New numbers from the Consumer Price Index by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show just how much prices have risen recently. Here’s what you can expect, along with tips for saving money.

Airfare

According to the BLS, airfares in April 2023 were an average of 9.6 percent higher than they were pre-pandemic in April 2019.

How to Save: Consider taking a road trip this summer instead. Data shows that gas prices have dropped 12.2 percent year-over-year, and rental car prices have also decreased by 11.2 percent.

Hotels/Vacation Rentals

The BLS measures inflation across a variety of accommodation options for travelers, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. All of these overnight accommodation types are compiled into a category called “lodging away from home.”

Room rates for lodging away from home have risen 3.3 percent over the last year, and 23.6 percent over the last two years.

How to Save: Booked a refundable reservation? Keep an eye on rates at your hotel to see if prices drop before your arrival. If they do, you can rebook at a cheaper rate for no additional cost. 

Don’t forget to search for a hotel on SmarterTravel Hotels, where we offer big discounts on properties all over the world.

Dining Out

Eating away from home, whether it’s in a fast food cafe or a fine dining restaurant, now costs 8.6 percent more than it did one year ago.

How to Save: Try not to eat every single meal out when you’re on vacation. Booking a vacation rental or hotel room with a kitchenette can make it easy to prepare a quick and inexpensive breakfast. Or, try hitting the local grocery store and picking up ingredients for a picnic in a scenic spot for a cheap (and memorable) lunch or dinner.

The post New Data Shows Travelers Are In For An Expensive Summer appeared first on SmarterTravel.

A streamlined European packing list is essential—you want to look good in all your photos in front of famous sites, blend in with local fashion, and be comfortable for miles of walking every day. 

We’ve put together the ultimate European summer packing list for smarter travelers to follow—you’ll be comfortable, stylish, and mobile (without that giant checked bag).

Clothing

Jeans

Summer weather in Europe can be fickle, so packing a good pair of jeans is always smart in case the temperatures drop in the evening. Mott & Bow’s Slim Boyfriend Jeans are made from a soft, lightweight twill denim fabric that’s lighter and more comfortable than regular denim. 

The white jeans help keep your outfit looking summery, and by some miracle, Mott & Bow’s jeans aren’t see-through like most white pants. 

Light Shirt/Scarf

If you’re visiting any religious/historical sites in Europe, you may be asked to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Keep a lightweight scarf with you so you can comply on an impromptu visit without overheating during the rest of the day.

Dresses

Dresses are the most versatile piece of clothing you can pack for your European trip, as they can be worn with sneakers during the day or made fancier at night with heels. For hot summers, you can’t beat linen—Quince’s 100 percent European Linen Button Front Dress was practically designed for European trips.

Made from breathable and heat-regulating linen, the dress will keep you cool. The removable belt and functional buttons give you multiple looks with just one piece of clothing and best of all, the dress features pockets. 

Tops

Cozy Earth’s Coastal Comfort Mock Neck Short Sleeve Button Down is the perfect mix of casual and pulled-together. Made from a blend of tencel and linen, this top is ultra-breathable and feels significantly cooler than cotton. 

The fabric uses an enhanced weave that helps prevent pilling, so this shirt will still look brand-new after many trips.

Swimsuit

Since they take up such minimal space, you’ll never regret packing a swimsuit. There are so many beaches, lakes, and even hotel pools to explore in Europe, you won’t want to miss any opportunity for a dip. 

If you tend to burn easily, and don’t want to be bothered frequently getting out of the water to reapply, the AKHG Lost Lake Long Sleeve swimsuit is a great option—the floral print and zipper keep it cute, while the extra coverage gives you plenty of sun protection. 

Lightweight Pants

A lightweight pair of pants can protect you from the sun, keep you covered for historical church visits, and help you look like a local (if you choose the right ones). Ditch the heavy denim in favor of something with a bit more stretch, like Mott & Bow’s Twill Chinos

These pants have just the right of flexibility but are structured enough that they won’t get baggy halfway through your trip. The khaki color is perfect for summer, and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans for the day. 

Accessories

Crossbody Purse

The perfect purse for Europe can be worn crossbody style (which makes it harder to steal), goes with any outfit, is versatile, and is big enough to hold the essentials (but not too large, since you’ll be carrying it all day).

Quince’s Italian Leather Quilted Wallet Crossbody ticks all the boxes. Made from soft Italian leather, the purse will be right at home in Europe, and the quilted design works well from day to night. The bag can be worn as a crossbody, or you can remove the chain to use it as a clutch. 

Coin Purse

Coin purses have fallen out of fashion in the US, but they can come in handy in Europe, where lower denominations of currency are in coins instead of bills. Don’t end up with a heavy stash of coins buried in your bag—keep your change organized and accessible in a zippered pouch. 

Hat

Keep the sun off of your face and your outfit looking stylish with a sun hat. These packable options from Madewell are perfect, since they can be stuffed in your bag (without getting destroyed) when you’re not wearing them. 

