Secret French Villages You Probably Don’t Know About

With tourists and motor coaches crowding their medieval streets, some French villages are in danger of being loved to death. These 10 villages aren’t completely off the tourist map, but they remain unspoiled by mass tourism, and offer visitors a glimpse of everyday life in the French countryside.

L’Isle Sur la Sorgue, Provence

Pastel-painted shops and colorful flowerboxes line the canals that course their way through “the Venice of Provence.” The sun-splashed French village of L’Isle Sur la Sorgue is best known for its antiques, and hosts two annual antique fairs (at Easter and in August). If you’re not up for the crowds, visit other times of year and browse the hundreds of antique stores and art galleries scattered around town.

Where to Stay: The centuries-old Grand Hotel Henri welcomes guests with its trademark elegant rooms and warm staff.

Noyers-sur-Serein, Burgundy

Just a couple of hours southeast of Paris, one of the most charming French villages sits on the Serein River. Noyers is surrounded by well-preserved medieval ramparts that protect its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Visit the small folk museum, or hike to the atmospheric ruins of Chateau de Noyers-sur-Serein for aerial views of the village.

Where to Stay: The historic Domaine de Venoise B&B is built into centuries old ramparts. Although the building is a relic, the hotel has all the modern amenities, including beautiful landscaping, a swimming pool, and fast Wi-Fi.

Calvi, Corsica

A 13th-century citadel looms over the seafront town of Calvi, located on the northwestern coast of the island of Corsica. Stroll along the seafront promenade or relax on the long white beach fringed with pine forest. Locals claim that Christopher Columbus was born here, and visitors can still see the ruins of the house where he supposedly lived. For Calvi’s best views, hike up to the hilltop church of Notre Dame de la Serra.

Where to Stay: The centrally located Casa Bianca offers easy access to Calvi’s historic core and the beach. Rooms are modern, clean, and air-conditioned.

Beuvron-en-Auge, Normandy

Wandering amid the half-timbered houses of this picture-perfect French village will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Beuvron-en-Auge is located along Normandy’s 25-mile Cider Route, which means you can sample delicious apple ciders and brandies in restaurants all over town—with a side of local Camembert or Livarot cheese, of course.

Where to Stay: Le Pave d’Hotes offers five individually decorated rooms, each with flat-screen TV and minibar. Breakfast is included and served outside in the garden on warm, sunny mornings.

Collioure, Occitanie

“In the whole of France there is no sky as blue as the one above Collioure,” said the artist Henri Matisse, who once lived in this Catalan-influenced fishing village just 15 miles from the Spanish border. It’s easy to see why Collioure appeals to artists, with its brightly painted shops and cafes overlooking the turquoise waters of the harbor. There’s even a well-maintained castle worth visiting.

Where to Stay: Hotel Madeloc offers moderately priced accommodations within walking distance of the village center. Spring for a balcony room to enjoy a view of the surrounding hills. The hotel is currently undergoing a renovation and will reopen better than ever on Valentine’s Day 2025.

Yvoire, Rhone-Alpes

Unspoiled Yvoire has a spectacular location right on Lake Geneva, and it’s one of the best French villages for strolling, thanks to its flower-bedecked cobblestone lanes and the manicured paths of Jardin des Cinq Sens. Because most visitors arrive on day trips from nearby Geneva, Switzerland, consider spending the night so you can appreciate the quiet evening and early-morning hours on the lake.

Where to Stay: Villa Cecile is the perfect place to relax and indulge, with its seasonal outdoor swimming pool and small on-site spa.

Dinan, Brittany

You may as well keep your phone or camera out at all times in Dinan, because there are Insta-worthy scenes around every corner. Geranium blooms spill out of flowerboxes, sailboats bob on the River Rance, and blue and red shutters offer bright pops of color against medieval stone walls. The main drag, called Rue du Jerzual, feels right out of the Middle Ages.

Where to Stay: Just outside the city walls is the Hotel de la Porte Saint-Malo, which offers simple yet comfortable rooms. Public spaces include a garden and a common room with a fireplace.

Espelette, Basque Country

Espelette is a different local flavor than other French villages—literally. It’s best known for the Espelette pepper, and you’ll see the long, narrow chiles hanging out to dry all over town, their skins a vibrant red against the whitewashed walls. Also worth seeing are the town’s traditional Basque church and a 16th-century castle that now houses the tourist office and educational exhibitions.

Where to Stay: Hotel Euzkadi overlooks the main square and offers comfortable rooms and a large swimming pool. Sample Basque specialties at the excellent on-site restaurant.

Oingt, Rhone

Oingt is one of the “golden stone villages” of the Beaujolais wine region, named for the warm honey color its medieval limestone buildings turn to in the setting sun. While there are a few interesting sights in Oingt, including the Church of Saint-Mathieu and a tower that affords visitors sweeping vistas over the surrounding wine country, the greatest pleasure of visiting this French village is simply wandering its quiet cobblestone streets.

Where to Stay:  Stay within biking distance of Oingt at Chateau de Bagnols, an 11th-century fortress that’s been converted into a luxury hotel. Choose a room decorated in either modern or medieval style, and enjoy garden, courtyard, or vineyard views. Travelers take note: the Chateau closes annually in the winter season. This year’s grand reopening is set for May 5, 2025.

