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.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, clothing is exempt from sales tax (unless the item costs more than $175, which then is taxed 6.25 percent on the amount over the basic exemption). So, unless you’re planning on buying a lot of luxury goods, you won’t encounter a sales tax on clothing.

Boston itself has great shopping areas—like Newbury Street in Back Bay, Assembly Row in Somerville, Harvard Square in Cambridge, Coolidge Corner in Brookline, and Charles Street in Beacon Hill.

Outside of the city you’ll find plenty of malls and outlet shopping too. Wrentham Village Premium Outlets are the most well-known, but there are other shopping areas like Lee Outlets in Western Mass., Cape Cod Mall in Hyannis, Legacy Place in Dedham, Patriot Place in Foxboro, and The Natick Mall in Natick.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is just one of five states that has no sales tax. Combine zero sales tax with the state’s extensive outlet offerings, and you’ll find some of the most inexpensive clothing in the country here.

Because of the sales tax exemption, there are tons of outlet stores in the state—Settler’s Green Outlet Village in North Conway (where you’ll also find the L.L. Bean Outlet), Tanger Outlets in Tilton, and Merrimack Premium Outlets in Merrimack, just to name a few.

Portsmouth, a waterfront area located right on the state’s border with Maine, has great boutique shops as well.

Oregon

Located in another state that has no sales tax, Oregon’s chic capital Portland (and the surrounding areas), is a great shopping destination.

From the indie boutiques in Hawthorne to Pioneer Place’s big-brand stores, you can easily spend a weekend in Portland just shopping. Check out their neighborhood shopping guides to map out your trip accordingly.

Bend also offers a great mix of boutiques and larger brand stores. Start out downtown in the historic district and Old Mill District. There is also the Bend River Promenade, Cascade Village Shopping Center, and Bend Factory Stores which have the latest deals.

New Jersey

In New Jersey clothing is exempt from sales tax, however; it’s one of the largest shopping areas in the world, with close to 20 malls that are over 1 million square feet.

For a small state, New Jersey sure does pack a lot of shopping areas. Paramus, or “the land of many malls”, has four major shopping malls in its zip code, including the Outlets at Bergen Town Center and Westfield Garden State Plaza, just keep in mind that they are closed on Sundays. Other destination-worthy malls include The Mills at Jersey Gardens in Elizabeth, Short Hills Mall in Short Hills, and Cherry Hill Mall in Cherry Hill.

Rhode Island

The Ocean State offers no sales tax on clothes under $250, and has a great mix of boutique districts and big-brand malls to explore.

In Providence you’ll find Thayer Street, offering unique stores and boutiques as well as Arcade Providence, with stores exclusive to Rhode Island. Providence Place, located right off the highway is the the city’s large shopping mall.

Newport is also a great shopping city, located on the waterfront with historic charm and boutiques. And, Garden City Center in Cranston also offers outdoor shopping, with large retail chains.

New York

New York’s sales tax law is a little confusing, but if you shop smart you can avoid it all together. There is no state sales tax on any item of clothing or footwear that is under $110, however local county sales tax rates will vary. So for example, in Syracuse, you’ll only be charged their local tax (4 percent) for an item under $110. But, for anything over $110, local and state taxes will be charged. For New York City, that’s a total of 8.5 percent, which can add up.

So, while you do have to shop smart in New York to avoid the sales tax, there is no denying that NYC is the fashion capital of the U.S. From Soho to Brooklyn, the shopping in NYC is among the best in the world—just keep your purchases under $110.

Pennsylvania

Clothing is exempt from sales tax in Pennsylvania, making the state and its major cities an ideal shopping destination.

Philadelphia offers unique shopping districts, from the Shops at Liberty Place to Midtown Village— you can fill a weekend just shopping in Philly. Up-and-coming Pittsburgh also offers boutique shopping and malls in its downtown area.

Outside of Philly you will also find the King of Prussia Mall in King of Prussia, which rivals the Mall of America in rankings every year. At 2.9 million square feet, it ranks in the top three largest malls in the United States.

Virginia

While Virginia does have sales tax on clothing, the general sales tax rate for the state is 4.3 percent, with Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads localities at six percent, which is relatively low compared to other states.

Despite the fact that it does have sales tax, Northern Virginia is home to one of the East Coast’s largest shopping areas, Tysons Corner, also known as the “Rodeo Drive of the East Coast.” There are two different areas, Tysons Corner Center which has over 300 stores, and Tysons Galleria, an upscale luxury mall, which even has a Ritz-Carlton connected to it. And, the mall even has its own metro stop.

If Tysons is too luxurious for you, there are also outlet malls, boutique shops, and urban village centers like Reston Town Center and Mosaic District also in the area. Washington D.C. (with a general 6 percent sales tax) is also easily accessible by public transportation from Northern Virginia.

Minnesota

Another state where clothing is tax exempt, Minnesota’s shopping does not disappoint. From the urban areas of the Twin Cities to the famous Mall of America, it’s one of the best states for shopping.

Mall of America obviously comes to mind when you think of shopping destinations–between its size and attractions, it’s the ultimate trip for shoppers. If you’re planning a trip, stay at the Radisson Blu Mall of America for even more savings and amenities, like complimentary bag pickup and delivery, so you don’t have to lug around your purchases. And while the mall and its attractions make for a one-stop trip, the Twin Cities also offer boutiques, outlets, and downtown shopping districts.

