The 25 Best Road Trips in the World
25 Last-minute Amazon Big Spring Sale Deals
Shoppers, listen up: Amazon's Big Spring Sale isn't quite over yet, but with only one more day to snag top-rated travel essentials at major discounts, time is of the essence. As such, it's time to get serious about last-minute deals, and as your resident shopping expert, I'm here to help.
This travel writer with a knack for finding the best markdowns has rounded up the 25 best can't-miss deals that, frankly, you'll regret not adding to your cart while they're up to 68 percent off. My list is complete with Apple AirTags, space-saving vacuum storage bags, and a roomy yet compact duffel that's on sale for just $10; trust me, these Amazon Spring Sale deals shouldn't be missed.
Best Last-Minute Amazon Big Spring Sale Deals Amazon Apple AirTag 4-Pack Amazon There's nothing worse than losing or misplacing your luggage or wallet. So when I saw that Apple AirTags are on sale in a pack of four for less than $21 each, I texted nearly everyone in my contact list to tell them to snag a pack. I personally never travel — let alone leave my house — without one. These Bluetooth tracking devices give me incredible peace of mind, and they'll only be on sale at this price for just one more day. Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable 20-Inch Carry-On Suitcase Amazon Everyone needs a good, reliable carry-on in their travel stash, and few on the market have received as much love as this Samsonite suitcase. Earning high marks from Travel + Leisure testers and boasting nearly 20,000 perfect, five-star ratings for its compact-yet-spacious 20-inch build, this is the powerhouse suitcase that you need to make all of your upcoming travels a breeze. Note: This is a Prime-exclusive deal, but you can sign up for a free 30-day Amazon Prime trial so you can get it for 36 percent off. Anlmz Store 3-in-1 Charging Station Amazon Our devices need constant recharging when we're on the go, but it can be a bit overwhelming to pack and keep track of multiple charging cables for your iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch (plus, you might not have the outlet space to support all three of them at once). That's where this genius charging station comes in; it allows you to charge all of your devices at once, all in one convenient location. It also happens to be double discounted today, so be sure to clip the on-site extra coupon on to get it for as little as $12. Gongshi Vacuum Storage Bags Amazon In the vacuum storage bags versus packing cubes debate, I'm team vacuum storage bags through and through. While I still love a good set of packing cubes, vacuum storage bags have helped me save both suitcase and everyday storage space (I live in a tiny New York City apartment and closet space is tight). Whether you're preparing your suitcase for a big international trip or retiring your heavy winter garments for the season, these on-sale vacuum storage bags are the genius accessories that you didn't know you needed in your life. Imily Bela Women's Cable Knit Short-Sleeve Sweater Amazon There's a lot to love about this major savings event, but there's one garment that your travel wardrobe has practically been begging for: this trendy short-sleeve sweater. Striking the perfect balance between comfort and fashion (and offering just enough warmth and breathability for in-between weather days), I'm snagging this on-sale sweater to sport everywhere from the resort to a picnic party. Coleman 4-Person Camping Tent Amazon Peak camping season is among us, and if you have plans to hit the trails, then you should do so with this all-around quality tent. In fact, this tent has reached best-seller status at Amazon thanks to the thousands of perfect ratings it's received from shoppers, who have raved that this is the "best tent on the market." And as an extra treat, it's on sale for more than half off — but only for one more day. Best Last-Minute Luggage Deals Amazon Every travel bag serves a different purpose, but it's hard to ignore how expensive it can be to build a well-rounded luggage collection. That's why I always look forward to shopping these shopping extravaganzas — because when else can I score the top-rated Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable 20-Inch Carry-On Suitcase for $58 off? There are tons of other luggage and bag deals, including the Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag, which is a lightweight weekender option on sale for a mere $10. Best Last-minute Outdoor and Camping Deals Amazon The days are officially longer, so you already know that I'm making sure that my outdoor gear is up to snuff. I've been wanting to splurge on a paddleboard for quite some time, and thankfully the Roc Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard is on sale for $375 off right now — just as shoppers can score other top-rated gear (including trekking poles for just $30) before the Big Spring Sale is over. Best Last-Minute Travel Accessory Deals Amazon There have been a plethora of top-rated travel accessories on major sale this week, and if you haven't already snagged a few items to replenish your stash, you're in luck because items are still on sale — but not for much longer. To make your shopping decisions easier, I suggest checking out the Bagsmart Water-Resistant Toiletry Bag while it's on sale for $19 or the incredibly comfy Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow while it's discounted for one more day. Best Last-Minute Clothing Deals Amazon I love any occasion to revamp my wardrobe, and these deals have presented the perfect opportunity to do just that. I'm personally excited to add the Imily Bela Women's Cable Knit Short-Sleeve Sweater to my spring rotation and have been considering getting a new pair of Crocs for awhile, so am happy to see that the Crocs Unisex Classic Clogs are still on sale for $38. Best Last-Minute Tech Deals Amazon Major savings events like Amazon's Big Spring Sale are filled with under-the-radar deals on expensive tech like the Apple AirPods Pro Headphones or an Apple iPad. Aside from these sales, I'm also eyeing the Kodak Pixpro Waterproof Camera while it's $30 off before my next trip (and before the sale is up tonight). Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.Thanks for your feedback!
