Do you love exploring spooky places? Indiana is home to plenty of scary and even paranormal spots that can be riveting to explore...if you dare. The Huffington Post ranked all of the scariest places in the US and this one creepy cemetery in Indiana was voted the most haunted place in the Hoosier state.
Morgan-Monroe State Forest in Martinsville is a gorgeous place for a weekend retreat. With plenty of hiking trails and natural scenery, it's an awesome outdoor spot to visit. What many don't know is that it also contains the state's most haunted cemetery.
The ghost stories told of the spirits who haunt this cemetery vary slightly, though most agree that the main spirit who lingers here is the Lady in Black.
They claim she lost her baby (known as Baby Lester) and spent her days in the cemetery. Some tales claim she dug him up and held him in her arms, before finally committing suicide. Visitors of the cemetery are meant to leave a token behind for baby Lester to help him rest in peace, as well as to honor the Lady in Black.
The Lady in Black can often be found on this tree stump, which is also rumored to be haunted. Legends claim that anyone who sits on the tree stump will be cursed to live no more than another year.
Other legends tell of a caretaker whose ghost can also be found sitting on the stump from time to time. They say he was killed in an accident when a logging truck veered off the road and logs crushed the caretaker's body.
More legends exist about this spooky place, but you'll have to check it out for yourself to see if they're true. You can find the cemetery inside of the Morgan-Monroe Forest in Martinsville, IN 46151.
If someone asked you what the best states in the nation are for a veritable winter wonderland, what are the first few that come to mind? Let us guess: probably somewhere on the East Coast, like Maine, Massachusetts, or even places farther away – like Alaska or Colorado. But perhaps – just perhaps – Indiana deserves a spot on that list, too. I know it sounds crazy, so if you’re not convinced, look no further than this awesome, all-inclusive list of Indiana winter activities to keep you warm all season long. Here, you’ll find all the best things to do in Indiana in winter, including cold-weather delights like free things to do in Indiana in winter, inexpensive things to do in winter, and so much more.
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Holiday Events
If there’s one thing about winter just about everyone looks forward to, it’s the holiday season. There’s something purely magical about it, and here in the Hoosier State, we take our festivities very seriously. You’ll find all kinds of amazing things to do in Indiana during the holidays, no matter which one(s) you celebrate! Check out some of our favorite holiday events in Indiana to check out this year. If you've ever wondered what it's like to wander through a winter wonderland with friends or family, these are your best options!
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 01: Detail view of a couple dressed as Mrs. and Mr. Santa Claus on the field before the game at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 1, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Tennessee defeats Indianapolis 31-17. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
1. Christmas Lights Display: Santa Claus Land of Lights
Location: Santa Claus, Indiana
Popularity: Very Popular
Price: General admission price is $20 per vehicle. Pre-sale passes are $15 per vehicle.
Every year, the town of Santa Claus lights up to go above and beyond for the holidays. More on the town itself in a moment – for now, the legendary Christmas lights display known as the Santa Claus Land of Lights is worth mentioning all on its own. It typically begins on Thanksgiving in November and goes through December 23rd. Be prepared for amazing magic because that’s what you’re in for... hot chocolate included! The kids love to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the grown-ups love to watch the kids' eyes light up.
2. Tree Lighting: Westfield In Lights
Location: Grand Function Plaza, Westfield, Indiana
Popularity: Popular
Price: Free
The annual Westfield In Lights is nothing short of spellbinding for the whole family! This year, festivities take place on December 7th from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. It’s so much more than just a tree lighting ceremony – it's an entire welcome to the winter season, and in style, at that. Meet Santa, pet some real-life reindeer, enjoy carnival games, and more. This is one winter delight you’ll want to come back to every year. The tree lighting ceremony begins at 5:50 p.m. sharp on the Main Stage. Few things in this life are as magical as a tree lighting, right? I love it! Best of all, Westfield is just 30 minutes from Indy, so it’s located near just about everything.
