Whatever your reason for riding, it’s important to know how to stay safe and comfortable on two wheels. Follow these bike safety tips to protect yourself.

Stay Visible

Drivers can’t avoid you if they can’t see you, so make yourself (and your bike) as visible as possible. I love Knog’s Blinder 1300 Set, a powerful light set that allows you to be seen from far away. The set includes a front light with a 1300-lumen road-focused beam that lights up the road up to 390 feet away, along with a 150-lumen rear light that keeps you visible from both sides. 

The Knog set is my go-to for commuting since the lights have a super long run time (1.5 hours on full brightness and 120 hours on Eco flash mode for the front light and up to 50 hours for the rear light) and are waterproof. My favorite feature is the intelligent button LEDs, which show the battery level at a glance. 

The compact light set is also great for travel since it can be attached in seconds without any tools. You can pack it and use it on a rental bike.

Communicate Your Actions

Unlike cars, you don’t have turn signals or brake lights on your bike, so you must communicate your actions to drivers with hand signals for biking. This National Highway Traffic Safety Administration chart is an excellent graphic depiction of what to do.

However, signals can be hard to see in the dark (and confusing for drivers who might not know what hand signs mean). To make your intentions even more visible, you can also buy turn signals for your bike or cycling gloves with light-up indicators.

Let People Know You’re There

As someone who’s frequently both a pedestrian and a cyclist, I hate being startled while walking on a path by a cyclist screaming: “on your left” at full volume. And as a cyclist, I don’t want to scare someone by sneaking up behind them.

Knog’s Oi Classic Bell pleases me as both a walker and a rider—a light press on the bell’s level delivers a sound that’s much more pleasant than other bells yet still loud enough to get people out of the way in a polite manner. 

Prevent Theft

According to one study, an average of 2 million bikes are reported stolen each year. Prevent theft by following these tips:

• Park your bike in a busy, well-lit area
• Lock your bike to something secure
• Lock your wheels and frame together
• Avoid leaving your bike outside overnight
• Take any easily removable components with you
• Use a U-Lock

Stay Comfortable

Once you start racking up the miles on your bike, you may also start racking up some physical complaints—like chafing, saddle sores, and calloused hands. Here’s what I recommend to stay comfortable while riding:

Bodyglide Cycle Glide

Preventing chafing takes just five seconds with Bodyglide’s Cycle Glide. Simply swipe this deodorant-style applicator over your skin or shorts, creating a dry, invisible barrier that protects your skin while riding. The small container and solid formula make it great for travel.

Hestra Bike Short 5-Finger Gloves

If you dismount with sore wrists or callused palms, try Hestra’s Bike Gloves. These lightweight gloves feature a silicone print on the fingers for reinforced grip and shock-absorbent gel padding on the palm to combat tiredness and numbness in the hands and wrists. Best of all, they’re machine washable so that you can clean them after sweaty rides.

Backcountry MTB Liner Shorts

If you want the extra comfort and padding that chamois shorts provide but hate how they look, check out Backcountry’s MTB Liner Shorts. These sleek spandex shorts conform to your body and have barely noticeable low-profile padding, especially when layered under other shorts. I love the silicone leg grippers, which actually work to keep the shorts from rolling up while riding. 

Wear a Helmet

If you only follow one piece of advice from this list, let it be this one: Always wear a helmet while cycling. Your bike helmet should have a sticker indicating that it meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards for cycling.

For my everyday commuting, I wear this stylish helmet by Thousand. I like it not only for its looks, but for the secret pop-lock that safely locks the helmet to your bike, so I don’t have to carry it around all day.

The sleek design is lower-profile than most helmets and comes in a range of fun colors (like rose gold or striped).

The post Bike Safety Tips: How to Stay Safe and Comfortable While Riding appeared first on SmarterTravel.

In preparing for a longer international trip, I visited a travel clinic and did some research on the CDC’s website. I was happy to find this checklist for a healthy trip and have included some over-the-counter medicine recommendations below.

It’s worth noting that you may also need some prescription medications (and/or vaccines) for things like malaria and altitude sickness, so if you’re traveling for an extended period of time, participating in a physically active trip, or headed to a remote country, make sure to visit a travel clinic.

Over-the-Counter Diarrhea Medicine: Imodium or Pepto-Bismol

Ah, the most common and arguably most uncomfortable sickness to get when you travel. Though it’s most often caused by contaminated food or water, traveler’s diarrhea can happen anywhere—so it’s a good idea to bring an anti-diarrheal medication no matter the destination or type of trip.

Buy: Imodium or Pepto-Bismol

Over–the-Counter Antacid: TUMS or Pepcid

The last thing anyone wants to do on vacation is walk around with a stomachache or heartburn, especially with all the new food and drink you might want to try. Carry antacids on your trip and you can overindulge all you want.

Buy: TUMS or Pepcid 

Over-the-Counter Antihistamine: Claritin or Zyrtec

You can never be sure when allergies are going to creep up on you while traveling, especially if you’re headed to another climate. Combat its symptoms, including a stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing, by packing this travel medication.

Buy: Claritin or Zyrtec

Over-the-Counter Motion Sickness Medicine: Bonine or Dramamine

Nothing can ruin your travels quite like motion sickness on a plane, train, bus, or cruise ship. Instead of resigning yourself to a trip of nausea and dizziness, bring medicine to travel like a champ. Benadryl, an antihistamine, can also work for motion sickness, but watch out for drowsiness.

Buy: Bonine or Dramamine

Over-the-Counter Cough Drops or Suppressant: Ricola or Halls

You’re at an increased risk for getting sick while traveling as your germ exposure skyrockets. Cough drops can bring temporary relief to a sore or ticklish throat and silence your coughs so you don’t annoy fellow travelers.

Buy: Ricola or Halls 

Over–the-Counter Decongestant: Sinex or Sudafed

Nobody likes traveling while congested. Whether it’s a cold or allergies, these over-the-counter medicines can relieve congestion and clear your head. Just make sure you pick a non-drowsy kind if you’re taking this during the day.

Buy: Sinex or Sudafed

Over–the-Counter Pain Medicine: Tylenol or Advil

Instead of lying in bed all day, take pain and fever medicine so you can focus on being a tourist. These over-the-counter medicines can help with common travel ailments such as achy feet or jet lag-induced headaches.

Buy: Tylenol or Advil

Over-the-Counter Mild Laxative: MiraLAX or Dulcolax

All I’ll say is that you won’t regret packing these.

Buy: MiraLAX or Dulcolax 

Over-the-Counter Mild Sedative or Sleep Aid: ZzzQuil or Tylenol PM

Maybe you’re staying in a noisy place or you’re so jet-lagged you can’t sleep. Either way, these sleep aids will make sure you’re refreshed and ready for a day of travel.

