Waterloo, New York

In 1966, 100 years after the first Memorial Day ceremonies, President Lyndon Johnson signed a proclamation recognizing Waterloo, NY, as the birthplace of Memorial Day. What better way to celebrate than visiting where the holiday began in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York?

Waterloo will hold its annual Celebrate Commemorate event over the holiday weekend, complete with a 5K run/walk, live entertainment, and a Freedom Parade. You can also pay a visit to the American Civil War Memorial and there’s even a National Memorial Day Museum in town.

How to Get There

The closest airports to Waterloo are Rochester (ROC) and Syracuse (SYR). After landing at either airport, you’ll be about a one-hour drive from Waterloo. All major airlines fly into both airports including Southwest and JetBlue. There is also limited competition from ultra-low-cost carriers Allegiant and Frontier. You’ll find the most flight options flying into Rochester but it’s always best to check both to find the best deal.

San Francisco, California

There’s plenty to do over the long weekend in San Francisco, from exploring the city’s vibrant Pier 39 to visiting the Golden Gate Bridge. Several Memorial Day services are held throughout the city, including the annual commemoration at the Presidio National Ceremony, held this year on May 29th. For naval history and aviation enthusiasts, pay a visit to the USS Hornet Museum, housed in the former navy vessel that recovered the Apollo 11 crew after splashdown following their famous lunar landing. 

San Francisco Carnaval celebrates its 45th anniversary on May 27th-28th. Since 1978, this two-day festival has been celebrating “the diverse Latin American, Caribbean and African Diasporic roots of the Mission District and the San Francisco Bay Area” with musical performances, food vendors, educational resources, and more. The celebrations culminate in Grand Parade, which this year features more than 3,000 artists.

How to Get There

Skyscanner data shows that the average per passenger price for a round trip ticket to San Francisco over Memorial Day weekend is just $217. There are three major airports in and around the city—San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Norma Y. Mineta San José International Airport (KSJC), and Oakland International Airport (KOAK). San Francisco International (SFO) is the closest to downtown and the most popular option for travelers staying in the city. United and Alaska Airlines have hubs at San Francisco International, with American Airlines and Delta also offering several domestic flights.

Arlington, Virginia

A visit to the National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia is a great way to pay tribute and remember those who have served. There will be several remembrance ceremonies at the Memorial Amphitheater where thousands of visitors are in attendance each year. One of the most moving memorials in the cemetery is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which overlooks Washington D.C., providing a final resting place for one of America’s unidentified service members from World War I.

Directly across the Potomac River, you can also explore our nation’s capital by visiting several famous landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, or one of the Smithsonian Museums.

How to Get There

The Washington D.C. area has three major airports. For the most convenient option, you’ll want to look for flights into Reagan National Airport (DCA), which is the closest to downtown D.C. (and has its own METRO station). United has a hub at Washington-Dulles Airport (IAD) and if you’re looking to fly Southwest, you’ll find the most options into Baltimore (BWI).

Savannah, Georgia

Head down to Savannah this Memorial Day Weekend and enjoy relatively moderate temperatures before the heat picks up during the peak summer months. Take a stroll around the historic district and enjoy its scenic cobblestone streets, elaborate architecture, and over 20 squares and parks full of ancient oak trees.

If you’re looking for a beach day, head over to Tybee Island where you’ll find expansive, sandy beaches in a family-friendly environment. It’s just 20 minutes east of downtown Savannah.

How to Get There

Flights to Savannah/Hilton Head Airport (SAV) have increased in recent years. Delta still carries the most passengers—primarily via its hub in Atlanta—however, budget carrier Allegiant has been a major factor in lowering fares to this regional airport with year-round and seasonal service from up to 13 different cities. Avelo Airlines also operates cheap flights out of New Haven to Savannah every Friday. As always, be sure to check Southwest when comparing prices and be flexible with travel dates as many budget airlines only fly on certain days of the week.

Chicago, Illinois

From kayaking along the Chicago River to enjoying fireworks at the Navy Pier, there’s plenty to do in Chicago over Memorial Day Weekend. You can dine at waterfront restaurants or hit the beach along Lake Michigan with the city skyline providing a magnificent backdrop. Chicago will also host a Memorial Day wreath laying ceremony and parade on Saturday, May 27.

Around two and a half hours west of Chicago, Summer Camp Music Festival will take place in the small town of Chillicothe, Illinois, from May 25-28. The 3-day festival features dozens of musical acts, including Willie Nelson & Family and Umphrey’s McGee. Don’t forget to stick around for Field Day, where attendees divide into teams to duke it out over tug-o-war, dodgeball, and more to win a special “Victory Party.”

How to Get There

Flights to Chicago are plentiful with all major airlines flying into Chicago’s O’Hare Airport (ORD). United, which is headquartered in Chicago, has the most market share, but American is close behind with a hub of its own at O’Hare. Spirit Airlines also flies to Chicago from over 20 cities across the U.S., making all airlines compete with its ultra-low fares. Chicago’s Midway Airport (MDW) is where you’ll find flights on Southwest and, as of April 2022, Frontier has been operating low-cost flights into Midway. According to Skyscanner, average airfare per seat to Chicago is just $221 round trip over Memorial Day weekend.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Well-known for Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest, New Orleans is also a great place to spend Memorial Day Weekend. The National World War II Museum is often rated the top attraction in New Orleans and it can be a great way to learn about the American experience in the war that changed the world.