Gerberoy, Picardy

About an hour and a half northwest of Paris is the sleepy French village of Gerberoy, nicknamed “the town of roses.” Visit during the warmer months to wander through the Henri Le Sidaner Gardens, named after a French painter who once took inspiration from the town’s quiet lanes and centuries-old houses. The annual rose festival in June celebrates Gerberoy’s most famous blooms.

Where to Stay: Located just six miles from Gerberoy is Le Moulin des Forges, a B&B set in a restored watermill.

The post 10 Secret French Villages to Discover Before the Crowds Do appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Focus on Safety First

One of the easiest and most important items on an overseas travel checklist is also arguably the most ignored. Travel insurance and State Department alerts can be incredibly important in emergencies abroad, but many tourists bet they won’t become part of the small percentage of travelers who require evacuation assistance or protection from hotel or flight cancellations.

Subscribing to the State Department’s STEP alerts for your destination can help you stay up to date on upcoming and current travel restrictions, strikes, and areas of political unrest. Any alerts you receive will let you know whether or not to plan for some unexpected obstacles in advance.

Travel insurance can cost as little as a few dollars per travel day and cover anything from lost luggage to emergency medical attention, potentially saving you hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars.

Get Your Travel Documents and Credit Cards in Order

Make sure your passport and any necessary travel visas are up to date. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months after your scheduled return, so make sure you won’t be turned away or delayed at customs because of an old passport. Not sure if you need a visa? Check the State Department’s travel page for your destination.

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and all your paperwork in case anything is lost. Share copies of your passport, itinerary, and contact numbers with family and friends whom you can contact in case of an emergency.

Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates so they don’t deny your purchases, and ask about international ATM fees so you can find out which ones won’t charge you. It’s always a good idea to bring multiple cards in case one stops working.

Don’t underestimate how helpful a cell phone photo of your passport can be. Whether you have to go to the consulate and report it lost, or are just filling out a customs card and need your passport number, it will likely come in handy. Email the image to yourself to have an extra digital copy in case your phone runs out of batteries or goes missing. You may also want to bring a spare copy of your passport photo on your trip; having it handy will speed the processing of a new document.

Get Vaccinated

It’s best to get the necessary vaccinations out of the way as soon as possible since it can take a few weeks to build full immunity. Some also require multiple doses, which may need to be administered over days, weeks, or even months. Talk to your doctor about getting the CDC-recommended shots, as the protocol for vaccines varies by country. For example, dozens of countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccination if you’ve been to at-risk areas. A travel clinic can help you sort out which vaccinations and medications you might need.

Keep your vaccination certificate in your carry-on in case customs requires you to present it when entering the country.

Study Up on Your Destination

Whether you’re a travel app connoisseur or more of a paperback guidebook person, having some source of knowledge about your destination is invaluable. Read about the region you’re traveling to in advance to gain insight into important information such as currency exchange rates, useful phrases, tipping norms, appropriate clothing, and cultural/legal customs. It’s best to be prepared so you don’t land yourself in a compromising situation.

Make Sure Your Home Is Cared For

There’s nothing worse than realizing once you’re six time zones away that you forgot to stop your mail delivery or ask someone to water your expertly cultivated house plants. Make sure your daily tasks are covered before you leave, or appoint a trusty friend to do them for you.

You can find a house or pet sitter to do your chores if you’re willing to list your home on TrustedHouseSitters.com. Plus, you could find lodging through the site for your trip abroad if you can do the same for someone else.

Stay Connected

Want to stay in touch while traveling abroad? If you haven’t taken your phone overseas before, call your mobile provider to ask about international phone plans that might be available. If your carrier’s plans are expensive, an international SIM card can be a good alternative.

Download the Necessities

Sometimes, the most important thing you’ll pack is in your smartphone rather than your suitcase. Offline maps are your best friend when traveling with limited data or battery. You can find Wi-Fi in many places, but downloading offline maps through Google Maps will allow you to follow your GPS without using up data.

Downloading in-flight entertainment could also save you if your TV malfunctions on a long-haul flight. Streaming won’t be available without consistent in-flight Wi-Fi (which you shouldn’t ever depend on) but you can pre-download movies and TV shows through most platforms.

Don’t forget a portable backup charger. Watching hours of your favorite TV show is sure to drain your battery life, and there’s nothing worse than finally finding a Wi-Fi spot only to have your phone die.

Pack These Essentials

While the contents of your checked bag will largely depend on the climate you’re visiting, you’ll want most of your trip’s essentials easily accessible in your carry-on. Start with this international travel checklist of items to pack:

• Passport and visa
• Medications
• Insurance and ID cards
• Cash, debit cards, and credit cards
• Pen to fill out customs forms
• Portable charger
• Earplugs, eye mask, and sleeping pills
• Electrical converters and adapters specific to your destination
• Headphones
• Antibacterial wipes
• Sweater/scarf in case the plane is chilly
• Cell phone and charger

For more ideas, check out our ultimate packing list.

Consider taking photos of your packed suitcase (both inside and out) in case it gets lost. That way, airline employees will know what to look for, and you’ll know what was inside if you don’t get it back and need to file a claim.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post The Ultimate Checklist for Traveling Abroad appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or convenience. With careful planning and packing, you can have an enjoyable and affordable trip. In this guide, we will outline the essential items you need to pack for budget travel.

