The Suitcase Setup: Top Luggage Accessories for Travelers

Packing well for a vacation takes experience.

Even well-rounded travelers are apt to forget things at the last minute, from important medications to lucky socks. Other obstacles tend to pop up, too, like leaking shampoo bottles and buried electronics.

Packing well is actually one way to streamline your vacation straight from the packing phase. It can even make your long-haul flight more enjoyable.

But what about when it comes to luggage, specifically?

You can find advice on how to stay comfortable during long-haul flights. You can find tips on finding gear that’s specific for a certain type of traveler, like an experienced hiker. You can even pick up a few tricks from the hardware store that makes suitcase space go farther.

But what about luggage accessories, specifically?

I’ve dived deep into the world of carry-on bags, hardshell suitcases, and backpacks to figure out which luggage accessories and tips are most relevant to modern travelers.

Looking for a few luggage accessories and hacks? Keep reading for advice related to finding the perfect piece of luggage, the most helpful luggage accessories, and more general packing hacks.

The luggage

Prepare your luggage for success from the very start. Remember, the best type of luggage for a general traveler is a lightweight suitcase with a hard shell. Those with built-in locks offer added security.

Geo-locators let you track your luggage at all times.

Tile BlueTooth geo-locator

Apple AirTag

Some luggage come equipped with charging banks, which is always a life-saver.

TravelArim luggage

Amazon Basics luggage

Covers and wraps can protect your luggage’s straps, handles, and other dangling bits during transport.

ExploreLand wraps

TravelKin suitcase protector

Suitcase belts and bungees can help you suck in your luggage’s gut anytime, anywhere.

Untethered belts

Luggage accessories

Compression sacks are sort of like vacuum-sealed bags, except you don’t need the vacuum. *When shopping, be sure to look for general compression bags—not sleeping bags.

Frelaxy waterproof compression sacks

Smell-control laundry and shoe bags will go a long way in keeping your luggage fresh—especially for longer trips. If you’re into packing cubes, you can also use a deodorizer ball to keep things smelling nice.

Xcleen deoderizer

pack all water-resistant shoe bag

STNKY fitness bag

Portable scales can help you avoid unpleasant surprises at the check-in counter.

Ekecity portable scale

Inspira portable scale

If you’re like me, you probably have three drinks in your vicinity at all times. Use a drink caddy to avoid spills with your suitcase.

Riemont portable caddy

Luggage hacks

Use a cord organizer for electronics if you’ll be traveling with more than usual. These can sometimes cause flack for security—keeping them in one place makes their job easier.
Get those wine bags if you’re bringing home booze. Usually, custom-free shops provide these—so ask for one if they don’t. You might also consider taking a few plastic bags with you on the way.
When packing, always put your heaviest gear at the bottom beside the wheels.

Luggage accessories: FAQ

How do packing cubes actually help with organization? If you’re a hopelessly messy person, maybe not. But these luggage accessories have become popular for a reason. I recommend them for all travelers, especially those traveling with children. Categorize to stay sane!

Are electronic luggage scales reliable for avoiding overweight baggage fees? The luggage scales linked in this article are highly rated by users, meaning I feel that they’re reliable and will help you avoid overweight baggage fees.

What are the most secure types of luggage locks? There’s no ‘secret’ type of luggage lock that is more secure than another. The TSA will open any piece of luggage that it deems suspicious. However, the TSA has a list of pre-approved locks, which are all secure.

Pet Travel Products: Top Choices for Dogs

Travelers are hitting the road with their pets in higher numbers than ever before.

In fact, many hotels are opening their doors for canine friends.

Airlines, too, have stepped up to offer more dynamic options for those traveling with pets. While flying with a large dog might have once meant marooning Fido to the plane’s cargo, some airlines even let you buy tickets for your pooch to sit next to you.

That can make a huge difference in terms of pet travel—just take it from me, someone who has flown across the Atlantic with a chihuahua three times.

It’s definitely not for the faint of heart. (At least, for those of us flying coach.)

Whether you’re prepping for a cross-country road trip, a weekend getaway, or taking an international flight with your dog, research can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.

For example, many areas around the world have a strict approach to certain dog breeds, requiring muzzles or even banning certain breeds. Other countries might require proof of vaccination and certification from official government entities.

