Alaska ain’t cheap, as any "sourdough" (old-timer) will tell you. The cost of flying and shipping everything to such an isolated region is invariably passed on to the consumer. But if you’re willing to forsake flightseeing for hiking and national museums for national parks, you’re halfway to experiencing the US’s largest state on a shoestring.

Enjoy the outdoors at these eight national parks and preserves

In contrast to many national parks in the Lower 48, seven of Alaska’s eight parks and preserves don’t charge entrance fees. All of Wrangell-St Elias (a park the size of Switzerland) is free to roam at no cost. The full eight million acres of Gates of the Arctic can be enjoyed for nothing.

The only Alaskan national park where you do have to dip into your wallet is Denali which charges an affordable $15 (valid for seven days).

There are caveats, of course. Getting to some of the state’s more remote parks can be pricey. For a cheap intro, try Kenai Fjords National Park whose marquee sight, the Exit Glacier, is easily accessible from the town of Seward. Rangers at the Exit Glacier Nature Center lead free one-hour hikes to the ice-flow, imparting information on the wildlife and natural history of the area on the way.

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Learn about the Tlingit at the Sitka National Historical Park

This striking juxtaposition of Indigenous totem poles and Russian colonial culture explores a little-known chapter of Alaskan history on the site where native Tlingits were defeated by the Russians in 1804.

A beguiling one-mile-long forest walk weaves past 18 Tlingit and Haida totem poles that blend seamlessly with the shadowy trees; most of the structures are over 100 years old. The path also crosses the site of an old Tlingit fort, the last bastion in a key face-off between the Russians and the Indigenous people. The story of the 1804 battle is re-told at the park visitor center also home to a wood-carving workshop where you can watch local artists at work.

The nearby Russian Bishop’s House includes an ornate Orthodox chapel and was constructed by Finnish craftsmen in 1843. It is one of the few remaining examples of Russian colonial architecture in the Western hemisphere and one of the oldest buildings in Alaska.

Feel the chill at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center

A day out at the Mendenhall Glacier costs nothing but the bus fare from Juneau ($2) if you head directly to the waterside visitor center with its giant glass windows and full-frontal view of the calving ice-flow abutting Mendenhall Lake.

The center doubles up as a mini museum with geological exhibits complemented by a beautifully shot film about the relationship between glaciers, wildlife and people. It’s also the nexus for a lattice of short trails (pick up a free map) that meander to various viewpoints and get you to within showering distance of thundering Nugget Falls. If you’re lucky, you even might spot a bear or two (at a safe distance) at no extra cost.

Hitch a ride on the Mt Roberts Tramway

Most tourists ascend Juneau’s Mt Roberts on its spectacular tramway (cable car) that leaves directly from the cruise ship dock. On reaching the summit, there’s time for lunch in the ridge-top restaurant followed by a couple of short strolls above the treeline before taking the tramway back to town. Total price: an exorbitant $35, plus the food.

For those on tighter budgets, there’s a cheaper alternative. Hike up to the tramway’s top station on a steep two-mile trail, spend $10 in the restaurant and ride back down for free. It’s a fun dollar-saving day out that’s well worth the energy expenditure.

Go on an art crawl of Seward’s murals

Alaska’s street art capital isn’t metro Anchorage or even capital Juneau, but the village-sized city of Seward. A total of 35 story-telling murals painted by local artists makes up a huge outdoor art gallery that draws heavily on Alaskan and Sewardian themes.

There are tributes to the famous Mt Marathon race, depictions of hardworking fishers, nods to brave bush pilots and a shout-out to the legendary Iditarod dog-sledding event. The project was initiated in 1999 and includes work from 20 different artists.

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Tour Skagway’s historic Klondike gold rush sites

Look past the cruise-ship day-trippers, a million of whom disgorge onto Skagway’s creaky boardwalks every summer, and you’ll see a wonderful town-sized museum haunted by the ghosts of the 1898 Klondike gold rush and all the brothels, gunfights and debauchery that went with it.

Most of Skagway’s historic buildings are managed by the National Park Service and the best of them – including the Moore Homestead, the Mascot Saloon, and the wonderful visitor center turned museum – don’t charge for entry. Equally gratis are the street actors, waitstaff in period costume and storytelling national park rangers who enliven the bars and boardwalks around town.

Dive in and join the (free) show.

Admire Indigenous art at the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum

This enlightening museum in diminutive Valdez on Prince William Sound isn’t just free to enter (unusual in Alaska), it’s also one of the best of its kind in the state. The artifacts, which are legion and varied, were donated from the private collection of an American couple who relocated to Alaska in 1947 and became enthusiastic hoarders of indigenous art, random ephemera, and taxidermy.

Kudos should go to the curation which has organized the mass of objects in a coherent and interesting way with written commentaries that discuss and examine rather than evangelize. Admire model ships, fish wheels, moose-antler furniture, native masks, and lifelike stuffed animals.

Honor the dead at Totem Bight State Park

Totem poles are ubiquitous in southeast Alaska where they have been sculpted for centuries by Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian people. One of the best places to learn about their role in greeting visitors, honoring the dead, burying deceased ancestors and shaming transgressors is at Totem Bight State Park, 10 miles north of downtown Ketchikan.

The partly forested 33-acre park overlooking the Tongass Narrows serves as a free outdoor totem museum with 14 poles and an intricately carved clan house adorned with ravens, whales, and other native motifs.

Detailed interpretive boards explain the importance of the poles, all of which are replicas made in the 1930s during an early attempt to revive the then dying art of totem carving.

Stroll the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark

In one of the few road-accessible corners of mammoth Wrangell-St Elias National Park, this once flourishing copper mine is now a noble ruin and a roughshod outdoor museum to boot.

You can stroll at will around the mishmash of antique industrial buildings, some restored (such as the Depression-era General Store), others left in a state of ghostly decrepitude. For the full story of Kennecott’s brief reign as a prosperous mining community, join one of the free ranger-led walks that depart daily from the visitor center between May and September.

Go for a hike

Once you’ve invested in the essential gear – durable footwear, bear spray, walking poles and the like – Alaska’s finest and most widely available activity works out absurdly cheap. Whether you’re body-swerving hand-holding couples on the paved Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage or dodging grizzles in the treeless (and trail-less) taiga of Denali National Park, hiking in the "Last Frontier" is nearly always free. The iconic Chilkoot Trail, which crosses into Canada, is one of the few trails that charges a fee.

Even multi-day hikers make savings, backcountry camping is free in all of Alaska’s national parks (although in Denali you’ll need to apply for a permit).

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This article was originally published in June 2021 and updated in September 2021.

Explore Alaska on the the cheap with these 10 epic experiences 

Toronto is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Steeped in history and culture, it also bursts with joyous, offbeat energy and resolutely inclusive attitudes. I've learned that Toronto has its challenges and unspoken rules too; planning ahead and knowing what to expect go a long way in making a trip here unforgettable.

