Family Travel Gear – SmarterTravel https://www.smartertravel.com The Best Trips Start Here Fri, 07 Jul 2023 20:00:28 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.3 217354961 The Hottest Travel Tech for Summer 2023 https://www.smartertravel.com/hottest-travel-tech-for-summer/ https://www.smartertravel.com/hottest-travel-tech-for-summer/#respond Thu, 06 Jul 2023 14:21:52 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=450289 Imagine documenting your travels without having to ruin the moment by pulling out your phone or camera—how much better would your next trip be? What if you were able to track your lost suitcase (even when the airline has no idea where it went)—would that be a game-changer for your next big vacation? These hot […]

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Imagine documenting your travels without having to ruin the moment by pulling out your phone or camera—how much better would your next trip be? What if you were able to track your lost suitcase (even when the airline has no idea where it went)—would that be a game-changer for your next big vacation?

These hot travel gadgets can help you do just that—and more. Pack these travel tech toys on your next trip for an even smoother journey.

Ray-Ban Stories Sunglasses

Ray-ban Stories Sunglasses
Ray-ban

Smart glasses have frequently been portrayed in movies as a futuristic technology, but the real-world innovation hasn’t quite caught up yet—until Ray-Ban and Meta launched their new Stories Sunglasses.

The Ray-Ban Stories look like the brand’s normal iconic sunglasses (available in classic frame shapes including the Wayfarer, Round, and Meteor styles) but hide dual 5 MP cameras in the corners of the frames. Equipped with voice control, these sunglasses let you snap a photo or record a video hands-free. 

Hidden speakers let you listen to music or take calls, all without pulling out your phone. The Ray-Ban Stories’ battery lasts up to six hours, and when you need to top up the battery, the glasses case doubles as a charger. 

Smartish Crown Joule Charging Cable

Smartish Crown Joule Charging Cable in pink and mint
Smartish

Tired of packing separate chargers for your phone, tablet, and headphones? Smartish’s Crown Joule Charging Cable helps you streamline things with three built-in chargers that will fit Micro-USB, USB-C, and Lightning ports. 

The cable is a lengthy 6 feet long, which comes in handy for hotels that don’t have outlets near the bed or airports where you have to sit far from a charging port.

Google Pixel Fold

Google Pixel Fold
Google Store

Want to work, read, scroll, and stream all on one device when you travel? You might want to upgrade to Google’s new Pixel Fold, a new gadget that can be used as a phone with a 5.8” screen when folded, or unfolded to be used as a tablet with a huge 7.6” display. 

The 10.8 MP ultrawide rear lens is great for snapping travel photos without a tripod—simply fold the phone to act as its own stand, pose, and say, “Hey Google, take a picture.”

Apple Air Tag

Close up of hand holding Apple Air Tag
Amazon

This summer has been a record-breaking season for air travel, and there are plenty of nightmare stories about lost luggage. Keep an eye on your bag from afar with an Apple Air Tag. Slip it in your suitcase, and you can see where it is at all times using Apple’s Find My app.

GoPro Hero 11 Mini

GoPro Hero 11 Mini superimposed on an image taken underwater with the GoPro Hero 11 Mini
GoPro

When you’re on an extreme adventure, you don’t want to be weighed down by a heavy camera, pack the new GoPro Hero 11 Mini. This tiny camera takes the powerful technology found in the Hero 11 and makes it smaller, lighter, and easier to use. 

Although the downsized Hero 11 Mini weighs just 5.4 ounces, it’s still extremely durable. It’s waterproof and even features a battery designed to hold up in below-freezing temperatures. 

Portable Apple Watch Charger / Power Bank

Close up of person holding Portable Apple Watch Charger / Power Bank and smartphone
Amazon

The batteries in Apple Watches die notoriously quickly, so if you’re relying on yours for a long travel day, keep it charged with this portable watch charger and power bank combination.

This multi-functional charger can power up a watch or phone and has a built-in iPhone charging cable to keep things easy. The powerful battery can charge an Apple Watch up to 20 times and a phone up to two times so you never have to scramble for an outlet again. 

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

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The 6 Best Quiet Luxury Pieces for Travelers https://www.smartertravel.com/the-6-best-quiet-luxury-pieces-for-travelers/ https://www.smartertravel.com/the-6-best-quiet-luxury-pieces-for-travelers/#respond Wed, 05 Jul 2023 20:15:33 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=450255 Quiet luxury, a minimalist style that focuses on the quality of pieces over flashy brand names, is the hottest trend for 2023. The ethos behind the trend is something all travelers, from budget to first-class, can embrace—think classic investment pieces that will last for years and never go out of style.  With a timeless, understated […]

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Quiet luxury, a minimalist style that focuses on the quality of pieces over flashy brand names, is the hottest trend for 2023. The ethos behind the trend is something all travelers, from budget to first-class, can embrace—think classic investment pieces that will last for years and never go out of style. 

With a timeless, understated style, these quiet luxury travel items will look classy no matter what country you’re in.

Randolph Aviator Sunglasses

Gold aviator sunglasses with tinted glass
Randolph USA

American-made eye wear brand Randolph’s sunglasses are designed to last for a lifetime—and look stylish no matter the decade—thanks to the timeless styles. It takes over 6 weeks and 200 individual steps for every Randolph frame to be handcrafted, and then they’re topped off with durable lenses that have been used by military pilots for decades. 

The brand’s Aviators are particularly iconic and can be customized with a range of sizes, polarization, or even a hidden engraving. 

