travel gear - Pitstops for Kids

Holiday gift guide for adventurous families

November 28, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Every August, I get a sneak peek into the holiday gifting season. Outdoor Retailer is the largest trade show for outdoor and travel gear, and each summer, they have all their new and soon-to-be-available products on display. We curated our favorites here at Pit Stops for Kids, just in time for holiday gift giving.

holiday gift guide for adventurous families

Ready for the scoop on the newest, most innovative travel gear for 2018, available this holiday season? Here’s our holiday gift guide for adventurous families:

Gear for the whole family:

MyCharge Adventure Jump Start: Have you ever needed to jump start your car, but you were in an isolated place and no one was around with another car to help? Or you were in an isolated place, and didn’t feel comfortable asking for help? The Adventure Jump Start is the size of a large electronics/phone charger, but can charge your car or boat, without another car. It comes with cables and when you’re not using it for car charging, you can keep it in your car to charge everything else.

Watershed Drybags Big Creek backpack: If your family rafts, kayaks, boats, fishes, or hikes near creeks and lakes, you’ll want one of these waterproof backpacks that roll down small and are actually comfortable to wear. We could have used one when we took a whole slew of gear canoeing in Maine and were caught in a summer thunderstorm. The Big Creek is a manageable size at 21 liters (larger ones available) and a large top opening and handy wide lug handle. The straps are padded, too! Pick one up for $129 up in a variety of sizes.

Sunski Yuba sunglasses: Sporting matte tortoise polarized lens, I love Sunski because their glasses are affordable yet durable and stylish. My teens jump at the chance to try them, and my 17-year-old immediately claimed the Yubas. They’re lightweight and work great on the backcountry ski slopes in winter, and on the lake in summer. Pick up a pair for $58!

Gobi Gear Hobo Roll 2.0: We’ve been using Gobi Gear’s hobo roll since it first came out a few years ago. The design has improved, however, making this ingenious packing tool even more useful. Simply fill your smaller travel items into the divided compartments, and roll up. You’re left with a compact stuff sack of gear that stays organized!

Fjallraven Kanken: This classic Fjallraven backpack is a great multi-use gift for just about anyone on your list. Kids, teens, and adults all love it, and it’s handy as a carry-on bag for electronics, snacks, and comfort items for just about any trip you could take.

Outfitting Mom or Dad:

Teva Ember Moc: This new moccasin shoe from Teva is to die for. It’s as comfortable as a slipper, but with its quilted moc look, you can wear it out and about, too. It’s my new favorite shoe for ski cabins and hotel rooms, and packs down quite small in my suitcase, too.

Dovetail Maven jeans: I am so in love with this women-owned and operated company that makes work-tough jeans for women that still look stylish and fit great! Our favorite is the Maven pant, which comes in stretch denim or stretch canvas, has big, deep pockets women can actually utilize, and are slim fit for those fashionable travel days. Try a pair now at Dovetail!

Momentum Twist Rubber watch: This is my absolute favorite travel watch. The Momentum Twist is rugged, with a rubber band that can stand plenty of wear and tear. It’s also waterproof, and sapphire crystal is tough as nails, too. This watch has been on the market for a couple years, but is now better than ever.

Mountain Khakis Bison Commuter Portfolio: Mountain Khakis is one of my favorite outdoor gear and clothing brands, and they are debuting a new line of bison leather luggage this season. The commuter portfolio is a sleek men’s bag, that’s ideal for business travelers who also want to fit in a little fun into their destination. If leather isn’t your thing, the Signature Tote is made of rugged canvas.

Fun for kids and teens:

Outside Inside Gifts from GSI Outdoors: I love this concept: traditionally indoor games made for the outdoors! You can play Chinese checkers or Mancala while you’re backpacking, or bocce ball while camping by a river. My new favorite: Tumbling Tower, which comes in a slightly larger size perfect for vacation homes and camping or a lighter size for backpacking.

Wind pouch: Do you need a wind pouch? Maybe not. Do you want one? Heck yeah. This fun, inflatable, and easily storable air hammock is perfect for picnics, camping trips, backyard fun, or simply setting up in the kids’ bedroom. We have used our Wind Pouch all season!

Sportube child boot bags: Finally, the perfectly-sized backpack-style boot bag for small kids! The Sportube Freestyler Junior Boot Bag is under $60, and will keep all your kid’s ski or snowboard gear organized in a bag he or she can actually carry! Better yet, they come in sizing for mom and dad, too! There’s no reason to spend more!

Como Audio Amico speaker: This portable, weather-resistant speaker rocks! And it’s pretty, too. While too large to carry with you, it’s ideal for your guest cabin, AirBnb, or teen’s room, and can come outside with you, too. Sync it with a phone for adaptability, and enjoy! Pick one up on the Como Audio website or save on Amazon!