Add 13% to almost everything you buy (and then some)

Toronto is expensive, there are no two ways about it. It doesn’t help that a 13% tax is tagged onto all goods and services. Add to that a 17% tax for hotel stays. And, of course, 15% to 20% tips for meals are expected.

In general, travelers on a mid-range budget should plan on spending CA$100-250 per day to cover typical expenses. To save a bit, consider staying in a hostel (most have private rooms), buy self-catered meals in markets and take public transportation. CityPASS helps save on some major attractions too. And there are plenty of free things to do as well if all those taxes feel overwhelming.

Pay with Loonies

Yes, most places accept US dollars but use Canadian dollars instead – you are in Canada after all (plus you’ll save cash on lousy on-the-spot exchange rates).

Reserve your stay

While Toronto has no shortage of accommodations, smaller places like inns and B&Bs can sell out, especially during the summer months. Book early!

Buy pro sports tickets well in advance

Torontonians are diehard sports fans, no matter how poorly their teams are playing. If you want to join the madness, book tickets as soon as you know you’re headed to town – Maple Leafs and Raptors games go especially fa st.

Purchase seats for big-ticket shows early too

While you can typically score last-minute tickets for smaller theaters, Broadway shows pack houses months ahead. Buy tickets in advance. Otherwise, rush tickets are occasionally sold on performance day, starting at 9am.

Explore Toronto (mostly) on foot

Though Toronto is Canada’s largest city – over 6 million people – most sights are concentrated in downtown Toronto and the bohemian, ethnic, historic and waterfront neighborhoods that surround it.

Laid out in a grid, navigating Toronto is easiest on foot – you'll see more, learn how the city works, and have the freedom to pop in and out of places. If the weather is cruddy, follow the signs to PATH, a 17-mile network (30km) of tunnels that connects over 70 buildings and shopping centers. For the waterfront, change things up and rent a bike.

To get across town, use Toronto’s public transportation system (TTC). True, the streetcars and buses are often delayed and the subway only has four lines, but it’ll get you where you’re going. At all costs, avoid driving; the bumper-to-bumper traffic can be soul-crushing. If you must, bring your defensive-driving “A” game.

Mind your Ps and Qs

Though Torontonians are generally laid-back, “please,” “thank you” and “sorry” are highly valued words. Use them. Bumping into someone without apologizing or not thanking someone for holding the door is considered rude.

Likewise, cutting a line can prompt full-on shouts. And whatever you do, don’t say Canadians and Americans are the same – this oft-heard comment abroad is considered offensive at home.

Hear beaucoup languages

Toronto is a cultural phenomenon, where 51% of the population was born outside of Canada. You see it in the races and ethnicities of the people (over 250 nationalities), you hear it in the languages spoken (over 170) and you taste it in the food (almost 7,500 eateries).

Likewise, the celebrations and festivals, advertising and even the lineup of comedians and musical acts look and sound like nowhere else on earth. The city’s multiculturalism is refreshing and embracing…it’s what makes Toronto great.

Notice the Land Acknowledgements

“Land Acknowledgement” proclamations are posted all around Toronto and are read aloud at public events. The exact text varies, but at heart, they’re reminders that you’re on the ancestral lands of several First Nations’ communities, that it was taken by force or by broken treaty and that generations of Indigenous people have suffered all manner of atrocities at the hands of colonizers. It’s a small but significant recognition of Toronto’s First Nations’ people, their history and present-day struggles.

Display your rainbow colors proudly

Toronto is one of the LGBTIQ+ friendliest cities in the world, the first in North America to legalize same-sex marriage. The Church-Wellesley Village neighborhood is ground zero for the LGBTIQ+ community, a welcoming place where pretty much anything goes and everyone belongs. If you’re here in June, don’t miss the month-long Pride Toronto festivities – the parade alone brings over one million revelers to the streets!

Wear jeans and pack a warm hat

A decent pair of jeans is a standard go-to in Toronto, day or night. The exception is at upscale restaurants, clubs and theaters: where you should bring out your trendy threads instead. In the colder months, carry a warm hat and a jacket too – temperatures can drop quickly, and nothing says tourist more than wearing a ‘Toronto’ sweatshirt around town.

Have a government-sanctioned drink

Thanks to Ontario’s antiquated laws, hard alcohol can only be purchased from the government-run LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario).

Beer and Ontario-produced wine can be found at some grocery stores and the aptly named Beer Store. If you’re looking to picnic with a bottle, be discreet – public drinking is tolerated but not legal.

Don’t count on Universal Health Care

While Canada offers some of the finest health care in the world, it’s only free for Canadians. In fact, if you land in the ER, care can be prohibitively expensive. Before arriving, check if your healthcare policy covers you in Toronto; if it doesn’t, consider purchasing travel health insurance.

Be aware of your surroundings

Toronto is an extraordinarily safe place, consistently ranking as one of the safest cities in the world. But, like any major metropolis, it has some sketchy areas. Near the city’s attractions, Allan Gardens is known as a place you might encounter pickpockets; best to take a cab or ride-share around there, especially after dark. An

d regardless of where you are, it’s always good practice to be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing your cash. If you encounter any problems, call 911.

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Tips and tricks to keep in mind on your visit to Toronto

If you picture Georgia as a vast expanse of red dirt punctuated by peach trees to the moss-strewn coast, think again. Georgia's Piedmont spills out of the Appalachian mountains at the state's northern end, a stretch of rugged terrain packed with incredible hikes that rival neighboring North Carolina and more famous outdoor destinations like New Hampshire and Vermont.

From the legendary Appalachian Trail's southern terminus to spectacular waterfalls crashing into pools ringed by rhododendron, from under-the-radar south-eastern thru-hikes like the Pinhoti Trail to a swath of canyons carved by a century of erosion, the Peach State is full of surprises.

So lace up your hiking boots and grab your trekking poles – we've hand-picked some of the best hikes in Georgia, from challenging trails with technical features to short day hikes easily accessible for families and hikers with disabilities.

The Pinhoti Trail

Best for backpackers and thru-hikers

Springer Mountain wasn't intended to be the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Initially, Benton MacKaye, the conservationist who first conceived of the epic thru-hike, imagined the trail would run the entire length of the Appalachian Mountains named for, including the rolling foothills that extend into portions of Georgia and Alabama.

Work began in the 1970s on blazing the Pinhoti Trail, which encompasses the southern spurs left off the official AT. However, it wasn't until the early aughts that the Pinhoti Trail was completed and opened to thru-hikers.

Over the past 13 years, the Pinhoti Trail has steadily become better known as a southeastern thru-hike in its own right, as well as a good training ground for north-bound AT hikers. It also makes for a great section hike; however, whether you want to spend a Saturday on a portion of the PT or make a backpacking trip out of the 160 miles that traverse the Peach State from the Alabama state line near Etna to the northern terminus at Flagg Mountain near Epworth. However far you go, just follow the blue blazes.

