This small, inexpensive item can help keep you safe in hotel rooms. Wedge a doorstop under the door to your hotel room (from the inside), and you’ll be able to prevent intruders from entering.

I recently traveled alone and was alarmed to find that at two major hotel chains, my hotel room door didn’t have a security chain—so anyone with a key (hotel staff or not) could easily enter my room. Packing a doorstop gave me peace of mind that no one would be able to enter my room while I was inside. On that same trip, another solo traveler I talked to had a rude awakening when hotel staff entered her room unexpectedly at 6 am because she didn’t respond to a wake-up call (that she didn’t actually order). Using a doorstop can prevent unwanted entry and help you sleep better. Even if your hotel room has a security chain, these can be easily broken with enough force, whereas a doorstop makes it nearly impossible to open a door.

If you’re staying in a vacation rental, where multiple people could have keys/the entry code, a doorstop can make sure that no one can’t enter the bedroom you’re sleeping in.

What Is the Best Doorstop to Pack?

Any standard doorstop will be effective at preventing anyone from forcing open the door. If you want to be alerted that someone is trying to enter your room (and scare them off), pack a doorstop alarm. This doorstep features a built-in, battery-powered alarm that will be triggered if anyone tries to open the door. There are three levels of motion sensitivity, and all will set off an extremely loud 120-decibel alarm.

The post The One Thing Solo Travelers Should Always Pack appeared first on SmarterTravel.

American Eagle Flight 5342 collided midair Wednesday evening with an Army Black Hawk helicopter on its approach to Reagan National Airport (DCA), with 60 passengers and four crew members onboard. Officials believe that there were no survivors, making this the deadliest U.S. air crash in nearly 24 years.

The plane and helicopter went down into the Potomac River, where the water temperature was around 35 degrees Fahrenheit. The Associated Press reports the body of the aircraft was found upside-down in three sections in the water and that the helicopter’s wreckage has also been found.

“The initial briefs were that everything was routine going into the approach for landing for American Airlines Flight 5342 and that, in fact, contact had been made with, of course, the military helicopter as well,” said Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin. “But of course, it clearly wasn’t routine, and we had two aircraft in the river with 67 fatalities.”

American Airlines has established a toll-free hotline for individuals concerned that a loved one may have been on board: 800-679-8215.

All takeoffs and landings from Reagan National Airport were stopped until 11 am Thursday. Several airlines have issued travel waivers allowing passengers flying to or from the airport to make itinerary changes.

The post No Known Survivors in American Airlines Crash Near Washington, D.C. appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The recent high-profile kidnapping and murder of American tourists in Mexico have sparked fears and travel warnings around trips to the country, leaving travelers wondering if it’s safe to visit Mexico right now.

Tourists should keep in mind that Mexico is a large and diverse country. Advising someone against traveling to Cancún because of violence in Matamoros would be similar to warning against travel to New York because of an incident in California. To find out how safe an area in Mexico is before you book a trip, consult the US State Department’s Mexico Travel Advisory page for the most accurate and up-to-date travel warnings.

Additional reporting by Megan Johnson

State Department Travel Warnings: Mexico

The State Department’s website warns that “Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.”

The State Department has also escalated advisories for several Mexican states due to an increased risk of crime or kidnappings.

The State Department has a “Do Not Travel” warning for the following regions of Mexico:

Do Not Travel

• Colima state due to crime and kidnapping.
• Guerrero state due to crime.
• Michoacan state due to crime.
• Sinaloa state due to crime.
• Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
• Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnapping.

The State Department advises travelers to “reconsider travel” to the following states:

Reconsider Travel

• Baja California state due to crime and kidnapping.
• Chiapas state due to crime. 
• Chihuahua state due to crime and kidnapping.
• Guanajuato state due to crime.
• Jalisco state due to crime and kidnapping.
• Morelos state due to crime and kidnapping.
• Sonora state due to crime and kidnapping.

Some popular tourist destinations, like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are located in states with less elevated warning levels. Quintana Roo, for example, has the State Department advisory of “Exercise Increased Caution” which is the same warning level as France, Italy, and Germany.