ProPacking Cubes: Your kids’ gear will FINALLY be organized in their duffles, backpacks, and suitcases when you use packing cubes. Stocking up on cubes can get expensive, but ProPacking Cubes come in sets of 6 for $39, which is a great value. We use them to store shoes, clean and dirty options, and cold-weather coats.

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Back-to-School products that double for travel

September 9, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

I’m always a bit sad when it’s time to buy back-to-school gear, because it means the long summer travel season is over. However, autumn day trips and weekend getaways are always in our future, so I find I’m still thinking ‘travel’ when it comes to fall purchases and the kids’ school supplies. This year, I’ve found the best new back-to-school products that pull double-duty during family trips!

Back-to-school products that double for travel:

The following products are either already on your back-to-school shopping list, or should be, and you just don’t know it yet! Ready?

High Sierra Modi backpack:

Your kids need school backpacks, but you hate buying a new one each year, right? Unlike cheap big box store backpacks, High Sierra backpacks last multiple years (and multiple kids), plus they’re rugged enough for travel days. The High Sierra Modi comes in color combinations that appeal to both girls and boys, from young kids to teens, and includes both a tablet and laptop sleeve for those long flights. Best of all, High Sierra has it on crazy sale right now. Pick up this $100 backpack for as low as under $20 right now on Amazon!

Matt’s Munchies:

You’re looking for new, healthy snacks for the kids’ lunches, and Matt’s Munchies dried fruit is both the perfect school snack and road trip food. These non-GMO, gluten-free, organic fruit snacks blow their character-shaped, artificial counterparts out of the water. In flavors like island mango, banana coconut, and apple, these fruit snacks are shaped like the thin fruit roll-ups of our generation, but in small squares that are easy to peel off the wax paper. And one package is enough for a substantial snack. Pick up Matt’s Munchies in packs of 10 on Amazon!

Phenom nutritional shake:

Normally, we don’t promote health drinks or protein powders on Pit Stops for Kids, simply because we’re not health experts. That disclaimer said, Phenom’s Young Athlete has been working well for us as a healthy drink between school and practice for our teens, and doubles as a portable road trip food. You can mix Young Athlete with tap water, which makes it easy to bring along on trips, and it has no artificial colors, flavors, or gluten. We tried both vanilla and chocolate and my teens really like the chocolate…like chocolate milk, only with more protein.

SIC Glacier:

I have a new favorite way to sip hot and cold beverages on the morning school commute! SIC cups come in 30 ounce or 24 ounce double-walled stainless steel tumblers, with included clear plastic lids that stay on surprisingly well. Contents in your SIC cup may spill if in a backpack, but in a cup holder of your car, these tumblers are ideal. The first time I used mine, I put ice water in my SIC en route to a local lake on a hot day, then left it in the car for five hours while we enjoyed the lake. When I got back in the car for the ride home, the water was still ice cold, the ice not having melted. I was sold! My SIC Glacier comes on all car trips now! Pick up a 30 ounce SIC Glacier on Amazon for $39.95 (worth the price, I promise!).

CleverCrates:

Perfect for everything from a dorm room to the back seat of the car, CleverCrates by CleverMade are utilitarian crates that hold over 80 pounds of gear each…but collapse to almost nothing when not in use. We keep a few in the car at all times, so we’re ready for gear storage when we go on camping trips, when the kids’ friends pile into the car with their sports equipment, or when I need to stock up on food for a weekend away. It’s great to have the ability to organize stuff in the back of the car, but not have a permanent set of compartments for when we don’t need them. Pick up CleverCrates in 3-packs on Amazon for under $45!

SnapBaskets:

A close cousin of the CleverCrate, SnapBaskets are collapsible shopping bags with a strong, rigid bottom that keeps the bags upright in the car. They come in a variety of sizes, and since they fold down flat, they’re easy to store between uses. I use them every grocery shopping trip at home, but also bring them along on road trips for when I need an extra bag. I’ve put them to use when we’ve visited farm stands or farmers’ markets on the road or bought souvenirs I hadn’t expected. Since they remain upright in the car, they’re also great for organizing seasonal gear you might need on weekend trips, such as warm gloves, extra socks, or swim wear. Pick up SnapBaskets in 30L three packs on Amazon for $39! They also come in thermal versions.

Hot Logic Mini:

Here’s another back-to-school item for your college kid, which doubles for weekend trips! This portable mini oven cooks meals literally from scratch, reheats leftovers and keeps food hot for hours! It’s easy to use (and safe for kids to use after school), with no complicated dials or timers. Just pop a meal in the bag, plug it in and leave it alone. You can eat in a hour, or eight hours, and the food won’t burn. You can make dinner with it and leave it in a hotel room for a budget vacation meal, or college kids can reheat leftovers. Pick up the Hot Logic Mini for $39.95 on Amazon!

