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Travel

How to Actually Sleep on a Plane—and Wake Up Rested—According to Travel Pros

Sleep can already be a pretty stressful thing for many of us, but sleeping on a plane? Talk about an added degree of difficulty. And it can be pretty crucial to get that sleep. Especially if you decided to take the 4 a.m. flight to avoid delays later in the day or are taking a red eye. Heck, even if you're just trying to catch up on some missed naps, a plane is a good place to get more hours in. The problem is that there's a lot of pressure. It's like the moment you have to go to sleep, you suddenly aren't tired or can't get comfy (and is it OK to recline your seat?). To help, we asked some frequent flyers for their best tips and tricks for mile-high shut-eye. Just Focus on Resting Sometimes the pressure we put on ourselves to fall asleep is precisely the reason we can't. "My advice for sleeping better is to try not to focus so much on the actual sleep," says TV host and travel expert Darley Newman. "Sometimes rest can be good enough." So, next time you're on a red eye, try just enjoying the resting time and seeing what comes of it. Mimic Your Nightly Routine We all have our own agenda of things we need to do before bed. While you might not have your actual bathroom vanity and bed available, you can get pretty close, says travel writer Michelle Joy, "At home, this involves a shower, skin care, and clean pajamas before crawling into bed," she says. "For my scaled down plane version, I brush my teeth, use a wet wipe and moisturize my face, and put on fuzzy socks." Swap Out Your Earbuds "I always bring a blackout sleep mask with built-in Bluetooth speakers—it's much more comfortable than earbuds when falling asleep on a plane, especially on overnight flights," says David Brodie, the founder of Voyascape and host of the Travel in 10 podcast. What should you listen to? Brodie suggests downloading podcasts about the destination you're heading to so you can immerse yourself before you land. Opt for a Window Seat Yes, an exit row or first class would be amazing, but if those pricier tickets aren't in the cards for you, travel journalist Wendy Helfenbaum implores you to get a window seat. "You can lean against the wall, and won’t be woken up by seat mates having to use the loo!" Download a Helpful App Erin Carey, Director of Roam Generation, a PR agency specializing in travel, says one of her biggest tips is to use the Timeshifter app. Download this before jumping on a plane headed to a different time zone and it can help you prep in advance. "It helps you adjust to the new time zone. I follow it's recommendations to a a tee, avoiding caffeine and taking melatonin at the suggested times to help regulate my sleep cycle." So, if you're supposed to be sleeping on a plane to help avoid jet lag, this could help!

Travel

Going Away? Here’s How to Keep Your Plants Alive While You Travel

If you’re like most plant enthusiasts, you probably spend a lot of time making sure your plant babies are properly watered, placed in the perfect spot for sunlight, and nurtured with the right soil and supplements. But what happens when it’s time for a vacation? If you think there’s nothing you can do, you might want to think again. With a little planning, your plants can not only survive while you're away, but actually thrive. Here's what experts have to say. Andrew Porwol, garden and landscaping expert and founder of Garden Centre Shopping Mark Thompson, garden expert and co-owner of Shoppe Choose the Right Plants While some plants require constant hands-on care, many plants will be perfectly fine if you travel for long stretches or go away on weekends. So if you are currently plant shopping, it’s important to choose wisely, says garden and landscaping expert Andrew Parwol. “Some plants, like snake plants and ZZ plants, are naturally more tolerant of drought and can survive a longer period without attention," he says. If you're worried about outdoor plants, Parwol recommends choosing lavender, rosemary, or ornamental grasses that can handle the dry, humid weather easily. “Knowing which plants can go longer without water will help you plan ahead," he says. Use Self-Watering Planters Similarly, self-watering planters can be a game changer for plant owners who are constantly on the go, Porwol says. “For container plants, consider using self-watering planters, which can keep moisture steady for up to two weeks.” Swap out those planters and leave for vacation knowing your plants won't be thirsty while you're gone. Consider Hydrogel Crystals If you're really concerned about your plants getting thirsty, consider water crystals. “You can also add hydrogel crystals to your soil mix," Porwol says. "These [crystals] absorb water and release it slowly, giving your plants consistent hydration." Make a DIY Drip System DIY drip systems are an easy and cheap option for plant maintenance, especially if you're taking a trip at the last minute. “Fill a wine bottle with water, invert it, and stick it into the soil,” Porwol says. “The water will slowly seep out as the soil dries, [making it] ideal for a quick getaway.” Move Your Plants to the Bathtub If you're planning a longer trip and have a few moments to spare before you head out, Porwol advises grouping your plants together in a bathtub, ideally lined with a towel and a shallow layer of water. “This creates more humidity and is perfect for plants to survive," he says. While this might seem inconvenient or unconventional, it can mean the difference between coming back to a home filled with thriving plants or greenery gone brown. Store Your Plants Away From the Sun Plants that are constantly in direct sunlight could wilt if they can’t be watered, says garden expert Mark Thompson. In this case, he suggests moving your plants out of sunny spots and opting for shadier rooms instead. “If you’re going to be gone for three or four days, just by moving them out of the full sun, you could potentially keep them from getting wilted,” Thompson says. For Long Vacations, Hire Help If you are going to be away for an extended period of time, longer than a couple of weeks, you might just have to pay someone to water your plants, Thompson says. “I would suggest finding a neighbor or a neighbor's kid who might water for you." On the other hand, if you really want a pro to take care of your plants while you're gone, consider hiring a plant sitter in your local area.

Travel

8 Things You Should Never Do on a Plane, According to a Flight Attendant

They say it's about the journey, not the destination—but when air travel is involved, the journey can often be more difficult than enjoyable. Still, that doesn’t mean that basic courtesy should go out the window. In fact, it's all the more reason to be extra considerate. Here are eight things you should never do on a plane. Aiden, flight attendant Jenny Dreizen, modern-day etiquette, boundaries, and relationships expert Touch the Flight Attendants According to flight attendant Aiden (who didn't reveal his last name for privacy reasons), there is never a time when it's appropriate to touch a flight attendant. “Do not touch your flight attendants, period," he says. "When we are moving about the cabin—whether it is to serve a meal, prepare drinks, or collect garbage—we can still hear you! A simple ‘sir’ or ‘ma’am’ will get our attention.” After all, it’s generally not appropriate to touch someone you’ve just met. Ask to Use the Lavatory Right After Boarding Need to use the bathroom right after boarding? Be aware that you may be holding up the plane. It’s the worst time to be anywhere but your seat—plus, you likely had a chance before boarding. “Why didn’t you use it in the terminal?" Aiden asks. "When you're boarding, the flight crew has different tasks to handle, both those you can see and, more importantly, those you cannot. Things like monitoring overhead bin space, identifying passengers we can rely on in an emergency, and communicating with the flight deck and ground personnel.” If you're still not convinced, know that bathrooms in the airport are far better than compact airplane stalls. Put Your Arms, Legs, or Feet in the Aisle Aiden acknowledges that airplanes aren’t the most comfortable environments, but you need to keep your limbs to yourself. “Sometimes you need to stretch, but when we're trying to pass through the cabin—whether it's for service or just monitoring—it’s frustrating to have to wake every single person blocking the aisle," he says. "That being said, please just be courteous about your space, and if we ask you to move, please do." Run to the Front of the Plane Right After Landing Sure, you might be eager to get off the plane, but so is everyone else. “Upon landing and arrival at the gate, please don’t stand up and bolt to the front of the airplane," Aiden says. "It’s quite rude to other passengers, and frankly, it’s inconsiderate." Question the Flight Crew Aiden warns that doubting the flight crew—or refusing to listen—is a bad idea. “If we ask you to do something, we have a reason," he says. "Please don’t question us. Flight attendants go through five to eight weeks of rigorous training before we’re even allowed to step foot on a real aircraft. Many flight attendants, including myself, compare their initial training to taking a full semester’s worth of college classes in under two months.” You might not know that flight attendants are trained to do much more than serve drinks. They learn how to open multiple types of aircraft doors, perform CPR and AED usage, deliver babies, and even fight fires. “Yes, we know how to pour Diet Coke, but there is so much more to our job than that," Aiden says. "We are aviation’s first responders, so please treat us as such.” Put Your Feet on Someone Else’s Armrest Etiquette expert Jenny Dreizen says that putting your feet on someone else’s armrest is a big no-no. “We’ve all seen it: the toes creeping from behind our armrests—it’s like a horror movie with a very boring premise," she says. "I live internationally from my family, so air travel is a big part of my life, and I know as much as anyone how wildly uncomfortable flying is—but you still cannot put your feet on the back of someone else’s armrest, I’m sorry. We must maintain some decorum.” Go Barefoot Dreizen insists that taking off your socks is not only unacceptable, it’s also unhygienic. “Plane floors are dirty, and I don’t want you to catch anything," she says. "Also, we don’t want access to your feet. Keep them sheathed. The best idea is to wear your shoes and keep your socks on at all times.” Recline Without Consideration It's okay to recline, but it’s important to be mindful of others, according to Dreizen. “As annoying as it can be to have someone recline in front of you, it’s not their fault that the airplane is shoving everyone too close together—they’re just trying to be comfortable," she says. "That said, it’s a good idea to recline slowly if you can." And check behind you to see if the person has drinks or a laptop on their tray—a quick heads up that you're about to recline is courteous.