Of course, you’ll also get to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the French Quarter and the many tastes and sounds that make New Orleans one of the most cultured cities in America. If you’re a fan of festivals, The New Orleans Greek Fest will take place over Memorial Day Weekend with over 20 traditional homemade Greek pastries to try.

How to Get There

When looking for flights into Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport (MSY) make sure to check what’s available on Southwest Airlines as it is by far the largest carrier flying to/from New Orleans. Spirit Airlines helps to keep fares as low as possible with flights from up to 50 different cities and one of the newest airlines to hit the U.S. skies, Breeze Airways, offers low-cost flights from up to 16 cities across the nation.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Race car fans flock to Indianapolis over Memorial Day Weekend to experience the famous Indy 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The main event takes place on Sunday, May 28, and is preceded by a kick off Miller Lite Carb Day concert on Friday, May 26.

If you’re bringing the kids, you can visit the expansive Children’s Museum, which recently opened a revamped Dinosphere exhibit in 2022 where you can learn all about the largest animals to ever roam the earth and be immersed in their prehistoric environment.

How to Get There

As with many airports in this list, Southwest is the largest carrier in Indianapolis (IND) so you’ll want to be sure to check its website to compare prices. Other than Southwest, you’ll find regular service on all three legacy carriers, American, Delta, and United, with Spirit Airlines and Allegiant providing the most service in the ultra-low-cost category.

Seattle, Washington

Travel to the Pacific Northwest this Memorial Day Weekend and experience the Northwest Folklife Festival in Seattle. The community-powered festival celebrates diversity and cultural expression and there is no admission charge—it runs purely on donations. The theme for 2023 is Lagom: Not Too Much, Not Too Little, But Just Right, drawing on the Scandinavian term “lagom” to celebrate people’s journey toward finding balance in life.

While in Seattle, you can also visit some of the city’s top attractions including The Museum of Pop Culture, a hike in Mt. Rainier National Park, or, one of my personal favorites, The Museum of Flight, where you can have a look inside a Concorde jet and a former Air Force One.

How to Get There

There’s no question which airline dominates in Seattle (SEA). As Alaska Airlines’ largest hub, you’ll find the most flight options on this Oneworld alliance member. However, Delta has been making a push in Seattle over the past several years and has brought competitive pricing with its ability to connect travelers from all over the country. You can also find Alaska Airlines flights into nearby Paine Field Airport (PAE) in Everett.

The post The 8 Best Destinations for Memorial Day Weekend appeared first on SmarterTravel.

After heading to Dublin for a first-hand look at the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, I finally have an answer—and it’s not the one I expected. Yes, there’s plenty of beer, and just as much of the debauchery we have in the States—but there’s also plenty of family-friendly fun, and far fewer tourists than I anticipated. Here’s what St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is like, and how you can make the most of the travel-worthy holiday.

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland

“Paddy’s Day,” as the locals call it, is indeed a religious holiday in Ireland, but not in the way it once was. Beer company campaigns transformed it from a church-going holiday to a pint-raising one in the 1980s—but the day is still one most locals enjoy with their families. Having a beer with your kids in tow is common at most Paddy’s Day festivals, like the famed Guinness Storehouse’s four-day St. Patrick’s Day Festival. I saw lots of children and babies enjoying live music with their parents at the Storehouse on St. Paddy’s—kids are part of the fun.

St. Patrick’s Day marks the death of Ireland’s fifth-century patron saint, who, according to folklore, introduced Christianity to the Irish and banished snakes from the island. Until the 1980s, most businesses (pubs included) closed for the holiday, which meant Irish families would go to church and enjoy company at home for their day off. Advertising by beer companies helped create the festivities that exist today—beer is one of many things the Irish do well, after all.

Local families in Dublin flock to O’Connell Street around 11 a.m. to see marching bands and local officials march alongside community arts’ groups, dancers, and festive floats depicting mythical beings, animals, and more. The event is much more eclectic than its American counterparts, and kids as well as adults march in the parade. The spectator crowds are massive, and people show up rain or shine.

Despite warnings about what a touristy mess the events would be, it became clear to me at the parade that the celebration wasn’t exactly for me—and the crowd was mostly made up of locals. Floats and songs recall Irish folk stories, and some locals were generous enough to explain them to me. For example, one swan-shaped float told the tale of the Children of Lir, who, as the story goes, were turned into swans by a sorceress. The intricate displays are an incredible sight for everyone watching, but elements of Irish pride will be lost on most tourists.

But, like most popular cities, Dublin has the perfect neighborhood for tourists, as well. Temple Bar is overrun with visitors year-round, and Paddy’s Day is of course no exception. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, though, note that most pubs and festivals outside the Temple Bar area will have plenty of locals happy to chat with visitors.

