Don’t need an umbrella since you’re headed to Palm Springs? Not bringing contact solution because your vision is 20/20? Customize the list by crossing off items you don’t need and adding any additional items in the “more items” boxes.

Don’t miss our downloadable, editable carry-on packing checklist below.

Shop Our Carry-on Essentials List

While packing light is great, there are still a few essentials you need to make sure make it into your bag—think underwear, socks, pajamas, shirts, and pants. From there, you can get more specific based on your destination. Heading to the beach? Throw in a swimsuit. Vacationing somewhere colder? Gloves, hats, and scarves are a must. Keep in mind that clothing can take up a lot of space—if you’re planning on packing in only a carry-on, try wearing some of your bulkier items to free up precious room in your luggage.

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries are another necessity of travel to keep you feeling fresh. You can find the standards—toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant—all available in TSA-approved travel-sized containers. Liquids should be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and fit into a clear, quart-size, zip-top plastic bag. To learn more about TSA rules, see Airport Security Frequently Asked Questions.

Once you have the basics packed, think about your individual routine. Don’t forget things like contact solution, period products, and daily medications. Curating your carry-on toiletry bag down to only essentials will help save space. Your one-in-a-million, go-to cleanser you can’t live without? Definitely throw it in your bag. Your extensive collection of handmade shower melts? Maybe save them for home.

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Whether or not you’re checking additional luggage, there are a few items you should always keep with you. Important travel documents like your passport, ID, boarding pass, insurance cards, credit cards, and copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card should always stay with you in your personal item. Pricey items like cameras, SD cards, and laptops as well as items you may want to have on-hand at your destination like umbrellas, a guidebook, and your itinerary should be stowed safely in your carry-on. 

Finally, don’t forget to pack items to pass time on the plane. Items like headphones, books, and magazines will keep you entertained for however many hours you’re in the air. Make sure to load up your device with podcasts, music, and audiobooks pre-flight while you’re still connected to reliable wi-fi. Other essentials like ear plugs, sleep masks, and travel pillows make sure you’re able to arrive at your destination well-rested.

Download Our Editable Carry-On Packing List

Never be without your noise-cancelling headphones or a spare set of clothes again with our downloadable checklist.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2010. 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.

Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

The post The Essential Carry-On Bag Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Lightest Carry-on Luggage

We’ve rounded up 10 carry-on spinner and roller bags that weigh in under the six-pound mark. They range in price from affordable to splurge-worthy and come with a variety of bells and whistles. From lightest to heaviest (based on manufacturers’ specs), here they are.

July Light Expandable Carry-On

The Numbers: The July Light Expandable Carry-On is 4.9 pounds.

Why We Like It: This 35L option can be expanded up to 40L, providing plenty of packing space. The lining is water- and stain-resistant and the exterior is made from a strong polycarbonate exterior, making this one of the most durable options on this list.

Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On

The Numbers: The 22-inch Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On weighs 5 pounds.

Why We Like It: Top and bottom handles and high-clearance wheels make the Osprey Ozone easy to carry and maneuver throughout the airport, while the included Travel Sentry ID means you don’t need to worry about lost luggage should you need to gate check your bag.

Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On

The Numbers: The Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On weighs 5.1 pounds.

Why We Like It: This extra tiny carry-on comes outfitted with a TSA-approved lock, compression straps, and a laptop compartment. Its small size is perfect for squeezing into frequently cramped overhead bins,

Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase

The Numbers: Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase also weighs in at just 5.1 pounds.

Why We Like It: Marketed as “the world’s first collapsible suitcase”, the Flex Vega Carry-On is lightweight and compact. This bag expands to 9″ thick with a volume of 42L, but folds down to just 2″ thick for easy storage.

Travelpro Walkabout Carry-On

The Numbers: The Travelpro Walkabout Carry-On comes in at just 5.2 pounds.

Why We Like It: Ball bearing wheels give this bag maximum maneuverability and the interior lid pocket as well as exterior organizational pockets keep necessary items close at hand.

Aerolite Carry-on MAX Lightweight

The Numbers: The 22-inch Aerolite Carry-On MAX Lightweight weighs 5.3 pounds.

Why We Like It: Aerolite’s lightweight carry-on has roomy pockets, an affordable price, and a five-year guarantee.

Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Spinner

The Numbers: The Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Spinner is 5.4 pounds.

Why We Like It: In many cases, lightweight comes at the expense of durability. Not so with this elegant, streamlined bag, which was built to be lightweight and tough.

Rockland Rio Carry-On

The Numbers: The Rockland Rio Carry-On is 5.5 pounds.

