Travel Gear We Use: Best tote bags for travel

October 20, 2017 By

We’ve already declared our favorite travel day pack, perfect for carrying all your necessities (and the kids’) during a typical day traveling, but what about the larger tote bag you need in airports and on the road? I’ve tried over a dozen travel-sized tote bags recently, in a quest for the best. Here’s the winning list.

Best tote bags for travel:

Duluth Trading Company Lifetime Leather Tote Bag: 

travel toteIt’s so pretty, you’ll wonder if this leather tote really is a durable as Duluth Trading Co says, but it really does seem to be ‘lifetime’ worthy. This substantial, full-grain leather tote is timeless, and the oiled leather ages beautifully. I worried about scratches and rips; after all, I’m not gentle on my bags. But the scratches I’ve put on my leather tote so far have faded to nothing within days (and Duluth says they have cream you can buy to care for your leather bag, too). While I wish this tote had a few more internal pockets, it has one deep zippered one, and best of all, the top zippers closed. As you’ll see as you continue reading this post, a zippered top matters a lot to me. I need my stuff secure, especially on planes, where it can all spill out so easily. This tote also has two side water bottle pockets, which are slim, but perfect for my Swell bottles I like to use for travel. You’ll pay a hefty $170 for the Lifetime Leather Tote Bag, but…lifetime, guys.

Note: if you like the idea of a lifetime leather bag but don’t want a tote style, Duluth’s Lifetime Leather Crossbody Bag is also a contender. It has more internal pockets and even a key fob, which I love. I actually like the style better…it’s almost a hobo bag…but I couldn’t give it top billing because the top doesn’t zipper shut (though it has a nice magnetic closure).

Fjallraven Totepack No. 1:

 

Fjallraven makes some of my favorite travel bags (their duffels are excellent), and this tote converts from a backpack to a tote and back again. Honestly, I almost exclusively use it as a tote, because for backpack mode, it uses the shoulder straps, which I find less comfortable in the backpack configuration. That said, it can be handy to convert it when you need to be hands-free. The Fjallraven Totepack is made of a wonderful waxed canvas material that is weather-resistant and doesn’t show dirt. This is a substantial bag that has some heft, and keeps its shape, another plus for travel days. The top zips closed (of course), and you get a roomy zippered outside pocket, too. There’s also a smaller inside pocket that zips as well. It comes in an absolute ton of colors, which is fun, and sells for $110. You can also go bigger with the Totepack No. 2.

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Patagonia Lightweight Travel Tote:

If you want something more sporty (though certainly no more rugged than the above totes), the Patagonia travel tote fits the bill, and best of all, stuffs down into its own small travel pouch. Everyone needs at least one tote or backpack that stuffs down to stash in their bag. This one has significant straps, which is rare on a stuff-able tote, and like the Fjallraven, it converts to a backpack. You get a zippered top, a big interior zippered pocket, and mesh outside water bottle pockets (though I don’t find them quite deep enough). You can compress it down as needed, and it’s only $80.

Baggallini Balance Tote:

I didn’t expect to love this large yoga tote so much, but I keep reaching for it on travel days. It is roomy but squishes down under the seat nicely, zips closed, and has tons of compartments and pockets inside, a nice Baggallini standard. You can fit a lot in it, and the side pockets are roomy enough for any kind of water bottle. The back panel of mine has a sleeve to slip over my roller bag handle, which is an awesome feature, but it doesn’t look like the current version still has that…bummer. It does have straps for your yoga mat, if you’re using the bag for its intended purpose, which I have only done sparingly. It’s $118, and will last you a long time…though I find that the somewhat shiny nylon does show dirt and stains easily.

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Do you have a favorite tote? What is your best tote bags for travel pick?

Travel Gear We Use: Best first aid kits for family travel

June 23, 2017 By

Several years ago, I became certified as a wilderness EMT and decided to create my own first aid kit for family travel. I created the ultimate kit: I left nothing out, and when I was done, there was no medical emergency I was not prepared for. The only trouble: my kit was the size of a pillowcase and had cost me almost $60 to put together.

best first aid

I’m often asked how to make a homemade first aid kit, but what I tell people now is: don’t. There are a number of excellent portable first aid kits for family travel on the market that are more affordable. Here are the best first aid kits we use.

Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight Kit:

Depending on the size you select (we opt for the 1-4 people for 1-4 days size), the Ultralight/Watertight kit weighs in at under 12 ounces, and is slim and compact to boot. This is our #1 pick for outdoor travel, such as backpacking, camping, and boating. Inside the main pouch, you get two waterproof pouches with inventory lists on the side (they’re also see-through). Included is everything you need for at least a long weekend in the woods (with the exception of very few items…see below). At the top of the ‘thank goodness they thought of this’ list is: antihistamine, moleskin, duct tape, lots of bandages, after-bite itch relief. You get very few bells and whistles with this kit–no fancy organizational pockets or handles–but the best medical kit is the one you actually have with you when you need it. Pick the Adventure Medical Kits UltraLight & Watertight up on Amazon for only $26: you can’t make it for less.

best-first-aid-kits

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Day Tripper:

Yep, another kit from Adventure Medical Kits. Why? Because of the extra touches: their kits are extremely well-organized, and come with either see-through lining or clearly marked categories, so you can find things fast. Also, all Adventure Medical Kits can be restocked at refillyourkit.com. No more half-empty first aid kits lying around! The Day Tripper is the perfect size for a family’s general use while traveling. Yes, you can get a bigger kit, but be careful: will you really drag it around with you? The Day Tripper weighs under a pound, and fits easily in any day pack for any sort of travel day. It serves 1-5 people. Unlike the Ultralight, it contains smaller pockets and sleeves within the kit to help you stay organized. You get everything you get in the Ultralight, plus an ace bandage and paperback medical book to use as a guide. Pick up the Adventure Medical Kits Day Tripper on Amazon for only $27.

Adventure Medical Kits Medical Kit .5:

Want to go very small and light? Don’t shy away from a medical kit designed for one person. The .5 isn’t big enough for our whole family while camping and backpacking, but it is perfect for day trips and air travel trips when space is tight. In it, you get enough bandages, tape, and gauze for several days of use, plus the same standard medications, like ibuprofen, aspirin, and antihistamine that’s in other kits. There are even a few towelettes and packs of antibiotic ointment. Best of all, this kit is only $17.

What to add to your kit:

If you’ll be in the wilderness, add the following:

  • extra trauma bandages
  • snakebite kit ($3-5 at your local outdoors store)
  • extra antihistamine (my son recently got stung by 23 bees at once, while 5 miles from the car)
  • extra moleskin
  • a blister kit, such as BlisterMedic

If you’ll be traveling abroad:

  • extra of all medications (in case they’re hard to find)
  • hand sanitizer
  • vitamins to prevent sickness, such as Vitamin C, or Cold-Eeze, which will shorten most colds

Find more Travel Gear We Use!

Adventure and travel subscription box gifts for dads and grads

June 7, 2017 By

Have a dad in your life who loves travel? How about a recent graduate who is ready to start exploring the world? If you want to give something more original than cash this June, consider the following gift subscription boxes and experiential gifts that promote adventure both across the US and abroad.

dads and grads

Travel subscription box gifts for dads and grads:

Cairn subscription box: 

We’ve reviewed Cairn in the past, and it’s just as great a value now. Each Cairn subscription box comes with new and innovative outdoor adventure gear, food, and supplies that you probably haven’t seen before. I love learning about new gadgets. Also included in each Cairn box is what I’d call a ‘big ticket item’, worth $25 or more. In the past, the big ticket item has been a hammock, a lantern, or a high quality water bottle. Cairn subscriptions are $27/month.

cairn box

Explore Local subscription box: 

If you have a dad or grad who loves the idea of exploring the country but can’t quite get everywhere (yet), OR, if they’re planning a trip to a US city, an Explore Local box is a great way to learn about the country. Each Explore Local box is packed with local products from a particular US city, allowing you to get to know that location better either before a trip, after, or in case you can’t make it there yourself. We tried the Nashville Explore Local box, which was filled with artisan brands of popcorn, honey, soap, and cards all locally made. Plus, you can include a kid add-on if dad will be bringing kids along on the journey. Explore Local subscriptions are $35/month, or $45 with the kid add-on.

explore local

Try the World subscription box:

Have a foodie dad or grad? They’ll love the Try the World box, which features a different country each month, with gourmet goodies and unique food items ready for tasting. We tried the Korea box, which included Somyeon noodles and kimchi, plus suggestions for how to prepare them (essential!). There are also boxes for Greece and India currently. Try the World is available for $35/month.

try the world

NatureBox:

If dad or grad will be hitting the road and exploring this summer, NatureBox has subscriptions boxes of several sizes to keep them fueled with healthy snacks. This is a great box to keep giving to grads after they leave for college, too. We tried the medium-sized box, which lasted us about a day with teens in the household, but SHOULD last through a long weekend road trip. Each box has a selection of nuts, dried fruit, snack mixes, and trail mixes. We’ve liked everything we’ve tried. NatureBox starts at $30/month.

nature box

Summer travel wear for men who don’t care about travel wear

May 24, 2017 By

I have three men in my house…at least, I have three people who wear men’s size clothing. Two of them are teens. Since I review and write about travel wear all the time, you’d think they’d understand the benefits of quality travel pants and shirts and appreciate the importance of performance fabrics. But to be honest, they simply can’t be bothered. They want to wear what is comfortable, and in some cases, what they deem coolest.

