In the old days, we were beholden to TV schedulers for watching our favorite Christmas movies and shows, but those days are gone. Every year, streaming services seem to expand their catalog of must-see Christmas classics, allowing us to unwind with a holiday cocktail and stream our favorite holiday shows and movies whenever we feel like it. At the risk of throwing a damper on your Christmas parade, there are still two cartoon classics that have yet to stream freely. For now, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman are still at the whims of the CBS schedulers. For just about everything else, here's a guide to the classic holiday movies and specials streaming on the most popular services this season. 01 of 07 Disney+ It's hardly shocking that you'll find a ton of kid-friendly holiday specials and movies on Disney+: Home Alone: Macaulay Culkin protects his house from the most incompetent burglars on the planet. The New York sequel is here, too. Miracle on 34th Street: Is Santa real? Disney+ has the classic, so you can figure it out. Mickey's Christmas Carol: Start your kids on the classic Dickens tale early with this Disney-fied retelling. The Muppet Christmas Carol: Michael Caine is Scrooge in this irreverent version of the classic tale. Nightmare Before Christmas: Halloween + Christmas = spooky, good fun. Prep & Landing: This decade-old special offers a clever take on how Santa gets gifts to all the kids around the world. The Santa Clause: This is the one where Tim Allen becomes the next Santa. You'll also find its sundry sequels here, including the newest, The Santa Clauses. Sound of Music: Not exactly a Christmas movie, but this one was broadcast on Christmas so many times it feels like it is. 02 of 07 HBO Max HBO specializes in funny holiday movies but has an animated favorite to round it out. A Christmas Story: Follow the travails of youngster Ralphie dreaming of his ideal Christmas gift, and check out the 2022 sequel, A Christmas Story Christmas is here, too. Elf: It isn't Christmas if you don't get to see Will Ferrell scream "Santa!" Krampus: This horror-comedy flips the holiday script, showcasing a dysfunctional family facing an ancient spirit that punishes those who have lost the Christmas spirit. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation: Join the Griswolds in their chaotic quest for the perfect celebration. The Polar Express: This animated adventure starring Tom Hanks takes you by rail to the North Pole. 03 of 07 Hulu Hulu is loaded with a bunch of Hallmark-esque movies and has upped its game by acquiring more classic options this year: A Christmas Carol: Hulu has this 2019 darker miniseries for your viewing pleasure. Deck the Halls: Danny DeVito and Matthew Broderick clash as neighbors in this hilarious Christmastime film. Die Hard: If you're on the Die-Hard-IS-a-Christmas-movie team, watch it here. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation: Stumbling, bumbling Clark Griswold can't catch a break, even at Christmas. The Grinch: This 2018 animated, movie-length, remake is a worthy modern take on the classic. The Polar Express: All aboard for a rollicking animated adventure to the North Pole. 04 of 07 Netflix Netflix has focused on producing its own new shows and movies with a holiday theme, but you'll find these classic holiday options, too: Klaus: An Academy Award-nominated film where a greedy postman and an isolated toymaker become friends and together bring Christmas to a sad, small town. Fireplace for Your Home: If your home is lacking an electric fireplace, Netflix offers three cool options for a crackling fire to blaze in the background. Love Actually: Britain's best actors falling in and out of love. What's not to love? 05 of 07 Peacock Peacock is producing its own shows but carries a few holiday specials for your streaming pleasure: 12 Days of Christmas Eve: This charming holiday film follows a successful businessman who gets a wake-up call when he finds himself stuck in a time loop, reliving the twelve days leading up to Christmas Eve. How the Grinch Stole Christmas: The original cartoon version with Boris Karloff as the Grinch is the one we consider the best. Jack Frost: In this chilling tale, a serial killer is accidentally transformed into a murderous snowman after a freak accident—perfect for those looking to add a little spook to the holiday season. 06 of 07 Amazon Prime Video It's a Wonderful Life: Amazon Prime streams this ultimate holiday movie about a man who gets angelic help remembering how important he is to the people in his life. George Balanchine's The Nutcracker: This ballet classic from 1993 features Macaulay Culkin as the prince! Home Alone: Watch Kevin foil his nemeses in this heartwarming original. The Muppet Christmas Carol: Dickens' novel goes to the puppets in this 1992 musical film adaptation. White Christmas: This Bing Crosby classic is the source of everyone's "white Christmas" dreams. 07 of 07 Other Streaming Services These classic Christmas shows are sprinkled among other streaming services: Bad Moms: For when you need a break from the baking, shopping, and merry-making, go to this one on TNT and TBS. Bad Santa: To take a trip to the dark side of the holiday, watch Billy Bob Thornton in the title role on Pluto TV. Charlie Brown Christmas: Apple TV has a monopoly on the Peanuts vault, including this endearing story of Charlie Brown and his sad little tree. A Christmas Carol: If you want the 1984 classic starring George C. Scott, you'll find it on Starz. Scrooged: Watch the Bill Murray modernization of A Christmas Carol on Paramount+.