Why We Like It: The Rockland Rio is able to be wheeled with the retractable handle or carried by the ergonomic top or side handles. The best part: this suitcase comes with a matching tote bag, perfectly sized for use as a personal item.

Bric’s X-BAG 21″ Carry-on Spinner

The Numbers: The 21-inch Bric’s X-Bag Carry-on Spinner weighs 5.5 pounds.

Why We Like It: This dependable nylon carry-on can fit a ton, plus it’s stylish. It doesn’t skimp on features either, with four 360-degree spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and leather detailing.

Lucas Ultra Lightweight 20″ Spinner

The Numbers: The Lucas Ultra Lightweight 20″ Spinner weighs 5.8 pounds.

Why We Like It: We love its roomy pockets and spinner wheels.

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.

Editor’s note: Carol McPherson, Ashley Rossi, and Codey Albers contributed to this story. This story was originally published in 2015. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 10 Ultralight Rolling Carry-on Bags Under 6 Pounds appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here.

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection. You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps, crushable hats, self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers, bug-repellent clothing, wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing, and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon, prAna, and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit.

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket, coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear.

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels, so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour, you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips.

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise. Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list.

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list, a Mexico vacation packing list, and even a ski trip packing list.

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit, which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication, as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters. Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag, backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas. Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker, duct tape, toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only.

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer, while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport, have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

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.

The post The Ultimate Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

How to Avoid the Worst Seat on the Plane

Fortunately, you can steer clear of most of these seats most of the time just by learning which ones to avoid when making your seat selection. Here are the seats you should stay away from every time you travel.

The Seat with the Entertainment Box

You’ve arrived at your seat and you’re going through the process of deciding which items to put in the overhead bin (if you’re lucky enough to find room in the overhead bin) and which to stow under the seat in front of you. And that’s when you look down and realize it’s going to be an easy decision—because there is no room to stash your stuff (or stretch your legs) under the seat in front of you. Instead, there’s a metal case, an “entertainment equipment box,” taking up the entire under-seat storage area. Although airlines are increasingly phasing out these bulky boxes in favor of direct-to-device streaming, you only have to make this seat mistake once to know those few extra inches of storage and stretching space make a huge difference.

The Seat At the Back of Any Section

Seats at the back of a section—those usually found just in front of a bank of lavatories or a galley—are the absolute best if you refuse to recline on principle, truly can’t stand having your seat kicked by the person in back of you, or if you’re simply an aficionado of discomfort. For the rest of us, these seats should be avoided whenever possible.

The Seat Next to the Main Exit Door

If legroom is your only consideration, then this might be the seat for you. But if you’re an average-height person, you may want to question the common wisdom that the seats next to the main exit door are prime real estate. Why? You’ll be giving up your arm’s-reach stowage (no seat in front of you means no under-seat storage, so you’ll need to put everything in the overhead bins during take-off and landing). You’ll also come up against—literally—the reduced seat width that comes with the solid metal armrests needed to stow tray tables. And you will likely remain chilly for the length of the flight, since the air by the door is colder, presumably because the door has inner mechanical workings instead of insulation.

The Broken Seat

Fly enough and you’ll eventually end up in a broken seat. Maybe the seat leans at a weird angle. Or it jiggles loosely in its bolts. Perhaps the recline mechanism is jammed. Or, as seems to happen far more often than it should, the headphone jack or the seatback screen is on the fritz. Of all the bad seats to get, this one might be the true worst because it’s the one you can’t plan for. In the best-case scenario, you can draw attention to it and be reseated, but it’s our experience that broken seats and full flights go hand in hand.

The Seat Near the Bathroom

Questionable aromas aside, the seats closest to the lavatories are still among the worst in the cabin. That’s because there’s nearly always a line for the bathroom, and there’s something about being in line for the bathroom that seems to make airplane passengers take leave of their basic manners. Expect to be treated to a constant stream of passengers steadying themselves on your seatback, jiggling it back and forth—because of turbulence or simply because they’re in the middle of some complicated hamstring stretch. Prepare for getting various body parts smooshed into your shoulder as people try to accommodate two-way traffic in the aisle. And let’s not forget all the projecting-over-the-engine-noise conversations you’ll be treated to while trying to sleep.

The Tapered Window Seat

At the back of some planes there are a few rows of two. This might seem like a dream—more space, no middle seat. But … there are issues. There’s a gap between the seat and the wall of the plane, so you won’t be able to lean to sleep. If you like the feeling of a little room, it can be nice (and it’s a perk to be able to stash your stuff alongside you rather than under the seat in front). But beware: The person in the seat behind you may claim this space as their extra legroom, which could mean enduring malodorous feet wiggling in your peripheral vision for the length of your flight. And believe us when we say this can make any flight seem twice as long.

