According to diet culture, vacations bring too much fun, indulgences and being “bad,” so it’s necessary to go to extreme measures (like restricting food and excessively exercising) before, during and/or after trips to make sure we are “healthy.” But restriction—including detoxes and cleanses—create physiological stress and can even be dangerous. Food deprivation also cause side effects like lack of focus, irritability, food preoccupation, and slowed metabolism, while excessive exercise can lead to exhaustion, sleep issues, inflammation and injuries.

When you are learning to practice intuitive eating, it can feel daunting to leave your routine and be out in the world, but with it often comes more freedom, ease, presence, and joy, plus better access to that R&R we all need.

Here are 8 tips for practicing intuitive eating while traveling

1. Let go of the notion that you get to be “bad” on vacation, and that you must be “good” before and after

In the diet culture mindset, we are conditioned to believe that we must earn and make up for taking pleasure in eating and having “too much fun.” But this outlook only creates large pendulum swings from restriction before and after trips to “eff it” eating once you’re there, which creates an unstable internal environment and negatively affects metabolism, mood, and emotional regulation. Plus, restrictive practices can lead to missing out on nutritious, cultural, and tasty foods while on the trip.

“On a recent trip to Mexico, the first night we dined there, my plate was full of curry rice, vegetables, chickpeas, pico de gallo and other things that I just don’t get at home as often and they were delicious,” says Bethany Ferguson, RD. “I may have missed out on that experience if I’d been craving other [‘bad’] foods from being ‘good’ before my trip.”

Instead, ditch the dangerous detoxes and try allowing yourself to have the foods you love regularly, including the “unhealthy” (or what I call “fun”) ones. Research shows that eating for pleasure in a balanced way is linked to increased contentment, social bonding, and well-being. Before, during, and after your trip, keep your intake adequate, stable, enjoyable, and balanced—chances are high your mind and body will be in a much better place.

2. Be prepared for changes in your hunger and fullness cues

If you are traveling overseas and/or changing time zones, expect your body to be out of whack at first, which may mean your hunger and fullness cues go awry.

Though it may sound counterintuitive, we need to eat even when our bodies are not communicating as usual. “Eating for practicality while traveling can be a useful tab to prevent getting too hungry later,” says Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES. “Keep snacks with you, try to eat consistently every four hours or so, and avoid skipping meals.”

Since you will be out of your normal routine, changes in schedule, bowel movements, and activity level can also impact your cues. “If you’re more active than normal, or even more sedentary, be sure to cue in and honor what your body is telling you that it needs, even if it’s not your ‘normal’ amount of hunger,” adds Kelsey Kunik, RDN. “You may have to eat when you’re not hungry because the next opportunity you’ll have for a meal is several hours away.”

Essentially, staying nourished with regular meals and snacks (even if cues are dormant) and honoring cues even if different than usual, is practicing a foundational part of intuitive eating (honoring hunger and fullness) while traveling.

3. Let movement be joyful, natural, and optional on your trip

Depending on the type of vacation you go on, movement may naturally fit into your trip. Maybe it’s walking around a new city, hiking up a nearby mountain, or kayaking in the ocean. “Instead of holding yourself to your typical exercise routine, find things to do that are enjoyable experiences, and let that count as your movement,” Kunik suggests.

However, not all vacations need to be active ones, and sometimes our bodies and minds need some true R and R lounging poolside all day or hanging out at the spa. “Vacations are meant to be enjoyable and spontaneous, and a few days of less movement than usual won’t derail any health benefits of the movement you have been doing or progress you’ve made on your fitness goals,” Kunik says.

4. Give yourself permission to experience different cultural traditions

One of my favorite parts about traveling is trying new foods and tasting the flavors of other cultures, and it helped me cultivate a healthier relationship to food.

“When you’re healing your relationship with food, traveling could be a source of joy and excitement to experience new cultures and new foods,” Thomason says. “When we tap into the fun reasons to experience new foods, we may be able to let go of some of our previous restrictions around them overtime.”

Seeing food as more than just fuel and being satisfied by eating experiences is foundational to intuitive eating and can especially be practiced while traveling. You can try a walking food tour, research travel blogs for tips, or ask a local what to eat.

5. Set boundaries around diet talk

In my practice, one of the hardest parts about going on trips for my clients learning intuitive eating is dealing with diet-focused conversations. Comments like “I’m being so ‘bad’ eating this bread and dessert,’” or “I’m going to gain so much weight” are unfortunately normalized, yet can make eating experiences unenjoyable and difficult.

I always suggest setting boundaries with I-statements before the trip even starts. For example, if you go on a trip with your mom who is immersed in diet culture, sit her down beforehand and say something like, “When you talk about food being bad, it makes it harder for me to enjoy the experience because I am working on intuitive eating. On this trip, please leave that type of language off the table.”

You can also set boundaries in the moment if necessary. “[You can] excuse yourself from the conversation, change the subject, or if you feel like it, state your needs, [by saying something like,] ‘I actually feel very neutral about my body in regards to weight, my body deserves to be fed in a way that feels good to me and respected,” Ferguson says.

6. Show your body love and respect

When packing your suitcase, ask yourself, “How do I want to feel?” instead of “How do I want to look?” Bring clothes that make you feel comfortable.

Considering activities and climate, fill your suitcase with clothes and accessories that fit your body well, feel comfortable and express your authentic self. By viewing your body as an instrument requiring care, versus an ornament to be judged, you send your body the message that it’s worthy of care, no matter what.

7. Practice gentle nutrition

Since our bodies have a built-in detoxing system (AKA our kidneys, colon, and liver), we do not need trendy (yet unscientific) cleanses to prepare for or to return from trips. With intuitive eating, you may even notice your body asking for produce sometimes, especially if you take a break from eating it (which is totally okay). In fact, intuitive eating is linked to increased fruit and vegetable intake.

Before, during, and after your trip, I suggest practicing gentle nutrition (one of the intuitive eating principles) instead of detoxes, which includes enjoying an eating pattern focusing on health and pleasure and adding nutritious foods when it makes sense for you. For example, try adding fibrous blueberries to your morning cereal, vitamin-dense kale to your sandwich at lunch, or packing some heart-healthy nuts for the car ride.

If you have a metabolic condition like diabetes or high cholesterol, I recommend working with an intuitive eating, non-diet dietitian who can help tailor gentle nutrition to your needs.

8. Try daily embodiment practices

Embodiment, or being in connection with your body’s present-moment experience, is essential for having interoceptive awareness (or the conscious awareness of bodily sensations), which is positively associated with intuitive eating. Traveling, changing time zones and being out of the daily grind can make embodiment challenging, though.

To help enhance embodiment, I suggest taking a mindful moment each day on vacation to “get in to your body.” While it can be a more traditional form of mindfulness like yoga or meditation, mindful moments can also be brief periods of intentionally engaging one of the far senses (touch, sound, taste, smell, see). For example, dig your bare feet into the grass or sand, listen closely to the ocean waves or morning birdsong or truly taste your morning coffee and croissant.

“During the summertime, maintaining hydration should be a priority,” Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, CPT, reminds us. “This is all the more essential if you are traveling somewhere warm, participating in physical activity, or will be at a higher altitude than what you are used to.”

Ahead, see how she and other dietitians recommend you stay calm, cool, collected, and quenched this summer—no matter where your travels take you.

7 RD-approved tips to stay hydrated while traveling this summer

1. Pack a reusable water bottle

“Carry a water bottle with you at all times and refill it whenever possible to always have water on hand,” Manaker says. While this tip is a no-brainer, it especially comes in handy when you’re flying since you can refill your bottle after clearing security lines—not to mention it’ll save you money at the airport and your destination, reduce plastic waste, and make you less dependent on keeping H2O available once you’re officially in vacation mode.

2. Infuse your water with fruit

Not a huge fan of plain H2O? Please your taste buds with creative, fruit-forward flair. “Carrying a reusable water bottle infused with fruits of your choice—or ice cubes with fruits frozen into them—can add flavor and encourage water consumption,” says Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, author of Eating from Our Roots: 80+ Healthy Home-Cooked Favorites from Cultures Around the World.

Feller’s ice cube suggestion may be easiest for day trips, or even road trips if you’re packing a cooler. However, you can also stock your travel fridge with fruit, infusing it in water overnight so you wake up to a chilled, refreshing, delectably hydrating bev.

3. Munch on hydrating fruits and veggies

ICYMI, water isn’t the be all, end all source of hydration you can rely on. Countless beverages (including my personal fave, iced coffee) can count towards your daily hydration needs, as can a variety of hydrating foods. “Fruits and vegetables can add hydration to your day,” Feller says. “At our practice, we talk to patients about including culturally relevant, affordable, and accessible fruits that they enjoy.”

“Fruits and vegetables can add hydration to your day,” Feller says. “At our practice, we talk to patients about including culturally relevant, affordable, and accessible fruits that they enjoy.”

Feller cites watermelon, cucumbers, and lettuce as some of the top produce items with a high water content. Kiwis and berries, two delicious seasonal fruits, “are around 80 percent water and also good sources of hydration,” she continues. She also recommends reaching for pineapples, mangos, grapes, apples, and citrus fruits. (P.S. Many of these are wonderful options not only for snacks and post-meal desserts, but also for H2O infusions.)

4. Keep electrolyte packets on hand

“Water and electrolytes are both necessary during the heat of summer and travel—especially when it comes to sweating, but also for simple basic human function,” explains Brooke Alpert, MS, RD, CDN. “Water alone often isn’t enough to replenish your body; without proper electrolytes, the water isn’t absorbed as effectively and often you just end up in the bathroom more.”

As such, Alpert recommends stocking up on travel-friendly electrolyte packets to include your summer hydration routine. Her top pick goes to Hydrating Electrolyte Mixes from Cure, which are all natural and contain no added sugar. “When you’re dehydrated, you haven’t just lost water in your cells. You are low on essential minerals like sodium and potassium that your body needs,” she continues. Cure’s flavorful electrolyte packets “replenish these minerals via pink Himalayan salt and coconut water, which will ensure that the water you’re consuming is better absorbed by your body and help retain the hydration.”

5. Limit alcohol when possible

I’m not about to tell you to skip booze if you’d like to enjoy it on your well-earned vacation. That said, it’s best to be mindful of your overall intake particularly where hydration is concerned. “Since alcohol can have dehydrating effects, opt for a mocktail instead of a cocktail in the evening,” Manaker suggests. Or, at the very least, try to pre-hydrate before imbibing or rotate your adult bevs with H2O or sparkling water. Hydration support aside, both can help reduce the chances of waking up with a nasty hangover.

6. Consult your urine to gauge hydration status

Sometimes, you may not even realize you’re dehydrated until adverse symptoms kick in—but routinely checking the color of your urine can help you stay ahead of the game. “In general, your urine output is an excellent indicator of your hydration status,” Feller notes. “Urine that is pale yellow indicates that you are well-hydrated, while urine that is dark or rust-colored—outside of medication use—can be an indicator that you would benefit from more hydration.”

“In general, your urine output is an excellent indicator of your hydration status. Urine that is pale yellow indicates that you are well-hydrated, while urine that is dark or rust-colored—outside of medication use—can be an indicator that you would benefit from more hydration.”

7. Keep track of your water intake

Feller suggests aiming for a minimum of two liters of water a day during the summer months. Adjust as needed based on factors including your urine color, level of activity, and how much you sweat.

“When you sweat, you can lose up to two to three liters of fluid an hour, which is all the more reason you need more fluids and electrolytes,” Alpert adds. Keeping your trusted reusable water bottle in tow can help you track your H2O intake with ease. Simply take care to refill it a certain number of times per day to reach the two-liter threshold.

There’s no reason you should have to toss out the wellness practices you’ve established throughout the year once the temps start to rise, and there’s no need to dread the season’s frenzied pace and packed calendars. You can maintain your daily self-care routines while you enjoy fun summer travel—and (bonus) you can accomplish both sustainably.

Sustainability expert and content creator Jhánneu Roberts believes that self care is an essential part of a sustainable lifestyle. “It’s all connected,” she says. “When we take care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to take care of the planet and inspire others to do the same.” To maintain that commitment to herself and to the environment while she’s on the go, she relies on a mindfulness practice and a simplified packing list.

A few things that always make the list? A small collection of multipurpose cotton goods. Whether it’s a lightweight Turkish towel for morning meditation or a canvas makeup pouch for her summer beauty routine, Roberts loves naturally grown cotton because it’s biodegradable, recyclable, and durable—as in, it can keep up with all her adventuring.

Check out the simple ways she recommends taking your self-care routine on the road, stock up on a few cotton packing essentials, and get ready to travel sustainably, all summer long.

1. Food

Hydrating and feeding her body with plenty of fluids and nourishing foods is key to Roberts’ daily self-care practice. Taking that routine on the go can be challenging, she says, but it’s made easier with reusable items like a large water bottle, food-storage containers, a canvas tote, and cotton napkins.

When she finds herself in a new place, she makes an effort to check out any local farmer’s market she can find. It’s an easy way to travel sustainably and, for Roberts, the experience of connecting with locals and stocking up on gorgeous fruits and veggies is a total self-care win. “Farmers’ markets offer locally grown produce, often with fewer packaging materials and a smaller carbon footprint compared to supermarket goods,” she says. “Supporting local farmers not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also connects you to the community.”

Speaking of family farms, while you might not find a booth filled with cotton plants at the market, choosing naturally farmed cotton over other kinds of fabric is another way to support farmers. So fill your tote with bursting berries, meet a new friend or two, and get to know the place you’re visiting, all in one fell swoop. That’s a healthy serving of self care.

2. Sun

With UV indexes at an all-time high, Roberts considers sunscreen a key step in her summer self-care routine. Take her lead and keep a stash in your bag—but be sure it’s the high-quality stuff. “Look for [reef-safe] and mineral-based sunscreens that are free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate,” she says. “These formulations are better for your skin and the ocean ecosystems you may encounter during your travels.”

Add an additional layer of sun protection with comfy clothes you can wear and re-wear. A bright, easy-to-pack cotton crusher hat will keep your face shaded all day, and a dreamy, crinkly, cotton caftan will keep you cool whether you’re at the beach, enjoying dinner outside, or snuggling up for a summer sleep.

3. Beauty

If a fun skin-care and makeup routine is your definition of self care, well, same. Once you’ve lathered up with planet-friendly sunscreen, swipe on a bit of waterproof mascara and a bright pop of SPF lipstick and get to exploring.

Transport your makeup must-haves in a cotton cosmetic case—extra credit if it doubles as a clutch you can carry for an evening on the town—and be sure to travel with reusable, easy-to-wash makeup towels. “[They’re] not only cost-effective, but they also reduce the amount of waste we generate,” Roberts says. “By making the switch to reusable options, we’re helping to cut down on single-use items and making a positive impact on the planet.”

4. Movement

Roberts tries to minimize car time when she’s traveling, in an effort to reduce her carbon footprint and find meditation in movement. “Whenever possible, choose walking or cycling for shorter distances [and] public transportation for longer trips,” she says. “Carpooling with friends or colleagues is another great option for reducing emissions and sharing the journey.”

With walks and bike rides on the itinerary, comfortable clothes are critical. Consider investing in a pair of neutral and soft wide-leg cotton pants you can dress up or down, and breathable cotton canvas slip-ons that easily transition from day to night.

5. Meditation

Amidst your adventuring, challenge yourself to carve out a daily moment for stillness—because tuning into your mind and body is especially important when you break from your normal routine. That mindfulness is at the core of both self care and sustainable living, Roberts says.

To keep up the habit while you’re on the go, tuck a handmade cotton notebook and a breezy Turkish towel in your suitcase—for gratitude journaling, a morning sit, a farmers’ market list, an afternoon nap, or all of the above. Happy adventuring.

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Why do we feel vacation guilt?

It may sound odd to associate guilt with vacationing, a concept that’s supposed to be carefree and relaxing. Extended paid time off from work isn’t a reality for most Americans, so vacations are rare escapes from too busy routines. This dynamic sets up lofty expectations that can be difficult or even impossible to fulfill—if a vacation is a cherished, but infrequent, experience that falls short, it makes sense that one could feel guilty about not making the most of it.

“To imbue vacation time with the idea of perfection is really self-destructive in many ways because no vacation is going to be perfect,” says clinical psychologist Carla Marie Manly, PhD. No matter how well planned, vacations are always filled with unexpected surprises—weather changes, delayed flights, unexpected conflicts with friends or family, or even a hotel or activity not being as you imagined. Expectations not aligning with reality can lead to disappointment, which is a major facet of guilt.

“To imbue vacation time with the idea of perfection is really self-destructive in many ways because no vacation is going to be perfect.”—clinical psychologist Carla Marie Manly, PhD

Associating a vacation with a specific outcome can also lead to vacation guilt if that doesn’t happen. When most people travel they want to achieve one of four things: relaxation, connection (with friends, family, or new people), reflection, and adventure, according to Lorenzo Norris, MD, associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at George Washington School of Medicine & Health Sciences. But the way in which this happens matters—let’s say you booked a trip to an all-inclusive resort with the express goal of relaxing and recharging by the pool, but found yourself bored and restless instead. Even if you mostly had a relaxing time, you could come home disappointed if that wasn’t your reality 100 percent of the time. Or, perhaps you dipped into your savings to pay for a vacation with friends and you came home not as impressed as you’d hope to.

“If you didn’t achieve it or you didn’t do it the way in which you thought or hoped, that can really get at that guilt or feeling of doing something wrong or letting others down,” says Dr. Norris. “You may get so task-oriented with the vacation that you’re not mindful of the experience.” Because everything wasn’t as good as it could’ve been, or that you’d hoped it be, suddenly it wasn’t valuable at all.

Guilt, which is also linked with depression, comes in when expectations and reality don’t align and when someone blames themselves for something they could’ve done differently. Guilt typically comes along after something has happened and can’t be changed, says Dr. Norris—this fact can make you feel even worse. “The issue of guilt is that it’s usually a day late and a dollar short because whatever has occurred has already occurred, so when you get into that fix-it mode, you can get into a guilt spiral,” he says.

Besides misaligned expectations, banking on a vacation to be the ultimate solve or escape for something you don’t feel good about already—whether it’s your mood or a situation at home, relationships with loved ones, or work—can contribute to vacation guilt, says Dr. Norris. This is another offshoot of setting unrealistic expectations. “You have to be honest and compassionate with yourself to know that, and to not expect the vacation to be this heroic rescue,” he says.

How to combat vacation guilt

Set clear, realistic expectations for the vacation

The best way to avoid vacation guilt in the first place is to set clear, realistic expectations before you leave. Figure out exactly what you want out of the experience—within reason—and orient your itinerary and planning around achieving that. This way, you’re in a better space to handle any challenges or deviations from plans that will inevitably occur.

“If you set very clear goals, you’re very clear about your expectations and can move into the vacation with a healthy mindset where you’re ready to manage the naturally imperfect nature of any vacation,” says Dr. Manly. For example, if you go on a vacation and decide that your main goal is to spend time with your partner, hold that as your baseline—this way, even if there are some delays at an attraction, or a reservation you made fell through, you can still feel pleased that you accomplished something.

Feel your guilt, but heed its lesson and move forward

It’s tempting to just brush guilt under the rug, but both Dr. Norris and Dr. Manly say guilt itself is an important emotion to consider. However, the trouble arises when you stew in it and ruminate. “When guilt is being helpful it tells us something is wrong, inappropriate, or ineffective, so when we look at it we learn the lesson, then we let it go,” says Dr. Manly.