Experts Share Tips On Making A Last-Minute Vacation Possible In 2024
According to a Forbes study, 40% of Americans want to vacation even more this year than they did in 2023. That could lead to some cramped skies and long lines, even when you plan ahead.
The possibility of a last-minute vacation may feel like a real long shot.
Inflation is not changing the travel demand; instead, it changes the expectation of what those travels look like.
Forbes notes that 30% of respondents, thanks to inflation, have adopted a "wait-and-see" approach to their travels this year. That could mean last-minute travel is more prevalent.
But the experts say this shouldn't stop you. A last-minute vacation is entirely possible and, at times, comes at a lesser cost than families realize. The trick is to keep a watchful eye on the price of flights and hotels while allowing for flexibility.
Vacations booked in the span of a few weeks before travel look different than those planned months ahead of time, but are just as special and memorable.
Wait for Last-Minute SavingsCommon misconceptions surround travelers' willingness to pay full price when making last-minute reservations. Some believe the only way to save is to book as early as possible, but the early bird doesn't necessarily get the worm. Experts cite multiple scenarios in which they scored discounts by booking within a few weeks of their travels.
While booking a trip months to even a year ahead of time has benefits, there are savings in the final days leading up to a vacation. Freelance travel and food writer at Delish Knowledge, Alex Caspero, discovered a flight deal just one week before a last-minute Disney vacation in spring 2023. Caspero recommends, "...Using travel tracking websites that will alert you when prices fall, or signing up for hotel emails to take advantage of last-minute deals."
Keep an eye on rewards miles and points from airlines and hotels. They also help make a trip possible on short notice.
More from this section
+3
Last-minute savings are not only available with flights. Cruise lines also make it possible to find discounts. Travel journalist Megan duBois frequents weekend cruises. "Some of the big cruise lines offer discounts to cruisers who are willing to book a month or less away from sailing because they want to fill rooms."
Since cruises are typically all-inclusive with entertainment, food, and non-alcoholic beverages, there is less hassle when planning a last-minute trip. DuBois adds, "While you may not get the perfect cabin location, you're likely not spending that much time in your cabin anyway."
Be Flexible When Booking Last-MinuteWhile a last-minute vacation is possible, travelers must make certain compromises. Settling on different airlines, hotels, and activities is necessary to avoid last-minute price hikes. Monica Fish, founder of Planner at Heart, shares a recent experience with a spring break vacation to Orlando planned only four weeks before its start. She notes, "We traveled to an alternative airport in our area to take advantage of low Southwest airfare and stayed at a resort that provided enough to keep the kids busy and entertained the whole trip."
Fish warns families who want to reserve last-minute travels must stay flexible. "If you've got your eye on a vacation spot that has limited flights from your area, it will be harder in 2024 to plan last minute as travel demand is at an all-time high."
Marjolein Dilven, founder of Spark Nomad, echoes the challenge travelers face when booking vacations only weeks in advance. "Last-minute vacations can mean limited availability of accommodations and activities, which can be particularly challenging for families requiring specific arrangements. Waiting to book until the last minute also means there's a risk of missing out on preferred options or deals."
Last-minute vacations are possible in 2024, but families making quick decisions should prepare to travel differently. Sarah Gilliland, founder of On The Road with Sarah and Travel Editor for Wealth of Geeks, emphasizes this point. "Learning to be ok with enjoying the moment and what you can accomplish at the moment will lead to overall happiness during a last-minute trip."