Misaligned Window Seat

The implied promise of the term “window seat” is of course that there’s a window you can actually see through. But many planes have configurations that place some seats between windows. Not only is this disappointing for anyone who likes to look out the window, it can also create complicated lighting issues, as the window in front of and behind you may peek into your row but you won’t be able to control them. So if you want a dim cabin but the person behind you prefers light, you’re either going to have to negotiate (we suggest bribing with chocolate) or invest in a good eye mask.

The Last Row

Sit in the last row of a plane and you’ll likely be treated to a custom blend of lavatory aromas, seats that don’t recline, and a constant crowd of impatient bathroom aspirants waiting their turns. And when it’s time to disembark, here’s a tip: Don’t bother getting up for at least 10 minutes after the seatbelt sign dings off. By the time the aisle is clear for you to go, it will just be you and the cleaning crew.

Seats Between Different Configurations

You should be wary of being in that first row when a plane goes from four to three seats per row, or three to two. When a configuration switches to adapt to the tapering of the plane, legroom gets complicated since the optimal leg-stretch zone will be occupied by the seat anchors. Not only does it mean you may encroach on your neighbor’s space to stow and retrieve items placed under the seat, but it can lead to some pretty significant body aches if you’re twisting to reach your allotted leg room.

The Rows in Front of Exit Rows

You know all that legroom that the people have in the exit row behind you? Know that it’s partially at the expense of the row ahead. To ensure that exit rows remain clear for emergencies, the row in front of the exit row is lined with seats that don’t recline (or recline only very slightly). For safety, it makes perfect sense. What makes even more sense, though, is to try to avoid these seats when you’re choosing yours.

The Dreaded Middle Seat

The DMS, or Dreaded Middle Seat, is the true mush-pot in the seat assignment game of duck-duck-goose. On non-assignment airlines like Southwest, you can see the panic in the eyes of people in later boarding groups as they search for a seat—any seat—that’s not sandwiched between two people. On airlines with seat assignments, dreaded middle seats are always the last to be claimed, meaning the later you book, the more likely you are to have to resign yourself to battling your window and aisle seatmates for the extra few centimeters that armrest domination secures.

Bulkhead Rows

For some people, bulkhead is basically the first class of economy. But many people don’t realize its drawbacks until they’ve shelled out extra money for these coveted-but-flawed seats. As with seats by the main exit, bulkhead seats lack under-seat storage, meaning you’ll be stowing all your gear during the long stretches of time around takeoff and landing. There’s also the slightly reduced width of the seat (due to the tray-table-in-armrest configuration) to account for, and the simple fact that some find staring at a wall unpleasant. Finally, unless you’ve secured that extra space by filling it with an airline-supplied baby basinet or a bunch of your own junk, you may find that other passengers try to use it as a cut-through to get to the opposite aisle.

So how do you avoid these worst airplane seats? Before selecting a seat, we always head to SeatGuru and look up the airline and plane to figure out which seats to avoid.

Christine Sarkis has sampled all of these seat types. Follow her on Twitter @ChristineSarkis and Instagram @postcartography for more advice about making every vacation the best vacation.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post The One Seat You Need To Avoid on a Plane appeared first on SmarterTravel.

But take heart, germaphobes—and anyone else who doesn’t want to spend their whole vacation hacking up a lung. There are small steps you can take that will make your assigned petri dish a little less squirmy. Here’s how to disinfect your airplane seat and boost your chances of an illness-free vacation.

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.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Disinfecting Your Airplane Seat

With minimal supplies and just a moderate tolerance for weird looks from your fellow passengers, you too can have the cleanest seat on the plane. Here’s how to get there.

Pack Disinfecting Wipes

You’re going to need to plan here a bit and score some disinfecting wipes before you get on the plane. You can opt for a familiar brand name like Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, which come in handy multi-packs. Note that these have a pretty intense scent (the lemon is not what I’d call “good lemon,” and whatever the green package scent is smells a bit like a freshly cleaned public bathroom). You can also get disinfecting wipes with a milder scent, or, in a pinch, you could use wipes primarily meant to disinfect hands rather than surfaces, such as Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes.

Get Your Wipes Out as Soon as You Board

Packing wipes is only half the battle. Once you’ve boarded, you’ll need to overcome your aversion to creating a minor spectacle as you stow your gear, whip out your wipes, and get disinfecting. If it helps, you can pretend that those are stares of envy at your traveling prowess rather than garden-variety side-eye.