Refillable Water Bottle

Although tap water is safe to drink in Europe, it’s not commonly offered for free at restaurants (you’ll likely have a choice of bottled still or sparkling water instead). However, in some destinations, you may find public drinking fountains readily available. Save money (and the environment) by packing your own reusable water bottle, like this one from LARQ, which automatically cleans itself using UV technology. 

The LARQ bottle comes in both an insulated and non-insulated version, so you can choose between having a light weight to carry or having perfectly chilled beverages all day long. 

Footwear

Sandals

Pack a pair of sandals you can wear to the beach, hotel pool, and for short walks. Ipanema’s Trendy Sandals feature a minimalist style that will blend in anywhere. The lightweight sandals are made from PVC so they can be easily rinsed off after every wear.

Sneakers

You’ll spot chunky white sneakers on the feet of many stylish Europeans this summer. Join the crowd with New Balance’s classic 550 sneakers. The low top and clean silhouette go with everything from jeans to dresses, and there’s plenty of arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable. 

Socks

Pack no-show socks that will actually stay up if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. These ones from Bombas have grips on the heel that help to keep them in place. 

Toiletries/Miscellaneous 

In addition to the same toiletries you’d pack for any destination (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.) here are some important ones to remember for Europe:

Sunscreen 

Even if you’re not hitting the beach in Europe, sunscreen is still a must-pack for summer trips. Sun Bum smells good and doesn’t leave a white cast, so you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

Tissues

A travel-sized pack of tissues can come in handy for more than just the sniffles (like at a public bathroom that’s run out of toilet paper.)

Medications

In some European destinations, you’ll have to visit an actual pharmacy to purchase even over-the-counter medications, and these pharmacies tend to have somewhat limited hours. 

Pack sample-size packets of medicines just in case, so you don’t have to waste time hunting down a pharmacy if you have a headache or stomachache. 

Electronics

Headphones

Don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones for the long flight over from the United States. Skullcandy’s Push Active Earbuds are wireless but still secure (in case you plan on working out while you’re on vacation).

The earbuds are voice-controlled, so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to change songs or take a phone call. 

Adapter

Appliances in Europe run on 220 volts, while ones in America use 110 volts. Fortunately, most modern appliances (like iPhones) automatically switch voltage, so you won’t need to worry about bringing an electricity converter (but double-check your electronics before trying to use them abroad). 

However, you will need to pack an adapter in order to use standard plugs in Europe. 

Portable Charger

It’s easy to run down the battery on your phone when you’re snapping pictures and taking video to capture all the memories—and constantly using maps to figure out directions. A portable charger can revive your battery without you having to go back to the hotel or find a place to plug it in.

Travel Documents

As with any trip, don’t forget these important travel documents:

• Passport
• Copies of passport (you can scan them to your phone or the cloud instead of carrying paper)

Money

Although most places in Europe accept credit cards, you’re still likely to find a few cash-only destinations, so make sure you bring some cash with you.

When you are using a credit card, make sure you’re choosing one that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee, as those can quickly add up.

Download Our Ultimate Packing Checklist for Europe

When its time to start packing, download our editable checklist here.

The post The Ultimate Europe Summer Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Unfortunately, there’s one thing that makes cruises financially out of reach for many single travelers—the dreaded single supplement. Since most cruise cabins are designed to hold two people, many cruise lines penalize solo travelers with a surcharge of up to 200 percent. 

As demand for solo cruising rises, some cruise lines have adapted and begun offering single cabins—smaller rooms designed for just one person that don’t come with a pricey single supplement. 

How to Avoid the Single Supplement on a Cruise

Booking a solo cabin on a cruise is the best way to avoid the single supplement on a cruise. Ships offer a very limited number of solo cabins on most sailings, so book early if you want to snag one.

You can book a solo cabin on select ships within these cruise lines:

• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Virgin Voyages
• Oceania
• Cunard
• Holland America
• Celebrity Cruises

Some cruise lines will occasionally offer sales waiving or discounting the single supplement on double cabins—sign up for sale alerts from your favorite ships to be notified. For example, Costa Cruises is currently running a promotion waiving the single supplement on a large selection of cruises.

The 6 Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

These cruise lines offer amenities and activities designed for the single traveler. 

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line started the single cabin trend by being the first cruise line to offer rooms for one. At under 100 sq. ft, Norwegian’s studio cabins are definitely small, but solo cruisers will get exclusive access to the Studio Lounge, a shared space designed for socializing. Many sailings also offer singles meet-ups to help you get to know your fellow solo travelers. 

Tauck

It’s rare to find a sailing in Europe without a single supplement, but Tauck doesn’t charge one on any of their European river cruises (for Category 1 cabins). Want to upgrade? Tauck offers $1,000 off the single supplement on other cabin categories on select sailings. 