Buy: ZzzQuil or Tylenol PM

Pin the Over-the-Counter Medical Travel List:

Never forget the right OTC medications to toss in your luggage by downloading our handy packing checklist. For a companion first-aid checklist, check out our Travel-Sized First-Aid Kit Packing Guide.

Alyssa Lukpat also contributed to this article.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 9 Over-the-Counter Medications You Should Pack for Every Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What Fabrics Are Best for Fall Layering?

Even more important than picking the right cut or style, choosing the right fabric for your fall travel wardrobe will set you up for layering success. Your summer linens and thin cottons will still have their place on your fall packing list, but the real heroes of the season will be fabrics that are insulating and lightweight, like cashmere and thermal knits, as well as heartier cold-weather staples like wool and denim.

Cashmere

Up to eight times warmer than traditional wool, cashmere is ideal for an autumn trip. However, this luxury textile is a known budget breaker. The heightened cost stems from the time- and labor-intensive process of creating cashmere, requiring wool from several cashmere goats to craft even a single garment. If you’d like to try cashmere, avoid some of the sweater-induced sticker shock by browsing the affordable options at Quince. 

Merino Wool

Merino wool offers an affordable but high-quality alternative to its cashmere cousin. Made from merino sheep wool, this fabric is anti-static, smooth and cool to the touch, and highly insulating despite its light weight.

Wool

Standard wool is still a tried-and-true staple of the season. It’s naturally insulating and more common than the specialty wools listed above, making it more affordable overall. To keep your wool cozy and warm (instead of unbearably itchy), wash with a wool detergent and hang to dry. 

Thermal Knit

Also called waffle knit, thermal knits get their insulating qualities by trapping air warmed by the body in the tiny cells created by its grid-like weave. Thermal knits are frequently wrinkle-resistant, meaning they’ll emerge from your suitcase ready to wear. 

Denim

Originally developed as fabric for durable workwear, denim is now a feature of nearly everyone’s closet. A quality sturdy denim is an ideal outer layer for fall, easy to pair with a variety of other fabrics, and able to withstand the fickle autumn weather.

Corduroy

A perennially popular fall pick, corduroy is one of the few fabrics for pants that is both warm and fashionable. Slightly dressier than denim, it is also typically available in iconic autumnal colors.

Specialty Fabrics

There are a variety of other specialized fabrics meant to keep wearers warm. The HEATTECH linen from Uniqlo offers shirts, sweaters, socks, and leggings in its titular ultra-thin but ultra-warm fabric. Thinsulate, found most often in thin down-alternative jackets, is a hypoallergenic insulating material that provides warmth without bulk. Plant-based cotton alternative Tencel is eco-friendly and moisture-wicking, perfect for wear beneath heavier outer layers in the fall. Check the product details of your potential purchases for information on any specialized or branded materials they may contain.

How to Layer for Fall Travel: Fashion Rules to Follow

Thoughtful layering will keep you warm and stylish on your travels. When crafting your outfit itinerary, keep a few golden layering rules in mind.  

1. Layer light to heavy. Your tightest, lightest layers should go first, followed by your heavier, warmer layers. 
2. Layer short to long. Your outer layers should be the same length or longer than your inner layers.
3. Layer tight to loose. Your outermost layers should allow plenty of room for your inner layers to maintain comfort and freedom of motion. Opt for wide-leg pants and consider sizing up in sweaters. 
4. Experiment with silhouettes. Mix and match silhouettes and textures to add some dimension to your outfits. Add a turtleneck underneath a crew-neck sweater, or try a houndstooth coat over a smooth merino cardigan. This will add interesting depth as well as functional warmth to your ensemble.

Best Items to Layer for Fall Travel

Here are a few closet staples to help you elevate your autumn layering game. 

Shirts: You don’t have to leave your T-shirts behind in summer. A plain long or short sleeve made from 100% cotton or Tencel fabric makes a great first layer, especially in the early warmer days of autumn.  

Sweaters: Sweaters are the cornerstone of every fall wardrobe. Tighter options like a rib-knit turtleneck are the perfect first layer, while looser silhouettes, like this loose V-neck from Old Navy, or bulkier cable knit options can easily be layered on top. 

Cardigans: While cardigans fall definitively within the sweater category, they deserve their own shoutout. The humble cardigan‘s convenient front closure makes it an ideal second layer, easy to add or remove. For extra drama, try layering a duster cardigan beneath a long-line coat.

Vests: Puffer vests, like this Wonder Puff Cropped Vest from Lululmeon, keep your core warm while letting your arms have a bit more mobility than a coat or jacket. While fashion vests, like sweater vests or wool suit vests, won’t do much in the way of warmth, they will lend interesting visual depth to all your fall looks. 

Jackets: A stylish denim jacket provides light warmth for early fall days. As the weather turns colder, transition to a lined jacket. The Astrid Lined Jacket from Kuhl is a medium crop and comes in three cozy colors.

Coats: If traveling to a chillier destination, you’ll need a heavier coat. This could mean a fully insulated winter jacket, like this thin but ultra-warm coat from Cotopaxi, or a more upscale option, like an ever-stylish peacoat. To maximize layering potential, try a three-in-1 jacket like this one from REI which provides a base, mid, and outer layer in a single coat. Finally, don’t forget a raincoat for those rainy autumn days—Everlane has styles in men’s and women’s sizes. 

Tights: A good pair of tights will extend the life of your summer skirts well into autumn and can be used as a base layer underneath clothes as it nears winter. Opt for tights designed to trap heat, like the HEATTECH Knit Tights from UNIQLO, rather than standard nylons. If you prefer sheer tights, fleece-lined tights mimic the look of nylons while still keeping you warm.

Undershirts: Similarly to tights, adding an undershirt base layer will boost the warmth of any outfit. The HEATTECH innerwear line has several options. You could also throw on a classic thermal knit, suitable under clothes or as a standalone shirt.  

Hats: You can’t go wrong with a classic beanie. The Cozy Hour Beanie from Athleta is a stylish option that comes in eight colors. For an equally warm twist on the classic stocking hat, try the Mongolian Cashmere Beret from Quince. If your favorite fall hat doesn’t provide much protection against the elements, try layering it with a thin pair of earmuffs or an ear-warming headband. If rain is in the forecast, skip the umbrella or the plastic rain hood and try a stylish waterproof headscarf.

Scarves: A good travel scarf is the best accessory. We recommend a blanket scarf like the Dreamsoft Travel Scarf, which can double as a blanket in chilly airplane cabins. 