In short, it’s a lot to manage, even from an administrative point of view.

The more prepared you are on the road, the more equipped you and Fido are to overcome any obstacles.

I’ve got suggestions for you, including the best pet care travel products for your dog.

Basics of traveling with a dog

There are long and comprehensive lists of tips on pet care while traveling—which I highly suggest you pore over.

Here are a few of the most important factors based on my experience traveling across the Atlantic with a nervous chihuahua. (Again, rest in glory, Bolt!)

Go to the vet for an extensive checkup. You should be positive that your dog is up for the trip with a clean and full bill of health. Don’t forget—you might also need your vet to sign off on documents that confirm your dog is healthy. Oh, and get your dog’s nails trimmed while you’re there!
Create a packing list for your dog. It’s really easy to forget things when it comes to our pets. That’s because we tend to stick to a routine that’s tied to our home, yard, and overall lifestyle.
Call ahead to prepare your hotel/lodging. You probably confirmed that pets are welcome before booking your hotel. You might have even paid a deposit for your doggo. Still, it’s always worthwhile to make another call to request a room that’s quiet and close to an exit.

If you’re traveling by plane, train, or car, these are the pet travel products that will make a difference on your trip. I’ve suggested one or two options in each category.

The big stuff

Airline-approved pet carrier (for trains and planes)

Maskeyon pet carrier

PetSKD expandable pet carrier

Dog car seat (for road trips)

K&H pet bucket booster

SWIHELP dog car seat

Water-resistant seat covers (picnic blankets work great for creating impromptu seats wherever you go)
Skuddles extra large water-resistant blanket

Multi-purpose leash (for adjustable levels of freedom)

Multi-function 8-foot leash

Tesitehi adjustable leash

The little things

Collapsable water and food bowls

Bonza collapsable bowl

Outward Hound collapsable bowl-bag

Doggie backpack

Himmal outdoor dog backpack

Wet wipes

EarthRated deodorizing wipes

Lavender wipes

Dry shampoo

Wahl pet-friendly dry shampoo

Arm&Hammer pet shampoo

Nail trimmer

Gonicc nail clippers

Paw balm

NaturalDog organic paw balm

Miscellaneous

Compostable poo bags

GreenerWalker compostable poo bags

GPS Collar

BlingBling GPS dog collar

Tracktive GPS tracker

Pet Passport

Pet passports can be purchased and ordered online from various suppliers. Ask your vet how to create a pet passport for your dog that includes vaccinations and their health status. Most vets already have a system in place to produce passports for their registered canines.

The World’s Most Remote Beaches & Where to Stay to Enjoy Them

I dream of solitude.

Not just some time alone, but the kind of solitude that might make others uncomfortable. I don’t want to see another human, or hear their voice, or smell their pungent perfumes.

No flirty men, no cute dogs, no sign of civilization. Just me and a sandy beach, the sound of lapping waves and a cool breeze scented of gardenias. (Also, a cooler full of wine spritzers.)

While not everyone dreams of the total solitude that appeals to me, millions of travelers each year flock to beaches. And many are on the hunt for unspoiled views, the quaint sounds of nature, and plenty of space to stretch out.

But which of the world’s remote beaches are actually remote? And why are they worth the added travel time?

I’ve taken a close look at some of the world’s most stunning and remote beaches. Though I can’t help you get there, I’ve got suggestions on which beaches to go to and where to stay when you get there.

Here are my top choices from around the globe, from Polynesia to South America to Asia.

Ofu Beach (USA, American Samoa)

Want access to one of the world’s most remote beaches?

You don’t even need to leave the US.

Located on the doublet isles of Ofu and Olosega, you’ll find one of the wildest and most memorable beaches. Thanks to a once-active volcano, coral reef rims much of the shallow coasts.

It’s so pristine that visitors don’t even need to snorkel or scuba to see the reef and its fish—the waters are literally crystal clear. It is also known for its dark volcanic rocks, which jut from the white sand, and the surrounding mountains which have nearly vertical faces.

You can stay nearby on the island of Pago Pago. I recommend lodging at the TradeWinds Hotel.

Furuzamami Beach (Japan, Zamami Island)

We’ve got yet another snorkeler’s paradise in Japan’s Zamami Island.