If you find vacation guilt creeping in back at home, both Dr. Norris and Dr. Manly say to allow yourself to feel your feelings for a time. Think about why you feel guilty, and then draw conclusions from those lessons. To actually do this, remember that guilt is a signal of something else. When you’re feeling guilty, Dr. Norris says to “start considering the emotion as a signal and not a fact, and be a little more curious” by asking yourself: are there facts or evidence to back up how I feel? A quick reality check can help stop a guilt spiral. For example, if you came home disappointed that you didn’t see a monument because it was too crowded, was that your fault? Likely not. “Guilt itself is just an emotion, and the question becomes what is it telling you? Examine the facts behind the feeling.

Use those lessons to make plans for the future, and try your best to let go of what’s already happened. For example, maybe you planned a trip to an all-inclusive beach resort and found yourself bored just lying by the pool, or you jam packed your itinerary so full with activities that you didn’t fully enjoy any of them. Examine these feelings, then use them as takeaways for next time, advise Dr. Norris and Dr. Manly. Avoiding all or nothing thinking is important, too—remember that if you got even a little bit of what you wanted out of the trip, it was a success.

Practice gratitude and acknowledge the positives

Practicing gratitude is a healthful practice anyway, but applying it to your vacation guilt can help assuage it. Even if you really had a bad time, expressing gratitude for even going in the first place and acknowledging any positives from the trip may help to mitigate the feelings and add some perspective. Chances are something positive happened, so there’s reason to be happy, thankful, or grateful about something—even something small, like just returning home safely is something to celebrate, says Dr. Norris. It’s all about your mindset.

I was at Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort, in Punta Mita in the Mexican state of Nayarit. Its programming is designed around wellness of body, spirit, and mind, and the temazcal ceremony is one of the most profound offerings. During the first portion of the ceremony—which is designed to create feelings of gratitude, grounding, and rebirth—Mo spoke about Mother Earth. As he did, a crowd of people with similar faces and brown skin tones much like my own appeared in my mind.

I’d been thinking about my Mexican ancestors for many years, seeking out a connection to them through limited family stories and my creative writing. Growing up in the U.S., I didn’t always feel connected to my cultural heritage, partly because the connection itself sometimes felt tenuous; I’m half Mexican-American, and my great-grandfather was the last person of my Mexican family members to be born in Mexico.

As an adult, I began traveling to Mexico in the hopes of better understanding my heritage. One of those trips led me to the temazcal at Naviva, where I felt surrounded by my ancestors, grounded to Mother Earth through the land upon which I sat, and at home in a place where I did not grow up.

Deepening my connection to my cultural heritage as a Mexican-American in Mexico

I was a kid the first time I visited Mexico, crossing the border on foot from Laredo, Texas, where my father’s family hails, to Nuevo Laredo. I can recall the sounds and smells, the bursts of color that didn’t surround me in North Texas where I grew up. As soon as I could travel on my own, I returned to Mexico again and again, seeking places where I could find connection with my cultural heritage and ancestors and deepen my sense of identity.

Over the years, I’ve tasted Mexico through green pozole in Guerrero and stayed in a hacienda supposedly owned by La Malinche at Fiesta Americana Hacienda Galindo. I’ve laid eyes on the oldest cave paintings of North America in the San Borjitas Cave in the Sierra de Guadalupe Mountains and admired beautiful murals by Mexican Mural Renaissance painter José Clemente Orozco throughout Mexico. By canyoning in Jalisco, climbing sand dunes in Baja California Sur, drinking wine made in Guanajuato, and walking on the black beaches of Loreto, I’ve connected to Mexico and my heritage.

“Sometimes, it’s not enough to read about our countries of origin. Sometimes, we need to walk the same paths, eat the same foods, sit underneath the same warm sun as our ancestors.” —Jessica Mohrweis, LPC, therapist

No matter where I’ve gone in Mexico, I’ve felt comfortable, sometimes more so than I do in the United States. According to Texas-based therapist Jessica Mohrweis, LPC, this feeling of belonging is not surprising, given my Mexican-American heritage. “Sometimes, it’s not enough to read about our countries of origin,” she says. “Sometimes, we need to walk the same paths, eat the same foods, sit underneath the same warm sun as our ancestors.”

Travel data shows that these motivations may be particularly strong among people of color. The 2021 MMGY Vistas Latinas study found that 57 percent of Hispanic travelers said they’re more likely to visit a place that embraces Hispanic culture and celebrates Hispanic-owned business contributions. And in 2020, market researcher Mandala Research found that 50 percent of Black travelers ranked Black heritage as very or somewhat important in their choice of a destination.

Feeling safe in Mexico surrounded by people with a similar background

Though my cultural heritage has allowed me to create meaningful connection to my ancestors in Mexico, it also serves a more practical purpose whenever I visit the country: safety in similarity. According to Mohrweis, feeling safe among those with a shared heritage may be another reason why people of color, like myself, commonly travel to places where the locals have similar cultural roots. “Sometimes, we need to feel tethered to a larger community, especially if we are isolated from members of our own communities back home,” she says.

Although I grew up in Texas, which has a large Mexican population, the state is constantly at the center of racist politics and perspectives pertaining to Mexicans and Mexican-Americans. Growing up, people casually used slurs relating to Mexicans. And today, I’m still subjected to microaggressions about my Mexican identity and American nationality. Factor in the border politics and racist laws that target people of Mexican ancestry, and it doesn’t always feel safe to be Mexican-American in Texas or the U.S. Perhaps Mexico has always felt safe to me because I blend in. (Yes, there are admittedly areas in Mexico where safety is of concern, but my safety in the U.S. is no more secure in a movie theater or a mall.)

In Mexico, I’ve been embraced by strangers who are excited to share their culture with someone like me who has lost that familial knowledge and wants to reconnect with my ancestors.

The one thing that has surprised me the most about visiting Mexico is how my insecurities about my heritage seem to fade away. In the U.S., I’m always having to defend my Mexican-American heritage, whether it’s to Anglos who say, “You look Mexican, but I don’t even think of you as Mexican,” or to Latines who admonish me because I don’t speak Spanish fluently. (My grandmother didn’t teach my father because she didn’t want him to be subjected to racism.) However, in Mexico, I’ve been embraced by strangers who are excited to share their culture with someone like me who has lost that familial knowledge and wants to reconnect with my ancestors. And that’s a major reason why I feel so at ease in Mexico.

“Although you are still different—you were born and raised in a completely different cultural context—[when visiting your ancestral country], you might experience a temporary sense of rootedness that feels more profound than in your home country,” says Mohrweis of my sense of belonging in Mexico despite being born and raised in the U.S.

In 2022, I visited Guadalajara, the second largest city in Mexico. My grandfather was the last in my family to visit the region more than 70 years ago when he was a kid. It’s supposedly where my great-grandfather was born and the last place I know my family lived in Mexico. I thrived during my solo trip, staying in haciendas around the city, visiting the nearby city of Tlaquepaque where my grandfather stayed long ago, and spending time in as many art museums and old cathedrals as I could. I ate and drank my way around the city’s gorgeous cafes, had conversations with jewelry makers, LGBTQ+ leaders, chefs, and hotel owners. I didn’t find any of my own family in Guadalajara, but that didn’t matter.

Mohrweis says that, as humans, we are narrative by nature: “We learn through stories, pass along culture through stories, and create our identities [based on the] stories told to us.”

I don’t have many stories about my family in Mexico—what they did or what they were like—and I may never know those stories. But by visiting Mexico and diving into Mexican food, history, and art, I can write my own. Every time I deepen my connection to my family’s cultural heritage in Mexico, I add a new chapter to the book they once began.

“I had never really seen anyone who looked like me in this industry, and I knew becoming a pilot was going to be a trailblazing step,” says Schweitzer, who currently flies for American Airlines (and who you may recognize from the reality TV competition The Mole). “Representation matters, and it’s important for little girls of color to see someone like me in an elite, male-dominated field. If I can do it, so can they.”

Since launching her career, Schweitzer has experienced the many–and at times, literal–ups and downs of pilot life. Amidst long layovers, surprise delays, and unpredictable weather changes, Schweitzer has learned how to hack her health habits to circumvent the exhausting lifestyle that comes with the job.

One of those hacks? Layering up with plenty of SPF before boarding.

Here’s why you should wear sunscreen on a plane

The higher the altitude, the closer our proximity to the sun. When you’re on an airplane, your exposure to the sun’s harmful rays increases, opening up your skin to potential UV damage.

For flight crew members, this repeated exposure to sunlight makes them twice as likely to develop melanoma than the rest of the population. One shocking study found that pilots flying for 56.6 minutes at peak altitude are exposed to the same amount of UV-A carcinogenic radiation exposure as a 20-minute tanning bed session (yeesh!).

“Pilots are always exposed to the sun’s harmful rays,” says Schweitzer. “We have pretty big windows in our flight deck, and it makes our skin more susceptible to skin cancer. I like to carry sun shields with me, I’ll wear efficient sunglasses, and of course, my skin-care routine is major.”

To combat harmful sun exposure and keep her skin hydrated, Schweitzer stacks her daily routine with plenty of SPF. And with travel season officially upon us, we all could stand to learn a few skin-care tips from someone who flies almost daily.

SPF favorites a pilot uses before every flight

Ahead of takeoff, Schweitzer makes sure to apply face sunscreen with at least SPF 30, which is the bare minimum dermatologists recommend for daily use.

“I love Neutrogena SPF 45, and I wear it daily,” she says. “It feels rich, and it goes on evenly without leaving a film.”

On the rare days her skin needs a little extra love, Schweitzer says she’ll use either Exuviance’s Age Reverse Day Repair SPF 30 ($82) or Shiseido’s SPF 42 Sunscreen ($38). The Exuviance sunscreen is loaded with anti-aging ingredients, like retinol and neoglucosamine, while Shiseido brightens skin with an added dose of Vitamin C.

“Both of those products go on flawlessly and smoothly, and they look great under my makeup.”

Neutrogena, Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 45 — $13.00

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Exuviance, Age Reverse Day Repair SPF 30 Face Cream — $82.00

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Shiseido, Urban Environment Vita-Clear Sunscreen SPF 42 — $38.00

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For even more skin protection, Schweitzer says she’ll top her makeup look with an SPF-infused setting powder like the bareMinerals SPF 25 Mineral Veil Setting Powder ($33). This loose powder applies clear and adds an extra layer of UV protection for daytime flights.

bareMinerals, Mineral Veil Setting Powder Broad Spectrum SPF 25 — $33.00

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Because sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, Schweitzer makes sure to re-up with a product that won’t mess up her makeup look.

“For long flights, I’ll use an SPF 50, and every few hours, I’ll use Supergoop’s setting mist,” she says. This ultrafine setting spray packs the UV protection of SPF 40 into every spritz.

Supergoop, (Re)setting Refreshing Mist SPF 40 — $20.00

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How a pilot cares for her skin after flying

Frequent flyers know how taxing and dehydrating long flights can be. After washing her face at the end of the day, Schweitzer likes to use a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum, specifically StriVectin’s Advanced Acid Serum ($79). This glowy serum plumps and hydrates tired skin, all while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

StriVectin, Advanced Acid Hyaluronic Acid Serum — $79.00

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Finally, Schweitzer treats her skin to a restorative night cream. Right now, she’s loving Neutrogena’s Bright Boost Overnight Recovery Gel Cream ($22), an energizing formula packed with retinol, Vitamin C, and neoglucosamine.

Neutrogena, Bright Boost Overnight Recovery Gel Cream — $16.00

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Glamping provides all the mental health benefits of camping and the physical benefits of breathing in non-stop fresh air, but without having to sleep on the ground or learn how to pitch a tent. “You have Airstreams, tents, and cabins that put you right in the middle of nature and allow you to get a good night’s sleep in a comfortable bed, while waking up to the sound of birds and a calming, natural landscape outside your window,” says Taylor Micaela Davis, vice president of brand marketing at AutoCamp.

Sound like something you’d be into? AutoCamp has luxe glamping sites in six locations across some of the most iconic landscapes in the country (plus three more in the works!), many of which are right outside national parks. “The entire AutoCamp experience revolves around setting people up to enjoy all of the various benefits of nature,” Davis says, and with a huge emphasis on community at each location, staying at AutoCamp means you can make new vacay friends to bring along on your outdoor activities like hiking, paddleboarding, or enjoying an al fresco farm-to-table dinner.

Because each destination is jaw-droppingly beautiful, you’ll probably have trouble picking just one to visit—so let us help you decide which one to visit based on your personality. Keep scrolling to find out where you should go, and pack your sneakers for your new favorite hot girl walk location.

Cape Cod for the busy bee

Your workdays are so jam-packed that you don’t have time to daydream, but if you did, you’d be picturing yourself on a beach far away from work emails and Zoom calls. Sound familiar? Then Cape Cod is the destination for you. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into a lobster roll, going for a bike ride on the Shining Sea Bikeway, or laying out on the beach (which is only a 10-minute walk from the AutoCamp site), you’ll be soaking up your time in the sun and reaping all the benefits time in nature can have on helping the body recover from the negative effects of stress. So take in the change of scenery and just relax—no schedule needed.

The Catskills for the creative

Whether you have a knack for creating beautiful things yourself or you can just appreciate talent when you see it, there’s no better place to feel inspired than the breathtaking Catskills mountains. “In true Woodstock fashion, we have a small outdoor venue where we host acoustic music sets, storytelling, and campfire talks,” Davis says. You can explore the funky towns nearby—which are a gold mine of thrift-store finds and live theater performances—and check out the AutoCamp on-property hike that’ll undoubtedly have you reaching for your paintbrush as soon as you return (or will at least provide a naturally awesome Instagram post).

Yosemite for the adventurer

A chill vacation doesn’t interest you—you’re looking for non-stop adventure and lots of opportunities to meet likeminded explorers. You belong at AutoCamp’s Yosemite location. You can spend your days hiking around Yosemite National Park, whitewater rafting, or trying out a guided climbing experience, and meet back at the clubhouse in the evenings for cornhole and happy hour by the fire.

Zion for the planner

If you’re the mom of your friend group (or are an actual mom), Zion is the awe-inspiring destination for you. Why? Because the red-rock scenery is so gorgeous and the options for activities are so vast, this glamping vacation basically plans itself—so you can spend time actually enjoying your time off instead of editing an itinerary. Pack up the minivan and explore Zion National Park, hike Angel’s Landing, or check out the stunning on-location pool. Added bonus? Being in nature promotes a sense of calm and boosts moods, which means a peaceful-yet-adventurous vacation for the whole fam.

Russian River for the foodie

If you never pick a restaurant without looking up the menu first, Russian River is the luxe glamping destination for you—because what’s a vacation without great food (and wine)? Close to one of the best wine regions in the country, you can sip and relax at a wine tasting after days spent exploring charming farmer’s markets, floating aimlessly on the river, and enjoying deliciously fresh farm-to-table dining experiences. The cherry on top? You get to wake up among magnificent soaring redwoods that make the perfect backdrop for a delicious picnic.

Joshua Tree for the dreamer

How can you not be romantic about looking up at a billion twinkling stars? That’s exactly what you’ll get every night in Joshua Tree. “Enjoying nature can be a great way to let your mind recover from mental fatigue that creeps in from all areas of life,” Davis says. With that in mind, you can let this scenic location restore your spirit through beautiful sunrises, vintage shopping, healing ceremonies, complimentary morning yoga, and star parties. You’ll surely have some sweet dreams as you drift off in your Airstream suite.

Ready to go on your own glamping adventure? Use code WG20 to get 20 percent off your entire stay at any AutoCamp location! 

The terms “agritourism” and “farm stay” are often used interchangeably. Whatever vernacular you assign to the purpose-built experience, though, know that this booming part of the ecotourism sector delivers something from which so many of us could benefit: more time outside, and the opportunity to experience an agrarian way of life. And it appears to be here to say: According to market research, the nearly $6 billion market size of agritourism, as of 2021, is predicted to grow at a rate of 11.4 percent through 2030.

“Agritourism is becoming so in demand because of our collective desire to return to a slower, more natural way of life. It ultimately comes down to our well-being.” —Peyton Cypress, Farm Manager, Southall

“Agritourism is becoming so in demand because of our collective desire to return to a slower, more natural way of life. It ultimately comes down to our well-being. What environment is going to make us feel our best? When people start asking themselves these types of questions, many arrive at the idea of a farm with fresh air and beautiful scenery,” says Peyton Cypress, Farm Manager at Southall, in Tennessee. It’s also increasingly popular as a family vacation that teaches kids the importance of agriculture and treating Mother Nature with respect and, of course, lets them interact with adorable animals.

Agritourism is within the nature-centered-vacation canon of glamping, treehouse hotels, and immersive nature experiences, but with more of a focus on getting your hands dirty and learning practical skills in a rural setting. Unlike other types of nature-oriented tourism that are curated to fulfill a vacation fantasy, the agriculture component is the foundation of a true agritourism, and the tourism aspects come second.

That means chores need to be completed—whether that’s feeding chickens, milking cows, pulling weeds, or harvesting crops—and guests have the option to join in, whether by collecting your own eggs for breakfast or pulling potatoes from the ground to make dinner. Hard work also has plenty of payoffs besides a sense of accomplishment—including the serotonin-boosting benefits of getting in touch with nature and animals, seeing where your food actually comes from (maybe even having a hand in that process), and escaping the tech-fueled daily grind.

Farm stays don’t tend toward the super luxurious (with a few noteworthy exceptions). But that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be sleeping in a barn alongside barrels of hay on an agritourism trip. Most places offer comfortable accommodations, ranging from modest rooms with shared bathrooms to beautifully decorated farmhouses. Guests typically also have access to eco-conscious activities (like foraging and horseback riding), farm-to-table dining, and, in some cases, even sustainable spa treatments

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, get to work, and reap the myriad rewards, you might be interested in learning about 10 pastoral properties around the world that stand out in the ever-growing field of agritourism—and will surely plant the seed for your next nature-driven getaway.

10 agritourism farms around the world to know about

1. Liberty Hill Farm (Rochester, Vermont)

Vermont’s first green agritourism enterprise, Liberty Hill Farm, a family-run dairy farm in the picturesque town of Rochester, has been welcoming tourists for nearly 40 years, many of whom return many times over to milk cows, bottle-feed calves, and go hiking in Green Mountain National Forest. The hearty breakfast of farm-fresh eggs and cheese, as well as a home-cooked dinner keep agritourists properly fueled. After a day filled with outdoor activities, guests can watch the sunset from a rocking chair on the porch and catch some quality zzzs in a cozy room inside the 1825-built Greek Revival main house.

2. Beach Plum Farm (Cape May, New Jersey)

Drive two miles west of historic downtown Cape May and you’ll find Beach Plum Farm. To reap grounding benefits of fostering a deeper connection to nature and farm life, chores here include feeding animals, collecting eggs, planting, and harvesting. There are interactive classes on topics such as beekeeping and flower-arranging in season. The property is also well known for farm-to-table dinners. Besides hands-on educational experiences, enjoying the fresh air, and eating delicious food, guests have the opportunity to snooze soundly in cottages and hemlock beam barns.