Unbound Merino Men’s Polo

Male model in forest green polo shirt
Unbound Merino

A polo shirt that will hold its shape and not become threadbare after washing can be hard to find, but Unbound Merino’s Polo will last through years of wearing. Made from a durable Merino wool and Polyester blend, the polo features just the right amount of stretch while still delivering the benefits of Merino wool—anti-odor, anti-wrinkle, and temperature-controlling.

Pack this polo and wear it for days on end—you’ll still look pulled together.

Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend Bag

Cognac colored leather weekend bag called the Palissy
Carl Friedrik

Spotted on the shows that sparked the quiet luxury trend, Succession and The White Lotus, Carl Friedrik’s Palissy Weekend Bag is the most elegant way to pack for a short trip. The surprisingly spacious main compartment can fit enough outfits for a weekend getaway, and three open fabric pockets help keep everything organized.

A unique curved design and upright construction helps the bag keep its shape through numerous trips (and makes it easy to pack).

Made from Vachetta leather, the Palissy is painstakingly assembled by hand in Italy, where no detail is too small to be overlooked. Every tooth in the zip, for example, is individually polished before added to the bag. 

Gobi Cashmere Dress

Female model wearing Gobi Cashmere Dress in black.
Gobi Cashmere

A classic black dress never goes out of style, and a 100 percent cashmere fabric elevates Gobi’s V-Neck Tunic Dress to quiet luxury status. This dress can be styled a number of different ways so you can wear it multiple times on a trip—with tights, cinched in by a belt, or with sleeves rolled up.

Made from the finest cashmere, Gobi’s clothing will resist the pilling and fading that can be a common problem with cheaper fabrics. 

Urbanista Phoenix Earphones

Urbanista’s Phoenix Headphones
Urbanista

Even first-class flyers aren’t always near a power outlet. Fortunately, you can still drown out loud passengers around you with Urbanista’s Phoenix Earphones. These solar-powered earphones come with a streamlined charging case that continually recharges when exposed to light (even artificial light).

Available in a sleek black or pretty rose color, the earphones feature active noise-canceling technology that will help you block out any sounds you don’t want to hear.

Unbound Merino Travel Dress

Female model wearing long black dress
Unbound Merino

We’ve finally found the perfect travel outfit. Unbound Merino’s Travel Dress is made from an ultra-soft and stretchy Merino wool/nylon/spandex blend that’s comfortable, anti-wrinkle, odor-resistant, temperature regulating, and fast-drying.

Available in classic quiet luxury colors like camel and black, this dress features a high scoop neckline and midi-length that’s appropriate for practically any occasion.

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10 Amazon Prime Day 2023 Secrets That Will Save You Even More Money https://www.smartertravel.com/amazon-prime-day-secrets-that-will-save-you-even-more-money/ https://www.smartertravel.com/amazon-prime-day-secrets-that-will-save-you-even-more-money/#respond Mon, 26 Jun 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.www.smartertravel.com/?p=222995 Prime Day, Amazon’s biggest sale of the year will run July 11th through July 12th for 2023. To help you make the most of this mega savings event, I’ve put together a few tips and tricks to help you get the best deals. If you’re not already a Prime member, now is a great time […]

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Prime Day, Amazon’s biggest sale of the year will run July 11th through July 12th for 2023. To help you make the most of this mega savings event, I’ve put together a few tips and tricks to help you get the best deals.

If you’re not already a Prime member, now is a great time to sign up. If you haven’t been a Prime member in a while, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial and cancel after Amazon Prime Day with no charge.

Now you’re ready to shop. Here are a few Amazon Prime Day secrets to consider:

  1. Download the app to see the “sneak peek deals” and add your must-haves to your list to get notified when they go on sale during Prime Day. (Here’s how to do it.)
  2. Monitor Amazon’s deals page for the latest discounts.
  3. Enter the daily giveaways leading up to Prime Day through the Amazon app.
  4. Shop early deals from small businesses leading up to Prime Day.
  5. Clip digital coupons to save even more on purchases.
  6. Split the cost of a Prime membership by adding multiple people to your “Amazon household,” which allows you to share the benefits of your membership.
  7. Check out new Just for Prime deals that are exclusively available to Prime members.
  8. Easily find the best Prime Day deals by asking Alexa, “Alexa, what are my deals”?
  9. Amazon Prime users can get one year of free delivery with GrubHub
  10. Prime Members can earn a $15 Amazon Credit when uploading their first photo to the Amazon Photos app.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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The 5 Best Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boots for Travel https://www.smartertravel.com/lightweight-waterproof-hiking-boots-for-travel/ https://www.smartertravel.com/lightweight-waterproof-hiking-boots-for-travel/#respond Mon, 05 Jun 2023 17:41:30 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=449583 You never know what you’re going to encounter on a hike, whether it’s muddy trails, water crossings, or unexpected rainstorms. Having a good pair of waterproof hiking boots can prepare you for anything.  However, you don’t want the waterproofing to weigh you down. Too-heavy boots can strain your feet and legs, tiring you out faster. […]

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You never know what you’re going to encounter on a hike, whether it’s muddy trails, water crossings, or unexpected rainstorms. Having a good pair of waterproof hiking boots can prepare you for anything. 

However, you don’t want the waterproofing to weigh you down. Too-heavy boots can strain your feet and legs, tiring you out faster. Lightweight boots can help keep you nimble and are also ideal for hiking trips where you’re worried about a weight allowance while packing. 

These five hiking boots combine the best of both worlds, offering waterproof protection in a lightweight package.

