Ross Werland

Lightweight rolling duffel stays dry inside despite rain outside

August 23, 2019 at 6:28 p.m.

Name: Granite Gear Reticu-Lite 34-inch Wheeled Drop-Bottom Duffel What it is: A light, wheeled duffel drag bag that is water-resistant and contains a generous bottom compartment below the main cargo...

Backpack easily converts into a businesslike briefcase

August 23, 2019 at 6:21 p.m.

Name: Velocity 15.6-inch Hybrid Backpack (ACV330) What it is: A fabric backpack that quickly converts into a briefcase, if you want something that looks more fitting for a business trip...

Gifts that will make that trip even more fun

August 23, 2019 at 6:20 p.m.

Travel in itself is magic, with the joy and excitement of seeing new places and meeting new people, but what you take with you can make a huge difference in...

Easily packed ‘instant volleyball set’ goes up in a hurry

August 23, 2019 at 6:16 p.m.

Name: The Instant Volleyball Set from Hammacher Schlemmer What it is: A volleyball set that one person can set up in about 15 minutes, unless you have to use the...

The Turcom AcoustoShock 30-watt Bluetooth speaker is rugged and water-resistant.

Turcom AcoustoShock speaker is tough but can sing too

August 23, 2019 at 6:14 p.m.

Name: Turcom AcoustoShock Tough Bluetooth Speaker (HR-903) What it is: A rugged, "splash-resistant" speaker with a rubberized exterior and a push-button handle that extends only when you need it. The...

Digital guitar takes your music wherever you go

August 23, 2019 at 6:13 p.m.

Name: Jamstik+ What it is: A portable "smart guitar" that will let a traveler practice or simply enjoy playing guitar on the road without adding much to luggage or disturbing...

Many countries now require that a passport be valid for six months after the end of your trip.

Are you sure your passport will be valid when you fly?

August 23, 2019 at 6:06 p.m.

The Chicago Passport Agency is taking part in National Passport Day on Saturday (Sept. 26), meaning it will accept walk-ins with no appointment for renewing or applying for a passport....

‘Stealth’ alarm awakens you but not those around you

August 23, 2019 at 6:04 p.m.

Name: TCL Pulse from Amplifyze What it is: A Bluetooth-enabled alarm clock and timer that is paired with Apple products (Android is in the works). The device has three intensity...

Charging tray is a perfect pal at the airport gate

August 23, 2019 at 5:48 p.m.

Name: Wait At The Gate Charging Tray What it is: a sturdy plastic tray that easily attaches to the telescoping handle of your carry-on luggage to support a tablet or...

Compact workhorse of a carry-on even stows dirty laundry

August 23, 2019 at 5:44 p.m.

Name: Genius Pack 22-inch Two-Wheel Carry-On with Integrated Suiter What it is: a cleverly arranged carry-on that not only has a designated place for just about everything you need (underwear,...

All Stories