Blood Mountain

Best for day hikes

Despite the sinister-sounding name, Blood Mountain is one of the most renowned hikes in all of Georgia. It's the highest-elevation peak on the Georgia section of the AT, and unlike a lot of summits in Appalachia, you actually get inspired panoramic vistas from the top instead of climbing to a dense, anti-climactic knob socked in by foliage.

Pick up any last-minute supplies you need at the legendary Mountain Crossings general store nearby, then start your climb at the Byron Reece trailhead near Neels Gap. You can follow the blue blazes to the intersection with the AT at Flat Rock Gap, then follow the Appalachian Trail's famous white blazes. You'll know you're getting close to the top when the trees give way to a series of big stony balds, which hint at the views to come.

Keep your glutes firing, though, until you reach the big stone shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps almost a century ago, where AT hikers still rest up overnight.

You can scramble up the boulders behind the shelter for the best summit views and a bite to eat – there's a reason it's called Picnic Rock, after all. There's also an outhouse a few dozen yards further down the trail and downhill from the shelter.

If you don't want to backtrack on return to your car, turn your Blood Mountain hike into a loop by continuing along the AT until you run into the Freeman Trail partway down the mountain. It juts off on a sharp left and brings you back to the Byron Reece trailhead at a lower elevation.

The Pigeon Mountain Pocket

Best for hikers with disabilities and families

If it's wildflowers and waterfalls you're looking for, it's hard to beat this best-kept secret of northwest Georgia. Tucked at the foot of Pigeon Mountain is a tiny jewel box of biodiversity, criss-crossed with level, accessible boardwalks that float just above a sea of bloodroot, Dutchman's breeches, trillium, Virginia bluebells, and star chickweed.

The Shirley Miller Wildflower Trail is typically in bloom from March through May, though it's pretty any time of year thanks to the bubbling Pocket Branch creek and the lovely, two-pronged cascade that feeds it from atop Pigeon Mountain.

Where the boardwalk ends, there's a trail leading to the base of the falls – though be aware it's fairly rocky, rooty, and muddy. Be careful to stay on the trail to protect the vegetation that makes this place so unique. And if you don't mind getting a little wet, go all the way up behind the falls, which have carved an arch-shaped passage in the rock behind the right-most cascade.

Amicalola Falls

Best for stairmaster fiends

Tennessee has Fall Creek Falls, Oregon has Multnomah Falls, Washington has Snoqualmie Falls and Georgia has Amicalola, the tallest cascade in the state.

Just north of Dawsonville, Amicalola Falls State Park not only boasts a 729-ft waterfall but also a beloved lodge, restaurant and conference center, along with plenty of campsites and hiking trails. It's also famous for a spur that connects to the Appalachian Trail and makes for a convenient, bucolic drop-off point.

Get a close-up look at the falls on one of several trails ranging from .3 miles long to just over two. The shortest is the West Ridge Trail, an ADA-accessible path that leads to the middle of the cascade and connects to two other options – seeing Amicalola from above and below.

From here, there are 604 steps up to a viewing platform where you can see the falls from halfway up. Connect to the East Ridge Trail, which runs from the Visitor Center parking lot to the top of the falls, for the longest possible loop. Or you can take the New Appalachian Approach Trail to the bottom of the falls – or another eight miles to the AT's southern terminus at Springer Mountain.

Tallulah Gorge

Best hike for photographers

In the far northeastern corner of Georgia, about an hour and forty minutes from Atlanta or three from Chattanooga, Tallulah Gorge is one of the state's Seven Natural Wonders. See its best features up close on the gorgeous but strenuous Hurricane Falls Trail Loop, which shows off some of Georgia's prettiest waterfalls, including L'Eau d'Or, Tempesta, and Hurricane.

In just three miles round trip, hikers can follow the rim of this water-carved gorge, then descend to its bottom, and even cross a magical suspension bridge that looks like it's straight out of Indiana Jones or Romancing the Stone. No, those movies weren't filmed here, but several scenes from Deliverance were.

There are 10 overlooks total along the Hurricane Loop – along with over a thousand heart-pounding stairs that will leave your quads shaking.

Anna Ruby Falls

Best hike for all abilities

Tucked away in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests near charming Helen, Georgia, Anna Ruby Falls is easily accessible for hikers of all abilities. The .15 mile Lion's Eye Trail is punctuated with signage in braille about the surrounding landscape, as well as a handrail to guide visitors with visual impairments.

There is also a half-mile paved trail from the parking lot to a pair of viewing decks suitable for those at modest activity levels, including families. However, this approach trail may not be considered genuinely accessible for hikers using mobility aids because it encounters moderate inclines at a few points.

For a longer hike, try the Smith Creek Trail, a nine-mile round trip trek through Unicoi State Park that ends in Anna Ruby Falls and follows a path once blazed by early gold miners.

Cloudland Canyon

Best hike for experienced hikers

Cloudland Canyon was formed millions of years ago where Sitton Gulch Creek cuts through the western edge of Lookout Mountain. It's full of lovely hiking trails and camping spots and is easily accessible from Chattanooga and Atlanta.

However, one of the best vantage points is the West Rim Loop trail, a nearly five-mile, moderate-to-challenging hike. It takes trekkers up out of the gorge to the edge of the canyon, through stands of rhododendron and classic Cumberland boulder fields, with plenty of overlooks gazing down on views begging to be Instagrammed. It's easy to turn this day hike into an overnight, too, since this trail passes both the Yurt Village, the park's cottages and its campgrounds.

Combine the West Rim Loop with the Waterfalls trail to see Cloudland's famous Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls, a strenuous hike to the base of the gorge and back that only covers 1.8 miles but also involves climbing back up 600 stairs.

Len Foote Hike Inn

Best hike for backpackers / glampers

If you like the idea of backpacking, but not so much the part where you schlep your days worth of food, water, shelter and emergency supplies deep into the backcountry only to sleep on the ground, you want to try this famous hike that's somewhere in between backpacking and glamping.

True to the name, you can only reach this iconic sustainable lodge in the Chattahoochee National Forest via a five-mile hike that typically takes anywhere from two to four hours and is only moderately challenging.

Once you arrive, you'll be greeted with rustic hospitality in the form of 20 private bunk rooms, hot showers, family-style meals, a library stocked with board games and puzzles, and cozy spots to curl up in an Adirondack chair and take it all in.

Some hikers chose to pair a multi-night stay at the Len Foote Hike with a trek to Springer Mountain, almost nine miles away round trip.

Providence Canyon

Best hike for geology fans

Here's the red dirt Georgia is so famous for – only it's eroded into an eerie canyon that looks as though it dropped from Utah into the otherwise soft, flat landscape of the southeast.

