Ensure your big-day outfits arrive safely.

Planning a destination wedding is both exciting and challenging; while the idea of getting married in a far-flung locale is undeniably appealing, managing all the logistical challenges a distant celebration poses can be tricky. For example, even if the wedding is all-inclusive once you arrive, getting there in one piece, with all your belongings (and without forgetting anything at home!), can feel overwhelming. When packing for your own destination wedding then, you’ll want to make sure you have a plan for how to travel with your wedding dress, suit, or tuxedo. If you’re a guest, it’s also wise to think ahead when it comes to traveling with your formal attire—otherwise, you may just be stuck wearing sweats to the ceremony and reception.

According to wedding planner Alexa Blanco, “As fun as it is to have a destination wedding, traveling from one place to another with your wedding dress might ruin some of the fun if you don’t plan ahead. Planning ahead is the key to having a seamless experience, even before officially starting the wedding weekend.” Bridal fashion stylist Hope LaVine echos that point, and also adds that your best bet is to always pack what you plan to wear to the ceremony in a carry-on bag (and this rule applies to more than just the dress or suit). “If you’re flying, bring anything important to the event in the carry-on: your shapewear, shoes, undergarments, jewelry, and hair accessories,” she says. “Anything vital to the day besides the suit or dress, pack that in a carry-on bag as well.”

Read on for more of Blanco and LaVine’s best tips and tricks for traveling with a wedding dress and other formal attire for a destination wedding.

What to Know Before Traveling With a Wedding Dress or Suit

When you purchase your dress or suit, the retailer you shopped with should provide a garment bag that can safely house your attire. What’s more, your big-day look will most likely be packed up and ready for travel following your final fitting, so it’s best to leave it packed in the bag until you arrive at your destination.

If you didn’t purchase your attire from a retailer that regularly works with wedding attire, or if your dress or suit didn’t come with a garment bag, you can easily purchase one online. “[For a wedding dress,] you’ll want to make sure the hanger straps are on the clothing hanger, loop them around as many times needed till they take the weight off the straps of the garment if there are straps,” says LaVine. “Then, if you have a train, grab the loop that is underneath the train and put it onto the hook of the hanger. This will more evenly distribute the weight of your garment and make for easier folding.”

Knowing to leave your wedding dress, suit, or tuxedo in the garment bag is just half the battle, though; it’s also essential that you also pack it properly. “When folding it into a carry-on, you can start by placing the middle of the garment inside, then take the top and fold it over, and take the bottom and fold it over,” explains LaVine. “This will create a three-fold.”

How to Travel With a Wedding Dress or Suit by Plane

Flying to your destination wedding location? Traveling with your big-day attire as a carry-on item is the single best way to ensure everything arrives safely. “Never, ever, ever check your wedding dress for a flight,” warns LaVine. “You just never know what could happen to the checked bag. And that’s not the stress we are trying to have on the wedding week!”

That said, you have a few different options for getting your attire on the plane: The most obvious choice is to carefully fold your wedding dress, suit, or tuxedo into a small piece of carry-on luggage and store it in the overhead bins. However, if your clothing is bulkier or more delicate, putting the garment bag into a suitcase might not be an option. In this case, LaVine says you might choose to simply hold the garment bag (one that is waterproof and opaque, not see-through) for the duration of the journey. “Depending on the size or weight, this may be uncomfortable for long periods of travel, but it’s definitely doable,” she adds. If you’re lucky, the in-flight crew might even help you secure your attire for the trip. “Sometimes you’ll get an extra sweet flight attendant that lets you hang the dress in the closet at the front of the plane,” says LaVine. “Don’t count on this, but definitely ask. If they can’t accommodate that, then the overhead bin will do just fine!” You can also consider purchasing an extra seat for your ensembles, though Blanco explains that different airlines have different rules, so check in with your airline to inquire about their “guidelines in regards to this matter” before booking a second ticket, she shares.

Need more advice? Here are Blanco’s top three tips to always remember when flying with your wedding attire. “Tip number one: Arrive early. Trust me, running around an airport carrying a suit and dress is no joke (true story). Tip number two: Travel light—the less the better. The wedding dress alone is heavy, so I highly recommend you make sure the rest of your luggage is easy to walk around with. Tip number three (and my favorite): If it’s within your budget possibilities, pay the early boarding fee. This will allow you to get ahead on the overhead bin space and make it easier to store your suit or gown.”

