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Home » Gear » best outdoor clothing brands

Must Have Outdoor Clothing Brands for Adventure Travel

I don’t know about you, but I love just clothes. In fact, I even get dressed most days. And when it comes to choosing the right clothes for travel, well I know just what to wear and all the best outdoor clothing brands who manufacture them.

My number 1 secret for finding travel clothes is that less is more – invest well and  the best outdoor clothing brands will last you for years, for life on the road, on the trails, and even at home.

In this post I am going to review my favorite outdoor clothing brands and pieces below, but just to give you a bit of inspiration and dutiful advice: do NOT skimp out on hiking shoes, merino wool socks, or a reliable down jacket. If you spend a lot of time in the rain or mountains, then a quality shell is just as important.

By investing in durable, quality outdoor clothing, and often include excellent warranties. is a worthy purchase for life on the road and the trails.

Quick Answer – These Are The Best Outdoor Clothing Brands

Brilliantly mixing functionality with style, Patagonia is hands down the best overall outdoor clothing brand. Patagonia’s jackets and fleeces are top rate and their baseball caps will bag you bonus hipster points!

Finding The Best Outdoor Clothing Brands

Top outdoor clothing brands, best outdoor clothing brands for base layers, best outdoor clothing brands for outerwear, best outdoor clothing brands for casual wear, best outdoor clothing brands on a budget, best outdoor brands for accessories – shoes, packs, and beyond, how we tested this gear, faq about the best outdoor clothing brands, final thoughts on the best outdoor clothing brands.

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Technical outdoor clothing brands are generally pricey, but absolutely essential for extreme sports, such as alpine climbing pictured above, but even if you don’t plan to climb a mountain anytime soon, outdoor gear is equally imperative for adventure travel.

The last thing you want to deal with is a leaky rain jacket while trekking Nepal, or blistering feet on a sunrise hike in Bali. Even urban travel can call for a couple of outdoor clothing pieces, like a versatile and warm jacket and pants that work for every activity. That being said, wearing the best mountain clothing brand might just be overkill for a jaunt down Khao San Road!!

Because technical brands are finally fashionable, there’s no need to invest in a ton of clothing and gear, just those few cornerstone pieces. (I mean, walk down the streets of SF, and you’ll count more Patagonia down vests than suits and ties.)

So, whether you plan to go backpacking in Central America, brace the winds of Patagonia, take on the brutal climates of Africa, party your way through South East Asia, or go trekking throughout the US, my favorite outdoor clothing brands will have your back (on your back ;).

Why should you trust my review? Because I remember the first time I bought $15 socks and an expensive winter jacket. To say I was STICKER SHOCKED is an underestimate, but after spending a lot of time camping and climbing outdoors, and traveling to over 30 countries, I am fully converted to the value of durable and high-quality outdoor clothing.

Finally, I know that shopping for outdoor gear can be daunting because of the number of options and prices. Anyone who has spent 3 hours in REI understands. After years of trial-and-error, I’m proud to present my in-depth guide chalked full of my favorite outdoor clothing brands.

There are only 10 pieces I pack every time, and I’ve listed my favorite outdoor clothing brands to help get you started when it comes to packing the best outdoor clothes for your next adventure.

I’ve broken down my favorite outdoor clothing brands into sections. First, I cover my two go-to’s for base layers. Next up are my most recommended brands for layering – think your outerwear, winter jackets, down vests, and rain shells.

Next, I cover the best outdoor clothing brands for the easiest going day-to-day travel. These brands are great for hikes, urban travel, and active movement, like climbing, running, and yoga.

Finally, I give you a couple of options for the more conscious spender. None of the clothing brands on this list are “cheap” because you’re going to have to invest a bit to get quality, technical gear. That said, all of these brands are worthy of being on this list.

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Right, let’s start at the base and identify the best brand for making base layers.

Icebreaker – To cover your Merino Wool Base Layers

Icebreaker is one of my favorite outdoor clothing brands. They cover all the bases, literally.

Merino wool is made from sheep’s wool; it blends moisture control, performance, insulation, and sustainability – no synthetics like polyester aka plastic! While cotton socks get disgustingly sweaty after one workout or walk out in the city, merino wool socks can last you for days without a wash. It feels gorgeous against the skin and is well worth its price tag.

100% merino wool socks run at $13+ and tops can cost $60+ easily. Base layer bottoms cost over $100. I hope I haven’t scared you away yet because I know the buy-in is pricy, but it is also invaluable, especially if you plan to hike, spend nights in cold temperatures, or sweat a lot.

Now, Icebreaker is a merino wool company and one I feel proud to support. The brand started selling wool tees in the 90s, but now New Zealand’s biggest technical apparel maker makes merino gear of all sorts at the highest ethical and sustainable standards.

Don’t skimp out on their merino wool socks . They also come with a life-long warranty, so take care not to lose them as Icebreaker will replace socks with holes! It’s these sorts of guarantees we’re looking for when it comes to picking the best outdoor clothing brand, it means they back themselves too!

I am also a huge fan of their base layer tops for all types of travel and trekking. I rarely take off my Icebreaker light zip-up when I’m out camping. In addition to providing warmth, a base layer gives you much-needed protection from the searing sun. Even if the weather is quite warm, I still recommend wearing your base layer top to help prevent sunburn. If you’re looking for the best outdoor wear, a base layer is a must.

Our team collectively are massive fans of Icebreaker and their Merino range. In particular, they love that they can be worn over multiple days without smelling or becoming too damp. This might sound a bit rank but believe me, when you’re on a multiday hike these things can really make the difference.

To summarize, in order, get a pair of short socks + long socks for hiking , half-zip light jacket (it’s stylish too), base layer tee – it will wick sweat and smell for days on end – and eventually merino wool leggings for warmth … No need to buy them not all at once; this is a collection you build up slowly.

Smartwool – Alternative Best Clothing Brand for Merino Wool

Smartwool has it going on! This is another one of my favorite outdoor clothing brands that focus on merino wool.

Quick story: I went on a 15-day hike with 2 long sleeve shirts. One was merino wool and the other a synthetic moisture-wicking athletic shirt. The synthetic (albeit not cheap) top was smelly and wet after 2 days. I wore my merino wool long-sleeve in the sun and cold for the other 12 days and it never smelled. Guess which one I bring on every hiking and travel trip from here on out?

I’m a big fan of Smartwool’s leggings, which happen to fit my body better than Icebreaker, but this is subjective! Go ahead and treat yourself to the most comfortable merino wool boxers , dudes. You won’t need to travel with more than 3-4.

My boyfriend also lives in their stylish long sleeve merino wool shirt for travel, climbing, work-outs, and hanging out at home. Finally, they have some casual sweaters and more technical gear for snow sports.

Our team are always on the hunt for cheaper but well-performing alternatives, as Broke Backpackers this is pretty important to us. I mean sure, super expensive products you expect will work well, but the team were mega impressed by how Smartwool performed to keep them dry, smelling fresh and didn’t take up a shedload of room in their packs.

Patagonia – leading the way in green fashion and tech fashion

Named after one of the world’s most pristine environments, Patagonia is an iconic, sustainable logo known for its ethical and environmentally conscious focus. They were the first company to have a green print (before that was a thing). They donate their time and services to environmental causes, and their tax cuts plus at least 1 percent of their sales to help hundreds of grassroots organizations all over the world.

Patagonia began as an alpine clothing brand but has since expanded into more casual technical wear, bathing suits, and more. Anything outdoors and you’re covered, but they have a particular emphasis on cold and wet-weather apparel.

Simply put, the might just be THE best outdoor brand! When it comes to the top outdoor jackets , they are always reliable, long-lasting and sustainable too. Me and my partner swear by them and her favourite jacket has to be the Patagonia Houdini .

The Broke Backpacker team and I agree that the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie is a staple for travel, the chilly nights at camp, and early morning starts on the trail. This insulation provides you with the ability to lock in your body heat, even when temperatures fall to freezing or below. It feels like a warm hug to wear on a cool night and when it gets sweaty, you can zip it open and it breathes perfectly. The material is also high quality, the zips are solid and the seams are clearly very tailored.

Their fleece jackets are iconic, and the  Patagonia Better Sweater is my go-to casual and warm jacket when it is not quite cold enoug h to throw on the down jacket. You can also hike in the fleece without getting overheated. The only con is that it doesn’t pack down as well for travel as a down jacket does.

I think Patagonia is excellent for any outdoor enthusiast. I don’t think they make the most cutting-edge alpine and climbing jackets and shells but still, they manage to do a good job.

Any traveler will be more than happy with their standard, and it doesn’t hurt that their apparel is fashionable! I have been living in my Patagonia down jacket and fleece jacket for years, and recommend them to anybody.

I bought my girlfriend the Houdini Air Jacket and now she swears by it of backpacking trips. It’s light and compact, water proof and offers a layer of warmth for when hot climes cool down. That said it can get sweaty in tropical heat though, but it’s still one of the best Patagonia waterproof jackets .

Check out our rundown of the best Patagonia jackets to find the right one for your trip. We’ve also got a specific Patagonia winter jackets guide too for the colder months.

The North Face – The Most Popular Outdoor Clothing Brand

It would be a shame to not mention the best-known outdoor clothing brand out there: The North Face. The thing is, I’ve never owned a piece of their clothing, so I can’t review them wholeheartedly, but no doubt you’ve already seen people sporting this outerwear brand before. I would put them in the same camp as Patagonia, and I just happen to lean towards Patagonia, but the choice is yours.

They have a long history of providing alpine climbers with durable and warm gear. Whether you need a rain jacket for skiing or pants for yoga, The North Face has got you covered. This brand is also pretty moderately priced given its quality.

Not having owned any North Face gear myself I once again turned to the other members of our team who were much more familiar with this well-known brand. Again, they are pretty popular amongst the rest of the team and in particular, they rated the Hydrenalite D own Hoody highly. They felt it was perfect for backpacking in cooler climates as it offers great protection with its water-repellant exterior, 550-fill goose down and super lightweight construction.

Arcteryx – For the Mountaineer who made it to the top (Best Rain Gear too)

If you’ve made it to the top of a mountain, you deserve some Arcteryx gear, and if you’ve made it to the top monetarily, you can probably afford them too ;). Arcteryx is the Gucci of outdoor clothing brands, but unlike Gucci, they make some of the best hardcore outdoor clothing in the world.

The original Alpha SV Jacket moved the industry from baggy GORE-TEX jackets to today’s slim profiles.

Arc’teryx gear is built for outdoor extremes, from fast and light (FL) climbing gear to blizzard-ready severe weather (SV) shells. If you are going to be handling extreme temperatures and adventures, then Arc’teryx is a worthy investment.

Writer and traveler, Chris, here at the Broke Backpacker, says his Arc’teryx  Beta AR jacket is irreplaceable. It’s a hardshell rain jacket that handles any rain, wind, and snow you can encounter. A rain shell is a key to a successful layering system as they function as a sort of warmth seal in addition to acting as a barrier to the elements, specifically rain and wind.

Cheap rain jackets just do not cut it in the wilderness. They leak, get clammy, and will result in your other layers getting wet. Stylish, expensive, and most importantly top-notch quality, Arcteryx has it going on.

Our team have been really impressed with the quality across the board from Arc’teryx. Personally I love the Atom Lt hoody . It’s a great all-rounder for backpacking trips in different climates to be used as a light jacket or a mid-layer. It’s also super light and packs down well so it’s great for throwing into a backpack or day pack.

REI – One of the Best and Affordable Cold Weather Clothing Brands

REI, (Recreational Equipment, Inc) are one of North America’s best loved retailer and manufacturers of outdoor recreation gear, sporting goods, and clothing. REI was founded as workers co-op in 1938 by a group of mountaineers in Seattle, and has since grown into a national chain with over 150 retail stores across the United States.

REI’s mission is to inspire, educate, and outfit people for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship of the outdoors. They offer a wide range of products, from camping and hiking gear to bicycles, kayaks, and outdoor apparel.

In fact, if you read this blog on the reg then you’ll know we often include a lot of REI products in our reviews and rundowns. They make excellent and affordable gear and while their cold weather gear can’t quite compete with high end brands like Arc’terxy, it is perfectly functional and excellent for those on a budget.

Kuhl – Best outdoor clothing brand for pants

I’ll keep this section short and sweet. Kuhl has made a name for itself because of its selection of pants. They have a pair for every travel and activity. If you want a pair of versatile, stylish, and durable pants, look no further.

Our team loved the KUHL Law Pants in particular and felt they offered a rugged and high-quality feel whilst still looking smart and stylish.

Prana – Best outdoor clothing brand for active and loungewear

They create sustainable, fashionable clothing for travel, climbing, and yoga. Their apparel is designed to handle action and movement and still be stylish!

My go-to travel pants and leggings are Prana! This is another company I feel awesome for supporting.

They are conscious about everything, from the organic cotton and hemp to sew their clothing, to the beaches where plastic bottles are harvested, to the  chemicals that need to be managed upstream , to the safety and well-being of the people assembling their clothing.

Our team really love the lineup of knitwear that Prana makes, for example, the Sky Meadow sweater. They loved how functional these sweaters were, and how they kept the team warm on chilly days. But more than that, they just loved how they looked. They felt the design made them suitable for not just travel and outdoor adventures but equally, they wouldn’t look out of place going out for a meal or even in the office.

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Columbia Outdoor Clothing Brand : For the Backpacker on a Budget

Portland-based  Columbia has staked its reputation on affordable, high-quality outerwear. No, they’re not the best, but they are affordable and get the job done. Recently, the brand has made a push into the fashion space as well.

If you’re not looking to summit mountains, and you’re not counting ounces as you pack for your trip, then Columbia is a great choice.

Our team love how affordable their gear is for the quality they offer. They reflected that often when you’re backpacking you don’t want to shell out a load of money on gear that will potentially be ruined but you still want a decent amount of protection, they felt that was were Columbia worked well.

Perhaps the single most important piece of clothing you pack is your hiking boots. If you are hiking at elevation or into the mountains, then splurge on quality hiking boots. That said, I can’t tell you which are the best shoes for you, how they fit you is the most important. If you’re not sure where to start, then I highly recommend Sportiva and Iowa (reviewed below), as well as shoe brand Salomon and Keen’s shoes for hiking and travel.

Tip – Make sure to break in hiking boots before you hit the road.

If you don’t plan to hike in 3-4 season weather, then hiking boots are overkill and take up a lot of space in your bag. Settle for travel shoes , or just go minimal and rock the river sandal or minimal shoe look.

La Sportiva Shoes – For all your climbing needs (on and off the rock)

La Sportiva is another awesome rock-climbing brand, especially known for rock-climbing shoes, but I’m also a huge fan of their hiking boots for women, especially for narrow feet.

If you plan to hike in 4-season weather and do any technical climbing then consider La Sportiva’s mountain boots. While expensive, tour leader Chris says they are crucial. I can attest as he was the only one out of 13 people with dry feet at the end of a hike in the snow.

Our team includes quite a few climbers in our ranks and they rate La Sportiva as their go-to brand for both approach shoes and on-the-wall climbing shoes. Their favourites are the Katana’s and the Miura’s for more technical climbing and the Mythos for trad climbing.

Lowa – Best Outdoor Brand for Hiking Shoes

Lowa makes some hardy hiking and work boots. If you want a pair of durable boots you can put some miles on, then look no further. Because of said hardiness, you also need to break them in good. Make sure to break in your boots before a hike.

Our team highly recommend the  Lowa Renegade GTX due to their great value for money within the Lowa range, their stylish design and of course how well they perform in the mountains. They felt they were easy to break in, hard-wearing and super supportive.

Also, check out my review of the best hiking boots for more ideas.

Black Diamond – Best for Climbing and Snowsports

While not known as being part of the best hiking clothing brands, Black Diamond is the best for mountain hardware and just about anything to do with rock climbing. They are my go-to for cold-weather and active athletics accessories – things like winter gloves, gaiters, Black Diamond FLZ trekking poles (see our highlighted review), and head torches.

Gaiters are essential for 4-season hiking, as they help to keep stones, mud, water, and snow out of your hiking boots.

Our team highly recommend the Black Diamond GTX Front Point . They have taken them through 3+ ft of fresh powder without a single snowflake making its way onto their legs!

Another accessory they would recommend would be their Black Diamond Half Dome Helmet. While not necessary for your average hike, it’s crucial for technical climbing and is the helmet I’ve worn on many occasions from sport climbing to trad climbing, canyoning and caving without any issues. It’s lightweight enough to attach to any pack without adding too much wear, which is imperative when you’ve got a bag full of rope, cams, nuts and draws!

Buff Lightweight Merino – The most functional clothing piece you’ll own

This tiny piece of fabric may not seem useful or necessary, but once you have integrated a Buff into your gear kit, there is no going back. They have so many practical applications from serving as a dust mask to keeping the sun off of your neck to providing extra warmth during any blistering cold and windy conditions. Plus, you could use it as a mask to rob a bank.

Our team are big fans of a buff or two and take them everywhere from hiking snowy mountain passes in Pakistan to humid treks in the Costa Rican jungle. They are super useful for many different environments and climates and are a piece of kit that our team swears by.

Tip – Some of their options are not merino wool, but if you read my section on base layers, then you know I’m going to recommend you choose a merino wool option, as they don’t have to be washed nearly as often.

Osprey Backpacks – For all your non-clothing needs

Focusing predominantly on backpacks, they’ve dominated the hiking backpack scene, as well as travel bags, commuters, and more. We are HUGE fans of Osprey at the Broke Backpacker. I wouldn’t hike with another bag; I use Osprey’s Ariel 65 and Osprey Kyte 46 for all of my outdoor adventures.

In addition to backpacks, Osprey offers a range of bag-related accessories, including bag covers and toiletries packs. While this article is focused on outdoor clothing brands, grabbing the right backpack is just as important!

Me and several other Broke Backpacker writers have used Osprey backpacks for years now and they will continue to be our go-to brand for many more trips to come. Their Fairview/ Farpoint range with its clamshell opening, attached day pack, compression straps and lockable main compartment make it a backpacking stalwart. I use the Aether for long trips and the Qasar as my day pack – I have used it every day for years and it is still in pristine shape.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

There is exact science or perfect technique when it comes to testing out the best outdoor clothing and gear. However, the team here at The Broke Backpacker do have a LOT of experience in this area and have gotten pretty good at it over the years. 

