate from the rest of your travel wallet. The envelope is the perfect size to fit in a purse or clutch — or in the safe when you get to your hotel room.

New York City-based flight attendant Ashley Yang likes to keep a well-stocked carry-on bag, including the right tech to keep her charged and ready to go once the flight lands. A TSA-approved portable charger will help ensure you always have access to your personal in-flight entertainment and that you won’t have to search the airport for an outlet if your seat doesn’t have outlets built-in.

The Anker PowerCore 13000 is our pick as the best overall portable charger. We love the device mostly because of its charging capacity. At 13,000mAh, it carries enough juice to fully charge an iPhone 11 two and a half times. Its size is perfect for travel, as it won’t take up much space in your carry-on bag or favorite travel backpack.

In addition to bringing a portable charger, Yang also recommends bringing a travel adapter. If your travel plans take you abroad, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the change in electrical outlets around the globe. In fact, this option from Epicka works in more than 150 countries including the US, UK, Australia and Europe. It’s got four USB ports, one USB-C port and one AC socket to keep up to six devices charged at a time throughout your travels.

It’s hard to find true comfort without having a pillow and a blanket. “First is a pillow and a blanket, principally when we are doing long travels,” Streich says. “You have to be comfortable for hours and not for a couple of minutes.”

This EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow combination offers a comfy microfleece material that can easily be thrown in the wash between flights. It comes in six different colorways — light pink, black, burgundy, gray, navy blue and teal — and is more substantial than the thin blankets often handed out on the plane. Not only will this travel blanket and pillow combo keep you comfortable, but it’ll also help you get more sleep on your long-haul flight.

Getting good sleep on a plane is all about setting the scene — and that includes creating blackout conditions for your eyes. “As for the sunlight, it is great for getting over jetlag and adjusting to the local time, but when you’re trying to sleep, it can be a problem,” says Boeing 787 Dreamliner pilot Charlie Page. Consider a blackout eye mask — especially if you’re sensitive to the lighting changes on flights. Creating a perfectly dark environment will help you drift off to sleep, wherever you are.

We love the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask — in fact, it won the title as our best overall sleep mask. It features a genius nose wire so that it blocks any and all light that might escape through other eye masks. It’s made of 100% cotton fabric, so it’s extremely soft against the eyes.

As we fall asleep, our sense of hearing is the last sensation to fade out, meaning that a sudden noise from the galley or the crying baby five rows ahead can jolt you awake again. To counter this, a good pair of earplugs is essential, Page says.

“There are all kinds on the market, from the freebies you get on board the aircraft, to ones that you can have custom-fitted to your ear canal, but I use a midrange set from Flare Audio, which have double rubber tips,” says Page. “Not only are they excellent at muting any external noise, they are so comfortable that when rolling over onto my side, they don’t dig into my ear and disturb my sleep.”

It’s always good to be prepared for the unexpected. “My number one product was my small first aid kit,” says Streich. “My feet were getting hurt all the time because of all the time I spent on my feet — sometimes I’d go almost 12 hours with the same pair of shoes.” And as a passenger, you never know when you might need a bandage or ibuprofen.

That said, you’ll want to ensure any first aid kit you’re packing in your carry-on is TSA-approved. In other words, no sharp items or large bottles of antiseptic — all liquids and gels need to be less than 3.4 ounces. This mini first aid kit fits the bill, though you may need to remove some sharp objects before taking it through airport security. It comes packed with bandages, gauze pads, first-aid tape, antiseptic towelettes and much more.

Always remember to pack good travel snacks in your bag. If you get to the airport and security takes longer than expected, you may not have time to grab something to eat before it’s time to start boarding — especially if lines for food and drink are long. First Officer Nick Motlagh says his snack of choice is a protein bar or meal replacement bar. “They don’t take up much space, and they are a simple, healthy way to prevent hunger while on the go,” Motlagh says.

These Rise protein bars are available in seven different flavors — from almond honey to snickerdoodle, chocolate banana, mint chocolate chip and more. All of the flavors have at least 15 grams of protein per bar, and each of the flavors only has five ingredients or less.

It’s no secret that airplane air is dry. While some planes are better than others in terms of keeping humidity in the air, you need to drink plenty of water and aid your skin in retaining its moisture. “The air in the airplane can be very dry, and we need to look professional and well-rested, always,” explains Streich. She recommends carrying a moisturizer with you.

We particularly like the Aussie Flyer Face Base by Lanolips. Its rich formula is super moisturizing but won’t make your face look greasy. Plus, at just 60 millimeters, this moisturizer is TSA-approved to be one of your carry-on luggage must-haves.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

March 22, 2023
21 packing essentials that will make train travel feel more like a first-class flight | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Train travel tends to be more eco-friendly and comfortable than traveling by air. But the slowed-down pace of most lines in North America can be admittedly off-putting. Sure, it’s more scenic and can be much more affordable, but can you really handle spending hours stationary while staring out the window?

Here’s the thing, though: Train travel can actually be a pretty luxurious experience if you plan your moves properly. Most passenger trains — even in the general economy cabin — offer a much more comfortable seat than airlines. That’s because on most trains, you’ll find extended leg room, better lumbar support and usually even a dining car or bar car that allows you to get up, stretch your legs and make the journey part of your vacation.

In order to make the best out of your train travel, and, dare we say, transport yourself into a first-class-worthy experience, we’ve pulled together a handful of packing essentials that’ll totally transform the way you see train travel. Here’s what you’ll want to put in your carry-on bag in order to ensure a surprisingly luxurious experience between stations.

When it comes to a comfortable train vacation, you’ll want to think about what you wear.

“First you’ll want to invest in comfortable clothing that you can wear during the journey,” says Balaram Thapa, Director and Travel Advisor at Nepal Hiking Team. “Soft layers of breathable fabrics can help keep you warm while also allowing for easy movement when you need to access your bags or get up and move around. You’ll also want to make sure the clothing you choose is machine-washable for added convenience while on the go.”

Linen is a great option on travel days — it’s lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking. Plus, it looks a whole lot more professional and put together compared to activewear or traditional loungewear. The Amazon Essentials Women’s Classic-Fit Long-Sleeve Linen Shirt is designed to be loose-fitting and comfy so it won’t get in your way during your travels. The fast-drying material is also super easy to wash and hang dry while on the go. Pair this top with your favorite pair of travel pants and add it to your travel wardrobe in one of the nine colors and designs available.

Moisture-wicking polyester is another really good option to wear on travel days. The Cutter & Buck Men’s Moisture Wicking Drytec Pullover is loose-fitting and warm but the Drytec material means you won’t have to worry about getting sweaty and uncomfortable while traveling by rail. The half-zip design and forward shoulder seams make this option look instantly put together while the machine-washable material won’t leave you with a big hotel dry-cleaning bill.

This Zero Grid Infinity Scarf is another secret weapon to keep in your train travel arsenal thanks to its hidden pockets. The super-soft infinity scarf transforms into a cozy travel blanket or over-the-shoulder shawl as needed and also includes two hidden pockets that can hold your travel documents or other essentials you want to have on hand while seated without needing to dig into your carry-on. It’s the perfect place to store little necessities like lip balm or earbuds — and it comes in five colors to match any style.

When it comes to travel of any kind, sleep is crucial. Thapa suggests investing in comfortable accessories that can help you sleep better during the train journey. Think about your sleep gear like a DIY amenity kit that you’d get on a business-class flight. Make sure to include items like a quality eye mask, ear plugs and a neck pillow, which are all essential items to bring on a train ride — especially at night.

The Ostrichpillow Eye Mask is one of our favorite sleep masks of 2023 thanks to the ultra-soft cups and blackout design. The 3D-ergonomic eye mask is super comfortable and doesn’t put a strain on the eyes while the no-snag strap won’t get caught in your hair or put pressure on the back of your head while sleeping.

Between the train whistle and clunky track noises, train travel tends to be louder than airplane travel. So if you’re easily bothered by background noise, you’ll want to make sure you pack a pair of high-quality earplugs for noise reduction. The Loop Quiet Ear Plugs are designed for comfort and don’t feel tight or irritating even when lying on your side. They’re made from hypoallergenic silicone and are designed to sit in the ear in a way that blocks out most noise and fosters a sense of relaxation.

The best part of a first- or business-class flight is arguably the lie-flat bed and knowledge that you’re not going to have any issues getting comfortable and falling asleep. Here’s where the Cabeau Travel Pillow comes in. This neck pillow is designed to provide adequate support for your head and neck so you can dose off without worrying about falling asleep on your neighbor. It also compresses down to half its size when not in use so you don’t have to worry about toting around a full-sized pillow with you.

Journeys by rail can be long, and the seats don’t tend to be equipped with the same in-flight entertainment screens you’ll find on many airplanes. So, you’ll want to consider bringing a few extra handy items to make your journey more entertaining.

“A laptop or tablet for movies to watch, an e-reader for books to read, a portable wireless speaker (if you have a private cabin) or noise-canceling headphones can all help pass the time in style and comfort,” says Thapa.

Sure, you could bring a book with you but if you’re a particularly fast reader or you have a multi-day train trip on your hands, you’ll want to consider opting for an e-reader like the Amazon Kindle Oasis. The Oasis is our pick for the best overall e-reader thanks to its light weight, dim background lighting that is easy on the eyes (even during long periods of reading) and can hold thousands of books and short stories without weighing you down.

If you prefer to spend your travel bingeing the latest in entertainment, you’ll want to plan ahead before hopping on the train. The Google Android 11 Tablet will serve as a pretty decent alternative to an in-flight entertainment system and won’t break the bank. You’ll want to be sure to download any movies or TV series you’re hoping to stream just in case the Wi-Fi onboard is questionable.

Snacks are an essential part of any long journey, whether you’re on a road trip or traveling by rail. The best travel snacks will help to keep you full throughout the night — especially if the railway food is questionable.

Protein bars, trail mix and other healthy snacks can provide sustenance without making you feel too full or bloated. Or, if you’re susceptible to an upset stomach or nausea on long journeys, consider bringing along aids that will help keep those feelings at bay.

You can bring your own snacks onto a train much easier than you could a plane, which means it’s easy to ensure you have a healthy and delicious arsenal of snacks to keep you going. We love the Sabra Classic Hummus Snacker With Pretzels, as it comes with its own durable carrying case so your pretzels won’t break or squish in your bag and your hummus will stay fresh for hours.

Ginger chews are a favorite among frequent travelers, as they help to fend off feelings of nausea. They’re a chewy bite made of 10% fresh ginger and little else, so they’re also gluten-free, vegan and non-GMO.

These protein-packed overnight oats will keep you feeling full for longer without having to feel guilty about your snack. Available in flavors like peanut butter blossom, cinnamon oat crunch and berry pancakes, among others, you can pack in a 20-gram protein snack just by adding milk.

Planning to take some food from home on your train journey? We’re huge fans of these reusable silicone storage bags. Available in a variety of sizes and colors, you can use them to bring fresh fruit, vegetables or other snacks from home without fear of leakage. Then, when you’ve arrived at your destination, wash them out and reuse them for your journey back home — they’re also dishwasher, freezer, oven and microwave safe.

Keeping your toiletry essentials on hand will make it easy to ensure you feel your best — even if you’re spending multiple nights on the train.

“Make sure you pack a few toiletry items in case your train has limited rest-stop facilities,” Thapa says. “This includes toothpaste, body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant and anything else you might need.”

The Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case is one of our favorite cosmetic cases for a number of reasons. First, we love that the case is totally see-through and water-resistant, which makes it ultra-convenient when grabbing something on the go or going through security at the airport. It has two zippered compartments to better organize your gear and it also has a convenient top handle for easy transport. Plus, it comes in eight tones to match the rest of your travel gear.

Native Deodorant is an all-natural, gender-neutral alternative to deodorant and antiperspirant that offers much more subtle and sophisticated scents like cucumber mint, lavender rose or even unscented. It’s made without aluminum, parabens, phthalates and talc, and instead uses only natural ingredients to keep you smelling fresh throughout the day.

Cadence Capsules are one of our favorite tools for travelers for good reason. They’re totally customizable so you can add any label to the top Tile of each Capsule. Plus, you can mix and match the colors to create a hive of Capsules that is totally your own. What truly sets them apart is their magnetic ability to cling onto one another and they’re totally leak-proof so you don’t have to worry about spills on your train journey.

As with many journeys, you’ll want to always make sure you have your important documents and items on you on the train. Things like your driver’s license, passport, credit cards and cash are good to keep within arm’s reach. Consider securing an all-in-one bag that you can easily pack, grab and go rather than keeping them in your suitcase, which will most likely be packed away for most of the trip.

It doesn’t take much to keep your documents all in one spot, but it really will make all the difference when you need quick access to your credit cards or passport. The Boacay Travel Document Organizer is an inexpensive option that gets the job done thanks to its zippered design and multiple pockets and pouches that allow you to give every single important document its own designated home while on the road.

This extensive travel wallet has room for just about anything you’ll have with you. There are four separate pockets for multiple passports, slots for credit cards, dedicated pockets for tickets and even an exterior compartment for your phone. Best of all, it can be worn like a clutch with the included handle or as a crossbody bag for easy access.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

March 21, 2023
The best travel pillow of 2023 | CNN Underscored
[ad_1]
Travel pillows need to strike a tricky balance. Not supportive enough and you’ll end up with a crick in your neck, too big and stiff you’ll, er, end up with a crick in your neck. They also need to be compact, lightweight and easy to clean — no small feat for a humble travel accessory!

To find the best travel pillow on the market, we spent weeks testing 11 of the most popular and highest-rated travel pillows on the market. We evaluated pillows of all different designs and materials on both comfort and build to determine the best travel pillow for trips via plane, bus or car. And while many of the pillows we tested had their merits, there were two clear winners.

Best travel pillow overall

The Cabeau Evolution S3 is the Goldilocks of travel pillows: We found it firm enough to support our head and neck, soft enough to fall asleep on and perfectly portable, thanks to its being made of springy memory foam that enables you to compress it to half its size.

Best splurge travel pillow

The Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow will give you a truly luxurious travel experience if you’re a frequent traveler who’s willing to spend a bit more. Unlike traditional U-shaped travel neck pillows, it has full 360-degree memory foam neck support so your head and neck won’t bounce around, and still compresses down to 60% of its expanded size for easy transport.

The Cabeau Evolution S3 updates the standard U-shaped travel pillow design with raised sides that gently cradled our head and neck when we used it. The S3’s flat back also rested relatively flush against our seat, preventing our head from uncomfortably jutting forward, while an adjustable front clasp let us slightly tighten or loosen the neck opening to our liking, which makes it possible to tailor the pillow to travelers of different sizes.

We found that the S3 works best when leaning your head to the side or as a cushion against a solid surface, but it still offered decent chin support. Its two built-in straps attached to nearly any seatback we tested on, keeping the pillow in place and helping to lessen whiplash during sudden stops or turbulence.

The S3’s memory foam manages to be soft, springy and supportive all at once; it’s firm enough that it kept our head from slouching too far to the side but not so firm that it dug into our cheeks and ears (unlike another popular memory foam model we tested). Of course, memory foam, however cushy, is never going to be the lightest or most breathable material around. And while we didn’t overheat while using the Cabeau, it also wasn’t the coolest pillow we tested.

That said, the S3’s cover is a definite upgrade from Cabeau’s original Evolution pillow. Whereas that older model’s cover is made entirely from velour, the S3’s is made from a more breathable, quick-dry fabric that did indeed feel cooler to the touch. The S3’s cover is also fully removable and machine-washable — a must when it comes to something that touches highly trafficked surfaces like airplane seats. Actually getting that cover on and off the S3’s memory foam insert proved trickier than we’d have liked, but it held up perfectly well in a standard wash cycle.

The comfiest travel pillow in the world is useless if it’s too big to travel with, which is why one of the best things about the Evolution S3 is the fact that it compresses down to half its size. All you have to do is roll the pillow up like a cinnamon bun and then stuff it inside the included carrying case. Doing so took a bit of elbow grease and was easiest on a solid surface, but we think that’s a fair price to pay given how much space it ends up saving.

The S3’s carrying case, in turn, is another major upgrade from the original Evolution pillow and was far and away our favorite case of the bunch. It clips directly to your luggage and is made from ripstop fabric that’ll keep your pillow clean and protected until you’re ready to use it.

The Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow has everything you might be looking for in a travel pillow companion. It’s firm, but not too firm, and we found it to offer a tremendous amount of support. Plus, the exterior is made of a silky-soft, jersey-like fabric that made for the perfect environment for getting some rest while in flight. It’s more expensive than our overall recommendation, but it’s a great option if you travel a lot, want a truly luxurious experience and are willing to spend a bit more

Unlike traditional U-shaped travel pillows that see an opening at the front of the neck, the Go Neck Pillow offers 360-degree support. We found that this feature is worth its weight in gold. During our testing, we loved how the front Velcro enclosure created the perfect resting place for our chin, resisting our attempts to slump forward mid-nap. Plus, because it’s attached by a Velcro strap, the closure can be customized to fit any traveler’s size and desired support level.

When it came to transporting the Go Neck Pillow, we found that it couldn’t have been easier. Though the pillow offered enough firm support to keep our neck upright — without being too upright — the pillow also folds down. When we were done using the pillow, the memory foam compressed to 60% of its size, allowing us to store it in the included travel storage bag for easy transport. Plus, the storage bag has its own drawstring closure to ensure the pillow stays compact and in its case.

Alternatively, the Go Neck Pillow can be left in its 360-degree position and wrapped around your luggage’s handle. However, we found it to be more convenient to be able to store the pillow in its bag in between uses, helping to avoid it getting dirty during the travel process. If it does get dirty during travel, the exterior sleeve is removable and washable to ensure your neck pillow stays clean ahead of your next trip.

The Go Neck Pillow is on the pricier side, which was our only gripe. But if you don’t mind paying $60 for the pillow, it’s a solid investment that’ll help to ensure your next flight — or train ride, car trip or bus journey — is much more comfortable.

The most important things to look for when shopping for travel pillows are comfort and portability. You need something that’s going to offer real support without taking up a bunch of space in your luggage (thus defeating the purpose of being a travel pillow). With these considerations in mind, we settled on two major rubrics for our pillow testing criteria: comfort and build. We then had one short tester and one tall tester evaluate how comfortable and supportive the pillows felt when behind our heads, under our chins and in the crooks of our necks. We gauged how easy the pillows were to transport by rolling them up, smooshing them down and packing each into its carrying case (if included). We attached those carrying cases to our luggage and noted how doing so impacted our mobility. We also noted how the pillows’ covers felt against our skin and then slipped those same covers off and put them through a machine wash cycle. Finally, we factored in the cost and looks of each pillow to determine their overall value and to choose the best pillow for most travelers.

We used the following specific categories and subcategories for testing.
Behind-head comfort/support: We noted how comfortable and supportive the pillow felt when placed around the neck and/or behind the head.

Side comfort/support: We noted how comfortable and supportive the pillow felt when leaning our necks to the side as well as when leaning against a hard surface (as a traveler would be able to do when sitting in a window seat). We also noted how simple it was to readjust the pillows while resting on them or to switch sides.

Front comfort/support: We noted how comfortable and supportive the pillows felt when letting our heads droop forward and resting our chins on them.

Fit: We noted whether each pillow fit people of different heights equally well and if they were adjustable at all.
Portability: We noted each pillow’s size, whether it included a strap or bag for easy toting and if it could be compressed to take up less space. While some pillows were indeed heavier than others (looking at you, memory foam models), we found that a few extra ounces weren’t noticeable when carting the pillows around. Overall size, case quality and the ability to attach pillows to our luggage made a much more meaningful difference in portability.

Fabric: Nearly all the pillows featured a soft, velvety shell made from a velour or fleece-like material, but there was a range in terms of plushness. We noted how each pillow felt against our skin.

Washability: Given that travel pillows touch your face, they need to be easy to clean. We also noted how difficult it was to get the pillows’ cases on and off when necessary.

Breathability: We noted whether the pillows felt breathable and cool to the touch as well as if they tended to trap heat.

Appearance: We made note of each pillow’s overall look and gauged how likely they were to attract funny looks.
The J-Pillow is a fantastically comfortable option with a big caveat: It works best if you’ve got a window seat. Because the J-Pillow doesn’t attach directly to your neck or your seat, it tended to slip around unless it was wedged against a hard surface. The J-Pillow was also too bulky for us to easily stuff into a carry-on bag or personal item.

While a less versatile option than our top picks, the J-Pillow’s lack of neck attachment might actually be a plus for those who find regular U-shaped travel pillows restrictive. And when we could lean against a hard surface, the J-Pillow offered excellent head, neck and front-facing/chin support. Like the Cabeau S3 and Ostrichpillow Go Neck, it comes with a sturdy (though less compact) travel case that clips to your luggage. There also aren’t any covers or zippers to deal with; the entire pillow can be tossed in the wash.

The Trtl is essentially a padded neck brace and was the most portable pillow we tested. It folds down relatively flat, taking up almost no space in your luggage, and one of our taller testers loved its sturdy support. That said, the Trtl proved far too big for our shorter tester, and both testers could feel the plastic brace in the middle poking through its padding. The Trtl was also very warm (which makes sense, given that you’re basically wearing a wool scarf), and we didn’t love that you have to fully unwrap and rewrap the pillow around your neck if you want to switch the side you’re sleeping on.

$29.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond

Cabeau’s original Evolution model is a very decent travel pillow and cheaper than our top picks. That said, it lacks the S3’s straps, more-breathable cover and far superior case. In a choice between the two, the S3 is definitely worth the minor bump in price.

As a lightweight option to toss in your bag for camping or backpacking trips, Therm-a-Rest’s compressible pillow is an excellent choice. It compresses down into a compact roll and is both supportive and comfortable when used like a normal pillow (lying down). But because it doesn’t wrap around your neck or have any straps to keep it in place, it’s not a great option for trying to rest while sitting upright.

Bcozzy’s popular pillow didn’t offer us nearly enough neck support, and the material, while soft to the touch, felt less luxurious than our top picks. On the plus side, it’s relatively small and lightweight, and can be folded in half for more support if you’ve got a surface to lean against (it’s prone to slipping around otherwise).

Travelrest’s bestseller is a well-made and supremely soft pillow, but its memory foam proved too stiff in our testing, and its sides were so tall that they pushed uncomfortably against our cheeks. This stiffness also made it difficult to compress the pillow into its carrying case. We prefered the squishier memory foam and shorter side profile of the Cabeau models.

If you know you’ll have a hard surface to lean on, the Huzi can be finagled into a very comfortable position. It requires an illustrated guide to do so, however, and on its own doesn’t offer very much neck support. And while we loved (loved!) its silky, breathable bamboo fabric, the Huzi doesn’t come with a carrying case and took up a ton of space in our luggage.

The ubiquitous microbead pillow is lightweight and inexpensive, but its low profile leaves much to be desired when it comes to actual neck support. We didn’t love the feel and sound of the microbeads when pressed against our ears, and this pillow also doesn’t come with a carrying case. Given that it also isn’t machine-washable, this probably isn’t a pillow you’d want to rub your face against long-term. We also found that it tended to flatten out a bit with continued use over the weeks that we tested.

If you want a very lightweight and portable lumbar pillow, the AirComfy Ease isn’t a bad choice. If you want a versatile travel pillow, this is simply too stiff, too small and too slippery to be of use. It conveniently attaches to the back of any seat for extra support, but it just isn’t very comfortable. And while inflatability is cool in concept, in practice it feels like trying to sleep on a fuzzy balloon.

Read more from CNN Underscored’s hands-on testing:
[ad_2]

Source link
March 16, 2023
How to pack everything you need for your upcoming trip in a backpack | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Flying these days is a different experience than in decades past. More and more airlines have begun charging fees for bringing a carry-on bag on board, which makes packing a challenge if you don’t want to fork out extra cash on top of the cost of your ticket.

Luckily, many of the airlines that now charge for carry-on bags still classify travel backpacks as a personal item — with some size restrictions. As a traveler, there’s plenty you can do to maximize your backpack’s volume for a several-day trip without having to hand your credit card over when it comes time to check in.