Two states in Mexico, Campeche and Yucatan, have the State Department’s lowest warning level, “Exercise Normal Precautions.” 

Mexico Safety Tips

No matter where you travel in Mexico, there are some basic safety tips that everyone should follow.

Taxis

Only use a reputable taxi service, such as one booked through your hotel, a legitimate taxi stand, or a ride-sharing app. The State Department warns, “Mexico experiences robberies, typically in cities, in which abductors force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release. Perpetrators commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers.”

Alcohol

Never accept a drink from a stranger and never leave your beverage unattended. Reports of criminals drugging tourists’ drinks to assault or rob them are fairly common in Mexico, and can happen even at your resort.

Be cautious of the types of drinks you order. The State Department says that there have been incidents of counterfeit alcohol being sold in Mexico, and cautions, “Unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, and U.S. citizens have reported losing consciousness or becoming injured after consuming alcohol that was possibly tainted.”

Share Your Itinerary

Share your itinerary with close friends or family (and not on social media, which could make it easier for criminals to find you), so that they can alert authorities if you go missing. 

Before your trip, register with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service that will help the State Department get in touch with you in the event of an emergency. Enrollees will also receive important safety alerts from the Embassy about safety conditions in their destination country.

Health

Before visiting Mexico, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website to determine if you have all the recommended vaccines and prescriptions for your trip.

Tap water in Mexico is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled beverages and avoid raw fruits and vegetables (unless you can peel them yourself). Skip the ice in your drinks, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. 

Mosquito-borne diseases, such as Zika and Dengue are prevalent in Mexico, so take precautions to avoid getting bitten.

Swimming

Exercise caution when entering the water in Mexico, as undercurrents and rip tides are common at beaches. Be especially careful if swimming in an area without a lifeguard.

Choose Your Hotel Wisely

Phillip Ballard, an Executive at HotelPlanner, and a former anti-terrorism and Pentagon Force Protection Officer, recommends “booking as nice a hotel as you can afford in the popular business/entertainment district.” Ballard explains that these hotels will likely be safer due to a more visible police presence.

Driving

The State Department advises against driving on highways at night in Mexico due to poor road conditions and a high crime risk.

Keep a Low Profile

As soon as you arrive in Mexico, Ballard advises travelers to keep a low profile. “Criminals will often spot American tourists the minute they deplane. Don’t wear or say anything that identifies you easily as an American tourist.” Ballard recommends travelers leave flashy jewelry and other valuables at home to decrease the chance of theft. 

Know What to Do in Case of an Emergency

The emergency services number in Mexico is the same as in the United States (911). Purchase travel insurance before you go to cover you if you need medical care. Save the locations of the nearest hospitals and the US Embassy into your phone if you need help.

Download the Guest Assist app if you are traveling to Quintana Roo. The app, provided by the Mexican government, offers provides emergency resources for tourists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico safe for tourists in 2025?

Safety varies significantly by region. Popular tourist areas maintain similar safety levels to European destinations, while certain states require extra caution or should be avoided.

Which Mexican states are safest for tourists?

Campeche and Yucatan maintain the lowest U.S. State Department warning levels, making them among the safest regions for tourists.

Do I need special insurance for traveling to Mexico?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover potential medical emergencies and trip interruptions.

What should I do in case of an emergency in Mexico?

Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy, and use the Guest Assist app in Quintana Roo.

Additional Resources

• U.S. State Department Mexico Travel Advisory
• CDC Mexico Travel Health Notices
• Mexican Tourism Board Official Website
• STEP Registration Portal

Remember that while these safety concerns are real, millions of tourists visit Mexico safely each year by following proper precautions and staying informed about their specific destination’s current situation.