Thanks to the seven years I’ve spent working as a shopping editor at Real Simple, I’ve picked up quite a few money-saving tips and insights. Whenever family or friends ask for shopping advice, I always tell them my best one: Take advantage of Amazon’s Prime Day deals, which are some of—if not—the best discounts that will be available all year. And this time around, Amazon released millions of Prime Day deals across its home, fashion, beauty, tech, and other departments with some of the steepest discounts that will be available all year. In fact, many items are going for their lowest prices ever, beating Black Friday offers. And plenty of new brands are included this year, like Away luggage, Saie beauty, and Milk Makeup. And while you don’t have to be a member to get in on the discounts, Prime subscribers (or anyone who signs up for a free 30-day trial) can shop the full assortment of offers. Here’s everything I’m buying this year. Editor-Loved Amazon Prime Day Deals Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, $550 (was $750) Colorscience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50, $46 (was $58) CeraVe Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser, $15 (was $20) Away Bigger Carry-On Suitcase, $236 (was $295) Saie Dew Liquid Blush, $20 (was $25) Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine For years, I’ve indulged in a lot of coffee shop drinks, so I’m finally investing in this high-quality machine that I’ve been eyeing for years. A few of my friends have this stunner, which does everything: grinds beans, measures grounds, heats water, brews espresso, and froths milks. They rave about its longevity, easy-to-use design, and the delicious espresso it produces that’s on par with professional machines. It’s a bit of a splurge, but I know this upfront expense will save me money in the long run. Colorscience Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50 This genius tinted sunscreen has replaced three products in my daily makeup routine, namely my facial sunscreen, foundation, and concealer. The multipurpose product features a formula that blends in with your skin while offering protection against pollution, UVB/UVA sun damage, and blue light. And thanks to its buildable coverage, I’m able to skip concealer and add a bit more where I need it, like under my eyes and over some acne scars. CeraVe Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser I always use big sales, like Prime Day, to stock up on items I go through quickly, including my daily face wash. I’ve tested dozens of cleansers over two decades, and this dermatologist-recommended one is the only wash that doesn’t irritate my incredibly sensitive skin. It gently melts away makeup and moisturizes my skin while I use it, leaving my skin softer and more hydrated every time I use it. Away Bigger Carry-On Suitcase I always use big sales, like Prime Day, to stock up on items I go through quickly, including my daily face wash. I’ve tested dozens of cleansers over two decades, and this dermatologist-recommended one is the only wash that doesn’t irritate my incredibly sensitive skin. It gently melts away makeup and moisturizes my skin while I use it, leaving my skin softer and more hydrated every time I use it. Away Bigger Carry-On Suitcase For the first time in Amazon’s history, Away luggage is on sale for Prime Day. This new-to-Amazon brand is renowned and loved by travelers for its incredibly durable, space-saving suitcases. The brand’s bigger carry-on comes highly recommended by friends who love its interior that offers compression to fit in more stuff, smooth wheels, and lightweight feel. While I’m not in the market for a new suitcase, this will make the perfect holiday gift for my partner who hasn’t replaced their worn-down suitcase in a decade. Saie Dew Liquid Blush I’m always looking for clean beauty brands that I can mix into rotation, so I’m grabbing some of Saie’s top-sellers, like this liquid blush, to try while they’re marked down. I’ve been told by experts that liquid blushes are easier to blend and offer more of that glowy, dewy look that I’m after, so I’m eager to test this highly rated one. And if you’re looking for more recommendations, there are plenty of other finds that I own and love on sale this Prime Day. The Apple AirPods Pro that I use while working out, walking, and commuting are marked down along with the Sweese porcelain pasta bowl plate hybrids (a.k.a. blates) that I’ve raved about for seven years. More Editor-Loved Prime Day Deals Lowest Price Ever: Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation), $149 (was $249) Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner, $82 (was $124) Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum, $300 (was $470) Roborock Q5 Max+ Robot Vacuum, $500 (was $600) Bucosd Mini Gym Duffle Bag, $26 with coupon (was $33) New Balance Women's 515 V3 Sneaker, $70 (was $80) Lodge 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet, $20 (was $25) OxiClean White Revive Laundry Whitener Stain Remover, $8 (was $11) Levoit Air Purifier, $85 (was $100) Kitchellence Three-Stage Knife Sharpener, $12 (was $16) Sweese Porcelain Pasta Bowl Plates Set, $32 (was $35) Head to Amazon’s Prime Day hub to see the full selection of deals or shop more editor-loved items below. Once these deals expire on Friday, July 11 at midnight PT, the prices will go back up. Apple AirPods Pro 2 Bissell Little Green Portable Cleaner Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum Roborock Q5 Max+ Robot Vacuum Bucosd Small Gym Bag New Balance Women's 515 V3 Sneaker Lodge 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet OxiClean White Revive Laundry Stain Remover Levoit Air Purifier Kitchellence Three-Stage Knife Sharpener Sweese Porcelain Pasta Bowl Plates Set

