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The Highest-Rated Luggage Brands, and the Ones to Avoid

There are so many different brands of luggage out there that it’s become very difficult to pick one that will work for you and your travel style without diving into a rabbit hole of online reviews. Just about every type of luggage you can imagine is available, from carry-on to check-in to weekender to duffels, in a assortment of material, from aluminum to recycled polycarbonate to leather, in a huge variety of colors, and an even bigger variety of price points. Bounce, an app that helps travelers find safe places where to drop off their luggage wherever they are in the world, has conducted a study to determine which of the big luggage brands are the best and which are the worst.

Bounce’s Luggage Brand Index 2024 rates the best and worst luggage brands according to a variety of criteria, including: the brand’s number of Instagram followers, the number of Instagram posts where the brand is tagged, Trustpilot reviews, the volume of people searching for the brand’s carry-on and suitcases online, and finally, the price. Compiling all these elements, Bounce gave each brand a score out of 10 and then ranked the best and worst luggage brands according to their scores.

Graphic: Bounce

Unsurprisingly, Rimowa, leader in the realm of aluminum luggage since 1937, tops the list. The German brand is associated with (somewhat) affordable luxury and extremely high quality. Away, also well-known for its aluminum cases but more affordable and targeting a younger and more casual type of traveler, comes third. Louis Vuitton, with its outrageous price tags and classic pattern comes fifth. Two much more affordable brands take the second and fourth places: Samsomite, a high-quality American brand that dates back to 1910, and American Tourister, a brand that offers a variety of bright and colorful luggage and is owned by Samsomite.

Graphic: Bounce

At the bottom of the ranking are five luggage brands, many of which are lesser known and have an aesthetic that is less Instagrammable, two elements which have likely contributed to their low scores. Luggage brands Carl Friedrik and Horizn Studios have scored high when it comes to Trustpilot reviews but don’t have the Instagram numbers of established brands like Rimowa and Louis Vuitton and therefore can’t compete.

Needless to say that looking at social media popularity and search volumes are far from perfect ways to judge a luggage brand. The writers and editors at Matador Network frequently test luggage on the ground and review them according to elements that have very little to do with how fashionable they might be; instead they judge their practicability, their durability, their price, their sustainability, etc. That’s what they did for the following luggage brands, for which you can read the thorough reviews and therefore make a better-informed decision:

Away: “Away’s Carry-On Luggage Is the Best Roller Case For Your Money“July: “How This Hardshell Roller Got Me to Switch From My Carry-On Backpack Lifestyle”Monos: “This Luggage Has the World’s Best Features“Paravel: “This Carbon Neutral Roller Bag Makes Packing for Two a Breeze“Tortuga: “Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L Is the Best Travel Backpack for Your Money“Sterling Pacific: “This luxury suitcase is made from airplane grade aluminum“Patagonia: “Even Patagonia’s Smallest Black Hole Duffel Is Fit for a Two-Week Trip“Cotopaxi: “We Put Cotopaxi’s Top-Rated Travel Packs to the Test“Roam: “This Luggage Company Lets You Customize a Suitcase Unique to You” More like thisTravelThe Best Large Hardshell Luggage Options for Your Active Travel Lifestyle

A Proposed FAA Amendment Could Drastically Increase TSA Wait Times

Biometric screening at airports, which allows programs like TSA PreCheck to operate to make airport security checkpoints more efficient, is under threat. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) have introduced an FAA amendment that, according to the U.S. Travel Association, would ban the collection of biometric data at airports, effectively rendering obsolete currently-in-place programs travelers use to move through security more quickly.

TSA PreCheck streamlines airport security by separating pre-vetted, low-risk passengers into dedicated lanes. This allows them to bypass certain procedures that standard security requires, like removing shoes, belts, and light jackets. Additionally, laptops and 3-1-1 liquids can stay in carry-on bags. This significantly reduces screening time, leading to shorter lines for both PreCheck passengers and those in the regular lanes. By expediting the flow of low-risk individuals, TSA PreCheck alleviates congestion and makes the overall security process more efficient for everyone involved.

Eliminating TSA PreCheck would likely cause significant disruptions at airport security checkpoints. Security lines would become significantly longer as everyone, regardless of risk level, undergoes the same thorough screening process (no more keeping those shoes on). This would lead to increased passenger frustration, missed flights, and potentially, higher security costs due to the need for more personnel. Additionally, the lack of PreCheck lanes would force all passengers to not only remove shoes, but also belts and liquids, further slowing down the process.

The U.S. Travel Association has launched a letter-writing campaign to senators in hopes of preventing the proposed amendment from taking effect. You can join the campaign by adding your name to the pre-written letter and sending it through the association’s website. The letter will be sent to your representatives in the US Senate urging them to reject the proposal.

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You Can Travel by Upside-Down Train in Germany

Train travel has everything going for it: it’s convenient, it’s sustainable, it’s fun. Upside-down train travel is much the same, but it kicks up the fun factor up a notch by virtue of being above ground. Upside-down trains, also known as dangling train, but more seriously referred to as suspended monorails, are similar to the monorails you can ride in Seattle and Las Vegas, but instead of having wheels and tracks on the bottom of the carriages, they are on the top. What makes suspended monorails even more special is their rarity: There are fewer than 10 working suspended monorail systems remaining, four of which are in Germany. The one in the city of Wuppertal in western Germany is the oldest of them all, having been in operation since 1901.