summer travel wear for men

Luckily, I’ve beat them at their own game, because the following summer travel wear for men are ideal for adventure, yet too stylish and comfortable for them to notice. If you have men like mine who just can’t be bothered, here’s what to get:

Ecoths:

Mathis SS: The Mathis is 100% organic cotton herringbone, which means it looks ‘fancy’ (my son’s word) but doesn’t wrinkle at all. It is his go-to collared short-sleeved shirt for travel days when he needs to step his wardrobe up from his usual tee. Two chest pockets and contrast stitching give the Mathis a stylish finish.

Black Rock 3/4 zip: This pull-over is my guys’ absolute favorite thing from Ecoths so far. In fact, my teen son and my husband have matching ones (by accident) but they wouldn’t let me take a matching photo of them. Men. The Black Rock is so great because it’s very thin and soft, making it the perfect layering piece. It rolls up small in a carry-on or backpack, but is just the right coverage for cooler summer evenings or spring mornings. My son especially wears it everywhere, from local hikes to Italy. It comes in three rich jewel-tone colors. (Pictured in the photo above.)

Baxter Polo: It’s simple. It’s organic cotton. It comes in three heathered-style colors, and it wears just as well out to dinner as on the golf course. Pick it up in M-XXL.

Remember: Ecoths is a division of Aventura Clothing, which means that ANY Pit Stops for Kids reader is eligible to try the brand for 60% off! Simply email us for a coupon code at amy(at)pitstopsforkids(dot)com.

Mountain Khakis:

Equatorial Convertible pant: If your travels involve hiking or are to a tropical climate, every guy in your group needs a pair of these convertible pants/shorts. They’re thin, lightweight, quick-dry, and have wicking properties, and can be made into shorts as well. They’re also UPF 50+.

Camber 104 Hybrid pant: Maybe it’s just that MK pants seem to fit our guys well, but for casual travel days, the Camber 104 is their go-to. This pant is made of a performance stretch blend, so they’re comfortable both on the plane and on the trail. I like the reinforced areas, including the ‘mudflap’ on the hem at the heel.

ExOfficio:

We’re going to get a tad personal here, but our guys wear ExOfficio underwear all the time when they travel. Pick the style preferred, but get these…they dry fast so you can rinse them out on the go, they’re insanely comfortable, and they breathe well. Worth the investment!

Aventura Clothing capsule wardrobe for spring travel

April 14, 2017 By

This spring, ‘capsule wardrobes’ are all the rage, and I understand why. The idea of putting together a collection of coordinating and complimenting pieces of clothing makes for a more organized day-to-day life and certainly makes packing easier for any trip. I’ve actually been creating capsule wardrobes for years, without knowing it had a name…I’m minimalistic by nature and probably just couldn’t be bothered with too many outfits in my closet!

spring capsule wardrobe

But if you ARE interested in creating a capsule wardrobe for spring travel, Aventura Clothing makes it really easy, because their pieces already compliment each other. As regular readers know, I’ve been an ambassador for Aventura for years now, and this quality brand keeps me coming back because it consistently offers high quality, organic clothing that’s comfortable, stylish, and practical.

Creating an Aventura capsule wardrobe for spring travel:

Here’s what my Aventura wardrobe looks like this spring, utilizing new pieces from the spring 2017 catalogue, plus a few classic extras. Forgive me if my ‘capsule’ isn’t by the book; I may have fewer pieces than a traditional capsule, but wanted to stay true to what really does go into my bag for an average spring trip.

Note: if you’d like to put together a winter/cold weather Aventura capsule wardrobe for travel, check out this post from Atlanta 365.

One of the most important ‘rules’ of creating a travel capsule wardrobe is color coordination. Pick a basic color scheme, and stick to it. I often choose black/gray/white, but I’m boring that way.

