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9 Garment Bags to Make Sure You Travel in Style

There’s no reason to show up looking like a slob.

You get to your hotel , zip open your Rimowa , and find that the two suits you brought to the work convention are now all creased up, wrinkled like they came straight out of your laundry basket. If you’re in a reputable hotel, there’s a steamer or an iron . If you’re not, well, you’ve just got a crinkly suit. Not in the cool, breezy linen suit way, either. Trust us: There’s nothing less sophisticated, not to mention less professional, than showing up looking sloppy.

That’s where a garment bag comes in. A good one is going to keep your suits and dress shirts nice and crisp throughout your travels, so you don’t have to suffer through the indignity of the aforementioned situation. Available in hanging, wheeled, and carry-on options, the bag contains hangers and sleeves to easily transport your clothing wrinkle-free. It’s smart, simple, and almost entirely necessary. And you don’t just have to embark on business trips to wield the powerful piece. Even if you are headed on a quick vacation , a garment bag will keep you looking fresh all trip long. If you’ve been searching for a great garment bag, our travel-obsessed editors have found the nine absolute best. Shop them here.

Best Budget Garment Bag

Simple houseware 43-inch heavy duty garment bag.

Best Garment Duffel Bag

Halfday the garment duffel 45l.

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Zegur carry-on garment bag.

Looking for a wallet-friendly solution to keep your outfits impeccable on the go? Check out the Simple Houseware 43-inch Heavy Duty Garment Bag. It's perfect for anyone needing to transport suits, tuxedos, long coats, and even shoes, offering ample space and superb protection.

This extra wide bag allows you to store multiple items with ease. Crafted from a durable, tear-resistant, breathable material, your garments stay dust-free and in prime condition. The high-quality zipper ensures no snagging or frustration; you can reuse this bag for all your travels. Travel-friendly features like two sturdy handles and an eyelet make it easy to carry and fold. The transparent window and ID pocket allow you to quickly identify what's inside without unzipping. And thanks to two oversized pockets, your accessories, and even large shoes have a spot all their own.

We’ve already done a full review of this guy , so let’s keep it short. The Halfday Garment Duffel 45L isn't just a bag; it's a travel revelation. This durable, water-resistant marvel effortlessly transforms from a hangable garment bag into a spacious, carry-on-ready duffel, making it your go-to companion for everything from business trips to weekend weddings.

It comfortably houses a full suit or dress, plus shirts, blouses, and pants. Once zipped into its duffel form, it still has ample room for your casual wear. Packed with features like elastic shoe pouches, heavy-duty hardware, and interior straps to keep your formal attire taut and wrinkle-free, this bag ensures everything stays in place and ready for action. It's the perfect blend of functionality and style, designed specifically for those on the move.

The Zegur Carry-on Garment Bag is your budget-friendly, style-savvy travel pal that's ready to tackle any trip without cramping your style or your wallet. This bag is a packing ninja with pockets galore: stow away everything from your best suits to those impossible-to-pack shoes, and even snatch your gadgets from the handy outer pocket when you’re in a pinch.

Wave goodbye to the dreaded ironing board because this garment bag’s got a clever double buckle system to keep your clothes looking freshly pressed and party-ready, no iron needed. You’ll glide through the airport like a travel pro, turning heads with its chic design, and yes, maybe even sparking a little bag envy. With adjustable and removable straps, it’s as versatile as it is voguish, and it fits snugly in any overhead bin. If your travel mantra is to look good, spend wisely, and dodge the iron at all costs, then the Zegur Carry-on Garment Bag is your match made in heaven.

MZ Wallace Camo Michael Garment Bag

The MZ Wallace Camo Michael Garment Bag is seriously more than just a travel essential; it's a total style statement. Imagine a bold blue-camo pattern with those striking red leather edges—this bag isn’t just practical, it's got flair. Open it up, and the bright orange interior is like a cheerful surprise, offering plenty of space to keep your stuff organized. Plus, there's an exterior pocket that’s super handy for quick grabs, like your phone or boarding pass. It's durable, distinct, and perfect for anyone who likes their luggage to be as unique as their journey.

Tumi Extended Trip 4 Wheeled Garment Bag

If you're planning a long trip and need a reliable bag for your formalwear, the Tumi Extended Trip 4 Wheeled Garment Bag is a game-changer. This bag is packed with features: it has a spacious zip garment compartment that fits up to six suits, multiple zip pockets for organization, and a dedicated shoe pocket. The exterior includes a large front U-zip pocket, additional zip pockets, a retractable top carry handle, side and bottom grab handles, a 3-stage telescoping handle, and four dual spinner wheels for easy maneuvering. Built tough with an impact-resistant back and protective bumper rails, it also includes a built-in TSA combination lock and the TUMI Tracer for peace of mind.

Victorinox Swiss Army Werks 6.0 Garment Sleeve

Simple and smart, this garment sleeve from Victorinox has a straightforward design for effortless packing. Two front zip pockets, large mesh and lined compartments, and a padded shoulder strap are a few features that make this a solid choice.

Calpak Compakt Small Garment Bag

You know how stressful it can be to pack for a trip and keep your clothes looking sharp, right? Well, let me tell you about the Calpak Compact Small Garment Bag. This little wonder is the best compact garment bag out there, perfect for keeping your outfits in tip-top shape without taking up a ton of space. It’s made from durable, water-resistant ripstop nylon, so you know it's tough enough for any adventure. Plus, it has a super handy collapsible, tri-fold design that makes it easy to store when you're not using it.

Hartmann Metropolitan 2.0 Garment Sleeve

The Hartmann Metropolitan 2.0 Garment Sleeve is like the Swiss Army knife of garment bags! Picture this: You’re on the go, needing to keep that suit or dress looking fresh, and bam, this bag has your back. It’s compact and lightweight, so no more wrestling with oversized luggage. It folds up so neatly, you’d think it took packing lessons from Marie Kondo.

It holds any hanger style, which means no more awkward fits or weird creases. Inside, it’s like a little organizational wonderland with pockets galore for all your accessories. Plus, the padded shoulder strap makes it super comfy to carry around. Hartmann is famous for their checked luggage, but this garment sleeve is their unsung hero.