Delaware

Delaware has no sales tax, and the small state has really capitalized on this exemption, with huge malls and seaside and riverside town centers.

From Christiana Mall near Wilmington to Rehoboth’s Tanger Outlets to the charming Main Streets of suburban towns filled with boutiques, Delaware has it all. The state is very popular for back-to-school shopping, as southern beach towns like Rehoboth make for a great end of summer getaway.

The post 10 Best U.S. States for Shopping appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Person Who Hates Flying

First, you’ll need to identify why your giftee hates flying. Are they afraid? If so, a weighted blanket has been shown to help with anxiety, and there are travel-friendly, portable ones available. Or, the book Flying Without Fear has rave reviews on Amazon from those who swear it’s helped them overcome a phobia of flying.

If they just hate being trapped in a tiny seat for hours, give them the gift of a distraction, with noise-canceling headphones or FlyTunes, a small gadget that allows someone to use their own Bluetooth headphones with in-flight entertainment.

The Person Who Hates Germs

The LifeStraw Home Pitcher is the perfect gift for people who hate germs, plastic, or both. This seven-cup glass pitcher filters out bacteria, parasites, micro-plastics, heavy metal, and more to improve the taste of your water and make it significantly safer.

Or, if you’re shopping for someone who claims to want to bathe in hand sanitizer after a particularly germy flight, grant their wishes with a case of travel-sized hand-sanitizer.

 The Person Who Hates Hotels

You can’t magically make someone’s own bed appear across the world, but you can help make hotels better with the gift of a sleep mask and earplug set.

Willing to spend a bit more to help your hater? It’s a lot harder to hate a five-star luxury hotel than a motel, so you could also treat your traveler to a gift certificate that will allow them to upgrade.

The Person Who Hates Technology

For the Luddites on your list, an instant-print digital camera will stop their complaining about smartphone photos being trapped in the mysterious cloud.

If they reluctantly embrace technology in certain situations (like a Kindle for long trips), give them an e-reader cover that makes it look like a real book.

 The Person Who Hates Chain Coffee

Too good for Dunkin’ Donuts or Starbucks coffee? Satisfy the coffee snob’s need for a fast (but good) cup with Mr. Coffee’s Single Cup Coffee Maker With Travel Mug and Grinder. This gadget takes less time than the drive-through and delivers a cheaper and better cup of coffee. With just one press of a button, the machine grinds coffee beans and brews a cup of coffee right into a travel mug.

Help them keep their to-go cup at the perfect temperature with Ember’s Temperature Control Travel Mug, which uses smart technology to keep the contents inside at the perfect temperature for up to two hours.

The Person Who Hates Checking a Bag

Give the gift of never having to be “gate lice” (you know, the people who hover competitively around the boarding gate, ready to charge onto the plane as soon as their group is called in an attempt to secure a precious piece of overhead bin real estate). Armed with a rolling suitcase that will fit underneath almost any airplane seat, your recipient can relax at the airport bar until final boarding is called, safe in the knowledge that their bag won’t be forcibly gate-checked.

 The Person Who Hates Traffic

Help your favorite road-rager achieve Zen in traffic with the Pura portable scent diffuser. This perfectly sized stocking stuffer fits in the cup holder of most cars and diffuses calming aromatherapy. Or, get them a subscription to Audible, Amazon’s audiobook service, so they can at least do something productive while stuck in traffic.

The Person Who Hates Travel Clothing

If you know a frequent traveler who shuns traditional travel clothing (think: cargo pants and hiking sandals) gift her something from Bluffworks’ brand-new women’s line. Although it’s a travel-clothing company, Bluffworks prides itself on not looking like one, so you can get normal-looking shift dresses, tops, and pants all with the travel-features you need (like hidden pockets and wrinkle-resistance).

The Person Who Hates Being Out of Touch

Know someone whose smartphone is glued to their hands at all times? Give them the present of more power, with this ultra-slim, credit-card sized portable charger for smartphones. This little device stores enough power for 2 to 2.5 charges depending on your smartphone model.

The Person Who Hates Wearing the Same Thing as Someone Else

For travelers who like to stand out from the crowd, you can’t go wrong gifting customized luggage from ROAM. Customers can choose between a standard or an expandable base model. From there, they can individually customize the front, back, zipper, lining, and trim of the suitcase, choose whether to include a front pocket, and even opt to add a monogram. With “literally millions of combinations” according to ROAM’s website, the chances of showing up at the terminal with the same carry-on as the person next to you are slim. 

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

The post Gifts For Haters: What to Buy for the Person Who’s Impossible to Shop For appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Duty-Free Merchandise

Depending on your airport, it may be possible to snag a duty-free deal occasionally. But it’s important to know that duty-free in no way ensures a good buy. Although some items like cigarettes or alcohol might be cheaper if you live in a state with high taxes on these items, duty-free shops are usually more expensive for food items or electronic goods.

The solution? When making duty-free purchases, do a little homework. Go online ahead of time and do some cost comparisons, especially if you’re eyeing a big-ticket buy. 

