travel cases dunelm

Six travel bags for £50 or less in Dunelm's sale that have rave reviews

D unelm has launched a massive 20 per cent off sale on selected travel items and suitcases. Ahead of the upcoming holiday season, there are a number of things you’ll need to do before you jet off, including packing.

Packing can be laborious, but going on holiday without or forgetting your essentials can be a pain in itself. So to help you make your luggage straightforward while staying protected on your journey and stylish, Dunelm has reduced the price of a ton of suitcases.

Whether you’re after a cabin bag, storage bundles or something for the children to traipse through an airport, there’ll be something for you.

IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase - £40

Available in four different sizes, the IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase comes built to pack all your essentials, whether you’re looking for a cabin bag or larger. Its shell comes with EVA, which provides a rubber-like softness and flexibility that will keep all your belongings safe and secure. It also comes fitted with an extendable handle.

The IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase is priced between £40 and £60, depending on the size purchased. The suitcase has an average 4.7 out of five star rating from 125 reviews.

Tim said: “Great little cabin case. Sturdy and well made. Four wheels make it really easy to push. Love the black and rose gold colours. Highly recommend.”

Anne wrote: “Excellent purchase the case looks good and nice and light. Don’t know how it would cope with being thrown about by aircraft staff though. We are just using it for coach trips.”

Philippa said: “Terrible quality broke as soon as I lifted handle now unable to use it and have to make the return.”

Waterside Soft Shell Suit case - £36

For anyone who prefers their suitcase with a soft material, Dunelm’s highest rated suitcase is the Waterside Soft Shell Suitcase . It comes available in three different sizes: cabin (£36), medium (£50), and large (£55).

In collaboration with the Natural History Museum, the suitcase comes fit with a stunning Kingfisher design, so you can be stylish on your travels. It has an average 4.8 out of five star rating from 13 reviews.

SuziW said, “Lovely little study suitcase. Good amount of space inside,” while Shel wrote, “I bought the medium and cabin sizes and the design is really nice which should stand out on the conveyor belt.”

While Sam said: “Really pretty case and the zips/ wheels and handle seem strong. Not quite 5* as it's a little smaller than my previous medium case (Tripp brand) so harder to fit in more than a week's worth of things and doesn't have a compression zip, which you can get cases with for a similar price, but not with as nice a design as this.”

Elements Fuchsia Suitcase - £24

For hard shell fans, Dunelm sells the Elements Fuchsia Suitcase in an unmissable pink. Priced between £24 and £40, the suitcase has options for cabin luggage or something larger to be put the hold.

It comes crafted with a sturdy hard shell to protect your all-important travel gear, as well as four spinner wheels, and a convenient push-button trolley system. The suitcase boasts a perfect five star rating from eight reviews.

Kim said: “Got a medium and large one, lovely colour and size. So worth the money, tempted to get the small one to have the full set.”

An anonymous shopper wrote: “Super light and a lot larger than I thought, easy to wheel around and VERY easy to spot on the baggage carousel. Great value for money and delivered on time, highly recommended.”

7 Piece Travel Storage B ag - £10

To help out with your holiday luggage organisation, included in Dunelm’s sale is the 7 Piece Travel Storage Bag , which will set you back just £10. The seven lightweight bags can help your packing be a breeze instead of a chore.

The bags are made with a water repellent cloth to keep your clothes safe from any liquid spillage. They also boast a large capacity so you can pack all your essentials.

The storage bag bundle has a perfect five star rating from five reviews. Sarahp said: “Great value for money, great quality, perfect for holidays.”

DHDeal wrote: “These are very useful for all sorts of uses - I actually used the largest one as a bag to take into hospital - everything fitted in and was visible through the mesh front. Carrying handle made it easier to transport. May also work as a sports bag ...sweaty clothes won't fester on the journey home as it is ventilated. These do make holiday packing easy - put all your pant/socks into one bag and just lift it in/out..a bit less fiddling about when unpacking on holiday, just put the bag straight into a drawer and use from there. They seem quite robust but not heavy.”

Black Hard Shell Suitcase - £22.40

Bargain hunters looking for the best price for a cabin bag (which isn’t designed for children) can find the Black Hard Shell Suitcase , where a suitcase designed for an overhead locker will cost you £22.40. It also comes in three other sizes: medium, large and extra large.

An extra large suitcase will set you back £45. The Black Hard Shell Suitcase is a strong and durable suitcase, which is one you want to rely on.

It also has an average 4.4 out of five star rating from seven reviews. AN said: “The suitcase was a lot lighter than others in the market and one of the cheapest out there! Also, the design is not bad either and looks nice - still can’t believe how great the price is, definitely recommend.”

Claire wrote, “Really light weight but strong and sturdy, lots of room,” while KJL commented, “This case although looked great was really lightweight and flimsy. I had not choice but to use it for my trip to Iceland as I left it too late to get anything else. Surprised it had it through two flights. Really disappointed.”

Kids 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase - £20

Dunelm’s sale also includes a number of children’s suitcases, which also double up as an adorable backpack. These include the Disney Princess Kids 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) , Star Wars Baby Grogu 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) , and Toy Story 2 in 1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) .

The suitcases are made with a soft shell fabric to help protect your little one’s essentials and make it comfortable to wear. Spike 55 said: “Delighted with this Disney travel case for my granddaughter. It stands independently when empty, coated wheels( big bonus) handle locks when extended and super smooth zip. Fab colour. Highly recommend.”

Claire wrote: “Bought this for my Nephew for his birthday and for our up and coming trip to WDW. He is Toy Story mad so will love this 2 in 1 backpack for his holidays. Great he can use it on the flight for all his items. Great price too.”

While Amy said: “Cute but a little flimsy. Not sure how long it's going to last but the kids love it.”

Tripp also has a sale on suitcases on over 135 products. The biggest discount on the website is 69 per cent on the Tripp Absolute Lite Ice Blue Medium Suitcase (was £130, now £39.50) and the Tripp Absolute Lite Pewter Medium Suitcase (was £130, now £39.50).

Or find the Narway Underseat Foldable Travel Duffel Bag for Ryanair Airlines Cabin Bag on Amazon for £7.99 (for a limited time only). Usually priced at £11.99, the duffel is Amazon’s best selling bag.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Six travel bags for £50 or less in Dunelm's sale that have rave reviews

If you're gearing up for your next holiday, Dunelm has launched a huge sale on suitcases

• 16:08, 2 APR 2024
• Updated 20:56, 2 APR 2024

Dunelm has launched a massive 20 per cent off sale on selected travel items and suitcases. Ahead of the upcoming holiday season, there are a number of things you’ll need to do before you jet off, including packing.

Packing can be laborious, but going on holiday without or forgetting your essentials can be a pain in itself. So to help you make your luggage straightforward while staying protected on your journey and stylish, Dunelm has reduced the price of a ton of suitcases.

Whether you’re after a cabin bag, storage bundles or something for the children to traipse through an airport, there’ll be something for you.

IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase - £40

Available in four different sizes, the IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase comes built to pack all your essentials, whether you’re looking for a cabin bag or larger. Its shell comes with EVA, which provides a rubber-like softness and flexibility that will keep all your belongings safe and secure. It also comes fitted with an extendable handle.

The IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase is priced between £40 and £60, depending on the size purchased. The suitcase has an average 4.7 out of five star rating from 125 reviews.

Tim said: “Great little cabin case. Sturdy and well made. Four wheels make it really easy to push. Love the black and rose gold colours. Highly recommend.”

Anne wrote: “Excellent purchase the case looks good and nice and light. Don’t know how it would cope with being thrown about by aircraft staff though. We are just using it for coach trips.”

Philippa said: “Terrible quality broke as soon as I lifted handle now unable to use it and have to make the return.”

Waterside Soft Shell Suit case - £36

For anyone who prefers their suitcase with a soft material, Dunelm’s highest rated suitcase is the Waterside Soft Shell Suitcase . It comes available in three different sizes: cabin (£36), medium (£50), and large (£55).

In collaboration with the Natural History Museum, the suitcase comes fit with a stunning Kingfisher design, so you can be stylish on your travels. It has an average 4.8 out of five star rating from 13 reviews.

SuziW said, “Lovely little study suitcase. Good amount of space inside,” while Shel wrote, “I bought the medium and cabin sizes and the design is really nice which should stand out on the conveyor belt.”

While Sam said: “Really pretty case and the zips/ wheels and handle seem strong. Not quite 5* as it's a little smaller than my previous medium case (Tripp brand) so harder to fit in more than a week's worth of things and doesn't have a compression zip, which you can get cases with for a similar price, but not with as nice a design as this.”

Elements Fuchsia Suitcase - £24

For hard shell fans, Dunelm sells the Elements Fuchsia Suitcase in an unmissable pink. Priced between £24 and £40, the suitcase has options for cabin luggage or something larger to be put the hold.

It comes crafted with a sturdy hard shell to protect your all-important travel gear, as well as four spinner wheels, and a convenient push-button trolley system. The suitcase boasts a perfect five star rating from eight reviews.

Kim said: “Got a medium and large one, lovely colour and size. So worth the money, tempted to get the small one to have the full set.”

An anonymous shopper wrote: “Super light and a lot larger than I thought, easy to wheel around and VERY easy to spot on the baggage carousel. Great value for money and delivered on time, highly recommended.”

7 Piece Travel Storage B ag - £10

To help out with your holiday luggage organisation, included in Dunelm’s sale is the 7 Piece Travel Storage Bag , which will set you back just £10. The seven lightweight bags can help your packing be a breeze instead of a chore.

