San Francisco Chronicle - (Sunday)
BRING LESS, PACK SMART
SIX WAYS TO
main compartment that fits a 15-inch laptop, and a front organizer pocket to keep important items at your fingertips. It slips over the telescoping handles of your overhead bag, making it easy to maneuver, and keeps you from having to lug the weight on your shoulders. $66.54, www. amazon.com
Goal Zero Flip 30 Power Bank
Despite your best efforts to be prepared for travel, your cell phone battery goes into critical mode in the airport, and there’s no time to plug it in before boarding. Carrying this small power bank will keep you from panicking. It has enough power to charge your phone two times or more, or give a tablet one complete charge. Flip out the USB tip and recharge it in about five hours from any USB port.
$39.95, www.goalzero.com
Flight 001 Seat Pak
It’s easier to tuck your mostused airplane items (earbuds, pens, lip balm) into a pouch that you can access without having to open up your carry-on bag every time you need something. This pouch has three front zip pockets, as well as a large one in the back, perfect for your necessary items. Use the loop on the side to hang it for easier access than stuffing it in the seat-back pocket. $16.50, www.amazon.com
ScotteVest Jacket
You don’t need a large suitcase when you have the right amount of pockets. This jacket has 25 of them — from one large enough to hold a tablet to smaller ones for keys and identification. It’s flexible enough to serve as a jacket or be converted into a vest with zip-off sleeves. The nylon and cotton-blend jacket is machine washable and Teflon treated for water and stain resistance. Just what every traveler needs. $175, www.scottevest.com
OluKai Pehuea Leather Shoes
An easy way to avoid checking bags is to bring fewer shoes. That means you need a pair that you can wear for many occasions. These full-grain leather slip-ons come with a drop-in heel, making them easy to take off at the security checkpoint without having to bother with laces. A moisture-wicking microfiber lining keeps them fresh, and the cushy footbed is comfortable enough that you can wear the shoes all day long. $100, www.olukai.com