Travel

I Just Spent a Month in Spain, and These 7 Tech Gadgets Kept Me Safe, Prepared, and Entertained

I recently went on a month-long trip to Spain, and let me tell you, packing for such a long trip is not easy. It requires a lot of planning and hoarding of travel toiletries, and since I tend to think about every potential thing that could go wrong, it causes a lot of stress, too. But I found some tech gadgets that helped give me peace of mind, like a personal safety alarm for emergencies and a portable charger to keep my phone ready in any scenario. Check out my picks below, starting at only $9 at Amazon—including a luggage scale for overpackers (aka me) and Apple AirTags that are beloved by Real Simple writers and editors. Writer-Loved Travel Tech Gadgets She’s Birdie The Original Personal Safety Alarm, $30 Charmast Small Portable Charger, $15 (was $22) Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Machine, $24 (was $30) Apple AirTag 4-Pack, $80 (was $99) Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise-Canceling Headphones, $40 (was $60) Ceptics International Travel Adapter, $24 (was $25) Etekcity Luggage Scale, $9 (was $11) She’s Birdie The Original Personal Safety Alarm Feel secure while traveling with this safety alarm. It’s super easy to use: To set off the siren and flashing LED light, just pull out the top of the device (and to turn it off, reinsert the top). The compact size won’t take up much space in your bag, and it even comes with a brass carabiner clip to attach to a keyring, so you’ll always be able to find it. Plus, you can take the device with you on trips since it’s safe to carry on planes, unlike other safety tools, such as pepper spray. Charmast Small Portable Charger There’s nothing worse than being in an unfamiliar place with a phone battery on 10 percent, which is why this portable charger will really come in handy. I never had to worry about my phone dying while walking around all day with this charger. It plugs directly into your phone, so you don’t have to deal with extra cords floating around in your bag. The charger is compatible with multiple iPhone types, including the iPhone 14, 13, 12, and 11. Yogasleep Hushh Portable White Noise Machine I’m a light sleeper, so having a portable white noise machine (and ear plugs) was key for me to get a good night’s rest. With three sound options and adjustable volume, you can customize this machine to fit your sleep preferences. It has a low LED night light that makes it easy to find in the dark, too, if you need to turn the noise up or down. The white noise machine comes with a USB cable for charging, and it can operate for up to 24 hours on a single charge (it has to be turned off and unplugged every 14 days to keep it running smoothly). Apple AirTag 4-Pack I’m paranoid about airlines losing my luggage, so I finally bought these Apple AirTags to keep track of my belongings. The AirTags connect to an iPhone with the Find My app, and on certain models, there’s a Precision Finding feature to tell you exactly where your items are. They also have a built-in speaker to help alert you to where they are if you’re having trouble finding them. Shop more of my recommendations for must-have travel gadgets below, starting at just $9. Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise-Canceling Headphones Ceptics International Travel Adapter Etekcity Luggage Scale

Travel

6 Things You Really Don't Need for a Short Trip—Plus, How to Pack More Efficiently

Packing for a short trip can be more challenging than packing for a long vacation. If you have a lot of activities planned for just a few days—packing light is crucial, especially if you don’t want to carry around heavy bags or pay those expensive luggage fees. While you probably know what you need to bring on your next weekend jaunt or business trip, knowing what you don’t need can help simplify the packing process even more. Here’s what you should never bring on a short trip. Adeela Hussain Johnson, president of BÈIS Valerie Batrice, vice president of consumer marketing at Travelpro Too Much of Anything Adeela Hussain Johnson, president of BÈIS, tells me packing too much of anything is a bad idea. “Packing light is key,” she says. Whether you’re taking a carry-on-sized bag or a weekender, start by accepting the fact that there is limited space and think logically from there. For example, it’s a smart idea to bring an extra dress shirt if you’re going on a business trip. But you probably don’t need to bring more than one bathing suit if you plan on swimming in the hotel pool. Clothing You Can’t Mix and Match Bringing items you can’t mix and match will only weigh your bag down. “Make sure you have mix-and-match options for your clothing, shoes, and bags so you can switch things up while maximizing space,” says Johnson. “Neutral bottoms work so well because then you can add your pop of color with shirts, which are smaller and easier to pack so you can bring a few extra." Lots of Toiletries If you have a ten-step skincare routine, you might need to par down slightly when you’re on the go. Johnson suggests using a BÉIS Dopp Kit for beauty and skincare products and limiting your selection to only what you can fit in that. “You can put your toiletries in the top section and your makeup below,” she says. In terms of cosmetics, try to bring multitaskers, such as foundation with sunscreen, or a hair product you can use for both de-frizzing and finishing. Handbags and Shoes That Aren’t Versatile Handbags and shoes can take up a lot of space and get heavy. While you might be tempted to pack those super-high heels for one night out, you’re better off opting for something more practical that you can wear for the entire trip. Keep color in mind, too. Black or tan shoes pretty much go with anything. The same goes for bags, explains Johnson. “Bags that can be versatile are perfect," she says. "The convertible weekender works so well because it’s the perfect size when packing for a short trip. When you arrive, you can unzip the bottom and leave that behind while the top of the bag converts into your day-to-day tote.” She also advises bringing along a crossbody or sling bag. “Crossbody or slings are so perfect for any kind of trip but, for a short trip, they can serve as the essentials bags for travel documents and your day-to-day carry bag," she says. "These bags also make a great snack carrier, as that’s always needed.” Full-Size Toiletries Valerie Batrice, vice president of consumer marketing at Travelpro, avoids packing full-size toiletries that she can purchase locally. "You can purchase trial-sized hygiene products once you arrive at your destination, which also allows you to try products that are made by local artisans," explains Batrice. By shopping locally, you can support small businesses and bring back travel-sized toiletry souvenirs from your trip. "During my trip to Portugal, I discovered the most amazing soaps and facial hydrating cream made with honey from France—a win, win!" Batrice says. One Outfit a Day Think less is more when it comes to your capsule wardrobe for a quick trip. "Avoid packing one outfit a day at all costs. Instead, follow the rule of three's: one pair of pants, one skirt, and one dress," explains Batrice. These clothing staples are easy ways to create lots of outfits without overflowing your suitcase. As an added bonus, this gives you extra room in your suitcase for you to shop during an international vacation. "This packing method leaves room in your luggage for souvenirs or new clothes if you decide to shop in a different country," says Batrice.

Travel

I Spent a Month Traveling in Europe, and This Crossbody Fit My Wallet, Umbrella, Water Bottle, Charger, and More

I tend to spend the entire day on the go when I’m traveling. I just got back from a month in Madrid, and basically every day’s itinerary went something like: museum, cathedral, shopping, and copious amounts of walking. When spending almost the whole day out and about, I like to make sure I have everything I could possibly need with me, so I turned to this surprisingly spacious Uniqlo bag. Trust me, you need the $20 purse for your upcoming spring and summer vacations. You know that scene in Harry Potter where Hermione reaches her entire arm into her clutch and pulls out clothing for three people? That’s how it feels using this bag. It’s compact, but it fits a ton. I put my wallet, phone, keys, sunglasses, umbrella, water bottle, chapstick, hand sanitizer, hand wipes, headache medicines, portable charger, tissues, and airpods (and probably a few other things I’m forgetting) in the purse. Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag While the bag can fit a lot inside, it folds flat for storage when not in use. It took up next to no room in my carry-on suitcase for the flights to and from Spain. Thanks to the purse’s water-repellent nylon material, you don’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain without an umbrella. Plus, it’s super easy to clean if anything spills on it. The bag zips closed on top to keep everything safely inside and has interior pockets to contain small items. Aside from its large capacity, my favorite aspect of the purse is that it’s a crossbody. I can keep it close to my body while doing touristy things to avoid pickpockets, which is important when traveling abroad. You can also shorten the strap to wear it on your shoulder if you want to change up your look. I’m not the only one who’s impressed with how much the small bag can hold. One reviewer said, “I put all our family’s passports, my iPhone, wipes, tissues, sunglasses, gum, lip balm, face powder, and sunscreen in it during our two weeks trip in Europe. It has been a lifesaver, easy, and safe!” And the Uniqlo purse has even gone viral recently, with one TikToker packing three days’ worth of clothing and toiletries in it. Grab the Uniqlo bag to use for your next trip or just on a daily basis for running errands. You’ll find more similar styles to shop below, too. Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag in Gingham Uniqlo Shoulder Bag Uniqlo Round Ultra Mini Bag Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag Away Featherlight Crossbody