  • I start with two pairs of pants: one capri and one light pant. (You could substitute shorts here, but I like to have one lightweight pair of pants for inclement weather, historic sites or cathedrals where I need to cover my knee, and chilly air conditioned buildings.) For me, the Titus Ankle pant is the winner; it’s a very classic style that comes in basic colors. I have the white. For the capri, I love the new Addie capri, because the length is adjustable from a long pair of shorts to a full capri. Versatile pieces are key!
  • I add two tank tops: one undershirt-type, and one dressier type. For my undershirt/base layer tank, I have two favorites, and what you choose will depend on your style and body type. The Zelda Tank is a nylon/spandex blend that almost works as a spanx (I said almost!). It can be worn alone, or layered with a light sweater or dress, which is what I do. If you want more of a camisole style, go with the Aster cami.  For the dressier tank, I am currently in love with the Pearson Tank, which has really stylish cross-straps in the back to dress it up. It comes in several color patterns; I recommend the gray/black, because it’s classic and will go with your other pieces.
  • Next, add two tees or blousy tops: These are your main tops, that can go from cool spring weather to warmer days. The Sonnet hoodie is a winner in this category, because it’s made of soft organic cotton that’s lightweight and doesn’t wrinkle, has 3/4 sleeves so it doesn’t get too hot, but has a cute hood just in case. I got the spiced coral color, because it goes well with my gray/black tones. For the second tee, I love the Sonnet top. It has a similar weight and feel (and similar brushed heather look), but is a fitted tee with short sleeves. You can get more adventurous with different styles, but I stay true to one or two basic themes in my capsule wardrobe, so items can better mix and match.

Don’t forget! If you like what you see here, you can get a 60% coupon code to Aventura Clothing just by being a Pit Stops for Kids reader! Email for the coupon code at amy(at)pitstopsforkids(dot)com.

  • Add two dresses or skirts: At least one dress should be ‘dressy’ for nice evenings out. My pick is the Garland dress. This cute wrap-style dress is so light and breathable, it was my go-to choice while touring ruins in humid Central America, but also went out to dinner with me. For a second dress, the Hollis is simple, comfortable, and ready for adventure, especially if you pair it with Aventura’s new Go Anywhere Shortie that fits under any dress or skirt.
  • Finish with one light sweater and one wrap: You need at least one sweater that can be worn as a layering piece. The new Liv Sweater is thin enough to pack down small, but warm when worn over a tank or tee. You’ll be shocked to hear I went with gray. It fits down in my backpack for day trips, too. For evenings out, I am in love with the Kyle wrap, which goes perfectly with any dress, tank, or top, as long as you pick a nice, neutral color.
  • Don’t forget to include a few scarves: This is my #1 tip for successful capsule packing…accessorize with items that pack down small! Scarves take up almost no room, yet give boring outfits new life faster than anything else. The Madeline scarf can be worn multiple ways, and is very light cotton so it won’t cause you to overheat.

Depending on your destination, you might also need: 1. rain jacket or fleece, 2. swimsuit and cover up, 3. sun hat or beanie. Don’t forget: you only need two pairs of shoes: comfortable walking/active shoes and sandals.

Be sure to check our past posts of Aventura Clothing reviews…many of the older styles are still available!

Central America packing list and gear picks

March 31, 2017 By

Heading to Central America? You’re going to need to pack smart, for both sun protection and insect protection. And of course, you’ll want to be comfortable in humid and tropical weather. We just returned from Panama and Costa Rica, where we stayed relatively cool and safe from the elements by following this Central America packing list.

central america packing list

Central America packing list:

  • 2-3 lightweight, long-sleeved travel shirts
  • 2-3 lightweight t-shirts or tank tops
  • 2 pairs quick-dry, wicking travel pants (convertible a plus)
  • 2 pairs of shorts, skirts, or dresses
  • 4-5 pair quick-dry travel underwear/bras (trust us)
  • 1 swim suit (preferably a ‘sporty’ type for activities)
  • 1 light pullover, sweater, or cardigan
  • 1 breathable rain jacket
  • 1 pair walking or hiking shoes
  • 1 pair water-ready sandals
  • 3-5 pair hiking socks (preferably lightweight wool)
  • 1 wide-brimmed, lightweight hat (think safari style)

Gear picks: the brands and products we recommend:

Look for clothing that’s specifically designed for hot, humid environments with lots of bright sunshine and more than its share of insects. Your clothing needs to be breathable, loose enough to be comfortable while you’re active, and quick-drying for water sports (and humidity and sweat). Here’s what we took to Panama and Costa Rica and loved:

Toad & Co Debug line: Toad & Co’s ‘Debug’ line comes treated with insect shield technology that lasts through years of washes. It’s much safer to wear bug-treated clothing than to spray insect repellent directly onto your skin, and because Toad & Co’s Debug line is designed for tropical environments, most items are also very breathable and lightweight. I wore the Debug Hike Thru shirt both onboard our UnCruise on travel days and in the jungle. Their bandana scarf is also a great item to accessorize with, giving your debug benefits without buying a whole outfit.

Craghoppers Insect shield line: Craghoppers’ Insect Shield line is made for men and women, and offers both long and short-sleeved ‘Panama’ shirts, lightweight jackets with multiple pockets, and hiking pants. Our Pit Stops Dad loved the NatGeo Insect Shield cargo shorts and I liked the NatGeo adventure shirt. Best of all, there’s a nice line of kids’ insect shield clothing, which can be hard to find elsewhere! Our son wore the Insect Shield half-zip.