Wuppertal’s suspended monorail is not a long-distance train, instead it works like a city tram or a metro line, traveling a distance of eight miles through the city and covering 20 stations along the way. While the suspended monorail is an attraction that brings a lot of tourists to Wuppertal, it is very much used by the locals as a genuine mode of transport. Around 80,000 people use it daily.

@itswandertime Riding the upside down train (Schwebebahn) in Germany ..#wuppertal #elberfeld #germany #germanytourism #september2022 #trainride #deutschland #europe #travel #adventure #igtravel #exploredreamdiscover #wanderlust #traveltheworld #travelgram #travels #instatravel #ilovetravel #travellife #seetheworld #travelers #traveladdict #traveling #itchyfeet #travelling #instatraveling #tourtheplanet #wonderful_places #travellerau #travelmemories ♬ original sound – It's Wander Time

Riding Wuppertal’s suspended monorail is easy, cheap, and much more scenic than you might imagine a city train to be. There’s a train every three to six minutes, and it’ll only cost you $8.90 for a ticket valid 24 hours, or $16.90 for a 48-hour ticket. It takes 30 minutes to cover the eight miles of track, of which six miles are located above the river, making for lovely scenery for the riders. Wuppertal’s suspended monorail zips above the city at heights of between 26 and 39 foot above ground.

The official website of Wuppertal’s suspended monorail provides visitors with an interactive map of all the stops on the train’s route with all the best attractions at each stop listed.

If you make your way to Wuppertal by way of the nearby Düsseldorf airport, you’ll likely be able to ride two suspended monorails in one day. The driverless SkyTrain runs the 1.5-mile route between Düsseldorf Airport railway station and Terminal C since 2002. Riding will allow you to compare and contrast two suspended monorails built one century apart.

What It’s Like Staying Inside a Boeing 727 Converted to an Airbnb

Aviation enthusiasts and anyone seeking an Airbnb experience to remember should bookmark this converted Boeing 727 airliner in Brislington, Bristol, UK. While it won’t take you to exciting destinations, the Airbnb offers you the chance to stay overnight in a luxurious private jet setting and even have a look in the cockpit.

We hope you love the Boeing Airbnb we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Photo: Airbnb

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Named “PYTCHAir,” the tri-jet airliner served as a passenger aircraft for Japan Airlines in 1968 before it was converted into a VIP private aircraft sometime in the 70s. The list of passengers and owners is somewhat hush-hush, but rumor has it the plane has flown royalty and has been used in military operations. It took its final flight in 2012 to Filton Airfield in Bristol.

Johnny Palmer, founder of PYTCH, a live event production company in the UK, came across the disused aircraft in 2018 and saw potential.

“It was apparent that with a little vision, this aircraft could be a useful addition to PYTCH HQ and become an amazing space for creativity, inspiration, communication, fine dining, and fun,” the company’s site says.

The Boeing has been extensively converted into a luxurious living space you can rent on Airbnb.

Photo: AirbnbPhoto: AirbnbPhoto: Airbnb

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The interior has a distinct 1980s private jet aesthetic, featuring walnut paneling, gold accents, and even crystal chandeliers. Accommodation-wise, PYTCHAir offers a surprising amount of space. There are two separate lounge areas, a king-sized bed, and two singles, catering to a maximum of four guests. If you’re staying in summer, you can relax on the large decked area and enjoy a hot tub and outdoor shower, which is mounted underneath the fuselage. And while you won’t be taking off anytime soon, you can even explore the fully-fitted cockpit.

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Photo: Airbnb

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The host states that there are few restaurants within walking distance of the aircraft, but you can order takeout. Just imagine what you’d put in the delivery notes section of Uber Eats.

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How Top Hotels Stop Bed Bugs Before They’re a Problem

Bed bugs are a hotel’s worst nightmare. The small critters tend to live in a variety of places, but particularly enjoy setting camp in mattresses and box springs, and in cracks on bed frames and headboards. Because bed bugs are active at night, hotel housekeeping staff, who work during daylight hours and have a limited amount of time to spend in each room, don’t always notice them. It is hotel guests who are more prone to finding out about their presence, whether by noticing them crawling around when they go to bed or by getting bitten while sleeping. Unsurprisingly, hotels would rather guests never be faced with bed bugs, and certainly don’t want to rely on them for detection. Spotta’s Bed Pod, a bed bug detection device, helps monitor hotel beds 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing for early detection and preventing widespread infestation. Spotta is 94 percent effective at detecting bed bugs before guests or staff.

Spotta, created in 2018 and first implemented in hotels in 2020, received a lot of interest in the fall of 2023 when Paris was dealing with what looked like an infestation of epic proportion. The Paris bed bug scourge sparked fear throughout Europe, turning Spotta into a beacon of hope for hoteliers. At the time of writing, Spotta’s Bed Pods are present in three million guest rooms across 15 different countries, including in the biggest hotel brands in the world, such as Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Accor, Mercure, M&L Hospitality, and more, Robert Fryers, Founder and CEO of Spotta, explains in a phone conversation.