The post Traveling to Mexico? Here’s What You Need to Know: A Comprehensive Guide to the Safety Warnings and Precautions You Should Take Before Visiting Mexico appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Sferra Grande Hotel Duvet Cover

If Sferra’s linens feel familiar, it might be because you’ve already experienced them at a luxury hotel—you can find the brand at many high-end properties. Now, you can bring that sophisticated sleeping experience home with the Sferra Grande Hotel Duvet Cover. Crafted from pure long-staple cotton percale, this collection takes inspiration from the bedding found in the world’s most luxurious hotels.

The medium-heavy fabric offers a crisp, cool touch that promotes a restful night’s sleep. Featuring an elegant white base with a colorful satin-stitched embroidery border, it adds a refined touch to your bedroom. With a wide variety of color options, you can easily find the perfect match to complement your decor.

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set

You might not sleep in a mansion like Oprah, but you can recreate her bedding situation with Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Sheet Sets. Named one of Oprah’s favorite things, these luxurious sheets are made from 100 percent premium bamboo viscose. The soft fabric not only feels good, but also helps regulate temperature.

Cozy Earth’s sheets will get softer with every wash—and they are deliberately oversized so you never have to deal with the annoyance of a too-small fitted sheet popping off the mattress again.

Fishers Finery Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

Wake up looking refreshed with Fishers Finery Pure Mulberry Silk Pillowcase. Made from 100 percent pure silk, these smooth pillowcases will prevent wrinkles and protect your hair from damage (and bedhead). The silk fabric also helps regulate temperature, keeping you cool at night.

Target Performance Sheets

An 800 thread count sheet set at an under $100 price point? You can find it at Target, where their signature sheet set garners rave reviews at an affordable price. Made from 100 percent cotton, these sheets are breathable, durable, and wrinkle-resistant. 

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post The Best Hotel Quality Bedding for Home appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Location

Despite its name, this DoubleTree property is approximately a 10-minute walk from the bright lights of Times Square proper. It’s located in a quieter neighborhood, the Garment District, and is just an eight-minute walk from Penn Station, making it ideal for anyone arriving in New York City via train or bus. It’s also one of the best hotels near the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and is a solid choice for anyone in town for a convention.

Transit options abound, with multiple subway lines within walking distance:

• Three blocks to A, C, and E lines
• Four blocks to 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, and S lines
• Six blocks to B, D, F, and M lines

The DoubleTree is ideally situated to explore New York City on foot, with the following attractions within easy walking distance:

• Madison Square Garden: 6-minute walk
• Times Square: 10-minute walk
• Empire State Building: 15-minute walk
• Central Park: 20-minute subway ride
• Hell’s Kitchen’s restaurants and nightlife: About 10 blocks north
• Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and Fifth Avenue shopping: Approximately 30 minutes on foot

The Rooms

The accommodations at this DoubleTree property are clean, modern, and bright. Room sizes range from 195- to 220- sq. feet, with configurations of 1 king bed or two double or queen beds. We stayed in a 1 King Empire State Building View room, which, as promised, featured up-close views of the Empire State Building just outside the window. 

The real value lies in the thoughtful amenities. All rooms include:

• 46-inch flat-screen TV
• Adjustable desk chair and work area
• Mini-fridge
• Coffee maker
• Iron
• DoubleTree’s signature Sweet Dreams bed
• 250 thread count sheets
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Black-out curtains

Dining

The rooftop lounge, Vue180, offers a rare Manhattan gem—a glass-enclosed dining area and ample outdoor space—a rare find in Manhattan. This sophisticated spot serves small bites and craft cocktails alongside stunning skyline views, including prime vistas of The Empire State Building. Unlike most New York rooftop bars, Vue180 charges no cover, drawing lively crowds year-round. During winter months, cozy clear igloos transform the space into the hottest happy hour spot.

For those seeking a more traditional dining experience, the hotel’s main restaurant, Vue 525, serves breakfast and dinner just off the lobby below. 

Amenities

The hotel’s standout amenities include:

• 24-hour fitness center 
• Business center 
• Meeting room facilities
• Free property-wide Wi-Fi
• Self-parking ($65 per day)
• Pet-friendly accommodations ($50 fee)

Price and How to Book

Rates for the DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South start at $119 per night and can be booked on Expedia.