Tauck CEO Dan Mahar says their cruises are perfect for solo travelers, because “All of the advance planning and other tasks that would normally fall squarely on the shoulders of a solo traveler—all of the choreography, all of the hotel and restaurant reservations, all of the on-site transportation, navigation and more—they’re all expertly handled by Tauck.”

Cunard

How can you be a solo traveler and travel with your best friend simultaneously? When you’re cruising on Cunard with your pet. Guests sailing transatlantic on Queen Mary 2 can bring their cat or dog along for the journey. Furry friends must stay in the kennel, but you can visit any time you want.

Cunard offers some of the largest single staterooms at sea—a single Britannia Oceanview room ranges from 133-201 sq. ft. 

Don’t worry about being lonely on Cunard—the cruise line hosts coffee mornings and drinks receptions for solo travelers and offers shared tables for people who don’t want to dine alone. 

Virgin Voyages

Don’t want to be surrounded by families on your solo cruise? Book a trip on Virgin Voyages, one of the few cruise lines that doesn’t allow anyone under 18 onboard. Virgin cruises offer plenty of chances to meet other travelers, like organized “grog walks” (better known as pub crawls) and restaurants with shared seating.

Solo cabins are available in both insider and sea view stateroom categories. 

Royal Caribbean

Many cruise ships limit solo cabins to tiny inside rooms, but Royal Caribbean believes that single travelers deserve nice rooms too. The cruise line offers inside studio staterooms for solo travelers on a budget, as well as super studio ocean view staterooms with balconies for those who want to splurge. 

The single cabins are offered on the following Royal Caribbean ships: Brilliance of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers single staterooms on the Apex, Edge, Silhouette, Beyond, and Ascent ships. To have the best chance of nabbing one, book on the Beyond or Ascent, both of which have 32 single staterooms.

Celebrity frequently runs promotions in which they waive the single supplement for solo travelers, so keep an eye out if you can’t reserve a single cabin.

Tips for Cruising Alone

Worried about feeling lonely when cruising by yourself? These tips can help you make new friends on your next trip.

Opt for an Assigned Seating Time for Dinner

Many cruise ships offer the option to select an assigned seating time for dinner. If you choose an assigned time, you’ll sit at the same table and have the same tablemates and servers each night, so you’re guaranteed to see familiar faces at least once a day.

Take Shore Excursions

Engaging in an activity, especially if it’s something social like a wine tasting on a European river cruise or something adventurous like ziplining in Costa Rica is a great conversation starter.

If you book your excursion through the cruise line, you’ll be in the same tour group as people from your ship, so you’ll be able to make plans later on to hang out again with any new friends you make. 

Participate in Activities 

There’s always something going on aboard a cruise ship, whether it’s a trivia night or a karaoke competition. These activities are designed to get guests socializing, so try to join at least one every day. Look for events geared toward solo travelers to find your fellow singletons (who may be more open to making new friends than couples or groups). 

The post The Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The DOT just announced “plans to launch a new rulemaking” that will require airlines to compensate passengers when flights are delayed or cancelled because of reasons within the airline’s control (such as mechanical issues or crew staffing). Stranded passengers could receive coverage for expenses incurred due to the delay including meals, hotels, taxis, and rebooking costs. 

“When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “This rule would, for the first time in U.S. history, propose to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking in cases where the airline has caused a cancellation or significant delay.” 

These rules would not apply when flight disruptions are due to a reason outside of the airline’s control, such as bad weather.

Most major U.S. airlines voluntarily offer these reimbursements—last year, the DOT unveiled an interactive airline customer service tool that helps flyers find out what they are entitled to if their flight is delayed or cancelled, and many airlines were pressured into increasing the compensation offered. The DOT now wants to make these voluntary reimbursements into law to give flyers more protection.

As part of the new rules proposal, the DOT is publishing a new site, FlightRights.gov, and expanding its airline customer service dashboard to show if additional compensation, such as cash, miles or vouchers are offered to passengers on delayed/cancelled flights.

Biden wants to push airlines to offer more than just a refund if a flight is cancelled, saying that if the cancellation or delay was within the airline’s control, “You deserve to be fully compensated. Your time matters. The impact on your life matters.”

Biden hopes that by holding airlines accountable for delays and cancellations, the number of disrupted flights will decrease. He pointed to a study that found that after the E.U. required airlines to compensate passengers for flight delays, the number of flight delays decreased. 

The White House did not give a firm date as to when these new rules will be proposed, only saying “later this year.”

The post Airlines May Soon Have to Pay Passengers for Delayed or Canceled Flights appeared first on SmarterTravel.

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

Allen Edmonds Denali Split-Toe Derby

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

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

F. Major The Pump

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

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

Beckett Simonon Prieto Sneakers

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

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

M.Gemi The Esatto

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

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

Nato Pixie Wedge Sandal

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

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

The post 5 Comfortable and Packable Dress Shoes You Can Actually Walk In appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Cabeau Air Evolution Inflatable Neck Pillow

If you find most inflatable neck pillows are too low to give you any real neck support, try the Air Evolution by Cabeau. It features raised sides that will allow you to comfortably rest your head to either side, plus a toggle in the center to keep the pillow firmly in place. 