Merrell Antora 3 Mid Waterproof 

Merrell Antora 3 Mid Waterproof  in light green
Merrell

Merrell’s Antora 3 Mid Waterproof feels like a sneaker but offers the support of a hiking boot, and for good reason—it’s designed off of the company’s best-selling women’s trail running shoe. 

The shoe got upgraded to a boot with a more durable upper for added foot protection, trademarked FloatPro Foam pods under the heel and forefoot for extra cushioning, and an extra-grippy Vibram sole. 

The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry no matter how many puddles you slog through, and these boots are comfortable right out of the box. 

Weight: 10.23 oz per shoe (women’s)

Saloman Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX

Multiple views of the Saloman Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX lightweight hiking boot for travel
Salomon

Stay light and nimble with Saloman’s Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX boots. Featuring a unique Quicklace system, these boots can be on an instant—and they won’t come untied at inopportune moments. 

A higher cut adds additional ankle support and protection, which combined with the Gore-tex exterior and deep lugs on the sole, help keep you surefooted even on the muddiest of trails.  

Available in a sleek all-black design, these boots can pull double duty for post-hike adventures in town.

Weight: 12.07 oz per shoe (women’s)

Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid

Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid, a good lightweight hiking boot for travel
Zappos

Synthetic materials are generally better than leather when it comes to keeping things light. Lowa’s Innox Pro GTX Mid are 100 percent vegan, using man-made technology to provide an airy feel that’s sturdy enough for tough trails. 

The built-in Gore-tex lining is breathable to keep your feet dry (and not sweaty) even on hot or rainy hikes. 

Weight: 15.87 oz per shoe (men’s)

Hoka Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX

Hoka Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX in orange and black
REI

Made from recycled materials, Hoka’s Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX  boots are kind to both the environment and your feet. Using the brand’s popular trail running shoe technology, the Speedgoat adds in Gore-tex waterproofing and a higher cut with a flexible collar for extra ankle support.

On the sole, Vibram’s Megagrip with Traction Lug keeps your footing stable even on loose soil or rocks. 

Weight: 10.30 oz per shoe (women’s)

Keen NXIS Explorer Waterproof

Keen NXIS Explorer Waterproof lightweight travel hiking boots in brown with green laces
REI

Feel a little cramped in regular hiking boots? Keen’s NXIS Explorers feature extra room in the front, giving your toes plenty of space to spread out. The Explorers are protected with Keen.Dry technology, a waterproof (yet breathable) membrane that will keep you dry no matter what. 

Not sure if these are the right boots for you? Keen has a great 30-day trial policy which lets you wear their shoes (even outside) for up to a month to see if you like them. 

Weight: 16.30 oz per shoe (men’s)

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

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The 7 Best Travel-Size Perfumes https://www.smartertravel.com/best-travel-size-perfumes/ https://www.smartertravel.com/best-travel-size-perfumes/#respond Thu, 01 Jun 2023 14:47:21 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=449431 If you’ve ever caught a whiff of jasmine at night and been instantly transported back to a tropical trip you know that scent can be a powerful memory trigger. There’s even scientific evidence that our sense of smell is more strongly connected to our brains than other senses.  Capitalize on this knowledge (and help create […]

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If you’ve ever caught a whiff of jasmine at night and been instantly transported back to a tropical trip you know that scent can be a powerful memory trigger. There’s even scientific evidence that our sense of smell is more strongly connected to our brains than other senses. 

Capitalize on this knowledge (and help create special travel memories) by packing perfume for your next trip. Wearing a new fragrance for a trip can help tie that scent to a location—so every time you smell it, you’ll be flooded with positive reminiscences. 

Perfume is subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule by airport security, so it’s important to bring a travel-sized vial. (You also don’t want to worry about a full-sized version breaking in your bag). 

These are the seven best travel-sized perfumes to take on your next trip. 

Nateeva: St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Full bottle of Nateeva St. Vincent and the Grenadines perfume (left) and two small Scentbird perfume holders and carrying bag (right)
Scentbird

What could be a more perfect perfume to pack for a tropical vacation than Nateeva’s St. Vinecnet and the Grenadines? Inspired by the island’s flora, the fragrance has notes of night-blooming jasmine, plumeria, orange flower, and violet leaf.  

Find it on Scentbird, a site that specializes in travel-size perfumes. You can make one-time purchases of specific fragrances, or sign up for a subscription to get a 30-day supply of different scents sent to you each month, so you’ll have lots to choose from for your next trip. 

Carnal Initiation: Initio Perfume 

The Carnal and Hedonist lines of perfume from Carnal Initiation: Initio Perfume 
Initio

Set the mood for your trip with Inito Parfums Prives. This high-end fragrance brand offers initiation sets that are perfectly travel-sized so that you can take its perfumes on the road. 

Choose from the Carnal or Hedonist lines—both will come with a coupon to redeem the price of the set towards a purchase of any of the full-sized fragrances once you decide which one you’ve fallen for. 

Vahy: Neon Neroli

Two product shots of a bottle of Vahy: Neon Neroli, surrounded by flowers, fruit, and packaging
Vahy

Inhale the fresh neroli, orange flower, and bergamot notes of Neon Neroli and you’ll feel like you’re lounging by the sea in Capri with this Italian-inspired perfume.

All of Vahy’s natural and vegan perfumes are made without synthetic fragrances, denatured alcohol, phthalates, parabens, or other bad stuff you might not want to spray on your skin.

Diptyque: 34 Boulevard Saint Germain Sold Perfume

Containers of Diptyque: 34 Boulevard Saint Germain Sold Perfume laid out on a table next to playing cards (left) and replacement refills for those packages (right)
Nordstrom

Don’t want to worry about your travel-sized perfume shattering in your bag? Opt for a solid option, which you can rub on wherever you want to add scent. Diptyque’s solid perfume balm is a good choice—and if you’ve ever been to the brand’s store in Paris, you might recognize the signature scent.