Use Your Wipes (Correctly)

There’s a right way to use disinfecting wipes, and many wrong ways. To do it correctly: Wipe down all hard, nonporous surfaces thoroughly. Make sure you read and follow the package instructions about how long the surface needs to stay visibly wet. This ranges from about 30 seconds to four minutes. This is when the germ-killing magic happens, so you can’t rush it. Note that this means you’re going to be provisional for a bit longer before you settle and make yourself comfortable. Kidding: Everyone knows you’re not going to be comfortable on the plane. But at least you can maybe emerge illness-free.

But What About Upholstered Surfaces

Don’t use disinfecting wipes on upholstered surfaces: It won’t work and it will make the fabric wet, which creates a whole separate problem. If you’re concerned about exposure to germs on fabric seats, you can pack a washable and reusable seat and tray table cover.

Bonus PSA About Seatback Pockets

No pocket needs a protector like the airplane seatback pocket, home to one of the airplane’s highest concentrations of germs. If you’re one of those travelers who uses this pocket to stash your water bottle or extra snacks in the seatback pocket, just please don’t ever again. Until some genius (you perhaps?) invents a disposable liner for the seatback pocket, opt for a seatback-pocket replacement accessory like the Travelon World Travel Essentials Seat Pack Organizer or Genius Pack’s High Altitude Flight Bag, which both hang from the seatback tray latch.

Christine Sarkis wrote this story. Follow her on Twitter @ChristineSarkis and Instagram @postcartography for more advice about making every vacation the best vacation.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post How to Properly Disinfect Your Airplane Seat appeared first on SmarterTravel.

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.

Divide Money

Even if you disregard all other advice about carrying money, take this tip to heart: Whenever possible, divvy up your travel cash and even credit cards into multiple safe spots. If you have all your money in one place, it only takes one incident for a thief to totally wipe you out.

When possible, leave all the cards and cash you won’t need immediately in a secure location in your hotel or vacation rental. And when you’re out and about, keep some of your money attached to your person (see below for ideas about how to wear money securely), and some in a bag you carry. If you’re smart about how you distribute your funds, you’ll still have enough money to get to a police station or back to your hotel in the event your bag gets lost or snatched.

Favor On-Body Storage

Under-clothing storage accessories have come a long way since neck pouches and money belts came onto the scene. Though those classics are still effective, newer options include bra stashes, as well as long johns, underwear, and undershirts with built-in pockets for safe storage. On-body storage accessories are particularly useful if you’re sleeping somewhere that doesn’t have a secure place for cash and other valuables.

Note that on-body storage isn’t a good wallet alternative, since fishing around under your clothes for money advertises where you’re hiding the goods.

Keep Small Bills Handy

Changing or withdrawing large amounts of money minimizes the fees you’ll pay to get local currency, but it also means you’ll be traveling with far more cash—and larger bills—than you’d likely have on you at home. In addition to dividing your money, it’s also wise to make smaller denominations of currency easily accessible. That way, you won’t pull out the local equivalent of a $100 bill while attempting to buy a 30-cent souvenir. You also won’t have to reach down into your jeans to get more money from an under-clothing money pouch.

Make money preparation part of your morning routine: As you’re packing your bag, make sure you’ve got a variety of small bills and coins at the ready for purchases such as food, souvenirs, and attraction entry fees. Squirrel away larger bills in your under-clothing money pouch, or tuck them into a secure part of your wallet or bag.

Carry an Anti-Theft Bag

If garbage-bag commercials have taught us anything, it’s that some bags are tougher than others. The same goes for travel purses, backpacks, and bags—some, designed specifically for travel, have features such as cut-proof, steel-cable-reinforced shoulder straps; slash-proof fabric; and locking zippers.

Since elements like these slow down thieves, anti-theft bags can do a decent job deterring opportunistic pickpockets. Anti-theft bags are available online from Arden Cove, Pacsafe, Travelon, and other retailers. Consider your purchase an investment that might save you some money.

Trim Your Wallet

Are you going to need your library card when you’re 6,000 miles from your local branch? Probably not. Before you leave, take the time to go through your wallet and take out everything except the necessities (a primary credit card and a backup, an identification card, an insurance card, etc.). Not only will it help you travel lighter, but if your wallet does get lost or stolen, you’ll have fewer items to replace.

Use a Dummy Wallet

If you’re traveling in a place known for pickpockets or muggings, consider getting a cheap wallet that looks real enough to use as a decoy that you can keep in your pocket or bag. Pad the wallet with some small bills and make it look more real by slipping in one or two of those sample credit cards you get with offers in the mail. A dummy wallet can stop pickpockets before they get to your real wallet.

