Amazon Prime Day: Top 10 Travel Products on Sale

Every year, a fresh list of drool-worthy travel products hits the market.

Most are designed to make travel more comfortable and seamless—especially for those heading out on long-distance trips.

Others are designed to make domestic adventures like road trips more enjoyable or outdoor backpacking trips more streamlined.

But with new gadgets and gizmos constantly on the horizon, it can be hard to keep up with the latest travel tech and travel products.

Want a cheat sheet for Amazon Prime Day?

I’ve uncovered some of the world’s most impactful travel accessories.

And—no—I’m not going to be recommending the usual spiel of packing cubes, luggage tags, or compression socks. I’m digging deep to list the products that have actually had a demonstrable impact on my own travel journeys over the last two decades.

Here’s where to find them on Amazon Prime Day.

Travel products that will save the day

Wrap-around pillows. Forget U-shaped neck pillows that don’t actually offer posture support. There’s a new revolution in airplane pillows. Buy here.

Portable chargers. Stop worrying about whether or not your electronics are charged—and stop worrying about conserving battery power when you’re in the mood to snap some photos. You’re on vacation, after all. Buy here.

Universal adapters. Even some countries in the same geographic region use different sockets. Heading to Europe, for example? There are eight different types of sockets used. Buy here.

Compression packing cubes. I know I said I wouldn’t recommend basic products like packing cubes—and I’m not. I’m suggesting you look into compression packing cubes that will actually suck in your luggage’s gut, so to speak. Buy here.

Travel products that will make your life easier

Fold-up totes. I don’t know where you’re going next, but I know it’s always helpful to have a bit more bag in your bag. Buy here.

Portable fans. Nobody uses air-conditioning quite like the US, which means you might be facing sweltering heat while you dine in cafes, wait for tours, and more. Buy here.

Blanket scarves. Use them as fashion. Use them as portable blankets. Use them as picnic blankets. Use them as pillows. Use them as foot hammocks. Use them to protect against the cold. Use them to cover up dirty seats on public transportation. Buy here.

Travel underwear. It’s easy to wash and will dry overnight in case of any accidents. If you’re really worried about your undercarriage while traveling, you can even buy disposable underwear. Buy men’s here. Buy women’s here.

Toiletry bag with hooks. Why is there never enough sink space in the bathroom? That doesn’t matter if you have a hang-able toiletry bag in your arsenal. Buy here.

Travel products as emotional accessories

Digital camera with no screen. It’s a digital camera that doesn’t let you review the photos you’ve taken. Later on, you can download these photos and look back at your trip. I love the nostalgic quality of this unexpected travel gift. You can find these products from a range of manufacturers, but I think Amazon’s paper option is great because it’s lightweight and basic. Buy here.

Pill protectors. You should be taking your favorite painkillers and basic cold medications with you when you travel. There’s nothing worse than trying to find a suitable product when you feel like you’re dying. Buy here.

What Are Wilderness Retreats and Where Can You Find Great Programs?

Nature is one of the greatest reasons to travel. Not only does it feed our hunger for exploration, but it also works wonders on our weary souls.

When it comes to soaking up nature, Americans are in luck.

Compared to regions like Europe and East Asia, it’s not hard for Americans to get off the beaten track and into the wilderness. Still, that doesn’t mean foraying into Mother Nature is an easy task.

It takes a lot of careful consideration to craft a great camping trip.

Figuring out the minutiae of where to go, how to get there, what gear to buy, what permits you’ll need, and how to get there is like putting together an ever-shifting puzzle.

In other words, wilderness travel is alluring—but it’s complex, especially for beginners.

That’s just one reason why so many travelers end up going with a glamping experience. Glamping combines elements of traditional camping, explorations of nature, and hotel-caliber amenities like hot water and mattresses.

But what about other trending nature-based travel experiences like wilderness retreats? over the last few years, more and more travel companies have invested in nature-focused adventures.

