In my Princesss Cruise era
Article content
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
Article content
I didn't want to do much more than lounge in a deck chair when I planned my cruise on Discovery Princess. Yes there were excursions I had to do – ride a trolly in San Francisco, visit the San Diego Zoo, and see the La Bufadora in Ensenada, Mexico, a blowhole that shoots water metres into the air several times a minute – but those outings were planned by or for my daughter. I just wanted to get away from the office, eat good food and relax.
Article content
Article content
Article content
Discovery Princess proved to be worthy of the stewardship. Full disclosure: I sailed on the Sun Princess in 2023 and knew Princess Cruises was synonymous for — luxury, indulgence, pampering, and entertainment that didn't require I get out of a cushioned seat. Yes I was going to pack on a few pounds and be catered to while sailing along the California coast down to Mexico, at times just watching the horizon dip.
Article content
The Lotus Spa is located on deck 5, just past customer service. I was welcomed by the sound of babbling water, offered a cucumber-infused water and given a tour by a friendly hostess.
Article content
Article content
There are treatment rooms for: massages, facials, pedicures, manicures, wraps, exfoliating scrubs and more treatments than I needed. I was more enticed by the large hydrotherapy pool at the heart of the spa. This is The Enclave – which anyone can use even if you don't get a spa treatment. A pass is required to use The Enclave or you can get a package that allows you access every day of your cruise.
Article content
Article content
I booked a deep-tissue massage for the next day. My massage involved a lot of kneading, and just the right amount of pressure to leave me feeling like Gumby. From the massage table I drifted to The Enclave's three steam rooms one after another. The Hammam for a steam bath, the Laconium for its dry heat and finally the Roman-inspired Caladium. By the time I dipped into the hydrotherapy pool I was stress-free and swooning. From there I gathered myself long enough to take the short steps to a heated stone lounger.
Article content
I vacillated in the space between basking and dozing content to soak in the heat. It was only FOMO that got me off the lounger to check on happens elsewhere onboard.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Toronto Sun
11 hours ago
- Toronto Sun
Canada issues new warnings ahead of summer travel season
Advisories for popular international destinations coincide with rising domestic travel and new incentives to stay in Canada. Departure drop off at the Ottawa Airport. Photo by Tony Caldwell / Postmedia The 2025 summer travel season arrives under closer scrutiny than in previous years. Global Affairs Canada has updated a long list of advisories shaped by war, crime and environmental disruption. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account Countries in the Middle East are under strict warnings to limit or avoid travel, and South American destinations popular with Canadian visitors have been flagged for instability. Even the United States has entered more uncertain territory, though it is still carrying a green 'take normal safety precautions' rating. A national poll in May found a majority of Canadians no longer felt welcome south of the border, and more than half believed travel to the country was no longer safe. On June 7, Canada updated its advisory for the U.S. to reflect large-scale demonstrations in Los Angeles. Domestic travel is seeing a rebound, driven by rising caution abroad and a new dose of civic pride at home. Ottawa expects record hotel bookings ahead of Canada Day, with tourism officials crediting a drop in U.S. trips and growing appetite for homegrown destinations. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Skyscanner data shows flight searches from Ottawa to Edmonton have risen 95 per cent since the start of the year, followed by Calgary and Winnipeg. Round-trip flights beginning and ending in Ottawa increased by 49 per cent, reflecting interest in regional tours or multi-leg vacations within Canada. The federal government is actively trying to keep travelers inside Canada's borders. Between June 20 and September 2, a Canada Strong Pass offers free or discounted admission to national parks, museums, galleries and VIA Rail trips. 'Canadians can enjoy free or discounted admission as they make Canada their travel destination this summer,' the program states, describing it as a way to 'celebrate what unites us … our shared experiences, natural wonders and cultural richness.' Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The view inside Canada may be bright, but international travel can be fraught with warnings. Mexico Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); A view of the damages following the passage of Hurricane Erick in Chacahua, Oaxaca state, on June 19, 2025. Photo by CARLO ECHEGOYEN / AFP via Getty Images Why: Canada updated its travel advisory for Mexico on June 19 in response to two serious safety risks. Hurricane Erick made landfall on the western coast of Oaxaca, bringing violent winds and heavy rainfall across southern Mexico. Authorities have warned of flash flooding, landslides and severe disruptions to essential services, including transportation, power, food and water supply, telecommunications, emergency response and medical care. In Sinaloa, escalating violence has led to clashes between rival armed groups near Culiacán and Mazatlán. Armed individuals have blocked major highways and attacked vehicles, prompting warnings about road safety and security conditions in the region. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. This satellite image provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Hurricane Erick making landfall in Mexico early Thursday. What to do: Avoid non-essential travel to the stretch of coast between Bahías de Huatulco and Acapulco, where Hurricane Erick has caused widespread disruption. Those already in southern Mexico should monitor local news and weather reports, prepare for possible outages and follow all instructions from emergency officials. In Sinaloa, travellers near Culiacán or Mazatlán should limit movement, stay off major highways and take extra precautions due to armed violence and security threats in the area. Cuba Exercise a high degree of caution; This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Customers buy groceries at a dollar-only market in Havana on June 15, 2025. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero announced last December the opening of dollar-only stores as 'a necessary process' to 'acquire the foreign currency' circulating in the informal market, where the U.S. dollar is priced at 375 pesos, triple the official rate. Photo by YAMIL LAGE / AFP via Getty Images Why: Widespread shortages of food, bottled water, medication, fuel and even tap water have affected daily life in Cuba, leading to travel disruptions and stranding some tourists. Long waits at gas stations have triggered occasional conflict, and service interruptions have been reported at some resorts due to limited water or fuel access. As of July 1, 2025, all travelers will be required to present electronic visas upon arrival. Anyone entering Cuba via a third country must obtain this visa in advance. What to do: Travelers should arrive prepared, especially when visiting areas outside the main resort zones. Bringing supplies like toiletries, prescription medication and a basic emergency kit is advised. While resort areas like Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Playa Santa Lucia are considered lower-risk, fuel and water shortages may still affect transit and services. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories); Anti-government protesters wave Thai flags outside Government House in Bangkok on June 19, 2025, demanding Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra resign after a leaked call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen sparked outrage and a coalition split. Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA / AFP via Getty Images Why: Sporadic demonstrations continue in Bangkok and other cities, while legal provisions give authorities broad powers to restrict movement, impose curfews, censor media and control public gatherings. Emergency measures may be enacted without warning. In the country's deep south, violent attacks by separatist insurgents have led to a blanket advisory to avoid all travel to the provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala. Martial law is in place across much of that region. Additional security risks exist along the borders with Myanmar and Cambodia, where occasional clashes, criminal activity and border closures have been reported. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: Avoid all travel to the southernmost provinces of Thailand due to the risk of violence. In other parts of the country, including Bangkok, remain alert to the potential for demonstrations or sudden security crackdowns. If visiting areas near the borders with Myanmar or Cambodia, stay informed about local developments, carry required documentation and only cross at designated points. Be prepared for delays or closures, and exercise increased caution in any region where military presence has been stepped up. Qatar Exercise a high degree of caution; A man walks past open shops at the Souq Waqif bazaar in Doha on June 12, 2025. Photo by KARIM JAAFAR / AFP via Getty Images Why: Hostilities between Israel and Iran have created serious security risks across the Middle East. Although Qatar remains relatively stable, regional tensions have led to reports of falling military debris in various locations and the potential for sudden flight disruptions, airspace restrictions, or border closures. The risk of escalation across neighbouring states is high, and Canada has warned it cannot guarantee the safety of Canadians abroad. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: Travelers in Qatar should monitor local and international media and follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including shelter-in-place directives. Ensure all travel documents are current in case departure becomes necessary. Note: Canadians in nearby high-risk regions such as Iran, Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank are advised to stay close to bomb shelters or hardened structures and to follow civil defence warnings. Those wishing to leave are advised to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive updates on evacuation options. Panama Take normal safety precautions with regional advisories; A man photographs damage in Changuinola, Bocas del Toro, on June 20, 2025, after vandals looted vehicles, offices and businesses. Panama's president has pledged 'constitutional measures' to address more than a month of protests and road blockades in the province. Photo by DANIEL SANTOS / AFP via Getty Images Why: As of June 12, a state of emergency was in place in Bocas del Toro Province following weeks of protests, while nationwide demonstrations since late April had caused recurring travel disruptions, including roadblocks and halted public transport. High levels of crime are reported in parts of Colón Province, San Miguelito and several Panama City districts. Travelers were also warned to avoid all travel to the Mosquito Gulf and the area south of Metetí in Darién Province due to violent crime, drug trafficking and human smuggling. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: Travelers should check routes in advance and be prepared for delays or closures due to protests. In affected areas, it is essential to carry a valid ID and to follow instructions from local authorities. In urban areas with high crime rates, maintain a high level of awareness, especially after dark. Demonstrations may occur without warning in additional regions. Peru Exercise a high degree of caution; Dust billows out of a landslide during an earthquake in Lima on June 15, 2025. A magnitude 6.1 earthquake that shook Lima and its surrounding areas caused one death in Peru's capital and several landslides. Photo by ALEJANDRA IPINCE / AFP via Getty Images Why: High levels of crime, social unrest and the risk of strikes and demonstrations can disrupt travel. A state of emergency in Callao Province and parts of Lima includes districts like San Juan de Lurigancho, Villa el Salvador and Comas. Enhanced security measures are in place, including ID checks and restrictions on motorcycle passengers. In several regions, including parts of Ayacucho, Huánuco, and Junín, criminal activity linked to drug trafficking and domestic terrorism has prompted a separate advisory against non-essential travel. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: In Lima and Callao, individuals should carry valid identification at all times and follow local laws, including restrictions tied to the current state of emergency. Travel plans should account for potential delays or closures due to protests or blockades. Travelers should avoid all non-essential travel to the regions flagged for organized crime and guerrilla activity, including the VRAEM corridor and border areas near Colombia and Ecuador. It is recommended to monitor local news closely and to remain alert in both urban and rural areas. India Exercise a high degree of caution; Visitors carrying umbrellas ride a boat at Meer Ghat, along the banks of the river Ganges, on a hot summer day in Varanasi on June 20, 2025. Photo by NIHARIKA KULKARNI / AFP via Getty Images Why: As of May 2025, tensions between India and Pakistan were high following cross-border airstrikes, though a ceasefire had since been announced. Areas within 10 kilometres of the Pakistan border remain under a strict 'avoid all travel' advisory due to the risk of landmines and unexploded ordnance. The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is also flagged for all travel avoidance due to the threat of terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. Anti-Canada sentiment in some regions has sparked protests, and consular services are temporarily unavailable in and around Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: Non-essential travel should be avoided in the northeastern states of Assam and Manipur due to insurgent activity. Canadians currently in India should exercise caution in public, avoid crowded places and protests and limit interactions with strangers, particularly in Delhi and surrounding areas. Those needing consular assistance should contact the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi or Global Affairs Canada's Emergency Watch and Response Centre. Germany Exercise a high degree of caution; German federal police officers at the Austria–Germany border crossing. On June 2, a court ruled the government's policy of turning away asylum seekers at the border was illegal. Photo by JOHN MACDOUGALL / AFP via Getty Images Why: Authorities are maintaining heightened security measures in Germany due to concerns about terrorism, organized crime and irregular migration. Temporary border controls have been reinstated at all land-entry points and were expected to remain in place until at least Sept. 15, 2025. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: Those entering Germany from within the Schengen area should be prepared to show valid travel documents at border crossings. It is recommended to carry identification at all times. Costa Rica Exercise a high degree of caution; Tourists walk in front of a restaurant in San Jose. Photo by EZEQUIEL BECERRA / AFP via Getty Images Why: Crime remains the main safety concern in Costa Rica, particularly in areas popular with tourists. Theft of passports and valuables is frequent, especially during high season. Pickpockets often work in teams, focusing on travelers in restaurants, bus terminals, hotel lobbies and national parks. Distraction techniques are common. Certain areas of San José, the Pacific coast, including Jacó and Manuel Antonio, and parts of the Caribbean coast, like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita see higher rates of reported incidents. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and be cautious when withdrawing money or using public transit. Keep your passport on you, along with the Costa Rican entry stamp, but secure it when possible. Minimize signs of wealth, and don't carry more cash or valuables than necessary. Stay alert in crowds and in known hotspots and report any thefts immediately to local authorities. United States Take normal safety precautions; Protesters stand off against California National Guard soldiers at the Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles during a 'No Kings' protest on June 14, 2025. Photo by Richard Vogel / AP Why: Demonstrations in Los Angeles and other major cities have prompted an increased security presence and the possibility of sudden curfew orders. Local authorities may restrict movement with little notice, and gun violence can be a concern. The high rate of firearm possession and the legal right to carry weapons in many states contribute to the risk of being caught in a mass shooting, even if tourists are not typically targeted. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. What to do: At the border, be prepared for detailed screening by U.S. authorities. Entry is never guaranteed — even for travelers with valid documents — and border agents have wide discretion, including the authority to search devices and to detain individuals who are denied entry. Remain co-operative and ensure your documents are in order before travel. smisenheimer@ Our website is your destination for up-to-the-minute news, so make sure to bookmark our homepage and sign up for our newsletters so we can keep you informed. Read More Columnists Toronto & GTA Editorial Cartoons World Sunshine Girls