We’ve asked people who travel a lot to share their best tips for getting the most out of your backpack’s space. Whether you’re looking to bypass fees or just want to travel light, read on for their best suggestions for packing a backpack on your spring break trip.

When it comes to packing for a trip in just a backpack, the most important thing you’ll need is, well, a backpack. There are a lot of backpacks built for travel on the market these days. That said, you don’t want one that’s going to be so large that you’ll be flagged by an airline employee for attempting to skirt around the carry-on policy. Meanwhile, you don’t want one that’s so small that there’s not a chance you could fit everything you need inside.

With size in mind, there are generally two ideal backpack options you should consider: backpacks with a lot of built-in storage areas for lots of little knickknacks and those that are a black hole of volume for better customizing with your own packing style.

Here are some great travel backpacks that fit into either of these categories and — in many cases — are permitted under airline personal item policies. However, you’ll want to double-check with your airline of choice to ensure the backpack that you’re eyeing fits in its acceptable luggage policy.

I’m a big fan of this adventure-ready backpack from Peak Design. It expands from 35 liters in volume to 45 liters and can accommodate four — or more — days’ worth of clothing. It also has chest and hip straps for when the load really gets heavy and has some great anti-theft features like locking zippers and secret pockets for stashing your passport or cash. Plus, it zips around the top and on each side so getting in and out of the compartments is easy, and the side handles make for easy grabbing from overhead bins.

We’re big fans of just about everything Yeti does, including this 35-liter backpack. Available in six colorways, this backpack can fit up to a couple of days’ worth of clothes and has a separate laptop pocket with padding that can fit most laptops up to 15 inches. Made of durable nylon material, inside you’ll find a main compartment as well as some smaller organizational pockets. The outside buckle straps allow you to compress the bag down to a smaller size to fit most airline personal item policies.

This backpack is the perfect companion if you’re planning on spending up to three nights — and maybe more — away from home. Its 30-liter main compartment allows you to pack enough folded clothes, and there’s also a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit devices up to 17 inches. We love that this bag’s main compartment also features several additional smaller pockets for your electronics and any toiletries you’re bringing along.

This durable bag from Cotopaxi is perfect for travelers looking to just bring a backpack on their trip, as it’s not a conventional option. Instead of opening from the front, this backpack opens suitcase-style with a full-wrap zipper. Inside, you’ll find a large mesh compartment on one side and on the other side, two smaller mesh compartments and one medium-sized mesh compartment. It features 35 liters of packing space, meaning this is a great option if you’re planning to travel for a few days and want enough room for all of your clothes and gadgets.

Ideal if you’re only planning on spending a day or two away from home, this cult-favorite backpack is the perfect personal item. While its standard capacity is 20 liters, it can be expanded to offer 24 liters of packing space. Its exterior is made to withstand the elements, as it’s waterproof and extremely durable. Inside, meanwhile, you’ll find plenty of storage compartments for all of your essentials, as well as space for packing clothes.

Perfect for longer trips, this rugged bag is built for men’s frames and is available in four sizes. Each has plenty of stash points for all your odds and ends plus a big main compartment to hold packing cubes and equipment with ease.

Founder and CEO of Lugos Travel Shane Mahoney has been curating trips for clients for years, and his top picks are REI Co-op Traverse 60 Pack and the Osprey Talon 36 Pack for trips of up to five days. Just be sure to check the dimensions of this backpack to ensure it’s compatible with your airline’s cabin baggage policy.

With a streamlined shape and AirScape back panel for long travel days, this backpack keeps you comfy while your clothes and trip equipment stay organized. Inside, there are even areas for extra jackets, hydration reservoirs and more. This backpack comes in two sizes, and you’ll likely want to consider the smaller of the two if you’re planning to use this bag as your personal item.

When it comes to packing your backpack, a capsule wardrobe is key says AirAdvisor founder Anton Radchenko. “When you’re packing your clothes, be sure to think of outfits that can be combined,” Radchenko says. “Rather than packing individual outfits, you can mix and match two pants and three shirts and rotate them into different outfits.”

For over-packers, there’s little more restricting than packing for a trip in just a backpack, which is why it’s important to bring your wardrobe staples along with you.

“When it comes to clothes, nothing beats a uniform,” adds Paige Nichols, Argentina team leader of Wild Terrains, a women-only tour company. “I only bring layer-able pieces that can be combined in different ways to create versatile outfits.”

For Nichols, a pair of Nike sneakers are the perfect footwear for just about any travel occasion, whether it be traversing a new city or heading to dinner. These sleek black Nikes fit just that bill, as they pair just as great with cropped jeans as they do with your favorite floral minidress.

A lightweight and versatile white top can fit just about any occasion. Not your usual white button-down, this oxford from Everlane packs a lot of style into its minimalist fit — and the oversized front pockets and drop hem keep it loose and classy at once. “It takes me from day to night with ease, and rolls up easily to minimize wrinkling while packed,” Nichols says.

Once you’ve settled on the outfits you want to bring, plan to wear your bulkiest clothes on your flight. This goes for winter clothes especially if you’re flying between very different climates. Sure, you might look a bit strange rocking up in Rio wearing the winter coat you flew in from New York, but you won’t be the only one — and the second you’re on board the flight, you can de-robe and put the coat up in the overhead bin.

Packing cubes are a staple in many frequent travelers’ wardrobes for one reason: they work! Not only do they help to keep you more organized from your trip’s start to finish, but if you invest in a set of compression packing cubes, they’ll help you to fit more inside your backpack.

“If you want to keep it minimal, you’ve got to reduce the chaos inside your bag,” Nichols says. “There are tons of packing cubes on the market, but [some] have nifty hooks that let you hang them up directly, saving time and keeping you extra-organized. I’ve been known to use spare dust bags to achieve a similar effect in a pinch, but once you get the real deal, there’s no going back.”

And, packing cubes have multiple uses as well, as they’re the perfect tool for keeping your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes. And speaking of laundry, consider doing it at your destination to save money. “Pack enough socks and underwear to last your entire trip so that you only have to launder larger items such as pants, shirts and shorts during your travels,” Mahoney says.

This set of three packing cubes from Eagle Creek is a great starting point for the packing cube novice. You’ll get two traditional packing cubes that compress to take up less space as well as a folder, which can fit up to 12 shirts or pants in a wrinkle-free compartment. And when you get home, these cubes are machine washable so they’re nice and clean for your next trip.

Take this set of four compressible packing cubes on your backpack-only trip to fit more clothes and other essentials. In fact, Monos says that because of the built-in compression zippers on this set, you can save up to 60% space when they’re compressed. And, they’re ultra-durable, as they’re both tear-resistant and water-resistant. We love, too, that they feature a mesh top so you can easily see what’s in each cube without fully unzipping them.

If you’re looking to stick to a budget but still want to maximize your backpack’s space, look no further than this set of four packing cubes from Amazon Basics. Reviewers rave about their durability, and we love that they come in six different colors to match your backpack. Don’t need all four? Leave a couple at home and freestyle the rest of your packing, cube-free.

So, you’ve got your packing cubes. Now what? If you’re really trying to maximize your backpack’s space for your trip, experts say rolling your clothes will help you fit more than folding them.

“Make sure to roll everything as tight as you can — not fold — so that you allow the most amount of space in your backpack,” Mahoney says.

While you may have some more wrinkles to deal with when getting to your destination, it’s worth it if you can fit all of your clothes inside your personal bag without having to pay for a carry-on — or a checked bag.

Not sure about the rolling? Another option is to “bundle pack,” Radchenko says. “Bundle packing allows you to fold multiple items of clothing together by layering them on top of each other, saving you space in your backpack.”

Worried about wrinkles? Put those worries at ease by taking this 3-ounce wrinkle-release spray with you in your backpack. Best of all, because of its travel size, you don’t have to worry about TSA taking it during the security screening process.

If you’ve got some spare room in your backpack, consider bringing along a portable steamer to get any wrinkles out of your favorite clothes. This option from Nesugar is ideal for travelers, as it’s lightweight (it weighs less than 1 pound!) and still packs a punch, offering up to 10 minutes of continuous steaming.

That little clear bag of 3.4-ounce travel-sized goods can take up a decent chunk of space in your backpack. Instead, try solid products like toothpaste tablets, Radchenko says. They’re easy to stash in little corners and gaps around your backpack instead of demanding dedicated volume in a bulky bag.

Once you’ve secured the space-saving alternatives, consider how and where you pack them in your bag.

“Save space by placing your non-liquid toiletry necessities inside [your] shoes,” Radchenko says. “You can pack up travel-size items, including a foldable toothbrush, deodorant or bar soap.”

Radchenko recommends bringing toothpaste tablets rather than liquid or gel alternatives. The tablets can fit in smaller spaces in your backpack and you won’t need to worry about fitting a tube of toothpaste in your small plastic bag for other liquids and gels. Similarly, he recommends trying other solid alternatives, such as bar shampoo and conditioner.

And, think about what you can do without. Do you need highlighter and primer and setting spray, or will a holy-grail primer carry you through? Consider the climate you’re going to when making makeup decisions — hot and humid weather, for example, might not be compatible with your usual formulations if you live in a temperate, dry area.

“My travel skincare routine is pared down so I’m not fussing with bulky bottles or oversized liquids while away,” Nichols says. “I focus on products that pack a punch and keep me glowing despite late nights and stale airplane air.”

This Underscored editor and reader favorite is a travel game-changer. If you can’t skip all of your liquids and gels, consider putting them in these magnetic and customizable Cadence Capsule containers, which you can buy individually or as a set of six or set of 12.

Ultimately, it is possible to pack for a trip in just a backpack. By familiarizing yourself with your airline’s personal item policy and using the right bag, a hands-free, fee-free trip could be possible.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

March 9, 2023
24 of our favorite crossbody bags for travel | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

If you want to qualify as a savvy traveler, there are a few must-haves. Luggage with spinner wheels? Check. Packing cubes? Oh yeah. A crossbody bag? Must-have! While great for everyday use, crossbody bags are essential for traveling. Not only do they allow you to be hands-free — so you can roll through the airport, take selfies and eat gelato with ease — they’re also a lot harder for pickpockets to strike upon (unlike backpacks and fanny packs).

Plus, crossbody bags are handy in that they can hold everything from your phone and wallet to lip balm, keys and other travel necessities without weighing you down, thanks to the crossbody strap that evenly distributes weight across your shoulder, chest and back.

Luckily for us, there are plenty of crossbody bags out there, chock-full of organizational details that are great for travel. From stylish options that you can take from the plane to date night, to anti-theft bags that are RFID-protected, anti-slash and armed with locking mechanisms, these are our favorite crossbody bag options for your next trip.

Mini crossbody bags

Lululemon’s All Night Festival Bag has reached cult-favorite status, which is likely why the brand decided to create this mini version that we just can’t get enough of. Boasting an adjustable strap, magnetic closures and a wide-mouth opening that zips shut, the water-resistant micro is just 7 inches wide and designed for taking on the go.

Teensy weensy, this cutie is the smallest bag in MZ Wallace’s beloved Crosby collection and comes with two detachable straps: one adjustable crossbody nylon option and one stylish wristlet chain option. Big enough to accommodate an iPhone 11 Pro Max, the bag has three interior credit card pockets, a zip-top closure and one exterior zipped pocket.

Paravel is one of our favorite travel brands. Not only are its products made with sustainability at the top of mind, but they’re also incredibly chic — and this capsule crossbody is no exception. The canister design features vegan leather details and can be customized with your monogram for a personalized look. Inside, there’s enough room for all of your travel essentials and the added security of a full zipper enclosure.

Crafted with pebbled Italian leather, this mini crossbody bag by Cuyana oozes luxe details like a suede interior lining and a chic, modern design. We love that despite its petite frame, the bag manages to accommodate your phone, wallet and a few extra must-haves. An adjustable strap, hidden pockets and an array of universal color options make it the perfect travel accessory that won’t weigh you down.

Known for its neoprene bags, Dagne Dover’s Puff collection includes this diminutive Kitty bag that is ideal for traveling. Featuring an adjustable crossbody strap and a removable short handle strap (that is, by the way, scrunchy and super cute), the Kitty has two roomy interior pockets in addition to a zipped pocket, a key leash, a D-ring, elastic loops and card slots. Available in three colors, the Kitty can also be worn as a clutch bag and it compresses nearly flat, making it super easy to pack.

Clear crossbody bags

Clear bag, but make it fashion! Steve Madden to the rescue with a clear bag that is stadium- and event-approved. The crossbody bag features a chic chain strap to wear crossbody that can pair well with just about any outfit. Plus, we love that there’s an interior pouch for keeping some of your belongings out of sight.

Nearly 4,000 Amazon customers have given this clear crossbody a thumbs-up, declaring it both the perfect size — it can fit both a full-size mayo and mustard container! — and durable. Available in six colors, the zip-top closure bag contains an exterior zippered pocket and a removable crossbody strap. Also, we’re not mad at that $13 price tag when on sale like it is now.

We love this crossbody bag because of how customizable it is. First up, you can choose the color of the vegan leather silhouette of your bag — navy, camel or black. Then, you can select from a variety of crossbody straps to accompany your clear bag. And to finish, further personalize your bag with a monogram for an additional $12.50. Ultimately, this is the perfect bag to make your very own.

Luxury/designer crossbody bags

The ideal travel bag, the Perry Bombe from Tory Burch is stamped with the brand’s distinguished double T logo and features a dual-top zippered closure, ensuring all your valuables are tucked safely inside. We love the removable crossbody strap (it can double as a clutch!), the exterior slip pocket and the fact that the luxe pebbled leather and gold hardware means it can transition seamlessly from sightseeing by day to a glamorous night on the town.

A celebrity favorite — Meghan Markle and Katie Holmes are fans — Strathberry’s East/West Mini is utterly chic, thanks to its luxe gold hardware and smooth calf leather. Available in 20 colors and patterns, the bag features two compartments and one interior pocket, and it can be worn as a crossbody (as the Duchess of Sussex prefers) or as an over-the-shoulder bag, thanks to the adjustable chain strain.

Meet our favorite fanny pack-slash-crossbody bag! Simultaneously roomy and lightweight, the Crossbody Sling comes with three detachable straps — a thicker nylon option, a chain option and an adjustable waist strap — has a zip closure, four interior pockets and one exterior zipped pocket. Perfect for traveling, the bag is chock-full of upscale details, which also makes it fancy enough for high-end pit stops.

Meet one of Kate Spade’s most beloved bags. The Harlow is a streamlined crossbody that can fit all your necessities, minus the bulk of a bigger bag. Available in eight colors, the pebbled leather Harlow has a zip-top closure, two interior pockets and one hidden exterior slip pocket, perfect for keeping your hotel room key handy.

No surprise here: Luxury luggage maker Tumi knows its way around a travel bag, and this crossbody is proof. Available in black, red and blue hues, the nylon bag has an adjustable crossbody strap and two main compartments loaded with every type of pocket, including zippered, media, card, pen and slip. We love the key leash and the personalizable leather key ring.

Trust us, you get your money’s worth with this versatile bag from Clare V. Available in 14 different hues, the genuine Italian leather bag has room for all of your travel essentials — from your phone to earplugs, travel wallet and more. Its main selling point, however, is that you can customize the look with the option to purchase additional straps for any outfit.

Anti-theft crossbody bags

Keep your credit cards and passports safe with this Made By Design bag from Target. Outfitted with RFID-blocking pockets that ensure your information isn’t electronically swiped, the slash-proof design of the bag will also keep pickpockets at bay, as will the clip-on zippers that deter robbers.

More than 6,000 Amazon reviewers rave about this anti-theft crossbody from Travelon, citing it as having all the organization details of a bigger bag minus the weight. Boasting an interlocking mesh barrier located below the surface material and a hidden steel cable in the strap, the bag’s construction is meant to prevent a blade from slashing, while main compartment locks will stop a pickpocket from quickly reaching within the bag. More to know: RFID-blocking pockets will keep your cards and passports safe from identity scanner theft.

Available in five different tones and styles, this simple crossbody bag is perfect for both men and women who are looking to take along some essentials while exploring a new locale. It can be worn over the shoulder and sits comfortably on your side. Inside, you’ll find a designated RFID-blocking pocket for storing your credit cards, passport and other personal information. Plus, we love that this bag is water-resistant should an unexpected rain shower grace you on your travels.

Crossbody travel purses

Big news, folks: Beloved baby bag maker Fawn has stepped into the crossbody game in a big way with this Circle Bag. Featuring two small interior pockets for your essentials and a separate back pocket, the faux leather bag also includes an adjustable messenger strap. Perfect for mixing and matching your way through vacation, the Circle Bag comes in three colorways.

The travel professionals at Away have a crossbody bag of their own to consider for your upcoming trip. This 16-liter messenger bag is perfect for taking out and exploring a new city — and it even holds enough for a one-night trip. Inside, you’ll find easy-access zipper pockets for your essentials, and it can be used as either a shoulder bag or crossbody bag thanks to the adjustable strap.

One of accessory-maker Mark & Graham’s bestselling bags, The Essential Crossbody is just that: essential! Perfectly sized — it’s not too small or too big, but rather just right — the bag boasts two zippered main compartments, which comprise zip and slip pockets for all your travel doodads. Available in seven colors ranging from neon pink to camouflage, the bag can also be monogrammed for an additional $12.50.

Versatile and stylish, the Roll-Top Crossbody Bag from Lululemon might be purchased for travel — but, trust us, you’re going to be using it every day going forward. It’s big enough for your smartphone, wallet, passport and snacks, and it also features an ultra-secure zipper, roll and clip enclosure that is super handy for keeping travel docs nearby. The nylon bag is water-repellent and also features a zippered exterior pocket for easy access.

Listen, we get it if you don’t want to break the bank on a crossbody, but you do want quality and functionality. The answer? Check out this beloved Amazon option that has nearly 3,000 positive reviews and costs just under $17. The zip-top bag includes three exterior zippers and an interior roomy enough to accommodate an iPhone 11 Pro Max. Available in 10 colors, the vegan leather bag is a great wipeable option for travelers on a budget.

For your next trip, we suggest creating the custom crossbody of your dreams with Mark & Graham. Start with a camouflage square bag, and opt to personalize the bag with a fun monogram. Next up: Choose a coordinating twill strap (or two!), which can also be customized with a monogram. The result is something that is utterly personal to you and will stand out during your travels near and far.

$245 at MZ Wallace

Boasting the best of both worlds — it can literally function as a traditional tote or as a crossbody bag — the Small Sutton Deluxe is the roomiest bag on our list, with plenty of space for your water bottle, extra layers and any souvenirs you may pick up on the road. In addition to six interior zippered and slip pockets, the bag also comes with a removable pouch for your essentials. Available in 15 colorways, the bag also has two exterior slip pockets and a detachable crossbody strap.

Looking for a new travel credit card? Check out CNN Underscored’s list of the best credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

March 6, 2023
Our favorite travel pants to keep you comfortable on the go | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Long travel days can test your patience, but you don’t have to spend your transit time in misery. With the right travel clothing, you can stay organized and comfortable whether you’re moving through airports or embarking on an epic road trip. The right travel pants can also keep your look clean and fresh — even after sitting or standing in the same position for hours.

The best travel pants come with features like security pockets for when you’re checking out new cities. Not only do the best travel pants have features that set them apart, but it’s also what they’re made of to keep you comfortable. You’ll often find travel pants to be made of wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying material.

Here are 24 of our favorite pairs of travel pants for men and women.

If you’re looking for women’s travel pants that are lightweight and breathable, these Co-op Sahara pants from REI could be a good fit. They are convertible, meaning you can remove the bottom of the pants to turn them into shorts. Color-coded thigh zippers also help you discern the right leg from the left leg when converting back to pants. As an added bonus, these quick-drying pants come with zip-closure security pockets and UPF 50+ protection.

The Freeflex Pant is ideal for women who are on the go, whether they are traversing multiple airports or hiking through the mountains. Made of stretchy and flexible spandex-free material, these pants are made for movement without ever losing their form. Four different colors are available, and there’s a convenient roll-up feature for converting the pants to capris.

The Dream Pant from Everlane has the best of both worlds: a tailored look with a sweatpant feel. This is the perfect pair of pants for a long-haul flight when staying comfortable is key. The pants have an elastic waist and sleek tapered leg, and they’re wrinkle-resistant, meaning you can arrive after your flight looking just as fresh as before you left. Plus, there are pockets for storing all of your small belongings on the go.

Joggers can make for a great travel pant — and this pair from Outdoor Voices is no exception. They feature an ultra-stretchy material so you can stay comfortable no matter how long your flight is, and they come in three different colors to match your personal style: black, okra green and bone white. The waistband on this pair of joggers is adjustable and features a drawstring, and the pant cuffs are elastic. Plus, there are both hand and back pockets for placing your essentials during your travels.

Travel lovers who want plenty of pockets can consider these stylish pants from Lands’ End. Available in regular, petite and tall sizes, these pants have five functional pockets in front and back. They’re also made of moisture-wicking material that keeps you comfortable in any climate. An interior elastic drawcord offers security and a custom fit, and the fabric comes with UPF 50 protection.

If you’re hoping for travel pants that are flattering and stylish, the Beyond Travel Pant should be on your radar. These stretchable pants offer a straight-leg and sophisticated style that lets you pair them with a dressy top or something a bit more casual. They’re also wrinkle-resistant, cling-free and available in three different lengths to match any height. The elastic waistband also adds comfort and flexibility without detracting from your look.

These travel pants are made of lightweight material that helps with breathability and freedom of movement on your busiest travel days. Available in eight colors and regular, petite, plus or tall sizes, these pants can also be tailored to any body size or shape. Other notable features include UPF 50+ sun protection and two secure zip pockets to keep your essentials accessible yet safe.

These leggings were created with comfort in mind. The polyester and spandex material makes them cozy yet versatile for zipping through the terminal. The leggings, made of a stretchy and quick-drying fabric, are available in 35 colors — some with a fleece option if you’re planning to travel to colder climates. The pair also features two exterior pockets as well as a hidden pocket, which is the perfect place to keep your phone, credit cards or cash.

The Champion Women’s Cotton Jersey Pant is perfect for women who want comfort and flexibility without spending an arm and a leg. These pants have an elastic waistband with a drawstring closure, and they’re made of material that’s as soft as your favorite T-shirt. The best feature of these pants is their coziness, so don’t expect any pockets — instead, carry your goods in a quality travel backpack, travel wallet or carry-on bag. The pants come in five sizes and three different color options.

Travelers who want versatile pants for long-haul travel or hiking should consider the CRZ Yoga Women’s Hiking Pants. These pants, which come in 14 different colors, have a drawstring closure that keeps them snug against your body while providing breathability, and they’re made to provide a slightly loose fit. They also come with mesh pockets and back zip pockets that keep your belongings in place when you need your hands free for grabbing your passport, going through the security checkpoint or putting your bag in the overhead compartment.

If you’re looking for women’s travel pants that are elastic-waisted without looking frumpy, these high-rise travel joggers may be exactly what you need. You can choose from seven different colors, and Lululemon offers women’s sizes up to 20. Best of all, these joggers are made of wrinkle-resistant, comfortable material that’s breathable yet also stretchy thanks to the addition of Lycra during manufacturing. There are two pockets for storing all of your small belongings while you’re on the move.

These women’s travel leggings are ideal for those who want to head straight from the airplane to the office. They’re elastic-waisted as you might expect, but also made of light and comfortable material that helps with breathability. Plus, they’re stylish enough to pair with a nice top to wear to a business meeting. The best part? There are five pockets to store all of your small items — two front pockets, two rear pockets and one hidden waistband pocket.

These travel pants from RevolutionRace are durable, yet versatile and the perfect option for an adventure trip. They’re also stylish enough to coordinate with your favorite travel purse and accessories. When you arrive at your destination, they’re water-repellent with excellent ventilation, and they’re flexible and stretchy enough for active use. Several zippered pockets offer space to stash small items. These pants come in five different colors and designs.