Whenever we test a piece of gear or clothing, one of our team took it out for a test run and put it through its paces. We decided to pick a mix of some of the best outdoor brands alongside some lesser-known budget options too.

In all cases, we paid close attention to how well-made a piece of clothing or gear is. We looked at how light or heavy it is, how packable it is and of course, how well it fulfils its intended use. When it comes to clothing we also awarded extra points for how it looks and picked out some of the coolest outdoor brands that push the boat out when it comes to looking good!

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced – for example, expensive items that perform averagely are looked at harshly, whereas budget items may be given more leeway and minor failures treated with less scrutiny.

Still have some questions about the best outdoor clothing brands? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the best outdoor clothing brand?

While there is no such thing as “the best”, we do think that The North Face and Patagonia offer the best options and the highest value when it comes to the best outdoor apparel.

What is the best clothing brand for outdoor action sports?

These are our favorite brands: – Arcteryx – Outdoor Research – Icebreaker

Are there any affordable outdoor clothing brands?

While you could always go with the knock-off versions, we’d suggest you give Columbia Outdoor Clothing Brand a shot.

Why do I need special outdoor clothing?

Simple: to stay safe. Whether it’s being able to move freely, have breathable material that won’t hurt your skin or a tough jacket that’ll protect you from hypothermia, proper clothing is essential!

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I tried to keep this list short and sweet, so you’re not too overwhelmed by the number of options!

That said, I feel that I have provided a great selection from the best outdoor clothing brands in the world. I focused primarily on outdoor clothing brands than transfer well to travel , not necessarily the most technical gear for extreme outdoor sports.

If I missed your favorite outdoor travel brand, let me know in the comments below!

Ana Pereira

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Hi there, I will be travelling to Intervales State Park in Brazil and wondering if you have a recommendation for clothing to avoid ticks and mosquitoes? I live in Canada and permethrin isn’t sold here so not an option. I have purchased supposed permethrin treated products here but the ticks didn’t seem to notice. I can check for ticks and keep pants tucked in so probably most important to avoid mosquito bites (ie a material that can they can’t bite through easily). I am a magnet for them unfortunately. Thank you!

Denim and wool are difficult for mosquitoes to bite through. Clothing sprayed with a repellent containing DEET is also probably worth a try.

Wishing you a bite free journey.

Also this brand is very good: Solo Grazier Outdoor

An American site is the worst site to go for “best outdoor brands”!

No imagination… The North Face and Arcteryx. Yes, Arcteryx is a great brand but the mountaineering jackets are catered for men with Adonis figures or big fatties, the arms too long. Medium fits body but arms are too long, Small arms fit but body is a bit tight. I have read so many says this. Far too boxy, no style like Mammut, Norrona, Haglofs and even Montane. I have owned quite a few Arcteryx jackets: Alpha SV & AR, Beta AR & LT. The fleeces, softshells and ski jackets fit better, Tantalus and Iser were a good fit but the prices weren’t justified when I could have bought a Mammut Nordwand Pro for a little more! North face… common for common people!

This isn’t an American site, it was founded by a Brit, I am British and we have an international staff!

I personally own an Acteryx jacket and it fits me ok and I am neither fat nor an Adonis.

As for North Face, they are indeed something of an everyman brand but we find them well priced for the standards they offer.

Thanks for sharing your views.

you should try WeatherWool – 100% made in USA and the “luxury hardcore “ theme is the best made on market in my option

thanks for the tip!

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Essential Travel Clothing Brands: The Female Globetrotter’s Guide

FASHION , Travel Clothing

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Stylish travel clothing is hard to find, but these companies do a great job of combining practicality and femininity too. Whether you’re an avid globetrotter or a newbie nomad this is our essential list of the best travel clothing brands for women!

Best Travel Clothing Brands

Table of contents.

Confession: I overpacked all the wrong clothes for 5 years before I finally started traveling carryon only on my long term travels .

I saw other travelers, predominantly male travelers, traveling around the world in a small little backpack, and I was envious of them – they seemed to move so freely without a bunch of baggage. I wanted to be like them. Traveling light.

However, my situation was the exact opposite. I was traveling with way too much stuff and somehow I never felt prepared for the destinations I was visiting. Based on limited packing advice online at the time, I chose clothing that was either too technical, low quality and consequently not practical for long term travels, or just not my style at all. To sum it up, I didn’t feel like my best self.

If you also feel unprepared while traveling, check out my guide to stop overpacking .

The Eddie Bauer Departure Shirt is lightweight and moisture-wicking, perfect for travel! Paired with Rebecca Minkoff Backpack and Taos Star Sneakers

In 2011, I set off on a mission to figure out how to choose the best travel clothing without sacrificing my personal style or skimping out on functionality. One year later Travel Fashion Girl was born. The idea was to show female travelers how they could be fully prepared on their travel while also feeling good about their clothes, too.

I made it my personal goal to start packing smarter, traveling lighter, and to bring the right things for my trips.

I eventually discovered that the secret to packing the right clothes for a trip was to choose things that were practical but things that also made me feel good about myself. The ideal trifecta for travel clothes are items that feature form, function, and fashion, too. While the majority of time you don’t need specialty “technical, utilitarian clothing”, travel and outdoor brands do offer so much functionality when traveling. Their fabrics tend to be lightweight, breathable, packable, wrinkle resistant, quick-drying, and so much more than your average garment.

Unfortunately, many times the designs leave alot to be desired for. They can be masculine, childish, or unattractive. The solution is to look for regular garments with technical features and combine those items with a few of the most fashionable travel clothing options available.

What are the best travel clothing brands?

Eddie bauer.

• Toad and Co.

Chico’s

• Eileen Fisher

Royal Robbins

Non-travel clothing companies that are amazing for travel, anthropologie.

While stylish easy care travel clothes can be hard to find, I’ve found several companies that do a great job of combining practicality and femininity. Here’s my list of the best travel clothing brands for women:

Shop Eddie Bauer Departure Ankle Pants: Sizes XS-XXL  |  Petite S-L  |  Tall M-XXL  |  Plus 2X-3X

21As I started researching hiking clothing for my various trips to national parks over the past year, I discovered Eddie Bauer , and this brand has quickly become some of the best travel clothes for women . I like many of their items for travel and every day, and so do our readers!

Readers have continually bought up the Departure Pants , which were a big hit during Amazon Prime Day! They’re lightweight, don’t retain moisture, have UPF protection, and a hidden pocket. The definition of perfect travel pants! 

Consider checking out the Departure Travel Clothing Collection , which includes the Departure Blazer , another TFG fave that works as a summer jacket with some polish. Or their ultra-lightweight and breathable summer dresses are a huge hit, such as their famous Departure Dress Collection .

Find out why TFG readers constantly choose Eddie Bauer shirts for travel in this review !

Eddie Bauer Ripstop Shirt worn with the best-selling Wallaroo Victoria Sun Hat  

I became a fan of their button-down tops immediately, including the Ripstop Shirt and the Departure 2.0 Long Sleeve . They’re both versatile enough to be paired with denim shorts , worn as a beach cover-up, and tucked into my favorite jeans.  They also have cute outerwear like my Charly Waterproof Rain Jacket (highly recommend!) 

Eddie Bauer often has awesome sales, and they also offer a range of clothing sizes, including regular, tall, petite, and plus sizes.

Read this review to learn why we and our readers rave about Eddie Bauer’s waterproof jackets, particularly the Charly Jacket.

Shop Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater: Sizes XS-XL | 1X-3X

One of the top reader-favorite travel brands for key staples like pants, sweaters, and jackets is Quince . While they offer tons of great pieces, there are definitely a few faves that readers consistently rave about and recommend . Overall, they’re a leader in high-quality yet affordable women’s travel clothes that are washable and often wrinkle-resistant!

The most popular seller by far is the Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater , which is super soft and versatile but still lightweight for fall and winter trips. Another reader fave is the Mongolian Cashmere Tee . Not only is it warm enough for layering, but it’s perfect to wear year-round. If you love cashmere as much as the readers do, review the full Quince Cashmere Collection .

Shop Quince Ultra Stretch Ponte Pants: Sizes  XS-XL | 1X-3X

Readers absolutely love their Ultra Stretch Ponte Pants to death! They’re stylish but extremely comfortable, with the look of classic trousers and the feel of yoga pants! The four-way stretch and soft fabric make them a dream to wear. They can be worn with virtually any top and look great with flats , sneakers , and ankle boots .

Quince even has jackets, such as the lightweight but warm Down Puffer Jacket , which goes with so many pieces! It can be worn with jeans ,  leggings , fleece-lined leggings , or even over your favorite travel dress . This jacket works in temperatures as low as 32° F. It’s a perfect go-to for airplane outfits, as well!

Their Washable Silk Blouse is another popular pick that readers love for its crisp and polished look that’s super low-maintenance. It’s deliciously soft and flattering and comes in a wide range of colors. Check out their entire collection of Washable Silk Clothing that is easy to take care of when traveling and includes skirts, dresses, pajamas, and more!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Axis Leggings

The merino wool brand Wool& is becoming a fast reader favorite due to their breathable, comfortable travel clothes that span everything from basics like tees and leggings to dresses and pajamas ! 

The Addison Turtleneck is prime to snuggle up in as winter looms, and you can even layer with the popular Morgan V-Neck Tee .

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Wool& Morgan Merino Wool V Neck T Shirt

The Axis Leggings and Sloan Top are loved by readers for their cozy warmth and versatility. These thermals are made from merino wool, so they’re soft, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and temperature-regulating to keep you warm on freezing winter days.

And if you want even more cold-oriented clothing, the Aspen Hoodie and Wool& bestseller, the Everett Tunic , look absolutely inviting to wear by a roaring fire. And we can’t forget the ever-popular Maggie Dress , which is a short-sleeve number that can be a standalone dress or even a beach cover-up .

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Icebreaker Merino Tech Lite II Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Icebreaker is a traveler and reader favorite for merino wool base layers , but this brand has other merino clothing (for both men and women), such as jackets, dresses, t-shirts, and even underwear! 

If you’re traveling in cold weather, thermals are the secret to packing light and Icebreaker offers some of the best ! (Trust me, I keep buying less expensive brands then I end up spending more money because I always come back to Icebreaker.) Specifically, merino wool is a miracle fabric for winter because it’s moisture-wicking and odor-resistant to keep things fresh but also breathable.  

The most popular Icebreaker thermal bottoms are the Oasis Thermal Leggings and the Oasis Thermal Top , which can be layered underneath your winter clothing.

Icebreaker Tee, Outdoor Research Sun Cap, and Ray Ban Sunglasses

I also love their classic Icebreaker Tee , which can be worn casually to hike and camp or even tucked into a skirt and dressed up with jewelry and cute sandals.

Many female travelers also recommend dresses such as the Yanni T-Shirt or Tank Dress . Their price points are high but for the minimalist adventurer, these are a must! 

ibex Women’s Wool Aire Down Jacket  | Sizes from XS-XL

A second merino wool favorite is ibex . They not only have great base layers for winter travel but also sell other popular items like hoodies , tank tops , and tees.  

For top merino wool base layers, Woolies 2   is awesome for every kind of traveler! The Woolies Thermal Tops and Thermal Bottoms are reader favorites. They’re super lightweight while offering that necessary insulation.

Their Sweatpants Joggers are also cozy due to the merino wool terry cloth fabric and will keep you dry as these won’t trap moisture, so great for flights or staying cozy in your hotel room!

Wearing  ibex Wool Aire Down Jacket ,  Bernardo Hooded Jacket  paired with  Zella Leggings  and  UGG Lorna Boots

The  ibex packable down jacket  is a new find I’ve fallen in love with. I was shocked at how warm I was in this jacket despite how thin and lightweight it is.

I’ve worn it in temperatures ranging from 25F – 40F and layered it only over a J Crew Tee and separately just over a merino wool thermal. I’m so impressed that I now take it with me everywhere whenever I need extra layers!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Amazon | Columbia

Columbia makes popular travel wear for women who love the outdoors. They offer easy-care clothing that is functional, light, wrinkle-resistant, and quick dry. As a bonus, this brand has affordable pricing and a wide variety of sizes, such as regular, petite, tall, and plus.

TFGs particularly love their extensive selection of travel pants, including the Columbia Saturday Trail Straight Leg Pant and the bestselling Arcadia Rain Jacket . Our readers are also big fans of their easy-to-wear dresses, especially the Freezer Dress Collection , available in a range of lengths.

Columbia Carson Pass 2 Waterproof Winter Jacket

I like Columbia for their insanely warm yet affordable outerwear options. If I’m traveling in the winter, I want to stay dry and warm so I can spend all-day sightseeing regardless of the elements. The Carson Pass 2 Waterproof Coat is one of my all-time favorite winter jackets for home and travel. Read my full review of this jacket!

Shop Athleta:  Regular 00-26  |  Tall 00-16  |  Petite 00-14

Though Athleta is known for athleisure clothing, readers say they actually offer travel clothes women love for travel, and rave about a numbe of stylish and functional pieces! 

For instance, TFGs highly recommend the Athleta Brooklyn Pants . They’re cute, comfy, and stretchy in all the right places and the ribbed waistband moves with you. And with several pockets, you can stash small essentials for a flight or a day of sightseeing. 

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: Athleta Santorini Midi Dress

Many readers also recommend the Santorini Midi Dress , saying it’s a dream for trekking around in the blistering heat while staying cool, dry, and fashionable!

The Athleta Stellar Leggings are also a reader’s top fave, made from a luxurious Italian fabric that is designed for movement, yet they have a flexible fit and feel smooth, and look flattering.

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Unbound Merino Merino V-Neck T-Shirt

Unbound Merino  

Unbound Merino is another merino wool brand that TFG readers adore for their elevated styles that can handle any adventure! Designed specifically for the wear and tear of travel, the brand’s superfine, premium merino wool will look amazing over time and last forever.

Readers particularly like to travel with Unbound Merino’s t-shirts, such as their V-Neck Tee , as they’re well-tailored and polished, super comfortable, and can be worn over and over throughout your trip while staying wrinkle free and fresh!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Unbound Merino Merino Travel Dress

One TFG reader who owns a lot of Unbound Merino shares that her leggings , tees , and socks performed incredibly on a 38-day carry-on-only trip! She adds that it’s the softest merino wool she’s owned. 

They also sell hats and sweaters , and their other biggest hit is their Merino Wool Travel Dress that’s excellent for warmer climates, but also a great spring dress too because it’s so breathable and soft!

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Quilted Quarter-Zip Pullover

A brand that makes reliable travel apparel is L.L Bean . They offer solid basics and standard, petite, tall, and plus sizing options.

If you plan on camping or glamping this summer, take the Quilted Quarter-Zip Pullover to stay warm, and also pack the  L.L Bean Linen Shirt as a comfy and airy choice. Readers also rave about their Tropic Wear Quick Drying Pants that are excellent for hiking excursions or a backpacking trip, and readers say they pack easily.

Shop Sizes XS-3X:  Short-Sleeve Crewneck Pima Cotton Tee

The L.L. Bean Pima Tee is travel-ready and a huge seller! Made of Supima® cotton wrinkle-resistant fabric, it’s a comfortable and sustainable shirt that also dries quickly. It’s perfect for layering on chillier days.

If you’re looking for layering items, the Silk Long John Top and Bottoms are popular for their comfortable feel, weightless warmth, and wide size range. Terrific to stay warm for a wintry trip!

Shop Betabrand:  Sizes XS-3X  |  Petite XS-3X  |  Short Petite XS-3X  |  Long S-3X

Betabrand is best known for their Dressy Yoga Pants , which look polished but feel as comfortable as yoga pants! While the fabric is thicker than most traditional travel clothes, it’s their durability and versatility that make Betabrand pants a good option for travel. 

In addition, their Canopy Dress is also popular for female travelers looking for longer hemlines, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and a classic cut you can wear anywhere!  Betabrand has a vast size selection, including XS-3X Plus and their paints offer four inseam choices: regular, short petite, petite, and tall.

Shop Sizes Petite-Maxi: The Chrysalis Cardi Convertible Dress

Encircled is a Canadian company that specializes in sustainable, stylish, and packable travel clothes that are versatile for everyday wear as well. You probably know them for their popular Chrysalis Cardi , a garment that can create 8 different looks, such as a skirt, dress, cardigan, or wrap. Talk about reducing how much you pack!

Read my Chrysalis Cardi Dress review !

The Chrysalis Cardi with Comfort Sandals (similar)

Some of their other bestselling pieces are their Dressy Sweatpant Jogger , Evolve Top , and the Long Sleeve Revolve Dress .

Their travel clothing line has expanded to include shirts, blouses, pants, jumpsuits, skirts, jackets, and more!

Shop Sizes XS-XL:  Toad&Co  | Zappos

Toad & Co.

For some of the best travel clothing for women , Toad & Co. offers casual basics and vacation-ready dresses in breathable fabrics that are oh-so-comfortable.

The stylish Toad&Co Taj Hemp Pants have UPF 25+ for ultimate sun protection, so you won’t need to overdo the sunscreen. And they’re moisture-wicking and dry quickly in the heat, all hallmarks of travel pants worth packing.

Toad and Co. Sunkissed Dress: Toad&Co | Amazon  in Sizes S-XL

I’ve worn the Toad&Co UPF sun protection dress .  The lightweight fabric is water-friendly, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking, plus it is UPF 40 protective. It’s made from recycled polyester and waterless dyes, so you can rest assured you’re doing your bit for the planet.

If you prefer a shorter length, the lovely Cue Short Sleeve Dress features cap sleeves, a tie at the waist, and a flowy skirt, making it a stylish and versatile option that still gives you the practicality you’re looking for in a breathable dress. Their clothes ae endlessly unique but accessible for travel!

Their clothing is also available on Amazon !

Shop Sizes 00-18 Petite, Short and Tall: Amazon | Prana

prAna was first introduced as yoga wear, but it has since expanded into a line of comfy women travel clothes that come in a range of sizing, inseams, and moderate price points. 