Travel

How to Fully Relax on Vacation—Even If You're a Type A Personality

After years of jam-packed travel-writer trips trying to see every must-do at a destination, that became my default setting for every vacation I planned. And even though it was a ton of fun following up a surfing lesson in Hawaii with snorkeling and a hike, that do-or-die vacation mode often left me and my traveling crew exhausted—and even, sometimes, sick—by the time we headed home. So after one too many "I need a vacation from my vacation" trips, I've embraced a kinder, gentler travel-planning style. If you're trying to create a vacation plan that leaves you feeling renewed and refreshed—while still giving your Type A, do-it-all monster a little space—incorporate some of these tips into your next getaway. 01 of 09 Choose Your Destination Wisely If you're the type to be tempted by all the activity in a destination (and Type A folks are definitely the type), avoid locations that are jam-packed with too much to do—like bustling cities or massive theme parks. (If you've found a way to make a Disney World vacation relaxing, you're a better travel planner than I am!) Fewer activity options equals less FOMO. 02 of 09 Minimize Travel Headaches Getting to and from your travel destination are the least enjoyable and most stressful parts of every vacation. But there are things you can do to ease the pain—and maybe even add a little fun to the proceedings. Avoid peak travel times and days—so you can spend more of your time off relaxing than in rush-hour traffic or a long airport security line. Choose flights that require minimal layovers or are direct, if possible. Every time you have to change flights is a bit of a drag on your energy, and any delay along the route could increase your chances of stressful missed flights and lost luggage. Break up a long road trip. Have I driven 11 hours with minimal rest stops? Yes. Was it fun for anyone? Nope. We've started making the journey part of the vacation by seeking out fun stops along the way, like a cool ice cream stand or a scenic overlook. 03 of 09 Embrace JOMO, Not FOMO If you're Type A, you're probably looking for ways to "win" at vacation—ensure that you see all the must-dos, get that perfect Instagram shot of that eye-candy scenery, and eat at the best spot in the area. But rather than being afraid of missing that one last detail that'll make your vacation a thrill, look for joy in picking and choosing more mindfully to ensure plenty of down time. To that end, we have everyone we're traveling with list their one must-do event, and that's our itinerary. We don't find ourselves missing those to-the-minute itineraries of the past—and we're finding there's a lot of joy in missing out on all that crowded "must-do" nonsense. That's exactly what Kayla Inserra DeLoache, consumer travel trends expert at KAYAK, recommends. "Keep it simple by planning one main thing to do each day. When you don't cram too much into your schedule, you can enjoy your vacation without feeling rushed or anxious about time. It's the perfect way to kick back, enjoy every moment, and truly make the most of your time off." 04 of 09 Leave the Laptop at Home—and Minimize Your Phone Time Another major source of stress on a Type A person's vacation? The things you can't leave behind at home. In fact, about 68% of people actually work on vacation, according to a 2023 survey by ELVTR—and my guess is that number is much higher among Type As. That means you need to put in roadblocks to make it harder for you to be on call or check in at work. Leaving the laptop at home makes it tough to draft long emails or work on time-suck projects, so you're less tempted to spend a lot of time catching up with the office. DeLoache recommends keeping the phone tucked away as much as possible. "Nothing disrupts relaxation more than constant notifications pulling you out of the moment, whether it's work emails, group chats, or random distractions. By putting away your phone, you can fully enjoy the present moment and make the most of your experience without any interruptions." Even if you can't give up your smartphone entirely, silence notifications, put time limits on the use of work-related apps, and turn the phone completely off when you're not using it so it's harder to stay in touch with the stress of work. 05 of 09 Set Aside a "Wing-It" Day We reserve our last day of vacation as the Anthony Bourdain Day, in honor of the late culinary writer's encouragement to wing it for a more authentic travel experience. "Letting the happy accident happen is what a lot of vacation itineraries miss, I think, and I'm always trying to push people to allow those things to happen rather than stick to some rigid itinerary," he said. Our Anthony Bourdain Day is when we do whatever we really want—like relaxing on a pool float at a country house rental, or people watching with baguette sandwiches on a Parisian park bench—and those are often ranked among our best vacation memories ever. 06 of 09 Add Buffer Days Before (or After) Your Vacation If you can afford the extra time off, consider adding a day off on either side of your vacation that doesn't involve you traveling or doing anything stressful. That'll help ensure you're more relaxed when you arrive on vacation, or allow you to ease back into your daily life. DeLoache also recommends making the first day at a destination your buffer day. "There's no need to rush into a packed itinerary the moment you arrive. Instead, embrace the gradual transition, which can help you unwind and settle into a more relaxed state of mind." 07 of 09 Work in a Spa Treatment If I'm at a destination that offers a massage or a facial, I'm booking it! I've found that having a spa event a few days into a vacation gives me more time to enjoy that relaxed vibe while I'm still on my getaway. For the ultimate in relaxation, you might even want to set up a spa treatment at home for the day after you arrive back from vacation, as a mini-refresh before you're back to the grind. 08 of 09 Don't Be Afraid to Change Plans—or Opt Out With our past high-energy vacations, we often soldiered on, even if we (or our kids) were exhausted. But now, if someone's not up to an activity, we make space for that—whether we all opt out of the excursion for a plan B (i.e. napping at the pool), or split up so some can chill on the beach while the others go paddleboarding. 09 of 09 Get Back to Nature Even in the largest cities, you can find parks or botanical gardens where you can bask in the natural beauty. But as we've shifted toward more relaxing vacation plans, we've found that nature destinations—whether it's a lovely beach rental or a spectacular visit to a national park—have really allowed us all to unwind.

Travel

I’m 5’1", and I Curated a Wrinkle-Free Wardrobe for Petite Travelers, Up to 60% Off

While living in New York City is fun, I love a good weekend getaway during the spring and summer months. And now that the weather is finally getting warmer, I’m taking my trip-planning more seriously. This preparation includes having enough travel-ready outfits that won’t wrinkle in my suitcase and that I can repeat-wear to pack lightly. As someone who’s 5’1” and curvy, I’m very intentional about my hunt for new clothing. I need to make sure that my picks offer a flattering fit and are comfortable, too. That’s why I was thrilled to find tons of petite-friendly travel styles at Nordstrom, which also happen to be wrinkle-free and ideal for my getaways. Shop my picks from Vuori, Spanx, Madewell, and more below, with savings up to 60 percent. Petite Spring Travel Outfits at Nordstrom Caslon Drawstring Wide-Leg Linen Blend Pants, $45 (was $60) Lands’ End Lightweight Jersey Side Tie Blouse, $48 Foxcroft Taylor Non-Iron Sleeveless Shirt, $88 Pact on the Go-To Crop Tank, $34 Treasure & Bond Shirred Lace Top, From $24 (was $60) Madewell The Petite Darted Barrel Leg Jeans, $138 CeCe Tiered Ruffle Minidress, $89 Halogen Essential Compression T-Shirt, From $16 (was $35) Vuori One Shot Tennis Dress, $98 Wash Lab Denim Crop Cord Jacket, $104 (was $148) Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants, From $72 (was $110) Vince Camuto Convertible Double Breasted Twill Jacket, $80 (was $149) Caslon Drawstring Wide-Leg Linen Blend Pants These flowy wide-leg pants are made from a linen and rayon blend and have a comfy elastic waistband, which is ideal for when I have to sit for hours on a train. They’re on sale in all four neutral colors, including flax, striped navy, and black. One 5’2” shopper said they’re “perfect in length for petites,” noting that they’re a “staple piece” for hot and humid weather thanks to the breezy, “loose, and comfy” design. Pact on the Go-To Crop Tank This contouring bra tank is made from a stretchy organic cotton and elastane material that makes it an ideal base layer for my upcoming travels. I can easily wear it alone or with a light jacket and dress it up or down depending on the day’s events. It's “very soft and comfortable,” according to one customer, while another person called it “movable and breathable.” Vuori One Shot Tennis Dress I’m a fan of Vuori’s clothing, so I was excited to find this tennis dress in five spring-ready colors. It comes with built-in interior shorts that will make it more practical for days spent exploring different cities, and its pull-on style makes it easy to take on and off. The dress is “so soft,” per one reviewer who noted that they wear it casually, for dates, and nights out. They added that they have a 36D bra size and the “shelf bra is supportive.” Madewell The Petite Darted Barrel-Leg Jeans I’ve been coveting barrel jeans for awhile, so I’m grabbing this light wash pair from Madewell. They’re made with 100 percent cotton, have five pockets, and are machine washable. I love the jeans’ curved fit for my body type without being overly baggy thanks to its petite-friendly sizing. Shoppers love them, too, including one who is 5’1” and shared that they “fit great” around their hips. They’re super packable and versatile, so I can wear them practically anywhere. Discover more of Nordstrom’s petite-friendly travel outfits below, with savings up to 60 percent. Treasure & Bond Shirred Lace Top CeCe Tiered Ruffle Minidress Wash Lab Denim Crop Cord Jacket Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants Vince Camuto Convertible Double Breasted Twill Jacket