How does Spotta work?

Spotta’s Bed Pod is a small plastic device the size of a pack of cards and less than one-inch thick that consists of two parts: a battery-operated cartridge that emits pheromones and a trap designed so perfectly that bed bugs can’t resist it. The device, of which only one is needed per bed, is placed in bed bugs’ favorite place: between the bed frame and the mattress along the headboard. The size and the location of the device allows it to be discreet and not create a bump that may alarm or bother hotel guests. Fryers says that he never received any complaints from hotels that guests find the device troublesome.

Photo: Spotta

Once placed between the bed frame and the mattress, Spotta’s Bed Pod, which comes with its own wireless network, monitors the presence of bed bugs around the clock. If one bed bug enters the trap, it is photographed, and an email alert is sent to the hotel management immediately with the time and location of the detection, allowing them to act at once and take measures to remediate the blood-thirsty insects, whether with insecticide, steam, or other methods. Because each female bed bug can lay one to three eggs per day (200-500 eggs in her lifetime), early detection and rapid intervention are key to prevent widespread contaminations. Once a bed bug has been trapped in a Bed Pod, the device is replaced with a new, clean one to continue monitoring.

Photo: Spotta

While a Bed Pod can potentially attract other types of critters, the photographs taken by the device is quickly examined by Spotta’s algorithms to ensure that it is indeed a bed bug inside the trap, avoiding spreading panic for a simple and harmless insect. Note that the device only photographs what is located inside the trap and does not breach guests’ privacy.

Spotta’s Bed Pods have no expiry date. While the batteries on the device need replacing every six month, the device can remain in place for ever.

While some hotels are very upfront about their use of Spotta, going as far as using stickers to inform guests about the presence of a Bed Pod in a room, others prefer to keep things quiet. The mere mention of bed bugs, even in preventive measures like Spotta’s Bed Pod, can potentially scare guests away. If you find a Bed Pod in your hotel room, there’s no need to worry; it only means that the hotel you’re staying at is doing their best to prevent an infestation, which can happen anywhere, in five-star establishments and roadside motels alike.

The future of Spotta

While Bed Pods are currently only used in hotels and establishments such as care homes, Fryers explains that it will likely become available in Airbnbs and other types of accommodations in the future. Not only that but early detection devices for other types of pests, namely cockroaches, are in the works.

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The Best Sun Protection Shirts Our Editors Tested for Summer Adventures

Warmer days are upon us, and that means spring and summer outdoor adventures are in full swing. It’s hard to stay inside on a sunny day, with warm and dry weather typically offering the best conditions for activities like hiking, biking, and even water sports. The flip side to perfect weather, however, is that you’re increasing your exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. In order to best protect yourself, it’s important to dress appropriately – and for many outdoor activities, that means wearing a sun shirt. This is particularly true if you’re heading to the beach, as scientists have found that a chemical found in many sunscreens (oxybenzone) is converted by coral into a substance that actually harms them. If you want to protect the ocean, you’ll need to buy reef-safe sunscreen only.

Matador tested a variety of sun shirts for both land-based and water-based activities and narrowed down the best for outdoor recreation this season.

The best sun protection shirts for hiking and general travelThe best sun protection shirts for fishing, paddleboarding, and other on-water activitiesThe best women’s sun protective shirtThe best sun protection shirts for mountain bikingThe best sun protection shirts for mosquitos

We hope you love the sun shirts we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to buy an item. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

What is a sun protection shirt, and why do I need one?

Photo: Sanchik/Shutterstock

The purpose of a sun shirt is to protect your skin from UV rays. A sun shirt’s effectiveness is measured through its UPF, or ultraviolet protection factor. Similar to sunscreen, this rating notes what percentage of UVB rays the shirt blocks. But the UPF factor isn’t the percentage; for example, a UPF30 rating means the shirt (or sunblock) can stop about 97 percent of UVB rays. From there, you can compare the rating to the expected weather during your activity, along with the location where it will take place, and make an educated decision about which sun shirt is the most appropriate. UVA rays can also damage your skin, and many shirts (and sunscreens) protect against both.

Excessive exposure to the sun’s rays can cause premature skin aging, visible through sun spots, wrinkles, and other deformities. According to the National Library of Medicine, fair-skinned people can experience sun damage after as little as five minutes of exposure to bright sunlight. Darker-skinned people have a longer “safe zone;” however everyone can experience sun damage. It’s important to remember that when the sun is higher in the sky – from around noon to late afternoon in most US locations during the summer – the exposure to UV rays is higher, and the possibility for damage or burning is amplified.

The best sun protection shirt for hiking and general travel – Outerknown Hooded Sun Shirt

Photo courtesy Outerknown

A lifetime spent in the sun is a lifetime well spent. Truer words have not been spoken, but there’s a caveat – a lifetime in the sun wreaks havoc on one’s skin. Especially when that lifetime is spent at altitude. I’ve spent my life in the mountains of Colorado and around the world, and last November I turned 40. It’s no coincidence that I began noticing sun damage on both my arms last summer. My clothing mantra for the summer of 2024 is “bare no arm, further no harm.”