Theoretically, all travelers need to do is sign up and show up. But let’s dig a little deeper to explore how wilderness retreats work and what you can expect from them.

How do wilderness retreats work?

Just like digital detoxes and other types of wellness trips, every wilderness retreat is slightly different.

Some go full-tilt into trekking and camping territory, while others are more closely aligned with glamping stays.

Typically, all wilderness retreats see attendees stay in eco-friendly lodging that’s immersed in nature—whether a tent, yurt, dome, or cabin.

The day-to-day is filled with exciting excursions like hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, cycling, and similar activities. Usually, wilderness retreats are categorized as low-intensity, intermediate, and high-intensity.

Oftentimes, soaking up the outdoors is only one element of the retreat. They also include itineraries that often feature mindfulness practices like meditation, creative projects like writing or music, and group-based interactions designed for community building.

Do you have to be physically fit to go on wilderness retreats?

The answer depends on the program. Some require physical fitness, while others are designed to introduce attendees to outdoor activities.

On top of that, retreat organizers go to great lengths to advertise what’s on the docket and what level of fitness attendees must meet. Some companies even use ‘grades’ and other categories to provide an accurate depiction of the retreat, and also to differentiate their various retreat programs.

Usually, wilderness retreats that explore a national park are more focused on hiking, climbing, and similarly demanding activities. The more remote and rugged the national park or reserve, the more rough-and-ready the retreat probably is.

On the other hand, some wilderness retreats are geared toward relaxation and reconnecting with nature—no grueling hikes involved. The idea is to hang out in nature, soak up the sights and sounds, and let the nervous system recalibrate.

Some wilderness retreats are also segmented by age, whether for teenagers who need to develop a bit of independence or for senior crowds who are interested in building a community of like-minded travelers.

How can travelers find great wellness retreats?

There are a few ways to book wellness retreats.

Some hotels offer wilderness packages that can be customized for small groups. If you’ve really enjoyed your stay at a remote hotel or cabin, then consider looking to see whether it offers wilderness retreats.

But the best way to find a retreat that suits your needs is to use a retreat booking platform like BookRetreats.

The website works by allowing retreat organizers to host their own programs—which you can compare thanks to its easy-to-navigate design. With just a few clicks, you can explore a program’s itinerary, meal list, lodging details, and more.

The company also has a great rating from TrustPilot and plenty of attendee reviews that you can sift through to learn more about each wilderness retreat. For newcomers, this is by far the easiest way to start exploring and comparing offers.

Meet the Ghosts of Charleston, South Carolina

If you like tales of hauntings, you’ve probably heard Charleston, South Carolina cited as one of the US’s most haunted cities.

Much of that status is thanks to the city’s long and violent history. It was formally established by English colonists in 1670, slowly growing in size and influence over the coming decades.

It served as an important hold during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, facing devastating uprisings, sieges, and fires. Its jails imprisoned important politicians and generals—and even infamous pirates.

Charleston was also the US’s largest slave port. In fact, scholars believe that up to one-half of all enslaved Africans were brought to Charleston before moving to other parts of the United States.

Talk about a formula for multiple centuries-long hauntings.

Today, many Americans regard Charleston as a charming and historical city that represents some of the finest markers of American culture. That rings true, especially when the city fills up in summer with families on their way to Myrtle Beach.

But locals will be the first to tell you—underneath all the city’s homegrown delights are more than a few lingering ghosts. If you’re looking for a quaint little dash of terror this Halloween season, here’s where you can find the ghosts of Charleston, South Carolina.

Denmark Vesey, Old City Jail

The Old City Jail is one of the most common stops in local ghost tours—and for good reason. The grounds are home to some of the most famous ghosts of Charleston.

For over a century, this jail housed tens of thousands of prisoners. It also served as the grounds for around 13,000 executions. Visitors report seeing and hearing ghostly apparitions and voices throughout the jail.