How to Travel With a Wedding Dress or Suit by Car

If you’re driving to your wedding and plan to be in a car for long stretches of time, it’s best to lay your attire flat, utilizing either a trunk or a backseat. “The backseat is preferred because you’ll have A/C,” says LaVine. “You don’t want to leave your [attire] in a hot car for a long period of time as wedding dresses, especially those with beading, tend to yellow with heat. The cooler, or darker the place, the better.”

While shipping your attire might seem like a good idea, LaVine strongly cautions against it. There’s nothing more stressful than trying to track these important, expensive garments and realizing they might not arrive on time. What’s more, you’ll always handle your wedding attire with more care and consideration than an outsider would.

How to Travel With a Wedding Guest Dress or Suit

You may not be the bride and groom, but bridesmaids, groomsmen, parents, and wedding guests all drop a pretty penny on wedding-day attire, and you don’t want your looks to get lost in transit, either. Just like the couple of the hour, it’s always best to travel with your outfits in your carry-on suitcase. “I would hate to see a bridesmaid not being able to stand next to her best friend getting married because her dress was in her lost checked back,” says LaVine. “I always say get ahead of the problem: Don’t check the bag.”

Once you arrive at your hotel, take your outfits out of their garment bags, which will help wrinkles that were created in transit fall; for any stubborn bends, LaVine recommends steaming the garment ahead of the celebration. “Try to avoid steaming on the wedding day because you want the garment to have time to dry before you get into it and create more wrinkles,” she explains.

If you left your steamer at home, don’t sweat it: Hang your outfit in the bathroom next to the shower and turn the hot water on all the way. Close the bathroom door and let your clothes steam in the room for as long as it takes to get the wrinkles all the way you. It may not work for super stubborn wrinkles, but it’ll definitely make your formalwear look more presentable.

Parents can bring a car seat on an airplane and it’s a safer way to travel. Here’s why.

Like many first time moms, Dimple Jobanputra was unsure how her child would be on his first domestic flight. After her 3.5-month-old succeeded in a short flight, she and her husband decided to brave a seven-hour international flight from New York to London, with the help of their car seat.

Traveling with young children can be challenging. But for Jobanputra, the car seat made all the difference.

If you plan to travel with your child, investing in a car seat can be beneficial for their safety and your ease of mind despite the headache of carrying a heavy item around the airport. Here’s what experts say you need to know about bringing car seats on planes and using them when traveling.

Can You Bring a Car Seat on a Plane?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines state it is perfectly acceptable to bring a car seat on as a carry-on as long as it fits the size requirements. If it’s too big per the individual airplane’s guidelines, parents may need to check it in.

Further, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires a car seat to fit certain regulatory requirements to be certified for use on the plane, so you will want to keep this in mind when making your purchase by reading the label or conducting online research.

“Look for the label or sticker on the car seat that says, ‘This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft,’” explains Laura Purdy, MD, board-certified family medicine physician. “You can also always check the manufacturer’s website as well.”

When using the car seat on a plane seat, it’s recommended to bring an extra strap to secure the seat so it doesn’t move around. Experts also suggest reading the manufacturer’s guidelines for correct installation and to ensure the seat has not expired, as well as that there are no cracks or loose parts that could affect its function.

Parents should understand the airline’s processes and rules prior to arriving at the airport, says Dana Oliver, founder and CEO of Adventure Kids Playcare, who has traveled on a plane with her daughter hundreds of times. They should also think carefully about the carrying style they prefer before purchasing. Oliver notes some car seats are detachable from wheels, while others can be carried like a backpack.

If you plan to use your child’s car seat on the plane, always book early to ensure there’s availability for securing the seat. Lastly, if you need additional assistance, flight attendants are available to support.

Is a Car Seat Safer Than Putting a Child on Your Lap?

While it’s not required, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the FAA both strongly recommend that all children under 2 use a rear-facing car seat on airplanes, or an airplane harness device, instead of sitting in an adult’s lap. Keep in mind, booster seats can’t be used on planes.

A child that is seated on a parent’s lap without a seatbelt or restraints can lead to harm. A properly installed car seat provides important head, neck, and body support, and protection in case of turbulence or emergencies that cannot be matched by an adult’s arms.