Despite the extra height, the pillow only takes a few breaths to inflate, and packs down into a small carrying pouch.

Trtl Pillow Cool

Prefer a little more structure to your neck pillow? The Trtl Pillow Cool is perfect for side sleepers looking for extra support. This uniquely designed pillow uses a firm but flexible structure that can be tucked on top of your shoulder and leaned on, providing a solid resting place for your chin.

The new cool version of Trtl’s cult-favorite travel pillow introduces an airmesh venting panel and chilly fabric that will help hot sleepers feel better. 

Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight Travel Pillow

Most inflatable u-shaped pillows don’t stay in place. Sea to Summit’s Aeros Ultralight travel pillow introduces a simple solution to this problem—an adjustable snap that secures the pillow around your neck, preventing sliding.

Weighing just 2.4 ounces and packing down into a case roughly the size of your palm, the Aeros is a great choice for travelers who prefer to travel lightly.

Cloudz Microbead Travel Pillow

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best one. The Cloudz Microbead Travel Pillow is full of soft, squishy beads that allow travelers to shape the pillow into a custom design that best fits their needs. It works particularly well if you score the window seat and can lean against the wall of the plane. 

Bonus: this pillow can also be used as a back pillow for lumbar support.  

Cushion Lab Travel Pillow

If you’re willing to sacrifice portability for comfort, you’ll love Cushion Lab’s Travel Pillow. Made from an extra-dense memory foam, this pillow wraps around your neck for 360-degree support in any sleeping position. 

The ergonomic design fits under your chin to cradle your head without pushing it forward. Although this travel pillow is larger than an inflatable one, it does pack down to be about the size of a coffee mug, and it includes a carabiner so you can attach it to your suitcase for easy transport.

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 5 Travel Pillows That Actually Work appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Making any of these common vacation rental mistakes could cost you dearly and ruin your trip.

Use the Dishes Without Washing Them

Having a fully-stocked kitchen is a huge perk of staying in a vacation rental instead of a hotel. However, unlike at a hotel, vacation rentals don’t have a strict cleaning protocol to follow. Generally, dishes are expected to be hand-washed by the previous guest (or loaded into the dishwasher if there is one). And if the vacation rental didn’t provide dishwashing soap? That last guest might have just given everything a quick rinse and called it a day. 

Most times that I’ve stayed at a vacation rental, the dishes in the cabinets have been visibly dirty, so I don’t even want to think about what germs are lurking on them. 

Pack some dishwashing detergent (or dish soap and a clean sponge) and thoroughly wash a bunch of dishes that you can use during your stay, to guarantee cleanliness. 

Forget to Read Any Instructions

In the excitement over arriving, it’s easy to skip over the printed sheet of instructions that your host has left you, but that would be a mistake. In addition to detailing important information (like your check-out time), a note can save you time and frustration over trying to figure out how to work light switches or the heating system.

I once stayed in an Airbnb where the host’s note mentioned a security camera in the (studio) apartment that needed to be unplugged once guests arrived—definitely the kind of thing you want to learn about sooner than later. 

Not Save Your Host’s Contact Information Offline

Figure you’ll just look up the code for the door when you get to your vacation rental? If you lose service, you might wind up stranded. Always save offline the following important details:

• The address of your vacation rental (and directions)
• Your host’s contact information (preferably a phone number and email)
• The code to the door, or where you can find the keys

Throw a Party

Having more than the number of guests in your reservation on property can cause you to lose your security deposit or face a big fine from the vacation rental agency. 

If the owner lives offsite, you might think there’s no way you’ll get caught, but a noise complaint or report from a neighbor could easily make its way back to your host. 

Lose a Key

Although most vacation rentals use a lockbox code these days, if you stay in one using an old-fashioned key, make sure you have it with you at all times. If you’re given more than one key, make sure each member of your party has one, to reduce the chance that you’ll lock yourselves out. 

Otherwise, if the owner doesn’t live nearby, you might find yourself having to pay for a locksmith to get back in. 

Forget About Your Deposit

It’s becoming more common for vacation rentals to charge hefty deposits to make sure you don’t damage their property. Since you generally pay the deposit at the time of booking, it can be easy to forget about—and you might not notice if you don’t get it back after you check out. Set a reminder in your calendar to check your bank account/credit card to make sure that your funds have been returned and that there were no additional, unexpected charges from the vacation rental.

Looking for a vacation rental? We’ve found the 9 Best Vacation Rental Booking Sites to save you money and time.

The post 6 Things You Should Never Do in a Vacation Rental appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Let Flight Deals Decide Your Destination

If you don’t have your heart set on a specific destination, you can save a ton of money by letting flight deals influence where you travel to. You’ll be able to fly for even cheaper if you can be flexible on the dates you travel as well.

