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Product Reviews

Marking the Map is your go-to source for professional recommendations for travel gear and clothing.  This post may contain affiliate links wherein I earn a small commission if you purchase or subscribe to a product from one of my links (at no extra cost to you!).  

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international travel gear Solutions

Photo of two suitcases, one red and one baby blue.

Get there in style with peace of mind

Traveling can be stressful and overwhelming, but with the right tools, it can also be much easier. Long, international flights and navigating airports, planes, trains and more can be your least favorite part of your trip, but these travel must haves make your journey a breeze.

ROAM luggage

ROAM luggage offers customizable colors with your monogram, four-wheel 360 degree effortless gliding wheels make maneuvering airports a breeze.  This water-repellent spinner suitcase has plenty of interior space and zip pockets to store smaller items, or anything you want kept separate from the main compartment. Made in the USA.

FlyKitt jeg lag reducing supplements

FlyKitt is a system designed to mitigate jet lag, combining dietary supplements, blue light-filtering glasses, and a mobile app with personalized timing guidance. I found it reduced my jet lag

Cincha bag and belt

Cincha Travel's popular bags are endorsed by Oprah. This super spacious, sophisticated canvas bag is perfect for your carry-on item or a day trip. The extra travel belt lets you cinch it to your carry-on suitcase easily. The zippered sections on the interior make organization easy. It's large enough for a laptop to become a stylish work bag too!

Foldie bag

The Foldie® Travel Bag is the smarter way to pack light without compromising on space. With a 40L capacity, it comfortably fits 3–5 outfits, a pair of shoes, your toiletry kit, tech, and more—all in a single bag.  My favorite use is to pack it in my suitcase and use it to haul home purchases made abroad.  It folds flat into a pouch when not in use (perfect for suitcase backups or overflow!) 

Cabeau neck pillows and travel blanket

Say goodbye to neck strain and discomfort with the Cabeau neck pillow.  The memory foam fill of this neck pillow provides a comfortable surface to sleep on for the entire duration of your trip with 360-degree coverage.  The Fold 'n Go™ blanket by Cabeau is super soft and packs into its own zippered travel case. I found it easy to repack  and it has velcro that can attach it to the strap of your carry-on. I actually used the blanket in the case as a pillow while traveling internationally too. 

MIXX Assistive Audio Flight Earplugs

Available on Amazon for $20 or less,  reduce ear pressure and noise while flying with MIXX Assistive Audio Flight Earplugs. Enjoy comfort, noise protection, and a better travel experience. Washable and reuasable.

women's health month/mother's day ideas

The perfect gift for a mom or yourself

 Looking for something special for Mom (or maybe you)? 💐
 

We’ve rounded up the ultimate Mother’s Day gifts—from self-care staples to travel essentials for the mom on the go. Thoughtful, stress-free picks to make her feel truly celebrated.


As a busy mother to three sons, with a full time job and being a frequent traveler, I’ve selected a handful of items I’ve tested and used the past few months to make traveling more comfortable and enjoyable. There’s an assortment of choices here for every budget.  Whether you want a sophisticated clutch like the Deseri bag on the left or health and wellness products, we've got you covered here.
 

Air travel picks

  

Vim and Vigr compression socks

Woman-owned Vim & Vigr's graduated compression socks are ideal for travel, hiking and beyond. They come in three compression levels, a variety of fabrics including moisture wicking nylon and wide calf sizing options available. They provide a proven wellness boost for long days exploring and for post-hike recovery. I also wear them when I fly to reduce swelling in my ankles! MSRP $38. 


TRIPPED travel tech bag for charging cords, etc. & packing cubes allow you to pack smarter and organize the contents of your trip! https://trippedtravelgear.com/

Skincare/wellness

  

I have very sensitive skin and these products do not irritate or burn. 