The bags are made with a water repellent cloth to keep your clothes safe from any liquid spillage. They also boast a large capacity so you can pack all your essentials.

The storage bag bundle has a perfect five star rating from five reviews. Sarahp said: “Great value for money, great quality, perfect for holidays.”

DHDeal wrote: “These are very useful for all sorts of uses - I actually used the largest one as a bag to take into hospital - everything fitted in and was visible through the mesh front. Carrying handle made it easier to transport. May also work as a sports bag ...sweaty clothes won't fester on the journey home as it is ventilated. These do make holiday packing easy - put all your pant/socks into one bag and just lift it in/out..a bit less fiddling about when unpacking on holiday, just put the bag straight into a drawer and use from there. They seem quite robust but not heavy.”

Black Hard Shell Suitcase - £22.40

Bargain hunters looking for the best price for a cabin bag (which isn’t designed for children) can find the Black Hard Shell Suitcase , where a suitcase designed for an overhead locker will cost you £22.40. It also comes in three other sizes: medium, large and extra large.

An extra large suitcase will set you back £45. The Black Hard Shell Suitcase is a strong and durable suitcase, which is one you want to rely on.

It also has an average 4.4 out of five star rating from seven reviews. AN said: “The suitcase was a lot lighter than others in the market and one of the cheapest out there! Also, the design is not bad either and looks nice - still can’t believe how great the price is, definitely recommend.”

Claire wrote, “Really light weight but strong and sturdy, lots of room,” while KJL commented, “This case although looked great was really lightweight and flimsy. I had not choice but to use it for my trip to Iceland as I left it too late to get anything else. Surprised it had it through two flights. Really disappointed.”

Kids 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase - £20

Dunelm’s sale also includes a number of children’s suitcases, which also double up as an adorable backpack. These include the Disney Princess Kids 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) , Star Wars Baby Grogu 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) , and Toy Story 2 in 1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) .

The suitcases are made with a soft shell fabric to help protect your little one’s essentials and make it comfortable to wear. Spike 55 said: “Delighted with this Disney travel case for my granddaughter. It stands independently when empty, coated wheels( big bonus) handle locks when extended and super smooth zip. Fab colour. Highly recommend.”

Claire wrote: “Bought this for my Nephew for his birthday and for our up and coming trip to WDW. He is Toy Story mad so will love this 2 in 1 backpack for his holidays. Great he can use it on the flight for all his items. Great price too.”

While Amy said: “Cute but a little flimsy. Not sure how long it's going to last but the kids love it.”

Tripp also has a sale on suitcases on over 135 products. The biggest discount on the website is 69 per cent on the Tripp Absolute Lite Ice Blue Medium Suitcase (was £130, now £39.50) and the Tripp Absolute Lite Pewter Medium Suitcase (was £130, now £39.50).

Or find the Narway Underseat Foldable Travel Duffel Bag for Ryanair Airlines Cabin Bag on Amazon for £7.99 (for a limited time only). Usually priced at £11.99, the duffel is Amazon’s best selling bag.

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The Best Hardside Luggage in 2024, Tested by Experts

A hard shell suitcase keeps your stuff safe and un-squished.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

Most Popular

Away the carry-on.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we evaluate all kinds of popular luggage in the Textiles Lab, analyzing them for factors like durability, water resistance and ease of use. Plus, we share them with consumer testers who take them on their own trips and share real-world feedback. Over the years, we've tested luggage from more than 100 brands to find the best hardside suitcases on the market. We've put together a list of picks including lightweight, durable options and hard shell luggage with unique features that we think are worth it.

Samsonite's high-quality luggage has continued to perform well in our tests over the years , specifically in terms of durability during drop tests and ease of use. The brand's Freeform hardside suitcase is a favorite of our consumer testers who agree that its wheels roll smoothly and that the bag is easy to maneuver around twists and turns. It also received perfect scores in Lab tests for being a breeze to open and close.

Inside, a zippered panel and an adjustable cross strap keep your belongings in place, and we were able to fit our entire packing load in the bag with room to spare. Our consumer testers pointed out that the carrying handles are on the smaller side, but they still thought the bag was easy to pick up. There are three different sizes to choose from, or you can opt for a set including a carry-on and a checked bag for a cohesive look.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10.0" | Weight: | Material: Polypropylene | Expandable: Yes

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: 10 Best Samsonite Luggage Pieces, Tested & Reviewed

With more than 35,000 five-star reviews and a 4.5-star average rating, Amazon Basics' hardside luggage is a favorite of real users and GH analysts alike. When we tested this bag in our Textiles Lab, we found it to be spacious, and it received perfect scores for easy packing. Online reviewers agreed, saying that they can fill the suitcase with more than enough clothing and essentials for their trips.

The suitcase is made with ABS plastic, which isn't as durable as some other hard materials, but it is lightweight and keeps the price low. Testers appreciated the luggage's wheel performance, sharing that the bag is easy to maneuver, but they weren't as impressed with the telescopic handle and explained that it felt flimsier than other models they tried. This suitcase comes in three different sizes and is available in two and three-piece sets for an even better value.

Listed dimensions: 13.58" x 9.45" x 20.87" | Weight: 6.83 lbs | Material: ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes

Several of our Lab experts have been using luggage from uber-popular brand Away for years and have found them to stand the test of time. T his pick is made of polycarbonate material, which means it's lightweight yet durable. During Lab evaluations, we put its durability to the test and dropped the suitcase repeatedly from a set 3-foot height, noting no major signs of damage or prominent scuffing.

Our consumer testers thought the wheels on Away suitcases rolled smoothly and said they were easy to maneuver, but the telescopic handle isn't as sturdy as some other styles. In our packing tests, we were impressed by the compressive panels meant to keep your belongings in place and by the hidden laundry bag you can use to separate your dirty clothes. If you're unsure about splurging on a carry-on bag, Away offers a 100-day return policy for unused items.

Listed dimensions: 21.7" x 13.7" x 9" | Weight: 7.1 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: No

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: We Tested Away's Trendy Carry-On to See If It's Worth The Price

July Carry On

July's Classic hardside luggage has a simple yet sophisticated look, thanks to the smooth polycarbonate material with monochrome aluminum corners and real leather details. While it scuffed more than some other suitcases in our drop tests, the suitcase earned high scores overall for durability. The chic carry-on bag has a butterfly-opening with one zipper-enclosed side and one side with a compression panel and adjustable Y-strap to secure your belongings.

The telescopic handle has a unique contoured grip for comfort, and it locks into place at 20 different heights. One at-home tester commented, "I've tested many, many suitcases, but I've never used luggage that glided as smoothly as July's through an airport." Our in-Lab obstacle course testers agreed, rating July's bags highly for ease of use and its smooth rolling wheels, which barely make a sound as they roll over different surfaces.

Listed dimensions: 21.5" x 15" x 8.5" | Weight: 7.4 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: No

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: July Luggage Review: Does the Brand Live up to the Hype?

Calpak Ambeur Collection 3-Piece Luggage Set

For luggage that's equally as fashionable as it is functional, Calpak's Ambeur suitcases are a must-have. The hard shell bags are made with a blend of ABS plastic and polycarbonate that's both lightweight and durable, but we did find the metallic colors scuffed easily. In Lab evaluations, the luggage was dubbed our "tester favorite" because consumer testers were so wowed by the design and overall ease of use.

The telescopic handles aced our tests, with one tester sharing that it was the "smoothest handle by far" out of all of the bags available for testing. Other testers agreed, explaining that the padded handles were comfortable to lift, pull and push. Plus, the Ambeur luggage earned high scores in our packing tests.

If you don't need a set of three bags, you can opt for a two-piece set or choose from any of the five styles available.

Listed dimensions: Large: 29.5" x 19 "x 12.5"; Medium: 25" x 16" x 11": Carry-on: 21" x 14" x 9" | Weight: Large: 10.3 lbs; Medium: 8.6 lbs; Carry-on: 6 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable:

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: Calpak Luggage Review, My Honest Take

Monos Carry-On

Monos' less-is-more approach to design results in a sleek, timeless look that our testers loved. The durable polycarbonate luggage may have a simple appearance but doesn't skimp on quality or useful packing features. Inside, you'll find two spacious compartments: one zipper-enclosed compartment and one with an adjustable compression panel. There are also additional zippered pockets inside for even more organized storage space.

The bag aced durability tests, resisting major dents and damages after being dropped repeatedly from a 3-foot height, but it did show some signs of wear in our scratch tests. When testers tried it in our luggage obstacle course, they were impressed by how easy the bag was to maneuver and how smoothly the spinner wheels rolled around twists and turns. Monos offers luggage sets for an even better value and a generous 100-day return policy.

Listed dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9" | Weight: 7.01 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: No

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: Monos Luggage Review: We Tested These Popular Sleek Suitcases

Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside Expandable Luggage

Known for its luggage made by pilots for pilots and frequent flyers alike, Travelpro primarily offers soft fabric luggage, but the brand does have a few hardside pieces including the featured Maxlite Spinner. This bag has a roomy luggage compartment with two zippered panels, and it can be expanded by 2 inches, lending you extra room for all of your souvenirs on the trip home.

In our Lab tests, Travelpro bags were easy to fill with a full load of clothing and travel gear like toiletries and shoes. They also performed well and earned high durability ratings. Testers loved the cushioned telescopic handles which lock at two different heights. We did find the carrying handles to be on the tighter side, which can make the bag difficult to lift into an overhead bin.