Their best selling Halle Travel Pants   are endlessly stretchy, durable, and versatile for more activity or dressing up for dinner. If you’re looing for a pair of convertible hiking pants, try their popular Monarch pants . Here’s a full review of why these are great for outdoor excursions!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Jewel Lake Dress

Another highly touted item that readers love are prAna’s ultra-cute yet practical travel dresses , like the Jewel Lake dress ! It features a comfortable high neck with criss-cross straps in the back, and the bust features an interior shelf bra with mesh lining.

So it makes sense they also make some of the greatest t-shirts, including their popular Foundation Short Sleeve V Neck Top .

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Chico’s No Tummy Pants

Chico’s is a new favorite for their classic, versatile clothing. This brand has a dedicated Travelers Collection , with no-wrinkle, easy-to-pack fabrics. Some faves are the  Travelers Classic No Tummy Pants , which have a pull-on, elastic waist for an easy-chic look, and the Classic Short Sleeve Maxi Dress that’s stylish and super versatile, and looks fab with white sneakers or sandals .

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Chico’s Eyelet Tank Tops

Chico’s Tank Tops are also popular and ideal for layering; they’re versatle and soft to the touch. Chico’s also has a No Iron Shirt Collection , so you can wear a blouse right out of your suitcase without annoying wrinkles to contend with! 

If you want clean lines and a more sophisticated look, this travel clothing brand is highly recommended! 

Shop Sizes PP-3X:  Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher 

Eileen Fisher  has been a long time favorite of the TFG readers, particularly those that are looking for functional yet elegant basics in longer lengths and wider designs. While I didn’t own any of the brand’s clothing despite how much the readers raved about them for travel, I finally got hooked when I bought their linen tunic shirts on sale!

Eileen Fisher Linen Shirt with Wallaroo Sun Hat  

Like the Eddie Bauer button-down mentioned before, I discovered this Eileen Fisher linen dress and fell in love with it for hot and humid destinations! It’s SO versatile and chic, and the best part, the linen keeps me nice and cool. I wear it as a blouse tucked into my denim, worn as a tunic over jeans or leggings, and as a beach cover-up dress .

Shop Sizes XS-XL: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie 

REI is a wonderful source for adventure travelers to stock up on comfortable clothing that’s durable and lightweight, but overall, this retailer is fantastic for general travel gear—be it clothes, shoes, or backpacks .

A true hiking staple, the REI Co-op Sahara T-shirt wicks sweat, dries quickly, and shades you with solid UPF 30 sun protection. While the REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie  is built for the trail with a tech-tee-like knit that wicks moisture and provides shade.

REI is a wonderful source for adventure travelers to stock up on comfortable clothing that moves as you do, but overall, it’s just a fantastic option to grab general gear for travel, be it clothes, shoes, or backpacks .

Shop Sizes 0-26W: REI Co-op Sahara convertible Pants

If you love rushing streams and tricky switchbacks, then REI Co-op Sahara convertible Pants are ideal. They even convert into shorts easily while on the trail! For airflow and freedom of movement, it’s hard to beat a dress—especially one designed for hiking, like the cool, stretchy, multi-pocketed REI Co-op Sahara dress .

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Uniqlo

This Japanese brand is especially noteworthy for their AIRism and HeatTECH collections, which are available at a low price point. AIRism fabric is light, breathable, and quick-drying. Their tanks, camis, and tees are the perfect absorbent, anti-odor underlayer.

They take up almost no space, are easy to hand-wash, and dry quickly. There are also AIRism bras , panties, and leggings. HEATTECH innerwear has heat-retaining properties and is great to wear as a base layer in cold climates. 

One of TFG’s writers likes wearing her HEATTECH tights under jeans during winter travel, and another loves their lighter layers. Read her review here !

Shop Sizes XS-3X Regular, Petite & Tall :  Spanx

Spanx is previously known for shapewear, but they’ve since expanded into clothing that’s functional, fashionable, and flattering!  

Readers particularly love their comfortable, lightweight pants, specifically the AirEssentials Wide Leg Pants , which are perfect for traveling in a car, plane, or train. Feel free to check out the entire AirEssentials Collection , especially the stretchy and cute AirEssentials Jumpsuit , which is an all-in-one outfit for travel!

In addition to AirEssentials, we can’t forget the Perfect Pants , which are more polished but still have their famous stretch and comfort. The entire Perfect Collection is ideal for those wanting to travel to Europe due to its sophisticated, simple pieces or for frequent business travelers or remote workers.

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Spanx Faux Leather Leggings

Other popular traveling pants styles are the Spanx Faux Leather Leggings . While leggings are not as in style as they used to be, they’re still popular for travel overall. I love their faux leather leggings because they’re comfy yet stylish and versatile—able to be worn dressed down or up. I wear them as a part of a plane outfit, all the way to sightseeing or dinner out. Here’s my full review of them!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Royal Robbins Spotless Dress

Loved for their wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying clothing, Royal Robbins offers a wide variety of clothing made with travel in mind. From tops to pants to dresses, this brand’s clothing is extremely versatile—you can take it from a rugged outdoor adventure to a casual night out! 

The most frequently recommended pieces are the dresses and skorts. The Spotless Traveler Dress is airy and cooling, with built-in sun protection and a cute, feminine look! The Spotless Traveler Tank Dress is a similar option with a relaxed fit, a removable belt, and a flattering cut. 

Another favorite piece is the Discovery Skort , which readers love for its comfort, perfect fit, not-too-short length, and sporty-cute look!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Royal Robbins Spotless Evolution Pants

The pants are also popular because while they’re casual and functional, they’re also simple in design and polished enough to work for all kinds of activities and occasions. The Spotless Evolution pants have an easy, straight-leg fit, multiple secure pockets, and stretchy fabric that can take you from a hike to dinner! 

Check out the Spotless Traveler Cargo Pants , too, which have the same functional fabric paired with a flowy, wide-leg fit and a cute tie belt.

In addition to travel apparel brands, there are certain regular brands that are absolutely amazing for travel, too.

Shop Sizes XXXS-3X:  J.Crew Eloise Travel Blazer

If you want chic women’s travel clothes for Europe , TFG readers recommend J. Crew’s classic styles and quality that will last for years. In fact, one of the recurring comments about their Classic Denim Jacket is its long-lasting quality.

This J.Crew Cecile Blazer is similar to the beloved Eloise Blazer and is made of a cotton and merino wool blend. While it’s super cozy and great for layering during the fall and winter, it’s lightweight and versatile for year-round wearing, yet the sophisticated look is balanced out by an easy, relaxed fit.

Shop Sizes XXS-3X: J.Crew Vintage Cotton T-shirt

The top selling Vintage Cotton T-shirt features a drapey fabric that’s insanely comfortable, plus a figure-flattering slim fit. This is the perfect chic option to pair with cute pants and flats for a fashionable day wandering Paris .

And finally, peruse the J.Crew Dress Collection , because readers swear by their stylish selection for any season, but especially for spring and summer!

Shop Anthropologie:  Sizes 23-34  |  Tall 23-34  |  Petite 23-34  |  Plus 16W-26W

While Anthropologie has a more trendy vibe, I’ve discovered a few pieces that I’ve fallen in love with. One is the Colette Collection by Maeve , which includes comfy pants and shorts that come in an endless variety of colors, fabrics, and inseam options. Furthermore, many brands carried at Anthropologie also have inclusive sizing, such as regular, petite, tall, and plus.

I own the Colette Linen Wide Leg Pants and wore them on a recent trip; I felt so put together for my travel day without sacrificing comfort — they were very airy, and seriously felt weightless!  They have the feel of sweatpants but look incredibly chic and polished and they’ve now become my go-to pant for everything – including travel, flights, conferences, and everyday wear.

 And while their Vacation Dress Collection has some on-trend pieces, there are also more simple lightweight choices that are ideal for a beach vacay or a hot destination!

Shop Madewell Wide Leg Jeans:  Nordstrom  |  Madewell  (Sizes 23-33)

Madewell is an eternal reader fave due to their sustainable, comfortable clothing and inclusive sizing. Readers love their Cropped Wide Leg Jeans , with one saying they’re “so comfortable and so flattering and versatile”.

Another reader-approved pick is the Madewell Wide Leg Linen Pants . They’re airy but have a more polished look that can still be dressed casually.

Shop Sizes 00-16: Madewell Layton Midi Slip Dress

While TFGs love Madewell for their pants (and lots more), it’s their Dress Collection that they flock to during the summer. You can choose from short, midi,  maxi, and printed dresses. 

A great example is the chic and cute Midi Slip Dress pictured. While it’s on-trend, the lines are still simple and versatile, and would look amazing with black sneakers , sandals , or wedges ! 

Shop J Jill:  Regular XS-XL  |  Petite XSP-XLP  |  Tall ST-XLT

Readers love J.Jill for their timeless, mature clothing and bonus, they offer a broad size range including regular, petite, and tall. 

The Wearever Black Slim-Leg Pants are voted by TFG readers as some of the best pants for travel! They’re knit, made with an elastic waist for movement and stretch, and create a flattering shape. 

They wash very easily, dry quickly, and are wrinkle-resistant. A must-have travel pant!

Shop Sizes 24:33:  Lululemon City Sleek 5 Pocket High-Rise Wide-Leg Pant

Lululemon isn’t the most affordable brand, but many women swear by their apparel. They don’t just make amazing athletic wear for the gym, but they also make comfortable clothing that’s perfect for traveling and long-haul flights. Readers say investing in a pair of Stretch High Rise 7/8 Pants are worth it! They’re comfy, cute, and will last years. 

These Lululemon Comfortable Travel Dresses are also a great pick because they’re wrinkle-resistant, sweat-wicking, and have quick-drying properties, so you can wear them throughout your trip and stay fresh!

Do you really need “travel” clothing?

For most types of travel, you won’t ever need specialty travel clothing. You just have to follow some simple guidelines to shop your own closet. ( Download my free guide here .) On the other hand, there are some trips that require clothing with more technical fabrics and construction such as active adventures, long-term travel, or  round-the-world trips .

If you’re going on vacation, certain types of travel clothing can also help you pack lighter and more efficiently, too.  Many times, the fabrics in the clothing are breathable, quick dry, compact, and lightweight. Others offer clever ways to get more use from your clothing such as reversible features or multi-way styles.

Enjoying  Rome  in my  Gevomir Halter Summer Dress with my  Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody Purse and Taos Plim Soul Sneaker

The challenge is that most of the brands that create functional clothing forget to think about the needs of the woman wearing the clothing. Sometimes I think they forget the woman part entirely and just make smaller versions of mens clothes.

Over the years, I’ve tried just about every brand out there, in search of the trifecta of fashion, form, and function and I’ve found that some work far better than others. That’s why you’ll hear so much about certain brands repeatedly on the blog – they’re just so good in comparison to the rest. And that’s also why you never read about certain  other  brands – I’m not a fan of gimmicks and I know you aren’t either.

Want to pack light, find out how  packing cubes  can maximize the space in your bag  here !

What do you think are the best travel apparel brands for women? Share them with us in the comments!

For more travel clothes and packing tips, please read:

• How to Pack Carry-on Only for Every Trip
• Most Cute and Comfortable Travel Shoes
• Best Convertible Dresses for Travel
• Best Anti-theft Purses for Travelers

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25 comments.

I would like to know what brand of grey flat shoes you are wearing in the photo.

Hi NikkiB, I am wearing my Skechers Pureflex Skechers Mary Janes flats: https://amzn.to/3jPVJi2

Good piece, thanks! Another brand that you might mention is Sympli, a Canadian line of clothing. It’s spendy but the fabric and quality are outstanding. I have several of their basic pieces and all make great, non-wrinkling travel options. The only drawback is that they’re not always fast-drying, so I bring them on short trips or trips where I won’t be changing hotels every night.

Hi Kathi, thank you for your comment, so pleased you enjoyed the post!! Thank you for sharing your review of the brand Sympli with us! 🙂

I love Sympli, but the fabric is heavy. If you are concerned about the weight of your suitcase, only bring a couple of pieces.

Thanks, for that. This is the really good article for the traveler. Who wants to travel anywhere and they have no idea which type of clothes should take it.

Hi Nick, thank you so much for your lovely comment, so pleased you found it helpful!! 🙂

These all look like great brands, but all US companies. I guess most of your readers are in the US but the rest of us could do with some help too! Ordering from the US can be expensive, with import duties, plus returns are problematic so what about including some great European brands?

Hi Kate, thank you for taking the time to share your insight! Let me look into this for you 🙂

It has probably been said a million times already, but EnCircled is da bomb. Their Dressy Sweatpants, Chrysalis Cardi, Evolve Top and Everyday Twist Top, and you’re good for the weekend!

Hi Tania, thank you so much for sharing your insight! 🙂

And how about sophisticated plus size travel wear in great fabrics? Unicorn. 😉

Suzanne, search for “plus size” here at TFG – there are several articles written by several of us who are members. Hope that helps you!

He best travel clothing I have found is Tilley. It is packable, can be washed and hung to dry overnight and lasts forever! Their travel jersey is versatile enough to wear casually or dress up .. cant be beaten as far as I am concerned!

I”m sorry, this stuff is just yoga clothing and much of it is either really cheap, or cheap and slutty. You’re going to get on a business class seat in that Anatomie stuff? Seriously. Prana is fine, but isn’t there somebody out there that makes sophisticated clothing that is still in packable fabrics?

Hi Nancy, sorry you feel that way. We’ll let you know if we find anything more suitable to your needs.

I think Nancy’s comment is a little harsh…..but, I would like some great travel clothes that are not clingy and you don’t have to be pencil thin to wear. I’m not a plus size but I am curvy so many of these clothes are not going to look good on me. Any other ideas for clothes with some structure but won’t wrinkle?

I love theLuLuwrap It is the perfect travel accessory. It’s so versatile you can wear it eleven different ways easily creating a chic and stylish look for any ensemble, anytime, anywhere!

Linda…could you link to this? I’m trying to find it but there are several things that sound kind of like it and not sure which item yoyre referring to. Thanks!

Also great is TravelSmith catalog!

thanks for the tip!

Icebreaker dresses are my go-to for travel! I also love SmartWool: a little pricier but lasts even longer!

Great brands!! Love both of them!

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The Best Travel Gear and Accessories for Your Next Adventure, According to Experts

Travel must-haves you should definitely pack.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

We carefully reviewed this article in April 2023 and stand by our picks.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , our analysts and engineers have been testing travel products for more than two decades across our Labs. Below we feature the travel gear that’s outperformed in our tests and has been rated highly among consumer testers , ranging from reliable suitcases to comfortable walking shoes, beauty must-haves, gadgets to keep you entertained for hours and handy travel accessories . According to our pros, this is the best travel gear to bring along on your next adventure in 2023 and beyond.

Our top picks:

Best Carry-On Luggage

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked Luggage

Open story hardside luggage large checked spinner suitcase.

Best Underseat Luggage

Samsonite solyte dlx softside luggage.

Best Kid's Luggage

American tourister disney hardside upright luggage.

Best Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

Best Weekender Bag

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Best Travel Backpack

The north face borealis backpack.

Best Packing Cubes

Eagle creek pack-it specter compression cube set.

Best Travel Dress

Outdoor voices exercise dress.

Best Walking Shoes

Allbirds tree runners.

After our top picks in each category, read further to learn travel hacks from our experts. If your next trip is right around the corner, check out our guide to the best luggage on Amazon for two-day Prime shipping!

The Best Travel Gear for Packing

No one likes arriving at their vacation destination only to find the wheels of their suitcase broken. To enjoy hassle-free air travel, the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab recommend investing in a high-quality, durable suitcase. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight carry-on, spacious hard-shell or compact smart suitcase for a quick business trip, these luggage brands and packing essentials will help make preparing for your next adventure a breeze.

Away's trendy, colorful line of carry-on suitcases is a popular pick among consumers and our Textile Lab's best overall luggage brand . Our pros love that it features a spacious interior while remaining super lightweight thanks to a polycarbonate shell. We also like that you can opt for a suitcase with or without a built-in USB charger so you can charge your phone on the go. If you need to remove the battery before boarding, you can do so easily with the push of a button.

READ MORE: The Best Carry-On Luggage to Buy in 2023

When you’re looking for size, quality and value, look no further than this sleek suitcase. Our Textiles Lab analysts were impressed with the performance of Open Story luggage in recent Lab testing, noting that this durable suitcase handled drop after drop without any dents or damage. Consumers pointed out that the suitcase was easy to maneuver on various surfaces and that they found its modern design appealing.

Fighting for space in a crowded overhead compartment or unexpectedly checking your bag at the gate can be frustrating. If you don’t want to take any risks, consider this Samsonite suitcase that should fit under most airplane seats. According to our Textiles Lab experts, it comes with a comfortable handle and compartments for your laptop and toiletries. Best of all, the suitcase’s abrasion-resistant polyester exterior showed no signs of wear in tests.

READ MORE: The 12 Best Underseat Luggage to Buy

Whether or not you’re planning a trip to Disney World, your kids are bound to love this Disney-themed hard-shell suitcase that comes in popular character prints. Our Textiles pros like that it’s super compact and lightweight to make it easy for your kids to roll around without your help, and that it features oversized zippers and a wide, curved handle made for smaller hands. Though it only comes equipped with two wheels, our users still found it easy enough to maneuver.

READ MORE: Best Kids Luggage

Those planning a road trip or an adventure might want to consider leaving their suitcase at home and grabbing this lightweight duffle bag instead. Our Textiles Lab likes this top-performing bag from Patagonia, which can convert into a backpack should you get tired of carrying it on your shoulder or via the top straps. Not only is it offered in several shades, but it can be compressed into a small bag when not in use, so you don’t have a bulky suitcase taking up your entire hotel room.

READ MORE: Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Sometimes you don’t need a big suitcase for a quick weekend getaway. Our pros love this Lo & Sons bag, which is not only stylish but super spacious so you can fit in all your essentials. The Textiles Lab likes that there’s a separate shoe compartment , so you don’t have to worry about your clean clothes getting mixed up with your dirty sneakers. The bag also features a trolley strap so you can easily secure it on top of your suitcase should you end up needing one.