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ExOfficio BugsAway line: I’ve always loved ExOfficio for travel wear, and their BugsAway line is fashionable and comfortable. I’ve worn their Damselfly pant in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Costa Rica. And ExOfficio is absolutely where to go for quick dry underwear for your trip!

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Columbia Sportswear: Columbia doesn’t make insect-treated clothing (that we are aware of), but they do make some of our favorite hiking/travel shirts and pants, and are less expensive than most. They come in kid sizes too, and our son’s favorite is the Bahama long-sleeve. Definitely shop Columbia for zip-off convertible hiking pants, too.

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Mountain Khakis’ Equatorial shirt and pants: This line isn’t insect-repellant, but it IS SPF-blocking and when we wore Equatorial shirts in the jungles of Panama and Costa Rica, these were the ONLY shirts that stood up to more than one wear. Somehow, the sweat wicked off; we called them our ‘magic’ shirts. MK also makes an Equatorial pant that zips off. Both are recommended.

Aventura Clothing: Again, no bug-proaction line (but maybe if I keep hinting?), but Aventura Clothing makes THE best after-adventure clothing out there. When you get back from your paddle boarding session or jungle trek, put on soft, organic cotton for your evening indoors. This spring, I am loving Aventura’s Hannah cardigan and Pearson tank for layering. The men’s line, Ecoths, makes really stylish and comfortable short-sleeved, button-down shirts perfect for cocktail hour and dinner. Pit Stop Dad’s favorite: Garrick Polo.

See also: our most comfortable travel pants for moms!

Sun hats: The most important thing about sun hats in Central America is…wear one. So pick a wide-brimmed style you like, and bring it along! It helps to pick a style that flattens easily for travel, and has a strap to secure it both when wore and when you want to strap it to your bag or backpack. We love the sun hats for kids at Sunday Afternoons and Columbia, and the adult offerings at Tilley.

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How to take travel photos on your phone

March 8, 2017 By

There are many benefits to using your phone to take photos while traveling. First of all, when you learn how to take travel photos on your phone, you won’t have extra equipment to pack; chances are, you’re already bringing your phone. It’s always with you during the day, and thanks to excellent technology, your phone probably comes packed with features better than or at least equal to those on your point-and-shoot camera. Your phone is portable, and with the right case, it can be waterproof and dust-proof, which is crucial for some travel spots.

bryce-national-park

Photo opportunities, and how to make the most of them:

You don’t have to be a photography expert to take great travel photos with your phone, but it does help to keep some basic photography techniques in mind. If you don’t remember anything else, remember that a great travel photo tells a story, showcases a subject (whether it’s an object or person), and captures a moment in time. To achieve these goals, follow these basic photography rules.

  • Rule of thirds: Turn on your camera’s grid feature, which will show you a nine-square grid overlaying your framed shot. Use this grid to frame your subject proportionally. Place your primary subject in the middle three squares of your grid, or try an off-centered subject for an eye-catching effect.
  • Place that sun behind you: Sunshine is lovely, but when you take a photo directly into the sun, your photo will be washed out, and you’ll lose the detail of your subject(s). Especially when you’re taking photos of other people, place the sun at your back. Yes, your subjects will be tempted to squint as they’ll be looking into the sun, so suggest they close their eyes, count to three, and then open them for the photo!
  • Pay attention to exposure: Many people don’t realize that they can adjust the lighting of a shot with one touch on a phone. Tap and press on the subject of your photo to make sure the shot is properly exposed before taking it. You’ll see the lighting adjust on your screen.
  • Go horizontal: Most of the time, you should get in the habit of taking horizontal photos. Video should always be horizontal, not vertical. Why? Horizontal videos use the most screen space when you show your work on a computer or TV screen. Vertical videos will appear as just one strip of the screen.
  • Get to know your flash setting and when to use it: Placing your flash on auto will work most of the time, but in low light, indoors, and in fully dark settings, play with your flash to get your desired result. If you’re taking a selfie in the dark, such as in a nightclub or at a concert, turn on a flashlight app if you don’t have a front-facing flash (which can be the case with older phones).

Get creative when you take travel photos with your phone:

Now that you know how to use your settings, it’s time to make your travel photos more interesting. Remember how every travel photo should tell a story, focus on a subject, and capture a point in time? It’s easy to do that with your phone on any vacation, whether it’s a bucket list-worthy trip or a road trip to grandma’s.

Start by getting new angles. Your phone is mobile, so make yourself mobile too! Get down on the ground to take a shot from below your subject, or get elevated to get an overhead angle. Notice the shot everyone around you is taking, and do something different. If everyone is taking a long-range photo of a mountain, focus your shot on the trail leading up to it or the trees in the foreground, for instance.

