Think about the person you鈥檙e closest to. Does your friendship date back to childhood? Maybe you met in school, at work, or through mutual friends? Maybe over many years, meals, nights out, and days on the trail you forged a bond. There are inside jokes. You even texted on the side of the group chat. You grew so close you began referring to them as your best friend. You started thinking they might be in your wedding party.

Then you planned that big international trip.

The next thing you know, your friend is arriving at the airport 20 minutes before boarding time because 鈥渙nly losers show up two hours early.鈥� Then they fumble their way through customs and ask if you remembered to visit a bank for currency exchange. Oh, you did? Nice. Now can you spot them a few hundred? They promise to Venmo. Before long, they鈥檙e waving your cash around, bartering for Moroccan rugs while you鈥檇 rather be on a boat back to Spain, or Portugal, or any place else, for that matter. This one鈥檚 going to cost you.

Travel has a way of pulling back the curtain on a person鈥檚 habits and tendencies. Just because you get along perfectly at home, doesn鈥檛 mean you greet the world in the same way when you鈥檙e out of your comfort zone. You might want to relax for a few days; they might want to go clubbing until dawn. You might want to plan your days carefully; they might surrender to the flow. You might want to visit a local market and cook meals; they might want to eat out three times a day. Contrasts can add to any relationship, but on the road they can become painful sticking points.

For the most part, there鈥檚 no wrong way to travel, but there are different ways of doing it. And while you and your bestie get along easily when you鈥檙e not making collective decisions, it might be worth asking a few travel-related questions before hitting enter on that ticket purchase. After all, once the wheels are up, it鈥檚 a lot harder to turn that plane around.

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We pulled into the Crescent City KOA around 10 P.M. After a long day exploring the nearby , my travel partner and I were beat鈥攁nd pretty sure we had to be the last people awake in this quiet seaside town.

Wrong. Rounding the corner into the rows of campers and tents, we were greeted by a light show, arrays of colorful LED strips illuminating big RVs, covered dining canopies, and even strung into bike wheels. The whole world still seemed to be at play, with twangy country music wafting down the lane and glowsticked, sugar-high kids running to and fro.

My friend looked at me in a state disbelief; this was a far cry from the nature experience she鈥檇 expected on her visit from San Francisco. But I knew the rest of our road trip to Seattle would be far more off the grid, and honestly, there鈥檚 something to these kinds of established campgrounds鈥攖he sound, the randomness, the sheer chaos鈥攖hat is hard to replicate.

It didn鈥檛 take long to fall asleep, especially after our full day and an end to the music just a half hour later. We curled up in our tent and threw some eye masks on, blocking out the neon light and fading into Dreamland.

The next morning, we took advantage of the campground鈥檚 free pancake breakfast. Sliding up with our coffee and thick stack of hot cakes, we sat next to a smiling older couple dressed in matching flannel pajamas. If there was any reminder we weren鈥檛 in the woods, or anywhere close, they were it. Randy wore a mustache over a morning smile. Wendy, tucked by his side, looked at us with eyes shining, nodding in approval before we鈥檇 even said a word. They both spoke with excitement, curious about our plans and eager to share about their RV trip up the coast of California.

Randy and Wendy made a point of staying exclusively at established campgrounds along their yearly road trips, favoring the KOA chain for its on-ground swimming pool and, of course, the free breakfast. They had started their own jerky company decades before (in fact, did we want some?), and were settled into semi-retired life on the road. They loved camping, but said one of the best parts of travel was meeting new people everywhere they went.

During my decade pitching tents around the West, the point had mainly been to get away from everything and everyone. But, as I stayed at the campground chain, I saw a different side to camping: the communal one. Camping isn鈥檛 a singular box. For many people, the joy of just getting out of the house for a night or two is an adventure in and of itself. I always thought that was a good thing to remember鈥攅ven if it didn鈥檛 feel natural right away.

As Wendy welcomed more people to the table鈥攁 small family from San Jose鈥擱andy returned with two bags of cured meat. We stayed a little longer before clearing off our plates and heading back to pack the car. It wouldn鈥檛 be long before we were back on the road, winding up the Oregon coastline and into the depths of Washington鈥檚 Olympic Peninsula. Over the next few weeks we would swim in the Pacific, climb mountains, skinny dip in hot springs, and sleep deep in the woods. It was, in many ways, the trip of our young lifetimes. Years later and states apart, we still reminisce about it like it. But we rarely recount the off-path adventures or the wild serenity of the Pacific Northwest. We talk about Randy and Wendy.

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There鈥檚 a reason stargazers love the Perseids. The meteor shower can spark up to 100 shooting stars per hour at peak during prime viewing years, with numerous sightings of eye-popping fireballs鈥攖he name for especially vivid and colorful meteors that can reach the same luminosity as Venus.

The Perseids, which peak in August, do come with a slight hitch: the 86-percent illuminated moon will hinder the shower鈥檚 view. But that鈥檚 no reason to skip it. Instead, rethink your Perseid-viewing plan.

Read on for your 2025 strategy to catch the buzzed-about Perseids, along with other interstellar marvels that will join them, from concurrent meteor showers to the year鈥檚 best views of the Milky Way.

What鈥檚 the Best Time to Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower in 2025?

This year鈥檚 Perseids runs from July 17 to August 23 and will peak overnight from August 12 to 13. Typically, it鈥檚 best to view a meteor shower during the stretch of highest activity, but that鈥檚 not the case this year. The meteor shower crescendos just three days after the full moon. Since lunar light pollution will hide the milder meteors, only the brightest shooting stars and fireballs will be visible.

That鈥檚 why many backyard astronomers are switching gears and watching the Perseids off-peak, in the nights and weeks leading up to that August 12 to 13 timeframe. July 29 into 30 is particularly promising, as the moon is only a quarter full, it sets around midnight (right when the Perseids action kicks into gear), and this coincides with other active meteor showers.

Improve Your Perseids View with Other Meteor Showers

While the Perseids won鈥檛 produce a flurry of 50 to 100 shooting stars in late July and early August, the timing does provide the chance to watch for four meteor showers in one night, including two that will peak from July 29 to 30.

Here are the four coinciding summer meteor showers, including when to watch, what to look for, and where you鈥檒l see them in the sky (also known as the radiant). I recommend downloading a stargazing app for night-sky navigation.

• Alpha Capricornids: July 3 to August 15
  • Peak: July 29 to 30
  • Look near: Capricornus constellation low in the southeast sky
  • You鈥檒l see: A mild shower with only around five meteors per hour during peak, but the potential for some dramatic fireballs.
• Southern Delta Aquariids: July 18 to August 12
  • Peak: July 29 to 30
  • Look near: Aquarius constellation low in the southern sky
  • You鈥檒l see: Around seven meteors per hour under dark skies. To note: This one鈥檚 best viewed in the southern hemisphere and the southern part of the northern hemisphere.
• Perseids: July 17 to August 23
  • Peak: Aug 12 to 13
  • Look near: Perseus constellation in the northeast sky
  • You鈥檒l see: Up to 100 meteors per hour under pristine conditions, although fewer are expected in 2025 due to the bright moon. Watch for fireballs, too.
• Eta Eridanids: July 31 to Aug 19
  • Peak: Aug 7 to 8
  • Look near: Eridanus constellation low in the southeast sky
  • You鈥檒l see: A minor shower with about three fast meteors per hour at peak.

How to Watch a Meteor Shower: Tips and Tricks

Admiring a meteor shower requires a bit of planning, from choosing a strategic viewpoint to pinpointing red flags to avoid.

1. Avoid light pollution.

Just like with aurora hunting, you鈥檒l want to avoid light pollution when chasing meteor showers. The show gets most active and brilliant under inky skies; that鈥檚 why I鈥檓 planning to watch the sky confetti from an inky lake in New York鈥檚 Adirondacks, followed by Quebec鈥檚 Mont-M茅gantic, the in the world. Try a resource like this to find a dark-sky viewing place close to home.

2. Shield the moon.

If you do choose to pursue the Perseids at peak, use something鈥攜our hand, a folder, a blanket鈥攖o shield your eyes from the moon. It won鈥檛 fix the situation, but it will help you retain your night vision.

3. Use a red-light flashlight.

Speaking of night vision, it鈥檚 important to dim your phone (or use this ) and either wrap your bright-white flashlight in red cellophane or invest in a red-light lamp. Red light is easier on our eyes at night; after exposure to white beams, or a full-glow smartphone screen, our eyes require around 30 minutes to readjust to the dark.

4. Look for wide-open vistas.

Since the shooting stars could appear all over the sky, it鈥檚 wise to choose a lookout point with minimal overhead obstructions. Instead of a thick forest, for example, scout for a hilltop, desert, or field with clear sky views.

5. Consider air quality.

Unfortunately, wildfires have wreaked havoc on the Southwest鈥檚 national parks this summer. The correlating smoke is bad for your health, and its haze can obscure your night-sky views. Keep an eye on air quality updates and consider another viewpoint if thick wildfire smoke is in the forecast.

Where to See the Perseids

In most cases, like with the Perseids, stretches from around midnight until dawn. That means you鈥檒l be out and about into the wee hours of the morning鈥攗nless you strategize your sleep. I aim for campgrounds, glamping sites, and even low-light hotels located within an area with minimal light pollution.

And there are plenty of prime meteor-shower accommodations still available (as of publication) throughout North America, whether you鈥檙e heading out for the July 29 to 30 timing, the August 12 to 13 Perseids peak, or both.

1. ULUM Moab, Utah

In late 2023, light pollution authority DarkSky International launched a new program to certify accommodations that protect their pristine nightscapes. , a glamping getaway set 40 miles south of Arches National Park, is one of the organization鈥檚 first DarkSky-certified lodges. This stamp-of-approval means you can catch the night sky marvels, from the Milky Way to the dimmer Perseids, right from camp. Or, watch the wonder nearby at Arches or Canyonlands National Parks. Suites run from $549 per night; for a less-expensive option, try (from $199), another DarkSky-certified glamping location in Moab.