Travel

Is It OK to Recline Your Seat on an Airplane? Our Experts Weigh In

Here at REAL SIMPLE, we want to know all of your hot takes. In the "Minor Issues, Major Opinions" column of REAL SIMPLE magazine, we pose a divisive question to our readers, then call on the experts to resolve it once and for all. We asked our readers: "Is it ever OK to recline your seat on an airplane?" Here's what they had to say. Keep up with our Instagram to add your own opinions and potentially be featured in an issue of REAL SIMPLE. What Our Readers Say The results: 62% of Instagram commenters actually say go ahead, lean on back! Check out the arguments on each side of the debate. Nope, No Way! That little bit of space doesn’t help me. Not worth making someone’s flight miserable. — @kellyannelongportnj2 "Airlines need to get rid of that option. No good comes of it." —@catherinecrowley96 "Why is it that people recline like it’s their birthright? Unless your knees are so far up into your chest that they’re cutting off blood flow, the answer is always no." —@akwilliams918 Sure, Why Not? I always lean back, but not so much as to bother the person behind me. They must be able to eat, watch a movie, work on a laptop, and get up comfortably enough to go to the restroom. Live and let others live as well. — @launicafinita “I paid for the seat. I can use the functions attached to it.” —@debijenkins “Everyone should recline! Then we’re all even.” —@peacedog2020 What the Experts Say: A Unanimous Yes! Henry Harteveldt is an airline and travel industry analyst Elaine Swann is an etiquette expert, founder of Swann School of Protocol, and former flight attendant It’s your right to recline your seat! Just “don’t be a jerk about it,” says Henry Harteveldt. “Airplanes are shared spaces,” he adds, explaining that we need to be considerate of our fellow passengers. Elaine Swann agrees. Her advice: “Before you lean your seat back, check if your neighbor behind you has a drink or laptop there.” If they do, to keep the peace, give them a heads-up that you’re about to recline. Then do it slowly, Swann says, so they’re not shocked by a sudden lurch. “And definitely move that seat forward during the meal service.” And maybe only lean back as much as it takes to feel comfy. If you’re looking for the most space possible, upgrading to a seat with extra leg room may be worth it. Or book early to get an exit-row seat, if you’re up for it. You could also follow this insider tip, which we got from a flight attendant at a major airline who asked to go only by Emmanuel: Choose a seat as close to the front of the plane as you can. “On many aircrafts, like some 737s, as you move toward the back of the plane–say, from the wings on—the plane becomes skinnier, so those seats tend to be tighter,” which can translate to less lateral leg room, he says. “It’s a slight difference, but that’s usually where negotiations between customers have to happen.” So to maximize space between you and the seat in front of you, and to hopefully avoid conflict, book early, and book up front!

Travel

Stanley's New Tumbler Collection Might Be Its Prettiest One Yet—and Features a Leak-Proof Design

It's not often we get fired up about new drinkware—unless it's a special launch from Stanley, of course. The innovative lifestyle brand just unleashed its most beautiful collection yet, the New Frequency line: a variation of ocean- and sherbert-inspired tie-dye graphics and sweet glittery shades. The shimmer hues even feature stunning contrasting details that enhance their beauty with a little personality. All four colors are available in the 30- and 40-ounce Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler and new leak-proof Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler models. According to the brand, the collection was created to help "bring a fresh energy inspired by the motion and flow of your days" while emphasizing "harmony and self-care." Both versions include Stanley's coveted double-wall vacuum insulation, which keeps your drink cool for up to 11 hours. Plus, it's sized to fit most car cup holders, so you can easily take it on the go—and is dishwasher-safe and BPA-free. The FlowState tumblers feature a three-position lid, so you can drink it with a straw, without a straw, and also offer the option to twist the silicone cover securely. On the other hand, the Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler is Stanley's leak-proof design and features a built-in straw you can flip up to use and back down to shut when it's not in use, making it the ultimate option for everyday use. Whether you need an option for your gym or work bag, you can't go wrong with the ProTour line. It's also important to note that the gorgeous periwinkle shimmer style has sold out in all of the variations except the 30-Ounce Quencher, so if you're interested in any of the designs, you should move fast. We can see the other selling out just as fast. Keep scrolling to see the rest of the new collection below, and grab your New Frequency Stanley Tumbler before it's too late. Stanley 40-Ounce New Frequency Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler Stanley 30-Ounce New Frequency Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler Stanley 40-Ounce New Frequency Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler Stanley 30-Ounce New Frequency Quencher H2.O FlowState Tumbler Stanley 40-Ounce New Frequency Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

Travel

I’ve Been Traveling With Just a Carry-On for Over 10 Years, and These Are My Packing Hacks Under $50

With family scattered across Canada, Italy, India, and Australia, international travel has become an integral part of my lifestyle. While my go-to airplane snacks and favorite in-flight entertainment remains unchanged, my approach to packing has undergone a transformation now that I only travel with carry-on luggage. I just spent a month abroad with loved ones for the holidays, and I’m still delighting in the memory of how good it felt to bypass the baggage carousel and head straight for customs—one less hurdle between me and the cherished faces waiting for me. As both a minimalist and seasoned shopping editor, I’m discerning in how I pack only the most essential items for my suitcase. Prioritizing versatile travel clothing, smart tech, and (most importantly) a set of compression packing cubes, I’ve mastered the art of packing light while still leaving space to do some shopping on my travels—even in the winter, when packing involves chunky sweaters and winter coats. In fact, I’m planning a trip this very (cold) month to Portland’s famous The Docent’s Collection—a luxe hotel alternative well-situated in the heart of the city’s rich historic district. Below, I’ve compiled a selection of my favorite winter travel essentials that will be coming with me—affordable options all under $50—available on Amazon, perfect for navigating trips of any length with ease and efficiency. Amazon Editor-Loved Carry-On Essentials Bagail Compression Packing Cubes Set, $19 (was $27) Amazon Essentials Button-Down Shirt, $20 (was $23) Sabani Portable Charger With Cables, $32 (was $36) The Drop Grayson Drop-Shoulder Turtleneck Sweater, $36 (was $41) Lanyani RFID Crossbody Wristlet Purse, $23 Amazon Essentials Teddy Bear Fleece Oversized Coat, $45 (was $62) Baleaf Fleece-Lined Pants, $39 Farmacy Bestsellers Skin Care Set, $40 Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo Conditioner Travel Set, $43 Bagail Compression Packing Cubes Set These packing cubes have been a game changer for me because they don’t just organize my clothes; they have a compression zipper that flattens all my plush sweaters, making the most of the limited space my small suitcase offers. Thanks to these, I was able to pack two winter coats, seven thick sweaters, and more. Amazon Essentials Button-Down Shirt This versatile button-down became my go-to travel staple this whole year, no matter the season. Whether dressed up with a pair of sleek trousers, casually thrown over a T-shirt, or even used as a cover-up over a bathing suit, the 100 percent cotton shirt is breathable and wrinkle-resistant, making it ideal for long flights and days spent exploring new cities. I own it in pink, blue, and white. Sabani Portable Charger With Cables Long layovers and lengthy sightseeing sessions are no match for this compact powerhouse. The Sabani portable charger comes with built-in cables to keep all my devices powered up through endless hours of travel. It’s sleek, lightweight, and has a charging capacity that can last me an entire day of use. I never had to sacrifice a photo op or navigation app for a low battery. The Drop Grayson Drop-Shoulder Turtleneck Sweater This turtleneck sweater was the perfect balance of warmth and chic vibes. With its soft, cozy knit and relaxed drop-shoulder silhouette, it elevated my casual travel outfits while still feeling comfortable on long flights or chilly evenings abroad. I paired it with fleece pants (more on those below!) for travel days, and then with a little skirt and knee-high boots for nights out. Lanyani RFID Crossbody Wristlet Purse Traveling through crowded airports or bustling city streets, I always felt secure with this compact RFID crossbody wristlet. Not only did it keep my credit cards and passport safe from digital theft, but its minimalist design also meant I could slip it into my jacket pocket when I didn’t need it, giving me peace of mind while keeping my hands free to explore. Amazon Essentials Teddy Bear Fleece Oversized Coat This oversized fleece coat was my ultimate comfort companion during chilly travels. Its plush, teddy bear texture made it feel like wearing a blanket while still maintaining a stylish silhouette. The best part? It’s surprisingly lightweight for such a cozy piece, and its neutral tone made it easy to pair with virtually everything in my wardrobe. I loved cozying up with it on my long-haul flight. Baleaf Fleece-Lined Pants These fleece-lined pants were an unexpected travel MVP I acquired right before my trip. Soft and stretchy, they offered both warmth and flexibility, whether I was hiking through the Italian mountains side or catching a red-eye flight. I even dressed them up with ankle boots, a turtleneck, and a blazer for an effortlessly chic holiday party look one evening. Farmacy Best-Sellers Skin Care Set When I’m on the go, my dry skin gets extremely parched. That’s where Farmacy’s skincare set stepped in. Its collection of best-sellers (which are also some of my favorite products) kept my skin hydrated with honey-infused formulas that managed to make my skin feel dewy while looking lightweight. The comprehensive set included everything I needed to cleanse and hydrate my skin (and lips!) every morning and night—including on flights. Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo Conditioner Travel Set I shudder to think about the prospect of borrowing my brother’s three-in-one body wash, shampoo, and conditioner, so I always pack my own hair products when I’m traveling to see family. This Oribe shampoo and conditioner have been my go-to travel hair products for many years, and I always keep them on-hand to keep my dry, fine, and curly hair looking shiny while feeling hydrated.

