Imagine walking down ancient, narrow cobblestone streets, temple hopping, feasting on a bowl of rice noodles, or photographing centuries-old ruins. Immersing yourself in a different language and culture by traveling internationally is thrilling, whether it is your first time or your 100th time abroad.

From go-to emergency kits to double checking your arrival date, there are certainly a few things that a first-time international traveler should know for a smooth and memorable first trip abroad.

1.  Don’t over pack your checked luggage

There is nothing worse than arriving at your destination and schlepping multiple heavy bags to your accommodation, especially if you are traveling solo or with friends who packed light.

If you are traveling with checked luggage, be careful not to over pack and end up with a suitcase too large or heavy to carry yourself. Accommodations might be located on pedestrian-only streets or on cobblestone streets (or both), and if you over pack, you might end up a sweaty, tired mess by the time you arrive; packing light is key.

Read our packing posts here and here for more advice of what to pack and what to leave at home.

2.  Prepare Your Travel Documents

When outside of the country, your passport is the most important document you could have. Prior to your trip, I suggest making a photocopy of your passport to stash in a safe place. While losing your passport isn’t the end of the world, having this photocopy will certainly help ease your stress.

3.  Contact your bank

Banks in the US have really amazing security to prevent fraud, yet this can also block you from accessing money using your ATM card or credit card if in a different country. Simply notifying your bank of your travel plans prior to your trip will prevent your bank from blocking your transaction. Setting up online banking is also key, so you can check in on your account balance, especially if you are taking an extended trip.

4.  Get a paper map

I know, I know, everyone uses digital maps now, but data plans and cell service is different outside of the US, so having a paper map will save you from getting lost if you can’t load a digital map. You can often pick up a map in the airport or accommodation upon arrival.

5.  Double check your arrival time and date

International flights, especially to Europe and Asia, sometimes arrive on the next day due to time differences. Keep this in mind when booking accommodations and tours.

Related: How Pack Bras and Save Space In Your Suitcase

6.  Don’t forget a go-to emergency kit

A small, go-to kit filled with emergency necessities is a lifesaver no matter where you are traveling. I always pack my favorite over-the-counter pain killer, Band-Aids, Tums, and anti-diarrheals. It is also a good idea to stash some extra money

7.  Bring along a plug converter

To charge any electronics, you’ll likely need a plug converter. My favorite converters are multi-country converters that can work for multiple destinations on the same trip. I’d even suggest throwing this in your carry-on bag just in case. However, leave the hair blow dryer and straightener at home so you don’t blow the electricity in your accommodation (been there, done that!).

8.  Stave off jet lag

After arrival, you’ll likely be tired yet anxious to explore a new destination. Use your precious vacation time wisely by staving off jet lag from the get-go. Set your watch to local time during the flight, and if you arrive during the day, walk around when you arrive to re-set your internal clock with a bit of sun.

When you do finally crash, set an alarm clock for the next morning—you don’t want to sleep the day away—and grab a cup of coffee to banish any yawning.

9.  Pack your carry-on luggage wisely

Lost luggage is a big bummer, but it doesn’t have to be. Packing your carry-on luggage carefully, with a change of clothes, essential medicine, and limited liquid products, can make this annoyance much less of a disaster. A clean set of clothes and basic make-up products will help you feel ready for the second day of your trip.

Also, your carry-on should also be well-stocked with entertainment for the flight—I’ve lost count of how many times my TV on the flight didn’t work—whether that be a book, magazine, electronics (or all three!). Add an extra battery pack or charger for your electronics plus a plug converter and you’ll be packed like a frequent traveler.

10.  Learn a bit of the language

Learning four simple words—hello, thank you, excuse me, and goodbye—can make a huge difference in your interactions with locals, creating a positive cultural exchange.

Related: 5 Quick and Easy Lingerie Packing and Traveling Tips

What are your summer travel plans? Tell us in the comments below!