Everything you need on your next adventure comes with this comfortable, spacious travel backpack, including a bungee system on the exterior to hold your jacket , a laptop compartment and an organized zippered compartment for all your smaller travel essentials. In Lab tests, our textiles experts were impressed with the backpack's water resistance, durability and thoughtful design.

READ MORE: Best Travel Backpacks of 2023

Keeping your suitcase organized is no easy task, but that's when these thin packing cubes save the day. Not only are packing cubes useful for keeping track of what clothing is where, but they can help maximize the space in your suitcase — a win-win. The pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab love these cubes' durable, lightweight design as well as each built-in handle for easy access whether you're using a backpack, carry-on or duffle bag.

READ MORE: Best Packing Cubes for Maximizing Carry-On Space

The Best Clothing for Traveling

It can be difficult to narrow down the clothing to bring with you on your trip, but it’s important to pack some comfortable, staple items in addition to all your cute outfits. You’ll be happy you brought a pair of comfortable walking shoes after a long day of exploring a new city, as well as that breezy lightweight travel dress on a hot, summer day. In addition to clothing, our pros also recommend packing a few travel accessories like laundry detergent or a travel steamer to keep your clothing in pristine condition no matter where you are.

Exercise dresses are so popular for a reason — they’re extremely comfortable and an easy item to throw on when on the go. Our Textiles experts like this dress from Outdoor Voices not only because our testers rave about it, but because it's moisture-wicking and versatile. It’s the perfect choice for a day you’ll spend hiking, golfing, biking or taking a walking tour. Best of all, it features a built-in bra and shorts for full coverage.

READ MORE: Best Travel Dresses You Need For Your Next Vacation

On days you’re going to be walking for hours, make sure to pack these comfy Allbirds sneakers in your bag. Ninety-one percent of our survey respondents from our tester panel gave this pair a perfect rating for comfort. Our Textiles pros like how you can wear them with or without socks, and once you’re back from vacation all you have to do is toss them into the washing machine.

READ MORE: Best Walking Shoes for Women

Vim&Vigr Cotton Graduated Compression Socks in 15-20 mmHg

Compression socks can work wonders when you’re seeking relief from swollen feet during a long plane ride or after hours of walking. By applying graduated pressure to your calves and feet they can help alleviate swelling and improve blood flow. Our Textiles analysts recommend this pair from Vim&Vigr, which earned top scores in both performance and durability tests and was a favorite among consumers.

READ MORE: Best Compression Socks for Women

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion

Need a quality pair of comfortable socks for your next adventure? Whether or not you plan on hiking, our Textiles experts recommend Darn Tough socks for any everyday activity. This Merino wool pair is moisture-wicking as well as great for colder temperatures. It also helps prevent blisters by staying put securely on your foot with a seamless design. Our pros like that each pair comes with a lifetime guarantee should you experience significant wear and tear.

READ MORE: Best Hiking Socks to Protect Your Feet

Vionic Amber Adjustable Sandal

Nothing makes walking down Italian cobblestone streets more enjoyable than comfortable walking sandals. If you plan on getting your steps in while you’re on vacation, our Textiles experts recommend packing these Vionic sandals . Available in both medium and wide widths as well as various shades , they’re a great fit for a lot of feet. Our pros like that they’re orthotic shoes but thanks to their modern design, no one will be able to tell.

READ MORE: Best Walking Sandals That Are Super Comfy and Cute

Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron

There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at your hotel or Airbnb only to find a suitcase full of wrinkled clothes, with no iron or steamer in sight. Fortunately, this compact steam iron that’s recommended by our Cleaning Lab is easy to squeeze into a suitcase. Our pros like that it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. In tests, we were impressed by how successfully it pressed out wrinkles.

READ MORE: Best Steam Irons of 2022

Norwex Laundry Detergent Strips

If you’re going away for a few weeks or are trying to pack light, consider bringing along some of these laundry detergent strips so you can clean your clothes and re-wear them. Our Cleaning Lab pros recommend this pick from Norwex, which earned some of the best performance scores in Lab tests and helped remove stains like ketchup, wine and mud. We also like how the strips come in a lightweight paper envelope so they’re easy to pack.

READ MORE: 5 Best Laundry Detergent Sheets

The Best Beauty and Hygiene Travel Must-Haves

There are certain beauty must-haves that you just can’t leave behind (and shouldn't have to!). Whether you’re looking for a reliable eye mask for your next red-eye, or need a bag that's big enough to store all your makeup and toiletries, our pros narrowed down their favorite beauty and hygiene picks that fortunately come in travel-friendly sizes.

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow Dryer

Fight bad hair days anywhere in the world by bringing along your own hair dryer. Our Beauty Lab experts like this travel-sized pick from Drybar, which folds up nicely so you can stash it in your suitcase. Not only does it feature two voltages so you can use it abroad, but it got a perfect score for its easy-to-use controls in Lab tests and impressed our pros with its quick and efficient drying time.

READ MORE: Best Travel Hair Dryers that are Trusty Space Savers

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case

Our pros love this clear toiletry bag for any sort of travel thanks to its spacious, organized interior that features two zippered compartments as well as mesh pockets for smaller items like lipstick or concealer. It comes in both a mini and standard size, but what we love most are the collapsible carrying handles that make it easy to pull out of your bag when going through security, and flat when going back in your suitcase.

READ MORE: Best Toiletry Bags

Truffle Clarity Jetset Case

This TSA-approved clear makeup case makes going through security a breeze thanks to its transparent paneling. Our beauty pros love that it’s offered in three sizes, making it a great choice for any makeup routine. Though we wish it featured organizational pockets, we like its classy, modern design (offered in leather or nylon) as well as its sturdy structure.

READ MORE: Best Makeup Bags to Stash All Cosmetics

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Soothing Gel

The Purell Hand Sanitizer Gel is a favorite among our Lab experts, who find that the aloe and vitamin E formula doesn’t leave behind a sticky residue like other hand sanitizers. We like that it’s not overly drying, even with a 70% alcohol concentration, and that it’s available in a compact travel size , making it easy to fit in your purse or bag wherever you go.

READ MORE: Best Hand Sanitizers

Maskc KN95 Face Masks

Though some airlines no longer require wearing a mask while in-flight, you may want to consider packing one to protect yourself and your loved ones. According to the CDC , “Masking is a critical public health tool for preventing spread of COVID-19, and it is important to remember that any mask is better than no mask.” If you're looking for a pack of 10 KN95 masks that are offered in a variety of tones and prints, one GH analyst found this site easy to order from and loves that it offers great discounts. In addition to soft ear loops that make it easy to wear this mask for an extended time , we also like the adjustable nose bridge so you can get a secure fit.

READ MORE: Coronavirus and Face Masks: Everything You Need to Know Right Now

The Best Travel Gear for Sleeping

Though traveling is exhilarating, it can also be exhausting if you don’t get the proper rest that you need. To ensure your journey is a peaceful one from start to finish, our pros recommend a few essentials to help you get a better night’s sleep. Whether you’re taking an overnight flight or you’ve ended up in a noisy hotel room, these picks should help you get some rest.

Cabeau Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

Anyone who has ever tried sleeping on a long flight knows how hard it can be to get comfortable. This travel pillow is recommended by the Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab, Lexie Sachs . The soft, memory foam pillow features straps that attach to an airplane's seat to prevent your head from falling sideways so you can actually get some rest. Our pros also like that once you've reached your destination, it can be compressed back into its compact travel case.

READ MORE: Best Travel Pillows

Bucky 40 Blinks No Pressure Solid Eye Mask

Most of us have trouble sleeping in a bright room, so it’s a good idea to always have a sleep mask with you. By covering your eyes, these masks are useful when you really need to get some rest. Our Textiles experts like this mask from Bucky, a top performer in Lab evaluations for its contoured design, ease-of-use and durability. It comes in a range of colors and, according to our pros, excelled at blocking out light in tests.

READ MORE: Best Sleep Masks for the Most Restful Sleep

Mack's Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs

Whether it turns out that there’s a nightclub next to your hotel or you can’t sleep because of early morning construction, earplugs can be a lifesaver. Just pop them into your ears to block out pesky sounds that previously kept you up. Shoppers on Amazon love this pick from Mack’s, which has more than 42,000 raving reviews . Though they’re disposable, many users found that they were able to use them for two to three nights.

READ MORE: Best Earplugs for Sleeping

The Best Travel Electronics

While we agree that you should try to disconnect during your vacation, that doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite electronics back at home. Whether you want to bring along some reading material, entertainment or tools to keep your gadgets up and running, our tech experts recommend bringing these top-tested travel electronics on your next trip.

Bose QuietComfort 45

Our Media & Tech pros swear by this pair of wireless Bose noise-canceling headphones when flying. Not only is it comfortable to wear for hours , but it does an excellent job at blocking out white noise, like the annoying drone of a plane. The QuietComfort 45 aced Lab tests for performance and impressed our pros with its excellent sound quality, making this a travel gadget to definitely not leave behind.

READ MORE: 12 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Apple AirTag

There’s nothing quite so disappointing as arriving at your final destination only to discover that your luggage has been lost. To keep better track of your belongings, our pros suggest getting a tracker like an Apple AirTag. Our pros like its compact, lightweight design and that it offers real-time tracking so you know your suitcase is coming before it actually arrives at the baggage carousel. Just keep in mind that if you’re not in the Apple ecosystem, you’ll have to opt for another luggage tracker like the Tile Pro , which unlike an AirTag is compatible with Android devices.

READ MORE: Best Luggage Trackers for Keeping an Eye on Your Checked Bags

Apple iPad 10.2” 2021

Leave your laptop at home and bring along a tablet to keep yourself or your kids entertained on your next trip. This pick from Apple will suit most consumers’ needs, according to our tech pros, with an A14 Bionic chip that can handle a variety of tasks like streaming, gaming or FaceTiming. We like that it’s compatible with the Apple Pencil (1 st gen) and Magic Keyboard Folio should you ever need to take a business call while away.

READ MORE: A Complete List of the Best Tablets to Buy

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Though many of us love highlighting and jotting down notes in a travel guide or flipping through the pages of a book, lugging around too many hard copies can get heavy very quickly. Our tech pros suggest investing in an e-reader like the Kindle Paperwhite, which is not only super compact, lightweight and waterproo f (it’s IPX8-rated, meaning it can handle continuous water submersion), but it also gives you access to anything you want to read, anywhere in the world. We like that, thanks to its slim design, it’s extremely easy to fit in a purse or backpack for the day.

READ MORE: The 5 Best E-Readers to Buy

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

To ensure your gadgets’ batteries never fail you in a time of need (like when you’re trying to find your way home or access your hotel reservation), our tech experts recommend this portable power bank from Anker. Its compact, slim design makes it easy to throw in a backpack without weighing you down, and our pros like that it can charge up to two devices at once via USB-A ports.

Joomfeen Travel Adapter

Don’t forget to pack this universal charger if you’re going to visit another country while you’re on vacation. Since different countries use different plugs and outlets, this adapter enables you to keep using your existing phone, laptop and device chargers. All you have to do is plug the adapter into the wall and then connect everything like you normally would back home, just through the adapter. That's right, no need to rush out to buy a local iPhone charger!

Bubm Electronic Organizer

Much like a great toiletries bag, an electronics organizer can keep your tech accessories in order. Our tech pros like this pick, which features a zippered compartment for smaller essentials like SD or SIM cards as well as various elastic bands and mesh pockets for your cables and chargers. Best of all, this organizer folds up into a flat shape so you shouldn’t have any issue squeezing it into your luggage.

Unique Travel Accessories

While not all travel accessories are essential if you're tight on space, you might be grateful later on that you made that extra room in your suitcase. Packing a few key accessories can spare you the hassle of having to go shopping while on vacation, and it usually prevents you from paying tourist prices. From towels to organizers, these are our experts' favorite travel accessories to bring along with you.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

When you're heading on a well-deserved beach vacation, make sure to grab this microfiber towel that comes in several bright colors. According to the Textiles Lab, it’s a great choice for travel thanks to its quick-drying material s and lightweight construction. Our pros also like that it comes with a handy carrying case so it's easy to transport from the beach and back to your hotel.

READ MORE: The Best Beach Towels for Summer 2023

CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle with Tritan Renew

It’s important to stay hydrated while traveling, which is why our pros advise bringing a water bottle with you. Our Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab pros like this best value pick from Camelback, which is made from durable, BPA-free plastic. It includes a two-finger loop handle that makes it easy to carry around while you explore and, according to the brand, the design is leak-proof when closed.

READ MORE: 12 Best Water Bottles of 2023

Nikon Monarch M7 8x42 Binocular

Whether you’re going hiking or spending a few days on a cruise, it can be nice to observe a beautiful landscape in sharp detail. With a great pair of binoculars, you can easily spot whales far out at sea or watch birds that would have otherwise looked like flies. The Media & Tech Lab recommends this pair from Nikon for traveling, thanks to its lightweight design, impressive magnification and small close focus that makes it ideal for birding or similar activities.

READ MORE: 10 Best Binoculars for Seeing Every Detail

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

If you’ve ever been worried about your bag being snatched off your hand, a fanny pack is an easy way to keep all essential documents close to you and easy to access. Our Textiles Lab experts like this Dagne Dover pick for traveling thanks to its roomy interior compartment and organizational pockets. Our testers also rave about how durable it is should you accidentally spill something during vacation.

READ MORE: Best Fanny Packs

Etekcity Luggage Scale

For those who like to overpack or would feel better knowing how much your suitcase weighs before arriving at the airport, this gadget is for you. A luggage scale not only indicates whether you’re under or over the weight limit , but this pick is compact and lightweight so it’s easy to pack along with your other accessories. Lexi has used it herself over the years to help divide up her belongings between bags and avoid baggage fees.

Travel Hack: Why Our Experts Recommend Using Packing Cubes

Packing your suitcase and fitting everything in the right place isn’t always as easy as it sounds. While most bags these days include a compartment or two for undergarments, clothing and other essentials, items can shift around while in transit or get lost underneath a stack of shirts. To keep your bag in order, Senior Textiles Product Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab, Emma Seymour , recommends investing in a few packing cubes, like this set from Eagle Creek . “Packing cubes are small bags designed to keep your clothes organized and less wrinkled in your luggage,” Emma says. They not only help keep your belongings organized during your trip, but also when you arrive at your destination. When using packing cubes, Emma suggests packing your clothes into the cubes first, then fitting the pieces into your bag like a puzzle. “You can even get packing cubes with built-in compression, so squeezing in that extra outfit (or two!) is no big deal. Whether you’re backpacking or traveling with a hard-shell carry-on, “most packing cubes are available in sets that include various sizes, ideal for organizing intimates and larger pieces.” And once you’ve arrived at your destination and are unpacking your suitcase, GH pros recommend placing the packing cubes directly into the drawers to keep your clothes protected from unknown surfaces.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on the best travel gear and accessories you can buy. Media and Tech reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski , who covers everything from consumer electronics to travel, home, fitness and more, worked with several of the product experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute to feature the best travel gear we’ve tested in our Labs as well as products that have impressed our consumer testers. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s a travel enthusiast with plans to visit all seven continents (with only two more to go)!

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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Performance Travel Clothing for Women

Orvis Travel Clothing for Women includes adventure-ready tops, pants, and jackets, along with innovative packable hats made for the rigors of travel. Find the best options in comfortable travel clothing for women at Orvis, wherever life’s adventures lead. Build a capsule wardrobe with these performance pants, tops, fleeces, sweaters, and jackets ready to go with you from the salt flats to the mountains to the lake, and engineered for supreme comfort on travel days. We focus on easy-wear garments made with the active traveler in mind in this collection for women. Our travel-ready clothing includes a bounty of options in quick-drying and wrinkle-resistant styles. Built-in sun protection and odor-inhibiting properties give you peace of mind while you’re off the grid. We’ve added a bit of stretch to our travel pants and shirts for ease of movement and a flattering fit. Our ultra-comfortable stretch travel pants retain their shape, so no annoying sagging after hours of exploring. Our knit leggings and joggers are versatile essentials for travel. Wear them for any kind of exertion outdoors or for long hours of touring. Dress them up with a tunic-length button-front shirt and a pretty scarf . They’ll also pull double duty as comfortable sleepwear, saving precious space inside your travel bag. Our stretchy hiker pants and quick-drying shorts belong in your duffle for the performance they offer in fickle weather conditions. Round out your travel wardrobe with a comfortable moisture-wicking drirelease® quarter-zip you’ll lean on every day of your trip. This women’s collection also includes the sensible outerwear you’ll need. Your travel day outfit gets better with a lightweight pullover or zip-front jacket for a finishing touch that multi-tasks. Explore options that offer superior comfort in chilly weather, including a 100% waterproof rain jacket that packs down into its own hood, and other lightweight layers ideal for travel. We include smart accessories in our women’s travel collection, from breezy packable sun hats and ball caps to lightweight packs and bags. Find everything you need for a seamless adventure in this convenient collection for women.

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🇮🇹 250th STOPPED PICK-POCKET IN ROME 🇮🇹

Pick-Pocket Proof Pants

250 Stopped Pick-Pockets in 30 Countries... That We Know About!

Women's Travel Pants

Leave Your Purse At Home!

Business Travel Pants

Classic Style & Innovative Function!

Pick-Pocket Proof Shirts

Complete Your Secure Wardrobe!

Explore Our Cubed® Travel Journal

From Everest to Easter Island.

"Pants designed to outsmart pick-pockets."

"The P^Cubed Travel Pants look like the khakis I wear normally except these are like a CIA version."

"The Ultimate Travel Jacket is Here"

"You'll feel so emboldened, you'll want to wander through a crowd of grabby street urchins."

"Go ahead, just try to pick the pockets of these pants"

"Theft-proof travel gear that promises to make your trip less stressful & safer."

"[The Cubed Travel Jacket] looks inconspicuous, allowing travelers to blend in wherever they are."

"Best Pickpocket-Proof Clothing For The Serious Traveler"

"crime-fighting khakis".

"The Only Adventure Travel Pants You Will Ever Need"

"This Might Be The Ultimate Travel Jacket"

"Invest in clothing designed to foil thieves, such as Clothing Arts' ingenious Pick-Pocket Proof Pants."