Clothing and Accessories

When traveling on a budget, it’s important to pack the right clothing and accessories to ensure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Choose lightweight and versatile clothing that can be layered depending on the weather. Make sure to pack a hat, sunglasses, and rain jacket or poncho, in case of bad weather. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes and swimwear if you plan to visit the beach. Additionally, bring a travel towel and travel-sized toiletries if you’re staying in a hostel or somewhere they may not be supplied. Finally, a money belt or hidden pouch is essential for keeping your valuables safe.

Travel Gear

In addition to clothing and electronics, you should pack a few essential items to make your travels more comfortable. These items include a backpack or carry-on suitcase, packing cubes or compression bags, a travel pillow and blanket, a travel-sized first aid kit, a travel lock and cable, a travel umbrella, a portable water bottle, travel-sized laundry detergent, a travel-sized sewing kit, and travel-sized stain remover.

Technology and Entertainment

Having the right electronics can make a huge difference when traveling. Make sure to pack a travel adapter and chargers for all your devices. Additionally, a portable power bank can be useful for keeping your electronics charged when you’re on the go. Technology and entertainment items are also essential for budget travel. Packing a few items can help keep you entertained and connected on the go. Some items to consider include:

• Smartphone or tablet
• E-reader or books
• Portable speaker or headphones
• Universal travel plug adapter
• Portable Wi-Fi hotspot
• Camera or GoPro
• Travel journal and pen
• Deck of cards or travel games
• Portable charger for electronics

Miscellaneous

Finally, a few miscellaneous items are also essential for budget travel. These items can help you stay organized, safe, and comfortable while on the road. Some items to consider include:

• Travel insurance documents
• Passport and photocopies
• Visa and travel permits
• Local currency and emergency cash
• Travel guidebook or maps
• Snacks and reusable water bottle
• Travel-sized laundry bag
• Travel-sized toiletry bag
• Travel-sized sunscreen and insect repellent

The post Essential Items for a Budget Travel Packing List appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Download Our Ultimate Camping Packing List

Be prepared for the great outdoors with the editable version of our Ultimate Camping Packing List.

Camping Packing List: Gear

Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag is the most essential piece of camping equipment—without the right one, you’ll be in for a cold and uncomfortable night. Many sleeping bags are “mummy style,” which can be way too claustrophobic for a good night’s sleep, especially if you’re a side or stomach sleeper.  Sierra Design’s Backcountry Bed 700 / 20 Degree sleeping bag has a unique design that feels more like sleeping with a comforter on your bed at home than a sleeping bag. It doesn’t have any zippers; instead, there are insulated hand and arm pockets to help you completely cover yourself, plus a self-sealing foot vent so you can regulate temperature. The bag has an minimum temperature rating of 16F, which is very impressive considering that it only weighs 2.5 pounds.

Sleeping Pad (Backpacking): Thermarest’s NeoAir XLite is a favorite of many through-hikers, and it’s easy to see why. This three-season air mattress will keep you warm and comfortable even on the rockiest ground, yet it packs down to the size of a water bottle and weighs a mere eight ounces. I love that this mattress doesn’t skimp on comfort despite the light weight—the fabric is super soft, and it uses a patented reflective ThermaCapture technology to trap your body’s warmth and minimize heat loss.

Sleeping Pad (Car Camping): If you’re not hauling all your camping supplies on your back, comfort is more of a concern than weight, and you can go for a plush model like Sea to Summit’s Comfort Deluxe S.I. Sleeping Mat, available in a double size that’s perfect for couples camping together. This mat has an R-value of 5.2, so you can use it even in the winter, and it has 10-centimeter vertical side walls that make it feel like a real mattress. Best of all, this sleeping mat is self-inflating, so you don’t have to waste your breath trying to blow it up before you can finally go to sleep.

Pillows: After a long day in the woods, you’ll want to rest your head on something soft. Short on space? Sea to Summit’s Aeros Pillow Ultralight lives up to its name, clocking in at 2.1 ounces, and is small enough to fit in a pocket when deflated. The pillow is covered with a polyester stretch knit fabric that’s cozy enough that you won’t miss a pillowcase. Got a little extra room in your pack? For just 0.5 ounces more, the Aeros Pillow Premium uses an even more plush fabric covering and is extra comfortable. Both pillows have a thin synthetic fill layer that wicks away perspiration, as well as a curved design that cradles your head. Each pillow inflates in just three breaths and deflates in under a minute.

Tent: Unless you truly want to sleep under the stars (and deal with any inclement weather that comes your way), you’ll need a tent. An easy-up tent, like this one, is quick to assemble or to tear down.

Chair: Relaxing, eating, and sitting around the fire are all better when you’re not on the ground. The CLIQ Chair packs down small for easy transport, but assembles into a comfortable seat in seconds.

Light: Goal Zero’s Crush Light runs off of solar power and can last for up to 35 hours on one charge. It collapses nearly flat, so you can use this on backpacking trips—hang it from your tent as a reading lamp or carry it to light your way on a dark trail.

Solar Charger: If you can’t bear to completely disconnect in the wild, pack a solar charger (like this small foldable one) to power up your phones and other gadgets. Even if you don’t plan on using your phone, this is good to have in case of emergency, as it has a built-in LED flashlight, compass, and whistle.