Crafted with amber, patchouli, rose, cinnamon, blackcurrant, and floral notes, it’s the perfect pick for a sophisticated city trip.

Maison Margiela: Replica Beach Walk Travel Spray

Polaroid images overlayed on a sandy beach with scent descriptions of the Maison Margiela: Replica Beach Walk Travel Spray written on them (left) and a bottle of Maison Margiela: Replica Beach Walk Travel Spray next to its packaging (right)
Sephora

The easiest way to transport yourself to a tropical beach vacation—a spritz of Maison Margiela’s Replica Beach Walk perfume. This fresh solar scent is designed to smell like a day at the beach, complete with salty air and sunshine. Bergamot, pink pepper, and lemon keep things fresh while heliotrope, coconut milk, and musk add a touch of sweetness. 

Sol de Janeiro: Brazilian Crush Cheirosa ‘68 Beija Flor

Sol de Janeiro: Brazilian Crush Cheirosa ‘68 Beija Flor bottle laid out on a mirror reflecting a blue sky and surrounded by pink flowers (left) and the same bottle on a white backdrop (right)
Sephora

Don’t limit your perfume to your skin—let your hair have some fun too. Sol de Janeiro’s Brazilian Crush Cheirosa mist was designed to be used on both hair and body (it won’t dry your hair out as regular perfumes might). 

This fruity-floral scent was inspired by the sunny gardens of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil with notes of Brazilian jasmine, pink dragonfruit, and vanilla.

Sephora Deluxe Mini Perfume Sampler Set

Sephora Deluxe Mini Perfume Sampler Set
Sephora

Prefer to have options for your trip rather than sticking to one scent? Sephora’s Deluxe Mini Perfume Sampler Set lets you try out six popular fragrances: Clean Reserve Skin, Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia, Marc Jacobs Daisy, Nest Baliense Coconut, Phlur Missing Person, and Versace Dylan Purple.

This money-saving set includes a certificate that you can redeem for a full size of any of the fragrances in the set. 

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The Best Father’s Day Gifts for Travelers https://www.smartertravel.com/the-perfect-travel-related-fathers-day-gifts/ https://www.smartertravel.com/the-perfect-travel-related-fathers-day-gifts/#respond Mon, 24 Apr 2023 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.www.smartertravel.com/2015/06/19/the-perfect-travel-related-fathers-day-gifts/ Because shopping for the number one guy in your life is hard!

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Dads can be notoriously tough to shop for—but if they love to travel, it can make things a little easier. From portable coffee makers to custom luggage, we’ve found the best gifts for Father’s Day (or really for any traveler). 

OXO Venture French Press Coffee Maker

OXO cold brew coffee maker
OXO

For the dad who still needs a great cup of coffee no matter how far from civilization he is, OXO’s Venture French Press Coffee Maker is the perfect gift. This travel-sized French press is made from a shatter-resistant, BPA-free plastic that’s durable to take camping, and weighs just over 2lbs., so it’s lightweight enough to take backpacking. Typically avoid French presses because your coffee turns out gritty? OXO’s version has the typical plunge filter, plus a secondary one built into the spout.

Scentbird Subscription

Scentbird perfume samples laid across a table
Scentbird

Does your dad need a new signature scent? A Scentbird subscription can help him find his next cologne—and give him a travel-friendly way to transport it through airport security. Simply take a quiz to help Scentbird learn your fragrance preferences, and they’ll send you a travel-sized refillable carrying case plus a new scent to try each month. Scentbird carries big name brands like Cartier and Michael Kors, as well as niche fragrance houses to discover. Be surprised with a scent or pick out a list of ones to try. 

ROAM Custom Luggage

It’s time to upgrade that battered old suitcase your dad has been carting around since before you were born. Save him from getting a boring black suitcase (that will inevitably get mixed up with someone else’s on the baggage claim carousel) with a custom suitcase from ROAM. Started by two former Tumi executives, ROAM luggage is made from the best possible materials to make a smooth-gliding, rugging suitcase. Send dad a gift card so he can spend hours on ROAM’s website creating his own custom carry-on or checked bag. 

ROAM’s suitcases can be customized in nearly endless ways, with nine color options available for the front, back, zipper, binding, wheels, carry handle, monograph patch, and lining. 

Customizable YETI Cooler

YETI Red Sox cooler (left) and person taking a beer out of a cooler full of bottles, cans, and ice (right)
YETI

Whether your dad has a favorite sports team or wants to represent his alma mater, YETI’s personalized coolers will make him smile every time he reaches for a beverage. You can even add a personalized water bottle or travel mug for a complete set.

Cadence Travel Containers

Cadence Travel containers in grey
Cadence

Help your dad stay ultra-organized on the road with Cadence Travel Containers. These perfectly travel-sized, leak-proof, refillable containers can hold medication, sunscreen, shampoo, shaving cream, or any other toiletries. The labels can be customized to fit dad’s routine, and all the containers are magnetic to help them stay together in his toiletry bag. 

Bonus: Unlike most travel containers, the Cadence are dishwasher safe, so they can be easily cleaned after every trip. 

Flaviar Whiskey Club

A Flaviar Club Membership is the perfect gift for the worldly whiskey connoisseur. Memberships come in a monthly, three-month, or yearly subscription and members can choose to receive themed Tasting Boxes featuring whiskeys from around the world or full bottles. Members also receive discounts, access to Spirit Lovers online resources, and free shipping on purchases over $60.