Unsustainable farming practices over a century ago are responsible for the Peach State's "Little Grand Canyon," but today, it's a fun destination for outdoor enthusiasts in southern Georgia who like a little uphill in their hike.

The Perimeter Loop Trail is only two miles long with just 252 ft of elevation gain, is rated easy to moderate, and offers views down into canyons 1-5. If you want a longer hike, you can combine the Perimeter Loop with the Canyon Loop to see canyons 6-9. For a gnarlier outing that's both strenuous and technical, the backcountry trail is a seven-mile loop that leads to primitive campsites and offers views of additional canyons.

The Appalachian Trail

Best hike for section hikers

Only 78 miles of the Appalachian Trail's 2,200 miles span are in Georgia, but they're pretty essential miles, connecting to the thru-hikes southern terminus. They're also incredibly scenic, spiking up and down some truly stunning summits like Springer Mountain, Blood Mountain, and Tray Mountain.

You can hike the AT state by state, of course. But you can also break up Georgia's portion into a series of enjoyable day hikes or shorter backpacking trips between major landmarks like Woody Gap, Slaughter Mountain, Neels Gap, Gooch Mountain, Tesnatee Gap, and Hogpen Gap. If you want to pick up a map and some advice, it's hard to beat chatting with the experts at Mountain Crossings, a well-regarded outfitter whose parking lot is a meeting point for both thru-hikers and leather-clad bikers.

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This article was originally published in April 2021 and updated in September 2021.

Say hello to autumn on these 10 Georgia hikes 

New Orleans is a good value-for-money city, and not just because the drinks are cheap. The city that gave the USA carnival season is itself a sort of perpetual carnival, a place where spectacle and showmanship are constantly on offer to even the casual visitor – and it's all free.

Here are 20 free things to do in New Orleans.

Fête to the early morning at Mardi Gras

Few cities are as defined by an event the way Mardi Gras defines New Orleans. The holiday, which hits in February or March depending on the year, has been called the greatest free show on Earth, and it's an explosion of color, costumes and revelry. Despite the cliches, the annual celebration is actually largely aimed at families. The two-and-a-half weeks preceding Mardi Gras are known as Carnival and are similarly packed with parades and street performances.

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Meander through the woods at City Park

While New Orleans’ City Park is not actually managed by the city, it is still free and open to the public. Visitors can expect to find ancient live oak trees with Spanish moss beards, slow waterways, Greek-style pavilions, and walking trails that meander through woods and wetlands.

Marvel at the architecture at Royal Street

A stroll down Royal Street is a stroll through the heart of the French Quarter, minus the booze-soaked bacchanalia of adjacent Bourbon Street. Various blocks expose visitors to some of the city’s finest Caribbean-style architecture. Travel tip: the sectioned-off area that's chockablock of street performers becomes pedestrian-only in the middle of the day.

Embrace your Southern Gothic side at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

New Orleans is famed for its necropolis-style cemeteries, filled with raised mausoleums that keep local corpses from washing away during the city’s fabled rainstorms. Lafayette, located in the Garden District and packed with creeping vines, gnarled tree roots and faded statuary, is one of the most pathos-drenched examples of the local Gothic cemetery genre.

Editor's Note: The cemetery is currently closed to the public while repairs and improvements are being made. Call or visit the website to check for details.

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Groove to the music at Louis Armstrong Park

Usually just called “ Armstrong Park ” by locals, this park, adjacent to the Treme and French Quarter, was once the site of Congo Square, the place where enslaved African were allowed to perform their Old World music. The performances laid the foundation for the development of all the sonic genres New Orleans has helped give the world. Today, the park is home to sculptures and walkways and often hosts free festivals and concerts throughout the year.

Get artsy at Sydney & Wanda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

Some 90 sculptures by world-renowned artists pepper a series of shady walking trails that web over two lagoons and through a living forest of magnolia and live oak trees. The Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a beloved gem and fixture of the local arts scene and represents one of the city’s best marriages of public art and outdoors activity. Admission is free.

Dive into the bizarre at Palace Market

On Frenchmen Street – itself a notable gratis attraction – you’ll find this art market, a sort of bizarre bazaar of some of this city’s funkiest creatives. “Art market” is a broad brush, and in this case includes weird t-shirts, idiosyncratic crafts, handmade jewelry and the occasional jacket detailing/bedazzling. Located next to the similar, just-a-skooch-smaller, Art Garden market.

Hit the streets with New Orleans' Second Line

A second line is a New Orleans street parade, led by a local brass band and followed by hundreds of citizens carrying on because life is short so why not listen to some good music? While weddings and even conventions throw small second lines, the real deal parades that occur in Treme and Central City – both largely Black neighborhoods – have deep community significance. Second lines generally occur on Sundays outside of summer; schedules can be found on the website of local radio station WWOZ.

Take in the history of Jackson Square

The beating heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square fronts the gorgeous St Louis Cathedral, perhaps the most iconic building in New Orleans, plus the historic Pontalba apartment buildings, the Cabildo, a state history museum, and the Presbytere – a museum dedicated to Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina. This pedestrian-only area is constantly (like 24 hours!) filled with street performers, tarot card readers, artists and general non-stop pageantry.

Tour St Augustine Church

St Augustine is the oldest Black Catholic church in the country and occupies a lovely tree-lined corner of the Treme neighborhood and a vitally important position in Black American history. The congregation explicitly preaches for civil rights and social justice and is the site of the moving sculpture, the “Tomb of the Unknown Slave”.

Enjoy views of the Mississippi River at Crescent Park

Many visitors to New Orleans are surprised at how tough it can be to spot the Mississippi River, given that said river is so integral to the city’s identity. But this isn’t the case at Crescent Park, which runs alongside the banks of the famed river adjacent to the candy-colored charm of neighborhoods like Faubourg Marigny and Bywater.

Make good decisions on Bourbon Street

The most (in)famous street in New Orleans is a multi-block procession of neon, bars, strip clubs, bachelor/ette parties, drinks the color of a Lisa Frank binder and bad decisions. At least, that’s Bourbon closer to Canal St. The other side of Bourbon is a little more low-key, aimed at LGBTQIA+ travelers around St Philip St, and turning residential as one approaches Esplanade Ave.

Support the local arts scene

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation puts on several free festivals and concerts throughout the year. The music department at the University of New Orleans also has an impressive lineup of shows that are free and open to the public.

There are also plenty of musical acts on the street and in local bars, but these aren’t really free: locals pride themselves on being good tippers, and if a tip hat or jar gets passed around, you should always kick in some money.

Shop til you drop on Magazine Street

If you like shopping, historic buildings, or both, take a walk down Magazine Street. The roughly six miles of city blocks offer up the best shops, galleries, restaurants and bars in New Orleans. It’s popular with all ages; some blocks seem to cater more towards students, while others are aimed at families.