Camping Packing List: Food and Drink

Bear Bags: If you’re bringing food, you need to also bring a way to protect that food from wildlife. Even if you’re not in bear country, you’ll still have rodents and other animals after your stash. A bear-resistant bag, like this one by Ursack, is made from a bulletproof fabric that can withstand a bear attack and doesn’t need to be hung off the ground (but must be tied to something secure, like a tree trunk). Or go for a lighter-weight odor-barrier bag like this one from Base CampSource, which eliminates any food smell and won’t attract animals to your camp. These should be hung off of the ground in bear country.

Cooking Set: Unless you’re doing ready-to-eat meals, you’ll need to bring utensils and pans for cooking. This one from Bulin has everything you need, from pots and pans to a dish sponge for scrubbing, for an affordable price.

Camping Stove: This gas camping stove from Coleman packs down small when not in use and is lit with the push of a button so you don’t waste time fumbling with matches. The cover unfolds into a set of wind-blocking panels to keep the flames alight.

Instant Coffee: If you’re used to starting off your day with a nice hot cup of coffee, don’t deprive yourself of that in camp. Instant coffee, like these sachets from Tandem Coffee Roasters, are easy to pack and prepare in minutes.

Cups: These collapsible cups are made from a food-grade silicone that is lightweight and packs down small, but can hold hot beverages without scalding your hands.

Water Bottle: If you’re staying at a campground with potable water, where keeping your drink cold is more of a concern than water quality, pack an insulated bottle like this one from YETI. Headed to the backcountry? The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle will give you safe drinking water fast.

Meals: Don’t feel like cooking while on vacation? There are plenty of tasty ready-to-eat meals these days that just need boiling water to eat. Check out our editors’ taste test of Good to Go meals here.

Camping Packing List: Hygiene

Wet Wipes: If no shower is in sight, these Surviveware biodegradable wet wipes are designed for “no rinse bathing and showers.” Thankfully, they’re unscented and hypoallergenic.

Dry Shampoo: Similarly, a small container of dry shampoo can help remove sweat, smells, and oil—no water required.

Hand Sanitizer: Hygiene is really important while camping, especially if you don’t have a clean water source for hand washing. Use hand sanitizer before eating, before preparing food, and after using the bathroom.

Camping Shower: Can’t go that long without a shower? A small solar shower bag can be filled up and heated by the sun to give you a quick hot shower.

Quick-Dry Towel: This microfiber towel dries up to four times faster than a regular cotton towel, and packs down very small.

Biodegradable Soap: Coleman’s Camp Soap comes in spill-proof sheets that are biodegradable and can be used for hand washing, showers, and dish washing.

Biodegradable Shampoo & Conditioner: This eco-friendly 3-in-1 conditioning shampoo and body wash from Stream2Sea is biodegradable, eco-friendly, and reef safe.

Toothbrush and Paste: Make sure you use potable water when brushing your teeth, and pack a small toothbrush and toothpaste set like this one.

Camping Packing List: Miscellaneous

Trashbags: Always pack out what you pack in (even trash), so don’t forget the trashbags.

Sunscreen and Bug Repellent: Badger offers both sunscreen and bug repellent made from natural ingredients in easy to apply packaging.

First Aid Kit: Don’t go camping without a first-aid kit—even if you just use the bandages for blisters, you’ll be glad you have it.

Caroline Morse Teel is still working on her camping packing list. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from camp.

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 The Ultimate Camping Packing List: 29 Essentials appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Download Our Ultimate Hiking Packing List

Don’t hit the trails without our editable hiking trip packing list.

Hiking Essentials: Gear

Backpack: A good backpack is key to a comfortable hiking trip. The right backpack for you will depend on personal fit and the length of your trip (along with how much you’ll be carrying.) For a short hike, pick a backpack that’s lightweight and big enough to hold all your hiking essentials, but not so big that you’re tempted to overpack. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak Ultralight Daypack is one of the lightest daypacks out there, weighing in at just 1.26 pounds. The light weight doesn’t mean that important features are skimped on—it still has comfortable padded straps, a hip belt that can be stashed away, a water-resistant exterior, and a padded back panel. Keep your backpack organized with Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Stuff Sacks  which are equally lightweight. Bonus: All Hyperlite gear is hand-made in Maine.

For a longer trip, we love Osprey’s Eja backpack, which comes in a variety of sizes. This backpack can hold a ton without adding extra weight (it weighs just over 2.5 lbs.). The Eja features Osprey’s trademarked AirSpeed suspension system that allows for maximum airflow between your back and the pack, keeping you cool instead of sweaty.

Water Bottle: If you don’t want to carry a ton of water on a long hike, or just want to be prepared in case of an emergency, the Lifestraw Peak Series is a good choice for a water bottle. The included filter removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, so that you can safely and quickly drink from any water source you find. The soft bottle is lightweight, easy to pack, and collapsible when not in use.

Portable Battery: Don’t be stuck with a dead phone in an emergency. The Biolite Charge 80 PD won’t take up too much room in your pack and can charge anything from a smartphone to a 13″ laptop.

Trekking Poles: A good set of hiking poles can help save your knees from strain on the descent, and prevent slips and falls on tough terrain or muddy trails. I like LEKI’s Cressida FX Carbon poles, which quickly break down to a packable size, making them easy to store in your backpack when you’re not using them. With a hollow shaft made from a lightweight carbon fiber, these poles won’t weigh you down, coming in at a mere 8.64 ounces.

