A vacation should light you up, whether it’s a jaunt to a neighboring town or a trip around the world. And that’s especially true when said journey incorporates the great outdoors. To this end, Women's Health editors have been going hard on their airline and auto miles and now have the recs, experiences, and stories to show for it.
Plus, there are actual health benefits to taking PTO. Studies have found that vacations can positively impact everything from blood pressure to creativity and energy levels. And you don't have to go far (or for that long) to reap tangible rewards: Planning and anticipating a trip can bring as much enjoyment as the vacation itself, finds a 2014 study from Cornell University.
That's why Women's Health launched the inaugural Healthy Travel Awards. It's the definitive guide to the buzziest and best places, experiences, products, and services that nourish a wellness traveler's mind, body, and soul.
How We Chose The Winners
Women's Health didn't need to go far to assemble a globe-trotting panel of experts: A scroll on our social feeds shows editors checking out new wellness experiences worldwide—and testing the latest and greatest innovations in our New York City backyard. (One editor clocked 9 countries and flew 32,000 miles in the past year—more than the circumference of planet Earth.)
WH staffers are uber-connected trendspotters. So the panel consulted their travel, hospitality, beauty, and wellness contacts to learn about the latest gotta-try breakthroughs. Then, after sifting through hundreds of entries, the panel personally tested many of the finalists. The result: A truly comprehensive winner's circle of the year's best and brightest.
Hotels You’ll Never Want To Leave
A hotel isn't just a place to crash. The healthiest ones make wellness a priority with top-notch amenities that make it easy for you to maintain—or even level up—your fitness routine. No matter who you're exploring with, these resorts will power you up for the next great adventure.
BodyHoliday, St. Lucia
“This property is made for people who can’t sit still,” says WH Fitness Editor Jennifer Nied, who visited the resort in 2020. With activities spanning from archery to beach volleyball to Pilates, “it’s possible to do workout classes from sunup to sundown,” she adds. Make time to indulge in a free daily 50-minute spa treatment, whether massage, facial, scrub, wrap, or relaxing in an infrared sauna. Six restaurants and an on-site farm offer a variety of healthy eating.
Aulani, A Disney Resort And Spa, Hawaii
Disney’s only Hawaiian resort was designed by the brand’s Imagineers, local artisans, and cultural experts. The result is a fully-immersive tropical getaway. From the moment you step into the soaring, open lobby, the whole family will feel the magic. The massive and interactive Aunty’s Beach House is home to a complimentary Kids’ Club, where activities range from hula lessons to comedy classes to Hawaiian games and crafts. It’s also the starting point for a scavenger hunt: 300 mini Menehune figures (mythical ancient Hawaiians) are hidden around the property. Snorkel in the onsite Rainbow Reef, with thousands of fish and peepholes for viewing, or relax on a private and protected white crescent beach. Kids can splash in a children's water park, while grown-ups can relax in an adults-only infinity pool. At the tranquil Laniwai spa, guests are directed down a “transformation corridor,” and are encouraged to leave their worries behind by placing a wishing stone in a pool. Post-treatment, maintain your chill in the private hydrotherapy garden with hot and cold plunge pools.
The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Carved into an 800-year-old black lava field, this mineral-rich geothermal hot spring is just 20 minutes from Iceland’s Keflavik airport and 50 minutes from the capital city, Reykjavik. Two WH editors marked relationship milestones at this otherworldly destination: Senior Deputy Digital Editor Maridel Reyes married in front of the Blue Lagon’s steamy azure waters in 2018, and Fitness Editor Jennifer Nied celebrated her babymoon here in 2021. The splurge-worthy Scandi-chic property lets you sleep in the lagoon for unparalleled access—and privacy. “It's for someone who wants to get away from the crowds and relax,” says Nied. “The food is fantastic, the spa is ultra-relaxing, and the ‘no-phones’ policy is a delight for going off the grid and enjoying it all without worrying about people grabbing content around you.”