This spot is part of the Okinawa Islands, which are accessible from mainland Japan. That means that it’s not quite as remote as the others on this list—at least in terms of the number of tourists that pass through.

If you want to fully escape the crowds, then this might not be the best option. But I’ve kept it on the list because it does have a truly ‘escapist’ feel.

Zamami Island has only three settlements, all of which have around 1,000 residents in total. Plus, that (very slight) added tourist traffic means the hotels are next-level. I’d book a room at either of these spots:

Kerama terrace

St. Maire

Rawa Island (Malaysia)

Rawa (‘Pulau Rawa’ in Malay) is a tiny island located off the coast of Malaysia’s peninsula.

The island’s name comes from the abundant white doves that call the island home—but you’ll probably stop there for the marine life instead. Half of the small island is home to white sand beaches that are lined with coral.

The island is rugged; there are two resorts to choose from, but no roads to travel on. Locals enjoy taking the ferry from nearby Mersing Town.

A common activity on Rawa is snorkeling to spot creatures like squid, jellyfish, octopi, and even reef sharks. But the main attraction is Rawa’s colorful and healthy reefs.

If you want to explore Rawa, you can stay in one of its two active resorts.

Alang’s Rawa seems to be a bit more geared toward backpackers

Rawa Island Resort looks more luxurious, and would be my first choice

Baia do Sancho (Brazil, Fernando de Noronha Island)

This beach just landed on the list of the world’s best beaches for 2024, coming in at 34^th place.

It’s not hard to see why. This beach is located on an island off Brazil’s northeastern coast. To access the beach, adventurers must go by boat, as the island’s coasts are all cliffsides—aside from the beach, of course.

These create the perfect backdrop, squishing visitors between dramatic cliff faces and lush jungles. Similar to Ofu Beach, the rocks are dark in color, adding even more vibrancy.

Unsurprisingly, the waters of Baia do Sancho are clear and the tides are usually gentle.

So how do you get there? Like Ofu Beach, the best lodgings are located elsewhere. Fernando de Noronha is also the name of the surrounding archipelago—which has islands with jaw-dropping resorts. I suggest checking out:

Pousada Ecologica

Pousada Tatarugas

Vila Sal Noronha

Baratang Beach (India, Baratang Island)

I recently wrapped up a small piece on the Andaman Islands and Port Saint Blair, which are some of the most remote in the world. (And also home to uncontacted tribes…)

Baratang Island and its famous Baratang Beach are some of the most remote locations in this already-remote region.

Baratang Beach’s greatest appeal is its peaceful shorelines. Not only are the waters clear and full of vibrant coral reefs, but the waters stay gentle, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving. It’s unspoiled in every sense of the word.

But there’s also the added benefit of surrounding adventures. Baratang Island is tiny. From the beach, you can easily access unique experiences like spelunking in limestone caves and checking out one of the world’s few mud volcanoes.

You can stay on Baratang Island or on a nearby island like Havelock. If I were heading to Baratang, I’d probably stick to Havelock for its boosted amenities, then head to Baratang to disappear on the beach.

Sea Shell Resort & Spa – Havelock Island

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

Where Do The British Royals Vacation?

Everyone dreams of extravagant vacations.

Unfortunately for most, over-the-top and luxurious trips don’t come around often. They’re usually reserved for some of life’s greater moments, whether a honeymoon or a landmark birthday.

But for some, high-class vacationing is part of their lifestyle—and no one does it quite like the world’s royal families.

Though monarchies have less and less political influence by the year, they remain cultural institutions for millions of people.

The British Commonwealth is the world’s greatest example; its royals have managed to hold onto public attention and a fair amount of approval.

Outsiders love taking a fine-tooth comb to royal affairs—even when monarchs escape for a little bit of vacation. There’s simply no detail too small to make headlines, whether royals are traveling for downtime, a honeymoon, or political purposes.

Ever wondered how England’s royal family vacations and where they frequent? As one of the world’s most powerful dynasties, they aren’t short on properties, invitations, or places to stay.

Here are a few of the most high-profile places where the British royal family vacations.

Balmoral Castle

You won’t see this location listed alongside the UK’s most accessible castles. This Scottish structure is home to beautiful gardens and stately rooms, making it a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II.

