Mark your calendars because Target is again offering gift cards at a discounted rate, just in time for next month’s holiday shopping.
This deal is exclusive to Target Circle members, who can get 10% off Target gift cards Dec. 7-8.
If you are not yet a Target Circle member, you can join online, on the Target app or in-store.
ICYMI, Target Circle, is the company’s free loyalty program. It offers members exclusive sales, personalized deals and additional members-only perks like free Apple trial subscriptions throughout the year. During this promo, members can purchase discounted Target gift cards online or in-store for use.
A shopper walks past a Target Corp. store in Jersey City, New Jersey, U.S., on Friday, Aug. 14, 2020. JEENAH MOON/BLOOMBERG VIA GETTY IMAGES
U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card: 3 points per dollar spent on all purchases made through mobile wallets, and Target accepts mobile wallet pay
U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card: 6% cash back at two retailers of your choice on up to $1,500, including Target
The information for the Target Circle Card, U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite card and U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards Visa Signature card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.
Bottom line
This deal is only for Target Circle members, but there’s still time to join if you haven’t already.
Sign up for member-only perks, including this deal, which is valid for 10% off gift cards on Dec. 7 and 8 only.
If you wish you could connect your wireless headphones to watch seatback entertainment on your next flight, the solution is 20% off this Black Friday.
While some of the newest aircraft seats offer Bluetooth connectivity in all classes, most airlines don’t, and if you have ever attempted to endure tinny inflight entertainment audio through cheap, airplane-wired headphones even though you’re traveling with a pair of high-end Bluetooth headphones, we feel your pain. Thankfully, there’s a solution.
Forget untangling cords to shove one-size-fits-all pieces of plastic into your ear and suffer from thin, baseless sound while you watch the latest Hollywood blockbuster.
The Avantree Relay Premium Bluetooth 5.3 Adapter lets you connect your wireless Bluetooth headphones through any single or dual-pin 3.5mm headphone jack with a simple device that can fit in your pocket.
Usually $39.99, you can save 20% and pick up this handy gadget from Amazon for just $31.99 right now.
AMAZON.COM
Even if you are traveling in a premium cabin where higher quality headphones are provided to all passengers, depending on the airline, these may not have noise canceling capabilities, offer the sound quality your personal wireless headphones provide and may not be as comfortable for a long flight.
If traveling with a friend, the Relay device allows you to connect up to two devices simultaneously, so you could even share screens if you don’t mind them leaning in.
With a battery life of up to 20 hours, this nifty device can be used on the world’s longest flights. It ensures you can lose yourself in the hours of entertainment your airline provides without sacrificing sound quality or personal comfort.
You can also adjust the headphone sound on the Avantree Relay Premium Bluetooth 5.3 Adapter device without hunting for a pop-out aircraft remote control or fiddling with a touchscreen.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on drugstore and dining purchases and 1.5% on all other purchases, including Amazon.
Chase Freedom Flex®: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% on drugstore and dining purchases and 1.5% on all other purchases, including Amazon.
Bottom line
You never have to suffer through long flights with poor-quality headphones again.
We love the Avantree Relay Premium Bluetooth 5.3 Adapter for its simplicity and ability to connect your favorite wireless headphones to any 3.5mm headphone jack. Now, you can enjoy all the seatback inflight entertainment you wish, and it’s 20% off this Black Friday.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information.
Traveling with babies and children means bringing a lot of extras along for the journey. If you have small children, one essential you often can’t travel without is a stroller. With so many options, choosing which stroller to buy for travel can be enough to make your wheels fall off (that’s a stroller joke, by the way).
Large strollers offer all the bells and whistles but may be too heavy, too large or too inconvenient to lug through an airport or onto a plane. They can also be challenging to maneuver around your travel destination.
Compact or umbrella strollers may work better for flying, as they’re often lightweight and small enough to fold up quickly and easily. In fact, some of these strollers designed for travel will even fit in the overhead bin on your plane.
However, when seeking a smaller size, it can be tricky to find something that is comfortable enough for your child to sit in for extended periods and can handle the rough terrain at some destinations. In other words, there are trade-offs when choosing the best travel stroller for your family.
As parents and frequent travelers, we’ve tested some of the top-rated travel strollers on the market to help you find the perfect stroller for your family. Here are the travel strollers that passed our test, plus a few tips for your next family trip.
Babyzen Yoyo2
AMAZON
Best for: Parents who need a compact stroller that can fit in the airplane overhead bin
Weight: 13.6 to 14.5 pounds
Size when folded: 20.5 inches by 17.3 inches by 7.1 inches
Most airlines accept the Babyzen Yoyo2 as cabin baggage when folded. Despite its small stature, this stroller is built for long-lasting use beyond travel. This makes it especially useful for families living in small spaces who need one easy-to-maneuver stroller that can do it all.
When you add on the optional newborn pack ($180), the Babyzen Yoyo2 can be used from birth onward. With a substantial sun protection factor of 50-plus for its canopy — as well as a gradual recline, an under-seat storage bag that supports up to 11 pounds, a zipper pocket and a padded shoulder strap for carrying the stroller when folded — the Yoyo2 is as durable and comfortable closed as it is open.
It’s not the most budget-friendly option on this list, especially if you purchase extras like the newborn pack. Unless you purchase the newborn pack, however, the stroller doesn’t fully recline for babies ages 0 to 6 months.
TPG contributor David Slotnick is a big fan of this stroller when he flies with his family.
“It folds up small enough to go in the overhead bin and is super lightweight and durable,” he said. “Every single time, the flight attendants are surprised by how compact it is.”
GB Pockit Air
AMAZON
Best for: Families who need a stroller that folds up small but can handle lots of use
Weight: 10.4 pounds
Size when folded: 11.8 inches by 7.1 inches by 13.8 inches
The GB Pockit Air folds up in just two easy steps. Don’t let its small size fool you. It still has a weight capacity of up to 55 pounds and can handle a bumpy sidewalk as well as it handles the moving walkway at the airport.
Although the no-frills GB Pockit Air doesn’t come with all the extra bells and whistles (which is why it folds up so easily), it does have a miniature sun canopy, an adjustable harness and a small storage space underneath the seat.
The GB Pockit Air is designed for babies 6 months and older (up to 55 pounds), so parents of newborns will have to wait a bit to use this small but mighty stroller.
Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller
AMAZON
Best for: Families who need a budget-friendly travel stroller
Weight: 13 pounds
Size when folded: 14 inches by 10 inches by 42 inches
Why the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller is a good travel stroller
Budget-savvy parents will be immediately drawn to the price of the Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller. The price is far from the only thing to love about this lightweight stroller, though.
The 3Dlite has a full canopy, anti-shock front wheels and a four-position recline that almost lies flat. It can hold kids who weigh up to 50 pounds, and the storage basket underneath can hold up to 10 pounds of baby travel necessities.
Speaking of extras, this affordable stroller comes with a cup holder, a Velcro pocket and a carry strap, too. One thing it doesn’t have is adjustable handles. Parents on the taller side may not find this stroller comfortable for long periods of time.
Like similar lightweight strollers, the 3Dlite is made for babies 6 months and older, so parents of newborns will have to wait to use this stroller.
Joolz Aer+
AMAZON
Best for: Families in the market for a comfortable, lightweight travel stroller
Weight: 13.23 pounds
Size when folded: 21 inches by 17.7 inches by 8.5 inches
The Joolz Aer+ folds up in one second with just one hand — ideal for anyone holding additional luggage (or a child) in their arms. When folded, the stroller easily slides into most airlines’ overhead storage bins.
The foldable seat is lightweight but made to be especially comfortable for kids. It provides support and cushion for the child’s neck and back in all reclining positions, and the sides conform to the body for additional comfort and support.
The included sun hood provides an ultraviolet protection factor of 50-plus, and there is a large storage basket underneath. Joolz does offer add-on products like a cup holder, a footboard and car seat adapters, but you must purchase those separately.
Although the stroller is adjustable, it’s designed for kids 6 months and up (with a 49-pound maximum weight limit) and doesn’t fully recline. If you plan to use this stroller with a newborn, you can buy a newborn carrycot ($219) to use for babies.
UPPAbaby Vista V3 Travel System
AMAZON
Best for: Parents who want a high-end stroller that can expand with their growing family
Weight: 27 pounds
Size when folded: 25.7 inches by 11.3 inches by 32 inches
Why the UPPAbaby Vista V3 Travel System is a good travel stroller
The UPPAbaby Vista V3 is a luxe travel stroller that can grow with your child. The standard bundle comes with a stroller frame, a toddler seat, an infant seat and a base. So, you can begin using the stroller as soon as you bring your baby home and up until they reach 50 pounds. This stroller folds in one easy step and can stand on its own when folded.
You can further configure the UPPAbaby Vista V3 to seat up to three children with the addition of a rumble seat and/or ride-along board. In addition to being versatile, the UPPAbaby Vista V3 provides a smooth ride with spring-action, all-wheel suspension. It comes with a UPF 50-plus sunshade and holds all your travel essentials in the oversized storage basket that can support up to 30 pounds of baby gear.
TPG’s vice president of marketing and communications chose the UPPAbaby Vista as her first travel stroller.
“We are expecting our first baby in just a few short weeks and decided to go with the UPPAbaby Vista for our stroller because we live in New York City and wanted something that is durable, long-lasting and able to convert to multiple combinations,” she shared. “This stroller rolls like butter and the storage basket is incredibly spacious. It comes with a bassinet and toddler seat, but I love that there are also a ton of accessories you can purchase separately to make the stroller meet your needs.”
It’s not the lightest or smallest stroller on this list. However, the multitude of use options, durability and thoughtful details — like full-grain leather accents, a rain cover and multiple color options — make it a great choice if you want a do-it-all stroller that you can use for the long haul.