I know what you’re imagining: kids crammed into the back of a hot car for hours, picking fights, complaining of boredom, and needing the bathroom every five miles. This might sound like your worst nightmare, but road trips are actually one of the best ways to spend quality time with your family, save money on travel, and see the sights at the same time. Here’s a list of tips and tricks to help you on the road!

When getting ready to travel, here are some ways to make the back of your car a fun place for your kids to play.

1.  Use cookie trays on kids laps as mini tables. The edges can catch coloring pencils or crayons, and keep the mess to a minimum. Put it on top of a pillow and you’re good to go!

2.  Use shoe organizers attached to the back of headsets to store toys, games, and snacks.

3.  Use shower caddies with suction cups and attach them to windows to keep art supplies in easy reach.

4.  Get washable paint pens for your kids to draw on the window panes – just wipe off art and start again!

5.  Create a scavenger hunt or bingo sheet for your kids to fill out – the first one to fill out the sheet gets a prize. You can use state license plates, farm animals, landmarks and more.

6.  Use empty plastic containers (like old spice bottles or plastic jars) for snacks, crayon holders, or for small toys.There are also plenty of tech toys to keep your kids entertained. You could hang an iPad on the back of the headrest so the kids can watch movies.

There are also plenty of tech toys to keep your kids entertained.

You could hang an iPad on the back of the headrest so the kids can watch movies, or giving them handheld game consoles. Or, you could all listen to an audio book. Choosing a book that the whole family will love gives the driver something to entertain them in the front seat, and the kids something to listen to as the occupy themselves in the backseat.

The family road trip is not about the destination, but about the stops along the way.

There’s a stop for everyone out there on the road, including National Parks, tourist attractions, and beautiful city skylines.

Here are a few ways to experience them:

1.  Hate the idea of being cooped up in the car for long periods of time? Plan your stops around hiking trails. That way, everyone can get out of the car, stretch their legs, and explore a new place every day.

2.  Don’t want to spend the night in an expensive city hotel? Book your stay outside the city limits, but plan your lunch or dinner stop at a restaurant in the city. The family gets to explore and experience the urban lifestyle without having to pay the urban price tag.

3.  Before you travel, research the states you’ll be driving through and make a list of the top attractions. Vote as a family on which ones you’ll see, making sure that everyone gets to see something the excites them. That way, the trip isn’t a boring wait to get to the destination, but an exciting adventure from one sight to the next, with each person getting to see something fun along the way.

Whether you’re driving an hour to grandmas, or across the country for a long haul trip, keeping the kids occupied in the backseat and having activities to look forward to each day can make the whole vacation more fun for all.

Featured image via royalty-free stock photo

We’ve all experienced it — the screaming baby or uncontrollable toddler on a flight. Perhaps you’ve even considered vowing not to travel until you’ve deemed your child “old enough.” But, there is no need to put aside your love for travel after having a baby. Infants can travel relatively easily, allowing you to enjoy a new destination or visit distant family or friends. A little preparation prior to your trip can help things go smoothly — and if it doesn’t, please remember that others have certainly been in your shoes.

1.  Prevent ear pain

Pressure from changing altitudes at take-off and landing can really cause pain for little ears. To prevent any potential ear pain, encourage your little one to swallow, thus releasing any pressure. Pacifiers, bottles, or nursing are all great ways to relax your baby and prevent ear pain — certainly a win-win!

2.  Consider hands-free carrying

I flew quite a bit with my son while he was under one. While he was light enough, it was really helpful to use a baby carrier or wrap so I could have my hands free to hold passports, tickets, and other travel necessities. Some babies also sleep really well being snuggled up so close to mom while in a carrier, and a sleeping baby makes travel even easier.

3.  Check the luggage policy

Many airlines generously allow people traveling with babies and toddlers to check extra baggage and “baby equipment” for free! Baby equipment, for example, generally includes a stroller, travel crib, and/or a car seat. Typically, most airlines allow for two baby equipment items to be checked for free, but do check the airline’s policy since they all differ slightly.