2. H茅bergement aux Cinq Sens, Quebec

In 2007, Quebec鈥檚 Mont-M茅gantic National Park became the world鈥檚 first International Dark Sky Reserve, and it鈥檚 become one of Canada鈥檚 best-known astronomy spots. (from $98), a collection of tiny homes and yurts, lies in the heart of this pine-dotted park, which offers dozens of hiking trails for daytime adventure. It鈥檚 a great Perseids basecamp, with wide-open gathering spaces from the hotel grounds and quick access to the park鈥檚 sky-watching hub, the ASTROLab, just 16 miles away.

3. Hell Creek Campground, Montana

Nabbing a campsite in Glacier National Park may be trying, but out east, Montana鈥檚 remote and inky-sky campground options abound. Try (from $37.50 per night), located in a scenic recreational area along angling haven Fort Peck Lake. The property offers dozens of campsites with virtually zero light pollution and wide-open sky views above the still water and distant peaks.

4. Bruneau Dunes State Park, Idaho

Camp in southern Idaho鈥檚 Bruneau Dunes State Park, a DarkSky-certified destination with an onsite public observatory and North America鈥檚 tallest single-structured sand dune. The park has with unobstructed celestial views: Broken Wheel and Eagle Cove (from $25). Both have plenty of availability for the mid-August Perseids peak, with the chance to enjoy shooting stars by night and under the sun.

5. Buffalo National River, Arkansas

The Buffalo National River draws paddlers with 135 scenic miles of undammed water. Come dusk, this DarkSky Park is also a favorite among astronomy enthusiasts, with pristine nightscapes and plenty of to admire the heavens. Thick oak and hickory forests do make it tough to watch for meteors in some overnight spots, but Tyler Bend Campground (from $20) is a smart option with relatively minimal forest cover and plenty of summer availability.

6. Beaver Island Retreat, Michigan

Last year, State Wildlife Research Area on Beaver Island became Michigan鈥檚 first International Dark Sky Sanctuary, and the Lake Michigan getaway has a host of potential sky sights on offer. Pass your pre-shower hours with birding, paddling, or lake snorkeling. When it鈥檚 time to catch the show, stay overnight just north of the sanctuary, at glamping hub (from $249), where guests have ample space to spot shooting stars, fireballs, and, on lucky nights, the northern lights.

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The only thing better than sleeping under the stars is camping beneath the Milky Way鈥檚 glittery galactic center, and now is the best time to do that.

July and August provide dazzling, nearly all-night views of the core of our spiral galaxy, a luminous bulge of stars, dust, and gas. But seeing the Milky Way does require a bit of planning鈥攕omething I鈥檓 currently in the throes of as I plot summer astrophotography expeditions from New Mexico to Maine.

Here鈥檚 how and when you can spot the Milky Way this summer, plus seven of the country鈥檚 best destinations for galaxy gazing.

When Is the Best Time to See the Milky Way?

You can technically see a portion of the Milky Way all year, but you can鈥檛 always admire the photogenic core. That鈥檚 due to our solar system鈥檚 location, as well as Earth鈥檚 rotation around the sun.

The Milky Way is a spiral galaxy, and our solar system lies on its outer fringes. From late November through January, the sun hovers between the galactic center and Earth. We can still our galaxy鈥檚 outer reaches鈥攁 spray of bright stars and space dust鈥攂ut the real treat hits in spring, when we move far enough around the sun for the Milky Way鈥檚 galactic center to come back into view.

The core is visible in the early morning hours from spring into early summer, and for a few hours after dusk in the fall. But July and August deliver eye-popping, and nearly all-night views of our galaxy鈥檚 interior鈥攊f you鈥檙e in the right place at the right time.

How Can I See the Milky Way?

Darkness is a must if you hope to see the Milky Way core. You need inky skies, and that starts with avoiding artificial light. I use 听and scout DarkSky International鈥檚 to plan my stargazing outings.

Timing is also important. Schedule your Milky Way pursuits for around five nights before and after a new moon to avoid lunar light.

And consider the light you produce out in the field. It takes our eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the dark after exposure to bright white light. That includes your phone. Once you鈥檙e safely in your stargazing spot, switch to a red-light headlamp to help preserve your night vision (or ditch light entirely), and turn off your phone. If you do need the latter to check stargazing apps or weather and safety alerts, use for a shortcut to turn your phone鈥檚 screen red.

Where Can I See the Milky Way in the U.S.?

Northerly destinations may get the best aurora views, but the Milky Way core, which travels above the southern horizon near the Sagittarius constellation, is much more visible in the lower 48 states. That鈥檚 why I focus my domestic stargazing trips on the contiguous U.S.

Here are seven of the best places to see the Milky Way across the country, as well as where to sleep beneath the stars while you鈥檙e there.

1. Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve, Texas

This more than nine-million-acre reserve from Fort Davis to the Rio Grande is about as dark as skies can get in the contiguous U.S., and it鈥檚 packed with picturesque spots for galaxy viewing. Big Bend National Park is among the best of them, with beneath pristine nightscapes (permit required; from $10 per night) or the popular and peak-flanked Chisos Basin Campground (; from $16 per night). For a national park alternative that鈥檚 also within the reserve, try stargazing at Big Bend Ranch State Park, particularly along .

2. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Remote is an understatement when it comes to Capitol Reef National Park, a destination that鈥檚 almost 100 miles from the nearest traffic light. The 242,000-acre park offers numerous night-sky , including the primitive and pinyon-dotted Cathedral Valley Campground (free), Slickrock Divide on the Scenic Drive, and Panorama Point. Overnighting in the park provides the best stargazing, but you can also stay just outside its boundaries for a night of stargazing in a retro wagon at (from $199).

3. Chaco Canyon Natural Historic Park, New Mexico

Chaco Canyon in northwestern New Mexico has long allured space enthusiasts with its dark skies and millennia-old astronomical history. Ancestral Puebloans incorporated astronomy, particularly the solar and lunar cycles, into and culture. Today, light pollution measures have preserved the skies above this UNESCO World Heritage Site and DarkSky-certified park. Pitch a tent beneath our galaxy鈥檚 glowing core at (from $20 per night); it鈥檚 located 1.5 miles from the visitor center. And don鈥檛 miss the Pueblo Bonito Overlook to see ancient ruins beneath a sea of shining stars.

4. Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Maine

As one of the darkest places in the eastern U.S., Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is another stargazing destination for your bucket list. It鈥檚 an International DarkSky Sanctuary, with numerous views toward the heavens, including the Lunksoos picnic area and the Loop Road overlook. Given the getaway鈥檚 remoteness, camping is the easiest way to admire the Milky Way. The only caveat: you need a campground with as little forest cover as possible. For that, try (from $8 per night) on the park鈥檚 southern end for relatively open views to the night sky.

5. Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan

Michigan鈥檚 Upper Peninsula is one of my favorite lower 48 aurora-hunting perches, and it鈥檚 also a great spot to catch the Milky Way core, particularly in the Keweenaw Peninsula鈥檚 remote northern fringes. Admire our spiral galaxy from Brockway Mountain or visit the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park, located at the . You can overnight at the latter (from $225 per night) for easy stargazing access, or book a stay at lakefront (from $135), where you could catch both the northern lights and the Milky Way core in one night.

6. Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Light pollution plagues much of the eastern U.S., but you can easily dodge it at Pennsylvania鈥檚 DarkSky-certified Cherry Springs State Park. The stargazing hub, located 180 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, provides several options for admiring the heavens. There鈥檚 a public viewing area for hobbyist stargazers craving a few hours beneath the cosmos, or an overnight observation field with for astronomers and astrophotographers with telescopes and camera equipment; it requires a permit ($25 per night). You can also find just outside the park (from $179 per night).

7. Sinks Canyon State Park, Wyoming

Glacier-carved Sinks Canyon State Park is Wyoming鈥檚 first DarkSky-certified park. The getaway is best known for its disappearing waterway鈥攖he Popo Agie River, which seemingly stops in a limestone cavern, then reappears a quarter-mile later in a rainbow trout-filled pool. But the nightscapes are just as mind-bending in this mosaic of limestone. Enjoy the Milky Way views by camping (from $10 for Wyoming residents and $18 for nonresidents) or (from $79). Sinks Canyon lies in the Wind River Range, around 165 miles southeast of another stargazing favorite, Jackson Hole.

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On June 11, the 1,000-plus-foot lava blasts of 碍墨濒补耻别补, one of the world鈥檚 most active volcanoes, nearly lured one visitor to his death. A 30-year-old Boston man fell 30 feet from a steep cliff after venturing off a trail to get a closer look at the volcano after dark at Hawai鈥檌 Volcanoes National Park. Luckily, a tree broke his fall, preventing him from plunging another hundred feet or so to the lava-strewn caldera floor. The听impact of which could have resulted in his death, according to .

The man, who did not have a flashlight or headlamp, sustained only minor injuries after the park鈥檚 search and rescue team performed a high-angle rescue.The mission听involved rappelling down the steep, heavily vegetated cliff face and hoisting the man to safety.

碍墨濒补耻别补’s recent eruption began on December 23, 2024. It’s the highest level of volcanic activity the park has seen in about 40 years. The result has been 听a 鈥渉uge uptick鈥� in visitation to Hawai鈥檌 Volcanoes National Park, according to park public affairs specialist, Jessica Ferracane. Park ranger Luke McNair says the June 11 incident was the second听 search-and-rescue mission since the eruption started.

I live part time on the neighboring island of Maui, and I admit I hopped a flight earlier this year so I could witness the glowing lava flows and billowing clouds of ash first-hand from the park trails. There’s something mesmerizing about watching the earth come alive before your eyes. I know not alone in this fascination. Ever since travel industry pioneer Thomas Cook took the first group of tourists to see Mount Vesuvius in 1841, volcano tourism has been a thing. And the onset of social media has fueled the rise of so-called 鈥渓ava chasers,鈥� says Dr. Adam Kent, a professor of geology at Oregon State University.

So far, there have been more than 50 volcanic eruptions worldwide in 2025. But while that may seem like a lot,听Dr. Kent says that鈥檚 on par with the global average. 鈥淭he most spectacular eruptions just so happen to be at some of the world鈥檚 most-known volcanoes,鈥� he adds.