Doona Car Seat & Stroller
AMAZON
Best for: Parents of newborns who want an all-in-one stroller solution
Weight: 16.5 pounds
Size when folded: 23.6 inches by 17.3 inches by 26 inches
Why the Doona Car Seat & Stroller is a good travel stroller
The wheels of the Doona Car Seat & Stroller snap up to transform it from a stroller into a car seat. This makes it ideal for globe-trotters who are always on the move. Having this one-of-a-kind product ensures you won’t need to lug extra gear around the airport or figure out a car seat plan when arriving at your destination.
There are certainly cheaper strollers out there, but when you consider that you are getting a stroller and a car seat for one price, the Doona is a surprisingly economical choice.
The Doona looks sharp with faux leather detailing and sleek black fabric. It performs well with an extendable handlebar, a canopy shade and a storage bag that attaches to the handlebar. You can purchase a larger storage bag, a sunshade and a travel bag separately.
The Doona is suitable for babies and kids weighing between 4 and 35 pounds. It can only be used as rear-facing, so your baby is likely to outgrow this stroller more quickly than other travel strollers. For the newborn stage, though, it doesn’t get much better than the convenient, compact Doona.
Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller
AMAZON
Best for: Families who need a stroller for outdoor adventures
Weight: 32 pounds
Size when folded: 34.2 inches by 31.5 inches by 14.7 inches
Why the Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller is a good travel stroller
The Thule Chariot Double Jogging Stroller may not immediately strike you as a travel-friendly stroller option, but if your travels include hiking, biking or camping (skiing and jogging kits can be purchased separately), you’ll be glad to have a multisport trailer and stroller along for the ride.
As far as trailers and strollers go, the Thule Chariot is top of the line. It folds up smaller than similar strollers, and it has independently reclining seats for napping on the go, adjustable suspension for a smooth ride no matter the surface, adjustable ventilation and a large storage basket.
Keep in mind that because of its design, you’ll have to gate-check the Thule Chariot when you fly. That said, the stroller’s larger size is often touted as one of its biggest benefits.
Bombi Bebee V2 Lightweight Stroller
Bombi Bebee V2 Lightweight Stroller. BOMBI
Best for: Families who want a durable, lightweight stroller at an affordable price
Weight: 18 pounds
Size when folded: 23.38 inches by 19.75 inches by 10 inches
Why the Bombi Bebee V2 Lightweight Stroller is a good travel stroller
The Bombi Bebee V2 is a favorite of ours for several reasons. The first is because it’s one of the easiest-to-fold strollers we’ve ever used. You can fold it up in one second using just one hand, making it a convenient option when you’re on the go.
The convenience doesn’t end there. This stroller folds up small enough to fit in most airlines’ overhead compartments, and it comes with a storage bag. When in use, the stroller’s rugged wheels provide a smooth ride, and the harness is designed so that you never have to worry about taking it apart when you need to make an adjustment.
The Bebee V2 is designed for use with children ages 6 months and older until they reach 50 pounds. You can also use it from birth with the optional car seat adapter ($19.99).
Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller
AMAZON
Best for: Parents of multiple kids who need a lightweight, compact stroller
Weight: 28 pounds
Size when folded: 26 inches by 30.3 inches by 12.8 inches
Why the Joovy Kooper X2 Double Stroller is a good travel stroller
Finding a side-by-side double stroller that meets your needs is no simple task, but the Joovy Kooper X2 ticks all the boxes. It has wide, comfortable, adjustable seats for your kids while still being slim enough to easily fit through doorways. It folds up easily with one hand and stands on its own when folded. Also, it includes all the must-have extras like snack trays, shade canopies and multiple storage spaces.
The seats and shade canopies adjust independently so you can accommodate your children when nap time arrives. Additionally, the under-stroller storage basket holds up to 22 pounds (because more kids always means more stuff).
Each seat is designed to hold a child up to 50 pounds, but it is not compatible with infant car seats. You can’t start using it until your child is at least 3 months old.
Nuna Pipa urbn + trvl Stroller & Car Seat Travel System
NORDSTROM
Best for: City dwellers who need a stroller system that can go from sidewalk to car to airplane seamlessly
Weight: 13.6 pounds
Size when folded: 24 inches by 20.25 inches by 11 inches
Why the Nuna Pipa urbn + trvl Stroller & Car Seat Travel System is a good travel stroller
The Nuna Pipa urbn + trvl system is one of the most lightweight and easy-to-use travel systems on the market. The included infant car seat has a baseless latch installation system, so you can use it in a cab, ride-hailing vehicle or airplane seat as easily as you can use it in your own car.
With the car seat removed, the stroller base folds with one hand to a super-compact size that makes it easy to carry. You can utilize the included carry bag or remove the wheels for an even smaller folded size, if necessary.
TPG’s director of marketing, Caroline English, uses the Nuna Pipa with her child at home and on the road.
“It’s great on smooth surfaces and can do a full 360-degree turn on a dime,” she said. “Also, the folding is incredible. On a recent trip to Cape Cod, we could fold it up small enough to bring into restaurants and carry it around easily.”
The Nuna Pipa also comes with a UPF 50-plus shade canopy, leatherlike accents and a storage basket. Once your baby has outgrown the Nuna Pipa’s car seat, you can use the stroller’s toddler seat for children up to 50 pounds.
Tips for flying with a travel stroller
ZIA SOLEIL/GETTY IMAGES
Where and how to check your stroller when flying
Some airlines require you to check your stroller at the gate, while others have rules about checking it at the ticket counter if it’s over a certain weight.
It’s more convenient to take your travel stroller to the gate, as your little one can ride (or nap) in it until you board. If you prefer to check it earlier, though, you can do so at the ticket counter; then, you can use a baby carrier to get your baby or toddler through the airport.
Before you get to the airport, make sure you check the regulations for the airline that you’re flying so you’re adequately prepared for what’s to come. Some compact strollers are designed to fit in overhead bins, but whether they will be allowed on board depends on the stroller, the airline and, ultimately, the flight attendants.
Preventing damage
When checking your stroller either at the gate or the ticket counter, it’s best to take a few photos before traveling. That way, if the stroller arrives damaged, you may have an easier time proving a claim. Each airline has its own rules about what is eligible for a claim, and some (like Southwest Airlines) do not cover any type of damage, only loss.
To reduce the chances of damage, cover your stroller with a storage bag when you check it. One may come with your stroller when you purchase it, depending on which model you choose. You can also order a cover for your car seat and/or travel stroller on Amazon.
Unfortunately, you should also always have a backup plan at your destination in case your stroller is lost or damaged. This can and does happen. It is also a good reason to consider some of the smaller and/or less expensive strollers for travel unless you have a true need for a more robust model.
Make note of a website for stroller rentals in your destination in case you need to resort to plan B. Also, don’t rule out a quick trip to a local Walmart or Target, where available. Airline baggage claim offices also sometimes have basic strollers available for use in the case of delayed or damaged strollers.
Getting through security
Agents will typically ask you to fold up the stroller and place it on the belt when going through Transportation Security Administration checkpoints. If your stroller is not foldable or won’t fit on the belt, it may not be the best for travel through the airport — but security can do a visual or physical inspection of it when they deem it necessary.
Bottom line
Picking the right travel stroller greatly depends on your situation. There’s no perfect one for all scenarios and situations, so you need to prioritize what matters the most for your trips. Do you want it to fit in the overhead bin? Do you want it to be economical so it’s not a huge hit if it is lost or damaged on your trip? Do you want it to be the most comfortable option for your baby for those trips when they will be spending long periods of time in the stroller?
The most compact stroller may not be the best for rugged terrain, and a stroller designed for a newborn may not be the best once your child is older.
Once you’ve figured out what you need and want to prioritize, you can more easily decide which travel stroller on this list best fits your budget, travel preferences and family.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with the latest information.
American Express Membership Rewards points and Chase Ultimate Rewards points are two of the most highly sought-after transferable currencies among travel enthusiasts. These points can unlock incredible redemptions in aspirational locations. Both programs offer a range of travel rewards credit cards and redemption options, including transferring points to airline and hotel partners or booking travel through the respective card issuer’s travel portal.
However, it’s important to note that not all points hold the same value. According to TPG’s November 2024 valuations, both Amex Membership Rewards points and Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valued at approximately 2 cents per point. The best choice depends on your spending habits and travel objectives.
Now, let’s delve into a comparison between these two programs to see how they measure up.
Transfer partners with Amex Membership Rewards vs. Chase Ultimate Rewards
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American Express Membership Rewards
Amex partners with an impressive 18 different airline programs and three hotel chains. Unless indicated, points transfer at a 1:1 rate in 1,000-point increments. Here’s the current list of Amex airline partners:
Aer Lingus AerClub
Aeromexico Club Premier (1:1.6)
Air Canada Aeroplan
Air France-KLM Flying Blue
All Nippon Airways Mileage Club
Avianca LifeMiles
British Airways Executive Club
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles
Delta Air Lines SkyMiles
Emirates Skywards
Etihad Airways Guest
Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles
Iberia Plus
JetBlue TrueBlue (250:200)
Qantas Frequent Flyer
Qatar Airways Privilege Club
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
And these are the Amex hotel transfer partners:
Choice Privileges
Hilton Honors (1:2)
Marriott Bonvoy
You can book flights or hotels through Amex Travel, but transferring points to a partner and then redeeming them (more on that a little later) typically results in the best redemption value.
With Chase Ultimate Rewards, you can transfer points to 11 airline programs:
Aer Lingus AerClub
Air Canada Aeroplan
Air France-KLM Flying Blue
British Airways Executive Club
Emirates Skywards
Iberia Plus
JetBlue TrueBlue
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
United Airlines MileagePlus
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
Chase also partners with three hotel programs:
IHG One Rewards
Marriott Bonvoy
World of Hyatt
All transfer ratios are 1:1, and you must transfer in 1,000-point increments.