To enact this pledge, I turned to Outerknown, the clothing brand started by living surf legend Kelly Slater. I’ve bought a few of the brand’s t-shirts in the past, lured in by Kelly’s name and the company’s eco-friendly practices of using organic cotton, recycled polyester, and other planet-friendly materials wherever possible. I ordered the Outerknown Hooded Sun Shirt intending to wear it each time I hike, bike, or otherwise expose myself to high-altitude rays for extended periods. Its UPF50+ rating is best-in-class for such a sustainably-made sun shirt.

The Hooded Sun Shirt is soft and comfortable. In the past I’ve frequently worn thin t-shirts underneath a sun shirt for added comfort, but that’s not necessary with this shirt. The recycled polyester is smooth on the skin and not itchy at all. It’s thin but not barren. I first took wore it on a spring morning hike when the temperature was about 40 degrees at the trailhead. I started with a light jacket and by the time the temperature rose above 50 degrees and I’d warmed up enough that any shivers were gone, I put the jacket in my pack and was perfectly comfortable.

On days when the temperature is above 60 degrees, this sun hoodie all you need. The hood is excellent not only at keeping sun off your neck but for acting as a wind buffer, something I’ve found particularly useful at altitudes above 7,000 feet. This is also great for travel days when I know I’ll be walking a lot through a city center.

Two things separate the Outerknown Hooded Sun Shirt from others I’ve owned. The first is that it’s submersible. I got caught in the rain on a bike ride and was surprised at how well the shirt handled the water. This likely seems obvious to those who live closer to a beach, particularly given Slater’s profession, and one could certainly take this into the water on a surf or stand-up paddleboard.

Second, the Outerknown Hooded Sun Shirt is hyper-good-looking. To the point where it’s actually a complement to an outdoors person’s style, rather than being something you regretfully pull over your outfit because you know you should. I opted for the Off Duty Drab color scheme, and the dark green facade matches most any color hat and the beige, tan, or dark-colored shorts I frequently wear in the summer. Lest you think I’m merely being shallow, the ease of styling this shirt with my outfit at large means that I more frequently wear it out the door in the morning to hit the coworking space and don’t feel the need to take it off before hopping on a Zoom call. That’s a lot of added value in a $98 shirt.

Outerknown Hooded Sun Shirt specsDown to the technical nitty-gritty of the Outderknown Hooded Sun Shirt:It features boardshort connector eyelets that hook to shorts to keep the shirt pulled down when paddling, swimming, or otherwise being active.There’s a thumbhole on both arms and a bungee key holder.Its 100 percent recycled polyester build means that the shirt keeps plastic out of the landfill for at least one more lifecycle. The shirt is moisture-wicking and odor-preventing, so it’s fine to keep on for a post-adventure brewery session.

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The best sun protective fishing shirt (or any on-water-activity shirt)Photo: REIPhoto: REI

It’s easy to take solace on the water knowing that you can jump in to cool off. But remember that sunlight reflects – and it reflects off the water quite strongly. In fact, reflected rays are actually more harmful.

In addition to lathering yourself in reef-safe sunscreen, you’ll want to wear a sun protection shirt, and maybe even long pants if you’re spending more than a few hours on the water. Matador’s commerce editor lived in his NRS Variable sun shirt during a recent four-day trip down the lower Salmon River and came away from it no more sunburned or fatigued than when he first hopped on the raft.

NRS is a brand built for the river. The hood and neck gaiter protect your neck and head from burns — especially useful if, as our commerce editor notes, hair loss has begun to creep up on you. But the neck gaiter, in particular, is what makes this the best sun shirt if you’re on the water. When rafting or paddleboarding, you tend to spend extended periods of time facing the same direction, so reflected sunlight can toast the back of your neck. This sun protection shirt is also made with fast-drying fabrics in case you do opt to take a plunge. And the poly-spandex blend is made from 100 percent recycled materials.

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The best women’s sun protective shirtsPhoto: Free FlyPhoto: Free Fly

Suzie, Matador’s outdoor editor, absolutely loves Free Fly Apparel, having accumulated quite a lot of the brand’s women’s sun protection clothing in recent years — shorts, joggers, and even a few sunshirts. The brand’s sun shirts are clean with minimal design, so they don’t look super outdoorsy when grabbing a beer with friends after a day hike. Though their items cost slightly more than, gear from brands like Columbia, they dry exceptionally fast. And perhaps equally importantly, they dry without any mildewy or worn smell.

If you’re thinking about buying a women’s sun protection shirt, Suzie recommends the UPF ultra-light hoodie, made for summer. “I’m quite pale, and since most fabrics don’t offer much sun protection, I love having a UPF 50 shirt to toss on when the sun is bearing down,” she says. “I was recently on a boat where I wore my FreeFly shirt most of the time, taking it off for photos for about 15 minutes. And what happened? My shoulder in the sun got fried, but everything that was covered with the shirt isn’t even tanned.” She also likes the straight-but-not-fitted cut, and the fact that they’re made with a renewable, zero-chemical material: bamboo.