Buy a Travel Wallet

In addition to a dummy wallet, you might also consider a wallet that you reserve specifically for travel. There’s one simple reason for this: If you’re the type of person whose day-to-day wallet is packed with cards—gym memberships, prepaid coffee cards, frequent-buyer punch cards, and the like—the card pockets are likely to be stretched out and won’t be able to securely hold just an item or two. By keeping a travel-only wallet at the ready, your cards will have snug pockets that they can’t slip out of accidentally.

As an added bonus, you won’t have to unpack and repack your day-to-day wallet; you can simply transfer what you need for your trip to your travel version.

Adapt to the Local Money Culture

Being prepared to pay your way on vacation means different things depending on where you are. In a cash economy, you’ll need to make sure to have a variety of bills and coins on hand at all times, but your credit cards will likely just collect dust.

However, in much of Europe and parts of Asia, where automation is common and chip-and-PIN credit card technology is standard, having a compatible credit card will come in very handy, especially if you find yourself at an unattended gas station late at night or a train station after hours. Also keep in mind that in some countries, U.S. dollars are an official or unofficial secondary currency, so it’s wise to keep a few greenbacks at the ready.

Use Money Alternatives

In high-traffic settings such as metro stations and close quarters like bus lines, it’s nice to be able to forgo cash or credit card transactions and rely instead on a multi-use ticket or other cash alternative. If you’re in a city where the public transportation system offers multi-use cards (for instance, London’s Oyster card or San Francisco’s Clipper card) or where you can buy a bunch of tickets at once for a discounted price, then take advantage. You’ll reduce your chances of losing your wallet simply by retrieving and stowing it fewer times.

Stow Valuables Securely

Sometimes the best way to carry money is not to carry it at all. Hotels’ in-room safes are generally pretty secure, and if you’ve got an item (or a wad of cash) you’re particularly nervous about, check to see if the hotel has a safe-deposit box behind the desk. If you do use a hotel lockbox of any sort, remember to retrieve your items when you leave. In the rush to pack up and depart, out of sight can easily mean out of mind—until you’re on your way to the airport. If you’re a forgetful type, leave a colorful note on top of your suitcase.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 10 Smart Ways to Carry Money While Traveling appeared first on SmarterTravel.

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The Icon, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Old Faithful. Buffalos. Subterranean supervolcanoes. Yellowstone doesn’t do anything by halves, so it’s no surprise that its iconic Old Faithful Inn is a massive monument to the early 20th-century conviction that rustic and grand can go hand in hand. As the largest log structure in the world and one of the very few remaining log hotels in the U.S., the inn counts among the park’s most beloved sights. Don’t miss the lobby, which dazzles with a 65-foot ceiling, railings made of pine, and a giant stone fireplace.

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The Floating Resort, North Cascades National Park, Washington

Get away from it all, then just keep going. That’s the spirit of Ross Lake Resort in North Cascades National Park, which is accessible only by boat or hiking. But its isolation is only part of its charm; the coolest thing about the resort is that it’s not just next to the water but on top of it. The 12 cabins and three bunkhouses are built atop log floats, which guarantees that every room has a water view.

The Bed-and-Breakfast, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Marry your love of national parks and bed-and-breakfasts with a visit to The Inn at Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The Greek Revival-style house was built in 1848, and while its historical character remains proudly on display everywhere you look, guests will also find plenty of modern comforts such as private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and gourmet meals. Best of all, the inn overlooks Brandywine Falls, a 65-foot waterfall that is one of the national park’s most popular sights.

The Boutique Hotel, Presidio of San Francisco, California

Even if you prefer your accommodations urbane and your surroundings urban, there’s a national park lodging option for you. The Inn at the Presidio sits in the heart of San Francisco’s Presidio, a former army base that is now a national park site and National Historic Landmark. The small, mostly-suite boutique hotel was originally a home for bachelor officers. Sleek spaces, plenty of fireplaces, and front-porch rocking chairs offer an appealing mix of sophistication and simple pleasure.

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The Dude Ranch, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Saddle up. Triangle X Ranch, the National Park System’s only dude ranch, sits in the heart of Grand Teton National Park. And what better way to embrace the spirit of the West than by exploring all this grand and protected scenery from the back of a horse? Ranch specialties include cookouts, scenic and wildlife tours, and a children’s program that includes games on horseback and swimming trips.