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Spinner Garment Bag

The Samsonite Silhouette 17 Spinner Garment Bag is your new travel BFF. This trusty sidekick, around since 1958, is built to last and makes traveling a breeze. With its hanging wardrobe feature, it keeps your clothes wrinkle-free and organized, while the eight spinner wheels ensure smooth navigation through airports. The RightHeight pull handle adjusts to your height for maximum comfort, and TSA-approved locks offer peace of mind. It also includes a retractable ID and business tag and all-side carry handles for added convenience.

Tips for Choosing the Right Garment Bag

Selecting the perfect garment bag can make a big difference in how you travel with style and ease. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one for your needs

• Consider Your Travel Style : Think about the type of travel you do most often. Frequent flyers might prioritize lightweight and compact bags that fit easily in overhead compartments, while road trippers could opt for more rugged, spacious options.
• Check the Capacity : Make sure the bag can comfortably hold all the clothing items you typically travel with. Some bags are better suited for quick business trips, while others are designed for extended stays and can handle several outfits.
• Assess the Material : Durability is key, so look for high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of travel. Nylon and polyester are popular for their strength and lightweight, while leather might be preferred for its style and durability, though it can be heavier.
• Look for Functional Features : Additional pockets, expandable compartments, and detachable shoulder straps can make travel much easier. Wheels are a bonus if you're often navigating through airports.
• Ease of Access : Consider how easy it is to pack and unpack the bag, as well as how accessible your clothes are while traveling. A well-designed garment bag will minimize wrinkling and keep your clothes ready to wear upon arrival.
• Water Resistance : If you travel to areas with unpredictable weather, a water-resistant bag will protect your attire from the elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are garment bags allowed as carry-on luggage? A: Most garment bags are designed to meet carry-on size restrictions for major airlines. However, it's always best to check the specific airline's guidelines as dimensions can vary.

Q: Can garment bags prevent all wrinkles? A: While garment bags significantly reduce wrinkles, they may not prevent them entirely, especially if the bag is overstuffed or handled roughly during travel. Properly packing and securing your garments within the bag can help minimize wrinkles.

Q: How many suits can a standard garment bag hold? A: This depends on the design and size of the garment bag. Most standard bags can comfortably hold 2-3 suits. Bags designed for longer trips may hold more, and compact models might hold only 1-2.

Q: Are there waterproof garment bags available? A: Yes, many garment bags are made with water-resistant materials or have a waterproof coating to protect your clothes in rainy conditions.Q: How do I clean my garment bag? A: Cleaning instructions vary based on the material. Many nylon and polyester bags can be gently cleaned with soap and water. Leather bags might require special care and cleaning products designed for leather.

Q: What should I look for in a garment bag for international travel? A: For international travel, look for a garment bag with durable construction, good capacity, and multiple carrying options like shoulder straps and wheels for easier navigation through airports and hotels.

Q: Can I use a garment bag for items other than clothing? A: Yes, many garment bags come with additional compartments and pockets for shoes, accessories, and toiletries, making them versatile travel bags.

How We Tested and Chose These Garment Bags

To find the best garment bags out there, we really dug into what everyone else was saying. We pored over tons of expert reviews and listened to feedback from folks who travel frequently, just to see what worked and what didn’t. We compared all the important details—things like how tough these bags are, how much they can hold, and whether they have useful features like extra pockets or sturdy wheels. Plus, we looked at what people were saying about different brands, especially when it came to quality and customer service. This way, our recommendations are not just based on specs, but on real-life experiences and reliability.

Why Trust Esquire?

Because no one else has the taste that we do. No one else travels like we do . We’ve seen all seven continents, and someone from the Esquire editorial team is always in the air. We’ve tested every travel product out there, and we only recommend the things we would buy with our own money.

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6 Best Travel Purses for Your Next Trip

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When you’re traveling, you typically have multiple bags in tow that weigh you down. There is nothing more chaotic than rushing through a busy airport with the heaviest bags or being crammed with one that’s too big and jam-packed with all of your items. That’s why upgrading to the best travel purses can take the weight off your shoulders, really .

Related: 10 Best Designer Tote Bags for Every Type of Shopper

There are a multitude of options on the market, so let  Us help! To find the best travel purses, we considered many styles, sizes and prices before curating our list. We also scoured for stylish picks that you can wear anywhere — traveling or not. Ahead, see six of the best travel purses that will make you want to book your next trip.

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• Best Splurge Travel Purse: The Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote is a splurge, but according to shoppers, it makes traveling a breeze. It has a chic silhouette, a roomy interior and an inside pocket that helps to organize your essentials. The bag features a water-resistant finish that’s easy to clean — $155 at Nordstrom!
• Athleta Revive Modular Crossbody Bag: The easier the bag is to carry, the better. That’s why this crossbody bag from Athleta has an AirPod pouch, a built-in sunglasses pouch, and a main compartment that holds a small wallet and keys. There is also a removable strap that’s lightweight across your shoulders — $99 at Athleta!
• An Easy Phone Tote: If you’re always worried about leaving your phone in an airport, grab Cuyana’s Easy Phone Tote . “Perfect bag for traveling!,” a shopper said. “Can fit phone, passport, wallet, and chapstick.” — $198 at Cuyana!
• Travel in Style: Gap’s Vegan Leather Bucket Bag provides a stylish way to safely hold your items while exploring your favorite cities. It has an adorable bucket bag shape, a shoulder strap and a drawcord closure at the top — $49 (originally $55) at Gap!
• Go Hands-Free: lululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag is a constant bestseller, and for good reason: It offers plenty of room to hold your phone, keys, wallet and more. You can wear it in many ways, whether as a belt bag, crossbody, or over a shoulder — $49 at lululemon!
• An Anti-Theft Travel Purse: When traveling staying safe is key. That’s where this affordable anti-theft bag comes in. It has a five-point anti-theft security system, two multi-organizational compartments, and front magnetic flap hides — $33 (originally $80) at Amazon!

Related: Splurge on This Jessica Alba-Approved Tote Bag for Summer

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The Best Snowboard Bags of 2024

Snowboarding can take you to some pretty amazing places. The world is full of mountains to explore, and the ability to ride those mountains is a massive privilege to behold. But getting there can be a chore, and if you want to bring your own gear (as many of us do), it becomes even more of a task, and a risk as well. That said, a good snowboard bag that’s optimized for solid protection and easy transport will help mitigate those troubles.