Listed dimensions: 19.75" x 13.75" x 9.5" | Weight: 6.3 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE: Travelpro Luggage Review: We Tested the Platinum Elite Collection

Rimowa Cabin S Carry-On

Rimowa only makes hardside luggage, and it's a cutting-edge brand that continues to impress our Textiles Lab experts . The Original line is made with aluminum, which is more durable than other hard materials like ABS plastic and polycarbonate. This style of suitcase features the brand's iconic grooved design and has a zipperless closure, opting for locking latches instead — TSA-approved, of course.

The bag unfolds to reveal two primary spacious packing compartments and two adjustable compression panels to keep everything securely in place. Rimowa's suitcases are much more expensive than other brands, but they are among the best in our tests with high ratings for packing space, durability and maneuverability.

Listed dimensions: 15.7" x 9.1" x 21.6" | Weight: 9.46 lbs | Material: Aluminum | Expandable: No

Briggs & Riley Global 21" Carry-On Expandable Spinner

This innovative suitcase from Briggs & Riley is full of features to make packing for an international trip easier. On the outside of the hardside suitcase is an easy-access pocket for your phone and ID. The bag unzips into one large packing space that's fully lined and contains three zip pockets for easy organization.

The bag utilizes Briggs & Riley's unique expansion system, which allows you to expand the bag for additional packing space and then compress it to its standard size once the bag has been filled — with just the push of a button. Our testers recently tried a softside bag from the brand with the same system and were blown away by how much they could fit inside, sharing that there was way more room than expected.

When we tested Briggs & Riley's hardside suitcases in the Textiles Lab, they performed well, receiving high scores for durability, water resistance and ease of use. Testers also shared that the brand's bags were easy to maneuver through our obstacle course and said the telescopic handles were sturdy. Although we didn't experience this issue, some online reviewers have shared that the zipper pulls are prone to breaking with regular use.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 9" x 21" | Weight: 8.6 lbs | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes

Other hardside luggage we evaluated

We've tested more than 100 suitcases in recent years. Here are a few others we've evaluated that weren't featured but are still worth considering:

• Beis Carry-On Roller : With convenient features like a weight indicator, a bag attach strap and a super-padded telescopic handle, this carry-on suitcase from Beis is popular online, but it scuffs easily and wasn't as durable as other bags we tested.
• Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 : It's chic with faux-leather details and wheels that glide effortlessly, but the carry-on bag is on the smaller side and doesn't expand. Our testers said they had to push its packing capacity to the limit – even on shorter trips.
• Victorinox Airox Frequent Flyer Hardside Carry-On : One of the lightest carry-on bags we've ever tested, this suitcase from Victorinox has a T-bar shaped telescopic handle, which helps keep the bag's weight down. Although it isn't as comfortable to use as others we've tried.
• Herschel Hardshell Carry On : This simple suitcase from Herschel aced our packing tests, but the telescopic handle and wheels just aren't up to par with other popular carry-on bags.

How we test luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we test luggage using specialized equipment in our Textiles Lab and with consumer testers . When we review luggage, we consider these factors:

• Size and weight: In the Lab, we measure the size and weight of each suitcase to ensure that all online size claims are accurate. We place carry-on bags in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to see if they meet TSA size requirements.
• Extra features: We make note of any additional features or components that make the luggage stand out, like carrying handles, built-in locks and telescopic handles that adjust to different heights.

• Ease of use: We rate how easy it is to zip and unzip each piece of luggage (pictured here) and consider the accessibility of any packing compartments. We also consider features like telescopic handles and wheels.

After packing each bag, we roll it over different surfaces including tile, carpet and hardwood and test the carrying handles by lifting the bag onto a countertop.

• Packing: We fill each bag with a standard packing load for a two-night trip including clothing, accessories and toiletries (pictured here) and then score the suitcases based on how much they're able to hold.

• Drop testing: Each piece of luggage is filled with a standard weight and dropped from a 3-foot height from different angles to mimic real use (pictured here). We then analyze the luggage for signs of damage like dents or cracks.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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10 Personal Safety Devices That Will Make Every Hotel Room Feel Secure, According to a Solo Traveler

From portable door stop alarms to carbon monoxide detectors, the 10 devices every solo traveler needs.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

As carefree as travel may appear on social media feeds, the realities can be sobering. Lost luggage , cancellations and delays are all unforeseen possibilities, but there’s one aspect of travel that you do have some control over: personal safety.

I’ll admit that I was fearless when I first started solo traveling as a woman, but as the years went on, I grew more cautious as I heard about incidents among my peers: from high carbon monoxide levels in hotel rooms to being followed in a foreign city. In order to make my solo travels as secure as possible, I discovered some of the best personal safety products that are packable and portable, so I can bring them with me even when space runs slim in my carry-on.

Here, 10 products to make you feel safer while traveling, especially when staying in a hotel room alone.

Winonly Door Stop Alarm 

When safety content creator Dannah Eve showed off this doorstop alarm on TikTok, I couldn’t believe I hadn’t heard about it before. The influencer has built a following for her motto: “Live aware! Not in fear” which is exactly what this product permits. No matter how luxurious a hotel is, the realities are unavoidable: locks break, there are master key cards, and break-ins happen. But, if you place this doorstop alarm under the door crack to your hotel room (or Airbnb) it provides two-fold protection. First, it prevents entry by stopping the door from opening further. Then, it sounds an alarm to scare off the intruder. The small but mighty device weighs less than a pound and can be tucked into a shoe to optimize precious space in your luggage.

Gray Rhino Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector

Though hotels are outfitted with smoke detectors, most rooms aren’t equipped with carbon monoxide devices. And, when you’re in a room with no windows or you can’t open them, there’s little air flow, which could cause a carbon monoxide build up. In fact, I had just returned from Mexico last year when a news story broke about this exact thing happening at another hotel in the same area . My mom (thanks, Mom!) immediately texted me and said to check out portable carbon monoxide detectors . There are a number of them available on Amazon , but this pocket-size version is a best-seller, even among firefighters. One of the five-star reviews from a fire captain said this detector is more reliable than the ones the department provides them with, adding, “It is a solid, simple to operate, accurate device.”

Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box

A hotel’s in-room safe may work for some travelers, but for accommodation that doesn't offer a safe, a portable lock box is a great option to keep your most prized possessions locked up. Even when I stay at a hotel with a safe, I feel more comfortable securing my jewelry, passport, and cash in this simpel grab-and-go lock box. It’s helpful when changing hotels or locations frequently so that you always know where your valuables are or in case an incident should arise in the middle of the night. Even though easy to travel with, it’s large enough to fit a smartphone, wallet, watch, and more.

Venture 4th Travel Money Belt

One of the most popular qualms I hear from travelers is the challenge of staying organized while on the road. A money belt may seem over-the-top, but they are more helpful than you think because they keep your items safe and organized. Keeping a wad of money as well as credit cards in your belt while in your hotel room ensures you always know where your cash is. And, when you leave the room, you know that your money is physically on you — which means so are your cards and cash. Even if you’re carrying around quite a bit of money, you can feel more comfortable knowing that these belts conceal your stash (unlike a bulky wallet in your back pocket or a backpack) and are tricky for pick-pocketers to access. This slim belt also has space for your passport and features a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) blocking system to keep your documents safe.

Elegoro Portable Door Lock

Many solo travelers feel safer when relying on their own door lock. The screw-like design of this portable one may look intimidating but it doesn’t require any tools or installation; simply fasten it to the door lock and tighten the system until it’s in contact with the door. Sold as a two-pack also means you can throw the compact, sturdy lock into a carry-on bag as well as your purse so that you never forget it, even on a quick trip.

Selowea Hidden Camera Detector

Hidden cameras in a hotel room may seem like something out of a horror movie, but they can actually appear in real life. When it comes to personal safety, why take a chance? To protect yourself, pack this hidden camera detector to your safety toolbox. It will put your mind at ease by beeping or vibrating within 26 feet of a hidden camera, bug, or GPS tracking device.

Ceptics Universal Travel Adapter Kit

Imagine leaving your laptop (or any electronic) charging in a hotel room only to return to it fried thanks to a power outage and ensuing voltage surge. Combat this by traveling with a converter that offers built-in surge protection if you’re traveling internationally (or just a surge protector for domestic travel) This universal travel adapter offers built-in protection from voltage surges and spikes with six global adapters so you can take it just about anywhere.

She’s Birdie The Original Personal Safety Alarm

This popular key-chain personal safety alarm may have been designed for walking alone at night or commuting on public transportation, but it works in any situation when you’re alone. It works by giving off an extremely loud alarm and strobe light when activated; it will keep your mind at ease when you go to sleep at night. Keep it under your pillow just in case; all you need to do is remove the top pin, which activates an alarm that can run for up to 40 continuous minutes.

Boxiki Travel RFID Blocking Sleeves

This handy pack of 12 RFID-blocking cards and 3 RFID-blocking sleeves protect your wallet and travel documents from electronic fraud or theft. The sleeves block signals to RFID-enabled cards to prevent unwanted and unwarranted access to credit cards, money cards, identification cards, and passports (which fit in the larger sleeves). These sleeves tend to get beat up over time, so stocking up on a dozen means you can tuck an extra in your travel bag and keep a few in the closet to refresh after multiple uses.