Gloves: While gloves aren’t always necessary for autumn, it’s good to have a pair on hand for frosty evenings or an unexpected dip in temperature. The Rho Glove from Arc’Teryx are excellent for transitioning from fall into winter. Wear them alone in autumn and layered underneath thicker gloves when the cold weather sets in.

Shoes: Nothing is worse than freezing damp feet while trying to enjoy a day of sightseeing. Your fall footwear should always be water-resistant. For everyday wear, the waterproof (and machine washable!) Vessi Weekend sneakers or the Wexford Waterproof Chelsea Boot from Ariat will do the trick. For active vacations, these waterproof boots from KEEN will keep you warm and dry while you hit the trails.

Socks: Warm socks are a must-have for autumn travel. Classic wool socks will do the trick on dry days. If there’s rain in your vacation forecast, invest in a hearty pair of waterproof socks to layer with your waterproof shoes for double the protection. 

How to Layer for an Active Fall Vacation

Layering will look different on the top of a mountain versus the top of the Eiffel Tower. Layering for active travel in autumn becomes trickier, especially if your excursions involve significant elevation changes. 

Remember this cardinal rule for hiking as the weather begins to cool down—start cold! If you plan to spend the day on an intensive hike, start with the fewest layers tolerable and add layers as needed. This prevents sweat from building up and later cooling down, potentially lowering your core temperature to a dangerous degree.

For active trips, look for base layers made from durable moisture-wicking fabric, like this long-sleeve merino base layer from REI. Bring along a pair of liner gloves and heavier waterproof gloves for higher elevations. Consider tossing an extra pair of wool socks in your hiking pack in case the first pair gets wet (or sweaty!).

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

The post How to Effectively Layer for Any Kind of Fall Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Best of all, everything can be conveniently ordered from Amazon (which is crucial if you’re a last-minute packer and shopper like us.)

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Travel Pack has become our favorite bag for trips where a rolling suitcase just isn’t practical. We recently took this backpack on a New York City trip involving train travel, lots of walking, and numerous subway transfers. Thanks to a great weight distribution system and air mesh shoulder straps, the backpack was super easy to carry, even as we walked for over 30 blocks with it.

The Allpa was much easier to pack than a normal backpack, as it opens suitcase-style (with a full-wrap zipper opening) and has three mesh zippered pockets on the inside that keep everything organized. You could definitely fit enough in this backpack for up to a week-long trip.

Buy Now!

BeeVines Sleep Mask

Turn any hotel room or even an airplane into a dark sleeping environment with BeeVines’ Sleep Mask. This 3D eye mask is molded to create a light-blocking seal around your face, while still allowing your eyes to move freely during sleep.

The satin material is soft and comfortable and doesn’t leave marks or creases on your face after wearing it.  

Buy Now!

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On Suitcase

Weighing just 6.5 lbs., Samsonite’s Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On Suitcase is our go-to for trips when we want to travel carry-on only. The 21” spinner suitcase can hold a lot while still being easy to wheel around, thanks to multi-directional double spinner wheels which allow the bag to be rolled completely upright, so there is no weight on your arm or shoulder. 

We also love all the eye-catching colors the Freeform is available in on Amazon, from a rose pink to bright orange.  

Buy Now!

Anker C30i Open-Ear Earbuds

It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings when listening to music outdoors, but it’s especially crucial to do so in a foreign environment. Anker’s Soundcore C30i earbuds feature an innovative open-ear design that allows you hear what’s going on around you, while still enjoying crystal-clear audio.

We love these earbuds for long plane rides (don’t worry, no one next to you can hear what you’re listening to, despite the open-air design) as they don’t sit inside your ear canal and are more comfortable to wear for extended periods than regular earbuds.  

Buy Now!

Icebreaker Merino Oasis 200 Long Sleeve Crew

When headed somewhere with unpredictable weather, we always pack Icebreaker’s Merino Oasis 200 Long Sleeve Crew. Made from 100 percent Merino Wool, this cozy shirt is soft and lightweight and helps you regulate your temperature, keeping you hot or cool as needed. 

The Oasis is thin enough that it can be layered under another shirt or jacket, and we’ve used it for everything from an extra layer in a cold plane cabin to a hiking shirt.

Buy Now!

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Don’t get caught out at check-in with an overweight bag. Find out before you leave if your suitcase will meet the weight limit with Etekcity’s Luggage Scale. This affordable luggage scale is very accurate and can measure up to 110 lbs. 

Simply hook it on to your luggage and lift up to get an instant weight reading that will help you decide if you’ve packed too much. 

Buy Now!

Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic

Traveling can wreak havoc on your digestive system, thanks to unfamiliar food and the temptation to overindulge. Pack Seed’s DS-01 Daily Synbiotic and take two capsules each morning to encourage healthy gut function while on the road. 

Unlike most probiotics on the market, this plant-based probiotic uses a unique capsule-in-capsule system that’s engineered to survive until it reaches the colon, so it can deliver the probiotics where they are the most effective, helping keep your stomach happy as you sample your way through a new cuisine. 

Buy Now!

Wholesome Hippy Calm Cream

If you need a little extra help sleeping in an unfamiliar environment, bring Wholesome Hippy’s Calm Cream with you on your next trip. This rich body cream incorporates valerian root, melatonin, magnesium, vitamin D, and chamomile to help you relax and sleep better. 

Apply it to your pulse points, neck, and bottom of feet (it’s also great to use on tired legs after walking all day) before bed. Note that this container is 4 oz., so you’ll need to decant it into something smaller if you’re putting it in your carry-on bag, but you only need a small amount at a time.

Buy Now!

Enviroscent Plug-In Air Freshener

Hate coming home to a musty-smelling house after being gone on a trip? Plug-in Enviroscent’s Air Freshener before you leave, and you’ll be greeted with fresh-scented air upon your return. This non-toxic air freshener uses a solid essential oil disc that’s safer and healthier than traditional air fresheners. It’s made without harmful chemicals and is safe for pets.

Buy Now!

Iniu Portable Charger

Low battery notification? No problem—Iniu’s Portable Charger has two fast-charging ports that can deliver up to a full week’s worth of power, so you can keep all of your electronics ready-to-go. The charger can bring an iPhone 13 from a completely dead battery to a 52 percent charge in just 25 minutes.

Buy Now!

The post 10 of Our Favorite Travel Items You Can Get on Amazon appeared first on SmarterTravel.

State Cashmere The Mock-Neck Quarter Zip Polo Sweater

Cashmere is a great choice for long flights. It feels soft and luxurious, and offers plenty of lightweight warmth in chilly cabins. State Cashmere’s Mock-Neck Quarter Zip Polo Sweater looks polished and can be worn off the plane when you need a warmer layer.