3. Holiday Festivals: Festival of Trees
Location: Embassy Theatre, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Popularity: Popular
Price: $10 for adults (13+ years), $5 for kids ages one to 12, and children under one are free (ticket required, please visit the STAR bank box office)
There are a few good words to describe the annual Festival of Trees, like “magical”, “enchanting”, and “wonderful”. All of these are excellent adjectives to have when describing any holiday event, and the Festival of Trees is probably one of the Hoosier State’s most elegant traditions. The lobbies of the Embassy Theatre and the Indiana Hotel are set to transform into the ultimate, glowing winter wonderland with dozens of decorated Christmas trees in all shapes, sizes, and themes. This year’s festivities take place from November 27th through December 4th, 2024.
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4. Long-Time Traditions: Christkindlmarkt
Location: Between The Palladium and The Tarkington Theater, Carmel, Indiana
Popularity: Very Popular
Price: Free entry to the market
Like many of the items on this list, it’s pretty difficult to overstate the majesty and wonder of Christkindlmarkt, the ultimate holiday market that takes place each and every year in beautiful Carmel. Open Wednesday through Sunday, there is an assortment of wonders to explore, from hundreds of unique vendors to local eats, live music, artist demonstrations, arts and crafts, ice skating, Igloo dining, and so much more. Individual activities might cost a little bit, like ice skating, and require reservations ahead of time. This year, the market is on from November 23rd through December 24th, 2024. Talk about a magical Christmas Eve! Visit the official Christkindlmarkt website for this year’s most up-to-date pricing, hours, and more.
Christmas Towns
What on earth is more magic-filled and wonderful than a good old-fashioned Christmas/holiday town? I think nothing! As luck would have it, Christmas in Indiana (or, of course, whichever holiday your family may enjoy) is a time when Hoosiers tend to go all-out, including some entire towns! A handful of wonderful small towns in Indiana stand out way above the rest in terms of sheer awesomeness during the winter season. Come check out some of the cutest, most picturesque holiday/Christmas towns in Indiana and fall in love with the Midwest in the winter.
a picture of Colorful lights on a statue
5. Santa Claus
Location: Spencer County, Indiana
Popularity: Extremely Popular
Price: It varies depending on the attraction, event, and other details, but as always, visiting the town is always free!
It’s no secret at all that Santa Claus is THE ultimate Christmas town in Indiana for winter fun. It’s even named after Saint Nick, for holiday’s sake! It actually specializes in every holiday, even down to a holiday-themed adventure park, but Christmas is when it really shines – for obvious reasons. Every year for decades now, kids have sent their letters to Santa Claus right here in Indiana – and sometimes, there’s even a dedicated team of elves that answer them! Santa Claus belongs at the top of every single “Christmastime to-do" list any Hoosier might have. Who needs the North Pole when you’ve got Santa Claus? Indiana is one of THE best winter destinations thanks to this town alone.
6. Madison
Location: Jefferson County, Indiana
Popularity: Popular
Price: It varies depending on the attraction, event, and other details, but as always, visiting the town is always free!
Madison is probably the cutest little winter town in Indiana, with plenty to see and do to keep you occupied all season long, be it for one day or one week. Every year, the whole town is decked out in beautiful lights. The annual lighting ceremony in town is just the beginning of some truly wonderful events and festivities, including a holiday market, holiday light displays, Christmas open house, candlelight tours of beautiful old homes on chilly winter nights, the Tinsel Twinkle Trail, and lots more. Careful: visiting Madison may result in your wanting to live here forever, and I don't blame you.
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7. Shipshewana
Location: LaGrange County, Indiana
Popularity: Very Popular
Price: It varies depending on the attraction, event, and other details, but as always, visiting the town is always free!
There are so many beautiful things to say about the deeply Amish town of Shipshewana that we can’t say it all in one short paragraph, but rest assured that, other than Santa Claus, Shipshewana is THE place to be for the winter season, no matter what holiday(s) you might celebrate. The amazing season-long festivities in Shipshewana range from an annual tree lighting to a day with Santa, a gingerbread house competition, an incredible ice festival and chili cookoff, and many, many more experiences to be had. This is all on top of the entire town being decorated top to bottom, with plenty of unique festivals, live music, and lots more. Shipshewana is a must-do during the holidays for families, single folks, friend groups, and everyone in between. It is pure magic, through and through. Come experience it this year!