3. Babylonstoren (Simondium, South Africa)

One of the oldest Cape Dutch farms in South Africa, Babylonstoren has a huge garden with vegetables, stone fruits, citrus, herbs, and even a prickly pear maze. Gardener-led walking tours to see the plants, bees, ducks, and chickens are available.

Babel, an old cowshed turned farm-to-fork restaurant, boasts one of the best and most bountiful breakfast spreads ever. Expect house-made granola, wood-fired country bread, hand-churned butter, pressed juices, and hyperlocal honey. Guests can hunker down in cottages with fireplaces and clawfoot tubs. Bathrooms here are stocked with hand-picked aromatherapy herbs. And nature-driven spa treatments round out the wellness offerings.

4. Southall (Franklin, Tennessee)

For travelers who crave a little luxury, Southall is an upscale farm resort not too far outside of Nashville worth checking out. The picturesque property offers gardens, greenhouses, a lake, apiaries, forest trails, and refined accommodations that make it an extremely relaxing atmosphere for stressed-out city dwellers to learn about and reconnect with nature. The farm-to-table experience ranks among the highlights for foodies keen to understand the journey from ground to plate—and then taste the proverbial fruits of their labors, as prepared by a talented chef. Many folks also gravitate toward pollinator programming that includes bee-hive tours and honey tastings.

5. Beltane Ranch (Glen Ellen, California)

Sonoma continues to lead the regenerative agriculture charge in the United States. Beltane Ranch, a sixth-generation operation in Glen Ellen, stands at the forefront of the movement. Efforts—which go well beyond sustainably to restorative practices that will benefit the land for generations—include using free-range chickens for pest control, composting initiatives, maintaining wildlife corridors, planting cover crops, and employing sheep (aka “woolly weeders”) to promote soil fertility. Besides the applaud-worthy ecological endeavors, this 105-acre agricultural preserve is a wonderful place to unwind under the shade of ancient oaks, stroll through the vineyards and heirloom gardens, sip estate-grown wine, sample olive oil, and rest in a landmark inn.

6. São Lourenço do Barrocal (Alentejo, Portugal)

Another plush yet pastoral choice, São Lourenço do Barroca is a family-operated agritourism that dates back more than 200 years. The sprawling plot comprises a 19th-century farmhouse, spa, stables, scenic trails, a winery, an organic garden, and a farm-to-table restaurant that sources vegetables, fruits, and olive oil grown and produced right on-site. Guests have the opportunity to participate in a spate of activities, such as horseback riding, cycling, bird-watching, and stargazing (the estate sits within the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve). Overnight options include rooms, suites, and cottages—all refurbished, but still true to traditional craftsmanship with elements like terracotta floors.

7. Tabula Rasa Farms (Carlton, Oregon)

Situated in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Tabula Rasa Farms is rooted in sustainability and respect for the land and its creatures. It’s well regarded for humane, grass-fed beef, heritage-breed pork, and pasture-raised laying hens. The plant-based set will find plenty to satisfy thanks to the regenerative approach to agriculture that yields fresh, flavorful vegetables. Farms tours to meet all animals, learn about rotational grazing, and witness water conservation efforts first-hand are a huge hit. For overnight guests, there’s a hilltop farmhouse with sweeping vistas and a fitness center.

8. EBBIO (Tuscany, Italy)

EBBIO, an organic and sustainable farmhouse surrounded by an evergreen forest in Tuscany, is beloved among visitors who love foraging for wild asparagus and edible flowers. Truffle hunts lure travelers between September and November. With essential-oil making, cooking classes, jam workshops, art therapy, horseback riding, and farm chores like feeding chickens, the enriching on-site activities never seem to end. The ecologically oriented estate also hosts yoga retreats.

9. Mountain Goat Lodge (Salida, Colorado)

Tucked away on 20 acres at the foot of the Sawatch Mountain Range in the high desert of Colorado, Mountain Goat Lodge invites visitors to interact with dairy goats (and even bottle-feed kids). More than just simply looking adorable and bringing a smile to guests’ faces, these cute critters supply milk for housemade Greek-style yogurt, chevre, fresh mozzarella, feta, and paneer—all of which is up for grabs at breakfast. The cheese-making workshops are wildly popular. Guests can also learn new skills to bring back home by taking classes on raising backyard chickens and goat husbandry. When it’s time to call it a night, cozy rooms and suites await.

10. Cucumbi Farm (Alentejo, Portugal)

A soulful reflection of the agrarian roots and spirit of Alentejo, every aspect of Cucumbi Farm ties to the untouched region it calls home. It’s rustic and relaxing, with an emphasis on returning to simplicity. There are expansive fields to explore, crops to harvest, sheep and chickens to feed, and a saltwater pool to cool off in between chores and strolling the enchanting grounds. While the whitewashed apartments and suites—which don’t have TVs in order to help guests fully embrace the slower pace and unplugged nature of things—are all named after animals that reside on the herdade.

That’s because the new container can cause the sunscreen to degrade, making it less effective, explains Michelle Wong, PhD, a cosmetic chemist in Sydney, Australia. And since the point of SPF is to protect your skin, the last thing you want to do is compromise its efficacy—which, yes, can happen over the course of a quick weekend trip. For example, “a cosmetic scientist Ava Perkins tested some mineral sunscreens and found that it only took a few days for some of the samples to harden, so changes can happen quite quickly,” says Dr. Wong.

 

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Learn about the three different reasons why putting your sunscreen in a travel container is a big no-no, and browse a few travel-friendly (and Amazon Prime-eligible!) sunscreen options.

Why you should never decant your sunscreen

1. It can react with the container

“Lots of ingredients in sunscreens are good solvents, so they can often react with plastics or soak into it,” says Dr. Wong. “This means what’s left in the sunscreen lotion will be different, and how it spreads on the skin will change. So you might not end up with the same level of protection as before.”

2. It doesn’t have as good of protection against sunlight and air

“The container your sunscreen came in might be designed to protect the sunscreen from air and light, so the new container might not work as well,” says Dr. Wong. “The light can break down some of the ingredients or cause separation of the emulsion, which means the sunscreen might not protect as well as it should.”

3. You can potentially contaminate the sunscreen

Pulling out a dusty container and swishing around some hot water isn’t enough to prep a travel container for SPF. That’s because any microbes present also have the power to degrade your sunscreen’s efficacy. “As well as potential reactions and changing the composition of the sunscreen, putting your sunscreen in a travel container can introduce microbes that might contaminate the sunscreen.”

5 travel-friendly sunscreen options

EltaMD, UV Stick Face and Body Sunscreen, SPF 50+ — $35.00

IMO, the best travel skin-care options are stick formulas. They’re totally solid, meaning they’re measured in ounces, not fluid ounces, so they don’t count toward your liquid quota. This stick from EltaMD is a mineral sunscreen made for the face and body that provides over SPF 50 protection.

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Coola Organic, Refreshing Water Stick Face Moisturizer with SPF 50 — $30.00

If you prefer chemical formulas over mineral ones, this stick from Coola is perfect. It provides SPF 50 protection with a totally clear and hydrating finish. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid and coconut water so it goes on cool and slick, feeling amazing on skin that’s hot from the sun. Plus, it has a proprietary blend of antioxidants and plant-derived actives that help protect your skin from blue light.

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Kinfield, Cloud Cover Mineral Body Sunscreen with Broad-Spectrum SPF 35 — $36.00

If you want a traditional lotion, this one from Kinfield is perfect. Weighing in right at the TSA-approved 3.4 fl oz, you’ll have a full bottle of water-resistant, reef-safe mineral sunscreen with SPF 35 protection. As a mineral sunscreen, it has a bit of a white cast when applied but rubs into the skin to become nearly invisible. It also has hydrating glycerin and soothing aloe.

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Neutrogena, Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant and Non-Greasy Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 70 — $10.00

If you want to up your protection, reach for this chemical sunscreen from Neutrogena that’s got SPF 70 protection. Because it’s a chemical formulation, it’s totally sheer so you don’t have to worry about any white cast. Plus, it’s lightweight and won’t leave your skin feeling greasy.

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Supergoop!, Sunnyscreen 100% Mineral Spray SPF 50 Spray for Babies + Kiddos — $28.00

If you’re traveling with kids (or just like an SPF spritz yourself), keep this Supergoop! speay on hand. It’s a 100 percent mineral formula designed for kids and babies. It’s free of potentially irritating ingredients like silicones, parabens, and fragrance, and is easy to apply (and reapply, and reapply).

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While both terms technically mean the same thing—time spent away from home—there are vast differences between the lived reality of each. Typically, a trip is travel time where you are still responsible for major daily tasks (whether that’s work- or family-related), and you may or may not have control over the destination and itinerary. So even if your boss is sending you to Tokyo for five days, all expenses paid, you’ll probably spend almost all of that time working in a conference room instead of hitting up the udon spot you’ve been stalking on Instagram. That’s a trip.

A vacation, on the other hand, is time dedicated to pure relaxation, where you are in charge of your actions and locales. “A vacation is going away for pleasure when you can be 100 percent selfish with your time,” says Lora Rosenblum, who works in health care and often travels to conferences and to meet clients and far-flung co-workers.

But, if you’re in a situation where a trip is all you can swing or the only plan in your future for any number of reasons, does that mean you’re not able to reap the feel-good benefits that vacations stand to offer?

The sneaky mental health impact of taking a trip rather than a vacation

The differences separating a trip versus vacation may seem pretty distinct on paper. But oftentimes, trips can masquerade as vacation. Exhibit A: Your best friend’s bachelorette party to New Orleans, where, despite the fact that you’re downing hurricanes and dancing on Frenchmen Street, you still don’t get to decide with full autonomy where your hard-earned dollars are spent or with whom you spend time. Exhibit B: A family reunion with your in-laws, where you and your children are expected to be present at every single event, bathed and dressed to perfection.

“Trips often leave people feeling more tired because they don’t usually leave time and space to do what you want or need, as other people’s wants and needs come first.” —Heidi McBain, LMFT

This might sound like splitting hairs, but there is a mental health implication to the trip versus vacation debate. “Trips often leave people feeling more tired because they don’t usually leave time and space to do what you want or need, as other people’s wants and needs come first,” says Heidi McBain, LMFT, a licensed therapist in Texas. “This may leave you feeling like you need a ‘real’ vacation once you’re home from this trip.” But if all of your hard-earned vacation days are used up going on what amounts to trip after trip, you’re less likely to achieve that sense of time off.

None of this is to say that a trip can’t have moments that are fun, rewarding, or even relaxing. But it does mean that you are allowed to feel a teensy bit (or even a lot bit) frustrated or exhausted when you return from what you hoped would be a vacation and don’t feel recharged. And there are certainly cases when you really do believe upcoming time away will be a bona fide vacation, only to learn in real time that it’s just a trip.

For example, having a “real” vacation can be particularly challenging for parents, particularly new ones. The old adage is that every travel experience with young children is considered a trip because the normal daily responsibilities of parenting still apply. “You are parenting in a different location and, quite frankly, that’s harder than life at home,” says Chambers. (Think: enforcing bedtime while adjusting to a different time zone, or having routines inherently disrupted by plane or car travel). And you certainly don’t get to be fully selfish with your time when traveling with your kids.

“Many parents make the mistake of doing too much or going too big, trying to cram it all in to get the most of your time away,” says Wendy Burk, CEO and founder of Cadence, a corporate travel agency. “It’s understandable, especially if you’re only getting one vacation a year. Simply being out of your comfort zone can be stressful, even if it’s a beautiful tropical island. Trying to see everything just adds to the feeling of overwhelm.”

How to optimize vacations so they don’t feel like trips

Sometimes, the trip-disguised-as-vacation is unavoidable, like when traveling with young kids or the aforementioned family reunion. But there are things you can do to still make the best of your time away and maximize the relaxation potential for you and those with whom you’re traveling.

Chambers says there are very specific ways to ensure that parents can still have a vacation while traveling with kids. “It’s all about going to a hotel that makes things easy for you. It doesn’t have to be a fancy hotel, it just has to have a hotel that has amenities like a body of water and a play structure,” she says. She hasn’t personally found vacation home rentals like AirBnbs conducive to the vacation mindset “because then you’re still expected to cook and clean. You’re basically just picking up your life and putting it in a different location, even if that location has a beach.”

Erina Pindar, COO and managing partner at SmartFlyer, a full-service luxury travel agency, recommends booking a resort experience that has on-site activities and kids clubs for little ones. “While they are busy having fun, you can rest assured that you’re just steps away enjoying the spa or relaxing poolside, just in case you’re needed.”

If you’re not at a structured resort, try Chambers’s “plop” method, which entails waking up and packing up every single thing you need with you for the day, then heading straight to the beach, pool, or park and “plopping” your stuff there for the entire day. “Bring [your kid’s] pillow, their piggy, whatever you need to sleep and do not plan to leave until dinnertime,” she says. Ideally, she adds, you’re staying at a hotel where you can order food right to your locale; bringing along a picnic with PB&Js for the kids also does the job. This way, she says, you lessen the amount of times you have to transition into another activity—which can be chaotic even in the best of times.

“Creating space for personal time is important not just for you but for everyone on the trip.” —Erina Pindar, COO and managing partner, SmartFlyer

Granted, setting up shop at a hotel with major amenities isn’t the most accessible or affordable option. Even so Chambers argues that spending four days at a relaxing destination where you’ve budgeted to purchase all your meals—instead of a seven-day trip where you plan to make all your meals or travel far to your daily activities—may be worth it for the relaxation vibes. “You’re gonna be so much happier if you can make your life as easy as possible,” she says.

Chambers employed her “plop” mindset on a recent getaway to Hawaii with friends, where she took two of her children but her husband stayed home with their third. “I was unplugged and on vacation because we didn’t try that hard. We didn’t try to hike all the volcanoes. We didn’t go whale watching. We plopped on the beach.”

But these vacations may still feel trip-esque because you’re still catering to others’ needs before your own, even if it’s to make things more enjoyable for everyone. In order to get a few pure vacation-like moments out of a trip, “making sure to set time aside in advance for a break in the day is necessary,” Pindar says. “Creating space for personal time is important not just for you but for everyone on the trip.”

If you’re a parent, that might mean splurging on a babysitter for an evening so you can have a date night, or asking your partner to watch the kids so you can get a massage, exercise, or go on a solo excursion. If you’re traveling with other family members or big groups, try doing a “pre-trip call to go over the itinerary and get all the questions out of the way and ensure everyone is on the same page,” says Pindar. This addresses any potential misunderstandings about how much time you all expect to do activities together versus on your own.

Burk agrees: “Find common things you can do together so you get that bonding experience, but don’t be afraid to make time for yourself, too. Vacation is personal, and what pleases one very rarely will please another. Think of it like putting on your oxygen mask. You have to put yours on first before you can help others. So, don’t be afraid to take care of you, so you can get back to fully enjoying the company around you.”

Trips can have vacation aspects, too

Similarly, even when you’re on a very obvious not-vacation trip, “you can carve out time to make moments of a trip feel like a vacation,” says Rosenblum. “For example, if I’m on a work trip to a warm place and my work obligations are over, I’ll spend pre-flight hours by the pool or wandering around a new city. When we travel for weddings, my husband and I try spending time doing things we’d prioritize on vacation, like walking with no agenda or renting a fun car.”

Pindar suggests tacking on a few days to the beginning of a work or obligated trip, if it’s financially feasible. “Arriving a few days prior to the meeting or event to explore a city is always a great way to experience the vacation mindset. In some cases, arriving early also allows you to ease into a new time zone which, as a bonus, makes your trip more productive.

McBain also suggests making time to exercise or meditate during the trip itself, too. “Consider ways that you can nicely prioritize what you want and need through clear boundary-setting with others, even when other people have different expectations around your time,” she says.

There are small ways to tweak your perspective in order to enter vacation mode, too, says Burk. “Take a walk without your phone. Make it a point to learn something new about the city you are in, or visit a local landmark. Even the most boring business trip can become an exciting leisure trip if you shift your mindset about what you want to do and get from the experience, and work around your set agenda to find the white space to explore or discover something new.”

Recently, Chambers and her husband were discussing what kind of travel they might get up to over the summer. Italy was on the table. Ireland, too. But after taking the most-definitely-a-trip-not-a-vacation to New York, they realized they wanted to prioritize relaxation as a family. So they decided another “plop” vacation was in their future instead. “Italy will be so much more enjoyable when my kids are not in a plop phase,” she says. Until then, patience and “plop” are in order.

I’d gotten the opportunity to run the London Marathon last month as a guest of The Westin London City, since Westin Hotels & Resorts is the new official partner hotel of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Because it was my first chance to get out of the country in almost five years (thanks to grad school, a pandemic, and a baby), I decided to take advantage and bring along my husband and 10-month-old for a full-on, 10-day trip.

This wasn’t my first overseas racing rodeo. Back before life got in the way of our wanderlust, my husband and I used to run a couple out-of-town marathons or ultramarathons each year. We learned that traveling for a race can be a fantastic way to see a new place while doing something we love.

But planning a “run-cation,” as we nerdy runners sometimes call it, also requires some tricky logistics. Here are nine strategies that I’ve either picked up over the years or learned more recently from global RunWestin concierge Chris Heuisler.

1. Decide how important your race performance is to you

A ‘run-cation’ has two parts: the race, and the vacation. But how much emphasis gets put on each component can vary based on what you really care about.

“Know why you’re there and what you want out of the experience,” says Heuisler. Maybe you’re after a PR, or maybe you just want an excuse to travel. Maybe it’s something in between. Clarifying your priorities will help you make the best decisions about how to plan your trip—in particular, how seriously you’ll want to take the days leading up to the race.

2. Arrive early enough to adjust and avoid travel stress

Most people can’t fully relax into vacation mode until after their race is over, so you want to plan a run-cation so that the running happens near the start. Yet you also don’t want to cut it so tight that travel delays make you miss bib pickup, or the race altogether. (My husband and I once flew to Kansas City only to land after the race had already ended… Not ideal.) Also, if you’re heading to a new time zone, giving your body time to adjust can help you have a better race.

That’s why Heuisler—who’s currently on his own quest to run a marathon in all 50 states—suggests aiming to arrive 36 to 48 hours before the race. “I think what that does for me is I don’t feel as stressed,” he says. “I’m trying to account for airport delays, there could be problems getting into my hotel. I err on the side of caution if my schedule allows for it.”

3. Plan to be off your feet as much as you can before the race

If racing well is the primary goal of your trip, save your sightseeing until after you cross that finish line. Instead, get outside (“direct daylight is a much better way to kick jet lag than a nap,” points out Heuisler), pick up your bib, do a shakeout run, then just relax. Heuisler says the day before a marathon is actually his favorite day of training. “Ideally I’ll just kick my feet up and carbo load, watch some Netflix, some sports, and stretch and massage my legs so that I wake up feeling pretty fresh,” he says.

But if you’re most looking forward to exploring a new place, being stuck in your hotel room for a day or two until the race can feel super frustrating. Heuisler’s advice? Go out and see some sights, just take it easy. “If you’re hydrating, you’re taking care of yourself, I would encourage you to not overthink it,” he says. “Take the elevator, take the escalator and don’t feel bad about it.”