The Fishing Lodge, Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Drive as far as the road will take you, then hit the water for the final leg to Kettle Falls Hotel in Voyageurs National Park. Leave modern life—with both its burdens and its luxuries—in your wake as you boat to the remote hotel, 15 miles from the nearest road. Life here is simple: Eat your meals on the screened porch, sleep in antique-furnished rooms, share bathrooms (unless you rent a villa, in which case you’ll have the bathroom and a screened-in porch all to yourself), and spend most of your time exploring the lakes and forests.

The Elegant Classic, Yosemite National Park, California

If photographer Ansel Adams taught us anything, it’s that nature is intrinsically elegant. That elegance is on full display at Yosemite’s historic The Ahwahnee Hotel, where Adams (as well as queens and presidents) was once a regular guest. Built for affluent nature lovers in the 1920s, the hotel’s incredible views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point continue to draw visitors willing to pay for the pleasure.

The Yurt, Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

Yurts put the fun in Fundy. Canada’s Fundy National Park in New Brunswick offers an alternative for travelers who want something outdoorsy but don’t want to sleep in a tent. Yurts—circular structures long used by nomadic peoples of Central Asia—include beds (though you bring the blankets), insulated walls, and even stoves. Each yurt has its own deck, picnic table, and incredible views of the Bay of Fundy.

The Northwest Jewel, Olympic National Park and Forest, Washington

Hate that feeling of staying at a generic chain hotel where everything looks about the same no matter where in the world you are? That will not be a problem at Lake Quinault Lodge in Olympic National Park and Forest. Surrounded by forest and overlooking Lake Quinault, the rustic lodge is long on comfort and vintage charm. Built in 1926, the hotel and surrounding natural beauty reportedly impressed President Franklin D. Roosevelt so thoroughly that he created Olympic National Park soon after his visit.

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The Tipi, Lodgepole Gallery and Tipi Village

You’ve done the tent thing, now you’re ready for something a little more interesting. Head to the Lodgepole Gallery and Tipi Village bordering Montana’s Glacier Mountain National Park for the chance to camp in a tipi. Located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, each tipi has its own indoor fireplace and is decorated in Blackfeet style. Guests have the opportunity to participate in art workshops, go horseback riding, and take a reservation site tour while on-property.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2014. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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1. Impressive: Passports Are on the Rise

In 1996, the U.S. Department of State issued 5.5 million passports. That number has since been trending upward, reaching just under 21 million in 2019 (with a dip to around 11 million in 2020, likely due to the emergency halt of passport issuance in response to COVID-19). Even when you factor in the population increase, that’s a heartening jump in the number of people eager to get out and explore the world.

2. Surprising: Protect Your Passport with Tyvek?

Think you can use any old packaging and shipping method when you’re sending in your old passport for renewal? Think again. The Department of State recommends that applicants use a trackable shipping method, such as Priority Mail Express, to keep tabs on their application and know when it arrives safely at its destination. It is also strongly recommended that applicants mail their documents in a sturdy envelope such as a Tyvek envelope, which will protect against the rough and tumble world of postal transit

3. Vital: You May Need to Renew Sooner Than You Think

Don’t take your passport’s expiration date at face value. Some countries have a six-month or three-month passport validity rule that requires your passport to be valid for a certain amount of time after your date of entry.

4. Impressive: Your Passport Has Identity Theft Deterrents

If your passport was issued after August 2007, you’ve got an e-passport with a small integrated chip in the back cover that stores your passport information and a biometric identifier based on your photograph. To protect passport holders from unknowingly falling victim to high-tech identity theft, there are metallic elements in the cover of the passport, making it impossible for the passport to be digitally “read” until it’s physically open.

5. Surprising: If You’ve Gained or Lost Weight, You May Need a New Passport

If your appearance has changed significantly, you’ll need to apply for a new passport. That means if you’ve lost (or gained) a lot of weight, so much so that you look different than you do in your passport photo, you’ll need a new one. The same is true if you’ve undergone “significant facial surgery or trauma,” or if you’ve added or removed large facial tattoos or piercings.

6. Vital: You Must Obey Photo Restrictions

You may not realize it, but nowhere are the fashion stakes as high as in your passport photo. That’s because the photo may be rejected—thus throwing your application into a delayed spiral—if it doesn’t meet certain criteria. The photo must have been taken within six months of your application date, and needs to reflect your current appearance. You must directly face the camera and your expression should be neutral. According to the Bureau of Consular Affairs, “Photos with exaggerated expressions and squinting will not be accepted.” And uniforms and “clothing that looks like a uniform” are forbidden as well.