Additionally, strollers can typically be gate checked, so if you or your child prefer to use a stroller through the airport, you can simply check it when boarding your flight and pick it up by the plane usually) after the flight. Simple!

While checking the luggage policy, don’t forget to look up the airport’s policy on the extra liquid allowance for bottled breastmilk, prepared bottles of formula, and baby food. Babies are allowed extra liquid allowances for liquid foods, but some airports are less prepared to suit your child’s needs than others. If your child is starting to eat pureed foods, consider packing a spoon, small bowl, and banana that you can mash when needed to prevent going over the liquid amount allowed by airports.

Related: How To Make Any Destination Family Friendly

4.  Bring entertainment

Let’s face it — flying can be boring for everyone, including babies. Come prepared with favorite toys, books, and a tablet or cell phone fully loaded with an entertaining kid’s show.

5.  Pack extras in your carry-on

There is absolutely nothing worse than a poop-apocalypse without being prepared. Plan ahead for any stinky situations with more wipes, diapers, spare clothes — don’t forget extras for you too — and other necessities. Trust me, it is better to have extras than to be caught without.

Similarly, if you bottle feed with formula or your baby is starting to eat solids, it is best to bring extras because airports are shockingly ill-equipped when it comes to feeding babies. The vast majority don’t sell baby food, so come prepared with extras and non-liquid items that can be used to feed your baby, this is especially necessary in case of a delayed flight.

6.  Take a deep breath and relax

Perhaps the most important tip I can share is to relax. Babies can sense if their parents are nervous or stressed, so if you emit a relaxed vibe, your baby can follow suit. And if your baby is the screamer on the plane, don’t worry! Many others have been in the same position — take comfort in knowing that many are rooting for you!

Related: What To Do During A Flight Cancellation When You Have Kids

Do you need a bit of R&R? Looking for a chance to get away with your closest friends, but unsure where to go? Plan a week or even just a long weekend away with your girlfriends at one of these seven fun destinations across the US. We’ve selected cities with options for relaxation, great food, stunning museums, and cool boutiques selling local designs — perfect for a getaway with your girlfriends.

1.  Key West, Florida

Do you and the girls need some fun in the sun? Hop on a plane (or train, bus, or car) and make your way to Key West. With quirky options to please everyone — spotting six-toed cats at the Hemingway House, lounging at the beach, snorkeling, and eating Key lime pie — Key West is the ultimate destination for a girls’ getaway.

2.  Portland, Oregon

Portland is a wonderful destination for a city break with the girls. Creative and cool, Portland boasts great options for foodies, book lovers, and scenic waterfall hikes. If you love beer, Portland is considered a beer capital and the city is well connected via public transportation, making this a safe city to indulge in a couple of local brews. Just don’t forget your rain coat, as Portland tends to be rainy!

3.  Atlanta, Georgia

Rich with history, Atlanta offers you and your friends the chance to learn more about America’s history in the form of museums, monuments, and historic sites. Don’t miss the Ponce City Market for dining, shopping, and even yoga classes. If you have access to a car, plan a day to visit the nearby Stone Mountain Park to picnic and see the largest, highest relief carving.

4.  Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is perhaps my favorite destination for a girls’ getaway in the US; its quaint downtown, great food, and boutique shopping sees to that. Nearby campgrounds allow for budget travel options. As one of the oldest cities in America, Portsmouth also features gorgeous colonial homes dotted along the shore, and good connectivity to other scenic New England sights.

5.  Block Island, Rhode Island

Don your sunglasses and fedora for a relaxing beach getaway on Block Island. Located just off the coast of Rhode Island, Block Island is a piece-of-cake to reach via ferry from several spots in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. Luxuriate on the fine sand beaches, treat yourself at local boutiques, and indulge in a movie at the old-fashioned Empire Theater.