BV TSA Approved Luggage Travel Lock

If you want to ensure the safety of your bags without using the hotel safe, travel with a luggage lock. Personally, I don’t tend to travel with more than carry-on luggage so I never thought I had the need for a luggage lock. But, I found that using a lock for in-room instances has its perks, especially the added security to your belongings when you’re out enjoying your destination. I like that these locks don’t require keys so that I don’t have to carry that around when I’m traveling. Plus, being TSA-approved, I can also use them if I need to check a bag on my way home.

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Dunelm knocks 30% off stylish suitcases perfect for travel fans

The lifestyle store has some great deals on fashionable luggage collections this spring

• 11:29, 7 Feb 2024

When you want to show to the world that it's not just your home that's super stylish Dunelm has you covered with 30% off selected luggage pieces available today.

As a purveyor of everything you could need to make your home cosy and comfortable, Dunelm offers more than cushions and comforters with a nice selection of suitcases, cabin bags and children's luggage available online. As good-looking and well-thought-out as you would expect from the homeware brand, prices start from as little as £32 for a cabin case.

Choose from the super lightweight yet incredibly durable IT luggage or the uber clever Contelation case that expands up to four ways to give you those all-important extra inches.

READ MORE: Must-have aluminium suitcase is £970 less than designer version

Some of the best deals we found available to buy at Dunelm today include:

Pagoda 4 Cabin Case

Available in a choice of super stylish pastel pink or mint green colourways, this rather scrumptious hard side case is a bargain buy for trendy travellers.

Made by the luggage experts at IT, this little beauty promises to be "virtually unbreakable" with a contemporary trolley system, to help reduce weight and improve strength.

The wave design with a textured finish and contrasting trim is bound to turn heads at the airport, while the roomy interior and TSA combination lock make it a practical choice for frequent flyers. All sizes also feature strong, sturdy retractable handles and spinner wheels that glide effortlessly, even when the suitcase is full.

Reduced by 30% in the Dunelm sale event, all sizes are even more of a bargain than before.

• The cabin case measures 37.5 x 25 x 56cm - buy now for £35
• The medium case measures 49.5 x 30.5 x 71cm - buy now for £38.50
• The large case measures 56.5 x 35.5 x 81cm - buy now for £42

IT Luggage Blue Solidite Hard Shell Suitcase

With its hard outer shell made of Polypropylene material, this is a durable yet lightweight suitcase collection that looks stylish and performs well.

With a central opening to make it super easy to pack and unpack, along with a zippered interior and handy storage compartments.

As you would expect from an IT suitcase, it also comes with smooth rolling wheels and a retractable handle, and the lightweight design makes it a popular choice for travellers.

One satisfied buyer left a review saying " Buy this suitcase it's fab! Love love love this! The wheels move so you can roll it alongside and it's so spacious."

This case also comes in a rather swish-looking red colourway.

• The cabin case measures 39.6 x 23.9 x 54.6cm - buy now for £38.50
• The medium case measures 45 x 26.2 x 65.5cm - buy now for £42
• The large case measures 51.6 x 31 x 74.4cm - buy now for £49

Universal Expanding Cabin Case

This awesome bit of kit is perfect for travellers who aren't all that keen on packing light.

Made from lightweight but super durable material, this cabin bag has expanding side and front panels to increase capacity when you need it the most.

Measuring up at 20cm x W 55cm x L 35cm, this cabin case can be used on some of the UK's most popular airlines including Jet2 , Virgin, BA, Emirates and Easy Jet. Practical and compact, it even features a front zip pocket that is great for keeping your passport, tickets or wallet handy while you travel.

Buy now for £28

Constellation Chevron Suitcase

Made with a hard-wearing shell, this fashionable-looking little suitcase has an unusual chevron design that sets it apart on the baggage carousel.

With 8 wheels for smooth rolling transportation, and gel grip handles to make it easy to lift no matter how full you fill it, it also features packing straps and a mesh divider to keep your gear organised on the go.

• The cabin case measures 20 x 55 x 38cm - buy now for £31.50
• The medium case measures 25 x 68 x 47 - buy now for £35

If you are looking for great deals on suitcases ahead of the summer season, other online retailers including Argos , Antler and Amazon have some great deals available on suitcases and cabin bags.

MORE ON Dunelm Holidays Beach Holidays Staycation

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Top 5 Dunelm Suitcases To Shop for Your Next Trip

Dunelm suitcases are a common item of luggage that is used for a variety of purposes, from travel to storage. Dunelm is a furniture and homeware retailer that offers a wide range of suitcases for a variety of needs. From hard-shell cases to soft-shell bags and even wheeled luggage, Dunelm has a variety of suitcases to meet the needs of any traveler.

Hard-shell Dunelm suitcases are the most common type of suitcase and are designed to provide protection for belongings during travel. These cases are typically made of hard plastic or composite material that is designed to be more durable and resistant to impact. 

Hard-shell cases usually feature compartments for organizing items and some models feature wheels for ease of movement. Dunelm offers a range of hard-shell suitcases in various sizes and colors, making it easy to find the perfect case for any travel situation.

Top 5 Dunelm Suitcases

Soft-shell Dunelm suitcases are a more lightweight option and are typically made of durable fabric material. These cases are usually less expensive than their hard-shell counterparts and can be easier to store and transport. Dunelm offers a range of soft-shell bags in various sizes, colors, and designs. These bags are ideal for weekend getaways or other short trips and can be easily folded and stored when not in use.

Wheeled luggage is a great option for travelers who need to move their belongings quickly and easily. These cases feature wheels for easy maneuvering and can come in both hard-shell and soft-shell varieties. Dunelm offers a wide selection of wheeled suitcases in various sizes, colors, and designs. These cases are ideal for those who need to move large amounts of luggage quickly and easily. Some of the best Dunelm Suitcases are listed below:

1. 8W Quilted Face Divinity Black Suitcase

The 8W Quilted Face Divinity Black Suitcase from Dunelm is the perfect travel companion for any journey. Whether you’re headed off on vacation or just headed to the office, this suitcase will get you there in style.

This suitcase is made from high-quality quilted face fabric and features a stylish black finish. The fabric is strong and durable, so you can be sure it won’t tear or fray, even after years of use. The 8W Quilted Face Divinity Black Suitcase also has an ergonomic handle, so it’s easy to carry and maneuver, even when you’re in a hurry. 

The 8W Quilted Face Divinity Black Suitcase is also extremely lightweight. At only 10.5 pounds, it won’t add any extra weight to your travels. Plus, the suitcase is equipped with four spinner wheels, so it’s easy to move around. The spinner wheels are designed to spin 360 degrees and feature a silent-glide system that allows you to move your suitcase around without making any noise.

2. Bevelled Gem Floral Suitcase

The Bevelled Gem Floral Suitcase from Dunelm is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a touch of style and color to their luggage. This hard-shell suitcase is constructed from lightweight polycarbonate and features a floral print design with beveled gem accents. The exterior of this suitcase is designed to be both stylish and durable; it is scratch-resistant, impact-resistant, and water-resistant. The four multi-directional spinner wheels make traveling a breeze and the TSA-approved combination lock provides you with peace of mind while traveling. 

The interior of the Bevelled Gem Floral Suitcase from Dunelm is just as impressive as the exterior. The interior is divided into two compartments, one for clothes and one for belongings. The clothing compartment is lined with a soft polyester fabric and features a detachable mesh divider for easy organization. 

The belongings compartment is also lined with a soft polyester fabric and is equipped with two zippered pockets for small items. The suitcase also includes an adjustable handle and a top grab handle for easy lifting and carrying. 

3. Elements Athens Charcoal Suitcase

The Elements Athens Charcoal Suitcase from Dunelm is an ideal choice for the modern traveler. This stylish hard-shell suitcase is designed with a durable ABS shell and features four spinner wheels for ease of movement. The roomy interior offers plenty of storage space for all your travel needs, and the exterior is equipped with a secure combination lock for added peace of mind. With its classic charcoal color, this suitcase is perfect for both business and leisure trips.

The Elements Athens Charcoal Suitcase is built to last. The ABS shell is designed to withstand the rigors of travel and offers superior protection for your belongings. The four spinner wheels provide great maneuverability and make it easy to transport your suitcase from one location to the next. The suitcase is also equipped with a sturdy telescopic handle, which allows you to adjust the height to your preference.

4. Worlds Lightest Debonair Black Suitcase

The Dunelm Worlds Lightest Debonair Black Suitcase is the perfect accessory for any traveler. It is one of the lightest Dunelm suitcases on the market, yet still provides ample space for packing all of your necessary items. The suitcase features an aluminum frame, providing an incredibly lightweight yet durable design. 

The four-wheel spinner system makes maneuvering the suitcase a breeze, while the interior zipper compartments allow for organized packing. The telescopic handle has a comfortable grip and locks securely in place, making it easy to transport your belongings.

The exterior of the World’s Lightest Debonair Black Suitcase is made of a polyester fabric that is both water-resistant and durable. The interior lining is made of a polyester lining that is also water-resistant, making it easy to clean in case of spills. The interior is fully lined with soft velvet material, keeping the contents of your suitcase safe and secure. The exterior also features two easy-access pockets, perfect for storing small items such as books, headphones, or other accessories.

5. Black Solidite Hard Shell Suitcase

The Black Solidite Hard Shell Suitcase from Dunelm is constructed from high-quality polycarbonate material. This material is lightweight, yet incredibly strong and durable. It also has great thermal properties, meaning that it can withstand extreme temperatures both hot and cold. This makes it ideal for frequent travelers who may be exposed to a variety of climates.