World Travel: An Irreverent Guide

The cover of the Anthony Bordain World Travel: An Irreverent Guide (left) and a man reading a book on a dock in front of the ocean (right)
Amazon & creativefamily | Adobe Stock

For Anthony Bourdain fans, foodies, or anyone who loves a good story, World Travel: An Irreverent Guide is the perfect book to gift. This last book by Anthony Bourdain features stories from the explorer himself, as well as essays from his friends, family, and colleagues. The book takes readers on a culinary tour around the world, offering travel advice alongside entertainment.

Goldbelly Food Delivery

Whether it’s a childhood food your dad still reminisces about or a local delicacy from a trip he can’t stop talking about, a delivery from Goldbelly can satisfy a craving without leaving home. Goldbelly delivers iconic foods from across the country, carefully packaged to arrive fresh and ready to cook (if necessary). You can get authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks from Pat’s King of Steaks, Chicago deep dish pizza, New York City bagels from H&H, lobster rolls from Maine, and pretty much any other type of food you’re in the mood for delivered right to your door.  

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The Summer 2023 Travel Essentials Guide https://www.smartertravel.com/summer-travel-essentials-guide/ https://www.smartertravel.com/summer-travel-essentials-guide/#respond Thu, 20 Apr 2023 15:30:00 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=435228 With warm weather and long sunny days, the summer season simply begs to be spent outside. Whether you’re planning a beach vacation, a mountain getaway, or an easy staycation, these are the essentials you’ll want to bring with you to make your summer travels better. Chubbies’ Everywear Shorts No matter where you’re headed this summer, […]

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With warm weather and long sunny days, the summer season simply begs to be spent outside. Whether you’re planning a beach vacation, a mountain getaway, or an easy staycation, these are the essentials you’ll want to bring with you to make your summer travels better.

Chubbies’ Everywear Shorts

Model wearing Chubbie's Everywear Short in Khaki against a pink wall (left) and a close up of person pouring water on waterproof Everywear Shorts (right)
Chubbies

No matter where you’re headed this summer, you’ll want to pack Chubbies’ Everywear Shorts. These versatile, quick-drying shorts can be worn from the beach to the boardwalk, without changing in between. A zippered back pocket keeps your wallet secure (just remember to take it out before you get in the water) and wrinkle-resistant fabric means the shorts will look good no matter how poorly you pack. 

Unbound Merino Wool V-Neck T-Shirt

Two images of model wearing the Unbound Merino Wool V-Neck T-Shirt in black, an essential summer wardrobe item
Unbound Merino

Wool might not sound like the best material for summer, but it is when it’s merino wool. This amazing fabric is temperature regulating, fast-drying, and odor-resistant: all properties you want in your summer travel clothes. This Merino Wool V-Neck T-Shirt from Unbound Merino can be worn on a hike or to dinner (and can go the whole trip without needing to be washed.) For even hotter days, try their loose yet flattering tank top or more fitted active tank top.

SideTrak Solo Touch Monitor

Woman using the SideTrak Solo Touch Monitor outdoors (left) and a close up of the SideTrak Solo Touch Monitor (right)
SideTrak

Planning on working from a beach house this summer? SideTrak’s Solo Touch Monitor will help keep you productive—so you can finish your work quickly and actually get out and enjoy the beach. This thin freestanding monitor has a folding stand and can be packed down into your laptop bag, so you can have a second screen anywhere you go.

LIVSN Design Trail Tights

Two close up images of model wearing the LIVSN Design Trail Tights, a 2023 summer essential
LIVSN Designs

With insects, ticks, and chilly summits to contend with, sometimes tights are a better summer hiking choice than shorts. LIVSN Design’s Trail Tights are made from a recycled nylon/spandex fabric blend that’s more rugged than regular tights. Four pockets make these tights just as functional (but more comfortable and stylish) than regular hiking pants.

Takeya Cold Brew Maker

Close up of person pouring a cup of coffee from their Takeya Cold Brew Maker (left) and a close up of the coffee maker (right)
Takeya USA

Love cold brew but hate paying $5 a cup? Takeya’s compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker lets you make delicious cold coffee anywhere you go this summer. A leakproof lid makes the coffee maker travel-friendly and even allows it to be stored on its side (which is great for using in a hotel minifridge). Simply fill the fine-mesh coffee filter with grounds and the shatterproof container with water and let it steep. You’ll have fresh cold brew coffee in 12-24 hours. 

Coleman Rolling Cooler

Father walking with son on a dock while wheeling the Coleman Rolling Cooler (left) and a close up of the cooler (right)
Amazon

Beach days are better when accompanied by cold beverages, and Coleman’s Rolling Cooler makes it easy to bring chilled drinks and food with you anywhere. The cooler features heavy-duty wheels that will roll over any terrain, making it easy to haul (even when it’s full.) The cooler even doubles as a seat, with a lid that can support up to 250 lbs. Ice will stay cold for up to five days, so the Coleman is great for camping as well. 

Supergoop Every Single Face Sunscreen

A group of friends laughing and displaying the Supergoop Every Single Face Sunscreen (left) and a close up of the packaging of Supergoop Every Single Face Sunscreen (right)
Sephora

Sunscreen is probably the most important item to pack this summer. Hate the greasy feel and white cast of regular sunscreen? Give Supergoop’s new Every Single Face sunscreen a try. Billed as a “watery lotion,” this sunscreen has SPF 50 but is so lightweight it feels like nothing on your face. 