Travel

How to Prep Your Car for Winter So You're Safe and Ready for Anything

Slick winter weather can cause hazardous driving conditions and increase the chances of accidents. While you must learn how to drive in winter conditions and learn winter emergency preparedness, your car should also be up for the challenge. One of the most critical maintenance tasks is to have the vehicle serviced and change your oil to a winter-grade, lower-viscosity oil. Doing so can keep your engine well-lubricated even as temperatures drop and reduce the risk of damage to the car's hardware. There are also several other tasks you should complete before winter hits to make sure your car is ready. Here are expert tips on how to prep your car for winter to keep you safer during colder weather conditions. Ensure tires are winter-ready Well-maintained tires are essential to ensure traction and grip on wet, snowy, or icy surfaces. So it's important to check tire depth and treads before temperatures drop. Keep close watch over air pressure and wheel alignment, too. "Make sure your tires are winter-ready, not too worn down, and are properly inflated," advises Alex Mario, personal injury attorney at the Carter Mario Law Firm. "Bald tires will cause bad traction, and deflated or overinflated tires are more likely to tear. Both are recipes for disaster." You can find the recommended tire pressure in your car's user manual or inside the driver's side door. If you live in a place that experiences freezing winter temperatures, consider installing winter tires and making sure your donut (or spare tire) is also winter ready. The rubber compounds in non-winter tires typically harden when temperatures are consistently around or below freezing. Winter tires are engineered to resist hardening, thus providing better traction in icy or snowy pavement. Inspect the brakes Brakes are a key part of vehicle safety. During the winter time more than ever, you need them to react quickly to sudden stops and starts. "Make sure to get your brakes inspected around this time of year," Mario says. "Too-thin brake pads or low brake fluid could be the difference between being able to stop a catastrophe." Also, check the belts, hoses, spark plugs, wires, and cables. While these could go bad any time of year, you especially don’t want to end up stranded in freezing temperatures. Remember to check your lights (signal lights, high beams, and blinkers) to ensure they are working correctly, too. Replace bulbs or fuses if necessary. Install winter wipers and washer fluid Snow, sleet, ice, road salt, and rain can dirty your windshield and significantly reduce visibility. For icy areas, swap regular wipers for heavy-duty winter-specific ones equipped with a rubber that keeps ice from collecting on the blades. Remember to replace the washer reservoir with winter-grade washer fluid that resists freezing. A single snowstorm can exhaust the reservoir, so refill it frequently to avoid running out in the middle of a storm. If you’re unsure if the washer liquid is the right formula for low temperatures, add anti-freeze to the reservoir. “Check your windshield for any cracks and address them before the weather gets cold," adds Jeramy Sibley, president of Glass Doctor, a Neighborly company. "Exposing your vehicle to extreme temperatures can cause the crack to expand quickly.” Test car batteries A dead battery can also be a nightmare in the wintertime. "Cold weather can cause batteries to drain," says Mario. "Testing your battery at the start of the winter season can give you some peace of mind and avoid conking out on the side of the road." The risk of your car breaking down during winter increases if the battery already has problems. A battery at or above 600 cold cranking amp (CCA) is ideal for optimal winter performance. Corrosion build-up on battery posts and terminals can result in hard starting problems in cold weather, preventing your charging systems from recharging the battery. Ensuring your battery terminals are cleaned properly is another vital task in preparing your car for winter. Reduce future corrosion by applying a battery terminal protectant spray. Check the cooling system Coolant is a mixture of water and anti-freeze that pumps around your engine to cool it down. You need an appropriate coolant-to-water ratio to guard against corrosion and potential freezing. Consult a technician or mechanic to confirm your car's specific needs ahead of winter. Keep the gas tank at least half full Cars tend to use more fuel in both heavy traffic conditions and while heaters are running inside the car. Thus, a full tank will ensure you don't run out before arriving at your destination. A full tank also reduces condensation, preventing gas line freeze-ups. If you are stranded in the winter, you can keep the engine running to keep warm until help arrives. If you're using an electric or hybrid vehicle, remember to map out unfamiliar routes so you always know where you can recharge. Inspect the weatherstripping "Repair or replace [the weatherstripping] to help keep heat in and cold air out,” Sibley says. You can lubricate window tracks to prevent freezing water from seeping in and creating drag. Wiping silicon lube onto your door, locks, and latches can help keep freezing air from getting inside the car. Pack a winter safety kit Emergencies happen, so it's always smart to keep your car stocked with a number of items that will help you deal with a car breakdown or accident in the middle of winter. Sibley suggests stocking your car with an ice scraper, snow brush, shovel, road flares, flashlight, first aid kit, jumper cables, and spare gas. Mario also suggests keeping food, water, and extra warm clothing in the car. For traction, keep sand bags or kitty litter in the trunk to get out of a bad winter weather situation.

Travel

10 Things Passengers Do That Annoy Flight Attendants the Most

There is no shortage of obstacles when it comes to flying somewhere these days. Prices are high, baggage checking fees are more prevalent, and the whole process of getting there and getting through security can be pretty stressful. Even boarding has gotten a little hectic thanks to gate fleas (those people who line up at the gate way before their boarding group is called). It's easy to get worked up, but once you're on the plane, you have a crew that's dedicated (it's literally their job!) to keeping you safe and happy, and those incredible people are the flight attendants. It's a hard job corralling masses of stressed people, and yet somehow they manage. So, the least we can do is treat them well. Most people aren't trying to be rude, but there are some things passengers tend to do that give flight attendants a headache. Read on to see if you're guilty of any of these. Leaving Your Headphones in When Crew Members Are Taking Orders It's hard to hear anything on a plane even without anything in your ears! You may not want to miss any of the movie playing on the seat back in front of you, but the polite (and efficient) thing to do is press pause when you see a flight attendant approaching to take your order. This saves them from having to ask you the same question three times, and you can imagine how annoying that would get with 35 rows of people. Ringing the Call Button for Trash Pickup They'll come to you! On any given flight, crew members will go up and down the aisles multiple times to collect your wrappers and cups, but they don't need to make an exclusive trip to your seat to do a one-off. Just be patient—they'll be back. Getting Angry With Staff When There's No More Overhead Space The flight attendants have no control over how big the overhead bins are or how many people decided to bring larger carry-on luggage on that particular flight. So when there's no room left, save your frustration for an email to the airline or just take a few breaths and get ready to pick up your baggage on the carousel when you land. Getting snippy with staff won't change the outcome, but it definitely makes their jobs more difficult. Poking Them Another trash-related complaint (there are a few of these, naturally). Passengers will often poke flight attendants to get their attention. Would you like that? Instead, use your words! If you have trash, kindly ask the attendant to come back to your row when they have a minute. When People Don't Allow Those in Front of Them Space to Stow Luggage The most stressful part of flying, for some, is the boarding process, when people are seemingly running to board first in their group. Once tickets are scanned, this rush doesn't slow down, though, and you'll often find people lined through the aisles breathing down the neck of the person in front of them to load their carry-on into the bins faster. Breath and take a step back to let them stow their stuff—you'll get to your seat, even if it is 10 seconds later. Not Saying Hello This may seem simple, and it is: When you're boarding the plane, say hello! And when you speak to an attendant during the flight, say it again. Unsurprisingly, it's rude to just walk up to someone and say "trash?". Ignoring Requests to Store Laptops for Takeoff This is another case where frustrated passengers tend to blame flight attendants for something far beyond their control. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates that all passengers, regardless of airline, stow laptops away for takeoff. It's the job of the crew to make sure that both they and their passengers are all complying with FAA regulations. So, do them a favor and listen the first time they say it. Leaving Bags Sticking Out of the Overhead Bin If you keep trying to fit your bag in the overhead bin and it's simply too large, crew members will likely have that same problem. Load your bags into the overhead compartment correctly, so that the attendants can simply shut the door before takeoff. If your bag isn't fitting, let someone know sooner rather than later so you can check it. Using the Bathroom While the Plane Is Taxiing We totally get that there are emergency situations, but next time you hear that boarding is starting and you wonder if you should use the bathroom at the gate first, tell yourself yes! The plane can't take off until everyone is seated with their seatbelts fastened, and it can be really tricky getting back to your seat after using the lavatory when people are still boarding. Moving into an Exit Row Without Asking It's always tempting to upgrade yourself when boarding looks like its concluded and you see some empty seats with extra leg room. Before you move yourself over, talk to the flight attendants. Before takeoff, they need to know exactly who is on the plane and who may be missing, so if you sit in someone else's seat, you're making their job trickier. Instead, just ask!

