Our Picks for Stylish and Practical Travel Gear
Travel Channel editors round up some of their on-the-road favorites this season.
In a perfect world the clothes and gadgets we love in daily life would translate brilliantly to travel applications. But as all experienced travelers know, things come up on a trip that just don't have the same impact or significance at home: dramatic changes in weather, an unexpected invitation, a surprise activity, broken heels, rain showers, delayed flights, annoying seat mates and all of the little things that make you feel a special travel arsenal is necessary to make sure you're ready for anything.
Here at Travel Channel we've created some tips for things that can round out your own travel gear, or that simply fill you with delight and remembrance of travel past and future.
Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links.
BUY IT: Clarks, $77.75-$125.95
Part of the Clarks Artisan Collection, the Atticus Lace leather derby shoe is made for walking and comes in a range of color options.
Whether your travel plans center on an outdoor concert, winding through the streets of Madrid or relaxing at the beach, a great hat to keep the sun off, but leave your head cool is absolutely essential. This stylish topper is made of breathable straw and comes accented with a cute grosgrain ribbon for a little something extra.
BUY IT: Dear Keaton, $59
Made in Atlanta, Georgia by some creative thinkers tired of the corporate grind, In God We Must specializes in Americana and a homespun, iconic look to their line of jewelry, T-shirts and home goods. Check them out at Citizen Supply in Ponce City Market the next time you are in Atlanta, or just head to their website to celebrate the state of your choice with a ring crafted from an upcycled quarter.
BUY IT: In God We Must, $45
It happens like clockwork every trip. You have crammed your suitcase full on the way over and now, as you pack for your return, you realize There.Is.No.Space.For.Anything.New. If you are a smart traveler, you have planned ahead and packed this infinitely practical, expandable duffel with enough room once unfurled, for all of those extra souvenirs you picked up. It's also a great option if you are taking day trips or shorter excursions during your travels. Just load it with the essentials and leave your big, bulky suitcase back at the hotel. All problems: solved!
BUY IT: L.L. Bean, $29.95
When bathroom space is at a premium and a place to park your toiletry bag is nonexistent, this handy, hanging L.L. Bean toiletry bag with its many compartments— some mesh so you can find what you need quickly—is a lifesaver. The fact that it comes in various sizes for the product-needs of every member of your family and can be purchased in an adorably on-trend buffalo check plaid is just icing on the cake.
BUY IT: L.L. Bean, $39.95
This elegant Botkier Cobble Hill cross-body has the room to store all of your travel essentials while leaving you hands-free to navigate wherever your travels take you.
BUY IT: Botkier, $198
A classic, casual look just right for taking from day to evening on your trip, this slim cotton bomber jacket has the kind of versatility you need when you're on the road and is easily packed away without taking up too much space.
BUY IT: J. Crew, $148
This clever tassel contains a USB and iPhone cord so you can charge your phone on the go, for the ultimate in multitasking.
BUY IT: Rebecca Minkoff, $50
Another unbeatable classic, these Nike sneaks reference old-school basketball shoes and are low-key and hip enough not to scream "American!" when you're traveling the world.
BUY IT: Nike, $75
These lightweight, polarized glasses will serve you equally well on the slopes as in the city.
BUY IT: Smith Optics, $169
This sophisticated jacket is for the man who wants to look pulled together but also wants to have an Indiana Jones-level variety of tricks up his sleeve. Those tricks: pockets and more pockets (12 in total), so many in fact, and so discretely arranged, that you will be able to leave your hotel room with just this jacket, no travel bag needed. A roll up hood means you will have a game plan should a rain shower come up. Lightweight, machine washable and with a special mostly cotton fabric that resists dirt and moisture, this is your travel wardrobe secret weapon.
BUY IT: L.L. Bean, $149
This handy, portable solar-powered camping light folds up for easy packing when you're trying to keep things light on your camping trip. Even better, it will charge your phone in an emergency.
BUY IT: Everything Tech Gear, $14.99
These bluetooth-enabled headphones are super compact, feature amazing sound quality and listening capability even from the next room. Better yet, there are no messy wires to get in your way when you're on the move.
BUY IT: Everything Tech Gear, $99
These stretch-waist pants are easily paired with sneakers by day, but bring the sexy for a fancy restaurant meal by night.
BUY IT: Zara, $35.90
Cotton twill chinos with the kind of all-American look that will last for decades, these are the perfect dress-up, dress-down pants for all of your global gallivants.
BUY IT: J. Crew, $68