Vacations are relaxing, but packing for them? Not so much. Between decision fatigue, trying to fit everything in your suitcase, and doing all that last-minute laundry, it’s not an ideal way to kick off your time away. But knowing the right packing method—and a few pro-approved tips and tricks—can change everything. We asked a professional packer (yes, a professional packer) and luggage designers how they pack their own clothes, as well as their secrets for fitting everything in their suitcases for a less stressful and more stylish trip. Lorenza Bellora, founder of My Style Bags, a Milan-based brand known for its high-quality, customizable travel and lifestyle accessories Brianna Apple, content creator and professional packer specializing in helping families pack for camp, college, and boarding school Niklas Oppermann, luggage designer and co-founder of Carl Friedrik 01 of 12 Start With the Right Bag According to luggage designer Lorenza Bellora, choosing the right bag is like choosing the right travel companion. “There’s no one-size-fits-all rule," she says. "It really depends on the kind of journey you’re about to take. For longer holidays or multi-activity trips, I go for a medium-to-large bag with inner compartments. But for a spontaneous getaway or a weekend escape, a structured duffel is always my go-to.” On the other hand, content creator and professional packer Brianna Apple suggests assembling what you need to pack before choosing a bag. “Pull everything out onto the couch or wherever you pack (I always have a designated packing corner), and get everything finalized, so that everything you’re bringing is all in one spot," she says. "Once you see how much stuff you’re bringing, choose a suitcase accordingly. Bigger is not always better.” 02 of 12 Plan Outfits Around Your Itinerary Being specific and intentional about what you pack ensures you won’t forget anything. Apple says she starts by going through her itinerary, then pulling what she’s considering wearing based on her plans. “Once it’s all laid out, I build outfits around each day and put anything I’m not bringing back in my closet," she says. "I try to keep looks simple and rely on accessories to switch things up so I can rewear pieces and pack less.” Still not sure if you should bring something? Luggage designer Niklas Oppermann explains there are only two categories of things you should bring on any trip: those that are versatile and those that are necessary. “If it doesn’t earn its place in the bag with versatility or necessity, it doesn’t come.” 03 of 12 Pack Around Your Favorite Clothing and Accessories If there’s something you're excited about wearing or have purchased for your trip, Apple recommends prioritizing outfits around those things. “If there are specific pieces you’re set on bringing, whether it’s a purse, a pair of shoes, or a certain top, build outfits around those first, and use those accessories to switch up other looks too," she says. "It’s all about stretching your staples and making them work multiple ways.” 04 of 12 Plan From Day to Night Apple tells me it’s best to start with daytime outfits. “Then repeat the process for night outfits, move on to pajamas, undergarments, and anything else you need to bring.” 05 of 12 Place Heavier Items First Don’t just throw everything in your luggage. According to Apple, heavier and bulkier items such as sweaters and jeans should go in first. “Then, fill in the rest like a puzzle," she suggests. 06 of 12 Hide Your Socks Socks might seem small, but they can take up valuable space. However, there is an easy but game-changing solution to this: “I always tuck socks into shoes to save space,” Apple says. 07 of 12 Don’t Fold—Roll Everyone has a finite amount of luggage space and probably more clothing than can fit in it. “Roll everything, even underwear," Apple suggests. "It saves way more space than you think and makes it easier to fit everything else.” 08 of 12 Consider Packing Cubes Whether you're going on a long or short trip, Oppermann advises staying organized with packing cubes. “Even when I’m only away for a night or two with just a backpack, I still use them," he says. "They’re brilliant for saving space, keeping things organized—like separating clean clothes from worn ones—and they minimize creasing when you unpack.” 09 of 12 Avoid Overweight Luggage Fees One of the easiest ways to avoid overweight luggage charges is to, you guessed it, weigh your luggage beforehand. You can use a regular scale you have at home, but then you might end up with an overweight bag on your return flight. So, investing in a portable luggage scale is a smart idea. They're usually inexpensive and take up less space than a candy bar. Apple recommends putting heavier items like shoes, hair tools, and handbags in your carry-on because it will free up more room in your suitcase. “I also use the purses I’m bringing to store small things like jewelry and sunglasses,” she says. 10 of 12 Shake Your Bag Down for More Space Apple’s trick for fitting every last thing into your suitcase is brilliant. “Zip the suitcase shut, then stand it up and gently bang or shake the bottom against the floor to shift everything downward," she says. "Do the same with the side of the suitcase, [and] you’ll be shocked how much space opens up at the top!” 11 of 12 Use a Garment Bag for More Formal Items If you're traveling for business or a formal event, Bellora suggests using a garment bag to make sure your clothing stays unwrinkled and on a hanger. “It keeps clothes perfectly pressed on their hanger, ready to wear upon arrival," she says. 12 of 12 Pack Before You Shop “People love to shop before vacations (who doesn’t?), but that’s usually what leads to overpacking,” Apple says. “I always suggest fully packing first, as if you’re not allowed to buy anything, so you can see what you actually have. Then, if you still need something, buy with intention instead of impulse. It’s also a great way to stay on budget!”