Westin Hotels & Resorts
“I can't recommend Westin Hotels enough for the active traveler,” says WH Features Director Kristin Canning. “I've stayed in a bunch, and I feel like they think of everything!” In particular, Canning loves the hotel chain's reimagined gear-lending program which features high-tech recovery gear from Hyperice and strength-training equipment such as resistance bands, balance blocks, and yoga mats. "It’s the place to stay for people who like to run, explore new areas, and want to keep up their workout routine on the go.”
Our Habitas, Bacalar, Mexico
A four-hour drive south of Cancún, Bacalar, on Mexico’s east coast, feels like the new Tulum—sans crowds. And with rates starting at $196 a night, Our Habitas Bacalar, is more wallet-friendly. The hotel, nestled between a lagoon and a jungle, manages to be both intimate and communal, with 34 tented, A-frame rooms.
Santarena Hotel at Las Catalinas, Costa Rica
Located in the heart of a car-free coastal town on the Guanacaste coast of Costa Rica, boho Santarena Hotel is within walking distance of the beach, restaurants, and outdoor activities.“The whole town is focused on health and wellness,” says WH Features Director Kristin Canning, who visited in August 2022. “It’s meant to be a destination where you can reset and reconnect with nature.” One side of town is flanked by 1,000 acres of dry tropical forest, featuring 26 miles of protected trails. Your crew can also spend the day hitting the beach to swim, surf, paddleboard, sea kayak, snorkel, and take boat tours to see whales and dolphins.
Hotel Marcel, New Haven, Connecticut
Don’t let the 1960s concrete exterior fool you: This marvel of sustainable engineering has a gentle footprint. The former landmark was abandoned for two decades. Today, it’s poised to be the country’s first net-zero luxury hotel. The property generates 100 percent of its electricity and is the first fossil-fuel-free hotel in America. And BLDG, the in-house restaurant, uses induction cooking for its veggie-friendly menu.
Six Senses Ibiza, Spain
Located at the northern tip of the Spanish island, this idyllic property recently launched RoseBar, a longevity club. Guests are prescribed a program incorporating nutritional support, exercise, and biohacking recs. You might spend time in an infrared sauna, a cold plunge, or a full-body cryo, or try an IV infusion—with a resident doctor, health coach, or nutritionist by your side.
Cruises That Will Blow Your Mind
Forget what you think you know about cruising. Post-pandemic, adventure expeditions are exploding in popularity. Now, travelers can immerse themselves in untouched destinations and new cultures—and enjoy high-touch service onboard after a day of kayaking, hiking, or snorkeling.
Best Cruises
Lindblad Wild Alaska Escape
The company uses smaller ships to enter narrow channels and secluded harbors that are normally inaccessible. This gets you breathtakingly close to icebergs and glaciers along the untamed coastal landscapes of Alaska’s Inside Passage. The untouched wilderness is home to a rich Tlingit culture, plus plenty of wildlife—from bald eagles to whales. You’ll spend plenty of time onshore, too, during this six-day amazing trip: Hike through temperate forests, kayak in glacier-carved fjords (or cycle along their edges), and launch a raft from an ancient Alaska native village. Adrenaline seekers may choose to go on a flight-seeing tour of Glacier Bay to get an aerial view of the jagged peaks and ice caps. And kids on board may participate in the Global Explorers program, learning about glaciers, whales, and ocean life during fun, hands-on activities with the ship’s naturalists.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America
Remodeled in 2022, Pride of America is Norwegian’s only ship that offers year-round sailings from Honolulu. You’ll visit four Hawaiian Islands (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Kauai) and five ports in seven days. The 2,000-passenger ship is home to an immersive learning center about the history of Hawaii and shore excursions that include whale watching, witnessing Kilauea Volcano, or hikes with lush natural views.
Viking River Cruises
As a former travel writer, WH Senior Deputy Editor Maridel Reyes had reviewed cruises, but the slower pace and rigid schedules weren’t her vibe. Then she took her mom on an eight-day Christmas trip with Viking down the Danube through medieval towns in Hungary, Austria, and Germany. Smaller fleets dock in the heart of town, making exploration easy. The intimate ship size can lead to friendships with other passengers too.