Bluffworks is a company that specializes in making the perfect travel pants, and The Ascender Chino is no exception. The pants help men look stylish while they travel without giving up comfort or durability. They’re good-looking enough to coordinate with all the best travel wallets and travel shoes. But perhaps best of all, the pants have 10 different pockets, including two phone pockets and three pockets with zippers. Made of lightweight polyester fabric, these quick-dry pants are also wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable.

Men who are looking for affordable travel pants can find several good options from Amazon Essentials, including the brand’s slim-fit, flat-front chino pants. This pair, which is available in 15 different colors, is pretty basic with a zipper closure and flat-front design, yet it’s made of wrinkle-free material. Wear the pants on a plane or a train, or to a board meeting. As more than 19,000 five-star reviewers on Amazon agree, you’re sure to impress either way.

These classic chino pants are ideal for travel and everyday wear thanks to their stretchy fabric, quick-drying properties and hidden pocket. They’re also wrinkle-resistant and breathable, yet stylish enough to wear to a business meeting, having been inspired by classic chinos. Lululemon’s ABC technology also uses an ergonomic gusset to remove tension from the crotch so you can move comfortably and freely throughout your journey.

These five-pocket pants from L.L. Bean are perfect for travel, everyday wear or active sports like hiking or biking. Not only are they made of a stretchable nylon and spandex blend material, but they’re finished with a durable treatment that repels water. The material offers UPF 50+ protection from the sun, and you can choose from seven different colors. Sizes are also tailored based on waist size and inseam, so you’re bound to find the perfect fit.

If you’re looking for comfort only, the Hanes Men’s Jersey Pant is basically a pair of sweatpants with pockets. This simple design makes them perfect travel wear for airplanes, trains and long car rides. These pants come with a drawstring closure that lets you tailor the fit to your desired level of comfort, and they come in four different colors that allow you to coordinate with other clothing. The best part? These lounge pants for travel are well under $20 when they’re on sale.

The Renegade Rock Pants from Kuhl were built with the active traveler in mind, thanks to the quality of materials used to make them. The fabric is soft to the touch, yet strong, breathable and quick-drying. Travelers will also love the UPF 50+ sun protection these pants provide, as well as the eight different pockets you can use for storage on the go. Seven natural-looking colors are available, as well as unique sizes based on waist and inseam.

The Ascender Jogger is the most casual pair of men’s travel pants offered by Bluffworks, yet they’re still stylish enough to transition from the airport directly to a business meeting. Made of wrinkle-resistant material with an elastic drawstring waistband, these pants also come with seven different pockets, including three zippered pockets, for storage. The Ascender Jogger is offered in grey, navy and olive with several size options for a more tailored fit.

These men’s travel pants are made with the adventurer in mind, as they quickly and easily transition from pants to shorts. The material is comfortable and stretchy, and it also provides UPF 50+ protection from the sun. The REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants are also loaded with pockets for hands and supplies, including zippered cargo pockets for larger items. A full elastic waistband also lets you move freely and comfortably, whether you’re hiking or pulling luggage through the airport.

The Bluffworks Airline Pants are a mix between dress pants and joggers, so they can work whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. They’re made of wrinkle-resistant material that ensures you’ll never have to iron them, and they have six different pockets for storage. They’re pull-on pants, yet the drawstring waistband is expertly hidden for a clean, professional look.

These Tommy Bahama travel pants are perfect for men seeking easy-wear clothing that’s also easy to care for. They’re made of stretchable material with a classic fit you can wear anywhere, yet they’re comfortable enough for travel or long-term lounging. UPF 30 protection helps keep your bottom half out of the sun, and the moisture-wicking material wards off sweat. These pants are also partly made out of recycled plastic bottles, so you can rest easy that they leave a smaller environmental footprint.

If you’re on the hunt for cargo pants that are uniquely suited to travel, look no further than this option from Eddie Bauer. These pants have multiple pockets, including front pockets, snap-close cargo pockets and two back pockets — one of which has a secure zip. The waistband features interior elastic for the perfect fit, and the fabric offers UPF 25 sun protection and extra stretch. A gusseted inseam also paves the way for extra mobility.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

February 24, 2023
These expert-approved products will help you pack your suitcase like a pro | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Packing and preparing your luggage for an upcoming trip can be daunting. You definitely don’t want to forget anything at home but the idea of exceeding your airline’s baggage weight limit can also make you think twice about throwing just anything into your suitcase. Then, of course, there’s the issue of wrinkles — the last thing you want is to spend half your vacation pulling out the hotel ironing board every time you need a fresh shirt.

In order to help you iron out the optimal packing practices in time for your next trip, we spoke to a handful of travel professionals and etiquette coaches to get their insights on the very best ways to pack your suitcase and the products that will help you master the art of packing.

Whether you’re packing a carry-on for a quick domestic trip or you’re hoping to fit everything you need for a two-week trip abroad, read on if you want to master the art of packing a suitcase once and for all.

Write — and stick to — a packing list

It doesn’t matter if you can pack a suitcase in 10 minutes flat or it takes you days to finish packing all those last-minute essentials, creating a packing list is the easiest way to afford some peace of mind.

“In addition to helping you not forget anything, a packing list also prevents you from double-packing items that you may have already packed at the bottom of your suitcase,” says Phil Dengler, founder of The Vacationer.

Julia Esteve Boyd, international etiquette and protocol consultant and founder of The Etiquette Consultant, also suggests taking the packing list with you. This is useful when packing for the return trip so nothing is left behind. It’s also useful should luggage be lost or damaged for insurance purposes.

~~$11~~ $7 at Amazon

You can make a packing list with the Notes app on your iPhone, but a pen and paper can sometimes offer a more visual and easy-to-follow guide. The Knock Knock Pack This Pad will help you to make sure you have all your bases covered, even if you’re not entirely sure of what you should be packing.

Rather than sprinkling in your items here and there as you think of them, Boyd strongly advises gathering all the items you intend to pack together before even beginning to place them in your suitcase. She suggests having them all folded, rolled or ready to drape so that you can space out all items properly and efficiently.

$345 at Away

While you’re gathering everything, be sure to keep in mind the size of your bag. You don’t want to over-gather and then ultimately struggle with the impossible task of fitting everything inside. Conversely, you don’t want to underestimate how much space you have. While you’re not ready to put your belongings in your bag just yet, keep your luggage handy so you can reference it for size. In our testing, Away’s The Medium bag took the title as the best overall checked suitcase thanks to its fantastic internal organization and compression as well as a durable exterior.

~~$240~~ $180 at Samsonite

You don’t have to break the bank for supreme organization. We liked this Freeform Medium Spinner from Samsonite as the best budget luggage choice. Not only does it roll smoothly through the airport, but it’s one of the lightest bags we tested. In other words, there’s more weight to spare when packing all of your travel essentials for your trip.

The single best way to ensure you keep track of your bag at every step of your journey is with an Apple AirTag. While you’re packing your suitcase, be sure to throw one in a safe compartment. Then, once your bag has been checked in at the airport, you can travel with peace of mind and track exactly where it is.

$29 at Amazon

Include an Apple AirTag in your suitcase to follow your bag’s journey through the airport. Though it may be out of sight, you’ll be able to follow along as your suitcase makes it on your plane. Or, if you’re traveling with the whole family, grab a four-pack of AirTags to stick in each suitcase.

$9 at Amazon

It could be a good idea to invest in a case for your AirTag. A simple ring attachment will work perfectly to ensure your AirTag doesn’t go missing in your luggage alongside piles of clothes, shoes and toiletries.

You probably don’t throw your dirty clothes in with your clean clothes at home. So, why should you have to do it while you’re on vacation? That’s why packing a laundry bag makes sense.

“I pack a laundry bag for my dirty clothes before doing anything else,” says Dengler. “There is nothing worse than mixing dirty clothes with clean clothes, and it is often not possible nor desirable to do laundry on vacation.”

$8 at Amazon

A simple trash bag will do, but there are many large laundry bags made out of strong material like nylon that’ll last much longer — and are more sustainable — than a disposable bag.

~~$15~~ $13 at Amazon

We like this travel laundry bag option because of the convenient handles that make it easy to take your laundry straight from your suitcase to the washing machine. Before your trip, the bags in this two-piece set fold into a small pouch with an included carabiner to ensure they never get lost in your bag.

“You’ll want to pack the larger items first, such as jackets, trousers, dresses and shirts,” says Boyd. “Instead of folding them, it really helps to place them around the sides of the bottom of the case with any excess fabric draping outside.”

The other smaller items can be placed in the middle on top. The longer larger items can then be folded over to cover everything else that’s inside and hold it all neatly in place.

“Jackets can be folded lengthwise or in half, but attention should be paid to sleeves and collars to avoid crushing them,” says Boyd. “You’ll also want to place the heavier items at the bottom end of the case, as it will be easier to wheel and pull.”

$12 at Amazon

If you’re packing heavy items first, you’ll want to make sure that your bag doesn’t exceed the weight limit of the airline you’re flying with. Do your research to see how much your bag can weigh and then use a digital luggage scale like this one from Etekcity before leaving home to make sure you’re not charged extra for an overweight bag.

$20 at Amazon

Once you’ve packed all of your stuff, add a luggage lock to keep your belongings secure. Regardless if you choose a combination lock or one that opens with a key, you’ll want to double-check to make sure your lock of choice is TSA-compliant.

“Everything you need on the first day or two of your trip should be packed towards the top of your suitcase,” says Dengler. “Otherwise, you will have to dig through all of your other clothes and potentially create wrinkles that were otherwise not there.”

This is especially true with your toiletry bag, medication and any other items that you know you’ll be looking for as soon as you check in to your hotel. Ensuring all these day-to-day essentials sit at the very top will allow you to grab what you need without disturbing your other items.

From $8 at Amazon

This set of three toiletry bags is the perfect option to pack at the top of your suitcase. If you’re stopping overnight on a layover and need to access your toiletries without disturbing anything else, they’ll be easy to grab with this clear design. The set has more than 11,000 5-star reviews on Amazon.

$17 at Amazon

This highly-rated hanging toiletry bag is a great option for travelers and it comes at a reasonable price point. By packing all of your toiletries in a hanging bag, you can easily see everything at once and at eye level when you arrive at your destination. We like this bag from Mossio particularly because of all the patterns available — it comes in 16 different designs.

Properly rolling your clothing is essential to getting the most out of your luggage space. Consider using this technique when initially packing your suitcase as well as when you put dirty clothes in your laundry bag.

“I find that rolling my clothes also means fewer wrinkles than when folding them,” says Dengler. “Finally, I recommend using rubber bands to keep your rolled clothes tight and secure!”

$9 at Amazon

You can use simple rubber bands to keep smaller items rolled properly, but you might want to invest in a set of cheap silicone bands if you have clothing items crafted from more delicate fabrics like wool or silk.

When folding sweaters and jackets, Boyd suggests putting them on a flat surface, top side down, and placing one or two fingers on the side of the neckline as a guide for where to fold the item inwards, then repeat on the other side. Smooth out the item and sleeves with your hands then grab the hem and bring it upwards to the neck to fold it.

“This method allows garments to be folded once, twice or rolled depending on fabric and/or space,” explains Boyd.

$17 at Amazon

Not a folding pro yet? Not a problem. With a little help from this folding board at home, your clothes will look uniform in no time. The durable board can easily fold thin, medium and thick clothing such as pajamas, long-sleeved shirts, dresses and more.

If you want to ensure your delicate items arrive without any color rubbing or piling, Boyd suggests using silk paper or fine tissue paper inside and between items. This method is not necessary for all garments but could be worth extending the extra effort for materials like wool or cashmere.

~~$18~~ $10 at Amazon

This pack of acid-free tissue paper was made for long-term storage, so it’ll do just fine with your delicate or wrinkle-prone garments.

Victoria Caldwell, owner and founder of Destinations Beyond travel agency, swears by the rule that everything must go in a pouch, bag or packing cube.

“Packing cubes ensure that everything is contained,” she explains. “It was a total game changer once I purchased enough packing cubes to fit every single item in my suitcase”

~~$34~~ $22 at Amazon

This six-piece set from Veken is the perfect starter pack for the packing cube novice. In it, you’ll get one extra-large organizer, one large organizer, one medium organizer, one small organizer, a travel shoe bag and a travel laundry bag for storing all of your dirty clothes. Not only will these packing cubes help you stay organized before you head off on your trip, but also when you return home.

~~$43~~ $28 at Amazon

“All of my current packing cubes are Eagle Creek,” says Caldwell. “I’ve had them for over five years and they’re still going strong!”

There is nothing worse than forgetting the order in which you packed your clothing. “I put the order that I packed each type of clothing on my packing list,” explains Dengler. “That allows me to quickly identify where each item is packed so I do not have to pull all of my clothes out at once to find it.”

$65 at Away

If you’re an Away fanatic, add the travel brand’s set of packing cubes to your travel wardrobe. This set of six comes in seven different color options to match your favorite Away suitcase. Each of the cubes features a mesh top to easily keep track of how you pack. If six cubes are too much, opt for Away’s set of four.

~~$30~~ $26 at Amazon

This set of eight contains not only packing cubes for clothes, but also dedicated spaces for keeping your other belongings. Place your largest items in the traditional packing cubes and then stay organized with a dedicated toiletry bag, shoe bag, sock bag and laundry bag.

Always pack the minimum number of shoes as possible for your itinerary, says Dengler. Unless they are sandals or flip-flops, shoes take up a lot of valuable luggage space. They also can’t be folded, so packing becomes even more difficult. Additionally, you should wear your largest pair of shoes when flying — for example, wear hiking boots on the plane if you’re going on a hiking trip.

“Shoes should be clean before packing and can be placed around the edges of the case,” adds Boyd. “I also recommend using fabric shoe bags for high heels to avoid damaging any delicate fabrics.”

~~$22~~ $15 at Amazon

The Yamiu travel shoe bags comes in a set of two or a set of four and makes packing extra footwear so much more sanitary. The shoe bags are waterproof and can easily be thrown in the washing machine after your trip.

~~$14~~ $13 at Amazon

This sturdy bag comes with a drawstring design for easy carrying and, it’s got a zipper enclosure to keep your shoes safe in one place and away from your other belongings. Plus, the bag itself is water-resistant and it comes in seven different color options.

“I also suggest that you never pack very expensive items such as jewelry in your suitcase,” points out Boyd. “You should always have these types of items in your carry-on. It’s much safer than sticking it in your checked baggage.”

~~$22~~ $15 at Amazon

Packing your jewelry in a travel-specific box is not only great for staying organized and keeping your items untangled, but it will also ensure your most valuable items are safe and accounted for throughout your entire trip. We like this option for its plush velvet finish and variety of storage options. Plus, it zips closed to keep all of your jewelry safe and secure.

$85 at Away

The luggage company Away has a jewelry box of its own that’s perfect for the traveler who wants to keep their belongings safe, untangled and organized. Made of leather and available in four color options, this box has multiple organizational compartments for all your earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets and more.

If you want your clothes to remain fresh and ready to wear when you land, Caldwell recommends adding a dryer sheet to your packing cubes prior to zipping them up. This will ensure your items arrive smelling fresh — even if you usually store your suitcase in your basement or garage.

$10 at Amazon

Looking for a more eco-friendly and sustainable dryer sheet to throw in your suitcase? The Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dryer Sheets are made with essential oils and offer a much more natural scent than traditional brands.

Looking for a new travel credit card? Check out CNN Underscored’s list of the best credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

February 22, 2023
The essentials list: Alan Cumming’s 12 travel must-haves for a weekend away | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

On a holiday weekend in January, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, Peacock, rather quietly dropped a 10-episode reality competition murder mystery show called “The Traitors.” Hosted by Alan Cumming and featuring 20 contestants — 10 of whom have previously appeared on reality programs like “Survivor,” “Below Deck,” “Big Brother” and “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” — competing for $250,000, the show quickly generated an excited buzz among viewers and critics alike.

Writing for NPR, Linda Holmes praised Cumming’s outsized performance. “Parading around in a series of plaids, capes, hats, bright colors and whatever else is festive, he is invested. Like, invested. You could feed a lion a gazelle, a large pepperoni pizza, and an ice-cream sandwich, and you would not see that lion make a meal out of it the way Alan Cumming makes a meal out of hosting this show.”

Planning and packing for “The Traitors” was, Cumming says, loads of fun, “What was hilarious was that I was sort of playing a character in a competition reality show, which is kind of unusual. So the clothes were very important and the guy who styled me, Sam Spector, took a lot of my clothes from my closet upstairs but then, you know, added sashes and berries and pins and all these things to make them much more theatrical.”

We asked Cumming about packing for “The Traitors,” what he can’t live without while he’s away from home and what essentials he brings along to help him survive what he calls “the indignity of travel.”

When asked, “What is something you always travel with that other people might find odd?” Cumming replies without hesitation, “A little hard ball. One of those little hard, sort of, little balls that you roll on your back.”

In addition to his massage ball, Cumming tells Underscored, “I always have a facial mist. I love facial mist. I steal them all from airplanes and things, so I have a whole range, but I don’t have special brands. There’s a Kiehl’s toner that I like, and then La Mer does one. Obviously it costs $75,000 and I made it last for years.”

Of his mists and toners, Cumming says, “I keep them in the fridge and then bring them out in the evening, but I always carry one when I travel.”

Cumming says he never leaves for a trip without packing swim trunks, goggles and flip flops, “Because,” he admonishes, “ye always want flip flops.”

Cumming is also a devotee of wooly socks, which he finds essential for travel. “I always use them as slippers. I just love putting wooly socks on when I get to a hotel room.”

“I have a pair of black silk pajamas that I can wear to dinner — I don’t use them as pajamas. They’re easy to roll up, don’t take up much space and they look like a stylish choice for dinner or parties, but actually they’re pajamas,” he says.

When it comes to luggage, Cumming has a relatable problem. “I’ve actually just been talking to my husband about how we’ve got to rationalize our luggage because it’s just insane how many different kinds we’ve got. And then we put, you know, the wheelie bag inside the large wheelie bag, and it’s just, like, killing me.” One piece he won’t part with, when the luggage purge commences, is his scooter suitcase. “My favorite one I’ve got is a little trolly bag — it’s a scooter, it folds down into a scooter and it’s just the best thing ever.”

Another airplane essential that Cumming doesn’t leave home without is his Beats headphones. “Over-the-ear headphones that cut out the noise, and also just not listen to all the announcements. Seems to me there’s more announcements now in planes than there ever was before.”

Of course, no trip would be complete without a good book to take along. Cumming, who says he’s “been doing loads of reading,” shared some of his current favorites, including Peter McGough’s memoir about his life with the artist David McDermott.

When asked about the best book he’s recently read on an airplane, Cumming says, “I read ‘Young Mungo’ by Douglas Stuart, who won the Booker Prize a few years ago. It’s about this rough working class area in Glasgow and all these sort of young boys and fights and everything going on, and yet this tender love story at the center of it. I remember I read this really disturbing violent bit, and then the guy said, ‘Oh, we’re landing.’ And I was landing in Glasgow. It was really the worst thing to read just as you set foot onto Glasgow soil.”

Cumming admits he overpacked for “The Traitors” — “I was like a donkey going to Scotland” — a problem that was compounded by the largesse of the show’s wardrobers. “They gave me a few things that weren’t mine. The capes! I’ve got two capes now. I never thought I would own a cape. Layering is one of my biggest things, and a cape is the sort of epitome of layering.”

The wardrobe team’s largesse didn’t end with the capes; Cumming also returned home with “slippers and all these weird things” given to him by his costumers. Among the slippers were a pair with a suitably “Traitors”-like message, “One says THE and one says END.”

[ad_2]

Source link

February 17, 2023
24 travel wallets for safe and easy access to your travel essentials | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

The best travel wallets make it easy to keep track of all your travel essentials, ranging from your passport to your travel credit cards and even some day-of necessities like boarding passes and vaccination cards. The majority also come with safety features like zippered compartments and RFID-blocking material, which can help ensure your important information and card numbers don’t fall into the wrong hands.

To help you find a great travel wallet for your next trip, we looked at some of the most functional, beautiful and reasonably priced options out there. Whether you’re looking for a wallet that holds your boarding pass and ID or you want a fashionable way to carry your airline credit cards, read on to learn about our top picks.

~~$195~~ $155 at Bloomingdale’s

The Tumi brand is known for its style and functionality, and the Tumi Wallet Crossbody speaks to those features. This wallet comes with a sturdy and comfortable strap that lets you carry it over your shoulder as a purse, but the strap can be removed to turn the wallet into a clutch. This timelessly chic travel wallet comes with several storage areas, six card slots and an interior ID window, and closes with a snap flap.

$19 at Amazon

This Eazymate travel bag is part purse and part wallet, as it has a long adjustable strap that allows you to carry it over your shoulder like a purse. The inside of the wallet can hold up to four passports, and an exterior plastic zipper pocket is a good option for keeping important documents where you can see them. You’ll also find plenty of space for boarding passes, several credit cards, a full-size pen and other paperwork you might be traveling with. With a price point under $20, this wallet is perfect for the busy parent who is traveling with their family.

$44 at Beis

This is a great travel set that can hold all of your essentials and comes with a protective case. It includes a passport holder that doubles as a mini wallet to hold your credit cards and a pen, as well as a luggage tag for marking your carry-on bag or checked luggage. Both pieces of the set come in a clear pouch, which can be used for carrying your passport protector or even storing some liquids to take on your travels. The set comes in five different color and material options: black, black patent, black croc, beige and beige patent.

~~$17~~ $13 at Amazon

This unisex travel wallet is a fantastic option if you’re planning any travel. With more than 13,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, this wallet is known to have it all — including the fact that it comes in more than 39 different colors. The trifold design allows you to store your passport, boarding pass, vaccination card, ID, SIM card, cellphone, cash, a key, a pen and more all within its slim design. Plus, it’s got RFID-blocking material to keep your private details safe. At this price point, this wallet is a no-brainer for the frequent traveler.

$75 at Paravel

Paravel is one of our favorite brands for travel products — and this passport case is no exception. From the outside, it’s incredibly stylish, made from eco craft canvas from four up-cycled plastic bottles, as well as a vegan leather interior. Inside, you’ll find eight card slots — perfect for fitting your travel credit cards, hotel keys or photo ID — as well as a slot that can hold your passport. The wallet snaps together with an exterior snap closure. You can also add a monogram to your wallet for added personalization, starting at $15.

From $20 at Athleta

The Athleta Coffee Run Wallet is ideal for women who are constantly on the go. Made of recycled nylon and fitted with an anti-microbial lining, this wallet comes with a large carabiner-style clip that makes it perfect for commuting or travel, as well as two card slots and plenty of zip storage space. Reviewers who have this wallet say it’s better for holding travel credit cards than cash, and that it works well as a keychain. While this wallet comes in one size only, there are three different colors to choose from.

$188 at Neely and Chloe

This travel wallet is far from cheap, but it’s so large and functional that it may well be worth it — especially if you plan to travel often. The wallet is fully enclosed with an outer zipper, yet it comes with interior features like a passport pocket, credit card slots and pockets that are ideal for holding receipts or a baggage claim ticket. The wallet is constructed of leather with a gold-plated zipper, and you can customize yours with embossed or hand-painted letters or hand-painted flowers.

$16 at Amazon

This bifold wallet from Travelambo can be great for travel or at home. This wallet comes in more than 30 colors, and it features RFID-blocking material that keeps your credit card details safe. Other features include a handy bifold design with space for your ID and more than a dozen credit cards, two zippered compartments for cash or receipts and an outer button enclosure that helps keep everything in its place when not in use.

$14 at Amazon

This travel wallet does it all. Not only does it have space to store your passport, but it’s also got dedicated spots for ID cards, credit cards, business cards, SIM cards and much more, and a button enclosure keeps your belongings secure. But our favorite part of this travel wallet is that it’s available in 33 different colors and design options — most with a cute subtle airplane decal at the top of the wallet. At less than $15, this travel wallet is a great deal for travelers.

$25 at Target

This travel wallet is on the affordable side, yet it works to keep your important documents safe from hackers and thieves. In addition to the fact it features an RFID-protected security pocket, the wallet has a full zip-around enclosure to keep all of your belongings safe. Interior features of the wallet include a passport slot, a pocket for your boarding pass, a thumb-slide ID window and plenty of slots for your favorite travel credit cards, plus a spot for a pen. The water-repellent nylon material this wallet is made from also makes it easy to keep clean with a simple wipe-down.