Hount Sleeveless Split Maxi Dress

This maxi dress from Hount is simple but elegant, designed with extra stretchy fabric for maximum comfort. It can easily be dressed up after leaving the plane for a night out or a special event. Available in thirty-one colors and patterns, you can find an option that fits the vibes of any trip.

Unbound Merino Lightweight Merino Travel Pants

Merino wool is another solid fabric for long travel days. The non-scratchy wool helps regulate your temperature, resists odors, and never wrinkles. Unbound Merino’s Merino Travel Pants are made from a superfine merino wool that’s lighter and silkier than regular wool or cotton. The relaxed fit pants feature a slip-on waist that’s comfortable no matter how long you sit, and the pants thankfully even have functional pockets.

Eddie Bauer Men’s Baja Short-Sleeve Shirt

Made from 100 percent cotton, Eddie Bauer’s Baja Short-Sleeve Shirt is pre-shrunk so you can toss it in the washer and dryer without worry after your flight. The shirt is super breathable, making it a great pick for warm weather trips.

Luxeire Classic Button Up

Need to make a good impression as soon as you land? Luxeire’s Classic Button Up looks like a traditional shirt, but is made from an eco-friendly technical fabric that’s soft and wrinkle-resistant. 

Unlike regular button-downs, this shirt is designed to minimize gaping and stay tucked in for the perfect tailored fit.

Vionic Willa II Slip-On Flat

Don’t be that person who takes their shoes off on a plane—instead, wear Vionic’s Willa II Slip-On Flats and you’ll be as comfortable as if you were wearing slippers. These velvety-soft loafers look elegant, but conceal comfort-focused features like a built-in orthotic, removable plush footbed, and a roomy toe box. 

Athleta Coaster Luxe Jumpsuit

Timelessly stylish and effortlessly cool, a jumpsuit is a staple in any travel wardrobe. Bonus points if its made from a pj-worthy TENCEL blend and cinched with an adjustable drawstring like the Coaster Luxe from Athleta.

State Cashmere Crew-Neck Sweater

Our favorite cashmere for women is made by State Cashmere, which uses ethically-sourced cashmere from Kashmir goats. The crew-neck sweater will keep you warm in-flight, and then can be easily dressed up or down once you’re off the plane. 

Quince Stretch Silk Midi Shirt Dress

This button-down dress from Quince will have you looking and feeling like a million bucks during your next layover. The ultra-soft mulberry silk is blended with a hint of spandex for a stretchy fit. The delicate fabric is even machine washable, making it the ideal silk piece to bring on vacation.

Pair with a matching mulberry silk sleep mask for the best in-flight nap ever.

Madewell Ponte Pull-On Twill Pants

Wide-leg jeans are in style right now, but who wants to fly for hours with a denim waistband digging in uncomfortably? Instead, wear Madewell’s Ponte Wide-Leg Pants, which are made from a stretchy ponte fabric and feature an elastic waistband that’s comfortable even if you’re sitting for hours.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Circle Cardi

Packing an extra layer for the plane will never be a waste—an oversized cardigan, like this one by Barefoot Dreams, can double as a blanket or pillow if you’re not wearing it. This cozy sweater features two pockets so you can keep in-flight essentials close by. 

The post 11 Travel Clothes That Feel Like Pajamas (But Look First Class) appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Best Travel Products for Chronic Conditions

Best Glasses For Travel

Anyone with glasses has had the unfortunate experience of trying to get comfortable laying their head down with them, which proves uncomfortable when you are on an airplane. Or maybe your headphones dig into the temple of your glasses, causing dents in your temple. Whatever it is, glasses can be annoying when you’re traveling. Since glasses aren’t cheap, it’s doubtful you’d want an everyday pair and a travel pair, so we have a great solution. Glasses that you can use every day but are also great for traveling, like these Optiflex glasses from Zenni. They are super flexible, so they won’t dig into your skin, lightweight and durable. I have never worn more lightweight glasses than these, and I cannot recommend them enough for travel. They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Please note: a prescription is required for purchase. 

Best Contact Lenses for Travel

Anyone who wears contact lenses has been there: You find yourself dozing on the plane, and when you wake up, your eyes are like sandpaper; they are so dry. So, anyone who travels a lot and wears contacts needs to think about what contacts they use daily. Dailies AquaComfort Plus features a blink-activated moisture technology that keeps your eyes hydrated throughout the day, and daily contact lenses are perfect for travel, as you don’t need to worry about packing solutions or cases – just throw in the number of contacts you need for your trip, and you’re done! Please note: a prescription is required for purchase. 

Best Insulin Carrier for Travel

My sister has had Type 1 diabetes since she was 11, and this carrier has become a lifesaver, even since getting her insulin pump years ago. The cooler pack easily stores and protects two bottles of insulin, keeping it cool for up to 12 hours. It’s excellent for any diabetic to use daily- to take to work, school, and, of course, when on the road. There are pockets for syringes and wipes, and you get two cooler packs- one to use and one to keep in the freezer. 

Best Glucose Monitor for Travel

Many glucose monitors are bulky, with several parts and accessories, making them a pain to travel with. For people with conditions that require them to monitor their glucose, this can be a pain when packing for a trip. The Dario Smart Glucose Monitor Kit offers quick and easy glucose monitoring with six-second results using minimal blood samples. It includes test strips, lancets, and a meter. It can be used with the Dario Health App on iPhone 15s. 

Best Pill Case for Travel

As much as I hate to admit it, I’ve reached the age where I need a pill case to keep track of the pills I take and organize them for am and pm doses. This case is durable for everyday use, but each day has a separate compartment you can pop out to take with you when you go away for less than a week. 

Best C-Pap Machine for Travel 

More and more people are getting their sleep apnea under control. While C-pap machines are medical devices and don’t count towards your carry-on luggage, they are cumbersome, and having an extra bag isn’t fun. Enter the ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP Machine. This mini machine is as big as a smartphone and takes up much less space than its bigger version. It’s also perfect for those with limited space on their bedside table. Please note: a prescription is required for purchase. 

Best Compression Boots for Travel

Compression boots can be a bit cumbersome for those who need them to help with circulation. However, the Normatec Go is a fantastic compression boot for home and on the go. They won’t take up a lot of space in your luggage, are FSA/HSA eligible, and use HyperSync™ technology, which “synchronizes the set of wearables to give you a symmetrical massage with 3 zones of 360-degree gapless compression.” 

Best Blood Pressure Monitor for Travel

Going away may prove stressful for anyone who needs to monitor their blood pressure (and not help that blood pressure!) Luckily, the OMRON Evolv Bluetooth Wireless Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor is reliable, easy to use, and ultra-compact- the perfect option for anyone who needs to check their blood pressure at home or on the road. Instead of having a tube connecting the armband to the monitor, the monitor is built into the armband, meaning less bulk for your suitcase. It will record your readings using the Omron app on your phone for easy logging. 