Every product above was tested by us personally, and is used by us. This post contains affiliate links; by clicking through to Amazon through us, you help us keep the lights on here at Pit Stops for Kids at no additional cost to you!

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Recommended travel essentials: 15 must-have travel items

June 27, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

When planning for a holiday, we often get confused and irritated about packing for our smooth vacation. It becomes hard to jot down all the essential traveling items that we need for our tour. The most important things to keep in mind are the lists of items that should be packed depending on the length of your trip, the weather, and places to visit. So, to ease your vacation, we are here to help you out. You can rely on us and take help from this list of items to have a peaceful and restful holiday.

When it comes to travel packing, I always make sure to minimize my travel gear and only pack the best (and necessary) travel items. Use this ultimate guide of some of the essential things you need to pack for your tour. Whether it’s toiletries, clothes, gadgets, or glasses, we have got you covered. So, I’m sharing 20 essential travel items lists that you must have in your bags.

1. Portable Charger (Power Bank)

Our phone can run out of battery. So carry a portable phone charger wherever you go. No one wants to have a phone battery dead and miss out on clicking some amazing photo. Power Bank is a must for any trip, and it will never let you down. If you don’t want to get lost in the city, don’t forget to keep your phone charged with a Portable Charger.

2. Ziploc Bags

Ziploc Bags helps to keep all the small bits together. Putting your Phone in an airtight Ziploc Bag will instantly save your phone in water as it is waterproof. Just stick your electronics into the Ziploc bag, squeeze the air out, zip it, and your items are completely waterproof. If you’re listening to music at the beach, these bags will help keep sand and water out of your speakers.

3. Bluetooth Speakers

Ever thought about enjoying your vacay without Music? With a portable Bluetooth speaker, you can listen to music and chill on your beach, parties, and rooms. Having a bit of music playing can give you a positive vibe and set your mood. Just connect your phone to the speaker and listen to the music of your choice. Bluetooth Speaker will give you the company whenever you need it, says Andrew, who provides pay someone to take my online exam services.

4. Universal Adapter

Universal Adapter is an essential device to have when traveling. Travel adapters allow any electronic device to plug into a differently shaped outlet from one country to another. For example, U.K. wall outlets require a plug with a top vertical prong while the U.S. requires one with two flat vertical prongs. So, when traveling overseas, you need a travel adapter to charge your electronic devices.

5. Water bottle

No matter where we travel, we always need a water bottle. To keep your beverages cold or hot and have clean water, you need to carry reusable bottles during travel. Staying hydrated is one of the most useful things you can do for your body when traveling, says Paul, who provides do my coursework services. Instead of using single-use plastic bottles, consider a reusable water bottle that can store your drink.

6. Sunscreen

You always need to wear sunscreen whenever outside. We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen. You should carry a travel-sized pack of sunscreen to moisturize and protect your skin from the sun. Use an oil-free and fragrance-free sunscreen moisturizer that is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist tested. Apply an SPF30 or more sunscreen even if you are on the beach.

7. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential item you must carry for your vacation. If you are unsure of exactly what they carry on a first aid kit. I am here t rescue you. Here are my picks for the essentials. Bandages/Crepe Bandages, Surgical tape, Cotton, Scissors, Tweezers, Antiseptic Wipes, Pain Relief Medicine, Antibacterial Creams.

8. Sunglasses

One of the most important travel accessories you should pack is your sunglasses. You must carry sunglasses that block harmful UVA and UVB rays, says Carolina, who provides python assignment help services. Investing in different styles such as aviator or the wayfarer is always a good idea. Go for good-quality sunglasses with polarized and UV-protected lenses.

9. Toiletries

Toiletries have always been a serious struggle for me. Sometimes I over pack them, and other times I almost forget to pack toothbrushes and toothpaste. Follow this guide to pack your toiletries. Shampoo, Conditioner, Face Wash/Scrub, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Face Moisturizer, Mouthwash, Styling Brush/Styling Comb, Body Wash, Comb/Brush.

10. Backpack

You need a good travel backpack even if you are traveling for a day or two or even for a week. Look for a travel backpack that has a sturdy hip belt and water storage space. Pick a bag that is big enough to carry some extra weight. Make sure your bag is semi-waterproof so that your stuff doesn’t get wet in a drizzle.

Other than the above-mentioned essentials, carry your clothes for going out, nightwear, beachwear, and party dresses. You can also carry an eye mask, noise-canceling Headphones, travel towels, U-shaped pillows. Make a list of the items you need for your vacation and pack efficiently.

Travel Gear We Use: Five items I never travel without

June 10, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

On average, I travel twice a month, either by car or plane. I’m in airports at least once a month. This is not as much travel as some people, to be sure, but it’s enough that I’ve pared down my carry-on luggage to include only the essentials. Whether I’m traveling with my kids or solo for work, these five items are always with me.