Be memorized by the stunning St Charles Avenue

Few people can cross the length of St Charles Avenue without having to pick their jaw up off of the floor. This is classic overgrown, lush and fecund New Orleans: a wide avenue, cut through by a charming streetcar (technically not free, but at $3 for an all-day pass, it’s pretty close), flanked on either side by enormous live oak trees and some of the South’s most stately mansions.

Relax by the Bayou St John

Once an actual bayou (a body of very slow-moving water), Bayou St John used to form a natural watery highway throughout the marshy membrane of historic New Orleans. Now, this waterway is a pretty body of water plunked directly in the middle of the city. It’s surrounded by small grassy walkways and forms a pleasant natural cooling agent on hot days (of which there are many…).

Pop in to the live music clubs on Frenchmen Street

While Frenchmen can feel as busy as Bourbon on the weekends, it’s still well worth a visit; this is the best concentration of live music clubs in the city. Stroll around after 6pm on any given evening (even during the week), and you’ll hear music somewhere that will inevitably pull you in.

Check out the Arts Market of New Orleans

Every fourth Sunday of the month, the Arts Council of New Orleans puts on this excellent juried arts market at Palmer Park, located just off of Carrollton Ave. There you’ll find a showcasing of some of the city’s local creative talent, as well as kid-friendly music and activities.

Explore the French-Creole mansions on Esplanade Avenue

Most visitors to New Orleans have heard of Bourbon St and St Charles Avenue is at least world-famous in photos, but it’s the rare tourist who mentions Esplanade Ave. That’s telling because this is an absolutely stunning street, lined with French-Creole style mansions and cut through by a bicycle lane that extends all the way from the French Quarter to the fields of City Park.

Go green at Audubon Park

Although Audubon is smaller than City Park, it's also filled with live oak trees and Spanish moss and is flanked by some of the city’s most impressive mansions and handsome neighborhoods.

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With the year-round temperate weather and plethora of nearby green spaces, Bay Area locals love their time outdoors. That’s especially the case in San Jose since it’s further inland and thus not as susceptible to fog and the chillier weather up north. The aspect that’s most impressive about San Jose parks though is how they make you feel miles away from the city while still being within a densely populated area. Whether you want to get away from it all or come together with friends on a beautiful day in nature, these are the best parks in San Jose, California.

Kelley Park

Best park for sightseeing

Frequented by families, joggers, dog-walkers, locals on their lunch break and tourists exploring the various sights within its leafy confines, if there’s one park to see in San Jose, it’s Kelley Park. Spanning 172 acres, this is not only one of the largest urban parks in the area, it’s the most versatile; bringing together the best aspects of city parks in one scenic space.

Don’t miss Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, History Park, Trolley Barn and the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is a peaceful oasis complete with bright orange koi in the pond. Spend time taking it all in or simply find a quiet corner to relax and enjoy a break from the city.

Almaden Quicksilver County Park

Best park for hiking and history

Step back in time on the trails at Almaden Quicksilver County Park, where you can hike past remnants of what was once the richest mercury mining operation in California in the 1840s. From rusted relics to closed-off “Quicksilver” mines, it’s a unique way to get a glimpse of Santa Clara Valley’s mining past, all to the backdrop of oak woodland, rolling hills and open meadows.

Head to the more rugged southern end of the park for uncrowded trails and solitude. On sunny, clear days, take in the sparkling Guadalupe Reservoir and views of Mount Hamilton, Sierra Azul and the Valley. There’s no potable water at the park so bring plenty with you.

Emma Prusch Farm Park

Best park for toddlers and school-aged kids

When you arrive at Emma Prusch Farm Park, you’ll be welcomed by the chickens and peacocks that roam free at this peaceful 47-acre space. It’s the perfect introduction to what lies ahead: animal encounters, educational experiences and sustainable agricultural practices.

Bring the whole family to experience this agricultural haven in the middle of a busy urban area, all thanks to Emma Prusch, who donated half of her dairy farm to the city in the 1960s. Spend a day walking around the community garden, fruit orchard and the largest barn in San Jose. Hop on a hay wagon ride and have a picnic while kids run around in the wide-open spaces and playgrounds around the park. If you have more time in the area, sign up for one of the classes, such as beekeeping, animal care, or basic gardening. There is also a fall music festival and a summer camp for kids.

Alum Rock Park

Best parks for a picnic

As the oldest municipal park in San Jose, Alum Rock Park’s history is one of convenient relaxation and rejuvenation. In the early 20th century, it was a bustling natural health spa with mineral springs, a swimming pool, tea garden and dance hall.  There might not be as much soaking and dancing these days, but it’s still one of the most popular parks to visit in San Jose for a peaceful, leafy paradise within the city.

Nestled in the quiet foothills of the Diablo Range, enjoy a picnic here in the spring. The weather isn’t too hot yet and bright orange poppies make an appearance to level up the scenery. As a protected wildlife sanctuary, it’s also a great place for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Keep your eyes peeled for black-tailed deer, brush rabbits and quail that call this park home.

Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve

Best park for photography

This massive 1611-acre park is all about panoramic valley views and wildlife, making it the perfect spot for sunset strolls and various types of photography. Come here at golden hour to take in the orange and yellow hues, made even more vibrant in the spring when California poppies are in bloom. With just 10 miles of trails, you don’t have to walk far to get some of the best views in San Jose.

Vasona Lake County Park

Best park for socializing

Located just outside of San Jose, Vasona Lake County Park makes this list because of its manicured beauty and large, open spaces that are ideal for hosting birthday parties and get-togethers on sunny days. There’s a lot to see and do at this vast 152-acre park, but an activity that can’t be missed is renting paddle boats on the glistening Vasona Reservoir during the spring and summer.

Other park features include the Viola Anderson Native Plant Trail and scenic Los Gatos Creek Trail that cuts through the park and heads all the way back up to San Jose. If you have little ones, take them to Oak Meadow Park next door where they can ride the historic carousel and kid-sized steam train.

Hellyer County Park

Best park for dogs

With how dog-friendly the Bay Area is, there are a lot of dog parks to choose from in San Jose. The dog park at Hellyer County Park, however, is one of the best.

There’s a huge section of real grass, dog toys galore, shaded areas, responsible owners, water buckets and a freshwater source to keep your dogs hydrated and happy. Avoid the after-work crowd that comes during the week from 6-8 pm if you want a calmer experience.

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England is set to streamline its COVID-19 border rules from October 4 as it replaces the traffic light system with a "new clearer travel system".

The Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has today announced a new system for international travel on the back of the UK's successful vaccination campaign. Under the plan, the current traffic light system will be replaced by a single list of red countries and territories that are considered high-risk in the context of COVID-19. Anywhere not on the red list is considered low-risk and therefore approved for travel.

Testing requirements will also be reduced for fully vaccinated arrivals from a non-red country, who will no longer need to take a pre-departure travel test when traveling to England from Monday, October 4.