“There are lots of hard edges, corners, handles, and things that your kid can hurt themselves on if the plane suddenly lurches and you lose your grip on the child,” says Oliver.

What Are the Costs of Traveling With a Car Seat?

In the United States, there is no extra cost to bring a car seat on the plane or even to check the car seat. For children over 2, you will have to purchase an extra seat to use the car seat on the plane. Infants under 2 can ride for free on your lap. But what if you want to use the car seat for them? You can ask the airline if it will allow you to place the car seat on an empty seat or you may need to pay for the extra seat for the car seat.

Rules for international airlines can be different. If you are flying out of the country consider if there are additional expenses involved and what is and isn’t allowed. As a rule of thumb, contact your specific airline to confirm their policies.

Car seats can be expensive, but they are worth the investment, says Jobanputra. For her family, a car seat has made traveling a lot simpler. She opted for one that transforms from a compact stroller into a car seat, so it’s helpful for on and off the plane. “It’s a great city stroller and works efficiently during traveling,” she adds. So, it’s helpful to choose the best car seat that works for your family.

Can You Check a Car Seat?

Car seats typically aren’t considered luggage so parents can check them in at the gate. It should be free of charge. You may also check it at the baggage counter. It’s always important to call the airline to confirm what options are available before traveling.

But from Oliver’s experience, she recommends always bringing the car seat on the plane, as they are at risk of getting damaged when stowed with the bulky baggage of other passengers. Still, there are ways to protect them if you choose to check them in.

“Some people who want to protect their seats will buy travel bags special for car seats that have padding and extra layers of security,” says Oliver. “Like anything, if an item is valuable or important to you and you decide to check it, make sure it is stowed properly so it does not break.”

And again, experts recommend using the car seat on the plane as it’s the safest way to travel with a young child.

Seal precious moments forever with the best camera phone for travel. Get to know the best ones with the most powerful cameras.

We all love to take pictures on vacation – it’s the best way to capture the joy you feel in the moment, make memories to post to social media or create photo albums. In a world where smartphones have become indispensable companions, the best camera phone for travel allows you to document your journey through breathtaking photos and videos. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or someone who wants to improve your technique, this guide unveils some of the best picks when it comes to smartphone photography to accompany you on your adventures.

Things to consider while buying a smartphone for travel

Consider these key pointers while choosing a smartphone for your trips:

Camera quality

One of the most vital features that distinguishes a camera phone from a regular smartphone is the camera capability and quality. Look for models that come with a high-quality rear and front camera for versatile photography. Features like low-light performance, high megapixel count and optical image stabilisation (OIS) must be present if you want to take detailed shots. Also check for advanced camera modes such as panorama, HDR and night modes to enhance your images and videos.

Durability

Travel can take a toll on your phone. Ensure your choice is made of durable build materials and has a good IP rating that can withstand different environments, as well as exposure to water and dust.

Battery life

Get a model that can keep up with your adventures. Go for phones with high battery capacity, efficient processors, power-saving modes and fast charging to maximise battery life.

Storage

Travelling means taking countless photos and videos. Ensure you’re going in for a smartphone that has an ample amount of storage and supports expandable storage options like microSD cards.

Size and weight

When choosing a smartphone for your getaways, opt for ones that are sleek and lightweight. This makes it easy to carry during long travels, unlike bulkier gadgets.

Looking for an unforgettable getaway in your golden years? Here are some of the best destinations in the world for senior travelers.

Senior age means more time for travel and exploration. In fact, some countries welcome seniors to experience a fascinating culture, rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, comfort, and accessibility. Besides, they also give amenities such as discounted prices for the elderly in public recreational centers. Each destination has a few features that make them particularly suitable for older travelers.

Italy

Italy’s rich history, exquisite food, and stunning landscapes offer a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal place for senior travel. Senior tourists can enjoy strolls through Tuscany vineyards, marvel at Rome’s architectural wonders, unwind on the beautiful Amalfi Coast, and savor world-famous Italian cuisine at various local eateries.