Hiking Essentials: Footwear

Hiking Shoes: Low-top hiking shoes are lighter weight and more nimble than hiking boots. Danner’s Trail 2650 GTX shoes are designed to comfortably carry you no matter what distance you’re hiking. Even though they weigh just 18 oz. per pair, they are still waterproof, so you can trample through mud and streams without worry.

Hiking Boots: Opt for hiking boots over shoes when you’re facing a longer, tougher hike, or for those times when you’ll be carrying a heavier pack—like on an overnight trip. Hiking boots offer more ankle support, as well as additional protection from bites, scrapes, and water. I love Salewa’s Pedroc Pro Powertex Hiking Boots which focus on three important factors: comfort, protection, and lightness. Weighing an impressive 290 grams per shoe, these boots won’t slow you down on the trail.

Hiking Essentials: Clothing

Hiking Tights: Tights are a tempting choice for hikes. You probably already own something similar to these super-flexible leggings in your wardrobe for running or yoga, but a hiking version are designed to withstand the rigors of an intense hiking trail. Fjallraven’s Abisko Trekking Tights are tough enough for hiking thanks to a super durable four-way stretch fabric that has extra reinforcement over the rear and knees to protect your skin when you’re scrambling over rocks or sitting on the ground. Plus, unlike most leggings, these trekking tights come with plenty of pockets and are available in a men’s version as well.

Socks: Good socks are the key to comfortable hiking. They keep your feet dry, prevent blisters, and provide cushioning and warmth. These socks from Smartwool are made from upcycled nylon and merino wool, with a padded sock cushion for extra relief.

Hiking Pants: For serious backcountry hikes you’ll want some heavy-duty hiking pants, like Arcteryx’s Gamme LT Pant. These pants are lightweight, durable, and wind and water resistant. These pants are specially designed for women with a lower adjustable waist and a slim feminine silhouette.

Base Layer: For cold weather hikes, add a layer underneath your hiking pants with lululemon’s Fast and Free Tight, which are made from patented Nulux fabric that’s quick-drying and sweat-wicking, yet designed to feel like you’re not wearing anything at all. For trail running or less-intense hikes that don’t involve scrambling these can be worn alone.

Sunglasses: Enjoying the view at the summit means protecting your eyes with sunglasses like these options from Maui Jim. Opt for their wrap-around frames for full eye protection and scratch-resistant lenses to handle whatever the hiking trail throws at you.

Hiking Underwear: Your favorite delicates might be comfortable, but they aren’t immune from the wear of lengthy hiking trips. Look for underwear that’s moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, like these pairs from ExOfficio for both women and men. For women, Patagonia’s Switchback Sports Bra is a soft and supportive option that’s also quick-drying and won’t cause chafing.

Hiking Shirts: Smartwool’s Merino 150 Base Layer Micro Stripe Short Sleeve tops for both women and men can be worn alone or layered for cooler days, and merino wool fabric means it won’t smell, even on a longer backpacking trip. For warmer days, Patagonia Capilene Lightweight T-Shirts for women and men are an ultra-light option that’s moisture-wicking, breathable and features patented Polygiene for odor control.

Hiking Tanks: For ultra-hot days (or hikes where you want to look good in the summit photo), Krimson Klover’s Cora Sleeveless Graphic Top is a fun option. Made from a cooling cotton/spandex fabric, the tank is available in a variety of fun colors and graphics (we like the Explore mountain option).

Hiking Shorts: For hot trail days, Helly Hansen’s Technical Trail Shorts are designed to keep you cool and dry, thanks to a moisture-wicking fabric. These lightweight shorts offer plenty of stretch so you can scramble over anything in your path, and a zippered back pocket keeps your valuables secure.

Jacket: Even if it looks like it’s going to be a warm day, packing a jacket is always a good idea on hikes, especially ones with a summit above the tree line (where it can be significantly colder/windier than it is  at the base). The weather can change quickly: Prepare by bringing along a lightweight jacket like the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody, available for both women and men, which delivers an impressive amount of warmth and wind-resistance for the weight.

Hat: You’ll want a hat to keep the sun off of your face, but a regular ball caps can get very sweaty after a while. Get a hat that’s made for activities and wicks away moisture, like Arc’teryx’s Calvus Cap.

Gloves: On chilly fall hikes or cool summer mornings, a pair of lightweight, waterproof gloves are essential. These picks for both men and women will keep you warm and dry, even in a sudden downpour.

Gaiters: Although not very fashionable, gaiters, waterproof covers that slip on over your boots to protect your ankles and calves from rain and mud, are very practical. I like this pair from Outdoor Research which easily slip on and off.

Hiking Essentials: Miscellaneous

• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• Tissues
• Hand Sanitizer
• Emergency kit
• Blister bandaids
• Lipbalm with SPF
• Hair tie

Snacks: Peanut butter sandwiches, bananas, and trail mix are also good options for packable sustenance.

Caroline Morse Teel loves to hike, especially in New England. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from the summit.

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 What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials appeared first on SmarterTravel.

To put our pace into perspective, Swiss athlete Karl Egloff once summited Mount Kilimanjaro in under seven hours (round-trip). If all goes according to plan, my group will take eight days to make the same journey. 

We are vacationers with desk jobs rather than endurance athletes, and our leisurely pace is deliberate. We’re on World Expeditions’ Lemosho trek, chosen by most of us due to the company’s 95% success rate in getting hikers to the summit—and the slow speed is part of what makes it work. “Pole, pole” is the very first Swahili phrase we learn on Kilimanjaro. Translated to “slowly, slowly,” it will be the theme of our trip.

