There are so many reasons not to check your luggage and go carry-on only. After all, the cost of a plane ticket rarely includes a checked bag these days. Packing lightly can also be easier for those traveling with kids or pets. Lastly, it eliminates the risk of the airline losing your luggage. But packing with carry-on luggage poses its own challenges. You need to limit what you pack yet make sure you have enough for your trip. It’s also crucial any cosmetics comply with TSA rules and regulations. Ready to get on board? Here’s how to travel with carry-on luggage only. Start With the Right Luggage An expandable rolling carry-on suitcase is ideal. Even if you aren’t an over-packer or you don’t really shop on vacation, it gives you options. BÉIS president Adeela Hussain Johnson suggests the BÉIS Carry-On Roller because not only is it expandable, but it also has a cushioned handle for comfort, a strap for attaching another bag, and 360-degree wheels. It even has a weight indicator, which is a major help if you decide to check it at the last minute. Have a Packing Strategy Be realistic about what you’ll actually wear on the trip. “Leave your entire closet at home—pack outfits by day and reuse a few bottoms, so you can stay light. You know you’re not changing three times in a day and you definitely don’t need that one outfit you haven’t worn in three years,” Johnson says. Get Organized With Packing Cubes Johnson tells me packing cubes in several different sizes are the most efficient way to pack. “Roll everything that can be rolled at the bottom of the largest packing cube and flat pack anything that is bulky on top of the rolled items. Zip up the packing cube and place it into the zip side of the roller.” She suggests putting shoes at the bottom of your luggage where it’s uneven. Then stash any additional footwear in shoe bags on the side of the large packing cube. Pack Cosmetics Wisely You don’t need to take your entire makeup collection with you. One day and one night look should suffice for most people. Then opt for multitasking beauty products. For example, choose a foundation or moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Bring a cleansing balm because it eliminates the need for additional eye makeup remover. Don’t Forget Your One Personal Item In addition to your carry-on bag, many airlines allow one personal item. Take advantage of this by using a large tote bag so you can bring as much as possible. Then put a bag with essentials inside that bag. Johnson likes the BÉIS On The Go Essentials Case because it's transparent, so you don’t have to uncomfortably rummage through your main bag when looking for earbuds in a tight space. Consider Shipping Your Luggage If you’re going away for a longer trip but want to bring a minimal amount of luggage, shipping your luggage in advance is always an option. Considering the cost of checked luggage these days, shipping isn’t exorbitantly more expensive.
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Even with the best luggage, why does packing always seem like more of a chore than it needs to be? It can be a tedious task on its own, sure, but a lot of packing stress likely stems from the anxiety of not really knowing what you're going to need when you get to wherever you're going. (What if it rains the whole time? What if your luggage gets lost? What if you don't end up doing half of what your itinerary originally said you'd be doing?) We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to somehow, miraculously, pack only exactly what we might need—no more, no less—and keep things wrinkle-free in the process. Here are some helpful packing techniques to ease the burden of filling your suitcase or travel bag efficiently and keeping your clothing in tip-top shape while en route. The Best Ways to Pack Your Clothes Think Big, Then Edit Gather all the garments you anticipate needing—then put half of them back. For a five-day trip, you'll likely need five shirts, two pairs of slacks or jeans, and one skirt, says Kathleen Ameche, author of The Woman Road Warrior. If going to cooler climates, save your bulkier outwear, like a puffer coat, to travel in. The standard regulation carry-on luggage fits roughly two pairs of jeans, three sweaters, two dresses, and five shirts. Pack With a Palette If you have a color you like to wear like navy blue, black, or pink (you do you!) stick with it. Pick a color range and pack tops, and bottoms that all fit within it. It'll give you more options for mixing and matching, which means more outfits! Pack Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics If you can, choose knits, wools, and cottons because these fabrics tend to resist wrinkles and be versatile (some garments can do double duty, like yoga pants that moonlight as pajamas). Roll and Fold Items Using a bit of each packing technique is the most efficient way to get things into your suitcase. Roll softer garments and fold stiffer ones. Underwear, T-shirts, jeans, cotton pants, and knitwear won't wrinkle when rolled tightly, says Judy Gilford, author of The Packing Book. Stiffer fabrics, such as starched cotton shirts, blazers, dressy pants, and skirts, should be carefully folded. Arrange Clothing Thoughtfully Place your softer, rolled items at the bottom of your suitcase first. Next comes your folded garments: For your middle layer, start with the longest items, like skirts and nice pants. Stack the garments on top of each other, alternating waists with hems. Lay them the length of your suitcase, draping leftover fabric over the opposite end. (This conserves space since thick waistbands won't be piled on top of one another.) Wrap the draping ends of the pile into the center. Next, lay collars of shorter items, like shirts, at the hinge with the ends over the handles. Fold the collars and ends over once and fold the arms in. Finally, snake belts around the perimeter of the bag so they take up as little room as possible (and add another layer of snugness around these three layers). Cover the Pile With a Dry-Cleaning Bag Because of the dry-cleaning bag's slippery surface, folded clothes don't stay in one place long enough for creases to set. Easy upgrade: Place a bag between each layer of clothing. To get to a certain layer easily, simply pull the ends of the bag up on either side. Place Clothes You'll Need First at the Top This could be anything from a dress to a bathing suit to pajamas, depending on where you're going, what time you arrive, and what the plan is when you get there. How to Pack Shoes Follow the Rule of Three Consider one casual sandal or loafer, sneakers, and an evening shoe to be your holy trinity. "Because of their shapes and heels, shoes take up the most room," says Marybeth Bond, author of 50 Best Girlfriends Getaways. Wear the heaviest, bulkiest pair and pack the other two. Have Your Shoes Do Some Work Depending on how clean your shoes are, stuff them with other items like socks, sunglasses, and electronics chargers, says Anita Dunham-Potter, a cruise columnist for MSNBC.com. This will end up saving you a bit of room here and there. Place Shoes Into One-Gallon-Size Resealable Bags Then set them along the sides of the bag, says Gilford. This will keep dirt and germs from your shoes from getting onto your packed clean clothes. Invest in Shoe Cubes If you've already gotten on the packing cube train, kick it up a notch (literally) with shoe cubes. These flexible water-resistant packs have a collapsible divider, so you can safely stash your heels and sneakers (no scuffing!). How to Pack Toiletries and Beauty Products Opt for Travel-Size Multitasksers Choose a tinted moisturizer that serves as foundation, a soap, and shampoo in one, and wipes that clean hands and face. (If you're flying with a carry-on bag, check current regulations for liquids at tsa.gov.) Group Similar Products in Sealed Resealable Bags Designate one bag for cosmetics, one for hair products, and one for skin-related items. Tuck the bags in the side corners of your suitcase or in a zippered outside pocket. Keep Perfumes Safe in Your Socks If you can't travel without your signature scent, wrap up your perfume bottles in a pair of thick socks. This not only saves space, but it provides a safe place for the delicate glass packaging to not break. How to Pack Jewelry Stow Inexpensive Pieces in a Seven-Day Plastic Pillbox Or store them in a 35-millimeter film container lined with tissue. If you must take precious gems, wear them during your travels to reduce the risk of loss or theft, suggests Gilford. How to Pack Fragile Objects or Breakables Use Clothing as Padding Wrap fragile items in thick, sturdy clothing. Place them in the center of your bag surrounded by a buffer, says Laura McHolm, co-founder of NorthStar Moving, a Los Angeles–based company that