TRAVEL UPDATE🔊: we’re making testing easier for travel 🧳💉 From Mon 4 Oct, if you’re fully vax you won’t need a pre-departure test before arrival into England from a non-red country and from later in Oct, will be able to replace the day 2 PCR test with a cheaper lateral flow.
— Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) September 17, 2021

These passengers will also be able to replace their day two test upon arrival with a cheaper lateral flow test. That particular change should be implemented a little later, towards the end of October and just in time for when people return from half-term breaks.

Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will need to isolate and take a PCR test, at no additional cost to the traveler.

The rules will continue to be strict for those arriving from red countries, regardless of vaccination status. They will be required to take a pre-departure test, a day two and day eight PCR test, and quarantine for 10 days in a government-approved hotel. Countries on the red list include Brazil, Indonesia, Thailand, South Africa, Mexico and more. Eight destinations will be removed from the red list next Wednesday, including Egypt, Bangladesh and Malaysia.

Read more: Do you need a visa to go to the United Kingdom?

Passengers who aren’t recognized as being fully vaccinated with authorized vaccines and certificates under England’s international travel rules, will still have to take a pre-departure test, a day two and day eight PCR test, even if they're coming from a low-risk country, and self-isolate for 10 days upon their return. "We wanted to bring a new, simpler, easier to navigate and cheaper system as well," Mr. Schapps said, while confirming the two-tiered system would be in place until early 2022 at least. "The purpose is to make it easier for people to travel without the bureaucracy, without so many tests and with a greater level of certainty - now that we have got so many people vaccinated."

England's travel rules apply to anyone aged 11 and over. All passengers will still need to fill in a passenger locator form ahead of travel.

Currently there are no proposed changes to the travel rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland where the traffic light system continues to be implemented.

For more information on the UK's entry requirements, see here.

This article was first published on August 5 and updated on September 17, 2021.

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The Indonesian government is reassuring backpackers that they will be permitted to travel to Bali when it reopens to tourists after an official reportedly said they would not be welcome under stricter rules.

There were concerns this week that Bali would limit the type of traveler who could visit the popular tourist resort after the Maritime and Investment coordinator minister, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan—who is also in charge of the COVID-19 response team—reportedly said backpackers would not be allowed in.

“We’ll aim for quality tourism in Bali, so we won’t allow backpackers to enter once the reopening plan for international travelers is officially put in place in the near future,” the Bali Sun reports Luhut said during a virtual press conference on Monday.

However, in a statement shared with Lonely Planet, Luhut's spokesman said the comments were a "misunderstanding," and the minister meant "visitors who violate health rules and regulations, laws and immigration regulations in Indonesia [will not be allowed to enter]." The government spokesperson added that all foreign visitors and tourists can visit Bali, provided they adhere to protocols.

Although no timeline for opening has officially been announced, Reuters reports the health minister suggests sometime in November, when 70% of the eligible population has received at least one vaccine shot.

Read more: Essential Bali travel tips: what to know before you go

Bali is easing some domestic restrictions and preparing to reopen to foreign visitors from low-risk countries as coronavirus case numbers continue to decline.

According to Reuters, international visitors must take three PCR tests before entering the island and quarantine for eight days upon arrival. Visitors are also required to be fully vaccinated and present proof on a government-verified phone app.

Indonesia, the world’s fourth-most populous nation, has suffered one of the world's worst COVD-19 surges, driven by the highly infectious Delta variant. But after reporting a second wave earlier this year, coronavirus case numbers are declining, and at least 31% of the population is fully vaccinated.

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Edinburgh is renowned for being one of Europe’s most lively and friendly cities. It offers visitors the best of both worlds: urban attractions, and beautiful natural landscapes, there’s plenty of choice to suit everyone. If you want to explore more of what the Scottish capital has to offer here are some of the best things to see and do in easy-to-navigate Edinburgh.

The Royal Mile

Resting like a gem near Holyrood Park, The Royal Mile is a succession of streets through Edinburgh’s Old Town which connect Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyroodhouse. The distance between the two royal residences is exactly a mile, hence its name, which it was given in the 16th century.

Along the cobbled streets, there are five sections to explore: Castle Esplanade, Castlehill, Lawnmarket, the High St and Canongate. Don’t miss the 15th-century grey behemoth, St Giles Cathedral, which was restored in the 19th century, and The Witches Well, a fountain that commemorates the Edinburgh women executed on suspicion of witchcraft between the 15th and 18th centuries.

Other things to look for include Cannonball House, which has a cannonball lodged into its west wall (don't worry, it's unlikely to be embedded during a battle, more a municipal solution left there by engineers marking the height for the city's first waterpipe), and former Victorian church houses like John Knox House, which dates from 1470, the oldest building on the Royal Mile.

Edinburgh Castle

No visit to the Scottish capital would be complete without seeing Edinburgh Castle. Originally built in 1103 on a large craggy rock, Britain’s most besieged castle can be seen from almost every corner city.

Home to both Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, the royal residence also houses Britain’s oldest Crown jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland. They include an imperial golden crown, decorated with pearls and large amethyst, the silver-gilded Sceptre of Scotland and the Sword of State which was a gift to James IV in 1507 from Pope Julius II. Year-round guided tours give visitors a sense of what life was like at the castle.

Dean Village

In a city as beautiful as Edinburgh, it can be hard to stand out, but the tranquil Dean Village – which officially became part of the city in 1826 – just about takes the crown. Set next to the Water of Leith, which languorously rolls on past, this former grain milling area to the northwest of the city center is a photographer's dream model.

Look out for the red sandstone of Well Court which hangs over the river. It was built in the 19th century for the owner of The Scotsman newspaper, Sir John Findlay. Other photo opportunities include the 106ft-tall (32m) Dean Bridge, which is the work of civil engineer Thomas Telford who designed the A5 road from London to Holyhead, and the Germanic-looking daffodil-yellow timber-fronted houses.

Arthur’s Seat

An unmissable landmark, Arthur’s Seat provides visitors with spectacular views of the city. Some 350 million years ago, these lurching green hills within Holyrood Park formed an active volcano. Long extinct, it's now hikers and visitors that stream down its steep banks like lava. Keen for breathtaking panoramic vistas of Edinburgh from above? You’ll see its spires and rooftops, the Firth of Forth, Murrayfield Stadium, the Pentland Hills and beyond from up here.

Arthur’s Seat itself is a former hill fort surrounded by three defensive siblings. Self-guided tours of the site are available as a free podcast. Download the Hidden Trax app.