Foreign Currency

Since currency exchange desks in airports often charge travelers sky-high transaction fees, the airport is probably not the best place to exchange money. 

A good alternative strategy is to get foreign currency by taking out money at an ATM in your destination; this way, you’ll likely get the best interbank exchange rate, which is usually much better than rates offered at airport exchange counters. Contact your bank before your trip for more information on any possible foreign transaction fees.

Bottled Water

Stop wasting $5 on bottled water and instead pack an empty reusable water bottle. Most airports have water bottle refilling stations where travelers can fill their bottles with filtered water after going through security. 

Souvenirs

Plan ahead and buy your souvenirs before you’re at the airport, waiting for your flight home. Airport souvenir stores usually sell severely marked-up merchandise that can be found elsewhere for a lot less. Plus, the wares tend to be quite unoriginal: trite T-shirts, boring mugs, and flimsy key chains that you can find anywhere.

There are exceptions to this rule, as some airports offer unique finds, like gifts crafted by local artisans. Our advice, as always, is to do your research before you get to the terminal so that you can compare prices. You could even take a quick look at what’s on offer when you land and then buy whatever you need when you return to the airport upon departure.

In-Flight Essentials

Trapped in their terminals, travelers are at the mercy of airport prices if they have to replace a forgotten essential like a neck pillow or an eye mask. To prevent paying for a last-minute replacement, keep a packing list on your phone and check off items as you prepare for your trip.

Restaurant Meals

You may have noticed that restaurants commonly charge higher prices for menu items in airport locations than they do elsewhere. There’s a reason for this: Restaurants’ operating expenses are generally higher at airports than at street locations. But food costs can vary even by the terminal, heightening the confusion for travelers who want to compare prices.

Pack your meal from home to sidestep the gouge–it will be tastier, cheaper, and more nutritious. For the return journey, pick up something from a local restaurant that’s easy to transport and can last a few hours without refrigeration or reheating. 

Wi-Fi

Although many airports offer free Wi-Fi, some hubs are still firmly entrenched in the dark ages, charging flyers to search the Web while waiting to depart. Before you enter your credit card number, see if you can get connectivity for free. Some ways to do this: Sit near the entrance of an elite flyer’s lounge or in an airport hotel lobby, both of which might offer free Wi-Fi that’s not password protected.

Or try your terminal’s Starbucks. Although all Starbucks stores offer free Internet, airport locations are sometimes the exception. Some offer free connectivity; some don’t. 

Magazines (While Abroad)

You’re not normally taking a big hit to your budget when you grab the latest copy of National Geographic at the terminal newsstand. But when overseas, watch out. Imported U.S. magazines cost much more than those sold at home and can sell for well over the recommended list price at overseas airports, even if they’re old (primarily due to taxes and shipping costs).

Instead, subscribe to your favorite magazine before heading out for your trip. Some libraries even offer digital access to magazines that you can download on your e-reader for free. 

A Parking Spot

You’ll frequently find a better price at off-site parking lots than at airport lots. Before arriving at the airport, do your research and compare off-airport parking through services like AirportParking.com. Just be sure to leave additional time to take a shuttle to the airport after parking.

The post 9 Things You Should Never Buy at the Airport appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What Fabrics Are Best for Fall Layering?

Even more important than picking the right cut or style, choosing the right fabric for your fall travel wardrobe will set you up for layering success. Your summer linens and thin cottons will still have their place on your fall packing list, but the real heroes of the season will be fabrics that are insulating and lightweight, like cashmere and thermal knits, as well as heartier cold-weather staples like wool and denim.

Cashmere

Up to eight times warmer than traditional wool, cashmere is ideal for an autumn trip. However, this luxury textile is a known budget breaker. The heightened cost stems from the time- and labor-intensive process of creating cashmere, requiring wool from several cashmere goats to craft even a single garment. If you’d like to try cashmere, avoid some of the sweater-induced sticker shock by browsing the affordable options at Quince. 

Merino Wool

Merino wool offers an affordable but high-quality alternative to its cashmere cousin. Made from merino sheep wool, this fabric is anti-static, smooth and cool to the touch, and highly insulating despite its light weight.

Wool

Standard wool is still a tried-and-true staple of the season. It’s naturally insulating and more common than the specialty wools listed above, making it more affordable overall. To keep your wool cozy and warm (instead of unbearably itchy), wash with a wool detergent and hang to dry. 

Thermal Knit

Also called waffle knit, thermal knits get their insulating qualities by trapping air warmed by the body in the tiny cells created by its grid-like weave. Thermal knits are frequently wrinkle-resistant, meaning they’ll emerge from your suitcase ready to wear. 

Denim

Originally developed as fabric for durable workwear, denim is now a feature of nearly everyone’s closet. A quality sturdy denim is an ideal outer layer for fall, easy to pair with a variety of other fabrics, and able to withstand the fickle autumn weather.

Corduroy

A perennially popular fall pick, corduroy is one of the few fabrics for pants that is both warm and fashionable. Slightly dressier than denim, it is also typically available in iconic autumnal colors.

