What to Pack for an Active Trip

Deciding what footwear to pack for active trips is the bane of my travel existence. Do you pick something rugged enough to handle outdoor pursuits and then just look unfashionable the rest of the time? Or do you sacrifice precious luggage space by packing multiple pairs of shoes?

Huckberry x Danner’s N45 Low Hiking Sneakers solve this conundrum. Sleek enough for city strolls yet rugged enough for backcountry switchbacks, these shoes deliver on every terrain. With a grippy Vibram sole and lightweight, breathable upper, they blend athletic performance with outdoor durability, so you can get away with packing just one pair.

I’ve found that there’s no better way to beat jetlag and get my bearings in a new city than going for a run. When those runs happen at dusk or before sunrise, it’s important to stay visible (especially when you’re not sure how pedestrian-friendly a new destination is).

Oiselle’s Glow Tights are eye-catching, both from a fashion and safety perspective. A reflective seam runs down both sides, making sure that you’re easily seen by drivers and cyclists. Even the outseam hem zippers are reflective, while also making the tights easy to slip on and off. Thoughtful details like utility belt loops on the waistband offer a handy spot to secure extra layers, while multiple pockets provide room for all your running essentials, from your phone and hotel key to an energy gel.

Whether you're tuning into a podcast on the plane or powering through a HIIT circuit at the hotel gym, you’ll want a pair of headphones that can keep up. Skullcandy’s Method 360 ANC earbuds are sweat- and water-resistant and have a secure fit that won’t budge, no matter how high-impact your workout. The earbuds utilize Sound by Bose, so they have active noise cancellation that’s good enough to drown out even the loudest crying baby on your flight.

Whether it’s rain or sun that you want to keep off your face, a good hat is essential. I love Outdoor Research’s Swift Cap , which is made from a lightweight and breathable nylon fabric blend that allows for plenty of airflow on even the hottest hikes. This versatile cap is water-resistant, quick-drying, and provides UPF 40 sun protection, making it a reliable companion in any season. Plus, its low-profile design makes it incredibly easy to pack for travel.

When your itinerary involves endless walking or unexpected elevation, the right insoles can be the difference between bliss and blisters. Protaleus’ T-100 Insoles offer targeted arch support and heel cushioning, adding shock absorption and support to any pair of shoes in your travel wardrobe.

Built by and for women who run, Oiselle’s Roga Shorts nail the trifecta of travel workout gear: flattering fit, breathable fabric, and—hallelujah—pockets. Stash your keys, ID, or a hotel keycard and go hands-free on your run, walk, or hike.

No gym? No problem. BetterMe's Pilates Travel Kit comes with everything you need for a full-body burn in your Airbnb, at the park, or on a beachside balcony, so you don’t have to miss a workout day just because you’re traveling.

The kit comes with resistance bands, a core slider, and guided workouts you can do from anywhere.

For multi-day outdoor adventures, packing items that you can wear more than once is the key to traveling light. Enter Patagonia’s Capilene Cool Shirt , our new favorite travel shirt. It’s lightweight, quick-drying, and odor-resistant thanks to Patagonia’s signature HeiQ Mint odor control technology. The Capilene Cool shirt lives up to its name, keeping you comfortable no matter how hot it gets.