Google Explore is a great tool for finding amazing flight deals across the globe. You can put in your home airport and travel dates (which can be specific dates or as broad as a “one week trip in the next six months”) and you’ll see a map showing cheap flights to a wide range of destinations. 

Explore Alternative Modes of Transportation

Flying may seem like the fastest way to travel between destinations, but when you factor in getting to and from the airport, waiting in security lines, and checking in, sometimes other modes of transportation can turn out to be quicker—and cheaper.

Before you book a flight to get to your next destination, check out Rome2rio. The site will show you all of the available options for transportation between two spots, including buses, ferries, flights, and driving. It’s especially useful if you’re looking to book a multi-destination trip. 

Pick Destinations Where the Dollar Goes Further

It’s easy to spend less when you travel somewhere where the dollar goes further. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to see how pricey a destination is before you travel. Known as the Big Mac Index, this list ranks countries by how cheap a standardized item is to purchase. The list uses McDonald’s Big Mac, as it’s something that’s available in almost every country in the world. 

Avoid Unnecessary Fees

Inflation is bad enough—don’t make your trip more expensive than it already is by paying foreign transaction fees. These are sneaky fees (of up to 5% of the purchase price) that many banks and credit card companies charge consumers for using their credit or debit cards abroad to pay in foreign currency. 

There are plenty of options for cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees (or even ATM fees), so be sure to use one of those when you travel. You can find good lists of no foreign transaction fee credit and debit cards at NerdWallet.

Price Out the Whole Trip Before You Book

Find an amazing flight deal? Make sure you quickly check prices for your entire trip before you press “buy.” Any savings from the flight could be eaten up by the costs on the ground if you choose an expensive destination.

Price out the cost of a hotel, rental car (if needed) and average cost of meals to get a better idea of how much your trip will cost to be safe before you book anything non-refundable.  

The post 5 Money Saving Secrets for Traveling During Inflation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Since most Kilimanjaro treks are between five to eight days long, you’ll want to pack multiples of items. That way, if your pants or shirts get wet in the rain, you’ll have other options while they dry. (It’s also just nice to have something clean to put on every once in a while!)

However, keep in mind that everything you pack you (or a porter!) will have to carry up the mountain, so it’s crucial to pick lightweight items that can perform.

What to Pack for Kilimanjaro: Women’s Gear

Patagonia DAS Parka

A quality jacket can make or break your summit attempt on Kilimanjaro—when temperatures can dip well below 0, you’ll want an outer layer that will keep you warm no matter what. Patagonia’s DAS Parka will do the job, thanks to its PrimaLoft Gold Insulation that will keep heat in even if it gets wet. Fortunately, the exterior has a water-resistance endurance coating that will repel water and keep you dry.

Despite its high warmth rating, the DAS Parka weighs a mere 18.4 ounces, and can be packed into its own stuff sack on warmer days. 

Osprey Eja 38 Backpack

You’ll need a pack that can fit everything you need for the day (like layers, snacks, and plenty of water), so look for a backpack that’s between 35-40L. Osprey’s Eja 38 Backpack is the perfect size, and it’s customized to fit women hikers better—plus it comes in two sizes (both with adjustable hip belts and injection-molded ladder adjustment systems that provide 4” of torso adjustability) so you can get a really personalized fit.

Weighing around 2.5 lbs, the Eja doesn’t add to your load—but it does offer features to help make carrying everything a little easier. Zippered pockets on the top of the backpack and the hip belts plus mesh side pockets help keep essentials easily accessible. Lash points and removable straps provide places to attach sleeping bags, trekking poles, and more. A layered mesh back allows air flow (and prevents sweaty backs), and the sternum strap has a built-in safety whistle. 

With its lightweight and custom fit, the Eja is one of the most comfortable backpacks we’ve ever tried, and it’s essential for a long trip like Kilimanjaro. 

Danner Mountain 600

A good pair of waterproof hiking boots that are comfortable and fit well are potentially the most important piece of gear you’ll need for Kilimanjaro. Everyone’s feet are different, so be sure to try out a number of different styles to figure out what fits you best—and break them in on long hikes well before your trip.

We like the Danner Mountain 600s, which are waterproof, durable, and offer great traction and ankle support. 

Smartwool Women’s Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks

Merino wool is one of the best materials for multi-day hikes, especially on your feet. Find it in  Smartwool’s Women’s Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks, which are designed with a women’s-specific fit, including targeted cushioning in zones where you’ll need it most. 

Patagonia Point Peak Trail Pants

Patagonia’s Point Peak Trail Pants were literally designed for “rugged, multi day trail conditions” (aka, Kilimanjaro). The pants have lots of thoughtful features that make them ideal for serious hikes, like adjustable cuffs to keep out water and debris, hook and loop tabs at the waist for the perfect fit, plenty of pockets, a water-repellent coating, and abrasion-resistant panels and spots where you’ll need them the most.

