Travel Gear – SmarterTravel https://www.smartertravel.com The Best Trips Start Here Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:25:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.5 The 10 Best Gym Bags That Double As Carry-Ons https://www.smartertravel.com/the-best-gym-bags-that-double-as-carry-ons/ https://www.smartertravel.com/the-best-gym-bags-that-double-as-carry-ons/#respond Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:25:19 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=454761 Travelers and gym-goers alike need a bag that will keep their gear fresh and organized while still being able to squeeze into tiny gym lockers and overhead bins. These bags all have double-duty features that make them perfect for the airplane cabin and the locker room, with some small enough to skate by as personal […]

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Travelers and gym-goers alike need a bag that will keep their gear fresh and organized while still being able to squeeze into tiny gym lockers and overhead bins. These bags all have double-duty features that make them perfect for the airplane cabin and the locker room, with some small enough to skate by as personal items. 

PopFlex Delilah Duffel

PopFlex Delilah Duffel
PopFlex

Thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of every workout, the PopFlex Delilah Duffel maxes out convenience with its shoulder and handle straps, designated cell phone and water bottle pockets, and built-in yoga mat straps. Bonus: it comes equipped with a luggage sleeve that slides easily over the handle of your rolling suitcase.

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: This travel gym bag is roomy enough that an efficient packer could use it for a weekend trip but small enough to pass as a personal item. 

Size: 16.73” x 12.59” x 8.07”

Gymshark Medium Everyday Gym Bag

Medium Everyday Gym Bag
Gymshark

A major player on the fitness scene since its founding in 2012, Gymshark doesn’t disappoint with its Medium Everyday Gym Bag. Outfitted with a shoe compartment, exterior organizational pockets, and a spacious interior, this 40L duffel can easily hold everything you need for a weekend trip.

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: The wet pocket, designed to hold your used gym clothes after a workout, is a great place to store your plastic bag of TSA-compliant liquids in case of spillage.

Size:  21.6” x 11.4” x 9.8”

Cotopaxi Ligera Duffel Bag

Ligera 45L Duffel Bag
Cotopaxi

If the lightweight design, removable straps, and whimsical color combos don’t sell you on the Cotopaxi Ligera Duffel Bag, the fact that it folds down into its own self-contained carrying case definitely will. Weighing just over 1lb, this bag has a separate side pocket for gym shoes, exterior zipper pockets for personal items, and can hold up to 45L at its max capacity.

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: Able to compress into its own carrying case, this duffel stores away easily between gym sessions and can be packed away within larger luggage.

Size: 25” x 13” x 13” 

Haven Athletic Large Duffel

Large Duffel
Haven Athletic

If you value organization above all, the Haven Athletic Large Duffel is the only option for your gym routine and in-flight needs. The subdivided interior features seven varying-sized sections, with a structured shoe tunnel at the bottom, two interior mesh pockets, and several exterior pockets. 

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: The patented interior organization system was designed for the gym but can be easily used to keep travel gear separated and organized.

Size: 23” x 12” x 11”

The Beis Sport Duffel

The Sport Duffle in Beige
Beis Travel

Already known for their stylish and functional travel gear, it’s a guarantee that Beis’s take on the sport duffel is the perfect gym bag for travel. Its small size can easily pass as a personal item, and the stow-away backpack straps, removable shoulder strap, and built-in luggage sleeve make it a breeze to carry through the airport. 

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: A bonus ‘dirt bag’ is included, perfect for storing dirty gym shoes or organizing small items for easy in-flight access.

Size: 10″ x 17″ x 8.5″

Herschel Classic Gym Bag

Herschel Classic Gym Bag
Herschel

This gym bag is all about the elevated vintage vibes, with its classic barrel shape, simple color scheme, and minimal branding. The fabric and lining are made from 100% post-consumer water bottles, perfect for the eco-conscious traveler, and the bag has an interior storage space of about 27L.

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: This bag can be carried by the handles or removable shoulder straps. 

Size: Not stated

UA Undeniable 5.0 XS Duffel Bag

UA Undeniable 5.0 XS Duffle Bag
Under Armour

Under Armour is notorious for its long-lasting and sturdy athletic gear, so it makes sense that an Underarmour Duffel Bag would also stand up to the test of travel. The characteristics that make it a top-performing gym bag—like the water-resistant finish, vented laundry pocket, and multi-carry straps—make it the ideal carry-on. 

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: The vented laundry pocket is the perfect place to store gym clothes after a workout or a change of clothes on your flight.

Size: 8.7″ x 8.9″ x 17.6″

Alo Yoga Large Traverse Duffel

Large Traverse Duffle
alo yoga

It’s back to basics with this studio bag from Alo, but that doesn’t make it any less functional. This bag is ideal for those who prefer spacious, open interiors rather than pre-determined organizational systems. The sleek black handles, piping around the edge, and silver accents are perfect for the minimalist traveler.

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: This oversized gym duffel bag is perfect for packing large or uniquely shaped items or fitness gear.

