Travel Lifestyle

Category: Travel Articles

  • The 7 Best North Face Backpacks For Travel & Adventure: Ultimate Buyers Guide 

    The 7 Best North Face Backpacks For Travel & Adventure: Ultimate Buyers Guide 

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    [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Regardless of what type of travel or day trip you’re into, one thing everyone needs is a reliable rucksack. 

    Whilst traveling, be it for a day or a few weeks, your backpack is home to your beloved belongings, so you want it to be strong and protective. It also helps to have different sections, pockets and dividers if you want to keep organised whilst on the go. 

    But as well as looking after your belongings, your travel backpack needs to look after you. What I mean by this is, you want a backpack that makes carrying heavy items easier, without hurting your back. A good travel backpack will make your adventures easier. 

    North Face is a top brand for outdoor gear, and several of their backpacks have been made with hiking, climbing and mountaineering in mind. So North Face backpacks can handle an adventure. 

    But to help you find the best North Face backpack, here’s a buyers guide and a list of the top choices. 

    What is The North Face? 

    The North Face is a brand that specialises in outdoor clothing and gear for adventurous campers and travellers. 

    They sell fleeces, coats, tents, sleeping bags, travel and camping accessories, and of course backpacks. 

    North Face gear is designed to help you venture off the grid, and take on more challenging adventures. The name ‘The North Face’ refers to the north face of a mountain, which is the coldest and hardest route to the peak, and their gear has been designed to be suitable for even the hardest of journeys. 

    Why choose a North Face Backpack?

    The North Face designs backpacks that are suitable for all kinds of adventures. So whatever corner of the world you’re heading to, whatever climate or adventure you’re tackling, a North Face backpack is going to protect your gear. 

    North Face backpacks are also comfortable and they make carrying a heavy pack easier on your back. 

    The Best North Face Backpacks

    1: North Face Borealis

    The Borealis is one of the most popular North Face backpacks, because it’s the classic day bag. It’s fairly small in size, and it’s lightweight too, so it’s great for day trips, or shorter getaways.

    It’s also water-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about your belongings being damaged by bad weather or damp ground.

    The Borealis’s interior is also designed for those who like to keep organised. It has different compartments, and some padding to keep your belongings from becoming squashed, damaged or bashed.

    Pros

    • It comes with a lifetime warranty 
    • It’s a popular backpack model
    • Water resistant so little risk of water damage to your belongings
    • Organised interior with different compartments
    • Mesh compartments on the sides for extra storage, or for a water bottle
    • It’s the perfect size for a day bag
    • It’s a unisex design

    Cons

    • It’s too small for anyone wanting a large capacity backpack for bigger trips

    2: North Face Surge

    The North Face Surge is an elegant day bag that doubles as a laptop bag. It has a dedicated space for a laptop up to 15″.

    The Surge is also one of the most comfortable North Face backpacks to wear on long journeys. It’s padded, and features North Face’s FlexVent suspension system which makes the bag easier on the shoulders and back.

    The back panel is breathable, allowing air to pass through and keep your back cool, because no one wants the dreaded sweaty back that often comes with carry a rucksack.

    One thing to note with this backpack though is that it’s designed for women. There are several colourful design options, and the bag is designed for a woman’s smaller build.

    Pros

    • Very comfortable for a woman as it’s specifically designed for a female body
    • Laptop compartment with soft lining to prevent scratches and bashes
    • FlexVent suspension for comfortable carrying
    • Perfect for those who like to work on the go

    Cons

    • It’s not a backpack for men
    • It’s not waterproof, which may cause a problem if you’re using it to carry your laptop a long way
    • It’s not as lightweight as other models

    3: North Face Recon

    Another women’s North Face backpack, the North Face Recon. This backpack has a classic design, and it’s a popular choice for travel addicts because it’s got a larger capacity than other North Face day bags.

    Much like the Surge, this also has a dedicated laptop compartment, which makes it ideal for digital nomads. The laptop compartment is well padded and protected, so there’s no risk of any damage to your laptop.

    It also has a FlexVent suspension system and a sternum and waist straps to make it more comfortable to carry.

    Pros

    • 31 litre capacity makes it a better option for traveling on short trips
    • Very comfortable for a woman as it was designed for the female form
    • FlexVent suspension system
    • Sternum and waist straps
    • Laptop compartment makes it perfect for digital nomads. It can also be used as a work bag. 
    • Different colours to choose from

    Cons

    • Only suitable for women
    • Can’t be stood up on a flat surface, so needs to be carefully placed down if it contains valuables

    4: North Face Router

    The North Face Router is another laptop day bag, but this is one for the gents. It comes in red or black, so there’s a couple of different style options.

    The guys out there will be pleased to hear it’s designed to be just as comfortable as the ladies’ Surge and Recon, with the same FlexVent suspension system and padded straps providing ultimate comfort.

    This laptop day bag is bigger than the women’s alternatives, being 17″ rather than 15″. So it fits much more than just a laptop.

    The larger capacity and durable material make it a perfect backpack for traveling. As long as you don’t mind packing light, this can easily cope with larger and longer adventures.

    Pros

    • It’s large capacity means it can fit more than just a laptop
    • Flexvent suspension system and padded straps make it super comfortable 
    • You can choose between red or black 
    • Specifically designed to suit male bodies 

    Cons

    • Not a great choice for women

    5: North Face Terra

    The best North Face backpack for travel

    The North Face Terra is a unisex backpack that comes in different sizes, so you can find one that fits you and your belongings perfectly. You can choose a 50, 55 or 65 litre rucksack, so it’s definitely a rucksack designed for travel.

    You can also use it with a hydration bladder, and it has a compartment for a laptop too, making it one of the most versatile backpacks.

    It’s got a vertical channel that gives the backpack good ventilation and a padded shoulder harness and hip belt for comfort.

    It also has a sleeping bag compartment, making it a great bag for outdoors and adventure travel.

    Pros 

    • The best North Face backpack for travel 
    • Designed with hiking in mind 
    • Large capacity makes it perfect for backpacking and longer trips
    • Sleeping bag compartment makes it a good adventure bag
    • Laptop compartment useful for digital nomads
    • Can be used with a hydration bladder
    • Super comfortable and ventilated 

    Cons

    • Not suitable for cabin baggage or smaller trips  

    6: North Face Fovero 85

    North Face Travel Rucksack

    The North Face Fovero 85 is THE backpack for long term, adventurous travellers. It has even more room than the North Face Terra, and it has a separate sleeping bag compartment that can be attached/detached.

    The lid also doubles as a day bag, and can be attached and detached from the bag so you don’t have to worry about carrying two bags at once.

    The suspension systems makes carrying heavy weight easier, which is especially useful if you plan on hiking with a lot of gear.

    It also comes with a waterproof cover that can be easily pulled over the bag, so there’s no need to worry about traveling in bad weather.

    Pros

    • Perfect for carrying lots of gear
    • Sleeping bag compartment
    • Detachable day bag
    • Great suspension system  
    • Padded straps for comfort
    • Waterproof cover

    Cons

    • It’s massive, which means it’s not suitable for small trips 

    7: North Face Banchee 50

    Travel Backpack From The North Face

    This is a great backpack for anyone who likes to travel on shorter trips, as well as big adventures. It can hold up to 50 litres worth of kit, but it can be adjusted to become a smaller backpack for smaller trips.

    It’s suitable for both men and women, and it’s one of the most comfortable North Face backpacks. The straps have some really cushy padding, and you can use the front straps to spread the weight of your bag.

    It also comes in two colours, red and green, so you can choose the style that suits you best.

    Pros

    • Great for all kinds of travel – short trips and long adventures
    • Super comfortable to wear, thanks to the cushy padding
    • Suitable for both men and women
    • Size of the bag can be adjusted
    • Two colours to choose from

    Cons

    • No laptop compartment 

    What to look for in a North Face backpack? 

    Different backpacks suit different people, mainly because we all lead different lifestyles. So before rushing out and buying a backpack for your next trip, here are some things to look for and consider 

    Capacity: how much can it hold? 

    Depending on where you’re traveling and for how long, you might need a smaller or larger backpack. 

    You can get some really massive backpacks for bigger trips, some even hold up to 120L. But these will be heavy to carry, even with comfortable straps, and if you’re traveling by plane these will need to be checked in. 

    North Face also do a huge range of smaller backpacks, up to 40L, and most of these can be carried comfortably, and can be used as a cabin bag when flying. 

    Padding: is it comfortable? 

    If you’re traveling with a backpack, you need to be able to carry it for a while without the straps cutting into your shoulders or the weight hurting your back. 

    So for your backpack to be comfortable and safe to wear, you need it to have cushy straps that are soft on the shoulders. And a padded back will stop the backpack from feeling lumpy and bumpy to wear.

    Protection: how much protection does it offer your belongings?

    Some bags will have internal padding that gives your belongings extra protection. So if you’re carrying valuables like cameras or a laptop with you on your travels, you’ll definitely want to make sure your bag keeps them safe from bumps and bashes. 