Specialty Fabrics

There are a variety of other specialized fabrics meant to keep wearers warm. The HEATTECH linen from Uniqlo offers shirts, sweaters, socks, and leggings in its titular ultra-thin but ultra-warm fabric. Thinsulate, found most often in thin down-alternative jackets, is a hypoallergenic insulating material that provides warmth without bulk. Plant-based cotton alternative Tencel is eco-friendly and moisture-wicking, perfect for wear beneath heavier outer layers in the fall. Check the product details of your potential purchases for information on any specialized or branded materials they may contain.

How to Layer for Fall Travel: Fashion Rules to Follow

Thoughtful layering will keep you warm and stylish on your travels. When crafting your outfit itinerary, keep a few golden layering rules in mind.  

1. Layer light to heavy. Your tightest, lightest layers should go first, followed by your heavier, warmer layers. 
2. Layer short to long. Your outer layers should be the same length or longer than your inner layers.
3. Layer tight to loose. Your outermost layers should allow plenty of room for your inner layers to maintain comfort and freedom of motion. Opt for wide-leg pants and consider sizing up in sweaters. 
4. Experiment with silhouettes. Mix and match silhouettes and textures to add some dimension to your outfits. Add a turtleneck underneath a crew-neck sweater, or try a houndstooth coat over a smooth merino cardigan. This will add interesting depth as well as functional warmth to your ensemble.

Best Items to Layer for Fall Travel

Here are a few closet staples to help you elevate your autumn layering game. 

Shirts: You don’t have to leave your T-shirts behind in summer. A plain long or short sleeve made from 100% cotton or Tencel fabric makes a great first layer, especially in the early warmer days of autumn.  

Sweaters: Sweaters are the cornerstone of every fall wardrobe. Tighter options like a rib-knit turtleneck are the perfect first layer, while looser silhouettes, like this loose V-neck from Old Navy, or bulkier cable knit options can easily be layered on top. 

Cardigans: While cardigans fall definitively within the sweater category, they deserve their own shoutout. The humble cardigan‘s convenient front closure makes it an ideal second layer, easy to add or remove. For extra drama, try layering a duster cardigan beneath a long-line coat.

Vests: Puffer vests, like this Wonder Puff Cropped Vest from Lululmeon, keep your core warm while letting your arms have a bit more mobility than a coat or jacket. While fashion vests, like sweater vests or wool suit vests, won’t do much in the way of warmth, they will lend interesting visual depth to all your fall looks. 

Jackets: A stylish denim jacket provides light warmth for early fall days. As the weather turns colder, transition to a lined jacket. The Astrid Lined Jacket from Kuhl is a medium crop and comes in three cozy colors.

Coats: If traveling to a chillier destination, you’ll need a heavier coat. This could mean a fully insulated winter jacket, like this thin but ultra-warm coat from Cotopaxi, or a more upscale option, like an ever-stylish peacoat. To maximize layering potential, try a three-in-1 jacket like this one from REI which provides a base, mid, and outer layer in a single coat. Finally, don’t forget a raincoat for those rainy autumn days—Everlane has styles in men’s and women’s sizes. 

Tights: A good pair of tights will extend the life of your summer skirts well into autumn and can be used as a base layer underneath clothes as it nears winter. Opt for tights designed to trap heat, like the HEATTECH Knit Tights from UNIQLO, rather than standard nylons. If you prefer sheer tights, fleece-lined tights mimic the look of nylons while still keeping you warm.

Undershirts: Similarly to tights, adding an undershirt base layer will boost the warmth of any outfit. The HEATTECH innerwear line has several options. You could also throw on a classic thermal knit, suitable under clothes or as a standalone shirt.  

Hats: You can’t go wrong with a classic beanie. The Cozy Hour Beanie from Athleta is a stylish option that comes in eight colors. For an equally warm twist on the classic stocking hat, try the Mongolian Cashmere Beret from Quince. If your favorite fall hat doesn’t provide much protection against the elements, try layering it with a thin pair of earmuffs or an ear-warming headband. If rain is in the forecast, skip the umbrella or the plastic rain hood and try a stylish waterproof headscarf.

Scarves: A good travel scarf is the best accessory. We recommend a blanket scarf like the Dreamsoft Travel Scarf, which can double as a blanket in chilly airplane cabins. 

Gloves: While gloves aren’t always necessary for autumn, it’s good to have a pair on hand for frosty evenings or an unexpected dip in temperature. The Rho Glove from Arc’Teryx are excellent for transitioning from fall into winter. Wear them alone in autumn and layered underneath thicker gloves when the cold weather sets in.

Shoes: Nothing is worse than freezing damp feet while trying to enjoy a day of sightseeing. Your fall footwear should always be water-resistant. For everyday wear, the waterproof (and machine washable!) Vessi Weekend sneakers or the Wexford Waterproof Chelsea Boot from Ariat will do the trick. For active vacations, these waterproof boots from KEEN will keep you warm and dry while you hit the trails.

Socks: Warm socks are a must-have for autumn travel. Classic wool socks will do the trick on dry days. If there’s rain in your vacation forecast, invest in a hearty pair of waterproof socks to layer with your waterproof shoes for double the protection. 

How to Layer for an Active Fall Vacation

Layering will look different on the top of a mountain versus the top of the Eiffel Tower. Layering for active travel in autumn becomes trickier, especially if your excursions involve significant elevation changes. 