It’s believed that one of the most active ghosts is Denmark Vesey. Vesey was an enslaved man who later bought his freedom and organized an uprising in the city. When his attempts failed, he was detained at the Old City Jail. City records indicate he was executed at the jail in 1882.

Revolutionary War Soldiers, Circular Graveyard

Circle Congregational Church, Courtesy of TripAdvisor

Beside Charleston’s historical Circular Congregation Church is a centuries-old graveyard. The grounds were first broken back in 1681. A century later, soldiers from the Revolutionary War were buried throughout.

Visitors today report seeing ghostly figures and shadows crawling amid the gravestones before disappearing suddenly.

For those who aren’t necessarily on the hunt for ghosts, you might be content to read the centuries-old headstones as you wander the grounds during the day. They’re well-kept, offering a glimpse into the city’s past.

Blackbeard & Stede Bonnet, The Exchange and Provost Dungeon

Want to know something a little strange about the soldiers buried at Circular Graveyard? They would have been British Revolutionary War soldiers fighting to keep the colonies as part of the British Empire. (Surprise, surprise!)

In fact, many of Charleston’s most haunted relics have direct ties to the period of British colonial rule. That’s the case with The Exchange and Provost Dungeon, which was built in 1767 to house political prisoners, prisoners of war, and other undesirables in deplorable conditions—including pirates.

The prison was once home to Stede Bonnet and Blackbeard, two of the most famous pirates to cruise the American coasts. Some guests swear to see their ghostly apparitions and hear the haunted groaning of prisoners on the brink of death.

Annabel Lee, Unitarian Graveyard

What does Charleston have to do with Edgar Allen Poe? Not much aside from rumor.

According to local legends, the graveyard of the Unitarian Church is home to the famous ghost of Annabel Lee. Lee was the subject of one of Poe’s most famous poems. How she ended up in a graveyard as one of the most well-known ghosts of Charleston is less certain.

How to Sleep on Planes During Long Flights: Tips & Tricks

Does it sting when you see other passengers on a plane fully conked out?

Their mouths are open. Their shoulders are relaxed. They’re even snoring—clear proof that they’ve hit REM.

My body goes green with envy when I see these types. No matter how hard I try or how comfortable I am on a plane, sleep evades me. Given my struggles to sleep in my own comfy bed at home, that’s not a huge surprise.

And I’m not alone. Getting shut-eye on a plane is difficult for millions of travelers.

If you’re like me, you’ll feel bored sitting through a long-haul flight without getting some shut-eye.

At worst, though, you’ll deboard the plane feeling groggy and exhausted. (In the case of a red-eye flight, you might have just set yourself up for some serious jet lag, too.)

But let’s not throw in the towel just yet.

I’ve collected solid advice from travel experts, frequent flyers, and airline staff that outline the best tips on how to sleep on planes during long flights.

First up: Setting yourself up for success from the start.

(Disclaimer: The best way to sleep during long-haul flights is to purchase a business class or first class ticket that gives you access to a full-flat seat—but this article is for readers who don’t have thousands extra to spend on non-economy tickets.)

How to sleep on planes: the beginner’s gide

Let’s start with the basics. If you want to sleep like a baby while 35,000 feet in the air, then you need to plan ahead. Here’s how.

Pay to select your own seat. Maybe you prefer the snug comfort of the window seat. Maybe you’re more interested in having access to the aisle. Regardless, pick your favorite—it’s worth the extra spending.
Avoid bright and noisy seats. Usually, seats closest to the bathrooms and service areas are the loudest and brightest.
Don’t start scrolling (or watching). Exposure to blue light makes it harder to fall asleep. Avoid scrolling on your phone or watching in-flight entertainment if you want to fall asleep fast.
Bring extra layers. It’s hard to sleep when you’re shivering.

How to sleep on planes using comfort products

There’s a wide range of travel accessories that are designed to make you more comfortable on long-haul flights, from compression socks to eReaders to humidifying masks.