So many aspects of traveling can be expensive, but what you pack doesn't have to be. It's totally possible to build cute vacation outfits on a budget, and that's where these Amazon options come in handy. We found the best vacation-worthy clothing, shoes, and accessories—all for under $100 per outfit. And as a bonus, the items are easy to mix in with your regular summer wardrobe to wear long after your trip ends. Whether you're spending your summer sightseeing in a city, hitting the beach, checking out local hiking trails, or just enjoying the nightlife, here are five complete summer staple outfits that will work for your travels and beyond. And they can all fit in your carry-on. Summer Travel Outfits Under $100 Tanming 2-Piece Knit Lounge Set, $32 (was $40) Odoly Cork Sandals, $25 (was $30) Sojo Round Polarized Sunglasses, $16 (was $20) Yesno Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress, $30 (was $40) Upopby One-Piece Swimsuit, $31 with coupon (was $34) For the Flight One buyer raved that this lounge set was "elegant, comfortable, and breathable" for their 15-hour flight. The knit material helps keep you warm while the short sleeves and split hems allow enough airflow to help prevent you from getting too hot. Plus, it comes in 12 colors and is totally chic enough to wear out and about when you're done flying. Pair the lounge set with these canvas sneakers that come in 35 colors and have cushioned insoles. One happy customer took them on a vacation and said they were "super comfortable" even while walking "a ton." And if you're looking for a new personal item for the flight, this zippered quilted tote will fit neatly under the plane seat but can carry your laptop, water bottle, and tons more in the multiple interior and exterior pockets. Plus, as one reviewer noted in their five-star review, it's lightweight and can slip over your suitcase handle for easy carrying. Tanming 2-Piece Knit Lounge Set Rocket Dog Comfort Plush Foam Sneaker Bagsmart Lightweight Quilted Tote For City Strolling Throw on these linen pants for an elevated casual look while doing city sightseeing. They come in 25 colors in sizes XS to 5XL. Pair them with this comfy T-shirt that has chic lace detailing on the sleeves and comes in 18 colors. And if you're going to be walking around a lot, you'll need a shoe that both looks good and feels good. These adjustable cork sandals come in 11 colors and are designed to mold to your foot to provide custom cushioning and arch support. One happy shopper raved that they were "so comfy and they don’t rub and give you blisters when you walk around." Finish off the look with some polarized sunglasses. These come in 18 colors and have more than 2,500 five-star reviews. LNX Drawstring Linen Pants Automet Short-Sleeve Lace Top Odoly Cork Sandals Sojos Round Polarized Sunglasses For Date Night Dinners This flowy maxi dress comes in 34 colors and patterns—including many floral ones that would look great for a vacation date night and beyond. The dress is sure to pair well with these block heel mules that come in 13 colors. The heels are designed to be super comfortable with a padded insole and a subtle 2.25-inch heel. Shoppers confirm they’re "very easy to walk in." Complete the outfit with this cute straw clutch that can be converted into a crossbody with the included strap. And throw on this stack of 14-karat gold-filled bracelets for a bit of added glam. Yesno Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress Dream Pairs Strappy Block Heel Sandals Cookooky Straw Handbag Dearmay Gold Bracelets For a Day Hike Workout dresses are trendy for a reason. They make for cute athleisure, but they also perform well for vacation activities. This one comes in 16 colors and is the perfect garment for hiking because you just have to pack one item. One shopper praised its soft, but supportive material, and another added that “it’s comfortable for working out, hiking, kayaking, everyday errands and walking around. It’s gorgeous, doesn’t show sweat, [it’s] airy, and feels comfortable all over.” Grab these slip-on sneakers to go with the dress. They come in 10 colors and are designed to be breathable with a memory foam insole for added comfort. One happy buyer who took them hiking said they were so lightweight that "it almost feels like you're not wearing anything." And you can carry all your hiking essentials in this 4.7-star rated belt bag that's water resistant and has several pockets for safely storing your items. Ewedoos Athletic Dress with Built-in Bra & Shorts Keezmz Slip-On Sneakers Pander Belt Bag For the Beach For a fun beach (or pool) day, check out this highly rated swimsuit with over 2,300 five-star reviews. It comes in 25 colors in sizes 6 to 18 with pretty front ruching. "Very flattering," one buyer said, adding that the suit "held up for five trips to Mexico." When you're done swimming, you can throw on this cute cover up you can wear to a beachside bar or hotel spa. The button-up is designed to be breathable and lightweight for use even on hot days. Complete the look with a roomy woven tote bag and these nonslip rubber flip flops. As one happy customer noted, it's easy to wash any sand off the shoes and they dry quickly, making them ideal for beach days. Upopby One-Piece Swimsuit Ekouaer Swimsuit Cover Up Trifabricy Large Straw Beach Bag Lavau Waterproof Flip Flops