~~$28~~ $24 at Amazon

Travelon offers a budget-friendly RFID-blocking wallet for travelers who want a stylish and safe way to transport their important documents. This travel wallet is ideal for carrying your phone, passport, receipts, boarding passes and credit cards within a secured zippered compartment. Although you can fit a lot of travel goods in this wallet, credit card slides and slip pockets make it easy to stay organized in the process.

~~$21~~ $15 at Amazon

Consider this travel wallet from Travelambo if you want something you can carry on your wrist. This leather wallet comes in 29 different colors, so you can easily coordinate it with your suitcase. The exterior comes with a fully enclosed zipper, yet interior compartments allow you to separate your credit cards, travel documents, phone and receipts. The low price of this wallet makes it an affordable option for a gift — or for yourself.

$139 at Amazon

This Travel Folio has loads of interior space, including a compartment for your passport, space for up to 10 credit cards, your boarding pass and other important documents. It even comes with a micro travel pen for filling out any documentation along your journey. The wallet offers RFID protection and is made of an environmentally certified leather exterior. And, this travel wallet also comes with a three-year warranty to give you the peace of mind that it’ll last you through your travels.

~~$35~~ $30 at Amazon

Consider the Travando Men’s Slim Wallet if you’re looking for a travel wallet that looks stylish and doesn’t take up a lot of space. Offered in 14 different colors and designs, this wallet holds up to 11 credit cards or IDs with an extra exterior storage pocket for easy access. It’s made of faux leather and offers an RFID-protected lining that keeps your important data safe from thieves. At this price point, it’s a solid option for those who travel often.

$8 at Amazon

At less than $10, this travel wallet offers everything you might need when you’re zipping through the airport. Its simple design comes in 11 different colors made from a faux-leather material and offers plenty of space for storing your travel information. There’s built-in RFID-blocking material, as well as slots for holding your passport, business cards, credit cards, boarding passes and more. It’s even got a space large enough to hold your vaccination card and a pen.

$150 at Amazon

This Tanner Goods Travel Wallet comes with a sleek leather design with no defining exterior decoration or features. On the inside, however, you’ll find a passport compartment, multiple slip pockets and space for credit cards and identification. The wallet comes with a limited lifetime warranty, meaning you can expect to have this around with you on your travels for years to come.

$95 at Amazon

The Tumi brand offers this sleek and sophisticated travel wallet for men. Made out of nylon material, this travel wallet features an easy-access ID window, four card pockets and two slip pockets. This simple wallet is great for taking your business on the go with space for business cards as well as credit cards.

~~$30~~ $18 at Amazon

This travel wallet is meant to hang around your neck, so it’s perfect for hands-free carrying no matter where you are. Not only is this neck wallet water-resistant, but it’s made of RFID-blocking material that keeps your sensitive personal information safe. Several pockets help you store and organize everything you need for a trip — from your passport to cash and important documents. This wallet also has two zippered pockets and an ID window for boarding passes.

$29 at Amazon

If you’re looking for a travel wallet that’s large enough to fit everything you need for a lengthy journey, consider this travel wallet from Polare. Made of full-grain leather, this wallet has space for a passport, credit cards, business cards, cash and more. It’s available in six different color options to suit your style.

$82 at Amazon

Keep all of your personal information secure while you’re on the go with this wallet’s RFIDsafe blocking material. Not only will it keep you safe from thieves trying to steal your information, but it’s also got space to hold multiple passports, six card slots including a zippered mesh slot, a zippered note slot, a pen holder, key clip and an outer zippered pocket. Plus, the whole wallet zips up to keep all of your travel documents secure in one place.

$16 at Amazon

We like how versatile this nylon travel wallet is, which makes it a solid option both for solo travelers and those heading on vacation with their family. The exterior fabric is both lightweight and waterproof. Inside, you’ll find space for up to six passports, boarding passes, credit cards, cash and much more. It’s got a wristlet for easy carrying, and the zipper keeps everything safe when you’re on the move.

$23 at Amazon

If you’re looking for a wallet that lets you carry everything you need hands-free, consider this money belt from Venture 4th. Using RFID-blocking material and the ability to be worn under clothing, this travel wallet can keep your credit card details and sensitive information safe. While the wallet itself is slim, you’ll find two zippered compartments for storage and enough space for several passports, cash, boarding passes and more. The wallet also has an adjustable belt mechanism, so it can be worn comfortably all day long.

$18 at Amazon

The Timberland Pro Men’s Cordura Nylon RFID Trifold Wallet is affordable enough to fit nearly any budget, and it offers almost all the features you might want in a travel wallet. RFID-blocking technology helps keep your personal information safe, and a thumb-slide ID window keeps your driver’s license or another ID within easy reach. In the meantime, a zippered compartment, multiple card slots and several slip pockets make it easy to keep your items where you can easily find them.

$21 at Amazon

Consider this money belt travel wallet for hands-free carrying. This travel wallet is made of RFID-blocking material, and it’s durable and water-resistant, so you can keep your passport and other important documents safe and dry. Several zippered compartments help you stay organized, and an adjustable waist belt helps to fit this wallet to your body type. Whether you plan to wear it under clothing or on top of your clothes for easy access, this money belt has space for everything you need during a trip.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

February 16, 2023
21 of our favorite travel shoes | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

There’s nothing that will stop you in your tracks — literally — as fast as an uncomfortable shoe. When traveling, be it in the mountains, the beach, villages, cities or mega-metropolises, our feet are the things that keep us moving. It makes a lot of sense to find the shoe that not only fits, but feels good, looks good, ages good and — if we can help it — does good.

But where to start? Dr. Christina Rowe-Bauer, a podiatrist at Penn State Health, says that fit and comfort should be top priorities. In practice, this means buying your new shoes well in advance of any planned trips.

“Don’t just go away and start wearing your new shoes because they might irritate your feet,” says Rowe-Bauer. “Buy them early and break them in.” Even if they’re the most comfortable sneakers ever, they still can take some getting used to.

But fit and comfort are fairly general terms and can easily differ from person to person. “Everybody and every body is different,” says Rowe-Bauer, “so it’s helpful to start your search with things you know about yourself — like if you have high arches or flat feet, Google those terms along with whatever else you’re looking for.”

Rowe-Bauer says that you generally only need three pairs of shoes for most trips: a beach or warm weather shoe (she always packs her Birkenstocks and has heard good things about Oofos sandals), a sneaker (she loves her Hokas and Brooks) and a dress shoe (she’s partial to J. Crew because the store’s women’s sizes run up to 12). And while she does understand that style is important, especially while traveling, arch support is probably the most important aspect of a good walking shoe.

“A shoe that is sturdy and not too flexible that has good arch support that’s long enough and wide enough for the foot is going to be the [best choice],” she says.

Our favorite travel walking shoes include a variety of features perfect for most getaways, with aspects like comfortable insoles; durable — and sometimes sustainable — materials; foot-, heel- and ankle-support technology; as well as styles for different occasions, climates and activities.

$110 at Nordstrom

Clarks footwear has almost 200 years of shoemaking under its belt, so when it comes to travel shoes, the company has any number of styles that can work, depending on the trip. But Clarks’ Pure Viola Flat is the perfect every-shoe. Wear them to a business dinner or a party, to a museum or a family get-together. Their sleek style and classic smoking-slipper shape are perfect for it all. Plus, Clarks Cushion Plus technology gives great heel support. “Like walking on air,” said one reviewer.

$110 at Allbirds

Allbirds’ Women’s Wool Runners are the kind of shoe that gets more comfortable with every single wear. And that’s impressive because they’re incredibly comfortable walking shoes from the very first try-on. Made from sustainable and ethical ZQ Merino wool, the Wool Runners are super-soft, moisture-wicking and naturally odor-stabilizing. (Go ahead, wear them sockless!) Allbirds are machine-washable and extremely durable, known to last for years on end.

$65 at Zappos

Superga’s Cotu Classic Sneaker is a classic in every sense. For decades now, basic white cotton sneakers for women have been a go-to for trips near and far. It goes with almost every outfit and is low-profile and lightweight enough to complement most travel shoe needs. The insole is cushioned, and the sneakers are made out of rubber with a crepe-textured outsole to give a bit of traction and durability. They can be cleaned in a washing machine and air-dried in about a day.

$80 at Amazon

When you want to have style and walk around all day without blisters or sore feet, Dr. Scholl’s Insane Loafers are the way to go. And because Dr. Scholl’s supports sustainable manufacturing and production, you can feel good for multiple reasons when wearing these travel shoes — they feature a micro-suede upper with 80% of the lining made from recycled bottles. The loafers’ “be free energy technology” insole has three distinct zones designed to create one of the most comfortable slip-ons ever: extra support under the toe box, high-recovery foam at the ball and dense foam around the heel. And the flexible sole gives your feet room to breathe while still offering a sturdy footbed.

$32 at Zappos

Finding a thong flip-flop that you can wear for hours on end is quite difficult. But with companies like FitFlop finally realizing an untapped market, you’ve got lots to choose from. The FitFlop Iqushion is an ergonomic thong sandal with amazing arch support and a cushioned shock absorption system thanks to the micro-bubble foam footbed. The thicker bottom also gives more heel support. Trust us, you won’t be able to buy just one color.

$210 at REI

For more than 150 years, Blundstone has been all about making “no-nonsense footwear.” The brand has dozens of different styles, all riffing off its iconic elastic-sided design. These boots are incredibly durable, long-lasting and water-resistant. (If you’re looking for something more weather-focused, check out the best waterproof shoes for women, the Geox New Aneko B Abx Woman.) The ankle support is second to none because of the snug slip-on fit, and the fine leather provides occasion versatility — they look good with a skirt or jeans. But beware of a little bit of a breaking-in period. They eventually mold to your foot, so it takes a bit, but it’s so worth the wait.

From $92 at Amazon

Teva has so many different styles beyond its iconic Velcro sandals, and the Anaya Bootie is a great option for stomping through cities. The booties can be dressed up or down depending on the situation. TevaRAPID seam-sealed construction keeps your toes dry in moderate rain and even though these are booties, the heel is only 1.5 inches high, and they offer great arch support with a polyurethane footbed cushioning. One Amazon reviewer said: “The first day I wore them I walked around a city for hours and they were so comfortable.”

$120 at Merrell

Merrell

Planning on spending your day traversing a new city? These sneakers from footwear pros Merrell will keep you comfortable during all of your sightseeing stops. The FloatPro midsole offers ample cushion for your feet, and they’re designed to withstand any kind of terrain you’ll experience — from cobblestones to puddles, dirt and beyond. Plus, we love that this sneaker features a toggle lace closure to easily slip them on and off — perfect for airport security.

From $77 at Zappos

Keen Elle Backstrap Sandals are lightweight and stretchy, providing optimal comfort for summertime toes that are exposed to the elements most of the day. Great for beach or boating, meals or outings, the elastic straps are made from recycled plastic bottles and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) footbeds offer great arch support and midsole cushioning — a rarity for sandals. Plus, the shoes are treated with an antimicrobial solution that helps with odor-causing bacteria on footwear. The rubber outsoles make these great for traction and they won’t leave scuff marks on boats either.

$185 at Tieks

The Tieks classic ballet flat is a sleek and stylish piece of footwear with a clever split-sole design that allows them to fold up compact enough to fit into a small purse. The heel support is above average for a flat, thanks to the non-skid rubber outsole patches, but they leave a little to be desired when it comes to arch support. Don’t be fooled by their delicate demeanor, as Tieks are known for being comfortable all day and night. One reviewer said: “My […] Tieks have seen me around the world, through grocery trips, even through rain showers without so much as a single blister.”

$135 at Hylo Athletics

Though they’ve got “runner” in the name, the Hylo Corn Runners are pretty much perfect for any occasion. And as a travel walking shoe, they should be packed on every trip you go on because they can double for your workout/running shoe as well as a sightseeing/general shoe. Wear them with a dress or your sports gear — they look great either way. And they feel great, too. They’re super-lightweight, breathable, machine-washable and made from all renewable or recyclable materials, including, yes, corn!

~~$120~~ $94 at Allbirds

Like all Allbirds footwear, the Men’s Piper Mids are carbon neutral and made with ZQ Merino wool — that great moisture-wicking softness that Allbirds has been made famous for. And while just about any of the Allbirds styles work for travel walking shoes, these throwback mid-level high-tops really stand out for style while also offering a bit of ankle support. Though Allbirds shoes don’t come with arch support built-in, they’re made to conform to your foot, so over time, they’ll provide some decent support. Reviewers love how lightweight they are, too.

From $50 at Amazon

Skechers Moreno Canvas Oxford Shoes are great travel footwear for just about any climate. They’re lightweight and stylish, with a two-toned upper and leather-lined outsoles. Many customers buy second pairs in a different color. But their crowning achievement is the memory foam soles, which offer cloud-like cushion while still providing support, especially in the arch.

~~$75~~ $50 at Amazon

You can’t go wrong with a classic New Balance. The 515 V3 sneaker offers a long-lasting durable rubber outsole and EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and heel. The suede and mesh upper give it a stylish spin even though it’s a sneaker.

From $59 at Amazon

Finding sturdy and comfortable flip-flops is not an easy task. The Vionic Unisex Wave Sandals are designed by podiatrists and come with an American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. So, you know your feet are going to thank you when you slip these sandals on. The biomechanically designed footbed provides ample support throughout, and the durable rubber outsole makes it robust without looking too bulky.

$200 at REI

With Blundstone’s men’s section, there are dozens of great styles to choose from for travel walking shoes, but the Original Low-Cut is a great go-to. Built with amazing shock absorption, removable footbeds and water-resistant premium leather, these shoes can take you up a hill or into a museum. The Blundstone durability legacy makes them a long-lasting choice for all your travel needs.

$240 at Zappos

This shoe can take you from the boardroom to the base of mountains with its distinct duo-capability design and function. Made out of leather and Gore-Tex for ventilation and water resistance, it’s a workwear-inspired shoe that champions versatility and comfort. One reviewer said: “I’ve been wearing low-cut ECCO hiking shoes for everyday wear for thirty years, and I’d never wear another shoe brand.”

$120 at Merrell

Merrell

With Merrell’s Embark Mid Shield Sneaker, you can go for a hike and then get some tapas in the city without changing out of these versatile sneakers. Plus, they’re water repellent so even if it rains on your hike, your feet won’t be soaked at mealtime. They offer a lot of stability with their FloatPro foam midsoles, plus they’re really hip while still being understated. If you pack these for your trip, you’d only need one other pair of shoes to complement dozens of looks.

~~$55~~ $38 at Sanuk

The Sanuk Hi Bro Lite Hemp shoe is stylish without being garish. They work for the beach or the bar and are super lightweight, with an IMEVA sole that cushions and protects your feet all day. A reviewer who has two pairs said: “This shoe is so comfortable, I wear them every day.”

From $112 at Hoka

One of the newer athletic brands, Hoka One One (pronounced “oh-nay”) has really made a name for itself and received the APMA Seal of Acceptance. This everyday sneaker’s meticulous design features more cushion than traditional running shoes along with a wider sole and lightweight materials with a rocker in the midsole. There are also loads of fun colors to choose from.

$135 at Hylo Athletics

Hylo Corn Runners are extremely versatile, so going from the gym to the museum and then to dinner is possible without giving your footwear a second thought. The proprietary Corn Spring technology in the midsole aids in pushing forward momentum and maximum energy return for your feet.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

February 1, 2023
Our 33 favorite backpacks for travel | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

While luggage and packing cubes are certainly important to a traveler’s arsenal, we’re laser-focused on the travel backpack right now — the elusive bag that’s big enough to fit everything you might need while flying but also diminutive enough to comply with the standard size allowance of 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high (including wheels and handles). It’s one of our favorite pieces of carry-on luggage out there, allowing for one-bag travel.

Not only do backpacks allow you to be hands-free as you make your way through airport security and the duty-free shops, but they’re also a bastion of organization, with laptop compartments, battery charging ports and interior and exterior pockets galore, ensuring you’re utterly prepared for the journey ahead. To maximize the backpack’s space, you’ll want to pay attention to its true volume — also known as the amount of usable space within the bag — which is measured in liters. Most travel-appropriate backpacks range from 17 liters (a smaller, slimmer bag) to 45, which is the max we’d recommend for a carry-on.

Whether your travel backpack is carrying a Kindle, laptop, travel snacks and a travel blanket or if you’re using it as a true carry-on, packing it like a suitcase with your trip’s wardrobe and necessities, the key is finding the right one for you. In addition to size, you’ll also want to be on the lookout for one that’s lightweight, that’s comfortable to wear and includes clutch design details like suitcase handle sleeves, cord corrals, locked zippers, key clips and durable materials (or, sometimes, cute materials). It’s also good to know whether the pack is top-loading or panel-loading (otherwise known as “clamshell”).

To get you on your way, we’ve rounded up 33 of our favorite travel backpacks below, ranging from rough-and-tumble, all-terrain options that can go from the airport to the camping trip, to utterly fashionable picks for those heading to date night upon reaching their destination.

Probably the most comfortable backpack on our list, the Dagne Dover Dakota is swathed in a downy neoprene fabric that is not only easy on the eyes but also totally cozy on your back. Available in three sizes, the bag’s medium and large formats are most appropriate for travel, as they contain luggage sleeves and can hold 13- and 16-inch laptops, respectively. Both also come with a shoe bag, a detachable zip-topped pouch and a wild amount of pockets and pouches for stashing everything from your lip balm and cell phone to your keys and headphones.

With more than 2,000 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on the Dagne Dover site, the Dakota is a bestseller for the brand. The hardest part is choosing which of the nine colors you love the most.

Small but mighty is how we like to describe this petite backpack from luggage brand Away. Made with water-resistant nylon, the bag has a clamshell opening that we’re obsessed with, a design feature that makes it super easy to find your glasses, AirPods or any other accessory while crouched over mid-flight.

Boasting three zipped pockets — in addition to a zipped, padded 15-inch laptop compartment with a magnetic lock — the backpack also has padded straps, a top leather handle and a trolley sleeve to comfortably rest on your luggage. Want to personalize it? For $35, you can.

The Metro Backpack from travel pros Monos is a versatile option for travelers who want to mix business and leisure — while still carrying style on their backs. The bag is made of a water-resistant nylon with vegan leather details. Inside the bag, you’ll find a slew of pockets and other organizational features as well as space to store a 15-inch laptop. What really sets this backpack apart is its QuickSnap technology, which allows the bag to be combined with Monos’ Folio Kit. Snap the kit on or off to boost your organization throughout all of your travels ahead.

Ladies who love their bags will certainly recognize this brand, originally famous for its quilted texture across dozens of styles — backpacks included. This option is a favorite of ours because not only is it extremely lightweight, clocking in at less than 2 pounds, but it’s also got a handy luggage sleeve and top handle in addition to six interior pockets, a phone pocket, a key ring and a cute detachable pouch. Oh, and despite its petite size, it can fit a 13-inch laptop too. Did we mention you can easily wipe down the nylon exterior?

With nearly 25,000 positive reviews and a 4.7-star rating, Amazon’s top pick for laptop backpacks is perfect for travel, too. Boasting a luggage strap, a top handle, an external USB port and loads of pockets, the backpack can host up to a 15-inch laptop and comes with a lock that can be attached to the zippers, fully securing all your stuff. Available in six colors, the bag’s back and strap undersides are lined with a breathable mesh that will keep you cool, even when you’re racing to your gate.

When minimalism meets accessories, the Carry All from luggage brand July is the result. But don’t let all those clean lines fool you — this 20-liter backpack can fit a lot of stuff. In addition to accommodating a 16-inch laptop, which is stored in a separate, zipped and padded compartment, the Carry All’s main section has another zipped divider, perfect for storing shoes or clothes away from your main travel necessities, which all have a home of their own, thanks to internal pockets and dividers. We love the sturdy leather top handle, the comfortable quilted back panel and the secret top pocket with magnetic closure that is a perfect, easy-to-access but also safe spot for your passport. The brand offers a five-year warranty.

Longtime luggage maker Samsonite has a slew of travel backpack options, among them the slim, lightweight Modern Utility Double Shot Travel Backpack. Perfect for quick work trips where the user wants professional-looking travel gear from a trusted brand, this backpack can accommodate up to three days’ worth of clothes, a 17-inch laptop and a 10-inch tablet.

We appreciate the slew of pockets — from zippered quick-stash options to water bottle holders and organizational slots galore — as well as the S-curve ergonomic straps that are easy on the back, even when the backpack is completely full.

Launched via Kickstarter in 2017, Nomatic has become a cult-favorite brand in the travel gear landscape, known for bringing innovative, highly functioning products to masses. Among the brand’s bestsellers is this backpack, which has more than 2,500 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on its site. Ideal for short trips ranging from one to three days, the water-resistant backpack’s chief selling point is that it’s able to quickly expand in size — from 20 liters of capacity to 24 liters — via a zipped extension panel.

We love that the customizable straps allow you to go from backpack mode to briefcase, thanks to the side carrying handle and that the bag comes with a removable hard shell for sunglasses. More fun details: The clamshell bag has more than 20 pockets (mesh, zippered, hidden … you name it!) a luggage sleeve, a retractable key leash, a full-perimeter zipper for easy access and cord pass-through holes for seamless charging during your travels. Yep, Nomatic has thought of everything.

Actress Shay Mitchell launched the luggage brand Béis with the goal of making affordable, fashion-forward travel accessories — and she surely succeeded with the cult-favorite Backpack. Boasting more than 2,000 positive reviews from Béis shoppers, the clamshell-style bag’s front panel has three zipped compartments, while the interior features elastic compression straps that allow for packing bulkier items like clothing and travel shoes. The rest of your small accessories — pens, phone and gum, for example — can be stored in the backpack’s front pocket, and the laptop heads to a separate padded sleeve in the rear. In addition to a luggage sleeve, two water bottle pockets also flank the bag’s exterior. Oh, and it comes in all-black or a pretty two-tone cream hue.

Designed specifically with work-related travel in mind, this durable 30-liter backpack from Able Carry has a dedicated “work” compartment with sleeves for both an oversized laptop (up to 17 inches) and a tablet, not to mention a zippered pocket with slots for your tech gear — backup battery packs, charging cords, zip drives and more. The main compartment has two built-in zippered pockets for storing accessories like headphones, reading glasses and more, while the roomy cavity has room for a weekend’s worth of clothes.

The Max’s water-resistant exterior is chock-full of bells and whistles too, including a hidden top pocket for your phone or Kindle, a zippered bottle pocket (that can fit anything from a standard water bottle to a full-size bottle of Champagne!) and a vertical front pocket with organizational spots for all your necessities, plus a key leash. We love the luggage sleeve, the top loop for hanging on a towel hook and the padded straps and back section that make for a comfortable carrying journey, which is especially important if your flight just got delayed … again.

We appreciate that for this price — it’s under 50 bucks! — you also get padded, adjustable straps, a tote handle for carrying and a luggage sleeve. Want something slightly larger? Target also has a 45L option in black for $11 more.

Up to the task for your biggest outdoors adventures, this backpack from Swedish adventure brand Thule is equally prepared to head straight to the boardroom, thanks to its convertible nature that allows it to transition from backpack to briefcase in a snap. Hyperorganized, the ultra-durable backpack also has lots of fun selling points like a crush-resistant pocket for sunglasses and your phone, two hidden side pockets for your passport and money and lots more stash spots for your keys, cords and everything else. Even your water bottle can be tucked away in a side zipper pocket.

Our favorite detail, however, was that one reviewer raved that despite having the backpack fly off Disney World’s Space Mountain ride, it was found the next day without a scratch and with everything inside intact. Want to spend a bit less? Check out the brand’s equally spacious Subterra Backpack that features fewer pockets and will save you nearly a hundred bucks at checkout.