I suggest using these products to help you sleep on planes:

Travel pillows. You’re probably thinking of the standard wrap-around neck pillows—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg in terms of products that will help you sleep. I suggest looking into the Sleeper Hold travel pillow, which secures your head to the back of the seat.
Foot hammocks. These handy little accessories let you hang up your feet for more comfortable sitting. If you don’t want to buy one, you can also use a winter scarf to finagle a DIY foot hammock.
Ear plugs & eye masks. Bonus points for eye masks that include essential oils like lavender or jasmine, which can help you fall asleep faster.

What if you can’t sleep?

Bad sleepers like me know that missing out on some Zs can feel stressful. And once you’re locked into a loop of not being able to sleep and feeling stressed about it, all hopes of relaxation go out the window.

So, what do you do if you can’t sleep?

Don’t stress about it. Even if you’re not actively getting REM sleep, your body still benefits from rest. Just make sure to get up and walk around the cabin for flights over six hours.
Don’t take red-eyes. The idea behind taking red-eyes is that passengers can sleep through a simulated night, and then land at their destination feeling relatively refreshed. If you can’t sleep on planes, red-eyes are probably a bad choice, as they’ll compound other issues like jet lag, dehydration, and even stress.

Where to Find the Best Philly Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia

It’s as controversial as listing the best deep-dish pizza in Chicago or the best barbecue in Texas.

But locals in Philly know there’s a distinction between good cheesesteaks and unforgettable, write-home-to-mom cheesesteaks.

At its most basic, this sandwich includes thinly cut strips of steak, onions, bell peppers, and melted provolone (or even cheese whizz) in a hoagie roll.

Debates rage on what sorts of spices and herbs should be included, along with whether mushrooms belong with those onions and bell peppers.

It’s a big deal for locals, even if Philadelphia is laden with other great eats. In fact, the Historical Society of Pennsylvania published a whole catalog describing the sandwich’s regional significance back in 1987.

Unsurprisingly, the sandwich is popular fare for tourists and locals alike.

But where can you find the best Philly cheesesteaks in Philadelphia? Let’s count down the best spots. (Don’t worry—you’ll have plenty to choose from and compare.)

Best Philly Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia

John’s Roast Pork

Established back in 1930, this Philadelphia staple has all the markings of a great sandwich shop. It’s casual, it’s been around for almost a century, and locals keep flocking to it.

So, what’s the secret behind their delicious cheesesteaks? The steak is cooked fresh with every order. Plus, John’s Roast Pork uses a slightly sharper cheese variety, which adds a little extra pop in terms of flavor.

Saad’s Halal Restaurant

Who says you can’t have a fully halal Philly cheesesteak? (I’m not sure if people actually say that.)

Not only has Saad’s Halal perfected the Philly cheesesteak, but it’s also nabbed awards from Yelp and similar groups thanks to its falafel, desserts, and shwarma. That’s a long list of accomplishments for such a small operation.

Philip’s Steaks

If you’re hungry day or night, Philip’s Steaks is open to serve you. Despite the fact that it’s open 24 hours a day, Philip’s doesn’t compromise on quality or flavor.

Just beware that they do things a little bit differently. The traditional cheesesteak here is served with tomatoes, along with salt, pepper, and oregano. If you want a peek into the past, eat here.

Joe’s Steaks & Soda Shop

Joe’s Steaks & Soda Shop does things a little bit differently than Philadelphia’s other cheesesteak-selling delis. First, it allows for a bit of personalization. You can choose what kind of cheese you’d like, for example.

Second, you get to choose between a six-inch and a ten-inch sandwich. If you’re a little intimidated by the whole Philly cheesesteak business, especially in terms of sampling cheese whizz, start here.

Dalessandro’s Steaks

Because it’s often ranked as the best cheesesteak in Philadelphia, Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies should be your first stop if you’re in the city on a food tour.