You can still be a tourist without overly-taxing your legs: Take a bus or boat tour, or go see a show or a sports game (with seats). In London, I spent the afternoon before the marathon taking advantage of The Westin London City’s spa, relaxing between the jacuzzi, the sauna, and the steam room—definitely something I can’t do at home, which made it feel like a solid vacation activity.

4. Control the controllable

Both in racing and in travel, there’s a lot that’s out of your hands. “It’s really easy for runners to be like, Oh my god, did you see the weather report?” says Heuisler. But no matter how many times you check the app, you can’t change what it says. What you can do is be prepared, and pack everything for each weather scenario predicted.

In the same vein, you can’t avoid traffic or travel delays, but you can give yourself enough time to get to the race so that you don’t have any anxiety that you’ll miss it. One of the best pieces of advice Heuisler gave me was, “Don’t get your heart rate up before the race.” Travel mishaps happen, so do what you need to arrive at your destination and the race itself without stressing out.

5. Chat up some local runners

The night after we landed in London, we went to an opening party for the new Tracksmith store. A couple friends from home in Boston (where the brand is based) were there, but the best part was talking with some of the London-based runners.

Getting to know locals is always one of the best parts of traveling, and when they’re runners—one of our kind!—it’s even more fun. We got some insights about the London run culture, and insider tips on the marathon course that would never be posted on a race website, like where to expect the crowds to thin out, and the best places for my husband to watch. Another local I met the next day at a shakeout run gave some top-notch neighborhood pub recommendations.

6. Err on the side of overpacking—but avoid checking a bag

If the weather forecast has been flip-flopping, do yourself a favor and pack for all scenarios. I had three possible tops to wear in London, TBH. “Just remember that if you’re overpacking for a marathon, it means you probably can’t buy much,” says Heuisler. That is—unless you’re also packing throwaways just to keep you warm on your way to the start line.

Heuisler starts his packing with what he needs for the race. “So I will not forget anything that I need for race day, no matter what,” he says. Next, he’ll think through what he needs for the day before the race (mainly, comfy sweats and socks). “And then after that, if I forgot anything else, I’ll live with it,” he says.

Personally, as a minimalist packer, I love anything that does double duty, like my Cep tall compression socks I can wear on the plane and after the race, or my Spibelt that I can stash my phone in while running and while touring the sights so I don’t have to lug around a purse. I also swear by merino wool tops so my suitcase doesn’t get stinky (since merino is naturally odor-resistant). For London, I put both a tee from Unbound Merino and my favorite long-sleeve, the Brighton base layer from Tracksmith, in my backpack since both can work for running and just hanging out.

This two-for-one strategy helps me keep things light enough that I only need a carry-on. If you do check a bag though, just be sure to keep any race essentials (like your shoes!) on the airplane with you just in case luggage gets lost.

Cep Allday Merino Tall Compression Socks — $45.00

These compression socks help my legs feel fresher faster—whether after a multi-hour plane flight or a multi-hour marathon.

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Spibelt — $27.00

Since this running belt takes up so little room in a suitcase, even if I don’t end up using it, I’m not mad about packing it.

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Unbound Merino T-Shirt — $85.00

Versatile enough to wear under a blazer for dinner out or throw on for a comfortable run, this simple black tee has become a go-to travel companion.

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Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer — $88.00

My Brighton Base Layer pretty much always comes with me (unless I’m heading somewhere super hot). It’s equally soft and sturdy, warm and breathable.

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7. If you have a picky stomach, pack familiar foods

Runners can be particular about what they eat leading up to a race. For years, the only breakfast I could have before a big race was a bagel and peanut butter—which I’ve carted with me to Istanbul and Havana. I’ve since grown a bit more flexible, but I still make sure my backpack has plenty of stomach-friendly snacks I can rely on, especially if I’m not sure what options I’m going to be able to find at my destination.

For London, I stocked up on Honey Stinger Oat + Honey bars, which I find easy on the GI tract, with a solid dose of carbs to fuel my miles, and just enough protein to fill me up without weighing me down. I snacked on one per day before the race, and also brought one to the start line along with a banana I’d grabbed from The Westin, which hands out snack packs on marathon day for both runners and supporters.

Honey Stinger Oat + Honey Bars (12 pack) — $33.00

I like the original and the chocolate chocolate chip flavors; just depends on my mood. Both sit well in my stomach before a hard run.

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8. Spend the day after on active recovery

After you’ve run your race, one of the best ways to help your body recover the next day is by going for a walk, and doing some of that sightseeing you might have been putting off.

It’s also worth treating yourself. “Scheduling a massage is one of the best rewards you can give yourself,” says Heuisler. “And I know it can be expensive and I know it’s premium, but remember you just spent probably 12 to 16 weeks preparing for a 26.2 mile race.”

This was actually the first time I got a post-race massage, and now I want it to be part of my marathon routine every time. (Having the massage right inside The Westin London City’s spa was especially luxurious since afterwards, I just stuck on slippers and hopped in the elevator right up to my room.)

At the very least, I plan to stay on top of my post-race self-care. The WestinWORKOUT Gear Lending kits include, among other things, a yoga mat and a Hypervolt Go 2 massage gun. Having these right in my hotel room got me to gently stretch out and massage my super-sore quads so my body didn’t totally stiffen up like the Tin Man.

9. Skip your runs for the rest of the week

As a runner, one of my favorite ways to see a new place is by running through it. I was even a running tour guide for a few years because I think it’s such a great way to travel! But after a long race like a marathon, give your body the break it needs to recover.

“I think a lot of people go back out too soon. And I really, really caution against that,” says Heuisler. Spend the rest of your trip on other ways to enjoy the destination—you can still walk or hike, bike or kayak. Or take cabs everywhere. You do you. Especially after a big race, you deserve it.

The reason our digestion can get so messed up from travel is because our normal routines get thrown off. “Often on vacation, people may not follow the same routines they do at home. They may not take the same supplements, drink the same warm beverages, or sit for 15 minutes scrolling on their phone as they sip tea or coffee. These seemingly insignificant patterns set the body up on a schedule for consistent bowel movements,” Caroline Cederquist, MD, a board certified physician, previously told Well+Good.

And since “travel, whether it be airlines or via car/train where we are sitting down more and moving less tends to cause more digestive stagnancy, it leads to trapped gas, bloating, and constipation,” says Megan Gerber, RD, LD, IFNCP, CGN, a certified gastroenterology nutritionist and functional registered dietitian.

It’s rare to find a spot on the map that has a variety of good dining options, let alone restaurants that have gut-friendly foods. So when I got the opportunity to stay at the Sandals Royal Curaçao Resort last month to learn about their off-site restaurant dining program, I was over the moon.

About Sandals Royal Curaçao Resort

Opening its doors last June 2022, Sandals Royal Curaçao is an all-inclusive resort that’s nestled on 44 acres of land along the Spanish Water Bay with rooms averaging between $3,300 and $4,500 for a five-day stay for most rooms (this depends on time of year you visit). For suite and bungalow pricing, you can visit the site here. This bay-side resort has a whopping 350 rooms and suites—all of which overlook luscious palm trees, a two-level infinity pool, and views of the bay’s turquoise blue waters. While Sandals Royal Curaçao is a romantic paradise, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that it’s a food lover’s destination, too.

Perhaps my favorite part of the resort is its new off-site restaurant program, which takes guests off of the property to explore and support local restaurants on the island (a $250 voucher is available for guests who book for seven or more nights in a butler suite or diamond level category and roundtrip transfers are included). I was lucky to dine at one of the eight partner restaurants, Nultwintig, which serves up contemporary Asian cuisine, but there are seven other eateries, from Kome’s wood-fired meats to Mosa Cana Bar and Kitchen, serving up Latin and Caribbean fare.

The resort also boasts a whopping eight gourmet restaurants where you’ll find everything from sushi rolls (made from fresh tuna, eel, and other sources of fish) at Gatsu Gatsu, the resort’s Japanese restaurant, to seafood paella at one of the three beachside food trucks. Brought to you by culinary-trained master chefs, each dish is crafted using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. It really is food heaven!

What I ate

The resort kept me well-fed, and I felt lucky to have had the opportunity to dine in at seven of the eight on-site restaurants: Butch’s (steak and seafood), Kanaal (cafe), Aolos (Mediterranean), Gatsu Gatsu (sushi), Pietra (Italian), and Vincent (modern European). A tip: some restaurants require reservations, so it’s a good idea to book early to reserve the one you want. While most of the breakfast spots reflected traditional American breakfast (think: eggs, bacon, and hash browns), I appreciated the variety of lunch and dinner options of Asian fusion, Caribbean delights, Italian, Mediterranean, and more.

At Nultwintig, the off-site restaurant, I was served a three-course meal, all of which was filled with RD-approved and gut-enriching ingredients. For starters, I ordered a shrimp carpaccio appetizer topped with coconut puree, cilantro, Spanish peppers, and mandarins. “Mandarins offer a rich source of vitamin C and fiber (both soluble and insoluble), both of which are gut-supportive,” says Samantha Schleiger, MS, RDN, CD, CLT, ITNCP, an integrative and functional medicine dietitian based in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. The soluble fiber forms of the mandarin “forms a gel in the digestive tract, then draws water into the gut to help soften stool, helping to ease bowel movements.”

I was also able to snack off of my plus one’s appetizer: ceviche marinated in citrus juices, lychee, coriander, and topped with plantain chips. Plantains are a great source of potassium, fiber, and vitamin A and C and support healthy digestion, according to Schleiger. On the other hand, coriander is a carminative herb that “helps with bloating and gas by helping to ‘move things along’ and promoting regular bowel movements,” says Gerber. For the entree, I tried wild rice and tuna yellow curry infused with fried okra—containing polyphenols, which have been shown to support commensal bacteria in the gut—and mushrooms to fuel the good bacteria.

Of course, I had to order yuca fries. Made from cassava, these crispy sticks offer a rich-source of fiber, “which is well known to support overall gut health,” says Schleiger. On occasion, I’d have a glass of red wine. Studies show that little to moderate red wine consumption can improve levels of beneficial gut bacteria, delivering more favorable gut microbiomes (it really gets things moving).

What I noticed after my meals

This might be TMI, but after all of the meals I had on- and off-site, I was able to use the bathroom with ease, noticing softer stools and my bowel movements working just as effectively, if not faster, as if I were at home. Not only did I leave the island more relaxed, I developed a newfound appreciation for herbs, spices like coriander, and how to better utilize ingredients like okra and mandarins in my main meals. Albeit small, these garnishes and toppings had a mighty impact on my GI health. Now, I’m a firm believer that travel and gut health can work in tandem. What probably also helped? The level of relaxation I was able to achieve at the resort (now that’s a no-brainer).

For more information about Sandals Royal Curaçao’s accommodations and pricing, visit their website here.

It’s key to pinpoint the qualities of an ideal travel companion because the same aspects of travel that make it worthwhile and memorable—unexpected adventures and misadventures, exposure to different cultures and people, and extended time with friends and loved ones—can also lead to friction and tension in the wrong company. Knowing your travel soul mate, though, can make the experience fun and memorable.

Why a lot of your friends might not be the ideal travel companion

Finding someone you enjoy traveling with is much like dating because it’s all about compatibility, says counselor Alexandra Cromer, LPC. But, your ideal travel companion doesn’t need to be someone you’re close with in your daily life. In fact, many friendships won’t lend themselves to travel companionship.

Taking a trip with an ill-matched travel buddy opens you up to the risk of shifting your own expectations to accommodate theirs, which can detract from your own experience.

Think about it: Going on a vacation stands to bring up all sorts of scenarios that aren’t present during, say, a lunch date or a catch-up phone call. So even if you get along great with a friend in day-to-day life, it may not translate well to a trip. Having  sustained contact with a travel companion for the duration of your trip exposes you to more of their habits and foibles, which creates more opportunity for disagreements. And taking a trip with an ill-matched travel buddy opens you up to the risk of shifting your own expectations to accommodate theirs, which can detract from your own experience.

For example, you may not have an issue with a friend who is not great at adjusting to unexpected circumstances at home (you may not even know this about them!). But this quality could stir up problems when dealing with all the curveballs traveling, in particular, throws. “It might be convenient to travel with your best friend,” says Cromer. “But the reality is that some people [are just incompatible].” she says.

What to look for in a could-be travel buddy

It may sound counterintuitive, but Cromer says people with whom you aren’t close, in particular, can be a great travel companions. You can evaluate this person without extra pressures and expectations you might place on a close friend, and also, someone with whom you’re not that close may be better able to communicate directly about what they want you and also respect your boundaries.

So where do you find these people, if not in your immediate friend group? Cromer suggests looking at social media to see if any acquaintances seem to enjoy traveling and doing the same things you like to do, and also turning to local interest groups.

For example, Cromer says some of her clients in Richmond, Virginia, who met through a walking group have started taking local day trips to Washington, D.C. to explore their shared interest of checking out new coffee shops. Tapping your community beyond your immediate friend group can surface people who have the same interests you do, which could help uncover your ideal travel buddy.

You don’t need to share the same habits or have identical interests, but rather mutual grounding principles and general outlooks will help ensure everyone has a great time. Read on for four qualities of an ideal travel companion.

4 qualities of an ideal travel companion

1. They’re flexible and willing to compromise

Flexibility is a key quality for a good travel buddy. Someone who can rebound from setbacks—like bad weather leading to a canceled activity—and adjust to unexpected circumstances will make the headaches that come with traveling easier to navigate.

“If you are traveling with someone who is flexible, that supersedes whether or not they’re a planner or whether or not they like to sleep in because that means they’re going to be respectful of your needs and your goals on this trip,” Oneika Raymond, a TV host and travel content creator, says.

Raymond says she and her husband, who is her ideal travel companion, have different travel styles (he’s a planner while she likes to go with the flow; she sleeps in and he’s an early riser), but they’ve successfully traveled to more than 80 countries together by adjusting to each other’s habits and making sure each of them has something to look forward to on the itinerary.

2. You agree on the financials

Your ideal travel companion doesn’t have to have the exact same financial situation or budget as you do, but they will have a clear understanding of their individual financial expectations for the trip. To make sure nobody is chasing down payments or footing the bill unexpectedly, have an “open and honest dialogue” about all financial aspects of the trip in the planning stages.

Someone who is upfront about what they can and can’t do financially and wants to figure out these details in advance to prevent drama and chaos on the trip itself is worth holding onto as a travel companion. Before you travel with someone, especially someone you may not know well, confirm that you’re aligned on the financial details and expectations of the trip.

Get into the details beyond how flights, activities, and accommodations will be paid for; Raymond suggests talking through different scenarios that might pop up, like how bills will be split while dining out, what will happen if someone spends more money during an excursion or during a meal, and how to proceed if someone’s credit card doesn’t work. Use their answers to evaluate if this travel pairing will work.

3. They have the same goals for the trip as you

Another sign you’ve found an ideal travel companion is that you want the same thing out of your trip. It’s going to be tough for everyone on a trip to get what they want out of it if their goals diverge wildly. Someone who wants to spend all their time in a city center, exploring museums and shops, may not be satisfied with the ideal itinerary of someone who wants to do every rustic outdoor activity and never spend time in the city. A traveler who is set on going out every night and hitting every club may not gel with someone who would rather do anything but.

Some introspection beforehand can shed light on this. Sahara Rose De Vore, founder of the Travel Coach Network, helps clients maximize their trips by encouraging them to pinpoint what they want to gain from the experience. “Everyone’s personality and different quirks and expectations come [on the trip], but if they share a common ground, they’re going to be able to make the trip work together as partners,” she says.

Some of the questions De Vore asks to gauge whether folks have similar goals include include how the person wants to feel after the trip, what the trip means to them, and how they want it to affect their relationship. “It’s really identifying what you are looking to get out of it,” she says. “Do you want to enrich [the relationship], build your bond, understand each other, create lifelong memories, or all of the above?” Being on the same page as your travel partner about the overall goals will help smooth over bumps and is a good indication you’ll get along.

4. They’re independent

Factoring in some alone time to decompress and recharge is key, and an ideal travel companion understands and respects that. “Traveling with someone doesn’t mean that you have to do everything in lockstep, because that’s a really unhealthy way to travel, and it’s going to cause friction at some point” Raymond says. Someone who can be happy and confident entertaining themselves and spending time alone also helps ensure everyone on the trip is reaching their goals.

A great travel partner won’t mind if you leave them alone for a bit, or if you change your mind about an activity. At the same time, they won’t muscle you into only doing what they want to do. “‘My way or the highway’ is a trip killer,” Raymond adds.

The timing of California’s super bloom could not be better for those of us still feeling the super gloom of winter. If you’re one of the 10 million Americans still feeling the residual blahs of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), science says that even just the sight of beautiful foliage is enough to help lift your spirits. A 2020 study revealed that looking at an image of a flower can be powerful enough to reduce negative emotions, lower your blood pressure, and lessen cortisol release. Aside from this, blooming flowers symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and opportunity, as well as mark the beginning of longer days and shorter nights.

If you’re lucky enough to visit California in person this year, be forewarned that a few popular super bloom spots have been closed off from tourists in Riverside County. Increasing popularity over the past few years has resulted in huge crowds of visitors swarming these areas at once, trampling the local flowers and putting their own safety at risk in order to get a photograph of the event. The problem got so out of hand in the city of Lake Elsinore that the mayor instituted a zero-tolerance “keep out” trespassing policy for sightseers hoping to get an up-close glimpse of Walker Canyon.

This year, the California Department of Parks and Recreation created a list of super bloom spots open to the public, including the months in which wildflowers will still be in full bloom as well as the species you can expect to see during your visit.

For the rest of us who can’t make the trek out West, soak up these images of the Golden State’s super bloom:

What makes a good travel pant? First and foremost, the best pants for travel are stylish but don’t compromise comfort for aesthetics. Oftentimes, they look like a pair of trendy slacks, but behind the “seams” are durable, comfy, and stretchy enough that you can move freely on your adventures. They don’t get wrinkled when you shove them in a backpack or suitcase, nor do they stay sticky and sweaty after you’ve sprinted to make a flight. They’re breathable in stuffy situations (because your cheeks need air, too), but not so airy that you freeze when the AC kicks on. Most importantly, they’re splash resistant and moisture-wicking, because spills happen! Turbulence and road work love to throw your iced coffee for a loop.

With so many options in the market, it can be hard to narrow down pants worth packing along. Luckily, our jet-setting editors know how to pack a bag or two. No matter the distance, these are the best pants for traveling that won’t stretch, wrinkle, or make you overheat wherever you roam.

The best pants for traveling, according to editors

Erica Sloan, lifestyle editor

Pants tested: Athleta Savannah Jogger

Athleta, Savannah Jogger — $33.00

Originally $98, now $33

Sizes available: 0-26

“To me, athleisure joggers are generally the ideal travel pants—flowy and stretchy enough to stay comfortable for hours and yet structured enough to make you feel put together in nearly any travel setting. That’s why I’ve sworn by a singular pair of Athleta joggers as my go-to travel pants for years (they’ve been on at least 30 planes and trains with me) in a neutral mauve color. And after recently learning they’d been discontinued upon finally deciding to buy a second pair, I immediately purchased the closest possible thing.

These pull-on Savannah joggers have a comfy waistband, loose silhouette, and *zippable* pockets that can easily fit and secure a phone or passport. And they’re made from a recycled polyester that’s breathable and wrinkle-resistant, so you can smoosh them into a packed suitcase for hours and then slip ‘em on good as new. A bonus? They’re great in rainy or sweaty scenarios (or if you spill something on them), as liquids just slide right off the quick-drying fabric.”