Suzie notes that she recently wore one of her FreeFly sun protection shirts on a humid, tropical trip where she was whitewater rafting one day and swimming in a waterfall the next, and her shirt was dry and stink-free each morning.

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The best sun protection shirts for mountain bikingPhoto courtesy FlylowPhoto courtesy Flylow

If you watch mountain bikers ripping down the trail and crushing berms for a few minutes, you’ll probably notice that plaid is a popular choice. So if you’re hoping to stick to that tried-and-true mountain look, check out the Flylow Anderson (men’s) and the women’s Flylow Phoenix sun protection shirts. They’re made with breathable, wicking polyester fabrics and both have a UPF 50 rating. So while you’ll still need to lather up the sunscreen on your forearms, you should be able to get in a full day of laps without worrying about sunburned shoulders.

Oh, and the women’s version has a bonus useful feature — a zippered back pocket. It’s a good place to stash a few bucks in case your shuttle route happens to pass a microbrewery or food truck.

Buy Now – Women’s

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The best sun protection shirt for avoiding mosquitoesPhoto: REIPhoto: REI

No matter what activity you’re doing, being constantly harassed by mosquitos is a sure-fire way to ruin it. If you’re heading to a tropical region, riding along a river, or as in the case of our commerce editor, spending June on Colorado’s lake-dotted Grand Mesa, having a sun shirt that is both sun- and bug-repellant doubles your level of preparedness.

For this task, we recommend turning to REI’s Sahara Shade Hoodie, available in men’s and women’s. Both are versatile and flexible, useable for everything from a day hike to a packrafting trip. The brand’s trademark (and odorless) BugsAway Insect Shield repels mosquitos, ticks, and other small bugs.

Plus, these sun protective shirts are simple enough that they effectively acts as a chameleon in your wardrobe. It’s just as good for wearing on a cold plane as it is in the mountains, and you’ll experience the same bite-free benefits either way. The bug-repellant properties last for up to 70 washes, so you can count on a decent amount of wear from each one.

Buy Now – Women’s

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Want a Photo of Japan’s Most Famous Mountain? Authorities Set to Block the Best View

A town in Japan is taking necessary steps to block the iconic panoramic view of Mount Fuji from a popular photo spot due to a surge in tourist crowds trying to get the perfect shot. This has caused frustration and safety concerns for local residents and businesses in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, prompting authorities to erect a mesh barrier to ensure safety and order.

The Japan Times says officials “regrettably” have been forced to take this measure. The local authorities have reported overcrowding, littering, and tourists ignoring traffic regulations while trying to get an iconic photo. This disruptive behavior on a narrow stretch of pavement caused safety hazards and inconvenienced residents and businesses in the area.

The construction of the mesh barrier will begin early this week and will measure 2.5 meters high and 20 meters long. The net will block the view from the Lawson convenience store, a vantage point that has become popular with tourists looking for a perfect photo of Fuji.

The situation highlights the challenges of balancing tourism with the well-being of local communities. Earlier this year, it was announced that tourists would be banned from Japan’s famous Geisha district, Gion in Kyoto, due to the strain on the area’s residents and the geisha community from visitors.

It’s not only Japan that is feeling the strain from visitors. Recently, Matador reported that photography was banned from the escalators at the metro stop outside Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia due to a popular TikTok trend.

While the allure of a great photo opportunity is understandable, respecting local rules and behaving responsibly is crucial for a positive travel experience for everyone.

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Toddler in Tow? Where to Go for a Family-Friendly NYC Vacation.

In my mid-20s, the streets of Manhattan served as the backdrop for adventures to dive bars and late-night restaurant runs. But since then, the borough has transformed for me into a vastly different playground, one more suited to strollers and early bedtimes than 2 AM bodega runs.

After years away (and a move to Denmark), I’ve returned to New York on multiple occasions — not as a resident, but as a tourist, with my baby and Danish husband in tow. The once-familiar city seemed almost completely new when we began looking at it through a family-friendly lens, navigating its bustling avenues and quiet corners as a small family of three.

Photo: fernandoalonsostockfilms/Shutterstock

Visiting NYC now is a chance for our toddler to discover the city that never sleeps — fitting, as our kiddo never seems to sleep, either. Gone are the impromptu late nights, as my version of New York City is now a place that meets our family’s needs for fun, safety, and, perhaps surprisingly,  relaxation.

So if you’re looking for the same family-friendly NYC we’ve discovered, one where you can strap on the BabyBjörn and be in good company, read on. You may be surprised by how different the city can be.

Family-friendly offerings on the Upper East Side

Kids can walk through a real Egyptian temple on the Upper East Side of NYC. Photo: Creativity Lover/Shutterstock

The Upper East is east of Central Park, stretching from around 59th Street to 96th Street. The area is famous for its opulence, with elegant pre-war apartment buildings and luxury boutiques lining Madison Avenue. It’s also home to the “Museum Mile” on Fifth Avenue, packed with world-renowned institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum. It’s not really known for nightlife, making it a good base for visiting families with young kids.