Hurtigruten Expeditions
Eco-friendly cruising might sound like an oxymoron, but this Norwegian travel company is leading the way. More than a decade ago, Hurtigruten stopped using heavy fuel oil in favor of alt fuels such as marine gas oil and biofuels. It’s also converting its fleet to hybrid battery power and was the first cruise company to phase out single-use plastics onboard. Hurtigruten has plans to launch the world’s first zero-emissions cruise ship by 2030.
Disney Wish
Launched in 2022, the 4,000-passenger Disney Wish sails to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida. The ship brings the worlds from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar to life in an imaginative and immersive way. While children will love the elaborate kid's clubs, the ship is designed with grown-ups in mind, too. The Wish is home to Aquaduck, Disney’s first-ever water attraction at sea, a water ride that will send families on an adventure through 760 feet of winding tubes before splashing down into a lazy river. Spend the evening at “Arendelle,” a Frozen-themed musical dinner and a show. Comic book fans can dine with Ant-Man and the Wasp during "Avengers: Quantum Encounter," where an interactive Quantum Core at each table shrinks and grows objects at the push of a button.
Silversea
If you assume that cruise cuisine equals endless buffets and less-than-fresh fare, Silversea is here to give you a crash course on the food traditions of the places you visit. Their S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, available on select voyages, was developed by James Beard Award-winning editor and writer Adam Sachs. The goal is to allow guests to travel deeper by experiencing local culture. Opt for hands-on shore excursions like touring a working organic farm in Paros, Greece, making pastries in a Sicilian pasticceria, or visit a vineyard in Wales. Onboard, guests can visit the S.A.L.T. Bar and Kitchen to taste dishes (and cocktails) inspired by your destination and its ingredients, and take cooking classes at S.A.L.T. Lab.
Spas That Are Truly Transformative
WH editors have the tough job of visiting the best spas in the world and trying cutting-edges treatments to determine which ones move the needle. Beauty Director Brian Underwood has experienced some of the most sought-after beauty treatments in the world. Fitness Editor Jennifer Nied was a former staffer at a spa magazine and now tests innovative recovery methods to see what actually lives up to the hype. All the below picks have been visited, vetted, and adored by WH staff. After a combined decades of travel, use their favorites to start planning your next getaway.
Evexia Spa at Andronis Arcadia, Greece
On the island of Santorini, a few minutes from Oia, is the Evexia Spa at Andronis Arcadia. The facilities sit on a caldera—the remaining outer ring of a collapsed volcano—a place that’s said to be energetically charged. “It certainly feels powerful to stand on the cliffs overlooking the Aegean, taking in the salty, mineralized air,” says WH Features Director Kristin Canning, who visited in October 2022. “It helped me sleep like a rock and feel deeply grounded during my stay.” The spa offers Thai massage (bodywork that’s performed on the floor, as the therapist assists you in stretches designed to increase blood flow and range of motion), as well as massages with crystals, warm poultices, and marma therapy, an Ayurvedic technique targeting energetic points along the body. Evexia also has Kneipp therapy, which involves walking through alternating cold and hot pools with acupressure and reflexology stones on the bottom. The spa works with different wellness luminaries worldwide for a year of residency, so these experts always create different programs. In 2023, Dr. Zulia Frost, MD, is partnering with the spa to offer red-light therapy using a wearable device called the FlexBeam, as well as incorporate her training in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture to help develop treatments that blend eastern and western medicine. “Being there felt as much like an opportunity to learn as it did to relax,” recalls Canning.