6.  Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Great for any and all ages, Martha’s Vineyard has an abundance of long sandy beaches with panoramic views. The ultimate in relaxation — and lobster — visitors will have ample opportunities to indulge in freshly caught seafood. Reserve some time to explore Oak Bluffs and feel like a kid with a ride on the Flying Horses carousel, which is a national landmark.

7.  Charlotte, North Carolina

Tree lined streets, sweet tea, and friendly locals draws visitors from all over the US to the largest city in the beautiful North Carolina. The craft beer scene in Charlotte is happening and the Southern restaurants will keep you satiated. When you feel the need to get moving, stand-up paddleboarding is there to test your balance while providing a workout.

All images via royalty-free stock photos

Surely sipping a glass of wine while relaxing on a vineyard will melt away any of your stresses and allow you to get closer with your partner. Escape from your busy workweeks with a romantic trip to one of the wonderful wine destinations in the US. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to whisk yourselves away on an escape for a special anniversary or birthday?

1.  Napa Valley, CA

Napa Valley is one of the premier wine destinations in the US due to its high concentration of vineyards and beautiful scenery. See what all the fuss is about at Crosby Roman winery, Napa Cellars, Blackbird Vineyards, and Hendry Winery.

2.  Sonoma, CA

Credit: Pixabay

The historic Sonoma is another well-known wine destination in the US, and for good reason — it boasts over 400 wineries and is easy to reach from San Francisco. Try Buena Vista, which is the oldest winery in Sonoma County, Lasseter Family Winery, Rutherford Ranch Winery, and Banshee.

3.  Mystic, CT

Credit: Elizabeth Georgian

For those on the East Coast, Mystic, Connecticut is a wonderful option that also offers quaint New England town life, historic whaling villages, and great food. Three vineyards are very easily accessible from Mystic: Saltwater Marsh, Stonington Vineyard, and Maugle Sierra Vineyards. Wine tastings at these three vineyards are affordable and they also offer beautiful views and frequent events.

4.  Portland, OR

Portland is located at the edge of the well-known wine region of the Willamette Valley, but not every traveler wants to spend their romantic weekend in the car. You certainly won’t be disappointed with the wine if you opt to visit Portland’s wineries on foot or via public transportation. Try the wonderful ENSO Winery, and Portland Wine Bar and Tasting Room to sample local wines.

5.  Snake River Valley, ID

Vinters in the US have quickly realized that Snake River has a perfect microclimate for growing excellent wine grapes, particularly white wine grapes. Riesling is especially high quality in Snake River Valley, and excellent varieties can be sipped and swirled at Bitner Vineyards, Williamson Vineyards, Ste. Chapelle Winery, Indian Creek Winery, and more.

6.  Walla Walla, WA

Credit: Pixabay

Take in the scenic views outside of Walla Walla with a visit to the wineries in the outskirts of the city, or simply enjoy the 30 tasting rooms in downtown Walla Walla. Sip a glass of merlot, pinot noir, chardonnay, and more at Sleight of Hand Cellars, Long Shadows, Mansion Creek Cellars, and don’t miss Woodward Canyon Winery.

7.  Charlottesville, VA

Credit: Pixabay

Located near the picturesque city of Charlottesville is the Monticello Wine Trail, which is the birthplace of wine production in the United States. This historic wine region has some delicious vineyards that provide great views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy tastings at Flying Fox Vineyard, Grace Estate Winery, Wisdom Oak Winery, and Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyards.

8.  Willamette Valley, OR

Located just an hour from Portland, the Willamette Valley has over 500 wineries and the region is well-known in the US for its pinot noir. The Cascade Mountains provide a romantic backdrop to wine tastings. Savor the pinot noir in the Dundee Hills and Yamhill-Carlton areas for notes of raspberry, black tea, black cherries, and vanilla.

9.  Finger Lakes, NY

Credit: Pixabay

Immerse yourselves into life’s simpler pleasures with the beautiful natural scenery and flavorful wine in the Finger Lakes region. The Finger Lakes offers visitors three wine trails to take advantage of including the Cayuga Lake, Keuka Lake, and Seneca Lake Wine Trails. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the largest of the three, with 35 wineries.