Two things are certain in Dublin on St. Patrick’s Day: The pubs will be packed, and the beer isn’t going to be green. Don’t expect American celebrations to hold true here: there will be no river dying or tinted beer. Instead, enjoy the company of a crowded, music-filled bar, and down a pint that’s too dark to be dyed green—like a Guinness.

Dublin hotel markets certainly take advantage of the surge in visitors around St. Patrick’s Day, so book early or take advantage of vacation rental listings. Locals told me it’s wise to book Paddy’s Day accommodations by Christmas, and that renting a local apartment will get you the best deal. This year in particular has seen unprecedented demand, with the majority of accommodation in Dublin for March 2023 booked up months in advance and the remaining going for upwards of $1,700 per night.

St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland, especially in Dublin, is going to be packed no matter what you do. That’s why tickets to an organized event are worth the small price—you’re sure to be able to get a drink at the bar, see some live entertainment, chat with locals, and have enough elbow room to raise your pint. Events usually end by 7 p.m., leaving plenty of time in the evening to find a Dublin pub that suits you.

The Guinness Storehouse’s biggest annual celebration is its four-day St. Patrick’s Day Festival, which includes live music, a pint of Guinness and paired snacks like donuts, and entertainment like Irish step dancers and music troops. Guests will experience seven floors of beer history and the chance to pour your own pint from the source. Guinness is Ireland’s most-visited attraction—over 1 million people flock to the Storehouse each year—and it does Paddy’s Day right.

This article was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect most current information.

Author Shannon McMahon visited Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day as a guest of the Guinness Storehouse, with additional support from Failte Ireland. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for more travel advice.

The post What St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland Is Really Like appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Seoul, South Korea

A tree twinkles with lights in South Korea, where Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays.

London, England

The Lord Mayor of London switching on the holiday lights at the annual ceremony in Leadenhall Market, one of the oldest markets in the city.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Reindeer pull sleighs in Rovaniemi, Finland’s capital of Lapland.

Strasbourg, France

Streets and facades of houses are traditionally decorated with toys and teddy bears for Christmas in medieval city of Strasbourg.

Orlando, Florida

Each year, Disney World decks out its castle and Main Street in Christmas finery. Special parades, live stage shows, and more mark the Christmas season.

New York City

During New York’s SantaCon, you’ll see Kris Kringle everywhere you look.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

A floating Christmas tree lights up the evening sky above Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Ban Tha Rae, Thailand

Tha Rae in northeastern Thailand hosts a yearly multi-day Christmas Parade Festival, featuring performances and parades.

Rome, Italy

A Christmas tree stands tall next to the towering Colosseum in the Piazza del Colosseo in Rome, Italy.

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

The post Christmas Celebrations Around the World appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Eating 12 Grapes

In Spain, the last moments of each year are spent eating grapes—one for each chime of the clock during the countdown. These final seconds are often filled with laughter as Spaniards struggle to chew and swallow one grape after another, a task made even more difficult depending on how many drinks they’ve already celebrated with.

Make a Wish on Your Suitcase

Hopeful travelers can learn a lot from this tradition that occurs in many Latin American countries, most notably Ecuador, Colombia, and Mexico. Many believe that taking an empty suitcase for a walk around the block (or even leaving one by the door) will bring travel in the coming year. You might feel a little odd when your neighbors see you taking your suitcase for a walk, but they’ll be totally jealous when you’re on your way to the airport.

Baking a Coin into the Bread

In Greece, New Year’s Eve is celebrated by baking a traditional bread known as Vasilopita that comes with a special surprise: a “sweet coin” baked into the bread (or cake in some cultures). It’s a coin wrapped in tin foil and dropped randomly into the bread; whoever gets the lucky piece will have good luck for the next year. The tradition honors St. Basil, who came up with the idea to bake coins into bread when he knew the poor people of his church would be too proud to accept charity.

Throwing Stuff Out the Window

Heads up! If you plan to spend New Year’s Eve in Italy, you might want to find some cover because Italians like to ring in the new year by chucking dishware, appliances, and sometimes even furniture out the window. But it’s not just a lot of ruckus; the act symbolizes letting go of the past. By chucking their possessions out the window, Italians cast out the old troubles and welcome hope for a new year.

Wearing New Underwear

If you intend to welcome the new year in Brazil, you’ll have to follow a dress code. Brazilians traditionally wear white on New Year’s Eve, but that’s not all. They also believe you should wear brand new underwear and that the color of the underwear will represent what you wish to attract in the new year—yellow for money, green for health, and red for love.

Breaking Dishes

This tradition is best celebrated in its native countries, as it involves breaking plates against your neighbors’ doors. In countries like Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, it’s popular to throw dishes against other people’s homes as a sign of good luck and camaraderie. In fact, the more pieces of broken glass you have on your door-step, the more well-liked you are!

Eating Seven Times

New Year’s Eve in Estonia never ends on an empty stomach. In this small Baltic country, they eat seven times to celebrate the new year. Eating so often is a wish for abundance and strength in the coming year, and seven is one of the country’s lucky numbers.