The gear team at  The Inertia knows how valuable good snowboarding gear is, both literally and sentimentally. To keep your shred setup in pristine condition is worth the investment in a good snowboard bag. We’ve been testing what’s available out there to give you this rundown on snowboard bags, with considerations for budget, snowboard size and the duration of the shred mission.

If you want to see how the following snowboard bags measure up to one another, check out our Comparison Table. If you’d like to know what went into the test, see the How We Tested section. If you’d like some advice on the best snowboard bag for your particular needs, check out our Buyer’s Guide.

Best All-Around Snowboard Bag: Season Snow Roller

Best Value Snowboard Bag: Element Equipment Padded Snowboard Bag

Best Deluxe Snowboard Bag: Burton Wheelie Flight Attendant

Best Budget Snowboard Bag:  Atletico Snowboard and Boot Bag

Best All-Around Snowboard Bag

Season snow roller ($205).

Sizes Available: 165, 175, 195

Pockets:  External pocket, multiple internal pockets with weather protection

Weather Resistance: Inside and outside

Wheels:  Yes

Additional Features: Straps to secure the load, extra padding where you need it most

Pros:  Great value, excellent design, packs up well

Cons:  No mention of sustainable materials

Season was founded by pro skier Eric Pollard and pro snowboarder Austin Smith. Being jet-setting shred hounds, they know a thing or two on what makes a good travel bag. The good thing here is that by bridging the eternal feud between skiers and snowboarders, the Snow Roller bag works great with both skis and boards so star-crossed lovers or shred pals can share a bag while they travel. But for the sake of snowboarding, this bag hits all the right notes.

With a massive amount of room on the inside to hold two boards with bindings, as well as two external weather-protected pockets on the exterior, this bag holds more than enough gear for a massive trip. The inside pockets are well-positioned to carry accessories, with a clear view pocket in the middle to help you remember where you stashed everything should you need it in a pinch.

The wheels are rugged enough to go off pavement, yet didn’t get bogged up in the dirt. Exterior handles make quick movement in and out of a vehicle in a snap, and everything cinches down nicely. Season also offers a lifetime repair policy, so no matter how beat up your bag gets in transit, they’ll be able to make sure it stands the test of time.

Check Price on Evo

Best Deluxe Snowboard Bag

Burton wheelie flight attendant ($310).

Sizes Available: 156, 166, 181

Pockets: Three external accessory pockets, two internal mesh pockets

Additional Features: Internal straps, extra padding

Pros:  Massive, can fit 2 boards with bindings, good padding, Bluesign approved

Cons:  Might be overkill for most uses

If you are going overseas, or heading somewhere for an extended period of time, the Burton Wheelie Flight Attendant is a top pick for its size, storage space, and easy mobility. This bag is engineered from one of the world’s oldest and highest-performing snowboard brands out there – Burton. With a team roster of some of the planet’s top riders, Burton has access to R&D and real-world testing that other companies could only dream of. It certainly shows in this bag, with every pocket and compartment thoughtfully crafted to help you travel the world efficiently while keeping your gear intact throughout.

Check Price on Amazon

Best Value Snowboard Bag

Element equipment padded travel bag ($99).

Sizes Available:   165

Pockets: Single exterior pocket

Weather Resistance: Internal

Wheels:  No

Additional Features: External slot for ID/Business card

Pros:  Everything you need to take a board on an airplane

Cons:  Only additional pocket is quite small

Not everyone needs all the bells and whistles in a snowboard bag, and that’s quite alright. If you don’t mind the lack of wheels and extra pockets, then this bag from Element Equipment will do the job. It has a waterproof interior to keep things tidy, and enough space to hold a board, boots, and some outerwear without much hassle. Extra padding ensures that any unforeseeable run-ins will see minimal damage. It’s nothing special, but coming in at $100 before tax it has many features that others at this price point don’t. So if your baseline expectation is some weather resistance and padding, this might be the bag for you.

Best Budget Snowboard Bag

Atletico snowboard and boot bags ($35).

Sizes Available: 165

Pockets: None

Weather Resistance: None

Additional Features: None

Pros:  Dirt cheap

Cons: Bare minimum in protection, not super durable

This is our dirt cheap option, yet it’ll do the trick. If you’ve blown all your money on a season’s pass and the latest gear, but still want some way to move said gear around, then this will do that, but not much else. The bonus here is that it was the only bag we tested that came with an included bag for boots, which can actually fit more than just a pair of boots. Even without the boot bag you can fit a board, boots, jacket, and pants inside the main bag and move it around easy enough to stash in your truck or the roof of your car. Just be careful with how you pack it, and be sure to dry it out when you get home.

Best of the Rest

Dakine low roller ($160).

Sizes Available: 157, 165, 175

Pockets: 1 small external, 1 weather-sealed internal

Weather Resistance: Internal and External

Additional Features: Handle clips to carryon roller for easy transport

Pros:  Compact design, keeps things tidy when open, Bluesign approved materials

Cons: Not many pockets

There are still good padded, wheeled bags out there without a ton of bulk, and the Low Roller from Dakine is one of our favorites for that. It’s made from Bluesign approved recycled materials, so buying this is also a win for Mother Nature. But the bag has everything you need to go on a trip and get your gear there safely.

It’s definitely a pared-down version compared to some of the other wheeled bags available, but that doesn’t mean it sacrifices quality. We appreciated the fact that when opened up, the bag still rises up without collapsing so gear doesn’t splatter out. There are a lack of pockets when compared to some of the bulkier bags, but this bag is going for a slim-to-win approach and if space is a concern and you don’t need major bells and whistles, this bag has great value and will last for many seasons to come.

Check Price on REI

Athalon Fitted Snowboard Bag ($49)

Sizes Available: 170

Pockets: 1 small external accessory pocket

Weather Resistance: Minimal

Pros:  Nice compact shape, still has plenty of room inside

Cons: No padding or straps to secure the board

If you just need a bag to keep things all contained in one unit, you probably don’t need anything fancy. The Athalon Fitted Snowboard Bag will serve that purpose, but admittedly not much more. It has a fairly basic design yet will fit a board, boots, and outerwear inside without much fuss. Just don’t expect it to punch above its weight, and it could be problematic taking this on a flight since it doesn’t have any padding. Still, it’s a bag that works, and the price won’t cause any seizures.