Style Blueprint
2 days ago
- Style Blueprint
The Perfect Girls' Weekend Itinerary for Oxford, MS
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Oxford, MS, has all the makings of an unforgettable girls' weekend — charming boutiques, delicious dining spots, and a laid-back vibe inviting you to slow down and stay awhile. Whether you're planning a reunion, birthday trip, or just a spontaneous escape with your closest friends, here's how to spend a picture-perfect weekend in this beloved Mississippi gem. Check into a Chic Hotel The right stay sets the tone for any getaway. Luckily, Oxford is home to various unique boutique hotels that make for the perfect home base. For a hotel that blends Southern traditions with modern comforts, book a room at The Oliver Hotel. It is situated right off the Square and conveniently located to some of the city's best shopping and dining. It also houses 40 well-appointed rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant, and an intimate speakeasy. Kingswood Restaurant & Bar offers authentic Southern cuisine, while Nightbird is known for its creative craft cocktails. Pin Another popular boutique hotel, Graduate by Hilton offers a truly authentic Oxford experience. In addition to cozy guest rooms and thoughtful amenities, the hotel offers two on-site dining options — Cabin 82 for breakfast and lunch, and The Coop, a rooftop bar with sweeping views and delicious bites. Pin Fuel Up for Your Day After a good night's rest, start your morning with coffee and pastries from Bottletree Bakery, a local café known for its European-style breads made fresh daily. You'll also find a lineup of signature drinks, fresh cookies, and homemade granola. Heartbreak Coffee is another great option for a morning pick-me-up. The local coffeehouse is women-founded and offers everything from lattes to fresh muffins and delectable donuts. For a quintessential Southern brunch, head to Big Bad Breakfast, where the biscuits are flaky, the grits are creamy, and the side dishes are an underrated addition to any meal. Standout entrées include the bruléed grapefruit and the chicken and waffles. Shop The Square Since Oxford's incorporation in 1837, the Square has been a bustling cultural and economic hub. Today, it's a go-to destination for shopping and local charm. You and your girlfriends could easily spend an afternoon here, popping in and out of boutiques for gifts, on-trend fashion, and unique finds. Browse popular women's boutiques like Ginger G, Cicada, and JANE, or head to Olive Juice Gifts for a mix of home decor and fashion-forward accessories. And don't miss Neilson's Department Store, a local icon since 1839. It's known for its collection of clothing for women, men, and children, as well as timeless home goods. Pin Square Books is a must for book lovers. This beloved, two-story bookstore is the perfect place to find your next great read or pick up a quirky, Southern-inspired gift. Bonus: There's an on-site café if you're in need of a mid-shopping coffee break and a balcony overlooking the Square. For a truly unforgettable shopping experience, stop into Inside Discount. You're almost guaranteed to find something here, as the store is filled from top to bottom with home goods and decor (think pillows, vases, artwork, faux flowers, mirrors, and so much more). Pin Immerse Yourself in Local Culture No trip to Oxford is complete without exploring the city's rich cultural roots, and few places embody that spirit more than Rowan Oak, the former home of American author William Faulkner. While visiting, be sure to stroll the Bailey Woods Trail, a scenic footpath that connects Rowan Oak to the University of Mississippi Museum. Plus, it was once a favorite walking route of William Faulkner himself. Once you arrive at the Ole Miss campus, you'll enjoy everything from tree-lined sidewalks to stately architecture and landmarks that reflect the university's storied past. Enjoy Live Music Known as 'The Cultural Mecca of the South,' no trip to Oxford is complete without a visit to The Lyric Theatre. Be sure to check the venue's calendar to see who might be playing when you're in town. Previous acts include The Black Keys, Willie Nelson, and Kacey Musgraves. Many of Oxford's local bars and restaurants also host live music events. This is a great way to see local talent and enjoy more of the city's food and beverage scene. Popular spots include Proud Larry's, The Library Sports Bar, and Rafters Music and Food. Dine on Elevated Southern Cuisine When you're ready for dinner, Oxford is home to some of the best and most authentic Southern cuisine. The legendary City Grocery is a popular fine-dining destination known for its shrimp and grits, pork belly tostadas, and crawfish scampi. City Grocery's sister restaurant, Snackbar, is billed as 'Oxford's neighborhood restaurant and living room.' Inviting guests to sip, savor, and stay awhile, the eatery's menu is chock-full of delicious favorites — from oysters to gourmet sandwiches and craft cocktails. Craving Italian? Head to Saint Leo for a fresh take on upscale comfort food. Inspired by owner Emily Blount's dream to serve food like her mother did — with heart and hospitality — the restaurant crafts dishes using local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Whether you go for pizza, pasta, or something in between, it's a meal worth lingering over. Pin With its perfect blend of Southern charm, lively culture, and warm hospitality, Oxford, MS, promises a girls' getaway filled with unforgettable moments and lasting memories. To begin planning your adventures, check out This article is sponsored by Visit Oxford MS. About the Author Brianna Goebel Brianna is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.