What to do with kids

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, perfect for strolling with a stroller during less-crowded hours and on family days. The sprawling museum has art-making workshops and child-centric gallery tours, and the newly opened 81st Street Studio enhances the experience by providing a whimsical, creative space where babies and young toddlers can engage in multi-sensory activities, including musical exploration.

Carl Schurz Park, on the East River, is a green area with expansive playgrounds segmented by age groups, with scenic paths ideal for the inevitable midday stroller nap. It’s less crowded than Central Park, but at 15 acres, it’s plenty big enough to fill an afternoon.

For a more laid-back day, take a stroll along Madison Avenue. Many shops are surprisingly baby-friendly, and window shopping can be a relaxing way for parents and kids to spend a family-friendly afternoon in NYC. There are also plenty of cafes and rest stops ideal for a break (or diaper change). Changing a poopy diaper somehow seems slightly more glamorous in a Neiman Marcus bathroom. Don’t ask me why.

When it’s time to eat, the Carnegie Diner & Cafe is the classic New Yaaarker diner experience, and just so happens to be exceptionally family friendly. It’s a very down-to-earth diner, with a kid’s menu, high chairs, and classic American comfort food that appeals to all ages, including picky toddlers.

Family-friendly offerings in the West Village and Meatpacking District

Photo: MNAphotography/Shutterstock

Next to one another on the southwestern edge of Manhattan, the West Village and Meatpacking District offer mix of history and trendy vibes. The West Village, below 14th Street, is known for its tree-lined streets, historic brick townhouses, and a bohemian atmosphere. Lots of NYU students live around the West Village, giving it a young vibe.

Just north of the West Village is the Meatpacking District, which has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once a center for meat processing plants and not known for being the nicest part of town, it’s now a chic destination with cobblestone streets lined with high-end shops, trendy restaurants, and stylish bars.

What to do with kids

Hudson River Park is home to one of Manhattan’s most expansive playgrounds, aptly located on the Hudson River. This playground offers a variety of equipment suitable for toddlers, including safe climbing structures, swings, and water features perfect for splashing around on warm days.

Chelsea Market is best described as an immersive sensory experience, and it appeals to all ages, making it a superb choice for a family day out, especially when the weather isn’t ideal. It’s easy to navigate with a stroller and offers an array of treats from storefronts ranging from artisanal bakeries to ice cream shops, delighting young taste buds and making it easy for parents who need to occasionally find treats as a baby-friendly bribe.

Many of NYC’s best museums are unexpectedly family friendly, including the Whitney Museum of American Art. Thanks to stroller tours and open studio sessions tailored to families, art is accessible and engaging for young children. The family programs are a chance to immerse little ones in unique cultural and artistic activities while the parents can enjoy a moment of peace amid contemporary and modern art installations. And if your little ones are inspired to bring out their inner artists, you can follow along with the Whitney’s at-home art projects, designed for kids and families.

Gab’s NYC, new to grace the West Village, is known for its welcoming vibe and spacious and colorful dining area. The menu changes seasonally and focuses on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, making it ideal for families looking to enjoy a relaxed, toddler-friendly meal with a slightly upscale twist.

Family-friendly offerings in Midtown

NYC’s FAO Schwarz is a 20,000-square-foot toy store. Photo: Leonard Zhukovsky/Shutterstock

Midtown is NYC’s central business district and home to iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building. It’s also the home of the bright lights and Broadway theaters near Times Square, and Grand Central Terminal. While the exact southern boundary can vary, Midtown generally stretches from 34th Street to 59th Street, encompassing the east-to-west width of Manhattan.

 What to do with kids

While it may not boast the vast diversity of its Bronx counterpart, the Central Park Zoo is pretty rad in its own right. It has a vibrant assortment of wildlife, from vibrant tropical birds to sea lions. The Tisch Children’s Zoo is a delight, allowing toddlers to interact with and feed friendly domestic animals in an engaging, hands-on environment. And the zoo’s prime location in Central Park provides actual serenity in Zoo York. And trust me, parents will appreciate that, too.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is yet another family-friendly NYC museum, transforming art appreciation into a child-friendly activity with interactive art sessions, as well as audio guides that talk about complex artwork in ways kids can understand.

FAO Schwarz at Rockefeller Center is more than your typical toy store, offering families interactive experiences in the enormous store. While you’ll be lucky to get out of there without buying your child something, consider it the cost to play on in the whimsical, multi-room store. Don’t miss the chance to walk on the giant floor piano, where children can compose music with their feet, mimicking the iconic movie scene from Big.

Dining in Times Square with a toddler in tow is more fun than you’d think, especially as most kids’ awe at the bustling surroundings is enough to make it seem fun again, even if you were a jaded New Yorker in a previous life. For a fun family dinner, head to Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The 1950s-themed diner is a nod to a bygone era, with lively musical performances by the singing waitstaff. The entertainment is wonderfully kitschy and captivating, and likely to delight the whole fam.