Camping is one of the most budget-friendly summer activities, but without the right accessories, it’s easy to find yourself dreaming of the comforts of home. To help make this your best summer yet, we’ve rounded up 13 best-selling and on-sale camping and outdoor accessories from Amazon. Our list includes essentials for those new to camping—think: tents, sleeping bags, and portable lanterns—plus some fun accessories to enhance the experience even for seasoned campers. Shop mosquito-repelling bracelets, cast iron cookers for making meals on an open fire, and even a portable shower. We’ve also thrown in some extra fun goodies like color-changing packets for your bonfire and a boil-and-brew Stanley French press so you can make coffee whenever you are. Best of all, prices are as low as $5, so you can stock up without going through your entire summer budget. Must-Have Camping and Outdoor Accessories at Amazon Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan, $19 (was $25) Vignuto Portable Shower for Camping, $35 (was $43) Cliganic 10-Pack Mosquito Repellent Bracelets, $10 (was $13) Gootop Bug Zapper, $38 with coupon (was $70) Stanley Adventure All-in-One Boil + Brew French Press, $26 Coghlan's Cast Iron Cooker, $12 UNP 10-Person Camping Tent, $155 (was $180) HGD 6-Pack Magic Campfire Fire Color Changing Packets, $7 Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle, $5 LifeStraw Personal Water Filter, $18 MalloMe S'mores Sticks, $10 (was $11) Odoland Portable LED Camping Lantern with Ceiling Fan A lantern is a must for any camping trip or nighttime summer adventure. This two-in-one portable lantern has 18 LED bulbs to light the way for up to 37 hours and a built-in fan to keep you cool on hot summer nights. The lantern’s 360-degree rotation and collapsible design allow for easy hanging, and because it runs on D-cell batteries, you don’t need to worry about cords or making sure it’s charged. “This was so great for the last camping trip. I sleep hot, and the fan is not loud,” one shopper wrote. “The hanging hook was perfect for using the light, but for the fan, I used it on the ground, and it’s flexible enough to do that.” Vignuto Portable Shower for Camping Anyone who’s been camping knows the first thing you miss is a warm shower. Amazon shoppers have added this portable shower to their camping supply list in droves, and now it’s on sale. It works by pumping water from an included foldable bucket, which it sends up a pipe and streams out from the showerhead. The shower can run for up to 150 minutes on a single charge and has an LED digital display for easy control. Shoppers love that it charges via a USB port, so you can plug it into anything that’s handy, like a portable charger or your laptop. (Bonus tip: The shower can also be used to bathe pets and wash your car!) Cliganic 10-Pack Mosquito Repellent Bracelets You should never go without sunscreen or mosquito repellent while camping. But if the thought of spraying (and smelling) traditional bug sprays has you avoiding it at all costs, you’ll want to grab these DEET-free mosquito repellent bracelets instead. Whether camping or just lounging around your backyard, the best-selling bracelets use citronella, geranium, and lemongrass oils to keep mosquitoes away. Shoppers say they’re stretchy and comfortable and “work just as well as old-fashioned spray.” Gootop Bug Zapper More than 50,000 units of this best-selling bug zapper have been purchased in just the last month. Calling it a “must-have for summer,” shoppers say it’s effective at killing all kinds of flying insects and that it even starts working immediately. Currently 43 percent off, the zapper uses light to attract pests, then a high-voltage electric grid zaps them on contact. It has a coverage area of half an acre and weighs just over 2 pounds, so it’s easy to hang practically anywhere, including on a tent. Keep scrolling to shop more popular finds to upgrade your camping trips and outdoor adventures this summer. Coghlan's Cast Iron Cooker UNP 10-Person Camping Tent HGD 6-Pack Magic Campfire Fire Color Changing Packets Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle LifeStraw Personal Water Filter MalloMe S'mores Sticks Marbero Portable Power Station MalloMe Lightweight Compact Sleeping Bag Credit: Amazon

One of the most stressful parts of a vacation is the prep, and that includes the packing. Weather and plans can change last minute, but the stuff you take with you is all you'll have, so you really want to nail it, even with all of the uncertainty. This can lead us to overpack, stuffing our suitcases to the brim and crossing the 50-pound limit that many airlines have in place for checked luggage. To avoid this, we asked travel experts to tell us the biggest packing errors they see people making and how we can avoid them. Packing Too Many "What Ifs" “One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers make is overpacking for the "what ifs" instead of what might actually be needed," says Katy Rockett, regional director of North America for Explore Worldwide, a small group tour company. "Not only does it slow you down, but it can lead to added stress managing checked bags and excess baggage fees." Instead, she suggests packing versatile layers that will work for whatever activities you have planned and leaving it at that. Then, you'll have room to bring back souvenirs! Bringing Your Brand New Shoes It's tempting to buy all new stuff for your vacation. After all, you're treating yourself to a trip so you may as well keep treating yourself. But, if you're not a fan of blisters (and who is?) you might want to think twice. "It’s easy to forget how much walking happens day to day on trips, especially adventure-focused trips. Packing brand new or uncomfortable shoes can be a major misstep," Rockett says. "I always recommend bringing at least one pair of well-worn walking shoes, even on more relaxed itineraries. Your feet will thank you.” Forgetting About Dirty Laundry You don't want to mix your clean, unworn stuff in with your sweaty duds! "I bring a cloth laundry bag to put dirty laundry in," says Matt Mazanec, tour director manager at Tauck. "It keeps them separate, and if I am bringing