relocates 5,000 people (and their precious porcelain) each year. If you're carting liquor bottles, secure them in the bottom center of your bag. If you have beach towels, this would be a good place to use them. How to Pack Dirty Laundry Shrink It Jessica Ellis, a graphic designer who travels between New York City and Chicago every other week, piles clothing into packing bags and cubes. "Zipper them, and they take out 80 percent of the volume." Warning: This can have wrinkly consequences, so if the clothes don't yet require laundering, lay them flat and place fabric-softener sheets between them. Consider your fresh-smelling clothes a welcome-home present. Important Things to Remember While Packing Check Your Airline's Luggage Weight Limit Even though there are plenty of hacks for efficiently packing in as many items as possible into your suitcase, it's always important to to check your airline's weight limit before taking it to the airport. Most airlines allow up to 50 pounds for a standard bag, but double check with yours to be sure. Follow the TSA Carry-On Luggage Rules Checked bag versus carry-on bag packing follows very different procedures. If you're packing a carry-on remember the 3-1-1 rule: you’re allowed filled containers no larger than 3.4 ounces, or 100 milliliters, in a 1-quart bag.1 https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-aerosols-gels-rule Anything larger should be put in a checked bag. Also, remember to empty your water bottle before you head through security!
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Going on vacation is all fun and games until you get to the packing portion of the trip. At that point, it quickly becomes a game of “What can I bring?” and “What must I sadly leave behind?” Traveling with makeup is particularly challenging, especially with TSA’s rules on liquid sizes and the propensity for your most prized products to break or leak. You’ve also got to think about things like climate variation and how your skin might react while also trying to keep your regimen somewhat normal so your skin doesn’t freak. With practice and planning, though, you can get really good at editing down all your beauty essentials without over or under-packing. To help you cover all the bases when it comes to traveling with makeup, we asked experts to share their best tips. 01 of 15 Invest in a Great Makeup Case First thing’s first: You’ve got to have a great place to store your beauty loot when traveling with makeup. Look for a bag that’s big enough to house all your essentials, is leak-proof, keeps you organized, and is easy to clean, advises Sydney Morgan, beauty content creator. The Calpak Medium Clear Cosmetics Case is a great pick. 02 of 15 Choose Cosmetics Bags That Serve Double Duty If chosen well, your makeup bag can be so much more. "Some can double as small clutch or evening purse in a pinch," says Anne McAlpin, packing expert at PackItUp.com. "I love the 'free' ones from cosmetic specials like Clinique and Lancôme. Bright colored bags make it easy to find your makeup in your bag." 03 of 15 Put Makeup Brushes & Tools in Their Own Bag Makeup brushes are an investment, so it only makes sense to look after them well. “I keep my tools in a dedicated case,” notes Jenny Patinkin, professional makeup artist and founder of Jenny Patinkin Eco-Luxe Beauty Tools. This helps protect the bristles and keeps things more sanitary, too. To save even more space, choose a makeup bag that has a compartment you can dedicate specifically to tools and brushes. 04 of 15 Keep a Few Items in Your Purse Lost luggage happens every once in a while, so travel with confidence by having a cosmetic backup plan, says Brittany Lo, a professional makeup artist and founder of Beia. She says, “Always keep two to three essentials with you in your purse, just in case your luggage doesn’t make it or in case you need to reapply before you get the chance to unpack.” For example, a lightweight BB cream or foundation, cream blush, and mascara. When in doubt, identify your “desert island” essentials and pack those. 05 of 15 Opt For Multitasking Makeup Saving space is a must when traveling with makeup, so take advantage of multitasking products. “I do like to steamline when I travel,” notes Patinkin. “[For example], Packing a bronzer that can double as contour, a buildable cheek color, and a buildable foundation for simple daytime application or more dramatic evening looks, one four-pan eyeshadow palette that can be used a lot of different ways, and keeping as few brushes with me as possible.” 06 of 15 Don’t Switch Up Your Routine Too Much It’s tempting to pack all those tiny, travel products since they’re conveniently sized, but switching up your beauty routine too much isn’t ideal. “Your body likes consistency,” notes Matthew Waitesmith, a professional makeup artist with Artis. “If you mostly maintain your same makeup routine while traveling, your body will be less likely to overreact to all the environmental changes involved with travel.” Not to mention, a chill vacation isn’t necessarily a great time to experiment with a tricky new felt liner or foundation formula. You want reliability and ease. 07 of 15 Underfill to Reduce the Risk of Leaks Leaking liquid makeup is not just a big mess—it can mean you lose a lot of your product, too. McAlpin has a little trick that has kept her leak-free. "Only fill liquids three-quarters full, then squeeze out the air and secure the lid. A change in air pressure can cause liquids to expand, creating leaks." By not filling it to the brim, you leave room and reduce the chance of leaks. (But pack it inside a resealable plastic bag just in case!) 08 of 15 Decant Larger Items Whether you’re checking a bag or sticking to a carry-on, it’s wise to consolidate your products to save space and minimize the potential for messes. If any of your liquid products are over 3.4 ounces—the TSA cutoff size—decant them in a travel-size container. Alternatively, buy the travel-sized versions of your faves, Lo suggests. When you run out of the travel-size product, you can refill the packaging with your full-size product. 09 of 15 Protect Delicate Makeup The pain of seeing your favorite powder products broken is real. Avoid the distress by packing delicate items very well. You can do so with a fine bubble wrap (avoid anything too bulky). It also helps to “sandwich” your makeup bag, says Morgan. “Put your makeup bag in the middle of your suitcase with clothes surrounding it,” she says. “This sounds super funny, but it is the best way to keep things from shifting around and breaking. I typically like to put it in the middle with clothes underneath and on all sides. This has helped to avoid breakage.” 10 of 15 Consider the Climate While you don’t want to completely switch up your makeup routine, do take the climate into account. For example, if you’re heading somewhere really humid or plan to splash around in the ocean, swap in some waterproof makeup. Or if it’s going to be dry or hot, pack a face mist that helps set your makeup and keep your skin looking dewy all day. 11 of 15 Bring A Couple “Special Occasion” Items Along with your go-to makeup and skincare products, Waitesmith recommends packing a few makeup items that you associate with special occasions, such as a bold lipstick color or a pretty eyeshadow quad. He says, “You may want to be a bit more extravagant with your makeup colors or intensity to celebrate the special environment—like for a candlelight dinner.” 12 of 15 Pack a Compact Lighted Mirror “The lighting in your hotel or other accommodation mirror is unfamiliar, so it can be hard to judge whether the color or texture of the product you're using feels like it's flattering,” notes Patinkin. She says that a lighted makeup mirror can help squash this issue real fast. Choose one that’s slender and stands up on its own or has suction cups that adhere to a flat surface mirror. 13 of 15 Think Vertical McAlpin swears by hanging-style personal care kits. "Many European and boutique hotels have minimal counter space, so these bags are great for keeping essentials close at hand without items falling off pedestal sinks and breaking on tile floors." 14 of 15 Repurpose Containers Travel-specific containers are great, but you can get creative with what you use. "I use contact lens holders for small amounts of primer, eye moisturizer, etc.," McAlpin says. "Just label it with permanent marker on the lid." 15 of 15 Find Ways to Minimize Liquids If you're traveling carry-on only, your space for liquids is limited. While solid beauty and makeup products have become an important part of travel packing, McAlpin has some other ideas for carrying on her favorites. For fragrance, for instance, you can soak cotton balls with fragrance and pack in small leak-proof containers.