7. Surprising: Passports Can Have Different Lengths

A standard-issue passport is 28 pages long. However, when you’re applying or renewing, you can request a longer, 52-page passport at no additional cost. Unfortunately, if you fill up all 52 (impressive!) or need more pages in your existing passport, you’ll have to apply for a new passport even if your old one is not yet expired.

8. Surprising: Damage Can Render Your Passport Invalid

Normal wear and tear is forgivable, but if your passport has been significantly damaged, it’s time for a new one. Water damage, significant tearing (especially on the book cover or the page with your personal data and photo), unofficial marking on the data page (keep kids with crayons well clear), and torn out visa pages are among the types of damage that will likely mean you’ll need to apply for a replacement.

9. Vital: You May Need More Blank Pages

If you’re planning a trip and are running low on blank pages in your passport, it behooves you to take a look at the country information for your destination, since a few countries require you to have up to three blank pages in your passport for visa and immigration stamps. Most countries want you to have at least one blank page for stamps, so if you’re traveling to multiple countries on the same trip, make sure you’re prepared.

Bonus: How to Take Your Own Passport Photo at Home

You can skip the long lines at your local CVS by taking your own passport photo at home. Follow these guidelines to learn how to get a picture perfect at-home passport photo.

The post 9 Surprising Passport Facts You Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

I live about 10 blocks from one of California’s major faults, so disaster preparedness is a small but important part of my family’s daily life. Until recently, however, I hadn’t much thought about how to translate the lessons I’ve learned from my local emergency-response community to the realm of travel. But then I realized that many of the most important items to have in the event of a major disaster are not only small and portable, but they have plenty of travel uses as well.

Here’s our shortlist of packable things that could save your life while on the road.

Whistle

This is something that many people in earthquake-prone regions already have on their keychain. A whistle (opt for a “pealess” whistle, one that does not contain a cork pea, for maximum durability) can help rescuers find you if you’re trapped in a building or under rubble after a disaster. The high-pitched sound can be easier to detect than the human voice, and it can be indispensable when dehydration or crushing has impaired your ability to yell.

Other Travel Uses: Personal safety if you’re walking alone or at night, rallying a group or family, or kicking off an impromptu potato-sack race.

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Flashlight

In a disaster, electricity is often the first thing to go. And if you’re in a building or on the subway, you may need a light source to help you find your way out. (While you could use your phone for this purpose, you’ll likely want to preserve its battery for other uses during an emergency.) Choose from the many small, keychain-sized LED flashlights with long battery lives and bright lights that are on the market.

Other Travel Uses: Finding your way back to camp after a midnight trip to the loo, reading in bed at a hotel without waking a sleeping partner, or navigating poorly lit paths and uneven surfaces.

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First-Aid Kit

Staying as healthy as possible is key in the aftermath of a disaster, and that means effectively tending to minor injuries. First-aid kit basics such as individually wrapped alcohol pads, small packets of antibiotic ointment, and a selection of bandages can help you keep minor abrasions from becoming infected. Plus, they take up virtually no room in a bag.

Other Travel Uses: Caring for blisters, scratches, or bug bites or helping strangers in need of a quick fix.

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Rescue Blanket

Staying warm can be a challenge if you find yourself exposed to the elements for an extended period. Even if you’re inside when disaster strikes, heating systems may not work. A Mylar rescue blanket is an incredibly light, stowable, and efficient way to stay warm with just your own body heat.

Other Travel Uses: A makeshift picnic blanket, a backup warmth layer for evenings under the stars or at the beach, or a hygienic floor cover for desperate moments when you need a place to rest during an overnight airport layover.

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Neckerchief

Dust from debris can cause short-term breathing problems and long-term health issues. While a simple bandana or neckerchief won’t filter out everything, it will provide coverage against larger airborne particles, and that can be just what you need to get to safety. Since basic bandanas are small and fold up nicely, you can carry a few to distribute to companions.

Other Travel Uses: Containing your cold on an airplane, when traveling you should opt for a medical-grade mask. Bandanas can also be used as dust-storm protection.

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Back-up Charger

Charging your phone requires both electricity and access to an outlet—two conditions that can be hard to meet after a major disaster. Travel with a small battery- or solar-powered charger to prolong the life of your cell phone in an emergency. Even if phone and Wi-Fi systems are down, this will allow you to use your phone as a flashlight, for documentation, and to access apps designed to be helpful in emergencies.

Other Travel Uses: Helping you stay connected (via apps, maps, social media, email, and phone) whenever your phone battery runs low.