Rugged and luxe all at once, this backpack from STM Goods can seamlessly take you from the airport to your next adventure in a snap. Swathed in a 360-degree “foam fortress,” the 30-liter backpack can accommodate a 17-inch laptop in an ultra-protected section that is separated from the main compartment in order to keep your most prized tech possession up and away from the impact zone. But what’s truly genius about the bag is the main section’s customizable shelving options that can easily accommodate a weekend’s wardrobe — or can be removed via Velcro and zippers. We’re also obsessed with the fold-open flaps that are loaded with pockets, and the detachable pouch that is about to be your new go-to Dopp kit.

Heading into the great unknown for the foreseeable future? Consider taking Peak’s 45-liter backpack with you. Boasting more than 650 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on its site, the backpack is an airline-approved carry-on that can expand to fit more — or contract to become a daypack. Constructed from a durable, weatherproof, recycled nylon shell, the bag’s roomy interior has enough volume to accommodate three of Peak Design’s coordinated packing cubes, which can hold four (or more) days’ worth of clothing.

In addition to a padded laptop sleeve, the Peak 45L also has dual side pockets, a top pocket, hidden side pockets, adjustable padded shoulder and waist straps (that can be tucked away if checking) and external straps for carrying more stuff like rain jackets, sleeping bags or your camera’s tripod.

Cool and refined, this hip backpack checks off all the boxes. Luggage sleeve? Check. Separate laptop compartment? Check. Myriad extra pockets? Check. And all those design details are ensconced in a simple silhouette that comes in five fabrics and colors — ranging from a water-resistant navy to a coated canvas black — making it the perfect backpack for the businessman heading out for a quick work trip.

A critically hailed favorite, this Cotopaxi Allpa backpack is loaded with bells and whistles that are bound to impress. First of all, the 35-liter bag can be packed like a traditional suitcase with zippered mesh compartments but strapped on like a traditional backpack. Second, it’s got a padded laptop sleeve. And beyond that, it’s got a bunch of other great design details like four grab handles, a sternum strap and a removable hip belt, not to mention a slew of carabiner loops.

We’re big fans of everything Yeti churns out — from coolers and chairs to wine tumblers and water bottles — and that includes this tough-as-nails, clamshell opening pack. Also available in 22- and 27-liter sizes (which are better for day trips), the Crossroads has a water- and abrasion-resistant nylon exterior, padded straps for comfortable carrying, a no-pressure back panel that keeps your lumbar feeling good and two zipped pockets for water bottles and other easy-access necessities.

Inside, the 35-liter pack has a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a zippered main compartment with enough space for a weekend’s worth of clothes. When testing this one out, we appreciated the removable straps on the front of the bag, which are great for quickly attaching your rain jacket or yoga mat. A front vertical pocket is also super handy for storing travel documents or anything else you need to grab quickly while on the road. More to know: It can fit under the seat in front of you on most airlines, and it has a handle for carrying.

Ever wished you could turn your dry pack into a backpack? Well, leave it to Sea to Summit to get the job done. Perfect for snowy, rainy or just plain wet adventures — white water rafting, anyone? — the 35-liter Dry Pack’s top-loading, roll-top main compartment is completely waterproof, to the point it can even be briefly submerged under water while still keeping your PJs and extra socks safe and dry. And don’t worry, the pack’s shoulder straps are ventilated and quick-drying too.

In addition to a padded compartment for a 15-inch laptop, the TRT also offers easy-access storage via two front organizational compartments, one of which is lined with fleece for fragile items like sunglasses. We loved the detachable key clip, which also happens to have a handy bottle opener. Looking for something a bit smaller? Check out the brand’s Nature Pack, which is smaller (24 liters) and cheaper ($99), and packed with organizational details, plus has room for a 15-inch laptop.

This nearly 12-liter backpack from Boarding Pass NYC is great for travelers, whether that means you’re hopping on a plane or on a commuter rail to head to a business meeting. It’s got a ballistic nylon exterior and features cordura nylon on the interior. Each of the straps is adjustable and made from leather with brass hardware finishings. Inside, you’ll find a padded laptop sleep, zippered pocket and key clip, and dedicated spaces for pens and your phone.

Mamas need travel backpacks too! And what we love most about this diaper pack option from Dagne Dover is that it works for parents and nonparents alike. Comprised of the aforementioned super-cozy neoprene material, the Indi has an extra-wide top-panel opening, can be attached to your travel stroller, thanks to handy built-in clips and included straps or slid onto your suitcase, thanks to a handy luggage strap. It also comes with a changing pad, a shoe bag and a matching neoprene zipped pouch. Inside, the 17-liter backpack can hold a 15-inch laptop and includes multiple pockets for corralling everything from a baby’s bottle to your phone and a stash of clean pacifiers.

Let us count the ways we love this lacquered backpack. Enveloped in MZ Wallace’s signature quilted texture, the Metro Backpack Deluxe features a shiny, airport-friendly fabric, and we think it’s one of the sexiest travel backpacks out there. Beyond looks, however, it’s highly functional for travel, with a magnetic luggage sleeve that can be used for storage when not attached to a suitcase, three exterior pockets, six interior pockets and a 15-inch laptop compartment to boot. If the airport security line is your runway, this is the backpack for you.

Leave it to Paravel, one of our favorite luggage makers, to dream up the perfect travel backpack solution — one that folds right up. Made from “negative nylon,” a silky fabric created by upcycling water bottles, the backpack’s biggest selling point is just how diminutive it is. Weighing less than a pound, it folds into itself and can be zippered into a cute little pouch that is easy to tuck into your carry-on tote or luggage.

Once unfolded, however, the backpack is a powerhouse, offering loads of room for a change of clothes, souvenirs, a 15-inch laptop and anything else you might need to carry on your back as you explore a new locale. We love the adjustable straps, the luggage sleeve and the fact that you can add a monogram. The hardest part is choosing from the six cute colorways.

Need proof that travel backpacks can be dainty? Look no further than this sweet and chic leather option from Cuyana that can be carried as a tote or a backpack and can fit a 13-inch laptop. Available in black, caramel, stone or black crocodile (for an extra $50), the Italian-made bag features two roomy front pockets and two interior pockets (one zippered, one not). Our favorite design detail, however, is the uber-feminine adjustable straps.

Part tote, part backpack, the Lo & Sons nylon Rowledge is the perfect option for any woman racing from the office to the airport, as the straps tuck into the back pocket to give you a convertible bag. Available in seven color combinations, the water-resistant backpack comprises an easy-access 13-inch laptop compartment on the back exterior and a collection of cleverly arranged pockets and holders on the interior for everything from pens and snacks to earbuds, phones and more. We love that the bag’s hardware and interior jacquard print lining are customizable. Trust us, this looks like a designer bag on the outside, but it’s a workhorse on the inside.

Have you ever seen a prettier laptop backpack? We think not. Made from faux leather, the Kaya can accommodate a 15-inch laptop in its back compartment, while the front area is ready to host your book, snack or that extra pair of socks. We love the braided border detail, the dainty zipper pulls and the extra-wide luggage sleeve that will keep your bag ultra secure when racing through the airport.

Don’t be fooled by the sleek, chic exterior of Modern Picnic’s backpack — the vegan leather bag has a roomy interior that is perfect for stashing backup shoes and airplane snacks … and keeping them cold, thanks to the insulated lining. (That lining is also super handy for mamas looking to keep baby bottles chilled!) In addition to a padded 13-inch laptop sleeve, the backpack also has pockets for pens and travel necessities (keys, wallet, phone), adjustable straps and a top handle for carrying. Available in cream, black or saddle croc, this is one of the most stylish options on our list.

Mamas gotta travel too — oftentimes with baby in tow — which is why we love this Fawn backpack-style diaper bag so much. Any parent who has traveled with little ones knows that being hands-free throughout the journey is imperative, and Fawn’s multifunctional Original Diaper Bag is just that.

Ultra roomy and made from faux leather, this bag is beloved by mommy influencers far and wide not only for its chic design but also because it’s chock-full of storage (with 12 pockets to be exact) and smart details like a key clip and detachable backpack straps (which can be substituted with a messenger strap or carried via a top handle). Great for corralling bottles, extra clothes, toys and whatever else you’ll need to keep baby busy during that layover, the Fawn bag has more than 300 glowing reviews on its website.

Meet Amazon’s No. 1 bestseller in laptop backpacks. With more than 75,000 reviews, the bag is divided into three compartments, and in addition to being able to accommodate a 15-inch laptop, it’s got loads of key design details you’ll want. Think of a top handle, hanging clasps, a USB port and adjustable straps, not to mention a ton of pockets for storing all your things. Boasting a 4.8-star rating, the backpack’s highlight is a padded mesh backing that will keep you as cool as can be, no matter how many times your flight is delayed. Did we mention it’s just $30 right now? Done and done.

Amazon knows a thing or two about a thing or two, which is why we’re not surprised that the brand features a beloved utilitarian laptop travel backpack under its Amazon Basics umbrella that fits all your needs. Boasting four compartments for storing all your belongings, the bag’s main section can fit up to a 17-inch laptop. With nearly 17,000 reviews, a 4.5-star rating and a $39 price tag, this is a bag worth considering.

Italic is one of the fastest-growing online companies for a reason. The brand offers a vast array of products that have one thing in common: All are produced in the same factories as luxury competitors (Prada, Miu Miu and All Clad, among others), albeit for 50% to 80% less. The producer of the Rafa travel backpack’s past clients include Away, Boss and ISM. Sleek and simple, the nylon-and-leather backpack can accommodate a 15-inch laptop in a separate back compartment and includes a sturdy leather top handle, a luggage sleeve and a few well-placed pockets.

Parisian luggage brand Delsey has multiple laptop backpack options, our favorite of which is the Maubert 2.0. Priced affordably, the 17-liter bag is eco-friendly, with fabric and lining made from recycled water bottles and vegan leather. Beyond that, the top-panel backpack is hyperorganized, with the main compartment divided to hold a 15.6-inch laptop in a padded sleeve, and all your other things (phone, pens, books and snacks) in the adjacent section. And fear not, the bag includes zippered pockets galore as well as two mesh side pockets for bringing a water bottle with you to fill up after security. Want a bigger option? Check out the Chatelet Air Soft Backpack, which is 10 liters larger.

No surprise here: Herschel knows its way around a backpack! For travel, the Tech Backpack is tops, offering three main compartments, each outfitted with a variety of mesh and zippered pockets that will deliver your most organized journey ever. Accommodating a 16-inch laptop in a padded and fleece-lined compartment, the 30-liter backpack has a mesh luggage sleeve and other perks like a key clip and hidden passport pocket.

More than 5,000 Amazon reviewers agree that this rolling backpack is worth the purchase. Featuring a telescoping and fabric handle, two back inline wheels and two zippered front pockets, the backpack’s main selling point is a big clamshell main compartment that you can pack suitcase-style. The bag also features backpack straps and can fit under most airline seats.

A fancy rolling backpack if we’ve ever seen one, this Matein is packed with selling points. In addition to having a fully water-resistant bottom panel, the bag has a two-height telescoping handle and lockable zippers, the top-panel backpack has three compartments, including a clothing section that can open 180 degrees and has an elasticized belt for easy packing. A separate padded pocket can hold a 15.6-inch laptop too.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards.

[ad_2]

Source link

January 20, 2023
Our 33 favorite backpacks for travel | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

While luggage and packing cubes are certainly important to a traveler’s arsenal, we’re laser-focused on the travel backpack right now — the elusive bag that’s big enough to fit everything you might need while flying but also diminutive enough to comply with the standard size allowance of 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high (including wheels and handles). It’s one of our favorite pieces of carry-on luggage out there, allowing for one-bag travel.

Not only do backpacks allow you to be hands-free as you make your way through airport security and the duty-free shops, but they’re also a bastion of organization, with laptop compartments, battery charging ports and interior and exterior pockets galore, ensuring you’re utterly prepared for the journey ahead. To maximize the backpack’s space, you’ll want to pay attention to its true volume — also known as the amount of usable space within the bag — which is measured in liters. Most travel-appropriate backpacks range from 17 liters (a smaller, slimmer bag) to 45, which is the max we’d recommend for a carry-on.

Whether your travel backpack is carrying a Kindle, laptop, travel snacks and a travel blanket or if you’re using it as a true carry-on, packing it like a suitcase with your trip’s wardrobe and necessities, the key is finding the right one for you. In addition to size, you’ll also want to be on the lookout for one that’s lightweight, that’s comfortable to wear and includes clutch design details like suitcase handle sleeves, cord corrals, locked zippers, key clips and durable materials (or, sometimes, cute materials). It’s also good to know whether the pack is top-loading or panel-loading (otherwise known as “clamshell”).

To get you on your way, we’ve rounded up 33 of our favorite travel backpacks below, ranging from rough-and-tumble, all-terrain options that can go from the airport to the camping trip, to utterly fashionable picks for those heading to date night upon reaching their destination.

Probably the most comfortable backpack on our list, the Dagne Dover Dakota is swathed in a downy neoprene fabric that is not only easy on the eyes but also totally cozy on your back. Available in three sizes, the bag’s medium and large formats are most appropriate for travel, as they contain luggage sleeves and can hold 13- and 16-inch laptops, respectively. Both also come with a shoe bag, a detachable zip-topped pouch and a wild amount of pockets and pouches for stashing everything from your lip balm and cell phone to your keys and headphones.

With more than 2,000 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on the Dagne Dover site, the Dakota is a bestseller for the brand. The hardest part is choosing which of the nine colors you love the most.

Small but mighty is how we like to describe this petite backpack from luggage brand Away. Made with water-resistant nylon, the bag has a clamshell opening that we’re obsessed with, a design feature that makes it super easy to find your glasses, AirPods or any other accessory while crouched over mid-flight.

Boasting three zipped pockets — in addition to a zipped, padded 15-inch laptop compartment with a magnetic lock — the backpack also has padded straps, a top leather handle and a trolley sleeve to comfortably rest on your luggage. Want to personalize it? For $35, you can.

The Metro Backpack from travel pros Monos is a versatile option for travelers who want to mix business and leisure — while still carrying style on their backs. The bag is made of a water-resistant nylon with vegan leather details. Inside the bag, you’ll find a slew of pockets and other organizational features as well as space to store a 15-inch laptop. What really sets this backpack apart is its QuickSnap technology, which allows the bag to be combined with Monos’ Folio Kit. Snap the kit on or off to boost your organization throughout all of your travels ahead.

Ladies who love their bags will certainly recognize this brand, originally famous for its quilted texture across dozens of styles — backpacks included. This option is a favorite of ours because not only is it extremely lightweight, clocking in at less than 2 pounds, but it’s also got a handy luggage sleeve and top handle in addition to six interior pockets, a phone pocket, a key ring and a cute detachable pouch. Oh, and despite its petite size, it can fit a 13-inch laptop too. Did we mention you can easily wipe down the nylon exterior?

With nearly 25,000 positive reviews and a 4.7-star rating, Amazon’s top pick for laptop backpacks is perfect for travel, too. Boasting a luggage strap, a top handle, an external USB port and loads of pockets, the backpack can host up to a 15-inch laptop and comes with a lock that can be attached to the zippers, fully securing all your stuff. Available in six colors, the bag’s back and strap undersides are lined with a breathable mesh that will keep you cool, even when you’re racing to your gate.

When minimalism meets accessories, the Carry All from luggage brand July is the result. But don’t let all those clean lines fool you — this 20-liter backpack can fit a lot of stuff. In addition to accommodating a 16-inch laptop, which is stored in a separate, zipped and padded compartment, the Carry All’s main section has another zipped divider, perfect for storing shoes or clothes away from your main travel necessities, which all have a home of their own, thanks to internal pockets and dividers. We love the sturdy leather top handle, the comfortable quilted back panel and the secret top pocket with magnetic closure that is a perfect, easy-to-access but also safe spot for your passport. The brand offers a five-year warranty.

Longtime luggage maker Samsonite has a slew of travel backpack options, among them the slim, lightweight Modern Utility Double Shot Travel Backpack. Perfect for quick work trips where the user wants professional-looking travel gear from a trusted brand, this backpack can accommodate up to three days’ worth of clothes, a 17-inch laptop and a 10-inch tablet.

We appreciate the slew of pockets — from zippered quick-stash options to water bottle holders and organizational slots galore — as well as the S-curve ergonomic straps that are easy on the back, even when the backpack is completely full.

Launched via Kickstarter in 2017, Nomatic has become a cult-favorite brand in the travel gear landscape, known for bringing innovative, highly functioning products to masses. Among the brand’s bestsellers is this backpack, which has more than 2,500 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on its site. Ideal for short trips ranging from one to three days, the water-resistant backpack’s chief selling point is that it’s able to quickly expand in size — from 20 liters of capacity to 24 liters — via a zipped extension panel.

We love that the customizable straps allow you to go from backpack mode to briefcase, thanks to the side carrying handle and that the bag comes with a removable hard shell for sunglasses. More fun details: The clamshell bag has more than 20 pockets (mesh, zippered, hidden … you name it!) a luggage sleeve, a retractable key leash, a full-perimeter zipper for easy access and cord pass-through holes for seamless charging during your travels. Yep, Nomatic has thought of everything.

Actress Shay Mitchell launched the luggage brand Béis with the goal of making affordable, fashion-forward travel accessories — and she surely succeeded with the cult-favorite Backpack. Boasting more than 2,000 positive reviews from Béis shoppers, the clamshell-style bag’s front panel has three zipped compartments, while the interior features elastic compression straps that allow for packing bulkier items like clothing and travel shoes. The rest of your small accessories — pens, phone and gum, for example — can be stored in the backpack’s front pocket, and the laptop heads to a separate padded sleeve in the rear. In addition to a luggage sleeve, two water bottle pockets also flank the bag’s exterior. Oh, and it comes in all-black or a pretty two-tone cream hue.

Designed specifically with work-related travel in mind, this durable 30-liter backpack from Able Carry has a dedicated “work” compartment with sleeves for both an oversized laptop (up to 17 inches) and a tablet, not to mention a zippered pocket with slots for your tech gear — backup battery packs, charging cords, zip drives and more. The main compartment has two built-in zippered pockets for storing accessories like headphones, reading glasses and more, while the roomy cavity has room for a weekend’s worth of clothes.

The Max’s water-resistant exterior is chock-full of bells and whistles too, including a hidden top pocket for your phone or Kindle, a zippered bottle pocket (that can fit anything from a standard water bottle to a full-size bottle of Champagne!) and a vertical front pocket with organizational spots for all your necessities, plus a key leash. We love the luggage sleeve, the top loop for hanging on a towel hook and the padded straps and back section that make for a comfortable carrying journey, which is especially important if your flight just got delayed … again.

We appreciate that for this price — it’s under 50 bucks! — you also get padded, adjustable straps, a tote handle for carrying and a luggage sleeve. Want something slightly larger? Target also has a 45L option in black for $11 more.

Up to the task for your biggest outdoors adventures, this backpack from Swedish adventure brand Thule is equally prepared to head straight to the boardroom, thanks to its convertible nature that allows it to transition from backpack to briefcase in a snap. Hyperorganized, the ultra-durable backpack also has lots of fun selling points like a crush-resistant pocket for sunglasses and your phone, two hidden side pockets for your passport and money and lots more stash spots for your keys, cords and everything else. Even your water bottle can be tucked away in a side zipper pocket.

Our favorite detail, however, was that one reviewer raved that despite having the backpack fly off Disney World’s Space Mountain ride, it was found the next day without a scratch and with everything inside intact. Want to spend a bit less? Check out the brand’s equally spacious Subterra Backpack that features fewer pockets and will save you nearly a hundred bucks at checkout.

Rugged and luxe all at once, this backpack from STM Goods can seamlessly take you from the airport to your next adventure in a snap. Swathed in a 360-degree “foam fortress,” the 30-liter backpack can accommodate a 17-inch laptop in an ultra-protected section that is separated from the main compartment in order to keep your most prized tech possession up and away from the impact zone. But what’s truly genius about the bag is the main section’s customizable shelving options that can easily accommodate a weekend’s wardrobe — or can be removed via Velcro and zippers. We’re also obsessed with the fold-open flaps that are loaded with pockets, and the detachable pouch that is about to be your new go-to Dopp kit.

Heading into the great unknown for the foreseeable future? Consider taking Peak’s 45-liter backpack with you. Boasting more than 650 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on its site, the backpack is an airline-approved carry-on that can expand to fit more — or contract to become a daypack. Constructed from a durable, weatherproof, recycled nylon shell, the bag’s roomy interior has enough volume to accommodate three of Peak Design’s coordinated packing cubes, which can hold four (or more) days’ worth of clothing.

In addition to a padded laptop sleeve, the Peak 45L also has dual side pockets, a top pocket, hidden side pockets, adjustable padded shoulder and waist straps (that can be tucked away if checking) and external straps for carrying more stuff like rain jackets, sleeping bags or your camera’s tripod.

Cool and refined, this hip backpack checks off all the boxes. Luggage sleeve? Check. Separate laptop compartment? Check. Myriad extra pockets? Check. And all those design details are ensconced in a simple silhouette that comes in five fabrics and colors — ranging from a water-resistant navy to a coated canvas black — making it the perfect backpack for the businessman heading out for a quick work trip.

A critically hailed favorite, this Cotopaxi Allpa backpack is loaded with bells and whistles that are bound to impress. First of all, the 35-liter bag can be packed like a traditional suitcase with zippered mesh compartments but strapped on like a traditional backpack. Second, it’s got a padded laptop sleeve. And beyond that, it’s got a bunch of other great design details like four grab handles, a sternum strap and a removable hip belt, not to mention a slew of carabiner loops.

We’re big fans of everything Yeti churns out — from coolers and chairs to wine tumblers and water bottles — and that includes this tough-as-nails, clamshell opening pack. Also available in 22- and 27-liter sizes (which are better for day trips), the Crossroads has a water- and abrasion-resistant nylon exterior, padded straps for comfortable carrying, a no-pressure back panel that keeps your lumbar feeling good and two zipped pockets for water bottles and other easy-access necessities.

Inside, the 35-liter pack has a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a zippered main compartment with enough space for a weekend’s worth of clothes. When testing this one out, we appreciated the removable straps on the front of the bag, which are great for quickly attaching your rain jacket or yoga mat. A front vertical pocket is also super handy for storing travel documents or anything else you need to grab quickly while on the road. More to know: It can fit under the seat in front of you on most airlines, and it has a handle for carrying.

Ever wished you could turn your dry pack into a backpack? Well, leave it to Sea to Summit to get the job done. Perfect for snowy, rainy or just plain wet adventures — white water rafting, anyone? — the 35-liter Dry Pack’s top-loading, roll-top main compartment is completely waterproof, to the point it can even be briefly submerged under water while still keeping your PJs and extra socks safe and dry. And don’t worry, the pack’s shoulder straps are ventilated and quick-drying too.

In addition to a padded compartment for a 15-inch laptop, the TRT also offers easy-access storage via two front organizational compartments, one of which is lined with fleece for fragile items like sunglasses. We loved the detachable key clip, which also happens to have a handy bottle opener. Looking for something a bit smaller? Check out the brand’s Nature Pack, which is smaller (24 liters) and cheaper ($99), and packed with organizational details, plus has room for a 15-inch laptop.

This nearly 12-liter backpack from Boarding Pass NYC is great for travelers, whether that means you’re hopping on a plane or on a commuter rail to head to a business meeting. It’s got a ballistic nylon exterior and features cordura nylon on the interior. Each of the straps is adjustable and made from leather with brass hardware finishings. Inside, you’ll find a padded laptop sleep, zippered pocket and key clip, and dedicated spaces for pens and your phone.

Mamas need travel backpacks too! And what we love most about this diaper pack option from Dagne Dover is that it works for parents and nonparents alike. Comprised of the aforementioned super-cozy neoprene material, the Indi has an extra-wide top-panel opening, can be attached to your travel stroller, thanks to handy built-in clips and included straps or slid onto your suitcase, thanks to a handy luggage strap. It also comes with a changing pad, a shoe bag and a matching neoprene zipped pouch. Inside, the 17-liter backpack can hold a 15-inch laptop and includes multiple pockets for corralling everything from a baby’s bottle to your phone and a stash of clean pacifiers.