Number 5: My S’well insulated water bottle

I own and love many insulated water bottles. You can read my most recent round-up of best water bottles here. But S’well wins for #1 travel water bottle, because of its shape. This narrow, thin bottle fits perfectly in every side pocket of every travel backpack or tote I use (and I use a wide variety). I save a lot of cash by not purchasing plastic water bottles everywhere I go, simply refilling at airport water stations. By the way, are these stations more abundant in the Pacific Northwest, or am I imagining things? Plus, S’well bottles are sleek and stylish, too. They have many sizes, but this is the one I own. Pick up your own for about $30.

Number 4: My RFID-blocking travel wallet

Becoming a victim of identity theft sounds like a real bummer. I highly recommend an RFID-blocking wallet, and I travel with this one from Dante Women, because it’s just substantial enough to double as a clutch for those fancier nights out. (Who the heck wants to travel with a full purse on top of a travel backpack or tote? Not me.) The one I use is about $30, but you can find them much cheaper, too. My wallet fits easily into whatever travel tote or backpack I’m using at the time, and if I’m doing something active, like mountain biking or hiking, I can use a much smaller wallet like this one, or leave it all in the safe at my hotel and use Apple Pay.

Read a review of my all-time favorite travel day pack.

Number 3: My Kavu Pretty Poncho

You know how you always wish you had a cozy blanket on the plane or in the car, but you don’t want to lug one around with you? Trust me when I tell you that Kavu makes a shawl-style number for women called the Pretty Poncho that solves this problem and more. This thin, lightweight woven poncho looks great…it drapes in a flattering way and looks elegant. Plus, it serves as that cozy blanket you need, and stuffs down small in your day pack when you don’t need it. I absolutely love mine, and always have it in my bag. It looks nice when you want to dress up a simple shirt and pants for dinner out, too. It costs around $50, and is well-worth it, considering how often you’ll use it.

Number 2: My Bose QuietComfort 35

This is a pricey one, but trust me…it’s worth it. A quality pair of earphones are crucial to a stress-free travel day. Airports are noisy, chaotic places, and isolating myself from the sounds of a terminal or airplane cabin provides me with a sense of personal space. Listening to my favorite classical music (I know, I’m a dork) instantly relaxes me. And since I hate dealing with a tangle of cords, wireless is the only way I’ll go, when I can help it. I can even get a bit of sleep wearing my Bose QuietComfort. They’ll set you back about $350, but are such high quality, they’ll last you a long time. For a more economical pick, I also like my Sol Republic MasterTracks, which are not noise-cancelling or wireless, but only cost about $90.

Read a review of our best electronic travel accessories for kids.

Number 1: My Sleep + Sound MINI

A lot of people have trouble sleeping in strange hotel rooms, and everyone has different ways to combat this problem. My solution has been my Sleep + Sound MINI. This sound machine adjusts automatically to muffle sounds that might disturb you (or your sleeping kids), such as an elevator door opening or people’s voices in the hallway. It has 12 audio programs, with additional settings for a total of 48 unique soundscapes. I’m boring and like the ‘industrial fan’, but you can also set it to play ocean sounds, birds chirping, and rain, just to name a few. Yes, I could use an app on my phone, but guess what? Phones next to your bed wake you up…I want mine charging on the other end of the room.

Do you have a travel item that always comes with you on trips? Let us know about it in the comments!

Choosing the right snack bags for road trips

April 8, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Going on a road trip can be a lot of fun, but when you have children, it can make things a little challenging. You have to find ways to keep them entertained, and goodness knows they will eventually start complaining about being hungry. Chances are it will be at a time when there isn’t a restaurant in sight. That is why is a great idea to pack snack bags for road trips for each of your children.

Of course, choosing the wrong bag can also create problems. Your general brown paper sack doesn’t really cut it. They break too easily and offer no insulation. You are much better off with a soft style bag. Luckily, there are many of them from which to choose. When deciding on a bag, you should consider the following points so you end up with bags that will help make your trip much more pleasant.

Choose Something That Makes Eating Easy

One of the biggest challenges of feeding kids in a vehicle is there is no real great place to set out food. Balancing acts usually result in huge messes. So, if you can find a lunch box that has a built-in tray, it can be very helpful. It provides a nice organized way for your kids to eat. It also can keep food separated, which for some kids is a must. There is no reason for you to have to deal with complaints about this food touching that food.

Choose Something With Easy Access

You also should try to find a container that is easy to get into. Depending on the age of your children, they might not be able to easily open zippers, so consider a flap style that is simple to open up or a tote style that just snaps together and be reached right into. You certainly don’t want to have to be turning around, opening everyone’s bags as you are flying down the road.

