Essential Travel Gear for 2020 Adventures
New year, new gear. As 2020 begins, we look forward to another 12 months of travel and adventure. Whether it’s a weekend in the city or a month in the wilderness, the right equipment will ensure a trip runs smoothly. Here we sample some of the best new travel gear to take along on your next journey. From high-tech gadgets to help you find your way or stay in touch off-grid to perennial favorites like backpacks and boots, we’ve got it covered.
Keen Innate Hiking Boots
If your journeys in 2020 include hiking or trekking, treat your feet with the new Innate boots from adventure footwear specialist Keen. They’re made from natural leather with a waterproof lining that’s also breathable. Consequently, your feet stay dry as you splash through puddles, and they don’t get sweaty when the trail gets steep. An eco-friendly additive helps keep them odor-free as well.
These boots are available in male and female forms, and in standard or Sherpa style (the latter with extra detailing and a donation to good causes in Nepal). After several miles on muddy trails, our tester reported that the boots provided great grip, were fully supportive around the instep and ankle, and were immediately comfortable. “Like a cuddle for your feet,” were her very words. US$160, GBP139.99, keenfootwear.com
Nathan VaporKrar Race Vest
When travel includes pushing the limits—like tackling an Ultra Trail in France or the Marathon de Sables in Morocco—saving weight while keeping hydrated is essential. The Nathan VaporKrar Race Vest offers a cross between a minimalist backpack and a close-fitting garment, carrying water and supplies without adding bulk. This vest has strap-mounted pouches for small bottles, a rear compartment for a hydration bladder, and several other pockets for carrying phone, energy gels, and other essentials.
This vest comes in larger capacities for long-distance competitions and is available in male and female styles. The tight fit means no bouncing, though runners may find their backs sweat more than with a normal running backpack. US$164.99, GBP80-100, nathansports.com
Eagle Creek Wayfinder 30L Backpack
Every journey needs a reliable backpack, and the Wayfinder from Eagle Creek is perfect for weekends away or for essentials on longer travels. It features well-designed pockets and compartments to help you stay organized on the road.
The main compartment includes padded dividers for protecting laptops and tablets or to keep clothes neatly pressed. Additionally, a second compartment has small pockets for phones, pens, and chargers, while a large external pocket is ideal for stashing the stuff you need quickly, like a rain jacket or lunch.
There’s also an elasticated side pocket and a fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses. Notably, a hidden valuables pocket is placed beyond the reach of pilfering hands on crowded public transport. The backpack is available in various colors, and padded straps make it comfortable for all-day carrying. US$99, GBP90, eaglecreek.com
Somewear Global Hotspot
The main reason for off-grid travel is to relish true wilderness, but communication is essential, especially in emergencies. With the Somewear Global Hotspot, you’re connected via satellites covering every square inch of the globe. This device is palm-sized, lightweight, and connects to your phone via Bluetooth. You can send messages through an app just like normal texts, while the recipient can reply easily.
In emergencies, press the Somewear’s SOS button to send a message to GEOS, a global emergency response organization, routed to the local rescue agency. This device can function as a tracking device, though that affects battery life. Most travelers will find the best use for Somewear is remote area communications, and it excels in that role. Unit cost US$349.99 plus a data package ranging from $15 per month to $100 per year. somewearlabs.com
Moral Code Alder Backpack
When you need a backpack but prefer not to look like a backpacker, the Alder Backpack from Moral Code is an excellent choice. This bag combines premium leather, old-school looks with brass buckles, and modern twists like a roll-top design, making it perfect for stylish and practical travel, whether staying in fancy hotels or hopping buses.
Notable features include soft canvas lining, discrete padding in the shoulder straps, and a spacious main compartment. US$289, moralcode.com
Wahoo Elemnt Bike Computer
The bicycle is one of the world’s great gifts to travelers, allowing you to see city streets like a local or enjoy scenic routes. For longer trips, navigation is easier with the Wahoo Elemnt bike-specific computer, which uses GPS technology to show distance and average speed.
You can create your own route and upload it or utilize the “take me to” feature, similar to car navigation, for simple turn-by-turn instructions. US$250, GBP229.99, wahoofitness.com
Swiftwick Pursuit Socks
Adventure travel revolves around foot comfort, whether sightseeing in cities or hiking. With Swiftwick socks, your feet will stay comfortable, allowing you to focus on the scenery. The Pursuit socks, plus the Pursuit Hike variation, are ideal for various travel scenarios.
Skillful construction ensures the socks fit beautifully, provide support, and do not bunch up. Thanks to merino wool, unpleasant odors are reduced, which was greatly appreciated by our travel companions. The socks are available in men’s and women’s styles, various lengths, and numerous colors. US$16.99-34.99, swiftwick.com