    Another way to make sure your bag offers enough protection is to get a waterproof bag. This way if you’re venturing somewhere with bad weather, or you’re hiking and get caught in the rain, water isn’t going to dampen your possessions or ruin your electricals. 

    Ventilation: how good is the air flow? 

    If you’re used to wearing a backpack you’ll know the ever-embarrassing problem of back sweat. Some backpacks can make you sweat like crazy. I’m not talking like a little bit of moisture, I’m talking dripping wet t-shirt back sweat.

    It’s embarrassing and uncomfortable, but it can be so easily avoided with a good backpack! All you need is good ventilation.

    Lots of North Face backpacks will have ventilated backs, allowing air to flow, keeping your back cool and significantly non-sweaty.

    Internal features: what’s it like inside? 

    Having one big open interior will allow you to fit more in your backpack, but it means your things are probably going to be quite unorganised. You’ll have to just throw everything in, without having any sort of structure.

    If you want to organise your backpack a bit more, you might want to look for a backpack with internal features and dividers.

    Some North Face backpacks will have laptop compartments, and smaller phone or money pockets. This makes for convenient packing.

    Quality: will it go the distance? 

    North Face is a top outdoors brand, so they always make quality backpacks. Choosing a North Face backpack means you won’t have to worry about your rucksack breaking under pressure or ripping when carrying a heavy load.

    Straps: does it have supportive straps?

    Whether you’re heading out for the day, or for a long term travel trip, you need your backpack to be comfortable to wear. Supportive and padded straps make carrying a heavy bag easier. You won’t have to put up with straps cutting into your shoulders.

    If you’re traveling long distance with your backpack, and you plan on carrying it around for longer than an hour or two, you might want to consider a rucksack with chest and sternum straps. This helps you spread the weight of your bag, making long walks easier.

    Size: will it double as cabin luggage?

    If you’re going to be traveling with your bag, you’ll need to think about size. Choosing a massive backpack will allow you to take all the gear you need for several weeks or even several months. But you will have to check it in when you fly.

    Choosing a smaller backpack will mean you’ll have less capacity but you can take it on smaller trips, and use it as your cabin bag.

    You need to think about what size is right for you, or if you want different backpacks for multiple occasions, why not think about buying two north face backpacks?[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column]
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  • Breaking Up With A Travel Partner: From Couple Travel To Solo Travel

    Breaking Up With A Travel Partner: From Couple Travel To Solo Travel

    If you’ve been with someone for a long time, and you’ve traveled with them, they’ve probably become your go-to travel partner. At least, that was the case with me. 

    I was with someone for four years, and during those four years we traveled all around Europe and Asia together. It was perfect. Until it wasn’t. And when it became time to go our separate ways, it was so much harder than a regular break up. 

    We’d built a lifestyle together. A lifestyle that most people could only dream of. We both worked remotely, and hopped between cities, islands and mountains. 

    So when our relationship came to an end, one of the biggest heart aches was knowing that my future adventures would be alone. After four years of traveling together, as a couple, I struggled to come to terms with the thought of traveling alone. 

    But it turned out, traveling alone had even more opportunities and perks than traveling as a couple. Solo travel is truly life changing, and it’s not as daunting as you might think. So I thought I’d write this post to help anyone else who’s broken up or breaking up with their travel partner. 

    Should you break up before or after a trip?

    If you’re having doubts about your partner, but you’ve got a trip booked, it can be hard to know what to do. You can feel trapped and helpless. 

    If you break up before the trip, it’s a lot of excitement and money down the drain. If you break up after the trip, you have to sit on your decision until your trip is over. 

    One thing to consider is that there’s never a good time to break up. You’ll always have something planned, or something going on that would make it a bad time. Break ups are always bad, which I know isn’t particularly reassuring, but it means that break ups on the road aren’t that much worse. 

    Waiting it out until the end of your trip can also cause a lot of tension. If you speak your mind before you depart you can get the hard part over and done with, and start moving on sooner. You’ll also have more time to think about what happens regarding your trip. 

    Breaking up before a trip is also a lot easier than breaking up whilst abroad. The last thing you want is for tension to build, and for you to encounter the fresh hell of a break up when you’re supposed to be enjoying a holiday. 

    However, if you’re not sure about whether you definitely want to leave your partner, seeing how the trip goes can be a good idea. 

    What happens if you break up before a booked trip?

    If you’ve broken up, but you’ve got a trip booked together, you’ll need to come up with a plan.  Your options are:

     1: both of you still go together, as friends

    2: neither of you go

    3: one of you goes alone or with someone else

    Option 1 is a bad idea. If you go away together having just broken up, you won’t be able to move on, and the break up won’t feel real. 

    Option 2 is a good option, if you can get your money back. But if you can’t get any sort of refund, this is going to be disappointing for both of you. 

    Option 3 is worth considering. One of you could pay the other back their share of the holiday, and take a friend instead. This way, no one really loses. One person gets their money back, one person gets a holiday. But be considerate of your ex – don’t take a romantic interest on what would have been your holiday together. 

    How To Break Up With Someone Whilst Traveling

    If you’re already traveling with someone, and you realise it’s just not working, a break up can feel impossible. Especially if you’ve got several weeks or even months left of your trip. 

    But it is possible to break up whilst traveling. And it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Here are some tips to help breaking up whilst traveling go as smoothly as possible. 

    1: Be as kind as possible 

    If you’re the breaker-upper, you’ve probably been thinking about leaving your partner for a while. But for them, it might come as a shock. Especially in the middle of a trip. 

    So try to be gentle with them. They’ll be sad, maybe angry, and possibly scared about being left in the middle of an unknown country. 

    In this situation a little kindness goes a long way. Don’t end it with screaming and shouting. Just be honest, and grateful for the good times. 

    2: Don’t abandon your (ex) partner

    If your relationship ended with anger, it can be tempting to storm off and never see your partner again. But if you care about them, which you probably still do so soon after a breakup, make sure they’re alright. 

    Don’t abandon them in a strange country. Help them make a plan. Will you continue the rest of your trip together, or separately? Or will one or both of you decide to fly home?

    Reassure them that whatever they decide to do, you’ll support them. Because if your relationship meant anything, you’ll want them to be safe, and as okay as they can be. 

    3: It can still be a life changing trip 

    Just because you’ve decided you don’t work as a couple, doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the trip. Whether you decide to finish the trip together or separately, there’s no need to write off the experience. 

    You’ve both spent money on the trip, and you were both hoping for life changing experiences, so why not have them? 

    If the break up was too painful, and you’d rather just fly home, that’s completely fine. But if you think you can continue as friends, or as solo travellers, it’s worth sticking it out and making the most of the time you have left. 

    4: Make plans for when you arrive home

    Did you drive to the airport together? Or do you have belongings at each others homes? Will you be arriving home at different times? These are things you’ll need to think about. The chances are that parting ways at the airport won’t be that simple. Decide when you’ll collect belongings, how you’ll both get home from the airport, etc. 

    How To Cope With Losing A Travel Partner

    Whether you’ve broken up with your partner, or you’re the one that’s been broken up with, losing a travel partner is hard. You’re probably wondering how you’ll ever travel again without them. 

    But just because you don’t have your partner anymore doesn’t mean you can’t travel anymore. You still have the option of traveling with friends, or alone. 

    Here are some tips to help you cope with losing a travel partner.

    1: Discover yourself again

    I know, it sounds cringey. But rediscovering yourself is an important part of any break up. You’ve probably spent a long time getting to know who you are as part of a pair, so it’s time to figure out who you are as an individual.

    Once you’re comfortable and confident with yourself, and you know what you want from your future, then you can start planning future trips.

    2: Don’t cling to the past

    It’s tempting to hold on to the idea that you might get back together, but if you do this, you’re never going to move on. Try to focus on what the future might bring, rather than clinging on to the past.

    3: Remember love and convenience aren’t the same thing

    If you and your partner broke up, it was for a reason. And one of those reasons might have simply been that the love was gone.

    If you find yourself questioning whether breaking up was the right thing to do, consider the difference between love and convenience. Are you having second thoughts because you still love your partner, or because life was easy with them?

    Just because your partner lived and enjoyed a similar lifestyle to you, doesn’t make them your soul mate. Hold on for someone who not only has a similar lifestyle and interests, but someone you also absolutely adore.

    4: Grow your confidence

    Even if you consider yourself a shy person, and you’re worried about facing the world alone, remember confidence is like a plant: it can be grown!

    Spend some time focusing on yourself. Achieve personal goals, and start to take on new tasks and challenges independently. If you lack social confidence, push yourself to go to more social events and you’ll soon feel like a social butterfly.

    Growing your confidence is going to help you move on, and potentially plan solo trips in the future.

    5: Focus on friendships

    Partners come and go, but your friends and family will always be there for you. So rather than thinking about moving on romantically, just spend some time with your close friends and family.

    Spending time with your loved ones can remind you of how special you are, and they can often help you feel much better and more confident.