"Get Some Pick-Pocket Proof Pants"

"007 Gear For The Everyday Grind."

CA Newsletter: 10% off Your First Order

Interested in receiving updates on what's new here at Clothing Arts? Sign up for our newsletter today and see why 90,000+ travelers have upgraded their travelwear. Be the first to know about new product releases, win free travel tradeshow tickets and more!

Pick-Pocket Proof ® Travel Clothing

Empower your wardrobe and boldly explore the world in technically advanced, designed for comfort, lightweight cargo pants.

Purse-less pants are finally here! Pockets of all sizes make it easy to transfer anything you need for a day out, neatly at your convenience.

Technical materials. Innovative design. Expert construction. Stylish protection from the elements for wherever life brings you.

Securely go wherever your career leads in these road-warrior worthy pants. Travel wrinkle & hassle-free in our most advanced Nature-Like Nylon.

World Travel-Ready Jeans featuring patented Pick-Pocket Proof® security features integrated into new performance denim fabric.

Casually explore the outdoors with all the functionality of the Men's Adventure Pants as a great pair of shorts.

Move seamlessly from meeting to dinner to outdoor exploration and look smart at any time of day or night.

Designed for the office to the outdoors, travel in style in our new business travel shirts.

World Travel-Ready Women's Jeans featuring patented Pick-Pocket Proof® security features integrated into performance denim fabric.

Transition between Adventure Pants & Shorts as your environment changes. Travel lighter in our stylish design.

For warmer weather, Nature-Like Nylon Business Shorts offer the same features as the pants.

Elegant and amazingly functional, the Travel Dress is ready for anything. Just like you.

Protect your identity. RFID sleeves keep your credit cards safe from thieves everywhere in the world.

Protect your identity. RFID sleeves keep your passport data safe from thieves everywhere in the world.

Hidden pockets, classic design, state-of-the-art fabric. Our travel wrap skirt is functional and fashionable for stepping off the plane and into an adventure.

Complete RFID protection - secure your credit / ATM cards and your passport from next generation pick-pockets.

Stylish & secure, complete your travel wardrobe with our elegant day to night travel shirt.

Hands-Free This Summer 👌 Add-on Bottle Pocket Holder for the Adventure Traveler Line Pants, Shorts, or Convertibles.

100% Turkish Cotton long sleeve shirt featuring an eye-catching image inspired from our travels in Cambodia

Recent Press Coverage

See our Press Page for additional articles.

Adventure Travel Pants: There are six exterior pockets ... [a]nd they're all secure. You'll feel so emboldened, you'll want to wander through a crowd of grabby street urchins.

Making Sure Your Valuables Stay Yours - “Beneath the left rear pocket is another hidden [pocket] with a covered zipper for your passport and money.”

Men's Travel Shirts: "I thought the secret pockets were all that would qualify this as a travel shirt, but it turned out to be a versatile piece of clothing that was amazingly resistant to wrinkles.”

Best Pickpocket-Proof Clothing For The Serious Traveler: "The P^Cubed Travel Pants look like the khakis I wear normally except these are like a CIA version."

Adventure Travel Pants: "[P^cubed] can replace a lot of under-clothing security accessories and they’re built to last you decades of solid use.”

"Get some pickpocket-proof pants: These little babies have triple-secure pockets to foil any thief. AND they're made from wrinkle-free nylon. What more could you want?!"

Women's Travel Pants: Gift Guide - "Foil pickpockets: Wear Clothing Arts' Pˆcubed Pick-Pocket Proof Pants and thieves won't get their sticky fingers on your travel essentials."

🔴 City with at least one stopped pick-pocket

See our Testimonial Page for a complete list. Read the most recent:

Milestone 250th Stopped Pick-Pocket: Be Careful, The Pair of People To Your Right Are Pick-Pockets In Rome!!

April 18, 2024

Editor's Note: We would like to take a moment to thank all the travelers who have made this milestone possible. Over the years, we have put 300,000+ pairs of our Pick-Pocket Proof Pants into the world together. Through your travels, the innovative pockets we design are put to the test, and the testimonials that result are beyond our wildest expectations. Thank you for choosing to see the world with our apparel, and continued Safe Travels!! Dear Clothing Arts, During my...

View full article →

Want To Learn More About Pick-Pocket Proof® Travel Clothing

• What are Pick-Pocket Proof® Travel Pants?
• Featuring Our Trademark Nature-Like™ Nylon
• Inspiration Behind Our Travel Clothing

Travel Pants Meets Money-belts: Pick-Pocket Proof® Travel Pants are a true travel revolution and the result of years of travel knowledge and a first hand experience at the hands of a pick-pocket.

Best described as, "gear masquerading as a pair of pants," our apparel represents the future of travel and the fusion of travel pants with the security of money-belts. First, we start off with an incredible pair of pants. Then build in the functionality and security of 4 money-belts right at your fingertips! Imagine no longer having to dig into your waist or pull your valuables out of your shirt. Pick-Pocket Proof® Travel Pants literally puts security back in the hands of the traveler and lets you choose one, two or even three layers of protection between your wallet and the world!

First, zip the zipper to seal the pocket. Then secure the button flap for twice the protection. For even more security, lock what's most valuable in the triple secure hidden passport pocket. Pick-pockets are looking for an easy target and in our Pick-Pocket Proof® Travel Clothing, they'll have to find another victim & you'll be free to enjoy the beauty of the world around you!

Our [travel] pants are designed to be worn every day - whether at home or abroad. Working directly with one of the worlds largest nylon manufacturers, our designers were able to create an innovative fabric that mimics the wearability found in traditional cotton material. We are proud to offer 100% Nature-Like™ Nylon on both our Adventure Traveler & Business Traveler Lines.

Just as we have revolutionized what you expect from pockets on past releases, our new generation of Pick-Pocket Proof Pants® will redefine what you'll come to expect from quick-dry travel wear. Our Nature-Like™ Nylon travel pants offer the look and feel of Cotton (breathable, comfortable, moisture wicking), with all the benefits of Nylon (lightweight, wrinkle resistant, quick-dry, durable). Rated at UPF 50+, they also provide incredible protection from the sun.

We then take it a step further to make sure that our pants are everything a travel garment should be: Wrinkle, Rain & Stain Resistant™! A Durable Water Repellent (DWR) & Stain Resistant finish is added directly into the fiber of our fabric prior to weaving. This increases the longevity of the pants, lowers drying time & makes them easier to care for! Spilled drinks will roll right off the pants and stains will have less of an effect on the material.

Pick-pocketing is a major problem in Xian and signs reading "Beware of Pick Pockets" are all around - but you never think its going to happen to you! We were attacked by a team from behind and luckily noticed something was happening just in time to see them disappear in the crowded mass behind us.

Personally, we hate carrying money-belts. They are uncomfortable, unwieldy and inefficient but a necessity for a traveler - until now! Pick-Pocket Proof® Travel Clothing allows you to select your level of security based on your surroundings. Perhaps you're not worried about a pick-pocket walking in down your street at home but when you're about to enter the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul or infamous Chunking Mansions in Hong Kong, you'll never again think about travel security the same way with a double or triple secured pocket!

As travelers, we know that everyone has a unique travel style. So we've modeled our innovative Pick-Pocket Proof® family after your own! Each traveler has an individual destination and unique way of getting there - we offer two types of fabric in travel friendly colors geared toward the Casual - Business Traveler and the Adventure Traveler.

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Travel Inspiration : Travel Innovation

Rethinking the art of clothing design. We create high-tech clothing for urban travel and outdoor exploration. Since our first release in 2009, we have stopped dozens of pick-pocket attempts – that we know about! Read the real world stories on our testimonial page.

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To inquire about orders or for questions call: 646.422.9222

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Kenilworth, NJ 07033

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New Arrivals

Adventure Clothing takes pride in constantly seeking new, innovative, and environmentally friendly products. We are excited to unveil a selection of fantastic items, all available at the following link.

Featured Products

Renuar Collection Pull On Slim Cargo Pants, Style #R10067

Regular price $83.00

Renuar Collection Zip Top Polo Shirt, Style #R7764

Regular price $68.00

Renuar Collection Essentially Chic Pant, Style #R10036

Regular price $71.00

Pacsafe® EXP35 Anti-Theft Travel Backpack, Style #60315100

Regular price $269.00

Briggs & Riley @work Medium Expandable Briefcase

Regular price $298.00

Pacsafe® EXP45 Anti-Theft Carry-On Travel Pack, Style #60322100

Regular price $284.00

Joseph Ribkoff Short Sleeve Henley Top, Style #242125

Regular price $149.00

Joseph Ribkoff Tropical Print Shirt-Dress, Style #242912

Regular price $179.00

Joseph Ribkoff Hibiscus Print Top, Style #242175

Regular price $131.00

Travel Light, Travel Lightly, Travel Well

At Adventure Clothing, our pursuit of excellence is unceasing, be it in finding our next best product, uncovering the ultimate destination, or discovering more sustainable ways to travel. We are dedicated to providing exceptional experiences for our customers while embracing innovation and eco-friendly practices.

Nature Retreats for Rest and Rejuvenation →

Isla Mujeres 2024! →

Things She Loves - Packing for a Long Stay →

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Latest collection, handprinted in northumberland, inspired by our adventures.

We now have a range of prints and greetings cards to match our t-shirt designs. 

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30 Pieces Of Clothing That Are Essentially Made For Traveling

Comfortable, wrinkle-resistant, and quick-drying pieces you'll for sure pack for your next trip.

BuzzFeed Staff

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.

1. Slouchy overalls made with lightweight fabric *and* deep pockets, which are both essential while traveling. And the fact that you can wear these with so many different shirts underneath (we're talking tank tops, T-shirt, long-sleeved, turtlenecks), means this is a versatile piece you'll wear several times during the trip.

Some reviewers recommend sizing down, unless you're tall!

Promising review: "The pocket in front is very handy. It feels like I'm wearing nothing. The overalls are light and flow-y. The fabric quality could be better — it may not last long, but it's inexpensive. I get so many compliments when I wear them. I wore them for plane travel and on the beach in Maui and Mexico and were perfect for all. Would I purchase again? Hell yeah. Size down possibly, they are slightly large." — Jamie Pauluk

Get them from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and in 16 colors and prints).

2. A pair of affordable  high-waisted leggings  so comfortable, you may never step foot on a plane without them on your body, as one reviewer swears . They're made with 5% Spandex and have an option that has pockets so you don't misplace your boarding pass right before your group is called.

Promising review: "I travel a lot and now won't get on a plane without wearing them . They are comfortable and thick enough and they have a deep pocket on each side. I put my boarding passes, ID, and credit cards in one pocket, and my phone and ear piece in the other so I'm hands free and can put my purse in my carry on without having to open it. The leggings look great with tunics or longer tops/sweaters and boots. They're also great for road trips and of course everyday use. I have them in navy, brown, and black so far. I also have the shorts version in pink and light blue to go under sundresses in the summer. I highly recommend these leggings." — JoJoBrew

Get them from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in standard and plus sizes, three lengths, and 25 colors/patterns).

3. An off-the-shoulder maxi  for an effortless look you can quickly grab when you spend too much time at the pool and have approximately five minutes to get ready before your dinner reservation. Reviewers confirm this maxi is stretchy, easy to wear, and (one of the best parts), has pockets!!

Promising review: "I bought this dress for my trip to Hawaii. It was my favorite dress I wore on this trip!! I bought a large thinking the medium may be too tight, but I could have been fine with a medium because of how stretchy and comfortable the material is. Buying more colors for sure!!!"— Maria E. Montoya

Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 16 colors and prints).

4. A long-sleeve boho dress  about to be your new favorite because it's super fun yet easy to wear. It's perfect for a nice dinner out or even a day of exploring. And as a bonus — it doesn't wrinkle so you don't have to worry about ironing during your trip.

Promising review: "LOVE THIS DRESS. I was hesitant to buy this because it was for a vacation. Because it's made of rayon, I was concerned about how well it would travel. I shouldn’t have worried. I iron a LOT of our clothes, but I can honestly say that this dress came out of the suitcase really nicely. I just hung it in the closet and the few wrinkles fell away. I wore this dress more on our vacay than any other one because it’s so diverse. Even when it got wet, it dried nicely and quickly. It’s a winner! Will be ordering more soon." — Sheri Terrell

Get it from Amazon for $40.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 19 color combos).

5. A pair of  paper bag belted pants  reviewers swear are comfy enough to travel in because sometimes you don't want to wear leggings on the flight (yes, it does happen.) And if you're traveling for work, these are perfect to wear while you give that big presentation you've been working so hard on.

Promising review: "I wore them for five hours of travel plus lots of movement, and they were great. I thought they looked reasonably polished with a tucked-in blouse and a cardigan. I don't need them in different colors, but if I did, I'd buy another pair." — Amy

Get them from Amazon for $30.99+ (available in sizes 16–24 and six prints, also in two-pair sets).

6. A fitted  sports and yoga tank with a padded bra  perfect to wear with high-waisted leggings (or jeans) and any sweater or sweatshirt over it. Then once you get to your destination, and it's too warm for the second layer, you can just wear the tank on its own. 

Reviewers recommend ordering one size up for a more comfortable fit. 

Promising review:  "It’s very comfortable for working out and traveling, too! It looks great on. I’m a small in tops, but I ordered a medium, and it fits perfectly fine. It’s super comfortable, not super fitted, but just about right." — Kevin Shah

Get it from Amazon for  $19.99+  (available in sizes S–XXL and 25 colors).

7. A two-piece tank top and shorts set  that's super darling and pretty much guaranteed to get you a TON of compliments. And the best part is that you don't even have to put thought into putting an outfit together — just throw on the top and bottom, and you're G2G.

Promising review : "I got so many compliments when wearing this set on vacation in Hawaii! The top is very comfortable and cropped at just the right length. The shorts were a little see through, but for the price, they were very comfortable." — Courtney Smith

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and in 13 colors/patterns). 

8. A button-down A-line skirt  for a cute style that will still keep you covered enough that you don't have to add a scarf over your outfit when you go into a European church with a dress code. 

Promising review : "This skirt is so versatile. I usually have a hard time finding skirts because I have wider hips so skirts that are longer create a weird silhouette. This skirt is not that. I have been able to wear it to work and feel super comfortable. The fabric is sturdy, and it has a little of a wrinkled look so it is great to travel with. I would recommend this skirt to anyone who is looking for some flare in their wardrobe but doesn't want to break the bank. I got this skirt in red and plan on getting it in a few more colors. Also, it was true to size." — Christina

Get it from Amazon for  $16.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and four colors).

9. A knee-length halter dress  available in a variety of colors and prints, so you'll for sure be able to find one (or two) that fit the vibe of your vacation. Whatever you pick, you'll have a great option that'll keep you feeling cool, comfortable, and stylish the whole time.

Promising review:  "A friend of mine got this dress, and it looked gorgeous on her, so I went ahead and ordered it. I love this dress, and I am so glad I ordered it. It’s lined and has a removable matching belt. I washed mine separately and hung it to dry, and it looks like new. This dress is easy for travel and pretty wrinkle-free. I have ordered 3 more prints, and I can’t wait to get them. Highly recommend." — sherrie

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 38 styles).

10. A pair of Reebok classic shoes  I can personally say are great travel shoes because they're basically all I wore during a trip to DC/Philadelphia. Not only are they super stylish, but they're comfortable and look good with everything from jeans, to leggings, and even dresses. A true 10/10 shoe. 

I was really trying to not bring a lot of shoes on my trip (because they take up SO much luggage space), so I decided to bring these and two other pairs. I ended up wearing these every day of the trip and was comfortable the whole time, even the day we walked more than 20,000 steps. I wore them with semi-dressy and more casual looks, and I didn't feel like they clashed with anything. You really can't go wrong with these on-trend shoes. 

Promising review: "These shoes are comfy enough to be on my feet for eight hours at a time for work, and they're still stylish. After my first ones lasted me two years, I have come back to buy a second pair. These shoes are definitely more suited for normal to narrow feet, and I wouldn't recommend them if you have particularly wide feet. They are also super easy to clean in the washing machine or with a wet wipe in a pinch." — Ommy

Get them from Reebok for $90 (available in sizes 5–16.5 and in five colors). 

11. A flowy tank dress that's essentially made with the same material as pajamas. This means you can wear it on the flight with your favorite jean jacket and be comfortable the whole time, but still be ready to go as soon as you step off the plane. Vacation starts N-O-W.

Promising review: "This dress has adjustable straps. It hugs you but isn't bodycon, which I liked. I paired it with a denim jacket for versatile temps of the airport, and it was great for travel." — Keeli

Get it from Amazon for $18.88+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 32 colors and patterns).

12. A pair of Levi's Ribcage jeans  here to make you feel so on trend without compromising on your comfort. And the best part about these jeans? They'll instantly elevate any top you already have packed in your suitcase.

FYI, if you have  Amazon Prime  you can try before you buy!

Promising review : "I was on the hunt for that perfect 'French girl' jean for my trip to Paris to wear with a white button-up and trench coat. and I’m shocked that these fit. I’m 5’0 and have short legs, long torso, and these are the perfect length, just brushing the top of my shoes. So comfortable with stretch stretch but also enough structure. I may buy another pair when I get home from France! " — Melanie Abrams

Get them from Amazon for $55.86+ (available in sizes 22–32 Standard and 35–39 Plus and in 14 washes).

13. Or a pair of  pull-on Levi's jeans  reviewers love because they look like jeans but feel like sweatpants. And the best part — they maintain their shape for several wears, which is essential when you have limited packing space. 

Promising review : "Do these jeans make my butt look AMAZING??? Why yes, yes they do. These are amazing. Great for travel because they are comfy, yet don’t get loose and stretchy. They maintain their shape for several wears between washing . You can dress them up or down. My new go-to jeans. Ordered my usual size, and they got like a glove. I have a short inseam, so these fit me a little below the ankle." — Kettlebell Swinger

Get it from Amazon for $19.82+   (available in sizes 2–28, three inseams, and 18 colors).

14. A  stretchy drawstring jumpsuit  so comfortable yet stylish, you won't mind staying in it for the rest of the day after the flight lands. Plus, it can totally double as a swimsuit cover-up when you head to the pool!