Nestled in the Scottish highlands, it’s one of the most rugged locations that the royal family vacations. This is one of the most frequently visited vacation spots thanks to its proximity to London.

Gibraltar

The first stop on the highly publicized honeymoon of Princess Diana and Prince Charles was Gibraltar, a state still run by the Commonwealth.

This Mediterranean nation is largely home to military and political projects—but it’s got all the sunshine and clear coastlines that you’d expect from this part of the world.

Malta

Similar to Gibraltar, Malta is a tiny island nation in the Mediterranean—one that was part of the British Commonwealth until the 1960s.

Both are hotspots for the royals anytime they travel to the Mediterranean, alongside other islands like Mallorca (part of Spain). Back in the 1940s, Queen Elizabeth II took her honeymoon there with Prince Philip.

The Bahamas

Nassau is one of the hotspots for British royals—and it’s been one for decades. Back in the 1960s, Princess Margaret went on her honeymoon starting in Nassau.

Later on, Princess Diana would also spend time on Richard Branson’s private Necker Island. She even vacationed there for a period with her sons. (Branson is known for inviting global stars to his island—he’s even hosted the Obamas there.)

Later on, Prince William and Kate Middleton also enjoyed a hefty portion of their honeymoon in the Bahamas.

Norfolk Coast

Similar to Balmoral Castle in the Scottish Highlands, the Norfolk Coast is a vacation hotspot that is close to home for the British royal family. The Sandringham Estate has been a popular choice for decades, especially for Queen Elizabeth II during her reign.

But the draw to Norfolk might not be the picturesque rolling hills and forests. Instead, Sandringham Estate is where the royal family celebrates Christmas and New Year annually.

Temple Weir: Private Island on the Thames Costs Less than a College Degree

Maybe not everyone actively dreams of owning a private island.

But who would pass up the chance to claim one as their own—especially an affordable private island?

I’ve been interested in private islands for a while now. Recently, I covered a few big-name islands that have gone on the market over the last year, including Pym Island in Vancouver and Black’s Island in Florida.

The former is a high-lux and jaw-dropping forested island that will set you back a humble $5.5 million ($7.5 in Canadian dollars). The latter is the former citadel of a rich Caribbean pirate, which costs a heart-stopping $50 million.

But this next story isn’t quite like the others.

First, it’s not located in the ocean or a bay—but on the famous Thames River in England.

Second, it’s actually affordable, costing less than most college educations in the United States.

Third, there’s no sordid tie to murder to piracy. (That may or may not be a plus?)

Welcome to Temple Weir, a thimble-sized island on the Thames River between the villages of Marlow and Henley in England’s Buckinghamshire.

Temple Weir: Hermitage of the Thames

Marlow and Henley are riverside towns with histories that stretch back to the 11^th century. Today, both are more known for lying on or near the Thames River (or the River Thames, whichever you prefer), which makes them popular with water enthusiasts.

Many people living on the river between these towns own boats so they can enjoy the great outdoors and the Thames. There are even a few islands nearby that are used for private residences and marinas.

But Temple Weir Island stands on its own.

There’s not much to this tiny island, and that’s what makes it so magical.

Temple Weir stretches around 2,000 square feet. It’s covered in healthy trees and shrubs—with no electrical hookup, water connection, drainage system, or any formal infrastructure.

Since the last owners bought Temple Weir in 2010, its served as a mooring spot for boats. But could that change?

Mooring on the Thames for a dainty £75,000

The sale of Temple Weir Island is being headed by agent Richard Maby of Savills.

According to Maby, the sale will likely go to a buyer who wants to use the island for a similar purpose as its previous owners. But it’s not out of the question for a more elaborate construction project to take shape.

As mentioned above, many end up in towns like Marlow and Henley to be close to the river. The area is renowned for its picturesque living—there’s even a lifestyle magazine published locally.

Marlow, in particular, is known for its high-class houses that abut the water, many of which include docks. It’s also worth noting that this portion of the Thames is one of the most beautiful, covered in lush greenery and old growth.

Though there’s the potential for establishing infrastructure on Temple Weir, the planning would need to be limited to be approved by the necessary agencies. It would incur hefty costs given the island’s remote location in the center of the river, which is highly protected.

