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2019 Golite for Women: Relite Jogger and ReActive Bikini
2019 GoLite Mens ReBound Jogger and ReActive Boxer Briefs
Travel Gear Guides
Best Comfort Travel Blazer – Eddie Bauer Voyager II
Last Updated on September 28, 2016 Okay, okay, Eddie Bauer. I’ll pack a blazer now and look like a responsible male member of society. You see, I have about as much enthusiasm for packing a sport coat on a trip as I have for 8-hour layovers and sitting in the middle seat on the plane.…
2019 Golite for Women: Relite Jogger and ReActive Bikini
Golite is back and better than ever with their travel and active friendly line. Golite was gracious enough to send along a sample of their Relite Joggers and ReActive Bikini underwear for women. I have a bonus section covering their ReGreen Windshell you should stick around for too. Golite Reactive Bikini Let us begin with…
Sanuk Puff N Chill- Warmth for Him and Her
Last Updated on November 21, 2018 With winter weather quickly approaching, I am doing everything in my power to stay warm. Sanuk Puff N Chill boots are definitely helping to keep my feet warm and comfortable as the leaves begin to fall and Jack Frost leaves his wintery mark. What’s Inside? Constructed as a slip-on…
Mountain Hardwear Jackets: Part 1 The Switch Flip
Last Updated on September 27, 2016 Fall has officially arrived and there are some fantastic light travel jackets on the market. We have had the pleasure of trying out two different offerings from Mountain Hardwear. The first in our two reviews will be The Switch Flip, a light weight and reversible down jacket that looks fantastic no matter…
Mini GO Styling Iron from FHI Heat
Last Updated on January 10, 2019 At the 2011 Aspen Fashion Week festivities last March, I picked up a Mini GO Styling Iron from FHI Heat, a hairstyling-tool company that was one of the event’s sponsors. While I rarely straighten my hair with the full-size iron I already own (coincidentally also a freebie I received…
Arc’teryx Covert Case – Blue
Last Updated on August 26, 2016 Traveling can be fun, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful, especially if you are unprepared. One easy way to ensure any trip goes as smoothly as possible is to use the right luggage. For camping or hiking trips, the Covert Case is easy to carry and is…
Jade Yoga Travel Mat
Last Updated on September 27, 2016 I’m often asked how to stay active and healthy while on the road. Since we frequently travel, I have plenty of opportunity to figure out what works, and what doesn’t, when it comes to exercise in hotel rooms and vacation homes. While at home, I practice yoga, and I…
Deuter XV 3 Commuter Bag
Last Updated on November 2, 2018 XV 3 Outside Features The Deuter XV 3 is a 21-liter daypack with one front pocket big enough to store a 32-ounce growler or water bottle. There is no hydration integration so the front pocket is perfect for carrying liquids. The Deuter XV 3 is unique in its adjustable…
CleverMade SnapBasket – A Quick Review
Last Updated on December 27, 2017 Busy road warriors (especially those that live in condos or apartments with limited space) may find these to be a great way to stay organized during short breaks when returning home. It is not uncommon for me to arrive from overseas in the evening, turn my suitcase upside down,…
Review for Native Jimmy Shoes
Last Updated on April 15, 2016 From folks that first brought us a stylish alternative to the ultra-lightweight, ultra-comfortable, and not-so-stylish Crocs, now introducing a range of versatile boots that will definitely be a worthy investment for any family member. Native shoes won the hearts and legs of many with their comfortable and lightweight kicks…
Cannae Pro Gear Introduces the Optio Sling Pack
The Optio Sling Pack from Cannae is a lightweight carry all for the daily commuter, the gray citizen and the adventurer. From the outside working our way in, the Optio Sling Pack has two zippered pockets on the front. These pockets allow for quick storage of cell phones, sunglasses, snacks, and keys. I like that…
Icebreaker Challenge: Five Merino Wool Pieces for 10 Days
Last Updated on September 27, 2016 One of the most important requirements for travel clothing is the ability to mix and match a limited wardrobe. But when you’re traveling for more than a few days, you have to start thinking about washing your clothes. Or not. Would you believe it’s possible to wear five pieces…