Choose Something That Makes It Easy to Pack a Variety of Items

Kids are known for being picky when it comes to food. What may have been their most favorite thing at breakfast time suddenly becomes “gross” by the end of the day. You just never know what a kid will come up with when it comes to food. So, you have to pack a nice variety of snacks in their bags. In addition, you are likely going to need to pack items of different weights.

This means you need a lunch box that will hold different foods and allow you to keep delicate foods from getting crunched. There are lunch bags that have multiple compartments, which allow you to put heavy items, like water bottles or apples, in a bottom compartment, while putting lighter items in a top compartment. You may also find bags that have a separate drink bottle with its own compartment, which is great because you can easily refill it. It also helps to choose an insulated bag. This will let you pack warm or cold foods.

Choosing the right snack bags to take on a road trip can make the trip much more enjoyable for everyone. A simple choice like which bag to use may not seem like that big of a deal, but in the end, it can be the one thing that helps keep everyone happy.

Travel gear we use: Best shoulder season hoodie

April 6, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Everyone needs the perfect shoulder season hoodie, whether they travel with kids, adventure travel, camp and ski, or all of the above (like us!). This review, featuring the Appalachian Gear Company’s All-Paca fleece hoodie, is the last you’ll need to read.

Best shoulder season hoodie: Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca hoodie review

What makes this hoodie so great:

It’s made from 100 percent Alpaca fiber, which makes it super soft, lightweight, easy to pack, never wrinkly, and breathable. This hoodie can take a beating…so far, I’ve traveled with it to rural Mexico where it endured dirt road travel, sandy beaches, and salt water, and into the mountains of Oregon, where it kept me oh-so-warm during shoulder season camping.

Because it’s so warm, despite being fairly thin and lightweight, the All-Paca fleece hoodie saves you all kinds of room in you day pack or carry-on. You won’t need to layer as much as usual; just toss the All-Paca into your backpack, and feel confident you can hike, explore, or bike in just a t-shirt.

The knit structure provides natural wicking, allowing perspiration to escape easily. I usually change out my seasonal outdoor gear and clothing twice a year, but the All-Paca hoodie will be one of those items that stay with me in winter AND in summer. It’s ideal right now, during the shoulder seasons in the Pacific Northwest.

The All-Paca is made in the USA, in Charlotte, NC, and even though it’s made from Alpaca wool, you can machine wash it. The good news: you don’t have to wash this hoodie after every wear. And while you can put it in the dryer, I opted to air dry mine (babying it a bit!) to ensure zero shrinkage. It dries super fast! The All-Paca tends to run a little bit large, so take that into consideration, but it’s nice to have a little extra room to play with, for layering.

Pick up this shoulder season hoodie in XS-XL in four colors for $153. It also comes in men’s sizing, and once you’re sold on the hoodie, you may want to check out Appalachian Gear Company’s alpaca tees and crews.

Discover other travel gear we love!

Best subscription boxes for holiday gift giving

December 16, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Subscription boxes make for excellent holiday gifts! If you’re looking for the perfect subscription boxes for the traveling family in your life, we have you covered. We’ve curated a list of what we consider the best gift box subscriptions for holiday gift giving:

Local Box:

As much as I’m a fan of outdoor gear, Local Box has risen to become my favorite gift box subscription for travelers. Why? This subscription focuses on local products, artwork, food, and music in specific U.S. cities. When you open a Local Box, you truly get a sense of place, and isn’t that what’s at the heart of travel? I’ve tried the Nashville Local Box, Portland Local Box, and Boston Local Box, and each has transported me to that city (or in the case of Nashville, which I hadn’t visited yet, gave me a sneak peek of what I could expect). My favorite feature: it’s possible to buy one-time boxes from Local Box, which is a great way to thank someone for hosting you in their city or treating a friend who loves a particular place. Subscriptions start at $35.

Cellar 503:

Give the gift of wine, but also knowledge of a specific, emerging wine region: Oregon. Cellar 503 is a wine club subscription that celebrates Oregon boutique wine (and most of the wine in this state is of the small batch, boutique variety). Learn about the various Oregon wine regions, from the Willamette Valley already celebrated for its Pinor Noir to Southern Oregon and the Umpqua Valley, where the dry, hotter temperatures produce amazing Tempranillo and even Chardonnay. Urban wineries are featured as well, and each month has its own wine theme, tying selections together in innovative ways. Subscriptions start at $45.

Cairn:

We’ve talked about how great Cairn is before, and this subscription box just keeps getting better and better. They are partnering with stellar brands now, like Cotopaxi and HydroFlask, and since I am very familiar with current outdoor gear, I can tell you with certainty that you get well over the $29.99 monthly box price. In fact, most are closer to $50 in value. I like how Cairn combines valuable items you have already heard of (like the Cotopaxi Luzon) with brand new items you’ve yet to discover, and would never think of trying (like the organic high-energy snack bags I’d never heard of that came in my last box). Subscriptions start at $29.