Travel

A Mid-Flight Beauty Routine Can Save Your Skin—Here's What to Pack

Here’s the thing about zooming in a metal tube 35,000 feet off the ground—it’s seriously dry in there. You can thank high-altitude low-humidity levels and cabin pressure for that (along with a twist of UV radiation pouring through the windows). While a quick flight may not create much of a noticeable difference in your skin health, a longer flight certainly can. The solution? A mid-flight skin care routine, which can range from a simple hydrating spritz now and again to a full-blown wash and moisturize regimen. We asked skin care pros for their best tips on nailing a mid-flight routine to ensure you’re glowy on arrival. Mona Mislankar, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, Ohio Margarita Lolis, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey What Is a Mid-Flight Skin Care Routine? A mid-flight beauty care routine is an optional regimen you can perform at any point throughout a long-haul flight where your skin is being exposed to super dry air for hours on end. Some people like to do it at the halfway point as a refresh right before they get off the plane so they’re glowing when they land, or just before they go to sleep while flying to keep up with their usual nightly routine. “The air inside the cabin typically has a humidity of around 10% to 20%, which is much lower than the 30% to 65% humidity we experience on the ground,” explains Mona Mislankar, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, Ohio. “This can lead to dry, tight, or flaky skin, especially on long flights.” The dryness can also make sure more vulnerable to irritation, which can end up snowballing once you land at your final destination, notes Margarita Lolis, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. “This is why a mid-flight routine is a good way to keep your skin fresh and prepped for your travel plans,” Dr. Lolis says. “Keeping your skin hydrated and staying on track with your nighttime regimen if you’re flying overnight is definitely recommended.” Benefits of Doing a Mid-Flight Skin Care Routine Mid-flight skin care routines aren’t considered necessary, but those who do them swear by the difference they can make. Here’s why. Maintains moisture levels: “Giving your skin some TLC mid-flight maintains your epidermal moisture levels and maintains your skin barrier,” Dr. Lolis notes. “This is especially true for those who are prone to dryness.” Minimizes irritation and breakouts: Traveling, in general, can disrupt your skin’s health thanks to stress, new climates, and disrupted sleep. Dr. Lolis says a mid-flight routine can help with irritation and breakouts—especially if you already have finicky skin. Keeps your routine consistent: You already wash and moisturize before bed, so why skip this step simply because you’re 35,000 feet in the sky? Keeping a consistent routine keeps your mind and body feeling good. Makes flying more enjoyable: Let’s be real—those flights can drag on. Doing a little mid-flight skin care routine helps pass the time. Plus, it washes off grime from the day and keeps skin hydrated and healthy which makes the whole flight more enjoyable. The Perfect Mid-Flight Beauty Routine If you do decide to adopt a mid-flight skin care routine, the key is to keep things simple with just the essentials. “I am absolutely a fan of less is more—and simple skin care is best,” Dr. Minslaker says. Here’s what we recommend packing in your plane kit. The Essentials No need to pack your entire arsenal of beauty loot. All you need for a mid-flight skin care routine is a cleanser (like face wash, makeup remover wipes, or micellar water), a moisturizer (serum and/or cream), and sunscreen. “Cleansing your skin maximizes how well the products absorb,” Dr. Lolis says. “Next, use a hyaluronic acid serum. Serums penetrate deeper and hyaluronic acid binds and attracts water to your skin very efficiently. Last, layer on a thicker moisturizer with ceramides to lock in the moisture.” Dr. Minslaker says that if you’re flying for longer than two hours, it’s best to pack sunscreen and reapply every two hours throughout the flight. This is true good advice you’re sitting next to the window or not. Optional Extras You’ll be set with the skin care essential above, but consider packing these extras depending on your needs. Lip balm: “Due to the low humidity in cabin air, your lips can become dry and chapped more easily,” Dr. Lolis says. Lip balm to the rescue. Pimple patches: If you deal with breakouts, a pimple patch is a true mid-flight hero, notes Dr. Minslaker. Facial mist: Spritzing on a hydrating facial mist a few times throughout your flight can help keep skin bouncy, soft, and hydrated. Sheet mask: If you want to go the extra mile, pack a sheet mask in your vanity kit. Apply it after cleansing but before your serum and/or moisturizer. If you don’t want to go that bold, eye masks are more subtle.

Travel

10 Early Black Friday Luggage Deals That’ll Convince You to Retire Your Old Suitcase—Up to $460 Off

Whether you’re visiting family or jetting off on a beach vacation, the holiday travel season is officially here. There’s nothing worse than getting ready for a trip and realizing your suitcase’s wheel is broken or your biggest bag isn’t quite big enough, especially if you’ve waited until the last minute to pack (and let’s be honest, most of us do). Get ahead of the game this year and shop these early Black Friday luggage deals to ensure your packing and travels go smoothly. You can save up to a whopping $460 on luggage right now before Black Friday even arrives. Snag Away luggage, a Samsonite suitcase set, a Vera Bradley duffel bag, and more for up to 73 percent off. Read on to shop early Black Friday deals on luggage below. Best Early Black Friday Luggage Deals Away The Carry On, $206 (was $275); awaytravel.com. Samsonite Cosmolite 3.0 2-Piece Set, $690 (was $1,150); shop.samsonite.com. Calpak Stevyn Duffel Bag with Shoe Compartment, $90 (was $112); calpaktravel.com. Vera Bradley Original Duffel Bag, $50 (was $80); verabradley.com. Calpak Terra 45-Liter Carry-On Luggage, $154 (was $385); calpaktravel.com. Away The Carry On The Carry On is Away’s smallest suitcase that’s designed to fit about three to five days’ worth of clothes. At 21.7 by 14.4 by 9 inches and 7.5 pounds, the bag is lightweight and fits in the overhead bin of most major airlines. It features a TSA-approved combination lock and 360-degree rotating wheels that won’t slow you down. The carry-on suitcase’s interior also has multiple pockets to keep things organized and buckle straps for compression. Samsonite Cosmolite 3.0 2-Piece Set This Samsonite luggage set includes an extra large and a carry-on suitcase. The Cosmolite bags are extremely lightweight at just 3.7 pounds for the carry-on and 7.7 pounds for the large size. Both suitcases have TSA-compliant combination locks, zippered interior compartments, and crossed straps to prevent items from shifting in transit. Calpak Stevyn Duffel Bag with Shoe Compartment For short trips, grab this compact weekender bag. The coolest feature is the back sleeve that keeps it attached to your suitcase handle, so you don’t have to wrangle multiple bags while traveling. Thanks to the inside and outside pockets, you’ll be able to keep all your belongings organized. The duffel bag even has a bottom compartment for items you want to keep separate, like shoes or dirty laundry. Vera Bradley Original Duffel Bag This classic Vera Bradley duffel bag is a fan-favorite for a reason; the nylon material is durable enough to last through years of manhandling while traveling (some patterns are also available in equally durable cotton garbardine). The spacious bag has interior and exterior pockets and sturdy shoulder straps. Reviewers love using the duffel for overnight and weekend trips and for heading to the gym. Calpak Terra 45-Liter Carry-On Luggage This softside suitcase’s water-resistant, ripstop polyester fabric will stand up to wear and tear from traveling. Though it’s carry-on sized, the bag expands up to 2 additional inches, making it perfect for overpackers. It has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and multiple pockets on the inside and outside of the bag, too. With 360-degree rotating wheels, the suitcase is easy to maneuver, as well. Away The Weekender Snag this sleek bag for quick weekend trips or for carting around your gym clothes. Like the larger Away luggage, it has mesh compartments to organize the inside of your bag, including a 16-inch laptop pocket. The duffel has top handles and a removable padded strap that won’t dig into your shoulder, and the wraparound zipper makes it easy to access all your packed items. Delsey Paris Large Expandable Spinner If you’re headed on a longer vacation, this large hardside suitcase is what you need. The expandable bag has two packing compartments with a divider and straps to keep clothing in place, and it has a TSA combination lock. Plus, it’s easy to roll thanks to the four spinner wheels and adjustable telescopic handle. Lands' End Waxed Canvas Travel Duffel Bag Use this stylish duffel bag as a carry-on or as a gym bag. Made of waxed canvas, it features leather accents, a cotton lining, and a removable padded shoulder strap. You can shop it in navy and brown colorways, and the best part is that it’s machine washable to easily clean it if it gets dirty during your travels. Skonyon 3-Piece Hardside Checked Spinner Luggage Set This three-piece luggage set includes a 20-inch, a 24-inch, and a 28-inch bag, so you’ll have an appropriately sized suitcase for any kind of trip. The hardside bags are made of water- and scratch-resistant polycarbonate, and they have a durable aluminum telescoping handle. They also have multiple inside pockets and straps to keep your belongings from moving around too much. The suitcases can be nested to save storage space, too. Samsonite UpLift Softside Large Spinner This large 33-by-21.25-by-13.5-inch suitcase can be made even bigger with the expandable zipper to accommodate everything you need to pack. One of the niftiest aspects is that it has an interior pocket that can be accessed from the outside to quickly grab anything that’s stored away. The suitcase’s handle can be adjusted to multiple heights, which means you won’t have a handle that’s too high or low to comfortably manage. It even comes with a removable wet pouch for toiletries.