Let us count the ways we love this lacquered backpack. Enveloped in MZ Wallace’s signature quilted texture, the Metro Backpack Deluxe features a shiny, airport-friendly fabric, and we think it’s one of the sexiest travel backpacks out there. Beyond looks, however, it’s highly functional for travel, with a magnetic luggage sleeve that can be used for storage when not attached to a suitcase, three exterior pockets, six interior pockets and a 15-inch laptop compartment to boot. If the airport security line is your runway, this is the backpack for you.

Leave it to Paravel, one of our favorite luggage makers, to dream up the perfect travel backpack solution — one that folds right up. Made from “negative nylon,” a silky fabric created by upcycling water bottles, the backpack’s biggest selling point is just how diminutive it is. Weighing less than a pound, it folds into itself and can be zippered into a cute little pouch that is easy to tuck into your carry-on tote or luggage.

Once unfolded, however, the backpack is a powerhouse, offering loads of room for a change of clothes, souvenirs, a 15-inch laptop and anything else you might need to carry on your back as you explore a new locale. We love the adjustable straps, the luggage sleeve and the fact that you can add a monogram. The hardest part is choosing from the six cute colorways.

Need proof that travel backpacks can be dainty? Look no further than this sweet and chic leather option from Cuyana that can be carried as a tote or a backpack and can fit a 13-inch laptop. Available in black, caramel, stone or black crocodile (for an extra $50), the Italian-made bag features two roomy front pockets and two interior pockets (one zippered, one not). Our favorite design detail, however, is the uber-feminine adjustable straps.

Part tote, part backpack, the Lo & Sons nylon Rowledge is the perfect option for any woman racing from the office to the airport, as the straps tuck into the back pocket to give you a convertible bag. Available in seven color combinations, the water-resistant backpack comprises an easy-access 13-inch laptop compartment on the back exterior and a collection of cleverly arranged pockets and holders on the interior for everything from pens and snacks to earbuds, phones and more. We love that the bag’s hardware and interior jacquard print lining are customizable. Trust us, this looks like a designer bag on the outside, but it’s a workhorse on the inside.

Have you ever seen a prettier laptop backpack? We think not. Made from faux leather, the Kaya can accommodate a 15-inch laptop in its back compartment, while the front area is ready to host your book, snack or that extra pair of socks. We love the braided border detail, the dainty zipper pulls and the extra-wide luggage sleeve that will keep your bag ultra secure when racing through the airport.

Don’t be fooled by the sleek, chic exterior of Modern Picnic’s backpack — the vegan leather bag has a roomy interior that is perfect for stashing backup shoes and airplane snacks … and keeping them cold, thanks to the insulated lining. (That lining is also super handy for mamas looking to keep baby bottles chilled!) In addition to a padded 13-inch laptop sleeve, the backpack also has pockets for pens and travel necessities (keys, wallet, phone), adjustable straps and a top handle for carrying. Available in cream, black or saddle croc, this is one of the most stylish options on our list.

Mamas gotta travel too — oftentimes with baby in tow — which is why we love this Fawn backpack-style diaper bag so much. Any parent who has traveled with little ones knows that being hands-free throughout the journey is imperative, and Fawn’s multifunctional Original Diaper Bag is just that.

Ultra roomy and made from faux leather, this bag is beloved by mommy influencers far and wide not only for its chic design but also because it’s chock-full of storage (with 12 pockets to be exact) and smart details like a key clip and detachable backpack straps (which can be substituted with a messenger strap or carried via a top handle). Great for corralling bottles, extra clothes, toys and whatever else you’ll need to keep baby busy during that layover, the Fawn bag has more than 300 glowing reviews on its website.

Meet Amazon’s No. 1 bestseller in laptop backpacks. With more than 75,000 reviews, the bag is divided into three compartments, and in addition to being able to accommodate a 15-inch laptop, it’s got loads of key design details you’ll want. Think of a top handle, hanging clasps, a USB port and adjustable straps, not to mention a ton of pockets for storing all your things. Boasting a 4.8-star rating, the backpack’s highlight is a padded mesh backing that will keep you as cool as can be, no matter how many times your flight is delayed. Did we mention it’s just $30 right now? Done and done.

Amazon knows a thing or two about a thing or two, which is why we’re not surprised that the brand features a beloved utilitarian laptop travel backpack under its Amazon Basics umbrella that fits all your needs. Boasting four compartments for storing all your belongings, the bag’s main section can fit up to a 17-inch laptop. With nearly 17,000 reviews, a 4.5-star rating and a $39 price tag, this is a bag worth considering.

Italic is one of the fastest-growing online companies for a reason. The brand offers a vast array of products that have one thing in common: All are produced in the same factories as luxury competitors (Prada, Miu Miu and All Clad, among others), albeit for 50% to 80% less. The producer of the Rafa travel backpack’s past clients include Away, Boss and ISM. Sleek and simple, the nylon-and-leather backpack can accommodate a 15-inch laptop in a separate back compartment and includes a sturdy leather top handle, a luggage sleeve and a few well-placed pockets.

Parisian luggage brand Delsey has multiple laptop backpack options, our favorite of which is the Maubert 2.0. Priced affordably, the 17-liter bag is eco-friendly, with fabric and lining made from recycled water bottles and vegan leather. Beyond that, the top-panel backpack is hyperorganized, with the main compartment divided to hold a 15.6-inch laptop in a padded sleeve, and all your other things (phone, pens, books and snacks) in the adjacent section. And fear not, the bag includes zippered pockets galore as well as two mesh side pockets for bringing a water bottle with you to fill up after security. Want a bigger option? Check out the Chatelet Air Soft Backpack, which is 10 liters larger.

No surprise here: Herschel knows its way around a backpack! For travel, the Tech Backpack is tops, offering three main compartments, each outfitted with a variety of mesh and zippered pockets that will deliver your most organized journey ever. Accommodating a 16-inch laptop in a padded and fleece-lined compartment, the 30-liter backpack has a mesh luggage sleeve and other perks like a key clip and hidden passport pocket.

More than 5,000 Amazon reviewers agree that this rolling backpack is worth the purchase. Featuring a telescoping and fabric handle, two back inline wheels and two zippered front pockets, the backpack’s main selling point is a big clamshell main compartment that you can pack suitcase-style. The bag also features backpack straps and can fit under most airline seats.

A fancy rolling backpack if we’ve ever seen one, this Matein is packed with selling points. In addition to having a fully water-resistant bottom panel, the bag has a two-height telescoping handle and lockable zippers, the top-panel backpack has three compartments, including a clothing section that can open 180 degrees and has an elasticized belt for easy packing. A separate padded pocket can hold a 15.6-inch laptop too.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards.

[ad_2]

Source link

January 11, 2023
The 26 best-selling travel products our readers couldn’t stop buying in 2022 | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

There are thousands of travel products out there. From checked luggage to carry-on bags, travel backpacks, neck pillows, toiletry bags, headphones, portable chargers and much more, there’s a lot to choose from. At CNN Underscored, our goal is to help make the decision on what to get easier in order to help you travel better, smarter and more comfortably.

As the year comes to a close, we’re looking at the travel products that our readers can’t hit the road without. If you’re looking to boost your travel wardrobe before heading off on your first vacation of 2023, consider one of these Underscored reader favorites.

~~$20~~ $10 at Amazon

Mavogel

Our pick for the best sleep mask overall is a favorite among our readers, too — and for good reason. It’s got a nose wire and side covers that help to block out any and all light so you can catch some sleep on any long-haul flight.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

There’s nothing worse than streaming your favorite TV shows or movies from a plane only for your hand to go numb from holding your phone. Not to mention a sore neck from looking down at your phone! This ingenious phone mount clips onto the tray table on the seat in front of you to provide hands-free viewing.

$175 at July

July

The July Carry-All Backpack is a show-stopper. Not only does it have space to store everything you’ll need to carry with you — including space to store a 16-inch laptop — but it doesn’t sacrifice on style. Available in four colors, we love this backpack, too.

$275 at Away

Away

The Away Carry-On has a cult following for good reason. It’s an expertly crafted, durable piece of luggage that we dubbed the best overall hard-shell carry-on luggage in our testing. Not only are there plenty of colors available for every style, but it’s available at a reasonable price point.

$40 at Amazon

Amazon

This is our pick for the best travel pillow overall — in fact, we’ve dubbed it the “Goldilocks of travel pillows.” Readers love it, too, for its firm support and portability. The memory foam interior collapses to half its size, making it a great pick for easy transport.

~~$42~~ $30 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel backpack is not only available at a reasonable price point, but it’s got all of the storage you’ll need for a trip — whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. It can hold everything from laptops to tablets and offers compartments for small accessories like passports and charging devices you’ll take with you on the go.

~~$84~~ $76 at Cadence

Cadence

We love these modular, magnetic and leakproof containers — and our readers do, too! The TSA-compliant, 100% leakproof, customizable Cadence Capsules are a perfect option for transporting your liquids, gels, creams and more.

$21 at Amazon

Amazon

Packing cubes are a must-have for travelers. Our readers loved this set of six bags from Veken. The set is reasonably priced at just over $20 and included, you’ll get an extra large cube, large cube, medium cube, small cube, laundry bag and a travel shoe bag to keep your dirty shoes away from your clean clothes.

~~$35~~ $33 at Amazon

Twelve South

This simple accessory is a game-changer for travelers. The Bluetooth transmitter plugs into the in-flight entertainment system, allowing you to get the sound through directly to your wireless headphones. At just $35 — or less, when on sale — this is something you won’t travel without again.

~~$14~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This dual-purpose passport and vaccine card holder will keep some of your most important travel documents safe while you’re in transit. Not only will it keep your things in one place, but it will protect your personal information with its RFID-blocking technology.

~~$230~~ $168 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the best budget checked suitcase offers loads of storage in a stylish frame, available in 15 color options. We love this suitcase for its smooth-rolling wheels, high capacity and lightweight when empty, meaning you can pack more inside without nearing your airline’s weight limit.

$98 at Beis

Beis

Weekender bags are a staple in any traveler’s wardrobe. This one from Beis is a favorite, as it’s priced at less than $100 and offers a great amount of storage, including a zippered bottom compartment for storing your shoes and other travel essentials away from your clothes.

$295 at July

July

This bag holds a lot for a carry-on bag. In fact, its 42-liter volume is among the the maximum that’s allowed inside the cabin. Readers love, too, that it’s got an ejectable battery that will keep your devices charged on the go.

$26 at Amazon

Amazon

Looking for more packing cubes than the standard set of six? This eight-pack means you’ll get more space to store all of your travel essentials on every trip. At a price that won’t break the bank, this is a quality set to boost your organization.

$295 at Away

Away

If you’re seeking more space in your carry-on bag, the Away The Bigger Carry-On is a solid option. Featuring all of the best components of the classic Away Carry-On, this version can hold more while still fitting in most airline overhead bins.

$14 at Amazon

Amazon

Leak-proof bottles are essential when you travel. After all, who wants to end up at their destination with a mess of shampoos and moisturizers all over their clothes? CNN Underscored readers loved this four-pack of silicone leak-proof bottles, which are available in fun color sets to match your luggage.

~~$26~~ $16 at Amazon

Amazon

Planning to travel abroad? An international travel adapter is essential for keeping your devices charged up while you’re on the road. Our readers loved this reasonably priced option, which works in more than 150 countries.

$78 at Beis

Beis

This travel backpack is perfect for both overnight trips and for carrying on a plane with all of your must-have essentials in reach. We love its simple design and useful features, such as room to store a laptop, water bottle pockets, padded shoulder straps and much more.

~~$16~~ $14 at Amazon

Amazon

Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family in tow, this drink caddy is perfect for keeping your hands free. It can fit both drinks and phones, as well as any other travel essentials right on the handle of your suitcase.

~~$16~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

Traveling with a digital luggage scale is essential. They’re small and take up little space, but they can save you a lot of money — and stress — when it comes to avoiding overweight baggage fees. Our readers loved this option from Freetoo, which is available for just $13 when on sale.

~~$50~~ $40 at eBags

eBags

Underscored readers loved this set of six packing cubes from eBags. Included, you’ll get one large cube, one medium cube, one small cube and three slim cubes. Available in three different color options, each of the cubes features a mesh top for easy viewing.

~~$50~~ $42 at Amazon

Amazon

We love a crossbody bag for travel. This versatile option from Travelon can go straight from the airport to touring a new destination. It’s got plenty of organizational features to keep all of your travel credit cards and other essentials in place, and it also comes with RFID-blocking technology.

$19 at Amazon

Amazon

Keep your luggage protected all while remaining TSA-compliant with these travel luggage locks. The set of four means you’ll have enough for each of your bags — or for each member of the family. For just under $20, the peace of mind you’ll get from knowing your belongings are protected with these locks is worth it.

~~$27~~ $23 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel duffel bag doubles as a weekender bag, offering space to store clothes and other essentials for a quick getaway. At just over $20, it won’t break the bank, and you don’t have to sacrifice on style, either — it’s available in 35 colors and designs.

$16 at Amazon

Amazon

Trust us: travel shoe bags are essential. They’re a simple packing tool, as they’ll keep the dirt and grime on your shoes away from your clothes. This set of 12 is transparent, so you’ll be able to see which pair of shoes is in each bag when you get to your destination.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

December 31, 2022
The 26 best-selling travel products our readers couldn’t stop buying in 2022 | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

There are thousands of travel products out there. From checked luggage to carry-on bags, travel backpacks, neck pillows, toiletry bags, headphones, portable chargers and much more, there’s a lot to choose from. At CNN Underscored, our goal is to help make the decision on what to get easier in order to help you travel better, smarter and more comfortably.

As the year comes to a close, we’re looking at the travel products that our readers can’t hit the road without. If you’re looking to boost your travel wardrobe before heading off on your first vacation of 2023, consider one of these Underscored reader favorites.

~~$20~~ $10 at Amazon

Mavogel

Our pick for the best sleep mask overall is a favorite among our readers, too — and for good reason. It’s got a nose wire and side covers that help to block out any and all light so you can catch some sleep on any long-haul flight.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

There’s nothing worse than streaming your favorite TV shows or movies from a plane only for your hand to go numb from holding your phone. Not to mention a sore neck from looking down at your phone! This ingenious phone mount clips onto the tray table on the seat in front of you to provide hands-free viewing.

$175 at July

July

The July Carry-All Backpack is a show-stopper. Not only does it have space to store everything you’ll need to carry with you — including space to store a 16-inch laptop — but it doesn’t sacrifice on style. Available in four colors, we love this backpack, too.

$275 at Away

Away

The Away Carry-On has a cult following for good reason. It’s an expertly crafted, durable piece of luggage that we dubbed the best overall hard-shell carry-on luggage in our testing. Not only are there plenty of colors available for every style, but it’s available at a reasonable price point.

$40 at Amazon

Amazon

This is our pick for the best travel pillow overall — in fact, we’ve dubbed it the “Goldilocks of travel pillows.” Readers love it, too, for its firm support and portability. The memory foam interior collapses to half its size, making it a great pick for easy transport.

~~$42~~ $30 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel backpack is not only available at a reasonable price point, but it’s got all of the storage you’ll need for a trip — whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. It can hold everything from laptops to tablets and offers compartments for small accessories like passports and charging devices you’ll take with you on the go.

~~$84~~ $76 at Cadence

Cadence

We love these modular, magnetic and leakproof containers — and our readers do, too! The TSA-compliant, 100% leakproof, customizable Cadence Capsules are a perfect option for transporting your liquids, gels, creams and more.

$21 at Amazon

Amazon

Packing cubes are a must-have for travelers. Our readers loved this set of six bags from Veken. The set is reasonably priced at just over $20 and included, you’ll get an extra large cube, large cube, medium cube, small cube, laundry bag and a travel shoe bag to keep your dirty shoes away from your clean clothes.

~~$35~~ $33 at Amazon

Twelve South

This simple accessory is a game-changer for travelers. The Bluetooth transmitter plugs into the in-flight entertainment system, allowing you to get the sound through directly to your wireless headphones. At just $35 — or less, when on sale — this is something you won’t travel without again.

~~$14~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This dual-purpose passport and vaccine card holder will keep some of your most important travel documents safe while you’re in transit. Not only will it keep your things in one place, but it will protect your personal information with its RFID-blocking technology.

~~$230~~ $168 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the best budget checked suitcase offers loads of storage in a stylish frame, available in 15 color options. We love this suitcase for its smooth-rolling wheels, high capacity and lightweight when empty, meaning you can pack more inside without nearing your airline’s weight limit.

$98 at Beis

Beis

Weekender bags are a staple in any traveler’s wardrobe. This one from Beis is a favorite, as it’s priced at less than $100 and offers a great amount of storage, including a zippered bottom compartment for storing your shoes and other travel essentials away from your clothes.

$295 at July

July

This bag holds a lot for a carry-on bag. In fact, its 42-liter volume is among the the maximum that’s allowed inside the cabin. Readers love, too, that it’s got an ejectable battery that will keep your devices charged on the go.

$26 at Amazon

Amazon

Looking for more packing cubes than the standard set of six? This eight-pack means you’ll get more space to store all of your travel essentials on every trip. At a price that won’t break the bank, this is a quality set to boost your organization.

$295 at Away

Away

If you’re seeking more space in your carry-on bag, the Away The Bigger Carry-On is a solid option. Featuring all of the best components of the classic Away Carry-On, this version can hold more while still fitting in most airline overhead bins.

$14 at Amazon

Amazon

Leak-proof bottles are essential when you travel. After all, who wants to end up at their destination with a mess of shampoos and moisturizers all over their clothes? CNN Underscored readers loved this four-pack of silicone leak-proof bottles, which are available in fun color sets to match your luggage.

~~$26~~ $16 at Amazon

Amazon

Planning to travel abroad? An international travel adapter is essential for keeping your devices charged up while you’re on the road. Our readers loved this reasonably priced option, which works in more than 150 countries.

$78 at Beis

Beis

This travel backpack is perfect for both overnight trips and for carrying on a plane with all of your must-have essentials in reach. We love its simple design and useful features, such as room to store a laptop, water bottle pockets, padded shoulder straps and much more.

~~$16~~ $14 at Amazon

Amazon

Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family in tow, this drink caddy is perfect for keeping your hands free. It can fit both drinks and phones, as well as any other travel essentials right on the handle of your suitcase.

~~$16~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

Traveling with a digital luggage scale is essential. They’re small and take up little space, but they can save you a lot of money — and stress — when it comes to avoiding overweight baggage fees. Our readers loved this option from Freetoo, which is available for just $13 when on sale.

~~$50~~ $40 at eBags

eBags

Underscored readers loved this set of six packing cubes from eBags. Included, you’ll get one large cube, one medium cube, one small cube and three slim cubes. Available in three different color options, each of the cubes features a mesh top for easy viewing.

~~$50~~ $42 at Amazon

Amazon

We love a crossbody bag for travel. This versatile option from Travelon can go straight from the airport to touring a new destination. It’s got plenty of organizational features to keep all of your travel credit cards and other essentials in place, and it also comes with RFID-blocking technology.

$19 at Amazon

Amazon

Keep your luggage protected all while remaining TSA-compliant with these travel luggage locks. The set of four means you’ll have enough for each of your bags — or for each member of the family. For just under $20, the peace of mind you’ll get from knowing your belongings are protected with these locks is worth it.

~~$27~~ $23 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel duffel bag doubles as a weekender bag, offering space to store clothes and other essentials for a quick getaway. At just over $20, it won’t break the bank, and you don’t have to sacrifice on style, either — it’s available in 35 colors and designs.

$16 at Amazon

Amazon

Trust us: travel shoe bags are essential. They’re a simple packing tool, as they’ll keep the dirt and grime on your shoes away from your clothes. This set of 12 is transparent, so you’ll be able to see which pair of shoes is in each bag when you get to your destination.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

December 30, 2022
I’ll never travel without the Twelve South AirFly Bluetooth adapter again. Here’s why | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Very seldom does a product come along that completely changes how we travel. There are already such a vast number of products that have elevated how we fly — from ultra-supportive neck pillows to blackout eye masks and even AirTags that help us track our luggage at every step of the journey. The Twelve South AirFly Duo is another game-changer that every frequent — and occasional — traveler should carry with them.

Simply put, with this Bluetooth wireless transmitter, it becomes possible to watch and listen to films, TV shows and more from an in-flight entertainment system via your own wireless headphones. In other words, you can say goodbye to the often-terrible airline-supplied wired headphones and keep your favorite noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones in your ears.

A travel must-have for watching in-flight entertainment with your own headphones

We swear by the small but mighty AirFly Duo. The Bluetooth wireless transmitter is a fantastic packing addition for any traveler who’s keen to use their favorite headphones without sacrificing quality sound. It’s small and lightweight, extremely easy to pair with Bluetooth devices — including non-Apple devices! — and carries 20+ hours of use on a single charge. If you travel often, the AirFly Duo is a sound investment.

Ultimately, the AirFly Duo solves one of the most annoying problems about air travel: the inability to listen to the in-flight entertainment system with your own quality set of headphones or earbuds. AirFly calls itself “the missing link between wireless headphones and wired headphone jacks,” meaning that you can also use AirFly well beyond the airplane, including on treadmills, gaming devices and more. The product works by plugging into the headphone jack of almost any electronic device, connecting to your Bluetooth wireless headphones and, really, that’s it.

It’s the simplicity of the AirFly Duo that we particularly love. Upon receiving the device, you’ll get the AirFly itself — which measures a compact 4.1 inches — a quick start direction booklet, charging cable and a handy drawstring protective pouch, which can easily fit in a travel backpack or even in your pocket. Really, no more is needed, and we appreciate that Twelve South gives you just the essentials without overdoing it.

Emily McNutt

Pairing the AirFly with your favorite set of wireless headphones couldn’t be easier. After fully charging the device with the included charging cable, we were able to pair our set of AirPods Pro within 30 seconds with the push of a couple of buttons — one on the AirFly and one on the AirPods case. During our testing on a nearly completely full airplane, the AirFly had no difficulties producing sound without interfering with other Bluetooth headphones in the small space.

What we particularly loved about the AirFly Duo is the fact that you can share audio with your travel partner. Because the device can be connected to two wireless Bluetooth devices at the same time, you and your travel partner can simultaneously watch the same movie in flight. Say goodbye to starting and pausing a film on your individual screens at the exact same time — the AirFly Duo ensures you stay in sync during your film or TV show.

When we tested the AirFly Duo on our transatlantic flight from London to New York, the device’s battery lasted throughout the entire journey. According to Twelve South, the AirFly Duo can last 20 hours on a single charge. And even if you do need to charge it, we love that you can do so while simultaneously using it via the external plug. So long as there’s a power source nearby — including from a TSA-approved battery pack — you can keep your AirFly going.

Even if you’re not an Apple user, the AirFly is compatible with devices beyond AirPods as well. And, if the Duo doesn’t suit your needs, there are other AirFly options out there. There’s also the AirFly Pro ($55 at Amazon), which, in addition to being capable of connecting two sets of headphones, also allows you to put the device into Receive Mode to send audio from your phone to a car or speaker.

There’s plenty to love about the AirFly Duo. From its small and compact size, including the handy drawstring pouch, to the ease in connecting the device to your favorite headphones, it’s a terrific product that travelers should be excited to try out.

There’s so much to love about the AirFly Duo that it was difficult for us to pinpoint any flaws. However, we found it a bit annoying that when turning the AirFly off and then back on again, there was a slight lag in connecting our Bluetooth-equipped wireless headphones. Though after a few seconds, the two devices paired on their own without an issue. If nothing else, you may just have to be patient and not attempt to “over-pair” your AirFly. Let it do its thing — because it really does it well.

If we’re going to be very picky, the AirFly Duo isn’t exactly cheap. At just under $50 per device, it is an investment. That being said, it’s an investment that we believe is worth it — especially if you travel frequently.