Families used to including the same accommodations, favorite restaurants, and activities on their trips must adjust their expectations with last-minute travel. Gilliland adds, "Some reservations will be unavailable, desired hotels may be full, or the destination you had in mind might be overcrowded at that time. Take it as a personal challenge to work with what you have."
With the right mindset and creative planning, last-minute vacations are just as memorable for families.
REI's Members-only Sale Is Almost Over — Here Are 50 Last-minute Deals To Shop Before They Disappear
REI has long been one of the most reliable retailers to turn to when it comes to shopping for high-quality outdoor gear — especially during one of their major sales. Thankfully, you're just in time to scoop up some last-minute deals from the brand's latest Member sale, which runs through March 25, and the discounts are just as good as when the sale initially began last week.
Whether you're partial to camping, hiking, trail running, or are merely on the hunt for the perfect, cozy travel outfit, REI has it all with prices starting as low as $16. All you have to do to get in on the fun is simply sign up for a membership on the site, then apply the code MEMBER24 to your cart at checkout to score 20 percent off one regular item and one outlet item before the sale comes to a close.
Without further ado, keep reading to find the top deals from top brands like Patagonia, Vuori, Merrell, and more that are still available at REI as we head into the spring. Trust us, you're not going to want to miss out.
Best REI Apparel Deals Vuori From sporty hiking gear to ultra-soft loungewear, REI members have their pick of some of the top products on the site that will transform your travels for the better. The shopper-loved Vuori Daily 7/8 Leggings are perfect for long haul flights and busy days of running errands, and they're now on sale for as little as $57. Meanwhile, the Patagonia Ahnya Full-zip Hoodie will keep you comfy while waiting at the airport and in the car on the way to bag your next peak for $80. And even warmer-weather clothing has seen a price slash to usher in the spring, with the breathable REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts boasting a $36 price tag. Vuori Daily 7/8 Leggings, $57 with code MEMBER24 (originally $89) REI Co-op Rainier Long Line Rain Jacket, $112 with code MEMBER24 (originally $139) Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up Pants, $80 with code MEMBER24 (originally $99) Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Vest, $96 with code MEMBER24 (originally $119) Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Long-Sleeve Shirt, $44 with code MEMBER24 (originally $55) REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts, $36 with code MEMBER24 (originally $45) Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Tank Top, $32 with code MEMBER24 (originally $39) Patagonia Ahnya Full-zip Hoodie, $80 with code MEMBER24 (originally $99) REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Pants, $48 with code MEMBER24 (originally $60) Patagonia Fleetwith Romper, $112 with code MEMBER24 (originally $139) Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Vest REI Best REI Shoe Deals REI Footwear lovers and sneakerheads will be thrilled to sort through the impressive selection of shoes that are available at a discount to REI members, including everything from hiking boots to trail running sneakers. If you've been waiting for a sign to trade in your beat up hiking shoes for a fresh, new model, this is your moment to pick up the Merrell Men's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoes while they're just $84. Since spring is finally in session, why not also grab the Teva Tirra Sandals for $68? And if it's everyday footwear you're after, then the Veja Women's Esplar Leather Shoes will surely be your top pick while they're on sale for $120 for members. Altra Men's Lone Peak 8 Trail-running Shoes, $112 with code MEMBER24 (originally $140) Brooks Women's Glycerin Road Running Shoes, $128 with code MEMBER24 (originally $160) Teva Tirra Sandals, $68 code MEMBER24 (originally $85) New Balance Women's Fresh Foam X 1080v13 Road Running Shoes, $132 with code MEMBER24 (originally $165) Blundstone Original Chelsea Boots, $168 with code MEMBER24 (originally $210) Salomon Women's Speedcross 6 Trail Running Shoes, $116 with code MEMBER24 (originally $145) Merrell Men's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoes, $84 with code MEMBER24 (originally $140) Merrell Women's Speed Solo Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots, $120 with code MEMBER24 (originally $150) Keen Men's Targhee II Waterproof Hiking Shoes, $116 with code MEMBER24 (originally $145) Veja Women's Esplar Leather Shoes, $120 with code MEMBER24 (originally $150) Teva