Cal-a-Vie, Vista, California
Women’s Health editors love Cal-a-Vie luxury spa resort so much that they hosted the first-ever Long Weekend Wellness retreat there late last year. Nestled in the rolling hills of Vista, California, Cal-a-Vie is a 45-minute drive from San Diego—but feels like a French chateau. The resort aims to help you prioritize wellness via its fitness, nutrition, beauty, and mental wellness programming. You can sign up for classes and treatments each day, creating a personalized itinerary. “I woke up for a sunrise hike, where I got to socialize and connect with so many amazing women who also needed a self-care pause,” says WH Executive Fitness and Health Director Jaqueline Andriakos. Then, she headed to a sound-bath meditation, followed by breathwork and ice bath recovery. In the afternoon, she got a facial and used the gym for strength training. She closed her day with a mindful stroll through the stone labyrinth: “Pretty dreamy, huh?”
Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
Built on 17 acres, there are only 40 rooms on the adults-only property to guarantee the most serene environment possible. The luxurious yet unpretentious and comforting environment carries through to all the lake activities offered, whether you want to paddle board, pedal board, or just do yoga on the dock. You'll never want to leave after a walk in the flower, herb, and vegetable garden and some time spent gazing out at the Balcones Canyonlands Nature Preserve from the spa’s light-filled Blue Room lounge. “Each morning at Lake Austin Spa Resort started with a restorative instructor-led yoga class at the sunny lakefront gym followed by a delicious and nourishing garden-fresh breakfast,” says WH Senior Commerce Editor Neha Tandon, who visited in April 2023. “After a luxe two-hour-long facial at the spa one evening, I attended a seminar on the art of spiritual healing led by a health and wellness coach. Every night ended with my holding a cup of tea on my private lakefront balcony, watching the sunset while journaling.” Most guests traveled there alone or were on mother-daughter trips, so it was the perfect place for Tandon to take a revitalizing solo trip. “I left feeling completely renewed—physically from the fresh food, facial, and walks along the lake, and spiritually from the seminar, quiet time in nature, and tranquil environment,” she says.
Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, New York
Come for the lake and mountain views, and stay for the ultra-luxe spa treatments. “I started my day at Mohonk Mountain House with a rejuvenating two-hour facial while my husband had a relaxing massage and read in the cozy solarium,” says WH Lifestyle Director Lindsay Geller. “After our treatments, we decided to spend some time lounging in the outdoor heated mineral pool, just basking in the beauty of nature. Fully recharged, we decided to head out on a hike in the afternoon. It was the perfect blend of rest and activity. We can’t wait to return.” Founded in 1869, Mohonk Mountain House has always been dedicated to preserving its natural surroundings. The United Nations Environment Programme has even recognized the resort for “generations of dedicated leadership and commitment to the protection and enhancement of the environment.” Because sustainability is one of Mohonk’s core values, that was a key consideration in building its new spa. Not only does a geothermal heating and cooling system moderate the spa's temperature, but the building also boasts a green roof garden terrace to insulate the building, reduce energy use and water runoff, and provide a venue for birds and butterflies. Sustainability is even infused into one of the spa’s signature treatments: The “Shawangunk Grit” Mineral Body Treatment uses a scrub made from powdered indigenous quartzite rocks to exfoliate and improve circulation.
Sundara, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Hidden in the midst of a family waterpark mecca Wisconsin Dells, Sundara is a serene oasis for adults only with a soothing spa hydrotherapy circuit, outdoor pool, and more to help you truly relax, according to WH Fitness Editor Jennifer Nied, who’s a massive fan of hydrotherapy. As a former editor at spa magazine, this was the biggest standout. “There's nothing else like it in the Midwest, and I had the best time with my husband, but it's an ideal couples or group weekend getaway.” They even have a Therabody massage that uses the cult-favorite device. Athletes love it for its ability to improve their range of motion and increase blood flow.
The Waves Body Treatment Series at Four Seasons Hotel and Residences, Fort Lauderdale
Research shows that spending time near bodies of water can have profoundly positive mental and physical health benefits, and these therapies take full advantage of that. A choice of nine treatments (everything from body scrubs to wraps to massage) are performed as guests lounge on a warm-water aqua bed meant to mimic the undulating calm you'd experience during a day at the beach or on the lake. To add to the experience, therapists use special rhythmic motions, emulating the gentle caress of a wave. “Pure bliss,” declares WH Beauty Director Brian Underwood.