Blue Apron:

While not a traveler-specific subscription box, I place Blue Apron (and other food delivery subscriptions like it) in this category because they make a traveling family’s life easier. When I return home from a trip, my least favorite chore is restocking the pantry, grocery shopping and cooking. I can schedule a Blue Apron delivery to coincide with my return, and viola! Instant ease back into real life! I like that Blue Apron’s default family meal setting will deliver two meal choices (out of four), but this is customizable: you can now add meals if you know you’ll need more than the usual on a particular week, and you can skip meals as many times as you’d like. Subscriptions start at $69 per delivery, for a family of four.

Bonus: Twist Travel Magazine subscription:

While not a subscription box, gifting a fellow traveler with a Twist Travel Magazine subscription will provide the gift of getting away…from their own living room. As the managing editor for Twist, I know the quality of the content of this magazine for adventurous traveling families to be absolutely stellar: we handpick contributors who really know the destinations and know what traveling with kids can look like. In other words, yes, it can include fine dining, wine tasting, boutique hotels and epic adventure. Gift a Trwist Travel Magazine subscription here.

Best travel water filter system (SIDE BY SIDE COMPARISON)

August 22, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

When traveling abroad and when backpacking or camping in the backcountry, it’s crucial to have a travel water filter system you can rely on. The best systems we’ve found use gravity to do most of the work, but there’s an abundance of choice. Which travel water filter system is right for you? Read our side by side comparison!

Katadyn BeFree gravity system:

The simplicity of a gravity-based filtration system makes them reliable, plus these systems are lightweight, easily packable, and versatile for a large group or family. The Katadyn Gravity BeFree 3.0 L filter fits this bill perfectly. It’s extremely easy to use: you just fill the reservoir and hang it using the included rugged bail handle and carry loop, and wait for it to filter at an impressive two liters per minute.

When you’re not using it, the filter packs down small; it collapses and then can be rolled tight, fitting easily into a day bag, backpack, or carry-on bag. It’s been tested to protect against harmful organisms, removing protozoa (99.99%) and bacteria (99.9999%), which means it meets EPA standards, so not only can you bring the Katadyn filter along on your next backpacking or kayaking adventure in the US, but it works well for trips abroad as well, when you need to be assured of potable water. Note that it does not meet standards for virus removal; it’s to ensure safe drinking water against bacteria only.

This filter is BPA-free of course, and the wide-mouth opening makes it easier to fill than most. I’ve learned this the hard way with other bladders, when trying to awkwardly fill them in shallow streams, hard to access lakes, or bubbling springs. I did notice that it was easier to fill the bladder by using a second container, such as a backpacking cooking pot or cup to help feed the water into the reservoir.

You should clean the Katadyn filter occasionally, which is simple: just shake or swish to remove debris. We actually do this every trip, and it’s worked out very well. So far, this filter has come along with us on a front-country and backcountry combination trip to Mt. Katahdin in Maine as well as a backpacking trip through Central America. Next, it will accompany my son through Indonesia.

You can pick up the Katadyn Gravity BeFree online at the official Katadyn site or Amazon for $69 for the 3L option.

LifeStraw Flex with Gravity Bag:

Pair the confidence you already have in LifeStraw with the convenience of filtering a gallon of water at a time. You get next-level protection against heavy metals including lead as well as bacteria, parasites, microplastics, and organic chemical matter like pesticides, and herbicides, all in an ultralight system. The whole thing only weighs 6 ounces, and can filter one liter every two minutes. As always with LifeStraw, when you buy a product, you give a product to one school child (one year of clean water).

It works in the same manner as other gravity-based systems: just fill the bag, hang, add the filter, and allow the water to drip through the filter and into your water vessel whenever you need it. Alternatively, you can use the LifeStraw filter individually like you would any LifeStraw, which is a nice bonus of versatility. Pick up the system for only $54, a great value.

Platypus GravityWorks:

The GravityWorks system is similar to that of the LifeStraw and Katadyn varieties, but it involves two bladders instead of one. This can be a pro or a con: on one hand, the system is slightly heavier and bulkier to pack, but on the other, you have a dedicated clean-water bladder to use in a variety of ways, storing clean water and carrying it to your next backpacking location, for instance.

You can choose between a 2 liter and 4 liter kit (I like the 2 liter). Just fill the ‘dirty water’ bladder with lake, stream, or iffy hotel water, then attach the included hose and filter system between it and the dedicated clean water bladder. Hang the dirty water bladder higher (hence the use of gravity), and wait for your water to fill the bladder. The disadvantage to this system is that you have to wait for the clean water bladder to completely fill, which can take a matter of about 20 minutes. With the other systems, you can have water on demand, though you might have to squeeze the bag a bit if you’re impatient.