Will we be flying without the AirFly Duo again? Probably not. Overall, the ease of the device makes it worth carrying along on every trip. It’s compact enough to store in any travel bag, easy enough to connect with a number of devices and perhaps best of all, you can say goodbye to airline-supplied headphones forever. If you travel frequently — or seldom but have other places to use the transmitter — the AirFly devices are an absolute no-brainer.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

December 21, 2022
Why AirTags are the ultimate travel companion this upcoming holiday season | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

The holiday travel rush is in full swing. As parts of the country brace for potential disruptions, some travelers are trying to beat the weather and get to their destination sooner. Planes and hotels are widely full, travelers are facing long queues, cancellations, massive crowds and plenty of other travel nightmares. But perhaps the most frustrating is when your luggage goes missing. You’ve got to somehow track down your belongings that were in the airline’s care and then wait to be reunited — all while trying to enjoy the start of your long-awaited vacation or time home for the holidays. As far as travel nightmares go, lost luggage is up there as one of the worst.

To be honest up front, I am great at strategically losing things — or rather, losing stuff with style. (I hope you appreciate the “Toy Story” reference.) So when a product comes along that’s a perfect way to keep track of my belongings — especially when traveling — I’m adding it to my travel bag.

I’ve been a big fan of Apple’s $29 item tracker, dubbed AirTag. The long-rumored AirTag product finally launched last spring, and while it’s not the first item tracker to exist, it has two key features that set it apart from the rest to make it the ultimate travel companion: access to the Find My network and Precision Finding technology.

The Federal Aviation Administration has ruled that having an AirTag in your luggage is permitted and, in fact, not a safety hazard. The devices only contain 0.1 grams of lithium, which falls below the FAA’s limit.

“Luggage tracking devices powered by lithium metal cells that have 0.3 grams or less of lithium can be used on checked baggage,” the FAA said in a statement. “Apple AirTags meet this threshold; other luggage tracking devices may not.”

But, you may be wondering what makes them so special? Let’s explain why.

The ultimate travel companion

The Apple AirTag is the perfect tool to bring on your next trip. Its simplicity, functionality and size will ensure you never lose track of your bags while on the go. The peace of mind that your bags have made it on your trip is worth the reasonable price tag.

The most important thing to know about the AirTag is that it operates on Apple’s Find My network. That’s the same network that powers Find My for all your Apple devices: iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, AirPods and Mac. It’s a tool that makes it easy to track down exactly where your device is and even plays a tone for easy locating.

It’s also the sheer size of the network that gives the item tracker a leg up. The Find My network is made up of over a billion connected devices. So, as you’re walking around an airport and there’s an AirTag in your luggage, it can be pinged by devices that make up that network and pinpoint yours on a map. In our testing, it was more reliable and quicker to update than a competing Tile tracker.

Now, in a pretty dense area like an airport — say Newark Liberty International (EWR) or New York–Kennedy (JFK) — having so many devices around enables frequent location updates for your AirTag, allowing for more accurate location tracking. The opposite can be said for a rural spot of New Jersey versus New York City. The more devices your AirTag can reach, the more accurate and up-to-date the AirTag’s location is.

And yes, you need an iPhone to use AirTag. You can set it up by holding it near your iPhone and using the on-screen prompts to name it and tie it to your Apple ID. Now, from a privacy standpoint, Apple’s been issuing updates to address common issues with smart trackers and some of the larger stalking issues with the AirTag.

Currently, you’ll get notified if your iPhone finds an AirTag near you that’s not registered, along with a notification if you depart without an AirTag that is registered to you. Apple is working to speed up those notifications. With the “Precision Finding” feature, Apple will locate an unwanted or unregistered AirTag near you. Apple’s also released a Tracker Detection app in the Play Store for Android, which can be used to find an AirTag that might be around you without an iPhone. Apple will also make it more apparent when setting up an AirTag that there are some negative use cases and ways to report them to the authorities.

Jacob Krol

During my initial testing of AirTag, I flew from Newark to Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), and it was a pretty great test. I placed an AirTag in the inside pocket of my suitcase and said goodbye as I checked the luggage. I also had one in a leather loop accessory on my backpack.

Within the Find My app on my iPhone, I was able to select “Jake’s Luggage” and view it on a map. I could see where my luggage was in real time — still at the front of Newark Airport. And while I didn’t physically have a line of sight on my luggage, I did have peace of mind that it was on its way to meet me at my final destination.

And sure enough, when I checked it a bit later while at the gate, the luggage was closer to the aircraft. By the time I boarded and was in my seat rocking a pair of AirPods Max, I could see that the luggage was safely under me and a little farther back in the plane’s cargo hold — it seemed like I got a better seat than my suitcase. And while airplane mode is required while on the aircraft, even as we flew over the East Coast of the United States, I could see the luggage AirTag updating in real time.

Ultimately, it was the peace of mind during the flight that the AirTag gave me, and that’s much more than what I previously got when traveling. The $29 AirTag addition effectively lowered my stress. And when it came time to deplane and make my way through PBI to baggage claim, I kept tabs on my luggage in the Find My app. It was a bit slower to update as I meandered my way through a pretty quiet terminal, but I could at least get the gist that my bag was on the ground.

Jacob Krol

While I hoped the carousel would have been confusing enough to use Precision Finding, I could immediately spot my red Away bag. Precision Finding uses augmented reality, or AR, to give you large directional arrows along with distances to find your AirTag on an iPhone 11 or newer. It’s pretty awesome and is a game changer for item trackers to offer such pinpoint accuracy.

If you want to supercharge the AirTag as the ultimate travel companion, it’s worth checking if your airline offers any luggage-tracking services of its own. For instance, Delta will keep tabs on your bag and update you via its app for Android or iOS. In it, you can track the bags attached to your itinerary as they’re scanned at each part of the journey and make their way through the airport and onto the plane.

From dropping off your bag at check-in until it’s loaded onto the plane and then onto the baggage claim carousel, AirTag combined with an airline’s bag-tracking app feels like a superpower.

Jacob Krol

The one downfall of the AirTag? There’s no built-in key ring hole, like on the Chipolo or Tile tracker, which is a shortcoming. Keep in mind that while you’re spending $29 on the tracker, you’ll then want to get an accessory especially to make it suitable for travel.

If you have a pocket or a secure spot to tuck the AirTag in within your luggage, you don’t necessarily need an additional accessory. But considering that it will be attached to your luggage, we think it’s worth the investment of a keychain or loop accessory. We’ve rounded up a plethora of AirTag accessories from lanyards to keychains, and even some that you can customize.

One of our favorites is the Belkin Secure AirTag Holder, which physically clamps the AirTag and ensures that it won’t fall out. It will cost you around $13 when not on sale, which is much more inexpensive than Apple’s leather keychain or leather loop.

The perfect AirTag accessort

If you’re going to travel with an AirTag, you don’t want to lose it in your luggage. Consider this secure AirTag holder and lock it in place on your bag so it doesn’t get misplaced.

While I haven’t physically lost my luggage with an AirTag attached, I’ve used it for a few trips and use one on my keys every day. If you’re good at losing things with style or have a habit of misplacing things — and have an iPhone — the AirTag makes a lot of sense. And as you’re making the final packing checks ahead of holiday travel, it’s worth spending a little bit more and getting an AirTag for the peace of mind alone.

And if you’re going to see family, you can get four AirTags for $99 if you feel like gifting. If not, get one for yourself for $29.

AirTags for the whole family

If you want to make sure the whole family is able to track their bags this holiday travel season, consider a four-pack of AirTags.

Looking for a credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards.

[ad_2]

Source link

December 20, 2022
29 splurge Christmas and holiday gifts over $100 for the luxury traveler in your life | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Shopping for the traveler who only enjoys the finest doesn’t have to be difficult. Ensure they’re equipped with whatever five-star luxury hotel stay or vacation they have planned for the new year with new top-of-the-line travel gear.

If you’re looking to splurge this holiday season on your favorite traveler, we’ve got a list of go-to splurge gifts over $100 for every travel lover in your life. From fun luggage to luxury loungewear to the best noise-canceling headphones on the market, we’ve combed the internet to make your holiday gift list that much easier to get through.

Not focused on luxury? Click here to check out the 48 best holiday and Christmas gifts for the frequent traveler in your life.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

$295 at Away

Give the gift of Y2K nostalgia with Away’s new early-2000s-inspired limited-edition collection. Designed to transport travelers back in time and to the places they love, the Y2K Collection features the brand’s iconic polycarbonate suitcases in white, black and blue with an iridescent finish. The shine captures the magic and luster of the holiday season, too. Plus, you’re still gifting a piece of quality luggage — in fact, Away’s The Carry-On took the title of the best overall hard-shell carry-on luggage in our testing thanks to its smart features, thoughtful organization and chic design.

~~$168~~ $143 at Cadence

Cadence Capsules are a must-have for any traveler. The customizable, leakproof and magnetic pods can cling together to form a hive of all a traveler’s necessities from medicines to lotions, jewelry and much more. The Build Your 12 set from Cadence is fully customizable for the favorite traveler in your life, from the color of the Capsules to the descriptive tiles on the lid of each. They’re TSA-approved, too, so they’re a great option even for travelers who swear by traveling without a checked bag. Check out our review of Cadence Capsules here.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

~~$300~~ $245 at Amazon

For the travel-obsessed bibliophile in your life, give the gift of taking a whole library on vacation. The Amazon Kindle Oasis is our pick for the best overall e-reader thanks to the access to Amazon’s library as well as an adjustable display, comfortable design and basic, easy-to-use controls.

$500 at Dyson

For the person in your life who needs perfect hair no matter their location, Dyson’s Corrale Hair Straighter is a cordless piece of magic. It should never be left home thanks to its supreme hair-straightening capabilities, universal voltage (though you’ll likely still need a travel adapter for international travel) and a flight-ready feature that leaves the stresses of traveling to other tresses. This gift set comes with the straightener and case, charging dock, detangling comb, travel pouch, paddle brush and charging cable.

$175 at July

We love July. The brand’s travel products are built to last, offer all the amenities a traveler could want and are incredibly chic. Included in that is the Carry All Backpack Series 2, which is available in four different colors. It has a capacity of 20 liters and features a hidden pocket with magnetic closure, a 16-inch laptop sleeve and a five-year warranty.

$135 at Allbirds

You can always count on Allbirds to help you shop consciously, and the brand makes some of our favorite shoes for traveling. The new Pacer collection is made for the city walker and is also crafted from 100% plastic- and petroleum-free plant leather. You’ll hardly be able to just buy one pair as a gift because once you slip these on, you’re good for day-to-night exploring.

~~$775~~ $700 at Paravel

For the serial over-packer in your life, consider gifting them space to store all their travel necessities. Paravel is one of our favorite travel brands out there. Not only are its products versatile and created with sustainability at the top of mind, but they’re also incredibly chic — like this Aviator set of suitcases. This duo features the Aviator Carry-On, which we loved in our testing, and the Aviator Grand, a 28-inch checked bag. The Aviator line features a 10-year limited warranty, so these bags will be with your favorite traveler for the long haul.

$229 at Bloomingdale’s

If traveling in style is important, that should include how jewelry travels, too. Wolf 1834’s travel jewelry cases have been crafted with care since the brand was founded nearly 190 years ago. Made of leather, this jewelry case features multiple compartments, ring bars and pouches to keep your valuables shiny, untangled and, most importantly, safe while on the go. A zipper enclosure ensures everything stays in place.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

$150 at Ultimate Ears

If you’re buying for someone who loves music and wants to take their favorite tunes on the go, a quality portable speaker is essential. This option from Ultimate Ears took the title of best all-around portable speaker in our testing, thanks to a spectacular 360-degree sound that’s packed into a waterproof and dustproof canister. And, at a price that won’t break the bank, this makes for a fantastic gift.

$250 at Bloomingdale’s

Shinola’s Vachetta Leather Travel Watch Case is the perfect small statement piece for someone who loves to travel. And what better way to help them stay punctual than by keeping their timepieces safe on the go. Available in two colors — navy and tan — it’s made of leather with a fabric lining and zip closure. The case holds two watches and is padded inside for added protection.

~~$150~~ $105 at Bloomingdale’s

Keeping your electronics in order can be one of the more frustrating parts of travel. Between tangled cords, small items lost at the bottom of your bag and different storage spaces for everything, staying organized can be a massive task. The Royce New York Leather Tech Accessory Travel Case is such a great gift to help keep your travel lover from unraveling during transit. It has space to store everything from TSA-approved power banks to adapters, laptop chargers, USB cables, headphones and more inside the three interior elasticized loops, interior slip pocket and interior mesh zip pocket.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

$220 at Amazon

This 25-inch expandable bag from Travelpro took the title of best soft-sided checked luggage in our testing. It’s an extremely well-rounded suitcase that can cater to all kinds of travelers — including luxury travelers. Not only does it have comfortable carrying handles, but it’s also expandable, durable and extremely maneuverable. We also love that it’s available in 11 colors for every style.

~~$335~~ $318 at Amazon

Made of 100% cashmere and big enough to double as a travel blanket, White + Warren’s Cashmere Travel Wrap Scarf is a great companion on a long-haul flight. It’s available in seven colors to match any style, and not only is it perfect for keeping warm while you travel, but it’s the perfect accessory on arrival at your destination, too.

$165 at Bloomingdale’s

This little magic wand of a product is brilliant after a long flight. Your travel-lover will never look weathered after landing with the antioxidant-rich Chanel Le Lift Crème Riche. The perfect accompaniment for keeping skin protected against environmental stressors, including airplanes, this is a great product to keep in a toiletry bag for easy access throughout the journey.

$595 at Royce & Rocket

If you’ve got someone who’s uber-organized on your list, the Royce & Rocket Castle Classic suitcase could be perfect. The brand’s latest collection features patent-pending built-in shelving so that packing — and unpacking — is easier than ever before. The hard-shell checked bag features a durable polycarbonate exterior and four wheels for easy rolling, but the star of the show is the interior compression system and shelving.

$280 at Beek

It’s hard to choose which Beeks to buy as a gift, as they’re all comfortable and incredibly chic. But for someone who’s hopping aboard a train, plane or into a car, we think Beek Gallito Shearling Slides are a perfect choice. Since they’re so easy to slip on and off, they’re perfect for when you need to use the lavatory in-flight or when heading through security screening. Made of either leather or suede with a memory foam molded footbed, these sandals offer both arch and foot support. Plus, for every pair you buy, Beek donates a day’s worth of meals to a child in need.

$230 at Monos

The sleek pairing of the Monos Metro Duffel and Metro Backpack is a delightful gift for the long weekend traveler. The Monos Metro bags feature the brand’s proprietary QuickSnap Modular Kit System that allows the brand’s Folio Kit to be easily detached or swapped without sacrificing the original look of the bag. We love how the set can be used alone or in conjunction for seamless packing and organization on the go.

$159 at Bellroy

A quality travel wallet is key for any traveler to arrive with all of their most important documents in one place. This leather folio has room to fit two passports, up to eight cards, cash, boarding passes and even space for a full-size pen.

$178 at Christy Dawn and $198 at Christy Dawn

There is something so satisfying about loungewear for travel — you get to look good but also be perfectly comfortable, you can dress it up or dress it down, you can mix and match or layer away. In any case, whether a train, plane or automobile, Christy Dawn’s Sonny Pant and Sonny Sweater will make your loved one a comfortably clothed traveler.

From $269 at Sea to Summit

Go to the backcountry without compromising on comfort with Sea to Summit’s lightweight and super-warm sleeping bag. It’s packable to fit in an included compression bag and storage cell, so you can fit it easily in a travel backpack and take on your outdoor adventure.

$215 at Dagne Dover

We love Dagne Dover bags, and that includes this large weekender carryall bag. It works as a carry-on bag for air travel or for standalone use on a weekend trip. Inside, it’s got a dedicated laptop sleeve that can accommodate up to a 16-inch device. It’s made of a durable neoprene fabric, which will not only withstand travel, but can also be hand-washed in a mild detergent and cold water to stay fresh and clean for years to come.

$230 at Amazon

It’s never a bad idea to upgrade a travel backpack. Peak Design’s 30-liter Travel Line Backpack makes for effortless packing, especially when paired with Peak Design’s Packing Cubes. Expandable, compressible and built with simplicity in mind, the travel backpack includes zippered stow pockets, a padded laptop sleeve and everything else needed to travel far, travel fast and never check a bag again.

$295 at MZ Wallace

MZ Wallace is one of our favorite travel brands. Not only do we love its classic design, but its products are made to last. This tote bag is the perfect carry-on, as it also has a luggage sleeve and two exterior slip pockets. It’s also got an adjustable, removable crossbody strap for easy maneuvering through the airport and beyond. And, best of all, there’s a zip-top closure so belongings won’t fall out of the bag during a bit of turbulence.

$210 at REI

One of our favorite pairs of travel shoes, the Blundstone Original 500 Chelsea Boots make a great gift for someone who wants to wander the streets for hours but can also sit down to a nice dinner and drinks at the end of a day of exploring. These booties are flexible, breathable and yet still chic — and they’re able to brave the rain, too.

~~$195~~ $155 at Bloomingdale’s

If you’re shopping for an urban explorer, you can’t go wrong with a versatile crossbody bag that can go from day to night. This Tumi bag doubles as both a wallet and a purse thanks to the removable, adjustable shoulder strap. Inside, there are six card pockets, and outside, there’s a slip pocket, a zip pocket and open pockets. So, you’ll be gifting plenty of storage space for all kinds of travel with this Belden collection classic.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

~~$379~~ $329 at Amazon

Travel can be a noisy ordeal, whether it’s the loud hum of the aircraft’s engines, the baby crying three rows back or noisy hotel neighbors. Thankfully, noise-canceling headphones can help alleviate those problems. This set from Bose took the title of the best noise-canceling over-ear headphones in our testing thanks to their superior noise-canceling ability and sleek design.

$158 at Tentree

If a traveler is hoofing it around a city all day, a puffer vest is certainly the way to keep them covered but not overheated. Tentree’s Cloud Shell Puffer Vest is that cozy and chic gift that will wow whoever gets it, plus it’s got sustainability built in because Tentree plants 10 trees for every item purchased.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

$300 at Amazon

For the traveler who’s heading away but wants to keep tabs on their home, a good home security system can provide peace of mind. In our testing, the Ring Alarm Pro was incredibly seamless to install and customizable for the user’s wants with a ton of features, earning it our title of the best home security system overall. You can read our full review here.

$700 at REI

For the traveler who’s eyeing a road trip, a cargo carrier can make all the difference for clearing up space inside the car for everyone to spread out. This rooftop cargo carrier has loads of capacity and can fit on most vehicles. Plus, DualSide opening means you can access the contents of the carrier from either side of the vehicle.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards of 2022.

[ad_2]

Source link

December 19, 2022
32 budget travel items you need to have | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Travel is more expensive in 2022, but what you bring doesn’t have to be. When it comes to travel, packing the right gear can make travel more comfortable from start to finish, whether you’re traveling on a budget or if you’re splurging on a 5-star trip.

Any and every globetrotter can benefit from picking up some of these affordable travel items that make traveling just a little bit easier, a little bit less stressful and a lot more fun. Ultimately, you don’t have to spend a fortune on luxury travel goods to travel more comfortably. Here are the top budget travel items under $50 you need to have or gift to the budget traveler in your life this holiday shopping season.

Not worried about budget? Click here to check out the 49 best holiday and Christmas gifts for the frequent traveler in your life.

~~$45~~ $40 at Amazon

We’ve deemed this wireless transmitter one of the most useful items to have when traveling. The AirFly Duo uses Bluetooth to ensure you can listen to and watch in-flight entertainment using your favorite wireless headphones. With the AirFly, you can skip those cheap airline headphones, pair your own set with the device, plug it into the seat back entertainment and enjoy watching and listening to your favorite shows, music and movies in comfort. Check out our full review of it here.

$23 at Amazon

This universal travel adapter comes complete with four USB ports, one USB-C port and one traditional AC socket to charge up to six devices at once. Best of all, you can use this small but mighty device in just about all international destinations from Europe to the United Kingdom, Australia and more. Although it’s only an adapter and not a voltage converter, it’ll charge up phones, e-readers, smartwatches, laptops and more when traveling abroad with just one small device instead of carrying various plugs and converter options.

$26 Amazon

These durable polyester packing cubes come in a four-piece set, with two medium-size cubes and two large-size cubes. Store clothes, shoes, dirty laundry or whatever else to best organize a suitcase. Your favorite traveler can see exactly what they’ve packed in each cube, thanks to the mesh top covers.

~~$20~~ $17 at Amazon

Whether your favorite traveler is a budding travel influencer or simply wants to get good photos of themself, this selfie stick tripod combo can be slipped into your suitcase for infinitely better travel photos. The stick is 9 inches when collapsed and weighs just 10.5 ounces, meaning it’s not only affordable, but it’s also lightweight and compact. It connects with most Apple and Android devices as well as smaller DSLR cameras and comes with a detachable remote.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

$40 at Amazon

Sleeping well while traveling doesn’t have to come at a steep price. In fact, our favorite travel neck pillow is available for just $40 and is pretty much guaranteed to help your favorite traveler sleep better on long flights. In our testing, we dubbed this neck pillow the “Goldilocks of travel pillows,” thanks to its firm support but equal parts softness and portability.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This simple but effective device will make any plane journey easier. It clamps to the tray table of the seat in front of you, allowing you to insert your phone and stream your favorite TV shows and movies hands-free.

$25 at Amazon

The ideal gift for moms, wives, girlfriends and friends, this compact pouch makes it easy to travel with jewelry — and it’s one of Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2022. With several storage spots and removable dividers for various types of jewelry, you’ll never end up with tangled necklaces or lose an earring with this case. Even those who don’t travel with a lot of jewelry will appreciate having their wedding ring or stud earrings safely tucked away in this case when on the go.

$26 at Amazon

Your favorite traveler can slip this 100% organic mulberry silk pillowcase into their carry-on to use on a plane, at a hotel or anywhere else to make sleeping on planes, trains and buses feel so much more luxurious. The pillowcase keeps hair soft and prevents breakage. When it comes to skin, it can help retain moisture, prevent acne and keep wrinkles at bay. It even comes with a matching scrunchie.

~~$30~~ $17 at Amazon

If you can’t swing the hefty price tag for the newest Apple AirPods, you’ll be impressed by the price-to-quality factor of Kurdene’s wireless headphones, which come with a portable charging case that you can tuck into your pocket or bag when traveling. The sweatproof earbuds are comfortable for ears and have clear, dynamic 3D surround sound. The headphones can run for about six hours on a single charge, and the case can charge them four times over if your trip is extra long.

$14 at Amazon

Compression socks are an important travel accessory. Experts agree that the health benefits of wearing them on long travel days can be significant. This set of three pairs is available in a wide range of colors, offering a good amount of compression made from a breathable fabric.

$25 at Jo Malone

This compact, solid perfume has a fresh aroma, and it’s easy to drop into a carry-on even when your baggie of liquids is already full. You can dab it on your wrist, behind your ears or on your neck when you need a scented pick-me-up, the ideal alternative to an expensive liquid perfume formula.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

~~$20~~ $10 at Amazon

Sleep through jet lag, red-eye flights, loud hotel rooms and whatever other noisy and uncomfortable sleep situations travel throws at you with the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask. We consider it the best sleep mask out there, as it blocks out all the light around you, allowing for a darker and more peaceful sleep on the road or in the air.

$40 at Amazon

Whether your favorite traveler is a budding influencer or simply wants to get some memorable travel shots, this Lens Kit from Xenvo snaps onto any Android or Apple phone, as well as many tablets and laptops. The wide lens captures an additional 45%, which means photos — especially ones of travel landscapes and family members — will be comprehensive and sharp. The lens system is easy to attach and use for both amateur photographers and professionals.

From $10 at Amazon

These portable, quick-dry towels are perfect for any travel situation: camping, hiking, beach trip or even visits to destinations where you won’t have access to a dryer. The durable, lightweight towels are made of polyester and polyamide material and are super absorbent, drying fast when you’re on the go. The towels come in various sizes and colors, and each comes with its own portable case for storage.

$20 at Amazon

This four-pack of Mario Badescu facial spray is perfect for all of your different moods during travel. Energize with the sage and orange blossom, relax with the lavender, revitalize and glow with rose and freshen up with the cucumber and green tea. The under-60-milliliter mist bottles are small enough to fit into your zip-lock baggie of liquids during a long-haul flight.

