To help you avoid these rental car nightmares, J.D. Power conducts an annual North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study. This study surveys over 8,000 travelers who rented cars at airport locations for either business or leisure trips. 

Participants ranked rental car agencies based on seven factors:

1. Ease of rental
2. Pick-up/drop-off experience
3. Level of trust
4. Vehicle
5. Staff
6. Value for price paid
7. Digital tools

The Best Rental Car Companies

A famous name doesn’t guarantee a good rental car experience. “Trust fosters loyalty, enhances the company’s reputation, and differentiates it in a competitive market,” said Azari Jones, rental car practice lead at J.D. Power. “This leads to higher customer retention and positive word-of-mouth. Without this trust, even a well-known brand may struggle to maintain long-term relationships with customers.”

According to the survey, these are the best rental car companies in North America.

1. National
2. Enterprise
3. Sixt
4. Advantage Rent A Car
5. Alamo
6. Hertz
7. ACE Rent A Car

The Worst Rental Car Companies

If you want to avoid a bad experience, you shouldn’t book with the following rental car companies, which were ranked lowest in the customer satisfaction survey.

1. Dollar
2. Budget
3. Thrifty
4. Fox Rent A Car
5. Avis
6. Payless

The post The Best and Worst Rental Car Companies in North America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

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.

Certain phrases and requests have become notorious pain points for flight attendants who fly hundreds of times a year. They’re guaranteed to make any flight attendant mentally roll their eyes, even as they maintain their professional smile. Before you join the ranks of passengers who unknowingly commit this mile-high faux pas, consider the impact of your words on these hardworking crew members. Flight attendants aren’t just service providers; they’re trained safety professionals whose primary responsibility is ensuring your well-being during the flight. The following ten phrases represent a compilation of their most cringe-worthy passenger interactions—those special moments that make them wish they could temporarily disable the call button or, at the very least, serve your drink with an extra helping of disdain.

Can You Watch My Kids?

You’ve paid plenty for your coach ticket, so now it’s time to relax, take a nap, and maybe let your kids run wild. After all, the flight attendants are just sitting at the back of the plane—they will be happy to watch your little darlings, right? Wrong.

“I’ve had passengers get mad at me because we didn’t have a play area on the plane. Another passenger came to the back of the plane and asked me where she could put her baby. She didn’t want to hold it,” flight attendant Heather Poole told Parade Magazine. Flight attendants already have enough to do and can’t take on babysitting duties.

This Drink Is Too Expensive!

Yes, that in-flight drink is too expensive. But whining to the flight attendant isn’t going to change anything. Do you really think the CEO of a major airline consults with the flight attendants before raising prices on drinks? Trust us, the flight attendant to whom you’re complaining is not making a commission off overpriced gin and tonics. (Starting salaries for flight attendants can be as low as $27,000 per year, and there’s definitely no kickback from expensive drinks factored into that.)

Fetch Me …

We all wish we had a personal butler we could summon with the ring of a bell. However, despite the presence of a call button above every airplane seat, the flight attendant is not that butler. Demanding that the flight attendant “fetch” you something is a sure way to get on a flight attendant’s bad side. 

Use the call button only when it’s really necessary, such as times when you can’t get out of your seat and genuinely need something. If you want a glass of water or a blanket, walk back to the galley and ask for it in person.

Hey, stewardess!

The word “stewardess” is about as contemporary as the glamorous coach-class experience of yesteryear. Both are gone forever. “Stewardess” was in vogue when women were the only people hired as flight attendants. 

Nowadays, both men and women work as cabin crew, and the term “flight attendant” reflects not only this but the expanded duties that they are responsible for onboard. 

Wait, What Kind of Drinks Do You Have?

The beverage service doesn’t just magically appear in front of you. The start of the service is usually announced on the PA system, along with a list of the beverages available on board that day. Couldn’t hear the announcement? You can usually find a card in your seatback pocket that lists what you can order. The snacks and drinks on offer are also usually listed in the airline’s app, if you have it downloaded. 

So if you’re craving something out of the ordinary (“Do you have any Diet Mountain Dew on this flight?”) or exotic (“Man, I could go for a can of cran-pineapple-berry-tang juice!”), consult your in-flight card to see if it’s being served. Flight attendants hate having to run down the list of available drinks for every passenger who asks—and they’ll be even more annoyed if you ask what’s on offer after they’ve just told the person sitting next to you what’s available. 

Can You Help Me Lift My Bag?