Dakine Pipe ($60)

Sizes Available: 148, 157, 165

Weather Resistance: DWR Finish

Pros:  Durable for being a basic bag

Cons: No padding

When you want something basic, that will still hold up for years, the Dakine Pipe is one of our favorites. It sports a minimalist design with only the one main compartment, a handle, and a shoulder strap. But what it does sport is durability in the thick polyester design, good quality zippers, and a thick strap that can carry a decent amount of weight. You can stuff this pretty full without the bag falling apart. It would be nice if it had some padding, but then it wouldn’t be as packable as it is for when it’s not in use, which is handy if you’re living in a ski town with 5 other roommates or a city apartment just jonesing to get to the snow. Either way, this bag will endure many good trips and keep things safe within reason, so long as you aren’t dropping it off a balcony in a hurry.

Burton Space Sack ($70)

Sizes Available: 140, 166, 181

Additional Features: Handles

Pros:  Handle straps for easy loading/unloading

Cons: No padding, thin material

The Space Sack is Burton’s bare bones option, but that doesn’t mean that there wasn’t a lot of thought put into it. The way the zippers are made makes for easy access when it’s stuffed without everything spilling out. And we loved the extra handles in the middle of the bag to make loading and unloading much easier. Like the Dakine Pipe, it doesn’t have any extra padding, so you don’t want to be abusing the contents. But with a weather resistant DWR coating, it’s a heck of a lot better than leaving everything loose and trying to carry it all separately. Plus, Burton uses Bluesign approved materials in the construction of this bag, meaning less impact on the environment.

Snowboard Bags Comparison Table

How we tested the best snowboard bags.

Testing snowboard bags isn’t exactly an art form. We took our gear, piled as much as we could into the bags, and schleped them around to see how they felt. It was actually one of the easier tests to do because it’s so objective. Did the bag have protection against the elements? Inside and outside? What sort of pockets does it have? How easy is it to get to those pockets in a hurry? Is it going to hold up even against disgruntled airline baggage handlers? Ok, maybe that last one was subjective, and no offense to gruntled baggage handlers, but we did (safely) toss our gear around to make sure contents wouldn’t shift too much during transport.

As we continue to log miles with these bags we will keep you updated to note how they hold up and withstand the wear and tear of traveling around, moving about, and getting in and out of cars, hotel lobbies, and the like. But all-in-all, the bags we have listed all have been given the seal of approval with the appropriate disclaimers on the cheaper options that they simply aren’t made the same way that the more premium models are.

Editor’s Note:   For more in-depth reviews of the top snowboard gear in the industry, check out our guides to:  The Best Snowboard Jackets ,  The Best Snowboard Pants , The Best Snowboard Goggles , The Best Snowboard Boots , and The Best Snowboard Mittens. Curious about the brands behind it all? Check out The Best Snowboard Brands . Looking to protect your head? We’ve reviewed Ski and Snowboard Helmets , too. 

Snowboard Bags Buyer’s Guide

What to look for when choosing a snowboard bag.

There are a few main non-negotiables when it comes to a good quality snowboard bag. Running the mental checklist through these different criteria will help you choose the best snowboard bag for your needs and budget.

Materials: Look for durable materials and extra padding such as neoprene to help buffer impacts. If sustainability is a concern (hint, it should be) then look for recycled materials and for the Bluesign seal of approval. Nylon and polyester are the main materials used, but also look to see if there is reinforcement at the ends or where edges go. This will help prevent the material from ripping over time, especially if you keep your edges tuned. A high denier count is thicker and more robust. Try holding the material to some light. If you can see through it, then it’s a safe bet that it won’t be very protective.

Extra Pockets: Not only how many pockets, but where are they located? If you’re the type to pack mad accessories, extra pockets will be important. If you’re a minimalist and don’t care about wet gear causing a smell, then maybe not so much. But the main consideration is if there is an extra pocket that is waterproof/resistant so that a wet snowboard won’t get the rest of your gear wet (especially underlayers). This can be an issue if you are moving about and can’t get every last speck of snow off the board. But if your other gear is in a separate compartment, you’ll save a ton of time and hassle later by not needing to dry your gear out on the other end.

Weatherproofing: If the bag will ride in the back of a pickup then you’ll want something that is weather resistant, both inside and outside. More premium models have a tarp material on the inside to help keep melting snow at bay.

Size: Check the size of your board to see if it’ll actually fit the bag you’re looking at. Generally it’s good to have a few centimeters on either end as a buffer so it’s not stretching the bag. but you don’t want too much room or it’ll jostle around. Too big can be just as problematic as too small.

Padding:  A good snowboard bag will have padding around the sides to protect it from unwanted bumps and scrapes along the way. Depending on how much gear you have and how rough you are with it will depend on how much padding you need/want. But for airplane trips, it’s always a good idea to get as much padding as possible since you wont’ have eyes on the bag all the time.

Portability: Do you need wheels to take it long distances? Or will a shoulder strap do? If the shoulder strap is on, is it comfortable? Will you need straps on other ends to load and unload? All of these are important conditions to consider when deciding what snowboard bag will suit your needs the most.

Ventilation:  A good snowboard bag will have a vent on the corners to help with drying out your gear. For some it’s a must-have, especially if the bag is going straight from the mountain to the airport. The worst thing that can happen is getting mildew on your gear after a long flight because it didn’t have adequate ventilation.

Warranty/Repair:  This is a big differentiator between some of the more established brands and the budget ones. Since you’re moving the bag around, often in a hurry, and often with others handling your gear, things can get some wear and tear. The best snowboard bags will have the backing and guarantee that they can be fixed when things start to break. Make sure you’re aware of any warranty or repair policies that will affect the buying decision. It could very well mean that a pricier snowboard bag will end up costing less in the long run because you don’t need to replace it.