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Whether you're crashing with a friend for convenience, invited for a leisurely stay at a cousin's summer home, or headed to your future in-laws' place for the first overnight visit, house guest etiquette matters. And if you've ever hosted family or friends for an extended stay, you know just how refreshing a well-behaved, respectful, game, and grateful house guest is—and how exhausting a not-so-awesome one can be. Here are 14 house guest etiquette rules to follow, no matter who you're staying with or how long you plan to be there. (Trust us, this is how you get invited back.) 01 of 14 Be Clear About How Long You're Staying Make sure you clear the duration of you stay with your hosts as far in advance as possible—at their invitation, of course. Don't be vague or hope to extend your stay once you arrive. Of course, there is a chance they might extend an offer, but don't make assumptions. If your BFF says they'll be busy after Labor Day, book your return ticket to leave a full day before so they have some time to themselves. The last thing you want to do is take advantage of your host. There's an old saying that houseguests are like fish, and start to stink after three days—so you may want to keep your visit brief to ensure you're exciting, not exhausting. 02 of 14 Don't Show Up Unannounced It's never a good idea to show up without notice—or, even worse, to show up with a pet, child, significant other, or friend (even if it's a mutual friend) in tow, unless you've cleared it with your host beforehand. You may call it spontaneous and fun, but your cousin and their spouse may call it inconvenient. 03 of 14 Travel as Light as Possible Try to avoid overpacking for your visit, to help minimize the amount of stuff your hosts need to store. (This is especially important if they don't have a dedicated guest room and you're using their bedroom or a sofa bed in the main space.) If you need to bring some larger items (like a portable crib for your baby or sports equipment), be sure to give them a heads up so they're ready to accommodate it. 04 of 14 Bring a Thoughtful Gift A grateful guest always brings their host a gift—a little something to show their gratitude. However, there's no need to haul something huge or extravagant all the way there. A local treat from your hometown bakery, a beautiful coffee table book, flowers, a nice candle, or bottle of wine all work perfectly. Headed to someone's vacation house? Get them something on theme: beach towels or a cocktail-themed gift would be perfect. 05 of 14 Follow House Rules When you arrive, gently inquire about how things are done to avoid any misunderstandings. What time does everyone usually wake up and go to bed? Anything you should know about the kids or pets? Should you leave the thermostat alone? Pick up on other house rules by being in tune with your hosts. This could mean observing whether or not you should take your shoes off indoors or if you should keep your phone away from the dinner table. Also, refrain from finishing the coffee or milk (but if you do, replace it). 06 of 14 Limit Your Phone Use Spending too much time with your face in a screen will make your hosts feel like they're boring you (and, honestly, you might be boring them). It makes your company feel like there's somewhere else you'd rather be, or someone else you'd rather be spending time with. Try to limit screen time and only check emails, texts, and social media in the privacy of your own room. 07 of 14 Act More Appropriate Than Usual Before you walk down the hall in only a towel, curse, tell inappropriate jokes, or come downstairs for breakfast in your PJs, take cues from your host. When in doubt, err on the side of modesty. If you're planning a dinner out with your hosts, ask what attire is appropriate for the restaurant (e.g. no jeans) so you can pack accordingly. 08 of 14 Be Extremely Helpful Unhelpful guests are rarely invited back. Things you should offer to do: Help prep or cook meals; set the table and do the dishes; offer to drive; occupy the kids while their parents take a well-deserved nap; fix a little something around the house if you have the skills; or take the dog for a walk. Even if you're turned down, the hosts will appreciate the gesture. Things you should do without asking for a thumbs up: Clear your dishes when you're done eating; buy some groceries and maybe the fixings for cocktails; get your own kids out of the house for an hour or two; fill up the tank if you borrow the car; strip your sheets at the end of your stay (unless you're told otherwise). 09 of 14 Be (at Least Somewhat) Self-Sufficient Your hosts might be happy to see a Broadway show or the Lincoln Memorial for the third time, but they may also choose to get some things done while you are out and about. Your friend might actually be working during the day, so being able to entertain yourself will be a godsend for both of you. If you're staying for more than three days, call up other friends who live in the city, bring some work of your own to do, or be okay exploring on your own. Let your host know your plans and when you think you will get back. 10 of 14 Bring Your Own Toiletries Don't expect to use any of your hosts' toiletries or other items. If you realize you've forgotten to pack toothpaste, inquire about where you can buy a new tube. They'll likely be happy to offer theirs, but first demonstrate that you're not a mooch. 11 of 14 Bring Your Own Ideas Hosting can be a lot of work—from getting the house ready to making sure everyone is comfortable throughout the stay. Often, visitors also expect hosts to plan activities for everyone. So, one great way you could lessen the burden on your gracious host is to arrive ready with a list of ideas of things you might want to do or see—or even where you might want to eat. That way, they won't feel solely responsible for keeping you entertained during your trip. 12 of 14 Restock the Groceries You Used A good host will likely make sure you've always got something to eat and drink while you're staying with them. Before you leave, it'd be a great idea to replace some of the items you consumed during your stay and help restock your host's pantry. For example, maybe you used their honey or milk every morning for you tea or coffee. Even if they told you to help yourself, replacing the honey, milk, tea, coffee, and other items like that would be a super nice—and definitely appreciated—gesture. 13 of 14 Leave Things Cleaner Than You Found Them If there's one thing to take away from these etiquette tips, it should be this: Leave the place as clean as possible. The last thing you want is for your host to have to hire a cleaner after your stay. On your last day, triple-check the bedroom and bathroom for your belongings. Strip the sheets and put them in a pillowcase at the foot of the bed. Do a quick wipe-down of the counters in the bathroom for toothpaste, extra cups, or loose hair. And, of course, return any items to their place, like a book you borrowed from the bookshelf. 14 of 14 Say Thank You Thank your host three times: when you arrive, when you're about to leave, and once more after you've gone with a handwritten thank-you note. Here, an email won't cut it. Throw in a specific detail about how much fun you had doing a certain activity, how hard you laughed at a particular story, or how delicious a specific meal was. Finish with an offer to open up your own home next time. For an optional but memorable thank you, pick up a fresh bouquet of flowers and leave them in a vase on the kitchen counter with your note before you leave. Otherwise, mail your card within two or three days of your visit.