The country’s well-preserved ancient ruins, such as the Colosseum and Pompeii, also glimpse its glorious past. Additionally, the picturesque cities of Florence and Venice offer art lovers a chance to admire masterpieces by renowned artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Senior citizens can avail the luxury of escorted tours to several activities like wine-tasting lessons in Florence, Italian cooking lessons in Palermo and La Spezia, and a plethora of cruises starting from Rome.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – April to June
• Top Attractions – Leaning Tower of Pisa, Colosseum, Saint Mark’s Basilica, Lake Como
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Hotel Moresco, Rome Cavalieri, Hotel Artemide, Turin Palace Hotel
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Welcoming Culture, Many Experiences within a short distance, Delicious Cuisines

Greece

Greece, a haven for history enthusiasts, offers a journey back in time with its ancient ruins and mythological tales. The serene islands of Santorini and Mykonos provide tranquil retreats with picturesque views and warm hospitality. Senior tourists can explore the iconic Acropolis in Athens, visit Delphi, a city known for its ancient history, or relax on the pristine beaches of Crete. Greece is a hot spot for the elderly, offering a range of amenities and services tailored to their needs. Specialized tour operators understand the preferences of mature travelers and ensure a hassle-free journey.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – April to June and September to October
• Top Attractions – Mykonos, Meteora, The Peloponnese, Corfu
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Atrium Palace Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas, Apanemo Hotel & Suites, Atrium Platinum Luxury Resort Hotel & Spa, Santorini Sky, Luxury Resort
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Favorable Climate, Relaxed Lifestyle, Affordable Prices

Australia

For seniors who love the outdoors, Australia is a top choice. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne boast vibrant arts scenes, beautiful parks, and excellent healthcare. The Great Barrier Reef offers snorkeling and boating excursions for active seniors. A trip down the Great Ocean Road reveals breathtaking coastal scenery. The country’s national parks, such as the Blue Mountains and Kakadu, provide opportunities for scenic hikes and wildlife spotting. Additionally, seniors can indulge in wine-tasting tours in the renowned wine regions of Barossa Valley and Margaret River.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – September to November and March to May
• Top Attractions – Sydney Opera House, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Tasmania, Great Barrier Reef
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Next Hotel Melbourne, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, Park Hyatt Sydney
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Sparsely populated cities, Incredible transport framework

Spain

Spain emerges as a leading spot for retired tourists seeking sunshine, history, and culture. Seniors can explore the historic cities of Barcelona and Madrid, visit the iconic Sagrada Familia and Prado Museum, or relax on the sun-kissed beaches of Costa del Sol. The country’s diverse regions offer peculiar experiences, from Andalusia’s Moorish architecture to Canary Islands’ stunning views. Savor traditional tapas and paella while enjoying the lively atmosphere of local markets and festivals. The regions of Tenerife and Ibiza offer tranquil retreats with countless accommodations geared toward older travelers. The area of ​​Santa Eulalia in Ibiza offers the perfect spot for older people with quiet beaches, less touristy vibes, and secluded coves.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – March to May and September to November
• Top Attractions – Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, Seville, Santiago de Compostela, Costa Brava, Toledo
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Iberostar Selection Andalucia Playa, Iberostar Selection Anthelia, The Serras Hotel Barcelona
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Balanced Climate, Delicious cuisine, Exciting culture

New Zealand

New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes and meager crime rate offer a serene and secure retreat for discerning senior travelers. Seniors can enjoy scenic drives through the countryside, explore the Hobbiton movie set, or indulge in wine-tasting tours in the Marlborough region. The country’s national parks, such as Fiordland and Tongariro, provide hiking and wildlife encounters opportunities. Seniors can also relax in the geothermal hot springs of Rotorua or take a leisurely cruise through the Milford Sound. Senior travelers can avail of several discounts nationwide, including 10%-25% off on local clothing brands and discounts in grocery chains such as New World and Foursquare. Besides, public transport facilities, malls, stores, and accommodations are conveniently equipped with disability services for senior citizens.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – December to March
• Top Attractions – Abel Tasman National Park, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, Queenstown, Mount Cook
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Kamana Lakehouse, Rainforest Retreat, Aura Accommodation, QT Wellington
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Low crime rates, Ease of getting around, Exceptional respect for culture

France

France, a country synonymous with romance, offers a perfect spot for older couples seeking to rejuvenate their love lives. They can explore the iconic city of Paris and savor world-famous Parisian delicacies at some of the oldest restaurants, visit the historical region of Normandy, or relax on the beautiful French Riviera. The country’s rich history is evident in its magnificent castles, such as the Palace of Versailles and Château de Chambord.