Budget: Last but not least, how much money you have will help to determine the best snowboard bag for you. We believe it’s worth shelling out a bit extra to protect your investment, but appreciate that most of us aren’t made of money. Choose carefully, as some extra dough upfront may help prevent an expensive edge repair later on.

Caring For Your Snowboard Bag

Snowboard bags are built to withstand a bit of abuse, but that’s no reason to go ahead and abuse it. By caring for your bag it’ll likely extend the life for many seasons to come. Here are a few tips to help your snowboard bag have a long and happy life:

Drying:  After each use, it’s best to open up all the pockets and hang the bag up in a well-ventilated area. Even a bit of dampness can turn into mildew in no time if the bag doesn’t have time to dry. If you take everything out and let the bag itself dry, the chances of mildew buildup go down tremendously.

Cleaning:  Mud and dirt can get inside the bag pretty easily. Make sure you clean it out with a damp cloth to keep it clean, and it’ll do a better job of protecting your gear.

Waterproofing:  An aftermarket Direct Water Repellant (DWR) coating can help protect the snowboard bag from the elements. We are fans of Nikwax , which is a leader in water repellant treatments.

Tips For Traveling With Snowboard Gear

It can sometimes be a bit overwhelming traveling with oversized baggage, especially to far-off time zones. But a few of these tips will help you travel more efficiently, saving you more time and energy to have fun on your trip.

Boots:  Place the boots between the bindings for the most efficient storage. You can reverse one of them so that they fit together the easiest while minimizing dead space.

Outerwear:  If there are separate pockets for outerwear, makes sure to utilize it. Otherwise, fold up your jacket and pants and place them at the ends of the bag so that you can have some extra padding on the corners.

Lock:  Make sure if you get a lock that it’s TSA-approved for security checkpoints. This will save some time and hassle if they decide to search your stuff.

Catching a ride: If you are getting a taxi, Uber, or other ridesharing service, make sure you mention that you have an oversized bag. Many smaller cars won’t fit a snowboard bag easily, especially if you’re traveling with several people. We always ask for a van ahead of time to save any headache.

Weight: The weight of these bags can fill up fast if you’re adding more than gear, so just be mindful of the 50lb limit on most airlines (or be ready to pay a huge penalty). Also be mindful of if you’ll need to carry it as opposed to wheeling it, and to have a balanced load that isn’t too heavily weighted on one of the extremities.

What’s the Difference Between Ski Bags and Snowboard Bags?

Although it might seem reasonable to stuff a snowboard into a ski bag and vice versa, there are a few differences that make it difficult to mix-and-match the wrong kind of gear. Here are a few reasons why you should stick to a snowboard bag for snowboards:

Length:  Snowboard bags are generally shorter than ski bags because – you guessed it – snowboards are generally shorter than skis. It doesn’t make sense to have a 155cm board in a 190cm bag. Not only would it be more difficult to carry, the excess room inside means a higher chance of damage.

Width:  Since snowboards are wider than skis, snowboard bags are generally wider, too. Trying to stuff a snowboard into a bag made for skis could very possibly end in the bag ripping. It’s best to have a wide bag built to hold snowboards so that you aren’t busting any seams while traveling, which would just end up being a big hassle and waste of time.

Straps:  Snowboard-specific bags often have straps to keep the board in one place. If you’re using a ski-specific bag the chances are the straps won’t reach all the way around a board. That’s why it’s best to have the right tool for the job, and in this case it’s the right bag for the board.

Return To Comparison Table | Return To Top Picks

Editor’s Note: For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here . For in-depth reviews of the top snowboard gear in the industry, check out our guides to The Best Snowboard Jackets , The Best Snowboard Pants , The Best Snowboard Goggles , The Best Snowboard Mittens , and The Best Snowboard Boots.

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The Best New Designer Bags to Shop for Fall/Winter 2024

Bracelet bags, relaxed totes, classic satchels and more.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

With summer on its way out, fall and winter styles are in full swing, and while there's plenty of fashion to get excited about for the season, the big standouts are the accessories. From bracelet bags that do double-duty for your outfit to ladylike shoulder bags and timeless crossbody options, here are some of the must-have looks designers are turning out for the chillier months.

Small Liberta

Enter, Bottega Veneta's latest for Winter 2024: the Liberta. You may notice the soft crossbody is missing the signature intrecciato weave, for which the iconic Maison is known, all for the purpose of putting the focus on the delicious materials and quality crafstmanship synonymous with the Bottega Veneta name. All I know is, not only is this cross-body effortless in form but ornate in details (the sculptural clasp), and will wear just as well as an easy clutch.

Fendi By The Way Soft Mini

Fendi's By the Way bag is here. A redux of the Boston, which first launched in the F/W 2014 collection, the new piece is unstructured and relaxed, but still has the timelessness of the original silhouette. The perfect mini for a night out downtown, we say!

Florence 25 in Coffee Leather

Ladylike bags are going nowhere, and Savette, well that's their specialty . New for Fall 2024 is the Florence, a timeless, sculptural piece which is equipped Savette's signature minimal details. The picture of refinement.

Small Bracelet hobo bag in grained leather with studs

Chemana Kamali brings back the Chloe bracelet bag to great fanfare this season. This piece, with its studded embellishment and rounded gold handle is worthy of a place in a collection, and will look just as good paired with casual denim as it does with organza and chiffon separates.

Dior Dior Groove 25 Bag

New for the season is the Dior Groove Bag, which offers a 3D rendition of the house's iconic motif: the cannage. Think of it as the updated version of an old school doctor's bag. It can be carried in the hand or over the shoulder, from event to event, with everything you need.

Small Leonora Flap Bag in Cognac Leather

Royal fashion fans will know that the Duchess of Sussex loves the Gabriela Hearst Demi clutch . The label's latest is bound to be a hit with fans of the structured, yet still feminine carry-all. The best part? It can be carried cross body too.

Prada Medium Prada Buckle suede bag with belt

Fresh off the Autumn/Winter 2024 runways came the Prada Buckle bag, shown here in sumptuous suede. The piece, which features reimagined combinations of the maison's signatures, offers pragmatic, sensible taste with a twist—it's all about the hardware.

LE DEMI-CŒUR BAG IN GOATSKIN

Alaia's seasonal offerings bring forth a new, imaginative shape and color to tote under one's arm: a half heart. Bright and whimsical, a flash of cherry red never hurt a monochrome outfit, now did it?