Remember this cardinal rule for hiking as the weather begins to cool down—start cold! If you plan to spend the day on an intensive hike, start with the fewest layers tolerable and add layers as needed. This prevents sweat from building up and later cooling down, potentially lowering your core temperature to a dangerous degree.

For active trips, look for base layers made from durable moisture-wicking fabric, like this long-sleeve merino base layer from REI. Bring along a pair of liner gloves and heavier waterproof gloves for higher elevations. Consider tossing an extra pair of wool socks in your hiking pack in case the first pair gets wet (or sweaty!).

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. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post How to Effectively Layer for Any Kind of Fall Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Imagine this: you glide to a stop at the bottom of the hill, unclip from a high-performance ski boot frame, and stride away in the plush comfort of a snowboard-style boot. This isn’t a skier’s daydream—it’s the reality Apex Ski Boots aims to deliver.

With their innovative two-part boot system, Apex is boldly attempting what many deemed impossible: a perfect union between the cozy embrace of a snowboard boot and the precise control of a ski boot.

Curious about these new ski boots, I stopped into Sun & Ski Sports to test the Apex Blanca VS and see if they lived up to the hype.

Apex Blanca VS All Mountain Ski Boot Overview

The Apex Blanca VS is a high-performance ski boot with a radical design departure from traditional ski boots. It consists of two main components:

1. An inner boot: Similar to a comfortable snowboard boot
2. An external chassis: Provides the rigidity and support needed for skiing

This design allows skiers to walk comfortably in just the inner boot when not on the slopes, addressing one of the biggest complaints about traditional ski boots.

Pros:

Comfort: The heat-moldable liner and anatomical shell design provide a snug, comfortable fit that minimizes pressure points and fatigue.

Performance: The medium flex offers a good balance of responsiveness and forgiveness, suitable for a variety of skiing styles and terrain.

Versatility: The boots perform well on groomed runs and in powder, making them a good option for skiers who enjoy exploring the whole mountain.

Walk mode: The walk mode makes it easier to get around the resort without compromising downhill performance.

Customizable fit: The BOA lacing system allows for a precise and adjustable fit.

Warm: The inner boot provides excellent insulation.

Cons:

Price: The Blancas are significantly more expensive than many traditional ski boots. They cost $720, but at the time of writing, they were on sale at Sun & Ski Sports for $649.

Less responsive: Some advanced skiers may find them less responsive than traditional boots.

Learning curve: The unique Boa Double Cross closure system requires a bit of time to get used to. 

Final Review

The Apex ski boot’s innovative design successfully addresses many long-standing complaints about traditional ski boots, most notably the discomfort of walking. However, this comes at the cost of added weight, complexity, and a higher price point.

The Apex Blanca VS could be a game-changer for skiers who have struggled with boot comfort or those looking to extend their time on the mountain without sore feet. Personally, I don’t think I’ll be able to go back to traditional ski boots after experiencing these. 

Where to Buy

Ski boots are definitely not something you want to buy online. You’ll have the best results if you go to a professional boot fitter who can ensure you get the right size and model ski boot for you. When I was considering the Apex boots, I went to Sun & Ski Sports, a well-stocked store with expert boot fitters on staff.

Pick a store like Sun & Ski that has a variety of ski boot brands available so you can try on a bunch to see which fits your foot the best. The boot fitter there explained that ski boots use a Mondopoint size chart, which is based on the length of your foot in centimeters. He also noted that the conversion is approximate, and ability level, how often you ski, and foot shape all factor into your Mondopoint size—which is why you shouldn’t just use a chart online to convert your shoe size into ski boots. 

Ski boots that are even slightly too big or too small can cause severe discomfort on the slopes, so getting the right size is crucial if you want to ski all day without pain. 

Editor’s Note: Sun & Ski Sports provided the author of the story with a pair of Apex ski boots to review. All opinions are the author’s own.

The post Apex Ski Boots Review: Walkable Ski Boots Do Exist appeared first on SmarterTravel.

In case you’re unaware, here’s what Prime Members get for free year-round:

• Fast, free two-day shipping
• Same-day shipping (in eligible zip codes)
• Unlimited movie and TV streaming
• Unlimited, ad-free music streaming and offline access to playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with Amazon Photos
• Access to Prime Gaming
• Early access to flash sales
• Free monthly book download with Prime Reading
• Get two free audio books when you sign up for a 30-day free trial of Audible
• Ability to purchase subscriptions to premium cable networks like STARZ and Showtime
• Prime Now deliveries (free two-hour delivery or scheduled delivery on select items)
• Free grocery delivery through Amazon Fresh (over a certain order threshold)
• In-store discounts at Whole Foods

Amazon will be having prime-member exclusive sales leading up to July 16th, as well as big sales on the day. So is it worth it to sign up now? Well, if you’re not already a Prime Member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial now to get all of the deals. Travelers can start shopping now for deals on everything from SmartTVs from just $79.99 to up to 60% off various other Amazon devices.

As a prime subscriber and frequent traveler, I think that a Prime membership is worth it for travelers. I love being able to order a last-minute item right before a trip and having it arrive in time. And the offline access of movies/shows/music/books really sets Amazon Prime apart from most other media subscriptions.

