After a vacation, whether it’s a quick weekend getaway to the lake or two weeks backpacking across Europe, you’d expect to return home feeling restored and maybe even ready to tackle your to-do list with new energy. But for some, the opposite happens: instead of feeling optimistic about everyday life, your inbox feels overwhelming, your routine feels more exhausting than usual, and you’re already thinking about your next big trip. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The post-vacation blues are real—and surprisingly common. “Reorienting back to reality after a vacation can be challenging,” says Kara Lissy, a psychotherapist who specializes in managing stress and burnout. “Even if you were relaxed and stress-free on your trip, the visual and audio cues of your every-day habits and patterns can subconsciously remind you of how stressed you were before you left.” Tiffany Green, a trauma-informed therapist based in Chicago, notes that this emotional whiplash usually has a deeper psychological root. “Vacation blues can stem from cognitive dissonance,” she says. “You may understand the importance of returning to work and your routine, but at the same time, you might crave the rest, spontaneity, and joy you felt while away. That inner tug-of-war can leave you feeling emotionally stuck.” But here’s the truth: feeling a little down after a vacation doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you, and it doesn’t mean your trip wasn’t restorative or restful enough. The contrast between the pace of vacation and everyday life is jarring, and what matters is how you ease yourself through the transition. Mental health professionals agree that with a few intentional shifts, it is possible to carry some of that post-trip clarity and inspiration into your everyday routine. Here are a few therapist-backed tips and tricks to help you reconnect, recalibrate, and bring a little of that vacation calm back with you, even after your suitcase is already unpacked. 01 of 06 Build in a Buffer Day “One way to ease the transition back to daily life is by building a buffer and taking a day or two at home after your trip to unwind and regroup,” Green says. “This extra time can help reduce stress and make the shift back into your post-vacation life feel less abrupt.” Jumping straight back into work after vacation may be a ticket to burnout. Even just one extra day to unpack, do laundry, or sleep in can soften the shock on your brain and body. 02 of 06 Bring a Piece of Vacation Home With You Both Green and Lissy agree that bringing a piece of your vacation back home can help reintegrate you back into your real life. “I often recommend that my clients bring home a small memento from their trip to help carry the sense of relaxation and inspiration into their daily lives,” Green says. She suggests placing a photo from the trip on your desk as a visual reminder, or carrying around a small souvenir. Lissy even recommends creating small “bite-sized” parts of your vacation at home, like looking up a recipe from a dish you had and cooking the meal in your own kitchen. 03 of 06 Do Something New in Your Own Town Sometimes what we miss is the feeling of exploring something new. “Humans crave novelty, but we don’t always need to take a flight to get it,” Lissy says. She suggests small things like trying a new restaurant, visiting a neighborhood you’ve never explored, or finding a new walking route. Even small changes can help trigger that same exploratory feeling your brain felt on vacation. 04 of 06 Set Small, Actionable Goals for Yourself “It might feel daunting to completely throw yourself into preparing for a workweek,” Lissy says, which is why she recommends setting a few small goals when you get back from vacation rather than diving right into tasks. “Try focusing on one or two attainable goals, like getting to bed at a reasonable time or doing one load of laundry.” 05 of 06 Pay Attention to How You're Really Feeling If the blues don’t lift after a few days, or if you return from vacation just as exhausted as you left, it could be signaling a deeper issue. “If someone comes back still feeling physically and emotionally drained, it may be a sign of burnout or even symptoms of depression,” Green says. That may be your cue to seek extra support and reevaluate your workload or stress management tools. 06 of 06 If Money and Time Permit, Plan Your Next Getaway Whether it’s a big trip or a simple weekend escape, scheduling downtime before you’re burned out helps make self-care a priority instead of an afterthought. Looking forward to your next getaway can actually boost your mood. “Having something to look forward to creates a sense of anticipation, which can increase motivation and improve your outlook,” Green says. And Lissy agrees. “The best time to plan your next vacation is when you are calm, centered, and relaxed—not when you are already at the point of burnout and exhaustion,” she says. So book that next vacation ASAP, even if you’ve just returned from one.