Travel

Travel Helps Reduce Signs of Aging and Keeps You Healthy, New Study Says

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of exploring new places. Whether you choose to stay close to home and walk the streets of a new-to-you town or stamp your passport on the way to some far-flung location, travel is on nearly everyone’s personal bucket list. And now, there’s proof that it does more than just fill your camera roll with memories. According to a new research paper from researchers at Edith Cowan University, there’s scientifically backed evidence that positive travel could experiences could be your best defense against signs of aging, both physically and mentally. How Does Traveling Reduce Signs of Aging? It probably comes as no surprise that travel can act as a serious mood booster—after all, many of us have felt the euphoria that comes from exploring a new place, finding the perfect roadside lobster roll, or cozying up in a quaint inn. However, according to the researchers at ECU, stepping out of your routine and experiencing new cultures can also lead to noticeable improvements in mental clarity and emotional health. Here are some of the major benefits. Provides Mental Stimulation When you travel, you’re not just collecting souvenirs; you’re also engaging your brain in fresh experiences, in turn giving it mental stimulation that can help enhance cognitive function and even fend off the cognitive decline that often comes with aging. Encourages Physical Activity That’s not the only perk of hitting the road (or skies), though. Physically, travel can encourage you to be more active even outside of your regular workout routine, whether it’s indulging in a mid-day hike, wandering through a vibrant market, or taking a leisurely stroll along the beach. Swapping your desk time for a more active vacation lifestyle helps to keep your body moving, which is crucial for maintaining strength and mobility as you grow older. Gives You Energy The excitement of a new adventure (and a new backdrop) can give your energy levels a natural boost, making you feel more youthful and vibrant. Reduces Stress Beyond the physical benefits travel can provide, the researchers at ECU also found a significant impact on stress reduction and adaptability. Getting away from the grind of everyday life (think work responsibilities, house care, and after-school activities) allows you to relax, recharge, and break free from the pressure that comes with, well, adulthood. Improves Resilience By exposing you to novel environments or situations, travel can also stimulate what researchers call your stress response, essentially training your body to be more adaptive and resilient against stressful situations and the subsequent signs of aging. All that said, a life of travel isn’t feasible for many of us—and luckily, you can still achieve some of the touted benefits without blowing through your vacation days. Instead of booking a month-long excursion across the globe, start small by planning a weekend getaway or a day trip to a nearby town. Even a weekend spent embracing the joy of discovering new environments, foods, and people can give you a taste of that travel magic.

Travel

How to Take a Passport Picture You’ll Actually Be Proud to Show Off

Taking a flattering passport photo is a worthy goal. After all, you’ve gotta live with the picture for a solid decade, and it’s also one of those documents you hold onto and treasure even after it’s expired. Having an unflattering pic isn’t the end of the world, but having a photo you’re proud to show off every time you walk through border control just feels nice. So what’s the secret to taking a good pic? Well, you should know what color shirts are best for passport photos, and you’ll want to choose a nice silhouette. Details like accessories, makeup, and styling your hair also come into play. We asked pros for their best advice so you can nail the photo. Gigi who? Choosing the Right Color Shirt Unless you’re taking the picture yourself, you don’t know what sort of lighting or camera situation you’re going to contend with when getting a passport picture taken. That said, your best bet is to opt for a neutral color—like white, black, or navy blue—with no patterns. “These colors are timeless because they provide a neutral backdrop that won’t significantly alter your skin tone, which is particularly important for the low-quality cameras often used for these types of pictures,” says Sabrina Yoo, creative director of Amissima. “Wearing brightly colored tops, busy patterns, or elaborate necklines can lead to visual distractions in your passport photo.” She explains that non-neutral shirt colors can cast unwanted hues on your skin, leading to a washed-out appearance or an unintended color tone, such as an orange or green tint. (Yikes!) “The goal is to ensure that your face is the focal point of the image, allowing for a true representation of your identity, especially for official purposes,” Yoo says. Choosing the Right Style Shirt Similarly, keep things simple when choosing your shirt style. Since only a small upper portion of your shirt is showing, it’s best to focus on a clean, polished neckline. "The best shirt silhouette for a passport photo is a simple crew-neck or collared shirt,” advises style expert Christy Dawn, founder and CEO of Christy Dawn. “A collared shirt gives a neat and professional look, while a crew-neck ensures the neckline is visible without being too casual.” She generally recommends avoiding tank tops since they can be distracting. However, if you’re really set on going that route, ensure it has defined seams and a tailored fit. How to Accessorize for Your Passport Pic You might notice a trend here, but when accessorizing for a passport picture it’s best to keep things minimalist or forego jewelry altogether. After all, this is a government image so maintaining a modest look is ideal. "If you do choose to wear jewelry, opt for dainty and delicate pieces,” Dawn advises. “Statement pieces can be distracting and might obscure your face, which is the main focal point of the photo." Some good options include small earrings and subtle necklaces that offer a touch of elegance without stealing the spotlight. Styling Your Hair for Passport Photos You’ve got the shirt and jewelry figured out, now what about your hair? Right now, Yoo says that TikTok is championing sleek hairstyles—like a slicked-back bun or half-up style—but that these are challenging to create and can even be unflattering on some people. “You'll end up looking like an egg eight out of 10 times, as it lacks volume and could disappear against a simple background,” Yoo says. “Embracing natural waves or even soft curls can add dimension while maintaining a tidy appearance. Or you can opt for a natural-looking blowout.” During the photo, you may need to ensure hair isn’t completely covering your face so be prepared to tuck some hair behind your ears. Play with this in the mirror beforehand so you can figure out what looks best on your face. Mistakes to Avoid When Taking Your Passport Pic Now that you know what color shirt is best for passport photos and what sort of neckline, jewelry, and hairstyle is gonna flatter you most, let’s cover some common mistakes people make when getting this picture taken. Wearing Loud Colors and Patterns: Neutral that won’t cast an unflattering tone are best. Also avoid busy patterns and necklines. Forgetting Your Makeup: The most significant error people often commit revolves around makeup application. “The low-resolution quality of the camera can amplify any imperfections and flatten out your face,” Yoo says. “To look good in these photos, bring focus to your eyes and sculpt your face with contour and blush.” Trying to Look Completely Different: At the end of the day, this is a government photo that needs to look like you. Try to keep things as true to you as possible. After all, you don’t want the TSA questioning your passport.