8. Carmel
Location: Hamilton County, Indiana
Popularity: Popular
Price: It varies depending on the attraction, event, and other details, but as always, visiting the town is always free!
When thinking about the fancier, more elegant cities in Indiana, the photogenic little town of Carmel is probably one of the first places to come to mind. And for good reason: it’s beautiful all year long, but in the winter, it becomes a wonderland unlike any other. Every Christmas town in Indiana listed here is wonderful, but Carmel is probably the one you’ll want to enjoy for a less rustic, more modern, or romantic feel to your holiday season. Carmel is the home of the earlier-mentioned Christkindlmarkt, so while you’re visiting to attend the market, be sure to explore the rest of town, too - shops, restaurants, and breweries galore. Also in central Indiana are attractions like Koteewi Run, cross-country skiing, and more.
9. Richmond
Location: Wayne County, Indiana
Popularity: Very Popular
Price: It varies depending on the attraction, event, and other details, but as always, visiting the town is always free!
One does not simply write a guide to all the best winter towns in Indiana without mentioning Richmond. When we say this town looks like something out of a Normal Rockwell holiday painting, we mean it – it's outrageously idyllic and tends to go above and beyond every winter to create a snowy, white wonderland. Every year Richmond hosts the awe-inspiring Meltdown Ice Festival, hosting dozens of world-class ice sculpture artists facing off for the ultimate title. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas... and in this case, Christmas looks a lot like Richmond.
Outdoor Activities
Who says winter is a bad time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors? We sure don’t; that’s why we’ve got a laundry list of fantastic outdoor activities perfect for a brisk winter’s day. Why stay indoors when you can experience Indiana at its most peaceful? Whether you’re heading out for some old-fashioned ice skating, enjoying our beautiful state and National parks, skiing, tubing, snowboarding, or anything else, winter in Indiana is just plain better when you’re experiencing it outside. It might be cold, sure, but it's beautiful - and it's worth exploring through and through.
skier jumping high in the air
10. Ice Skating: The Ice at Carter Green
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Location: Carmel, Indiana
Popularity: Very Popular
Price: Skate sessions are $11 for adults and youths age 11 and older and $9 for children ten and under. Skate rental is $4 per person.
As we mentioned a moment ago, Carmel is easily one of the best Christmas towns in Indiana, and for lots of reasons – one of which is the epic ice-skating rink located there. The Ice at Carter Green is Indiana’s best ice-skating rink and is offered in blocks of one and a half hours each that can be booked online ahead of time. Open Thursday through Sunday in conjunction with Christkindlmarkt from November 23rd, 2024, until February 2nd, 2025, this ice rink is a must-do for lifelong Hoosiers and tourists alike. What’s more perfectly winter than ice skating? Not a whole lot. Visit The Ice at Carter Green's official website for more details.
11. Snow Tubing: Perfect North Slopes
Location: Lawrenceburg, Indiana
Popularity: Very Popular
Price: Monday through Thursday, ages 13 and up are $39, and ages 12 and under are $34.
Perfect North Slopes is a bit of an anomaly in the sense that it’s an alpine resort... located in Indiana, a destination with very little alpine anything. It offers everything from skiing to snowboarding and, of course, some of the best snow tubing in the Hoosier State (if not the entire Midwest). Perfect North Slopes will make you wish every day was winter, and you’ll never want to check out. Do note that personal tubes are not permitted, so leave yours at home – they've got you covered here! Not sure where (or how) to start? Check out the lessons offered at Perfect North Slopes as well. Visit the official website for FAQ, booking ahead, and everything else you’ll need to plan your trip. Cowabunga... or should we say cowa-brr-ga? Either way, sledding hills don’t get more epic than these.
12. Winter Hikes: Turkey Run State Park, Indiana State Parks
Location: There are 24 amazing state parks in Indiana, all of which are open in the winter; Turkey Run State Park is found in Marshall, Indiana.
Popularity: Moderately popular during the winter season and extremely popular during all the other seasons.
Price: $7 for the in-state daily entry fee, $9 for out-of-state entry fees. Pedestrians on foot get in for just $2. An annual entrance permit is $50 for in-state residents, and we definitely recommend these for anyone who plans to visit more than once.