Ringing a Bell 108 Times

In Buddhism, it’s believed that there are a total of 108 earthly desires that cause suffering. At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve in Japan, temple bells will toll 108 times—one for each desire. This ritual is called Joya-no-Kane, it’s all about purification and encouraging a fresh start for the new year.

Dropping Ice Cream on the Floor

If your ice cream falls to the floor in Switzerland, there’s no need to be upset. In fact, the Swiss purposefully drop their ice cream on the floor on New Year’s Eve to bring on a year of abundance and (hopefully) more ice cream.

Everything Is Round

In the Philippines, the new year is celebrated with roundness. Part of the fun of the day is coming up with 12 different round fruits—one for each month of the year. For Filipinos, roundness is a symbol of health and also signifies prosperity and wealth (because coins are also round). Women will often wear polka-dot dresses to add even more roundness to the big day.

Predicting the Future

On New Year’s Eve in Finland, people have a tradition of fortunetelling. They’ll melt small tin horseshoes in a pan and then pour the liquid metal into a bucket of cold water. The tin solidifies instantly when it hits the water, resulting in random shapes. The shapes are then interpreted to predict their future for the coming year.

Hitting the Walls with Bread

In Ireland, bad luck must be driven out of the house before midnight, and the quickest way to get bad spirits out of the house is apparently with a loaf of Christmas bread. The Irish will smack the walls and bang on the doors with bread to chase out the bad and welcome in the good spirits.

The post 12 New Year’s Traditions from Around the World appeared first on SmarterTravel.

American Express Travel compiled booking data based off of card member purchases to determine which destinations are forecasted to experience the most year-over-year growth between 2019 and 2022. 

Copenhagen, Denmark

In 2023, Copenhagen will become the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture. Events such as community picnics and open houses will help celebrate the theme of “Copenhagen in Common”. 

In November 2023, the famously exclusive Copenhagen restaurant Noma will celebrate its 20th anniversary—better make a reservation now. 

Florida Keys, Florida

Although Florida’s Everglades National Park turns 75 in December 2022, the milestone will be celebrated throughout 2023. 

Key West will also be taking the party into 2023—although its official bicentennial was in 2022, events will continue into 2023 with the 200th anniversary of the island’s first naval base and the establishment of Monroe County. 

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon will see an influx of visitors in early August 2023, when it will host World Youth Day, the largest international event organized by the Catholic Church. 

Lisbon has been an increasingly popular destination recently, thanks to its relatively affordable and good climate, and is expected to return to pre pandemic visitor levels in 2023. 

Montenegro

As one of the least-visited countries in Europe, Montenegro is worth adding to your list if you’re looking to escape the crowds on the continent. This tiny country packs in a lot of beauty—so you can easily go from the Mediterranean to the mountains. 

Paris, France

American travelers will have more choices for flights to Paris in 2023. JetBlue plans on launching a new direct flight from New York JFK to Paris Charles De Gaulle.  

New budget airline Frenchbee is also debuting a new Miami to Paris route in December 2022, expanding access on the east coast. 

Sydney, Australia

Sydney will host the WorldPride festival in 2023, drawing thousands of visitors to the city for the 17 day celebration. This year’s event will feature performances by Charli XCX and Kylie Minogue, art shows, sporting events, and a three-day human rights conference.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont, is a quintessential New England town that’s worth visiting any time of year. It’s a popular destination in the fall for foliage seekers and hikers. The summer is also a great time of year to visit, when the weather is beautiful and the state’s unofficial treat (the maple creemee) is readily available. Winter brings plenty of opportunities for skiing, and spring means maple harvest season. 

Yaukuve Island, Fiji

Yaukuve Island is home to one of Fiji’s most luxurious hotels—Kokomo Private Island Resort. This five-star, all-inclusive resort is only accessible by seaplane or by helicopter, but the lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and impeccable service make it worth the journey.

The post 8 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2023 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Here are the best travel gift cards to help fund their next vacation, and some other thoughtful ideas, because no matter how much they hate stuff, who wouldn’t want a four-course meal prepared by a chef on their next vacation?

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.

Airline Gift Cards

If your favorite traveler has a favorite airline, purchase an airline gift card to help them afford their next flight. You can purchase gift cards for major airlines like Delta, Southwest, and American Airlines, or purchase a general airfare gift card through a website like flightcard.com.

Travel Gear Gift Cards

A person’s travel gear needs to match their particular travel style, making gifting gear an often disappointing challenge. Skip the guesswork and get the traveler on your list a gift card to their favorite store and let them pick out the gear they really want. Below are a few options for:

Airbnb Gift Card

For a millennial traveler—or anyone who likes alternative accommodations—grab an Airbnb gift card.

Rideshare Gift Card

Rideshares are a convenient and quick way to get around a new city, plus they’re a simple way to save on airport transportation. Any traveler can make use of an Uber or Lyft travel gift card.

Amtrak Gift Card

You can now purchase Amtrak train fare gift cards, making a weekend destination decision that much easier. Gift cards are available on Amtrak’s website in digital or physical form and at select retailers, and are redeemable online, on the app, and at Amtrak ticket offices.