On May 15, Sakurajima volcano in Japan sent a nearly 10,000-foot plume of ash into the air. And Mount Etna, Europe鈥檚 most active volcano, erupted in spectacular fashion on June 2, sending a group of as ashy clouds formed behind them. Other active volcanoes worldwide, including Nicaragua鈥檚 Concepci贸n, Iceland鈥檚 Fagradalsfjall, and Chile鈥檚 Villarrica, are popular tourist lures.

Alex Bradshaw, of , a cultural-focused tourism agency in Japan, says that since the eruption, he鈥檚 seen a remarkable surge in demand for hiking expeditions across the Kirishima Mountain Range and cycling tours on Sakurajima. 鈥淚t鈥檚 clear that travelers aren鈥檛 just coming for the dramatic scenery鈥攖hey鈥檙e seeking a deeper connection with these living, breathing volcanoes,鈥� he says.

That’s a feeling I can identify with. I skied to the smoldering summit of Chile鈥檚 Villarica, just months after its last consequential eruption in 2015. I鈥檇 booked the experience through a local outfitter, , and the ski resort, Pill谩n, closely monitors the volcano’s activity.

When I visited 碍墨濒补耻别补, I stayed on marked trails within the park and went to the in advance for notifications of closures and warnings. At the time, it felt reasonable. But given the recent accidents on 碍墨濒补耻别补, I wonder: During either of these past trips, was I being overly risky? Could I be taking more precautions when I visit volcanoes? I asked experts for their tips on how to safely visit a volcanic site. Here鈥檚 what they had to share.

Understand the Risks

鈥淚t鈥檚 important to remember that you鈥檙e in a dynamic environment where things can change quickly,鈥� says Arianna Soldati, an assistant professor of volcanology at North Carolina State University. Rules are in place for a reason. It鈥檚 crucial to stay on marked trails and safely within viewing areas. Lava flows can be very unstable and collapse under your weight if you attempt to walk on them, says Soldati. 鈥淗ot lava might be flowing under the seemingly inactive surface.鈥�

Volcanoes are essentially a mountain of rubble, says Ben Andrews, director of the Global Volcanism Program, an organization that maintains a website with a comprehensive listing of the world’s active volcanoes. 鈥淵ou need to be cautious of rockfalls, cliffs, and mudslides,鈥� he says. 鈥淩ain or snowmelt can turn volcanic ash into a wall of liquid concrete weeks, months, even years after an eruption,鈥� he cautions.

Toxic gases are another consideration. Scientists estimated that 碍墨濒补耻别补, for example, emitted up to around 83,000 tons of toxic sulphur dioxide per day during some of its recent eruptions, according to an update on the . The sulfur dioxide released from the volcano can mix with other gases and particles in the atmosphere to create a haze called volcanic smog (vog), and strands of windblown volcanic glass, named after the Hawaiian goddess.

Inhaling either at high concentrations may cause respiratory problems and other such as eye and skin irritation, according to USGS. Typically prevailing winds carry the toxic particulates away from the park, but when the weather is calm, local air quality can suffer, states Katie Mulliken, a USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory geologist.听 If you see people wearing masks and helmets on guided tours, you probably should not be exploring the place by yourself, says Soldati.

Even inactive volcanoes pose dangers. 鈥淒ormant doesn鈥檛 mean safe,鈥� says Harding Bush, associate director of security operations at Global Rescue. 鈥淎 volcano can shift from quiet to deadly with little warning, like a sleeping giant that wakes without notice. Tourists need to be alert and prepared. Even when a volcano appears calm, the environment around it is anything but. It鈥檚 like standing on a frozen lake in spring鈥攖he surface may look solid, but danger lurks beneath.鈥�

Dr. Kent cautions that a safe viewing distance can vary from a few meters to many kilometers depending on the type of eruption. 鈥淢y number one suggestion would be to follow advice from local authorities,鈥� he says. When it comes to photos, Maui-based photographer Daniel Sullivan of Indigo Gallery recommends using a tripod and trying to use different shutter speeds to capture different shots. On the Big Island, he says it鈥檚 important not to get too close to the action. 鈥淭he park rangers have barricades in place to听 show you where you can shoot from,鈥� he says. 鈥淯nfortunately people are constantly ignoring these and bad accidents do happen.鈥�

Review Updates from Local Resources

The exact timing of an eruption can be tricky to predict, but it鈥檚 unusual for travelers to be caught completely off guard by volcanic activity, thanks to advanced scientific forecasts. The Global Volcanism Network puts out around 15 to 25 detailed weekly reports per week on recent eruptions. 鈥淲e鈥檙e a wonderful clearinghouse听but I still tell people to check with local volcano observatories, civil authorities, and local park services,鈥� says Andrews. In the U.S., the site monitors volcanoes and issues warnings. In Iceland, the equivalent service is the that lists active volcano hazards. In Sicily, the Civil Protection Department听and the Italian Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology听provide the public with updates on Mount Etna鈥檚 eruption status using a color-coded system.

Be Prepared

鈥淭reat a volcano with the same respect you would a big mountain,鈥� says Andrews. Dress like you would for a hike with sturdy boots, extra layers, sun protection, a headlight, drinking water, and a high-vis vest. Summits can be chilly鈥痑nd rainy, so pack a rain jacket. 鈥淐onsider whether you鈥檒l have cell coverage,鈥� says Soldati. 鈥淚f so, make sure you conserve battery for actual emergency communication versus picture-taking.鈥� Soldati recommends downloading the app to ensure you can describe your location in case of an emergency.

鈥淪tay alert for anything that looks, sounds, or smells unusual, and if things seem off, leave as quickly as possible,鈥� says Soldati. 鈥淭ry to avoid valleys if at all possible, as those will be preferential paths of lava flows. If an eruption starts, do not waste time capturing it with your phone.鈥�

Also keep in mind that eruptions can impact travel. Airports may close, and roads can become impassable due to ashfall. 鈥淭ravelers should be prepared to change plans quickly and use alternate routes by land, sea, or air if needed,鈥� said Bush. 鈥淚 was stranded in Anchorage for days trying to get to Kodiak Island while there was an eruption 160 miles away on the Kenai Peninsula听of Alaska.鈥�

Go with a Pro

Activities like lava-field hikes, crater tours, and eruption viewings offer a front-row seat to nature鈥檚 most powerful spectacle. Consider experiencing them with an expert on a guided tour that can provide historical and geological context. Hawai鈥檌 Volcanoes National Park, offers nearly every day on 碍墨濒补耻别补 volcano..

鈥淚t only takes a little homework to be safe,鈥� says Andrews. 鈥淰isiting a volcano should be an awe-inspiring experience, not a death-defying one.

Lava Gaze Safely on These Guided Volcano Hikes

Travelers can book tours with certified guides who specialize in volcano hikes:听

Hawaii: Get two distinct views of 碍墨濒补耻别补 on the Volcanoes and Waterfalls by Air and Land trip from . Soar above Hawaii Island鈥檚 dazzling volcanic formations with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters then trek through the national park with an expert who knows just how close to snap pics of lively 碍墨濒补耻别补. From $1,009

Chile: Climb Chile鈥檚 most active volcano Villarrica with Amity Tours during an of the Lake and Volcano District. The approximate five-hour trek to the summit rewards hikers with views across the live crater and out to five lakes. From $4,870

Italy: leads full-day hikes, consisting of five to six hours听of trekking, in routes that are safe both during active and quiet phases of the volcano. From $70

Guatemala: Local operator offers overnight guided group treks to the 12,360-foot fiery ridge of the Acatenango volcano, with the option to tack on a 90-minute sunrise hike to the summit the following morning. From $94

Iceland: Walk near newly formed lava fields and witness steaming fissures with . The outfitter鈥檚 half-day hike from Reykjavik showcases the major changes that the Sundhn煤kur, Fagradalsfjall, and Meradalir eruptions made to the landscape between 2021 and 2024. From $120

Japan: Spend 15 days trekking around Kyushu, nicknamed the Land of Fires for its plentiful volcanoes, with outfitter . Take in views of the world鈥檚 largest volcanic caldera at Mount Aso and soothe sore muscles in volcanic sand baths and onsens. From $6,035

Jen Murphy is a regular contributor to 国产吃瓜黑料. This past winter she went ski touring past the stinky fumaroles of Asahi-dake, an active volcano in Hokkaido, Japan.

The post Close Calls at Lava Flows鈥擧ow Safe is Visiting an Active Volcano? appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

In the age of and , I used to wonder why anyone would pay to join a bike tour. Why not just download the route and ride on your own? But after I took a guided bike tour around southern Arizona with Backroads in 2019, I was hooked. I loved the camaraderie of the group and the luxury of having a support van behind me in case I got a flat or needed to refill my water. Most of all, I appreciated not having to make every single decision. The team of Backroads handled everything, from the hotel and restaurant reservations to the routes, which came in many options to appease those who wanted to go hard (me!) or take it easy.

Since then, I鈥檝e taken dozens of bike trips with various companies. I’ve learned that each cycling tour outfitter offers something unique, like super high-end service and Michelin-star meals or truly rugged, off-the-beaten path itineraries. The following list of the world’s best bike tours showcases both famous and lesser known cycling destinations. Sure, you could tackle their gravel, single-track, and pavement on your own. But these outfitters add a little something special to each experience. Some have developed exclusive, first-of-their-kind routes and have relationships with family-run hotels you鈥檇 never find online. Others include over-the-top racing bikes and opportunities to climb like a pro on fabled routes. All take care of the details鈥攕o you simply get to enjoy the riding.

1. The Blue Ridge Mountains, the Carolinas

Why: Long stretches of protected land, including , the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, and the famed Blue Ridge Parkway make this a cycling paradise. If you want test-your-mettle climbs with unbeatable vistas, you鈥檒l find plenty, like the 6.5-mile ascent to Caesar鈥檚 Head summit. This region was hit hard by Hurricane Helene last fall and needs tourists to return to help support local businesses and communities affected by the storm.

Book with: has been operating cycling trips in the Carolinas since 2014. Its five-day itinerary in the region offers up to four routes each day, so cyclists can take it easy riding nine relatively flat miles or push themselves, tackling as much as 63 miles or up to 5,100 feet of elevation gain. This trip kicks off with two nights at George Hincapie鈥檚 fancy cycling base camp, , and guests have the chance to ride the former Tour de France competitor鈥檚 Gran Fondo route.