The future of Temple Weir

So, what does this mean for Temple Weir?

Will the island sell for £75,000 to a buyer who simply wants to use the island for docking and access to a tiny, private forest now and then? It’s not totally out of the question—nor is it financially irresponsible.

While Temple Weir will probably go for a lot more than that £75,000 asking price (around $94,000 USD), it’s not an unwise choice for boating enthusiasts.

Paying to moor for a year in this area can cost between $5,000 and $10,000 for a very basic setup, making Temple Weir look more attractive for long-term residents.

Princess Grace Kelly: A Look at Her Life & Legacy in Monaco

Megan Markle is one of the most famous Americans in the world.

Since her marriage to Prince Harry and transformation as the Duchess of Sussex, there’s been almost non-stop attention on the Royal couple.

It’s been a bumpy and controversial road for Markle—one that culminated with her and Harry stepping down as royals in January 2020.

But for those who remember the story of Wallis Simpson and King Edward VIII, Markle and Prince Harry’s trajectory was anything but shocking.

American women & European royalty

TL;DR on Wallis Simpson: an American socialite named Wallis Simpson falls in love with King Edward VIII in the early 1930s. He tries to make Simpson his official consort, but Simpson has two ex-husbands, and the Brits don’t like that.

The marriage was viewed as too threatening to the monarchy, so King Edward VIII abdicated the throne the same year he ascended it in 1936.

Ever wondered how Queen Elizabeth II made it to the throne?

Because her uncle, King Edward VIII, fell hard for a cutie from Baltimore (Simpson). When he abdicated his position, it made Elizabeth II’s father the King of the United Kingdom. (History’s crazy, y’all.)

Clearly, American women haven’t had an overwhelmingly easy time with the British monarchy. And that might paint a misleading picture—one that depicts American women as unfit for royal worlds.

Between Simpson and Markle, it’s easy to lose sight of arguably the US’s most impactful American-turned-European-royalty: Princess Grace of Monaco, a fashion icon and beloved monarch.

Let’s explore the life and legacy of Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco and member of the House of Grimaldi through her marriage to Prince Rainier III of Monaco.

Grace goes to Cannes

If you’ve heard of Grace Kelly, it’s probably thanks to her royal affiliation.

However, she had an extensive and successful career in Hollywood prior to her marriage. One that saw her take home three Golden Globes and one Academy Award.

In 1955, Grace Kelly headed to the Cannes Film Festival. There, she caught the attention of Monaco’s Prince Rainier III. He invited her to his palace for a photoshoot (classic), and she accepted.

That kicked off a short but sweet year-long courtship that ended with a diamond-studded ring.

Kelly’s life took a sharp turn after her marriage. She swapped her acting career for the daily duties of managing a country, and quickly had two children. (She would go on to have a third in the 1960s.)

But Kelly didn’t wilt behind the scenes or succumb to the monotony of royal life.

Princess Grace rises to the charge

In fact, she immediately fit in.

Her wedding to Prince Rainier III drew in around 30 million viewers from around the world and is still regarded as the first moment of ‘media overkill’ in pop culture.

Just like Princess Diana of Wales, Kelly seemed to genuinely connect with her new constituents—and that sense of doting seemed to radiate from her. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, she headed new programs for Monaco and beyond.

Princess Grace, as she became known, got to work managing the Red Cross of Monaco, the Patron of Rainbow Coalition for Children, and the Garden Club of Monaco.

She even founded AMADE Mondiale, which focuses on providing resources to at-risk children, and the Princess Grace Foundation, which supports local Monegasque artists.

Unfortunately, Princess Grace suffered from a cerebral hemorrhage in 1982 at the age of 52. Following her death, Prince Rainier III never remarried.

How to experience Princess Grace’s legacy in Monaco

Though Princess Grace has been dead for almost half a century, her legacy thrives in Monaco and beyond. If you’re heading to hotspots like the Monte Carlo or are taking a more general tour through Monaco, you’ll be close by dozens of places that carry Princess Grace’s influence.

Here are the spots I recommend checking out:

Avenue Princess Grace (one of the highest-class shopping districts in the world)
Fontvieille Park Rose Garden
Princess Grace Irish Library
Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo