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Kelly Baker

Kelly Baker

Author/Co-Author of 146 articles

Kelly resides in a cozy home in California with her husband and two beautiful cats. She loves good books, baking homemade sourdough bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family. Kelly is proud to be a full-time content writer with published work across the web.

 

open suitcase with clothes packed inside

How to pack a carry-on like a pro (and still look good on day three)

Learn how to pack a carry-on with purpose and ease. No fluff, just real tips that actually work in today’s travel world.
Interior of a passenger airplane

Avoid the awkward: 5 basic flight etiquette rules you should always follow

Avoid midair mishaps with these essential flight etiquette rules for a smoother, more respectful travel experience.
Road trip

How to plan a road trip: Tips, essentials, and real-life advice

Learn how to plan a road trip with real-life tips, expert advice, and must-have essentials for an unforgettable adventure on the open road.
Person standing on an airplane

The in-flight Wi-Fi mistake most travelers make without realizing it

Learn how to safely use in-flight Wi-Fi and protect your data from hackers and fake networks while flying in an airplane.
hermes headphones

Hermès just launched $15,000 headphones (and yes, they’re as luxe as you’d expect)

Hermès unveils $15,000 headphones crafted by Ateliers Horizons, blending iconic design with high-end materials in a bold new tech statement.
Hotel room pillow

5 smart things I always do when I check into a hotel room

These hotel room check-in habits help me stay safer, cleaner, and more comfortable. Learn the quick routine I always follow when I arrive.
Person rolling luggage through the airport

The one piece of solo travel advice I wish I’d known before my first trip

One solo travel tip can change everything. Here’s what I wish I’d known before my first trip alone, so you can make the most of yours.
Security checkpoint in an airport

9 TSA approved items you didn’t know you could bring on an airplane

From knitting needles to frozen treats, learn about TSA-approved items you might not realize are allowed on flights.
empty airplane seats

How to survive the middle seat on a plane: 6 smart tips that really help

Stuck in the middle seat on an airplane? Try these simple strategies to stay comfy and sane on your next flight.
A person packing their suitcase with dress clothing.

Do compression packing bags really work? We tested so you don’t have to

Tight on space? We tested a compression packing bag to see if it really works and if it wrinkles your clothes. Here's what happened, and what you should know.
Personal perspective of person driving on mountain road

10 road trip podcasts to keep you entertained for miles

From true crime to comedy, here are 10 binge-worthy road trip podcasts that will keep you company and make the miles fly by.
luggage carousel in an airport

Are luggage covers TSA approved? What travelers should know before using one

Are luggage covers TSA approved? Learn this and how to use them safely without risking damage during airport security inspections.
people in an orange car during a road trip

5 genius road trip hacks you’ll wish you knew sooner

Discover five easy road trip hacks to stay organized, mess-free, and stress-free, perfect for making your next drive smoother and more enjoyable.
Person about to get in line at the airport.

REAL ID deadline is almost here: What to do if you don’t have one yet

The REAL ID deadline is May 7, 2025. Learn what documents you need, how to apply, and why upgrading your license now can save you airport headaches later.
Plane

10 tips for handling a diverted plane (plus why it happens)

Learn why flights get diverted and discover essential tips to handle a diverted plane calmly, smartly, and with less stress.
A man packing shoes in his suitcase

What is the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method? (and why travelers swear by it)

Learn how the 5-4-3-2-1 packing method, a minimalist and flexible strategy for packing light while still having everything you need, is perfect for carry-on travel.
Man with a travel backpack

14 best travel backpacks to take with you on the road

These top travel backpacks are the most versatile luggage you can get, and they're perfect for work, travel, and more.
Man in an airport

10 top eco-friendly travel products (that I never travel without)

Travel lighter and greener with these 10 eco-friendly travel products I swear by. Simple swaps, big impact.
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Do you need a passport for the Dominican Republic? Here’s what to know

Do you need a passport for the Dominican Republic? We’ve got the answers, plus helpful travel tips before you fly.
Passport and plane ticket

Passport vs. REAL ID: Which one do you need and when?

Not sure about the differences between a passport vs. REAL ID? Find out when you’ll need each one, and how to make sure you’re ready for travel.
First class on an airplane

How much is a first-class flight? Here’s the breakdown

Wondering how much is a first-class flight? Discover what affects ticket prices, what perks you get, and how to save on luxury air travel.
inside of unclaimed baggage store

Unclaimed Baggage’s 2025 ‘Found Report’ offers quirky peek inside America’s lost luggage

Unclaimed Baggage's 2025 Found Report reveals the quirky, valuable, and bizarre items left behind in lost luggage across the U.S.
A person pulling a carry-on suitcase through the airport

Is luggage with a lifetime warranty worth it? Here’s what you need to know

Is luggage with a lifetime warranty worth it? Before you buy, learn what’s really covered, the pros and cons, and which brands offer the best warranties.
two men on an airplane cheersing with drinks

First class vs. economy: Is the upgrade worth it?

Most fly economy because it’s affordable, but is first class really worth the splurge? Let’s break down the key differences between first class vs. economy.
Hikers on vacation

Essential things to do before leaving for vacation: Check these off your list

Make your trip stress-free by checking off these essential things to do before leaving for vacation, from securing your home to confirming reservations.
Overhead sign showing security check point lanes designated for first class and TSA Precheck passengers.