Effort: Moderate to challenging
When: May, June, September, October
How much: $3,999 per person based on double occupancy

Book Flights to North Carolina

2. Greece鈥檚 Balkan North

Why: Northern Greece is still mostly untouched by mass tourism. Around a decade ago, the country built a network of modern tunnels and highways to divert traffic from its old mountain roads. With the exception of the occasional shepherd, those winding roads are now empty for cyclists.

Book with: OG bike adventure company is the only operator to run trips in this region. Its upscale itineraries cater to cyclists looking for luxe stays and indulgent meals. This seven-day trip averages 10.5 to 26 miles of cycling per day and is layered with cultural activities, like cooking demonstrations, truffle hunts, and visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the .

Effort: Recreational
When: May, June, September
How much: $7,995 per person double occupancy

3. The French Alps

Why: Conquering the storied HC (hors cat茅gorie) climbs and cols of the French Alps provides the ultimate cycling bragging rights. Retrace mythical Tour de France ascents like Col the Alpe d鈥橦uez, with its 21 hairpin turns, and discover lesser known, yet equally demanding ascents like the Col d鈥橝llos, a road where the average grade can reach 7.8 percent. Riding here is the epitome of type two fun.

Book with: Duvine鈥檚 week-long averages 55 miles and 8,734 feet of elevation gain per day, covering some of France鈥檚 gnarliest terrain. Riders’ efforts are rewarded with gourmet alpine fare, like tartiflette and raclette, fine wines, and overnights in cushy villas and chalets.

Effort: Pro-level
When: July and August
How much: Six-day trip from $5,295 per person double occupancy

Book Flights to the Alps

4. The Chianti Region of Tuscany, Italy

Why: People were riding gravel in Tuscany long before it blew up Stateside. Home to the legendary Strade Bianche race (named for the white gravel roads of the Crete Senesi area) and L鈥橢roica, an amateur event where participants ride vintage bikes and wear retro clothes, the Chianti region is steeped in cycling culture. World-class quiet roads twist past unfathomably picturesque countryside blanketed in rolling vineyards and olive groves. The mid-ride coffee stops are worth lingering over and cyclists can carbo load on meals of hand-made pici and pappardelle.

Book with: Jo茫o Correia, founder of , lived and trained in Tuscany when he was a pro racer. He鈥檚 poured his knowledge into insidery itineraries, like a six-day Chianti Classico trip that covers more than 220 miles of epic climbs, technical descents, and chalky gravel roads. Another itinerary allows cyclists to watch the pros race the Strade Bianche, then ride the course the following day. And inGamba鈥檚 services鈥攎echnicas, soigneurs, $15,000 Pinarello racing bikes鈥攚ill make you feel like a pro.

Effort: Pro-level
When: June; Strade Bianche: March 3-9, 2026
How much: Chianti Classico trip from $6,895; Six-day Strade Bianche Experience from $7,450

Book Flights to Tuscany

5. South Island, New Zealand

Why: South Island鈥檚 old gold mining trails, stock routes, and railways now form quiet backcountry roads that make it possible to cycle from Christchurch to Queenstown. And you鈥檒l be hard pressed to find a more dramatic backdrop for gravel riding than the Southern Alps, with its vivid blue lakes, sparkling rivers, and snow-capped peaks.

Book with: Since its inception in 1992, 国产吃瓜黑料 South NZ has rooted its business in environmental, community, and cultural stewardship. The company鈥檚 seven-day itinerary is one-of-a-kind, featuring three iconic backcountry passes, the best section of the Otago Central Rail Trail, plus the Clutha Gold and Roxburgh Gorge Trails. Out-of-the-saddle highlights include visits to the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve and the Waitaki Whitestone UN Geopark, plus pit-stops at historic pubs.

Effort: Challenging
When: November, December
How much: From $2,775 per person double occupancy

Book Flights to New Zealand

6. Mallorca, Spain

Why: This Balearic Island is blessed with over 300 days of anual sunshine and some of the planet鈥檚 most jaw-droppingly gorgeous coastal roads. The idyllic weather and variety of terrain, including grueling routes, like Sa Calobra and Puig Major (the island鈥檚 highest peak), make it the training base of choice for teams like Lidl-Trek and Team Ineos. And you鈥檒l likely find yourself getting smoked by local stars like Tom Pidcock, aka the King of Sa Calobra.

Book with: Trek Travel鈥檚 let you train like a pro. The week includes a mix of guided and self-guided rides featuring punchy climbs, thrilling descents, and coffee breaks at cult favorite cycling cafes like Cycling Planet. You鈥檒l test your muscles and mindset on some of the island鈥檚 most daunting ascents, including Sa Calobra, a 12-mile ribbon of road with an average 7 percent gradient. Guided days are fully supported, so you鈥檒l have sunscreen, water, electrolytes, and bocadillos (sandwiches) at your beck and call, and you can always ride back to the eco-hotel basecamp if you bonk.

Effort: Challenging
When: March-May, October, November
How much: Six-day trip from $1,999 per person double occupancy

7. The Nubra Valley, Ladakh, India

Why: Most people travel through the Himalayas on foot, but the region is even more awe-inspiring to experience on two wheels. Cycle through Tibetan villages, remote valleys, and camel-dotted deserts, along vestiges of the ancient Silk Road trading route, and over soaring mountain passes. Nicknamed the roof of the world, Ladakh鈥檚 high-altitude mountains will have your lungs burning just as much as your quads.

Book with: SpiceRoads鈥� doesn鈥檛 include any technical riding. The challenge comes from the high-altitude effort. After arriving in Leh, cyclists warm up with a three-day acclimatization loop that hugs the banks of the Indus River and takes in ancient monasteries. The payoff for strenuous climbs, like Wari La Pass, which tops out at 16,972 feet, and Khardungla Pass, hitting 17,582 feet, is cinematic views of snow-capped peaks and exhilarating descents. A true cultural immersion, SpiceRoads arranges overnights in homestays and campsites along the journey.

Effort: Active
When: July, August
How much: 14-day trip from $3,100 per person based on double occupancy

8. East to West Traverse of the Alps

Why: Cycling across the Alps puts an athletic twist on the Grand Tour, a coming-of-age adventure across western Europe that was undertaken by young aristocrats in the 18th century. Experience the different cuisines, dialects, architecture, and customs of France, Switzerland, Italy, and Slovenia as you pedal across borders. The variety of terrain is truly extraordinary, from famous alpine passes, like Italy鈥檚 Aprica Pass, theatre of the Giro d鈥橧talia multiple times, to mellow routes that hug the shores of some of Europe鈥檚 most popular lakes, including Lake Annecy in France and Lake Como in Italy.

Book with: ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours has been running trips in Europe since 1972. The company鈥檚 exclusive Alpine Arc: Lyon to Ljubljana itinerary is a 23-day, 915-mile epic. Cyclists average 47 miles in the saddle each day, with plenty of down time to explore local gems like Yvoire, a medieval settlement on the shores of Lake Geneva and the Madonna del Ghisallo Cycling Museum in the tiny Italian town of Magreglio.

Effort: Active
When: July
How much: From $11,595 per person double occupancy

Book Flights to the Alps

9. Costa Rica Coast to Coast

Why: Riding 300 miles across Costa Rica from the Caribbean to Pacific provides a highlight reel of the country鈥檚 diverse natural wonders. Ogle the Arenal Volcano. Spot sloth and howler monkeys in the rainforest canopy. Cross the mighty Pacuare River by raft. Splash in the surf of Playa Hermosa. And after a steep climb over the Great Divide, soak sore muscles in natural hot springs.

Book with: BikeHike 国产吃瓜黑料s ran its first official trip in 1994 to Costa Rica. To celebrate the company鈥檚 20-year anniversary, founder Trish Sare developed a cross-country mountain biking trip called the . One of BikeHike鈥檚 most popular offerings, it complements adventurous riding with white-water rafting, surfing, paddleboarding, zip-lining, beaches, and more. Most nights are spent in small, independent hotels that support local communities.

Effort: Challenging
When: November-February
How much: Ten-day trip from $3,499 per person

Book Flights to Costa Rica

10. Vermont

Why: From the flat, paved roads of the Champlain Islands to the rugged gravel routes in the Northeast Kingdom, Vermont has a mix of terrain suited to riders of all abilities. There鈥檚 no prettier backdrop come fall, when the leaves transform into a patchwork of gold and orange, and there鈥檚 always a cold craft beer waiting at the end of a long ride.

Book with: Family-run outfitter Great Bike Tours is headquartered in Vermont鈥攖hey know the state intimately. Its five-day, is based out of charming in the tiny (and hilly) village of Pittsfield. Designed for recreational cyclists who care more about leaf peeping and apple cider stops than Strava status, it covers 20 to 40 mellow miles a day on the islands of Lake Champlain and in the countryside around the towns of Woodstock and Middlebury. Overachievers can tack on hills and e-bikes are also welcome.

Effort: Recreational
When: October and November
How much: From $3,395 per person double occupancy

Book Flights to Vermont

11. The Scottish Highlands

Why: Gilded glens. Mirror-like lochs. Wild beaches. Slate blue mountains. The Scottish Highlands are an enchanting tapestry of landscapes rich in history and culture. Routes once walked by highland drovers and their cattle are now perfect for off-road cycling. You can鈥檛 find a more hospitable culture or better place for a customary post-ride dram of whisky.

Book with: When it comes to biking and hiking in Scotland, no one aces itineraries like local outfitter Wilderness Scotland. They recently debuted a new week-long that starts near Glasgow in the south, crisscrosses the heart of the Highlands, and finishes at the coastline of a wee village called Findhorn. You鈥檒l need stamina for the week. Days average between 30 to 50 miles with a total ascent between 1,640 to 4,920 feet. But you won鈥檛 need to worry about fuel. Wilderness Scotland keeps its cyclists well fed with locally-sourced meals at the team鈥檚 favorite restaurants and hotels.