home something fragile, I can wrap it in my dirty laundry for extra cushioning." Packing an Iron or Steamer This one may seem counterintuitive, but irons and steamers take up a ton of room, and if you're trying to bring only a carry-on, you likely won't have space for these appliances. Diana Ferro-Rodrigues, vice president at Perillo Tours, recommends an easy alternative. "Instead. roll your clothes and pack a wrinkle release spray," she says. Using Vacuum Seal Bags Yes, these save a ton of room in your bag, but what many people don't realize is that they don't make your bag weigh less. "Your bag ends up weighing a ton, and you end up not being able to fit everything in your bag after you open the vacuum bags," Mazanec says. "Instead, use packing cubes and thoughtfully plan outfits with versatile pieces so that you’re prepared for many situations." Relying Too Heavily on Converters Yes, you should definitely have these! But, converters tend to work better for smaller things like phone and computer chargers and not as well for items that take tons of power like a blowdryer or straightener. Consider buying inexpensive local appliances instead. "For example, why risk burning out your nice U.S. curling iron or flat iron when you could buy one in Europe and just let it live in your suitcase, removing all worry from the equation?" says Brenna Shay, tour director manager at Tauck.

How early should we get to the airport? It's a hotly debated question in nearly every household. There are the people who want to get to the gate four hours before the plane even pulls up, and then there are those who would rather walk straight onto the plane as everyone boards without breaking their stride. For whatever reason, these two people typically end up dating. So, if this is a frequent point of vacation contention in your home, you're not alone. "Travel is deeply personal," says Michael Holtz, CEO and founder of SmartFlyer. "Some thrive on efficiency down to the minute, while others seek the comfort of extra time." We turned to a few travel experts to find out what time you really need to arrive at the airport. Read on to see if you agree with their assessment. Michael Holtz, CEO and founder of SmartFlyer Jesse Neugarten, CEO of Dollar Flight Club Tori Simokov, New York-based writer and founder of Window Seat Factors to Consider There are a whole lot of variables when it comes to answering this question like seasonality, time of day, and whether or not you're checking luggage, to name a few. There's the factor of loyalty programs like CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, or Global Entry, which can drastically decrease your wait time. Oh, and it also depends on your airport, since some are more efficient than others (as most of us have unfortunately noticed). When to Arrive Much like you and your family members, our experts also had varied thoughts on exact timing. Holtz recommends the shortest amount of time out of the three. He believes that if you're a solo traveller with carry-on luggage and a loyalty program membership, you'll need the least amount of time, about 75 minutes. This is using the math that boarding typically begins 30-50 minutes before a flight, and with the fast-track status, it will take you 20 minutes to get through security and another 20 minutes to reach your gate. "That said, ease and efficiency vary by airport—and by traveler. When in doubt, cushion your schedule; peace of mind is always worth arriving a touch early," he says. Tori Simokov, founder of the Window Seat newsletter, recommends 90 minutes. "For domestic flights, I’ve found that’s the sweet spot—it gives me enough time to check in, clear security, grab a bite in the lounge, and get to my gate without rushing. It hasn’t failed me in ten years of flying." She likes to leave 30 minutes to get through security. Jesse Neugarten, founder of Dollar Flight Club, says that no matter the situation, you want to get to the airport at least two hours before boarding. "I usually add an extra 30-45 minutes for early morning or holiday flights because of airport traffic, security lines, and unexpected delays," he says. If you're flying out of a larger airport (think JFK or LAX) or using a budget airline that has fewer TSA lanes, you'll want to add time for that too. "One trick I swear by is checking real-time TSA wait times using apps like MyTSA or your airport’s website," he says. It turns out, even the experts didn't totally agree on the amount of time you'd need. So, in short: it depends. "A frequent traveler with TSA PreCheck or Clear might consistently breeze through security and feel comfortable arriving later, while an occasional traveler may prefer more buffer time due to anxiety or unfamiliarity," Neugarten says. "Past experiences (good or bad) also shape one’s level of caution when planning airport arrival times," Domestic vs. International Flights The general rule of thumb has always been that if you're flying out of the country, you want to give yourself a little more time. Neugarten agrees and recommends three hours for an international flight. While Holtz suggests cushioning your time by adding only 20-30 minutes more for international flights, he agrees that more time is needed. "International departures originate from larger terminals and require additional passport control at both security and boarding," he says. Simokov notes that you also need to consider checked baggage cutoffs. "Most domestic flights have a 40-45 minute baggage cut-off, while international flights typically require you to check bags 60-90 minutes before departure," she says. "It’s crucial to know that window before you arrive, because even if you get to the counter in time, the system won’t allow your bag to be checked once that cut-off hits.