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If you’ve ever stepped onto a sweltering airport curb only to freeze mid-flight under the AC vents, you know the struggle of dressing for summer travel. Choosing what to wear to the airport when it’s hot outside and cold on the plane is a balancing act—but it doesn’t have to be. The key? Lightweight layers and breathable fabrics that work with your body, not against it. Think: Convertible pants that zip off into shorts and sweat-wicking leggings that keep you cool and comfortable. Amazon has affordable travel outfit options that make packing—and dressing—less stressful, including oversized T-shirts, breezy palazzo pants, and linen button-downs that will help you comfortably keep you warm without overheating on your flight. Plus, we found pieces polished enough to wear straight from gate to arrival, and prices start at just $8. Best Summer Travel Outfits for Cold Flights Fessceruna 3-Piece Lounge Set, $40 (was $48) Cycorld Convertible Quick-Dry Zip-Off Pants, $44 Hotouch Linen Button Down Shirt, $20 (was $30) Merokeety Short Sleeve T-Shirt Maxi Dress, $20 (was $35) Prettygarden Oversized T-Shirt & Biker Shorts Set, $41 Baleaf Quick Dry UPF50 Joggers With Pockets, $32 (was $39) Kirundo 3-Piece Lounge Set, $49 Faleave Linen Wide Leg Pants With Pockets, $33 Amazon Essentials Lightweight Open-Front Cardigan, $18 Athmile Oversized T-Shirt, $20 The 30 Most Comfortable Shoes You Can Buy Online Fessceruna Womens 3 Piece Lounge Set If you’ve ever stepped onto a sweltering airport curb only to freeze mid-flight under the AC vents, you know the struggle of dressing for summer travel. Choosing what to wear to the airport when it’s hot outside and cold on the plane is a balancing act—but it doesn’t have to be. The key? Lightweight layers and breathable fabrics that work with your body, not against it. Think: Convertible pants that zip off into shorts and sweat-wicking leggings that keep you cool and comfortable. Amazon has affordable travel outfit options that make packing—and dressing—less stressful, including oversized T-shirts, breezy palazzo pants, and linen button-downs that will help you comfortably keep you warm without overheating on your flight. Plus, we found pieces polished enough to wear straight from gate to arrival, and prices start at just $8. Best Summer Travel Outfits for Cold Flights Fessceruna 3-Piece Lounge Set, $40 (was $48) Cycorld Convertible Quick-Dry Zip-Off Pants, $44 Hotouch Linen Button Down Shirt, $20 (was $30) Merokeety Short Sleeve T-Shirt Maxi Dress, $20 (was $35) Prettygarden Oversized T-Shirt & Biker Shorts Set, $41 Baleaf Quick Dry UPF50 Joggers With Pockets, $32 (was $39) Kirundo 3-Piece Lounge Set, $49 Faleave Linen Wide Leg Pants With Pockets, $33 Amazon Essentials Lightweight Open-Front Cardigan, $18 Athmile Oversized T-Shirt, $20 The 30 Most Comfortable Shoes You Can Buy Online Fessceruna Womens 3 Piece Lounge Set A matching three-piece set is the ultimate airport outfit; it looks perfectly coordinated while keeping you incredibly comfortable. Made from lightweight knit fabric, the pants, tank top, and matching cardigan make layering a breeze, so adjustments are easy as temperatures shift throughout a travel day. The cardigan can be worn on the plane for extra warmth or tied around the waist or shoulders while en route or after landing. It comes in 19 colors, ranging from bold brights to easy neutrals, and sizes from XXS to XXL. One happy shopper shared, “It was seriously so comfy! Got so many compliments! I wore it to the airport and it was nice to have the long sleeves for when I was chilly.” Cycorld Convertible Quick-Dry- Zip-Off Pants Zip-off pants are a travel game-changer, and this pair gives you three ways to wear them—as full-length pants, capris, or shorts. Made with quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric, they’re breathable, flexible, and built to keep you cool and comfortable from curb to cabin. Five roomy pockets offer plenty of space to stash your essentials, so you can keep everything from your phone to your passport close at hand. One Amazon shopper raved, “These are my go-to travel pants. When I zip off the legs I have great shorts.” With nine color options and sizing from XXS to 3XL, this versatile pick is a smart addition to any airport outfit lineup. Hotouch Linen Button Down Shirt A lightweight linen button-down is one of the most versatile pieces to wear to the airport, and this one makes it easy to stay cool and look polished. The breathable fabric keeps you from overheating before your flight, while still giving you just enough coverage once the cabin AC kicks in. The shirt features rollable sleeves and a button-up design that can be worn loose, tied at the waist, or draped over your shoulders. No matter how you style it, the look feels effortlessly elevated. It comes in 17 color options, so there’s a version for every personal style. Whether you're heading to a tropical destination or just want an easy airport layer, this linen shirt is a go-to. Merokeety Short Sleeve T-Shirt Maxi Dress Wearing a maxi T-shirt dress to the airport makes getting dressed for travel effortless and comfortable. It has the relaxed feel of your favorite tee, combined with the simplicity of slipping on just one piece. The full-length design offers freedom of movement and coverage, with no slits—so you’re protected from chilly cabin air and don’t have to worry about skin-to-seat contact. Toss on a cardigan during the flight, then dress it up with sandals or accessories when you land. With 13 gorgeous color options, it’s a stylish and practical choice for long travel days. Ready to breeze through travel days without sweating or shivering? These Amazon picks feature breathable fabrics, smart layers, and easy-to-wear styles—designed to keep you comfortable and fashionable from security line to arrival gate. Prettygarden Oversized T-Shirt & Biker Shorts Set