Seniors can also enjoy several delicacies, from freshly baked croissants to world-class wines in the regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy. France is a haven for senior travel with a plethora of amenities. The SNCF offers discovery fare or tariff découverte to travelers above 60, which offers 25% off on train journeys. Additionally, most major cities in France offer senior citizen concessions on their public transport networks.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – April to June and September to November
• Top Attractions – Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Palace of Versailles, Panthéon
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Hôtel Grand Powers, Le Negresco, Le Narcisse Blanc Hotel & Spa, Fauchon L’Hotel Paris
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Great discounts and cost-saving opportunities for seniors, Affordable Prices, Exceptional Health Infrastructure, Respectful citizens

Croatia

For a sunny European escape, Croatia fits the bill perfectly. Medieval old towns like Dubrovnik and Split offer historical walking tours on pedestrianized streets. Ferries provide accessible island hopping to spots like Hvar and Korčula. Pristine national parks like Plitvice Lakes and Krka cater to active seniors with extensive walking trails. Croatia makes an excellent choice for mature travelers with its affordable prices, idyllic Adriatic setting, and pedestrian-friendly old towns.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – May to June and September to October
• Top Attractions – Plitvice Lakes National Park, Krka National Park, Pula Arena, Dubrovnik City Walls
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Rixos Premium Dubrovnik, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Split, Valamar Argosy Hotel, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Lower prices, Moderate temperatures, Less crowded

Ireland

Ireland emerges as a top-stopping place for seniors seeking friendly locals, cozy pubs, and stunning landscapes. Elderly tourists can explore the historic city of Dublin, visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, or enjoy a traditional Irish music session in a local pub. The country’s ancient castles, such as Blarney Castle and Kylemore Abbey, provide a glimpse into its fascinating history. Seniors can also embark on scenic drives along the Ring of Kerry or explore the mystical landscapes of the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. Members of AARP (American Association for Retired Persons) can easily avail discounts on hotels, airfares, and car rentals on their trip to Ireland. SAGA Tours operates tours to Ireland, specifically catering to seniors above 50.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – March to May and September to November
• Top Attractions – Killarney National Park, Rock of Cashel, Kilmainham Gaol, Titanic Belfast
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – The Grafton Hotel, The Mont, Clontarf Castle Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel Dublin
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Discounts in Hotels and admission to famous attractions, Several attractions in close proximity

Portugal

Portugal is an underrated European gem for senior globetrotters. Older tourists can explore the historic city of Lisbon, visit the beautiful Douro Valley, or relax on the beaches of the Algarve. The country’s historic sites, such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, showcase its maritime past. Seniors can also indulge in wine-tasting tours in the Douro Valley or explore the charming coastal towns of Cascais and Sintra.

There are several advantages for senior tourists when traveling to Portugal. For example, people over 60 qualify for reduced admission to theaters, museums, and other attractions and discounted fares on public transportation. Additionally, there are a variety of adventures specifically designed for seniors that can be availed for exploring the streets of Porto and Lisbon.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – March to May
• Top Attractions – Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Castelo de S. Jorge, Praça do Comércio
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel, Se Catedral Hotel Porto, Hotel Avenida Palace, Radisson Blu Hotel, Lisbon
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Meager crime rates, Variety of attractions, Welcoming citizens, Pleasant climate, Delicious food

Scotland

Scotland’s rugged landscapes, historic castles, and vibrant culture offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Senior tourists can explore the historic hill city of Edinburgh, visit the stunning Isle of Skye, or enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh. The country’s iconic landmarks, such as Edinburgh Castle and Loch Ness, are steeped in legends and folklore. Older tourists can also embark on scenic drives along the North Coast 500 or explore the picturesque Scottish Highlands.

• Best Time Of Year To Visit – March to May and September to November
• Top Attractions – National Museum of Scotland, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Glasgow Cathedral
• Four Best Hotels In This Destination – Wilde Aparthotels By Staycity – Grassmarket, Dakota Glasgow, Cheval Old Town Chambers, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Glasgow
• Why It’s Good For Senior Travelers – Peaceful country, Excellent accessibility, Pristine Landscapes

These ten destinations offer senior travelers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Each destination promises unique experiences, making them perfect for unforgettable senior travel. Whether exploring ancient ruins, indulging in local delicacies, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, these countries have something to offer every senior traveler.