Promising review : "I absolutely love this romper. The stretch is amazing! I originally ordered a large based on reviews and it was way too big so I decided to order the medium and even that was big so I decided to order one more time and did the small and that fit perfectly! This romper is sooo comfy, perfect for traveling, running errands or just lounging in. " — Yvonne

Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 19 colors/prints).

15. A two-piece midi dress outfit  you'll be ~dying~ to wear as soon as you get to your destination — as a beach coverup or just a great dinner outfit. You're bound to have a great time when you wear this amazing outfit. 

Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE this outfit!! It is cute, sexy, and comfortable to wear. I bought this outfit as a 'travel outfit' to wear while going to the beach!! I should have bought two at the same time, but I didn't! I definitely will be ordering more colors next time."— Moni

Get it from Amazon for  $19.99+ (available in sizes XL–5X and in 28 colors and patterns)

16. A Hackwith Design House shirt  actually made to be worn six different ways. This fact alone makes it a great shirt to travel with. But you're going to like the styles so much, I can pretty much guarantee you'll wear it more than once during your trip.

Hackwith Design House is a woman-owned small business that creates made-to-order apparel. This shirt can be worn as a V-neck, off-the-shoulder, boatneck, V-back, and even open as a jacket. And the color is simple, which means it can be paired well with many different bottoms. 

BuzzFeed Shopping Editor  Chelsea Stuart  says: "I have this shirt and I *love* it.  All credit for its discovery goes to TikToker  @jennifer.bianca  who I happened to stumble across on my FYP. It checks all my boxes: black, comfortable, versatile, and durable. My initial worry was that I wouldn't feel secure in it (I have a 38DDD chest and most wrap tops/dresses I've tried haven't stayed where they're supposed to), but I haven't had an issue with this! I've worn it tied in the front giving me a square neck (like the middle picture) and tied in the back giving me a V-neck up front (just like the photo on the right) — both were super comfortable, and I didn't have to adjust myself at all. As someone whose weight fluctuates, I also appreciate that this piece can handle pounds gained and lost. The fabric is medium weight, so I'll be wearing it season to season, and there's just enough elasticity in the arms that if you roll up your sleeves, they won't fall back down. All that is to say trust that I will be buying additional colors!"

Get it from Hackwith Design House for $145  (available in sizes XS–4X and in five colors). 

17. A printed cover-up  that will be the pop of color your travel wardrobe needs. Throw it on over your swimsuit, put it over a dress with a belt, or even with just a plain T-shirt and jeans. The possibilities are endless. 

Promising review: "I love a good coverup that can make my travel wardrobe versatile. I took this on vacation and was able to wear it with cotton Capri leggings, shorts and even over the top of a black dress for a little extra coverage in a cold restaurant." — Janna

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in one size fits most and in 45 colors and patterns).

18. A cami jumper  one reviewer calls the "best travel outfit of all time." You can wear this on its own, or with a bralette, tank, T-shirt, or even long-sleeved shirt. Think about all those possible outfits!

Pssst! Reviewers also say this is a great option during pregnancy because it's bump-friendly and works long after baby is born!

Promising review: "This romper is so comfy. It is the best travel outfit of all time. You can dress it up or down. Wear it out for dinner or just to get groceries. I’m buying more in other colors!" — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes XS–3X and in 22 colors, prints, and styles).

19. A pair of joggers  actually made with wrinkle-resistant fabric, so it doesn't matter has small you roll them up to fit in your suitcase because they'll still look perfect when you get to your destination. And the high-quality fabric means you can wear these in both casual and dressy settings. 

Promising review: "This material is the best thing to happen to my wardrobe in a long time. So comfortable, packable, wrinkle resistant, gorgeous colors. Great for casual office days, evenings and weekends. I wish the Delaney joggers were just a wee bit longer; at 5'10" they hit a little higher on leg than I'd prefer but all in all, wonderful pants that get a lot of wear!" — Rebecca H.

Get them from M.M. Lafleur for $90 (originally $225; available in sizes XS–2XL and in two colors). 

20. A  hoodie  made with a  built-in  eye mask .  Talk about a game-changer. Put on your hood during your flight, close your eyes, and you'll be there in no time.

It also has a hidden pocket inside the kangaroo pocket to safely hold your valuables (phone, keys, headphone case). Reviewers do say it has an oversized fit, so size down if you want a closer fit. 

Pond Los Angeles is an Asian- and woman-owned small business that creates bags and clothing perfect for traveling. 

Promising review: "I fly a lot and am constantly trying to find a hoodie with a big hood to cover my eyes so I can catch up on some beauty sleep on flight. I saw this product on Instagram and knew it would be a game-changer. I was able to use it recently for the first time on an early morning flight and let me tell you, it is EVERYTHING I was looking for and more. It’s comfy, cozy, oversized, and the eye covers make you feel like you’re in a whole other world and not packed like a sardine on a plane. My over-ear headphone fit perfectly under it and I got the best sleep I’ve had on a plane — EVER!" — Heather G.

Get it from Pond Los Angeles for $79+  (originally $128; available in sizes XS–2XL and in four colors)

21. A patterned V-neck skater dress  you can totally wear with both sandals and sneakers, making it an incredibly versatile option that will look great in all the pictures you take. 

Promising review: "This dress traveled well and was the appropriate knee length for entry into the Vatican and Roman churches. It can be dressed up with a sweater or scarves or dressed down with a jean jacket and sneakers or sandals. These are great all-around dresses, and I have them in solids and floral prints. Great buy!" — JJ

Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 27 colors and patterns).

22. A wrap top  about to ~wrap~ up any fears you have about not having anything to wear while traveling. This machine-washable, quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant shirt can be worn in so many different ways — from a wrap-around style, to a tie front, and even just left long, to name a few. You'll feel like you're wearing a different shirt every time you put it on. 

Aday is a woman-founded small biz that creates beautiful and timeless sustainable fashion. 

Promising review: "I really like this shirt because of how multi functional it is. Not to mention, it is so breezy during this very hot summer we are experiencing. It doesn’t crease, so it's great for traveling as well." — MI

Get it from Aday for $160 (available in sizes XS–XL and in five colors). 

23. Cozy joggers  better to wear while flying than leggings because these are just as comfortable but have super convenient pockets, which you always need more of while traveling.

Promising review: "These pants are amazing. I have worn them in the airport for a full day of traveling and to work with a pair of heels and a jacket. I love the packets, I love the fit, and I get compliments on them all the time. If you are on the fence, to get off of it and go place your order!" — ellen knecht

Get them from Amazon for  $15.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 20+ colors and prints).

24. A Lululemon scuba half-zip hoodie  made with a naturally breathable cotton-blend fleece fabric to keep you warm without overheating. Because I'm convinced that's one of the worst feelings ever, especially when you're on a flight. 

Promising reviews : "Found the perfect travel sweater! Very warm and comfortable on airplane rides." — aloha

"Stop debating...just buy it! I have this in pink and black, and it is absolutely my go-to sweatshirt. I wore it as a beach coverup on vacation; I wear it lounging with some joggers, or I love it with my higher-rise leggings." — HeatherRich

Get it from Lululemon for $118 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 10 colors). 

25. A water-resistant packable puffer meant to fold up small (into the included pouch) so you can take it on your adventures and know that you're always covered if it gets a bit colder (or windier) than you expected.

Promising review: "This is the PERFECT travel jacket! It's lightweight but nearly windproof. This coat SAVED ME in the blustering DC spring winds. It folds up into a tiny roll, so it takes no room in your bag. It’s surprisingly warm for such a lightweight coat. So happy to have had it!" — GMS

Get it from Amazon for  $13.40+ (available in sizes XS–6X and in 17 colors and patterns).

26. A open-front blazer  you'll want to have in your suitcase if you're traveling for work and don't want to show up in a wrinkled jacket. Plus, you can totally wear it with a pair of jeans and feel comfortable enough to hit the highlights of the city during your small chunk of free time.

Promising review: "I love this jacket! It's lightweight and can travel very well! I didn't have to worry about it getting wrinkled when shoving it into a bag on my last work trip." — Erica Robyn

Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in sizes 4–22 and 30 colors).

27. An asymmetrical T-shirt dress actually made with a Peruvian cotton blend fabric that is pilling resistant and has incredible bounce-back. You can wear it during the day with sneakers and then swap in some heels for dinner. Vacation is actually the only time I take the same looks from day to night.

Promising reviews: "I was given this dress as a gift about two years ago. It gets a lot of wear — dressed up for nights out, dressed down with flip flops for casual weekends. It’s still in excellent shape and is SO great . I might gift myself some more colors." — Jaime

"I love this dress! It's a perfect dress for taking on a travel adventure because it looks great and packs well. I wish there were more colors available because it sold out fast." — Amy S. 

Get it from Universal Standard for $76.80+ (available in sizes 4XS–4XL, three styles, three sleeve-lengths, and 10 colors). 

28. A tie-front midi dress  you can wear all day long in even the hottest of places and feel comfortable. Just be prepared for random people to stop you and compliment you in this number.

Promising review:  "I got this dress in two colors. They are made from different materials, but I love them both. It feels like your favorite comfy t-shirt. I wore it to travel in, and I was very happy. It looks great, too — the little peekaboo under the bust is just perfect. It stays tied if you knot it well. I like tying it in a bow, but a double knot would be cute. This also means you can adjust the fit for your bust. 10/10 on this one; I want to get more colors/patterns." — Kellyann B

Get it from Amazon for $35.98+ (available in sizes S-XL and in 19 colors and patterns).

29. A stretchy  mid-length pencil skirt  reviewers confirm is as comfortable as wearing leggings but looks so much nicer. If you travel a lot for work, or just need a nice bottom option for dinner, this will be your go-to.

Promising reviews:  "I really like this skirt. Great quality…I ordered it twice just because I wear it so much for work and travel. It fits true to size. The color, material, fit, and style did not disappoint. I highly recommend!" — Dione

"Love, love, love this skirt!! I would normally wear a medium, but after reading some reviews about how small it ran, I ordered one size up. When I took it out of the bag today and looked at the waist, it looked so small I thought, NO WAY! But, the fabric is so soft and has so much give that it was fine. In minutes, I felt like I was walking around in my PJs! Yes, it’s THAT comfortable! From the side the fit is very close; it looks like I’m wearing leggings. If you think this would feel or look too tight for you, I would try two sizes up rather than one, although the thigh and leg area is the part of the skirt that fits the closest. But, I’m fine with it, and my husband said I look 'great' in it — sleek and well-dressed but not too sexy which was what I was going for since I’ll be wearing it to church! Came back online just now to order more in different colors but decided to write this review first!" — Lisa S.

Get it from Amazon for $30.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in eight colors).

30. A rib-knit ruched crop top that has a drawstring down the middle that's adjustable, meaning you can customize it to show as much (or as little) skin as you want. Combine this feature with the soft fabric and trendy style, and you've got yourself a winner of a top.

Promising reviews:  "I bought this top for my trip to Paris, and it fit perfectly! The material is very soft and comfortable. Would definitely recommend." — Manee Her

"I love this shirt. You can wear it at several different lengths. It is a soft stretchy material. Not see-through at all. Very comfortable for wearing all day and night. Pair this with a skirt or cute pair of jeans!" — Katrina

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in six colors).

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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15 Best Travel Tips for Planning Your Next Adventure

Posted: March 13, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

Everybody loves going on an adventure, but not everyone knows the steps savvy travelers take to ensure their trip is as memorable as possible. Today, we’re examining unbeatable travel tips you should implement the next time you want to level up a getaway. From wearing a fanny pack to the importance of shower sandals, we’re sure you’ll learn a thing or two!

1. Buy Airline Status

Suppose your everyday spending with an airline’s branded credit card isn’t enough to attain elite status when you fly. In that case, there’s another option: you can buy status outright! While the process is regarded by many as a fuzzy “gray area,” a few websites will allow you to purchase airline elite status to ensure your next flight has all the amenities and perks you’ve dreamed of. Sure, it will cost a pretty penny, but think of how much happier you’ll be in the air!

2. Wear a Fanny Pack on the Plane

Did you know a fanny pack doesn’t count against your allotted carry-on baggage when flying on a lot of airlines? It’s true! Pay your respects to the bodybuilders of the 1980s by rocking a fanny pack and using it as a secondary personal item; use it to hold your smartphone, device chargers, and toiletries. This ingenious tip frees up valuable luggage space and allows travelers to pack even more essentials. Plus, you’ll look rad walking around the airport terminal!

3. Roll Everything You Pack

When packing, never fold; rolling clothes is the most efficient method in 2024! I admit I was hesitant to adopt this packing style, but after a few recent trips, I believe the hype. Not only can you fit more clothes into small spaces like the interior of a backpack or day bag, but you’ll eliminate the possibility of wrinkles in many cases! It’s a win-win situation. (Plus, physically stuffing your rolled clothes into a bag feels fantastic. Trust me.)

4. Buy Airport Lounge Passes

Buying a one-time airport lounge pass can make any stopover infinitely more memorable if you despise waiting hours in a terminal during a connecting flight (and who doesn’t?). Most airport lounges allow you to buy day passes that give travelers access to private, all-inclusive lounges. I’ve dined (and drank) in these before; they’ve become one of my favorite parts of traveling. Here’s a travel secret: sipping a martini away from the crowds makes your anxiety float away.

5. Keep Hotel Room Quality in Mind

Many experts and frequent fliers agree that, in most cases, the most expensive room in a cheap hotel is a better value than the cheapest room in the most luxurious hotel. Keep that in mind when booking; it can be tempting to chase prestige when choosing hotels. Fantastic rooms can be found if you research and search for diamonds in the rough. Remember, not every vacation has to take place at the Four Seasons. You’ll be surprised how nice rooms are at lesser-known hotels!

6. Download Offline Maps

When traveling, you never know when you’ll unexpectedly lose data access on your smart devices. Do yourself a favor and download offline maps before you arrive. Apps like Google Maps have this handy feature built-in. With just a few taps, you’ll secure dependable, navigation-friendly maps that work even if your data plan goes on the fritz. It’s a no-brainer tip to keep you sane, especially in an unfamiliar country.

7. Pack Light

I know it can feel shortsighted, but one of the most unpleasant experiences is lugging 50-pound checked luggage (the maximum allowed by most airlines) around an unfamiliar city as you hopelessly attempt to track down your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb. Pack light; only bring what you need! Don’t worry; you can track down and purchase essentials like toiletries at local grocery stores or supermarkets once you arrive at your destination. Give your arms and shoulders a break and travel with the bare minimum!

8. Keep an Eye Out For Deals

Being vigilant when looking for unique travel deals should be a given if you want your next adventure to be as incredible as possible. Always keep your eyes peeled; you never know when you’ll stumble upon a limited-time offer, discount code, or unexpectedly low prices for airfare, hotels, and experiences. It’s easy to overspend on a memorable vacation, but going on the trip of a lifetime without worrying about going bankrupt requires more attention to detail!

9. Always Book Hotels Directly

I can’t overstate this enough. Always book hotel rooms directly with the hotel. Do not use third-party booking platforms to save a few bucks; it’s not worth it. Trust me; if you decide to change your reservation, jumping through hoops with a third party will end in headaches. Most travel nightmare stories start with, “So I found a discount website I’d never seen before, and I booked my hotel at an unbeatable price!”

10. Pack More Underwear Than You Need

Don’t blush; accidents and unfortunate scenarios happen when you least expect it. Although I’m not one of them (thank goodness), many travelers have confessed that they usually only pack one pair of underwear each night they travel. Still, you must give yourself more wiggle room than that! I can’t imagine the situation that would have to occur where I’d be frantically searching for clean underwear, but I wouldn’t wish that on anyone. Pack more underwear than any human could possibly need!

11. Combat Against Jet Lag

Timeshifter is a fantastic app in an emerging genre of smartphone travel tools: Combating jet lag! Timeshifter keeps you on a schedule that helps you effortlessly adapt to the time difference when traveling across time zones, making it the ultimate app to use when flying from the United States to Europe. I’ve been devastated by jet lag before. I’m looking forward to utilizing apps like Timeshifter to offset the awful feeling of lethargy during my next trip. By all accounts, it will be a complete game-changer.

12. Don’t Withdraw Cash

When traveling internationally, finding the nearest ATM and withdrawing cash in the local currency is a tradition that makes travelers feel part of the culture. Still, it’s one of the worst things they can do. Forego this option whenever you can because the currency conversion fees can be exorbitant! Instead, use a quality credit card that offers no international transaction fees; that’s the best way to save money while also giving yourself the consumer protection you’re used to at home.

13. Use Shower Sandals in Hostels

International hostels are fantastic overnight lodging options for any budget-conscious traveler. However, many frequent adventurers agree that it’s best to pay homage to your college days by bringing a pair of shower sandals when you use community showers! They’re a practical and inexpensive (albeit the opposite of fashionable) way to keep your feet safe from bacteria that can live in those moist environments known as communal showers.

14. It’s Not Where You Go But Who You’re With

In the grand scheme of things, your destination isn’t what matters. Countless people believe the recipe for an unforgettable adventure revolves around who you’re with, not where you go. We’re only as good as the company we keep, and we should keep that in mind whether we’re relaxing at home or about to embark on an exciting journey! While solo travel is enticing, many travelers will tell you it doesn’t get any better than traveling with people you love.

15. Research Your Plane Ahead of Time

Websites like SeatGuru offer in-depth looks at the cabin of any plane that regularly flies, and researching your aircraft before you take off can yield fantastic benefits. You may be unaware that you booked a ticket for an undesirable seat (say, one close to a restroom or one that doesn’t recline at all). SeatGuru can give you essential information on how to change your seat before your trip. There’s nothing worse than realizing you’re doomed to sit in a terrible seat for hours on end, so take advantage of opportunities like this and do your due diligence!

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REI Is Kicking Off the Weekend With Up to 70% Off on Outdoor Gear — Shop a Former Full-time Camper’s Top Picks

Hurry, everything's selling out fast.

Kelsey’s writing has appeared in outlets like Condé Nast Traveler, TripSavvy, Edible Magazine, and TimeOut. Some of the most standout experiences in her travels include living in Tokyo, abseiling in Vanuatu, surfing in Costa Rica, and cycling through the Pyrenees mountains.