Best Nebulizer for Travel

Unfortunately, people with asthma occasionally need a nebulizer, even when traveling. The Mayluck Portable Nebulizer is perfect for keeping tucked away in your medicine cabinet at home for home use but is compact enough to throw into your suitcase easily. It has two modes: mode 10 for a strong mist (best for adults) and Mode 20 for a weaker mist (best for kids and the elderly). It has auto cleaning and lets you know when the water is low. 

Best Oxygen Concentrator for Travel

While portable oxygen concentrators may not be ideal for every day use, they are vital for people who rely on them and want to travel. The Inogen One G4 Portable Oxygen Concentrator weighs less than three pounds, has three pulse dose settings, and has an optional extended battery for up to five hours of use time on the lowest setting. It’s FAA-approved, making it perfect for jetsetters.  Please note: a prescription is required for purchase. 

Best Travel Products for Mobility Issues

Best Cane for Travel 

If you need a cane, either occasionally or whenever you walk a good, durable, fold-up cane is vital for ease of storage. The HurryCane Freedom Foldable Walking Cane is lightweight, folds to under 14 inches, has a broad steadi-grip base, and has a large, ergonomic handle. 

Best Wheelchair for Travel

For persons who use wheelchairs, traveling with a lightweight, easily foldable wheelchair is key to making travel more accessible. The Featherweight Wheelchair weighs just nineteen pounds with the wheels on (thirteen and a half with them off), the wheels easily pop off, and you can effortlessly fold it up for easy storage or stowing away on an airplane. 

Best Crutches for Travel

Imagine you have a dream vacation planned, but you break your ankle a week before you are supposed to leave. Rather than postpone your trip, you’ll want the best pair of crutches to take with you. Or, perhaps you use crutches regularly for mobility and love to travel- you want to make sure the crutches you choose will be easy to transport. The 7G Ergobaum crutches from Ergoactives provide comfort in an easily foldable design- perfect for on the go and at home. They feature adjustable settings, padded cuffs, and shock absorbers, are recommended by medical professionals, and are suitable for adults of various heights and weights.

Best Walker for Travel 

Walkers are essential for a smooth travel experience for anyone needing extra help walking. The Stander Wonder Rollator Plus easily folds up, has a seat that holds up to 250 pounds, is compact, and weighs less than fifteen pounds. It’s available in black, pink, or blue. 

Other Everyday Products For Travelers

Best Water Bottle for Travel 

Staying hydrated is critical, whether you are traveling or at home. Finding a water bottle that is lightweight enough for traveling but durable enough for everyday use is a challenge, but the Yonder water bottle from Yeti fits the bill. It’s lightweight enough so that it won’t weigh down your bag, but it is super durable, and it will last even if you use it every day—carting it around from your house to work and beyond. 

Best Flats for Travel 

I got my Allbirds for a trip to Europe, thinking they’d become my perfect travel shoes—which they did. However, they are also my perfect everyday shoe. I wear them all the time. They are perfect for throwing on to bring my son to the bus stop, heading to the grocery store, or meeting a friend for dinner. They are comfortable, washable, and easily roll up for easy packing. 

Best Headphones For Travel 

You can’t beat Bose QuietComfort Headphones for everyday use or travel. One traveler and everyday user claims, “The noise canceling is the best I’ve experienced, and I can adjust the level of noise cancellation…They have an epic battery life that allows me to use them with full noise cancellation for a full workday and still have battery left for evening entertainment.” As for comfort? He comfortably wears them for eight hours plus a day and has used them on flights without issue. 

Best Noise-Cancelling Earbuds For Travel

Our Executive Editor Caroline swears by the Sleep A20 Noise-Cancelling Earbuds to get a good night’s sleep wherever she is: home, camping, or in a hotel. She uses them every night and says they are amazing for travel if you are a light sleeper. They have 14 hours of battery life, include a customizable white noise library, and have a Bluetooth connection if you have a favorite noise you like to fall asleep to. Their design makes them comfortable, even side sleepers, no matter what position you sleep in. 

Best Hair Dryer For Travelers

It may seem hard to believe that a travel hair dryer is good enough to use daily, but Smartertravel Editor Carol swears by this hairdryer from Conair all year long. She says, “It’s great for apartments with smaller bathrooms since it folds up for storage or packing.” It does a great job getting her “very thick,” short hair dry. If you’re like me and need a diffuser for your curly, frizzy hair, pair it with this collapsable diffuser, which folds up nicely to pack in your suitcase easily.  

Best Umbrella for Travel

There is no reason to have more than one umbrella – and with this umbrella, you won’t want any other one, no matter where you are. This super compact umbrella can withstand up to 72MPH winds, is made with heavy-duty yet flexible materials for durability, and opens up to 39.4 inches for the ultimate coverage. Available in fifteen colors. 

Best Tablet for Travel 

Tablets are incredibly convenient for travel and are perfect for browsing social media or the internet while winding down for the evening at home. While Kindle Fires are great for an e-reader, their internet usage is less than stellar. So, instead of having two tablets, I love an iPad to take on the road with me—the web functionality is amazing, I use the Kindle app for reading, and I even got a handy case that has a built-in keyboard for easy typing. 

Best Sound Machine for Travel

I can’t sleep without some sort of white noise, so I love traveling with a sound machine. While a small one like this is great to take along on a trip, it’s just one other thing to keep track of, and it only has three sounds to choose from. This one is compact, has fifteen different non-looping sounds to choose from, and a timer. 

Best Wearable Blanket/Throw for Travel

While toddlers are known for their security blankets, many adults have them too. Imagine a wrap so cozy, indestructible, and soft you use it every day at home and take it with you when you travel – but you don’t look like Linus from Peanuts. That is what Chappywrap’s Herringbone Shawl comes in. It’s insanely cozy, machine washable, and comes in six colors. You won’t want to take it off- no matter where you are.

The post Essential Medical Gear and Everyday Essentials for Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

This mercurial quality of fall weather presents a unique challenge for travelers: How do you pack for a fall trip without bringing two separate wardrobes? The key lies in strategic packing—choosing versatile pieces that can adapt to various weather conditions and be layered or worn separately as needed. Read on to see nine items that belong on your fall packing list.

Extra Layers

In fall, temperatures can fluctuate quite a bit throughout the day. If you’re leaving your hotel room early in the morning and not returning until after sunset, you’ll want to pack an extra layer that you can throw on if you get chilly.

We recommend Icebreaker’s 300 MerinoFine Polar Long Sleeve Half Zip Thermal Top as the perfect packable layer. This slim zip-up can be worn over a short-sleeve shirt or underneath a jacket and weighs just 9.17 ounces—providing extra warmth without adding bulk. 