Effort: Challenging
When: August
How much: Seven-day trip from $3,968 per person double occupancy

Book Flights to Scotland

12. Belgium

Why: Even the most hard-core cyclists agree that Belgium鈥檚 rich cycling culture and diverse terrain make up for its lack of punishing climbs. Miles of scenic bike paths line the country鈥檚 pretty canals and wind their way to cobbled roads in postcard-worthy towns. Cycling geeks come to watch the famous Tour de Flanders and visit the cycling museum in Oudenaarde, and beer lovers can create their dream cycling and beer tasting tour.

Book with: Ciclismo Classico is known for its innovative itineraries and exceptional local guides. The company鈥檚 trip averages 40 miles and 1,600 feet of elevation gain per day. A dream trip for beer and bike aficionados, routes pass through renowned brewing sites like Leffe and Achouffe, but also overlap sections of the Tour of Flanders, including its signature muren.

Effort: Moderate
When: June-August
How much: From $6,795 per person double occupancy

Book Flights to Belgium

Jen Murphy is a regular 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor. A runner-turned cyclist, she has joined group cycling tours in Arizona, Mallorca, the Blue Ridge Mountains of the Carolinas, Colorado, Tuscany, and Romania. The French Alps and New Zealand are on her wish lists.

The post The 12 Best Bike Tours in the World appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Packing for adventure travel is never easy. Every trip is different, which means each time you break out the suitcase or duffel bag, you need to start from scratch when deciding what to bring. The clothes and gear will change, that鈥檚 a given. But if you want to streamline the packing process for flights, the best advice I can give鈥�based on two decades as a travel writer鈥攊s to figure out a carry-on setup that will get you through 90 percent of trips. For most people, the key to that setup is finding the best personal item bag.

Yes, the 鈥減ersonal item,鈥� that ill-defined and rarely size-enforced additional bag that can range from a purse or daypack to a garment sack and even a guitar, depending on the airline and flight attendants on duty. The confusion over what counts as a personal item stems from the fact that most airlines don鈥檛 specify exact dimensions, other than it needs to fit under the seat in front of you. That directive comes directly from the Federal Aviation Administration, which is why most airlines follow its lead. But the under-seat space varies from airline to airline, so what鈥檚 an adventure traveler who鈥檚 trying to avoid aggressive baggage fees (or anxiously waiting at the carousel like a date that鈥檚 been stood up) supposed to do?

Here鈥檚 a basic tip before we get into the specifics: Traveling is hard enough, so don鈥檛 complicate things by trying to sneak a giant duffel and a roller bag on the plane. A large duffel or backpack, no matter how lax the gate agent is, will likely get flagged by flight attendants onboard the plane, and you鈥檒l be forced to check it or your larger carry-on item. Essentially, anything bigger than a day pack will be hard to pass off as a personal item. (Although I once watched, admirably, as a father tried to claim that a giant stuffed giraffe was his kids鈥� personal item.) For the sake of everyone onboard, get with the program and use a backpack or similar bag as your personal item. It鈥檒l make airline travel, if not headache free, more tolerable.

Here鈥檚 what to consider when deciding what personal item-sized bag is best for you.

What Counts As a Personal Item?

Many airlines don鈥檛 specify exact size restrictions for personal items, but the that all carry-on items fit under the seat in front of you, if it鈥檚 not in an enclosed storage compartment.

This leaves a lot of wiggle room as to what size bag counts as a personal item. A small backpack with a change of clothes and your toiletry bag? Definitely. A messenger bag for your laptop? Sure. A large backpack crammed full of a week’s worth of clothes? Well鈥� it depends. The room under each seat varies from airline to airline, but there鈥檚 a general size limit you can go by: if your bag comes in around 18 x 14 x 8 inches, it should fit just fine.

If it鈥檚 a soft-side bag with gear inside that can compress, you can probably go slightly larger than those dimensions. In my experience, most flight attendants don鈥檛 police the size of personal items as you鈥檙e boarding the plane, so all you need to do is make sure you can cram it under the seat when you sit down. This is why a medium-sized backpack works well as something of a cheat code: paired with a suitcase or duffel bag, you can stuff it full of an impressive amount of clothes and gear and still get it to fit under the seat.

This guidance comes with a caveat, though. If you鈥檙e going to be tossing your bag on the floor of a plane and kicking it underneath the seat in front, it needs to be durable. It鈥檚 going to get a lot of wear and tear, not to mention shoe grime and pretzel dust.

With durability, size, and smart design in mind, here are the best bags to consider in a few different categories.

听Backpacks

Best All-Around: Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L

Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 7 inches

Cost: from $199

It鈥檚 hard to find a better pack designed for the rigors of frequent airplane travel than this soft-sided daypack, made from a recycled ripstop polyester fabric, meaning it鈥檚 more than durable enough to serve as a personal item. It鈥檚 designed with a long list of smart features that make organizing gear easy, like a padded laptop pocket, a large main compartment with two interior pockets (great for passports and/or electric cords), and an exterior stretch-mesh pocket for a water bottle. The padded hip belt can double as a shoulder strap, converting the bag from a backpack to a messenger bag, and all the straps can be tucked away when not being used, turning it into ad hoc duffel bag, which is perfect when you’re fitting it underneath the seat in front of you, so no extra straps get caught on your feet. It even has a wide loop on the back panel that slips over the handle of a rolling suitcase, so you can cruise through the terminal without the weight of the pack on your back.

Also Great: Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L

Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 7 inches

Cost: from $240

This rugged backpack, with a recycled, weatherproof nylon shell, is stuffed with so many travel-specific features that it may take three or four trips to discover them all. A large top pocket with three sleeves makes organizing your keys, wallet, sunglasses, or passport a cinch. There鈥檚 the requisite padded laptop sleeve and tuck-away shoulder straps to hide all the backpack accoutrements when cramming it under an airplane seat. The other great thing about this bag, which also separates it from many others, is that it鈥檚 expandable, with a zipper that unzips to transform the bag from 27 liters to 33 liters. Either size should fit just fine underneath the seat, making it an excellent overall choice for those looking to maximize packing space in their personal item.

Most Durable: Yeti Crossroads 22L

Dimensions: 18.5 x 12 x 7.1 inches

Cost: from $200

With 22 liters of space, this pack is perfect for stashing an impressive amount of clothes and gear while still fitting under the seat in front of you. An inside sleeve fits a laptop; a zippered compartment up top delivers easy access to sunglasses, keys, and a passport; and a luggage pass-through panel allows you to slip it over the handle of your roller suitcase while cruising through airports. And because it鈥檚 made from Yeti鈥檚 proprietary Tuffskin nylon, it鈥檚 nearly bombproof, meaning it鈥檚 great for stashing on the plane and touring around in the wilds once you arrive at your destination.

Best for a Laptop: Cotopaxi Allpa Mini 20L Travel Pack

Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 8 inches

Cost: from $140

If all you need is a pack that can haul your laptop through the airport, along with a few other essentials and a toiletries bag, then this is the daypack for you. With a sleek design that weighs just 18 ounces, this pack is perfect for those types of trips where versatility is key and you鈥檙e on the go most days. It has an internal sleeve to secure a tablet or small laptop, a water bottle pocket, and two large internal main pockets for organizing other gear.

Duffel and Weekender Bags

Best All-Around Duffel: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel 32L

Dimensions: 22.7 x 13.8 x 8.7

Cost: from $125

This is the smaller, backpack-hybrid version of The North Face鈥檚 ubiquitous workhorse, the Base Camp Duffel, and it works exceptionally well for traveling, with an adjustable interior divider to help with organization, padded shoulder straps that can be stowed behind the back panel, and even a laptop compartment. Made from ballistic nylon and polyester tarpaulin, it鈥檚 designed for the long haul, along with a few backcountry beat-ups along the way. This duffel pick comes with a slight caveat, however: its maximum dimension comes in at slightly larger than recommended for an under-seat bag. I鈥檝e gotten mine to fit on all but one occasion, when I had it packed to the gills and was flying on a smaller plane on a regional airline. Unless you find yourself in similar situations often, you should be fine with this bag, particularly because it鈥檚 soft-sided and compresses when getting it to fit.

Best Non-Nylon Weekender Bag:听 Tom Beckbe Canvas Weekender Duffel Bag

Dimensions: 20 x 11 x 11.5 inches

Cost: from $595

Sometimes you just need a bag with even more durability and class than the usual ripstop nylon offering. Waxed canvas is the material you want, with its superior abrasion resistance and good looks, and the bag you want is this one, from Southern outdoor brand Tom Beckbe (named loosely after a river in Alabama). With leather trims and a large clamshell opening, this weekend bag is perfect for a trip to a genteel lodge鈥攁long with any other use you can throw at it.

Best Packable Duffel: Waterfield Packable Duffel

Dimensions: 18 x 8 x 10 inches (18 x 8 x 13 inches expanded)

Cost: from $129

Sometimes you need an extra bag with a lot of space but only for one way on your travels鈥攎aybe for taking some gifts to friends overseas, for example. This lightweight, water-resistant bag is that perfect extra bag for just such an occasion. The ripstop nylon lining offers lightweight durability and it packs down into its own 9-inch by 8-inch pocket.

Camera Bags

Best Bombproof Camera Bag: Wandrd Prvke 21L

Dimensions: 19 x 11 x 6.5 inches

Cost: from $219

For serious photographers, a durable, weatherproof bag that allows you to keep your expensive gear by your side at all times, including on the plane, is essential. Camera equipment is personal, and thus everyone has a preference on what camera bag offers the best combination of protection and easy access. For most people, this one should hit the sweet spot. With an exterior made from a waterproof tarpaulin and ripstop nylon fabrics, it sloughs off rain and snow and stands up to repeated scuffs and abrasions. Inside, it has padded space dividers with compartments designed to perfectly fit Wandrd鈥檚 Essential Camera Cube ($64) and a protective case for lenses and DSLR bodies that you can configure to whatever interior size you need. The Prvke also has a clamshell opening that鈥檚 designed to make grabbing your camera on the go easy and quick while maintaining protection when closed. The bag鈥檚 padded straps make it comfortable to wear for long periods, and there鈥檚 even a hidden passport pocket for overseas travel. It鈥檚 also backed by a lifetime warranty, so you don鈥檛 need to worry about the bag itself, just what鈥檚 inside, when tramping around in the forest or on city streets.