Kilimanjaro is a famously walkable mountain. No climbing equipment or special skills are required—all you have to do to make it to the top is keep putting one foot in front of the other. What makes the mountain so challenging is the altitude.

On shorter routes, nearly half of the hikers who attempt the climb will not make it to the summit due to the onset of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), a condition that can strike anyone (no matter how healthy or fit) at heights above 10,000 feet. The lengthy hiking time of our trek is specifically designed to help us sea-level dwellers acclimatize to the altitude, bolstering our chances of success. 

In the dining tent, our group passes around Diamox, a prescription medication that can help you acclimatize to high altitude, like after-dinner candy. But according to David, our World Expeditions’ group leader (who has summited the mountain countless times) the real key to a successful Kilimanjaro trip is something more important than a pill. 

“Positive mental attitude,” he reminds our group daily, is what will get you to the top. Our group, a diverse range of ages and nationalities, will make it if we believe in ourselves. “Thousands of people make it to the top every year,” he says. “Why not you?”

Mental states aside, our team is certainly well-positioned to reach the summit. Us 11 hikers are accompanied by 44 hard-working porters, guides, and chefs whose sole focus for the next eight days is to get us all to the summit and back down safely—while somehow still managing to make us feel as if we’re on vacation. 

The first six days of our trek wind through Kilimanjaro’s five distinct ecological climate zones. Each day reveals an entirely new world as we make our way through lush forest and up into barren alpine desert. As much as we try to live in the moment and appreciate the journey rather than focusing on the destination, summit night looms large in all of our minds. Famously long and hard, summit night is when we will all get our one shot at what we came here for. There’s no margin for second chances here—if you don’t reach the top on summit night, you have no choice but to accept defeat and return to the base of the mountain.

Summit night is more than a single night or single day. It begins with a short five hour hike in the morning. After reaching basecamp, there’s an early dinner and pre-sunset bedtime in an effort to give us a few hours of sleep before our bid to the top officially begins at midnight.

Why start hiking in the middle of the night? Depending on which of our guides I asked, it’s either due to weather (storms tend to roll in during the early afternoon), or to prevent people from getting demoralized and giving up by seeing just how far they have to go to reach the summit. (When we started walking and I realized that what I thought were stars high above me were actually lights from the headlamps of fellow hikers further up the trail, I questioned the second theory. )

We started slowly trudging up the path, crossing from switchback to switchback in total silence as the temperatures dropped to a bone-chilling -4 degrees Fahrenheit. The next few hours were what we had all traveled over 7,000 miles for. Our guides knew how important the summit was for each one of us, and ran our expedition like a military mission. “Pole pole”, they shouted every few steps, reminding everyone to go slowly lest we overexert ourselves and succumb to altitude sickness. 

Every hour we were given a carefully timed five-minute break to adjust layers, chip away at our frozen water for a drink, or to shovel in a snack. We were up and moving again before hypothermia could set in—or, before we had a chance to think about giving up, warned David. (Apparently the longer the break, the more time it gives people to reconsider continuing on—which is why many people say that Kilimanjaro is more of a mental challenge than a physical one.)

On summit night, my trust was placed entirely in the hands of the guides, who I literally followed through the darkness. High altitude can impair your mental state, making the smallest tasks seem like an insurmountable challenge. Guides would jump in to tie hikers’ shoelaces, help them put on a backpack, or open a water bottle.

Everything dialed down into a meditative focus that required nothing more than putting one foot in front of the other. It felt like the world had narrowed down to the small circle illuminated by my headlamp. I kept scanning the horizon for signs of light, knowing that if we were on pace, we would reach Stella Point at sunrise. David had told us that Stella Point was the place to focus on rather than the summit. From Stella Point, it’s a relatively easy 45-minute fairly flat walk to Uhuru Point (the official top of Kilimanjaro). If you can just make it to Stella Point, you’ll likely make it to the summit.

So if I could just make it until the sun rose, I thought, I would make it to the top. After what simultaneously seemed like forever and no time at all, the first pink rays of sunrise broke through the night sky. Just then, David exclaimed, “five minutes to Stella Point,” causing our group to erupt in cheers. As we reached this final waypoint, our group of guides passed out hot tea and burst out into song and dance to celebrate with us. 

With spirits lifted and bodies warmed from the tea, we set off on the trail along the crater rim to Uhuru Point. 

It might be the decreased oxygen talking, but the summit of Kilimanjaro is breathtaking. Glaciers tower along the side of the path, and a light layer of sparkling frost adds to the winter wonderland scene. Pure relief, happiness, and excitement set in as I realize I’ve reached the goal I’ve spent so long working towards. 

I could have spent hours up on the serene summit, but our time at the top was limited. For safety, it’s best to only spend around 15 to 30 minutes at 19,341 before making your way down to lower altitudes. 

The air got warmer and easier to breathe with every step on the steep descent, until finally, we returned to our camp. There, we were given one hour to sleep, a hot meal, and then continued down for two more hours until we reached a safer elevation and our final night’s camp. 

This is where the elation truly set in. Like most things in life, our fears around summit night were based on the unknown. Before my trip, multiple people had told me that Kilimanjaro changed their lives, making them more confident and mentally stronger. I didn’t understand how a simple hike could have such a big impact until I went through it. Now I’ve been through the dark night and made it to the mountaintop and knew just how strong I can be.