    6: Make a bucket list

    It’s normal to lose interest in travel a little after breaking up with your travel partner, but if you make a bucket list, you’ll start to rediscover your love of adventure.

    Make plans for the places you want to see, and remember the reason you fell in love with travel. You probably had a desire to travel before you met your partner, so you just need to rediscover it as a solo traveler.

    Think of why it is you want to see and experience certain places, rather than who you want to see them with.

    7: Book a solo trip

    Booking a solo travel trip is the final and most important stage of getting over losing your travel partner. It’s your chance to thrive as an individual, and explore the world on your own terms.

    You might not have anyone to set off with, but you’ll meet so many people along the way, and you’ll see things you’ve always dreamed of seeing.

    I’ll admit, setting off on a solo travel trip is absolutely terrifying the first time. You don’t what’s going to happen, who you’re going to meet, or what the place is going to be like. But once you’ve set off, it’s going to be the most life changing experiences you’ve ever had. And it will be a huge personal achievement.

  • 18 Great Gifts For Aspiring Travel Writers

    18 Great Gifts For Aspiring Travel Writers

    If you know someone who loves to travel and write about their adventures, you’ll know that when it comes to birthdays and Christmas, conventional gifts just won’t do. 

    Aspiring travel writers are always on the go, so they value portable gifts that can make any journey easier, and gifts that can help them find success as a travel writer. 

    But it can be hard to think of great gift ideas that are actually useful, especially if you’re not very travel-inclined yourself. 

    So to make the gift-giving process a little easier, here are the best gifts for aspiring travel writers.

    Little gifts for aspiring travel writers 

    1: How To Be A Travel Writer, Lonely Planet

    This book by Lonely Planet is one of the best books out there for aspiring travel writers.

    It gives a thorough strategy to getting set up as a travel writer, covering everything from preliminary trip research, to story planning, to how and where to publish travel writing and start building an audience.

    2: Travel Diary with scratch map 

    This travel diary is 2 gifts in 1, with a handy travel planner journal and a set of scratch maps for each continent.

    Travel writers can plan their trips, make notes as they go, and scratch off the places they’ve seen. 

    3: Vargic’s Miscellany of Curious Maps

    This is a quirky gift for an aspiring travel writer, and one that inspires old school adventure. 

    Travel writers can feel like traditional adventurers as they unfold the different vintage-style maps and plan a route through various countries. 

    The 64 maps in the atlas don’t just focus on geography, they focus on culture, changing the way you think about each country. There are maps of the internet, of literature, of gaming and sport. You can even see a map that shows the world in terms of heavy metal bands. 

    Each map is accompanied by a handful of interesting and unusual facts, so travel writers can learn about the world whilst planning a route based on culture. 

    4: How To Be An Explorer Of The World, Keri Smith

    Travel Book for Aspiring Travel Writers

    This is a travel book/journal that encourages observant thinking. It’s a refreshing reminder to look at the world through fresh eyes.

    The colourful book is artistic and unusual, and it’s bound to get any travel writer thinking about new ways to observe and document the world around them.

    5: Fair Trade Tree of Life Journal 

    Every travel writer needs a journal to jot down their ideas, and this tree of life journal is both ethical and stylish. The blank pages give writers freedom to write and draw in their own style.

    6: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

    This is a great gift for travel writers who like to go off-grid. It’s a portable water filter so if there’s no bottled water around, you can use this safe in the knowledge that it’s going to remove 99.9% of waterborne bacteria and parasites. Lots of people have even said this makes water taste purer than some bottled water.

    7: Pack-away Rucksack 

    Traveling can have its spontaneous moments, and when spontaneity strikes, you need a good day bag.

    This pack-away rucksack fits easily into a pocket when folded away, and can be unfolded to be a full size, 20 litre day bag.

    It’s also water resistant and has different pockets so you can keep your things organised.

    8: Anti-theft dry bag day rucksack 

    Having a versatile day bag means no adventure is off limits. Travel writers can store their notebooks, valuables, and even laptops in this day bag, and go adventuring on land or in the water.

    It’s water resistant so you can use it as a dry bag, and it’s coated with RFID technology that makes data theft impossible – hackers can’t scan through the material.

    It’s also one of the safest day bags you can get, with a built-in lockable stainless steel cage.

    9: Universal Travel Plug

    Every avid traveler needs a universal travel plug. It saves faffing around with different adapters, and means you can charge multiple devices at once, even if there’s only one plug socket available.

    This travel plug can be used in over 180 different countries and can charge one device with a standard UK plug, and 4 devices using USB cables.

    Technology Gifts For Travel Writers

    Gone are the days when travel writers hit the road with nothing but a pad and paper. If aspiring writers want their content to be seen, they need to take their writing online, and certain pieces of technology can definitely help.

    10: Kindle Paperwhite

    Most aspiring writers are also keen readers, where else would they have got the inspiration from? Anyway, bookaholics need to be able to take all their favourite novels with them when they travel, and a Kindle is a great way to do just that.

    The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof, and lightweight, so it’s perfect for anyone planning to travel. Travel writers can take thousands of books with them for inspiration, without feeling weighed down.

    11: Solar charger power bank

    Every now and then, travel writers need to go off grid, or at least venture into the countryside for inspiration.

    A solar charger is the perfect gift for the more adventurous travel writer, as regardless of where they are, they’ll be able to charge their devices.

    They can then stay connected with loved ones, use their devices to write or research, and call for help in an emergency.

    12: PowerCube 

    For technologically inclined writers and travellers, the PowerCube is an ideal gift. They can plug in to a single power socket, and charge several devices from one port.

    The cube includes 3 standard plug sockets, and 2 built in USB ports, so they can charge laptops, tablets, phones etc.

    13: reMarkable tablet

    The reMarkable paper tablet is the ultimate gift for a writer. It feels just like paper to write on, and it saves all your notes in one place. So no flicking through endless pieces of paper containing random notes.

    It’s an easier, and more modern alternative to a notebook, and it’s much more environmentally friendly. It’s also really lightweight, so it won’t be a burden if you’re trying to pack light.

    14: Skyroam Solis: Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot & Power Bank

    Writers need to research, and nowadays, research requires Wi-Fi. One sure-fire way to get Wi-Fi all over the world is to have a Skyroam Wi-Fi hotspot, so this is definitely an impressive gift for a travel writer.

    The device allows travellers to connect to the Wi-Fi as and when they need it. They can buy long term packages, or day passes. So if they ever need internet access urgently, think of this little device as the key to the internet.

    It also doubles as a power bank, so you can charge devices whilst using the Wi-Fi.

    15: Compact Travel Camera

    Writers often need to take pictures to accompany their writing, but a bulky camera isn’t really suited to travel. So if your travel writer friend doesn’t already have a compact travel camera, this could be a good gift idea.

    My favourite travel camera is the Sony RX100 VA, which is a high end compact camera that can film in 4K and shoot 20.1mp photos. You can check out my Sony RX100 VA review here.

    But if you’re after a more budget-friendly gift, my top choice for a budget travel camera is the Sony Cyber-Shot WX500. You can also read my Sony WX500 review. 

    16: MacBook Air

    Every travel writer needs a decent laptop, and a MacBook Air is the ultimate travel laptop. This is a pricey gift, but it’s a good one if you’ve got a travel writer who’s close to your heart.

    With this laptop, travel writers will have all the equipment they need to achieve success. And it’s lightweight so it’s great for traveling.

    17: Voice recorder 

    Writers need to take notes, and for some people, going through ideas out loud is the best way to sort genius from madness.

    A voice recorder is a great way to take notes of ideas, without having to put pen to paper. This is a great gift for writers who suffer from not being able to write down their racing ideas quick enough.

    18: Voice Recorder Pen

    Voice recorder pens don’t have as many options and settings as standard voice recorders, but they’re great for writers who want to record conversations discreetly. It’s also a pretty cool writer’s gadget, and an unusual gift to give.

    Gift a Course: Courses For Travel Writers

    Every aspiring travel writer wants to achieve success as a writer. But to do that, they need to perfect their writing style and figure out how to get their content seen. A great way to better writing skills, and learn more about the world of travel writing, is to learn from the best.

    These courses can help travel writers find success, and they can all be bought as a gift.

    19: The Ultimate Travel Journalism Course 

    This course is run by the British College of Journalism, so writers can learn from the best how to write for an audience, and how to make money doing so. It’s a study-at-home course, so travel writers can take their time and study at their own pace. The course takes 24 weeks, but it can be completed in up to two years.

    Students will be in contact with professional travel journalists who can give advice based on over 30 years of experience.

    20: Travel Writing 2.0

    This is a course in the form of a book, so it’s an affordable gift to buy your travel writer friend, partner or relative. It acknowledges that travel writing is no longer about getting a column in a local newspaper, but thriving in the digital world. So it has modern tips about getting content out there and making money digitally.

    It also includes interviews from more than 100 successful writers.

    If you’re confused by the ‘2.0’ part of the title, basically there was an original book that was really popular, but this is the updated version, with more up-to-date information.