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If you plan on stress-free traveling during the holiday season, it's common knowledge to book flights early—airports are notorious for being packed during peak travel periods. Wherever you choose to go, booking early could make the difference between a happy holiday and a stressful (and more expensive) one. But how early? And what else can you do to save money? To help, we've gathered tips from expert travelers on how to snag the best airline prices during the holidays. When to Buy Airline Tickets for the Holidays The best time to book tickets is ASAP if you want to save money on holiday travel. However, vacation times and holidays can be hard to plan, so aim to book flights by October 31st for travel during Thanksgiving and Christmas. "After Halloween, prices will increase considerably as Thanksgiving gets closer," says Phil Dengler, a travel expert and the co-owner of travel resource site The Vacationer. Book 3 Weeks Ahead Domestic flight prices can spike 40%—about $400 per round trip—from the end of October to the week before Thanksgiving, according to Adit Damodaran, an economist at Hopper. And waiting until the last week for both Thanksgiving and Christmas can cost more than $500 round-trip, Damodaran says. "In general, booking domestic flights three weeks in advance (or by Thanksgiving at the latest) should help travelers avoid the biggest price spikes," Damodaran explains. Book Mid-Week The day of the week you book tickets can make a difference, too. Book flights in the middle of the week for lower prices. "The best time to book airfare is usually mid-week—[fewer] people are searching for flights so [prices] tend to dip from Tuesday to the end of Wednesday," says money-saving expert Andrea Woroch. But flight prices during the holiday season will get more expensive the longer you wait, regardless of which day of the week you buy them. "If you aren't sure exactly what your plans are, you may be able to book a portion of your flight to get the best deal on at least one leg of your trip," says Woroch. Booking Tips to Save More Money on Holiday Travel Booking your holiday travel in advance isn't the only way to save. Here are some more expert-backed tips to save money that's better spent on holiday gifts and family meals around the holidays. Be Flexible on Flying Days "Ultimately, [flights require] a bit of searching, so review airfare prices based on a 30-day schedule to find the best deal," says Woroch. One way to save money on plane tickets is to fly on the day of the holiday. Based on recent years, you can save about $50 if you travel on Thanksgiving day instead of the day before, according to travel search site KAYAK. Being flexible with your travel dates can help find the best airfare prices: "It's better to be open to traveling based on when you can score cheaper airline tickets, which will fall ahead or before a holiday," Woroch adds. The day immediately after a holiday can be pricier for return flights, too, so it may make more financial sense to wait another day or two. Track Flight Prices in Advance Doing your research, comparing flight deals, and being on the lookout for when prices drop are key to finding reasonable airfare for holiday travel. One way to do this is to monitor flight prices using a tracker such as Google Flights, Hopper, or Skyscanner, which will alert you with deals for your route. "Set your desired route and travel dates and receive alerts when prices drop," says Janet Semenova, co-founder of travel company Boutique Travel Advisors. "Purchase flights immediately when they reach your desired threshold," she adds. Semenova recommends setting multiple alerts. Even if you aren't entirely sure about your itinerary, start tracking flight prices for your route early—and book when you find the lowest price to save money on holiday travel. Leverage Miles and Points Leveraging miles and points can also lessen the blow on your wallet around the holidays. "If you have a stash of frequent flyer miles or flexible bank points, don't forget to consider redeeming miles for your holiday travel," says Caroline Lupini, a managing editor of the credit cards and travel rewards vertical at Forbes Advisor. In fact, Lupini says that she's been able to save hundreds of dollars herself each year by scoring holiday plane tickets with miles. "If you look early enough or can be flexible, award tickets won't drain your mileage balance either," she adds. "In 2023, my holiday flights cost only 6,000 Virgin Atlantic points per ticket, and this year, I paid the low price of 7,500 American AAdvantage miles." Consider Visa Costs (and Airline Rules) Antoinette Hannan Leon, vice president of ItsEasy.com, warns international holiday travelers to be mindful of potential visa costs, which can make a family vacation or a trip to visit relatives overseas even more expensive. "Research the visa requirements of your holiday destination in advance," Leon says. "The timing for obtaining a visa depends on the country and the type of visa. Some countries allow you to apply up to six months in advance, some three months, some 30 days, and some two weeks. Also, look up passport and visa costs so you can factor them into your holiday travel budgeting." Leon also advises checking your passport expiration date and renewing it one year in advance if you can. "Some countries require that a person's passport be valid at least six months beyond the dates of their trip, and some airlines will not allow a person to board if this requirement is not met," Leon says. The airline has the power to turn you away. Use a VPN or Private Browser When Buying "In today’s online travel market, consumers often fall victim to 'dynamic pricing,' a practice where airlines and online travel agencies (OTAs) adjust prices based on your search history and browsing patterns," says Michael DeLucca, travel tech expert and founder of Otsy.com. "To avoid paying inflated rates, travelers should consider using a VPN (virtual private network) or private-browsing mode on their web browsers." By masking your browsing activity, a VPN or incognito mode prevents travel sites from being able to easily track your interest in a specific flight. Therefore, they can't raise prices after repeated searches. "A VPN offers additional advantages by allowing you to set your IP address to appear as though you’re in a different country," he adds. "This tactic can be especially useful for finding better rates, as prices often vary by region and sometimes offer substantial savings when searched from outside the country."