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I’m a one-bag traveler through and through. Even on a recent monthlong trip through Northern Europe, I was able to fit everything I needed into a carry-on suitcase—puffer jacket included. The best way to pack a suitcase, we seasoned travelers know, is to use compression packing cubes. These clever hacks flatten soft goods to half their size, so you can pack a checked bag’s worth of contents into a carry-on suitcase. They’re the only way a recovering overpacker like me could ever join the exclusive carry-on-only club. Bagail Set of 6 Compression Packing Cubes How do compression packing cubes work? They’re super simple in construction but majorly helpful in practice. Each packing cube is a zippered pouch in ripstop nylon, with two zippers: one that closes the pouch itself, and another you can zip closed to shrink the contents to the smallest size possible. It’s the same principle as sitting on your suitcase to get it to zip—except this travel hack keeps everything nice and tight from start to finish. With clothing packed neatly into these soft nylon pouches, then zipped down to wring out all the air, you’ll wonder why you ever checked a bag to begin with. “The compression feature is genius,” one five-star reviewer said. “Just zip everything tight, and boom, it’s like vacuum-sealing your wardrobe (minus the vacuum). I was able to fit way more than I expected, and everything stayed neatly organized. No more suitcase explosions every time I needed socks.” Say, for instance, a stack of blouses is 6 inches high. Those blouses might squash nice and neat into the medium-sized compression cube that’s 4 inches deep. But then, you can zip that cube down to compress it even further and whittle down that 6-inch stack of clothes to just 2 inches or so. And all that saved space adds up, letting you “pack double or triple your clothes in a small suitcase,” one shopper shared. “Just fold your clothes and overpack, then double zip it! Literally watched my clothes shrink as air was let out.” That shopper was able to fit four pairs of shorts, two sets of pajamas, a robe, three shirts, and nine undergarments—into just one of these compression cubes. As a bonus, you won’t be rifling through a jumbled mess of clothing when you go to unpack in your destination. Instead, your belongings arrive neatly organized in dedicated bags to make finding what you need a breeze. “Unpacking took seconds,” one reviewer raved. “I just pulled out the cubes and popped them into drawers.” This six-pack by Bagail includes six different size options, a variety you don’t often get from other brands. Packing cube fans call these “lightweight, but tough as nails,” with ”high-quality and durable” fabric, “reinforced seams and reliable zippers,” and a mesh panel that lets you see what’s inside. They’re also water repellent too, so if your face wash springs a leak, your clothes stand a fighting chance of still arriving unsoiled. You can even pack damp clothes, one shopper said, without fretting over leaks. “If you're an overpacker like me or just want to feel like a travel ninja, do yourself a favor and grab a set,” a recent packing-cube convert wrote. “Your future-suitcase self will thank you.” Snag this six-pack of the compression packing cubes even skeptical shoppers called “a real game changer,” and read on for other compression cubes for travel to level up your packing game. Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes, Set of 6 Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes, Set of 6 Gonex Compression Packing Cubes, Set of 6 OlarHike Compression Packing Cubes, Set of 8 Veken Packing Cubes, Set of 8
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Summer travel season is in full swing—and while jetting off to your dream destination is the fun part, the prep? Not so much. From squeezing in all your favorite fits to making sure your beauty essentials pass TSA, packing can feel like a full-time job. Whether you're a chronic over-packer (guilty!) or always getting flagged for rogue liquids, we’ve got insider tips to take the stress out of your suitcase. Enter Christina Zilber, founder of Jouer Cosmetics, globe-trotter extraordinaire, and packing pro who travels more than 120 days a year and has visited over 35 countries. While CZ calls Paris and Los Angeles "home," the jet-setter spends about four months out of the year traveling. In fact, her jet-setting lifestyle helped inspire her brand, Jouer's, mantra: "multitasking makeup that goes the distance." She has honed a signature approach to packing light—as in, she fits an entire getaway's worth of clothes and products into a single carry-on. Packing light, CZ says, "is about traveling with intention: emotional clarity, minimal baggage, and a thoughtful edit of what truly matters." Here, her rules for getting rid of unnecessary baggage. 01 of 09 Pack Sample Packets Instead of Bottles On your next beauty shopping trip, make sure to grab some sample packets of skin and hair care. CZ packs shampoo and conditioner sample packets instead of bottles. "Sample packets don’t spill, they don’t weigh you down, and they won’t make your bag smell like a salon explosion," she explains. "Leave the full sizes at home and travel like a pro." 02 of 09 Limit Your Shoes to Four Pairs When you pack, choose no more than four pairs of shoes, CZ recommends. "Pack a walking shoe, sneaker, heel, sandal or boot. Four shoes. That’s the law—one for walking, one for sweating, one for dancing, and one for the weather," she says. 03 of 09 Skip Packing Cubes Skip packing cubes and lay clothes flat instead. "While packing cubes are cute, they take up precious real estate," CZ explains. "Flat and folded wins every time with less bulk, fewer wrinkles, and everything in plain sight." 