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

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The 8 Best White Sneakers for Travel https://www.smartertravel.com/white-sneakers-for-travel/ https://www.smartertravel.com/white-sneakers-for-travel/#respond Thu, 20 Apr 2023 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=436787 Once seen as the ultimate marker of a tourist, white sneakers have become ubiquitous all over the world. The right pair can transition from day to night, pair with dresses or jeans, and offer plenty of arch support and comfort while still looking stylish. These are the eight best white sneakers for travel. SeaVees Balboa […]

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Once seen as the ultimate marker of a tourist, white sneakers have become ubiquitous all over the world. The right pair can transition from day to night, pair with dresses or jeans, and offer plenty of arch support and comfort while still looking stylish. These are the eight best white sneakers for travel.

SeaVees Balboa Court Shoe

SeaVees Balboa Court Shoe
SeaVees

Add a sporty spin to your travel wardrobe with SeaVees’ Balboa Court Shoe. This white cotton twill sneaker features an eye-catching grosgrain stripe detailing that sets the shoes apart from standard white pairs.

The Balboas look casual, but feature some serious comfort details, including a cushioned memory foam footbed with cooling airflow channels and a responsive “power grip” outsole.

M. Gemi The Palestra Uomo

M. Gemi The Palestra Uomo white sneakers
M.Gemi

Show off a hint of Italian style with the Palestra Uomo. The rubber sole and soft footbed give you solid traction and optimal comfort throughout the day, and the white laces blend perfectly with the white leather upper giving these shoes a clean and classic aesthetic made for dressing up or down.

Rothy’s The Lace-Up

Rothy’s The Lace-Up
Rothy's

After your trip, you toss all your dirty clothes into the washing machine—so why not add your shoes in as well? You can if they’re Rothy’s Lace-Up sneakers, a clean white pair of shoes that will always remain pristine since they’re machine-washable. Simply remove the ultra-cushioned footbed and toss both the insole and the sneaker in the washing machine. They’ll emerge looking fresh out of the box white again in no time. Out of all my shoes, the stylish Lace-Ups are the ones that most consistently garner compliments (and “where did you get those” questions) during my travels.

Adidas Stan Smith

Adidas Stan Smith white sneakers
Zappos

Popular around the world, Adidas’ iconic Stan Smith sneakers go with any outfit and fit in anywhere. Opt for the all-white model or let your personal style shine through with pops of color on the heel and tongue. Either way, the excellent arch support and cushioning mean you’ll be packing (or wearing) these on every trip.

Thousand Fell Lace Up

Thousand Fell Lace Up
Thousand Fell

Hate having dingy sneakers? Get irrationally mad when someone steps on your white shoes? Thousand Fells Lace Up sneakers might be for you. These sneakers are stain proof, odor-resistant, and feature a water-resistant coating so liquids and dirt slide right off. When you’re ready for a new pair, send them back to Thousand Fell (using a free label) where they will be refurbished and given to someone in need or recycled—and you’ll get a credit towards a new pair.

Keds Champion Original Lace Leather

Keds Champion Original Lace Leather
Zappos

Keds are a classic for a reason, and the Champion Originals Leather is the brand’s most timeless style. Made out of 100 percent leather, with no embellishments or excessive design, these are the shoes for people who just want a simple white sneaker.

Superga COTU Sneaker

Superga 2750 COTU Classic Sneaker in white
Nordstrom

Superga’s low-profile and lightweight classic sneakers are easy-to-pack (and easy to pair with anything in your travel wardrobe). The cotton unlined canvas upper is great for summer. A cushioned footbed, sturdy outsole, and soft lining make these shoes much more comfortable than they appear.

Taos Plim Soul Sneaker

Taos Plim Soul Sneaker in white
Zappos

Need a pair of shoes you can wear for an entire trip (without becoming offensively odorous)? Taos’ Plim Soul Sneakers are lined with a breathable canvas that’s been treated with a special odor-shield to keep your shoes stench-free. A trademarked Curves and Pods footbed has been designed to provide incredible arch and metatarsal support so you can wear these in comfort for many miles. 

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

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The 19 Best Travel Bags for Men https://www.smartertravel.com/best-travel-bags-for-men/ https://www.smartertravel.com/best-travel-bags-for-men/#respond Wed, 19 Apr 2023 15:24:45 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=448420 Gone are the days of a worn-down, sad-looking duffle bag. Men’s travel bags have come a long way, and we’ve rounded up the best best ones out there. From duffels, backpacks and suitcases, here are the best travel bags for men.  Ranking Bag Best Utility Travel Bag for Men Carhartt Legacy 40L Utility Duffel Best […]

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Gone are the days of a worn-down, sad-looking duffle bag. Men’s travel bags have come a long way, and we’ve rounded up the best best ones out there. From duffels, backpacks and suitcases, here are the best travel bags for men. 