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Water

Clean water is one of the most important things you can have with you after a disaster. To be prepared, buy a reusable water bottle and fill it every morning. To increase the chance you’ll actually carry it with you, choose a smaller size (for instance, Simple Modern’s 17-ounce bottle) that doesn’t take up much room in a day bag.

Other Travel Uses: Preventing dehydration while saving money and resources.

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Food

After a disaster, food is often in short supply. Keep a spare high-protein snack in the bottom of your bag and you’ll be able to maintain energy longer. Nuts and health bars are easy, non-perishable options to have on hand while you travel.

Other Travel Uses: Avoiding blood-sugar spirals when you’re out and about.

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More Ways to Stay Safe

A large part of surviving a disaster is preparing in advance. Here are two more small steps you can take to keep yourself and your loved ones safe in the event of an emergency.

Know Possible Destination Risks: There’s no predicting every risk in a destination, but it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the potential vulnerabilities of a place before you arrive. FEMA has a free app (iOS | Android) with tips on how to prepare for and deal with disasters, including earthquakes, severe weather, terrorism, volcanoes, and wildfires.

Keep Your Shoes by the Bed: If disaster strikes while you’re in bed, you’ll want to have a pair of shoes close by to protect your feet from broken glass or other sharp objects that may have fallen on the floor. Before you go to sleep, place a pair of shoes (and socks) within arm’s reach of the bed. In earthquake-prone areas, some experts suggest tying the laces of your shoes together and securing them to a heavy piece of furniture so they’re less likely to slide away in the event of sharp movement.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 8 Travel Safety Tips You Probably Ignore (But Shouldn’t)
• 10 Cheap Travel Gadgets Under $20 That Are Surprisingly Useful
• 9 Travel Survival Skills We Hope You Never Need

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2014. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 8 Packable Things That Could Save Your Life appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Travel Sweaters That Do More

These travel sweaters do it all—replace bulky jackets, wick away sweat while staying odor-free, repel bugs, and more. Read on to figure out how to pack less, stay warm, and rock your travel wardrobe with sweaters that earn a starring role in your suitcase.

Toad & Co. Glenfyne Shawl Cardi

Super Power: Jacket substitute in milder climates.

If you’re heading somewhere chilly, rather than outright cold, you may be able to save suitcase space by packing a double-duty warm layer. The Glenfyne Shawl Cardi is up to the task: It looks like a sweater but warms like a jacket. The shawl collar and full zipper on the soft lambswool offer jacket-like protection with a cardigan fit. And unlike jackets, this cardigan can go from outdoor to indoor without the coming-in-from-the-cold sweat.

Royal Robbins Sophia Convertible Cardigan

Super Power: Transforms from drape-front cardigan to cowl-neck sweater, courtesy of hidden neck buttons.

The lightweight, thermal Sophia Convertible Cardigan from Royal Robbins gives you two looks in one travel-friendly package. Wear it open as a drape-front cardigan, or use the hidden buttons to convert this machine-washable wonder into a classy cowl-neck sweater.

Title Nine’s Super Power 1/4 Zip Hoodie Sweater

Super Power: Blends the functionality of a hoodie with the style and warmth of a cardigan.

With a name like Super Power 1/4 Zip Hoodie Sweater, it’s no wonder Title Nine’s travel sweater makes the list. Made from a “Woolicious” knit wool-poly blend, this sweater packs serious warmth into a relatively lightweight package featuring a zippered sleeve pocket and decorative detailing.

Toad & Co Trillium Crew Sweater

Super Power: Elegant yet ready for adventure.

When you want to maximize minimal packing space, you want items that can do double duty.  The Trillium Crewneck from Toad & Co. is a super-soft merino wool sweater that’s dressy enough for a party but rugged enough for hiking or skiing. It’s also really good at apres ski, in case you’re wondering.

ExOfficio BugsAway Lumen Hoody

Super Power: Insect-repelling warmth for evenings outdoors.

If you’ve ever gotten a mosquito bite through your jeans, you know that bugs are determined creatures. ExOfficio’s BugsAway Lumen Hoody has all the bells and whistles you want in a travel sweater—a fitted hood, security-zip pocket inside a larger kangaroo pocket, and thumb loops—but it also has Insect Shield for odorless protection from mosquitos, ants, flies, ticks, and more through 70 washes.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 5 Travel Wear Pieces That Help You Go from Day to Night
• The 9 Best Travel Hoodies
• 11 Performance Wear Outfits You’ll Actually Want to Wear While Traveling, 2017 Edition

Follow Christine Sarkis on Twitter @ChristineSarkis and Instagram @postcartography for more advice about making every vacation the best vacation.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

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