Size: 22″ x 10.25″ x 13″

Tumi McCoy Gym Bag

McCoy Gym Bag
Tumi

The McCoy Gym Bag condenses the dependability of Tumi luggage into a reliable gym bag. The sturdy structure of this bag is reminiscent of soft-side rolling luggage, keeping its shape while allowing for flexibility when packing. Add a custom monogram for a flare of individuality and to prevent any baggage mix-ups. 

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: This bag comes with a built-in TSA-approved lock, keeping your items safe while traveling and secure while working out.

Size: 11.0″ X 19.0″ X 9.5″

The North Face 42L Base Camp Duffel

Base Camp Voyager 42L Duffle Bag
Nordstrom

This gym bag from The North Face that doubles as a backpack is a winner whether you’re saving your sore arms after a few reps or running through the airport to make your connection. The shoe compartment is on the side of the bag rather than at the bottom, freeing up valuable internal storage space.

Favorite Double-Duty Feature: This gym bag backpack comes with a 15” padded laptop sleeve, perfect for protecting your tech while traveling or stowing your laptop during a post-work gym session.

Size: 20.5″ x 8″ x 12.5″

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Best Luggage Trackers https://www.smartertravel.com/best-luggage-trackers/ https://www.smartertravel.com/best-luggage-trackers/#respond Thu, 25 Jan 2024 18:55:43 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=454150 It’s every traveler’s nightmare: you have just disembarked from your flight and are waiting at baggage claim. Most people on your flight have grabbed their suitcases and are halfway to their hotel, and you are staring at the carousel, thinking if you stare at it longer, your luggage is sure to come out. But it […]

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It’s every traveler’s nightmare: you have just disembarked from your flight and are waiting at baggage claim. Most people on your flight have grabbed their suitcases and are halfway to their hotel, and you are staring at the carousel, thinking if you stare at it longer, your luggage is sure to come out. But it doesn’t. Your luggage has been lost. 

While many airlines have started a luggage tracker on their apps, not all have, and there is always a chance it could get lost. 

Luggage tracking devices are becoming more popular to help travelers ensure their luggage can be easily found if lost. (Or, if you are like me, you need it in your regular purse because you never know where you put it). 

What Kind of Luggage Tracker Is Best? 

There are two different types of trackers: ones that use Bluetooth technology and those that use GPS/Cellular technology to track your items. 

Bluetooth trackers will trace items that are within range using your phone, or, when they are out of range, will tap into other phones with the Find My app, and send a signal to your phone. 

GPS trackers use GPS technology to locate the tracker no matter where it ends up. These trackers typically require a subscription for use. 

Which is best for you depends on many factors – the main one being how often you travel. If you travel several times a year, a GPS tracker with a subscription makes the most sense, as it is the most reliable and will find your bag no matter the circumstances. 

The Best Luggage Trackers

Apple AirTag

Apple AirTag
Amazon

Perhaps the best feature of the Apple AirTag is that if you are an iPhone user, you can track where your luggage is even if it is miles away, thanks to the “find my device” feature that connects Apple products. 

  • Type: Bluetooth/Find My Apps
  • Battery: Replaceable
  • Subscription Needed: No

Chipolo

Chipolo
Chipolo

Chipolo has three types of products: the Chipolo One, Chipolo Spot, and the Chipolo Point. All come in either a small, round tracker or as a card, and the main difference is the Chipolo One works with any device using the Chipolo app, the Spot works with the Find My app on Apple products, and the Point works with the Google Find My app. 

  • Type: Bluetooth/Find My Apps 
  • Battery: Replaceable
  • Subscription Needed: No

Tile

Tile
Amazon

This popular Bluetooth tracker will help you find any lost bags, even if they are far away- assuming someone with the tile app is near your bags. The Tiles Community Find option notifies you when any phone with the Tile app is near your bags, so you can pinpoint your bags even if it is out of the Bluetooth range. 

  • Type: Bluetooth/Find My Apps 
  • Battery: Replaceable
  • Subscription Needed: No

Tracki GPS

Tracki GPS
Amazon

If you want to ensure you can find your bags anytime, the Tracki GPS is your solution. It uses WiFi and/or GPS and has a 2-5 day battery life; you can track it live on a map, leaving you relaxed, knowing you’ll find your luggage no matter where it ends up. 

  • Type: GPS/WiFi
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Subscription Needed: Yes

GEGO GPS Luggage Tracker

GEGO GPS Luggage Tracker
Amazon

The GEGO GPS Luggage Tracker will find your bags no matter how far away you are from them. With a subscription, the app on your phone will pinpoint them thanks to GPS. It includes a baggage recovery service, and if they can’t locate your luggage within 96 hours, you’ll be eligible for a reimbursement of up to $1,000 per bag (for up to 2 bags per subscription). Subscriptions are available for as little as $14.99/month and can be canceled anytime. 

