Everything You Need to Know to Plan a Summer Vacation

Summer is coming and the world is opening back up; if you haven’t got the itch to go on a trip yet, you will soon. Here’s what you’ll need to do it.

aerial beach view Carlos Sanchez Pereyra

Few of us have ever experienced anything like what we’ve had to live through for the past year. The pandemic has kept us local, stuck in our apartments or even back home with our parents. We’ve talked ad nauseam about the impact the pandemic has had on our world here at Gear Patrol and how we think the world will look moving forward, gear-wise. Now it is time to look to the near future and actually put the gear we love to talk about so much to use. This means going out and finding the perfect vacation to revitalize and energize our souls.

With that said, inevitably, things will be different. There will still be various travel restrictions, you’ll still need to bring masks and you’ll want your vaccine card with you, if you have one. Many countries are still seeing the virus come in waves and many haven’t even gotten vaccines going yet. This isn’t all to say it is impossible to enjoy a trip with few issues, but keep in mind that this will not be like taking a vacation in 2019.

We’ve done a ton of research on planning a summer vacation and what you need to make the most of your first trip post-pandemic. Frankly, this has gotten us fired up and we hope that it inspires others to take the leap (in a safe manner) and get to planning their own killer vacation. If you want to know where to book, what to do or what to bring, we’ve got you covered.

10 of the Best Vacation Rental Sites to Book Your Summer Vacation

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Airbnb

We dive deep into the numerous websites that exist to help you find and book the perfect stay for your summer vacation.

7 Places to Put on Your Travel Bucket List for When This Is All Over

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Jot down these picturesque locales and get yourself ready for a very Wes Anderson-esque vacation once everything is back to normal.

These Adventure Vacations Are the Perfect Post-Pandemic Excursion

pacific overlanderPacific Overlander

Sometimes you need more than a trip to lounge on the beach. These are the places to book a trip that is as much about adventure as it is about getting away.

How to Pack for a Microadventure

microadventures gear patrol magazineAlexa Edgerton

Don’t spend the whole summer indoors. Seek out adventure close to home with some of the season’s best gear.

16 Things You Need for Your First Post-Pandemic Vacation

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You’ve probably forgotten what you even like to pack for a vacation. Plus, the packing list has new items, like a mask and hand sanitizer.

The 25 Best Travel Accessories for Any Trip

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After you’ve got the essentials packed, you’ll need to tap into your list of accessories that make the trip just that much better.

The Ultimate Guide to Watches and Travel

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When you head out on the road, you need a watch. This is what you need to know about having your watch with you when you travel.

The Best Weekender Bags for Your Next Getaway

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Whether it is your primary bag for a long weekend away or your second bag to go along with your suitcase, you need a weekender.

Everything You Need to Know Before Buying Away Luggage

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Away luggage is popular for a reason, it is just plain good. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your research before you splurge.

How to Pack a Carry-On Suitcase

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Packing a carry-on can be tricky business. Overstuff it and you’ll end up with a weight penalty, stuff it wrong and you won’t be able to fit everything in.

The 9 Best Packing Cubes for All Trips

packing cubesGear Patrol

If you are still having trouble getting your carry-on packed (or any other bag, for that matter), consider buying some packing cubes. These are the best to consider.

The 5 Best Aluminum Suitcases Worth Your Money

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It is no secret that TSA has a thing for throwing suitcases around. Even if that doesn’t happen, you want your stuff to be safe. Keep it in an aluminum suitcase.

Everything You Need for a Great Road Trip

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Especially in a year like this, flying seems a little more daunting than usual. If you’re opting to hit the open road, this is what you need to have with you.

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