I tend to travel at least once or twice a month, whether that’s a road trip within a few hours of my hometown or a plane ride across the country (or even globe). Obviously, there’s so much prep work that goes into planning a trip—what outfits I’ll wear, which toiletries to pack, and some research on local activities or restaurants. Years ago, though, I learned that sometimes it’s just as important to do some tail-end work once I arrive at my destination to ensure all goes smoothly. Whether I’m staying in a quirky B&B or cozying up in a hotel or resort, there’s a checklist of things I always do that helps me settle in. I Do a Quick Cleanliness Scan I do not expect absolute perfection, but I do expect clean linens, towels, hot water, and vacuumed floors when I arrive at a hotel—especially if it’s a nice one I paid a decent chunk of change for. Rarely do I need to call the front desk for a cleanup or restock, but it has happened. I’ve also needed to notify staff that hot water wasn’t working, which is usually just a quick fix. It’s important to do this stuff right after arriving so you can have the issue tended to right away, or so you can move rooms easily before you unpack. I’ve also requested a room change if I’ve ended up right across from an elevator or ice machine. I learned the hard way that these high-traffic areas are extremely noisy with people, beeping, and ice dispensing, which is a recipe for awful sleep. I Unpack All My Belongings There was a past version of myself that figured if I left it all in the suitcase I’d have less work to do when packing up to leave—wrong. This method creates chaos every time I’d go to look for a garment, and the end result is still a messy suitcase that needs repacking. No matter how long or short the trip, I remove everything from my suitcase within an hour or two of arriving and hang whatever I can. (Sometimes this involves requesting more hangers, which is never a problem.) This really cuts down on wrinkles and allows you to visualize what you brought, helping you plan your outfits. I also take out all my toiletries, then tuck away my luggage out of sight for a less cluttered space. I Store My Valuables While unpacking, I’m careful to put all my valuables in the room’s safe, or I do my best to tuck them out of sight. This includes my passport and laptop, and any nice jewelry I’m not wearing that day. I don’t expect these things to be stolen even if they’re left out, but it does give me peace of mind knowing that even if I’m out all day, my most important items are secure. That also allows me to enjoy my traveling adventures more! I Create a Landing Zone Near the Door Oh, the number of times I’ve lost my hotel key card or a pair of keys. I have a landing zone at our front door at home, so I figured I might as well create something similar for when I’m traveling. This is a little area—ideally a basket or tray that was already in the room—for my hotel key card, sunscreen, chapstick, and car keys/valet ticket. Having a landing zone means these items always have a spot, and I’m way less likely to lose them. I Plug in All My Chargers Right Away We still live in a world of cords, which means things need to be plugged in and charged. Crawling around on the floor at night and shuffling furniture around to find outlets isn’t a great way to wind down, so I try to identify all the outlets and plug my items in shortly after arriving at a hotel. It’s such a tiny thing, but preventing the Great Outlet Search at midnight really does cut down on chaos and stress. I Photograph Important Details Maybe it’s just me, but when I’m traveling, I tend to forget important details like, say, my room number or where I parked my car! I’ve found these details are surprisingly easy to forget after a fun day of exploring, or even after the commotion of checking in and jetting off to get food ASAP. Along with photographing my room number, I’ll either take a picture of where I parked (if driving) or my valet ticket (just in case), a photo of the WiFi information, a picture of the hotel grounds/map, and even a picture (or screenshot) of the transportation map if I’m using public transit. All these habits help me enjoy my trip even more, and now that I have them down to a science, I’m never going back.