10.  Litchfield Hills, CT

Credit: Pixabay

Taste-test more of the Connecticut wine trail, which is one of the fastest growing wine regions in the US, in the beautiful Litchfield Hills. Try the romantic Land of Nod, Miranda Vineyard, Sunset Meadow Vineyard, and Hopkins Vineyard. You will need a car to get around this region, as the vineyards are not well connected with public transportation.

Sometimes travel is out of the question for the immediate future. Or, sometimes you have just come home from a great trip, but are now struggling with the post-vacation blues. But, travel doesn’t have to only take place while you are away from home; you can also “travel” every day if you have the right mindset. Read on to learn so you can bring more travel into your life.

1.  Day and Weekend Trips

Credit: Pexels

It is easy to forgo nearby destinations in favor of exotic locales, but you might want to reconsider when plans for other trips are temporarily grounded. Sometimes, for just the price of a full gas tank and perhaps a cup of coffee, you can opt to explore the nearest city or a neighboring town that you’ve not been to for years. Just imagine what you might discover just an hour from your home — your new favorite café, a beautiful national park, or a quaint pedestrian-only street might be just around the corner.

2.  Home Décor

Credit: Stocksnap

Beat the post-holiday blues with some travel-inspired home décor. When traveling, don’t limit yourself to fashion, jewelry, or typical souvenirs, because accessories for the home can be some of the best ways to feel as though you’re on vacation even while at home. From an intricate throw pillow cover from Laos to a beautiful piece of artwork purchased from a market in Belgium, looking at these items will remind you of your travels. Even a simple map hung on the wall and dotted with pins or stickers to mark your past visits or future wishes can be inspiring and bring travel into the home.

Related: 5 Genius Tips For Traveling Carry-On Only

3.  Explore Locally

Credit: Stocksnap

Have Saturday afternoon free? Check your local or regional newspaper or hop onto your library’s webpage to see if there are any events happening locally. You might find apple festivals in the fall or strawberry picking in the summer, interesting talks given by local experts, or free guided tours. And best of all, many of the events you might find are free or have minimal costs, and might allow you to mingle with new people. Who knows what you’ll find happening in your own town?

4.  Savor International Cuisine

Credit: Pexels

Live in a small town with limited restaurant options or on a tight budget? Hop online to search recipes or head to your local library to borrow a recipe book. Perhaps you are currently wanderlusting over a trip to Vietnam, but your travel savings fund is a bit thin at the moment. This would be the best time test out a few recipes for pho, potentially transporting you from your kitchen to the beaches of Vietnam with each spoon full. It can be fun to learn to cook a recipe from your favorite international cuisine, and might even become your go-to dinner party meal.

Related: Travel Essentials 101: 6 Apps Every Woman Needs For Her Next Vacay

Whether it is for a business trip, conference, vacation, or to visit family, you might find that you need to fly while pregnant. Though some precautions should be taken, flying while pregnant can be just as comfortable and easy as travel prior to your pregnancy.

1.  Talk to your doctor.

Before booking even your flight, talk to your prenatal care provider to determine if air travel is safe for your pregnancy. Each pregnancy is different, as is each trimester, so be sure to touch base with your doctor before each trip.

Once your prenatal care provider okays your trip, then you are free to book your tickets and plan away! But do keep in mind that if you are flying in your third trimester, some airlines require a note from your doctor that states you are fit and safe to fly. Be sure to check your airline in advance if this is required.

2.  Get up and walk.

The risk of getting a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis) increases during your pregnancy, particularly while you are flying. To help prevent blood clots and keep your body comfortable, stretch and move your legs under your seat and get up to walk the isles a few times during the flight. This keeps the blood in your legs flowing appropriately, which is especially important after you’ve started gaining baby weight. Selecting an aisle seat can further facilitate moving your legs as well as getting up for frequent trips to the bathroom.