Saint Laurent NIKI oversized in fur

An oversized tote in shearling? Perfect for that first chilly day, a la Saint Laurent. With this piece, it's all about the texture and volume.

While the Ferragamo Hug bag is nothing to be overlooked—we're obsessed—another new piece from the iconic Italian brand this fall is the relaxed tote. Everything from the hardware, to the rich color offerings, to, of course, the divine leather, oozes that unfussy elegance we all yearn for when dressing.

Fun fact: from the side the folds of the leather are meant to look like the lily, the symbol of the city of Florence.

Khaite in Dark Ivory Pebbled Leather

Ladylike and un-complicated, the Lia top handle is the perfect complement to those rich camel and winter white outfits you have planned for the season ahead.

Louis Vuitton Slouchy PM

The slouchy, soft silhouette is the look of the season, as made evident by LV's take on the trend—it its iconic monogram print, of course.

Mini Devon Bag in Leather

Another timeless lady bag, step right up. This one, by The Row—masters of under-the-radar dressing—offers a feminine and unexpected shape and color for the season.

Arcadie matelassé nappa leather bag

Autumn is going to bring playfulness in color, shape, and texture. Case in point: this rich yellow matalasse bag a la Miu Miu, which will offer gorgeous contrast to rich wine tones and a bit of unexpected sunshine.

Cuyana Celestia Shoulder Bag

As stated before, the hobo silhouette is still going strong. Cuyana's latest, a subdued and tasteful shoulder bag hits all the right notes. So why not have a bit of fun and wear it in cherry red?

Jil Sander Rollup Medium Deerskin Crossbody Bag

The beauty of Jil Sander's rollup bag is that it can be worn with the crossbody handle as shown, but also as an easy-going, oversized clutch tucked under your arm. And the extra shine from the leather? Too gorgeous to pass up.

As the deputy digital lifestyle director at Town & Country, Roxanne Adamiyatt covers fashion, beauty, wellness, design and travel. 

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13 Travel Makeup Bags to Keep Your Beauty Essentials Secure and Organized

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best travel makeup bags keep your beauty and skincare essentials secure and organized while in transit, and help protect the rest of your belongings from accidental spills and leaks . A few years ago, I ruined one of my favorite tote bags after a bottle of foundation broke in my old makeup bag and spilled everywhere. There goes my tote bag and my overly priced foundation. After that, I decided to invest in a protective, durable travel makeup bag that could handle bumpy car rides, long-haul flights , and a reckless suitcase toss or two from TSA. The best options are also roomy enough to fit a vacation's worth of makeup while still being compact enough to neatly fit in your carry-on or personal item . And bonus points go to the cosmetic cases and bags that feature smart pockets or loops to keep small products like brushes, lipsticks , and eyeliner in place.

Below, we've rounded up the best makeup bags for travelers to pack on their next trip, including top-rated bestsellers across the internet and some tried-and-true picks from our editors. Whether you need a small pouch for a weekend's worth of essentials or a well-organized case for a destination wedding , we have a cosmetic bag that will hold everything you need. Your days of rummaging through a never-ending black hole of a makeup bag are over.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Our top picks:

• Best overall: Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag
• Best for durability: Calpak clear cosmetic case
• Best for organization: Parallelle makeup bag
• Best for extended trips: Relavel cosmetic case
• Best for short trips: Dagne Dover Mila organizer

Without an organized cosmetic case, doing your makeup often involves rummaging around in a bag trying to find everything. This Lay-n-Go bag, though, is a dream come true. Instead of having to dump out all your products, the bag opens up by way of drawstrings, and can be laid out as a circle on any surface, allowing every product to be on display. When finished, pull the drawstring back together and watch it transform into the size of a clutch. It also comes with a zip pocket for storage and elastic brush loops, so nothing goes rolling off the bathroom counter.

For travelers who have no desire to pack light, Calpak's oversized cosmetics case will keep all your favorite products neat and visible, thanks to its full transparent exterior. The clear makeup bag unzips fully so each side can lay flat, and has an extra mesh interior pocket to hold smaller items. Senior commerce editor Madison Flager uses the large version for extended trips (closed, it's as big as a sheet of printer paper, and several inches wide), but we recommend the medium size for weeklong vacations. These bags are roomy enough to be used to hold makeup products on one side and skincare essentials on the other, allowing everything you need for your travel beauty routine to be kept in one place. Plus, a top handle makes for easy carrying or looping over a bathroom hook.

When I arrive at a hotel or an Airbnb, I usually have to empty my entire makeup bag and lay everything out on the bathroom counter just to find what I need. Earlier this summer, I finally discovered the ultimate solution to keeping my beauty products organized and easy to find: the Parallelle Carry-On makeup bag. The standout feature of the Parallelle makeup bag is its foldable shape. After you unzip the bag, each side can be pulled down to lie flat, allowing you to easily see all of your products at once. It's designed to keep each product secured in an upright position, again making them easy to spot and reducing the risk of any spills. The medium-size case features 16 wall pockets, 4 elastic mesh pouches, and 3 adjustable compartments. The small wall pockets are ideal for holding slim products like makeup brushes, mascara, eyeliner, lip liner, or lipstick. The four elastic mesh pouches hold loose items, like blush, bronzer, and pressed powder. And the adjustable compartments are where you can stash bottles and containers, like foundation, makeup remover, and setting spray. There's a place for everything—and I mean everything.

Read a full review here .

An affordable option that's great for long family vacations , this Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag will fit all of your makeup products and toiletries in one. Hang it on the back of the bathroom door when you arrive and you’ll stay organized the rest of the trip. There are four separate clear sections that make finding what you need easy and prevent liquid products like shampoo and conditioner from spilling onto your makeup. Plus, the case itself has a top handle to make transport even easier.

This lightweight cosmetic bag from MZ Wallace is the perfect size for most any getaway. It’s large enough to store all of the makeup products you’d need for a week and features an interior pocket and lining to protect it against any leaks. When you’re not using it to pack your favorite makeup products, use it as an emergency kit to store beauty essentials at the office or in your gym bag.