The four-wheel spinner design makes it easy to maneuver and transport, while the two telescoping handles make it easy to pull the suitcase behind you. The handles are ergonomically designed to reduce the strain on your hands and arms, while the four-wheel design offers superior stability. 

The interior of the suitcase is spacious and well organized, with a fully lined interior and two large zippered compartments. It also includes a zippered mesh pocket and a removable garment bag.

Dunelm has something for everyone. With a wide selection of Dunelm suitcases in various sizes, colors and designs, you’re sure to find the perfect case for your travel needs. Whether you’re looking for a hard-shell case for protection or a soft-shell bag for convenience, Dunelm has the perfect suitcase to meet your needs. For more information about suitcases at dunelm visit the website of Savewithnerds .

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Help! I’ve Been Ripped Off. I Want My Money Back!

Our columnist addresses a case of wire fraud, a credit card scheme and a dubious website — just three examples of the types of reader woe that regularly surface in the Tripped Up inbox.

By Seth Kugel

Dear Tripped Up,

I took a 7.95-euro taxi ride in Paris and charged it to my Citi credit card, but the driver refused to provide a receipt, and my card was charged $795.85. Citi would not reimburse this obvious fraud. Can you help? Ann, Philadelphia

We booked a $5,500 stay at an apartment in Amsterdam via Vrbo, and soon after, the property owner contacted us requiring that we wire him the full cost of the rental. We were reluctant but had successfully wired money before for a stay in Italy, so we went ahead with it. The owner canceled at the last minute, and the refund he promised never came through. Vrbo is stalling. Can you help? Kevin, Seattle

I wanted to enroll my two college-age children in Global Entry , the program run by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency, so they could speed through passport checkpoints with me. So I Googled “Global Entry application” and clicked on the top link, which looked at first glance like an official government site. I filled in the forms and was charged $249 per application. When I realized my mistake — the actual government fee is $100 — I asked for a refund and eventually got everything but the $100 fees back. The applications did go through, but these people were super sketchy, and I’m worried about identity theft. Doesn’t Google have an obligation not to promote a fraudulent site? Christine, New York

Dear Ann, Kevin and Christine,

You are all experienced travelers, and yet you were caught in three schemes that, unfortunately, regularly surface in the Tripped Up inbox of reader woe.

The Olympics are underway in France, so let’s start with Ann. The taxi driver took your credit card, overcharged you and didn’t supply a receipt.

In the last few months, I’ve received multiple reader complaints specifically about Paris taxis, but such things happen just about everywhere. In fact, we covered a similar scam in Mexico in June. Doubly frustrating in situations like these is that the fraudsters are individuals or small businesses that are hard to track down, especially in a country where you don’t speak the language. So Ann, like other victims, you turned to your credit card issuer’s fraud department.

But that’s a crapshoot, as you learned. Different card issuers have different policies, not to mention inconsistent applications of those policies. And if you didn’t actually lose the card, and the transaction happened through a chip, you may be out of luck.

I intervened on the behalf of three victims of the Paris taxi scam: Ann, Nabeel from Atlanta (also a Citi customer), and Ronald from Sarasota, Fla., who used a Chase card. I had mixed results. Two days after I got in touch with Citi, Ann received an email with what sounded like a very final denial, “respectfully” declining to reimburse her because she did not provide a receipt. In a happy coda, Laura Barganier, a spokeswoman for Citi, then told me that after further review Ann would be reimbursed.

Nabeel turns out to have filed the wrong kind of claim, Ms. Barganier said, and Citi has reached out to him for further information. And a spokesman for Chase said that Ronald was denied correctly because he did not provide a receipt or other evidence.

While there’s no singular solution for this type of fraud, the best policy to prevent it is to avoid handing your physical credit card to anyone. Americans have long been accustomed to parting with their cards, particularly in restaurants, but break the practice by insisting on tapping (or better, inserting) the card yourself. Then keep a careful eye on the screen, require a receipt and cause a scandal if you don’t get one. If you suspect fraud, call your credit card company immediately.

As a backup, always carry cash, so if the merchant insists that you hand over the card or the machine isn’t wireless, you can avoid using a card at all. (Of course, you must then be sure you are very familiar with the denominations of local bills and triple-check your change.)

If you booked a car or hailed a taxi, take a photo of your driver’s hack license when you get in, if there’s one visible, so if you do get scammed, you can report the crime to the local authorities and help prevent such crimes in the future. According to the Parisian police, such incidents should be reported via an English-language site called Signal Conso . (I learned the very cool French word for scam: “escroquerie.”)

Now over to Kevin and the all-too-common travel fraud using money wires. Good news, Kevin — Vrbo agreed to reimburse you for the rental, as well as the two nights you spent in a hotel as you arranged another rental.

You were covered by Vrbo’s Book With Confidence Guarantee , which, according to a statement from Mel Fish, a company spokeswoman, includes “safeguards against fraudulent listings, lodging assistance if travelers are unable to check in, and rebooking support if a host cancels at the last minute.” You will receive $7,079.

But all travelers: Pay with your credit cards whenever possible. Wiring money to individuals is the reddest of red flags in travel, as it’s almost impossible to claw back international wire transfers. Kevin’s long fight for reimbursement was ultimately successful because some blame lay on a deep-pocketed intermediary like Vrbo, part of the Expedia Group. But if he had booked directly through the company offering the Amsterdam rental, Grand Stay BV, he would have been out of luck. When I checked it out last week, its website was bare on details (and not surprisingly, the company didn’t respond to my requests for comment through its listed WhatsApp number). Vrbo told me that it had actually removed the company from its listings months ago, and the website has now been taken down.

That brings us to Christine and her desire to help expedite her children through passport control. Christine, in your online search for Global Entry, you said you received a page of Google search results and clicked on a sponsored website — Globaleny-travelus.com — that appeared, you told me, above the official Global Entry site, hosted by Customs and Border Protection.

When I checked a few weeks later, that site was no longer advertised on Google, but a very similar site was — one that even used the same email addresses, according to other complaints I found on online message boards. Then that one disappeared and another took its place. There are countless other sites that look very similar and purport to help you with the application form, though all they do is have you fill out a similar form.

The ad violated Google’s rules, said Nate Funkhouser, a Google spokesman. The only entities that may advertise government services like this one, according to Google policy, are the government sites themselves and companies explicitly authorized to do so by the government.

“Our team is always working to prevent scams on our platforms and removed the ads violating our policies,” Mr. Funkhouser wrote, but added, “Sometimes bad ads can temporarily evade our detection.” He said Google encourages users to report any possible violations. It appears that, at least for now, Google has expunged dubious ads from searches for Global Entry applications.

But sketchy travel companies everywhere purchase ads on Google and other search engines, and then book reservations for travelers, charging them fees or charging commissions to the companies with which they book.

One example of a typical complaint came from Rebecca, a reader in Pacifica, Calif. She booked a room at the Cambria Hotel Calabasas in Malibu after clicking on an ad that prominently displayed the URL, or web address, cambriacalabasas.guestreservations.com.

But the actual web address for the hotel is cambriacalabasas.com . The company Rebecca booked through, GuestReservations.com, had set up a subdomain on its own servers to mimic the hotel’s web address, as it does for countless other hotels.

GuestReservations.com has the veneer of a legitimate website, with a media contact listed at the bottom. (No one responded when I wrote to it.) It operates by booking rooms for clients through Priceline Partner Solutions , a business-to-business service that allows small agencies to book Priceline inventory.

When Rebecca arrived at the Cambria, hotel staff members said it was overbooked and that she could go to a nearby Marriott. They initially told her she would be reimbursed — yet when the Cambria realized she had not booked directly, they said she would have to seek reimbursement from the third-party site. It created a frustrating and confusing situation for Rebecca, as she thought she was booking directly in the first place.

The Cambria and other hotels can’t do much about it without spending a huge amount on Google ads themselves: Mr. Funkhouser, the Google spokesman, told me that such ads generally do not violate its policies (unless the company does not deliver the services).

“It’s very frustrating,” said Kylie Chen, the senior digital marketing manager for 24seven Hotels , which owns the Cambria. She told me that sites like GuestReservations.com pull photos from the hotels’ own sites, but when the hotel group reaches out to them to remove them, “it’s always hard to find any point of response or contact.”

“I feel like Google will let anyone advertise,” she added.

This is, of course, not true . But to be safe, travelers should skip right past sponsored results and pay careful attention to the web address of the site they are clicking on, whether it’s on Google or any other search engine.

If you need advice about a best-laid travel plan that went awry, send an email to [email protected] .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Seth Kugel is the columnist for “ Tripped Up ,” an advice column that helps readers navigate the often confusing world of travel. More about Seth Kugel

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Salzburg, Austria:  The compact Austrian city of medieval alleys, majestic Alpine views and just 150,000 residents bursts to life in the summer .

Southern Sardinia:  This overlooked island region of Italy, with its idyllic beaches and buzzing capital , is ready to share its essence.

Adirondacks :  New York’s Adirondack Park draws more than 12 million visitors each year. Here’s where to go to avoid the crowds .

Los Angeles:  The California city has one of the most diverse urban forests in the world and each neighborhood has its own characteristic plantings .

Nighttime Activities :  Travel adventures, from goat hikes to snorkeling , get even better when they’re done under the stars.

Southwest Airlines agent charged with theft, police say he printed $79,000 in vouchers

A st. louis-based southwest agent was charged with theft after an internal investigation found evidence he printed off fake travel vouchers for personal use and for a profit.