The post DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South Review appeared first on SmarterTravel.

 
Having cash on hand is one of the most crucial yet overlooked aspects of international travel. While you might plan to withdraw money at your destination’s airport when you arrive, out-of-order ATMs and unexpected debit card issues can quickly derail those plans—especially after a long flight when you need cash for a taxi or bus to your hotel. 

 
That’s why securing local currency before your trip should be the first step in your international packing routine. By arriving with cash already in hand, you can skip the stress of hunting for a working ATM and focus on what matters most: starting your vacation. 

 
The Best Way to Get Cash Before Your Trip

When you’re running around trying to prepare for a big trip, the last thing you want to do is drive to the bank, wait in line, order currency, and then come back a few days later to get it. Most banks don’t keep currency in stock for same-day pick-up, so getting it through your regular bank can be arduous. (And, with the rise of online banking, do you even have a physical bank near you that can help you out?) 

 
Savvy travelers know there’s an easier way to get cash before your trip. Currency Exchange International (CXI) offers a hassle-free solution: order your foreign cash online and have it delivered to your doorstep the next day, or pick it up at one of 40 convenient CXI branch locations. CXI’s branch locations are open evenings and weekends, making it easy to pick up your cash in person. 

 
Another bonus of using CXI is the option to specify bill denominations. This might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference when you’re trying to pay for small expenses like a bus fare from the airport or tipping tour guides. No more awkward moments trying to break large bills for minor purchases in a new country. 

 
With over 80 foreign currencies in stock, CXI, the number one currency exchange provider in the U.S., has you covered whether you’re traveling to Europe, Mexico, Canada, or beyond. 

 
Why You Should Always Carry Cash When Traveling

Even if you’re used to paying for everything with a credit card at home, you should always have cash on hand when traveling. Not every place accepts cards, and many local businesses prefer cash payments, especially in remote areas or smaller towns where card acceptance may be limited. Here are a few scenarios where you’ll need cash while abroad: 

1. Tipping (meals, tour guides, photo ops, and more) 
2. Emergencies (we recommend keeping a separate stash of cash in your hotel room in case your cards get stolen or lost) 
3. Street vendors, street fairs, and small businesses that don’t accept cards or are willing to negotiate a deal 
4. Public restrooms (especially across Europe, you’ll find turnstiles at many public restrooms that require a coin to enter) 
5. Taxi rides 
6. Purchasing small items at places with a minimum credit card spend requirement 
7. Splitting bills among your group 

In addition, using cash can help you avoid ATM fees and get a better exchange rate while traveling abroad. 

 
How to Buy Currency Online
Ordering currency with CXI takes less than five minutes (we timed it!)  

Here’s how to do it: 

1. Visit CXI’s website and select your currency and delivery method 
2. View the exchange rate and choose if you want large bills or small bills 
3. Enter your payment and delivery information 

That’s it! Your currency will be safely delivered to your door with delivery as soon as the next day. 

The post The One Thing You Should Do Before Every International Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

However, if you dig hard enough, you’ll find some gems that hit the travel trifecta: comfortable, stylish, and versatile. We’ve done the research for you and uncovered ridiculously soft and good-looking items that will make even the most cramped flight more enjoyable. 

Vineyard Vines Double Brushed Dreamcloth Leggings

We’re officially obsessed with Vineyard Vines’ Dreamcloth fabric, especially in leggings. This buttery-soft material is brushed on both sides for unbeatable coziness, offering a cashmere-like feel inside and out—but it’s much more durable than cashmere. 

The leggings are thick and have a slim cut, so they look more like pants than typical leggings. That means you’ll stay comfortable while still looking polished and put-together.

Neems Custom Jeans

We would never have put jeans anywhere near a list of the most comfortable travel clothing, but then we met Neems. This Los Angeles-based company makes custom jeans tailored to your body to fit like a glove, so you’ll be as comfortable as if you were wearing sweatpants.