    21: The Business Of Travel Blogging

    Nomadic Matt, aka Matt Kepnes, is the most successful travel blogger in the world right now. He’s making more than enough money to sustain a life of travel, and he’s inspired millions to seek the furthest corners of the earth.

    His course on travel blogging teaches students how to write for an online audience, how to set up a blog, and how to get traffic to that blog. It really is a chance to learn from the best.

    And it’s not just Matt’s advice that you’ll get on this course either. He also includes interviews with other successful travel bloggers.

  • Best Backpacking Cots 2024: 8 Lightweight & Comfortable Cots

    Best Backpacking Cots 2024: 8 Lightweight & Comfortable Cots

    So you’re off on an adventure, perhaps one that’s going to take you off grid for a while, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take some home comforts with you. 

    With a camping cot, at least you’ll have the luxury of a comfortable night’s sleep, even if you’re camping in the middle of nowhere in who knows what country. 

    But there are hundreds of camp cots on the market right now, and you want to make sure you find the best camping cot for backpacking adventures. 

    Here’s a buyers guide for backpacking cots, and a list of some of the best camp beds for travel. 

    What is a camping cot?

    Camp cots, or camp beds as they’re also known, are collapsible beds that are lightweight and portable. Originally these types of beds were used by militaries all over the world.

    They consist of a lightweight frame that pops apart or collapses, and then for the ‘mattress’ there’s material like canvas, linen or nylon.

    You don’t need to use a mattress or sleep pad with them, you just sleep on top of them in a sleeping bag. 

    Why take a cot backpacking? 

    Packing your backpack for a long haul trip can be a difficult process. You want to have everything you need but you don’t want to make your pack too heavy to carry. And there’s no denying it, a camping cot is going to add weight to your bag. But trust me, it’s worth carrying the extra grams.

    Here are some of the reasons you should consider taking a camp bed on your next backpacking tour:

    Comfort

    A camping cot offers you so much more comfort than the cold, hard ground. It might not be as comfortable as an actual bed, but it’s still 100 times better than sleeping on the floor.

    Warmth

    Regardless of where you’re backpacking, the nights can be cold. And if you’re sleeping on a cold floor, you’re going to lose even more warmth. In fact, you lose more warmth to a cold floor than to cold air. So by taking a camping cot with you, you’ll stay warmer, and you won’t need to pack such a heavy sleeping bag.

    Health

    Camping and backpacking can be mentally and physically draining, especially if you’re not sleeping well. By having a camping bed, at least you know that wherever you are, you can always can get a relatively comfortable night’s sleep. You’ll get the rest you need to stay healthy on your travels. It’s also more supportive for your back.

    What to look for in a backpacking cot?

    Camp beds vary in size, style and weight, so before buying one, it’s important to think about what you need from a camp cot. You should consider factors like your size and weight, as well as your sleeping position. Different cots will be better suited to different people.

    Here are some things to look for when buying a camping cot.

    Size

    Some cots will be wider or longer than others. If you’re particularly tall, or you have a big build, you’ll be more comfortable in a larger camp bed.

    Another thing to consider when deciding what size camp bed you need is you sleeping position. If you sleep on your back, a narrow cot should be okay for you, but if you like to sleep on your side in a foetal position, or you just generally spread out in your sleep, you’ll need a wider bed.

    Weight

    Ideally, you need your camp cot to be as lightweight as possible. Otherwise it’s just going to weigh you down too much.

    Bear in mind that not all camping beds are designed for backpacking, so they won’t all be the same weight.

    Collapsed size

    As well as thinking about how big the bed is when it’s set up, you should think about how much space it’s going to take up in your backpack when it’s collapsed/folded.

    Accessories

    Some cots will come with included accessories like a pillow, a blanket or slip proof material for the cot legs.

    10 Best backpacking cots 

    1: KingCamp Ultralight Compact Camping Cot 

    This is one of the best backpacking cots in terms of portability. It only weighs 2kg, and it folds up super small, making it easy to slip into a backpack. In fact, this camp bed folds up to be the smallest on the list. It’s also pretty comfortable, and it’s suitable for taller people with a length of 190cm.

    Size: L190cm x W64cm x H12cm

    Folded Size: L36 x W13cm xH13cm

    Weight: 4.4lbs / 2kg

    Pros

    • It supports up to 120 kg
    • It has two elastic straps to keep it from slipping 
    • It’s very lightweight, so it won’t be a burden if you’re hiking or moving on to your next destination
    • Its packed up size is as small as you can hope for, and it will fit easily in a bag
    • It’s easy to set up 
    • It has a pillow included
    • It comes in different colours so you can choose your style

    Cons

    • It’s very low to the ground, which can make getting up from the bed a little more tricky 

    2: Helinox Cot Lite

    The Helinox Cot Lite is the most lightweight backpacking cot, weighing only 1.2kg. It’s so light that it’s won awards for its design and functionality.

    It’s also specifically designed with backpacking in mind, so they’ve thought of everything – it’s lightweight, relatively small when folded up, and big enough to be comfortable.

    However, it’s not the best choice for anyone who’s taller than 6ft, as it’s only 6 ft (185cm) long.

    Size: L185cm x W60cm x H13cm

    Folded Size: L53cm x W13cm x H13cm

    Weight: 2.65 lbs / 1.2 kg

    Pros

    • This is quite literally an award winning camping cot
    • Specifically designed for backpacking 
    • It’s the lightest backpacking cot money can buy
    • Includes a storage bag with grab handles

    Cons

    • It’s a little on the pricey side
    • It’s only 185cm long, so it’s not suited for those over 6ft tall

    3: Grand Canyon Camping Bed

    If you’re looking for a budget backpacking cot, this might be the one. It’s one of the top camping cots under $100, and it’s full length and can support a lot of weight, so it’s suitable for almost all backpackers.

    However, whilst you save money with this camp bed, you sacrifice some portability. It’s heavier, and bulkier than more expensive alternatives.

    Size: L190cm x W65cm x H40cm OR L210cm x W80cm x H42cm

    Folded Size: L94cm x W20cm OR L103CM x W20cm

    Weight: 4.5 kg OR 5kg

    Pros

    • It comes in two different sizes, so you can order the size that’s right for you
    • It’s affordable
    • It has a load bearing capacity of up to 150kg, which makes it suitable for a wider range of backpackers
    • It has anti slip caps for greater stability
    • It’s higher off the ground which makes getting up and laying down easier – no need to worry about getting stuck on the floor

    Cons

    • It’s quite a lot heavier than other options, as it weighs up to 5kg
    • The packed up size isn’t particularly small, in fact it’s almost double the size of most other backpacking cots

    4: YAHILL Ultralight Camping Bed

    The YAHILL Ultralight Camping Bed does what it says on the tin. It’s lightweight, it’s portable, and it can support most people up to 6ft2 tall. And there’s no need to worry about being too heavy for it, as it can support an impressive 180kg.

    Size: L190cm x W65cm xH19cm

    Folded Size: L53cm x W11cm x H16cm

    Weight: 6.5 lbs / 2.95 kg

    Pros

    • It supports up to 180kg, so there’s no chance of it buckling or breaking
    • It’s long enough for anyone under 6ft2
    • It has a simple collapsible design
    • You can purchase additional feet to add height to this camp bed
    • It comes with a 1 year warranty

    Cons

    • It’s not the most portable backpacking cot

    5: ALPIDEX Ultralight Camping Cot

    The ALPIDEX camping cot is one of the best budget backpacking cots on the market. And you’ll be pleased to hear that this cot doesn’t sacrifice comfort like many other budget beds.

    It’s 190cm long, which is just as long as most high-end cots, and it has an above average width. This means it’s perfect for anyone who likes to sleep on their side, curled up or spread out.

    Size: L190cm x W67cm x H16cm

    Folded Size: L56cm x W15cm

    Weight: 1.8 kg

    Pros

    • It has anti slip feet 
    • It’s built with backpackers in mind
    • It’s affordable
    • It’s a full length cot suitable for most people
    • Above average width makes it perfect for side-sleepers

    Cons

    • It only three legs, so it doesn’t offer as much stability as cots with four or five legs

    6: THERMAREST LuxuryLite Mesh Cot (Extra Large) 

    If you want a backpacking cot that offers the most comfort, the Thermarest LuxuryLite Mesh Cot is your best bet. It’s one of the largest camping cots on the list, but it’s also one of the lightest.

    With a length of 196cm, it’s comfortable for anyone up to 6ft4 tall. And with a width of 76cm, it’s perfect for any side sleepers, or starfish sleepers.