A Southwest Airlines employee who told police he printed off nearly $80,000 worth of travel vouchers has been charged with stealing.

Brooklyn Jones, a customer service agent at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, had been printing flight vouchers using previous passengers' names and redeeming them for himself, an internal Southwest investigation found, according to the complaint, obtained by USA TODAY on Friday.

Records show that Jones confessed to the allegations in a written statement to Southwest and agreed to return the vouchers he had, but he pleaded not guilty Thursday to the felony.

Jones' attorney, Bert Fulk, said in a statement that the state is basing the allegations on a "probable cause statement that appears to rely heavily on third-party statements.."

"We look forward to the discovery process and reserve the right to comment in the future upon receipt and review of the specific discovery in this matter," he said, declining to comment further.

Printed Southwest vouchers totaled $79,000

Southwest informed airport police of their findings after an internal investigation.

When officers took Jones to his locker, Jones turned over 119 travel vouchers to Southwest, worth a total of $36,300, the complaint says.

In interviews following his arrest, Jones said he received money for the vouchers four different times and printed vouchers totaling $79,000 between Aug. 1, 2023 and Sept. 23, 2023, according to court records.

Jones is scheduled to appear in court again on Sept. 16.

Southwest declined to comment, deferring to local law enforcement.

Another Southwest employee's similar case

Another Southwest employee, DaJuan Martin, pleaded guilty to a wire fraud charge after federal prosecutors say he fraudulently created and sold company vouchers worth about $1.9 million. An indictment filed last June said Martin was working for Southwest at Midway Airport in Chicago when he used fictitious customer names to fraudulently generate the vouchers.

Martin reached a plea agreement with prosecutors last month and is set to be sentenced on Nov. 1, when he faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Contributing: Grace Hauck, Amanda Lee Myers

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• About the game
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• OS: Windows 7 SP1/8/10 (64 bit)
• Processor: Dual-Core 2.2 GHz
• Memory: 4GB
• Video Card: DirectX 10.1 level video card: AMD Radeon 77XX / NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660. The minimum supported resolution for the game is 720p.
• Network: Broadband Internet connection
• Hard Drive: 17 GB
• OS: Windows 10/11 (64 bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 3600 and better
• Memory: 16 GB and more
• Video Card: DirectX 11 level video card or higher and drivers: Nvidia GeForce 1060 and higher, Radeon RX 570 and higher
• Hard Drive: 95 GB
• OS: Mac OS Big Sur 11.0 or newer
• Processor: Core i5, minimum 2.2GHz (Intel Xeon is not supported)
• Memory: 6 GB
• Video Card: Intel Iris Pro 5200 (Mac), or analog from AMD/Nvidia for Mac. Minimum supported resolution for the game is 720p with Metal support.
• Processor: Core i7 (Intel Xeon is not supported)
• Memory: 8 GB
• Video Card: Radeon Vega II or higher with Metal support.
• OS: Most modern 64bit Linux distributions
• Processor: Dual-Core 2.4 GHz
• Memory: 4 GB
• Video Card: NVIDIA 660 with latest proprietary drivers (not older than 6 months) / similar AMD with latest proprietary drivers (not older than 6 months; the minimum supported resolution for the game is 720p) with Vulkan support.
• OS: Ubuntu 20.04 64bit
• Processor: Intel Core i7
• Memory: 16 GB
• Video Card: NVIDIA 1060 with latest proprietary drivers (not older than 6 months) / similar AMD (Radeon RX 570) with latest proprietary drivers (not older than 6 months) with Vulkan support.

Pack your bags, it’s time for a well-deserved vacation. Whether you’re heading to the deserts of Sinai or the jungles of Vietnam, the fields of Poland or the Golden Bay area, your suitcase will definitely come in handy!

The “ Travel Suitcase ” can be purchased from the in-game Item Shop for Silver Lions from August 8th (11:00 GMT) until September 4th (11:00 GMT). It doesn’t require a key and can only be purchased by players who have bought at least one researchable vehicle at Rank II or higher on their account.

What’s in this suitcase?

The “Travel Suitcase” contains vehicles and camouflages, decals and decorations, player icons from previous summer events, as well as useful consumable items: boosters, universal backups, wagers and orders. Some items from past events are appearing as coupons for the first time, and you’ll be able to trade them on the Market!

60,000 Silver Lions is what the “Travel Suitcase” costs.

On September 4th (11:00 GMT), all Travel Suitcases will disappear from your inventory, so be sure to open them before then!

All items are immediately credited to your account, but there’s a chance of receiving some of them in the form of a coupon, unless otherwise stated.

Vehicles (both immediately activated on the account and available as coupons):

• Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK (immediately activated on the account only)
• CT-CV 105HP
• Zrinyi I (immediately activated on the account only)
• Leopard 2AV
• Buccaneer S.1
• VL Myrsky II (immediately activated on the account only)
• Ka-Chi (immediately activated on the account only)
• RN Aviere (immediately activated on the account only)
• Ar 196 A-3 (immediately activated on the account only)
• Ikv 73 (immediately activated on the account only)
• Maxim Gorky
• Freccia P-493 (immediately activated on the account only)
• BT-7A (F-32)
• AUBL/74 HVG
• IJN Yuudachi
• FJ-4B VMF-232
• Martlet Mk IV (Britain)
• Sd.Kfz.234/3
• Sd.Kfz.234/4
• Phòng không T-34 (USSR) (immediately activated on the account only)
• P-63A-10 (USSR) (immediately activated on the account only)
• KV-IB (Germany)

* — chances of receiving IS-7 are far lower than the other vehicles and are around 0,001%

All vehicles will be immediately credited to the account but there is a chance to get it in form of a coupon unless otherwise specified.

Decorations (both immediately activated on the account and available as coupons):

• BMX (first time as a coupon)
• Jet ski (first time as a coupon)
• Sailing catamaran
• Hornet’s nest
• BSA Bicycle
• Container "Waffenhalter"
• Assault rifle shortened (USSR)
• M1A1 Carbine
• Light machine gun (USA)
• Light machine gun (USSR)
• Light machine gun (Germany)
• Light machine gun (China)
• Assault body armor (Russia)
• Force recon vest (USA)
• Ammunition of the Soviet Army, 1941
• Wehrmacht ammunition (Germany)
• Lee-Enfield No.4 Mk1
• Gewehr 41 (Walther)
• Arisaka Type 44
• M1928A1 "Thompson"

Decals (both immediately activated on the account and available as coupons):

• "BMX Racing" decal
• "Paragliding" decal
• "Surfing" decal
• "Windsurfing" decal
• "Wingsuiting" decal
• Diving Mode On decal
• Explore More decal
• Falling Coconuts decal
• Good Catch decal
• Trees Don't Move decal
• Emblem of the Air Force Airborne Corps, PLA
• Emblem of the 11th Parachute Brigade, France
• Emblem of the Rapid Forces Division, Germany
• Emblem of the "Folgore" Parachute Brigade, Italy
• Emblem of the 1st Airborne Brigade, Japan
• Emblem of the 323rd Parachute Ranger Squadron, Sweden
• Emblem of the Royal Marines
• Emblem of the Russian Marine Corps
• Hippocampus
• Lernaean Hydra
• Fiery explosion
• Frosty flames
• Flaming exhaust
• Fiery pattern
• Flaming sparks
• Colored flame
• Emblem of the air forces, Germany
• Emblem of the air forces, Japan
• Emblem of the air forces, Britain
• Emblem of the air forces, USA
• Emblem of the air forces, USSR
• Emblem of the armored forces, France
• Emblem of the armored forces, Germany
• Emblem of the armored forces, Italy
• Emblem of the armored forces, Japan
• Emblem of the Royal tank regiments
• The emblem of the armored forces, U.S.
• Emblem of the armored forces, Russia
• The Symbol of Japan
• The Symbol of USA
• The Symbol of USSR
• The Symbol of Britain
• The Symbol of Germany
• The Symbol of Italy
• Pin-up Japan
• Pin-up Britain
• Pin-up USSR
• Pin-up Germany

Profile icons (will be immediately activated on the account and in the form of the coupons):

• MotoLady (first time as a coupon)

Silver Lions

• 10,000 — 1,000,000

Expendable items

• Battle trophy (Research points booster)
• Battle trophy (Silver lions booster)
• Universal backup
• Universal backup x2
• Universal backup x3
• Random wager
• Random order

• 1 August 2024

• 11 August 2024

• 9 August 2024

• 8 August 2024

Comments ( 67 )

Let's go gambling!

Shatore, aw dangit!

Shatore, *chick chick chick ERR* Aw dangit!

Oh boy I can’t wait to spend 10-20 million SL and receive nothing in return!

Cant wait to open 10 boxes to get 8 wagers and 2 backups

99% of gamblers quit before they win big

LarySeeAircraft, Or loose all SLs

LarySeeAircraft, If you're not dipping into your children's schooling funds to gamble, you're not doing it right.

Just spent 5 mil and have a decal I already have and a hornets nest . The rest are wagers basically. Don't gamble kids! I just caused myself pain so you don't have to! ;)

sPUNKer, 5 mil more to win big dont stop

sPUNKer, I clicked the button till I ran out. 5 cosmetics, a PFP, and 3 vehicles, from just 15M! Seems like the crates are far more balanced now and respect the amount of currency you're using on them! :D

I'd prefer just getting the suitcase as a decorator.