  • Type: GPS
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Subscription Needed: Yes

LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker

LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
Amazon

This waterproof GPS tracker lasts weeks or months on a single charge, depending on how often it gets pinged. It works with cellular and GPS data, so you know you can find it anywhere in the world. 

  • Type: GPS and cellular
  • Battery: Rechargeable
  • Subscription Needed: Yes

RavPower Bluetooth Smart Tracker

RavPower Bluetooth Smart Tracker
RavPower

This tracker is strictly for Apple products, using the iPhone Find My app. It will track your items using Bluetooth if it’s nearby, and if it is out of range, it will find it using the Find My network- any products near the tracker with the Find My app will ping it, showing you where it is. 

  • Type: Bluetooth/Find My Apps
  • Battery: Replaceable
  • Subscription Needed: No
eufy SmartTrack Link
Amazon

Similar to both the AirTag and RavPower Tracker, the eufy SmartTrack Link is a budget alternative for iPhone users. Integrating with the Find My app, you can easily track your item no matter where it is in the world. 

  • Type: Bluetooth/Find My Apps
  • Battery: Replaceable
  • Subscription Needed: No

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The 7 Best Walking Boots for Travel https://www.smartertravel.com/best-walking-boots-for-travel/ https://www.smartertravel.com/best-walking-boots-for-travel/#respond Thu, 25 Jan 2024 17:12:47 +0000 https://www.smartertravel.com/?p=454125 Although difficult to pack, boots are one of the most versatile footwear options for travel. Boots are great for walking, can handle any type of weather, and work with a variety of outfits. Read on to see our picks for the best walking boots for travel, with options for men and women.  ABEO Vista Mid […]

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Although difficult to pack, boots are one of the most versatile footwear options for travel. Boots are great for walking, can handle any type of weather, and work with a variety of outfits. Read on to see our picks for the best walking boots for travel, with options for men and women. 

ABEO Vista Mid Boot

ABEO Vista Mid Boot
ABEO Footwear

Featuring ABEO’s trademarked built-in BIOsystem® orthotic footbed, the Vista Mid Boot provides anatomical support and cushioning disguised in a stylish package. These water-resistant boots have a rubber outsole and can be used on pavement or trails—their adaptability makes them one of the best boots for travel. 

An ultra-plush fleece lining inside will keep your feet warm on even the coldest days. 

Danner Logger 917

Danner Explorer
Amazon

The best boots for travel are ones you can walk for many miles in (but still pair with jeans and wear to dinner). Made from full-grain leather, the Danner Logger 917 boots fit the bill. These sturdy boots have Gore-Tex liners that keep moisture out while still being breathable. 

The Loggers feature a unique molded polyurethane instep that cradles the heel and supports the arch of the foot. This half-length insole has a perforated design that helps air flow within the boots.

Blondo Raquel Waterproof Bootie

Blondo Raquel Waterproof Bootie
Nordstrom

Blondo boots are famous for their waterproofing, and the Raquel Booties are no exception. These fashionable short boots can handle rain or snow, and the lug sole helps you keep your footing on wet days. 

The side zip closure and stretchy ribbed elastic shaft panel make the Raquels easy to take on and off, so you can wear them on the plane without too much hassle at airport security. 

Frye Tyler Chelsea Boot

Frye Tyler Chelsea Boot
Zappos

Looking for a timeless boot that you can wear anywhere with anything? Opt for a Chelsea boot, a classic footwear choice that’s always in style. Frye’s Tyler Chelsea Boot is a great pick for men. 

Made from handcrafted leather and with Goodyear welt construction, these boots will last you through thousands of trips. The boot slips on easily, and elastic gore side panels create a fit that’s always comfortable. 

Sorel ONA RMX Glacy Boot

Sorel ONA RMX Glacy Boot
Sorel

If you’re in the market for the best winter boots for travel, Sorel’s Glacy Boots are one of our favorites. This sneaker-boot hybrid combines all the comfort of your favorite pair of running shoes with the warmth and protection of a snow boot.

The Glacy boots are fully waterproof and have a fleece lining plus an insulated interior to keep your feet ultra-toasty. 

Columbia Ice Maiden II Boots

Columbia Ice Maiden II Boots
Zappos

Headed to a really cold destination? Pack the Columbia Ice Maiden II Boots which are rated to temperatures as low as -25 degrees. These cozy winter boots feature 200g of lightweight insulation, a faux fur collar, and a tongue lining to help lock in the warmth. 

The Ice Maiden Boots are waterproof, of course, and also have the brand’s trademarked Omni-Grip outsoles, which provide incredible traction even in icy conditions. 

Cole Haan Original Grand Chukka

Cole Haan Original Grand Chukka
Zappos

Chukkas are another stylish boot choice for men, and we love the Original Grands from Cole Haan. These boots are great for dressier evenings or work trips, but feature a lightly cushioned insole that helps keep them comfortable for long days on your feet. 

These chukkas weigh just 14 ounces, making them easy to pack.

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