Vancouver Sun
3 days ago
- Vancouver Sun
Thule Aion backpack review: A top-notch carry-on for family travel
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. As a mom who has travelled on several trips per year with my husband and two kids (now ages 10 and 12) since they were born, I've lost count of how many bags we've tried over the years and how many ended up being wrong. We've tested all the traditional bag types: from duffels to hard and soft-sided rollers and checked bags, to sporty hiking backpacks that didn't fit overhead bins. We travel a lot… and not in a one-flight, one-resort kind of way. We move around often to make the most of our trips, which means there is a lot of carrying bags up and down stairs in old buildings, tossing bags into smaller rental cars, lugging everything along cobblestone streets, using transit and catching ferries with kids in tow. Plan your next getaway with Travel Time, featuring travel deals, destinations and gear. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Travel Time will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. We needed something versatile, structured, weather-resistant, and most of all, easy to live out of. With all the moving around we do, we needed easy access that made it simple to pack and unpack at every place we stayed. When the Thule Aion 40L Backpack arrived, I'll admit I was skeptical. It looked small and flat. But then I packed it and everything changed. What: Thule Aion 40L Backpack Price: $280 Where to buy: Thule | Altitude Sports | Amazon The Aion Backpack is a bag that's made to be thrown on the ground, slid under a seat, or carried through a city in 35°C heat without falling apart or feeling too rugged for the setting. It packs like a suitcase with a clamshell opening, meaning everything lays flat, is easy to access and stays organized – no digging needed. The bag features a removable roll-top pouch that's perfect for wet swimsuits, muddy shoes or dirty laundry, a laptop compartment with external access that makes airport security easier and a structured, compact shape that holds its form without being bulky. I looked at a few other options before settling on this one, including the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L , the North Face Base Camp Duffel and the Nomatic Travel Pack . I found the Cotopaxi backpack was fun, but the colours felt too bold and sporty for our style, and the fabric didn't seem quite rugged enough for how we travel. The North Face duffel is incredibly tough, but not comfortable for everyday wear. The Nomatic pack was sleek and smart-looking, but very tech/business-focused and better suited for digital nomads or solo travel. I'm including them here because they might suit other styles of travel, but for a family with mixed destinations and moving parts, the Thule Aion was the right call. The Thule Aiol 40L Backpack handles rough conditions and still looks pulled together enough for boutique hotels. On a recent road trip from Toronto to Pittsburgh for a week-long baseball tournament, this bag was perfect for the task. I packed everything below in the bag and it fit easily, without using packing cubes (though I typically use them and they would be a big help if you wanted to go away longer or bring more stuff): It zipped closed easily with no squishing needed and I could've packed more if I wanted, I just didn't need to. I'm really trying not to overpack these days, though my husband would likely say I still packed too much! The weight was totally manageable, though you'll want to be mindful if you're carrying it for long stretches. One thing to note is that men's clothing typically takes up more space, but if your partner is anything like mine, they'll pack half what's on this list and be fine. Least favourite feature: Size Due to its size, this bag may not be ideal for the hardcore ultralight traveller, extended winter trips with bulky gear or backpacking off-grid (though honestly, it could handle it). Children, people with back problems and those with petite frames may also be wary of being able to carry it on their backs easily, since this bag does run a little large. The Thule Aion 40L Backpack finally solves the 'right backpack' dilemma for real-world travel. It's the backpack I wish I'd had on recent trips like a Kenyan safari , Costa Rica jungle lodges and a family road trip across Australia . I'd recommend it for families or couples traveling carry-on only, travelers staying in a mix of Airbnbs, hotels and transit-heavy places or people who move often and need durability, function and style. It's ideal for car camping, road trips and cottage trips, or vacations to adventurous destinations. It's structured but flexible, rugged but classy, and smartly designed to help you live out of your bag, not just carry it. It works whether you're hopping from town to town in Italy or spending a week camping with your kids. It's a travel backpack made for how people travel nowadays, with laptops, kids in tow and unpredictable weather. What: Thule Aion 40L Backpack Price: $280 Where to buy: Thule | Altitude Sports | Amazon Shopping Essentials , a category written by research-obsessed shopping fanatics, is now on . Explore in-depth product reviews, expert recommendations and exciting collaborations — plus get behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and trending products — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter .