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Camping has become a popular way to travel while enjoying the great outdoors (and who doesn't love a good campfire s'more?). Whether you're new to camping or just looking to upgrade your gear, this camping supplies checklist contains a few key product suggestions to make sure you don't forget something essential when you're a few miles out in the wilderness. Pick and choose from this list to plan your perfect camping excursion. Glamping fans can probably cut a lot out of this list (like the toilet paper!), while National Park campers should check the "Know Before You Go" section on the park's website for additional items you might need, like bear spray or a bear-proof food container. Campsite Essentials Make sure your camping supplies checklist includes items that provide comfortable places to sit and sleep for everyone. Tent Extra stakes Sleeping bags and pillows Air mattress or sleeping pads Foldable camp chairs Foldable table Tarp Backpacks/bags for porting things in and out Small broom and dust pan Mat to wipe your feet outside your tent Camp Lighting Light your way for a night hike (or a late-night run to the restroom) with these camping essentials. Lantern Flashlights Matches or a lighter (for campfire making) Headlamps Extra batteries for the lights Glow sticks or necklaces Firewood (from a nearby source) Fire starters (kindling or a fire starter cube or packet) Make sure that you buy firewood near your camping spot—and many campsites or parks will sell you local wood. Bringing in wood from elsewhere risks transporting pests or diseases that could damage the trees and wildlife where you're camping. Clothing for Camping When you're choosing what to wear camping, think functional and lots of layers that you can add or subtract as the weather changes. Even in the summer, long pants and long-sleeved shirts might be preferable to help protect from sunburn, and ticks and mosquitos. Skip cotton fabrics in favor of moisture-wicking, SPF-laden, and quick-dry options that help keep you comfortable even if you sweat or get wet. Merino wool is a great temperature regulator that you can wear for days without worrying about smelling. Extra underwear Hiking boots or shoes Water shoes or sandals Pants Long-sleeved shirts SPF-embedded clothing Extra socks (the thicker, the better) Swimsuit Rain coat/Warm coat Fleece or cozy sweater Sunglasses Sun hat Gel-filled cooling neckerchief Personal mosquito netting Bandana If you're a favorite snack for mosquitos, a wearable screen netting can help protect you from the bugs—without having to wear hardcore mosquito repellants 24/7. Camping Kitchen Gear One of the highlights of camping can be the culinary options available to you—s'mores!—but you'll probably want more than graham crackers and marshmallows to enjoy. If you're planning to be active, it may help to pack freeze-dried meals you can easily whip up with hot water, so you don't have hangry campers waiting for the fire to be ready for cooking. Camp stove with fuel Coleman grill Pots and pans (cast iron is great!) Cooler with lots of ice Cutting board Knife Insulated water bottles Measuring Mountain potpie maker Dish pan Cooking spoon, spatula, and tongs Flatware for eating Plates and bowls Larger bowl for serving/mixing Mugs and collapsible cups Dish scrubber and towel Dish soap (biodegradable) Can/bottle opener Food storage containers Camp-friendly coffee maker Large jugs of water Trash bags Cooking oil Spices Bearproof food storage Skewers Toiletries Keep it clean while you're camping with the right tools—just make sure any products you bring are biodegradable, so they don't harm nature (or you). Sunscreen Brush or comb Soap Shampoo/conditioner Toothbrush and toothpaste Deodorant Lip balm (with SPF) Razor and shaving cream Baby/cleaning wipes Hand sanitizer Toilet paper Prescription meds Contact lens case/solution Hair ties Quick dry towel Insect repellent spray/lotion Lip balm Small, shatterproof mirror Try to minimize fragranced products, which may attract wildlife to your camp—and to you—Fragrances can attract anything from mosquitoes to bears. Just-in-Case Gear You never know when something's going to go awry when you're camping, so it's great to have some basic gear for fixing things. Duct tape First aid kit (including lots of moleskins) Multitool Wood axe or saw Menstrual products Hammer Antiseptic wipes Pain relievers Allergy medications Anti-diarrheal or antacid medications Sunburn cream Water purifiers Safety pins Scissors Small shovel Snakebite kit Camping sewing kit Leather work gloves Solar-powered chargers Extra blankets Whistle Heat-resistant leather working gloves let you chop firewood, deal with hot pots and pans, and wrangle anything else that comes your way. Fun Camping Gear The real fun of camping is all the activities you get to do. Pack along gear for outdoor adventures, games, and maybe a little campfire music-making. Frisbee or ball Compass and maps Fishing gear Field guide Binoculars Books or magazines Musical instruments Cards or games Camera Hiking poles Hammock Fanny pack Sports gear (snowshoes, kayak, etc.) Tips for Beginner Campers If you're first-timer campers, consider these tips to make your camping trip a big success. Keep it short and simple. Don't embark on a week-long backwoods adventure if you're newbies. Start off with an overnight (or two, if you're daring) in a tent or cabin and see how you like it. You might also choose a campsite close to home, so you can always head back if you realize you forgot something on your list—or you need to abort the mission due to bad weather. Practice makes perfect. Try an overnight in your backyard first, so you can learn how to assemble the tent and set up your campsite in a low-pressure setting. Leave no trace that you were there. Try to minimize your use of paper plates and other disposables, and bring trash bags to carry everything back out with you. Prepare for the weather. Nothing's worse than shivering or sweating your way through a camping trip. Be mindful of both daytime and nighttime temperatures—as you may find it gets chilly at night. Preplan your menu. Limit your use of perishables and use those first so you maximize your food safety (and don't have to worry as much about the ice in your cooler melting. Opt for shelf-stable foods like granola, and easy-to-pack fruits and veggies like apples and potatoes. And don't forget to store food away from your tent (and ideally, in a bear-safe vault), to keep animals from poking around your tent at night. Consider borrowing, renting, or buying used equipment for your first go-round. Not sure that you'll be a happy camper? See if you can borrow or buy preowned gear to try out before you invest. Some stores, like REI, will rent gear like tents, bearproof containers, and other goodies so you can be fully stocked for an occasional foray into the forest—and not have to make a big investment into camping gear.