Aventure Gear
Sunski sunglasses for all seasons
I’ve long been a fan of Sunski sunglasses, and now, they’re making some of their hottest styles out of recycled frames. Yay! And all Sunskis feature polarized lenses, so I know that my eyes are getting serious protection even while I look good. I recently tried out the Sunski Chalet style in grey sky, which…
Matador: Our Top 4 Travel Recommendations
Matador is a new brand to us and we could not be more excited to educate you, our followers, on the little items that pack a big punch! In 2014, Matador began in a little bedroom in San Francisco and quickly grew. Relocating to Denver, Colorado allowed Matador to lay down their roots and begin…
Deuter Speed Lite 24L and Fox 40L Backpack
Deuter backpacks have been on our review list for a while now. There bright colors, lightweight design and signature Vari Quick strap adjustment system makes them a great option for you or your family. We reviewed the Speed Lite 24L and the Fox 40 for kids. Speed Lite 24SL Women’s Day Backpack First, I thought…
Keep it Cool with OtterBox Trooper 12 Cooler
Sometimes, your day trip needs a huge cooler. Sometimes, your day trip needs something smaller. When you’re headed to an evening bonfire, an afternoon pick-up game, or even a day floating on the river, a full-size cooler usually isn’t necessary. In those cases, you want something smaller, but that still keeps your food and drinks…
5.11 Tactical Gear For Men And Women- New Items for 2018
Last Updated on January 30, 2018 5.11 Tactical Gear for 2018 Across the country, and for most of us here in the Gem State, being able to carry a concealed fire arm or being prepared for any situation is key. With two military bases within 40 miles of each other, we have plenty of trained…
Catalyst Waterproof Case for iPhone X – A Quick Review
The newest iPhone, with its noted flaws and complaints, deserves the newest and most protective case available. I am a huge fan of Catalyst’s waterproof cases, which provide protection from both the elements and the all too possible fall.
Mission Enduracool Cooling Techknit Towel
Designed for sportsmen and athletes, the Mission Enduracool Cooling Techknit Towel serves another purpose entirely for me. Its original design is meant to provide cooling relief instantly by adding water and giving the towel a quick snap. This makes it ideal for business travelers that like to jog or work out in hotel fitness centers.
Cocoon Cases with Handy GRID-IT Organizers
Last Updated on January 10, 2019 As our gadget and cord collections keep expanding, the accessory pocket of our laptop bags or backpacks can start to look like a pit filled with electronic snakes and critters. Trying to fish out the correct accessory if you’ve been packing and unpacking in a hurry isn’t always easy.…
In Review: Various Magellan Travel Products
Last Updated on January 14, 2019 If you are a frequent traveler for business or leisure, then you understand the importance of accessories that make traveling hassle-free. For most, traveling in comfort is high on the priority list. Especially for those unpleasant long flights. Magellan’s offers a broad variety of high quality travel clothing as…
Summer essential: Love Bottle for travel days
I am a softie for a reusable, BPA-free water bottle, and the prettier the better. When I saw the gorgeous selection of glass Love Bottles on offer, my heart leapt in my chest. Based in Portland Oregon with additional art designers located around the world, Love Bottle makes a practical product that’s also beautiful. Each bottle…
Platypus Meta Personal Water Filter – A Quick Review
Last Updated on November 27, 2017 I’m always on the lookout for new water filtration systems. We’ve tried it all: gravity-based bladders, LifeStraws, squeeze filters, the whole nine yards. Different systems work best for different activities, and while I like the size and shape of my LifeStraw Go when I’m traveling abroad, the new Platypus…
Best Travel Pants: 34 Heritage Charisma Pants, Shorts and Dish Denim
Last Updated on November 6, 2017 Finding a pair of pants that travel well is incredibly difficult. Most of the “travel” pants have lots of pockets, zippers and such but frankly, they just aren’t very comfortable Charisma Pant 34Heritage sent me their new relaxed thigh twill Charisma pants. The second I put them on I…