The post Is Amazon Prime Day Worth it for Travelers? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

To keep everything neatly contained, I like Eagle Creek’s toiletry bag, which can be hung up or laid out flat to quickly find whatever you need. Made from a water-repellent material, this kit will contain any toiletry spills—and can be washed for easy clean-up.

I also recommend keeping your toiletry kit in your personal item when you fly—in case of delays or canceled flights, it’s nice to be able to clean up (even if it’s in an airport bathroom). Plus, if your checked bag goes missing, you’ll still have the essentials. 

Here’s what you should pack in your toiletry kit.

Dental Hygiene

Toothbrush: The Philips One Travel Toothbrush is the best travel-size electric toothbrush, and the charge lasts for 30 days.

Toothpaste: Stop buying wasteful mini toothpaste and instead use a refillable toothpaste tube. This set from Matador contains one-week and two-week size refillable tubes that can be tossed in the dishwasher after each trip.

Floss: These floss picks come in a convenient carrying case for travel.

Mouthwash: Freshen up without adding a ton of weight to your toiletry kit with this concentrated mouthwash that lets you add however much water you want for customized freshness. One tiny bottle can be used up to 64 times!

Makeup

Makeup Brushes: I’m obsessed with Ere Perez’ Eco Vegan Essential Brush Set, which is a super compact kit containing mini tweezers, multi-purpose makeup brushes, and an eyebrow/lash brush. The vegan brushes come with aluminium handles and caps that protect them for travel.

Artis Makeup Wipes: Keep your brushes clean on the road with Artis’ easy-to-use makeup wipes.

Vacay All Day Beauty Value Set: Sephora’s all-in-one Summer Showstoppers Kit offers miniature versions of mascara, lip stain, blush, and all the other makeup essentials you’ll need.

Shower Essentials

Shampoo and Conditioner: Vegamour’s travel-sized shampoo and conditioner set works on all hair types and uses a vegan B-silk protein to help promote thicker and fuller hair (that’s way better than any complimentary hotel shampoo.)

Body Wash: Dr. Bronner’s pure castile soap boasts that it can be used for 18 different things, including as a body wash or laundry detergent. 

Face Wash: Drunk Elephant’s Pekee Cleansing Bar is a gentle facial cleanser in solid form, helping you stay under that 3-1-1 liquid requirement. 

Refillable Toiletry Bottles: If you prefer to simply bring your own toiletries decanted into a travel size, I recommend Matador’s unique FlatPak Toiletry Bottles, which take up less space in your kit than hard plastic ones.

Razor: Downsize all your toiletries, even your razor, to save space. The Gillette Venus uses a regular size blade but has a small handle to keep it portable (and it includes a travel case). 

Skincare

Face Lotion: For an ultra-affordable travel-sized face lotion, pack The Ordinary’s hydrating cream, which is great for all skin types.

Sunscreen: Don’t let a sunburn ruin your trip—pack plenty of sunscreen. Visor’s sunscreen is a delight to wear (compared to traditional sunscreen) and comes in a clear gel formula that won’t leave a white cast on your skin.

Body Lotion: Solid body lotion does exist—find this unique formulation in Kate McLeod’s stone body moisturizer, which melts on contact with your skin. The subtle lavender and chamomile scent is designed to help you sleep (no matter where you are).

Eye Cream: Look photo-ready (even after a red-eye) with Luzern’s Nuit Eye Balm, which helps reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. The cream comes with a travel-friendly applicator that provides a cooling and soothing feel.

Hair Products

Leave-in Conditioner: Vegamour’s leave-in conditioner not only fights frizz but provides heat protection of up to 450 degrees (essential if you’re using the hotel-provided hair dryer.)

Comb/Brush: Pack a brush that does double-duty as a comb and can be used on wet or dry hair, like the Tangle Teezer Compact Styler.

Dry Shampoo: Skip the aerosol dry shampoo and opt for a hair powder instead, like this one by Handmade Heroes. 

Hair Ties: Be kind to your hair and use a silk hair tie, which is less damaging to hair than traditional elastics. 

Miscellaneous

Antiperspirant or Deodorant: Degree makes a perfectly travel-sized version.

Contact Solution and Case: For contact lens wearers, Opti-Free’s travel set includes cleaning solution and a lens case. 

Cotton Swabs: Good for everything from fixing makeup to cleaning ears, cotton swabs are essential to pack.

Nail Clipper: Revlon’s Compact Nail Clipper is ultra-portable.

Tweezers: Contrary to popular belief, tweezers are allowed in carry-on bags on a plane. Revlon’s travel set comes with a protective pouch to keep them safe in your toiletry kit.

Lip Balm: Opt for a lip balm with SPF protection to keep your lips from getting sunburned. 

Download Our Editable Toiletry Kit Packing List Here

You can also get a editable packing checklist version of this toiletry kit by clicking below:

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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SeaVees Balboa Court Shoe

Add a sporty spin to your travel wardrobe with SeaVees’ Balboa Court Shoe. This white cotton twill sneaker features an eye-catching grosgrain stripe detailing that sets the shoes apart from standard white pairs.

The Balboas look casual, but feature some serious comfort details, including a cushioned memory foam footbed with cooling airflow channels and a responsive “power grip” outsole.