Wheeled Bags

Best Underseat Luggage: Briggs & Riley Baseline Cabin Spinner

Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.5 x 8.5 inches

Cost: from $499

It鈥檚 rare that an adventure traveler will require a wheeled under-seat suitcase on the regular; it鈥檚 more for business travelers setting out for one-night jaunts. But if you do find yourself in need of one, it鈥檚 hard to do better than this compact suitcase from one of the best names in luggage: Briggs & Riley. Made from ballistic nylon fabric, it offers exceptional durability, both on and off the plane, plus its telescoping handle and spinning wheels make it a cinch to pull through terminals and city streets. If you need a diminutive wheeled bag for heavy, expensive items (like camera lenses and equipment), this is a great option, and with Briggs and Riley鈥檚 best-in-class lifetime guarantee, the steep price is more than worth the cost.

Packable Bags/Totes

Best All-Around: Patagonia Terravia Tote Pack 24L

Dimensions: 16″ x 10″ x 8″

Cost: from $99

One of the hacks I鈥檝e developed over years of traveling is carrying a version of this extremely lightweight (just 14 ounces) bag on pretty much every trip. It packs into its own pocket and, unfurled, you can carry it as a backpack or a tote. On the road, it serves as a perfect pack for grabbing groceries or bringing a bathing suit and a towel to a backcountry hot spring. (Usually, though, I simply use it as a laundry bag for dirty clothes.) When it comes time to pack for home, you also have an extra bag to carry on any souvenirs or other purchases you鈥檝e made along the way. I usually check my main suitcase (it doesn鈥檛 matter if it gets delayed on the way home) and carry on the most important things in a backpack and this tote bag.

Best Low-Cost Option: Peak Design Packable Tote

Dimensions: 15.5 x 10.25 x 8 inches

Cost: from $30

If you鈥檙e looking for an ultra-packable sack for those just-in-case moments while traveling鈥攕ay you bought an extra sweater or two in Norway that won鈥檛 fit in your carry-on鈥攖his 12-liter nylon tote, which weighs just 2.8 ounces, is an excellent option. It packs down to roughly the size of a deck of cards, meaning it can fit just about anywhere in your luggage and, at just $30, it鈥檚 a cheap investment to help you easily expand your luggage space when traveling home, if you decide to check your primary bag.

Ryan Krogh is a freelance writer and editor based in Austin, Texas. In the last decade, he鈥檚 traveled to 27 countries and every U.S. state, nearly all with just a carry-on suitcase and a personal item鈥攗sually a backpack stuffed with clothes or fishing gear but also the occasional dog food bag when traveling with his yellow labrador, Magnolia.听

The post The 11 Best Personal Item Bags for 国产吃瓜黑料 Travelers appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

It鈥檚 fun to imagine an apocalyptic scenario, and purchase the kind of neon green tomahawk you think will help you defeat zombie hoards. (Spoiler alert: it won鈥檛.) But when it comes to preparing for more likely situations鈥攕ay, an emergency while traveling鈥攎any of us are guilty of being caught flat-footed.

I get it. With severely limited space in carry-on luggage, plus the very real possibility of never seeing anything you check ever again, it鈥檚 easy to focus on the destinations on the other side. But travel often involves as much frustration as it does excitement. Based on over three decades of regular air travel both here in the United States and abroad, here are some simple changes I鈥檝e made to what I pack that help eliminate or address common problems.

Make the Most of Multiple-Use Clothing

Clothing is absolutely ket. For example, when packing for a backpacking trip, the key to saving weight is to only bring items that serve multiple purposes. A puffy jacket can keep you warm and be your pillow. Duct tape can fix torn clothing and prevent blisters. With space so limited inside a carry-on, adopting that same approach works just as well while traveling. Clothing will take up the most space in your luggage by far, so getting the most out of your clothes is key to travel preparedness.

Wool is a super-fabric that helps keep you cool when it鈥檚 hot, and warm when it鈥檚 cold. Versus cotton, it dries much faster and compared to synthetics, it can last through many more unwashed wears before getting stinky. Merino is softer next to the skin than other varieties.

Switching cotton socks and t-shirts to merino items is an obvious trick. Less so is the button down dress shirt. By packing one of those made from lightweight wool, not only do you get a single item that will better resist wrinkles and smells versus your standard cotton items, but also something that when paired with that merino t-shirt, quickly becomes a performance mid-layer, adding insulation and moisture wicking to your layering system. Last summer, I wore a ($168) to walk around Paris sightseeing all day, then headed to Frenchie for the five-course tasting menu. I was comfortable and looked good throughout.

Another versatile item is the shacket. Heavier than a button down and lighter than most jackets, a good shaket (or jac-shirt) can be left unbuttoned to dress up a tee, or snapped closed with the collar听turned up to serve as a warm mid-layer. Depending on the time of year and destination, I choose from items made from polyester fleece, wool, or down, and am rewarded with a layer that transitions easily from mountain to city, or outdoor activity to indoor environment. For more casual environments, I practically live in a black ($129).

The final piece in any layering system is the shell. These seal out wind and precipitation, and trap warm air in your other layers, keeping you toasty and dry. And while really hard, persistent rain demands the reliability of a waterproof-breathable membrane, high levels of activity, and changing conditions work better without one. Because waxed-cotton canvas can be adapted to increasing needs for waterproofness with the application of more wax, because it breathes better than any membrane, and because it can be dressed up or down to suit scenarios ranging from airport terminals to fancy restaurants, I鈥檝e transitioned to wax cotton shells for travel. ($250) features a classic style that looks good in pretty much any environment while providing ample weather protection.

On the upper half of your body, there are very few conditions that layering a merino t-shirt, a wool button down, a jac-shirt, and a waxed cotton shell will not be able to handle.

Carry Cords Compatible with Common Outlets, Plus Extra Power

Traveling between countries with different plug designs can be a nightmare. Because of that, many planes, hotel rooms, and offices have added USB-A compatibility to their power outlets. But few devices still use that design. Before you fly, purchasing cables that start with USB-A, and end in whatever style of port your devices require will simplify your packing and guarantee you鈥檒l be able to plug in no matter where you find yourself.

Pro Tip: Even if you find yourself in a hotel or office without USB-A wall outlets, televisions, monitors, and many other devices will include one. Look behind those before declaring defeat.

But as devices have moved away from USB-A, so have power bricks. To solve that problem, I recently upgraded to . That packs a wall charger, two USB-C outlets, one USB-A outlet, and a 10,000mAh battery all into one $70, cigarette pack-sized, multiple use device.

Dose Your Liquids and Don’t Forget the First-Aid Kit

Grab this assortment of travel-sized, color-coded, , and take the time to measure out the amount of potions and medications you need for the duration of your trip. Write out the contents on the bottle using a Sharpie.

In addition to everyday necessities ( and toothpaste), I like to bring some ibuprofen, Pepto Bismol, peppermint Dr. Bronners, a prescription antibiotic (ask your doctor), and a travel-size pack of skin-friendly wet wipes. For a first-aid kit, I carry a small role of duct tape, a tube of 0.5-ounce tube of Neosporin, and a pack of 0.17-ounce .

Properly Light Your Way at Night

Phone flashlights are all well and good鈥攗ntil it鈥檚 dark out and you need to see something further away than right in front of you. Plus, phone flashlights aren’t hands-free by nature and they suck battery when you鈥檙e trying to conserve the last few bars of precious juice. This is going to be a radical suggestion, I know, but carry a dedicated flashlight.

In my carry-on, I keep an 听($32). That gives me the easy ability to switch from a 130-yard spot beam to a very bright 500-lumen flood, to a night vision-preserving red light that鈥檚 capable of flashing for visibility, all with an intuitive, rotating, physical knob. The tiny 2.25-inch package can then be clipped to a backpack strap, shirt pocket, or hat should you need to go hands free, or inside a tent or to a curtain should you need area illumination.

I鈥檝e used mine to add extra evening visibility to a crappy rental bike and to hike nighttime trails. With a battery life that lasts 144 hours on its lowest brightness and an hour and 21 minutes on full blast, I just charge it before I fly somewhere.

Save Your Documents

My wife had her passport stolen out of her purse during our last visit to London, while her purse was hanging on the back of my chair at a pub so I could guard it. Because we snapped a picture of that way back when it was renewed, then emailed a copy of that image to both of our email accounts (complete with an easily searchable subject line), it didn鈥檛 cause us more than an hour of inconvenience, since we had proof of ID ready to go when we swung by the embassy for a replacement. Do the same with your driver鈥檚 license, and any visas or other travel documents. Should the worst happen, and your phone be lost, stolen, or disabled, you can log into your email from another person鈥檚 phone, or at an Internet cafe, and print out what you need to cross a border, rent a car, check into a hotel, or deal with the police. Though, it’s also important to know that many officials will not accept a digital I.D., this is a good starting point to have your details handy.

Bring Gear to Fix Problems

Tim Leatherman came up with the idea for the original multitool while on vacation in Italy way back in 1975. But the perfect solution for a toolkit you can fit in your pocket isn鈥檛 much use if you can鈥檛 bring it through security. Enter the Leatherman Style PS: a keychain-sized tool designed for TSA compliance, but which the company 鈥渞etired鈥� in 2023. You can still find them and brick and mortar retailers.

I鈥檝e had one on my keychain for over a decade now, and have used it to fix everything from cars and motorcycles, to opening up a foreign power outlet to rig a connection with a plug from another country. It sails through security here in the U.S., but I have had them confiscated in European airports.

There are a variety of other TSA-compliant multitools out there, but I鈥檝e yet to find anything else that combines Leatherman鈥檚 quality with the practicality of having both pliers and scissors onboard. The Gerber Armbar is one such option, and at just $20, it’s cheap enough you won’t miss it if you do have to leave it behind at security.

In addition to the multitool, I like to bring along a few feet of paracord, one or two safety pins, and a Bic lighter. None of that takes up any noticeable space, and all three can be used to repair luggage, hang a clothesline (the Dr. Bronner鈥檚 in your toiletries means you can do laundry in a sink), drain a blister, or light a fire.