Family-friendly offerings on the Upper West Side

The Upper West’s Museum of Natural History has the largest collection of dinosaur bones in the world. Photo: Ungvari Attila/Shutterstock

The Upper West Side is between Central Park and the Hudson River, and known for its grand architecture, particularly along Central Park West, where the American Museum of Natural History beckons with its dinosaur halls and other fascinating exhibits. But it still maintains a relaxed vibe, with tree-lined streets with brownstones and a fantastic brunch scene. Geographically, the Upper West Side runs from roughly 59th Street to 110th Street along the west side of Manhattan.

What to do with kids

At the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, tots can engage in educational exhibits on various themes, from environmental science to world cultures. They’re a good way to teach kids that learning is fun, and serve almost like a field trip for the whole family.

The American Museum of Natural History is the spot for kids aged zero to 100, and not just because the area beneath the giant blue whale is an ideal place to crawl. And when it’s nap time, no problem: Head to the Hayden Planetarium and marvel at the universe while your kiddo takes a snooze during the show.

When the kid(s) get hungry, head to Jacob’s Pickles, with gourmet comfort food in a setting receptive to the energetic din of young families. The Southern food menu, featuring dishes like biscuits, fried chicken, and pickles, will likely appeal to many tastes, even those of picky toddlers.

Family-friendly offerings in Lower Manhattan

NYC as seen from Governors Island. Photo: GagliardiPhotography/Shutterstock

Lower Manhattan is the southern tip of Manhattan Island, bursting with history, finance, and iconic sights. It’s generally considered to stretch from the bottom of the island (Battery Park) up to roughly Canal Street or Chambers Street. This area is home to several well-known neighborhoods, each with its own character. Financial giants like Wall Street are in the Financial District, while Tribeca is more about trendy art galleries and high-end shops.

What to do with kids

Battery Park is a necessary stop for young ones who need to burn off energy in the otherwise entirely commercial Lower Manhattan. This green oasis at the southern tip of the island offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and ample space for toddlers to roam. The highlight is the SeaGlass Carousel, an underwater-themed carousel with glowing, color-changing fish, instead of traditional horses.

The Skyscraper Museum is also a must-visit if your little ones are fascinated by significant buildings and construction. The museum in Battery Park City offers a toddler-friendly introduction to the towering skyscrapers of New York with plenty of opportunities to touch things. The museum features scale models and interactive exhibits that explain the science and art behind skyscraper construction, meaning parents may geek out, too.

For a family-friendly NYC adventure in pleasant weather, take the ferry from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for a historical outing. This trip can be an exciting adventure for toddlers, involving a boat ride, plenty of open spaces for running around, and some truly monumental photo ops.

One of the ultimate family-friendly restaurants in NYC is in Lower Manhattan at the Collective Governors Island. The pricey glamping retreat is home to Three Peaks, which fulfills most family needs. It serves locally sourced meals (and local beer and cocktails) at the on-site restaurant. It’s refined, but with a large outdoor space, camp theme, and a children’s menu, it caters well to families (and can’t be beat in terms of convenience if you’re on the island). It’s an ideal spot to Manhattan to feed your little one while you enjoy a drink of your own. If you’re visiting for dinner, you’ll need a reservation.

Where to stay in NYC with kids

Photo: BAZA Poductions/Shutterstock

Unless a hotel is explicitly adults only, you can bring kids. But New York is a busy, active, and expensive city, and there are definitely some places where kids are allowed, but not really encouraged. Fortunately, the hotels below are all the opposite of that, with rooms and offerings that cater kids, plus a few extra perks for parents once the kids go down for naptime.

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

The Loews Regency New York Hotel (Upper East)

 

 

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This popular hotel has luxury suites with skyline views, ideal for enjoying a glass of wine while the baby rests peacefully. It’s serene and feels like a restful retreat from the bustling city life outside. It’s also only a five-minute stroll from Central Park, providing easy access for playtimes and stroller walks.

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The Gansevoort (Meatpacking)

 

 

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The Gansevoort in the Meatpacking District is more than a hotspot for spotting celebs like Leo DiCaprio or J Lo. While it’s stylish, it still retains its playful and surprisingly family-friendly character. There’s a rooftop pool, which offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and West Village and a necessary respite from the summer heat for the kiddos. It has DJs in the summer, but it’s more of a soft jazz vibe, with lots of families playing in the pool (and parents drinking rosé). The Gansevoort offers cribs and custom care packages to cater to its younger guests, including all the baby essentials. It’s extremely helpful for overstressed parents who neglect something important when packing. (Read: me).

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Club Wyndham Midtown 45 (Midtown)

In Midtown, the Wyndham is a great pick for families with youngsters visiting the city’s top sights. It’s so close to the action that some balconies offer views of the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings. Suites are equipped with kitchenettes, allowing families the convenience of preparing meals and snacks in their rooms to save time and money while sightseeing. The rooms are uniquely spacious, with easy access to family-friendly attractions. Voila: it’s Manhattan at your fingertips.