    Size: L196cm x W76cm x H11cm

    Folded size: L46cm x W15cm

    Weight: 4.7 lbs / 2.1kg

    Pros 

    • Patented BowFrame technology means you don’t have to worry about any crossbars causing you discomfort
    • It’s super portable thanks to it’s small packed size
    • The canvas is breathable, giving you extra ventilation in warm weather
    • Non-stretching material gives you long-lasting comfort
    • It only takes three minutes to set up 

    Cons

    • It’s a little on the pricey side 
    • Breathable canvas means you’ll need padding on the top for insulation in colder weather

    7: Alps Mountaineering Mens Ready Lite Cot

    The name of this camping cot might suggest it’s for men and men alone, but this is a camp bed that’s suitable for any backpackers, male or female.

    The generous length of 198cm makes it perfect for taller travellers, but that’s not to say it can’t be used by smaller people – it will just be extra roomy. It also has an above average width, so it’s suitable for side sleeping.

    Despite the large size of this cot, it’s still pretty lightweight, weighing only 2.2kg.

    Size: L198cm x W71cm x H19cm

    Folded Size: L43cm x H18cm

    Weight: 4.8 lbs / 2.2 kg

    Pros

    • Extra long length makes it a great choice for taller backpackers
    • Super portable, packs up to be one of the smallest camp beds on the market 
    • Includes a lifetime warranty 

    Cons

    • It’s only available in one size, so there’s no smaller option  

    8: Helinox Big Agnes Cot One Convertible

    And here we have it, the largest cot on the list. This cot is suitable for EVERYONE (unless you’re 7ft tall). It’s long, it’s wide, and it can hold up to 145kg.

    The only thing that’s not large about this cot is the height, but even that can be adjusted with accessory legs.

    Don’t worry though, this cot might be large, but it packs up relatively small, and it’s still really lightweight.

    Size: L210cm x W75cm x H16cm

    Folded Size: L53cm x W13cm x H13cm

    Weight: 4.9 lbs / 2.2 kg

    Pros

    • You can purchase separate accessory legs to add more height to this backpacking cot
    • Above average length makes it suitable for taller backpackers
    • Above average width makes side sleeping positions more comfortable – you’ll have more room to spread out
    • It can hold up to 145 kg
    • Good ventilation for warm weather

    Cons

    • During cold weather you need padding on top of this backpacking cot for insulation 
    • It’s quite pricey
    • It’s not the most portable when packed up 
  • Day Trip To Chiang Rai White Temple From Chiang Mai

    Day Trip To Chiang Rai White Temple From Chiang Mai

    [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.4.2″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″]

    I’ve wanted to see Chiang Rai’s White Temple for ages. Everyone I met on my travels recommended it, and showed me the most incredible pictures they’d taken of it. So I started looking into how to plan a day trip there from Chiang Mai.

    I know there’s much more to do in Chiang Rai than just the White Temple, but I was strapped for time so I couldn’t spend a few days in Chiang Rai like most people do. Instead I got up at 6am and set out for a day trip to Chiang Rai’s White Temple.

    Traveling to Chiang Rai from Chiang Mai

    I planned on getting the first bus at 7am, but after taking a little too long at breakfast (what can I say, I got distracted by food), I had to get the second bus at 9:15am. The bus was super easy to get, I just went to Chiang Mai Bus Terminal 3, and got my ticket from the Green Bus ticket counter. It only cost 245 baht each way (about $7 each way).

    The bus took longer than I expected (about four hours) and the road was a bumpy one. In fact, in some places the road wasn’t even built yet, and we had to wait for the road to be laid before we could drive on.

    I was expecting to get off at Chiang Rai bus station and then get a bus to Wat Rong Khun. But about thirty minutes before we were due to arrive at the central bus station, it stopped just outside the White Temple. I quickly grabbed my things and jumped off with a few other passengers.

    Arriving at the White Temple

    The road towards the temple was lined with market stalls and coffee shops. Normally, I would have said the street vendors ruined the atmosphere, but after four hours on a bus, I was thrilled to see a coffee shop right in front of the temple. I grabbed a surprisingly reasonably priced brownie and smoothie and sat directly opposite the temple to get a time lapse of the hundreds of tourists.

    At first I was a little disappointed at how busy it was. There was a queue to get into the temple, and people EVERYWHERE with selfie sticks. I guess that’s what I get for arriving in the afternoon, rather than early in the morning. But despite the crowds, the White Temple was still an incredible sight to behold.

    Understanding the White Temple

    I quickly learnt that all around the temple was contrasts between good and evil. The White temple was symbolic of purity and the tiny mirrors all over the temple were tactically placed to reflect the teachings of Buddha.

    And to contrast the pure and good of the White Temple, there was a golden temple, and a golden toilet building. The gold of these buildings symbolises man’s desire and greed for money.

    But there were lots of other, smaller contrasts between good and evil all around the temple complex. Just before the ticket counter there were trees with heads hanging from them (not real ones, obviously). Some were smiling, others were simply terrifying. It would be a great place to go at night, if you’re a fan of creepy stuff that is.

    Underneath the bridge to the temple were hundreds of hands reaching up, apparently symbolising desire. The bridge represented rising above desire on the journey to purity.

    I know there are lots of people who would probably disagree with me, but I found the small details around the temple just as impressive and interesting as the White Temple itself.

    Each face, each statue and colour represented an emotion, a quality or a vice. I must have spent at least five minutes admiring each tiny detail.

    Entering the White Temple

    I’d hoped to get a perfect picture of the White Temple from the start of the bridge, but I should have realised that would be completely impossible with so many crowds.

    But despite the hundreds of people rushing to see the temple, it was still incredibly impressive. First you have to walk over the bridge, over the sea of reaching hands, but each tiny part of the bridge was covered in sequin details, or more faces. So it’s safe to say, no one was moving very quickly.

    We got to the White Temple entrance, and had to take off our shoes and carry them with us. Normally at temples you leave your shoes outside, but there’s no way that would have worked here, there were just too many people.

    The inside of the temple was a little underwhelming compared to the outside, but still it was good to see. And walking around the temple’s veranda I got to admire the temple from different angles.

    I even saw a couple of people that I’d met on Cat Ba Island (Ha Long Bay), so stopped for a catch up inside one fo the most impressive temples in the world.

    Exploring the rest of Wat Rong Khun

    Wat Rong Khun has so much more to offer than just the White Temple. The theme of good and evil continued throughout the rest of the complex, with modern figures like Spiderman, and Predators dotted about in trees or on benches.

    There was also another impressive white temple-like building in the same style of the White Temple, but nowhere near as crowded. This was a great spot for pictures and selfies without massive crowds in the background.

    Then there was the golden temple, which I don’t actually think was a temple at all. It had a bridge leading over a lake, and then a walkway around the building. Inside I think was a small art gallery.

    And I’ve got to say, a highlight of the rest of the Wat Rong Khun grounds was the toilet. The golden toilet building might have symbolised greed, but still, I felt like a royal whilst going for a wee.

    Lunch at the White Temple

    After the long bus journey and the excitement of exploring the White Temple, I’d worked up an appetite. There were a couple of coffee shops directly opposite the temple, and luckily there was one with a couple of seats free outside, facing the White Temple.

    I wasn’t expecting much from the food, I was just pleased to have such a perfect seat. So I set up my camera and tripod and started a time lapse of the busy crowds.

    The food was also surprisingly good. They didn’t have much on offer, apart from a few pastries, cakes and brownies, and some great smoothies, but it was all delicious.

    Wat Rong Khun Art Gallery

    Outside the temple complex there was a gallery which was well worth visiting. There was information about those that designed the White Temple, as well as small pieces from the original temple. There was also some weird and wacky paintings that I can definitely recommend to any conspiracy theorists.

    Getting back to Chiang Mai

    My bus back was from Chiang Rai bus station, so I had to get to the town centre. I could have got a public bus, but after a long day, to be honest, figuring out the timetable and waiting around for one seemed like too much hassle. So I ordered a grab, and got to Chiang Rai with time to kill.

    When my driver heard I was early for my bus, he recommended his favourite cafe, so I thought I’d give it a try. And I’m glad I did. It was one of the best meals I’d had in Thailand, and it was right opposite the bus station.

    The bus ride back was just as bumpy and long, and I got back to Chiang Mai at about 10pm. It was a long day, but so worth it.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.4.2″][et_pb_column _builder_version=”4.4.2″ type=”4_4″][et_pb_code _builder_version=”4.4.2″ hover_enabled=”0″]

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  • The 6 Best Packing Cubes For The Osprey Farpoint 40

    The 6 Best Packing Cubes For The Osprey Farpoint 40

    Packing everything you need can be one of the most stressful parts of traveling, especially if you’re visiting multiple destinations. Packing and unpacking at every place takes time and effort, and then there’s the frustration of not knowing where abouts anything is in your backpack.

    If you want to stay organised throughout your backpacking trip, you need to find an efficient packing method.

    You’ve probably seen packing cubes around, there’s quite a few of them on the market right now. But if you haven’t yet tried them out, honestly, once you’ve used them once, you won’t ever travel without them again.

    The trouble is most packing cubes are best suited to suitcases, so in this post we’ll look at six of the best packing cubes for the Osprey Farpoint 40 backpack, and other similar bags.