What About Your Feet?

Everyone has a different style, different needs, and different feet. Finding a boot that鈥檚 all-day comfortable, looks nice with a pair of jeans, and that provides the traction and weather resistance necessary for your destination and plans is both the solution, and the challenge.

For more casual travel to more outdoorsy destinations, I like to find a high quality leather hiking boot, then wear those for pretty much everything. Since I鈥檓 of German descent, it鈥檚 no surprise that brands like 听and 听fit me best. Your results will differ.

For dressier cities and countries, I鈥檝e found that , an Italian brand imported by Huckberry, is just the ticket for walking all over during the day, then looking nice at night.

Whatever you buy, replacing the the insoles with higher-quality items made by a brand like 听will offer dramatically improved comfort and support.

Putting in the effort to find the right footwear will give you the ability to move through airports and cities in comfort, hike trails safely, and run away from anything that threatens you.

The Bottom Line

Travel already costs a ton of money, flight delays and cancellations already cause enough headaches. There’s not a lot you can do about either, but some basic preparedness can prevent other variables like weather or walking distances from becoming major problems.

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I鈥檝e been roller bag carry-on curious for years. But until now, I just couldn鈥檛 find a piece robust or convenient enough to justify switching away from my tried-and-true backpack. Then I saw , and it鈥檚 already saved my bacon.

Going into this review, I was planning to try and demonstrate just how tough this new luggage is. I thought about dragging it behind a moving truck off-road, or throwing it off my roof, or driving over it in my wife鈥檚 6,000 pound Land Cruiser, or cutting it in half with a chainsaw.

But all of that just seemed superfluous. Anyone who鈥檚 ever traveled with camera gear, or shipped sensitive electronics, or flown to hunt knows and trusts Pelican cases already. What鈥檚 new here, versus existing Pelican cases, are four wheels rather than two, a multi-position trolley handle, soft-close grab handles, and interior organization features oriented more toward clothing and toiletries than lenses and camera bodies.

So my question is less about how tough this thing is, and more: Why would anyone need such an indestructible spinner bag?

I found out the first time I flew with it.

The Pelican ATX Carry-On in Action

Last weekend, my wife and I flew to Cincinnati for the annual . Despite the fact that we attend every year, we didn鈥檛 get around to booking the flights until the last minute and ended up traveling on separate planes as a result. After dropping her off for her flight, taking the dogs to the kennel, showering, jamming a bunch of clothes into the Pelican, then driving myself back to the airport, I was running pretty late. But I had to pee. So I rushed through the crowded airport here in Bozeman and ran straight to the wall of urinals. That鈥檚 when I noticed the smell, and looked at the floor.

One of the toilets was overflowing, spreading a pool of raw sewage across the bathroom floor. And I鈥檇 just dragged my brand new $499 roller bag right through it.

鈥淪hit,” I thought. Literally.

I grabbed a wad of paper towels from the dispenser, wiped the worst off it and my boots, and ran to catch my flight. I gate checked the Pelican to avoid dripping sewage all over the plane鈥檚 passenger compartment, and relaxed in the knowledge there was no way the airline would manage to damage my luggage.

My flight landed about 11 P.M., and it was an hour ride in an Uber to the Marriott Courtyard in Blue Ash. I needed to be in my running clothes and at the race by 10 A.M. the next morning. There was no time find a laundromat, nor to run out and buy new gear. Over a tiny bag of savory snack mix and a can of warm beer, I formulated a plan. If ever there was an argument for a fully-submersible carry-on, this is it.

The Specs and What’s Cool About the ATX 22

Like every other Pelican case, the features two injection molded polypropylene half shells that pivot around metal rods to seal onto each other via a rubber gasket. Strong metal clamps replicate the design of the polymer hinges on regular Pelican cases, squeezing the case shut on the gasket to create an impermeable seal. A little disc of Gore-Tex waterproof-breathable membrane material let鈥檚 a little air travel both ways, in and out of the case to equalize pressure at altitude or under the sea, helping to keep the case firmly sealed against all dust and water.

Because you can fully submerge a Pelican case to a minimum depth of one meter for at least 30 minutes, I figured you could also wash one off with the provided all-in-one body wash and shampoo in a hot hotel shower, all without exposing any of the contents to poop, or soapy water.

It must have worked, because I鈥檓 writing this on the laptop that was sealed inside the Pelican right now, and no one turned their nose up at any lingering stench throughout the rest of the weekend.

Would I have had to deal with raw sewage if I鈥檇 just stuck with one of the backpacks I鈥檝e carried since I started flying a bunch when I was a kid, three decades or more ago? (My dad was a diplomat.) I used some of those free sanitizing wipes the flight attendants hand out to clean off my boots, and I guess with a shouldered pack that would have been the end of the ordeal. But I wanted to switch to a roller bag partially out of convenience, and because I鈥檇 grown jealous of my wife鈥檚 .

Why the Pelican ATX 22 Is Carry-On Worthy, To Me

I should add that this is hardly the first time I鈥檝e flown with a Pelican case. Working in media for 23 years now, I鈥檝e dragged them all over the world for photo shoots, and have a pile of them stacked up in the back of my garage, sized for different rifles, handguns, car parts, and power tools. And having learned to rely on them across deserts, jungles, oceans, mountains, and the arctic tundra, it鈥檚 hard to look at other hard-sided suitcases and not find them lacking. That titanium Tumi, with its textured waves and leather handles sure looks nice, but it鈥檚 never going to protect its contents as well as a Pelican, even at six times the price. And while traveling, even articles as humble as a nicely-fitting pair of jeans can prove mission critical.

I鈥檇 actually thought about buying one of last year. But with interior options consisting of pick-and-pluck foam, or nothing at all, and with only two wheels dictating a single direction of pull, I wasn鈥檛 sold. To justify the upgrade from a backpack, I wanted the ability to organize and compress folded clothing, manage small items like cables, passports, toiletries and flashlights, and access all that without dumping my things all over the floor.

That鈥檚 what Pelican鈥檚 new ATX-range of luggage delivers: all the robust protection of a Pelican case, combined with all the convenience and organization features of high-end travel luggage.

The case boasts Hinimoto wheels鈥攁 Japanese maker of the highest quality luggage rollers鈥攃arry handles that fold themselves back to flush on dampers, a four-position trolley handle mounted to the exterior of the case to maintain waterproofness, TSA locks, and a ripstop-nylon interior organization system that includes zip-pockets on one side and a clothing compressor on the other.

This 22-inch version is sized to comply with international carry-on size restrictions. But if you鈥檙e one of those travelers who thinks every inch of the overhead bin belongs to you, you could probably get onboard with the ATX 25 without too much hassle. The 30-inch should wheel its way off the checked baggage carousel for decades.

Worth the upgrade? For this frequent flier? Absolutely. Even though I hope to avoid raw sewage on my next trip, I鈥檒l still feel safe in the knowledge that everything I bring along will be as protected as possible, no matter what, all in a carry-on it鈥檚 easy and comfortable to move through an airport.

The post Why Frequent Fliers Will Appreciate the Toughest Carry-On Suitcase, Ever appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

I could spend a lifetime exploring Mexico and probably still not scratch the surface of all the country has to offer. It鈥檚 long been one of my favorite getaways when I need a quick surf and sun fix or a dose of culture. A few years ago, my friend Val and I plotted a road trip around Baja California Sur. We flew into San Jos茅 del Cabo and drove a big loop stopping to surf in Todos Santos, swim with whale sharks in La Paz, and hike to waterfalls and ATV around Santiago. When friends and family learned of our plans they immediately raised concerns: Two single women driving around Baja alone? Is it safe to travel to Mexico?

Not once did we feel unsafe. We made a point not to drive at night. We stayed at hotels staffed with security and located in main tourists hubs rather than remote Airbnbs. The most alarming incident of the week was a run in with a rowdy seal pup that wouldn鈥檛 stop tugging on my flipper while we were snorkeling.

If you are a news junky, I understand why travel to Mexico might raise flags. Drinking the water is no longer the biggest worry. Headlines of kidnappings, shootings, and gang violence are common. Last summer, I was chilled to learn two Australians and their American friend were while on a surf trip in Ensenada. But incidents like the one in Ensenada are rare.

One hotel owner in Cabo, who asked to remain anonymous, pointed out that the drug cartels realize that the tourist towns fuel local economies and tend to leave them be.

鈥淢exico is not that much different from many other places in the world,鈥� says Jack Ezon, founder of New York City-based travel agency . 鈥淚 cannot believe how many people from New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles ask if Mexico is safe, as bullets fly on corners from those cities every day.”

The country is also massive鈥攖hree times the size of Texas鈥攁nd can’t or shouldn’t be generalized. When you look at the (Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions; Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution; Level 3: Reconsider Travel; Level 4: Do Not Travel), read the fine print of which areas have risks and restrictions. And here is a from Journey Mexico to help you plan your visit to certain areas.

Spring Break and other holiday periods typically see a rise of American tourists. If you鈥檙e considering a south of the border holiday, these are seven of the most popular getaways. We鈥檝e dug into what鈥檚 to love about each, where to stay, and safety precautions to ease your mind.

How Safe Is It to Visit These Top Mexico Tourist Destinations?

Puerto Vallarta

Why It’s a Popular Destination: Tucked between the rugged Sierra Madre Mountains and beautiful Banderas Bay on Mexico鈥檚 Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a perennial favorite getaway for American travelers thanks to its year-round warm weather and easy access from major U.S. cities. Look past the manicured gated communities and luxury all-inclusive resorts and you鈥檒l discover the destination has a wild side. Humpbacks migrate here from December through March, and from July through December Puerto Vallarta鈥檚 beaches turn into hatching grounds for sea turtles. 国产吃瓜黑料rs can explore the mountains by ATV, bike, or horseback.

Safety Precautions: Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco, which the U.S. government deems a security due to crime and kidnapping and cautions Americans to reconsider travel. Major tourist hotspots, like Puerto Vallarta, however, are subject to more petty crimes such as theft and vacation-home break ins. The Puerto Vallarta Citizen Security Police Station ramps up efforts during peak tourist seasons, dispatching daytime patrols across the city鈥檚 main avenues and near ATMS and banks.