To decide which program is better for you, you’ll want to consider the transfer partners you’ll use most for your travel goals.
Remember that it’s possible to use one airline’s miles to book award flights on another if they’re partners or part of the same alliance. For example, even though United Airlines isn’t an Amex Membership Rewards transfer partner, you can book United award flights by transferring Amex points to Air Canada or Singapore Airlines, as they are Star Alliance partners.
Earning points with Amex Membership Rewards vs. Chase Ultimate Rewards
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American Express Membership Rewards
Despite a once-per-lifetime policy for welcome offers, the wide range of cards that earn Membership Rewards points makes it relatively easy to accumulate a substantial points balance.
Here are some of the cards that earn Amex Membership Rewards points and come with great welcome offers:
The information for the Amex Green has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Another way to earn Amex points is through targeted Amex Offers. You’ll see all the Amex Offers available on a given card if you scroll down on your online account page or by tapping the “Offers” tab in the Amex app.
These offers come from various merchants, including travel providers, restaurants, clothing and jewelry stores. Generally speaking, Amex Offers come in one of three forms:
Spend $X, get Y number of bonus points
Spend $X, get $Y cash back as a statement credit
Get additional points per dollar spent at select merchants
While some offers will give you cash back for meeting a specific spending requirement, many offer points.
If you hold multiple Amex cards, it’s important to check all of them to ensure you’re maximizing the available offers. Additionally, reviewing the terms of each Amex Offer you add to your cards is crucial, as some may exclude gift card purchases.
Amex Offers can be combined with online shopping portals and bonus categories. Consider using a shopping portal aggregator to determine which portal offers the highest return for a specific purchase. This way, you can make the most of your purchase.
There are also five cards offered by Chase that, on their own, don’t allow you to transfer points to travel partners. However, if you have one of the cards mentioned above, you can transfer points to that account and then move them to airline and hotel partners.
The information for the Chase Freedom has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Remember that the Chase 5/24 rule may limit your ability to get approved for these cards. If you’re new to points and miles, your best bet is to apply for the Chase cards you want first.
Bonus points categories with Amex Membership Rewards vs. Chase Ultimate Rewards
OLEG BRESLAVTSEV/GETTY IMAGES
American Express Membership Rewards
We recommend maximizing everyday spending on several Amex cards by taking advantage of bonus categories. For example, the Amex Gold earns 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide (on the first $50,000 spent per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar). In comparison, the Amex Platinum earns 5 points per dollar on airfare booked directly with the airline or via American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year) and 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel.
Chase Ultimate Rewards
Chase offers a range of cards that provide ample opportunities to earn points through bonus categories. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers 5 points per dollar on travel booked through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per dollar on dining and select streaming services, 3 points per dollar on online grocery purchases (excluding Target and Walmart), 2 points per dollar on other travel and 1 point per dollar on all other expenses.
The Ink Business Preferred extends the bonus categories with 3 points per dollar on travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases made with social media and search engines (on up to $150,000 in combined purchases per account anniversary year, then 1 point per dollar) and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
With the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you’ll earn 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals when you book through Chase Travel, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on other travel (excluding the $300 travel credit) and dining and 1 point per dollar on other expenses. Moreover, Sapphire Reserve cardholders will earn 10 total points per dollar on Lyft rides when using their card, valid until March 2025.
Redemption options with Amex Membership Rewards vs. Chase Ultimate Rewards
As easy as it is to earn transferable points, you don’t want to keep them just sitting in your account — you want to redeem them. Just like the ways to earn points, all redemption options aren’t created equal, though Membership Rewards and Ultimate Rewards have a large overlap of the same transfer partners.
FRANCKREPORTER/GETTY IMAGES
For instance, if you transfer either currency to Air France-KLM’s Flying Blue program on dates with less demand, you can fly from North America to Europe from as low as 20,000 miles one-way in economy, 35,000 miles in premium economy and 50,000 miles in business class.
Singapore Airlines operates two of the world’s longest flights: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). You could transfer your Amex or Chase points to KrisFlyer at a 1:1 rate to book one-way business-class Saver fare flights for just 111,500 Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer points plus taxes and fees one-way — a small price for comfort on such an epically long flight.
With Chase, you can book travel through Chase Travel and redeem points to pay for your plane tickets, hotel stays, rental cars or experiences. If you’re a holder of theChase Sapphire Preferred or the Ink Business Preferred, each point is worth 1.25 cents. If you have the Chase Sapphire Reserve, your points are worth 1.5 cents apiece toward redemptions through the portal, which is a more valuable option than the Amex Travel portal.
Though Chase has fewer transfer partners than American Express, Chase holds its own with some unique and very valuable redemption options that can provide more value than Amex’s offerings.
Arguably the most valuable Chase transfer partner is World of Hyatt, a hotel currency TPG values highly. With its low fixed-rate award chart and no destination fees on award nights, the Hyatt transfer option is a key benefit of redeeming Chase points over Amex points, which don’t offer Hyatt as a transfer partner.
Choosing between these two programs depends on your preferences, but there’s no reason why you can’t collect both types of points, as you can’t go wrong with either transferable currency. Both programs partner with popular transfer options at a 1:1 rate, such as Air Canada Aeroplan, British Airways Executive Club, Air France-KLM Flying Blue, JetBlue TrueBlue, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and more.
Collecting either credit card currency is a smart idea if you’re looking to transfer points to these programs.
There are differences between the redemption options of Amex and Chase points. Chase Ultimate Rewards is a great choice if you’re aiming for remarkable redemptions like luxury Hyatt stays or want the flexibility of redeeming points through Chase Travel for virtually any flight or hotel for up to 1.5 cents per point, depending on the type of Chase card you hold.
If you’re a Delta SkyMiles, Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles or Avianca LifeMiles fan, only Amex’s Membership Rewards transfer to these programs, so collecting Amex points would be a better option.
Maintaining flexible and diverse points and miles balances will give you the most options when redeeming your rewards regardless of your preferred currency.
The Transportation Security Administration expects Tuesday, Nov. 26, to be one of the busiest days of the year at U.S. airports, followed closely by Wednesday, Nov. 27. The Sunday after Thanksgiving could be the busiest day ever.
“The Sunday following Thanksgiving is historically our busiest day of the year,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in an interview with TPG. “So it wouldn’t surprise me that that’s the case.” He said the TSA is fully staffed and ready.
Nearly 80 million people are expected to travel by plane, bus, train, or car between Tuesday and Monday, Dec. 2, according to AAA. That would be the busiest holiday period in U.S. history — easily surpassing prepandemic numbers.
That’s why we compiled some of our top tips for people traveling for Thanksgiving or venturing out for Christmas. Here’s what you need to know.
Get to the airport early
Fountain at New York City’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA). CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY
Thankfully, we aren’t seeing the staffing shortages of a few years ago, but there are only so many baggage handlers, ticket counter employees and security screeners to handle these record-breaking crowds.
While many flyers don’t want to hear it, I am telling travelers to get to the airport three hours early this week. The standard advice is two hours early for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights, but I’d rather be safe than sorry.
There are so many things to do these days at most airports — from lounges to restaurants to shopping — that I don’t think extra time at the airport is generally wasted. Why not have the peace of mind of not rushing?
Remember, you’ll be hitting the airport with a lot of inexperienced travelers and families, so a little extra time will help you pack your patience. The TSA also reminded passengers not to put lithium-ion batteries in checked bags and to keep guns out of carry-on bags.
“If we took the 6,700 firearms we’re going to find by the end of this calendar year and said we didn’t have any of those, the whole process would be faster,” Pekoske said. “Because a firearm in a screening lane takes a good 15-20 minutes to resolve. And so, in a busy part of the travel day, that can really affect literally hundreds of people.”
Don’t forget to install the app of the airline you are flying on your phone. The apps are getting increasingly sophisticated, and they even show you if your plane is on time and where it’s coming from. United Airlines even shows weather maps in the app that will help you track your flight and make sure things are on time.
The apps can help you rebook if things go sideways without waiting on a long customer service hold. Often, you’ll also find cheap upgrade offers in the app. Wouldn’t flying in first class make the trip even better?
You can also track your bags with some of the airline apps and use some of the other handy features there, too. Sometimes, that’s how you’ll be able to watch inflight entertainment or get onto Wi-Fi.
Check the weather at your departure and arrival airports
National Weather Service short-range forecast map. NOAA
I can’t emphasize this enough: Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to airline flight delays and cancellations. You should know the weather at your departure and arrival airports; be aware of weather that could negatively affect your flight or even the flight that is bringing your plane to you.
For example, if you know there is a major weather event affecting the Northeast, your flight is likely to be delayed or canceled. If you have any wiggle room in your schedule, you should think about booking a different time or day. Sometimes, during operational meltdowns, it can make more sense to cut bait and cancel the trip or reschedule it altogether.
If you are going home for the holidays and you see a big storm headed for your home airport, see if the airline will allow you to go a day earlier or later. The airlines are usually willing to work with you to rebook you on a day that’s less affected.
Often, the airlines issue weather waivers that will allow you to rebook without paying any fees or even repricing the trip.
Have a backup plan
We also advise folks to always have a backup plan. If the weather affects your home airport, can you take a train? If your airline is having an IT meltdown, but it’s not affecting a competitor, can you get rebooked on another carrier’s flight instead?
You should know what other airline is operating the flight you want to take, so when you reach customer service, you can ask the agent to book you on that competitor’s flight or even a flight leaving a bit earlier or a bit later.
If you have an alternate suggestion, it’s always going to help the phone or gate agent. Don’t just leave it up to the airline to rebook you. It might not always find the best flight or solution for you.
You need to be your own best advocate in these situations. Ask for the alternate flight you want. If you are substantially delayed or your flight is canceled, ask for that meal voucher or hotel room. Airlines are not always legally required to help you, but it never hurts to ask. It helps if you know what you want.