Retreats That Will Help You Reset
You refresh your closet every few seasons, and your mind and body deserves similar self-care. At WH's winning wellness retreats, the focus is on getting grounded in the great outdoors. Whether it's a solo yoga retreat to Arizona's Sonoran Desert, an intimacy-focused workshop with your S.O. along Big Sur's coastline, or fireside stargazing in the desert with friends, there's plenty to chose from. Prepare to leave each retreat with your body feeling restored, and mind transformed.
Under Canvas Properties, Zion, Utah
When WH Features Director Kristin Canning isn’t writing, you can often find her hiking or sleeping under the stars. “The Under Canvas Zion location seems to have the most activities you can get,” says Canning, who has been a big fan of the glamping service for years. There’s canyoneering, rock climbing, guided hiking, mountain biking, stargazing tours, horseback riding, cycling tours, and via ferrata tour options. It’s located on about 200 acres of dramatic red-rock desert, and each tent is furnished with a wood-burning stove, bed, and furs on the floor for incredible coziness. “You hear the wind rustling in the tent flaps at night, and you can pull them back during the day to feel you have true indoor/outdoor living,” says Canning. “Everything smells like campfire—all those things I love, and you still get them with a tent glamping experience.”
Esalen Institute, Big Sur, California
The Big Sur hot springs, spa, and nonprofit retreat center opened in 1962 and introduced many Eastern philosophies and concepts to the mainstream, such as yoga, meditation, and the mind-body connection. The 27-acre property boasts stunning views of waterfalls and ancient trees and has rustic ocean-facing cabins. The institute hosts regular multi-day relationship workshops throughout the year with different experts. One might be led by a clinical psychologist and focus on how incorporating play can strengthen bonds; another might emphasize conflict resolution.
Chopra Health Retreat at CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa, Arizona
Set at Civana Wellness Resort & Spa in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, the Whole Health Retreat, created in partnership with Chopra Global, includes twice-daily meditation and yoga, custom spa experiences, 15 vegan Ayurvedic meals, and more throughout a five-night stay. The retreat is held twice monthly.
Travel Services That Make Everything Easier
A healthy travel hack that too often flies under the radar? Reducing your stress and increasing your happiness by leaving the less-than-adventurous parts of your adventure-planning to the pros. Whether you're heading out solo, with your best pals, or your family, these top-rated travel agencies take care of everything, from organizing outdoor activities for every fitness level to creating authentic cultural experiences. Memories, made!
Adventures in Good Company
Created by active women for active women, Adventures In Good Company offers small group adventures (typically 10 to 14 international travelers) that are all about experiencing joyful movement, cultural connection, and appreciation of the natural world. WH Lifestyle Director Lindsay Geller loves it because whether you want to go hiking or sea kayaking, “each trip has a different rating level from 1 (least strenuous) to 5 (most strenuous), so you can choose the perfect adventure for your physical activity level.” Notably, their trip to Bulgaria offers hikes through untouched forests in the Balkan mountain range and Turkish architecture tours, all while feasting on Mediterranean food while learning a bit of Slavic language. “It was everything I expected and more,” said a reviewer from the site. “What made it even better was the wonderful local guide and all the women who came. It was one of the best experiences of my life.” By sharing new experiences with fellow travelers, you’ll also build a community of like-minded women—and maybe even make a few lifelong friends.
Delta Air Lines
“I’ve flown on pretty much every airline—including a few too many budget brands—and Delta’s SkyMiles loyalty program is unmatched,” says Geller. “For starters, it’s free to join, and miles never expire, but Delta is committed to elevating what a loyalty program can be by allowing members to redeem their miles for so much more than flights. Whether you want to cash in for a premium drink at the Delta Sky Club, upgrade your seat on an upcoming flight—an underrated wellness experience, if you ask me!—or a Delta Vacations package, you can do all that and continue to earn miles along the way.” You can even use your miles to bid on exclusive Skymiles Experiences, like a desert retreat with a private guided hiking tour or a glamping adventure at Yellowstone. Plus, you can pass along the healthy benefits to those in need by donating your miles to support breast cancer research, children’s hospitals, the American Red Cross, and many more amazing nonprofits.