You can customize your jeans’ style, wash, stretch, rise, and length to suit your style perfectly. Use Neems’ mobile body scanner app to get your measurements, and the team will craft your denim for you. If your jeans aren’t exactly perfect, Neems will alter and remake them until they get them just right. 

State Cashmere Ribbed Cashmere Pants

State Cashmere’s Ribbed Cashmere Pants are the first-class version of sweatpants. Made from 100 percent Inner Mongolian cashmere (the softest we’ve ever felt), they have an adjustable drawstring waist that’s comfortable no matter how long you’re stuck sitting on a plane. Thanks to the cashmere fabric and ribbed design, the pants have an elevated look, so you can wear them for everything from cozy nights in to casual chic city outfits. 

Billy Reid Cashmere Reversible V-Neck Sweater

For a truly luxurious travel outfit, look no further than Billy Reid. This elegant clothing company specializes in high-quality fabrics and classic designs, both of which you’ll find in its Cashmere Reversible V-Neck Sweater. 

The tunic-length sweater can be worn with the deep V in the front or back, making it versatile for travel. The double rib detail and cuffed sleeves and hem elevate the sweater to be more than just a basic staple. Made from 100 percent cashmere, it is temperature-regulating, cozy, and ultra-soft. 

Sorel Go Stumptown Bootie 

Sorel’s Go Stumptown Booties are slippers designed for outdoor use. They offer all the comfort of slippers but the benefits of booties. A rubber outsole provides traction and durability in wet or snowy conditions, while the faux fur lining keeps feet warm and comfortable. The booties slip on and off easily, making them a great choice for wearing through airport security on winter trips. 

PrAna Cades Cove Sweater

If cashmere isn’t in the budget, another ridiculously comfortable fabric for travel is Merino Wool. We love PrAna’s Cades Cove Sweater, which is made from a blend of Merino Wool, recycled nylon, and recycled polyester to create the perfect combination of warmth and stretch. 

The sweater’s waffle knit pattern, rolled neck, and slightly cropped style make it comfortable and stylish. 

Backcountry Destination Legging

If you want to hit the ground running at your destination, Backcountry’s Destination Leggings are a great choice. These comfortable leggings are made for everything from long travel days to intense workouts. A UPF 50+ fabric protects your skin from the sun while still being durable, flexible, and moisture-wicking.

The perfectly placed side pocket can fit any smartphone, keeping it easily accessible.  

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Heathered Travel Shawl

Barefoot Dreams has earned a reputation for its notoriously comfortable fabric. Check it out in the CozyChic Lite Travel Shawl, which is the perfect emergency layer to pack for chilly plane rides. It has two hand pockets that you can use to warm up your hands or to stash a phone or other essentials you want to keep close by. 

India Blake Long Coverup Dress

Comfort is just as important on hot weather trips. Pack India Blake’s Long Coverup dress for beach destinations. Made from 100 percent Tencel Lyocell, the dress is cooling and moisture-wicking. The full wrap skirt, angled hemline, and waist tie belt mean it can be worn as a cover-up or on its own as a dress.

The post Ridiculously Comfortable Travel Clothing and Shoes That Don’t Sacrifice Style appeared first on SmarterTravel.

However, choosing the wrong group tour company can quickly turn your dream vacation into a disappointment. It’s critical that you select a tour operator that aligns with your travel style and goals. Do you prefer a small, intimate group or a larger, more social setting? Does the price match your expectations—luxury or budget-friendly? Is the itinerary packed with the destinations you’re eager to see?

We’ve done the research for you and rounded up the best group tour companies for 2025, tailored to every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Adventure Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Adventure Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to off-the-beaten-path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Adventure Travels to a friend).

These small group tours operate with only 8-16 people per trip and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Adventure Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by activity (walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) and type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all,” European wilderness, and more) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. 

Exodus Adventure Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 
Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Adventure Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour.

Best Bucket List Group Tours: EF Adventures

In 2024, the renowned tour operator EF World Journeys launched a new brand: EF Adventures. True to its name, this division focuses on adventure travel, offering a variety of biking, hiking, walking, and multi-sport tours across Europe, Asia, Central and South America, and the Pacific Islands.