Use every tool to contact customer service
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I advise folks on canceled or delayed flights that they need to use every tool in the toolbox to get service. Remember, you will be competing with every other flyer on that delayed or canceled flight to get rebooked. And let’s face it, there’s not that many empty seats out there … especially during the holidays.
Call your airline, and go get in a customer service line while you wait on hold. You should also be attempting to rebook yourself in the airline app and be messaging the airline on social media to try and reach someone. You never know who you’ll reach first.
If you have lounge access, that can also be a great place to get rebooked, with much shorter wait times. Most airline-branded lounges will have agents who can help with tickets.
Suppose you can’t get through to customer service at all. If the airline has an overseas office, you can sometimes reach it if you can’t get hold of the airline’s U.S. number. Just be very careful. Avoid Googling the airline customer service number on the fly. Hackers sometimes pose as airline customer service offices to steal your money.
Make sure you are contacting your airline through known channels. Every major airline has a contact page, help center or something similar on its website.
If you have an airline credit card, you should be able to call the customer service number on the back of your credit card. Or, if you have elite status with an airline, you may have access to a dedicated customer service number or an airport lounge with live customer service agents (and shorter lines).
Many airlines also offer live chat, texting or direct messaging service via Facebook or X for convenient customer service options. Our full guide on quickly reaching an airline customer service agent outlines the best way to contact each major airline.
Know your rights
U.S. Department of Transportation consumer rights dashboard. TRANSPORTATION.GOV
Your rights as a passenger have improved in the past few years, thanks in part to aggressive consumer protection moves by the U.S. Department of Transportation. You are now entitled to a speedy refund when your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, and you decide not to take the trip. That’s even if it’s due to what the airline deems an “act of God,” like weather or a technology meltdown.
You should also be refunded for any add-ons you bought ahead of the trip, such as Wi-Fi, extra-legroom seats or baggage fees.
However, you won’t get a refund, and you aren’t entitled to compensation if you end up taking a later flight. If you are rebooked, the airline has technically fulfilled its contract of carriage. However, compensation is still not required for long delays and cancellations if you take the trip.
There is no EU261-style compensation in America, though some of us at TPG would like to see passengers get monetary awards for long delays and cancellations. That appears unlikely anytime soon, though.
Get Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and/or Clear
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At TPG, we strongly encourage people to enroll in a Trusted Traveler Program like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
With these programs, the government essentially prescreens you for security, thus saving you time during your travels. You’ll need to apply ahead of time and pay a fee. The great news, though, is that many credit cards will give you a statement credit for these fees.
TSA PreCheck allows you to speed through airport security without removing your shoes, laptops or liquids. With Global Entry, you can breeze through customs when you return from an international trip.
We recommend getting Global Entry rather than simply TSA PreCheck. Global Entry requires an interview with U.S. Customs and Border Protection ahead of time, but once you’re approved, TSA PreCheck will be included.
We also like Clear, another security program that allows members to bypass long security lines.
A Clear membership combined with TSA PreCheck will enable you to go to even shorter lines at some airports with designated Clear or TSA PreCheck lines.
Biometric screening at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY
Finally, if biometric screening is an option, try that out. I’m a huge fan after using it a few times in New York City and Atlanta. It’s coming to more and more airports, and in my experience, it’s even faster than TSA PreCheck.
Stay safe
Remember safety during your travels. Dale Bendler, a former CIA officer and chairman of Stay Safe Digital Academy, has some tips for travelers. He said to avoid staying on the ground floor of a hotel for extra protection from thieves. He suggested keeping valuables in a safe and using doorstops.
“Avoid opening the door to strangers without verifying their identity, and use the peephole or call the front desk to confirm unexpected visits,” Bendler said.
He also recommends avoiding sharing too much on social media: “Limit what you share about your travel plans on social media. Posting your location in real-time can alert potential thieves that your home is empty. Save the holiday photos for when you return home to avoid giving away your absence.”
Reserve parking
Don’t forget the need for airport parking. We are increasingly seeing “sold out” signs at some airport parking lots, especially around peak travel days.
To ensure you aren’t spending valuable minutes looking for an elusive parking spot that may or may not exist, lock in that reservation now. Most airport parking lots offer prepaid or reserved parking, making it easy to book in advance.
You can often tap into some discounts if you book your parking in advance. In some places, these savings can go as high as 50%, though that number varies from airport to airport.
When to travel if you are driving
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Most experts suggest traveling in the mornings before the holiday. Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons will be the worst time to drive. If you can travel on Thanksgiving Day itself, that will actually be the lightest traffic day.
For the ride home, travel before 1 p.m. on Sunday and before 8 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on Monday.
Bendler suggests planning your route ahead of time to avoid unexpected delays and heavy traffic. He also had some other tips:
“Check weather forecasts and road conditions frequently and be prepared for changes. Make sure your vehicle is in top condition by inspecting the tires, brakes, and fluids before hitting the road. Keep an emergency kit in your car with essentials like a first aid kit, flashlight, water, and non-perishable snacks. Take breaks to stay alert and avoid fatigue. Remember that the holidays are stressful for many people, especially drivers.”
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
Let’s say you bought a ticket to Europe last year, but you need a refund because your flight was canceled. The airline returns the fare cost to your credit card, leading to a negative balance on your card. Returned or refunded purchases don’t just decrease your account balance, though. They also decrease your rewards balance.
Specifically, most credit card issuers deduct rewards for returns and refunds. If you already have a low rewards balance, these refunds can cause it to fall into the negative. Here’s what you need to know about negative reward balances on credit cards.
How a negative rewards balance happens
We generally don’t recommend hoarding your reward points and miles. However, if you redeem your points regularly, you may occasionally see your rewards balance go into the negative.
So, how does this happen? As it turns out, most credit card issuers will deduct rewards for the following three reasons.
Returns and refunds
As mentioned, most credit card rewards programs subtract rewards for returns and refunds, which can lead to a negative balance. However, the return won’t impact your credit card account if you can secure a voucher or store credit instead of a refund.
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Many merchants are happy to issue a voucher instead of a refund.
Rewards reversal
Most credit card rewards programs reserve the right to reverse rewards if a cardholder misuses the rewards program. For example, American Express has taken back rewards earned from self-referrals in the past. If something like this happens to you, you may have a negative reward balance if you have already spent the points.
Finally, your rewards balance may become negative if the issuer reverses your welcome offer. For example, American Express has reversed welcome offers for cardholders who cancel or downgrade within 12 months of opening.
You may also lose your welcome offer if you return or refund a purchase that helped you earn that offer. After all, just one return or refund could put you below the minimum spending requirements to earn the offer.
How negative reward balances are treated across issuers
Most reward programs don’t provide much information about negative reward balances in their terms, so I contacted three major credit card issuers for some answers. Here’s what I learned.
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American Express
When you return or refund a purchase, you’ll usually get a statement credit on your American Express card. This statement credit will trigger a deduction of points from your account.
Additionally, you may also lose your welcome offer. Specifically, an American Express spokesperson told TPG:
If a cardmember returns or cancels purchases made to meet the welcome offer threshold amount, we may not credit the rewards to the account.
Based on Amex’s Membership Rewards terms, if you have a negative point balance, American Express will apply any points you subsequently earn to that balance. So, while it might be stating the obvious, you won’t be able to redeem any points until your balance becomes positive.
But what if you want to close your card? There are a few reports online of card members being charged for a negative rewards balance when closing a card. However, when asked about one of these reports, an American Express spokesperson stated:
No; this is not typical. American Express does not charge card members for points following the cancellation of their card.
You won’t be charged for a negative rewards balance if you cancel your card. But you may still want to make your reward balance positive before closing your account. After all, American Express’ takes potential reward abuse seriously, and you don’t want to jeopardize any future relationship.
If you get a refund on your card, any rewards you earned from the original purchase will normally be removed from your rewards balance.
One online forum user reported that Capital One did not charge them to close a negative rewards balance account, but the negative balance was very small.
Chase
If you return a purchase, Chase will deduct the rewards originally earned from those earned on other purchases. As a result, you may see a negative rewards balance on your account.
Chase states:
The reward points earned through the purchase will be deducted from your point earnings (which can include bonus points) once the transaction has been posted to your account. If you redeemed all your reward points before making the return, this will be reflected as a negative balance in your reward point accumulation in your online portal.
One online forum user reported that they were able to close their account with a negative Ultimate Rewards point balance.
Citi
According to Citi’s ThankYou Rewards terms and conditions, you’ll earn points for purchases minus returns and refunds. These terms also note that if your points balance becomes negative, the program will apply all points you earn to that balance.
You can link to information about fraud, misuse, abuse and suspicious activity from most Citi application pages. Specifically, if Citi sees evidence of these activities, it may:
Take away your accrued ThankYou Points.
Stop you from earning ThankYou Points.
Suspend or close your card or ThankYou account.
Take legal action to recover rewards redeemed and recover monetary losses.
So, if you close a card with a negative point balance, Citi might or might not attempt to recover any redeemed rewards. Either way, you’ll likely want to wait to close your account when your point balance is positive.
In summary, it appears as though, with all the issuers listed, closing an account with a negative rewards balance is handled on a case-by-case basis.
If you’re using your credit cards as intended, you likely won’t have any issues with a rewards balance that goes negative. I once had a negative reward balance after obtaining a refund on a canceled flight. But, my spending in the next month easily brought my rewards balance back into the positive range.
Some cardholders have reported experiencing no negative effects after closing a card with a small negative rewards balance. Still, I’d recommend getting your rewards balance into the positive before closing your credit card account.
British Airways has unveiled a brand-new first-class suite that will be available starting in 2026 on board the world’s largest passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380.
This will be the first update to British Airways’ first-class offering since 2020, when it rolled out an upgraded seat on several aircraft in its Boeing 777 fleet. This iteration was the first for the airline to feature a privacy door and three-point seat belt.