American Express Platinum Card
“Beyond access to luxe airport lounges across the globe—a well-deserved wellness experience for any weary traveler—the American Express Platinum Card is the only travel credit card that offers benefits to keep you healthy and happy at home,” says Geller. “After all, how you spend your non-vacation days matters, too!” Enjoy your favorite workout classes at a discount with the card’s unique benefits: an annual $300 Equinox gym credit (also applicable to an Equinox+ membership) and a $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit. Of course, AmEx boasts plenty of classic travel card perks, including hotel credits, airline fee credits, Uber credits, and Clear membership credits.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
An underrated part of healthy travel: Decreased stress at the car rental desk. “Enterprise makes finding dependable wheels, including electric vehicles—a healthy choice for the planet!—for all my action-packed adventures easy with more than 10,000 locations worldwide, including airports and in cities,” says Geller. Standard perks include unlimited mileage on most cars and no cancellation fees, but the company also has a four-tiered loyalty program, called Enterprise Plus. Members can earn rental upgrades and redeem points for free rental days, take advantage of faster members-only check-ins, and call a dedicated phone number for customer service.
Austin Adventures
Take the guesswork—and late nights slumped over a laptop—out of planning the perfect family vacation with Austin Adventures. “The family-friendly travel agent takes care of everything, including lodging, meals, transportation, activities, educational opportunities, and even extra-special ‘WOW’ moments guaranteed to create happy memories that’ll last a lifetime,” says Geller. Most trips are designed for families with children aged 6 and up to enjoy active opportunities together, from biking and hiking to rafting and even ziplining. Plus, an extra perk for parents: Austin Adventures even plans special activities for the kids, so grownups can have some well-deserved “adult time.”
Women's Adventures from REI
REI, the company you already know and trust for all your outdoor gear, offers 19 active adventures across the national parks of North America. Designed for all travelers who identify as women and led by a female guide, each small but diverse group (typically 4 to 12 people) will explore the wonders of the natural world, doing everything from backpacking to kayaking to road cycling. The best part? “You get to enjoy all the body- and soul-nourishing experiences, sans stress, thanks to your personal Trip Specialist who will help you prepare and answer all your questions,” says Geller. Plus, REI members get a 10% discount on every adventure package.
Learning Journeys
With destinations worldwide, Learning Journeys offers travel programs with itineraries designed to match your interests and help you explore new areas of curiosity. “I attended a Learning Journey program a few years ago in Peru, and it felt like I was able to experience aspects of the country that I wouldn't have on my own,” says WH Features Director Kristin Canning. “They had connections to remote communities, and with the help of a Quechua interpreter, we learned about traditional Andean spiritual practices, farming, weaving, and cooking.” Whether you opt for an individual or group program, like Songwriting in Nashville or Rwanda Photography and Cultural Safari, you’re guaranteed to experience a deeper cultural immersion into the area you're visiting, which creates a richer, more connected, more meaningful, and, ultimately, healthier travel experience.
TripAdvisor
There’s a reason TripAdvisor remains a trusted name in the travel biz—the website is a one-stop shop for all your travel booking needs, whether you’re making hotel or restaurant reservations. (They’ve even got vacation rentals now, too!) “Beyond its beloved booking tools, TripAdvisor also offers curated city guides, suggested itineraries, and tried-and-true advice—all informed by actual travelers who’ve been there, done that, and can’t wait to go back,” says Geller. “Wellness-minded travelers can sort through fun things to do by their interests by selecting the “Outdoors” category, which features award-winning options from bike rides through Red Rock Canyon and snorkeling between tectonic plates.” Plus, for the inspiration-craving adventurer, the site even offers quizzes to help you identify new and unexpected opportunities, including “exclusive escapes,” based on your personal preferences.
Airbnb
Whether you want a place to hang your surfboard or hiking boots, experience wellness by booking a vacation rental home through Airbnb. “I’ve used Airbnb multiple times to book vacation rentals everywhere from Rome to New Orleans. Not only does the brand offer millions of home listings worldwide, but what I love most is Airbnb Categories,” says Geller. By selecting from 55+ categories, including Off-the-Grid, Camping, Skiing, Surfing, Pools, Play, and Views, wellness-minded travelers can easily find the perfect rental home wherever they’re headed. “And if your travel plans are flexible,” Geller adds, “you can even find a hidden gem that inspires your next adventure.”
Smart Tech You Need To Navigate Any Situation
You wouldn't hit the gym without your sweat-ready tech, like your phone or fitness tracker, and the same goes for hitting the road—or skies. Maybe you're looking for a new pair of earbuds for early a.m. runs to scope out a new city, or perhaps a night of restful recovery requires a portable white noise machine. Whatever tech tools help fuel your version of wellness, you'll want to add these picks to your must-pack list.
Sennheiser SPORT True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
These sporty earbuds will become your best travel companion for the no-days-off exerciser. Expect a secure, customized fit, dust, splash, sweat resistance, and a 27-hour battery life—all for less than $100. “Whether you’re sneaking in an early morning run through a new city or hitting up the hotel gym before the breakfast buffet, Sennheiser’s Signature Sound featuring adaptable acoustics allows you to choose between either Open or Closed ear adaptors so you can be aware of your surroundings, like traffic, or be fully immersed in the bumping bass powering you through a tough workout,” says Geller. “Plus, it comes with a convenient carrying case, including a rope loop, so you’ll never have that dreaded ‘Where did I leave my earbuds?’ moment again.”
Hatch Rest Mini White Noise Smart Sound Machine
“A good night’s sleep is always a healthy travel essential, but catching Zzz’s in a new environment can be tricky if, like me, you’re unaccustomed to hearing certain sounds at night, whether that’s honking cabs or chirping crickets,” says Geller. “Drown it all out with this compact and portable white noise machine that features soothing nature sounds, like running water, ocean, and wind.” Plus, if you opt into Hatch’s paid subscription service, you’ll gain access to an ever-expanding library of nature sounds, lullabies, sleep stories, and more. You can also easily use the touch buttons on the device, or download the iOS or Android app to turn your smartphone into a remote control. Sweet dreams (anywhere) are made of this!
Amazon Fire HD 8
For less than $100, Amazon’s signature tablet boasts 32 gigabytes of storage space, up to 13 hours of battery life, and an 8" HD display. “This version is thinner and lighter than the previous generation of Amazon Fire tablets, making it even easier to slip into your carry-on,” says Geller. “Whether I’m engrossed in the latest best-seller on Kindle or catching up on my favorite streaming show, I know I’ll never be bored.” And if you’re considering a tablet to keep your child occupied on long flights and car rides, Amazon Kids allows you to set parental controls. You can even subscribe to Amazon Kids+ to access thousands of books, apps, games, videos, songs, and more.
TripIt
Often traveling on work and personal vacations, WH Creative Director Raymond Ho always uses TripIt to help plan every step of his journey. “I like that the app has a simple linear interface that shows your itinerary with important timestamps, and it alerts me whenever there’s a change in my travel plan—mainly flight delays for me!” he says. Ho’s favorite feature is the ability to forward any travel emails (flights, trains, hotels, etc.) to plans@tripit.com, and it will add the entry to his overall itinerary. “I don’t know how they do that, but I can forward important updates from my personal and work emails, and TripIt just magically groups everything,” he adds. “Thanks to the app, I’m way less stressed when I travel, and that’s a huge health benefit for me.”
EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter
“My husband and I shared this universal travel adaptor on our three-week honeymoon throughout Italy, and it kept our smartphones, fitness trackers, earbuds, and other tech accessories constantly charged,” says Geller. “With 4 USB charging ports and 1 AC socket, we never had to worry if we had enough room to charge all our devices simultaneously.” Plus, the adaptor comes with 4 different plugs for use in more than 150 countries. “It’s small but mighty—this adaptor fit easily into my husband’s carry-on backpack for easy access throughout our trip and, when it was time to go home, didn’t add extra weight to our already jam-packed luggage,” she adds. “It’s a must-pack for all our international trips to come!”