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Best apparel deals, best active footwear and hiking shoe deals, best camping and hiking deals, best winter and ski gear deals.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

My first night camping in a travel trailer was the beginning of two years spent living full-time on the road in a vintage 1969 Airstream Overlander. I rolled all the way from Florida to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, from Austin to Arizona, and spent a spring camped out steps from the crisp rushing water of the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest. I never considered myself a rugged outdoorsy type, but after jumping in head first to the van-lifer lifestyle, I picked up a few skills, hacks, and gear tips that made life on the road a lot more comfortable . 

As an RV camper, I chased an endless summer, following fair weather in order to camp comfortably year round. But for most of North America, spring and summer are peak camping seasons and great times to take stock of your camping gear as REI drops prices to make room for new inventory . You’ll find normally pricey outdoor gear with major markdowns (think: up to 70 percent off) that will delight any camper, hiker, and adventurer, as well as last-chance savings on winter apparel essentials and ski accessories. But, you'll have to act fast to snag the best deals; they're selling out fast. Read on to see what one former full-time camper recommends picking up from this limited time REI sale. 

When I started camping, I was as far from Bear Grylls as you could get. I didn’t grow up camping and the hobby felt intimidating, but I soon learned that you don’t need to have all of the high-tech gear and equipment to have fun exploring the great outdoors. I started building my outdoor gear kit with the basics: a quality puffy jacket, base layers, a headlamp, and long-lasting boots, and made sure to rent a simple and compact four-person tent — but you can get this Northwood backpacking tent for 60 percent off , bringing it down to about the same price as a two-day rental.

However, the most important thing to have with you on a camping trip is a curious mind and a love for the surprises of nature. After that, you’ll want dry socks , plenty of layers , a raincoat , and extra water — don’t forget the extra water, even if you don’t think that you’ll need it. Whether you’re an avid outdoorsy type, or just want to be prepared for anything, these top REI spring deals will set you up for a summer season of well-traveled adventures.

• Flylow Women's Sarah Insulated Jacket , $150 (originally $300)
• Smartwool Outdoor Light Cushion Ankle Socks , $16 (originally $20)
• Flylow Women’s Micropuff Insulated Jacket , $69 (originally $230)
• Wallace Women's Lake Flannel Shirt , $22 (originally $75)
• Mazama Designs Intake LT Water Reservoir , $13 (originally $25)
• REI Co-op Men's XeroDry GTX Jacket , $52 (originally $179)
• Picture Organic Clothing Women's Face It Insulated Jacket , $140 (originally $280)
• Patagonia Women's Wind Shield Pants , $84 (originally $169) 
• The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller Bag , $169 (originally $240)
• Northwood Series II 4-person Backpacking Tent , $113 (originally $285)

Patagonia Women's Wind Shield Pants

Best travel bag & luggage deals.

Tactical outdoor bags are designed for usability and durability, making them a carry-all that can withstand all kinds of adventure. Many are equipped with features that come in handy no matter how you travel: waterproof exterior, RFID-protected pockets, ripstop fabric, washable interiors, alternating carrying straps, water bottle pockets, and collapsible capabilities. 

When I traveled to Paris last year, I packed my collapsible REI duffel (now 30 percent off), folded compactly in its carrying envelope, in my carry-on. By the time I made my way back home, I had acquired so many souvenirs, vintage clothes, and French pharmacy beauty essentials that I filled up the duffel and checked it on my way back. On my next trip, I’ll be packing this on-sale convertible tote so I can transform it into a backpack when I need to hop on an e-bike to zip around.

• Mountain Hardware AMG 55 Pack , $290 (originally $420)
• REI Co-op Pack-Away 45 Tote , $40 (originally $80)
• Osprey Arcane Roll Top Pack , $59 (originally $110)
• Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll-Top Pack , $70 (originally $129)
• Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack , $52 (originally $75)
• Outdoor Research Field Explorer Pack 20L , $59 (originally $99)
• The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel 32L , $89 (originally $125)
• Mountain Hardware Camp 4 Duffel 95L , $112 (originally $160)
• Eagle Creek Tarmac Wheeled Luggage $225 (originally $319) 
• Osprey Arcane Crossbody Bag , $48 (originally $65)

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel 32L

When I was camping in the Airstream, I’d always have a “setup beer” and “breakdown coffee.” In the afternoon, once I arrived at a new campsite, I’d crack a cold one and pour it into an insulated thermos to keep it chilled while slowly setting up camp. In the morning, a piping hot coffee would go in the same stainless steel thermos so it stayed warm as I broke down and packed up. All that to say, a versatile beverage bottle that can do it all — for both hot and cold drinks — is a camper’s right-hand. REI sources some of the best brands for insulated drinkware, like Hydro Flask, whose Coffee Cup travel tumbler has been marked down to $26 this weekend.

But the retailer has more than just bottles on sale right now; REI’s other travel accessories are designed for smart, savvy adventures — like this Sherpani Women's Lima Shoulder Bag that's perfect for any outing and 30 percent off, or the Thule Subterranean PowerShuttle Travel Case that'll make packing a breeze.

• Hydro Flask Coffee Cup With Flex Sip Lid , $26 (originally $35) 
• MicroLite Flip Cup Vacuum Water Bottle , $14 (originally $28)
• Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack 3-pack , $42 (originally $60) 
• Yeti Daytrip Lunch Box , $64 (originally $80) 
• Sherpani Women's Lima Shoulder Bag , $42 (originally $60)
• Eagle Creek Packable Waist Bag , $22 (originally $30)  
• Thule Subterranean PowerShuttle Travel Case , $21 (originally $30)
• REI Trail 2 Waist Pack , $21 (originally $30)
• Sunday Adventures Adventure Stow Hat , $32 (originally $42) 

Thule Subterranean PowerShuttle Travel Case

In the spring, retailers make massive markdowns on last-season’s stock in order to make room for new season colors and styles. Fluffy fleeces and layerable flannels come in handy on chilly camp mornings, which are common in the summer if you’re pitching a tent in destinations like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula or the Rockies. And you might not need these high-tech insulated running leggings now, but you’ll be thanking yourself for jumping on their discounted price come those chilly fall mornings (which are just a few months down the road).

• Smartwool Men's Merino Plant-Based Dye T-shirt , $60 (originally $80)
• Flylow Lupine Women's Insulated Jacket , $69 (originally $230)
• REI Co-op Women's Trailsmith Fleece Jacket , $22 (originally $90) 
• Patagonia Men's 8-inch Multi Trails Shorts , $47 (originally $79)
• Patagonia Women's Long-sleeve Flannel Shirt , $29 (originally $99)
• Kuhl Women's Freeflex Cargo Shorts , $40 (originally $89)
• Patagonia Women's Wind Shield Pants $84 (originally $169)
• Pearl IZumi Women's Attack Cycling Tights , $30 (originally $100) 

REI Co-op Women's Trailsmith Fleece Jacket

If you want to instantly blend in with the camping crowd, grab yourself a pair of Blundstone Classic Chelsea Boots (currently marked down by a rare 50 percent in select colors and selling out fast). The Tasmanian-made boots are on the feet of mountain town residents everywhere. But more than just a fashion statement, the fan-favorite boots are simply well-made and incredibly versatile as an everyday shoe. I’ve worn my Blundstones with a silk skirt and cashmere sweater, and also hiked them across muddy Appalachian trails and streams — they’re simple boots that can do a lot.

Now’s also the time to get your hands on the Nikes of the outdoor gear world: Chacos. The best (in my opinion) hiking sandal brand, Chaco's new-and-improved Z/Cloud 2 Sandals are 25 percent off ahead of all of your summer hikes. 

• REI Co-op Women's Swiftland MT Trail-Running Shoes , $39 (originally $130) 
• Chaco Women's Z/Cloud 2 Hiking Sandals , $75 (originally $100) 
• REI Co-op Men's Flash TT Hiking Boots , $85 (originally $170)
• La Sportiva x Janji Jackal II Trail-Running Shoes , $70 (originally $175) 
• Altra Women's Lone Peak 7 Trail-Running Shoes , $105 (originally $130) 
• Hoka Men's Arahi 6 Road-Running Shoes , $113 (originally $140) 
• REI Co-op Men's Swiftland MT BlueSky Trail-Running Shoes , $75 (originally $150)
• Keen Women's WK400 Leather Walking Shoes , $80 (originally $160)
• Merrell Men's Moab Speed Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots , $128 (originally $170) 
• Sorel Men's Mac Hill Lite Mid Waterproof Boots , $87 (originally $175) 

REI Co-op Men's Flash TT Hiking Boots

Headlamps may look goofy, but they’re incredibly useful at the campsite. When you’re camping you always need your hands free, so things like flashlights actually aren’t super useful. The best headlamps have various light intensities (like your car’s headlights), and a red-light setting so you’re not blinding your fellow campmates and you can better view Dark Sky parks. This Snap Solo Headlamp from Princeton Tec has an articulating and removable lamp head and its 48 percent off. 

Don’t forget to pack a small gas canister or portable stove , which are absolutely essential for boiling water — and most importantly, making coffee. Speaking of this essential elixir, don’t be caught on the trail with coffee grounds and no way to use them. Have a collapsible pour-over that lives in your camping kit, like this one from Pourigami that's 26 percent off. 

• Alps Mountaineering Dash Chair , $45 (originally $120)
• MPowerd Luci Pro Series Inflatable Solar Lantern , $35 (originally $50) 
• Alpine Mountain Gear Weekender Tent 4 , $65 (originally $150) 
• Mountainsmith Antero Sleeping Bag , $65 (originally $120)   
• IceMule Clear 15L Cooler , $55 (originally $110)
• Trekmates Bomberlite Sleeping Pad , $54 (originally $119) 
• Big Agnes Goosenest Inflatable Cot , $163 (originally $300) 
• Coleman OneSource Heated Stadium Seat , $61 (originally $140) 
• Miir Pourigami Coffee Maker , $22 (originally $30) 

Trekmates Bomberlite Sleeping Pad

It doesn’t have to be ski season to have a chilly morning at camp, where you need some extra comfort. If you’re camping in the Southern Hemisphere in the summer months (say Patagonia or Australia), then you can hit the jackpot on winter apparel before your trip. But even summer Alaska cruises call for insulated layers. 

Winter gear is notoriously expensive, so spring sales are the best time to get good deals. Start with staple base layers that both insulate and wick away moisture, like this core base layer top from REI Co-Op that's 30 percent off. The gold standard of cold weather gear is a “puffy,” or down jacket. This Lole puffy (now 59 percent off) is a jacket that you can wear down to the threads. Still not warm enough? Stock up on Ignik's hand and toe warmers (one pack is currently less than a dollar), so you always have some on hand (pun intended). 

• Flylow Women's Laurel Down Vest , $45 (originally $150) 
• Picture Organic Clothing Men's Testy Bib Pants , $125 (originally $250) 
• REI Co-Op Men's Midweight Base Layer Bottoms , $27 (originally $55) 
• Anon Women's WM1 Snow Goggles and MFI Face Mask, $140 (originally $280) 
• Lole Women's Piper Insulated Jacket , $90 (originally $219) 
• Burton Women's Gore-Tex 3-in-1 Mittens , $59 (originally $85) 
• The North Face Women's Freedom Insulated Snow Pants , $140 (originally $220)
• REI Co-op Women's Merino 185 Long-Sleeve Base Layer Top , $56 (originally $80)
• Smith Method Mips Snow Helmet , $84 (originally $140) 
• Salomon Men's S/PRO MV 100 GW Ski Boots , $350 (originally $500) 
• REI Co-op Women's Powderbound Insulated Bib Snow Pants , $99 (originally $199) 
• Sorel Women's ONA Rmx Glacy Waterproof Boots , $75 (originally $150)

Sorel Women's ONA Rmx Glacy Waterproof Boots

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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2024 Rockstar Challenge: Queens of the Rock

Previous Dispatch From Thu May 9, 2024

New Dyed in the Wool Snap Mini Wedge and Snap Bar Roll

The RockStar Challenge is a 250-ish mile race from Rocktown (Harrisonburg) to the Star City (Roanoke) with three route options to choose from. This year, both Caitrin Maloney and Britt Mason set new course records on the trail and gravel routes, and they put together a pair of short ride reflections. Read their stories here…

2024 Rockstar Challenge: Trail

Words by Caitrin Maloney

It was a pleasantly cool morning in Harrisonburg, Virginia, as more than 80 racers gathered at Black Sheep Coffee for the 2024 RockStar Challenge. As we set out through the city, the stoke was high. I was only one of 22 racers on the trail course (three of which were women), while others were riding the gravel or paved routes. We quickly made our way through town and popped out into some of the most beautiful rolling farm country anywhere.

Those first paved farm country miles were mellow, which I now know to be cruel foreshadowing. As the trail route broke from the gravel route at Union Springs, the track soon became a steep gully. It was so steep that I was resorting to heaving my bike a few feet up and holding the brakes as I hiked up to it. This was the RockStar Trail race.

Meadow, Flagpole, and Reddish Knobs offered some stellar views, and the descent off Reddish was fantastic. I enjoyed some rare purpose-built singletrack before Stokesville, and then after chugging through chunky trail at Lookout and Hankey Mountains, I discovered my favorite descent of the race: Dowell’s Draft. Smooth, swoopy, fast trail; it was lovely to ride! After refueling in West Augusta (ice cream, Coke, and sandwiches), I was treated to more sweet singletrack past Braley Pond.

At sunset, I passed Matt and Micah—the father and son duo I would leapfrog for the rest of the race—and climbed the doubletrack section of the Shenandoah Mountain Trail (SMT) in the waning light. SMT became fairly brutal as it turned to singletrack. It was very overgrown with narrow tread that sometimes faded into the Appalachian abyss. I grew tired of bushwhacking and side hilling and chose a marginally flat and open site to pass out for a few hours.

The next morning, I set out before dawn to finish the SMT and schlep through the wicked Little Mare re-route to Douthat State Park. I continued to Covington, arriving after dark. Another quick resupply and hot food in my belly, I cruised the next dozen paved miles in the moonlight, making my way to Rich Patch and the singletrack at Roaring Run.

This is when my Wahoo died unexpectedly, and I realized that my charging strategy for this race was seriously flawed. I should not have relied on Dynamo power (with no external battery backup) for such a slow-moving race. I coaxed my device into turning back on and rode a few more miles before resigning to camp. I was able to get my Wahoo to charge the next morning as I descended the Hoop Hole section, another of my favorites of the route. It was a beautiful jungle-like tunnel with lovely dry feet stream crossings. Price Mountain was up next, and I was right to be suspicious when I started to see inspirational quotes posted in the trees.

After surviving Price, I cruised through rolling gravel and mellow trail. Looming ahead was the infamous Dragon’s Back, 10 remote miles of punchy, unrelenting ridgeline trail. As I started up the last gravel climb before turning onto Dragon’s Back, I looked up and saw a woman sending it down the hill toward me with a cooler lashed to her bike. She stopped to offer me a cold beer (I politely declined) and bid me well on the next section of trail, which she said was her favorite. I learned later that this kind woman was Laura Hamm, the previous women’s FKT holder. I was grateful she sent me into that section with good vibes, because I hit a low point of the race there.

Fast forward to the last climb of the race – up to the star above Roanoke. It’s past 1 a.m., and at this point, I was banking on finishing this race. I had one eye on the clock because I needed to finish before 3 a.m. to beat the current FKT. This was when my Wahoo died again, unexpectedly (it had 20% battery?!). I pulled out my phone to navigate, and it was at 1%. I hopped off my bike, plugged my phone in, shut off the light to direct all power to the USB, and started run-walking up the trail in the moonlight. Would I be able to generate enough power to keep my phone alive? Without navigation, I’d have to camp. My heart jumped when I saw a light behind me. Matt Lind had caught me! He lent me a battery block, and after some wonky moments navigating via my phone and repairing a pinch flat, I finished at the Texas Tavern with a time of 67 hours and 43 minutes, besting the previous FKT by a mere 18 minutes.

Overall, the RockStar Challenge was an amazing experience. It was beautiful, truly challenging, and filled with lovely people. I’ll be back. I can’t help but to think about all the ways to shave time off that finish!

2024 Rockstar Challenge: Gravel

Words by Britt Mason

On April 20th, I took part in the Grand Depart for the Rockstar 250-mile gravel route. Coming from a background in adventure racing and endurance off-road events, Rockstar was my first foray into ultra-distance biking. The route traverses Virginia from Harrisonburg to Roanoke on a mix of gravel, pavement, doubletrack, and trail. The weather was clear and mild with crosswinds throughout the day. Spending all day on the bike in solitude in the Appalachian Mountains was simply incredible. Cynthia Carson set a blazing FKT in 2023 as the first woman to go under 24 hours, and I set out to see what I could do on the Rockstar course. I was on a mission, but there was plenty of time to savor the scenic and remote places the bike took me that day.

Leaving Harrisonburg, we meandered through the foothills to Union Springs, which included some slabby hike-a-bike on the way to the top of Reddish Knob. I was looking forward to dropping down the Death March, the gravel descent off of Reddish, only to discover it was in various stages of harsh fresh grading! It made for a bumpy, wild descent that kept me on my toes the entire time. The daylight hours passed uneventfully, and I couldn’t have asked for a better day. The sun was shining, and spring was in full bloom.

My high point on the route came as I was heading in to Covington. The gravel descent into town was a treat after grinding through some intermediate climbs passing Douthat State Park. I stopped for my main resupply, grabbing some hot food and preparing my bike and lights for the night ahead. After climbing out of Covington at golden hour, I descended Rich Patch into a rolling valley at sunset and enjoyed the moonrise as the peepers came out in concert. The miles flew by with gorgeous mountain views, and this section put me in a great headspace heading into the overnight hours. Once darkness fell, whippoorwills started occasionally perching on the ground along the gravel roads and would fly away as I rode past. I can’t positively say I’ve ever seen a whippoorwill before, but I saw dozens overnight on the route. It was one of those unique experiences you can only have when doing a wild adventure like this.