Outdoor Research Vigor Bottoms 

The temperature on Kilimanjaro can change drastically over a day, so you want to pack clothing that can adapt, like Outdoor Research’s Vigor Bottoms. These leggings are made with a trademarked ActiveTemp thermo-regulating fabric that will wick away sweat and allow breathability, while keeping you at the perfect temperature. 

Wear them as a baselayer or on their own—the Vigor bottoms are soft, but also offer UPF 30 sun protection. There’s even a hidden security zip pocket on the hip for essentials. 

Eddie Bauer Polar Fleece-Lined Pull on Pants

Kilimanjaro can get really cold once the sun goes down and you stop moving, so you’ll want to have a warm camp outfit to change into once you’re done hiking for the day. Eddie Bauer’s Polar Fleece-Lined Pull-On Pants can double as your dinner outfit and pajamas. Inside, a cozy fleece provides lots of warmth, and outside, the water-repellent fabric will help keep away dirt and moisture. Cinch the cuffs at the bottom to help keep out the cold. 

PrAna Wensley ½ Zip

Hate the feel of wool next to your skin? PrAna’s Wensley ½ zip features a wool blend fabric on the exterior but a soft polyester yarn on the inside, so you get the benefits of wool without the itchiness. It’s lightweight and warm, but won’t make you overheat. 

Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Zip Neck and Bottoms

Patagonia’s Capilene fabric is the most comfortable baselayer fabric I’ve ever tried. The material uses a unique open-grid pattern design that feels like nothing on the skin, but helps trap in warmth and wick away moisture. It also offers serious odor-control, which is essential on a trip without showers. 

The Capilene Thermal Weight Zip Neck can be worn alone or as a base- or mid-layer. Offset shoulder seams and flatlock seams prevent chafing (even if you’re wearing it under a heavy backpack) and there are full underarm gussets so you’re not restricted when you move. 

The Capilene Thermal Weight Baselayer Bottoms provide the same level of comfort on your legs—and they feature a flat, brushed waistband that won’t chafe or dig in.

Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants

Tired of pulling up your pants throughout your hike? Try Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi Pants, which feature a newly designed waistband that won’t sag or stretch out. The pants offer just the right amount of stretch, along with abrasion resistance (so you don’t have to worry about ripping these on the trail). 

The Ferrosi Pants are sun-protective, wind- and water-resistant, and quick-drying, so you’ll be prepared for all weather conditions when you wear them. 

PrAna Ice Flow Legging

Layer under your hiking pants or wear them on their own during cooler days—PrAna’s Ice Flow Leggings will keep you toasty without overheating. They’re soft enough to sleep in as well, if you need some extra warmth in your sleeping bag.

What to Pack for Kilimanjaro: Men’s Gear

Gregory Zulu 35 Backpack

Hate trying to dig around in your pack to find something that’s inevitably buried at the bottom? Gregory’s Zulu 35 Backpack helps you stay organized by offering both top-loading and side-loading (suitcase-style) through zippered openings. 

The Zulu is full of hiker-friendly features like a 3D foam back panel that keeps sweat away from your back and helps better distribute weight, a strap designed to hold your sunglasses on the shoulder harness, a built-in raincover, hydration sleeve, and plenty of pockets. All this and it only weighs 2.85 lbs. 

Mountain Hardwear Yumalino Active Pants

With a water-resistant, softshell exterior and soft fleece lining, the Yumalino Active Pants are a great hiking pant for colder days.

The fabric is durable but still features a four-way stretch, and the hidden belt with cinch adjustability helps keep everything in place without interfering with your backpack’s hip belt. 

Ibex Tranquil Hoodie Sweatshirt

Made from a cotton merino terry fabric blend, Ibex’s Tranquil Hoodie Sweatshirt features the comfort of terry with the moisture-wicking and durability of merino wool. The fabric is antimicrobial (so no odors), breathable, and itch-free, and will keep you warm no matter if you’re moving or not. 

Eddie Bauer Guide Midnight Baselayer Pants

A warm, dry, and comfortable outfit starts with Eddie Bauer’s Guide Midnight Baselayer Pants as the baselayer. Designed to be worn during high-intensity activity in colder weather, the pants are breathable and heat-retaining. The double-knit construction features soft polyester on the inside and merino wool and nylon on the outside. 

Mountain Hardwear Air Mesh ½ Zip

Lightweight and thin, Mountain Hardwear’s Air Mesh ½ Zip can be one of many layers or worn alone depending on the temperatures. The fabric uses a hollow tube design that’s designed to absorb sweat and quickly wick away moisture, while providing insulation and heat-retaining properties. 

Smartwool Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew Socks

Treat your feet to a little cushioning on the trail with Smartwool’s Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Crew Socks. These socks are padded throughout for extra warmth, protection, and comfort—including an elasticized arch brace to keep the socks secure on your feet. 

