Featured Image: Samson Hatae
You'll run into two types of people when traveling: the ones who like to relax and the ones who like to go, go, go. As skiers, we tend to hit the road with a purpose, whether that's winter strike missions or summer fishing trips. But the right trip needs the right gear, and that includes the little things.
FREESKIER has rounded up some year-round travel essentials to take your next adventure to the next level. Below you’ll find a mix of everything from sunglasses to toiletry packs and even first aid kits.
The Brown Buffalo - Duffalo
For long trips or weekend getaways that require a heavier load, the Duffalo helps you feel like a minimalist traveler without sacrificing packing space. With a 50L capacity, it has all the compartments you need to stay organized and pack efficiently. An external shoe compartment avoids the usual last-minute shove before heading out the door.
A spacious main compartment features a butterfly opening, making it easy to grab gear without digging through your bag. Removable straps and a full-grain leather handle provides multiple carrying options, so you can switch things up and stay comfortable throughout the day. Built with woven recycled nylon and a UHMWPE ripstop grid the Duffalo is durable enough to handle everything from airport terminals to rugged camping trips.
Thule - Compression Cube Set
Thule - Compression Cub Set
Thule - Compression Cub Set
We’ve all seen it, or been the person with three jackets layered on and shoes dangling from their bag, because most airlines these days only allow a free under-seat carry-on. Finding unique ways to minimize space can make a big difference when trying to fit everything into an underseat carry-on, and with Thule’s compression cube sets your clothes will be condensed so you can feel organized and have extra room in your bag.
The cubes come in a set of two: a small and a medium pack. The medium pack is good for larger items like jeans and shirts, while the small pack is ideal for socks and underwear. The compression works by combining two separate, durable YKK durable zippers on the top and bottom that zip independently to eliminate excess air between clothes. With Thule’s compression cubes, you won’t have to worry about finding space for souvenirs or wonder how your bag somehow shrank from when you first packed it.
Matador - Flatpak™ Waterproof Toiletry Case
Opening your suitcase just to find that your shampoo has leaked all over your clothes is a travel experience I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. But Matador’s Flatpak™ Waterproof Case is built to keep liquids out, even if they're coming from the outside. It’s large enough to fit everything from travel-sized beauty, medication and shower products.
The roll-top feature gives you extra room to squeeze in a few more bathroom necessities. Made with Dry-Tough Technology, the case is quick-drying and abrasion-resistant, so it can handle the wear and tear that comes with travel. Whether it’s joining you on a camping trip or sitting in a 5-star hotel bathroom, this bag keeps your toiletries from becoming your biggest travel headache.
Rumpl - Original Puffy Blanket
A blanket usually isn’t at the top of someone’s travel necessity list, but I bet you’ll find yourself reaching for one more often than expected. Whether it's for a picnic in a European park, cozy nights looking at stars, or even on long-haul flights, Rumpl’s classic OG Puffy Blanket has you covered. You might be thinking, “Okay, but won’t it just take up unnecessary space?”
Luckily, Rumpl designed this blanket to be lightweight and packable, with options ranging from a compact throw to a mini size. The material also features a water-repellent finish to help handle changing weather conditions, and if things get a little messy, it’s machine washable on a cold setting. Each size comes with its own packable bag, making it easy to keep the blanket compact and organized alongside the rest of your travel essentials.
Outdoor Research - Helios Sun Hat
One of the most common travel necessities that people bring with them on trips is a hat. Even if you don’t bring one, there’s a good chance you’ll end up buying one at your destination. While baseball caps and cute straw-woven sun hats have their place, they aren’t always the most packable. Outdoor Research's Helios Sun Hat provides UPF 50+ protection and uses a lightweight, packable material that allows you to stash it away in a small backpack pocket or even a pants pocket.
The hat has been improved with fabric that offers better breathability, along with a 2.75-inch brim for added facial coverage. Available in multiple subtle color options, it pairs well with everything from sporty adventure outfits to casual clothes for exploring a new town.
Teva - Hurricane XLT3 Sandal
As comfortable as flip-flops can be for beach or lake days, sometimes you need more security and durability when participating in water activities. Teva’s Men’s and Women’s Hurricane XLT3 Sandals are built to do just that, featuring updated cushioning in the topsole and the same padded heel that provides the support you need when exploring the shorelines. The soles are backed with Spider Rubber® for added traction so climbing on rugged rocks in search of the perfect cliff jump is easier on your feet. The classic quick-dry strap design is available in multiple patterns and colors, so you can choose a style that fits everything from a laid-back beach day to a more adventurous water excursion.
EltaMD - UV Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 50+
No one wants a nasty sunburn that’ll leave them feeling uncomfortable for the rest of their trip. That’s why sunscreen is one of the most important travel necessities, even when it's not summer and especially if you're on a ski trip because snow reflection is no joke. EltaMD’s 50+ lightweight sunscreen provides all the protection you need without the greasy feeling some sunscreens leave behind.
It’s formulated with transparent zinc oxide, which helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Available in 1.7-ounce and 3.0-ounce bottles, it's TSA-friendly and easy to toss in your bag for everything from camping and hiking trips to beach or ski days.
Bose - 2nd Generation QuietComfort Headphones
Bose - 2nd Generation QuietComfort Headphones (Eucalyptus Green)
Bose - 2nd Generation QuietComfort Headphones (Eucalyptus Green)
Nobody wants to listen to the sound of an Boeing 737 revving up and a baby crying all at the same time. With Bose’s new 2nd generation QuietComfort Headphones, you can block out the hail storm of noise and tune into your favorite ski movie. Plus, new TrueSpatial technology makes movies and music more immersive, even from the middle seat. Plush padding around the ears and up to 24 hours of battery life set you up for long travel days. The updated version also comes in fresh new colors, including eucalyptus green, rich mauve and a subtle pop of mint.
MOBOT - Big Bertha MOBOT 40oz
We’ve all been there: feeling sore after an all-day trek, but there's no time to hit the gym to stretch or roll out your muscles. That’s where MOBOT’s foam roller water bottle comes to the rescue, not only to ease your muscles on the go, but also to keep you hydrated on long tour days. The bottles are made from a single wall of stainless steel to keep them lightweight, while the outside is wrapped in high-density EVA foam with rollers. While the Big Bertha may pack 40oz, it is worth the extra weight because the foam rollers' extra surface area helps reach more muscles and hold more water. Those huge steps up to a Cathedral or long winding cobblestone streets don’t stand a chance against your muscles with the MOBOT foam roller.
Ortovox - Ortovox First Aid Waterproof
Inherent risk is a part of travel, no matter what type of adventure it is. That’s why keeping a travel-specific first aid kit on you is always a smart move, especially for camping or backpacking trips where help may not be right around the corner. Ortovox’s Waterproof First Aid Kit is made for high-risk alpine activities where reliable emergency supplies are essential. Despite its compact size, this kit comes with an impressive lineup of equipment, including a rescue blanket, CPR-Face-Shield and other important first-aid essentials. A roll-top closure allows for quick access to your supplies while also leaving room to add a few personal first-aid items of your own.