Scottish National Gallery

Edinburgh has plenty of great art galleries, but the Scottish National Gallery is its best. Located just off Princes Street, this imposing neoclassical behemoth dates back to the 1850s. It’s built by William Henry Playfair, who also designed the iconic Dugald Stewart Monument, the Royal Scottish Academy and over 15 other landmarks in the city (yes, including “Edinburgh's Disgrace”, the National Monument of Scotland, his unfinished ode to Parthenon in Athens)

Art enthusiasts can view Van Gogh's Orchard in Blossom (Plum Trees), Lobster Telephone by Salvador Dalí and the transcendent Wandering Shadows by Scottish artist Peter Graham, among many others. There are paintings here too by Glasgow's prodigal son, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The gallery has a restaurant and cafe that serves up traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis and black pudding, with overlooking views of the city landscape.

Camera Obscura

Close to the Royal Mile, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is an observatory established by Maria Theresa Short in 1853. First established as a museum of art and science, today a spiral stairway leads up to an observatory at the top of the Outlook Tower where you will find the camera obscura, a device that uses lenses and mirrors to throw back a visual of the whole city onto a large screen.

Guides provide historical background to the devices used here and the quirky rooms leading up to the tower such as the vortex, a tunnel that seems to spin, and a mirror maze immerse visitors in different types of optical illusion.

Princes Street

Built in 1767, the historic Princes Street takes its name from the sons of King George III. Once a smart residential street, it's now the heart of Edinburgh's central shopping district. As well as independent stores, major high street brands and plenty of places to eat (try Sir Walter's Cafe in the Gardens, or Castello), the nearby Princes Street Gardens are a must.

Not only a great place for a breather, the park has some lovely unique features worth seeking out including the recently-renovated Ross Fountain, a turquoise-and-gold, Beaux Arts–style water feature first erected in 1872, and a large floral clock (July to October) which is made anew each year from some 35,000 flowers.

The Georgian House

A lesser-known attraction in Edinburgh’s New Town, the Georgian House was built in the late 17th century by acclaimed architect Robert Adam, the neoclassical revivalist whose exhaustive works include Pulteney Bridge in Bath and Harewood House near Leeds. As you’d expect for the Architect of the King's Works, the property is charmingly luxurious.

There are paintings here by famed Scottish artists, including John Simmons, and oodles of Regency charm. The vast Drawing Room, which takes over the entire first floor, houses a square piano (the center of the room was for dancing), whilst the Dining Room has a wonderful drop-leaf dining table, a walnut longcase clock from London and black, gilt-carved chimney glass. Visitors can also see the Parlour, the Kitchen, the Basement and the Servants Quarters.

Mary King’s Close

Okay, so the immersive characters might not be for everyone, but The Real Mary King's Close offers a unique perspective on Edinburgh. Located beneath the Royal Mile, this labyrinth of 17th-century alleyways and streets stand almost as they were some 250 years years ago when the City Chambers were simply built on top of them. The tours here take you back in time with characters dressed in period costume adding to what is a memorable experience.

Royal Botanic Garden

Known locally as the Botanics, this sprawling 70-acre garden has more than 13,500 species of plant to discover across six different gardens. Look for the rare Catacol whitebeam, endemic to the Isle of Arran, located near the huge Victorian Glasshouses, which themselves are home to some of the world’s most endangered plants. There are also a number of tropical palms to discover as well as dwarf daffodils, snowdrops and1000 types of rhododendron.

Museum of Childhood

The first of its kind in the world, the Museum of Childhood homes all things related to children. From 19th-century Victorian dolls and a Raleigh Chopper bicycle to long-forgotten board games like Quintro and a 1920s voice-activated toy called Radio Rex, this place won’t just keep the kids amused, it will revive nostalgia in adults too.

Holyrood Abbey

Founded by David I in 1128, all that remains of Holyrood Abbey are its ruins. But what magnificent ruins they are! The walls of this mighty Gothic church are still intact and the arched window frames and decorative detail on the front-west facade show how important this place of worship was.

Later, the cloister precinct became Holyroodhouse where the royal family stayed when they were in Scotland. Guided tours help visitors to admire the architecture and learn more about the former abbey's significance.

The Chocolatarium

Chocolate lovers will be thrilled with The Chocolatarium in Edinburgh, located just off the Royal Mile. Visitors can expect to indulge at the micro chocolate factory and learn how the sweet treat is made. Ninety-minute guided tours take you through the growth of chocolate and even gives you the chance to make your very own bar to take home.

Edinburgh Zoo

Ideal for families, the 85-acre (34-hectare) Edinburgh zoo is home to more than 1000 rare and endangered animals and is world-renowned for its conservation efforts. Located on the top of Corstorphine Hill, the views back across the city are nearly as compelling as the wildlife.

Open since 1913, the wildlife park offers visitors a chance to see penguins, Sumatran tigers, monkeys, birds, fish, frogs and a whole host of different animals, including two of the rare greater one-horned rhinos. It is also the only zoo in Britain with giant pandas and koalas. Add in feeding shows, live events and screenings – and there is plenty here to fill a day.

Stockbridge Food Market

From warm, artisan loaves and thick Germagrain batards to filling East African gambos and fragrant three-lentil dahl with coconut and ginger, gourmands will not be disappointed with Stockbridge Food Market.

Located in a small park between Saunders and Kerr Streets, just northeast of the beautiful Circus Lane mews, this Sunday showing of traditional Scottish food (think haggis or tablets, a traditional Scottish sweet that's similar to fudge) and superb international grub (huge pans of aromatic paella and delicious, nduja burrata taglioni) is where the foodies can be found.

Gladstone’s Land

Gladstone’s Land is an historic 17th-century tenement house on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, which was plucked from the jaws to demolition and lovingly restored to its former glory. Expect thick, dark-wood beams, period furniture and hand-painted ceilings as well as a retelling of the stories of those who lived there.

Royal Yacht Britannia

If you like the thought of exploring a former royal family holiday home then step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia for a guided tour of the world famous yacht. The Royal Yacht has travelled more than a million miles and its grandeur is exhibited in its 412ft (125m) build. It is moored in Leith Port and visitors are invited to explore the royal decor or indulge in a majestic afternoon tea.

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Traveling light is an essential step towards embracing the spontaneity of travel. With a small pack, you can travel on impulse, sprinting down the platform to catch that departing train, and leaping from boat to village bus without missing a beat. From the comfort of home, it might feel like you need everything but the kitchen sink, but when it comes to packing, less is definitely more.

One of the first surprises for new travelers is that things from back home are easily available in other countries. If you can pick it up when you arrive, why haul it halfway across the world? The other big first-trip packing lesson is the value of having space in your pack–you never know when you might find a Buddha statue or hand-embroidered wall hanging that you can't live without.

If your backpack is bursting at the seams when you set off, you'll soon find yourself wrestling with multiple bags while the light load travelers are grabbing the best seats on the bus. Travelers with a single bag experience less stress–they're the folk you see whistling cheerfully as they walk out of the terminal building while you're still fighting to drag your suitcases off the conveyor belt.

Of course, packing is a deeply personal process. Everyone has their own standards of comfort, and their own notions of what counts as essential. But by following some field-tested tenets of traveling light, you can shed size and weight. And as every veteran traveler knows, you regret the things you didn't bring much less than the pain of hauling around things you didn't need!