When you’re taking photos of people, shots of smiling groups are nice, but they’re nothing remarkable. Focus on emotion instead. Try to capture a laugh, an expression of joy or surprise, or a look of wonder on the faces of your subjects. The best way to do this is to have your phone ready to shoot as your friends and family discover new experiences or see a new sight.

Last, to use your phone camera to its fullest, don’t forget to try your high dynamic range (HDR) setting. This setting can feel intimidating to those who rely on auto settings on their cameras, but it can greatly enhance your travel photos. Your HDR setting will help you properly expose your photo much better than simply pressing a finger on the screen to adjust the lighting. This is because doing so only adjusts the subject, and it can over- or underexpose the background. In your HDR setting, your phone is essentially taking three photos for every one and then layering them for ideal lighting. However, this means it takes longer to take the shot, so you need to hold the camera still.

To make sure your HDR setting is being used to the fullest, use a tripod or brace your elbows on a ledge or table when shooting. Your subjects need to hold still as well. For this reason, I only turn off HDR when I’m shooting wildlife that will not cooperate or when I cannot hold the camera steady (such as when I’m on in a moving boat).


Source: eReplacementParts.com

Have your phone at the ready and take lots of shots! Have photo tips? Share them in the comments!

Travel Gear We Use: Winter jackets that pack down small

December 30, 2016 By

Winter is a tough time of year to pack light, but it IS possible to do so. The easiest solution: winter wear that packs down small. We love our ‘puffies’! The best packable jackets keep kids and parents warm during winter travel, but fit well into suitcases for carry-on travel:

best-packable-jackets

What Pit Stops for Kids’ Dad is wearing:

Arc’teryx Atom LT: No one does lightweight, quality, technical jackets like Arc’teryx. The Atom LT is like wearing a cloud (not that my husband would describe it so poetically), and is really easy to layer under a rain jacket or over a fleece. It has two zippered pockets and is fully insulated, but does not have a a hood…which can be a plus or a minus, depending on your needs. Grab the Atom at Amazon for $228. And yes, it comes in a women’s version as well.

What the teens are wearing:

Craghoppers CompressLite PackAway Jacket:  In our opinion, Craghoppers offers the best value out there for parents needing to outfit the entire family. The CompressLite PackAway is our son’s go-to jacket for everything from air travel trips to backpacking trips. When he outgrew it, he refused to pass it down to the next kid, despite the fact that it had tons of life left in it! We had to pry it away from him. The CompressLite packs down into it’s own tiny stuff sack, and has elastic cuffs at the wrist to keep out cold. Best of all, it’s only $80, and will hold up for years. Read a full review on Practical Travel Gear. Buy on Amazon.

Dare 2b Burrow Jacket: With alpaca wool insulation, the Burrow Jacket keeps men and teens comfortably warm without bulk. The Burrow actually feels more like a windbreaker when worn (it has ripstop nylon on the outside), but is far warmer. There are lots of zippered pockets, and like many other of our picks, it packs into it’s own bottom pocket for easy storage. Find the Burrow for around $150 on UK sites, coming to the US Dare 2b site soon.

White Sierra Zephyr hooded jacket: The White Sierra Zephyr is another great pick for an affordable price. With kids outgrowing jackets on the regular, it’s essential that the layers we buy are a good value. After all, they not only need to be affordable; they need to be passed down! What the Zephyr does that others in the same price bracket do not: it has a hood and smaller, flatter cells for a thinner feel, and a slightly boxier fit. It’s as packable as the others, and water resistant and insulated. Find it for $100 on White Sierra or Amazon for a few bucks less.

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What the school-aged kid is wearing:

Stio Hometown Down: While thicker than his older brothers’ packables, our school-aged kid loves his Stio puffy. The Hometown Down is a fully technical winter jacket with a hood and multiple pockets that still feels lightweight (he usually wears it only with a cotton long-sleeved tee). The jacket is 650 fill goosedown and comes in fun, bright colors. Made in Jackson Hole, the Stio sells for $159, and will last and last.

Big Agnes Ice House: Like the Shovelhead for women (see below), the Ice House is made with DownTek, which is warmer and more ethically harvested. The Ice House is a serious jacket that will keep your kid toasty warm from the ski slopes to city touring. It packs down small, so it will fit in a carry on or a boot bag. Pick it up on Amazon on SALE right now!

What I’m wearing:

Big Agnes Shovelhead Hooded Down jacket: Ok, it’s admittedly spendy at $249, but this jacket is made by the makers of some of the best sleeping bags on the market, and uses Downtek technology. If you tend to get cold easily, like I do, wearing the Shovelhead feels like wearing a sleeping bag, without any bulk. It’s shiny, sleek, fitted, and feminine. I love it because I feel all bundled up without looking it. (No hood, however.) Grab one on Amazon.