    The 6 Best Packing Cubes For Backpacks Like The Osprey Farpoint 40

    1: AmazonBasics 4-Piece Packing Cube Set

    Amazon Basics products are usually pretty reliable – you always know exactly what you’re getting, and you get it for a great price too. And these packing cubes are no different.

    In this set you’ll get one small, one medium and one large cube. Then the fourth piece is a long thin rectangle shape that’s perfect for a rolled towel, blanket, bottle of wine, or as us backpackers normally do, you can also jam various items of clothing into it.

    The cubes all have a double zipper, which is great for quick access, and mean the zipper is less likely to snag.

    The mesh design of these cubes makes it easy to exactly what’s inside each cube, so no more digging around blindly in your bag, pulling out items that may or may not be what you’re looking for.

    Pros

    • Mesh Design
    • Durable  
    • Gentle Interior
    • Machine Washable
    • Great value

    Cons

    • Privacy – mesh design means your traveling companions can also see what’s in your cubes

    2: eBags Packing Cubes 3pc Set

    This 3-piece set again has a mesh design, making it easy to find things at a glance, but these cubes also feature a ‘self-healing’ zipper. This basically means your zipper isn’t going to get damaged, regardless of how often you use it.

    The exterior material of these cubes is weatherproof, and isn’t going to let any dirt in, which is great if you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities like camping. The inside material though is soft, which is great for more delicate items.

    The cubes are also machine washable, which is definitely a handy feature. We’re all guilty of shoving our dirties back in our bag with our clean clothes, and after a while, packing cubes can start to smell a little grim.

    The main issue with this set though is the fact that it only comes with three cubes. The cubes will fit perfectly in your Osprey Farpoint 40 or other similar backpack, and you’ll have plenty of room spare as well. If you’re not taking too much with you on your trip, or if you only want to pack some of your clothes in cubes, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Otherwise, you might want to buy a couple of sets.

    Pros

    • Lifetime warranty
    • Mesh design
    • Machine washable
    • “Self-Healing” zippers
    • Protects your clothes

    Cons

    • Less total packing space with only three cubes
    • Privacy – mesh design means your traveling companions can also see what’s in your cubes

    3: Eagle Creek Pack It Specter Clean Dirty Cube

    This is one of the most innovative packing cubes on the market, with the cube split into two sections, you can use one section for your clean items and the other for your dirty laundry.

    The divider prevents any dirt or smell from crossing into the clean section. Even if you pack smelly wet clothing, you’re not going to smell it from outside the cube, and the smell won’t affect your clean clothes.

    The materials used are specifically chosen for outdoor use, so this cube can take a battering. It’s also waterproof, and odour-proof.

    Eagle Creek is also big on environmentally friendly materials and products, so you know that by buying this cube, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment.

    This may only be a single set, but you can fit loads in it, and if you need any extra cubes, Eagle Creek also have a set of regular packing cubes, and a set of three pack-it dirty cubes if you want more than one.

    Pros

    • Simple Design
    • Space for both clean and dirty clothes
    • Waterproof and odour-proof
    • Great Addition to other Packing Cubes
    • Portable Handle
    • Keeps Moisture in or out
    • Green Company

    Cons

    • Heavy Fabric
    • Only one Compartment

    4: eBags Packing Cubes 6pc Value Set

    This 6 piece packing cube set is great value for money, with enough cubes for you to pack your clothes by colour, type, size – whatever you fancy!

    With more pieces, you can make sure your backpack is better organised. Everything will have its own place. The only troule with more cubes is that it makes it easier to overpack!

    Pros

    • Value for money
    • 6 pieces as opposed to the usual 3 or 4
    • Durable
    • Lifetime Warranty

    Cons

    • Smaller individual cubes
    • Snug fit in backpack
    • More to keep track of on the road

    5: Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Starter Set

    This Eagle Creek packing cube set is great for those who want a variety of different cubes. It comes with different shaped cubes, and even a garment bag that can be folded, keeping your clothes neat and crease-free.

    These cubes all have handles, so you can easily grab them and keep hold of them (which is more useful than you might think – especially if you’re asked to unpack your bag at airport security).

    Pros

    • Versatility  
    • Light-Weight Fabric  
    • Great for Backpacking Beginners

    Cons

    • Fabric durability – cubes can get damaged when washed on high temperatures
    • Bulky

    6: Osprey Packing And Travel Sets – the best packing cubes for the Osprey Farpoint 4o

    If you really want the best money can buy when it comes to finding perfect packing cubes for your rucksack, it’s worth sticking with the Osprey brand.

    As well as rucksacks, Osprey have brought out several different travel organisers and packing cube sets, specifically designed to accompany their rucksacks. So getting an Osprey packing cube set would be like giving your rucksack tailor made compartments.

    Pros

    • Specifically designed to fit the Osprey Farpoint 40 and other similar rucksacks
    • Immaculate quality – you can throw these things around as much as you want, they’re not going to break or tear
    • Stylish appearance – the trouble with packing cubes is that you can tell the cheap from the high quality, and these certainly look like they’re high quality
    • There’s a range of different organisers and packing cubes within the Osprey packing range, so you can choose the packing cubes that are best for you

    Cons

    • Sticking with a brand you trust can come at a cost, these packing cubes are slightly more expensive than their alternatives.

    So to sum up…

    Packing cubes can definitely transform the way you travel, so it’s worth investing in a set you get on with. The ultimate packing cubes for the Osprey Farpoint 40, and other similar rucksacks are definitely the Osprey cubes. They’re specifically designed to fit snugly in Osprey backpacks, and they’re made with top quality material.

    If you’re just looking for a kit that can separate your clean from your dirties, the Eagle Creek clean dirty cube is probably best for you.

    However, if you’re looking for a good set of packing cubes that can help you organise your clothes and gear, I’d suggest the Amazon Basics 4-piece set. This has everything you need for a small trip, and it’s great value for money.

    Whichever cubes you go for, they’ll make your Osprey Farpoint 40 much more organised, giving you different compartments. The same goes for other similar backpacks. Trust me when I say, once you’ve used packing cubes, you won’t want to go back to one-compartment backpacks without them.

  • 10 Travel Struggles That Only Those With Big Boobs Will Understand

    10 Travel Struggles That Only Those With Big Boobs Will Understand

    Anyone with boobs that are above average in size will know that tis can be a curse as well as a blessing.

    Sure, having big boobs has its perks, I mean there’s a reason why so many girls dream of having bigger breasticles. But life isn’t always easy for the bigger breasted women out there.

    If you travel often, and you’ve got bigger boobs than most, you’ll understand the struggles of lugging your breasts around the world.

    Here are 10 travel struggles that only those with big boobs will understand.

    1: Finding bras that can handle adventure

    If you’re a hardcore travel addict, your will likely involve a lot of action and adventure. But for the bigger breasted ladies, adventurous activities require a little more forethought – we need to find a bra that can handle adventure.

    Any vigorous movement can cause boobs to go flying, which can be both unflattering and painful.

    So to be fully prepared for adventure, we need to find a bra with some serious support. It sounds simple, but it can feel like a wild goose chase trying to find one.

    2: Finding supportive bras that aren’t sports bras

    Traveling often involves visiting some pretty warm destinations, which means wardrobe choices like strappy tops.

    Why is this an issue, you ask? Because with strappy tops, sports bras are a no-go.

    Finding a supportive bra that’s not a sports bra is perhaps the biggest struggle of the big boobed community.

    3: Packing bras is a nightmare

    So finding suitable bras is hard, but packing them is even harder. Bigger boobs equal bigger bras, and bigger bras are an absolute nightmare to pack.

    They take up so much room, and they’re such an awkward shape to pack. Having big boobs makes traveling light basically impossible.

    4: It’s hard to find cool but modest outfits

    When traveling to hot countries, you want your clothes to be as cool as possible. The only trouble is that cool outfits are usually quite revealing, with low cut tops.

    For those with smaller breasts, this isn’t really an issue, but when your boobs are ridiculously large, any outfit that is even remotely revealing just looks overly sexy (it’s  a hard life, I know).

    This doesn’t always matter so much, but there are some corners of the world where having your breasts bursting out of your top can cause offence. It’s just so hard to find outfits that are both cool and modest!

    5: Running anywhere is super painful

    This is a generic struggle, but when you travel often, the chances are that at some point you’re going to need to run for a plane, train, bus, ferry or whatever else it might be that you’re late for.

    Running with big boobs is not fun. You have to deal with the pain of your sensitive breasticles slapping up and down with every footfall, and you have to try and discreetly hold them in place without looking like a lunatic.

    6: Your boobs act like a bib on long haul flights

    Lets face it, we all eat more snacks than we probably should on long haul flights, it just helps the time go quicker. When you’ve got big boobs though, they act just like a bib, catching all the crumbs as evidence.

    When you touch down after your flight, the first thing on your list of priorities, before even getting through security, is to empty your cleavage of crumbs.