04 of 09 Replace Hard Toiletry Cases With Soft Ones "Hard cases belong in overhead bins; not in your suitcase. Soft-sided toiletry bags mold to the corners and make packing a dream," she says. 05 of 09 Rewear Your Pants The fashion rule of thumb CZ swears by: Pack one bottom per day, and then swap tops and shoes at night. "Your pants don’t care if they’re worn twice," she says. "Change your top and the vibe to save pounds and pack like a smart stylist." 06 of 09 Start With Your Calendar—Not Your Closet This is key, CZ says; "Plan activities and outfits before packing." Packing actually starts with your calendar, not your closet. "Know what you’re doing and dress for it every day and every night." Doing so will cut down on a bunch of extra outfits that you won't even wear and add weight to your suitcase. 07 of 09 Choose a Neutral Color Palette When packing your fits, choose a simple, neutral color palette, CZ advises. "A limited palette means unlimited outfits because black, white, and denim go with everything and never look tired." 08 of 09 Pack Makeup Multitaskers Bring products that offer two-in-one benefits. "Pack multitaskers like cheek and lip sticks," CZ says. "A swipe of color that works on both lips and cheeks? That’s one product doing double duty and taking up half the space." 09 of 09 Curate Your Cosmetics "You don’t need your full glam arsenal on vacation," CZ says. "A lip oil, concealer, cheek and lip stick, hydration, and coverage in the lightest way possible will have you looking glowy and gorgeous."
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Thanks to the seven years I’ve spent working as a shopping editor at Real Simple, I’ve picked up quite a few money-saving tips and insights. Whenever family or friends ask for shopping advice, I always tell them my best one: Take advantage of Amazon’s Prime Day deals, which are some of—if not—the best discounts that will be available all year. And this time around, Amazon released millions of Prime Day deals across its home, fashion, beauty, tech, and other departments with some of the steepest discounts that will be available all year. In fact, many items are going for their lowest prices ever, beating Black Friday offers. And plenty of new brands are included this year, like Away luggage, Saie beauty, and Milk Makeup. And while you don’t have to be a member to get in on the discounts, Prime subscribers (or anyone who signs up for a free 30-day trial) can shop the full assortment of offers. Here’s everything I’m buying this year. Editor-Loved Amazon Prime Day Deals Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, $550 (was $750) Colorscience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50, $46 (was $58) CeraVe Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser, $15 (was $20) Away Bigger Carry-On Suitcase, $236 (was $295) Saie Dew Liquid Blush, $20 (was $25) Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine For years, I’ve indulged in a lot of coffee shop drinks, so I’m finally investing in this high-quality machine that I’ve been eyeing for years. A few of my friends have this stunner, which does everything: grinds beans, measures grounds, heats water, brews espresso, and froths milks. They rave about its longevity, easy-to-use design, and the delicious espresso it produces that’s on par with professional machines. It’s a bit of a splurge, but I know this upfront expense will save me money in the long run. Colorscience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 This genius tinted sunscreen has replaced three products in my daily makeup routine, namely my facial sunscreen, foundation, and concealer. The multipurpose product features a formula that blends in with your skin while offering protection against pollution, UVB/UVA sun damage, and blue light. And thanks to its buildable coverage, I’m able to skip concealer and add a bit more where I need it, like under my eyes and over some acne scars. CeraVe Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser I always use big sales, like Prime Day, to stock up on items I go through quickly, including my daily face wash. I’ve tested dozens of cleansers over two decades, and this dermatologist-recommended one is the only wash that doesn’t irritate my incredibly sensitive skin. It gently melts away makeup and moisturizes my skin while I use it, leaving my skin softer and more hydrated every time I use it. Away Bigger Carry-On Suitcase For the first time in Amazon’s history, Away luggage is on sale for Prime Day. This new-to-Amazon brand is renowned and loved by travelers for its incredibly durable, space-saving suitcases. The brand’s bigger carry-on comes highly recommended by friends who love its interior that offers compression to fit in more stuff, smooth wheels, and lightweight feel. While I’m not in the market for a new suitcase, this will make the perfect holiday gift for my partner who hasn’t replaced their worn-down suitcase in a decade. Saie Dew Liquid Blush I’m always looking for clean beauty brands that I can mix into rotation, so I’m grabbing some of Saie’s top-sellers, like this liquid blush, to try while they’re marked down. I’ve been told by experts that liquid blushes are easier to blend and offer more of that glowy, dewy look that I’m after, so I’m eager to test this highly rated one. And if you’re looking for more recommendations, there