With the GravityWorks system, you get extra parts, including a universal bottle adapter. Pick up the Platypus GravityWorks on Amazon for $99.

Sawyer Squeeze:

It’s small, it’s easy to carry, and it’s cheap: the Sawyer Squeeze is a super simple system that involves a bag (bladder) plus a small filter. You fill the bag with water and squeeze it through the filter and into your water vessel. You can get bags in various sizes (the smaller ones are only $12) so this can still work for a family or group, but it will be slower going. I like to have a Sawyer Squeeze in my day pack as an extra filter, just in case. Pick one up on Amazon.

Grayl GEOPress:

Another individual travel water filter system, the Grayl is by far the easiest to use, if you don’t like drinking through a straw. You just scoop up water from a creek, lake, river, or faucet, then press the filter down through the water vessel like you would a French press coffee container. It takes about ten seconds and while you do need to use some force, if you have a sable surface, it’s easy.

Once you’ve filtered your water, you’re good to go. I don’t like drinking my filtered water from a straw if I can help it, so I really liked the design of the GEOPress, which allowed me to gulp instead of drink from a straw. With the GEOPress, you get 24 ounces of safe drinking water swiftly.

The water bottle is heavier and bulkier than I’d like (but they do have a slimmer, lighter version if you’re willing to reduce your ounces), but it’s worth it if you don’t have to also carry a water filter or pump with you. I love the ease of arriving at a river and just scooping up my water.

GEOPress protects from global waterborne pathogens (virus, bacteria, protozoan cysts), pesticides, chemicals, heavy metals, and even microplastics, so you’re getting the purest water possible. The cap has a fast-flowing drink spout that can be sealed closed, and vents air while purifying (unscrew the cap a bit when you’re filtering, or you’ll be hard-pressed (pun intended) to press down the filter).

Pick up a GEOPress in one of four colors for $89 (less than most filter systems) or opt for the smaller ultralight filter for $59.

LifeStraw Universal:

When we hike, we like to have Lifestraw filters in ALL our water bottles. Lifestraw Universal gives you just that: this kit sets you up with one filter (2-stage), two sized bottle caps, and one cap lid. We have used the kit to add a Lifestraw filter to our favorite water bottles, from a wide-mouth Nalgene to a narrow-mouth Camelbak. Details for the caps: the wide cap is 63 mm and the narrow cap is 43 mm. The filter height is 7.3 inches. You also get a carry bag.

As always, the filter does the following:

Removes 99.999999 % of bacteria
Removes 99.999 % of parasites
Reduces organic chemical matter (pesticides, herbicides, VOCs)
Removes 99.999% of microplastics
Compatible with most water bottles
Lasts 1,000 gallons

Now when we backpack or camp, everyone in our family can use a Lifestraw filter in their favorite water bottle, and I can travel with a filter in the bottle I love to use for international trips. The Universal kit is only $34, allowing you to switch out your filter from bottle to bottle at will. Pick up your kit on the Lifestraw website or at other online retailers, such as Amazon.

Tip: Lifestraw, Platypus, and Katadyn all carry their own versions of an individual water bottle with filter included. Find your favorite brand and buy a few extras to have in day packs when you travel!

Best food containers and bento boxes for the road

August 30, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

One of the best ways to save money and stay healthier on road trips is to pack your own food. Almost every road trip we take, we pack lunches and drinks, whether we’ll be on the road a few hours or a few weeks. Since we banned plastic baggies and disposable plastic containers in our house years ago, the best food containers for our car include the following. Bonus: For a list of road trip friendly snacks, check here.

Bento boxes for the road:

Seal Cup Trio: This trio of round stainless steel containers come with soft rubber lids and are made by ECOLunchBox. We love that they nest together when not in use, so they take up less room in the cupboard, and that they’re not very heavy. If you’ve toted around glass containers, you know what I mean (see below). The Seal Cup Trio are perfect for snacks like pretzels, cut fruit, and granola. You can put wet items in, but not liquids. They’re $29, which is a good deal for three pieces.

ECOLunch Pod: These little 5 ounce rectangular containers are complete stainless steel, with stainless steel lids. We love them because they’re very versatile: you can use them for snacks, or as accessories to your lunch, storing wet wipes or even crayons or other crafty games for the car. They’re only around $8 each.

PlanetBox food tray: No doubt about it, PlanetBox food systems are expensive. However, we use one every day for our son’s lunch for school, then again on the road. What I love: it’s all one unit, so it’s easy to transport and not lose pieces, and the included dip containers never leak. For what it’s worth, we never use the included cover…just one more thing to lose in the car! Pick one up for $64.