Ranking Bag
Best Utility Travel Bag for Men Carhartt Legacy 40L Utility Duffel
Best Travel Bag for Adventures Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel
Best Lightweight Travel Bag for Men Gregory Mountain Products Alpaca Duffel Bag
Best Business Travel Bag for Men July Carry All Weekender Plus
Best Men’s Travel Bag for Gadgets Journal Edition Multimedia Backpack
Best Travel Bag for Men Who Wear Suits Halfday The Garment Duffel
Best Backpack Travel Bag for Men LLBean Continental Luggage, Carry-On Travel Pack
Most Fashionable Travel Bag for Men Monos Metro Weekender
Most Versatile Travel Bag for Men Tumi Fleet Day Duffel
Best Business Backpag Travel Bag for Men Aer Travel Pack 3
Best Leather Travel Bag for Men Royce New York Weekend Leather Duffel Bag
Best Men’s Travel Bag with Shoe Compartment Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe
Best Men’s Travel Bag that Doubles As A Gym Bag Herschel Novel Duffel Bag
Best Rolling Duffel for Men Eagle Creek Rolling No Matter What Duffel Bag 
Best Suitcase for Men Horizn Studios H Series
Best Designer Travel Bag for Men Tom Ford Buckley Holdall Leather Bag
Best Budget Travel Bag for Men Travelers Club Xpedition
Best Checked Duffel Bag for Men Briggs & Riley ZDX Upright Rolling Duffel Bag
Best Hardside Suitcase for Men Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

Carhartt Legacy 40L Utility Duffel

Two angles of the Carhartt Legacy 40L Utility Duffel in black
Amazon

The Carhartt Legacy is a no-nonsense utility bag for the rugged traveler. With a spacious main compartment, two zippered end compartments, two front flap pockets, a rear zipper pocket, and 10 interior mesh pockets, your items will be easily organized and accessible for your next vacation. 

Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel

Two angles of the Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel in grey
YETI

The Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel doubles as a backpack, is waterproof, and its ThickSkin™ Shell is puncture-resistant, making this one of the most durable travel bags out there. Take it on a camping trip, or on any trip you know you will be exposed to the elements. For those who prefer backpacks, try the YETI Panga 28L Backpack.

Gregory Mountain Products Alpaca 120 Duffel Bag

Two angles of the Gregory Mountain Products Alpaca 120 Duffel Bag in blue and red
Gregory Packs

Another waterproof bag, the Gregory Mountain Products Alpaca 120 Duffel Bag weighs in at only 4 pounds, making it an adventure bag without extra bulk. We love the 120 Duffel for checked luggage, or for a road trip. With 120 gallons of space, an interior mesh pocket, lockable zippers, and shoulder straps to convert it into a backpack, it has all the conveniences you need for a longer trip away. 

July Carry All Weekender Plus

July Carry All Weekender Plus in black
July

Carry your clothes, shoes and laptop in the Weekender Plus. The perfect size for a weekend trip, this bag has a padded interior pocket that fits laptops up to 16-inches. With two internal zipped compartments, and an hidden external pocket,  you have plenty of room for everything you need for a short trip. 

Journal Edition Multimedia Backpack

Journal Edition Multimedia Backpack in black
Zero Halliburton

Anyone who loves taking pictures, or has every single kind of techie-gadget out there will love this backpack. It has a laptop sleeve, and compartments and pockets for organizing your phones, tablets, cameras, chargers, and any other techie items you want to bring along with you. 

Halfday The Garment Duffel

Halfday The Garment Duffel, open on a couch and filled with clothes and shoes (left) and a picture of the exterior of the Halfday The Garment Duffel (right)
Halfday Travel

While more and more men are getting away from the days of wearing a suit every day, occasions still arise when you have to wear one, and chances are high that you will be traveling to the event. The Halfday Garment Duffel melds men’s two favorite travel bags: a duffel and a garment bag. The hanging compartment folds right up and creates a duffel compartment to pack the rest of your belongings in, and it is far less bulky than a traditional garment bag.  

L.L.Bean Continental Luggage, Carry-On Travel Pack

Two images of the L.L.Bean Continental Luggage, Carry-On Travel Pack, one open and one zippered
L.L. Bean

For those looking for a carry-on that isn’t a suitcase, this travel pack is for you. Fitting most airlines’ carry-on requirements, its ergonomically-designed straps make for easy carrying around the airport and beyond, and its countless pockets and compartments make for easy organization. 

Eagle Creek Rolling No Matter What Duffel Bag 

Two angles of the Eagle Creek Rolling No Matter What Duffel Bag  in blue
Eagle Creek


What is better than a standard duffel? A duffel that rolls for easy maneuvering around the airport. The Eagle Creek Rolling No Matter What Duffel is extra durable, has plenty of room for all of your travel needs, and even includes an extra storage pouch for shoes or laundry that doubles as a storage bag for the duffel in between your travels. 

Monos Metro Weekender

Front and back view of the Monos Metro Weekender in blue
Monos

Sophistication meets practicality with this weekender bag from Monos. It features a laptop compartment, two side pockets, a drawstring bag for laundry or shoes, and a super roomy interior. 

Tumi Fleet Day Duffel

Two views of the Tumi Fleet Day Duffel in black
Tumi

Whether its for a trip to the gym, commuting, or for a weekend away, the Tumi Fleet Day Duffel will provide.  The interior is equipped with a padded laptop compartment, iPad pocket, two card pockets, and the TUMI Tracer® which allows you to trace your bag wherever you leave it. 

Aer Travel Pack 3

Two views of the Aer Travel Pack 3 in black
Aer

The Aer Travel Pack 3 will hold everything you need for a business trip: a padded, suspended laptop pocket, pockets for a tracker, your phone, and your passport, loads of pockets for interior organization, and a large interior space for all of your other travel needs. 

Royce New York Weekend Leather Duffel Bag

Two views of the Royce New York Weekend Leather Duffel Bag in blue
Nordstrom

A classic leather duffel bag is a must on a list of best travel bags for men. The Royce New York Weekend Leather Duffel is your basic functional duffel perfect for any trip. It is extra roomy, with one large compartment to pack all of the items you need for a weekend away. The metal feet add a layer of protection to the bottom of the bag. 