The first law of travel physics

There's one inalienable rule of travel physics: the contents of your bag will expand to fill the available space. If your bag is stuffed full at the departure gate, you're already en route to a second bag if you spot anything you want to buy when you reach your destination.

Start with a bag that fits into a plane's overhead compartment, and fill it with only as much stuff as you can fit in without shoving. Leave behind the rest. For ninja-level packing, make a second pass and remove anything you aren't 100% certain you'll use. Tough decisions on your living-room floor will pay big dividends on the road.

Pack densely

Black holes are so compact that now even light can escape their gravity. Your bag should function on a similar principle. Folded is smaller than scrunched up. Folded and rolled is smaller still. If your clothes take up more than one-third of your bag, you are probably letting sartorial decisions take precedence over practicality.

Know your destination

The streets may look different to the street you live on, but the shops sell almost everything you'll find back home, from shampoo and sunscreen to camera cards and phone charging cables. Where tourists gather, you can probably also find plug adapters, the latest movies on DVD and the candy bars you grew up with. A few things genuinely won't be available in your chosen destination, but most will, so don't fill up your bag with things you can buy as and when you need them.

The rule of three

Three pairs of socks. Three pairs of underwear. Three T-shirts. Wear one, wash one, dry one. You can get more miles out of leg wear, so two pairs of pants and one culturally appropriate pair of shorts or skirt should suffice. Stick to light, flowing clothing made from cotton and blends that dry quickly and look good without needing an iron to remove every wrinkle.

Pack less, wash more

It turns out most cultures have figured out how to wash stuff. Whether you use the hotel laundry or the local dhobi-wallah (clothes washer), a clean shirt is usually just a few hours away. Pack fewer clothes, and wash them when they get dirty, and that onerous weight on your back will get miraculously lighter. At a pinch, most lodgings have a sink and running water–bring a length of string and you've got an instant washing line.

Travel-friendly tech

Most modern electronics (like phones and cameras) switch voltage automatically when you plug them in. If in doubt, check the plug for a note saying ‘Input: 100~240v’ or something similar. Leave voltage-specific devices that require heavy, old-fashioned adapters at home. A three-way splitter plugged into a multi-country adapter should be enough to keep all your devices juiced. If you have USB-powered devices, even better. Bring a plug with multiple USB ports and you'll just need to carry the cables.

Only bring what you need

Repeat this to yourself as you pack. The unknowns of traveling make us want to surround ourselves with familiar items but this kind of ‘what if’ thinking is a fast-track to a heavy pack. If you aren't certain you'll use it, you probably don't need it. Remember, many things can be hired, bought or borrowed as you need them. That mask and snorkel? You can probably hire one when you reach the beach. That hairdryer? Most hotels have one.

Don't go shoe crazy

Veteran travelers rarely pack more than two pairs: a comfortable pair of trainer-type shoes that are good for trekking, day-wear and running, and a pair of flip-flops (thongs) for beach wear and dubious-looking bathroom floors. Only bring smart shoes if you're definitely going somewhere you can't get away with trainers (or pick some up locally when and if you need them).

Let tech be your friend

These days, your phone can double as your music player, camera and more, weighing not much more than a sandwich. Heavy books used to the bane of travel (though a blessing during long waits for transport). Today, you can load a whole library onto an  e-Reader and a whole record collection onto an MP3 player. Carry a small portable power bank to keep your devices going when you can't get to a wall socket.

Be weight aware

Some things–paper, glass, metal, batteries–are just heavy, so try not to pack them unless you really need to. If you need battery-operated devices, look for lightweight versions; a head torch powered by a button battery weighs much less than a traditional torch powered by heavy alkaline batteries. To stay on the right side of airline weight baggage limits, carry a small, portable luggage scale.

Function over form

Prioritize useful things. A ball-gown may look great, but a crumple-friendly cotton dress that you can wear on the bus, beach and dancefloor will take you a lot further. Here are some tried and tested travel essentials:

A quick-drying pack towel : fluffy towels are bulky and take ages to dry; synthetic towels dry quickly and pack away to nothing.
A sarong: it's a changing room, it's a blanket, it's a curtain for privacy, it's a towel, it's a bag, it's a sunshade, it's quite possibly the most versatile item in your bag. Oh, and you can also use it to cover your legs.
Compression straps: they squeeze things into your bag, fix things to your bag, and fix your bag to other things, like the roof rack on back-country buses. They'll also function is a washing line (or bring some string).
A cotton scarf or bandanna: it's a head covering for mosques and temples, a sun hat, a dust-mask, a neck and shoulder warmer; you can even use it as a fashion accessory.
A frisbee: in addition to its friend-making potential, strategically packing it on the outside edge of your pack provides hard-shell protection for breakables. Additional uses: cutting board, plate, bowl, bottle opener, fan, dry place to sit.

Tips for the airport

Even if you get your packing list down to the essentials, you might find there are one or two items that just won't fit, particularly on the way home. If necessary, exploit the the airline industry's three biggest luggage loopholes:

Wearing is not carrying: stuff your pockets, don your jacket, wear your hiking boots and pack your sandals.
‘Carry on plus one personal item’: most airlines let you supplement your carry-on bag with a camera bag or smaller backpack, giving you some bonus storage.
Duty-free doesn't count: if you can't fit it in your bag, most airlines let you carry on air-side purchases without penalty in a carrier bag (which also has room for more loose items).

Savvy packer's pack list

Here is a list of everything we'd suggest for a multi-week trip to most popular backpacking destinations.

Backpack (40L max, 35L is even better)
Bag liner (or a large, heavy-duty plastic bag)
Passport and other documents
Compact umbrella
Three or four light stuff sacks for organizing
Three shirts or T-shirts
Two pairs of pants (trousers)
One pair of shorts (or a skirt)
Three pairs of socks
Three pairs of underwear
Fleece jacket, hoodie or long-sleeved top (for air-conditioned transport and high elevations)
Sunhat
Sunglasses
Sarong
Bandanna and/or scarf
Comfortable walking shoes (wear them when you fly)
Comfortable sandals or flip flops
Sleep kit: mosquito net, sleeping bag liner (or a lightweight fleece blanket), ear plugs
Shower kit: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant (or try a piece of alum), small bottle of shower gel
Food and drink kit: snack bars, a travel mug, water purification tablets, a water bottle, a folding knife for cutting fruit
First aid kit: mosquito repellent, clippers, tweezers, plasters, headache tablets, small tube of antiseptic and your usual meds
Camera and accessories (if you can't get by with your phone camera)
Laptop (if your smart phone won't cut it) wrapped in a waterproof bag
Smart phone and headphones (plus charging cables)
Notebook and pens
Parachute cord (or string)
Lightweight head torch
Frisbee

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This article was first published in October 2014.

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