This ultra-soft, spacious bag couldn't be cuter—and its just $10. Its roomy enough to hold makeup and skincare products for a one-to-two week trip, but its soft cotton material allows it to be compressed flatter when its not totally full. It features two zippers that open the top of the bag completely, allowing you to see all of your products at once, and a carrying handle. Inside, you'll find a zippered mesh pocket to hold brushes or beauty accessories like tweezers or an eyelash curler.

On the outside, this Béis bag looks like any other makeup bag; inside, it's obvious it was designed by someone who's traveled with a drugstore full of makeup once or twice. Inside, there's a larger-than-average compact mirror that slips out, a double-sided detachable brush holder to keep eye and lip brushes separate, and smaller compartments to store odds and ends, plus a spacious main compartment. Even better, the water-resistant lining makes it easy to wipe clean.

Another bestseller from travel-friendly brand Bagsmart is this puffy, water-resistant cosmetic pouch. We love this one for its interior pockets that are designed to hold circular products like blush, bronzer, and pressed powder. There's also a slim side pocket to hold brushes or lip liners, and enough room in the main compartment for palettes, foundation, and setting spray. Choose from several colors, including this light pink, beige, blue, purple, gray, and black.

This Amazon bestseller is another great option for the travelers who don't plan to skip any steps in their beauty routine or are headed to a destination wedding or other special occasion where full glam is order. The affordable and durable case has racked up nearly 20,000 five-star ratings and hundreds of rave reviews. It scores major points for organization, with several adjustable dividers that let you keep all of your products secure and separated. There are also slim pockets to hold makeup brushes and and a zippered compartment for eyeshadow palettes. The thoughtfully-designed case is waterproof and shockproof, so it can handle some major bumps and drops.

For shorter trips or weekends away, Flager reaches for this transparent bag from Stasher. This compact pouch is made of a sturdy platinum silicone that protects bottles and liquids from breaking, and it features a leakproof seal. What we love most about this lightweight bag is how versatile it is; when you're not using it for makeup essentials, pack it with shower products, tech accessories, or jewelry. Another pro: It's dishwasher and heat safe.

Our editors regularly turn to Cuyana for its high-quality leather totes and crossbody bags . Traveler editor Erika Owen has been using this leather set for years, and its still looks good as new. It comes with two chic cases: one large bag that fits foundation, eyeshadow palettes, and skincare essentials as well as a smaller bag ideal for makeup brushes or tools like an eyelash curler. Both bags feature a leather interior that you can easily wipe clean with a damp cloth after any accidental makeup spills. The set is available in a variety of colors, including blush, sapphire, red, burnt orange, ecru, and classic black.

This small-but-mighty toiletry organizer with a carrying handle is ideal for quick one- to two-day getaways when you're packing the basics. It's made with Dagne Dover's signature soft neoprene material that's conveniently water resistant. The inside is completely lined with mesh and allows makeup products like foundation, setting spray, and serums to stand straight up in their own dividers, making them easier to find. There are also small loops on the side for mascara , lip gloss, or makeup brushes.

Away designs some of our editors' go-to suitcases , prioritizing durability and smart features. The brand's cosmetic bag is equally as easy to love, with enough room to store all of the makeup and beauty must-haves you'll need for a week's vacation (or longer). The main compartment is made of water-resistant nylon with a coated wipeable interior and offers transparent pockets that make finding what you need simple. The standout feature of this case is the detachable brush roll that snaps to the top lid to keep makeup brushes organized and easy to grab.

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

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• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
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9 places in Kabardino-Balkaria every adventurer needs to visit (PHOTOS)

An amazing journey through the mountains of Kabardino-Balkaria.

Together with local tour guide Artyem Babaritsky, we show you why this is one of the most underrated regions of Russia. According to Artem, the nature on the territory of Kabardino Balkaria is more “rigid” and “serious” than in the neighboring republics of the Caucasus. This is comparable to a human face: one moment it is kind and smiling (while we are in the Karachay-Cherkessia) and then suddenly this kind face starts to frown and becomes more severe.

The most famous attraction of the republic – and the Caucasus in general – is Mount Elbrus, the highest peak of the European continent. With a mighty height of 5,642 meters above sea level, Elbrus is actually a dormant volcano. Its permanent icecap feeds 22 glaciers, which, in turn, give rise to the Baksan, Kuban and Malka rivers.

Naturally, if you’re into mountain climbing, this is a peak that you will want to conquer at least once in your lifetime. Here are some detailed accounts of what it entails.

And this is what you’ll see along the way.

Not into mountain climbing? Not to worry! In summer, you can still reach an altitude of 3,658 meters from the bottom of the Azau Valley, thanks to a small network of cable cars and ski lifts. This will give you a bird’s eye view of the entire Main Caucasus Ridge – an extremely impressive sight to behold. And, of course, you’ll be right at the foot of the Elbrus glacier.

In winter, skiers and snowboarders can shred some sweet gnar on 23 kilometers of slopes serviced by 6 ski lifts. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 2,350 and 3,840 meters. There are plenty of accommodation options for a comfortable stay and a good selection of cafes and restaurants to refuel your energy supplies.

2. Dzhily-su

Translated from the local language, “Dzhily-su” means “warm waters”. The Tract is located on the slopes of the heart of the Caucasus at an altitude of about 2,400 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Mount Elbrus on a clear day. On the territory of Dzhily-su, there are many unique mineral springs that aid in healing from various diseases and strengthening the body.

“It’s an amazing sensation when you lie in a warm mineral bath and dozens of small bubbles rise around you. Also, Dzhily-su is the land of waterfalls that bear beautiful male names like Sultan, Emir and Shah. Thanks to the unusual energy, esoterics are particularly fond of this place, because there are natural sand castles, amazing stone mushrooms and the energetic mountains Sirkh and Tuzluk,” Artyem says.

The road to Dzhily-su is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Russia: It’s a serpentine-like asphalt mountain road that follows along a huge cliff, over which you will see many eagles circling. If you decide to do the trip on your own, Artyem warns that you must get hold of an off road vehicle, because many of the roads that you will need to take are dusty gravel roads. 

3. Chegem Canyon, Gorge, Waterfalls and Paragliding 

This is one of the main tourist attractions of Kabardino-Balkaria and it’s not hard to see why.