Here’s how to get upgraded to first class (simple and easy)

Want to fly first class without the price tag? Discover how to get upgraded to first class with simple strategies like joining loyalty programs and using travel credit cards.
Monos aluminum luggage sitting outside

Travel in style with Monos’ first-ever aluminum luggage collection

Monos expands its luggage lineup with a new aluminum collection that blends high-end durability with Monos’ signature minimalist aesthetic.
Person standing on an airplane

Is flight insurance worth it? A guide to help you decide

Is flight insurance is worth it? Discover when it’s a smart investment and when you can skip it to save money on your trip.
man putting a laptop in Peak Design Roller Pro carry-on

Peak Design sets new standards in luggage with Roller Pro carry-on

Peak Design just launched its long-awaited Roller Pro carry-on, and it's packed with smart features that make it a must-have for business travelers, photographers, and adventurers.
man walking with suitcase and backpack

How to repair a luggage zipper without replacing the entire suitcase

Broken luggage zippers don’t have to ruin your trip. Here’s how to repair a luggage zipper fast and easy with simple techniques.
Cruise ship into the sunset

How to pack for a cruise (depending on your destination)

Learn how to pack for a cruise based on your destination, from the Caribbean to Antarctica, with tips for every climate and occasion.
Man in an airport

Can you fly without an ID? Here’s the lowdown

Can you fly without an ID? The answer may surprise you. Here’s what happens at TSA if you forget or lose your identification.
Man holding his ears

Travel tips: How to pop your ears (and keep them from getting clogged again)

Struggling with clogged ears? Learn simple, effective methods for how to pop your ears and keep them clear, plus tips to avoid future blockages.
The Sigma BF camera in black

Capture your travels with Sigma’s new BF camera

Sigma's new BF camera offers a radically simple design with high-end features, 6K video, hybrid autofocus, and 230GB storage, perfect for pure photography.
a brown toiletry bag with shaving essentials inside

The ultimate toiletries packing list for men

Pack smarter with this toiletries packing list for men. Essentials only, no frills, and all you need to stay fresh on your next trip.
Man in a car on a safari with elephants in the background

Safari packing list: Must-haves and what not to bring

Packing for a safari? Avoid bug bites, dehydration, and wardrobe fails with this safari packing list for every safari type.
dslr camera gear and backpack sitting on wood floor

How to travel with camera gear (without breaking a lens)

Wondering how to travel with camera gear? Learn how to pack, protect, and carry your camera, lenses, and accessories safely without damaging them.
Man sitting in an airport lounge

How to get into airport lounges (it’s easier than you think)

Airport lounges transform your travels with comfy seating, free drinks, snacks, and even showers. But how do you get in? Here’s how to get into airport lounges.
Inside of a plane with screens on

What’s the safest place to sit on a plane? Here’s the truth

Curious about the safest place to sit on a plane? Spoiler alert: It’s probably not where you think. Find out where to sit for a smoother or safer flight.
Golf clubs in a golf bag on a golf course.

Flying with your golf gear? Here’s how to pack golf clubs for a flight

Packing golf clubs for a flight properly is essential to ensuring your clubs arrive in great condition. Follow these steps for a stress-free travel experience.
Shoes sitting on top of a suitcase

How to pack shoes in a suitcase (without sacrificing space)

Learn how to pack shoes in a suitcase efficiently and avoid packing mistakes for a stress-free travel experience with these space-saving tips.
TUMI and Master & Dynamic earphones

TUMI, Master & Dynamic’s new earphones offer premium sound for jet-setters

TUMI and Master & Dynamic joined forces to create the first launch of their multi-year partnership, the MW09 True Wireless Earphones, which blends what both brands are known for – performance and style.
two pilots inside aircraft

What luggage do pilots use? Here’s the inside scoop

Have you ever wondered, what luggage do pilots use? Check out the top bags they trust for their busy travel schedules, from durable carry-ons to flight bags.
man and a woman walking on a dock by the ocean with rolling luggage

Hard vs. soft luggage: Which is right for you?

Packing for your next trip? Find out what you need to know about hard vs. soft luggage so you can make the right travel choice.
Person sitting on stairs with a black rolling suitcase

How long should luggage last? Here’s the truth (plus signs it’s time to upgrade)

Wondering how long should luggage last? Discover factors that affect its lifespan and how to make it last longer, from budget to luxury options.
Man holding car keys

10 car rental tips every traveler needs to know: Save time, money, and stress

Discover essential car rental tips to save time, money, and stress. Learn how to book smart, avoid hidden fees, and rent a car like a seasoned traveler.
Belize beach scene on Caye Caulker

Travel light with this minimalist packing list for a beach vacation

Pack light and stress less! This minimalist packing list for a beach vacation has all the essentials you need, no extra baggage, just pure relaxation.
Princess cruise ship in Alaska

8 cruise travel tips: Avoid common mistakes and make your trip unforgettable

Set sail stress free with these essential cruise travel tips. From packing to excursions, get the most out of your cruise vacation with our expert advice.
Person rolling luggage through the airport

10 must-know solo travel tips for a stress-free adventure

Planning a solo trip? Here are essential solo travel tips to help you stay safe, enjoy new experiences, and make the most of your adventure on your own.
person rolling white suitcase

Are luggage tags necessary? Here’s the truth

Are luggage tags necessary? Learn the pros and cons of using them and how they can help protect your belongings during travel.