Editor’s Note: The author of this story was hosted by World Expeditions.

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Cliché Touristy Stuff Is Never Worth It

The worst advice that Carol McPherson was ever given was, “That cliché touristy stuff is never worth it! I let someone I was traveling with talk me out of the gondolas in Venice and I wish I didn’t.” Famous tourist sites are famous for a reason—they’re definitely worth seeing.

Smarter Advice: See the cliché sites, but at off-hours (think: The Eiffel Tower at sunrise) to get a less crowded and more magical experience. 

Always Pack a Lunch

Clio Flikkema grew up hearing, “Pack sandwiches when sightseeing and don’t bother stopping for lunch.” However, as an adult, Clio never follows this advice, “Because you have to carry the sandwiches all day and you miss out on fun restaurants.”

Smarter Advice: Stop at the pricest and most popular restaurants on your list for lunch—it will be easier to get a table, and you’ll have a much cheaper meal than if you were to visit for dinner.  

Never Travel Alone

Chris Donais was advised “to not travel alone.” However, he disagrees with this common wisdom, arguing, “you can learn a lot by traveling by yourself.”

Smarter Advice: Everyone should travel alone at least once in their life—you’ll meet new people, gain a sense of independence and confidence, and be able to do exactly what you want on your trip.

Get to the Airport Three Hours Early

Michael Given has heard that travelers should always “Get to the airport three hours early,” but if you’ve checked-in online, aren’t checking bags, and have a mobile boarding pass, that will leave you with approximately 2.5 hours to kill at the gate.

Smarter Advice: Customize your airport arrival time to your specific trip. Can’t check-in online because you have to show a COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination? Three hours could be a safe bet. Have your boarding pass but need to check a bag? Maybe two hours early is more realistic.  

Don’t Book Your Accommodations Ahead of Time

Caroline Teel has been told that “Booking your accommodations ahead of time is a terrible idea. Being spontaneous and picking a hotel when you arrive instead saves money and lets you see it in person before committing.” However, getting off a long-flight and having to spend hours dragging our bags to different hotels before finally finding a place that has space and is affordable does not sound like a fun start to a trip to us. 

Smarter Advice: Booking a hotel in advance lets you comparison shop for the cheapest price, and guarantees you a place to sleep—during busy seasons, it’s not uncommon for all of the accommodation in a town to completely sell out, and you could be stranded if you don’t plan ahead. 

The post The Worst Travel Advice We’ve Ever Heard appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The summer travel season may be winding down, but you can still snag amazing deals on everything from hotel stays to luggage this Labor Day Weekend. Here are the best Labor Day 2021 sales for travelers.

The Best Labor Day Travel Deals

Booking.com: Use promo code: RENTAL20 to get up to 20 percent back in travel credits for vacation rentals booked through Booking.com.

Outdoorsy.com: Get 10 percent off RV rental rates using the promo code: OutdoorsyDayOff now through September 7.

Priceline: From August 23 to September 12, use the code SUMMER50 to save up to $50 off hotels, flights, and rental cars.

The Best Labor Day Sales on Travel Gear

Allswell: Save up to 25 percent off everything at the stylish home store Allswell’s Labor Day sale, using promo code: LABORDAY2021. The sale runs August 19 through September 6.

Bed Bath & Beyond: Stock up on luggage and other travel essentials during Bed Bath & Beyond’s Labor Day Sale, which will offer up to 60 percent off September 1st through 6th.

Brooklyn Bedding: Get 25 percent off sitewide now through September 14.

Buffy: Get offer $50 off all orders over $300 with code SHORETHING from September 1-7.

Casper: Sleep as well as you do at a hotel with 15 percent off of Casper’s Wave Hybrid/Nova Hybrid mattresses (and 10 percent off of everything else), now through August 29.

Dyson: Treat yourself to a Dyson vacuum or hair dryer and save up to $100 plus get free shipping, now through September 11.

Everlane: Stock up on fashionable clothes for your next trip during Everlane’s sale, which will offer up to 50 percent off from September 2-6.

Kohl’s: Get $10 off $25, plus $5 in Kohl’s Cash for every $25 spent with code: TAKE10 from September 2-6.

Maisonette: Save up to 25 percent off plus an extra 10 percent off of sale items when using code: ETE10 from August 31-September 7.

Nolah: Upgrade your mattress during Nolah’s sale which runs now through September 6. Save up to $700 off mattresses and get free pillows.

Sephora: Stock up on your favorite travel-sized beauty products and save up to 50 percent during Sephora’s Labor Day sale which runs September 3-6.

Tobi: Get up to 80 percent off on fashion website Tobi during their Labor Day Flash Sale, which runs September 2 – September 6.

The post The Best Labor Day 2021 Sales and Deals Right Now appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Best Duffel Backpacks

Whether you’re slinging it over your back to get through rough terrain or want a rolling version for easier transport, you may never go back to a clunky suitcase.

YETI Panga Duffel Bags

Available in a 50L, 75L, and 100L size, there’s a YETI duffel backpack for every type of trip. Comfortable DryHaul straps can be worn backpack-style, carried by hand, or lashed to your transportation mode with six different points. Speaking of dry, a tough Thickskin Shell exterior and Hydrolock Zipper makes the Panga completely waterproof—even if you’re rafting it down a river.