Travel

Brace Yourself for a Snowy, Wet Winter—See the Farmers' Almanac Forecast Here

Neither rain nor snow nor gloom of night will stop us from enjoying the last few bouts of sunshine and warm weather. Once the leaves change color and the air turns cold, winter will be just around the corner. To get ahead of the flurry, we took a glance at the Farmers’ Almanac’s 2024-2025 extended winter weather forecast—and for most of us, it’s going to be a wet and cold one. Weather is inherently unpredictable, and although meteorologists and weathermen do their best to forecast what’s in the air, it’s impossible to be 100% accurate every time. Farmers’ Almanac claims an accuracy rate of 80% and predicts "weather trends and events by comparing solar patterns and historical weather conditions with current solar activity.” Depending on your geographic location, keep an eye out for these weather patterns, temperature outbreaks, and important dates. La Niña La Niña refers to a weather pattern where surface temperatures cool across the central and eastern equatorial pacific region (and lead to a colder winter). While La Niña doesn’t occur every year, it will be present this winter—in fact, Farmers’ Almanac predicts these weather patterns will stay through the season. Thus, winter will be both wet and cold for most locations within the pacific region. Coldest and Warmest Temperatures The coldest temperatures will be faced by the Northern Plains, Great Lakes region, and the Pacific Northwest along with cities near the Rockies and Appalachian mountains. New England and the Northeast region of North America will face relatively normal winter weather temperatures. While snow will line many high-elevated regions, sleet and rain will be most prevalent in coastal areas. Similarly, the midwest will experience high levels of precipitation this year, including Ohio Valley and the Great Lakes region. Southwest and central regions will experience lower levels of precipitation. The warmest temperatures will take place across states like Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and New Mexico, including the Southeast and Atlantic regions. The Southwest and Pacific Northwest will be in sharp contrast, with southern states experiencing another high-temperature winter and the Pacific Northwest enduring an unseasonably cold one. Dates to Keep in Mind Farmers’ Almanac predicts the coldest temperatures to take place during the final week of January into the first week of February, with heavy snowfall and frigid air making their way across the Northern Plains. “We would especially highlight the time frames from January 20 to 23 and 24 to 27, which could mean copious amounts of snow, rain, sleet, and ice (depending on where you live),” the report reads. In Texas and the Northwest, there could be a possible snowstorm taking place at the beginning of February. Make sure you have your coats, scarves, and earmuffs ready to go!

Travel

The Best—and Worst—Times to Travel Over Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day weekend is almost here, and whether you’re staying home to get some much-needed rest or traveling across state lines, the streets will be filled with bumper-to-bumper traffic. Knowing the exact times when traffic will peak is an important part of planning your holiday weekend, but don’t worry—we’ve gathered the best and worst times to travel over Labor Day weekend, so you don’t have to. Follow our advice and save yourself from the gridlock this weekend. When Is Labor Day? This year, Labor Day 2024 will take place on Monday, September 2. The federal holiday was designed to celebrate workers across the country and their contributions to the American economy, and as a result, most working people are granted a three-day weekend. The holiday is hugely popular, with many people getting on the road and treating their weekend as a mini-vacation—but the journey can be grueling. The Best and Worst Times to Travel During Labor Day Weekend If you’re traveling by air, avoid scheduling flights for Friday, August 30, especially during the midmorning and midafternoon (the busiest time for air travel). The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates August 30th will be its busiest day, with an estimated 2.86 million travelers expected to fly. Additionally, multiple airlines—including United Airlines and American Airlines—are expecting to host a record-breaking number of travelers this year. For road travelers, the worst time to drive on Thursday, August 29 is between 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., with rush hour traffic at its peak during the midafternoon. On Friday, August 30, the worst time to hit the road is between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. On Monday, September 2, the roads will be packed from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. How to Beat the Crowd Ahead of Labor Day If you're traveling, it's likely you'll be delayed by large crowds at some point this Labor Day weekend, but by knowing what to expect and planning ahead, you can be better prepared. Leaving an hour or two early can help you avoid peak congestion, especially on Labor Day. If you’re traveling by plane, arrive at the airport several hours in advance to give yourself enough time to check in, go through security, and find your gate. Remember: this isn’t your average get-to-the-airport-an-hour-before-the-flight experience. Additionally, now is the time to optimize your TSA pre-check and E-ZPass to speed through as quickly as possible. The faster you make it through routine processes, the quicker you’ll get to your destination. Don’t forget to drive safely, hydrate often, and practice the virtue of patience.

Travel

4 Ways to Get Over Jet Lag Fast, According to Sleep Experts

Jet lag can make or break an otherwise stress-free vacation, but don’t let the fatigue get you down. (If only it were that easy.) Unfortunately, combatting the tiredness or insomnia from jet lag can be a challenge for most travelers. Certain types of trips seriously disrupt your circadian rhythm, but there are also effective ways to offset significant time changes. We spoke with several sleep experts to learn what jet lag is, why it happens, and how you can make it a non-issue. Sarah Silverman, PsyD, is a women’s holistic sleep health expert. Teresa Power, BS CCSH, is a clinical sleep coach and speaker. Olivia Arezzolo is a world-leading sleep expert and author of Bear, Lion or Wolf; How Understanding Your Sleep-Type Could Change Your Life. What Is Jet Lag? Jet lag is the onset of fatigue and other symptoms after traveling to different time zones. According to sleep expert Olivia Arezzolo, trips that travel eastward (where the clock jumps ahead) are the most difficult. “Logistically, this means that it’s more difficult to fly from the USA to Europe,” Arezzolo explains. Holistic sleep health expert Sarah Silverman, PsyD, says that experiencing jet lag while traveling is normal and to be expected, especially when crossing multiple time zones. “The general rule of thumb to keep in mind is the number of time zones you’ll be crossing is usually the number of days it may take for your body to adjust to local time," says Silverman. Both Arezzolo and Silverman note that there are some individuals who can adjust more quickly than others. If you're not that person, you may experience jet lag when you arrive at your destination, or you may feel it more once you get back home (or you could be someone who experiences it both times). How Can You Tell If You’re Jet Lagged? Arezzolo says there are several symptoms of jet lag. You may be experiencing it if you notice any of the following. Daytime fatigue Being extremely alert, awake, and energized in the evening Difficulties sleeping through the night, with exhaustion throughout the day Brain fog and memory lapses Moodiness, irritability, and anxiety Lacking motivation, akin to burnout 1 4 Ways to Overcome Jet Lag as Fast as Possible There are some simple secrets to getting over jet lag faster than expected, even if you’re especially susceptible to it. Along with keeping a solid routine, here is how to get your energy back or prevent it from dropping in the first place. 1. Use Light to Your Advantage Clinical sleep coach Teresa Power, BS CCSH, says to use light or the lack of light to adjust your sleep schedule in the few days before and once you arrive at your destination. “Light is a 'zeitgeber,' meaning it’s a natural way your body tells time and aligns your circadian rhythm. Try to get as much daylight and bright light as possible early in the day and reduce it close to bedtime. If you can, skip the sunglasses in the morning and keep the lights dim or off in the evening.” As tired as you are when you land, Arezzolo says you need to be awake when it’s day and asleep when it’s night. “With light, the circadian rhythm’s primary zeitgeber (influencing factor), this is absolutely essential,” she reiterates. Depending on the time zone, you could use artificial light to slowly adjust your sleep before your trip. A few days before the trip, avoid devices, turn off overhead lights, and wear 100% blue-light-blocking glasses if you are looking at a screen when it’s supposed to be night at your target destination. When it’s supposed to be morning, simulate natural sunlight for 20 minutes with light therapy glasses, Arezzolo says. Using light in this way can help you slowly acclimate to an adjusted sleep schedule. 2. Strategize Your Sleep During Travel Arezzolo suggests not making your travel routine more complicated than it needs to be. “Simply focus on what will make the greatest impact in the shortest amount of time,” she says. First and foremost, once on the plane, she says to set your clock to your destination’s timezone to get used to your new time before you arrive. For Silverman, napping or not napping on the plane could be helpful, depending on the time of your flight. “One option is to choose a sleep deprivation approach, meaning do not sleep on your flight, and the second option is a strategic nap approach, where you consider taking a 60- to 90-minute nap 1 to 2 hours before your flight lands.” These options depend on the time of your flight and what time you land at your destination. Silverman says it’s typically harder to adjust to very early morning flights or red-eye flights. A jet lag app could help you determine which approach would be more helpful based on the starting and ending time zone (more on that later). 3. Stay Hydrated and Eat on a Schedule Silverman emphasizes the importance of regular hydration when traveling and once you arrive. “During travel time to your destination, it's especially important to stay hydrated. Drinking enough water while traveling is what I consider to be a low-hanging fruit that can potentially mitigate how your body handles adjusting to a new time zone,” she says. Power agrees, adding that you should also be mindful about your caffeine intake in the new time zone. “Using it to stay awake in an earlier time zone is OK, but don’t drink it at dinner, or you risk having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep that night, even if you’re tired! Keeping your meal times close to normal in the new and current time zone can also help your body get used to the change.” 4. Use a Jet Lag Calculator Silverman likes to use a jet lag calculator when she travels. “It’s a great free resource to use for cross-country or international trips and can make some helpful suggestions based on your exact flight times,” she says. These recommendations can help you shift your sleep schedule in the days leading up to your trip. “Additionally, you can consider using the Timeshifter Jet Lag app. It’s subscription-based, but they do offer a free trial, and your first 'jet lag plan' is free. It specifically tells you when to eat, sleep, get light, consume caffeine, etc., which can be helpful when crossing multiple time zones,” Silverman explains.

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