BRITISH AIRWAYS
British Airways’ latest first-class offering will be rolled out across the airline’s Airbus A380 aircraft and is expected to take to the skies in early to mid-2026.
BRITISH AIRWAYS
The route on which the new first-class suites will debut has yet to be revealed, though it’s worth noting the airline’s A380 currently flies from London on U.S. routes to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Miami International Airport (MIA), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).
BRITISH AIRWAYS
The new first-class product was revealed Monday evening at the company’s Waterside headquarters to a group of select media outlets. The airline also announced three new U.K.-Italy routes slated to begin in 2025: Heathrow Airport (LHR) to Rimini, London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Salerno, and London City Airport (LCY) to Olbia.
Elsewhere, a British Airways spokesperson confirmed to TPG that a new British Airways app would be rolled out by the end of March.
Calum Laming, BA’s chief customer officer, led the announcement, saying: “We’re incredibly proud to launch the next era of First that pushes the boundaries of comfort, luxury and modernity, taking into consideration customer preferences and expectations to the finest detail.”
Here is everything you need to know about British Airways’ new first-class suite.
Details of British Airways’ new first-class suite
The all-new, redesigned first-class suite is set to take to the skies in early to mid-2026 and will be retrofitted across BA’s fleet of Airbus A380s.
The new first-class suites will come in a 1-2-1 configuration with three rows per cabin, for a total of 12 seats.
The upgraded seats are ultrawide, coming in at 36 1/2 inches according to British Airways — significantly wider than the current first-class seats — with a bed length of 79 inches when fully reclined. This will be the widest and longest seat on a British Airways flight.
BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY
Each seat will feature a multipurpose ottoman, a stowable table and a commendably sized 32-inch 4K inflight entertainment screen.
BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY
Bluetooth connectivity will allow passengers to use their own wireless headphones or those supplied by the airline.
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The IFE screens, lighting and seat position can all be controlled using a 10-inch tablet-style controller.
BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY
Additional features include adjustable mood lighting with settings such as “relax,” “dine” and “cinema,” alongside easily accessible buttons to adjust the seat.
BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY
The entire seat is wrapped in a curved wall that stands a whopping 5 feet tall.
BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY
On the outside of this is a leather-lined wardrobe with space for carry-on luggage and clothing items such as coats or suit jackets.
BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY
The airline said it worked closely with Collins Aerospace in developing the first-class suite, following its involvement in the renowned Club Suite, British Airways’ business-class offering.
It’s unclear whether British Airways’ other wide-body jets with first-class suites — the Boeing 777, 779, 787-9 and 787-10 — would also receive a revamp, though nothing from the carrier during the announcement indicated that they would be remodeled. Currently, the airline’s fleets of Boeing A350s and 787-8s do not operate a first-class service.
BA currently offers first class on the following aircraft:
All 16 Boeing 787-9 aircraft (eight first-class seats per aircraft and the older Club World business-class cabins)
All 10 Boeing 787-10 aircraft (eight first-class seats per aircraft)
15 of 27 Boeing 777-200ER aircraft (13 with eight first-class seats per aircraft, also fitted with Club Suites, and two with 14 first-class seats per aircraft and the older Club World cabins)
All 15 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft (eight first-class seats per aircraft, also fitted with Club Suites)
All 10 Airbus A380 aircraft (14 first-class seats per aircraft and the older Club World cabins)
Note that with maintenance and refurbishment requirements regularly affecting fleet utilization, this number of aircraft may not always be in service, and the total number of aircraft with first-class cabins in service can and does change.
All existing first-class suites have a similar design: a 1-2-1 reverse-herringbone layout. As expected, they all have direct aisle access and a lie-flat bed.
There are subtle differences between the first-class seats on the various aircraft types. The oldest seats, designed in 2010 and found on the A380s and most Boeing 777s, have a beige and navy blue color scheme and older inflight entertainment screens. These seats do not have closing doors.
The seat design from 2015, installed on the Boeing 787-9 and -10 aircraft, is a more modern black and has a larger seatback inflight entertainment screen. These seats also do not have closing doors.
NICKY KELVIN/THE POINTS GUY
The newest first-class seats currently flying are only installed on a handful of Boeing 777 aircraft and continue the black color scheme by introducing a sliding door, turning the seat into a suite more in line with other carriers’ first-class products.
British Airway’s next-generation first-class suite is more of an evolution than a revolution. As with the current seats, the 1-2-1 configuration provides plenty of space and privacy, thanks to the suite’s high walls and closing doors. It’s certainly impressive and no doubt the best seat BA has ever flown.
It’s definitely going to be one AvGeeks will go out of their way to fly. However, other leading airlines like Emirates and Singapore Airlines have raised the bar higher with their latest first-class suites with more impressive tech (such as Emirates’ digital windows for middle seats) and jaw-dropping 1-1 configurations (as seen in Singapore’s first class).
The rollout timeline may be a little disappointing for some, given the 12-month wait between announcement and operation. But once it arrives, the upgrade will likely be welcomed by those with the means — or miles — to book a first-class suite.
Simplicity and ruggedness make duffel bags a great choice for travel, and things get even more exciting when you add wheels.
A rolling duffel bag is in a league of its own. It’s not quite a suitcase and it’s not quite a duffel bag—it’s somewhere in between, which means you get the best of both worlds. When you need to carry a hefty amount of gear, a rolling duffel bag might just be your best bet.
It’s a bit of a niche product. Most luggage brands don’t make rolling duffels, and most backpack brands don’t, either. There are a few companies out there who are leading the charge, like Eagle Creek, Osprey and Db.
If you just want our top pick for the single best rolling duffel bag on the market, check out the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT. It’s tough and functional, and it comes in a range of sizes. We also were impressed by the Db Hugger, which features an innovative “rib cage” design that adds structure and protection for your gear.
Of course, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. I’ll guide you through our top 15 duffel bag picks and help you decide which fits your needs.
Why Trust TravelFreak?
Every member of the TravelFreak team is an avid traveler and adventurer. We all love the massive carrying capacity and easy packability of duffel bags, and we’ve stuffed various duffels with clothes for a month abroad, equipment for long-distance treks, and climbing gear for days at the crag.
We’ve tested dozens of duffel bags, and most of the bags in our collection have seen more than their share of abuse. We dragged them over miles of cobblestone and tossed them off bus roofs.
We are serious about finding and recommending the absolute best gear on the market. Because of that, we weren’t satisfied with the surface-level, seat-of-the-pants style of reviewing you see so often on the internet.
So we got our team of gear junkies and former product engineers together to develop the most in-depth and comprehensive test methodology for rating luggage and bags. We now evaluate every product over 29 specific metrics across eight categories to get an objective picture of how the bag performs.
We dug into the nitty gritty details of these duffel bags so you don’t have to. Every bag on this list earned our full vote of confidence for its intended use case.
Eagle Creek is one of my favorite brands for rugged, adventure-ready travel gear. Unlike travel brands that sacrifice build quality and functionality for style, Eagle Creek puts durability and usability first. Their products are utilitarian and ready for whatever you throw at them.
The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT easily earned our top pick for the best rolling duffle bag overall. It’s rugged, simple, and well-designed.
The build quality alone makes this rolling duffle bag stand out from the crowd. It’s made with a combination of 800D nylon and 1680D ballistic polyester fabric.
The smooth-rolling wheels are huge and have grippy rubberized tires that make them quiet and very durable. Compared to most luggage wheels, these burly oversized wheels seem ready for all sorts of off-road adventures.
It also is backed by Eagle Creek’s awesome No Matter What Warranty. If it ever breaks, Eagle Creek will fix it. It’s as simple as that.
Most rolling duffle bags are just that. The only logical way to move them is by wheeling them around. They have grab handles, but those are more for hefting them in and out of vehicles. The Cargo Hauler XT adds something I rarely see in wheeled duffel bags: backpack shoulder straps.
While the backpack mode isn’t as comfortable as a full-on hiking backpack, it offers an alternative way to carry the bag. This is great if you’re moving up and down stairs or over rougher terrain where wheels won’t cut it.
Of course, even our top pick isn’t perfect. If you like multiple compartments for organization, this bag is okay, but not the best. The interior is mainly one huge cavernous space, and it’s easy for stuff to get lost down in the bottom. I highly recommend using packing cubes to stay organized.
If you’re on the hunt for a wheeled duffel bag that combines rugged durability with smart features, the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler is worth a look.
I’m like most people out there—when I’m on a tight budget, Amazon is the first place I shop. While you can find a lot of cheap, poorly-made products on Amazon, there are also a handful of cheap, decent products that are still well-made. Surprisingly, Amazon’s in-house brand, AmazonBasics, is a pretty solid choice.
The AmazonBasics Ripstop Wheeled Duffel is less than half the price of most duffel bags on this list, and it will work great for 90% of people.
Surprisingly, for a budget pick, this bag is loaded with features. There are multiple exterior pockets to keep things handy. External and internal compression straps help keep everything secure. There are even separate compartments for shoes and dirty laundry.
Most importantly, this bag just works. The roller wheels are smooth and surprisingly sturdy. The spacious main compartment has tons of room for everything you want to throw in there.
While it may not be the best pick for frequent travelers, I think this AmazonBasics rolling duffle bag is perfect for more occasional travel or long-haul road trips.
Of course, the build quality is not going to be on par with brands like Eagle Creek and Osprey. If you want a rolling duffle bag that will last the rest of your life, it’s worth investing in something higher quality. But if you just need a cheap, capable, durable enough bag, this AmazonBasics duffel is more than adequate.
I’m a big fan of traveling with nothing but a carry-on bag. Checking luggage can be expensive, and it adds extra stress to my trip. A carry-on, on the other hand, lets me keep everything I need easily accessible.