are plenty of other finds that I own and love on sale this Prime Day. The Apple AirPods Pro that I use while working out, walking, and commuting are marked down along with the Sweese porcelain pasta bowl plate hybrids (a.k.a. blates) that I’ve raved about for seven years. More Editor-Loved Prime Day Deals Lowest Price Ever: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation), $149 (was $249) Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner, $82 (was $124) Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum, $300 (was $470) Roborock Q5 Max+ Robot Vacuum, $500 (was $600) Bucosd Mini Gym Duffle Bag, $26 with coupon (was $33) New Balance Women's 515 V3 Sneaker, $70 (was $80) Lodge 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, $20 (was $25) OxiClean White Revive Laundry Whitener Stain Remover, $8 (was $11) Levoit Air Purifier, $85 (was $100) Kitchellence Three-Stage Knife Sharpener, $12 (was $16) Sweese Porcelain Pasta Bowl Plates Set, $32 (was $35) Head to Amazon’s Prime Day hub to see the full selection of deals or shop more editor-loved items below. Once these deals expire on Friday, July 11 at midnight PT, the prices will go back up. Apple AirPods Pro 2 Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum
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Renting a car can be a travel necessity, but paying for unexpected fees or costs when things go wrong can sour your experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind when renting your next car to minimize unnecessary expenses. Determine Your Collision Coverage Although it’s easiest to sign up for insurance through the car rental company, that isn’t your only option. If you have personal auto insurance, your plan may extend to rental cars; however, you’ll need to review your specific plan to ensure you understand exactly what’s covered. If your plan doesn’t cover rentals, or if you’d rather not risk an increase in your auto premium, then you can purchase rental car insurance ahead of time from a travel insurance company or the car rental company, or you can see if your credit card offers insurance benefits, explains Kevin Fairbanks-Bloom, senior travel advisor at AAA. “Try to think of scenarios that could occur,” he says. It’s important to read the fine print on the policies, he warns, because coverage can vary by company. Some policies may only insure certain-sized vehicles, and many have limitations on where you can drive. “If you abuse the vehicle or drive it off paved roads, that will likely void your insurance,” Fairbanks-Bloom says. Andrea Woroch, consumer and money-saving expert, typically recommends paying for your rental using a credit card with collision coverage, so you can avoid paying for insurance. “If you booked your car rental with a credit card, check the credit card perks, as many offer rental car collision insurance for no added fee,” she says. Come With a List of Questions Before you even pick up your car, it’s a good idea to create a list of questions to ask the customer service rep, Fairbanks-Bloom advises. “It's about preparing yourself in advance for the scenario and being proactive instead of being reactive and ‘Why didn't I think to do that,’” he says. Some things to ask: who should you call if you get a flat tire/the car breaks down/you need a tow? If you choose to buy insurance through the rental car company, make sure you read the policy carefully before leaving so you can ask any questions. Additionally, ask about toll charges and mileage restrictions, advises Alex Black, chief marketing officer at EpicVIN, a company that provides the history of used cars. Finally, don’t forget to inquire about upgrades! “You never know if there's something you can get that's roomier or nicer, depending on their current demand,” Woroch says. Inspect Every Nook and Cranny—and Take Photos Don’t skip this step! Aside from dings, scratches, scuffs, dents—any sort of damage—on the exterior, you want to inspect some of the more unexpected areas, such as tires. “Sometimes they are half bald,” Black says. Take a look at the windshield wipers and make sure they’re in working order. “If you're tall enough, make sure there's no damage on the roof, either,” Fairbanks-Bloom advises. “People might throw on the top and tie it down with straps around it, and if that created any damage to the roof, that’s something that could come back to you at a later point,” he says. And don’t forget the interior. "When starting the vehicle, check the fuel level and any check engine lights,” recommends Mark Mannell, CEO of CarRentalSavers.com, a rental car booking engine. Mannell recommends taking photographs or videos of everything. Refill the Gas Before Returning the Car If you didn’t prepay for gas, then you’ll need to fuel up. Woroch recommends looking for a gas station near where your drop-off is—though gas stations close to an airport typically cost more. “If you are on empty, get as much gas as you can at a cheaper gas station that isn't right near the airport, then top off at the pricier gas station that may be closer to the rental car return area,” she advises. Do One Last Inspection Drop off can be rushed, but you don’t want to mistakenly be responsible for damage or leave anything behind. “Make sure to take photos or video of the fuel level, interior, and exterior at drop off, Mannell says. And keep all of your photos or videos for six months when renting domestically, he advises. Do another sweep to ensure you haven’t overlooked personal items. “Collect all your belongings, looking in the center console and side door pockets or under seats to ensure you don't lose something of value, because you may not get it back,” Woroch says.