The EVA molded bottom makes this bag easy to load, and two easy-access mesh pockets help you stay organized.

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Eagle Creek’s Cargo Hauler Duffel Backpacks

This roomy duffel backpack will fit all your stuff, whether you want to carry it like a duffel bag or attach its removable straps and throw it on your back. Its water-repellant fabric and padded base make it a durable option for every adventure, and it folds up into itself so it can be stashed away at home. Eagle Creek’s Cargo Hauler Duffel comes in an array of sizes (45 to 120 liters) and colors.

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The North Face Flyweight Duffel Backpack

Another way to ensure duffel backpacks won’t weigh you down is opting for a smaller ultralight duffel-bag backpack. The North Face Flyweight Duffel is a great choice for packing light on shorter trips, or for budget airlines that limit bag size. It can hold 32 liters and has external pockets for easy access to necessities. Its sleek unisex design blends in anywhere. Wear it on your back or sling its long carrying strap over your shoulder.

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Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Backpack

Packing everything you need for an adventure means you’ll need a roomy duffel-bag backpack—but preferably one that folds away for easy storage. Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel does just that, as its name suggests, and comes in sizes ranging from 30 to 120 liters.

I relied on one to get around Sri Lanka for two weeks and loved its rip-stop waterproof material during the rainy season, plus its removable straps for when I wanted to quickly transition from a safari vehicle or train to walking on dirt roads. The Black Hole Duffel also comes in a wheeled version for those who won’t be encountering rough terrain.

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Fjallraven Splitpack

Trendy Swedish bag maker Fjallraven offers the Splitpack, a unique take on duffel backpacks that splits in half to become two roomy, easy-to-pack compartments rather than one gravity-sensitive backpack slot. Fill both compartments and zip them together for a densely packed duffel-bag backpack, and keep your accessories in the easy-access outer pockets. The inner walls include mesh compartments to organize smaller items, and the bag can hold about 35 liters.

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Osprey Packs Transporter 65L Duffel

Another option perfect for a weekend getaway is this 65L duffel with deployable backpack straps. The roomy central compartment is accessible through a u-shaped zip front and an internal mesh pocket allow you to store your smaller gadgets without leaving them loose inside the pack. A standout feature of this bag are its multiple handles and lash points, making it easy to get a sturdy grip from any angle. This bag is made from abrasion-resistant nylon and comes with a lifetime warranty, so you know it will see you through any travel adventure.

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More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Ultra Useful Carry-On Bags
• This $800 Robot Suitcase Will Never Leave Your Side
• 10 Essential Multipurpose Tools for Travel

SmarterTravel’s Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 6 Hybrid Duffel Backpacks That Will Change the Way You Pack appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Read on for seven of our favorites. 

G4Free Lightweight Packable Backpack

At just under 14 ounces, this folding hiking backpack from G4Free is compact, making it ideal for shorter trips or day-long hikes. It offers 35 liters of storage space (compared to the standard 40 liters); however, it’s still roomy enough to fit your items (think food, clothing, drinks, towels, and even a hammock). The bag is also fully-padded for extra protection. Plus, it’s equipped with elastic ropes and straps, which can be used to hang pools, fishing rods, sleeping bags, or other accessories. The backpack comes in 13 colors and patterns. 

Fengdong 40L Waterproof Backpack

This 1.9-pound, nylon-lined backpack boasts breathable mesh padding and shoulder straps—plus plenty of space to safely store away belongings. There are five zippered pockets in total, so you can easily stay organized as you trek. The manufacturer also describes the material as both tear- and water-resistant. Choose from seven different colors. 

Venture Pal 40L Lightweight Packable Backpack

At just 0.7 pounds, this Venture Pal backpack is amongst the lightest on the list. It’s comprised of one waterproof pocket and breathable mesh straps, plus a zippered pocket to keep wet and dry belongings separate. The nylon fabric, which is tear- and water-resistant, is sturdy enough to hold your belongings, while the foldable silhouette allows for easy storage. It’s available in 11 different colors and patterns. 

ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Water Resistant Backpack

This water and tear resistant backpack is super light and foldable, saving space in your vehicle or luggage if you have to travel far to reach your trailhead. Adjustable, sponge-padded shoulder straps and several exterior zipper pockets make this daypack both comfortable and convenient. With 8 colors to choose from, you can add a splash of personality to your hiking gear as well.

Mubasel Gear Insulated Hydration Backpack

This insulated Mubasel backpack comes complete with a two-liter hydration bladder and an insulated compartment that keeps drinks cool for up to four hours. The three storage compartments are ideal for storing away keys, clothing, and other essentials. Its leak-proof design protects against accidental spillage and damage. Available in 13 colors and patterns. 

Bashseash 60L Waterproof Lightweight Backpack

Made with a polyester and nylon blend, this 60-liter backpack weighs just over two pounds and offers eight (!) adjustable straps to suit your every need. The padded mesh shoulder straps provide support and durability, while the bag’s several storage compartments offer space-saving, clutter-free solutions. Choose from six vibrant colors. 

Esup 50L Mountaineering Backpack

With 50 liters of storage space, the Esup Mountaineering Backpack offers one main compartment, two zippered pockets, mesh side pockets, and sleeping bag storage. The polyester and nylon fabric blend protects against wear, tear, and water—ensuring your stuff stays dry. The thick shoulder strap offers stability without wearing you down. Available in five colors. 

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