Eddie Bauer Lightweight Merino-Blend Baselayer Crew

Made from a merino wool, nylon, and spandex blend, this baselayer shirt is soft, stretchy, odor-resistant, and breathable—all important features of a baselayer. It can be worn alone on warmer days, and offers UPF 50 protection which is essential at higher elevations. 

Danner Explorer Hiking Boots

Kilimanjaro calls for a tough and durable hiking boot, like the Danner Explorer. The all-leather boot will keep your feet warm, and the GORE-TEX waterproof liners will keep them dry as well. 

The Explorers have a unique half-length molded instep that helps with arch support while still allowing air flow within the boot to prevent sweat and chafing.

Helly Hansen Alpha 3.0 Resort Ski Jacket

Helly Hansen’s Alpha 3.0 Resort Ski Jacket uses PrimaLoft Black Eco Insulation with a body-mapping design to deliver extra warmth in areas that are key to fighting off cold. Strategic zipper vents are placed throughout in case you overheat while hiking.

The best feature of this jacket? The trademarked Life Pocket, which is engineered to protect your phone from the elements and keep it from dying in cold weather. 

What to Pack for Kilimanjaro: Unisex Gear

Outdoor Research Waterproof Liners & Mittens

Temperatures on the summit of Kilimanjaro can get as low as -20 degrees, and keeping your hands warm is critical. Start with a waterproof liner, like Outdoor Research’s, which is lightweight and breathable. These liners have touch screen-compatible fingertips, so you can use your electronics without taking them off. 

When the temperature really drops, add another layer to your hands, like Outdoor Research’s Carbide Sensor Mitts, which feature trademarked SuperCinch technology to create a heat-trapping seal that will keep your hands warm. 

Third Eye TE14 Headlamp

Your bid for the summit will likely start well before sunrise, so having a comfortable headlamp to light your path is key. Third Eye’s TE14 headlamp has six brightness settings (including white LED and red light options) so you can easily switch between powerful light or minimal and avoid blinding others whether you’re using it to hike or to find your way to the bathroom at night.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Duffel 90L

Everything you’re taking up the mountain will need to fit into a duffel bag. Eagle Creek’s Cargo Hauler Duffel is water-repellent, making it a great choice for keeping your stuff dry in case of rain. It also packs into its own end compartment, making it easy to stash in your suitcase for the trip home.  

Radiant Micro Lantern

Once the sun sets on Kilimanjaro, there won’t be any sources of light other than the moon and the stars. Illuminate your tent with Nite Ize’s LED Micro Lantern, a tiny light that can run for up to 10 hours on a single charge. The attached clip makes it easy to hang the light from your tent, offering hands-free lighting to help you see. 

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Nano Poncho

Sea to Summit’s Ultra-Sil Nano Poncho is big enough to cover both you and your backpack, but it only weighs 5.2 oz and packs down into a tiny stuff sack when you’re not using it. Featuring fully-taped seams, this poncho is seriously waterproof and perfect for unexpected downpours. 

Helly Hansen Verglas Infinity Rain Pants & Rain Jacket

Staying dry on Kilimanjaro is critical, as gear can take a really long time to dry out on the mountain once it gets wet. Dodge the raindrops in Helly Hansen’s Verglas rain pants and jacket set, which are available in men’s and women’s specific fits.

The Verglas line features exceptional waterproofing that still manages to be breathable—plus long zippers that allow you to quickly pull on the extra layers in the event of a sudden downpour.

Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Ultralight

You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for weight on the trail with Sea to Summit’s Aeros Pillow Ultralight. The tiny inflatable pillow lives up to its name, weighing just 2.1 oz. The pillow is contoured for extra comfort, and it inflates or deflates in seconds. It also features a genius “pillow lock system” that secures the pillow to your sleeping mat and prevents it from sliding around while you sleep.

Biolite Charge 40 PD

If you want to document your trip up Kilimanjaro, you’ll need to pack some extra power for your phone or camera. Biolite’s Charge 40 PD can charge smartphones 2.5 times off of one charge—and it only weighs around 0.5lbs. It also has three ports, so you can charge multiple devices at once. 

Nomadix Bandana Towel

Although you won’t be able to take a shower on Kilimanjaro, you’ll be provided with some warm water to wash your hands and face. Pack Nomadix’s Bandana towel to dry off with after washing—it’s made from a quick-drying MicroSuede material that also offers sun protection and can be worn bandana-style when not in use.  

Wide Mouth Nalgene Bottles

Water on Kilimanjaro must be purified in order to be safe to drink. Most tour companies will boil drinking water, so it’s important that you have a water bottle that can handle boiling water. Nalegen’s Sustain water bottles are BPA-free and can handle both warm and cold beverages. The wide-mouth design is also important, as it makes it easy for porters to refill your bottles. 