Colors: 2

Pros 

• Comfy waistband
• Has zippered pockets
• Wrinkle-resistant

Cons 

• May be too baggy for some
• Final sale item

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Francesca Krempa, associate commerce editor

Pants tested: Kuhl Haven Jogger 

Kuhl, Haven Jogger — $109.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

“I have two pairs of travel pants: my hard and soft pants. These are my ‘hard’ pants and are what I wear when I’m traveling long days and need a pant that can wick sweat, spills, and whatever else I inevitably get on them. They’re technically an outdoor pant made for hiking and climbing, made from a soft-yet-durable nylon that’s comfortable whether you’re lounging in the airport or rushing through security. They also have zip-up pockets on both the front and back which is great because I can put things in them and not worrying about them falling out. And there’s no zipper or button fly—they pull on, making changing or going to bathroom easy peasy.”

Colors: 3

Pros: 

• Lightweight and durable
• Zippered pockets
• UPF 50+
• Drawstring for easy pull-on/off

Cons

• Expensive
• Slim, tapered leg might be uncomfortable for some

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Pants tested: Free Fly Bamboo Fleece Lounge Pant

Free Fly, Bamboo Fleece Lounge Pant — $88.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

“These are my ‘soft’ pants and true to their name, they’re pretty much butter for your bottom half. I swear by these for car rides and long travel days when I’m not moving my body as much and need something cozy to curl up in. They’re made from viscose from bamboo, a sustainable, cooling fabric that’s stretchy and breathable. There’s two pockets for stashing stuff  in the front (though they’re not zippered, so I typically won’t put anything super valuable in them) and a drawstring waist that eliminates buttons and zippers digging in when I’m balled up in the passenger seat of my car or driving myself.”

Colors: 3

Pros 

• Buttery soft
• Stretchy
• Easy to put on and off

Cons 

• No zippered pockets
• Aren’t tumble-dryer friendly

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Catie Jaffe, senior commerce manager

Pants tested: FP Movement Stadium Printed Pants

FP Movement, Stadium Printed Pants — $148.00

Sizes available: XS-XL

“To be honest, I feel pretty okay at packing. At this point in my life, I generally know what I will wear and try to keep myself from buying—or packing—items I like but might not feel that comfy in when it’s game time. However, what to wear when actually traveling? A riddle I am constantly trying to solve. In the search for pants (because ew, germs on a plane) that are comfy to sit in for long periods of time, won’t wrinkle, have pockets for quick access to airport necessities such as ID and boarding pass, work in any climate, and can look like a *real outfit* when I get to my destination, I tried the Free People Printed Stadium Pants. I tried this pair in a printed camo style because I was looking for something a bit different than the basic jeans and leggings I was throwing in my bag, but there are also solid colors in the same style.

The drawstring is nice for giving yourself more or less room to get comfy, and the pockets are key for speeding through the airport. The Stadium Pants are also a “wear-over” style which is great for if you are going somewhere that has a different climate. I recently went skiing, and I could just throw leggings on under these for a cute and warm outfit once I arrived in a colder climate. The wide leg design is indeed very wide, making the pants swish together a bit when walking, but I followed the advice of one reviewer and washed the pants, and the swishes subsided. ”

Colors: 2

Pros: 

• Unique and trendy
• Comfortable
• Can be worn over layers
• Drawstring waist

Cons:

• Can be wide
• Noisy
• Runs long

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Kayla Hui, commerce writer

Pants tested: Athleta Trekkie North Jogger

Athleta, Trekkie North Jogger — $99.00

Sizes available: 0-16

“Whenever I am traveling, I refuse to leave the house without a comfy pair of joggers and Athleta’s Trekkie North Joggers has recently been my go-to pair. What makes this pair ideal for travel is the nylon and elastane blend, making these pants super comfy (it feels like second skin) and resistant to crunchy wrinkles. I packed this pair in a box during my move to the Lone Star state and unfolded them a week later shocked to find that they had not held one crinkle (amazing, I know). If I packed these in a suitcase, I’d expect the same results.

I’m not a fan of how elasticated waistbands look, but the Trekkies do a great job at concealing the elastic in a smooth waistband. Not only does it look like a part of the pant, it’s compressive and hugs me in without the need for strings. Additionally, I love how these pants look on me. While these pants are originally made for trail running or hikes, I see these being a part of my everyday wardrobe. The tapered hem doesn’t overwhelm my short frame, and the jogger’s sleek look will easily have me confusing the pair for slacks. Also notable: zippered pockets—which comfortably hold my keys, ID, and a small wallet. Next time I hit the road, I’ll pack these pants.”

Colors: 4

Pros

• Zippered pockets
• Stretchy
• Wrinkle-resistant

Cons 

• Expensive

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Now, if you know anything about how airplane air affects the skin, you’re probably as shocked as I was that my face looked compliment-worthy after spending an entire day exposed to it (… and that’s not to mention the effects of the jet lag I was experiencing first thing on a Monday morning, or the stress I was under after returning from a week out of the office). Typically, when I land after a long flight, my complexion is noticeably parched and dull, and there are at least two pimples promising to pop up on my chin within the next few hours. That’s because airplane air has 20 percent less humidity than what we’re used to experiencing on the ground, which leads to extra-dry skin. When this happens, it creates a domino effect of inflammation, which clogs pores and leads to pimples, and an overproduction of skin oil, which also leads to pimples.

And yet… I had to hand it to my colleagues: My skin did look pretty damn good that morning. After 10 years as a beauty editor, I’ve (thankfully) picked up a few tricks from dermatologists about how to keep my complexion happy and healthy in even the most skin-unfriendly environments. The secret? Hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate some more.

To do this, I packed my carry-on with some tried-and-tested hydrating favorites, the combination of which kept me glowing long after landing. Keeps scrolling to shop ’em for yourself.

Simple, Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Wipes — $8.00

Keeping skin clear of whatever’s floating around in the airplane air is understandably important, but I, for one, am simply not willing to deal with the hassle of actually washing my face in one of those teeny-tiny lavatory sinks. Thankfully, these cleansing wipes are the next best thing. They’re made with micellar water, which gently picks up dirt and oil without stripping the skin, and leave my face feeling clean but not squeaky clean. I “washed” my face with them three times over the course of the flight, which in retrospect was probably aggressive, but they’re so skin-friendly that it didn’t matter that I overdid it.

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Neutrogena, Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum — $16.00

Hyaluronic acid is a holy grail ingredient for any dry environment, from the Arizona desert to the Alaskan arctic… and airplanes are no exception. This drugstore-diamond product has long been considered one of the best of the best thanks to the fact that it’s made with multiple weights of hyaluronic acid molecules that penetrate the skin at different levels to deliver all-over hydration… and its $16 price point doesn’t hurt, either. Because hyaluronic acid draws water into the skin, I like to layer it on under my moisturizer, because it sucks in whatever hydrating ingredients are in that formula to allow it to work to its highest potential.

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BeautyStat, Universal Skin C Refiner — $85.00

Vitamin C is essential for protecting skin from the sorts of damage that lead to signs of aging, but it has a reputation for being drying. What I love about this derm-developed serum is that it delivers the ingredient in a creamy formula that’s so moisturizing, I often don’t need to wear an actual moisturizer on top of it in my daily life (I wouldn’t risk that on an airplane though—in this situation, pulling out all the stops was necessary). With a 20 percent concentration of L-ascorbic acid (the most potent version of vitamin C on the market), an infusion of hydrating squalane, and a pH-balanced formula that allows for optimal penetration, I credit this stuff for combatting post-plane dullness.

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La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 — $18.00

I’ve got dozens of luxury moisturizers in my arsenal (a decade as a beauty editor will do that to you), but I come back to this $18 drugstore-diamond time and time again—especially when I know my skin needs major moisture. Designed to treat super-dry skin (think: eczema and diaper rashes), it’s made with a triple-threat of hydrating ingredients—namely panthenol, glycerin, and shea butter. It’s thick and creamy but melts into the skin almost immediately, leaving behind a radiant finish that looks good instead of greasy.

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Talika Bio Enzymes Hydrating Mask — $12.00

I never thought I’d be one of those people who masks on an airplane, but this one changed my tune. It’s made from bio-cellulose, which is not only clear (meaning it didn’t make me look like Freddy Kruger—a definite bonus), but also helps to optimize the delivery of ingredients into your skin. It’s got high concentrations of hydrating hyaluronic acid and redness-and-inflammation-fighting arnica, and kept my complexion nourished while I snoozed through the second meal service (whoops!).

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Summer Fridays, ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen — $36.00

A little known (but important) fact: You should always wear sunscreen on an airplane. At 30,000 feet, you’re closer to the source of those harmful UV rays (aka the sun), which means you want to be as protected as possible. The trick, though, is finding a formula that gets the job done without drying out your skin, which tends to happen with physical formulas. Summer Fridays has managed to strike the perfect balance with its Shade Drops, which offer physical, full-spectrum SPF 30 defense without making your face feel like the Sahara. It goes on silky-smooth and dries down to a barely-there finish that will make you forget you’re wearing sunscreen at all.

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Vaseline — $4.00

If you ignore every other product and piece of advice in this story, please (please!) take this one as gospel: Never, ever board a flight without Vaseline. As far as hydration is concerned, this stuff does it all—I mean, there’s a reason why it’s been around since 1870. Vaseline (and other petrolatum products, like Aquaphor) is an occlusive, which means that when you apply it to your skin, it forms a seal to trap in moisture. And somehow, it does this without causing breakouts. Mid-flight, I used my tiny tub of hydrating goodness all over my face (slugging, anyone?), and applied it to my lips nearly every 30 minutes for 18 straight hours.

 

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Juara Coconut Illipe Hand and Nail Balm — $23.00

On my outbound flight, I forgot to hydrate my hands, and by the time I’d landed every single one of my nails had broken off (seriously). On the way home, I was determined not to make the same mistake again, and added this game-changing balm to the mix. It combines creamy coconut, candlenut, and buriti oils as well as mangosteen butter to deliver a rich, luxurious-feeling formula that made my hands feel nourished without being so greasy that I didn’t want to touch anything. And, FWIW—all of my nails survived the flight.

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Yuni Beauty Shower Sheets — $15.00

Though these body-cleansing wipes didn’t exactly hydrate my skin, they did prevent me from stinking like hot trash after a 26-hour travel day, which makes them feel worth mentioning as a part of this list. A quick swipe under my arms and (not to be gross, but) between my legs allowed me to feel like I was fresh from the shower even though I hadn’t seen an actual shower in… two days. 10/10 recommend, and will never travel without them again.

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From the outset, it’s important to recognize that you do deserve to spend money on what brings you joy, and there’s no guilt in earmarking funds to spend on trips, concerts, and other big-ticket enjoyable experiences. To do so without dipping into the money you need for everyday expenses and emergencies, start by creating what Michelle Griffith, senior wealth advisor at Citi Personal Wealth Management, calls a “lifestyle fund.”

Distinct from any other savings account(s) you may have (such as a checking account, emergency fund, or retirement savings), a lifestyle fund is an account dedicated exclusively to those lifestyle purchases you’re hoping to make just for fun. In particular, Griffith suggests opening a high-yield savings account (aka an account that is interest-bearing) to build this fund, so that whatever money goes into the account is also building on itself over time.

The best way to grow this fund is “by saving a portion of your discretionary income each paycheck into the account,” says Griffith. To avoid the temptation to just use those funds on something more immediate, “set and forget” an automatic payment that deposits money from each paycheck you receive directly into your lifestyle fund, if you can, suggests Dasha Kennedy, financial coach and founder of financial education platform The Broke Black Girl.

“With a lifestyle fund in place, the question is no longer, ‘Can I afford this?’ Instead, it’s, ‘How do I pay for it?’” —Michelle Griffith, senior wealth advisor, Citi Personal Wealth Management

Maintaining this separate account makes saving for any big purchase more tangible, allowing you to clearly chart your progress. “The question is no longer, ‘Can I afford this?’ Instead, it’s, ‘How do I pay for it?’” says Griffith. Below, she and Kennedy break down how to save for any big purchase using regular contributions to a lifestyle fund and smart budgeting techniques.

4 steps to budget and save for any big lifestyle purchase, according to financial experts

1. Calculate the total cost

The first step to making any savings plan is knowing how much you’ll need to save in total—which will require some research and math.

To use the example of a bucket-list trip, start with the cost of traveling, including, for instance, the price of a plane or train ticket or gas, and that of your prospective hotel or Airbnb stay. Then, add in a rough estimate (it may be tough to come up with an exact figure) for how much you suspect you’ll spend during the trip on meals, activities, transportation, souvenirs, and so on. And don’t forget any incidentals, like travel insurance, checking a bag at the airport, and resort fees.

Once you have your estimated total for the big purchase you’re hoping to make, consider that number to be your savings target for your lifestyle fund.

2. Break the total into manageable chunks

Figuring out how to save for a big purchase can often feel impossible because of the sheer size of the purchase—which is where this next step comes in handy.

Start by dividing the total figure you came up with above by the number of months you have until you’d like to make your purchase, suggests Kennedy. For example, if it’s March, and you’re hoping to go on a big trip in August, you’d have five months to save, so you’d divide by five. Then, take that monthly savings figure and divide it by however many paychecks you get in a month; for instance, if you are paid twice a month, slice the monthly total in half.

The resulting number is how much money you will need to divert from each paycheck into your lifestyle fund in order to save for the big purchase. “Now, you have an idea of what you’re working with,” says Kennedy, “and you can figure out whether your plan is feasible [in your ideal timeline] and how you might need to play around with the math.”

3. Assess and adjust as needed

It’s possible that the amount of money you determine you’d need to save from each paycheck in order to hit your savings goal in time doesn’t feel doable. In that case, consider whether you might be able to reduce some of your day-to-day expenses temporarily to free up more money for your lifestyle fund. And if that still doesn’t leave you with quite enough, take a look at how you might reduce the overall cost of the big purchase you’re looking to make.

According to Griffith, this isn’t about making the experience so different from what you envisioned that it’s no longer as enjoyable, but instead, making small tweaks that’ll whittle down the total price.

For example, take one of Griffith’s clients, who was saving for Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour (one of this year’s priciest concert tickets to snag). When Griffith suggested they forgo expensive floor tickets for cheaper seats, they told her that the floor tickets were a non-negotiable for the experience. So, they pivoted: Instead, Griffith suggested they get tickets to a show in a nearby city where floor seats were less expensive. While that plan meant extra travel and paying for a hotel overnight, the overall cost was lower, making it more feasible for her client to still have the experience they imagined.

Other ways to minimize the total cost in this scenario might include using public transit to save on gas and parking costs, and forgoing food and drinks at the venue (and eating at home before or after instead), adds Griffith.

4. Put time on your side

Time is necessary for both saving money and growing your savings—and giving yourself more of it will help. That’s why Kennedy and Griffith also recommend delaying your big purchase if possible. This way, you’re allowing yourself more time to accumulate funds, which can ease the pressure of trying to save so much so quickly.

To be sure, this does not mean pushing something off indefinitely to some future time when you suspect you’ll have more money stowed away; life is just too short not to do what you want to do in the present, says Griffith. Delaying your purchase might just mean bumping a trip back a few months, or if it’s a concert or other fixed event, looking for dates farther out (even if that might require additional travel). And if the event is already pretty far in the future? It’s best to start the above savings plan now, anyway. Future-you will thank present-you.

That’s how it used to be, anyway. Nowadays, more and more hotels are recognizing the ever-growing interest in fitness and are working to cater to the wellness-minded client. Where some hotels have teamed up with popular studios to offer group fitness classes (Orangetheory partnered with The Boca Raton in 2018, for example), others are partnering with boutique fitness brands to upgrade their gyms (for example, Hilton has committed to adding at least one Peloton bike into each of its more than 5,000 fitness centers).

And now, still more hotels are going so far as to elevate not only their communal workout spaces, but also their in-room fitness offerings.

“We’re finding that travelers are seeking out elevated fitness amenities that can be customized to their bodies and physical goals—they require flexibility and convenience; the run-of-the-mill treadmill or on-site cardio class doesn’t cut it anymore,” says Steve Weitman, president of Wynn Las Vegas.

So, if you’ve been hoping to book a vacation that doesn’t derail your fitness goals, keep reading for eight hotels embracing in-room fitness in a major way.

1. Wynn Las Vegas

While Wynn Las Vegas has long catered to fitness enthusiasts with its 6,722-yard championship golf course and its partnership with SoulCycle and NutriDrip by Clean Market, and fitness center (recently revamped with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment), the brand’s new Wynn Living Well initiative, which it rolled out this January, makes the experience even more personal with in-room, 30-minute workouts from Amanda Kloots, founder of AK Fitness.

If digital workouts aren’t your thing, Wynn Las Vegas also offers guests the opportunity to book one-on-one treatment sessions with a TB12 Body Coach. “Co-founded by Tom Brady and his body coach Alex Guerrero, TB12 emphasizes muscle recovery and injury prevention through a holistic approach to pliability, nutrition, hydration, movement, and mental fitness to achieve longevity and pain-free living,” says Weitman.

2. EVEN Hotels

While many hotels are just now hopping on the trend of in-room fitness, EVEN has been dedicated to the idea since 2015. “Our in-room fitness is a top driver of preference among our target guest,” says Raul Ortiz, VP of global marketing and brand management for EVEN Hotels. “Currently, 80 percent of guests who book with us plan on working out in their room, and most actually do once they stay with us.”

All guest rooms offer an in-room fitness experience along with complimentary access to the latest on-demand classes, according to Ortiz. “During your stay, you can expect your room to be equipped with a yoga mat, yoga block, foam roller, resistance bands, and stability ball,” he says.

And that’s just for a standard accomodations. Deluxe rooms feature dedicated “fitness zones,” complete with wall hooks, TRX straps, and other equipment for strength and resistance training. Then there are premium rooms, which include an interactive spin bike, along with all the accouterments of the deluxe and standard rooms.

3. Proper Hotels

Wellness is a big part of the Proper Hotel experience, which is why the brand offers a vast array of spa treatments at its destination spas (Surya Spa in Santa Monica and Verbena Spa in Austin), along with complimentary weekend yoga and HIIT Classes. Additionally, each Proper Hotel has a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center to offer guests a space to explore strength training, weight training, and cardio.

But most recently, Proper Hotels partnered with The Class, a cathartic workout experience beloved by celebrities like Emma Stone and New York City’s downtown sweat set, alike, to create an in-room fitness experience. What’s more, guests have the option to utilize Therabody percussive massage tools, yoga mats, and yoga bands (all of which are available upon request from the front desk). And if you stay in a suite, you’ll have the option for an in-room Peloton bike.

4. Hotel Esencia

Hotel Esencia is a 45-room boutique property just south of Mexico’s Playa del Carmen. There, in beachy paradise, guests have the option to book one of five rooftop wellness suites. Each one spans two floors and is equipped with the most luxurious fitness accommodations, including a lululemon Studio mirror, weight kit, and add-on options like a Peloton bike or treadmill. These suites also have their own rooftop pool, outdoor shower, and steam sauna—and they can be connected to suites below to create the ultimate group experience or family vacation.