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Getting away to a glittering sandy beach is the perfect midsummer reset—and we're pretty sure ocean air has been scientifically proven to be good for the skin and soul, right? That said, hitting the most famous tropical hotspot beaches can get expensive fast. So, if you're in need of a coastal getaway that won't bust your vacation budget, check out these beautiful, affordable beach towns right here in the United States for a seaside vacation that won't send you back home in debt. 01 of 13 Fort Lauderdale, Florida This beautiful beach is located on the southeastern coast, making it the perfect destination for a tropical feel. It's an ideal place to find fun things to do that are off the beaten path and affordable to boot—from full moon parties to mermaid shows to nighttime Everglades tours. If you're super adventurous, you can head to Island Water Sports for free surf and paddleboard lessons on Saturday mornings. If you're a nature fiend who loves horseback riding, birdwatching, tubing, and more, be sure to visit Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Did you know Fort Lauderdale is known as the Venice of America? You can take your vacation experience to a whole new level and see the sights via a water taxi. There are so many fun, free things to do in Fort Lauderdale, as well: festivals, museums, beautiful parks, and nature centers. Be sure to book your vacation between June and August for the biggest savings on hotels and flights. 02 of 13 Gulf Shores, Alabama Alabama is known for its delicious food and humid summers, but did you know that it also has some of the finest beaches in the United States? One of the best budget-friendly places to visit is Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, which offers boating, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and more. The best times to go (read: easiest on your wallet) are March to May and September to November. There are also plenty of adventurous paid activities available for prices you won't see in the more popular beach areas (looking at you, Florida). Have an exhilarating experience parasailing over the ocean blue at Blue Sky Parasail, paddleboard the day away with the help of Ike's Beach Service, or venture out onto the turquoise waters on a dolphin cruise. 03 of 13 Huntington Beach, California "An amazing place to spend your vacation, if you want a full beach experience without breaking the bank, is Huntington Beach, California," says Hannah Jones, a realtor with New Build Homes, who knows the region well. "The most amazing thing about this is that it's not overly crowded, and you can experience actual peace and tranquility rather than just navigating through a throng of tourists." Huntington Beach is well-known as a surf destination, Jones says. But if beaches are not your thing, there is also the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum, where you can see the handprints and footprints of surfing legends at the Surfers' Hall of Fame. There are tons of other free things to do, like visiting Huntington Dog Beach or walking around the Old World Village to go window shopping with entertainment around every corner. 04 of 13 Tybee Island, Georgia Who knew you could escape to an Island just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah? Tybee Island is a barrier island that has been a popular getaway since the 1800s. It offers over three miles of shimmering beaches, with magnificent palm trees swaying on the shore. It's a great place if you're searching for a more low-key destination. Tybee Island also offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience of hunting for megalodon teeth on its beaches—you read that right. You can even keep the teeth as keepsakes. You can also visit the island's Marine Science Center for just $12. Take time out to visit the Tybee Island lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse in Georgia. For the best deals, visit during September (after Labor Day) through the early part of November. 05 of 13 Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia is for beach lovers. Spend the evening watching the sun kiss the sea as you stroll down the three-mile concrete boardwalk or take a sunset dolphin kayak tour. Virginia Beach also offers one of the most unique parks around: Mount Trashmore was a former landfill that has been transformed into a gorgeous park featuring two lakes, playgrounds, a skate park, and more. There are plenty of low-cost places to see in Virginia Beach, such as the Cape Henry Lighthouse, which costs $10 to visit. Or get in touch with Mother Nature at the majestic First Landing State Park. You can swim, hike, paddleboard, and go bird watching for little or no fee. Schedule your beach-bound vacation between March and mid-May for lower rates on hotels. 06 of 13 Destin, Florida "Nestled along the Emerald Coast, Destin, Florida, is a hidden gem known for its stunningly clear waters and sugar-white sand beaches," says Michael DeLucca, founder of Otsy. "Despite its natural beauty, Destin remains an affordable destination, offering budget-friendly accommodations and a variety of activities that won't break the bank." Destin is a hub for fresh seafood, but if you'd rather enjoy fish in the water, grab a snorkel and swim around the crystal-clear waters. DeLucca also recommends exploring the pristine public-access beaches or strolling along the lively Okaloosa Island Boardwalk. The vibrant HarborWalk Village also offers fun and free experiences for visitors. "With its blend of tranquility and charm, Destin is an underrated treasure for budget-conscious travelers," DeLucca says. "There are also very reasonably priced flights into Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport as it continues to expand its flight offerings every year." 07 of 13 Folly Beach, South Carolina Charleston is known for its quaint, walkable, pastel-painted downtown filled with elegant shops, renowned restaurants, and rooftop pools at high-end hotels. What Charleston is not known for, however, is being super affordable. But if you think it's too expensive to visit, you're not looking closely enough. For some of the best beach-going around, head to the ever-affordable Folly Beach, where cheap parking is aplenty and delicious, fresh fish tacos at seaside stands will fill you up without breaking the bank. You can picnic, splash around, and even rent surfboards to get the kids hanging 10 in no time. You can rent a substantial house in or around Folly for a starting price of around $150 per night. Of course, you can always split the difference: Go glam at one of the downtown hotels—like the ever-stunning Hotel Bennett, which even offers a children's teatime in its ostentatious pink champagne bar—and use your savings for those lazy (and affordable) beach days. The best of both worlds! 08 of 13 Old Orchard Beach, Maine Not a fan of the southern heat? Head north to Old Orchard Beach to enjoy an old town with a new twist. Old Orchard Beach features New England's only oceanfront amusement park, Palace Playland, which has everything from a gondola ferris wheel to the thrilling pendulum-motion ride. Enjoy a day at the lovely pier that extends 500 feet over the ocean and is flanked by restaurants. Watch sparkling fireworks from the pier at night during the summer months, or get in touch with your inner pirate at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf. Lace up your hiking shoes and head to Cliff Walk for an advanced hike—or even do a bit of fishing if you'd like. The cheapest time to visit is in September, but you can take a great trip for less money if you avoid going during the main holiday times. 09 of 13 Naples, Florida "I highly recommend the Gulf Coast of Florida for an affordable beach getaway," says Mac Steer, the owner and director of Simify, a travel SIM company. "Towns like Naples offer lovely white sand beaches, great seafood, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. The beaches are largely undeveloped, parking is free, and hotels are reasonably priced, especially in the off-season. The natural beauty will rejuvenate your spirit." Steer spent a long weekend in Naples with family at a beachfront hotel for under $200 a night. They enjoyed perfect weather, calm turquoise waters, and incredible sunsets. They also dined on fresh seafood, strolled the pier, collected shells, and relaxed. "It was a perfect budget-friendly beach escape," Steer says. Naples has a ton to offer beyond the beach, too. Lakeside paddle tours and visits to the nearby Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary are also fun activities that aren't at the beach but that still make for refreshing days by the water. 10 of 13 Westport, Washington Whether you've always wanted to learn to surf or you're already a daily wave rider, Westport Beach in Washington is where you'll want to be. Westport has three main surf breaks that can accommodate any skill level. This cozy beach town also offers a variety of dining, from seafood to pizza and more. Get a bird's eye view of the sea and town when you climb the Westport Viewing Tower. And speaking of breathtaking views, be sure you visit Grays Harbor Lighthouse, too. Although the cheapest and least crowded time to visit is September, you can have an affordable getaway even if you go in the summer—if you plan it right. 11 of 13 Seal Beach, California Seal Beach is just a little over 20 miles from L.A. and is a great way to see SoCal in a more low-key (and affordable) location than, say, the Venice boardwalk. You can spend your days soaking up the sun, surfing, and swimming. When you're not lying by the shore, you can take a stroll down the second-largest wooden pier in the state. If you love to bike, take a spin down the San Gabriel River Bike Trail. This trail is 35 miles long and runs along the San Gabriel River. Then, satisfy your taste for sweets at the Crema Café in downtown Seal Beach; grab delectable scones, cookies, and macarons. Visit this beautiful beach town between January and March and August and November to cut costs. Simply avoiding peak season for these destinations can save you a bundle—as can booking hotels that are across the street (or all the way downtown) rather than oceanfront. The little things add up, after all—and what's the best way to afford more vacations? Prioritizing spending on the travel perks that are important to you while taking the budget route for the rest. Happy traveling! 12 of 13 Playa Buye, Puerto Rico "I’d say Puerto Rico's southwest coast is one of the best budget-friendly beach destinations in the U.S.," says Damià Fuentes Escoté, co-founder of Punta. While Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, the cost of living is significantly higher in U.S. states than in Puerto Rico. And the best of Puerto Rico is the beaches. "Playa Buye is a dreamy Caribbean white sand beach with clear waters," Fuentes says. "Grab a boat from Lajas and go to Cayo Caracoles, which is a kind of mangrove with a patch of off-shore islands. At both Playa Buye and Cayo Caracoles, you’ll find Puerto Ricans drinking Medallas and listening to reggaeton from their boats." Other things to do in the area include visiting the 1882 Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo (the lighthouse), which marks the southeast entrance from the Caribbean Sea. Other spots ideal for relaxing include Playa Sucia and La Playuela—but there are more than 300 beaches from which to choose. And if you're not up for oceanside activities anymore, you can check out the bioluminescent bays or head inland for rainforest hikes. 13 of 13 Gulfport Beach, Mississippi Mississippi is the cheapest state to live in in the United States; its cost of living index score positions it far below the national average when it comes to costs. While it's cheap to live there, it's also cheap to visit there. Dining and activities are relatively cheap compared to the rest of the country. Even if you opt for dining in, groceries are less expensive there, too. And Gulfport Beach is a beautiful spot to stay if you're headed there. Historically, Gulfport Beach was a shipping gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. Today, it's a gorgeous stretch of sand with far less foot traffic than some of the country's more popular beach destinations. The beach rarely gets crowded, so you won't need to worry about finding a spot in the free parking lot. Chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, as well as sports equipment (from volleyballs to jet skis)—but you can also take in the tranquil atmosphere or stroll the boardwalk without spending a dime.
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Road trips are fun—at least, in theory. But after a couple of hours of music, podcasts, and "I'm just going to take a quick nap while you drive," things can quickly turn boring. Sometimes you can adapt party games for the car, but they don't always translate to sitting in a moving metal box. That's where these road trip games come in. "I Spy" may have kept your attention when you were young—impressive, given that you had the attention span of a goldfish—but this list of car ride games up the ante a bit. Pick a few adult-worthy road trip games for your next long ride. 01 of 27 Spin a Story From the Past Think of this as "Who can lie better?" One player begins by telling a story about their past, and players have to guess whether they're telling the truth or spinning a tale. Each guesser gets two follow-up questions, and then it's time for an answer. Every correct answer is two points, and the first player to 10 wins. (The loser has to reveal a super-embarrassing story.) 02 of 27 Riff Off This competition involves finding a license plate with random letters and creating a word with those letters. For example, if the license plate is YMT23, the answer could be "Yosemite". Think of it as Road Trip Scrabble, but instead of taking turns, just yell when you see one and come up with a word. Other players can challenge by creating a longer word with those same letters. To up the stakes, stipulate that the letters must be in the exact order to make the word and can't be scrambled. Award two points for each winning answer and two extra points for anyone who spots a vanity plate. The winner is the first to reach 10 points. 03 of 27 Explain a Movie Plot Badly This party game also works when you're trapped in a car. One player thinks of a movie and explains its plot in a way that is factual and terrible, and the other players have to guess. The first player to guess correctly gets a point. If no one guesses correctly, the plot explainer gets a point. Our favorite: "Girl can't commit. Loses cat." (Yep, Breakfast at Tiffany's!) 04 of 27 Essentially the Same Movie In another film-related game, a player starts by naming a movie. The next player has to name another movie that has the same basic plot. For example, Pretty in Pink and Some Kind of Wonderful, or No Strings Attached and Friends with Benefits. Players continue to take turns naming flicks with essentially the same narrative until someone gets stumped—the last person to come up with a film that fits wins. Start with your favorite kid movies if you're having trouble thinking of movie plots. 05 of 27 Radio Roulette This is essentially a road trip game of Name That Tune. Flip among radio stations until you hear a song (presets work best), and let it play for 15 seconds. Players are challenged to name that song and its artist, earning one point for each, with an extra point for naming its album. The first one to reach 15 points wins. 06 of 27 Mad Libs You know Mad Libs, that hilarious word game that solicits nouns, adjectives, and verbs from players to create an imaginative narrative. If you plan ahead, you can access a free printable Funny Mad Libs For Adults to take with you on the road. (Don't forget to bring a pen!) If you're not a fan of pre-technology, whip out a smartphone and play WordLibs online for free, with no app or downloads required. You can even create your own stories! 07 of 27 Fortunately, Unfortunately To start this storytelling game, one player makes a declarative statement that begins with "Fortunately..." For example, "Fortunately, on this highway, we will soon pass a cool roadside attraction." The next player must follow up with an "unfortunately" statement such as "Unfortunately, the attraction is a giant booger." The subsequent player must give a "fortunately" statement, and so on as you go from player to player. Switch from "fortunately" to "unfortunately" statements until everyone runs out of steam. 