Exocetta, that will cost you $4.99

First like 30 opened and is7 showed up, epic

Bosnia_, Rigged!

Bosnia_, reported in-game

"it’s time for a well-deserved vacation" yeah it is, unfortunately I don't get vacation time until December

qpranger, I see the addiction has set in

qpranger, Nah, I am alright, only opened 600 so far, everything is under control.

BMD-4 from first 10!

Six travel bags for £50 or less in Dunelm's sale that have rave reviews

If you're gearing up for your next holiday, Dunelm has launched a huge sale on suitcases

• 16:08, 2 APR 2024
• Updated 20:56, 2 APR 2024

Dunelm has launched a massive 20 per cent off sale on selected travel items and suitcases. Ahead of the upcoming holiday season, there are a number of things you’ll need to do before you jet off, including packing.

Packing can be laborious, but going on holiday without or forgetting your essentials can be a pain in itself. So to help you make your luggage straightforward while staying protected on your journey and stylish, Dunelm has reduced the price of a ton of suitcases.

Whether you’re after a cabin bag, storage bundles or something for the children to traipse through an airport, there’ll be something for you.

IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase - £40

Available in four different sizes, the IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase comes built to pack all your essentials, whether you’re looking for a cabin bag or larger. Its shell comes with EVA, which provides a rubber-like softness and flexibility that will keep all your belongings safe and secure. It also comes fitted with an extendable handle.

The IT Luggage Black & Rose Gold Divinity 4 Wheel Suitcase is priced between £40 and £60, depending on the size purchased. The suitcase has an average 4.7 out of five star rating from 125 reviews.

Tim said: “Great little cabin case. Sturdy and well made. Four wheels make it really easy to push. Love the black and rose gold colours. Highly recommend.”

Anne wrote: “Excellent purchase the case looks good and nice and light. Don’t know how it would cope with being thrown about by aircraft staff though. We are just using it for coach trips.”

Philippa said: “Terrible quality broke as soon as I lifted handle now unable to use it and have to make the return.”

Waterside Soft Shell Suit case - £36

For anyone who prefers their suitcase with a soft material, Dunelm’s highest rated suitcase is the Waterside Soft Shell Suitcase . It comes available in three different sizes: cabin (£36), medium (£50), and large (£55).

In collaboration with the Natural History Museum, the suitcase comes fit with a stunning Kingfisher design, so you can be stylish on your travels. It has an average 4.8 out of five star rating from 13 reviews.

SuziW said, “Lovely little study suitcase. Good amount of space inside,” while Shel wrote, “I bought the medium and cabin sizes and the design is really nice which should stand out on the conveyor belt.”

While Sam said: “Really pretty case and the zips/ wheels and handle seem strong. Not quite 5* as it's a little smaller than my previous medium case (Tripp brand) so harder to fit in more than a week's worth of things and doesn't have a compression zip, which you can get cases with for a similar price, but not with as nice a design as this.”

Elements Fuchsia Suitcase - £24

For hard shell fans, Dunelm sells the Elements Fuchsia Suitcase in an unmissable pink. Priced between £24 and £40, the suitcase has options for cabin luggage or something larger to be put the hold.

It comes crafted with a sturdy hard shell to protect your all-important travel gear, as well as four spinner wheels, and a convenient push-button trolley system. The suitcase boasts a perfect five star rating from eight reviews.

Kim said: “Got a medium and large one, lovely colour and size. So worth the money, tempted to get the small one to have the full set.”

An anonymous shopper wrote: “Super light and a lot larger than I thought, easy to wheel around and VERY easy to spot on the baggage carousel. Great value for money and delivered on time, highly recommended.”

7 Piece Travel Storage B ag - £10

To help out with your holiday luggage organisation, included in Dunelm’s sale is the 7 Piece Travel Storage Bag , which will set you back just £10. The seven lightweight bags can help your packing be a breeze instead of a chore.

The bags are made with a water repellent cloth to keep your clothes safe from any liquid spillage. They also boast a large capacity so you can pack all your essentials.

The storage bag bundle has a perfect five star rating from five reviews. Sarahp said: “Great value for money, great quality, perfect for holidays.”

DHDeal wrote: “These are very useful for all sorts of uses - I actually used the largest one as a bag to take into hospital - everything fitted in and was visible through the mesh front. Carrying handle made it easier to transport. May also work as a sports bag ...sweaty clothes won't fester on the journey home as it is ventilated. These do make holiday packing easy - put all your pant/socks into one bag and just lift it in/out..a bit less fiddling about when unpacking on holiday, just put the bag straight into a drawer and use from there. They seem quite robust but not heavy.”

Black Hard Shell Suitcase - £22.40

Bargain hunters looking for the best price for a cabin bag (which isn’t designed for children) can find the Black Hard Shell Suitcase , where a suitcase designed for an overhead locker will cost you £22.40. It also comes in three other sizes: medium, large and extra large.

An extra large suitcase will set you back £45. The Black Hard Shell Suitcase is a strong and durable suitcase, which is one you want to rely on.

It also has an average 4.4 out of five star rating from seven reviews. AN said: “The suitcase was a lot lighter than others in the market and one of the cheapest out there! Also, the design is not bad either and looks nice - still can’t believe how great the price is, definitely recommend.”

Claire wrote, “Really light weight but strong and sturdy, lots of room,” while KJL commented, “This case although looked great was really lightweight and flimsy. I had not choice but to use it for my trip to Iceland as I left it too late to get anything else. Surprised it had it through two flights. Really disappointed.”

Kids 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase - £20

Dunelm’s sale also includes a number of children’s suitcases, which also double up as an adorable backpack. These include the Disney Princess Kids 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) , Star Wars Baby Grogu 2-in-1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) , and Toy Story 2 in 1 Backpack & Suitcase (£20) .

The suitcases are made with a soft shell fabric to help protect your little one’s essentials and make it comfortable to wear. Spike 55 said: “Delighted with this Disney travel case for my granddaughter. It stands independently when empty, coated wheels( big bonus) handle locks when extended and super smooth zip. Fab colour. Highly recommend.”

Claire wrote: “Bought this for my Nephew for his birthday and for our up and coming trip to WDW. He is Toy Story mad so will love this 2 in 1 backpack for his holidays. Great he can use it on the flight for all his items. Great price too.”

While Amy said: “Cute but a little flimsy. Not sure how long it's going to last but the kids love it.”

Tripp also has a sale on suitcases on over 135 products. The biggest discount on the website is 69 per cent on the Tripp Absolute Lite Ice Blue Medium Suitcase (was £130, now £39.50) and the Tripp Absolute Lite Pewter Medium Suitcase (was £130, now £39.50).

Or find the Narway Underseat Foldable Travel Duffel Bag for Ryanair Airlines Cabin Bag on Amazon for £7.99 (for a limited time only). Usually priced at £11.99, the duffel is Amazon’s best selling bag.

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Everything Worth Buying During Ban.do’s Warehouse Sale

In this article

Bags and accessories.

• Back-to-school
• Women's clothing

Maximalists, rejoice: Ban.do is offering up to 80 percent off during its warehouse sale , which ends on August 16. Like the retailer’s general inventory, the discounted items are all remarkably colorful and often delightfully patterned. (Is anyone looking for a floral travel pillow? It’s in here, deeply marked down.) I sifted through the 20 pages of stock to find all the very best deals on everything from back-to-school essentials to statement fashion pieces to pool accessories. And for your convenience, I grouped all the deals by category.

It wouldn’t be a Ban.do sale without plenty of deals on bags from Baggu. I chose a few of my favorites, starting with a classic: the nylon shoulder bag. The machine-washable purse is big enough to hold a 14-inch laptop.

There’s also one of our favorite fanny packs , Baggu’s surprisingly roomy hands-free bag. This one has two separate zipper pockets, but there’s an even more affordable one if you’re willing to sacrifice on storage space.

My last Baggu pick is this floral tote that’s made from cotton canvas. It’s sturdy and perfect for coffee runs and lounging in the park.

We rarely see Baboon to the Moon on sale, so I was delighted to find this colorful fanny pack hidden within the sale for more than 20 percent off. It’s big enough to carry all your essentials — wallet, sunglasses, keys, and more — and comes with a lifetime warranty.

In signature Ban.do style, this travel pillow is covered in a variety of flowers that will pop next to your carry-on bag .

Back-to-school essentials

We’ve long loved Ban.do for its colorful back-to-school essentials, and I was especially taken by this notebook, which has wide lines for writing and a spot for the date. But we’re not the only fans — singer and actress Brandy loves using this mini-notebook for journaling, too.

If you haven’t found the right lunch box yet, consider this hot-pink one. It has an insulated interior and a charming yellow strap for easy carrying.

I also found this heavily discounted backpack from Vans. It has everything you might want in a backpack — including two water-bottle pockets, a laptop sleeve, and plenty of pockets for organization.

If you prefer a soft shower caddy over a hard one, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a cuter one than this.

My sister gave me this tumbler as a gift when I was in college, and it was perfect for taking my iced coffee from class to class.

Women’s clothing

Like Baggu, Farm Rio is showing up and showing out during Ban.do’s warehouse sale. These baby-blue pants, which are 100 percent linen, have a colorful belt that will pair nicely with a white blouse.

This jewel-toned maxi-dress caught my eye, too. With its subtle scalloped detailing and 100 percent cotton construction, the dress is tempting me a bit too much.

There’s also this fruit-speckled midi-dress that has a boxy cut-out back. (Just note: It’s even cheaper on Farm Rio’s website in some sizes.)