Life Factory: For bigger food items, such as prepared salads and sandwich rolls, we use Life Factory 2-cup and 4-cup containers. Beware: these glass containers are heavy to lug around (so they’re best for road tripping where food transport is at a minimum). However, we love them because they’re encased in rubber to prevent breakage and seal very well. Pick up the 2-cup version for $17.

HydroFlask growler: We love everything HydroFlask (hey, it’s an Oregon company, and we’re Oregonians!) but many families don’t think of buying a growler for road trips. Usually used for beer, growlers are ideal for keeping drinks cold on the road: we fill our growler with water, tea, and fruit juices to dole out along the way. Plus, if the adults in the family come across local brews, they can easily fill up! They’re under $50 on Amazon. We also use HydroFlask water bottles and food containers, but note: in our experience, the food containers do not keep liquids like soup hot for more than five hours.

What to carry road trip snacks in:

For short term road trips and outdoor pit stops, we love to use our bulga basket. We picked ours up for under $25. I use bulga baskets more than soft-sided coolers because I can easily access everything and see all the items I’ve packed, which I find very convenient. However, I cannot keep foods very cold in a basket. When we need to transport foods longer than a few hours, I turn to my Yeti cooler. No, buying a Yeti isn’t overkill: this high end cooler may have been designed for hunters and explorers out in the wilderness for days and weeks at a time, but trust me, after using one, you’ll never go back to a regular plastic cooler again. Our Yeti Tundra keeps our food cold and fresh for days!

Travel Gear We Use: Best rain boots for kids and adults

April 6, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Will Spring Break travel take you somewhere a little soggy? Do you have a road trip or camping trip planned in a rainy climate? Maybe you simply live, as we do, in the Pacific Northwest! Either way, you’re probably outfitting your family in rain boots this spring, and we’ve rounded up the best ones for travel days, camping trips, and all those days in-between.

Best rain boots for kids:

Kamik Stomp: When you buy boots, it’s nice when they can be passed down to a little brother or sister or two, and the quality of Kamik boots allow you to do just that. They’re also lightweight, no-nonsense, and cute. The Stomp fits feet sized 1-6, comes in classic colors, and retails for only $30. Our kid’s Stomps have been to the Olympic rainforest, Vancouver Island, and our own backyard. They’re light enough to toss into the back of the mini-van (along with everyone else’s boots) for a road trip into the outdoors, but sturdy enough to tromp through muddy hiking trails.

Muck Hale: If you need a boot that can go from snow to rain to mud to, well, muck, the Muck Hale is the one and only. We love this boot (which comes in adult sizes, too). It’s got a waterproof, rubberized bottom, and a fully insulated with 4mm NEOPRENE top. This means it’s easy to get the boot on and off (thank goodness!) and flexible enough to allow kids to snowshoe in them. My kid uses his as his after-ski boot in the snow, but also wears them to school for muddy outdoor play. The Hale is $69.99, but you get three season use out of them. Our favorite part: in addition to solid colors and patterns, the Hale comes in My Little Pony and Transformers designs…good to know if you have a fan.

Our midwest contributor had her young kids test out the Hasbro Hales. Here’s what she has to say: What kid wouldn’t like Optimus Prime or Rainbow Dash footwear? The Hale boots are made of a foamy material that is soft inside and out, but still feels durable enough to hold up to use by more than one child. My seven-year-old had a fabulous time tromping through the rocky, very cold creek in November with his Cub Scout den. If you put an extra pair of socks on the kids, the boots will do double duty as snow boots, providing the temperatures aren’t too cold. We used them that way, too, although I wouldn’t guarantee them for deep drifts and very cold temperatures.

The Hasbro boots come in two styles. We tried Hale ($69.99), but for thirty dollars more, you can also get the character boots designed for more extreme winter weather (Rugged II).

Best rain boots for women and women:

Muck Breezy for women: If you’re packing an entire carload of stuff, you don’t need bulky rain boots added to the mix. The Muck Breezy angle-height boot comes in super cute patterns and colors but only comes to 7″ height. I love that they’re totally waterproof and easy to walk in; I’ve walked all over Vancouver in mine, during a trip in which I needed to pack light. The Breezy is on sale and under $70 right now! Don’t forget, the Hale comes in women’s sizing, too. Pick it up for yourself!

Xtratuf Legacy and Elite: If you’ve visited Alaska, you’ve seen Xtratuf boots. These classic brown and yellow rubber boots seem to be everywhere in Southeast. The women’s Legacy is 15″ high, so you have great coverage to your knee, but can also fold down to reveal a very pretty inner lining pattern. So you get the classic look with a pop of color. The men’s version of the Legacy also folds down or up, and the men’s Elite adds insulation. Xtratuf boots live up to their name and can be found for under $150.

Spring family travel tip: Place the entire family’s rain boots in a travel laundry bag, and store the bag in the back of the car on road trips. Everyone’s boots will be easy to access when you stop, and the car will stay clean after they’re worn.