The North Face is best known for selling gear and clothing for hiking, mountaineering, and other outdoor adventures, but they also make a range of capable travel gear, including some of the most durable rolling duffle bags on the market.
Wheeled duffel bags are a fantastic choice for carry-on luggage, and the North Face Rolling Thunder is the best carry-on wheeled duffel we tested.
Unlike many rolling duffel bags, the North Face Rolling Thunder has a rigid hard shell that wraps around the lower half of the bag. This makes it hold its shape for easy packing and makes the bag easier to slide into the overhead compartment on a flight.
Combined with the sturdy aluminum handle and overbuilt rubberized wheels, the half-hard-shell construction makes this bag very structured and protective—a far cry from the flimsy floppiness of many duffle bags.
Of course, not everyone will like this more structured design. It feels more like a hybrid between a duffle bag and a hard shell suitcase, so if that isn’t what you’re after, you’ll be happier with a more traditional rolling duffle bag design.
4. Db Hugger 90L: Best Rolling Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage
The Db Hugger 90L is unlike any other duffel bag we tested. The unique design and construction make it a fantastic choice for check-in wheeled luggage.
It all starts with Db’s innovative rib cage technology. Most duffel bags are unstructured and flexible, and they don’t offer much protection for the contents. Hard shell suitcases offer much better protection, but they come with their own host of issues. Using a unique rib cage design, Db created a rolling duffle bag that is stronger and more protective.
Essentially, the Hugger is a normal fabric bag with semi-rigid molded ABS “ribs” sewn in and plenty of foam padding in the spaces between the ribs. This design has several advantages over a standard fabric duffle bag.
First, it provides much better protection. With the skeleton-like construction and the ample padding, I don’t worry about my gear getting smashed or dented during travel—that’s especially welcome when I’m traveling with expensive sports gear. And yes, those airport baggage handlers seem to have a mission to break anything fragile in my suitcase.
Second, the additional structure means this bag doesn’t collapse into itself when empty. That makes it much easier to pack and unpack.
Third, the bag holds its shape even when it isn’t fully packed. No more ugly saggy bag drooping along behind you.
The Db Hugger is very minimal in design. There’s a wraparound zipper that opens the entire front panel to expose a huge main compartment. There are a few mesh pockets along the inside for small items. And that’s it. No compression straps. No complicated organization systems. It’s just a big, empty volume to pack your stuff.
Honestly, that’s pretty refreshing when so many rolling duffels these days are loaded with unnecessary features. However, it would be nice to have one zippered pocket on the outside to keep small items handy.
This bag is awesome, but it isn’t for everyone. It’s one of the most expensive rolling duffel bags we tested, and many people will do just fine with less expensive wheeled duffels. It’s designed for serious travelers who want the best durability and protection available.
Whether you’re packing for a family, making an international move, or just packing for gear-intensive camping trips, sometimes you just need the largest packing space possible.
The Osprey Sojourn Shuttle 130L is an enormous rolling duffle bag that pairs its outrageous volume with strength and durability to match. Osprey is best known for their hiking and backpacking packs, and they carry that expertise into this rugged travel bag.
Many rolling duffels feel a bit flimsy, and with this size duffel bag, a ripped seam would be catastrophic. Osprey went above and beyond to make this rolling duffle as tough and adventure-ready as possible. It uses durable materials, a heavy-duty frame, and oversized 110 mm wheels.
The Sojourn Shuttle wheeled duffel has just the right amount of features. The compression straps help manage the load, and the multiple compartments keep you organized without being overwhelming. You don’t have to worry about forgetting which zippered pocket you left your passport in.
No, this bag is not the ideal pick for a quick weekend getaway. It’s designed to be a heavy-duty load hauler for packing everything but the kitchen sink.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Thule Chasm is a compact carry-on-sized wheeled duffel that is designed more for light packers. If you like the easy packing of a duffel bag but don’t need tons of space, this is a great option.
Most rolling duffel bags are intended for checked luggage, but this little duffel fits carry-on size restrictions for virtually any flight in the world. If you’re a light packer, this is one of the best wheeled duffel bags out there.
The Thule Chasm keeps it simple with a big C-shaped opening, one internal pocket, and no exterior pockets. The compression straps do a great job at shrinking down the volume if you’re traveling really light.
One thing to be aware of is that it has a rigid plastic shell around the bottom half. That makes it much more protective and durable, but if you want something that packs down small for storage, you’ll want a more foldable rolling duffel bag.
A waterproof bag can be a lifesaver if you ever get caught out in a storm. If you travel frequently to rainy destinations like Southeast Asia or the PNW, that’s a matter of when, not if.
The Osprey Transporter combines polyurethane-coated fabrics with sealed zippers for a highly water-resistant wheeled duffel that will keep your stuff dry in even the worst deluge.
It’s important to note that this duffel is not rated for submersion, so pick something else if you’re planning a whitewater rafting trip. There are no fully submersible wheeled duffel bags on the market today, so if you need the ultimate waterproof protection, the Osprey Transporter Waterproof is a great choice without wheels.
The wheeled version is still more than capable of keeping everything dry if it’s strapped to your car during a rainstorm. It’s also incredibly durable and comes with Osprey’s unbeatable warranty.
International carry-on size restrictions are a bit different than those for domestic flights. If you plan on traveling internationally, it’s important to get a bag with the right dimensions to fit in the overhead bin on any flight.
The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler XT International Carry-On is one of the few rolling duffel bags designed specifically to work as an international carry-on. The dimensions are 21.5 x 13.75 x 7.75 in, which means this bag will pass as a carry-on for virtually any flight in the world.
It also weighs in at just over 5.5 lbs, which makes it easier to stay under weight limits (and easier to heave into the overhead bin).
Of course, you also get Eagle Creek’s impressive durability and warranty. This is a bag you’ll have for the rest of your life.
If you specifically need a 30-inch-long wheeled duffel bag, this is the one to get. It’s a perfect size for most trips, and the structured design and huge top opening make it incredibly easy to pack.
The biggest downside of this Db rolling duffle bag is the cost, which is quite a bit more than other options. If you don’t travel that often, I recommend buying something less expensive. However, for frequent travelers, this is a durable and well-built wheeled duffel bag that’s designed to take some abuse.
The No Matter What Duffel is different from anything else on this list because it doesn’t use a rigid frame or telescoping handle. This means it can collapse down into a much smaller package for storage.
Unlike many Eagle Creek bags, this one manages to hit a much more affordable price point.
It’s also one of the lightest bags on this list at 4.5 lbs.
11. Osprey Daylite: Best Rolling Duffel Bag for Air Travel
If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll notice that this is the third Osprey rolling duffel bag on this list, and there’s a reason for that. Osprey builds some of the best quality gear out there, and their warranty is second to none.
We feel confident recommending Osprey gear because we feel confident using Osprey gear on our own travels.
The Osprey Daylite Rolling Duffel is no exception. It’s not the most rugged or feature-packed product from Osprey, but the simple, no-frills design makes it perfect for air travelers who need a reliable bag to carry everything.
Overall, this is a straightforward wheeled duffel bag that just gets the job done, but it also comes with a pair of hidden shoulder straps that let you carry it like a backpack. This is a great bonus for times when you need to keep your hands free.
I also appreciate that the bag is made entirely from Bluesign-approved recycled polyester. For anyone who’s trying to reduce their impact on the planet, this is a big win.
Most wheeled duffel bags just have one big opening at the top, but drop bottom duffel bags have a zipper that wraps around the perimeter, dividing the bag into two big sections.
Drop-bottom duffel bags are ideal when you’re packing a lot of gear because they let you divide it up and get to stuff at the bottom without having to dig too deep.
The Travelpro Bold Drop Bottom Duffel is a massive bag that makes the most of this design by adding compression straps, organization pockets, and a zip-away divider that lets you turn it into one cavernous space. It also has an expansion zipper that gives you a few extra inches of depth when you need it.
This rolling duffle bag is a fantastic choice if you’re packing heavy, whether that means taking a family vacation or moving overseas.
Briggs & Riley is one of the most respected luggage brands in the world. Pilots, flight crews, and frequent fliers trust their bags and suitcases day-in and day-out.
That’s partly because of their uncompromising quality and partly because of their almost-unbelievable warranty. They want their bags to last a lifetime, so they will repair any damage for any reason.
If you’re looking for the best quality rolling duffle bag on the market, it makes sense to turn to Briggs & Riley. Their Medium Upright Duffel will last the rest of your life and be ready to hand down to your kids. No joke.
This bag is expensive. Honestly, for the price, you’d expect it to be flashier. Sure, it’s stylish, functional, and well-designed, but there are no fancy features or luxurious details that stand out.
So what are you paying for? Well, it’s that legendary Briggs & Riley durability and warranty. What this bag lacks in innovative design, it makes up for in sheer build quality. The materials, zippers, wheels, and other components are all top-notch quality. This bag isn’t going to break anytime soon.
Besides, if anything does go wrong, they’ll fix it for you. That’s the kind of peace of mind I’d be willing to spend some extra cash on.
If you’re traveling light, you want a bag to match. At 5.5 lbs, the Bric’s X-Bag 21″ Carry-On Rolling Duffle Bag is the lightest full-featured rolling duffel bag I’ve encountered. That means less worrying about weight limits or struggling to lift it into the overhead bin.
The X-Bag 21″ Carry-On is a hybrid between a duffel bag and a more standard soft-sided suitcase. Despite its low weight, it uses a durable nylon canvas material that stands up well to wear and tear.
This bag is perfect for adventurous travelers who don’t need much more than the essentials. The design has just enough features, the construction is minimal and durable, and the styling is a lovely blend of rugged and refined.
There are also some nice finishing touches like the genuine full-leather trim detailing.
If you’re packing a duffel full of crampons and ice axes, tossing it on top of a bus, and setting up base camp for an epic adventure, you need a bag that is tough enough for the job.
The Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel was purpose-built for adventurous travelers. If you’re looking for sleek, urban styling, this bag isn’t for you. If you want next-level organization and storage for more electronics than are good for you, this bag isn’t for you.
On the other hand, if you want something you can accidentally drop off the roof of your car or drag over rough cobblestone streets without worry, you may have just found your ideal duffel bag.
Patagonia’s Black Hole series is known for durability, and this bag lives up to the name, with heavy-duty materials and components.
Plus, it comes in three sizes, so you can get exactly what you need.
There’s a lot that goes into choosing a good rolling duffel bag. What material does it use? Is it carry-on compliant? Can the wheels handle the abuse of frequent travel?
We break our testing and rating for rolling duffel bags and luggage into eight categories: build quality, ease of use, functionality, water resistance, brand impact, buying experience, warranty, and price-to-performance ratio.
Within each category there are several specific factors we look at to choose the best bags.
These considerations can also help you know what to look for while shopping for a new bag.
Build Quality
A rolling duffel bag is an investment that should last for many years of travel. That’s why build quality is our top consideration for choosing the best rolling duffel bags. A bag may be stylish and feature-packed, but if it falls apart after a few trips, it isn’t worth spending your hard-earned money on it.
We’ve spent enough time traveling and testing duffel bags to know where they fail and what makes the difference for the ones that can handle abuse.
Zippers are almost always the first thing to break in a duffel bag. We like big, chunky zippers that can take some abuse, and we’ve found YKK-brand zippers to be the best.
The bag’s main material plays an important role in durability. Heavy-duty Cordura nylon or laminated fabrics like X-Pac are some of our favorites for backpacks.
Components like buckles and adjusters are also easy to break. We look for big, heavy-duty buckles.
A durable duffel bag should have reinforcements in high-wear areas like the bottom.
Stitch quality can make the difference between two bags that use the same materials. We look for backpacks with tight, even stitches and cleanly finished seams that won’t come apart.
Ease of Use
A rolling duffel bag should be simple, streamlined, and easy to use. Here are some key features we look at when rating a bag for ease of use.
Packing and organization should be straightforward in a duffel bag. We like pockets and features, but too many can be overwhelming.
The telescoping handle should be sturdy, intuitive, and adjustable. The more adjustment positions the better.
Good maneuverability makes a bag easier to handle in airports or through city streets. We want bags with smooth-rolling wheels
Grab handles are essential for lifting and carrying a duffel bag. In our experience, it’s hard to have too many.
Functionality
Ultimately, any duffel bag’s job is to carry stuff. That isn’t complicated, but some bags do a better job than others. Plus, different bags may have different intended uses, which changes their features and function.
For example, a duffel bag for urban carry-on travel should have more compartments for keeping devices and accessories organized, while a duffel for adventure travel needs to be simple and ultra-durable for hauling outdoor gear.
We evaluate how well a duffel bag fulfills its intended purpose. Does it carry everything we need it to? Does it keep the contents safe and protected?
Water Resistance
We’ve all been caught out in the rain on our travels, and having a water-resistant bag gives us confidence that we won’t end up with a pile of soaked clothes.
Here are the three aspects we look at to judge a bag’s water resistance.
Water-resistant fabric ranges from thin DWR coatings that wear out quickly to laminated fabrics with completely waterproof layers.
Water-resistant zippers stop water from penetrating through zippered openings.
Duffel bags with taped or sealed seams are the most waterproof on the market.
Brand Impact
It is important to us to support and recommend brands that have a positive impact on the world. We want to support brands that are working to incorporate environmentally friendly policies, sustainable design, diversity and inclusion, and good factory working conditions. To avoid greenwashing, we look for rigorous and widely respected industry certifications.
Here are some specific factors we look at to find brands that are working toward a positive impact on the world:
Sustainable Materials
Emission Reduction Programs
Carbon Neutral Certification
B-Corp Certification
Regular Impact Reporting
Fair Trade Certified Manufacturing
Buying Experience
Shopping for and buying a new duffel bag should be a rewarding experience. We value companies that implement specific policies to reduce the stress and risk of buying a product.
A good buying experience includes free shipping and hassle-free return policies. You can be a lot more confident in buying the right bag if you can test it first.
Warranty
It gives us a lot of confidence when brands stand behind their products. We look for companies that offer reliable lifetime warranties that cover incidental damage.
Price-to-Performance
We believe in investing in high-quality gear that will last. It’s better to buy a higher-quality (but possibly more expensive) product the first time rather than buy a cheaper one and end up replacing it later. That said, you don’t have to empty your bank account to get a good rolling duffel bag.
The sweet spot is a well-built bag that fits your needs without a luxury price tag.
Rolling Duffel Bag FAQs
Are wheeled duffel bags worth it?
For air travel and road trips, a wheeled duffel bag is a great option that gets weight off your shoulders.
Jakob Thygerson is an outdoor adventure seeker who collects sunburns, National Park maps, and trail miles. He loves anything that gets him outdoors, whether it’s on foot, on skis, on a bike, or on the open road. A native of the Mountain West, he’s most at home in mountains and deserts with clear air and bright stars.
He has a background as a product design engineer and knows the ins and outs of materials, design, and manufacturing processes. He loves using this knowledge to analyze outdoor equipment and is an unrepentant gearhead.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information.
Qualifying for and maintaining airline elite status is usually a yearly endeavor unless you have lifetime elite status. As we approach the end of 2024, it’s worth checking that your status qualification requirements are squared away.
It’s possible to earn status at any point throughout the year, and each loyalty program is different. So, as the year ends, you might wonder, “When does my airline status expire?” In this guide, we’ll discuss when airline elite status expires for several major U.S. airline loyalty programs.
Airline elite status basics
To fully understand when your airline elite status expires, you should consider two sets of dates:
Qualification period: How long you have to earn the elite status
Membership term: How long you keep elite status once you earn it
Most major U.S. airlines use a calendar year as their qualification period. However, there is one notable exception. Following American Airlines’ switch to Loyalty Points in March 2022, the qualification period for AAdvantage is now March 1 through Feb. 28 (or Feb. 29) of the following year.
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Once you’ve qualified, the other set of dates to understand is the membership term. Membership terms vary slightly from airline to airline, but they describe the period during which your elite status is valid.
If you’re starting from scratch, you may want to try to qualify early within your qualification period. Doing so can maximize how long you’ll enjoy your elite benefits. Now, let’s take a more detailed look at the elite status expiration policies of several U.S. airline loyalty programs.
As mentioned above, American Airlines AAdvantage switched to Loyalty Points in March 2022. Now, Loyalty Points are how you earn American Airlines elite status. The Loyalty Points posted to your account for the 12 months starting March 1 of each year determine your status tier.
The status qualification year starts March 1 and runs through the last day of February. However, once you earn elite status with AAdvantage, your membership term is through March 31 after your qualification year ends. So the Loyalty Points you earn between March 1, 2024, and Feb. 28, 2025, will get you status through March 31, 2026.
Delta Medallion elite status is typically valid for 13 months following the calendar year you earned the status. For example, if you earn status in 2024, your status will expire Jan. 31, 2026.
ZACH GRIFF/THE POINTS GUY
Delta also has a Reclaim My Status program that may be helpful if a qualifying life event causes you to lose status or earn a lower status. If approved, Reclaim My Status gives you back your status from the previous Medallion year for three months, during which you must meet a specific Medallion Qualification Dollar threshold on qualifying Delta flights.
JetBlue Mosaic status is valid through the end of the calendar year after which you qualify. For example, if you earn Mosaic status in November 2024, it’ll be valid through Dec. 31, 2025.
Southwest offers the famed Companion Pass, but this perk isn’t an elite status. However, Southwest does offer two elite tiers: A-List and A-List Preferred. A-List, A-List Preferred and the Companion Pass are generally valid for the year in which you earn them and one full calendar year afterward.
KATIE GENTER/THE POINTS GUY
If you have your eye on the Companion Pass, you should try to qualify as early in the year as possible to get close to two full years of free companion flights. However, Southwest occasionally offers promotional Companion Passes or promotional elite status with different expiration dates.
United uses the term “program year” to refer to the timeline in which your United MileagePlus elite status is valid. The program year with United Airlines runs through Jan. 31 of the following year. Thus, your status is good for the year you earn it, all of the following year and a month into the next year.
Earning airline elite status can unlock many perks. To reap the benefits from the hard work required to achieve status with an airline, you want to know when your status is valid and when it will expire. This knowledge will help you maximize your status and prepare for the next year of qualifying for status.
Checking your cruise luggage with an airline can be a scary proposition, especially when you factor in possible weather delays or missed connections that can separate you from your bags. The farther you have to fly, the scarier it becomes.
But what are your options? The obvious choice for most cruisers who fly to their embarkation port is flying with only carry-on luggage. Easy enough for a short cruise in the Bahamas or Caribbean where clothes are skimpier and cruises relatively short. But what about a cooler climate cruise or a longer sailing?
I recently faced a perfect storm of potential checked luggage issues for flights to a transatlantic cruise on a Carnival Cruise Line ship — unpredictable fall weather, a domestic connection involving an airline change, followed by a pair of European flights with a tight connection in an unfamiliar airport. That schedule left this firmly entrenched bag checker considering carry-on only on a long cruise for the first time.
When my aunt decided to join my husband and me on the cruise, the challenge rose to a new level. We’d be managing our bags and assisting her, which could be overwhelming.
Upon reflection, we decided that shipping luggage to the cruise seemed like a far better choice for her. She would still need a carry-on bag for our two nights precruise in Rome, but she could send a 50-pound bag directly to the cruise ship and have everything she needed waiting for her when we arrived.
Now we had the perfect opportunity to test these two luggage options head-to-head. Which plan was easier? Which one cost less? What were the pitfalls of each option? Read on for our results as you decide how light to pack and how best to get your bags to your cruise ship without incident.