08 of 27 Snack the Rainbow Along your road trip route, plan to stop at seven gas stations. At each station, find a snack that's a specific color of the rainbow. (Remember, it's ROYGBIV!) You can only get one snack item per gas station. 09 of 27 Famous Names For this road trip game, someone starts by saying the first and last names of a famous person. The next player must name another famous person whose first name starts with the first letter of the previous celebrity's last name. For example, Justin Bieber leads to Billy Crystal. Billy Crystal leads to Catherine O'Hara. Catherine O'Hara leads to Owen Wilson, and so on. If a player is stumped, they're out, and the group moves on to the next player. 10 of 27 Road Sign Alphabet Game Each player must find a word on a road sign that starts with the letter A, then a word that starts with B, and so on through the alphabet. Once a player has claimed a word, the other players can't use that word. Whoever gets to the end of the alphabet first wins. 11 of 27 Road Trip Trivia For each city you pass through on your trip, designate one person to be the "expert" about that city's population, industry, dining establishments, and anything it might be known for. The expert can use their smartphone, but guessers cannot. As you pass through each city, the expert asks trivia questions that other players guess the answers to. Examples are, "How many people live in Scranton?" and "Which fast food restaurant does Cedar Key have five of?" 12 of 27 Road Trip Bingo Road trip bingo is always a crowd-pleaser. Before you leave, you can create your own paper bingo cards or print road trip Bingo cards for free to distribute to each player. If you make your own, consider a theme of fast food restaurants (McDonald's, Chick-Fil-A, KFC), gas stations (BP, Shell, Texaco), or types of cars (Honda Civic, Subaru Outback, Toyota Tacoma). Whichever you choose, make sure there are enough markers or stickers for everyone to mark their cards. 13 of 27 Guess the Time Look up which cities you'll be passing through on the way to your final destination, and have everyone in the car guess the exact time you'll arrive at each one. (The use of map apps are prohibited.) For example, what time does your car pass the sign that says "Entering Sacramento"? The player whose guess is the closest wins that round. 14 of 27 Categories Someone chooses a category, such as movies, sweet treats, or flowers. The first player must name something in that category that starts with the letter A. The second player has the letter B, and so on. For example, if the category is flowers, the first player might say "amaryllis." The second person might say "begonia." The third person might say "carnation," and so on. Be sure to choose the categories based on the players' knowledge base. (If no one in the car is interested in gardening, flowers might not be the best category.) 15 of 27 The Price is Right Based on the TV game show, each player guesses the price for regular unleaded gas at the next gas station you see. Whoever gets the price to the nearest tenth gets a point. When it's time to stop for gas, the player with the least number of points buys snacks for everyone. 16 of 27 Guess the Song For Guess the Song, one player sings or says lyrics to a song, and the other players must name the title of that song. Stating the lyrics in a monotone makes the game harder. For example, someone says, "And he's long gone when he's next to me. And I realize the blame is on me." The winner is whoever correctly names the song's title, Taylor Swift's "I Knew You Were Trouble." Players must name the exact title. So, if a player says, "I Knew You Were Trouble When You Walked In," that answer is wrong, and someone else gets a chance to name the exact title. 17 of 27 Guess the Quote One player looks up a famous quote on their smartphone and reads it to the other the players, who must name the person (or fictional character) who uttered it. The quote could be from a famous speech, like "Give me liberty or give me death!" (Patrick Henry) or a movie, like "There's no place like home," (Judy Garland as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz). 18 of 27 While You Were Sleeping This is a group game to play when one or two passengers are taking a nap. While they're sleeping, the rest of the passengers work together to create a story about something the sleepers missed. For example, you all spotted a famous person who was stopped by the side of the road with a flat tire. The celebrity lets you hold their dog, eat some of their delicious snacks, and so on. Storytellers collectively agree on the specific, weird details for optimal believability. Too bad you didn't take any photos! 19 of 27 Who's Most Likely to...? For this fun road trip game, someone starts by asking the question, "Who in this car is most likely to...?" The other players have 3 seconds to name the person that fits the statement best. Players take turns asking a new question. Here are some possibilities: Who is most likely to answer the phone at 3 am? Who is most likely to throw their friend a surprise party? Who is most likely to give you a nickname? If you have trouble thinking up questions, visit teambuilding.com for a list of dozens of them that'll keep you asking and answering for miles. 20 of 27 Triple Threat In Triple Threat, someone starts in the role of the judge by saying three random words, and each player has to tell a story using those three words. The player who thought up the best story, according to the judge, wins. The winner becomes the judge for the next round, offering the next trio of random words, and the game continues. 21 of 27 20 Questions This classic guessing game easily adapts to a road trip. It starts with a player thinking of a person, place, or thing. The other players take turns asking yes-or-no questions to determine what they're thinking about. Whoever guesses correctly gets a point, but if no one guesses after 20 questions, the originator gets a point. Make sure someone is keeping track of the number of questions. 22 of 27 Spot the Car This road trip game is similar to I Spy and keeps everyone's eyes on the road. One player names a particular type of vehicle—like a double tractor-trailer, RV, or a Ram pickup—and players compete to be the first to see one and score a point. For a variation, consider non-vehicle items like signs or landscape items. 23 of 27 Scavenger Hunt This activity works as well in a car as it does out of one and demands much less legwork. If you're a planner, create your own list ahead of time based on what you expect to see along your drive. If not, print out a generic list for free. Either way, make a copy for each player, and whoever has seen (checked off) the most list items wins. 24 of 27 License Plate Checklist If you're taking a long trip on the interstates, this game is the perfect way to kill time. Just make a list on your phone or a notepad of all fifty states and check them off when you see a license plate from that state. Try and find all fifty states before your trip ends. 25 of 27 They're a 10, But... Find out how far your car riders would go for their dream partner with this silly game. To start, one person will say "your partner is 10, but..." and follow up with something funny or just plain outrageous. You could say, "he's a 10, but he has lobster claws instead of hands." Or "she's a 10, but she always has to rhyme when she speaks." How much are you willing to compromise for the perfect companion? 26 of 27 Count to 20 See if you and your fellow road trippers can get on the same wavelength with this simple yet challenging game. This game requires at least three people. Everyone in the group is trying to count up to 20 without saying the same number at the same time. If two or more people say the same number simultaneous, the game resets back to one. Sound easy? You might be surprised. 27 of 27 Battle of the Songs Test your skills as a DJ with this fun and musical game. A judge will pick a category for a type of song—this could be "80s power ballads," "90s alternative rock songs," or any genre of music your heart desires. Both people or teams will select a song in that category and play them. Whichever one the judge prefers is the winner and that team gets a point.
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