If you’d like further protection from blood clots, compression stockings have been shown to keep blood circulating appropriately and even treat pregnancy related varicose veins.

3.  Stay hydrated.

Another way to help prevent blood clots as well as urinary tract infections and other problems is to stay hydrated while flying. After going through security, pick up a couple of bottles of water and be sure to drink them during the flight.

Related: 5 Quick and Easy Lingerie Packing and Traveling Tips

4.  Pack light or ask for help.

No matter how fit and healthy your pregnancy is, effectively carrying around a bowling ball on your front can throw your back and balance out of whack. To prevent tweaking your back or straining yourself, pack light or ask a flight attendant or fellow passenger to help you lift your bag into and out of the overhead compartments. The same goes for lifting your bag onto and off of the x-ray belt while in the security line.

5.  Know your rights.

While traveling in the airport, you want to make sure that you feel comfortable and safe during this incredibly important and special time. Security scans are certainly something that women aren’t too keen on while pregnant. Some airports and airlines allow pregnant women to opt for a pat down rather than using x-ray scanning during security checks — all you need to do is tell the security staff that you are pregnant and would prefer a pat down. Additionally, some airports allow pregnant women, especially those who are visibly pregnant, to skip the line and enjoy priority boarding. Even before you are showing, you can explain the situation to security and potentially enjoy these benefits. Check the airline and airport policy and don’t be afraid to say something if you are feeling uncomfortable!

Related: 8 Best Babymoon Destinations In The US

Admittedly, I haven’t always been the best at packing light. Leaving my favorite jeans or my cute new shoes in the closet while I’m out having an adventure feels like abandoning a friend. But, over the years. I’ve realized that I value being able to zip through the airport and saving on baggage fees more that I value having that extra top or that fourth tube of lipstick. For making the most of your luggage, and maybe even getting it all into your carryon, these are the airplane travel tips every woman should know.  Trust me, I’ve learned most of them the hard way.

1.  Start with a list

Credit: Stocksnap

Spontaneity when traveling can be magical, except when it comes to packing. Packing without a plan usually means throwing in way too many things (and forgetting some important ones.)  Instead, start by jotting down a detailed list of everything you need. Keep your planned activities and the weather in mind to ensure you are dressed appropriately for your journey. Now, here’s the hard part… stick to the list and avoid tossing in loads of last-minute extras.

2.  Stick to a color scheme

Rather than packing a rainbow of clothing that you’ll wear once, stick to a single color scheme for your trip. Select a neutral shade and one or two colors and create a capsule wardrobe of versatile items.  Then, mix and match items to create more outfits from fewer pieces.

3.  Love your LBD

Your go-to little black dress is a travel pro. If your itinerary includes several upscale dinners or other swanky events, skip packing the stack of skirts and dresses. Instead, grab an LBD that you can wear several times. Keep your look fresh by switching accessories and lightweight scarves.

4.  Roll it up

Folding and stacking clothing takes up loads of room in your suitcase and can lead to rumpled looks. Tightly rolling clothing takes up less room and helps them arrive wrinkle-free.

5.  Don’t buy new shoes

Credit: Stocksnap

Wait… what? This is the one and only time I will ever advise against buying shoes. Exploring a new place is not the time to break in new footwear. Blisters and aches can spoil any trip, so stick to a tried-and-true pair. Packing your most comfortable shoes that you can walk comfortably in day after day means you can save space by packing fewer pairs.

Related: How To Pack Bras and Save Space In Your Suitcase

6.  Pack disposable bags

Slipping a few disposable bags into your luggage takes up no room, but can add plenty of convenience throughout your trip. Use them to separate dirty laundry from your clean clothes, hold wet swimsuits or towels, or stow muddy shoes,

7.  Cushion your cosmetics

To ensure I look Instagram-worthy away from home, I travel with my favorite cosmetics. But, some of my messiest travel disasters have involved broken makeup.  I hate opening my makeup bag to find cracked and crumbled eyeshadows, bronzers or powders. To cushion cosmetics and prevent breaking, place a cotton square between the product and the lid. Whether it’s in my handbag or my checked luggage, this easy travel hack keeps my cosmetic bag tidy saves me from spending time hunting down my favorite makeup in an unfamiliar city.