Cariuma IBI Low Knit Sneaker

Show off your eco-friendly style with Cariuma’s IBI Low Knit Sneakers. Made from self-regenerating bamboo and recycled plastics, these comfortable shoes are kind to both your feet and the environment. The knit materials mold to your feet to create a custom fit.

Featuring a removable lightweight memory foam and cork insoles, these sneakers are super lightweight, making them easy to pack.

Rothy’s The Lace-Up

After your trip, you toss all your dirty clothes into the washing machine—so why not add your shoes in as well? You can if they’re Rothy’s Lace-Up sneakers, a clean white pair of shoes that will always remain pristine since they’re machine-washable. Simply remove the ultra-cushioned footbed and toss both the insole and the sneaker in the washing machine. They’ll emerge looking fresh out of the box white again in no time. Out of all my shoes, the stylish Lace-Ups are the ones that most consistently garner compliments (and “where did you get those” questions) during my travels.

Lululemon cityverse Sneaker

Blending the durability of an active shoe with the streamlined silhouette of a fashion sneaker, the Lululemon cityverse sneakers go with any outfit and fit in anywhere. The superior traction from the rubber outsole and the contoured cushioning means you’ll be packing (or wearing) these on every trip. Available in men’s and women’s sizing.

Thousand Fell Lace Up

Hate having dingy sneakers? Get irrationally mad when someone steps on your white shoes? Thousand Fells Lace Up sneakers might be for you. These sneakers are stain proof, odor-resistant, and feature a water-resistant coating so liquids and dirt slide right off. When you’re ready for a new pair, send them back to Thousand Fell (using a free label) where they will be refurbished and given to someone in need or recycled—and you’ll get a credit towards a new pair.

Keds Champion Original Lace Leather

Keds are a classic for a reason, and the Champion Originals Leather is the brand’s most timeless style. Made out of 100 percent leather, with no embellishments or excessive design, these are the shoes for people who just want a simple white sneaker.

Superga COTU Sneaker

Superga’s low-profile and lightweight classic sneakers are easy-to-pack (and easy to pair with anything in your travel wardrobe). The cotton unlined canvas upper is great for summer. A cushioned footbed, sturdy outsole, and soft lining make these shoes much more comfortable than they appear.

Taos Plim Soul Sneaker

Need a pair of shoes you can wear for an entire trip (without becoming offensively odorous)? Taos’ Plim Soul Sneakers are lined with a breathable canvas that’s been treated with a special odor-shield to keep your shoes stench-free. A trademarked Curves and Pods footbed has been designed to provide incredible arch and metatarsal support so you can wear these in comfort for many miles. 

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. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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What to Wear While Flying: Always Wear These Things on the Plane

The following items provide plenty of comfort plus a touch of style, making them the best clothes for flying. Be the best dressed in the cabin with our guide to in-flight apparel.

Layers, Layers, Layers

Air travel is often an assemblage of disparate micro-climates, from the sweat-inducing sunny tarmac to the arctic air-conditioned cabin during flight. Fight that discomfort with plenty of layers like a washable travel scarf/wrap/blanket hybrid that’s a large enough to snuggle underneath when it’s particularly chilly.

Pashminas, shawls, wraps, cardigans, sweatshirts, vests, and light jackets are perfect. You can even fold or roll soft items, like cotton jackets, and use them as makeshift pillows during flight. Plus, the more layers you pile on your body, the less you need to pack in your luggage. Roll items and stuff them in your carry-on bag or personal item if you’re too warm.

Layers that help you regulate temperature while flying also come in very handy when traveling through various (actual) climates. And for travelers hitting the road during shoulder season, when the weather is particularly unpredictable, layers are key for optimal comfort.

Breathable Fabrics

Maintain in-flight comfort and cleanliness by wearing breathable fabrics—materials like cotton, silk, or linen. Fabrics that don’t allow air to circulate will hold in sweat, likely making you feel dirtier faster and probably necessitating a good spin in the washing machine upon landing. Natural fabrics are great, but moisture-wicking manmade fabrics are suitable options as well: Swiftland 7/8 Running Tights from REI Co-op are a nylon/spandex blend that’s incredibly quick-drying.

Merino wool is one of the best options for odor and moisture resistance; you can wear it straight off the plane without needing to wash it in between. Proof’s 72-Hour Merino Tee makes the perfect base layer, and can be worn for 72 hours without acquiring bad smells. For women, consider Unbound Merino’s Wool Long Sleeve T-Shirt, which is made from 100% merino wool that’s soft and cozy on cold planes while wicking any sweat away from the skin.

Support or Compression Legwear

Many doctors recommend that pregnant women wear support or compression stockings in flight. But compression legwear is also a good choice for those with pre-existing medical conditions, any travelers taking long-haul flights, and anyone who flies often. Compression socks or stockings, which promote blood circulation, help prevent swelling of the legs, and help guard against deep vein thrombosis (DVT), work by putting pressure on leg muscles and increasing blood flow. These don’t have to look like medical wear either—there are plenty of stylish compression sock options available.

Comfortable, Simple Shoes

It’s best to wear extremely comfortable, flat shoes on the plane—think of your poor feet after hours or even days of sitting, standing, and walking en route to your destination. You’ll also want to select shoes that are easy to slip on and off when passing through airport security. Cole Haan slip-ons offer sneaker-grade comfort in a stylish package, as do Toms (for men and women) and ECCO Footwear.