LoungeBuddy Gift Card

Send your loved one off in style with a VIP airport lounge experience. LoungeBuddy is a platform that lets you book airport lounge access at almost any airport. While LoungeBuddy doesn’t offer traditional gift cards, you can book on behalf of the recipient up to two months in advance. Grab a travel postcard and write down your gifted reservation inside as a homemade alternative.

Eatwith Gift Card

Give an unforgettable meal for their next trip, with an Eatwith gift card. The platform offers dining experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Once you know your destination, you can search for locally-hosted culinary spectacles, like a private chef experience in London or watching a flamenco show with tapas in Chicago.

DNA Kit

DNA and genetic testing kits are one of the hottest gifts to give this year. The results could even inspire the recipient to take a trip of a lifetime to discover more about their heritage and ancestors.

Kindle Unlimited Subscription

Travelers have a lot of downtime on the way to a destination, and many like to fill that time with reading. A Kindle Unlimited subscription gets you access to over one million titles and thousands of audio books for just $10 per month. With this gift, unlimited truly means unlimited.

Intrepid Foundation Global Gift

Donating to a charity on behalf of your recipient is truly a selfless gift. Intrepid Travel’s foundation partners with a variety of organizations to support goals such as reforestation, expanding access to education, and COVID-19 relief. Choose between a one-time or recurring monthly donation.

Game of Thrones Tour

Can’t wait for season two of House of Dragons? Gift your token GOT-lover an experience they won’t forget. Viator offers a variety of tours through filming locations across Europe in countries like Croatia, Ireland, and Spain.

Groupon Gift Card

Groupon is a frequently overlooked budget saver when it comes to travel, and a gift card lets the recipient browse dozens of deals on food, activities, and experiences in their chosen destination.

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

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

The post Travel Gift Cards and Other Last-Minute Gifts for People Who Hate Stuff appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Affordable Travel Gift Ideas

Here are some of the best options for travel gifts that cost a lot less than you might think.

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.

Smartphone Camera Lenses

Upgrading your smartphone photography is simple thanks to clip-on lenses. An easy-to-use and affordable travel gift that any Instagrammer will appreciate, SHUTTERMOON Phone Camera Lens Kit includes five photo-transforming lenses: telephoto, wide-angle, polarized, fisheye, and maco. They’re perfect for getting up-close or fitting more into your shot and are compatible with most smartphones and tablets.

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A Massive Scarf

Something I never travel without, a cozy scarf, also happens to make a great and affordable travel gift for just about anyone. Women’s options from Wander Agio come in sixteen colors and can double as a blanket or a stylish shawl. For men, Marino’s Cashmere Feel Scarf comes in an array of colors and with a gift box that seem to contradict its price.

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Tiny Speakers

Sound-booming speakers small enough to stash in your carry-on for the hotel room or vacation rental make for an affordable and clever travel gift. EWA Travel Mini Bluetooth Speaker weighs 6.2 ounces, measures less than two by two inches, and can play wirelessly for 5 to 8 hours.

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A Collapsible Water Bottle

Reusable water bottles have long been a must-have airport accessory, and can also be a great travel gift. SPECIAL MADE Collapsible Water Bottle folds up when empty to fit in any travel bag, and has a leak-proof locking cap. Forget the clunky stainless steel canteen water bottles of last year and gift someone a practical travel water bottle that has pack-friendly bragging rights.

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Treats Snack Box Subscription

Trying new and foreign foods is one of the best parts of travel, and it can make for a unique travel gift. Start someone on a snack box subscription like Treats to gift them tasty snack flavors from around the world. Treats sends snacks from a different country each month, and shipping is free for U.S. addresses. Treats subscription boxes start from $21.95 per month on CrateJoy. Be sure to order a single box or pause your account after the first month if you don’t want to continue a subscription.

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Wool Outerwear Accessories

Wool winter accessories like wool knit ear warmers and hats are packable and thoughtful affordable travel gifts. YSense’s Cable Knit Ear Warmers are a chic option for women, or try a unisex Merino wool hat like Minus33 Ridge Cuff Beanie for something that’s softer and more breathable than standard wool.

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A Packable Air Humidifier

We all know someone who needs this travel gift. Diffusers and humidifiers are a great way to combat dryness caused by cold weather travels and arid airplane cabins, plus it’s an aromatherapy sleep solution if you mix in some essential oils. If you didn’t think a packable version existed, this Actpe Portable Essential Oil Diffuser is just seven ounces.

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High-End Travel Samples

Perfect as stocking stuffers, travel-sized sample packs are an affordable travel gift for someone who appreciates a little bit of luxury. The Sephora Best Seller Kit allows shoppers the chance to try some of the brand’s high-end skin care without the price tag while First Aid Beauty’s products are perfect for sensitive skin, and come in a travel kit of body scrub and moisturizer.