EF Adventures makes planning complicated tours easy, taking care of flights, transfers, guides, equipment, optional tour extensions, and more—so all you have to do is show up.

After an action-packed day of outdoor exploration, guests can unwind in luxurious accommodations, ranging from 3-star to 5-star properties, each selected to reflect the unique charm of the destination. Whenever possible, EF Adventures chooses hotels with pools or spas, ensuring travelers have the perfect place to relax and recover.

Want to stay motivated in your fitness goals pre- or post-trip? Join EF Adventures’ Strava Group for some friendly competition.

Top Trip: Connections mean everything on a good tour group, and EF Adventures has the ultimate hookup—the brand’s parent company owns a men’s and women’s pro cycling team. Experience the behind-the-scenes perks on EF Adventures’ Tour de France trip, in which participants will get to ride iconic sections of the Tour de France, experience insider access to the EF Pro Cycling team, and watch the thrilling race finish from a VIP section on the Champs-Élysées.

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave the communities and places where it operates tours better than it found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight-day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route. 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

G Adventures offers cheap group tours for travelers on a budget, making dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $979, crisscrossing India’s Golden Triangle for $594, or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $700.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers, as most trips don’t have a single supplement. You can share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler or pay extra for a private space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals and making certain activities optional (for an additional fee). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

Best Private Group Travel: Vaya Adventures

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Vaya Adventures will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. Vaya’s team of experts has spent years living and working in the destinations that they handle, so they have the insider knowledge to make a trip truly special. 

On a Vaya Adventures trip, you won’t find yourself stuck in a soulless chain hotel—accommodations are thoughtfully selected to showcase the local culture and include boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and historic homes. 

Top Trip: Hike the Camino de Santiago Portuguese Way from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela, recovering each night in beautiful boutique hotels or traditional Paradores. 

Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours. EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers and feature unique educational experiences. EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing for a bucket list trip, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers, where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification earned by companies demonstrating social and environmental responsibility.

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company’s own charity, The Intrepid Foundation, has donated over 10 million dollars to over 160 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-35. (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience a foodie trip of a lifetime on Intrepid Travel’s South Korea Real Food Adventure, which includes time in three cities and an overnight temple stay.

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Arctic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for trips to the polar regions, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination. For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina).

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $6,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll adore For the Love of Travel. All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and, of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekend trips to closer destinations like Mexico or Costa Rica—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your stuff from point to point.) The solution: DuVine Cycling, a luxury small group tour company specializing in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure—no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name-brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises.

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families, and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife & Nature: Around the World by Private Jet trip.

The post The 11 Best Tour Group Travel Tour Companies for 2025 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

However, on certain flights, some airlines will require passengers to “valet check” a bag instead.

What Is Valet Check?

Valet check is sometimes offered on regional flights using smaller planes that have limited overhead bin space. In these planes, the overhead bins are too small to fit standard carry-on-sized rolling suitcases (they’re typically only big enough for backpacks or duffle bags). 

For example, if you’ve booked a flight on American Airlines that is operated by the smaller American Eagle carrier, the airline says, “Regional flights on American Eagle® planes have limited overhead bin space. If your carry-on is larger than the personal item dimensions, you must valet your bag before boarding. We’ll tag and check your bag at the gate for you free of charge. When you arrive, you’ll receive your bag on the jetbridge after exiting the plane.”

Typically, the gate agent will make an announcement before starting the boarding process stating that passengers with rolling carry-on suitcases must valet check their bag. Flyers will have to take a luggage tag to attach to their carry-on and drop off their suitcase in a designated area when boarding the plane. 

After landing, passengers will need to wait on the jetbridge for the valet checked bags to be delivered. 

How Is Valet Check Different Than Gate Checking a Bag?

Valet Checking is a faster and safer way to check a carry-on bag. Typically, passengers will only have to wait a few minutes to receive their bag on the jetbridge, and they will not have to leave the secured area and go to baggage claim (like they would with gate checking) to pick up their luggage. If you have a tight connection to make, you’ll have a better chance of catching your next flight with valet check than you would with a gate-checked bag. 