Where to Stay: Spread across 85 acres of jungle and beach, includes dozens of activities within the price of a stay, such as kayak tours to Los Arcos and tequila tastings. (Rooms start at $430, all-inclusive)

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San Miguel de Allende

Why It’s a Popular Destination: The first time I visited this UNESCO World Heritage City in the state of Guanajuato I was charmed, as most travelers are, by its impressive Spanish colonial architecture, pink neo-Gothic cathedral, mariachi bands, art galleries, and vibrant food scene. I devoted an entire day to wandering its cobbled stone streets and alleyways, and was rewarded with serendipitous finds like the insanely addictive churros at Chocolates y Churros San Agust铆n.

Just beyond the city, you can horseback ride through scenic countryside, sip wines at Cava Garambullo 鈥� one of 30-some wineries along the Ruta del Vino听鈥� and soak in .

Safety Precautions: The State Department lists Guanajuato as and recommends Americans reconsider travel due to crime. However, most of the gang violence in the area occurs in the south and central areas of the state and the guidance is to avoid the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato. San Miguel de Allende experienced some last year, but none of the incidents were directed at tourists. Amanda Keidan, the American expat owner of Casa Delphine, cautions that you need to be aware while walking at night, as petty crimes can occur, but the biggest risk for visitors is eating street meat.

Where to Stay: Tucked down a cobbled stone street, Keidan鈥檚 five-suite feels like a stylish homestay. She arranges immersive experiences such as cooking classes and tarot card dinners. (Rooms start at $285)

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Riviera Maya

Why It’s a Popular Destination: This 100-mile slice of Caribbean coast on Mexico鈥檚 northeastern Yucat谩n Peninsula is home to some of the prettiest white sand beaches I鈥檝e ever stuck my toes in. Colorful coral reefs glow electric in the crystal clear waters鈥攖he visibility is so good it鈥檚 possible to dive here year round.

Spectacular archeological sites, such as Chichen Itza and Ek鈥� Balam, lie inland in Indiana Jones-worthy jungles. And you can swim in many of the area鈥檚 dazzling blue cenotes鈥攏atural sinkholes of freshwater carved into limestone rocks. The area鈥檚 two main tourist towns, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, have some seriously great restaurants. The former is known for its all-inclusive resorts and laid back vibes. The latter has become a destination for yogis and the Burning Man crowd.

Safety Precautions: When I last visited Riviera Maya in 2022, the region had experienced a in which tourists were killed or injured. The police and government have cracked down on the violence, but tourist zones still occasionally see shootings. Last February, an American tourist in Tulum was killed in the between rival drug dealers. Alcohol and drugs fuel the parties and music festivals in Tulum and crimes are almost always related to drug consumption or sales, says Alexis Sch盲rer, a hotelier in Playa del Carmen. In other words, stay away from drugs and you鈥檙e likely to stay clear of trouble. The U.S. State Department ranks the areas in the state of Quintana Roo a and advises travelers to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Tulum and Playa del Carmen, remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones, and use authorized taxis instead of ride share apps.

Where to Stay: Just two blocks from Calle 38, a public beach in Playa del Carmen, adult-only is a nine-room oasis in a sea of mega resorts. Each of the nine rooms is decorated with vintage flea-market finds and I loved all of the complimentary amenities, including cruiser bikes, beach bags, and cold beers that can be enjoyed in the garden or rooftop terrace. (Rooms start at $173)

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Mexico City

Why It’s a Popular Destination: One of the planet鈥檚 greatest cities, this sprawling megalopolis is a wild mishmash of historic and modern neighborhoods, public parks and verdant boulevards, and grand museums and intimate galleries. It鈥檚 also, in my opinion, the world鈥檚 most exciting food city, home to incredible markets, like Mercado de Coyoac谩n, cheap and tasty hole-in-the-wall taco and tostada joints, and pilgrimage-worthy gastronomic temples such as Pujol and Contramar.

Safety Precautions: The U.S. State Department ranks Mexico City , warning travelers to exercise increased caution due to both violent and non-violent crime. As with any large city, petty crime, like pickpocketing, occurs frequently, so be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and on public transportation. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has ranked Mexico City among the for several years in a row and noted that sticking to neighborhoods closer to the city center and in the north, such as Centro Historico, Roma Sur, and Noche Buena, tend to be safer for visitors. The team at Journey Mexico recommends being extra vigilant in the neighborhoods of Tepito and Guerrero at night. Rafael Micha, managing partner in boutique Mexican hotel brand Grupo Habita, advises to avoid wearing flashy jewelry or watches and waving around expensive cameras.

Where to Stay: Located in the city鈥檚 historic center, is a 17th-century manor turned boutique hotel with a rare rooftop pool. (Rooms start at $230)

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Cancun

Why It’s a Popular Destination: I鈥檒l admit, my first passport stamp from Mexico was en route to a cliche high school spring break that included the water slide experience at Se帽or Frogs. This classic spring break destination lives up to the hype for its wild nightlife, but it also boasts some of the Caribbean鈥檚 finest beaches as well as unique attractions like the , which can be experienced by scuba divers or snorkelers. Cancun is also a convenient base for exploring Mayan archeological sites, like the step-pyramid Temple of Kukulcan, and the underground world of , a mind blowing cave system.

Safety Precautions: Cancun is considered the gateway to Riviera Maya. Located in the state of Quintana Roo, it is deemed by the U.S. State Department and has the following safety precautions: be alert after dark in downtown areas and remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. Transportation is the biggest cause for concern. Taxi drivers are notorious for being aggressive and overcharging tourists, but using a ride share also comes with risks. Last December, just south of Cancun for threatening a tourist for using a ride share app. Try to have your hotel arrange transportation in advance to avoid harassment and scams.

Where to Stay: If you want a grown-up experience away from the party scene, splurge on . The secluded, 274-room oceanfront resort has two dreamy beaches, three massive infinity pools, and six restaurants. (Rooms start at $600)

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Oaxaca City

Why It’s a Popular Destination: Culture abounds in every corner of Oaxaca, a city where pre-Columbian culture and Spanish colonial and contemporary Mexican influences coexist. The city鈥檚 UNESCO-listed historic center is surrounded by spectacular mountains and important Zapotec archeological sites, such as Monte Alb谩n. And some will argue that its food scene, which includes a thrilling mix of tortilla artisans, mole masters, and small-batch mezcal distillers, rivals CDMX.

Safety Precautions: The U.S. government ranks Oaxaca a travel risk and has no restrictions on visiting Oaxaca City. Like most major cities, travelers are warned to be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes. The most recent reported occurred in 2023 in the surf town of Puerto Escondido, located over three hour鈥檚 drive south. Micha, of Grupo Habita hotels, says it鈥檚 not polite to negotiate prices down at markets and to keep in mind that small vendors only take cash.

Where to Stay:听 Set in the heart of the historic center, has spacious, high-ceiling rooms adorned with textiles and art from local artisans and a seriously delicious in-house restaurant that sources almost exclusively from Oaxaca markets and its own gardens. (Rooms start at $472)

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Baja California Sur

Why It’s a Popular Destination: I have been making two to three trips a year to this region for more than a decade and still can鈥檛 get enough of its surf-swept beaches, desert oases, exceptional dining options, ranging from humble ceviche stands to multi-course meals prepared by star chefs, and out-of-this-world marine experiences. Between November and April you can watch Humpbacks breach straight from shore and swim with whale sharks. Hundreds of Olive Ridley turtles hatch during the summer. And the sea lions are always out near Land鈥檚 End and Pelican Rock. Of all my travels throughout Mexico, I鈥檝e never met more hospitable locals.

Safety Precautions: Don鈥檛 confuse Baja California, which includes the border town of Tijuana and has a Level 3 risk, with Baja California Sur, which is a and has no travel restrictions. Matt Lindsay, founder of LUXSurf Travel, a San Jos茅 del Cabo鈥揵ased surf guiding company, cautions that local police are known for pulling over tourists for small infractions, like using a cell phone, and threatening them with big fines. 鈥淭hey may threaten to take you to the station, but you stay calm and say, 鈥業鈥檇 like to pay the ticket now,鈥� and hand them $30 to $50,鈥� he says. 鈥淏e insistent.鈥� He also warns if you鈥檙e out partying and decide to skip the bathroom line and whizz in an alleyway, the cops won鈥檛 hesitate to throw you in jail.

Where to Stay: has an unbeatable location on Monuments Beach, with views of the famous Arch across the bay, plus a restaurant from star Mexican chef Enrique Olvera. (Rooms start at $685)听

Know Before You Go: Five Tips to Staying Safe as a Tourist in Mexico

• No matter where I鈥檓 traveling, I download and use safety apps such as , which sends first responders your exact location, and , which gives safety scores to neighborhoods.
• Zach Rabinor, founder of Journey Mexico, recommends only withdrawing money from bank ATMs. 鈥淜eep your eyes out for anyone that may be watching or targeting you while you make a transaction,鈥� he says.
• Only use official taxis that are ordered through your hotel, restaurant, or other trusted source, says Rabinor. Typically they should have taxi-meters and negotiating a price before getting in is alternately customary, he notes. Ride share apps are unreliable and face some restrictions in airports and other places.
• Don鈥檛 buy drugs. 鈥淢arijuana is still illegal in Mexico,鈥� says Rabinor. 鈥淭his seems like a no-brainer, but many people still don鈥檛 follow and getting involved with drug dealers, at any level, in any capacity is never a good idea.鈥�
• Don鈥檛 drive at night. 鈥淩isks include animals in the road, poorly lit and signed roads, and more,鈥� says Rabinor.

Jen Murphy is a frequent 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor. She鈥檚 visited Mexico nearly 50 times, more often than not, solo. Her biggest concerns have been rogue donkeys on the roads around Baja California Sur and getting a bad sunburn. She’s also recently written about her favorite beaches in Costa Rica, why more hikers are getting rescued in Hawaii, and the coolest cave Airbnb you’ll ever stay at.听听

The post Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico? I Think: Yes. Here鈥檚 What to Know. appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.