Shop Sephora Best Seller Kit

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An Ultralight Carry-on Bag

Everyone could use an extra carry-on that folds away into itself—you never know when you’ll want a spacious personal item to keep close to your plane seat. Arxus’s Lightweight Foldable Tote Bag packs down into a pouch, but can fit up to 40 liters inside when it’s open. The waterproof fabric and rear sleeve that fits over a telescoping suitcase handle make it a foolproof gift for the frequent traveler.

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Associate Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

The post 9 Affordable Travel Gift Ideas for Under $25 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Terrible Travel Presents to Avoid

Thoughtful travel gifts are usually the most useful and touching presents, but there are some basics to avoid. Here are some tricky travel presents I tend to avoid gifting, and other items to consider instead.

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.

Avoid: Money Belts

Maybe at one time these were a high-tech travel accessory, but those sad money belts and pouches that dangle on a shoelace-looking string should become a thing of the past. Instead, consider money-hiding travel presents that look a little bit sleeker.

Give: Hidden Pocket Clothing

Clothes with secret pockets show you put a little bit more thought into your travel gift. For men, this Bluffworks Blazer has 10 hidden pockets and is perfect for frequent business travelers. For women, there are plenty of travel dresses with pockets to choose from if you know what she likes. Or for something simpler, this handy Infinity Wrap Scarf with a zipper pocket can stealthily hold money and a passport or cards.

Avoid: A Suitcase

Unless you’re very familiar with what kind of luggage your recipient likes, a whole suitcase can be among those travel presents that are hard to nail. It’s usually a purchase that will be heavily used for years to come, and is therefore a pretty big decision to make for someone else.

Give: Multipurpose Bags

Bags that are multi-purpose, like a versatile backpack, make for better travel presents. The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is a unisex option with plenty of pockets, a laptop compartment, a built-in charger, and a sleek design that makes it perfect for the office, business trips, and your weekend travels.

Avoid: Ill-Planned Airfare

Booking a surprise trip might seem like a romantic travel present to gift a significant other, but making someone wake up at 5 a.m. for a flight or trek to an inconvenient airport might be a forced commitment you didn’t consider in your excitement. Airfare is usually nonrefundable, after all.

Give: Airline Gift Cards

Consider an airline gift card for a reliable low-cost carrier, like the Southwest Gift Card—so your recipient can take care of the finer details before pouncing on a deal, or so you can book later on together.

Avoid: A Passport Cover

Covers for passports have always perplexed me as an unnecessary accessory that annoys security agents and highlights your most important and at-risk travel document. Passports should be tucked into a secure place, not made bigger and harder-to-stash by a map-printed leather sleeve that says “wanderlust” on it. Most document checks at border patrol will require you to remove it anyway.

Give: Anti-Theft Bag

Arden Cove’s Waterproof Anti-Theft Cross-Body Bags will do a lot more to protect your passport from damage or theft. They’re also stylish, yet durable enough to wear on most trips. The bags come in mini (6.5 by 4.5 inch) and full (8.5 by 6.5 inch) sizes, featuring a light chain strap and plenty of internal pockets. Arden Cove also offers stylish wallets that transform into a belt bag: a great option for those who’d appreciate being able to wear their travel organizer on their waist, like an ultra-chic fanny pack.

Avoid: Shoes

Like suitcases, shoes are a big decision to make for others as travel presents. Unless you know the exact brand, size, and style the person wants, it’s better to leave the trying on and selecting to them. Don’t guilt someone into exploring a new destination with sore feet.

Give: A Scarf or Hat

If you’re not close enough to be gifting them shoes, a cozy scarf or hat is a safer bet. Soft Merino wool or cashmere options will get a lot of use, like this unisex option from Dalle Piane.

Avoid: A Neck Pillow

Flimsy neck pillows don’t do much for sleeping on the plane and take up unnecessary bag space if they’re not able to deflate. Even a more high-tech neck pillow can fall flat as a travel present—do you want your giftee to think of you every time they’re uncomfortably trying to get some sleep in a packed plane cabin?

Give: Mini Humidifier Diffuser

Something versatile and relaxing, like a mini humidifier diffuser, is a more thoughtful option for aiding sleep. The Picni Essential Oil Diffuser is an affordable and packable option for travel and works via USB cable that can connect to a power bank, laptop, and more. This diffuser even doubles as a gentle nightlight with seven LED color options, perfect for navigating an unfamiliar hotel room during a midnight bathroom break.

Avoid: Luggage Tags

The only luggage tags I want on my suitcase are the cheap-yet-durable plastic ones that will no doubt get ruined by bag handlers and airport conveyer belts. That’s not exactly something you should be giving as a gift. Higher-end leather ones are a kitschy lost cause, in my opinion, especially if and when they end up traveling through inclement weather.

Give: A Travel Journal

Aim for something that won’t get thrown onto a suitcase and forgotten about. Consider a leather-bound travel journal if the recipient enjoys writing or could simply use a nice notebook to jot down some of their favorite travel memories. Journals are also great for keepsakes like tickets and photographs: Your giftee will think of you every time they store some new travel memories.

Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

The post 7 Terrible Travel Presents, and What to Give Instead appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Krampus, Central Europe

In case the thought of a stranger (Santa) breaking into your house through your chimney weren’t creepy enough, Austria and other central European countries have given the mythological man a sinister friend—Krampus. Krampus tags along with St. Nicholas, and while St. Nicholas doles out candy to the good kids, Krampus’ job is to punish the naughty ones.