5. Gansevoort Meatpacking

Planning a trip to New York City? Consider staying at Gansevoort Meatpacking, where guests receive complimentary access to a lululemon Studio mirror, and with it, the ability to choose from thousands of on-demand workouts, inlcuding options from top boutique fitness brands like Y7 Yoga, Rumble Boxing, and Pure Barre.

6. Westin

While some hotels include fitness or wellness as one of their core pillars, Westin operates on six pillars of well-being, including sleep, nutrition, movement, mindfulness, and more. From a fitness standpoint, Westin is known for its WestinWORKOUT® Gear Lending program. “The gear lending kits feature the latest in high-tech recovery and total body strength training equipment from our partners Hyperice and Bala, and can be used in-room, on-demand for an individualized experience,” says Jennifer Connell, global brand leader of Westin Hotels & Resorts and vice president of distinctive premium brands for Marriott International. Additionally, guests can book WestinWORKOUT Guestrooms, in which they’ll have access to their very own Peloton for the duration of their stay.

7. Conrad Nashville

No need to forego your fitness goal while visiting Music City. At Conrad Nashville, guests can book one of five wellness rooms, all of which feature the latest and greatest in fitness equipment, including an Echelon Reflect Smart Mirror, Peloton bike, and free weights, along with a curated minibar created with the wellness lover in mind.

“We have partnered with some of the best health and fitness experts and a cost comes with that, but a luxury traveler who is committed to fitness even while away from home is a segment that we feel needs to be accommodated,” says John Stack, Conrad Nashville’s director of sales and marketing.

8. Montage Kapalua Bay

For guests who want to enjoy fitness from the comfort of their private accommodations, Montage Kapalua Bay in Maui, Hawaii, has created the Stay Fit package through which the hotel brings the gym to its guests, according to Jessica Candy, director of spa and retail at Montage Kapalua Bay.

“The package can be tailored to the guests’ needs from on-demand Peloton bikes to aftercare equipment such as the Hypervolt [percussive massage tool] or Vyper [vibrating fitness] roller,” she says. Other features of the package include yoga mats, foam rollers, free weights, and medicine balls—all set up prior to your arrival.

It doesn’t help that most hotels and resorts tend to have menus that aren’t exactly gut-friendly. One of my favorite things in the world is munching on a plate of salty poolside snacks and catching up on my reading list under a beach umbrella—but when I haven’t pooped for three days, meals that are meant to be joyful become a source of stress and anxiety. Not fun!

There are a lot of reasons why so many of us grapple with tummy problems while on vacation. The first one is that the act of traveling itself is pretty hard on our bodies, especially our guts. “When you sit for a long period of time or you’re immobile, your intestinal motility decreases, which means the gas that’s in your bowels is kept in your bowels and you don’t pass it,” board-certified gastroenterologist Niket Sonpal, MD, FACP, DABIM, previously told us.

The general physics of airplane travel do us dirty, too. “Low pressure during the flight due to high altitude can cause gas and bloating,” Ali Rezaie, MD, gastroenterologist from the Good LFE team, explains.

The second major issue is that our normal routines have been disrupted—which can it take a toll on our bowel movements. “Often on vacation, people may not follow the same routines they do at home. They may not take the same supplements, drink the same warm beverages, or sit for 15 minutes scrolling on their phone as they sip tea or coffee. These seemingly insignificant patterns set the body up on a schedule for consistent bowel movements,” Caroline Cederquist, MD, a board certified physician, tells W+G.

Which is why my stay at wellness resort Palmaïa in Playa del Carmen, Mexico last summer was such an illuminating experience that taught me it’s actually very possible to travel and still maintain a happy, healthy gut.

A little about Palmaïa

Palmaïa, which opened its doors in 2020, is the type of wellness sanctuary that transcends relaxation: It rewires your entire body from the inside out. The oceanfront resort, located in the lush Riviera Maya region of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, is completely secluded, its suites and villas surrounded by lush, jungle greenery, infinity pools, and freshwater cenotes (flooded caves). As you stroll down the many paths to its restaurants and spas, you’re likely to pass by monkeys and iguanas perched on their branches. Basically? It’s paradise.

The resort prides itself on many of its unique offerings, but my favorite was its dedication to a holistic culinary experience: It’s what made me completely rethink travel, food, and gut health.

The resort prides itself on many of its unique offerings, but my favorite was its dedication to a holistic culinary experience: It’s what made me completely rethink travel, food, and gut health.

Palmaïa’s gourmet restaurants, all led by Michelin-trained chefs, have a single goal in mind: Nourish (not just feed!) its patrons with thoughtful and delicious meals. Most of the menus are completely plant-based (non-vegan options are available, too), focusing on quality, taste, and nutrients that leave bodies radically energized.

Through food, Palmaïa wants you to feel good—which is why its menus are crafted with gut-enriching ingredients travelers like me desperately need.

I had the experience of getting lunch with Christine Weiss, the property’s holistic nutritionist who consults with the resort’s Executive Chef, Carlos Carrion Garcia (aka Chef Charly), and she explained to me why it was so important that Palmaïa’s many menus emphasized gut-healthy offerings. “A healthy gut is crucial for feeling good. If our gut is unhappy, we are unhappy. Any kind of digestive issue—constipation, diarrhea or bloating—influences the quality of life immensely,” Weiss said. “And by eating a healthy and balanced diet that is rich in probiotic and prebiotic foods, we help our gut to feel good.” Studies show that the most effective way to enhance the health of your gut microbiome is to eat a wide variety of plant-based foods, which is exactly was Palmaia’s dining options have to offer—from vegan sushi (made with ingredients like mushrooms, micro-greens, and the most delicious sauces I’ve ever tasted), to veggie-rich flatbreads, I was lucky enough to sample a large chunk of the menus.

What I ate during my stay at Palmaïa

What did not eat at Palmaïa might be the more apt question. I was lucky to be able to sample dishes from all of the property’s restaurants. Guests can choose from four establishments: Lek (Mexican), Ume (Japanese-inspired), Mar de Olivo (Mediterranean-inspired), and Su Casa (a sampling of various cuisines from around the globe, and also home to the best matcha pancakes I’d ever tried). Plus, there’s the El Caminante food truck, which is Chef Charly’s “satellite” taco truck, whose original (and massively popular) headquarters are located in Tulum. It was the most well-fed I’d ever been on a vacation—and the best I had ever felt. Weiss had told me that, “Guests staying at Palmaïa not only feel good during their stay, they also feel nourished, full of energy, their digestion improves and they get mental clarity.” And it was certainly true for me.

On the day I had lunch with Weiss, she had the chefs bring out a curation of fermented sides: a few different types of sauerkraut and kimchi. I tried a bit of each (a traditional sauerkraut, “sunnykraut,” which was made with pineapple, turmeric, and ginger, and ginger apple spice kraut, which had apples, nutmeg, and ginger), along with my plant-based burger and fries (halfway through my burger, I completely forgot I wasn’t eating a meat patty). Poolside eats generally make me want to take a nap, but at Palmaïa, I felt awake, alert, and game for anything.

Needless to say: I didn’t experience any of the gut issues I normally would have on vacation anywhere else. My bathroom “excursions” were…normal. I wasn’t stressed about bloating, constipation, or that very specific degree of panic you feel when you absolutely must find a toilet at the worst moment in time.

That was thanks to the many GI-enriching ingredients in the meals I ate at the resort, like the homemade yogurt, and its fiber-rich mains and sides. “Our homemade coconut yogurt contains probiotic yoghurt-cultures which makes it also an excellent food for gut health. All the foods are high in fiber are very beneficial for a healthy microbiome, including all the legumes—beans, chickpeas, peas, lentils—and vegetables, especially cruciferous vegetables. These are all foods we use very generously for all the meals we serve,” Weiss explained.

Jill Carnahan, MD, author of Unexpected, agrees with this culinary approach, telling Well+Good, “Fermented foods naturally contain high levels of beneficial bacteria that serve as probiotics to regulate bowels and protect the gut from foreign microorganisms. Many local cultures make and serve probiotic foods, such as kombucha, miso, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir or yogurts as part of their rich heritage and these foods can serve to nourish and protect the gut while traveling.”

One more hot tip: Palmaïa serves an incredible cold brew. While I generally use coffee as a last-resort way to get my gears going while on vacation, I leisurely sipped on Su Casa’s cold brew with oat milk throughout my entire trip (even by the pool, away from my room with the bathroom inside—brave for me), feeling the caffeine energize me without the jitters, and, yes, continue to keep me “regular.” Not that I needed help in that department—I just wasn’t sprinting to the nearest toilet after finishing a glass.

Dr. Carnahan is also pro-coffee, if your stomach can normally handle it. “Coffee is often given a bad rap but unless you are hypersensitive to the caffeine itself, it is a very rich source of polyphenols and antioxidants, protecting and nourishing the gut bacteria. Brewing fresh local coffee beans is actually a rich source of fuel for your gut microbes to create short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which nourish the cells that line your gut and aid in digestion and decrease inflammation.”

“I think organic, locally sourced fresh coffee in moderation is an excellent addition for the savvy traveler.”—Dr. Carnahan

In addition, according to Dr. Carnahan, coffee is a gentle stimulant that may help regain regularity of bowels when you travel across time zones and signal the body to reset the circadian rhythm. “I think organic, locally-sourced fresh coffee in moderation is an excellent addition for the savvy traveler,” Dr. Carnahan says.

How to make your own Palmaïa sauerkraut at home

I’m not traveling anytime soon, but I will be making one of Palmaïa’s beloved fermented snacks at home. It takes me back to one of my favorite places and my gut absolutely love it. Weiss shares the resort’s top-ordered sauerkraut with W+G here:

Sunnykraut 

Serves 15

Ingredients
1 medium-sized cabbage head
1/2 fresh pineapple
1/2 cup fresh turmeric
1/2 cup fresh ginger
1 Tbs sea salt
1 Tbs apple cider vinegar

Instructions
1. Clean the cabbage, remove the outer leaves and set three to four big leaves aside. Cut the cabbage head into quarters. Remove the central trunk and cut the cabbage into thin strips or use a food processor or mandolin. Chop the pineapple and grate the turmeric and ginger finely (wear gloves as the turmeric juice will stain your hands).

2. Put the cabbage and pineapple in a wide glass or steel bowl and add the salt, spices and vinegar. With very clean hands massage the cabbage for at least 10 minutes, so that the salt reaches all the cabbage and it releases its juices. Continue with massaging until the cabbage is completely covered with enough liquid. Let it sit for 30 minutes to give it time to continue to macerate and release more juices.

3. Transfer the cabbage into a very clean glass jar by squeezing out all the liquid. Put the cabbage in first and press it all the way down to the bottom of the jar with your hands. Then add the produced liquid carefully on top of it. Place in the leaves you set aside on the cabbage and push it down under the brine. Put a plastic bag filled with water on top of the cabbage leaves so that the cabbage is completely submerged in the brine. Leave about one to two inches of space form the top of the jar. Cover it with a kitchen towel or screw on the lid loosely so gas can escape as the fermentation takes place.

4. Set the jar on the counter in a shaded place, ideally around 68° F. Leave it there until it has reached its final flavor. In a few hours you begin to see CO2 bubbles rising to the surface. This is perfectly normal.

5. As the days go by, the cabbage becomes more tender and the flavor more acidic. After five to six days, the sauerkraut is crunchy and deliciously fresh. After about 10 days the flavor gets a little tarter and the texture softer. After about two weeks it should have the perfect flavor and texture. Remove the big cabbage leaves and the bag filled with water, screw on the lid properly and put the jar in the fridge.

For more information about Palmaïa’s accommodations and pricing, visit their website here. You can also book your entire trip through Expedia.

Housekeepers are typically expected to clean 15 to 20 rooms during their eight-hour shift, so if you break that down, that only gives them about 20–30 minutes per room at best. Within that time, they’re cleaning the room, making the beds, replacing linens and towels, restocking amenities, taking out the garbage, organizing, and more. With so much to do—and so little time—a lot can figuratively (and literally) swept under the rug.

Below, former hotel housekeeper Tara Richardson, shares the five items/areas in most hotel rooms that are the least likely to get a deep clean during a typical room change over. If you tend to use them, consider channeling your inner Lisa Rinna during your next stay.

5 things you should avoid using (or clean yourself) in a hotel room

1. Coffee makers

“Coffee makers are generally only superficially cleaned (a quick spray and wipe), as most hotels care more about appearance and speed as opposed to actual cleanliness,” says Richardson. “Coffee makers are rarely deep cleaned, meaning there are lots of bacteria and sometimes even mold growing inside because of stagnant water and improper cleaning.”

2. Ice buckets

You may be thinking with a plastic liner, the ice bucket should be fine. Well according to Richardson, just because you’re using the liner, it doesn’t mean everyone is. “I’ve personally seen ice buckets used as dog dishes, puke buckets, etc., and generally, the buckets are only superficially cleaned,” she says. “The water or ice is dumped, and then it’s just a quick dry with your dusting rag and maybe a spray with whatever all-purpose cleaner the hotel provides housekeeping staff with.”

3. Blankets and duvets

This may be hard to avoid, especially during a cold season, but Richardson warns in most hotels, blankets, and duvets are very rarely cleaned and changed out. “Where I worked, unless there was a visible stain, blankets, duvets, and bedspreads were only taken down to laundry once a year.” She adds that it’s only during the annual deep clean that “extras” were taken care of like mattress and pillow protectors replaced, mattresses flipped or walls and curtains washed.

4. Towels and robes

“We were always told not to replace them if they looked clean to prevent them from getting overwashed, and so the laundry doesn’t get overwhelmed,” shares Richardson. Knowing what she knows now, she suggests finding the housekeeper on your floor and asking for fresh towels and robes off of the cart as those are clean.

5. Glassware

“Where I worked, drinking glasses and coffee cups were simply rinsed and wiped in the bathroom sink,” says Richardson. “We were not given dish soap nor was the glassware collected and taken to be properly washed in a dishwasher.”

Whether it’s for business or leisure, next time you stay in a hotel, Richardson suggests packing a few cleaning products in your luggage. “I always bring some disinfectant wipes with me and give anything I’ll be using in the room a quick wipe—light switches, remotes, phones, table tops, and doorknobs especially,” she says. Lisa Rinna would be proud.

So pack your sneakers and prepare to smash your daily step goal. These five vacation destinations are havens for walkers. They offer miles of paved paths, riverside rambles, monument-strewn promenades, and even a punk rock stroll.

5 walkable U.S. cities that make great vacation spots

1. Chicago, Illinois

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It’s a good thing the Windy City has miles of walking trails, some surrounded by local art, others that wind along waterfront. Feast on the area’s famed deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s Michigan Avenue location (on the ground floor of the Wrigley Building), then head to the Riverwalk, a 1.25-mile path where you can soak up river and architectural views. For a much longer walk (on in which you can sample the city’s signature hot dogs, au jus-dipped Italian beef, and Chicago-style popcorn in addition to the pizza), check out the Lakefront Trail, 18.5 miles of pedestrian pathway along Lake Michigan.

To get a peek at Chicago’s hippest neighborhoods—including Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park—make your way to The 606, an elevated trail built on an old rail line. See flowers in bloom, spot art installations, or stop by for a stargazing event—all within the trail’s 2.7 miles. Want to make the trail your vacation hub? Wicker Park’s popular boutique hotel The Robey is nearby. Also just off the trail, Logan Square hotspots The Moonlighter and Outside Voices serve up local beer and natural wines, respectively, plus nibbles, should you find yourself hungry.

2. New York City, New York

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But because New Yorkers are nothing if not innovative, let a local be your guide on a themed walking tour. Go on a Brooklyn Pizza Walk, take a bagel tour of Midtown, or enjoy a two-hour amble inspired by the birth of punk rock. Loved Hamilton on Broadway? See how the revolutionary rebel and his pal George Washington really spent their time in the Big Apple on the Hamilton & Washington in New York City tour of Lower Manhattan.

3. Charleston, South Carolina

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Shop a 19th-century market, pose in front of the city’s iconic pineapple fountain, and peep a row of charming, pastel-colored homes—all while getting around by foot. The Charleston City Market is always a great place to start an adventure. Established in 1807, the market is stocked with local art, beloved eats (like Callie’s buttery handmade biscuits), and sweetgrass baskets—one of the country’s oldest handicrafts.

From there, walk along Church Street and see why Charleston earned the nickname the “Holy City” (it’s famous for the many church steeples that dot its downtown skyline). You’ll pass St. Philip’s Church and the French Huguenot Church before turning left on Queen Street and heading to the Waterfront Park. There you’ll see the Pineapple Fountain, a favorite photo op and the city’s oversized symbol of hospitality. Back on East Bay Street, feast your eyes on Rainbow Row, 13 colorful homes built in the 1740s.

But if your visit to the market inspires a full shopping day, you could stick to walking historic King Street, which is lined with boutiques such as Hampden Clothing and Croghan’s Jewel Box, plus top-notch dining like The Darling Oyster Bar and Halls Chophouse.

4. San Francisco, California

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Don’t let the hills intimidate you—San Francisco is best explored by foot. And any Frisco first-timers should know 1. You actually shouldn’t call it Frisco (loads of locals despise the nickname) and 2. A stroll through Chinatown and North Beach is a must. In Chinatown, you’ll pass irresistible souvenir shops and restaurants on the main street, Grant Avenue, but be sure to pop into some of the neighborhood’s 41 colorful alleyways, too.

As you walk north, head over to Columbus Avenue, and soon you’ll be in North Beach, once the center of San Francisco’s Beat culture. Buy a Kerouac novel or a book of Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s poetry at City Lights bookstore, then pop into historic bar Vesuvio Cafe. From there, it’s only a half mile north to Coit Tower or a mile to Fisherman’s Wharf.

If you’ve already been there, done that with Chinatown and the Beat hotspots, it may be time for some serious walking at the Presidio. The former military post is now a 1,500-acre park with a dozen hiking trails. The Golden Gate Promenade will give you glorious views of the Bay Area’s favorite bridge, while the Batteries to Bluffs Trail takes you along wild shoreline, and Lovers’ Lane is a picturesque path lined with trees. (Fun fact: Back in the 18th century, Lovers’ Lane was a shortcut used by Spanish soldiers.)

5. Boston, Massachusetts

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How do you cram 250 years of history into a hike? Hit Boston’s celebrated Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile route includes museums, monuments, a ship, and the site of the Boston Massacre—with 16 historic sites in all. Of course with all those attractions, you may want to tackle the trail over a couple days. If so, snag a hotel package, some of which even include a tour with a costumed guide. For the 21 and over crowd, the trail also offers a private pub crawl to historic taverns, so you can combine your strolling with a bit of sipping.

But the truth is, you can’t trek far in Boston without stumbling upon something historic (or a spot to grab a beer). Along the Charles River Esplanade, a three-mile stretch on the Boston side between the Museum of Science and the Boston University Bridge, you’ll find a slew of memorial structures, plus the Owl’s Nest craft beer garden, which is open in warm weather.

If waterfront walking is your thing, be sure to check out Boston’s Harborwalk. At 43 miles, this is one of the longest linear parks in urban America. It stretches from East Boston to Dorchester, connects a number of trails and parks (including the Charles River Esplanade and the Freedom Trail), and has nine public beaches, a dozen museums, and very likely that one eatery you’ll stumble upon and tell all your friends about once you get home.