    7: Boob sweat in hot countries is unbelievable

    No one likes to admit that their boobs sweat, but it happens. It’s a fact of life that no matter how big or small your breasts, they’re going to sweat. It just so happens that bigger boobs sweat a thousand times more than smaller ones.

    And when traveling to hot countries, the level of boob sweat isn’t just annoying and embarrassing, it’s actually unbelievable.

    8: Every flight is a battle between your boobs and the tray table

    Unless you’ve splashed out on business class or first class flight tickets, plane seats are uncomfortably small and cramped.

    So when you go to set your tray table down, you have to try and squish it down over your boobs.

    9: The back pain on long walks is unbearable

    Having big boobs is like constantly wearing a big rucksack on your front, which after a while gets pretty tiring and painful.

    So when walking for anything more than half an hour (something which is pretty hard to avoid), the back pain starts to kick in as your spine gives up on your massive breasts.

    10: ‘Nip slips’ are a much more common occurrence

    So you’re out and about on your travels, by the pool or at a beach, rocking your new bikini, and you’re having a good time. But deep down, you’re awaiting the moment a nipple slips out, or your bikini or bra decides to snap, unleashing your breasts in all their glory.

  • Three Members of High On Life Dead: A Tragedy For Millions

    Three Members of High On Life Dead: A Tragedy For Millions

    High On Life is one of the leading travel vlogs out there, but this week a tragic accident involving three members of the group has left millions shocked, stunned and devastated.

    High On Life, or SundayzFundayz, were followed by millions and since their first viral video in 2011, How To Dance When You’re High On Life, they’ve dedicated their lives to inspiring people to embrace all of life’s opportunities with open arms, see everything the world has to offer, and to never stop smiling.

    Though most of us have never had the pleasure of meeting them, I think it’s safe to say that anyone who’s watched their channel feels as though they’ve laughed with them, explored with them and without a doubt, been inspired by them.

    But this week, on Tuesday 3rd July, three members of High On Life tragically died in a waterfall accident at Shannon Falls, British Columbia, Canada. Two core members of the group, Ryker Gamble and Alexey Lyakh, are reported to have died trying to save Lyakh’s girlfriend, Megan Scraper, after she fell into one of the pools. The three friends fell 30 meters and after a two day search and rescue mission, their bodies were found on Wednesday evening.

    The nature of their death and the overwhelming response from their followers shows just the kind of people they were: adventurous, fearless and most importantly, selfless and kind hearted. The group were more than just friends, they were family; and they would all have done anything for each other.

    The death of these three adventurers is an absolute tragedy that has millions in mourning, but as Ryker’s cousin posted ‘you are gone but not forgotten.’ Their messages of friendship and positivity have already brightened so many people’s lives and the vloggers will live on through their videos and continue to inspire the travel community.

    Yesterday the other members of High On Life published a video about the incident, asking followers to respect families’ privacy. They also read out a heartfelt message, one of Ryker’s poems:

    [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=879cc2BiNDk[/embedyt]

    If you have any thoughts, memories or kind words to say about any Ryker, Alexey or Megan, the rest of the group have asked that you use #HOLinspired so that they can collect all of the messages in one place.

    Our thoughts are with Ryker, Alexey and Megan’s families and as one of the group’s followers posted on Facebook today: ‘may you have many adventures where you are now.’

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  • Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Adventure

    Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Adventure

    Anyone looking to explore Alaska should seriously consider doing so on a cruise. This way you’ll get to see a whole load of Alaskan destinations, and take part in local activities that you might not otherwise have the chance to.

    I visited Alaska on a Princess Cruises Alaskan Cruise, and it was incredible. To be perfectly honest, the idea of a cruise never appealed to me. It was something I thought only retired people did, and it sounded like a particularly slow way to travel. I’m so used to packing my travels with daily adventures that when I heard it would be a few days at sea between each port, I thought I’d probably die of boredom.

    But, I’m pleased to say I was pleasantly surprised. Here’s how my trip turned out.

    10 Day Alaska Inside Passage Cruise (from San Francisco)

    Starting off in San Francisco

    The cruise started from San Francisco, Pier 27 to be precise. I’m from the UK so I seized the opportunity to spend some time in San Francisco before the cruise departed, seeing the sights and visiting family members.

    Pier 27 was reasonably close to Pier 39 (a buzzing tourist pier, full of restaurants, arcades and shops), so we stopped there for a while for some lunch at Bubba Gump Shrimp (oh yes), before walking a little further to pier 45, otherwise known as the Musée Mécanique. This was the perfect way to spend the time we had to wait before we could board. The museum is full of arcade machines and penny games that will throw you back in time, and there’s something for everyone there too.

    Boarding

    Once the time came for us to board, I was impressed by how speedy the process was. If, like me, you’re used to waiting in security queues at airports for absolutely ages, you’re in for a treat, because as it turns out, cruise terminals are a lot quicker and more organised when it comes to getting people through security and safely on board.

    Once we got through security we were handed our very own Princess Cruises cards to use on board for drinks, snacks, everything!

    My first experience of a cruise ship

    Once the commotion of boarding had died down it was time to set sail, and three days of non-stop cruising awaited us.

    Having never been on a cruise ship before, I didn’t really think that there could be all that much to do. I’d packed books, work to do, my laptop, anything that I thought might keep me from going slowly insane. And do you know what? I didn’t touch any of it.

    WiFi on board was ridiculously expensive, and priding myself on being a budget traveler, there was no way I could justify it. So I seized the opportunity to cut myself off from the outside world for a few days, and explore what the ship had to offer.

    There was so much it was almost overwhelming. No matter how many times I walked around the ship, I kept discovering new things, and getting lost repeatedly (in a good way).

    The first thing I found on my around-the-ship adventures was endless amounts of food. Seriously, there was food everywhere. From the buffet, to the coffee shop, to the pizzeria, to the ice-cream stand, to several formal restaurants, wherever I went on the ship, I was never more than a couple of minutes away from food, and good food at that! And the best part was that most of it was free (well, included in the overall price I’d paid for the cruise).

    So once I’d finished trying every sweet and savoury snack I could manage, I went on to find out where and what the onboard entertainment was, because as much as I love food, I couldn’t manage a ten day cruise doing nothing but eating.

    There was a whole entertainment program, including things like games, competitions, workshops, evening shows, Bingo, there was even a Casino! As well as organised entertainment, there was also plenty to do spontaneously. There was a shuffle board, a basketball court, a pool, gym and a running track. So as you can imagine, I was instantly drawn into onboard activities and my books and work were long forgotten.

    Sight seeing and whale watching

    Lots of people travel to Alaska in the hope of seeing whales, whale watching was even an optional excursion at a lot of the ports, but we were able to watch over the side of the ship and catch a few unplanned glimpses of fish, dolphins and even one or two whales.

    Once we got a little closer to land, the scenery was also incredible. We sailed through glacier carved fjords, and admired waterfalls – there were endless photo opportunities.

    One member of our party had booked a cabin with a balcony, and so even when the weather got a bit too chilly to be standing up on deck, we were able to sight see and take pictures without getting too windswept. We all snuggled under blankets, with wooly hats and a glass of champagne, enjoying the mountain scenery.

    Juneau – the first port

    Juneau was the first port of call for our ship, and it was the one I was most excited about. Why? Because I’d booked a kayaking excursion to explore Mendenhall Lake, and hopefully see some more Alaskan wildlife.

    Here’s a video showing a few different clips of my excursion. We may not have seen any whales, but I stand by that it was the best possible way to explore the untouched areas of Juneau.

    [embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P08J2rnzAss[/embedyt]

     

    I don’t have much to report on Juneau itself, as 6 hours of my day there was spent paddling through blissfully calm waters, but I was able to fit in a ride up the mountain, on Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. And if you happen to be in Juneau ever, I’d recommend it.

    The tram took us to the top of the mountain, where we could see out over the capital. By the time I rode the tram, it was 9pm, and way past sunset, but even so, the view was incredible. Our cruise ship was lit up in the waters below, and Juneau looked warmer than ever.

    At the top of the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway there’s also a little shop that’s got some great souvenirs.

    Skagway

    Skagway was the second stop on our Alaska cruise, and this stop had a slightly different feel to Juneau, perhaps because this time I explored the port, rather than just setting off for an excursion.

    The town was like stepping back in time to the old west, with saloons and diamond shops everywhere. It looked exactly like I’d imagine a gold rush town to look.

    Whilst in Skagway, we did take part in another excursion, this time a slightly less active one. We boarded the Whitepass and Yukon Route Railroad train, and for three hours, we took in the views, took some great pictures, and even made some new friends.

    Ketchikan

    Ketchikan was an interesting stop, mainly because it was so varied. The main town was full of gift shops, diamond and jewellery shops, and of course cafes. To be honest, I didn’t spend too much time looking around the shops, as the general impression I’d formed was that most cruise town ports consisted of the same shops, selling similar souvenirs. I wanted to explore off the beaten path.

    So we took a local bus to the Totem Heritage Centre. The centre was full of information and stories about the origins and designs of the 19th century Totem poles.