Terns skincare – ever get a little too much sun? Terns has relief.  Available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Terns/page/3278474A-5B9F-49A2-9D40-7C428F2A57D5?lp_asin=B0F2W8TGJX&ref_=ast_bln


FactorFive skincare - well-known and beloved products, such as the anti-aging cream, eye/lash cream, and their regenerative serum. These products are infused with ethically derived human stem cell growth media that works with the ingredients to provide the last results that will fight against aging and skin damage. As a bonus, the eye/lash cream will hydrate your eyes and help your lashes grow. https://factorfiveskin.com/collections/skincare-sets/products/factorfive-skincare-travel-kit


grace & stella Energizing Eye Masks (gold)

$24 for 24 pairs, graceandstella.com and Amazon

These nutrient-rich hydrogel eye masks provide an instant boost of hydration while revitalizing and rejuvenating the under-eye area.  Packed with soothing ingredients, including glycerin for intense moisturization, the gel patch formula also contains toning properties to cancel out bluey-purple tones of overtired skin. The cooling and anti-inflammatory effect to reduce puffiness and skin redness, especially when kept cold! The ultimate goal is to counteract the effects of sun, poor sleep, harsh makeup removal and dry, aging skin. Vegan, Cruelty Free and Paraben Free.

Clothing

  

Cozy Earth is one of my favorite brands for all things soft, from bamboo bedding to comfortable sweats for travel. Bonus, they are having a sale for Mother’s Day: https://cozyearth.com/pages/mothers-day-catalog

Footwear

  

Kindred Label foldable sandals – these dressy foldable sandals are a must for your next big night out or wedding reception attendance. When your feet hurt from heels, pull out these foldable, compact sandals to finish the night!

Accessories

  

Peepers readers or sunglasses - https://www.peepers.com/

Deseri bags – https://deseri.com/


 Discover unique, thoughtful gifts that make every mom feel loved on Mother's Day or any day of the year!


Written May 3, 2025 

Travel and Wellness in 2025: Favorite Products

Orange Evergreen case on rock.

Travel Essentials

Welcome to our New Year Travel and Wellness Guide! A new year is the perfect time to embrace new beginnings, explore new destinations and commit to personal well-being. Whether you're an avid traveler seeking your next adventure or someone looking to refresh and rejuvenate, this guide is your ultimate companion. We've curated a selection of top-notch travel essentials and wellness products to help you kick-start the year with vitality and excitement....

  

From innovative fitness gear that keeps you moving no matter where you are to clothing and footwear that does the same, our guide covers everything you need for a year filled with wellness and exploration. Get ready to discover must-have items that will make your journeys more comfortable, your days more energized and your nights more restful. So, pack your bags, fuel your spirit and check out these products to take you on a journey to a healthier, happier and more adventurous new year!
 

Evergreen Cases

The perfect case for your next big adventure!  Waterproof, shockproof and made in the U.S.A. Checkout Evergreen cases in a variety of sizes to hold your Airpods, keys, phone, and more while biking, rafting and doing other outdoor adventures.

VentaPak backpack holder

No one likes a sweaty back when cycling. Enter the solution: VentaPak, a mesh holder for your backpack to allow your back to breathe while hiking or biking. This accessory creates airflow to allow ventilation!

Skyway luggage and Rainier backpacks

Speaking of backpacks, my favorite is the Rainier Deluxe backpack by Skyway. It's the perfect size for a laptop and other electronics you need while traveling. 

Pirani Life insulated water bottles

Stay refreshed, and crush your goals with reusable, recyclable aluminum bottles that make hydration easy and guilt-free. Choose from multiple sizes. Taking care of yourself and the planet has never looked this good with Pirani Life tumblers.

BRANWYN underlayers

Wool does not have to be scratchy. It is also more comfortable and dries faster than cotton!  My favorite new hiking accessory can't be seen. It's BRANWYN underlayers. From sports bras to panties that breathe, I can vouchh for this brand being comfortable and durable. 

Footwear

I have a few recomendations here. Supportive footwear when traveling, and especially when walking and hiking in all climates is essential. My favorites included SOLE brand shoes and insoles and KURU waterproof boots.


Perhaps the most important gear you can invest in when hiking and traveling is good socks! Nothing ruins a good trip like a blister. Protect your feet with the best - Le Bent socks - are wool and super comfortable.

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Inspiring curiosity

Reflections

Marking the Map

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