Common hotel guest etiquette mistakes, according to a hotel manager

1. Checking-in early or checking-out late without advanced notice

Early check-ins happen. Whether a guest planned to arrive before the expected check-in time or not, Gilbert says advanced notice is appreciated—ideally, a day before arrival, or at the very least, as soon as possible. Similarly, guests might want to give a heads-up if they plan on checking out late, even if it’s only the morning of their departure date. Gilbert explains that housekeeping requires adequate time to clean the rooms between guest stays, and this can be put off in the event of a late checkout.

If you’ve ever been an early comer or a late goer, you probably know that a hotel will do their best to accommodate you but the possibility of fulfilling this promise isn’t always possible. “In the worst-case scenario, we can offer to store their bags for them until they check in or after they check out,” he says. When this happens, a little understanding is appreciated from the guest, but Gilbert says that there are instances in which there is an expectation for accommodation.

“Some people just who show up early expect to get the room at 11 o’clock in the morning versus the agreed-upon time,” he says, which can lead to unnecessary stress for hotel staff who are trying to cater to the flow of many guests.

2. Ignoring “quiet time”

“A lot of hotels have something called ‘quiet time,’” says Gilbert, which he adds, is typically observed between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., when hotel guests are asked to keep the volume down. Some noise is to be expected, he says, but if it can be helped, guests are encouraged to respect quiet time in communal areas, like the elevator, or even in their room by avoiding loud music or hosting parties after hours.

Observing quiet time will prevent any guests from making late-night complaints to the hotel staff. Not only that, but Gilbert says that it is a common courtesy that a guest can show other vacationers at the hotel—and by being mindful of others, it makes a “good hotel experience for everyone.”

3. Questioning the hotel incidental charges

Many hotels charge for incidentals, exclusive of what you pay for your room. Typically, your incidental charge will be refunded to your card in full if you haven’t availed of, say, room service or snacks from the mini bar. Gilbert says this is typically spelled out for guests upon confirming their reservation. However, “a lot of guests are often unaware that authorization would take place.”

While easy to overlook, Gilbert says it’s all too common to receive calls from hotel guests asking why the hotel is still holding their money—and many people get upset. However, at this point, it’s often out of the hotel’s hands because it’s the bank that’s responsible for processing the transaction. He adds that things get even more heated when guests charge the incidentals on their debit card as “the bank holds that money for five to seven business days.”

All that is to say, Gilbert encourages hotel guests to be aware of what the hotel is charging them, be it incidentals or additional fees—and, if they’re unsure of something, to ask the hotel staff for clarification to prevent miscommunication.

4. Overlooking the power of “please” and “thank you”

If you’re going to be a guest at a hotel, don’t forget to say please and thank-you—a small gesture that can go a long way for hotel staff. “Employees really love to hear ‘please,’ ‘thank you,’ or ‘you did a great job,’” says Gilbert, adding that “if people are polite, things seem to run a little better.” While you’re at it, it wouldn’t hurt to show your appreciation for all the staff’s hard work with a tip.

Gilbert says there’s no one way to tip, but he’s come up with his own set of rules as a hotel guest. He generally extends his gratitude to the bartenders and waitstaff, valets, and housekeeping. When tipping the bartender or waitstaff, he adheres to the standard 20 percent tip rule. For valets, he tips $5 when he picks up his car. As for housekeeping, he tips $2 for every day of his stay at the hotel—and rather than leave it in the hotel room, he gives it to the front desk in an envelope so the housekeeper is sure to receive it.

When I moved to Los Angeles from New York City, I knew my usual traveling jaunts would be even farther. Jet-setting to most of the world from the West Coast easily adds a day to your excursion, if not two, round trip—some sweet exceptions being places like Hawaii, or the Maldives, or Fiji. The latter is where I found myself going after an invite to come stay at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa arrived in my inbox, and I thought—why not now? I had put off places like this waiting for the right moment, when I’d have more time off, or less travel plans throughout the year, or… something intangible I couldn’t put my finger on. But when invited, I really thought, if not now, when?

I had put off places like this waiting for the right moment, when I’d have more time off, or less travel plans throughout the year, or… something intangible I couldn’t put my finger on.

Turns out, the flight is just about 11 hours, and as someone who flies regularly between the coasts (six hours), nearly doubling that didn’t feel super impactful. As I boarded a plane plane from Fiji Airways for just a four-day excursion to the island country, I knew two things: Firstly, I was going to lose a day (yes, a whole day) by taking off very, very late Friday night (aka almost technically Saturday, according to the clock) and landing very early in the morning on Sunday, technically. (Crossing the International Date Line is no joke.)  Secondly, I would “fast-forward” and gain that day back on the way back, which helped.

What also helped? A very nice, very restful business-class, lie-flat seat and priority check-in. (If you’re going to do a long-haul trip with a short amount of time, this is the way to do it.) It’s worth noting, however, that Fiji Airways does not yet participate in TSA pre-check. The champagne and meals, however, made up for that—as did the very nice configuration that basically meant I had near total privacy.

But would four days in paradise be worth it for a 22-hour trip, complete with losing a day on the way?

The short answer: Yes. Staying at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, which is just 20 minutes outside of Nadi International Airport on Denarau Island, was the perfect place to dip my toes into (shall we say) Fijian life. The staff is made up of 99 percent locals, and after Fiji re-opened to international travelers in December of 2021, the hotel debuted a full 50-million-dollar property renovation. One side of the property (where you check in) has a large pool, access to restaurants, and more, and the whole family can be together. The other side of the property is “adults only,” and is sort of like a resort within the resort, with a smaller pool, bar, etc. geared toward adults.

Most individuals traveling to Fiji will likely visit the other islands, but on this short trip, Denarau Island and Sofitel Fiji was my home away from home, and served as the restful getaway I had awaited. Drinking punches (and replenishing at the walk-up pool bar), sunbathing at the pool and beach, and most importantly—getting out onto the ocean on a boat—and landing on the island where they filmed Castaway—were all a part of my itinerary. I relaxed, I swam, I saw the gorgeousness of this island country, and I even got to experience a traditional kava ceremony (kava being the national drink of Fiji and a mild narcotic and sedative made from a plant).

And through all of this, I made a mental note to come back and explore more islands, more food traditions, and more local spots. But the best part was, I was here, now. I had laid the groundwork for future trips; I had seen a part of the world I hadn’t seen (and how lucky am I to do so?); I had gotten a taste of the Fijian way of life (Bula! Or welcome, as the locals say enthusiastically), and I had, perhaps most importantly, made use of the time I have right now. (And if the last few years have taught us anything, that time is precious.)

Biggest takeaway? Don’t wait. If you can, book the trip.

 

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As a homebody, I naturally tend to overpack as I need the comfort of home with me at all times, even if I am only gone for a couple of days. This often looks like, in addition to clothes, toiletries, and other essentials, stuffing a few skeins of yarn and crochet hooks (I have a serious crochet habit), several books I definitely won’t have time to read, and nearly my entire collection of sunglasses just in case. It’s a lot of stuff, and it can make traveling on a tour bus or flying from city to city a bit tricky, since I never want to take up too much room as a visitor (and schlepping large bags through airports is kind of the worst).

I’ve had other carry-on bags that I adored over the years, including the Béis Backpack ($78), which has gone on dozens upon dozens of trips with me and never disappoints. However, everything changed when I discovered the Calpak Luka Duffel ($120).

Calpak, Luka Duffel — $120.00

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As someone who prefers backpacks to duffels—especially since I am a full-time freelance writer and am often working while traveling—for their organization and easy access, I was a tad skeptical of this Calpak carry-on bag. I was initially drawn to this bag because of its water-resistant exterior which is vital when traveling to places with the most inclement weather (hello, Vancouver rain). Another feature that caught my eye was the trolly sleeve, which stays secure on top of suitcase handles and makes it even easier to zip about the airport. But, if I am being completely honest, I was sold when a friend of mine let me see her Luka Duffel in person and I could get a true sense of its size and how well it expands—a must when plotting how I can pack weeks’ worth of stuff in a carry-on bag.

Here’s the thing about duffel bags: For over-packers, they are superior because their design is so much more flexible. Sure, there is a limit to how much you can stuff in them, but there is also a ton more wiggle room compared to more structured backpacks. This duffle is no different as its polyester exterior—which kind of looks like a puffer coat—can easily expand when stuffing it to the brim.

The Luka Duffle has the looks, the weatherproofing, and the space, but it also has some incredible design specs, making it possible to shove everything inside and still keep your belongings organized. The bag features a shoe compartment that looks like a side pocket but is actually more like a bag that expands into the bottom of the interior (psst: I totally put my dirty laundry in there at the end of a trip), a large side water bottle pocket, a large front zipper pocket, plus a hidden zipper pocket inside the trolly sleeve to keep things like your passport and wallet safe.

Inside, the carry-on bag has a large rectangular shape that, even with shoes in the show compartment, still boasts plenty of room. The interior is lined nearly entirely with pockets, including a mesh flap pocket on the front-facing side, an elastic pouch pocket on the side, and a large zipper pocket and two elastic pouch pockets on the back-facing side. Although it lacks a laptop sleeve, it fits my 13-inch MacBook Air and its adorable Baggu Puffy Lap Top Sleeve case with ease. It’s also big enough to hold my Baggu Cresent Bag (which I use as my purse when traveling) without losing a ton of space.

Above all else, the true beauty of this duffle bag is that it not only fits in the overhead bin on all airplanes, but it also fits under the seat in front of you. That means it counts as a personal item (hence why I shove my actual purse in it) so you can also carry on a larger suitcase for the overhead bin.

When I am not traveling, I still use my Luka Duffle frequently, making it one of the best and most versatile bags in my closet. It can easily moonlight as a gym bag, work bag, or as an overnight bag for a quick staycation. It’s also easy to store and, since it holds so much, I actually use it to house many of my other purses and totes on the top shelf of my closet.

As I sit here and rave about this carry-on bag, I am thinking about my plans for a three-week trip across Canada soon, and how there’s no way I’d be as comfortable being away from home for that long without a bag that can store all of essentials and extras (which, this time, will include fewer sunglasses and a lot more beanies and scarf options—brr!). Luckily, I have one.

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“When you’re stressed and you increase cortisol, then you can certainly increase oil production as well,” says Dr. Garshick. No matter how prepared you are, flying is a stressful situation. Oil production picks up when you’re stressed because the glands that create oil and sebum have hormonal receptors on them, and cortisol is a fight-or-flight hormone that our body produces when we experience stress.

Another reason why your hair might be greasy after a flight is that you’re stuck in one spot with limited airflow.

“When you’re sitting in the same position for a little while, maybe you’re wearing headphones—there can be a build-up of sebum and oil,” says Dr. Garshick. “And you’re not exposed to kind of the outside air so there’s a theoretical risk of just build-up contributing to a greasy weathered look.”

Lastly, there’s a chance that the dry air in the plane cabin could be causing your scalp to overcompensate and produce more oil, but Dr. Garshick says this is very unlikely to happen over the course of a flight.

How to prevent greasy hair after a flight

Unfortunately, prevention is tricky. In some ways, this stress-induced oil production is unavoidable since so many of the stressors that pop up around flying are out of your control. But, do your best to keep stress levels low when flying. Give yourself ample time to make it through the airport and bring along activities that can help keep you calm, like a good book. If the issue is more about being stuck in one spot, there isn’t much you can do to change that shy of walking the aisle to keep your hair moving (which is a bit extreme).

Your best bet? Apply some dry shampoo, like the Living Proof Perfect hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo ($30), before take-off in an effort to absorb the oil as it’s produced. Just make sure you’re shampooing before your flight, because if you’re boarding with days worth of dry-shampoo build-up, it could end up even greasier. “The challenge with dry shampoo is that even though it’s doing what it can to absorb the excess oil in a period of time, if it actually does replace washing your hair over a several-day period, then you are gonna get that sort of perpetual buildup of oil and can get irritation and inflammation,” says Dr. Garshick.

Living Proof Perfect hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo — $30.00

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Overall, try not to be too hard on yourself. Travel is a stressful situation and if the worst thing that happens is your hair getting a little greasy, you’re in good shape.

Want even more beauty intel from our editors? Follow our Fineprint Instagram account for must-know tips and tricks.

To save yourself the awkward exchanges of, “Sorry, that’s my luggage,” or having to rummage through another person’s belongings, stand out from the crowd with colorful luggage that won’t get lost in the sauce. Thanks to serious strides in suitcase innovation, gone are the days of traveling with the same, boring black bag as everyone else. There’s a rainbow of luggage out there, just waiting to be shown off on your travels. From pretty pastels to bold, bright jewel tones, here are the best colorful luggage pieces to pack with you, so you can ditch the crowds at baggage claim and start your trip sooner. Bon voyage!

8 colorful pieces of checked luggage to pack on your next flight

Monos, Check-In Medium — $315.00

Originally $350, now $315

For people who don’t want to overpack on their week-long vacation, the Monos Check-In Medium is the perfect size. Inside you’ll find one fully-zippered compartment for clothes and a second panel with zippered compartment for shoes and toiletries, so you can stay organized on your adventures. It boasts a sleek design and smooth-rolling wheels—which are whisper quiet, btw—so you’re not playing an endless game of tug-of-war at the airport. Also nice? The colors, which include this dewy blue, a pretty pale pink, even a limited-edition terrazzo that’s giving White Lotus.

Colors: 10

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Paravel, Aviator Grand — $425.00

Psst—you can still be a minimalist and not have black luggage. Paravel’s stunning suitcases, carry-ons, and other travel accessories stand out, if not for their chic neutral color ways than for their posh silhouettes and timeless detailing. Made from 100 percent upcycled plastic, it’s also a sustainable option that doesn’t skimp on space—in fact, it happens to be the only bag our Associate Commerce Editor, Francesca Krempa, packed for three months in Utah last winter. And if you’re really concerned about it getting mixed up at baggage claim, it can be monogrammed for an extra $50. Worth it, in our opinion.

Colors: 5

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July, Checked Plus — $345.00

Now this is a suitcase you won’t miss at baggage claim. Looks aside, July’s whopping Checked Plus is a game–changer for long jaunted where you need to pack a lot of stuff. Open it up to the brand’s unique Y-Strap compression system that allows for ample packing space. Other features include a telescopic handle with over 20 different heights and a built-in laundry bag that’s smell and stain resistant. Your travel plans have never looked brighter.

Colors: 18

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Traveler's Choice, Checked 30" Large Suitcase — $100.00

If you want something with a bit more edge, consider this spacious suitcase from Traveler’s Choice  luggage. The rigid texture and the subtle lilac makes this piece a total stunner and will certainly make heads spin at baggage claim. Its large interior can hold 2+ weeks worth of stuff—all while still being lightweight and easy to maneuver. Plus, it’s only $100, making it a budget-friendly option that won’t drain your bank account.

Colors: 6

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Rimowa, Check-In Large — $1,125.00

Looking for a suitcase that’s as luxurious as the vacation you’re going on? Rimowa has got you covered. This elegant suitcase has everything you need to enjoy a long getaway, like multiple zippered compartments, high-functioning wheels, and an easy-to-maneuver handle that doesn’t catch or collapse randomly. Its 23-gallon capacity comes in the lightest polycarbonate shell that protects your belongings without weighing you down. If you can swing it, it’s worth the hefty price tag and built to last you years of travel. Bonus points for the glossy pine coloring that’ll be easy to spot when you land.

Colors: 6

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Roam, Check-In — $595.00

For shorter domestic and international trips, Roam’s Check-In is all you’ll need to pack. It packs 28 percent more things thanks to its expandable lining, while its polycarbonate shell and water-repellent zipper keeps your goods locked in, What’s unique about this suitcase is it’s duo-color design which is totally customizable from the front shell down to its zippers. Mix and match nine different colors and never worry about picking out the wrong bag again.

Colors: 9

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Vera Bradley, Hardside Large Spinner Luggage — $172.00

Vera Bradley’s Hardside Large Spinner will retire your old, black luggage quick. Featuring a prairie paisley design of pinks, reds, and greens (it’s so pretty), this large spinner will have you spending less time looking and more time relaxing. It has two main compartments with mesh zip pockets and a zip compartment, holding 73 liters worth of essentials for your big trip. Stow away shoes, toiletries, styling tools, and even chunky coats—all in a pretty suitcase bound to get you loads of compliments at the airport.

Colors: 3

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Steamline Luggage, The Illustrator — $945.00

For the luxe travelers who like a hint of vintage flair, Steamline’s boxy silhouette, tan leather handles, and traditional trunk style feel like something straight out of the Gilded Age of rail travel. Its elegant details, along with 360-degree wheels and telescopic handle, combine function with fashion, and will undoubtedly make you the chicest person at the baggage carousel.

Colors: Blue check

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These space-saving marvels deliver all of the warmth and functionality of a typical puffer jacket, but with extra thoughtful upgrades like removable hoods and a smart, collapsible silhouettes that fold down into their own pockets. Packable puffer jackets make packing for winter travel an absolute breeze because they fit almost anywhere—you can effortlessly stuff one in your backpack or carry-on luggage without having to engage in a game of Tetris, and it’s one less thing to think about as you go through airport security. If you’re looking to add a packable puffer jacket to your winter wardrobe, we took the liberty of finding the best ones money can buy.

Best packable puffer jackets that make winter travel a breeze

FP Movement, Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket — $198.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

The Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket is a W+G team favorite—and a FP Movement from Free People best-seller—for good reason. It comes in a spectrum of fun, fashion-forward colors that are everything our winter wardrobe needs, for starters. And it’s stuffed with a synthetic down alternative that keeps you feeling warm and toasty (but not overwhelmed) in the winter cold. Most importantly though, the Pippa Puffer truly is a breeze to travel with. It folds down into its own pocket with ease, and can be stuffed in your carry-on or personal item without any fuss. Plus, it makes for a cozy travel pillow!

Colors: 16

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Lole, Packable Claudia Down Jacket — $166.00

Available sizes: XS-XL (select sizes sold out)

The Lole Packable Down Jacket boasts a water-resistant nylon shell, and plush, responsibly sourced, down insulation. The sleek silhouette that keeps you warm without adding too much bulk, and it all folds down easily, making it a seamless addition to your luggage or backpack. What’s more, the hood is removable for a customizable look that’s still super functional. Plus thoughtful details like the drop tail hem and elasticated cuffs add further protection from the harsh cold.

Colors: 3

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FP Movement, Phoebe Packable Puffer Jacket — $198.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

The Phoebe Packable Puffer Jacket conveniently folds into its own back pocket for easy stowing. Equipped with a water-resistant exterior, synthetic insulation, and a polyester fleece trim along the interior, this travel-ready jacket will be a go-to for all of your wintertime adventures. “Absolutely LOVE this jacket,” wrote one Free People shopper in a 5-star review. “It’s the perfect amount of oversized; it’s super comfy, warm, and I can’t wait to bring it everywhere with me.” If you’re after a more fitted look, consider sizing down on this one.

Colors: 5

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The North Face, 1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket — $320.00

Available sizes: XS-3X

If you’re feeling spendy and want to splurge on a packable puffer that’ll stand the test of time, check out the Nuptse Jacket by The North Face. Emily Ratajkowski has been spotted wearing this vintage-inspired beauty on numerous occasions this year, and it’s been selling out ever since. But the retro chic look isn’t the only thing we love about the Nuptse, it’s full of heat-trapping (and responsibly sourced) down, has a removable hood, and it packs away into its own hand pocket for effortless storage.