Congratulations. You’ve managed to cram everything you own into your carry-on bag. There’s no way you’re gate-checking it now, even if it does weigh 100 pounds. Who cares if you can’t lift it—you’ll just ask one of the flight attendants to heft it into the overhead bin for you. They’re basically baggage handlers that come along for the ride, right? Wrong. 

During flight attendant training, crew members are advised never to lift baggage for passengers because it’s a common cause of injury. Repeatedly hefting heavy suitcases into the overhead bins can cause health issues, and if a flight attendant is hurt loading bags, it could cause a flight delay or cancellation. 

It’s not a flight attendant’s job to help you lift your bag, so make sure you can actually lift and stow whatever you pack. 

I Will Blow Up This Plane If I Don’t Get Bumped to First Class!

Your terrorism jokes aren’t funny. Ever. Instead of laughs, the joke’s on you: That idle threat will get you kicked off the plane and possibly arrested.

I’ll Turn Off My Phone in One More Minute!

Different airlines have different policies about using electronic devices during takeoff and landing. Once you’re on the plane, though, the flight attendant’s word is law. So when you’re asked to turn off your phone or laptop, it means now, people. Holding up your finger to signal one more minute is rude. Stop it.

Can You Throw Away This Bag Of Vomit For Me?

Flight attendants see enough gross stuff already. They don’t need to be tasked with throwing away your used air-sickness bag or your baby’s dirty diaper. Walk to the lavatory and throw it away yourself. (And if you’re throwing away a dirty diaper, that raises another question: Where are you changing that kid? Please don’t do it on the tray table.)

Nothing (In an Exit Row)

While most passengers appreciate a quiet flight, there’s one crucial moment when your voice needs to be heard: the emergency exit row safety briefing. That seemingly simple “yes” you’re asked to provide in response to the question about being willing and able to perform safety duties in an emergency isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal requirement. Flight attendants must verify that every passenger seated in an exit row can both understand and respond to verbal and visual instructions, as these individuals could play a vital role in an emergency evacuation.

If you remain silent during this safety check, the flight attendant will have no choice but to relocate you to a different seat. This policy isn’t about being difficult; it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone on board. Remember, those extra legroom seats come with extra responsibility, and your verbal confirmation is the first step in accepting that duty.

The post 10 Things You Should Never Say to a Flight Attendant appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The influx of visitors during certain periods is so significant that the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) issues official Gridlock Alert Days to warn travelers. During these times, you’ll likely encounter higher hotel prices, limited vacancies, extensive street closures, and significant delays throughout Manhattan.

“We strongly encourage New Yorkers and those in the region to travel by transit every day of the year—but it’s especially important during Gridlock Alert days,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.

Some Gridlock Alert Days are predictable, like the pre-Christmas period when tourists flock to the city to see holiday lights and shop. Others, such as the ones that occur during the U.N. General Assembly meetings, might catch visitors off guard. According to NYC DOT traffic data, driving speeds in Midtown during U.N. General Assembly week are the slowest of the year, averaging less than four miles per hour, compared to the average speed of between four and six miles per hour. 

If you do visit during these periods, skip driving and opt for public transportation, biking, or walking instead. Or consider it an opportunity to explore the outer boroughs, as gridlock alerts only affect Manhattan.

2024 New York City Gridlock Alert Days

• Monday, September 23, 2024
• Tuesday, September 24, 2024
• Wednesday, September 25, 2024
• Thursday, September 26, 2024
• Friday, September 27, 2024
• Wednesday, November 20, 2024
• Thursday, November 21, 2024
• Friday, November 22, 2024
• Tuesday, November 26, 2024
• Tuesday, December 3, 2024
• Wednesday, December 4, 2024
• Thursday, December 5, 2024
• Friday, December 6, 2024
• Tuesday, December 10, 2024
• Wednesday, December 11, 2024
• Thursday, December 12, 2024
• Friday, December 13, 2024
• Tuesday, December 17, 2024
• Wednesday, December 18, 2024
• Thursday, December 19, 2024

The post The Worst Days to Visit NYC: Surprising Dates to Avoid 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.

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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.

Sanitize Your Area

There’s no gentle way to say this: Planes are gross. Microbiologists estimate that airplane tray tables have an average of 2,155 colony-forming units (CFUs, a.k.a. “germs”) per square inch. That’s compared to the 70 CFUs per square inch that lurk on airport bathroom stall locks. Pack some sanitizing wipes and wipe down your tray table, seatback TV, remote control, armrests, and seatbelt latch—any hard surface you’re going to touch during your flight should be cleaned.