8.  Plan for souvenirs

I’ve never come home from a trip without a little treat for myself. I know when I’m in Ireland I’ll want a new wool sweater and I always pick up a new sarong in the Caribbean.   Since I know I’ll do a little shopping, I plan ahead and leave space for my purchases before I leave home. Knowing I’ll be bringing home something fun motivates me to pack light.

9.  Master the backpack carry-on

While the rolling suitcase is the hands-down winner for a checked bag, you have lots of options for a carry-on bag. A durable backpack makes a practical carry-on bag that will see as much use during your trip as it does on travel days. A backpack lets you navigate the airport hands free and is perfect for stowing snacks while site seeing. Grab one in a unisex color and everyone in the party can take a turn hauling it.

10.  Pack what you love

If you’ve done any research on travel hacks or read any other lists of packing light tips, you’ve probably seen advice to not pack heavy jeans or bulky sweaters. I’m going to tell you the opposite.  If you love it, if it makes you feel fabulous and it’s appropriate for the trip, then take it. I live in jeans, and an oversized straw hat is a must for a summer getaway.  They are bulky and difficult to pack, but they work for me. There are plenty of ways to pack light, so pick the strategies that work best for you without sacrificing something you love.

Related: 5 Quick and Easy Lingerie Packing and Traveling Tips

If you are expecting — congratulations! Taking a babymoon with your partner is a wonderful way to slow down and savor just the two of you. When deciding on a babymoon destination, luxurious beach destinations immediately come to mind. Yet, more and more expecting women are planning their babymoons for the US due to the recommendation by the CDC that pregnant women avoid traveling to areas with high concentrations of Zica virus. But that doesn’t have to ruin your dreams of the perfect beach destination. These ten options across the US offer beautiful and safe beaches.

1.  Maui, HI

Maui is easily a winner when it comes to a tropical beach destination for the ultimate relaxing babymoon. With crystal clear, warm water and sandy beaches that stretch for miles, you and your partner will have a trip to remember. Women able to keep active during their pregnancy may also enjoy hikes through tropical landscapes and up volcanoes.

Because this is a rather long flight, do be sure to check in with your doctor to ensure that flying is safe for your pregnancy (everyone’s is different), drink plenty of water, and walk the isles on occasion to stretch your legs.

2.  Cape May, NJ

Cape May is perhaps a lesser known destination in regards to beaches, but it really should be on your radar. Cape May offers visitors stunning beaches, great food, beautiful architecture, and a lovely boardwalk. On a clear day, the sunsets at Sunset Beach are very romantic to experience with a loved one. If you are really craving ice cream during your visit, try Peace Pie, a combination between a pie and an ice cream sandwich!

3.  Outer Banks, NC

Only sandy beaches as far as the eye can see here in the Outer Banks! This small group of islands off of the coast of North Carolina is a beautiful beach destination that offers visitors miles of beaches, beautiful water for swimming or snorkeling, and luxury home rentals and hotels.

4.  Cape Cod, MA

The beautiful and quirky Cape Cod provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy New England’s coastal architecture as well as both sandy and rocky beaches. This iconic US destination is an excellent option for those on a babymoon who’d like to explore lighthouses, relax on the beach, and indulge in freshly caught seafood. Cape Cod is an easy destination to reach from Boston, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, so those not wanting to travel far from home can still enjoy a relaxing babymoon on Cape Cod.

5.  Big Sur, CA

Credit: Pixabay

Big Sur has a rugged, mostly undeveloped coastline, perfect for soaking in the memorable scenery. You and your partner can experience Big Sur’s famous counterculture and nature with stops along Highway 1 or lounge at the sunny Pfeiffer Beach.