Clothing & Bags
Lowa Locarno GTX® – A Lightweight Boot for Hiking
Last Updated on August 27, 2018 LOWA has heard your cries and we present to you the lighter, but still sturdy and responsive, Locarno GTX® Qc midrise. The Locarno GTX® now boasts a new inverted MONOWRAP frame with a midsole constructed of both DuraPU and DynaPU. This new hybrid allows a spring into your step…
Duluth Trading Company Lifetime Leather Tote
I have been a fan of Duluth Trading Company’s travel bags since reviewing their oil cloth travel tote. If you’re looking for something more classic, consider the Lifetime Leather Tote. This travel-ready tote is truly gorgeous. The full-grain leather is substantial and soft, and I love that the clean lines of this bag will never go…
Makeup Junkie Bag For Family Travel
Last Updated on November 9, 2017 Don’t let the name fool you…Makeup Junkie bags can hold far more than just make-up. Personally, I don’t travel with a lot of make-up, but I do have a collection of cosmetic and toiletry items I’ve been wanting to consolidate into one easy-to-keep-clean location when I fly carry-on only.…
Astral Loyak
Last Updated on September 27, 2016 The low profile of interesting color combinations make the Astral Loyak a bold looking causal shoe, but the real value of the Loyak lays in its superior comfort. This lightweight footwear looks like a bold casual shoe but fits and feels like you are wearing a high performance moccasin.…
Rolling Mobile Pro Lite Gear Bag
Like its underseat sibling that I tested out recently, the Rolling Mobile Pro Lite Gear Bag offers generous storage and an impressive composition. It is small enough to fit underneath an airplane seat or into the bag sizers used at the airport. Like other Lite Gear bags, it is produced using recycled materials including plastic.…
Fall picks for men from Ećoths
If you have an outdoorsy, travel-ready, adventure-seeking guy in your life (or are one yourself), if you don’t yet know about Ećoths, you’re missing out. This men’s line from Aventura Clothing focuses on comfortable, practical clothing, most of which is organic cotton and soft as butter. I know guys who don’t care one iota what…
Two Polo Shirts Worth Packing for Your Travels
Last Updated on January 10, 2019 A polo shirt is a versatile piece of clothing to be packing when you travel. It’s nicer than a t-shirt, hits the “collared shirts only” requirement, can be used for a game of golf or tennis, yet doesn’t take up much extra room in your bag. Most polo shirts…
Ultimate Active Travel Wear: Aventura Kineta Skort Capri
Last Updated on November 17, 2017 I love the comfort of skirts when I travel, but c’mon…when you’re riding a bike, hiking, walking, and I don’t know, perhaps zip-lining all in one day, a skirt just isn’t going to cut it. Enter Aventura Clothing’s new Kineta Skort Capri, the new love of my life. Honestly,…
Sabre Red: Handheld Personal Safety Devices
The world as we know it is not the world I grew up in. Sabre understands the changes in crime rates and has developed an amazing line of personal safety devices to fit every lifestyle. Made in the U.S.A, The Runner pepper gel spray is lightweight (22grams) and fits into the palm of your hand.…
Feetures Socks Are For You and Me
Last Updated on May 15, 2019 A little known fact about our writers at Practical Travel Gear, we love socks. Small ones, tall ones and even short ones. This is why we were very excited to receive samples of the Feetures no-show and their compression socks. Have Socks, Will Travel Feetures has moved into the…
Vibram® Furoshiki: Travel Shoe for All Adventures
Created by Masaya Hashimoto, the Vibram® Furoshiki wrap shoe is sure to impress. Whether you are on the barefoot bandwagon or not, the Vibram® Furoshiki will wrap you in comfort and convince you to come to the minimalist side. I hear they have cookies. New for 2018, are bright and inviting colors with a redesigned…
Kuru Footwear Kruzr Shoes for Women
Last Updated on January 10, 2019 I really wanted to love these shoes. After all, Kuru Footwear has garnered loads of rave reviews from bloggers galore. This company is not shy about giving away pairs of its hiking and walking shoes to everyone from Workout Mommy to MomTrend to The Pensive Blog (a dude, not…