Carry-on-only cruising: Costs and inconveniences
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The first thing to consider when flying with carry-on bags is the maximum dimensions and weight of luggage allowed on the plane with you. While few domestic carriers have weight restrictions on carry-on luggage or personal items, regional, low-cost and non-U.S. carriers can have weight allowances on both.
The standard carry-on size for domestic flights within the U.S. is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Personal items (purses, tote bags, backpacks, briefcases and other small items stowed beneath the seat in front of you) are often capped around 18 x 14 x 8 inches.
Foreign carriers are far pickier about what you bring on board the aircraft. Expect similar carry-on luggage dimensions of 21.5 x 15 x 9.5 inches. Maximum personal item sizes can be as small as 15.5 x 11 x 4 inches — which is compact for a backpack. Weight limits vary by air carrier and even by seating class; our carry-on suitcases needed to have a maximum weight of 26 pounds and our backpacks could not weight more than 4.4 pounds.
All those restrictions sent me shopping. My husband had a hard-side spinner that met our specific airline restrictions, but I did not. The backpack and assorted tote bags I normally use as personal items were all too large. The camera backpack my husband normally uses was too small to be a useful personal item on a trip when every inch of space was needed for items more important than camera lenses. I would also need more packing cubes, so I could compress my belongings and pack the most clothes into such small spaces.
After three Amazon exchanges, I finally found a backpack that met the airline size restrictions and my personal requirements: a trolley strap, a water-bottle side pocket, a front-opening main compartment, a padded laptop compartment and several small outside pockets. (Beware that the online listings aren’t always accurate regarding bag dimensions.)
I spent $79 total for two backpacks. The best feature during actual use was a vented bottom-opening zipper compartment intended for shoes, which was ideal for stashing our quart bags containing TSA-approved liquid products. That easy access was invaluable during our fast dash through the Warsaw airport security line on our tight connection.
For a carry-on spinner, I had a strong desire to have a front fold-out compartment for electronics. I also wanted an expansion zipper, which couldn’t be used on our flights to Europe, but would come in handy for squeezing in the two bottles of wine we were allowed to bring on board our cruise. Once back in the U.S., our flights home on Southwest had no weight restrictions and larger size restrictions of 24 x 16 x10 inches, so the expansion zipper meant we could bring back a few small souvenirs and one bottle of wine.
MELINDA CROW/FOR THE POINTS GUY
You can spend a lot on carry-on bags, but I opted for an $89 knockoff on Amazon that had fabulous features that made it far more useful on the trip than I had expected. For example, the front electronics panel provides access to the inside contents of the suitcase, essentially making it a front-opening piece of luggage when there’s no space for the typical open-book layout of most hard-shell spinners. That proved to be critical in our tiny hotel room in Rome’s historic city center.
For compression packing cubes, I opted for a six-piece set from COR Surf that gave us maximum space savings for only $23. I squeezed a raincoat and a jacket into each of the two medium bags, five men’s shirts into one large bag and eight of my shirts into another.
For years, we’ve been happily cruising with our cosmetics, hair supplies and first-aid supplies packed in half of a cheap hanging shoe bag we attach to the stateroom wall with magnets. It was too large for our carry-on luggage, so I replaced it with two medium-sized travel toiletry bags with four compartments that unfold and hang from a hook. Again, Amazon to the rescue for $12 each.
Traveling with carry-ons only, I also could not bring full-size toiletries. Our local drugstore sells a variety of empty small bottles and jars for carrying liquids like hair products, creams and gels. I spent $7 on an assortment of those.
The total I spent on new items needed to make flying to our cruise with only carry-on luggage work was $203, but it would be easy to spend twice that. I don’t feel like I skimped on quality, and all items I bought should have a useful life in my cruise packing arsenal going forward. If you already have these items, your out-of-pocket cost will be far less.
With the airline weight restrictions, it was impossible to pack 18 days’ worth of clothing in two carry-on suitcases and two backpacks. We had to pare down our wardrobe to only the essentials and plan to do laundry on board.
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I’m a rather small person, wear size 8 shoes and have been traveling with a compartment-style wardrobe of coordinating colors since before there was a trendy name for that. Even still, getting the basics pared down was a challenge.
It did not help that weather on a transatlantic cruise can be quite variable, which forced me to pack layers I wouldn’t have needed on a warm-weather cruise. Things I missed were a sweatshirt for chilly days at sea, one more pair of casual pants (I took three, two of which converted to shorts) and more than one hat.
At least our Carnival ship had a self-serve launderette. The machines were full-size with a cost of $3.50 per wash or dry. A box of laundry detergent large enough for two loads was another $2. (Next time we’ll bring laundry detergent sheets.)
Self-serve laundry once during a cruise isn’t a big deal, but needing to do laundry twice took away a little of the vacation relaxation, especially when the line to use the laundry facilities was long and full of cranky cruisers.
Many ships do not have this self-serve option, offering send-out laundry service only with costs ranging from per-piece pricing of $3 to $7 to discounted bulk by-the-bag prices or by-the-day packages. Our total cost for laundry was $16 for two loads, but on a similar cruise without self-service facilities or discounted packages, you could potentially spend hundreds in laundry fees.
Airline weight restrictions also forced us to leave behind a few nonclothing items we then had to buy along the way. These included extra hair spray and toothpaste, a room deodorizer and a corkscrew for our cabin. We easily found a corkscrew for 4.30 euros ($4.54) and a gel room deodorizer for 2.20 euros ($2.35) in a market only two blocks from our hotel in Rome. The store also had a fair selection of wine, so we snagged a couple of bottles to take on board, each in the six-euro range, considerably less than a cruise ship bottle.
We had enough toothpaste and hair spray to last a few days, so we waited to go shopping for toiletries until Cartagena, Spain. Finding a supermarket there required a bit of a walk, but we bought toothpaste and hairspray (5.76 euros and 3.49 euros, respectively, or $6.10 and $3.70), along with some Oreo-flavored Coke Zero. As much as I enjoy port shopping, the need to spend time looking for essentials like hair spray was a definite inconvenience when cities like Rome and Cartagena had so many amazing ways to spend our limited time.
Luggage shipping: Costs and inconveniences
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We used a complimentary voucher from Ship and Play for my aunt’s luggage to test the service for this story. The cost to ship a full-size 50-pound suitcase one-way from her home in Texas to our cruise ship in Civitavecchia, Italy, was quoted as $244.99 for the shipment, plus a fee of $74.97. She added $2,000 in insurance for $22.99, making the total $342.95.
Because shipping directly to a cruise ship requires the address of the ship’s courier in the departure port, the shipping order had to be completed with a Ship and Play agent on the phone. That went smoothly, with the agent providing all necessary instructions, both verbally and via a follow-up email. The shipping label, customs forms and stick-on pocket for the label were sent via mail.
A FedEx tracking number was provided, but my aunt opted to place a tracking device in the bag as well, adding $24 to her cost, for a total of $366.95. If you’re a member of Clear, you can get 50% off your first shipment with partner company Ship and Play.
Shipping luggage internationally is pricier than it would be to a domestic embarkation port. A quick check of various cross-country prices to U.S. cruise ports showed base shipping rates (before the fees and insurance) of $74.99 on Ship and Play and prices starting at $99 on competing shipper Luggage Forward.
The number one inconvenience in shipping luggage is planning for the shipment. It is not a last-minute option. You have to allow enough time to receive the shipping label and packet from your preferred shipper, to arrange for the pickup (or drop-off) and for the luggage to travel to its destination.
When your cruise departure port is international, the luggage ship date must also allow enough time for the bag to clear customs once it reaches the country of departure. Ship and Play calculated all those variables and then gave my aunt options for her pickup date, which were a full two weeks before the cruise. Her quoted price included selecting the day FedEx would pick up the luggage, but not a narrower time frame on that day. Selecting a two-hour window was available for an extra charge. She could also have opted to drop off the luggage at an authorized shipper at no charge.
MELINDA CROW/FOR THE POINTS GUY
My aunt said packing her main luggage two weeks before her cruise was a bit challenging. That’s too far out to predict the weather, so she had to prepare for all possibilities with layers and a rain poncho (that she never used).
She also opted to send her large bag directly to our ship instead of to our precruise hotel. That meant she still had to take a carry-on and a tote bag for clothing and things she needed for the days we spent in Rome before the cruise. She said she had a hard time deciding which items to pack in each bag and found herself overthinking the process.
If she had chosen to ship the bag to our hotel in Rome, she could have skipped the carry-on, but we would have had the inconvenience of dealing with the large bag at our small hotel and on our trip to the ship.
Ultimately, my aunt’s bag arrived in her cabin on the ship around 4 p.m. without her having to wrangle it into and out of multiple vehicles during the trip. After she packed her bag and handed it off to FedEx at her front door, she didn’t have to lift a finger until it came time to unpack it on board — which added a touch of luxury to her mainstream cruise.
Bottom line
Choosing to skip the bag check line all together is becoming a popular choice among cruisers, and not only because you can save on checked-bag fees and tips to porters. I have met fellow passengers with lost luggage on every cruise I’ve been on in the last four years. Losing your luggage on dry land is a problem, but a minor inconvenience when compared to being stuck on a cruise ship without your stuff.
The more complicated your flights are, the greater the chances for lost or delayed luggage. Traveling with only carry-on luggage or shipping luggage to your ship are both good alternatives. Which one you choose depends on your travel scenario.
We found that both options come with costs and minor inconveniences. Carry-on travel costs less but you’ll have to leave some desired items behind and take time out to do laundry during your vacation (or pay inflated rates to have someone else wash your clothes). Shipping luggage is the more expensive option, but you can pack full-size bags, have them picked up at your front door and not touch them again until they arrive at your cruise cabin.
No solution is perfect, but knowing the pros and cons of each option will help you make the right decision for your travel party on your next cruise.