This demonic-looking character beats bad children with birch branches or kidnaps them in his sack and takes them away, never to be seen again.

If you want to experience the true terror of Krampus, watch this movie about him (after the kids are in bed).

Mari Lwyd, Wales

Knock, knock. “Who’s there?” A horse skull puppet, and it’s challenging you to a rap battle. This is the standard scene in Wales around the Christmas season, when groups accompany a person dressed up as a horse’s body with a (hopefully) fake skull on top and go door to door asking to come in via a rhyme. The people inside the house must come up with a better rhyme response in order to win. After the battle, the Mari Lwyd (which translates to “gray mare”) and group are allowed inside and given food and drink before they head off to the next door.

The Yule Cat, Iceland

I hope you’re not trying to roll up to your Christmas celebration in last year’s clothing. If you do, prepare to be eaten by the Yule Cat. Icelandic tradition says the Yule Cat (aka Jólakötturinn, if you’re on a first-name basis with the cat) will eat anyone who hasn’t obtained new clothing by Christmas. Imagining being nibbled at by an adorable kitten for your fashion crimes? Think again: The Yule Cat is a giant beast, one that’s large enough to see into the upper windows of your house (so he can check on your clothing).

Grýla, Iceland

In case the Yule Cat wasn’t terrifying enough, Icelanders also have to contend with Grýla, the Christmas witch. According to legends, Grýla lives up in the mountains, and her hobbies include taking advantage of the dark winter days to show up in villages and steal naughty children.

It’s not just children who should fear the Christmas witch—she allegedly also ate her husband when she got bored with him.

Grýla has been around since the 1300s, but according to Terry Gunnell, the head of the Folkloristics Department at the University of Iceland, she’s still out there living her best life in the mountains. Gunnell told the Iceland Monitor, “There’s a rumor concerning Grýla, that she’s dead and has stopped eating children. I think that’s nonsense, and that she’s living a great life in the mountains still eating her human sushi.”

Perchta, Germany and Austria

In America, if you’re bad, Santa brings you a lump of coal. In Germany and Austria, though, things get more punitive.  If you misbehave, Perchta, a two-faced witch, will put on her terrifying visage and slit open your stomach, stealing your organs and filling your belly with rocks and straw. If you’re good, she’ll put on her nice face and leave you a small silver coin and your organs intact.

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

The post The 5 Creepiest Holiday Traditions in Europe appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Bookmark this page—we’ll be updating it frequently with can’t-miss Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2022 sales as they’re announced.

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.

Travel Gear

Amazon: Amazon is having a mega-sale spanning from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, with great deals on travel gear including luggage, clothing, and electronics. 

Nordstrom: Nordstrom is heavily discounting traveler-favorite brands both in-store and online Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

Target: You don’t have to wait for Black Friday to save on travel gear from Target! The retailer is offering a “holiday price match guarantee” and will offer a refund for the difference in price if something you purchased sells for a lower price. The match is valid on items purchased between October 6 and December 24.

Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques: Turn your home into a luxury hotel with savings across Marriott brand stores. Save up to 30 percent on items like Marriott pillows, or up to 25 percent off of Westin’s Heavenly Bed.

Away: Save $50 off the purchase of any two suitcases and $100 off the purchase of any 3 or more suitcases from November 17-28.

Madewell: Get 40 percent off with code OHJOY until November 24 and 50 percent off from November 25-27.

Roam: Get a free Market Tote or Travel Pouch Set with the purchase of any piece of ROAM customizable luggage, backpack, or duffel. Offer valid on purchases between November 25-28.

Cariloha: Save up to 30 percent off Cariloha’s ultra-soft bedding and clothing November 25-28.

MasterClass: Get two annual memberships for the price of one (a $180 savings) for new users until November 28.

Brooklinen: Save 20 percent off of Brooklinen’s entire site now through November 30.

Ooni: Bring authentic Italian pizza home with you with this deal from Ooni that offers 20 percent off sitewide from November 21-29.

Outdoor Voices: Save 30 percent off sitewide, plus up to 70 percent off select styles from November 23-29.

DSW: Save 30 percent off the entire site from November 24-25 and 40 percent off all boots November 26-27.

Glossier: Save 20 percent off sitewide and 30 percent off all purchases of $100 or more from November 24-28.

Tempur-Pedic: Bring the hotel mattress experience home with a new mattress from Tempur-Pedic. Save 30 percent off the TEMPUR-Cloud mattress with CLOUD30 and up to $300 off of other selected mattresses.

Sling TV: Watch all your shows and movies from a hotel or vacation rental with this deal from Sling that offers $10 off plus a free Amazon FireTV Stick Lite. The offer is valid November 23-27.

Wayfair: Wayfair is offering huge discounts all week long with their Cyber Week sale running through December 7.

Briggs & Riley: Save 30 percent off select luggage from November 24-28. Receive an exclusive toiletry bag with purchases over $399 on November 25 and 28.