Kids & Family
Outside Inside with GSI Outdoor – Fun for the Whole Family
Last Updated on January 15, 2018 Outside Inside Family Fun? Yes, Please! GSI has a more fun side in it’s Outside Inside lines. You can find anything from ornaments to present decoration and (our favorite) outdoor games. Outside Inside provided us with three great items for the lunar 2017 eclipse camping trip: Backpack Mancala…
Gregory Savant Hybrid Backpack
Last Updated on February 8, 2018 Sometimes one simple change can make a huge difference in how useful a piece of travel gear can be. The one simple change Gregory made with this Savant 48-liter backpack takes it from being an also-ran to being something going on a 3-week trip to Asia with me this…
8 Wonderful Things You Should Know About Gore-Tex
Last Updated on September 28, 2016 I spent a couple days at the GORE-TEX headquarters last week for a blogger’s summit with people who cover gear for traveling, snowboarding, rock climbing, camping, mountain biking, hiking, and more. It was the company’s plan to teach us how their stuff works, tell us about a new Experience…
Hit the snow in style with Obermeyer girls’ gear
Kids grow out of clothing items so quickly that you rarely want to spend money on specialized gear because they’ll wear it a couple of times before you hear, “it’s too tight!” That’s why many parents who don’t live in places where it snows in winter (and thus, you can get at least an entire…
Dryfins Swimwear for Guys
Last Updated on February 15, 2017 Let me start by saying I’m not a guy, and Dryfins swimwear makes products for guys. That said, I’m the mom of three boys, and as such, I’m acquainted with the problem Dryfins has set out to solve: chafing and rash below the belt caused by those netted liners in…
Our Top 5 Woolrich Items For Your 2017 Closet – A Quick Review
Last Updated on December 6, 2017 We all have that one Aunt who sends Christmas gifts every year. Every year I would audibly protest receiving them and then the dreaded picture and thank you card. For a couple years, she would send Woolrich and, being the pretween I was, I could never muster the excitement…
ECO Adventure Kit: A Plastic Free Option
As a traveler, we should all be conscience of our carbon footprint on this beautiful planet we call home. It takes a lot of transportation to get to some of the most beautiful places in the world so the little things we can do at home and on the road, will ensure future generations can…
Review for Kidz Gear Bluetooth Headphones
Last Updated on April 15, 2016 Trying to find a pair of headphones that fit head of Alex, my 7-year old daughter, without slipping off seemed like a simple task to accomplish. Sadly, it was not so. In-ear buds were never her first choice, and I found they were prone to falling out when she…
Wazoo Gear: Our Top Two Picks for You
Last Updated on December 19, 2018 As you have seen on our Instagram feed, we first heard about Wazoo Survival Gear while listening to NPR’s How I Built This. I was so impressed with the ideas and application of necessities to everyday garments that I made my husband google them as soon as we came…
Trailfoody Review: Snacks For Everyone and Every Trail
Last Updated on March 19, 2018 TRAILFOODY is a novel subscription service that provides automatic monthly shipments of high-quality trail snacks. Different subscription plans correspond to increasing amounts of food. You can choose regular, gluten-free, or vegetarian plans. I received a Trailfoody evaluation package containing their iconic Trailfoody orange food bag and an assortment of…
Backcountry Bed Proves Camping is for Everyone
Sierra Designs presents the answer to your sleeping bag v. pillow problems, the Backcountry Bed. Many of my summer memories are filled with images of camping and sleeping under the stars. As a kid, our sleeping bags consisted mostly of every blanket in the house. Now that I have grown up, I want to invest…
Hi-Tec Altitude Lite Jr hiking boot for kids
Last Updated on April 15, 2016 We’ve reviewed multiple Hi-Tec shoes and boots, including the men’s lightweight Altitude Lite, but what about the Altitude Lite for kids? Hi-Tec Altitude Lite Jr combines the same high-quality, low impact hiking boot for adults with a fit designed just for younger hikers. We have three junior hikers in the…