As night settled in, the real work began. My body was feeling the many water crossings, bumpy doubletrack, and loose gravel in the Patterson Creek and SR66 area, and the final hours were a hard push. All the gravel dust had made my vision hazy, and once I entered Roanoke proper, the city lights played tricks on my eyes, making for some challenging navigation. Once I made it to the Star on top of Mill Mountain, I breathed a sigh of relief as I rolled down to the finish at Texas Tavern. I finished in 21 hours and 58 minutes, lowering the FKT by two hours. If you’re considering an East Coast bikepacking route, both the gravel and trail versions of Rockstar will not disappoint!

Further Reading

Make sure to dig into these related articles for more info...

RockStar Challenge Gravel 250: Event Recap

Fastest Known Rockstar (Video)

Leila Husain was the First Woman to Finish Rockstar Trail 2023

Bikepacking The Iron Mountain Trail, Virginia

Virginia Mountain Bike Trail (VMBT)

Trans North Georgia (TNGA)

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The 8 Best RV Solar Panels Bring Sustainable Power Wherever You Roam

Power up, no matter where the road takes you.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

But solar panels can be finicky. They aren’t always designed to endure the rigors of the great outdoors. And frankly, some of them simply don’t work as well as they should. Unlike the large, heavy solar panels you might install on the roof of your home, RVers need panels that are either compact enough to fit on a vehicle, or portable enough to stow inside.

A great RV solar panel, whether foldable or fixed on the roof, needs to deliver effective energy production and feature a rugged design that can handle dust and rain. If you’re packing up and hitting the road this summer, we recommend pairing your solar generator with a set of the best RV solar panels.

The Best RV Solar Panels

• Best Overall: Renogy 200W 12-Volt Solar RV Kit
• Best Value: Eco-Worthy 100W Solar Panel
• Best Mounted: Go Power! Overlander 190W Solar Kit for RVs
• Best Lightweight: Renogy Flexible Monocrystalline RV Solar Panel
• Best Premium Portable: Bluetti PV350 Solar Panel

The Expert: I’ve used portable solar panels about as extensively as is humanly possible. I relied on them for five years to power my remote work setup through some 40,000 miles of road-tripping all across North America. That work included reviewing solar panels, portable power stations and other relevant gear for leading publications like Popular Mechanics , Popular Science , The Daily Beast and Thrillist , among others.

What to Consider in a Set of RV Solar Panels

Solar panel materials are most frequently made from using silicon crystal, which captures solar energy. These panels come in one of two types: Monocrystalline silicon panels are made with a single panel of crystal, while polycrystalline panels are constructed from multiple crystal fragments. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient because it’s easier for electricity to move through an unbroken crystal. Given that, all of our recommendations are monocrystalline panels.

They can also largely be divided by whether they have a rigid or flexible structure. Rigid panels are a great option for flat-topped RVs, but if your rig has a curved or uneven rooftop, you may want the surface-hugging malleability of a flexible option. Both types are available with similar levels of weather resistance, though rigid panels often take a slight edge when it comes to efficiency of energy production.

Panel Placement–Portable or Mounted?

Before you buy your panels, consider where and how you plan to set them up. You want them to face the sun as directly as possible, for as long as possible. How you position your panels will vary quite a bit, depending on whether you use mounted or portable panels.

With an RV, you have the option to mount your panels directly on your vehicle. A rigid, mountable panel will be more durable than a portable set, water- and windproof to brave the elements, but they require some elbow grease to install. You may also find yourself unable to park in an ideal spot to catch the sun, limiting your capture capacity for the day.

They tend to sit face-up on the roof and aren’t adjustable, so you’ll have a narrow window for maximum efficiency. On the other hand, your rooftop panels will capture energy while you drive, so they’ll draw power for a larger portion of the day.

Portable solar panels are more flexible, literally and figuratively. They fold up for compact storage, and are designed to be easy to set up and tear down. They often have integrated kickstands and handles to help you optimize your placement, no matter where you’ve posted up for the night.

That said, you need to be careful to put them away when the weather turns gray: They are scratch-resistant and can handle a light shower, but they’re typically not meant to stay outside around the clock. And unlike rooftop panels, which are bolted in place, you may not feel safe leaving your portable, easily stolen panels out while away from your campsite, meaning you can only generate power while you’re there.

Wattage and Efficiency

A solar panel's wattage specification indicates the amount of power it can produce in one hour. Most RVs and campers can get enough juice to power their appliances and a few electronic devices for a full day from a 100- to 500-watt solar panel setup. A slim 100-watt panel will provide enough juice to power a small fridge, a toaster and a coffee maker.

We imagine, though, that most RVers have more gear than that: If you have an electric stove or a large fridge, we recommend using panels that can bring in at least 400 watts. If you have electronics that need regular charging, like a smartphone or laptop , you’ll need to collect extra power for that as well.

Whatever your daily power consumption is, aim for having a system that will produce at least two-to-three times that if you expect to use electricity around the clock for multiple days on end. Every person’s exact power needs will vary. If you aren’t sure what you need, we recommend starting small and upgrading when and if you need to. You can always buy multiple panels, rather than upgrading to a more efficient model.

One thing to keep in mind: Wattage and other specs provided by manufacturers, including those cited in this guide, describe how the panel will work in optimal conditions—a bright, sunny day without a cloud in the sky. More often than not, you will pull less energy than advertised. To get a better sense of what you can actually expect on an average day, check the efficiency rate, which estimates the panel’s capacity to convert sunlight into usable electricity. The best solar panels operate at 23 percent or higher.

If you go with foldable panels, make sure you can pick them up and pack them up comfortably, because you will be moving them around a lot. Generally speaking, the higher the wattage rating, the heavier the panels. So, while it might seem convenient to rely on a single 400-watt unit, you may be better off setting up two or more panels than setting up and adjusting something that weighs as much as 40 pounds.

How We Selected The Best RV Solar Panels

We picked the best RV solar panels based on years of experience testing and recommending solar gear, including generators and panels. We also researched panel specs and performance, including data and recommendations from specialty outlets like Treehugger and SolarReviews .

In making our selections, we considered many scenarios for RV owners and power setups to present a range of options that work for as many people as possible. Having spent years and many miles on the road working remotely, I've learned firsthand about the benefits and pitfalls of different solar setups. Lastly, we checked consumer reviews for all of these picks to make sure we didn’t accidentally select a panel that looked perfect on paper, but was actually a lemon. These are the best RV solar panels to keep you powered up on the road.

Renogy 200W 12-Volt Solar RV Kit

This kit has everything you need for easy installation on your RV or camper. It’s made specifically for first-time solar panel users, with a straightforward, user-friendly design. For smaller van conversions, you’re probably better off with a portable power station, but this is exactly the kit you need for mid-sized vehicles like Sprinter vans or camper trailers and medium-sized RVs where you want the convenience of power going directly to your rig’s battery.

The two 100-watt solar panels are rigid but relatively lightweight at 18 pounds–and the kit comes with everything you need to mount them. The included charge controller has LED indicators that allow you to monitor charging, which will help you avoid overcharging or, worse, overloading your system. They also alert you to input changes due to weather conditions like rain, clouds, or nightfall.

The aluminum frame panels are UV- and corrosion-resistant to withstand high winds, rain, snow, and blazing heat, so they’ll take just about whatever the elements throw at you. For anyone looking to install their first RV solar panels on their own, this kit is an excellent pick.

Eco-Worthy 100W 12V Solar Panel

There’s nothing fancy about these panels from Eco-Worthy, but that’s kind of the point. They’re exactly what you need if you’re looking to set up solar panels on your RV for as little as possible. They’re the perfect size for mounting via the pre-drilled mounting holes, and you should be able to fit three to four of them on most RV rooftops. They come with integrated 35-inch connectors that run into a waterproof junction box, and the whole panel is waterproofed with sealed and tempered glass.

They’re surprisingly durable for such low-cost panels, too. Once you’ve got them on your RV roof, however, they should last for years.

Go Power! Overlander 190W Solar Kit for RVs

This extremely large 12-volt panel draws up to 190 Watts of power to keep any battery charged on long trips, camping, or on the road. It’s a bit heavy–26 pounds–but its anodized aluminum frame and durable tempered glass panels hold up well against rough weather. Customers report easy installation and that the controller maintains power in their RVs even in less-than-ideal conditions like partly cloudy skies and rain.

If you need more power, the company sells an expansion kit that doubles the output. It’s designed for seamless connectivity between your existing solar power system and the panels you want to add for more power. If you need a lot of juice, this is probably the best mounted panel for the job.

Renogy 100W 12V Flexible RV Solar Panel

This bendable RV solar panel is great for uneven surfaces like Airstreams and vans, or propped up facing the sun at your campsite. It weighs just 4 pounds and can withstand high winds, rain, and snow.

The mounting uses silicone adhesive for permanent installation without any drilling. It can flex up to 248 degrees without any micro-cracks forming, which is handy for hitting the right angle after mid-day.

Customers like the slim profile of these panels and say the output is great for such lightweight panels. These are best suited for small camper set-ups or as expansions to larger RV solar energy systems, as just one or two of these aren’t enough for a large RV with a lot of appliances.

Bluetti PV350 Solar Panel

Bluetti makes some of the best solar gear in the industry, and the PV350 solar panel is an upscale buy that’s worth the investment. It absorbs up to 350 watts per hour, which is huge for a folding panel. At the same time, it’s remarkably compact, folding down to a compact 35.6- by 24.1-inches for easy storage.

There’s a downside, of course–it weighs 30 pounds–which may make it tough to set up. You can’t beat that size-to-wattage ratio, though.

It’s also designed for efficiency. The cells are wired in parallel, rather than in a daisy-chained configuration like you find in most cheaper panels. This allows it to continue collecting power when mostly shaded. (Many panels will stop operating if they aren’t getting very good coverage.)

The PV350 is also well-built. Nick took one on a trip through the deserts of Utah and Nevada, where it saw no shortage of hard treatment from dust, wind and my own rough handling, but emerged without any major damage. That said, it isn’t fully waterproof: You can leave it out through a light drizzle, but avoid charging on rainy days.

Goal Zero Nomad 100

Goal Zero is known for making tough, outdoor-friendly solar gear for camping. Case in point, the Nomad 100 is perfect for pretty much any camping scenario, whether you’re charging up your RV or a portable power station. Weatherproof and built like a rock, it’s designed with tie-down loops around the frame. These are great for both staking it into the ground or affixing it to your RV rooftop to keep it in place when the wind kicks up.

The Nomad 100 folds down to a comparatively small 20- by 15- by 2-inches, it’s easy to pack and move around. It draws 100 watts, which is good for its size, but you may need a few of them to fully charge up an RV.

To that end, you can daisy chain multiple Nomads without a splitter. That said, its 8mm plug is not universally compatible with all systems and power stations: Many support it, but you may need an adapter if yours has a different port.

Jackery Explorer 2000 Plus Solar Generator Bundle

You see Jackery gear everywhere in the RV/van life scene these days because the brand offers such an expansive variety of dependable solar products. After using many Jackery generators, I found the 2000 Plus brings the perfect balance between physical size and capacity: Its 2000-watt-hour capacity is plenty for most campers, but it isn’t so large that you can’t bring it out when you need it.

Weighing a hefty 96 pounds, it isn’t exactly light, but compensates for the heft with integrated wheels and a telescoping handle so you only need to lift it to get it on and off your vehicle. Plus, it has a 25A plug, so it's designed specifically to bring on an RV.

This kit pairs the 2000 Plus with two of Jackery’s 200W SolarSaga panels , which are among the best you can find. They’re very durable—I can’t tell you how hard I’ve worked them over the years. Plus, they fold down to an easy-to-carry package, and are reliable in most sunlight conditions.

And, if you need even more juice at some point, you can expand the 2000 Plus’ capacity with up to five of the brand’s 2000 Plus battery packs , which can store as much as 12,000 watt-hours of power. That’s more than you’ll ever need on an RV, but it’s always nice to have the option.

EcoFlow 220W Bifacial Foldable Solar Panel

Bifacial panels, which can absorb solar energy using both their front and back face, aren’t as common among portable and RV panels as they are for home setups, but they definitely offer benefits while camping. By capturing solar energy from the light that bounces onto the back of the panel, they can capture more energy and be more efficient when it isn’t placed perfectly.

According to EcoFlow, the second face of their 220W Bifacial Foldable Solar Panel gathers 5- to 25-percent more energy than a single-sided panel. Personally. I’d say 25 percent is a stretch, but 15 seems in line with my experience and that’s not nothing: Every bit of juice counts when you’re on the road. I found it especially useful for off-season camping, when the days are shorter and you get a narrower window for gathering sunlight.

I also loved this panel’s tent-like stand design, which makes it easier to set up and place than other folding panels. It’s lightweight–just 20 pounds–but it’s also pretty big and can be tough to lug around.

Q+A With Our Experts

What kind of tools do I need to install a solar panel on my RV?

Much of the work can be done with basic tools you likely already have like a cordless drill , screwdrivers , and wrenches . I’d also recommend keeping a pair of wire cutters and strippers handy, as well as a hydraulic crimper, a MC4 connector/crimper tool, and a digital multimeter . As with any project involving electricity, it’s always a good idea to use dielectric tools that won’t conduct electricity.

Will mounting a solar panel on my RV change how I drive?

It’s unlikely. Typically your panels are more or less flush against the roof, which shouldn’t noticeably alter the aerodynamics of your RV.

Any advice on how to park my RV for great solar panel placement?

Try to park with the front to the east and the rear to the west. This will provide your roof with the maximum amount of sun throughout the day. As an added bonus, if you’ve got a typical left-sided fridge it will keep it somewhat shaded, reducing its power demand. When parked in direct sun, keep your window blinds closed to keep the interior cooler, further reducing the strain on your fridge.

Can I use my solar panel to jump-start my RV?

The short answer is no. The long answer is that the energy collected from a solar panel needs to be converted to a voltage and amperage required by whatever you want to use or charge. Without a charge controller to regulate power flow, and monitor battery charge levels, the current your solar panel outputs won’t be compatible with your RV’s battery.

Nick Hilden is a writer, globetrotter, and jack-of-many-talents who has written gear reviews for the likes of  Runner’s World , Popular Science , Men’s Health , Thrillist , the Daily Beast , the Los Angeles Times , Greatist , and the Manual , and his lifestyle, culture, and tech writing has also appeared in Scientific American , Afar , Salon , Vice , Healthline , and many others. Before entering journalism some 15 years ago, he worked as a bartender, brewery manager, sound engineer, recording and touring musician, cook, teacher, and in a variety of other trades. These days, he lives all over the world, performs music sporadically, and spends a lot of time thinking how to best improve his Honda Element conversion.

Danny Perez is a Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.

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The Wedding Vendors Who Will Literally Climb Mountains for the Perfect Shot

By Allison Williams May 13, 2024

Image: courtesy Mlaine Photography

It was midwinter and 23 degrees near Mount Baker when stylist Sheilynne Midili knelt on the hard-packed snow to bandage blisters on the bride's feet. The upside: it was so cold that the hairdo Midili had crafted on the bride's head had stayed perfectly in place. As the sun dropped behind the mountains, the temperature plummeted into the single digits—but the bride got married.

Midili is part of a special wedding niche: adventure ceremonies. Hanging from a cliff, floating on the water, halfway up a mountain; it's all fair game in the Pacific Northwest. And when couples marry or elope in a far-off place, they don't always want to forgo the photographer or the hair stylist. Enter the adventure wedding industry.

Though the outdoor nuptial experience was already growing in the 2010s,  Seattle wedding photographer Emett Joseph saw it explode during the pandemic. "There was a huge demand for getting married in smaller groups," he says. A 2022 study (done by a diamond company, naturally) found that 62 percent of couples were interested in an "elopement-style" wedding. Joseph wanted to be part of couples getting hitched in "crazy, wild, beautiful places in nature" and pivoted his company toward adventure ceremonies.

Image: courtesy Emett Joseph Photography

But elopement isn't necessarily what you're picturing, says Puyallup photographer Meghann Grah . "People think elopement means running away in secret, it needs to be last minute, you can't involve guests," says Grah. "Like what is shown in Pride and Prejudice ." On the contrary, modern elopements can be meticulously crafted getaways to a mountain meadow with a few close pals, she says. Sometimes it's just an engagement shoot somewhere beautiful.

For one job, Grah joined a couple and their friends backpacking near the Pacific Crest Trail. The couple threw a party at their backcountry campsite before ducking out to get married solo at sunset; the whole thing wrapped up with a hike back to the trailhead and a quick change back into wedding attire for the final half-mile. 

That kind of multiday commitment from a vendor adds up. Grah charged around $10,000 to document the wedding but says inflation would make it even costlier today. Still, couples can save on the other usual wedding costs like venues, catering, and accommodations; bills for an adventure wedding tend to be things like a photography permit for Mount Rainier National Park ($50–250 application fee) rather than an open bar for tipsy Great-Uncle Harold.

So far, Joseph says, he has yet to find a couple that has found the limit of what he'll do for the "I do" shot. He's snapped a bride and groom scaling a rock wall at Smith Rock State Park in Oregon and has ridden a seaplane to a lake in the North Cascades for a ceremony. Sometimes, as the photographer, Joseph is the only one present beyond the couple and maybe an officiant; he says he's learned to deal with the long silences of a big trip.

While photographers are the most common wedding vendor to interest scaled-down couples, there are also musicians, officiants, and private chefs that will don hiking boots for a gig. With her company Pacific Brides , Midili does hair and makeup—and sometimes first aid—for backcountry ceremonies. On a practical level, that means wireless tools ("I can curl hair anywhere," she says), a satellite communication device for emergencies, and the knowledge that skin needs help staying moisturized in dry or snowy conditions. After working on sets in the film industry for seven years, she learned to make do in strange locales.

The biggest challenge for all involved is usually weather. The photographers warn that in the backcountry, conditions can have a bigger impact than in town; you can't just throw up a big tent and keep your guests dry. Grah also cautions couples that weekends can get crowded at popular trails and viewpoints: "Get married on a weekday if you're going to get married on public lands."

Still, the unpredictability is part of the adventure. There's only so much Midili can do in the hair and makeup department if it rains, she says, "but everyone in the Pacific Northwest looks incredible and romantic when their hair is all wet in their face. It kind of works out."

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