Solo: Save 30 percent off sitewide and up to 50% sale items with promo code: HOLIDAY now through December 4.

Marriott Bonvoy: Marriott Bonvoy members will get up to 20 percent off of hotel stays booked November 22 through November 2022 for travel November 27, 2022 through January 16, 2023. Non-members will save up to 15 percent off (but FYI, Marriott Bonvoy is free to join!)

​Philo TV: Stream your favorite shows and movies anywhere you go with this deal from Philo TV offering new subscribers 80 percent off their first month. Use promo code THANKS and sign up between November 25-30.

Noom: Get a jumpstart on your New Year’s resolutions with Noom’s free seven day trial and 25 percent off a six month plan by using promo code AFFILIATE2022 now through November 30.

Bloomingdale’s: Save 25 percent off select styles until November 27.

Nike: Get up to 60 percent off select styles with code BLACKFRIDAY until November 26.

Saks Fifth Avenue: Saks is giving customers a gift card of up to $750 with purchases when they use promo code WKNDGCSF from November 26-27.

Kate Spade Surprise: Save up to 90 percent off sitewide with promo code SAVE15 November 23-24.

Sanuk: Get up to 75 percent off Sanuk’s ultra-comfortable, travel-friendly shoes and slippers on Black Friday.

Vineyard Vines: Save up to 50 percent off at Vineyard Vines with promo code: BLACKFRIDAY now through November 26.

Diane Von Furstenberg: Get up to 25 percent off the entire site with code CYBER.

Lilly Pulitzer: Save up to $90 sitewide now through November 28.

J.Crew: Everything at J.Crew is 50 percent off with promo code SHOPEARLY.

Walmart: Save big on electronics, luggage, and other travel gear at Walmart now through Cyber Monday.

Travel Deals

Booking.com: Save up to 30 percent off of hotels and vacation rentals during Booking’s Black Friday sale. The sale runs November 17 through December 1 and is valid for stays through the end of 2023. Booking is also offering up to 15 percent off of rental cars reservations. Reserve a car November 24 through December 1 for travel through the end of 2023.

G Adventures: Get up to 30 percent off select group trips for bookings made now through November 30. The discount is valid on trips departing through April 30, 2023. Or, get up to 10 percent off select trips departing between May 1 and June 30, 2023.

Norse Atlantic Airways: Fly to Europe for as little as $119 one-way with Norse Atlantic Airways’ Black Friday sale. Book flights now through November 29th for travel between December 2022 and October 2023. (Travel dates included in the sale vary by route.)

Ker & Downey® Africa: Book your dream trip (for up to half off) with Ker & Downey® Africa’s Black Friday sale, which runs November 1st through November 30th. Deals include luxury safaris, honeymoons, and more in destinations across Africa.

A&S Signature Journeys: Save 25 percent off of the October 19, 2023 departure of the Sun on Ramses and the Nile Egyptian tour and witness the rare solar alignment at Abu Simbel Temple. Book between November 1 and December 31, 2022 to receive the discount.

Margaritaville at Sea: Cruise for less with this Black Friday Sale which runs now through November 27. Sailings will start at $99 per person (with kids sailing free), and include a $25 per person Ocean View upgrade opportunity and 25 percent off all supplements.

Contiki: Get up to 25 percent off over 60 Contiki trips worldwide. Book trips departing in 2023 during the sale which runs from November 23 to December 1.

Holland America: Save up to 40 percent off voyages sailing in December 2022 and beyond, plus get a $25 reduced deposit. Book by December 1.

Insight Vacations: Get up to 15 percent off of 40 select itineraries from Insight Vacations.

Trafalgar: Save up to 15 percent off of selected trips for departures between April 1 – October 15, 2023.

REI Adventure Travel: During REI’s Cyber Week Sale, you can save 20 percent off of select REI adventure travel trips for 2023 departures. Book between November 25 – December 19.

Priceline: During Priceline’s Cyber Week Sale, travelers can get up to 99 percent off via Mystery Codes, 20 percent off select Express Deals, and up to $3,000 off cruises. The sale runs November 22 – November 28.

EF Ultimate Break: EF Ultimate Break is discounting tours to bucket list destinations (like Japan, Greece, and Bali) by up to up to $1,200. Book now through November 28.

Klook: Save 10 percent off tours, activities, and more at Klook with code BFCM2022 from November 25-28.

Aer Lingus: Save up to $100 on flights to Europe from select cities. The sale runs through December 1, for travel through May 31, 2023.

JetBlue Vacations: JetBlue Vacations is offering up to $750 off vacation packages with promo code PACKAGE500. Plus, you’ll get a free inflight drink! Book by November 29 for travel December 5, 2022 through October 15, 2023.

Southwest Air: Southwest is offering 30 percent off base fares with promo code CYBER30. Book by December 1 for travel January 10 through March 8, 2023.

JetBlue: Save $50 off of each one-way segment with a minimum of $100 per segment (excluding taxes & fees) with promo code CYBER22. Book by November 29.

The post The Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Travel Deals appeared first on SmarterTravel.