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe

Two views of the Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe in black
Lo & Sons

The days of searching for a plastic bag to throw your shoes in before putting them in your bag to separate them from your clothes thanks to the Lo & Sons Caralina Deluxe bag. The lower compartment of this bag is large enough to hold more than one pair of shoes, and the main section of the bag has plenty of pockets for ultimate organization. 

Herschel Novel Duffel Bag

Two views of the Herschel Novel Duffel Bag, in blue with brown handles and details
Herschel

Most people don’t know what to do with all of the bags they own, so any bag that has multiple uses is always welcomed. The Herschel Novel Duffel not only will become your go-to travel bag, but you will likely find yourself using it for your daily trip to the gym as well. It’s separate shoe compartment allows you to store your (probably) smelly gym shoes away from the rest of your clothes, and comes in handy when traveling as well.  

Horizn Studios H Series

Two views of the Horizn Studios H Series in white
Horizn Studios

Horizn Studios H Series offers a carry-on, medium checked and large checked suitcase. Whether you create a set or just buy one, you won’t be disappointed with your purchase. Choose from the essential or smart model, which features a built in charger. All suitcases have a compression pad and laundry bag. 

Tom Ford Buckley Holdall Leather Bag

Two views of the Tom Ford Buckley Holdall Leather Bag in black
Saks Fifth Avenue

If you’re ready for a splurge, the Tom Ford Buckley Holdall Leather Bag is for you. Sleek and stylish, this basic duffel is a statement piece. Made of calf leather, it has an interior pocket, two-way zip fastening, and is made in Italy.

Travelers Club Xpedition

Two angles of the Travelers Club Xpedition, one open and one zippered

For an affordable basic, durable, reliable travel bag, the Travelers Club Xpedition features six pockets, a retractable telescoping handle, and top and rear carry handles. This checked bag is available in eight colors. 

Briggs & Riley ZDX Upright Rolling Duffel Bag

The Briggs & Riley ZDX Upright Rolling Duffel Bag in green
Amazon

The Briggs & Riley ZDX Upright Rolling Duffel brings all of the style of a duffel together with the convenience of a rolling suitcase. It folds down for easy storage, has ample outer and inner pockets, and a retractable handle for easy rolling. Plus, it comes with a lifetime performance guarantee that even covers airline damage.

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner in bright blue
Amazon

This hardside carry-on from Amazon Basics is durable, fits most overhead bins, and is expandable for when you need extra space. The fully lined interior has a divider and three zippered pockets to store your smaller items.

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5 Comfortable and Packable Dress Shoes You Can Actually Walk In https://www.smartertravel.com/comfortable-packable-dress-shoes/ https://www.smartertravel.com/comfortable-packable-dress-shoes/#respond Tue, 28 Mar 2023 13:46:04 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=441682 Whether you’re traveling for a destination wedding or for work, some trips require packing fancy footwear. The problem: most dress shoes are painful to walk in for long periods, and take up way too much space in your suitcase. Fortunately, we’ve found five great pairs of shoes that will look and feel even better on […]

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Whether you’re traveling for a destination wedding or for work, some trips require packing fancy footwear. The problem: most dress shoes are painful to walk in for long periods, and take up way too much space in your suitcase. Fortunately, we’ve found five great pairs of shoes that will look and feel even better on your next trip.

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

Allen Edmonds Denali Split-Toe Derby

Allen Edmonds Split Toe Derby
Allen Edmonds

Handcrafted in Wisconsin, Allen Edmonds’ Denali Split-Toe Derby shoes will last you through a lifetime of trips. Made from a luxurious leather, these shoes can be recrafted in the unlikely event that they ever wear out.

The split-toe design makes these versatile shoes easy to dress up or down, so they’ll be the only pair you’ll ever have to pack. Thanks to a leather-lined interior, slightly roomy fit, and plenty of arch support the Denalis are comfortable to wear for many miles.

F. Major The Pump

Two views of the F. Major The Pump
F.Major

What hurts more than the price tag on luxury heels? The pain after wearing them for more than an hour. A new female-founded shoe brand is hoping to change this, with the launch of F. Major. The brand offers just one simple style, a 3-inch pump that comes in black patent or napa leather.

However, the classic design hides a comfortable secret—a paper-thin, foam-infused insole that makes these stilettos walkable (without pain). 

Beckett Simonon Prieto Sneakers

Two views of the Beckett Simonon Prieto Sneakers
Beckett Simonon

A good pair of travel dress shoes should work for every occasion on your itinerary—from a meeting to sightseeing. Beckett Simonon takes the standard comfortable sneaker and dresses it up in a full-grain leather that will work with jeans or a casually cool suit.

The Prieto sneakers are made from soft and supple Italian leather that’s hand-cut and hand-finished for extra comfort. A Vachetta leather-lined interior regulates temperature and absorbs moisture, while sturdy rubber shoes provide support and shock absorption. 

M.Gemi The Esatto

Two views of the M.Gemi The Esatto
M.Gemi

The lightweight and sleek Esatto heels from M. Gemi won’t take up a lot of space in your suitcase—and the timeless design will work with any outfit you pack. Handmade by experts in Italy, these pumps are designed for comfort (despite the 3.5” heel). 

The seamless construction prevents blisters, and the soft leather lining allows you to wear these with or without tights. 

Nato Pixie Wedge Sandal

Two views of the Nato Pixie Wedge Sandal
Zappos

Nato’s Pixie Wedge Sandals are perfect for a beach or outdoor destination wedding. Available in a wide range of colors (including dressier silver and gold versions), these sandals can be taken out anywhere. 

The low wedge heels and secure ankle strap gives you a sturdy base for beach or sand settings, while the anatomic cork and latex footbed mold to your foot for extra comfort. 

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