“The views that stretch along the Chegem gorge are simply amazing. The Chegem gorge is quite big. You will begin your encounter with this area with the beautiful Chegem waterfalls that cascade down the rocky slope. Right at the foot of the rocks, there is a small market where local women sell various hand woven wool products. There is a ‘ladder of happiness’ consisting of two 222 steps, leading to the source of the waterfalls at the top of the cliff. Climbing it is not at all difficult, the views are amazing and there is a cozy cafe at the top, as well as at the bottom, where you can enjoy dishes of national cuisine,” Artyem says.

In winter, the Chegem waterfalls freeze and have a certain wild beauty to them. Some locals say that, perhaps, they are even more beautiful than in the summer. Ice pillars and columns of frozen jets and streams of water, like giant twisted candles, or stalactites, hang down all the way to the river.

There is no more asphalt road beyond the waterfalls, but you can still continue along the gorge on gravel, along the turbulent Chegem River. The road is very dusty, so Artyem advises visitors to drive along it in a car with closed windows and the air conditioning on. After about 30 kilometers, you will arrive at a paragliding station.

According to Artyem, the Chegem paragliding station is famous for its powerful, ascending wind currents. Thanks to them, paragliders can soar in the sky from morning to evening. On the territory of the station, there is also a zip line and a few other adrenaline-filled activities for those looking for some thrills. 

4. El-TyuByu

If time permits, you can continue moving along the Chegem gorge and arrive at the village of El-TuByu, a place with enormous history. This mysterious ancient Balkarian village is the focal point of the history of the entire Balkaria. Ancient watchtowers, remains of Greek temples and anomalous phenomena attract both adventure seekers and connoisseurs of beauty. The main highrise, the Balkarukov Tower, is also dubbed the ‘Tower of Love’. Legend has it that Akhtugan Balkarukov built it to defend against the relatives of the beautiful Kerime, stolen by him from Dagestan.

Not far from the village, two ancient defensive Greek stairs go up a rocky wall. They rise to a height of about 30 meters and lead to a small area surrounded by walls up to two meters high and about half a meter thick. A bit above the Greek stairs are the ancient Balkar mausoleums, where local nobility were buried in the VIII-XVIII centuries. Artyem advises to go with a tour guide, because there is just so much incredible history in this village. 

5. Valley of the Narzans

The Valley of the Narzans is a balneoclimatic resort area. It is located in the foothills of the northern slope of the Skalisty Ridge of the Greater Caucasus, in the Khasaut River valley, at an altitude of 1,300 meters above sea level (near the border with Karachay-Cherkessia).

What is Narzan water? It takes six years for the water from the melting snow in the mountains to become Narzan water. It needs this time to find its way through the fissures and cracks in the underground rocks, become enriched by more than 20 minerals and salts, congregate in the underground lakes and then appear on the surface as a spring. In the local language, its name sounds like “Nart-san-e”, which means “a drink of brave warriors”.

Visitors can come with empty bottles and fill them with different kinds of mineral water. The territory of the valley also has cafes with local delicacies and plenty of souvenir stands, where the local women sell traditional knitwear, mountain honey and other arts and crafts and delicacies from the region. 

6. Shadkhurei Karst Lakes

The two lakes - Lower and Upper Shadkhuei - are still little researched. Underwater currents, turmoils and a large network of underwater canals prevent scientists from doing deeper research. The estimated depth of each lake is more than 200 meters, though there is no data yet on the actual depth.

“This is a great place to spend some time, especially during the summer months. The water temperature is kept at the same level all year round – about +15 degrees Celsius. The two lakes are located close to each other and fascinate visitors with their magical colors, luring them into their emerald water,” Artyem says.

In Artyem’s experience, only with rare exceptions, no visitor can resist the urge to plunge into the water. Even without bathing accessories, both ladies and gents make it their priority to jump into the turquoise waters. Around the lakes there are a few gazebos so you can easily stay for the whole day, have a picnic and swim in the lakes to your heart’s content.

7. Chateau Erken

A little piece of Europe in the middle of the Caucasus Mountains, Chateau Erken is a majestic pseudo castle in the Romanesque style (it was actually built in the 1990s) surrounded by about 1,000 hectares of vineyards.

“If you want to have a relaxing day, try experiencing the fairy tale that is Chateau Erken. It stands right on the water and is absolutely stunning. There is also the option to do some wine tasting inside,” Artyem says. 

8. Upper Balkaria, Blue Lake and Aushiger Thermal Springs

These three places make for an easy day trip, because of their proximity to one another. Start your journey at the Blue Lake . The deep blue waters of this stunning lake, hidden in Russia’s Caucasus mountains, are shrouded in mystery. It’s uninhabited by fish and avoided by locals, but, in recent years, it’s become a popular site for tourists.

After soaking in the lake’s beauty, continue onwards to Upper Balkaria, which is just several kilometers away along the Cherek gorge. This is a small ancient village that almost seems like it’s hiding from the outside world. Architectural monuments, defensive towers, graves and ground crypts have been preserved there. Upper Balkaria serves as an excellent example of Balkarian life and culture. You’ll learn a lot about the ancient auls (Caucasian mountain or desert settlements) and Balkarian settlements from different historical periods. 

On the left bank of the Cherek River, in the village of Aushiger, there are a few healing hot springs. The territory of the health resort includes a healing lake, an open reservoir and indoor baths.

9. Adyr-su Gorge

“This place can be reached by car, mostly by asphalt road. Then, the car drives into a special lift, together with people and climbs up along the cliff. What a sight this is! There is a border control here, so it’s a good idea to have some ID on you,” Artyem cautions.

After driving along a relatively easy dirt road, you will get to a mountain climbing base. From there, you can take part in some light trekking, 4 kilometers there and back. Adventurers also have the opportunity to make a wish in the Valley of Desires, see waterfalls, go to the glacier and the huge, magical mountain Ulu Tau, which means “Mother Mountain”. Finish up the hike at the Silver Spring.

“Here, you can always encounter wild mustangs, they always come to graze on the beautiful meadows of lush grass and drink the healing water from the spring. The spring is the source of incredible strength - locals say that whoever plunges into it three times will be healed of many diseases,” Artyem boasts.

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