Exofficio Storm Logic: Slightly more reasonable but still indulgent, the Storm Logic comes on all my international trips. It has pockets for everything, from hidden money stash pockets to a place for keys, room key cards, cell phones, and passports. I love not needing to bring a purse everywhere I go. And yes, it’s still an insulated, winter-ready jacket that also packs into its own pocket. Find it on Amazon for $150.

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Adidas Flyloft: This offering from Adidas is synthetic down, and lighter weight than any of the others. Honestly, I barely feel like I’m wearing a jacket at all. The thin design means I can walk and hike in it without overheating. Look for it on Amazon!

Do you have a favorite winter jacket that’s travel-ready? Share in the comments!

Family ski wear checklist: What you need and which brands are best

November 25, 2016 By

Ski season is upon us, and if you’re a skiing family, you’re busy cataloguing your gear and checking to see what fits each family member. If you don’t ski often, you may not be outfitted yet at all. If you only ski once a year or so, we highly recommend using a ski wear rental service like Get Outfitted (see our full review), but if you plan to go several times this winter, it’s worth investing in the basics. In this post, I’m not going to list exact items, since that can change in a season or two. Instead, I’ll list quality brands you can trust for each category. Here’s what everyone in the family needs:

Best ski wear for families

 

Family ski wear checklist

Ski pants: 

Each family member’s ski pants should be waterproof (of course), and ideally, they should grow with your kid. To that end, we love Obermeyer’s ‘I-Grow’ system, which integrates cuffs and hems that are designed to be taken in and then let out to give you more life out of your pants. Young kids will appreciate ski ‘bib’ style pants, which do a great job of keeping cold and snow out, especially if they may spend a significant amount of time on the snow, and older kids will like the ‘cool factor’ of pants with suspenders or strap-free waistlines. Make sure your kid’s ski pants come down over his or her boots, with an inner lining to keep out slush. No matter which style you prefer, these are the brands we love best, based on affordability, value, and quality:

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Ski jackets: 

Picking the right ski jacket for your kid is a bit more complex than picking a pair of pants. Style comes into play even more, and since it’s nice to try to get at least two seasons out of a jacket, be sure to go with the style your child prefers. You can opt for a two-part jacket that features an inner fleece layer that zips out for solo use and an outer waterproof shell, or you can get an all-in-one. If you’re only getting one jacket, be sure it’s a waterproof shell with some insulation; otherwise, I prefer to outfit my kids with a ‘puffy’, which is what we call a down jacket or sweater layer, covered with a thin but waterproof shell. That way, they can go with just the puffy on cold but dry days, and have the shell to go over on wet days. If you have advanced extreme skiers or riders, I suggest getting a jacket with a built-in Recco avalanche beacon system. You’ll see the Recco logo displayed on these jackets, which are, as you might guess, more expensive.

Favorite brands for puffy jackets and shells:

Favorite all-in-ones or two-part system jackets:

  • Columbia: The Snowcation is a great value
  • High Sierra: The Frankie is fleece-lined
  • Craghoppers: We love the NatGeo Oliver Pro shell for our teens, paired with the Liston Half Zip
  • Free Country: The boys’ Helium is extra warm

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Base layers:

Base layers are so crucial, and so many people neglect to get high quality Merino wool or synthetic base layers! They can get expensive, but in our experience, good base layers will last through a few seasons for each kid, and can be passed down. Look for wool, as it wicks away moisture from the body, but most importantly, find a brand and material that your kids can tolerate. Some kids don’t like the feel of wool. Here’s where to shop:

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Gloves or mittens:

This is another ski wear category that centers around personal preference. I love mittens, as they keep my hands warmer (since your fingers are together and share body heat). My kids like gloves. Whichever you prefer, think QUALITY when it comes to hand protection. The last thing you want are soggy gloves. You can always buy a back up pair on the cheap, just in case. Best brands:

  • Head: Their kids’ ski mittens are colorful…you won’t lose them
  • Spyder: Try the Mini Cubbies
  • Outdoor Research: We like Revolution gloves for high quality for a great price for teens
  • Whatever Costco is selling (we’ve always found them to be good quality!)