Peloton
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need the Peloton bike or Tread to make the most of the cult-favorite brand’s workout app. “Endorphins are one of my top travel essentials because a huge part of feeling like my best self includes keeping up with my exercise routine,” says Geller. “The Peloton app makes it easy to sneak a sweat sesh into my schedule because even if I’m stuck in my hotel room with only spare 10 minutes and zero equipment, I know I can find an awesome bodyweight strength workout—more than 500, in fact—with one of my favorite instructors.” Plus, the app features many do-anywhere classes (standing core, meditation, and stretching) and outdoor running and walking classes.
TSA-Friendly Beauty Buys
What you pack can make all the difference in how you feel away from home. These editor-loved products are game-changers on the road. (Take it from WH Editor-in-Chief Liz Plosser, who's nearly always on-the-go.) Promote the relaxing vaca vibes long after you return with these essentials, from a multi-tasking hot tool to a rose-infused dry shampoo to a cult-favorite SPF.
Ouai Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is key because who can trust hotel hair products (or wants to waste time on a wash day when you could be luxuriating on your vacay)? Ouai’s Dry Shampoo smells like roses, making it a light refresh after a long day, but it actually works. It adds volume, depth, softness, and a feeling of clean after using it. Best part? No packing shampoos or conditioners!
Drowsy Sleep Co Eye Mask
Not all sleep masks are equal, and Drowsy Sleep Co is proof of that. Not only will the chic eye mask look luxurious on your red-eye flight, but it feels like an absolute dream. “The silk padding is like a lightweight pillow on my eyes, which also makes adjusting to sleeping in new and different beds and time zones a bit easier,” says WH Senior Commerce Editor Neha Tandon.
Shark Air Styling and Drying System
A self-proclaimed overpacker, WH Commerce Editor Jasmine Gomez loves the Shark Air Drying and Styling System to help keep luggage light. “Most hair dryers at hotels are meh,” she says. “I have a coarser hair texture, so I love having my all-in-one tool for keeping my hair looking good on vacation.” Pack the base, then which-ever of the four attachments you want. You’re set!
Bite Toothpaste Bits
"These have changed my life,” says WH Editor-in-Chief Liz Plosser, who’s racked up more airline points in the past year than many people will in a lifetime. “I no longer have to worry about how many ounces my tooth-paste tube is. There’s no mess in my dopp kit, and they make for less water usage.” Place one little bite into your mouth and start brushing your teeth. Easy.
Supergoop Daily Dose Bioretinol + Mineral SPF 40
Facial SPF products are often one-trick ponies, but Supergoop’s is the ultimate exception. The bakuchiol-infused drops give you all the benefits of a retinol but work well with sensitive skin. It’s great for travel: Rather than bringing a moisturizer and SPF, you have one that does both. “Travel wreaks havoc on my ultradry skin; this is super-nourishing to combat that,” says Tandon.
Lindsay Geller is the Lifestyle Director at Women’s Health, where she oversees the Life, Sex & Love, and Relationships sections on WomensHealthMag.com and the Mind section of Women's Health magazine. When she's not writing or editing articles about the latest dating trends and pop culture phenomenons, she's usually watching reality TV or playing with her dog, Lucille (Go Fetch That) Ball.
Neha Tandon is the senior commerce editor of Women's Health—she's an expert in discovering the best products and services you can buy and giving recommendations. She discovered her love for magazines when as a teen, she started stealing her mother's magazines. Determined to see more women who look like her and her family members on the glossy covers of magazines, she was guided by seasoned editors and mentors to write for brands including New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BRIDES, Harper's Bazaar, Business Insider, Byrdie, and Well+Good. When she’s not grilling dermatologists about the latest skincare trends, she’s doing candlelit yoga or watching Humphrey Bogart movies over vegan pizza. Follow her on Instagram.