Clothes with Lots of Pockets

With all kinds of airline baggage fees adding on to the price of a ticket these days, clothes that do double duty as a wearable carry-on bag are de rigueur. The SCOTTeVEST cotton hoodie is available for men and women, and one of our picks for great accessories and clothes with hidden pockets. And there are myriad other travel jackets out there that feature an explosion of pockets, like Lightweight Down Puffer Jacket from Quince, made from certified responsible down and featuring interior pockets for valuables like wallets and passports.

Leggings with pockets can be an essential part of a plane outfit for stashing a phone or passport while still keeping it easily accessible. Arc’teryx’s Essent High-Rise Leggings have pockets big enough to hold even the biggest smartphone, and the style is sleek enough to wear under dresses, or as pants during a hike at your destination.

For men, Public Rec’s Dealmaker Pants can pass as business casual while hiding plenty of pockets. The pants also have a touch of spandex woven into the fabric to keep you comfortable on long-haul flights.

Loose-Fitting Clothing

As mentioned before, deep vein thrombosis is a danger on flights, where travelers stuck in cramped seats for long periods of time are at greater risk for developing blood clots. Leave your skinny jeans at home and opt for less restrictive garments like Duluth Trading’s NoGA Classic Slim Leg Pants, which have the flattering fit of leggings but aren’t skin-tight, falling loosely around the ankles for maximum comfort.

Something Stylish

Don’t throw fashion out the window. When it comes to dressing for a flight, a lot of advice focuses on function. But dressing with a bit of style—while keeping conscious of comfort of course—could help you get a free upgrade. An anonymous source once told Goop: “On a Virgin flight back to Heathrow, I spotted one of the staff’s monitors that read, ‘Look for well-dressed people to upgrade.’” This won’t happen every time, but if you are hoping to get upgraded, it helps to look smart. The Drapey Square Shirt from Everlane is flowy but still look good once you disembark. For men, their classic, logo-free tee is comfortable without being restrictive and will let you blend in anywhere.

The Perfect Plane Outfit for Women

Shoes

Look for a pair of breathable shoes that are easy to slip on and off. If you have TSA PreCheck, don’t worry about wearing socks. Wool Runners and the Wool Loungers from Allbirds are super comfortable and breathable so you can go sockless, and the neutral colors go with any outfit.

Scarf

A convertible shawl or scarf that can double as a blanket is a necessity for every female traveler. This bamboo shawl can be transformed into many things—a cardigan, shawl, infinity scarf, hood, plane blanket, and other customizable options. The fabric is breathable and sweat-wicking, so you won’t overheat on the plane with this layer.

Shirt

Bamboo is a great material for travel, as it is thin and comfortable but still holds up to sweat and heat, making it a perfect layering piece for any climate (or airplane temperature). These bamboo tops from Amazon are inexpensive and come in a wide variety of colors to match the rest of your vacation wardrobe.

Pants

A comfortable pair of pants completes a perfect plane outfit. The right pair allows you to step off the plane ready to go and looking professional. Find a pair with a touch of spandex for ultimate in-flight comfort. Betabrand’s Cosmo Lite Yoga Dress Pants come in a stretchy nylon-elastane blend that’s not too tight but still holds you in and gives you a smooth silhouette.

Personal Item

Don’t forget the perfect bag for all your carry-on essentials. Look for a slim backpack to free up your hands while traveling and optimize your legroom while flying. The Kanken by Fjallraven fits perfectly under the seat in front of you and has a laptop compartment, two side pockets for items you’ll need easy access to, plus as an inner sleeve and a front zippered pocket. It completes your perfect plane outfit.

Outer Layer

Depending on the time of year and your destination, you’ll want to travel with a versatile outer layer. Look for something in a neutral color and a lightweight fabric. This drapey open-front cardigan can transition from day to night, and goes with almost every outfit in a pinch.

The Perfect Plane Outfit for Men

Shoes

Look cool and comfortable with the Runner-up Mizzles from Allbirds. These shoes will keep you dry on your trek to and from the airport even in the worst of weather conditions, then keep you cozy in flight.

Blazer

The Gramercy Blazer from Bluffworks doesn’t wrinkle, so it’s ideal for going straight from plane to boardroom. It also has 10 built-in pockets to hold your wallet, passport, headphones, and more on travel days.

Shirt

A basic and comfortable T-shirt is perhaps the most important part of your perfect plane outfit. I love Huckberry’s incredibly soft 72-Hour Merino Tee. The odor-resistant wool fabric will keep you feeling fresh after a long travel day.

Pants

A comfortable pair of pants is a key component for a great travel outfit, and Bluffworks’ Airline Pants are designed specifically with in-flight style in mind. These pants combine the look of a dress pant with the feel of a jogger, creating a stylish silhouette with extra stretch for sitting for long hours on the plane.

Backpack

The SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA laptop Backpack will make you a more organized traveler. The compartmentalized backpack is an ideal carry-on bag with separate pockets for travel essentials and your tech gear, making it easy to find your stuff quickly during your flight.

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 18 Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane appeared first on SmarterTravel.