Adventure is out there. And when we say “there,” we aren’t envisioning you at home, working up a sweat trying to jam the last item into your bag, or at the airport wrestling with your luggage. Read on to discover some travel tips from outdoor experts guaranteed to make getting to your destination easier.
1. Pack Your Gear in Your Ski or Snowboard Bag
Planning a ski or snowboard trip? When it’s time to pack, try filling your ski or snowboard bag with additional gear. Most bags allow room for skis or a snowboard plus a helmet, coat, pants, gloves, goggles, base layers, poles and, in some cases, boots. Want to take it one step further? Roll up your socks and nest them inside your boots.
2. Double Duty Carry-On Hack
Take your carry-on game up a notch by using a soft-shell cooler as your personal item. This gives you the carrying capacity you need at the airport and the functionality of a cooler when you get to your adventure destination. No need to tote a tote around.
3. Nest a Daypack Inside Your Primary Bag
Find freedom to sightsee, hike, and more when you nest a small bag inside of a bigger one. Packing a daypack or lightweight tote in a larger piece of luggage means you’ll be able to stash your primary bag and take only what you need when adventure awaits.
4. Snap a Picture of Your Initial Packing Layout
We’ve all been there. You’re mid-repack thinking, “How did I fit all of this in here?!” Save yourself the packing woes by snapping a photo of your initial packing layout. No need to play Tetris when you can simply refer to the photo for help. Unless, of course, that’s how you like to spend your free time.
5. Outdoor Brands Make Luggage, Too
Get adventurous and think beyond the traditional travel brands when it comes to investing in luggage. Outdoor notables like Osprey, Thule, The North Face and others make durable luggage with pockets and plenty of space. Need more convincing? Investing in a good carry-on bag will save you on checked baggage fees in the long run.
6. Ship It—Don’t Schlep It
Setting off on a multi-activity trip? When you’re through using the gear from the first leg of your trip, there’s no need to continue to lug it around. Lighten your load by shipping some of your stuff home.
7. Donate Gear at Your Destination
No need for your gear after your adventure comes to an end? Consider donating your gently used equipment in the location you’re visiting. You’ll save on baggage fees and other outdoor enthusiasts will be able to enjoy your gear for years to come, making this a win-win for everyone.
8. Bring What You Touch
Bring the most important, custom-fitting parts of your equipment with you. Packing essentials like your bike seat, ski or snowboard boots will help you feel comfortable when you strike out on adventure in a new spot. Consider demoing or renting equipment that doesn’t necessitate a custom fit.