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Socks:

This is another highly important category…we always want to make sure feet stay dry and toasty warm! Sorry to be repetitive, but go with wool, folks. Make sure you select a ski/snowboard dedicated sock, which will come up to the knee. Otherwise, your kid will be complaining about pain in their shins in no time. Top sock brands for ski days:

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Goggles:

Don’t forget goggles! This is a category of gear that can vary greatly in terms of both quality and price. For newbies to the sport, no need to spend a lot of money for top-of-the-line goggles. Instead, look for used gear at your local ski swap or ski store. But if you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder, you’ll definitely notice a difference wearing quality goggles. What we recommend:

  • Native Eyewear Upslope: Native goggles have a great anti-fog coating, which really makes a difference in most weather conditions.  The lenses also have multi-mirror, hydrophobic, and oleophobic coatings to repel oils and water. The Upslope works well for women because they fit a smaller face.
  • Native Eyewear Backbowl: The Backbowl has all the same features as above, with a wider frame and wider field of vision. I love the mirror lenses…they just look so cool! These are perfect for the men in your family.
  • K2 Captura: These women’s goggles are a good mid-price option, with spherical lenses and a smaller frame.
  • Smith Optics Sidekick: Great for kids, these goggles are a solid choice that won’t set you back!

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Ok, you’re outfitted! All you need now are your ski rentals, a helmet, and a face mask or bandana in case of wind and cold! Have a great ski season!

 

Travel style for men: Best travel wear brands

November 11, 2016 By

We have three men in our house…at least when it comes to clothing size. Our Pit Stops Dad and our two teenage sons all have a no-frills travel wear style, and they’re never interested in a lot of shopping. But I know how important it is to buy quality travel clothing that can last a long time, stand up to wear-and-tear, and perform in a variety of weather conditions. If the men in your life don’t want to do a lot of travel wear research, point them in this direction: we have the best travel wear brands for men, all in one place!

Best travel wear for men

Ecōths:

Pronounced ecos, Ecōths has been a favorite of ours for awhile. You can read some recent reviews here. Why do we like it? This brand gives back, and since it’s the men’s line of the Aventura Clothing company, you can save money with your #AventuraLife membership (free to join). But none of that matters if the clothes come up lacking, right? Ecōths shirts and tees are primarily organic cotton, which means they don’t wrinkle in your luggage, they’re incredibly soft to wear, and the colors stay vibrant. Our guys love that the same brushed cotton polo worn all day city touring can continue on to dinner that same night. We’re all about packing less.

A few Ecōths favorites:

Noah Zip-Neck Sweater: My husband’s go-to pullover from fall through spring, the Noah is excellent for chilly planes and road trips alike. There are many fun colors to choose from, too.

ecoths

Asher shirt: Another very simple design that comes in rich jewel tones (but nothing too flashy), the Asher is perfect for layering. Pit Stops Dad wears his over a tee for morning outings, since it can be easily stashed into a backpack.

Hendrix shirt: For warm-weather trips, my sons love the trendy-looking Hendrix (maybe they have a bit more style than their dad?) With a collar and breast pockets, it looks dressy when it needs to, but is also casual enough for a cruise, a bike ride, or a dude ranch.

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Columbia:

The favorite outdoor wear brand of my eldest son, Columbia is where to shop when you need rugged, trail-and-travel ready clothing. No nonsense, no-frills, and usually easy on the wallet, Columbia has proved its value to us time and again. We love their ski wear as well, but for this post, we’ll talk travel shirts and pants.

A few Columbia favorites:

Silver Ridge shirt: If your man in your life needs an all-purpose travel shirt that can go from trail to tour, the Silver Ridge delivers. It’s extremely lightweight, so it works well in tropical climates where you need to protect your skin from sun and mosquitos, and is breathable and loose for those days you’ll be hiking.

Featherweight hike shirt: This shirt is dubbed as ‘titanium’, and my son can attest to this rating…this shirt traveled with him for 26 days on the Pacific Crest Trail, and is STILL in his closest, worn regularly at home. It’s expensive, but worth the investment.

Men’s Cascades Explorer pant: These pants can go anywhere, and look good even when you pull them out of your suitcase on the last day of a trip. Plus, they can be washed pretty well in hotel room sinks.

Additional ideas:

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ExOfficio:

No way around it, ExOfficio clothing can get expensive. But it’s also extremely well-made, will last a long time, and a few core pieces can perform multiple functions on an outdoorsy or adventure travel trip. Their BugsAway line is especially high in value.

A few ExOfficio favorites:

BugsAway Talisman: This shirt was worn by my husband multiple times during our cruise through Panama and Costa Rica. It serves several purposes: the insect repellent ‘baked’ into it keeps him safe from mosquito-borne illness, and the sun protection keeps sunburn at bay. Plus, it rinses out nicely between uses.

Ziwa convertible pant: These zip-away convertible pants are excellent for hiking and more rugged travel days, especially since they can be made into shorts at any time. I have the women’s version of this pant, by the way, and love it.

GeoTrek’r shirt: If you need a short-sleeved shirt, this is your no-frills, simple option. The GeoTrek’r has a security zip pocket, but is otherwise exactly what it looks like: a basic button-down short-sleeve that will last through many adventures.