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The Mandarin Oriental New York (Upper West)

 

 

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The Mandarin Oriental New York Hotel on the Upper West offers an array of amenities tailored for what it calls “Little Fans.” (Ask about the available in-room teepee tents and cooking-decorating kits). It also has essential items such as cribs, high chairs, and baby bibs, along with activity offerings like swimming lessons at the large indoor pool. The hotel also has vetted babysitters available so parents can enjoy offerings like spa treatments or a gourmet meal.

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Collective Governors Island (Lower Manhattan)

 

 

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This tented hotel offers one of the best urban glamping getaways for families just a short commute from Lower Manhattan. The resort has green spaces with actual space, since Governor’s Island has yet to be oversaturated with tourists. But it’s great for families, as the 172-acre island is entirely walkable and bikeable (or stroller-able). Collective Governors Island is enclosed, so kids can safely explore and play while parents relax. The best part? The resort hosts nightly bonfires where everyone can gather for s’mores against the stunning backdrop of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline.

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This Map Shows How Far You Can Travel Europe by Train in 8 Hours or Less

There’s plenty to say about riding the train being a better way to travel than flying, especially in Europe: It’s more convenient, it’s more comfortable, there’s no luggage restriction, there’s no security line, it’s better for the planet, etc. One aspect of train travel that worries travelers, however, is how long it takes to get from one place to another. While some train routes, like the Eurostar between London and Amsterdam, or the high-speed train that runs between Paris to Zurich, are just as fast as flying, riding the rails can sometimes be slow.

Pressed-for-time travelers who like to plan their train trips well ahead, as well as those who fancy spontaneous day trips to unknown destinations, can make good use of Chronotrains’ fantastic interactive map which shows how far you can travel in eight hours or less by train anywhere in Europe. By just hovering your mouse above a point on the website’s isochrone map, you can see the areas you can visit by train within a certain time period, with one hour being the minimum and eight hours being the maximum.

How far you can travel from Paris by train in eight hours. Map: ChronotrainsHow far you can travel from Paris by train in five hours. Map: ChronotrainsHow far you can travel from Paris by train in two hours. Map: Chronotrains

Once you’ve chosen your point of departure, you can zoom in on the area and see all the destinations at your disposal within the time frame you selected, with the route highlighted in blue, the exact time it takes to get there displayed, etc.

The maps below show all the train travel options from Paris within an eight-hour time period, including lesser-known and underrated French cities like Brest and Reims, as well as international destinations like Barcelona, Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Luxembourg, etc.

All the cities you can travel to by train from Paris, including Barcelona. Map: ChronotrainsAll the cities you can travel to by train from Paris, including Amsterdam. Map: ChronotrainsAll the cities you can travel to by train from Paris, including Berlin. Map: ChronotrainsParis to Brest by train. Map: ChronotrainsParis to Reims by train. Map: Chronotrains

Once you’ve chosen your destination, Chronotrains will give you an idea of the price that your trip will cost and provide the links to the websites you need to make a booking.

While chronotrains does not display every rail route and every single train station in every European country, it’s still a valuable tool to plan a trip, especially if you’re a Eurail Pass holder who has access to unlimited train travel.

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The Disappearing-Art Buddha Board Keeps My Toddler Occupied on Long Travel Days

When my daughter Margot was born, my wife and I made a promise that we would still travel as much as possible and take advantage of free or discounted flights for babies under two. We held to that promise more than we thought we’d be able to — Margot has already taken 20 flights from coast-to-coast and to three countries, with two more international trips scheduled before we have to start paying full prices for her.

That said, we’ve quickly learned that it’s a lot harder to keep a toddler entertained on long flights and during travel downtime than it is a newborn. No one toy, book, or tip (applying and ripping off tape is a longstanding hit) can entertain a 17-month-old for long. A mini Buddha Board has made its way into our must-pack list as something that holds her attention more than most.

Buddha Board makes canvases that respond to water brushstrokes. As those brushstrokes dry over the course of up to 10 minutes, they disappear and the drawer is ready to start again. It’s billed as a type of mindful meditation — the name is a reference to the Buddhist principles of impermanence and letting go.

I’m not sure mindfulness is what’s going through Margot’s head as she swishes the brush this way and that, but it certainly holds her attention. She’s always eager to show us her work before it goes away forever (yes, my camera roll of Margot’s drawings has taken the place of putting things on the fridge, and then some). Importantly, it avoids marker stains, can’t be eaten like a crayon, won’t rip like a coloring book, and takes no clean up other than wiping up any spilled water.

Plus, the five-square-inch board fits easy in my backpack next to whatever magazine I’m taking along with me.

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Photo: Nickolaus Hines

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The mini Buddha Board has a notch to hold the brush and a tray that can hold just enough water for a drawing (when accounting for spills). We’ve pulled it out in hotel rooms as we got ready and set it on the tray table during long flights. Admittedly, the jerky movements of a child make spilling inevitable. But with a water-loving baby like Margot, spilled water is just a fact of life.

The company doesn’t recommend using fingers or anything but a clean brush to paint on the board. Oils can permanently damage the surface. Little toddler fingers will do what little toddler fingers do, however, and our Buddha Board has held up well to a couple months of hard use. I know it’ll have a permanent spot in my carry-on for many trips to come.

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