Made from an incredibly fine merino wool fabric, this long-sleeve will help regulate your temperature in both hot and cold weather and resist odor even on longer trips without access to a washing machine. 

Packable Jacket

Patagonia’s Micro Puff jacket has been beloved by travelers for years thanks to its ultra-light weight and packability. For trips when you need something even warmer without sacrificing portability, the brand has recently introduced a Macro Puff version. This new jacket offers enhanced insulation while maintaining a relatively lightweight and compact profile. 

The Macro Puff uses PlumaFill, a unique synthetic insulation that’s more water-resistant than down. Its shell is crafted from recycled fishing nets, aligning with Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability. 

The jacket boasts several practical features, including a helmet-compatible hood, multiple pockets, elasticized cuff closures, and a dual-adjust cord-lock system at the hem to seal out cold air. Perhaps most impressively, it can be compressed into its own pocket for easy packing.

Waterproof Footwear

Nothing will put a damper on your day faster than walking around with wet feet, so pack a reliable pair of waterproof boots on your fall trip. We always pack Danner’s Vertigo 917 Boots, because they can handle any travel situation. With a sleek all-black leather design, the Vertigos transition seamlessly from outdoor adventures to stylish city outings or restaurant dinners. 

But don’t let their fashionable appearance fool you—these boots are built for performance. A GORE-TEX liner ensures complete waterproofing without sacrificing breathability. The removable OrthoLite Footbed features three layers of support and cushioning, so we can walk in these for miles. 

Speaking of walking for miles, these boots are durable enough to handle a mountain hike, so you don’t have to pack multiple pairs of footwear if you want to see some fall foliage on your trip.

Windproof Umbrella

For many destinations, fall is the rainy season. Be prepared by packing a travel-sized umbrella. We like Repel’s version, which has a double-vented canopy and fiberglass-covered frame designed to withstand strong wind without flipping inside out and breaking.

It’s small enough to fit easily in your day bag but large enough to provide adequate cover even during a heavy downpour.

Sunscreen

Fall isn’t all cozy weather and pumpkin spice vibes—it can also mean sunny, 80-degree days. Many travelers have been caught by the strong sun and wound up with painful sunburns, even in September. 

We like packing sunscreen sticks like this one from Neutrogena, as we can throw them in our bags without worrying about spills or leaks. 

Wool Socks

When you risk encountering either wet weather or hot and humid temperatures, wool socks are a must for travelers planning to walk a lot during their trip. We always pack Smartwool’s Classic Hike Socks, which are the perfect height to wear with boots. 

These socks feature light cushioning to give a little bit of extra support on the bottom of the foot, along with a Merino wool/Nylon blend to keep your feet dry no matter what the weather conditions. 

A Water Bottle That Does Double Duty for Hot and Cold

Some days, you’ll want ice-cold water, and on others, you’ll need piping-hot coffee to get you through the day. Pack a beverage bottle that can handle both, like Thermos’ Icon Dual Temp. 

Utilizing Thermos’ trademarked vacuum insulation technology, this bottle can keep drinks hot for up to 14 hours and cold for up to 24. We love the wide-mouth design, which allows you to add ice and the fact that the bottle is dishwasher safe, making it a breeze to clean once you get home. 

A Great Moisturizer 

If you’ve ever stepped off of a long flight feeling incredibly thirsty, you’re well aware that airplane cabins can be dehydrating. Combine that with dry fall weather, and you have a recipe for parched, itchy, and tight skin that can leave you uncomfortable during your trip. 

To combat dry skin, pack a good moisturizer to use on your travels. We recommend The Organic Skin Co.’s Travel Pack, a perfectly travel-sized set of cleanser, moisturizer, and face oil that helps lock in moisture, even in dry climates. 

Tights 

Unsure about the weather for your trip? Packing a pair or two of tights is a simple way to prepare for various temperatures while expanding your wardrobe options.

We suggest bringing a lightweight, long-sleeved casual dress as a versatile piece. On warmer days, wear it with bare legs; when it’s cooler, simply add tights for extra warmth. This combination gives you flexibility without overpacking.

Tights are particularly useful for evening transitions. Instead of packing a separate dinner outfit, you can easily elevate your daytime look by slipping on a pair of tights. This saves space in your luggage and time in your schedule.

For maximum adaptability, we like Smartwool’s Active Fleece Tights. Lined with soft-brushed merino wool, these tights are super warm and cozy without being too heavy to layer. Wear them under a dress and with boots to cover up the more active features (the pockets and reflective elements), or rock them solo for a workout or fall hike. 

The post 9 Things to Pack for Unpredictable Fall Weather appeared first on SmarterTravel.

To solve this dilemma, we’ve curated a selection of the best lightweight, packable jackets designed for travel. These versatile options will keep you warm and dry throughout fall’s varied conditions without taking up too much luggage space. 

Quince 100 Percent Suede Biker Jacket

When you want a jacket that will look timeless and stylish in any city, pack Quince’s 100 Percent Suede Biker Jacket. True to its name, this jacket is crafted entirely from luxuriously soft suede leather. It’s lined with satin, which feels nice and smooth against your layers and prevents damage to delicate fabrics worn underneath. 

Despite its premium materials and construction, this jacket is priced at just $150, an unusually affordable option for an all-leather jacket. This competitive pricing stems from Quince’s innovative business model, which employs small-batch production techniques and maintains lower overhead costs. The result is a high-quality, versatile jacket that doesn’t break the bank, leaving you with more money to spend on fall trips. 

Flint and Tinder Flannel-Lined Waxed Trucker Jacket

If you’re looking for a jacket that can withstand anything, reach for Flint and Tinder’s Waxed Trucker Jacket, as seen on Pedro Pascal as he runs from zombies in The Last of Us. If the jacket can outlast the apocalypse, it’ll surely survive your fall trip.

The secret to this jacket’s resilience lies in its waxed and weather-resistant sailcloth, a durable material that improves with age. Wax on both sides of the shell adds warmth and insulation, and the exterior can be rewaxed as needed to ensure a lifetime of water resistance.

Inside, a soft, blanket-like lining provides extra coziness for chilly days. Travelers will appreciate the practical exterior button pocket and interior media pocket.

M.M. LaFleur Jolie Jardigan

When you need a layer that’s not too heavy and not too light, pack M.M. LaFleur’s Jolie Jardigan. This innovative jacket/cardigan hybrid features a cropped silhouette, stylish lapels, and removable shoulder pads, making it equally suitable for business trips and casual vacations. 

Effortlessly adaptable, the Jardigan can be worn as a polished blazer for professional settings or paired with jeans for a more relaxed, cardigan-like look. Its stretchy knit fabric is not only comfortable but resists wrinkles. 