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While you may already know that putting your suitcase on your hotel bed is a no-no due to the potential to pick up bedbugs, there's another good reason to reconsider where you put your luggage. According to some recent research by Insure and Go, your suitcase may have picked up lots of other unwelcome travelers along the way, including dangerous bacteria and black mold. (Ew!) And that's definitely a problem for a lot of us, as 38% of people regularly put their suitcase on a bed or table to pack or unpack. What's Lurking on Your Suitcase? For the study, 10 hard-shell and soft-shell suitcases were swabbed at a London airport train station, using different swabs on different points of the suitcase. Their findings? The suitcase wheels contained nearly 58 times more bacteria than a public toilet seat, including E. coli and staphylococcus bacteria and black mold. "The testing confirmed that suitcase wheels are by far the dirtiest part of a traveler’s bag," says microbiologist Amy-May Pointer, who conducted the study. "The wheels of your suitcase are essentially rolling through a world of germs and carrying a whole ecosystem with them, and make constant contact with all kinds of surfaces—pavements, streets, airport bathroom floors, train station platforms, and rarely (if ever) get cleaned.” Also among the germiest spots? The base of your suitcase—which also carries significantly more bacteria than a public toilet seat—and the handles of airport luggage carts, which are rarely cleaned and touched by many people. In the study, soft-sided suitcases were more likely than hard-shelled suitcases to carry bacteria, fungi, and other microbes. This probably should come as no surprise—after all, when's the last time you wiped down your suitcase? Roller bags roll all over the ground, from your house through the streets and even the airport bathroom—and then they're jammed in next to other people's suitcases, too, whether they're in the overhead compartment or the checked luggage. How to Reduce the Germiness of Your Suitcases To help minimize the ick on your suitcases, Pointer recommends a few strategies you can use: Watch where you roll your bag You may want to lift your suitcase when you're in especially germy or wet locations—and Pointer recommends avoiding bringing them into airport bathrooms altogether to minimize E. coli and other common bathroom bacteria. Give your suitcase a proper clean When you've arrived at your destination—or at home—give your suitcase exterior a quick wipe-down with antibacterial wipes, a soapy cloth, or even a disinfectant spray, focusing your efforts on your wheels and the bottom of your suitcase. A regular deep clean of your suitcase will help you reduce the amount of dangerous microbes they carry. Use the luggage rack The hotel luggage rack is the perfect spot to keep your luggage and avoid contaminating other surfaces (especially your bed or table!). Wash your hands after you handle your suitcase Give your hands a good scrub down with soap and water—or even hand sanitizer—after you handle it to avoid spreading that bacteria elsewhere. (You don't want to add a little E. coli to your airport snack!) That'll help you avoid getting sick, which can be a real bummer when you're on vacation!
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So many aspects of traveling can be expensive, but what you pack doesn't have to be. It's totally possible to build cute vacation outfits on a budget, and that's where these Amazon options come in handy. We found the best vacation-worthy clothing, shoes, and accessories—all for under $100 per outfit. And as a bonus, the items are easy to mix in with your regular summer wardrobe to wear long after your trip ends. Whether you're spending your summer sightseeing in a city, hitting the beach, checking out local hiking trails, or just enjoying the nightlife, here are five complete summer staple outfits that will work for your travels and beyond. And they can all fit in your carry-on. Summer Travel Outfits Under $100 Tanming 2-Piece Knit Lounge Set, $36 (was $40) Odoly Cork Sandals, $25 (was $30) Sojo Round Polarized Sunglasses, $16 (was $20) Yesno Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress, $40 Upopby One-Piece Swimsuit, $34 For the Flight One buyer raved that this lounge set was "elegant, comfortable, and breathable" for their 15-hour flight. The knit material helps keep you warm while the short sleeves and split hems allow enough airflow to help prevent you from getting too hot. Plus, it comes in 12 colors and is totally chic enough to wear out and about when you're done flying. Pair the lounge set with these canvas sneakers that come in 35 colors and have cushioned insoles. One happy customer took them on a vacation and said they were "super comfortable" even while walking "a ton." And if you're looking for a new personal item for the flight, this zippered quilted tote will fit neatly under the plane seat but can carry your laptop, water bottle, and tons more in the multiple interior and exterior pockets. Plus, as one reviewer noted in their five-star review, it's lightweight and can slip over your suitcase handle for easy carrying. Tanming 2-Piece Knit Lounge Set Rocket Dog Comfort Plush Foam Sneaker Bagsmart Lightweight Quilted Tote For City Strolling Throw on these linen pants for an elevated casual look while doing city sightseeing. They come in 25 colors in sizes XS to 5XL. Pair them with this comfy T-shirt that has chic lace detailing on the sleeves and comes in 18 colors. And if you're going to be walking around a lot, you'll need a shoe that both looks good and feels good. These adjustable cork sandals come in 11 colors and are designed to mold to your foot to provide custom cushioning and arch support. One