Tirra Sandals REI Best REI Hiking Accessory Deals REI Spring is perhaps one of the best seasons to go hiking in order to fully experience nature in bloom, which means now is the time to take stock of your gear lineup and make any necessary additions before you hit the trails. In order to prepare for any residual ice, you'll be happy to pick up the Kahtoola Microspikes Traction System while it's on sale for $60, while REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles add another layer of stability for $64. Even spacious and easy-to-carry backpacks have received the discount treatment, with the Gregory Maya 20 Pack temporarily available for just $104 for members. Tilley LTM6 Airflo Broad Brim Hat, $80 with code MEMBER24 (originally $99) Kahtoola Microspikes Traction System, $60 with code MEMBER24 (originally $75) Superfeet Hike Support Insoles, $44 with code MEMBER24 (originally $55) Osprey Talon 22 Backpack, $128 with code MEMBER24 (originally $160) Gregory 3D Hydro Hydration Reservoir, $36 with code MEMBER24 (originally $45) Gregory Maya 20 Pack, $104 with code MEMBER24 (originally $130) REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles, $64 with code MEMBER24 (originally $80) Nikon Aculon A211 8 x 42 Binoculars, $88 with code MEMBER24 (originally $110) Suunto Clipper L/B NH Compass, $16 with code MEMBER24 (originally $20) Swiss Army Classic Knife, $20 with code MEMBER24 (originally $24) REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles REI Best REI Camping Gear and Tent Deals REI Your campground is primed to get a major upgrade from REI this season — from tents to cushy sleeping pads, the retailer has it all with prices sitting as low as $36. The Eno DoubleNest Hammock is guaranteed to become a fan favorite this season thanks to its cocoon-like form (and $60 price tag), while the Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Camp Stove will allow you to whip up a restaurant-grade meal from the comfort of the campfire for $168. And when it's time to turn in for the night, the Zempire Trilogy Tent will keep you cozy and contained for a wallet-friendly $154 — counter to its significantly steeper $430 regular price point. Zempire Trilogy Tent, $154 with code MEMBER24 (originally $430) Helinox Chair Zero, $120 with code MEMBER24 (originally $150) Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler, $200 with code MEMBER24 (originally $250) Jetboil Flash Cooking System, $104 with code MEMBER24 (originally $130) Coleman Cascade 3-in-1 Camp Stove, $168 with code MEMBER24 (originally $210) Nemo Switchback Sleeping Pad, $36 with code MEMBER24 (originally $45) REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag, $80 with code MEMBER24 (originally $100) Black Diamond Spot 400-R Headlamp, $52 with code MEMBER24 (originally $65) EcoFlow River 2 Portable Power Station, $192 with code MEMBER24 (originally $239) Eno DoubleNest Hammock, $60 with code MEMBER24 (originally $75) Eno DoubleNest Hammock REI Best REI Travel Bag Deals REI REI may not be the first retailer you think of when considering a new luggage purchase, but these deals are sure to change your mind. Travel backpacks, duffels, and even rolling bags are all on sale for members right now, and after investing in one of these pieces, you'll be set for years to come. Just look at the Patagonia Fieldsmith Lid Pack that's currently double discounted to $60 and perfect to act as a personal item, hiking backpack, or the ideal companion for a day of sightseeing. As for larger bags, the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-on Wheeled Pack is easy to commute with and now sitting at $344, while the Outdoor Research CarryOut Duffel Bag is also double discounted to $76 and ready to take on a weekend of adventures with space to spare. Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack, $160 with code MEMBER24 (originally $200) Thule Aion Carry-on Spinner Wheeled Luggage, $280 with code MEMBER24 (originally $350) REI Co-op Big Haul 60 Recycled Duffel, $112 with code MEMBER24 (originally $139) The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller Bag, $192 with code MEMBER24 (originally $240) Osprey Daylite Carry-on Wheeled Duffel 40, $160 with code MEMBER24 (originally $200) Gregory Quadro Pro 22-inch Hardcase Wheeled Luggage, $200 with code MEMBER24 (originally $250) Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-on Wheeled Pack, $344 with code MEMBER24 (originally $429) Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 Travel Pack, $160 with code MEMBER24 (originally $200) Outdoor Research CarryOut Duffel Bag, $76 with code MEMBER24 (originally $135) Patagonia Fieldsmith Lid Pack, $60 with code MEMBER24 (originally $109) Outdoor Research CarryOut Duffel Bag REI Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.Thanks for your feedback!
Comments
Post a Comment