6.  Savannah, GA

Savannah is known for its slow lifestyle, delicious food, beautiful architecture, and nearby beaches. This coastal city features Tybee Island Beach, just a 20 minute drive from Savannah. Tybee Island has palm tree-lined streets and five beaches with different amenities. Three of the five beaches are public, oceanfront beaches that provide visitors with soft sand, restrooms, and nearby food options.

7.  Virginia Beach, VA

Walk hand-in-hand with your partner along the three-mile long boardwalk lining Virginia Beach, or take in the colorful sunset from the beach or even the comfort of your room. Virginia Beach is a top US destination for an indulgent babymoon. You can even spot dolphins playfully swimming along the shores. If you are craving something sweet, both Sugar Shack and Duck Donuts should easily satiate you.

8.  Charleston, SC

Thinking about a combination city break and beach vacation? How about Charleston, with its tree-lined historic streets and pristine beaches? Surrounding historic Charleston are five beautiful beaches, with some even located on islands.

Several American airlines are further limiting free luggage allowances and creating higher fees for checked luggage. Yet, we still want to look stylish and feel our best while saving money at the same time. Avoiding luggage fees by creating streamlined travel capsule wardrobes helps to save money, allowing fashionable globe trotters to travel more with less hassle and fewer fees.

1.  Create a travel capsule wardrobe

The concept of a travel capsule wardrobe is relatively simple; it features staple pieces for your style that you can mix and match to create different looks. By sticking to some basics and even laying out the clothes you’d like to wear on your trip prior to packing, you can see what clothes fit the destination as well as work together.

A great pair of jeans along with some tops to mix and match might just prove to be the perfect way to downsize your travel wardrobe. And when it comes to shoes, it is best to stick with just one extra pair since they easily eat up precious luggage space.

2.  Use minis

The liquid restrictions — 3-1-1 — mandated by airlines can be challenging to work with when you need to pack your skin care routine, hair products, and makeup. But, opting for minis or sample sizes of your favorites can really help to fit all of your favorites into that quart-sized plastic bag. If minis aren’t available of your favorite product, decanting your essentials into small bottles or tubs, which can be purchased at your local drugstore, is a great option.

If you still fear that you’ll hit the liquid limit, powdered products like toothpaste or dry shampoo really help and still have you feeling your best when you touch down in your destination. If you are a perfume lover, several companies also produce moist towelettes drenched in perfume that can be used for dabbing on the go — and saving on your liquid restrictions since they are easily packable.

3.  Wear your bulkiest items

Credit: Pexels

If boots will be one of your two shoe options, to save on luggage space, these should be worn on the plane. Though boots can be a bit annoying through security, they can take up so much precious luggage space that it makes it worth the few minutes of pulling them on and off.

On a similar note, if you plan to be wearing a heavy sweater, this can also be worn on the plane to avoid having to pack.

Related: How To Pack Bras and Save Space In Your Suitcase

4.  Pack accessories

Do you think a travel capsule wardrobe might be a bit too restrictive for your style? Save on space but still mix things up by packing several jewelry options in a cloth jewelry roll. Mixing up your jewelry or accessories, even if you are wearing the same outfit, can really help to change the style, especially when needing to elevate an outfit from day to night.

5.  Use packing cubes and envelopes

Credit: Stocksnap

The most important step for successfully packing everything you need in a carry-on only is to carefully consider the space you have. Using packing cubes for lingerie, socks, and cotton t-shirts is a great way to keep everything neat, organized, and easily accessible.

Essential to looking pulled together while traveling for work or play are fresh, unwrinkled clothes. Packing envelopes can help to keep blouses, dresses, skirts, and pants crease-free. Packing envelopes even keep more delicate items protected from other items, like shoes or zippers, in your suitcase.

Related: 5 Quick and Easy Lingerie Packing and Traveling Tips

Feature image via Stocksnap