Position Your Air Vent

If you feel like you always get sick every time you fly, try turning on your air vent on your next flight. Leaving the overhead vent on during your flight can help prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses, giving you a better chance of staying healthy during your trip. 

Set the ventilation to low or medium and position it directly in front of your head, blowing straight down. If you can feel the airflow on your lap, you’ve done it right. (Just make sure you sanitize your hands after touching the air vent, as they are another surface that’s rarely cleaned in between flights.)

Count the Rows Until the Exit

No one ever plans to be in a plane crash. But if you take a moment to mentally prepare for one, you increase your chances of survival if the worst does happen. Count the number of rows between your seat and the closest emergency exit. If the plane goes down or makes an emergency landing, you may have to make your way out of a dark, smoke-filled cabin where you can’t see the exit. If you know exactly how many rows stand between you and the exit, you can feel your way out of the plane, counting the rows by hand.

You only have about 90 seconds to evacuate a burning airplane for the greatest chance of survival, and you don’t want to waste valuable time trying to find a way out. Make sure you’ve mentally selected a backup exit as well, in case your closest door is blocked.

Check for a Life Vest

Although the flight crew checks each seat for a life vest at the beginning of every day, they usually don’t check them between flights. Unfortunately, some people do actually steal life vests, so do a quick check under your seat for yours, especially if you’ll be flying over water.

Gather Your in-Flight Essentials

After you’ve taken care of your health and safety essentials, it’s time to focus on your in-flight comfort. If you’re stashing your personal item in the overhead compartment, remove everything you’ll need during your flight before putting your bag above your seat. That way, you’re not constantly getting up and down—or stranded without something you need when the seatbelt sign is on.

Chew Gum

If you have sensitive ears that painfully pop during take-off or landing, chew some gum before you go airborne. This can help with air pressure changes and make you feel better. Plus, you’ll have fresher breath when you land.

Make Sure Your Seatback TV Works

Got a long-haul flight and don’t want to be stuck staring into space for hours? Check to make sure your seatback TV is working. If you’ve drawn the broken machine, the flight attendant may be able to move you to another seat so that you can still enjoy the in-flight entertainment, saving you from trying to discreetly watch your neighbor’s screen.

The post 7 Things You Should Always Do on a Plane 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.

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

1. Ease of travel through the airport
2. Level of trust with the airport
3. Terminal facilities 
4. Airport staff
5. Departure airport experience
6. Food, beverage, and retail
7. Arrival airport experience

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

Next time you fly, consider avoiding these airports, ranked the lowest for customer satisfaction. 

“The common issue with low-ranking airports are older terminal facilities that were not designed to handle the number of passengers they currently service,” Michael Taylor, managing director of travel, hospitality and retail at J.D. Power, told SmarterTravel. “Many airports that perform poorly in the J. D. Power study have physical structures that are in need of overhaul or updating… and many of those airports are either in the midst of construction projects or have massive plans that are about to begin. “

The Worst Mega Airports

1. Newark Liberty International Airport
2. Toronto Pearson International Airport 
3. O’Hare International Airport
4. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
5. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

The Worst Large Airports

1. Philadelphia International Airport
2. Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
3. St. Louis Lambert International Airport
4. Honolulu International Airport
5. Chicago Midway International Airport

The Worst Medium Airports

1. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport
2. Pittsburgh International Airport
3. Hollywood Burbank Airport
4. Albuquerque International Sunport
5. Eppley Airfield

If you do have to fly through one of the worst airports, Taylor recommends leaving extra time. “Traveling by air is one of the few times that persons face a strict deadline and that creates stress.  Overcrowded terminals that force parkers to use lots that are farther from the terminal, have longer-than-expected wait times at TSA and have a lack of gate area space put further stress on travelers.”

For an easier trip, plan your travels to take you through one of these top-rated airports, which scored highly for passenger satisfaction. 

The Best Mega Airports

1. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
2. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
3. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
4. John F. Kennedy International Airport
5. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

The Best Large Airports

1. John Wayne Airport, Orange County
2. Tampa International Airport
3. Kansas City International Airport
4. Dallas Love Field
5. Nashville International Airport

The Best Medium Airports

1. Indianapolis International Airport
2. Jacksonville International Airport
3. Southwest Florida International Airport
4. Orlando International Airport
5. Ontario International Airport

The post The Best and Worst Airports in North America 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.