There are all sorts of nightmares one might encounter while traveling (delayed flights, lost luggage, cancelled hotel reservations), but encountering bedbugs might be the scariest of them all. These brownish-red insects are hard to get rid of and can quickly infest a room, and therefore, anything you bring into that room. So, before you unpack or even bring your suitcase all the way inside, do yourself a favor and do a thorough room check. You'll want to look for red-brown bugs as well as blood stains on sheets or mattresses, eggs, or shedded skin (ew). Take a look through all of these common places: mattress, box spring, sheets, headboard, and curtains. If you haven't spotted anything (and it's likely you won't), you can start thinking about unpacking. But, all of this potential grossness probably doesn't make you want to toss your clothes everywhere. We spoke with entomologist Emma Grace Crumbley about how travelers can best keep pests out of their stuff. The secret? Your hotel bathtub. What Is the Bathtub Method? When you enter your hotel room, don't lay your suitcase on the floor, bed (ew), or even the convenient luggage rack. Instead, take it to your hotel tub and keep it there while you check for bedbugs, and even after you've checked. Why? Because bedbugs aren't really into cool ceramic or porcelain. "The smooth, cold, and non-porous surface of a bathtub or even a bathroom is typically unattractive to these pests," Crumbley says. "They will also be easier to spot on these surfaces." Bedbugs are thigmotactic, Crumbley says, so they prefer to feel pressure on all sides. This means that they're much more likely to be found in dark, tight places, like in the mattress. Just note that you should always check your bathroom for bugs too (think towels, shower curtains, bathmats)! It's unlikely but not impossible. Tips for Avoiding Bedbugs While Traveling If you've searched the place and don't see any bugs, you'll still want to keep your prevention efforts going. Here are some helpful ways to keep bugs at bay. First off, elevate your luggage and avoid putting it on your bed. Crumbley suggests doing this when you're back home as well. "I also recommend keeping your suitcase closed whenever you’re not using it or even storing it inside a large trash bag," she says. Keep your dirty laundry in a separate bag whenever possible and hang your clothes in the closet instead of folding them and putting them in hotel drawers. What to Do When You Get Home "After returning from your trip, leave your bags outside or in the garage until you’ve had a chance to thoroughly inspect them," she says. Check through your items on a hard, light colored surface before bringing them in. Check your luggage as well, looking at zippers, seams, or pockets. "Next, run all washer-safe clothing on a hot water cycle," Crumbley says. "For added protection, you can also toss clothes in the dryer on high heat for roughly 30 minutes before washing—this will help remove bedbugs in all life stages, including the eggs."

I'm preparing for several upcoming events that involve air travel. In fact, I'm currently on a trip, visiting some old friends, and the last thing I want to worry about is dragging my heavy luggage from destination to destination. As part of my effort to pack lightly, I have already dedicated my Calpak Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage for several trips in my calendar in the next few months. As you can imagine, the mini carry-on bag has only so much room, so it all comes down to packing strategically. I typically plan out a different outfit every day, but with so little space this time around, I need to make the most out of a handful of pieces. So, I planned out six different outfit ideas using just these nine styles from Old Navy, Quince, and more. Travel-Friendly Fashion Finds Anrabess 2-Piece Wide-Leg Pants and Tank Set, $36 (was $45); amazon.com A New Day Button-Front Cardigan, $35; target.com Anrabess Linen-Blend Pants, $36; amazon.com Automet Cap-Sleeve Tee, $13; amazon.com Odoly Adjustable Buckle Sandals, $19 with coupon (was $24); amazon.com Old Navy Sleeveless Button-Front Mini Dress, $35; oldnavy.com Anrabess 2-Piece Wide-Leg Pants and Tank Set A matching set is a travel-friendly essential because you can always take it apart to wear with other separates. I love a nice, cohesive look on its own, but you can't beat this cute tank with chino shorts or relaxed straight-leg jeans. I plan to pair the wide-leg pants with an adorable, tiered tank for another day as well. A New Day Button-Front Cardigan I often get cold, no matter where I am, so I like to carry a cardigan with me. This crocheted number will make a simple top feel like a base layer. This is one of my favorite pieces for unpredictable weather because it's incredibly chic while still keeping me warm when I need it. Additionally, it goes well with just about anything, whether it's a matching set or a little dress. Anrabess Linen-Blend Pants A neutral pair of linen pants is a must-have for the season. Not only are they lightweight and soft, but they also mesh well with a wide range of tops, including blouses, tanks, simple tees, button-downs, and more. I really like how the drawstring waistband cinches me in as well, and I plan to wear these well into fall. Automet Cap-Sleeve Tee I consider this minimalist cap-sleeve T-shirt a style staple. I'd certainly build an entire outfit around it because there are endless ways to wear it. My plan is to team this soft tee with my black chino shorts for one day and with my linen pants on another. But it would also work well with a cute wrap skirt. Don't miss a few more of my favorite travel-friendly pieces below. Odoly Adjustable Buckle Sandals Old Navy Sleeveless Button-Front Mini Dress Quince Organic Stretch Cotton Chino Shorts Old Navy High-Waisted Faux-Wrap Linen-Blend Mini Skort Lulus Tie-Strap Tiered Tank Top