Open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m., with a few campgrounds open even in the winter, Turkey Run State Park is the ultimate outdoor destination for anyone who doesn’t have time for a resort and doesn’t care much for ice skating. Alternatively, of course, it’s perfect for anyone who loves those things, too – it's perfect for everyone! Just dress warm and wear great hiking shoes – few things are as lovely as a wonderful wintertime hike. Best of all, you can even make your winter reservations early in the year; reservations online are always allowed. Turkey Run is special in the sense that it’s one of the few Indiana state parks with water that remains on in the winter, making it an excellent camping destination. But no worries – even a day trip will be enough to drop your jaw at the beauty of the Hoosier State. Be sure to explore other options for the best winter hikes in Indiana as well. Other wonderful wintertime parks include Pokagon State Park (home to the most epic toboggan run in the Hoosier State), Indiana Dunes National Park, and more. Keep exploring!
Winter Getaways
Looking for the perfect escape with your special someone this winter? We don’t know about you, but there aren’t a lot of things more romantic than a nice, quiet wintertime getaway with the person you love most. Here are a few of the best winter getaways in Indiana that you won’t find anywhere else – each is amazingly unique and all ours. It might be cold oGrand Junction Plaza utside, but inside, it’ll be nice, warm, and cozy – the best possible environment for some winter snuggles!
Price: Sundays through Thursdays are $199 per night. Fridays and holidays are $239 per night, and Saturdays are $259 per night. There's a $30 surcharge for one-night stays, so be sure to book more than one and save!
Anyone on the lookout for the perfect romantic winter getaway in Indiana best looks no further than Cabins & Candlelight, an incredibly cozy, warm cabin experience perfect for two. Of course, there’s no rule saying you can’t book one all to yourself, either. For an extra $25 or $30, you can add on an amazing chicken (or steak) dinner for two brought right to your cabin! With a hot tub, in-cabin heat, fireplaces, and more, this is the ultimate cozy cabin escape perfect for a winter’s night. With plenty to do onsite and nearby, make this one your new favorite winter wander-off. Do keep in mind, though, that there is no wifi at these cabins – this is an escape for two, ultimately, and it’s meant to be an in-person experience without the aid of the hectic, chaotic connected world. It’s quiet here... enjoy it. Few things are as quieting for the soul as snowfall.
14. Hot Springs: French Lick Resort/Pluto Springs
Location: French Lick, Indiana
Popularity: Popular
Price: Varies depending on booking! Visit the official French Lick Resort website for the most up-to-date rates for your specific needs, desires, and amenities.
You probably won’t be surprised to learn that there aren’t a whole lot of natural hot springs in Indiana, but there are a few – one of which has an entire resort built up around it! French Lick Resort is also home to Pluto Springs, an old hot spring whose water was once bottled and sold with supposed healing properties. Nowadays, the springs feed the spa at the hotel, and relaxing here is an incredible delight... especially when it’s cold outside! Winter also brings with it a plethora of themed events and adventures at French Lick, like the famous
15. Skiing/Snowboarding Resort: Paoli Peaks
Location: Paoli, Indiana
Popularity: Very Popular
Price: Starts at just $47 per day with the Epic Day Pass. Customize your pass with your desired experiences and amenities. Prices go up on November 17th, so plan accordingly.
Since when can you ski and/or snowboard in Indiana? Since forever, thanks to Paoli Peaks. This amazing ski resort is everything you could ever hope for in wintertime shenanigans, offering a ton of stuff to do at affordable prices for the entire winter season. Ride the ski lifts, indulge in hot cocoa, and have the time of your life - winter in Indiana has never been so delightful!
Indiana is an amazingly diverse, interesting place that never seems to get enough credit – unless, of course, you’re a regular reader of this site; then, you know about all the best spots! Whether you prefer staying in, going out, enjoying something in nature, or heading to a holiday-themed event, you’re sure to find all sorts of fun stuff in the state of Indiana to enjoy when it’s cold outside. What are your all-time favorite winter activities in Indiana? Let us know!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