Colors: 5

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FP Movement, Poppy Packable Puffer Jacket — $168.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

The most lightweight of all of FP Movement’s packable puffer jacket options, the Poppy has a slim, synthetic down fill, shorter length, and a relaxed fit that’s perfect for layering during winter travel, or commuting to a workout class. Zippered, fleece-lined pockets give cold hands a warm place to retreat from the cold, while the bungeed hemline and cinched cuffs help lock in the warmth. Now the question is, which of the eight stylish color options will you choose?

Colors: 8

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Calvin Klein, Hooded Stretch Packable Puffer Coat — $90.00

Originally $180, now $90 

Available sizes: XXS-XXL

This Calvin Klein Puffer Coat packs into its own compact carrying pouch—perfect for latching onto a backpack or stuffing in a tote or carry-on luggage. The water-resistant polyester shell shields you from the winter cold, and features a removable hood and standing collar for flexible wear. And if you love the puffer look but also want to maintain your shape, you’ll love the stretchy puffer’s cinched waist and shorter hem.

Colors: 8

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REI Co-op, 650 Down Jacket 2.0 — $100.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

This REI puffer jacket has over 300 5-star ratings and is only $100—which isn’t too shabby for a piece of winter outerwear! REI shoppers love the warmth of the jacket’s ethically sourced down insulation, and the lightweight, versatile look that serves you well during outdoorsy activities and casual, everyday wear alike. What’s more, the recycled nylon exterior is fully water-repellant, meaning this super functional puffer jacket can handle whatever winter throws at it. Plus, it folds down into its own left hand pocket, and can fit into a tote or backpack without a fuss.

Colors: 4

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Cotopaxi, Fuego Hooded Down Jacket — $275.00

Available sizes: XXS-XXL

We can’t get enough of the playful, retro look of this Cotopaxi puffer jacket—and neither can REI shoppers, clearly, because the popular jacket has over 400 5-star ratings. The Fuego Hooded Down Jacket touts a lightweight, versatile fit that you can even use in the spring. It has a nylon exterior with a warming down fill, an adjustable drawcord waist to seal out the cold, interior pockets for your daily essentials, and zippered outer pockets for hand warmth when you need it. For easy winter travel, just fold down the Fuego into one of its pockets. Plus, you can still find select colors/sizes at a discount during the REI Holiday Warm Up Sale!

Colors: 12

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Charter Club, Packable Hooded Down Puffer Coat — $70.00

Originally $165, now $70

Available sizes: XXS-XL

To keep cozy all winter long without breaking the bank, you’re going to want to jump on this packable down puffer from Macy’s. The fully lined, water-resistant coat offers the perfect amount of coverage from the winter cold, and is equipped with a removable hood for added protection from the elements. One Macy’s shopper said it was exactly what she needed for her winter vacation. “I purchased this coat to wear on vacation [and] it worked great,” she wrote in a 5-star review. “It conveniently packs into a small pouch and the coat keeps me warm in 25-degree temperatures.”

Colors: 9

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FP Movement, Pippa Packable Cropped Puffer Jacket — $168.00

Available sizes: XS-XL

Free People is clearly excelling in the puffer category, and the cropped version of their best-selling Pippa Puffer is no exception. Unlike the original Pippa though, this jacket has a boxy silhouette that crops high, just above the waist. The lightweight, quilted nylon puffer is stuffed with a warm, synthetic fill and claims to be water-resistant—which, coupled with the reflective shell, makes it a solid choice for outdoor activities that’s still fashionable for daily wear. According to Free People shoppers, you may want to size down if you’re looking for a more fitted look.

Colors: 3

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Per the Hotels.com analysis, the best times to currently book are between December 15-20 and January 3-8, when certain rooms are selling for $150 or below. From $95 per night for a 4-star, luxury resort in Lima, Peru to art deco hotels in Japan for just $105 per night, hotels around the globe are taking cold shoulder season very seriously, offering travelers a luxury getaway without the luxury price tag.

It’s never too late to plan a last-minute getaway or to starting prioritizing your 2023 PTO. Check out the cheapest hotel rates in December and January from the report that are practically beckoning you to pack your bags.

Where to go in December

Sonesta Hotel El Olivar - Lima, Peru — $95.00

Rate: $95/night 

Now that travel is back in full swing, consider booking a trip to Lima, Peru. For $95 per night, this 4-star hotel boasts free breakfast, parking, a gym, a pool, and prime location next to highly-rated restaurants. Take a dip in the refreshing outdoor pool before heading to the rooftop terrace with a cocktail to watch the sunrise. Yes, please.

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CitizenM - Los Angeles, CA — $120.00

Rate: $120/night

Staying in Los Angeles can cost a pretty penny, but you can score a good rate at CitizenM located right in downtown. It offers a breakfast buffet, a 24-hour fitness center, and a 24-hour business center, if you’re still getting some work done. It’s the perfect hotel for folks on business or vacay.

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Histórico Central - Mexico City, Mexico — $141.00

Rate: $141/night

If the tropical side of Mexico isn’t your thing, book a stay at Histórico Central. Located in the city center of Mexico City, the Histórico Central is just steps away from Madero Street and the famous art museum Palacio de Bellas Artes. Each room comes air-conditioned and features complimentary bathrobes. Plus, take advantage of the complimentary breakfast buffet and coffee (yum.)

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Schwan Locke - Munich, Germany — $125.00

Rate: $125/night

If you book this Munich hotel now, you can still make it in time for the holiday markets. This stylish stay features mid-century furnishings and decor that any art lover or historian will appreciate. Most rooms are decked with a balcony for fresh air and electric-colored couches for a burst of color. The rooms are clean, service is lovely, and the hotel is just minutes away from the city center.

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Casa Wilson Inn - San Juan, Puerto Rico — $141.00

Rate: $141/night

Craving a beachy getaway? The Condado Hotel calls. This inn is fully-loaded with amenities, including free breakfast, pool access, computer stations, barbecue grills, and so much more. It’s also nice that the beach is nearby.

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Where to go in January

Hyatt Centric - Denver — $125.00

Rate: $125/night 

If you’re planning to visit Denver don’t skip on a chance to stay at the Hyatt Centric. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with gorgeous views, a 24-hour fitness center, and a coffee shop—so you can enjoy your morning cup of Joe.

 

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Station House Inn - Lake Tahoe, CA — $139.00

Rate: $139/night

Plot twist: you don’t need to drop a ton of cash on a ski trip. The Station House Inn is three miles away from Heavenly Ski Resort with a ski shuttle that makes getting there a breeze. When you come back after a day on the slopes, slip into a spa tub or the seasonal outdoor pool and give your muscles a rest.

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Selina Catahoula - New Orleans, LA — $124.00

Rate: $124/night 

Located in New Orleans business district, Selina Catahoula is just steps away from Canal and Bourbon street, where there’s plenty shopping, eating, and drinking to be done. Bring back some beignets and take in the sights from the rooftop terrace for a nightcap.

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Aliz Hotel - New York, NY — $115.00

Rate: $115/night 

Making your way to the Big Apple? The Aliz Hotel is a must-stay. This 4-star hotel is located right in Times Square, giving you access to all the action. When you’re done exploring, come back to a sound-proof room (it is the city that never sleeps, after all) before enjoying a cooked-to-order breakfast in the morning. Alexa, play New York, New York. 

 

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Hotel Musse Ginza Meitetsu - Tokyo, Japan — $105.00

Rate: $105/night 

Hotel Musse is conveniently located near the Tokyo Imperial Palace and Tokyo Tower, making it a great hotel to stay at if location is your priority.  The Art Deco hotel has all the amenities you’d want in a stay away from home, including a Japanese fusion restaurant that serves breakfast every morning until 10 AM, so you can fuel before roaming around the city.

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If you have a trip planned and need help shopping for carry-on luggage that will actually fit inside the overhead compartments, we’ve got you covered. Up ahead, find our top picks for the best carry-on luggage for JetBlue, Alaskan, United, Southwest, Spirit, and other popular domestic and international airlines.

Best carry-on luggage, at a glance 

• American Airlines: Samsonite, Octiv Carry-On Spinner, $230
• United: Monos Carry-On, $245
• JetBlue: L.L.Bean Hardside Spinner, 22″, $219
• Delta: LEVEL 8 Textured Carry-On 20”, $160
• Alaskan Air: Baboon to the Moon Go Bag Small Duffle, $199
• Southwest Airlines: Paravel Aviator, $375
• Air France: LOJEL Cubo Small, $300
• Emirates: July Carry-On Light, $245
• Spirit Airlines: CALPAK Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage, $149

The 9 best carry-on luggage for overhead bins

American Airlines: Samsonite, Octiv Carry-On Spinner

Octiv Carry-On Spinner — $230.00

American Airlines Carry-On Size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Bag Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

According to American Airlines, a carry-on bag should be no bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including the handles and wheels, which is standard across several major airlines on our list. Since it is a standard size, it’s relatively easy to find an excellent carry-on bag to not only fit in the overhead bins on an American Airlines flight—but not all are created equal. For one of the best 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bags, we adore The Octiv Carry-On Spinner from Samsonite, which measures at exactly the dimensions allowed, giving you every extra millimeter of room.

Samsonite is tried-and-true for good reason: It’s known for its durability and easy of use, thanks to its polycarbonate shell and packing cube-style interior that makes organizing your belongings a breeze (this includes mesh pockets, a WetPak pocket that keeps liquids to themselves, and elastic tie-downs. Plus, it comes with a TSA-approved locked for security, and Aero-Trac wheels that are designed to be strolled extra smoothly. Over-packers can rejoice, since the suitcase expands by 1.5 inches (every inch counts with a carry-on)! Bonus? It has an USB port in the design, so you can charge your phone or Kindle while you wait at your gate.

 

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United: Monos Carry-On

The Carry-On — $245.00

United Carry-On Size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Bag Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

United (along with several other airlines on our list) makes shopping for a carry-on bag easy with its more universal 22 x 14 x 9-inch size requirements. If you’re flying United, one of our favorite bags in this size is the Monos Carry-On—the bag is so good that it’s actually won awards for its design. This carry-on luggage is constructed with a polycarbonate hard shell interior that is ultra-durable, plus a telescoping handle that matches its exterior’s strength. The bag is also water-resistant so you can travel in rain or snow without concerns, has a 350D anti-microbial interior, and comes with a built-in TSA-approved lock for added security. On top of that, when you purchase a Monos Carry-On, you get an anti-microbial laundry bag, two shoe bags, and a vegan leather luggage tag along with it—score!

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JetBlue: L.L.Bean Hardside Spinner, 22"

Hardside Spinner, 22" — $219.00

JetBlue Carry-On Size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Bag Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

As one of the major airlines in the United States, JetBlue also has a more universal carry-on bag policy. When flying JetBlue, you’ll want to ensure that your bag doesn’t exceed the 22 x 14 x 9 requirements, or else it won’t fit in the overhead bin and will need to be checked instead. For a bag that fits—and is made to last—consider the L.L.Bean Hardside Spinner. The durable hard-shell luggage fits the exact specifications, plus it can handle the wear and tear of travel, making it a good investment, too. Like most hardshell suitcases, this bag features four wheels that make dragging your belongings across a busy airport a breeze, only the wheels are particularly inset, making them even more durable. Inside, the bag has two mesh zippered dividers to keep personal items in placed and organized, too.

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Delta: Level 8 Textured Carry-On 20''

Textured Carry-On 20'' — $160.00

Delta Carry-On Size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Bag Dimensions: 13.7 x 9.3 x 19.7 inches

Similar to American Airlines, United, and JetBlue, Delta also has standard carry-on size requirements of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Whether you’re a loyal Delta flyer or are looking for a more universal carry-on bag that will fit overhead bins on most of the major airlines in the United States, the Textured Carry-On 20” from Level 8 is one of our favorites. With pronounced angles, this carry-on boasts a sleek and linear-looking design in a sturdy polycarbonate hard shell that—get this—has an anti-scratch surface.

The carry-on bag also comes in a collection of seven stunning colors, is extra-roomy inside, and you can save 15 percent when you make it a set with the matching checked bag size. On top of that, the luggage has a $159 price tag, which is on the more affordable side of the spectrum compared to carry-on bags with similar design and durability.

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Alaskan Air: Baboon to the Moon Go Bag Small Duffle

Go-Bag Duffle Small — $189.00

Alaskan Air Carry-On Size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches

Bag Dimensions: 10.5 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches

If you want a soft-shell carry-on bag and are traveling on Alaskan Air, the Baboon to the Moon Go Bag Small Duffle is a fantastic choice. According to Alaskan Airlines’ baggage policy, carry-on bags must be no bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches—which this duffle bag matches. Apart from fitting into the overhead bins, the Go Bag is like the ultimate duffle with tons of compartments to keep you organized. It also features a convenient passport zippered pocket for easy access, a clippable all-around daisy chain so you can easily attach items to it with a carabiner and it has double-layered protection. The bag also features locking zippers for security and a zipper rain flap to keep belongings protected in wet weather.

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Southwest Airlines: Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus

The Aviator Carry-On Plus — $375.00

Southwest Airlines Carry-On Size: 24 x 16 x 10 inches

Bag Dimensions: 14.7 x 22.7 x 9.6 inches

We love flying Southwest Airlines because it has one of the most generous carry-on bag policies, which states bags in the overhead bin can’t exceed past 24 x 16 x 10 inches. When flying Southwest, the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus is the best carry-on bag for your trip. The classic hard shell luggage is constructed from recycled materials, making it totally carbon-neutral. Featuring 360-degree double spinner wheels that make rolling super smoother, an interior compression board, scuff-camouflaging finish (even if you choose the cream-colored option, it won’t get marked very easily—our senior commerce editor travels everywhere with it, and it still somehow looks brand new), interior pockets, and a removable laundry bag.

It’s a larger “smaller” carry-on, so even if you do end up flying other airlines, it should be able to fit in their compartments, too.

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Air France: LOJEL Cubo Small

Cubo Small — $300.00

Air France Carry-On Size: 21.7 x 14 x 9.8 inches

Bag Dimensions: 20.9 x 14 x 9.8 inches

If you’re flying Air France, the luggage policy is important to consider, as this airline requires a smaller carry-on compared to some of the major airlines in the United States. Air France’s bag policy states that carry-on bags can’t exceed 55 x 35 x 25 centimeters, which amounts to 21.7 x 14 x 9.8 inches. For a bag you don’t have to sweat about, look to the LOJEL Cubo Small. This hardshell luggage is more pint-sized but packs a punch with the most convenient front pocket that folds out on an angle and reveals all of your essentials—including your laptop—stowed away in designated compartments and pockets.

The carry-on is also designed with maximum space in mind, so you can fit everything you need (including your coat) in the cabin. And, in case you buy too many souvenirs, the bag expands at the center by around 1 inch—although, this might mean you’ll need to check it, too.

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Emirates: July Carry-On Light

Carry On Light — $245.00

Emirates Carry-On Size: 21.65 x 14.96 x 7.87 inches

Bag Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.25 x 7.5 inches

Similar to Air France, Emirates’ bag policy prefers smaller carry-ons and says to keep bags under 55 x 38 x 20 centimeters, or 21.65 x 14.96 x 7.87 inches. With this in mind, the July Carry-On Light is the perfect fit. Measuring at 21.25 x 14.25 x 7.5 inches, this bag is built for world travel with its strong German polycarbonate shell and water-resistant and stain-proof lining. The bag also has heavy-duty PVC hinges and trim, which adds to the overall durability factor. Another fantastic thing about July carry-on bags, in general, is that they have a lifetime warranty on manufacturing faults, and they offer personalization, making this bag an excellent gift idea for travelers (or the perfect splurge for yourself).

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Spirit Airlines: CALPAK Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage

Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage — $149.00

Spirit Airlines Carry-On Size: 22 x 18 x 10 inches

Bag Dimensions: 16 x 14 x 8 inches

When traveling on Spirit Airlines, it’s ultra-important to consider the carry-on policy, as not every plane will fit a carry-on and, sometimes, a carry-on bag might not even be allowed, depending on your ticket. Additionally, Spirit Airlines’ bag policy says some carry-on bags—even if they meet the allotted 22 x 18 x 10-inch requirements—might not fit on a particular plane. If this is the case, the airline will require you to check your carry-on bag. While a budget-friendly ticket can surely make up for this, you still want to make sure your bag will fit on the plane.

For the best carry-on luggage for Spirit Airlines, we like to play it safe with the CALPAK Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage. Small but mighty, this bag meets the requirements of Spirit Airlines’ personal item dimensions, which means you’ll likely have an easier time traveling. In addition to its small size, the CALPAK carry-on luggage is supremely organized with tons of compartments for in-flight essentials, plus enough room to pack a small fanny bag or crossbody bag inside. The bag also features a hardshell, giving it tons of durability, and comes in a variety of beautiful shades to keep your travel aesthetic on point.

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Similar to a poofy ottoman, inflatable footrests position your legs into a comfortable position, taking the pressure off of your back and spine. When purchasing a footrest for travel, look for ones that can inflate and deflate quickly, so that you can quickly set it up before it’s time to board, and then pack it back up when it’s time to land (the last thing you probably want is to spend *more* time sitting and waiting to get to your destination).

We scoured the internet for the best inflatable footrests for short travelers. Scroll down below to find the best of every budget, material, and size. Inflatable poofs to the rescue!

The best inflatable footrests for short travelers

Sunany Store, Inflatable Footrest — $25.00

Weighing just shy of a pound, Sunany’s inflatable footrest is lightweight and can be compressed into a small drawstring bag, making it travel-friendly. It boasts two valves, the top for inflating and the bottom for deflating. All you have to do is blow to inflate and push the valve to deflate. What’s more, it can even be adjusted to three different heights.

Colors: 3

Pros 

• Features two valves
• Inflates and deflates quickly
• Comes with case

Cons 

• Bulky

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Best Budget

Myfon, Inflatable Travel Footrest (Pack of 2) — $15.00

For the price, Myfon’s inflatable footrest gets the job done right. Not only is it easy to inflate and deflate, the footrest is made of a soft fabric for ultimate comfort. After deflating, it only weighs 0.4 pounds. Plus, you get two for the price of one (goodbye, soggy legs).

Colors: 2

Pros 

• Inflates and deflates quickly
• Affordable
• Pack of two

Cons 

• One valve
• No carrying case

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Best Style

Qilloway, Inflatable Round Ottoman — $20.00

Qilloway’s inflatable round ottoman will have you flying in style. The circular shape and outdoor-treated cover makes this ideal for the airplane floor. Not to mention, this one comes in 11 fun patterns and colorways.

Colors: 11

Pros

• Has a handle
• Comes in 11 colors and patterns
• Outdoor-treated cover

Cons

• Cover is separated from cushion

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Best for Couples

Styddi, Inflatable Footrest Cushion (Pack of 2) — $17.00

If you’re hitting new destinations with a loved one, consider Styddi’s pack of 2. Lightweight, portable, and featuring a two-in-one nozzle—what’s not to love? It takes between one and two minutes to fully inflate the cushion (so just make sure to plan ahead), but once it’s blown up, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the flight.

Colors: blue and grey

Pros 

• Pack of two
• Lightweight
• Big nozzle

Cons 

• No carrying case

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