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However, you don’t want the waterproofing to weigh you down. Too-heavy boots can strain your feet and legs, tiring you out faster. Lightweight boots can help keep you nimble and are also ideal for hiking trips where you’re worried about a weight allowance while packing. 

These six hiking boots combine the best of both worlds, offering waterproof protection in a lightweight package.

Asolo Falcon Evo Jacquard GV Hiking Boots

Asolo’s Falcon Evo Jacquard GV Hiking Boots offer a perfect blend of toughness and style in a surprisingly lightweight package. Weighing just over a pound per shoe, these boots are completely waterproof and capable of withstanding the harshest trail conditions.

Asolo, a family-run European hiking brand, has earned a cult following among serious trekkers for their ultra-durable footwear, all of which can be resoled to extend the lifetime of the boot. The Falcon Evos, their lightest model, uphold this reputation while incorporating features like a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lining to keep you dry even if you face water crossings or heavy rain on your hike.

I tested these boots straight out of the box, tackling a long, rocky hike without experiencing any blisters or discomfort. The Asolo/Vibram Omega soles with MegaGrip compound particularly impressed me, providing exceptional traction and grip even on steep, slippery terrain.

These boots combine the best of both worlds: the robust features of a heavy-duty hiking boot with the comfort and agility of a trail runner. They deliver excellent ankle support, superior traction, reliable waterproofing, and impressive durability in a surprisingly lightweight package.

Weight: 17.28 ounces per shoe (women’s).

Merrell Antora 3 Mid Waterproof 

Merrell’s Antora 3 Mid Waterproof feels like a sneaker but offers the support of a hiking boot, and for good reason—it’s designed off of the company’s best-selling women’s trail running shoe. I’ve worn these boots on hikes of over 12 hours without a single blister, which is impressive.

The shoe got upgraded to a boot with a more durable upper for added foot protection, trademarked FloatPro Foam pods under the heel and forefoot for extra cushioning, and an extra-grippy Vibram sole. 

The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry no matter how many puddles you slog through, and these boots are comfortable without needing to be broken in.

Weight: 10.23 oz per shoe (women’s)

Saloman Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX

Stay light and nimble with Saloman’s Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX boots. Featuring a unique Quicklace system, these boots can be on an instant—and they won’t come untied at inopportune moments. 

A higher cut adds additional ankle support and protection, which combined with the Gore-tex exterior and deep lugs on the sole, help keep you surefooted even on the muddiest of trails.  

Available in a sleek all-black design, these boots can pull double duty for post-hike adventures in town.

Weight: 14.56 oz per shoe (men’s)

Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid

Synthetic materials are generally better than leather when it comes to keeping things light. Lowa’s Innox Pro GTX Mid are 100 percent vegan, using man-made technology to provide an airy feel that’s sturdy enough for tough trails. 

The built-in Gore-tex lining is breathable to keep your feet dry (and not sweaty) even on hot or rainy hikes. 

Weight: 15.87 oz per shoe (men’s)

Hoka Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX

Made from recycled materials, Hoka’s Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX  boots are kind to both the environment and your feet. Using the brand’s popular trail running shoe technology, the Speedgoat adds in Gore-tex waterproofing and a higher cut with a flexible collar for extra ankle support.

On the sole, Vibram’s Megagrip with Traction Lug keeps your footing stable even on loose soil or rocks. 

Weight: 10.30 oz per shoe (women’s)

Keen NXIS Explorer Waterproof

Feel a little cramped in regular hiking boots? Keen’s NXIS Explorers feature extra room in the front, giving your toes plenty of space to spread out. The Explorers are protected with Keen.Dry technology, a waterproof (yet breathable) membrane that will keep you dry no matter what. 

Not sure if these are the right boots for you? Keen has a great 30-day trial policy which lets you wear their shoes (even outside) for up to a month to see if you like them. 

Weight: 16.30 oz per shoe (men’s)

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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