Its sandwiches offer a perfect balance in terms of bread, steak, and onions. Its steak is also finely chopped, which is how many locals prefer their cheesesteaks. The same for the onions, which are lightly caramelized.

Chubby’s Steaks

At the start of this article, I mentioned that the Pennsylvania Historical Society celebrated the arrival of the cheesesteak back in 1987—at which point in time, Chubby’s was one of the premier cheesesteak stops.

Almost fifty years later, that hasn’t changed. If you want a legacy cheesesteak, eat at Chubby’s.

Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop

Last but not least, we have Philadelphia’s newest cheesesteak purveyor. Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop stands out thanks to its unique offerings.

For example, they’ve created their own ‘truffle whizz’, which they lather onto their cheesesteaks. In fact, most of the menu at Woodrow’s offers a modern twist on classic eats, from shrimp po’boys to meatball subs.

Where Were the US’s Most Popular Halloween Movies Shot?

With October 31st right around the corner, it’s time to curl up on the couch and put on a Halloween classic.

Watching scary movies while eating candy and popcorn is a perfect way to spend an autumn evening. And when it comes to Halloween flicks, Americans have choices.

Every decade seems to produce a new hit film or sequel in the genre, paving the way for future nostalgia.

That’s a key ingredient for great Halloween films; nostalgia. The best Halloween movies are filled with familiar terrors, from recognizable characters like Jason Voorhees to more homely witches like Winifred, Mary, and Sarah.

Most of all, the best Halloween flicks include those seasonal settings that remind audiences it’s full-on fall.

And some of those places might actually feel familiar. After all, most classic American Halloween films were shot inside the States and set in small towns.

But can you name the towns and cities where the most popular Halloween movies were shot? Let’s take a closer look at the settings behind the scenes of the US’s most beloved releases.

Real-life film locations for popular Halloween movies

Halloween (1978)

Halloween introduced Michael Meyers to the world (and Jamie Lee Curtis, but that’s another story). But this low-budget film wasn’t actually shot in the infamous and fictional town of Haddonfield, Illinois.

Instead, it was shot incredibly close to its production studio in locations like Hollywood and South Pasadena. Hopefully, I haven’t ruined the magic for anyone.

Friday the 13^th (1980)

Friday the 13^th slightly tarnished the allure of summer camps—especially those located in the woods.

The spookiest part about researching this movie’s setting is that Camp Crystal Lake (the fictional stomping grounds of Jason Voorhees) is a real-life summer camp called Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco… which is still in operation today.

The campgrounds are located in Blairs Township, New Jersey. Every summer, hundreds of happy-go-lucky campers fill the grounds. (I wonder how many recognize the setting.)

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

From the mind of Wes Craven came one of the US’s most enduring Halloween franchises: A Nightmare on Elm Street.

Unsurprisingly, the bulk of the film is set on the fictional Elm Street in the fictional city of Springwood, Ohio. However, like many other films on this list, the movie was actually shot in and around Los Angeles.

Beetlejuice (1988)

Winter River, Connecticut is one of the most famous fictional places in the world of spooky films. Beetlejuice centers around one family’s goal of haunting their old home’s new residents and getting them out of dodge.

Unfortunately, Winter River doesn’t exist. The film was shot in East Corinth, Connecticut instead. Most interior shots were completed in Culver City, California.

Hocus Pocus (1993)

We all know the setting for Hocus Pocus: Salem, Massachusetts. But where was it really shot? I have good news for you—the film was actually shot throughout the picturesque town.

In fact, visitors can go on tours that showcase the most famous locations from the film.

Scream (1996)

This cult hit became an immediate Halloween classic—one that has spawned multiple new releases, just like the Halloween franchise. The film was set in the fictional town of Woodsboro, California.

In reality, it was shot across multiple Californian towns. Most filming took place in Santa Rosa and Sonoma, along with Glen Ellen, Tomales, and Healdsburg.