    From the Totem Heritage Centre, we followed a trail that took us through the woods and to a river where there was literally thousands of salmon. With Ketchikan being the salmon capital of the world, we couldn’t resist climbing down to the river to get a closer look at the salmon.

    We decided to walk back, through the local streets, rather than getting the bus, so that we could get a feel for local life. The place was pretty much deserted, but still it made an interesting walk.

    When we got back to the main town, we explored the famous Creek Street, which used to be an Alaskan red light district in the 20th century. This was quite something to see, with the wooden buildings all raised above the creek, and sea lions swimming underneath.

    The buildings were all brightly coloured, and the street was packed. There were tourists everywhere, and actors dressed as brothel madams enticing you to enter the old brothels that are now museums.

    Glacier Bay National Park

    Glacier Bay was the highlight of the whole cruise, it was the reason most of us were on the cruise in the first place.

    We weren’t able to get off the cruise ship, as Glacier Bay is a protected area, but the ship stopped for a whole day in the National Park, giving us plenty of time to take pictures and enjoy the scenery. We even managed to see one of the glaciers calving. This is basically where chunks of ice break off of the glacier and fall into the water, with the sound of thunder. This is apparently a rare sight to see, and it was definitely quite incredible to watch. The sound of thunder was unmistakable.

    A Glacier Bay National Park Ranger also came on board to tell us more about the glaciers’ history, how they moved and why they calve (apparently global warming has nothing to do with it).

    Victoria, British Columbia

    Victoria was our last stop, and it was pretty different from our previous Alaska stops. For one, it wasn’t freezing cold, and it was much more city-like even than Juneau, Alaska’s capital.

    There wasn’t quite as much to do in Victoria when it came to excursions, but there was definitely to keep us occupied for the afternoon we were there.

    We started off by getting a water taxi to take us further into the city, which was an experience in itself. Then we explored the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, before going for afternoon tea at a hotel overlooking the harbour.

    It was the first stop where the shops were a bit more varied than just gift stores and diamond stores, so naturally, we spent some time browsing and inevitably, buying souvenirs. It was my first time in Canada, so of course I couldn’t leave without buying some Rocky Mountain chocolate.

    Back to San Francisco

    Sadly, our ten day Alaskan cruise adventure started to come to a close after we visited Victoria, British Columbia. After two more sea days, we were back in San Francisco, saying goodbye to all the new friends we’d met, and exchanging photos of all the amazing sights we’d seen.

    So the Alaska Inside Passage Cruise was one that I would highly recommend, and if the chance ever presents itself, I’ll definitely return to Alaska to explore further. The sights were incredible, and unlike anything I’d ever seen before, and even the experience of being on a Princess Cruise was something I won’t ever forget. The extravagant displays of food, faultless entertainment, and friendliness of the staff made the whole trip even more memorable.

  • A Guide To Gay And Lesbian Travel In Istanbul

    A Guide To Gay And Lesbian Travel In Istanbul

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    Turkey is a beautiful place to visit whether you’re going alone or with your partner. And in Istanbul especially, there are so many sights to see and perfect memories to be made. However it’s one of the places that people are often concerned about visiting. Political and religious elements often mean that safety concerns are raised. So if you’re a gay or lesbian traveller, it makes sense that you want some reassurance before heading to Istanbul. You want to see the world, but you also want to travel without worrying about being yourself.

    How safe is Istanbul for the LGBT community?

    Homosexuality isn’t illegal in Turkey, in fact, it was first legalized in 1858 in the Ottoman Empire. In the Turkey we know today, homosexuality has been legal since 1923, and the country even offers asylum to those LGBT people who have fled their home countries. As for transsexuals, people have been legally allowed to change their gender since 1988. So in terms of the legality of homosexuality and trans-sexuality, LGBT members will have the protection of the law.

    Given the legal and social context, it’s unlikely that you will find openly gay-friendly casinos in Istanbul or anywhere else in Turkey. If you’re interested in LGBTQ+-friendly establishments or events, you may want to explore the LuckyTigerSlots.com LGBTQ+ scene in Istanbul, which includes bars, clubs, and community organizations. Keep in mind to research local laws, customs, and safety considerations.

    However, the laws regarding discrimination in Turkey aren’t quite so modern. There are currently no laws preventing people from discriminating against the LGBT community. However, there have been legal debates on the topic, so hopefully these laws will be brought in fairly soon.

    However, despite homosexuality and trans-sexuality being legal, there are still those with backwards views, and so there have been reports of violence towards LGBT people.

    In order to maximise your safety whilst in Istanbul, it’s important that you stay in the city centre, and well known areas, travel in groups, and just generally remember your common sense. It’s also worth noting that whilst homosexuality is legal, it’s advised not to be too publicly affectionate (whether you’re gay or straight). Even simple things like kissing on the lips in public aren’t generally the done thing in Turkish culture.

    Whilst there has been the odd incident of discrimination, whether violent or otherwise, that’s not to say that Istanbul isn’t a safe place for gay and lesbian travellers to visit. Turkey is one of the more liberal Muslim countries, and plenty of people have spent time in this Turkish city and experienced nothing but kindness and warm welcomes.

     

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    I spent just over a year in Turkey, and honestly, it was amazing. My adventure started when I chose to study abroad with the Erasmus+ study mobility program, and the second I arrived in Turkey, I fell in love with the country, its culture and its people.

    Most people only visit Turkey for a week or two, or in some cases three weeks, but believe me when I say that’s not enough. If you want to experience everything Turkey has to offer, from the historic sights, to the beautiful architecture, and fully immerse yourself in the different culture, you need a lot longer.

    Plus, the gay scene in Turkey is actually huge, and if you want to explore and discover everything the LGBT community has to offer in Turkey, it’s worth spending at least a few months there.

    I traveled alone to Turkey, and there were plenty of other gay individuals and singles, and I even found the love of my life during my travels there. The point is though, that even though I traveled alone, openly gay, which would have made me vulnerable in many other places, I’ve never felt safer and more at home than I did in Turkey. In fact, I even plan on moving there to live one day.

    A lot of people are surprised at how accepting and open-minded the Turkish people are when it comes to homosexuality and diversity. It’s somewhere you can truly be yourself.

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    Gay friendly places to stay in Istanbul

    Every city has its different areas, and some of areas of Istanbul are more suited as gay travel destinations than others.

    Beyoğlu is the best area to stay if you’re a gay or lesbian traveller. It’s one of the more liberal areas, it’s super gay-friendly, and it’s where you’ll find the best gay and lesbian bars. Around the Taksim square area is the same.

    Gay and lesbian nightlife in Istanbul

    Turkey is packed with beautiful landscapes and cities full of history. What makes it even better is that it’s actually a great destination for gay and lesbian travelers.

    When you finish sightseeing, you can relax or enjoy the nightlife in Istanbul. There are plenty of gay bars that have the friendliest atmosphere, and most of them are some of the trendiest places you’ll find in Istanbul.

    Chianti Bar

    Address: Hüseyinağa Mahhallesi. Balo Sokak No:31 Kat:2/3, Beyoglu. İstanbul, 34300 Beyoğlu, Turkey
    Opening Hours: Monday: 3pm-2am, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday: 11am-2am, Friday-Saturday: 11am-3am, 

    Chianti Bar is a cafe by day and a bar by night. This gay-friendly bar has a nice atmosphere and friendly staff. It gets busy by early evenings, but that just makes it one of the best places to meet new people.

    This is the sort of bar that once you’ve visited once, you won’t hesitate to head back there again. It’s the perfect bar to make new friends, enjoy refreshing drinks, or even a bite to eat whilst you relax during the day.

    Tekyon Club

    Address: Cihangir Mahallesi, Sıraselviler Cd. No:63, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
    Opening Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

    Tekyon Club is the biggest gay club in Istanbul. It gets crazily crowded on weekends, but then you go to clubs to have fun, right? And the more people in a club, the more fun you’ll have and the more amazing people you’ll meet.

    There’s great music, amiable staff, and no entrance fee! In short, Tekyon Club is wild. It’s a place for wild dances and crazy people. Head to this club if you want some truly unique memories of Istanbul’s nightlife.

    Arjin Café

    Address: Evliya Çelebi Mahallesi, 34433 Beyoğlu/Istanbul, Turkey

    Cozy, liberal, calm environment and friendly staff – that’s what you’re in for at Arjin Cafe. It may not be a club, but it’s a good place to head to if you prefer to socialize during the day. It’s gay friendly, and it’s super cheap to eat or drink at.

    Bigudi Cafe

    Address: Şehit Muhtar Mahallesi, İstiklal Caddesi Mis Sokak Altın Plak No:5, 34435 Taksim, Beyoğlu/Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

    This café proudly holds the title of the first exclusively lesbian venue in Turkey. Plus, it’s perfectly located on the terrace on the top of the building. This place has been transformed into a cultural center where only women are allowed to enter.

    Doors open around 10pm, and then the night really starts. A night out at Bigudi Café isn’t just a wild night out, but a real experience.

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