happy shopper raved that they were "so comfy and they don’t rub and give you blisters when you walk around." Finish off the look with some polarized sunglasses. These come in 15 colors and have more than 1,500 five-star reviews. LNX Drawstring Linen Pants Automet Short-Sleeve Lace Top Odoly Cork Sandals Sojos Round Polarized Sunglasses For Date Night Dinners This flowy maxi dress comes in 33 colors and patterns—including many floral ones that would look great for a vacation date night and beyond. The dress is sure to pair well with these block heel mules that come in 14 colors. The heels are designed to be super comfortable with a padded insole and a subtle 2.25-inch heel. Shoppers confirm they’re "very easy to walk in." Complete the outfit with this cute straw clutch that can be converted into a crossbody with the included strap. And throw on this stack of 14-karat gold-filled bracelets for a bit of added glam. Yesno Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress Dream Pairs Strappy Block Heel Sandals Cookooky Straw Handbag For a Day Hike Workout dresses are trendy for a reason. They make for cute athleisure, but they also perform well for vacation activities. This one comes in 17 colors and is the perfect garment for hiking because you just have to pack one item. One shopper praised its soft, but supportive material, and another added that “it’s comfortable for working out, hiking, kayaking, everyday errands and walking around. It’s gorgeous, doesn’t show sweat, [it’s] airy, and feels comfortable all over.” Grab these slip-on sneakers to go with the dress. They come in 10 colors and are designed to be breathable with a memory foam insole for added comfort. One happy buyer who took them hiking said they were so lightweight that "it almost feels like you're not wearing anything." And you can carry all your hiking essentials in this 4.7-star rated belt bag that's water resistant and has several pockets for safely storing your items. Ewedoos Athletic Dress with Built-in Bra & Shorts Keezmz Slip-On Sneakers Pander Belt Bag For the Beach For a fun beach (or pool) day, check out this highly rated swimsuit with over 2,300 five-star reviews. It comes in 25 colors in sizes 6 to 18 with pretty front ruching. "Very flattering," one buyer said, adding that the suit "held up for five trips to Mexico." When you're done swimming, you can throw on this cute cover up you can wear to a beachside bar or hotel spa. The button-up is designed to be breathable and lightweight for use even on hot days. Complete the look with a roomy woven tote bag and these nonslip rubber flip flops. As one happy customer noted, it's easy to wash any sand off the shoes and they dry quickly, making them ideal for beach days. Upopby One-Piece Swimsuit Ekouaer Swimsuit Cover Up Trifabricy Large Straw Beach Bag
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Vacations are relaxing, but packing for them? Not so much. Between decision fatigue, trying to fit everything in your suitcase, and doing all that last-minute laundry, it’s not an ideal way to kick off your time away. But knowing the right packing method—and a few pro-approved tips and tricks—can change everything. We asked a professional packer (yes, a professional packer) and luggage designers how they pack their own clothes, as well as their secrets for fitting everything in their suitcases for a less stressful and more stylish trip. Lorenza Bellora, founder of My Style Bags, a Milan-based brand known for its high-quality, customizable travel and lifestyle accessories Brianna Apple, content creator and professional packer specializing in helping families pack for camp, college, and boarding school Niklas Oppermann, luggage designer and co-founder of Carl Friedrik 01 of 12 Start With the Right Bag According to luggage designer Lorenza Bellora, choosing the right bag is like choosing the right travel companion. “There’s no one-size-fits-all rule," she says. "It really depends on the kind of journey you’re about to take. For longer holidays or multi-activity trips, I go for a medium-to-large bag with inner compartments. But for a spontaneous getaway or a weekend escape, a structured duffel is always my go-to.” On the other hand, content creator and professional packer Brianna Apple suggests assembling what you need to pack before choosing a bag. “Pull everything out onto the couch or wherever you pack (I always have a designated packing corner), and get everything finalized, so that everything you’re bringing is all in one spot," she says. "Once you see how much stuff you’re bringing, choose a suitcase accordingly. Bigger is not always better.” 02 of 12 Plan Outfits Around Your Itinerary Being specific and intentional about what you pack ensures you won’t forget anything. Apple says she starts by going through her itinerary, then pulling what she’s considering wearing based on her plans. “Once it’s all laid out, I build outfits around each day and put anything I’m not bringing back in my closet," she says. "I try to keep looks simple and rely on accessories to switch things up so I can rewear pieces and pack less.” Still not sure if you should bring something? Luggage designer Niklas Oppermann explains there are only two categories of things you should bring on any trip: those that are versatile and those that are necessary. “If it doesn’t earn its place in the bag with versatility or necessity, it doesn’t come.” 03 of 12 Pack Around Your Favorite Clothing and Accessories If there’s something you're excited about wearing or have purchased for your trip, Apple recommends prioritizing outfits around those things. “If there are specific pieces you’re set on bringing, whether it’s a purse, a pair of shoes, or a certain top, build outfits around those first, and use those accessories to switch up other looks too," she says. "It’s all about stretching your staples and making them work multiple ways.” 04 of 12 Plan From Day to Night Apple tells me it’s best to start with daytime outfits. “Then repeat the process for night outfits, move on to pajamas, undergarments, and anything else you need to bring.” 05 of 12 Place Heavier Items First Don’t just throw everything in your luggage. According to Apple, heavier and bulkier items such as sweaters and jeans should go in first. “Then, fill in the rest like a puzzle," she suggests. 06 of 12 Hide Your Socks Socks might seem small, but they can take up valuable space. However, there is an easy but game-changing solution to this: “I always tuck socks into shoes to save space,” Apple says. 07 of 12 Don’t Fold—Roll Everyone has a finite amount of luggage space and probably more clothing than can fit in it. “Roll everything, even underwear," Apple suggests. "It saves way more space than you think and makes it easier to fit everything else.” 08 of 12 Consider Packing Cubes Whether you're going on a long or short trip, Oppermann advises staying organized with packing cubes. “Even when I’m only away for a night or two with just a backpack, I still use them," he says. "They’re brilliant for saving space, keeping things organized—like separating clean clothes from worn ones—and they minimize creasing when you unpack.” 09 of 12 Avoid Overweight Luggage Fees One of the easiest ways to avoid overweight luggage charges is to, you guessed it, weigh your luggage beforehand. You can use a regular scale you have at home, but then you might end up with an overweight bag on your return flight. So, investing in a portable luggage scale is a smart idea. They're usually inexpensive and take up less space than a candy bar. Apple recommends putting heavier items like shoes, hair tools, and handbags in your carry-on because it will free up more room in your suitcase. “I also use the purses I’m bringing to store small things like jewelry and sunglasses,” she says. 10 of 12 Shake Your Bag Down for More Space Apple’s trick for fitting every last thing into your suitcase is brilliant. “Zip the suitcase shut, then stand it up and gently bang or shake the bottom against the floor to shift everything downward," she says. "Do the same with the side of the suitcase, [and] you’ll be shocked how much space opens up at the top!” 11 of 12 Use a Garment Bag for More Formal Items If you're traveling for business or a formal event, Bellora suggests using a garment bag to make sure your clothing stays unwrinkled and on a hanger. “It keeps clothes perfectly pressed on their hanger, ready to wear upon arrival," she says. 12 of 12 Pack Before You Shop “People love to shop before vacations (who doesn’t?), but that’s usually what leads to overpacking,” Apple says. “I always suggest fully packing first, as if you’re not allowed to buy anything, so you can see what you actually have. Then, if you still need something, buy with intention instead of impulse. It’s also a great way to stay on budget!”
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In just a couple of weeks, summer will be in full swing, and if you have any travel plans, you’ll need products that will save you some serious packing space. No matter where you’re going, these space-saving travel essentials from Amazon’s Luggage and Travel Gear store will help you maximize your luggage room. You can score packing cubes, pill organizers, and TSA-approved toiletry bottles to neatly pack your clothing, personal items, and beauty products. Several of these items are on sale, too, with prices starting at just $6. Space-Saving Travel Finds Under $30 at Amazon Bagsmart Toiletry Travel Bag, $15 (was $23) Cozy Essential Travel Vacuum Bag Set, $22 (was $25) Mrsdry Travel Bottle Set, $8 (was $10) Bagail Packing Cube Set, $18 (was $25) Quuejenl Portable Travel Steamer, $20 (was $30) Benevolence LA Plush Velvet Jewelry Box, $25 Holii Travel Pill Organizer, $6 Napfun Memory Foam Neck Pillow, $16 (was $22) Trubetter 10-Piece Portable Folding Hanger Pack, $10 (was $17) Fyy Tech Travel Organizer, $10 (was $13) Bagsmart Toiletry Travel Bag Keep all of your mini skincare, haircare, and makeup products in one place with this best-selling toiletry bag. The spacious organizer is designed with four compartments to neatly store your belongings, each one complete with a clear front so you can see your items. The water-resistant organizer also has a fold-out design with a metal hook that can be hung on a closet door or rack, and packed tightly when not in use. Cozy Essential Travel Vacuum Bag Set These No.1 best-selling travel bags with more than 48,100 five-star ratings come with an electric air pump to seal your things into tightly compressed packs, saving you bag room. The set comes with eight bags, ranging from small to jumbo sizes, so you can pack your undergarments, tops and pants, and outerwear. The bags can be used to neatly store away your seasonal clothing and bedding, too, making the most of your closet space. Mrsdry Travel Bottle Set Instead of having to check a bag to pack full-sized shampoo, lotion, and body wash, you can condense your personal products into these refillable 3-ounce bottles. Each container is made with a leak-proof silicone and top that locks securely into place, so you don’t have to worry about spills. The pack comes with four TSA-approved bottles and a clear bag to keep handy in your carry-on. Continue scrolling to see more space-saving travel essentials under $30, and head to Amazon’s Luggage and Travel Gear hub to browse through the entire assortment of products. Bagail Packing Cube Set Quuejenl Portable Travel Steamer Benevolence LA Plush Velvet Jewelry Box Holii Travel Pill Organizer Napfun Memory Foam Neck Pillow
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