Patagonia Macro Puff Hoody

Never be caught unprepared with Patagonia’s Macro Puff Hoody—a handy jacket that’s always ready when you need it. This ingenious puffy jacket compresses into its own pocket, making it a breeze to stash in your day bag or carry-on for instant warmth on demand.

As the beefier sibling of the Micro Puff, the Macro Puff delivers impressive heat without compromising on weight. At a mere 15.48 ounces, it’s remarkably light yet incredibly warm. Its adaptability shines through in various scenarios: wear it as a liner under your ski jacket, don it solo for a hiking expedition, or sport it while exploring urban landscapes.

The jacket’s recycled polyester insulation is a game-changer for unpredictable weather. Unlike down, it retains its warming properties even when wet, while a water-repellent and windproof finish adds extra protection against the elements. Whether you’re facing drizzles or gusts, the Macro Puff keeps you cozy and dry.

Smartwool Fleece Jacket

Smartwool’s Active Fleece Half-Zip combines the snug comfort of fleece with the moisture-wicking properties of merino wool. This mid-weight jacket is perfect for those crisp days when you need just the right amount of warmth. Its slim profile makes it an excellent layering piece, easily slipping under a heavier jacket when temperatures really dip.

Reflective elements make this fleece our go-to for fall trips when daylight fades early. Whether you’re out for an evening run or a twilight stroll, these reflective details will help ensure you’re visible. 

A secure chest pocket keeps your essentials—like your smartphone or travel documents—within easy reach.

Cole Haan Signature Travel Packable Rain Jacket

Cole Haan’s Signature Travel Packable Rain Jacket offers reliable protection against sudden downpours or day-long drizzle without weighing down your luggage. This water-resistant jacket hits just above the knee, offering more coverage than other rain jackets. 

If you’re worried about looking shapeless in all your travel photos, don’t be—a drawcord waist allows you to get a nipped-in waist and a custom fit. When the sun comes out, simply pack the jacket away into an included drawstring pouch.

Quikflip 2-in-1 Reversible Backpack Jacket

Originally appearing on Shark Tank, Quikflip’s unique 2-in-1 Reversible Backpack Jacket does double-duty as a backpack and jacket. When you get hot, take off the jacket, tuck it in the hidden pouch, and pull out the drawcords to convert it into a backpack. 

No matter which way you wear it, the Quikflip has pockets for both large items and smaller valuables. 

Dudley Stephens Uptown Blazer

Blazers are great for fighting the fall chill and for looking pulled-together, but sometimes long for the comfort of your favorite fleece sweatshirt. With Dudley Stephens’ Uptown Blazer, you never have to choose between style and comfort.

The Uptown Blazer combines luxurious details—such as a double-breasted design, satin lining, and gold buttons—with Dudley Stephens’ signature cozy Vello Fleece fabric. 

Light shoulder padding and waist darts give the blazer additional structure to make it appropriate for business trips or the first-class cabin, while still maintaining the sweatshirt-like feel. 

Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket

Trucker jackets are having a moment, and travelers can rejoice—they’re not just stylish, but incredibly packable too. Duer’s LuxTwill Trucker Jacket is a perfect example of this trend. Crafted from a cotton-elastane blend, this jacket folds down to a compact size, making it easy to slide into your carry-on.

An antimicrobial treatment keeps this jacket fresh for extended wear, so don’t worry about washing it as soon as you step off the plane. It also has plenty of pockets large enough to fit your phone and other essentials. 

Quince 100 Percent Leather Motorcycle Jacket

Headed to Berlin, New York City, or somewhere where you want to look as cool as the locals? Pack Quince’s Leather Motorcycle Jacket. Quince put a modern spin on the iconic biker jacket silhouette, resulting in a timeless style that will work on a variety of trips for years to come. 

The two-way zipper front closure and zippered sleeve gussets not only add to the biker aesthetic but also provide practical functionality, making it a great travel companion as it allows for easy adjustments to varying temperatures. 

With zip pockets at the hip and chest, it offers convenient storage without compromising on style, keeping your essentials secure while you’re on the go.

The post The 10 Best Light Fall Jackets for Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Want to have that same experience every time you walk in your front door at home? We tested out a variety of fragrance methods, from candles to diffusers, to find out which were the best at making our home smell like a five-star hotel. Try out our picks and feel like you’re on vacation every day.

Jupiter Smells Rich Mykonos Candle

Your house may be hundreds of miles from the beach, but it can smell like you’re on an exotic vacation in Mykonos with Jupiter Smells Rich’s candle. Notes of wild orchid, jasmine, lemon blossom, vanilla, and sandalwood conjure up an island getaway.

This luxury candle is made from 100 percent soy wax and has an all-natural beeswax-coated wick to ensure a clean burn. The scent will linger throughout your house long after you’ve blown out the flame.  

Noho Home Reed Diffuser

A diffuser is one of the easiest and safest ways to make your home smell like a hotel. A diffuser is a small vial of scented liquid that disperses the fragrance through wooden reeds. Unlike a candle or plug-in, you can just open up a diffuser and forget about it.

Our favorite diffuser is Noho Home’s Puakenikeni Reed Diffuser. Perfumed oil is housed in a beautiful vessel that efficiently distributes fragerance via reeds. When the scent starts to fade, simply flip the reeds to refresh the smell. We love the Puakenikeni scent, which is designed in Hawaii and inspired by the puakenikeni flower.

Enviroscent

Worried about what you’re breathing in with all of the artificial air fresheners on the market? Enviroscent does things differently, with a focus on making its scents cleaner, healthier, and safer. All of its products use pure fragrance oils in concentrated form (with no additives) and are packaged using renewable and recyclable minimal-waste materials. Scent your space via the stix + stand diffuser, a car vent clip, or a spray.

No matter which method you choose, it’s all flameless and liquidless to eliminate danger and mess. There are many delectable scents to choose from, including a blend of lavender tea and honey, which smells incredibly relaxing and delicious.

Hillhouse Naturals Candle and Diffuser

For a fragrance that will fill your house and last a long time, look to Hillhouse Naturals. This company was founded by a mother/daughter duo who make the products (with the help of a team of women) on their family farm. They use local ingredients, most of which come straight from the farm. Hillhouse Naturals’ diffusers last for an average of three to four months, which is significantly longer than most other diffusers on the market. The soy candles also burn longer than regular wax candles and don’t have the dangerous chemicals that can be found in mass-market candles.

You’ll find plenty of unique scents here, including travel-themed varieties like the lakeside diffuser, which smells like “spectacular sunsets upon fresh cool waters” and conjures up past waterfront vacations.