Outdoor Research Wind Pro Hat

A good hat is essential for trapping in heat. Outdoor Resarch’s Wind Pro Hat has a hard-faced fleece exterior that is wind-resistant, and the inside is lined with a cozy Polartec fleece fabric. The hat is low-profile and easy to pack away in a jacket pocket when you don’t need it. 

North Face ThermoBall Traction Booties

Nothing will feel better at the end of a long day of walking than slipping off your hiking boots. Pack a pair of camp shoes to change into, like the ThermoBall Traction Booties, to give your feet a break (and your boots a chance to air out). Choose a pair that slips on (for easy access when you need to get up in the middle of the night) and ones that are comfortable and warm. 

Hand Warmers

On extra cold days and nights, you’ll be grateful for hand warmers. Pack a few insole-style warmers for your feet as well, which will provide warmth without changing the fit of your boots.  

What to Pack for Kilimanjaro: Toiletries and Miscellaneous Items

Although you’ll want to leave your typical toiletry bag with shampoo, conditioner, and makeup behind, there are still some toiletries and miscellaneous items that will come in handy on Kilimanjaro. 

• Dry shampoo
• Travel size soap sheets
• Lotion
• Chapstick with SPF
• Sunscreen
• Baby wipes
• Toilet paper and small bags for “leave no trace” disposal
• Prescription Medications (ask your doctor about commonly recommended medications like Diamox and Cipro)
• OTC Medications including aspirin and Imodium
• First aid kit including blister bandaids 
• Your favorite snacks

The post The Ultimate Kilimanjaro Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

We flew French bee’s Premium Economy class during their inaugural flight from Miami to Paris-Orly to find out.

Editor’s Note: The author of this story was hosted by French bee. Fares are accurate as of time of publication.

Cost

One-way Premium Economy fares from Miami to Paris-Orly start at $522.

French bee’s Premium Economy is markedly more affordable than premium economy classes on larger carriers.  For comparison, a roundtrip premium economy seat on an American Airlines flight with an overnight connection from Miami to Paris-Orly runs about $2,050 while a roundtrip, nonstop flight in premium economy on Delta into Charles DeGaul goes for $2,000. A roundtrip, nonstop ticket on French bee from Miami to Paris-Orly for the same dates totals just $1,370.

Seats

French bee flights between the US and France operate on Airbus A350-900s, state-of-the-art aircraft featuring quieter cabins and 35 Premium Economy seats. Sitting in the private cabin at the front of the plane, I could hardly tell that the engines were running.

Each seat is 18 inches wide with adjustable headrests, knee and lumbar supports, footrests,  and—best of all—36 inches of legroom. The seatbacks are outfitted with USB plugs and LED touch screens where guests can access free entertainment, games, the in-flight menu, and a camera fee showing the exterior of the plane.

The seats don’t lie flat, but they do have a deeper incline than standard economy seats and I had no trouble sleeping comfortably on my red-eye.  As someone whose back pain flares without fail on long-haul flights, the extra width and increased pitch made a world of difference. 

Food and Drink

We were never short of food or drink throughout the flight. Flight attendants came through the cabin periodically with drink and snack services, including during boarding where passengers were offered their choice of water, orange juice, or champagne. 

The airline offers a choice of proteins or a vegan option for the in-flight meal, which comes with a starter, a main dish, and dessert. I was pleasantly surprised by the vegetarian offering. On the flight in, I enjoyed a pita and hummus plate with fresh fruit and a vegetable and rice medley. On the way home, I was served a stewed eggplant starter followed by a tomato-lentil dish that had me completely forgetting the age-old reputation of airline food.

In the “morning” (emulated by the aircraft’s sunrise mood lighting), we were offered a light breakfast snack with options like yogurt, croissants with jam and butter, pastries, and rice pudding. 

Amenities

Each passenger was provided with an airplane pillow, blanket, and a complimentary reusable zippered pouch containing a sleep mask, pair of socks, wired earbuds, and earplugs. Hot scented towels were passed out before the main meal which, combined with the cabin’s cool-tone atmospheric lighting, created an oddly peaceful atmosphere at cruising altitude.

While WiFi isn’t included in the fare, passengers can purchase one of four different plans, which run anywhere from $4 to $29.

Baggage

Premium Economy includes two 50lb checked bags, a carry-on, and a personal item free of charge. This class also includes perks like priority boarding, line-jump (allowing you to skip to the front of the line in security and customs checks), and priority luggage delivery, meaning you get on and off the plan significantly faster. 

Is it Worth the Money?

If you have the budget and want to get to Europe with minimal jetlag and virtually no aches and pains, Premium Economy is more than worth the money. The cabin is spacious, the seats are notably comfortable, and you’re getting the same Premium Economy experience as major carriers for a fraction of the price.

Even if Premium Economy isn’t for you, with French bee’s endless customization options at each class level, you can truly pay as much or as little as you want. 

The post French bee Premium Economy Class Review: Is It Worth It? appeared first on SmarterTravel.