$38 at Amazon

This collapsible, space-saving water bottle is a must-have for staying hydrated when traveling. In our testing, we found it perfect for travelers because not only does it have a filter that can make just about any water drinkable, but it also collapses so you can easily pack it in your favorite travel backpack and then expand it when you’re ready to fill it up. It’s both sustainable and affordable, saving you money and hassle on buying overpriced water bottles in the airport and elsewhere. Check out our full review of it here.

~~$16~~ $7 Amazon

These Anbow reusable earplugs offer a noise level reduction level of NRR 32, meaning they’ll block out pesky noise on planes or anywhere else you need to sleep. Made of high-quality, BPA-free silicone material with an ergonomic shape, they’ll comfortably fit into ears pain-free. Unlike foam earplugs, these are made for long-term use and reuse.

$48 at Amazon

Connect this waterproof, wireless speaker to a phone via Bluetooth and play music whenever, wherever. It’s small enough to accompany travelers on trips but strong enough to play favorite tunes at an impromptu barbecue or beach visit. With 10 hours of playtime, it can be clipped onto a backpack, beach bag or stroller with ease.

From $14 at Cadence

Courtney Thompson

This travel system of refillable, leakproof and magnetic containers helps organize personal care products. The customizable capsules come in various sizes and colors that can be mixed and matched to fit anyone’s needs. We tested them out and found the sustainable products to be leakproof, airtight and waterproof — and extremely convenient for shorter trips. Although an entire system of six costs more than $70, budget travelers can use just a few single Capsules that will magnetically cling to each other for less than $50. Check out our full review of them here.

$23 at Amazon

With so much concern about wiping down plane seats and tray tables, it seems we’ve almost forgotten about our skin, which can be greasy, dry or tired after a long day of travel. These natural, biodegradable face wipes from Ursa Major are individually wrapped to easily tuck into a purse, carry-on bag or pocket. Complete with ingredients like aloe, willow bark and birch sap and a light, lavender and citrus scent, skin will feel refreshed and clean after using one of these wipes after a plane nap or hike.

$22 at Amazon

A TSA-approved power bank is essential for any kind of traveler. And, when you can secure a great one for just over $20, it’s the perfect gift. This slim power bank is ideal for travelers as it’s small enough to tuck in a crossbody bag, backpack or pocket but it holds enough power to charge an iPhone 12 more than two times. Whether your favorite traveler likes to keep the music going, use their phone for maps or posting photos on social media, help make sure their device always stays charged on the road.

$10 at Amazon

These polyester foldable bags are perfect to use as a beach bag, laundry bag, grocery bag, personal item on a plane, emergency diaper bag or any other situation where you might need some storage. Toss a few of these bright, patterned bags in a suitcase folded up and open them to use whenever needed.

$30 at Amazon

This fold-up travel blanket has a carrying case with a strap that slides over your trolley handle, making it easy to take along on plane trips or train journeys. The cotton-poly blend blanket will keep you warm, can double as a comfortable sitting option for spontaneous trips to the beach or can even be used as a pillow when folded up in its carry bag.

$4 at Amazon

Amazon

Things like air travel, jet lag and different climates can wreak havoc on skin. Give your face a little extra love at a low price with this stress and rehab sheet mask that can be easily added to your suitcase. Ingredients such as green tea purify your skin, while coconut and turmeric rejuvenate and brighten your face. The mask even has caffeine to wake up skin and make it glow.

$17 at Amazon

This 20-liter foldable backpack is incredibly easy to take along during any kind of travel. It folds up to pocket size so it can be packed away and then opens up to use for hiking, shopping, a beach day or anything else once at a new destination. Although the nylon fabric is thin in order to fold up better, it’s tear-resistant, it’s water-resistant and it has a sturdy metal zipper.

~~$16~~ $13 at Amazon

This digital luggage scale will save your favorite budget traveler on excess baggage fees, and it’s small enough to pack in a suitcase to ensure bags are never overweight. The scale, which comes with a battery, can weigh bags up to 110 pounds.

$16 at Amazon

Keep hands germ-free and smelling delicious while traveling with this travel-size rosewater sanitizer mist. Not only will this rid hands of germs, but the mist also contains Detoskin, which provides blue-light protection, and Vitasource, which can help firm skin by boosting collagen.

$7 $6 at Amazon

You may be required to show not only a passport but also a vaccination card when entering some countries. Protect both documents with this passport and vaccine card holder, made from water-resistant faux leather. The holder comes in various colors, so you can select just the right one to match your favorite traveler’s luggage or personal style.

$10 at Amazon

This Vitamin E-infused, SPF 30 lip balm keeps lips moisturized regardless of the season. With three different summery scents (they’ll have you daydreaming of sun and sand even in the wintry cold) and a silky and smooth finish, this balm protects lips from dry plane air and keeps them hydrated throughout a trip.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards of 2022.

[ad_2]

Source link

December 19, 2022
41 of the most useful travel products you can buy on Amazon | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Whether you’re on the road for business or leisure, a tedious day of travel can be stressful. But there are travel products and accessories out there that can make any trip more manageable and comfortable. Better yet, you don’t have to spend a day shopping across multiple sites to find the best ones. Instead, discover some of the most useful travel products from one spot: Amazon.

Whether it’s suitcases, headphones, passport cases, travel clothing, toiletries or handy tools that can improve the way you travel, Amazon has it all. Here are some of the best travel products you can buy as gifts or for yourself on Amazon.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This small but mighty tool will help you stream your favorite entertainment from your phone without having to hold your device. The phone mount attaches to the tray table of the seat in front of you and allows you to view your favorite TV shows and movies at eye level. For just more than $10 when on sale, this simple device can make a world of difference on any travel journey.

~~$249~~ $229 at Amazon

Amazon

Especially good for those who want to travel light, these tiny earbuds have powerful noise-canceling capabilities despite their small size. The headphones boast clear sound and provide a comfortable fit, making them a top pick when it comes to wireless earbuds. Best of all? They can be slipped into a pocket, purse or carry-on when on the go.

~~$321~~ $289 at Amazon

Amazon

When it comes to hard-shell carry-on luggage, durability is one of the most important requisites. Travelers who don’t want to sacrifice style for function don’t have to with this Delsey Paris carry-on, which is made of lightweight, crack-resistant polycarbonate. The bold red interior is a playful touch, and the exterior’s faux leather accents make this suitcase a fashionable yet sturdy option for toting your belongings around — in fact, it was our runner-up choice for luxurious hard-shell carry-on bags.

~~$34~~ $32 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel amenity kit offers six of Malin + Goetz’s best-selling travel products in a clear, biodegradable bag: grapefruit face cleanser, peppermint shampoo, cilantro hair conditioner, bergamot hand and body wash, Vitamin E face moisturizer and Vitamin B5 body moisturizer. The products are 100% vegan, free of sulfates and stored in travel-size recyclable aluminum tubes, perfect for your next weekend getaway.

~~$42~~ $30 at Amazon

Amazon

This backpack was made for travelers of all kinds, and it comes at a price that’s hard to beat. Inside, you’ll find a separate compartment that can hold up to a 15.6-inch laptop as well as plenty of small pockets and organizational compartments to make packing and traveling a breeze. Plus, it’s got a USB charger outside and a built-in charging cable inside so your phone can stay charged while you’re on the go.

$12 at Amazon

Amazon

Using a portable luggage scale means you’ll never be caught with an overweight bag again. This easy-to-grip scale comes with a digital screen and sturdy fabric hook, making it simple to weigh your bag on the go and then store the scale back in your suitcase. It comes in muted tones like silver and gray, or go bold with a red or orange shade so you can quickly find it in your bag.

$60 at Amazon

Although selecting the right travel pillow can be highly personal, the Ostrichpillow Go Neck pillow tends to fit most travelers thanks to its firm 360-degree neck support and plush memory-foam filling. Unlike the traditional travel neck pillow, this option offers added support and folds down to 60% of its size for easy storage. In our testing, we found this neck pillow to be the best splurge option out there, and it’s a surefire way to ensure you travel more comfortably.

From $20 at Amazon

Amazon

This functional travel jewelry case made the list of Oprah’s favorite things for 2022 — and it’s a great find on Amazon for just $20. Available in seven plush velvet colors, the case offers ample storage space for all of your most precious jewelry items. And your jewelry will arrive intact thanks to the case’s zipper closure.

$25 at Amazon

Amazon

Packing cubes make packing your suitcase infinitely easier and much more organized. And while we love fancy sets from Paravel, where you can monogram your initials, or Away’s sleek sets, those new to packing cubes can opt for this affordable Amazon Basics set, which comes with four mesh cubes in various sizes. With durable double zippers and soft yet sturdy fabric that comes in various color options, it’s no wonder these cubes have nearly 13,000 positive reviews.

$15 at Amazon

Amazon

Tray tables can be one of the dirtier spots on an airplane, but these tray masks help you to keep your hands — and your belongings — germ-free while traveling. Simply place the mask over the tray and use your table as normal. Then, when your flight is done, take the mask off and use it as a trash bag. Perfect for kids and complete with several games on one side of the mask, this is both an activity and a way to help you travel safer.

$45 at Amazon

Amazon

This handy device uses Bluetooth to seamlessly connect your noise-canceling headphones or earbuds to the in-flight entertainment system without pesky cords. This way, you can stream in-flight entertainment to your own headphones instead of the uncomfortable ones that airlines provide. The AirFly Duo has a battery life of more than 16 hours, so you can get the most entertainment on even the longest flights.

$229 on Amazon

Amazon

Traveling with small children doesn’t have to be stressful. The JetKids by Stokke is a combination ride-on suitcase and fold-out bed for children, making both airport time and flying time infinitely easier. The suitcase is wheeled, with straps for both adults to pull and kids to hold on to. It has space for your little one’s essential items inside, and it also comes with a fold-out bed (yes, they can still wear the seatbelt) that fits even in the smallest economy plane seats.

~~$20~~ From $14 at Amazon

Amazon

This silicone holder will keep your favorite makeup brushes safe during transit. It can fit up to two large makeup brushes or up to eight smaller brushes. We love that this case is available in 10 colors for every travel style, and it’s easy to clean if mascara or other makeup smears onto the exterior of the case.

$71 at Amazon

Amazon

Let’s face it, fanny packs are back in style. This Lululemon version — which can also be slung over the shoulder or across your chest thanks to its adjustable straps — is perfect for storing your passport and phone at the airport or your key essentials when exploring a new city.

$12 at Amazon

Amazon

Amazon is great for travel essentials like these leak-proof containers. Perfect for all of the liquids and gels you want to bring on your trip — from shampoos to conditioners, toners to moisturizers and much more — these silicone bottles come in their own quart-sized zipper pouch. We love, too, that each of the bottles is less than 3.4 ounces, meaning you’ll be able to zip through airport security without having to worry about your liquids and gels being too large.

~~$20~~ $18 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the overall best sleep mask is available on Amazon for less than $20 when on sale. Mavogel’s soft jersey cotton sleep mask is a cozy option that effectively blocks out all of the light. We love the adjustable nose wire, which you can tweak to fit your face, ensuring no light enters around the nose bridge area. Tapered wings also block out any light from the sides, and the adjustable head strap is tangle-free.

$10 at Amazon

Amazon

These days, it’s hard to travel with no cords. An electronic travel carrying case can go a long way to ensuring you don’t arrive with a tangled mess of cords and power plugs. Available on Amazon for just $10 and in 10 different colors, this case will not only keep your cords organized, but the hard shell will keep everything safe and secure while in transit.

From $155 at Amazon

Amazon

For those who want a classic tote, look no further than the Longchamp Le Pliage bag, a fan favorite for travelers and fashionistas alike. The water-resistant nylon bag is simple yet durable, and the leather straps and button closure offer an understated elegance. The bag is roomy enough to be an under-the-seat carry-on, ideal for taking along everything you might need to survive a long flight.

~~$30~~ From $16 at Amazon

Amazon

We love products that make travel easier, and that includes this handy drink caddy. Perfect for families and solo travelers alike, this caddy straps onto your carry-on bag’s handle and offers a space for everything from your phone to your passport and even a drink. It’s simple to use and comes in 28 different color and style options to best match your suitcase.

~~$499~~ $469 at Amazon

Amazon

Play games, watch movies or take notes with this convenient travel-sized iPad Mini. With an 8.3-inch display and an A15 bionic chip, the device is ultra-speedy and small enough to fit into your carry-on. Creatives can sketch and take notes using the Apple Pencil, which connects wirelessly to the device.

~~$50~~ $40 at Amazon

Amazon

We love the convenience of this three-in-one charging unit. Perfect for travelers, as it folds up and can fit in a pocket or purse, the device can charge three devices at once: your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods. Plus, we love that it can be arranged as a stand to hold your phone while simultaneously charging your device.

$90 at Amazon

Amazon

Parents never need to worry about watching Netflix from the hotel bathroom again with this breathable crib cover, which brings total darkness to Pack ‘n Play travel cribs. Once your baby or toddler is asleep, you can turn on the lights and enjoy your hotel room without having to worry about the light waking up your child. Lightweight and washable, it’s easy to put in your checked luggage for your next family vacation.

$29 at Amazon

Apple

Never stress about lost luggage again when traveling with a trusty Apple AirTag. The ultimate travel companion, just add one to each of your suitcases so you can track your luggage wherever you go.

~~$17~~ From $10 at Amazon

Amazon

A good travel wallet should not only offer the storage needed to keep all of your favorite credit cards and cash, but it should also offer RFID-blocking protection. This trifold faux leather wallet comes in 40 different color options and has room to store your passport, boarding pass, up to three credit cards, an ID, a SIM card, cash and more. It’s simple but effective, and for less than $15 when on sale, it’s a travel must-have.

~~$32~~ $18 at Amazon

Amazon

Amazon is a great place for stocking up on tools that will make you travel better and safer — and that includes a travel door lock. The Addalock travel door lock is both portable and lightweight. It installs in seconds at your destination without any tools required and will offer an added level of security to provide peace of mind on your next trip. With more than 10,000 5-star reviews, this device not only offers top-notch security but also at an affordable price point.

From $18 at Amazon

Amazon

Venture anywhere with this handy travel adapter, which you can use in more than 150 countries. It comes complete with dual USB ports, as well as plugs for the US, EU, UK and Australia. Use it to charge your devices and more throughout travels to Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and beyond.

$130 at Amazon

Amazon

Banish that exhausted, jet-lagged look with this travel pack of best-selling Sunday Riley products: Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment, CEO Vitamin C Brightening Serum, A+ Retinoid Serum and Auto Correct brightening and depuffing eye cream. Each of the bottles is just 15 milliliters, so you can easily take them along in your carry-on bag through TSA security.

~~$60~~ $48 at Amazon

Amazon

The Sony XB13 is our pick for best travel speaker thanks to its compact size and quality sound. It’s durable and comes with a built-in cloth strap that lets you securely attach the device to just about anything. Plus, you can pair two XB13 speakers together to provide a stereo sound on your next getaway. For less than $50 when on sale, it’s a great addition to any traveler’s packing list.

~~$16~~ $10 at Amazon

Amazon

If you’re traveling somewhere with a beach, a pool or really any body of water, make sure your phone stays protected. We love this pack of two waterproof phone pouches that will keep your devices safe. Each case comes with a detachable lanyard, too, so you can wear your device around your neck and not miss out on any photo-worthy moments of your vacation.

$94 at Amazon

Amazon

This Swedish brand’s bags are durable enough to survive winters in the Arctic Circle, so they can easily handle the average traveler’s journey. The iconic Kanken backpack is made from dirt-proof and water-resistant vinylon. It hasn’t really changed since 1978 — and for good reason. It’s a cult classic bag that comes with a few additional zip pockets and ergonomic shoulder straps.

~~$230~~ $140 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the best budget checked suitcase is also a favorite among reviewers on Amazon. It’s expandable, meaning it can fit more than many other hard-shell suitcases, and it’s lightweight — one of the lightest we tested. We love its smooth-rolling wheels and the fact that it’s available in 15 different colorways.

~~$748~~ $648 at Amazon

Amazon

These days, it’s all about video, and this Sony digital camera is ideal for content creators, professionals and even beginners. With a 24-70mm Zeiss lens, automatic face tracking, a directional mic for more precise sound and an easy-to-find record button, you’ll be able to seamlessly create all the video travel memories you want.

$30 at Amazon

Amazon

Yes, Amazon can even be a great spot to find personalized travel gear. This personalized luggage tag is buffed just enough to look rustic while still looking chic when attached to your bags. It comes with a card pocket and a snap closure, and you can personalize the tag with your initials.

From $42 at Amazon

Amazon

If you plan to travel with your four-legged friend, this pet travel bag is a suitable option at a price point that won’t break the bank. It’s approved by most airlines to fit under the seat in front of you. We especially love that the set comes with everything you’ll need for pet travel: one tote bag, two food carriers, a water-resistant placement and two collapsible bowls.

From $26 at Amazon

Amazon

This tiny portable charger is small enough to slip into a pocket or purse but strong enough to charge your iPhone up to two and a half times. It comes in three different colors and a Micro USB cable so you’re set for keeping your devices charged while on the go.

~~$50~~ $38 at Amazon

Amazon

This cozy scarf is one of the most versatile travel clothing options out there. It keeps your neck warm, but you can also use it as a hoodie, shawl or travel blanket. But its best features are the two hidden zipper pockets for added storage, which can fit key items like your phone, credit cards, cash or passport.

From $25 at Amazon

Amazon

This bag folds to close and opens to hang. Made from water-resistant polyester, the bag’s inside is transparent so you can easily locate your items. Elastic straps help keep your bottles upright to prevent spillage and leaks, and the metal hook allows you to hang the bag from a doorknob, shower or towel rack when you arrive at your destination. Pair it with a top-selling Bagsmart Jewelry Organizer for the ultimate travel set for your toiletries and jewelry.

From $76 at Amazon

Amazon

Made partly from recycled cotton, the Vera Bradley large duffle is ideal for the traveler who wants to store their items in a soft-shell, flexible weekender-style bag complete with handy mesh interior storage pockets. For those who want the traditional quilted, patterned look, there are several color and pattern schemes to fit your preferred aesthetic. If you prefer something more subtle, opt for a basic black, navy or army green, all of which offer the brand’s signature pattern style on the interior instead.

From $16 at Amazon

Amazon

This leak-proof, filter-equipped water bottle is a must-have for travelers as it collapses and folds when not in use. When open, its plastic body is easy to grip and the cap won’t leak. Plus, it’s got its own filter so you can fill up with water from basically anywhere — from a river to a hotel’s bathroom sink.

~~$22~~ From $15 at Amazon

Amazon

We think that travel shoe bags are a must-have for those who want to keep the grime from their shoes away from their clean clothes. Each of the four bags in this pack features a strong zipper and is made of lightweight, waterproof nylon fabric.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

[ad_2]

Source link

December 17, 2022
The essentials list: Journalist Lisa Ling shares her travel must-haves | CNN Underscored

[ad_1]

Don’t get Lisa Ling wrong: She obviously loves being at home with her husband and two children. It’s just that being at home for too long makes her feel … well, “antsy” is the word she uses. “I still very much have wanderlust,” she says. “There’s so much to see and experience in this world. And I want to expose my kids to as much of that as I can.”

Since 2014, the Emmy-winning journalist has chronicled those adventures — and introduced viewers to unusual and extraordinary local communities and places along the way — in her CNN docuseries, This Is Life with Lisa Ling. “Our show allows the audience to have a better understanding of their fellow Americans,” she explains. This concept has been especially important in recent years, she adds. “We’ve been isolated in our bubbles and cut ourselves off from knowing other people.”

For its ninth and final season (airing this Sunday at 9 and 10 p.m. ET), the host and executive producer heads everywhere from the backwoods of Arkansas to discover the fate of bred and captive tigers to Denver to explore the city’s alarming rate of alcohol consumption. She singles out her visit to a city just outside Chicago, where she learned about the Baha’i faith and saw “one of the most magnificent structures ever in the United States.”

As you may surmise, it hasn’t been easy getting from Point A to Point B. Ling says she bought a deluxe Sprinter van during the pandemic so she and her crew could get around safely. There have also been flight delays and rental car snafus, of course. But she’s proud to say that the team has covered 49 states during its production. (The surprising exception: Hawaii.)

“I love being in environments that are unfamiliar to me,” Ling says. “I feel like I’m a sponge that likes to just absorb as much as I can. When you’re out in the world, you’re never on repeat because there’s something new every day and every hour. I really crave those moments. You can’t do any of that if you’re stuck at home.”

No wonder Ling is an on-the-go product pro. She jumped on the phone (from her L.A. home) to share her expertise for CNN Underscored.

Ling abides by the Golden Rule of Travel: Thou shalt not check luggage. “Fortunately I’m pretty small, so it’s not like I’m schlepping around these giant shoes,” she says. Ling likes this durable duffel because of its malleable and “squishy” recyclable material. A longtime Patagonia user, she also applauds the brand’s lifetime warranty. “They have repaired many bags for me over the decades, and all I have to pay for is the shipping,” she says. “I highly recommend that all avid travelers seek out these kinds of companies.” (Eagle Creek and The North Face offer the same policy.)

“This is my absolute staple that goes with me no matter what,” Ling raves. Though the exercise device is compact enough to fit into her travel bag, it gets the job done keeping her stomach, legs and arms tight for quickie workouts in her hotel room. In fact, Ling jokes that she’s lugged her beloved roller for so long that the original label has worn off. But she does recall buying it at a Big 5 Sporting Goods store.

When rattling off the items in her toiletry bag, Ling listed this oil-free lightweight sunscreen as her No. 1. “Being in these warm climates and on so many airplanes can really dehydrate me,” she says. “If I don’t use it, my skin will really suffer.” Her face-time routine also features a moisturizing Hyaluronic Acid-infused serum from the Korean American company Hanbi.

Ling dumps an individually packaged supplement into her coffee every morning (along with some Stevia sweetener). The collagen, she explains, helps supply the body with needed amino acids to renew tissues as well as healthy hair, skin, nails and joints. “I have experienced a difference in my skin and joints,” she says.

Ling prides herself on being a voracious book reader. As in, books. “I mark them up and highlight like crazy,” she says. During production, she toted the likes of Healing, Aftershocks: A Memoir, This Is Your Mind on Plants and Fiona and Jane. “I’m really interested in reading about varying aspects of healing because our world needs it right now,” she says. She gives a special shout-out to this new non-fiction memoir, in which a roving ER doctor uses his travels to far-flung locations to help face down the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mind you, this is not your grandpa’s beef jerky. Ling’s choice features hormone and nitrate-free and grass-fed beef with nine grams of protein packed into each smoky-flavored stick. “It’s the first snack I reach for in my backpack,” she says. During the Great Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Sauce Shortage of 2022, Ling kept an extra bottle on-hand. “I wouldn’t normally do it,” she says, “But I need my hot sauce on everything!”

“I’m always cold!” Ling says. Solution? A well-insulated puffer jacket that rolls up into a ball and can be easily stashed into a carry-on bag. (FYI, Ling’s own Ultralight Down Jacket from Patagonia is currently out of stock.) “It’s important to just have something you can throw on when the weather turns,” she says.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, Ling wears her sturdy black Doc Martens and Charles and David boots when working in the field. Now let’s talk about crucial hotel-room footwear. “I always carry a pair of flip-flops and literally keep them right by the bed because I don’t like my feet to touch the ground,” she says. And socks are a no-no: “I can’t wear the socks I’ve been wearing all day into bed and it’s a pain to put them on when you have to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night!”

Even before the pandemic, Ling — who admits she is “OCD about germs” — was ultra-diligent about using her wipes to sanitize her airplane seat and rental car and hotel room. (That goes double for the remote control.) “My habits didn’t change much after COVID,” she says. “My idiosyncrasies just became justified!”

More from The essentials list:

• Michael Strahan talks what he brings on the road
• Phil Keoghan shares his go-to on-the-road products

[ad_2]

Source link

December 2, 2022