Scentfill

Scentfill offers a healthier alternative to traditional plug-ins. The company makes refills that are designed to fit into Air Wick oil warmers but are made with 100 percent plant-based and natural oils rather than chemicals. The fragrances are much more complex and luxurious than what you’d find from a drugstore plug-in—choose the Relax Blend with lemon, lavender, and eucalyptus to make your home smell like a high-end hotel.

Most scents will last between 30 and 60 days if the warmer is set to low, and the refills are reasonably priced at $5.77, making this an affordable option for home fragrances. 

Asakuki’s 5-in-1 Aromatherapy Device

Enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy and a humidifier with Asakuki’s 5-in-1 Aromatherapy Device. This ultrasonic essential oil diffuser has a large 500-milliliter water tank that allows the diffuser to run for 10 to 15 hours at a time. An auto-off safety will switch off the diffuser when the water runs out, so you don’t have to worry about monitoring it. The Asakuki’s fan is ultra-quiet, so you won’t even notice that it’s on.

Use your own essential oils with the diffuser to create the perfect custom scent for your home. 

Lavender Linen Room Spray

Lavender is one of the most calming and relaxing scents and will help give your home that hotel spa smell. Spritz this lavender linen room spray on your pillows, and it may just help you improve your sleep as well.

Once you start to associate the smell with sleep, you can even pack the room spray and take it with you to help you sleep better in unfamiliar hotel rooms. 

Skandinavisk Candles

For the ultimate hygge experience, light a candle from Skandinavisk. This company takes inspiration from Scandinavia to create unique fragrances like Hav (sea), Lykke (happiness), and Koto (home). Each candle is beautifully designed around a theme, like the Nordlys candle (Norwegian for northern lights), which comes in a painted glass holder that looks like the sky.

The candles will scent a mid-sized room for up to 45 hours, and the glass can be reused as a plant holder or decorative vase once it’s empty.

The post How to Make Your Home Smell Like a Hotel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

No matter which option you choose, a good weekender bag does double duty; as both an optimized travel bag that fits everything you need for a weekend-long adventure, and an all-purpose personal item that has a place for everything you need on the plane. 

These are the weekender bags that the SmarterTravel editors swear by for short trips, along with the reasons why we love them.

Samsonite Better Than Basic Weekender

We’re obsessed with Samsonite’s Better Than Basic Weekender because of its genius design. This duffle-style bag has a large compartment on the bottom that’s perfect for shoes or anything else that you want to keep separate from everything else. (It also works great for dirty laundry!)

This weekender also solves many of the packing problems that a regular duffle presents. It has plenty of interior pockets to keep everything organized, including a laptop compartment.  The adjustable, padded shoulder strap makes the weekender easy to carry, even if you’ve overstuffed it. 

Dimensions: 18.9” x 14.2” x 9.8” 

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Lululemon 2-in-1 Travel Duffle Backpack

Can’t decide between a duffle and a backpack? You don’t have to choose with Lululemon’s 2-in-1 Travel Duffle Backpack. The duffle has hidden straps that can be used to convert it to a backpack or cross-body bag in a snap. 

Made from a water-repellent fabric, this bag will keep your stuff dry (even if it gets abandoned on the tarmac in a rainstorm). Othe helpful features include an exterior zippered pocket with a hidden key clip, a water bottle pocket, and a padded laptop pocket.

Dimensions: 20.5” x 12.6” x 9.3”

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Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage

Calpak’s Hue Mini Carry-On is a miniature version of a spinner suitcase that’s sized to fit under most airplane seats. The Hue fits all of the features of a regular suitcase into its small size, including a TSA-lock, interior zippered divider, and multiple pockets for organization. 

We’ve found that this bag can hold enough for a long weekend trip, if you’re selective about what you pack. 

Dimensions: 16” x 14” x 9”

Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend Bag

When you’re checking into a five-star hotel, and you want to look the part, reach for Carl Friedrik’s Palissy Weekend Bag. This all-leather bag and upright construction lends a stylish, structured look to your travel ensemble. 

The Palissy can hold enough clothes for a weekend, and is small enough that it can easily fit under your seat on an airplane, so you can use it as a personal item on longer jaunts.  

Dimensions: 19.1” x 10” x 9.7”

Away’s The Weekender

A duffel that will protect your laptop and still fit in the overhead bin, Away’s The Weekender packs smart features like its hidden exterior shoe compartment and outer sleeve packed with electronics pockets. The shoe compartment is lined to resist dirt and grime, and the diminutive dimensions fit most airlines’ carry-on luggage requirements.

Our favorite feature is the full wraparound zip opening, which allows you to open the bag and pack it suitcase-style. 

Dimensions: 20.9” x 11.8” x 9.4”

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Samsonite Wheeled Underseat Bag

If you prefer to roll your bag rather than hauling it on your shoulder, Samsonite’s Wheeled Underseat Bag is for you. This favorite among travel experts combines portability with packing power. It will fit neatly under the seat in front of you but still holds everything you need for a weekend away under its clam-shell opening top, which lifts to reveal not one but several clear, zippered pouches for super-organized packing.

Dimensions: 14.17” x 13.38” x 9.05”

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JenniBag Jenni Backpack

When you’re not using the Jenni Backpack on a weekend trip, we’ve found it pulls triple duty as the perfect gym and work bag. This roomy backpack can hold up to four days’ worth of clothes, plus two laptops. 

The separate shoe compartment keeps the rest of your clothes clean and odor-free. The bag even has a built-in USB port, so you can charge your gadgets on the go. 

Dimensions: 11.8” x 5.9” x 16.5”

Beis The Convertible Mini Weekender

Whether you’re packing light or carrying a lot, Beis’ The Convertible Mini Weekender is the ideal size. Bring it as your personal item along with a carry-on, or use it as your sole bag and stash it under the airplane seat—this miniturized version of Beis’ popular Convertible Weekender is small enough to fit practically anywhere. Despite the small size, it’s surprisingly roomy inside and has a 33 liter capacity. 

This ultra-versitile bag has a bottom compartment that can be zipped off completely, so you can downsize the weekender even further, or so you can use it as a packing cube or shoe bag in your suitcase. 

Dimensions: 16” x 16” x 8”

Pacsafe EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack

No matter where you’re traveling for the weekend, keep your stuff secure with Pacsafe’s EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack. This backpack is loaded with anti-theft features including an RFID-blocking pocket, lockable and puncture-resistant zippers, cut-resistant straps, and a lockable anchor strap.

Use it as a backpack, or tuck away the straps to carry it like a duffle bag with the front grab handle or like a suitcase by the side handle.  
Dimensions: 21.7” x 13” x 7.5”

The post The 9 Best Weekender Bags for Short Trips appeared first on SmarterTravel.