I flew to Richmond knowing almost nobody, wondering if a travel creator conference was actually worth the investment. Two days of speed networking, a party at a racetrack, and one spontaneous motorcycle moment later, I have a lot of thoughts.

The Away Bigger Carry-On has proven itself as a reliable travel companion through cobblestones, snow, rain, and even two energetic nephews. When the handle finally broke, Away's warranty process was just as impressive as the suitcase itself, delivering a replacement part in one week at no cost.

Most travelers focus on airfare and completely overlook the perks. Those perks can make a huge difference in what your trip actually costs. So before you book your next flight, here are a few things worth checking beyond the ticket price.

If you travel carry-on only, multi-use gear is essential in order to pack efficiently. Here's everything that didn't make the cut, what I use instead, and a few extra swaps worth considering.

In Boston, the history runs deep, the neighborhoods each have a totally different personality, and you can get almost everywhere on foot or by train. Three days gives you enough time to scratch the surface without burning out.

This Airalo review is based on my experiences using both their fixed data plan in Portugal and their unlimited data package in the U.S. In both cases, I had the connectivity I needed to navigate all the ups and downs (figuratively and literally) that life throws at you.

After years of winter trips (and learning things the hard way), this guide covers everything from layering strategy and fabric science to the things most travelers forget like protecting your phone from the cold and keeping your skin from cracking.

This gift guide pulls together my favorite items plus extra ideas to help you shop with confidence, whether you're buying a big-ticket item or a fun stocking stuffer.