This pair of Vans is one of the best items I found hidden in the treasure trove that is Ban.do’s warehouse sale. Ben Van Leeuwen calls them a “cross between Vans and a big, bulky shoe” and says he can easily walk ten miles in them.

These pastel overalls would make for a fun summer-to-fall transition piece. They’d look cute paired with a long-sleeve shirt in the fall and your favorite summertime tank during warmer months.

Speaking of that summertime tank …

These dainty mules, which are discounted in both a shiny metallic and a muted clay, will let your feet breathe while temperatures fluctuate well into the fall.

I like the ruffled detailing on this pastel cami. It’s made from a blend of cotton and linen and has a matching skirt if sets are your thing.

You can usually find some stellar deals on Wrangler denim during Ban.do’s sale events. This time, these dark-wash cropped jeans caught my attention. They’ve got that coveted wide-leg fit that Gen-Z girls love nowadays.

I also spotted these Wrangler overalls, which were one of my favorite discounted items during Ban.do’s Prime Day–adjacent sale .

With summer nearing its final days, there are plenty of deals on pool accessories that’ll be just as fun when next summer comes around. First up, there’s this mini-hammock made for lounging in the pool.

I also love this flamingo-shaped floatie.

Finally, I couldn’t resist this strawberry-shaped float that’s perfect for lounging.

For those who prefer lounging next to the pool, there’s this colorful Jenga -esque tower that measures about a foot and a half.

And finally, this sourdough-bread-making kit that includes everything you need to make a sourdough starter and shape your very own loaf. My sourdough starter recently died, so I take this deal as an excuse to nurture a new one.

The Strategist  is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about  here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Today’s Top Clicked

13 Things To Do In Saint Petersburg | Russia’s Most Beautiful City

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: January 17, 2021  - Last updated: September 11, 2021

Categories Europe , Destinations , Russia

Once known as Leningrad and before that Petrograd, Saint Petersburg, Russia, is the country’s second-largest city. Set next to the Neva River, close to the Baltic Sea, this city is home to over 5 million people.

It’s the world’s northernmost city, founded by Peter the Great and named after Saint Peter the apostle. Once home to the Tsars of Russia, it is today known as the country’s cultural capital.

With iconic sights such as Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect, Peterhof Palace, and so much more, it has a fascinating heritage ripe for exploration. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best things to do in St. Petersburg. 

Top Things to do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Europe, has grown into one of the top tourist destinations on the continent. Although it might get very cold in winter, there are still plenty of things to do – and the summers are absolutely perfect! Saint Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in all of Europe .

Keep reading for some of my favorite choices. 

1. Visit The World Famous Hermitage Museum

One of the city’s most popular attractions (with over 3 million items in its esteemed collection), State Hermitage Museum showcases everything from fine art to ancient artifacts. 

Even if you don’t plan on entering inside, the exterior is an architectural gem in itself. The columns are all in white with green/gold facades that can be viewed from the river or Palace Square.

If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, your trip would not be complete without stopping past this world-famous landmark. It’s also a great activity to do no matter what time of year you are visiting – and a perfect way to escape those cold Russian winter days. 

There are six buildings in the museum complex in total. Five of which – Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theatre – can be accessed by the public.

Within, you’ll be treated to Egyptian collections, artifacts dating from ancient Mesopotamia, and classical Greek jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. This is any historical culture lover’s dream. 

Keep exploring, and you will find collections of prehistoric relics from the Palaeolithic era to the Iron Ages, European fine arts, Impressionist works, Catherine the Great’s personal collections, and so much more.

In fact, you’ll need an entire day or possibly longer to explore this incredible museum complex. If you only have limited time in St. Petersburg, be sure to add this museum to your itinerary! There are also guided tours available if you want a more educational experience. 

Did you know? The Hermitage Museum is the world’s second-largest art museum.

2. Take in a Performance at Mariinsky Theatre

The Neoclassical Mariinsky Theatre is home to Russia’s revered opera and ballet companies.

The theatre – named after the wife of Tsar Alexandra II, Empress Maria Alexandrovna – has been here since 1860 when it was known as the Kirov Theatre.

This magnificent building, since it opened, has hosted stage performances and premieres from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky and famous ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. 

Today, in addition to hosting live performances, the theatre has its own record label, which focuses on releasing music by Russian composers Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninov.

If you enjoy the arts and are going to be in St. Petersburg for several days, book tickets to see a world-class performance – you won’t be disappointed.

3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum

The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era. 

Today, you can view these iconic collection pieces in the Faberge Museum. It showcases 4,000 items in total, including Faberge Easter eggs, jewelry, silverware, home decor, and fantasy-themed objects.

The incredible jeweled eggs are famous all over the world, and there are several museums dedicated to them. But if you want to learn about Gustav Faberge, his family, and how it all began, this is the museum to visit. You can purchase a ticket in person or online. 

4. Spend an Hour Canal Cruising

St. Petersburg is built on 42 islands, and once upon a time (before bridges were constructed), cruising was the only way to navigate the city.

On a Golden Ring boat tour, you’ll see some of St. Petersburg’s iconic sights along the Kryukov Canal, including St. Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky theatre.

You’ll dip beneath the famous colored bridges on Neva River whilst enjoying views of Peter and Paul Fortress, Vasilyevsky Island, and the Summer Garden. This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to take in all the beauty that St. Petersburg has to offer. 

This tour also only takes around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to revisit your favorite spots throughout the day!

5. Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

One of St. Petersburg’s architectural masterpieces is the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.

This former Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1907 and is built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival design. It is one of the city’s main attractions, with ornate domes, intricate frescoes, and 7,500 square meters of mosaics inside. 

If you don’t wish to enter, you can gain incredible views from Griboedov Canal. But if you do venture inside, you’ll be rewarded with interior frescoes and mosaic works depicting biblical scenes and figures created by celebrated Russian artists of the time.

The Church of the Saviour of Blood is built on the spot where Emperor Alexander 2 was assassinated in 1881 – hence the name. So, not only will you be able to appreciate the fine architectural designs, but also explore an important part of Russian history. 

6. Take a Rooftop Walk-in St. Petersburg

If you have viewed the city from canals and rivers, try it from the rooftops! You can take a guided rooftop walk in the city, seeing streets and skylines from an elevated perspective.

One particular tour to highlight is the Official Rooftops Excursion of St. Petersburg. Just a few minutes from Nevsky Prospect, these sites offer vistas of Fontanka River and Trinity Cathedral – and that’s just the first roof.

The second roof boasts views of St. Petersburg’s old center, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church on Spilled Blood.

This is a truly incredible way to see the city in all its glory, plus the tour provides you with binoculars so you can see everything in great detail.

7. Admire Nevsky Prospect’s Magnificent Architecture

The main street of St. Petersburg is Nevsky Prospect. Begin at the intersection at Stroganov Palace before venturing to Kazan Cathedral. While you walk, take in the monuments dedicated to Catherine the Great and browse goods at The Passage – Nevsky Avenue’s premier department store.

This store was quite the trailblazer. It opened its doors in the late 1840s and was one of the first buildings in Russia to use gas for lighting. Then, in 1900, an electric station was installed on an underground floor.

Once you’ve finished shopping and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, continue to the Russian National Library – the oldest public library in Russia – and Alexandrinsky Theatre (which was built for the Imperial troupe of Petersburg).

8. Visit the Island of Peter and Paul Fortress

Set on an island connected by bridges, Peter and Paul Fortress is instantly recognizable from its needle spire, which dominates the skyline. The fortress was originally built to defend the maritime city from Swedish invaders.

However, Peter the Great defeated the opposition before it was even completed! It has since served as a military center and prison for political dissenters and, latterly, as a museum.

Inside the vast complex, you can see Peter and Paul Cathedral, visit the resting place of the Romanovs, and watch military processions or the firing of the noon-day gun.

It’s a great day trip for anyone interested in Russian, maritime or military history. There are also plenty of group walking tours available. 

9. Sample Russian Vodka in a Ryumochnye

A visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local drink – vodka, and the best place to do this is in a Ryumochnye. This is a specific style of 19th-century Russian drinking house that not only offers some of Russia’s best vodka but also a short history lesson.

You could call it a bar, but it’s more than that – most mainstream Ryumochnye have a definite Soviet vibe and are places for working men to kick back and enjoy vodka with their buddies.

Beverages come in bottles or shot form, and some places offer self-service and snacks.

If that sounds too hardcore for your taste, there are updated versions of Ryumochnye in the city, like Mayak in St. Petersburg, where you can gain a similar experience. 

10. Enjoy local Saint Petersburg Craft Beer

Although most people think of vodka when visiting Russia, you can also enjoy some of the best craft beer in Saint Petersburg . Russia’s second-largest city has an exciting, rapidly growing craft beer scene, in part due to its history and geography.

Historically, the Russian empire was influenced by Northern Europe, and the Dutch & English beer-drinking culture eventually made its way here. Today, Saint Petersburg is home to a growing number of modern microbreweries, cool taprooms, and stylish bars.

Saint Petersburg is also home to Stepan Razin Brewery, the oldest brewery in Russia (now, of course, owned by Heiniken). It opened in 1795, but today the building is known as the Saint Petersburg Beer Museum, showcasing the history of beer in Russia and the Soviet Union.

Russia’s largest and most popular brewery, Baltika, is also located in Saint Petersburg, and it’s possible to take a tour of their huge brewery.

11. See the Majestic Catherine Palace

A stately palace of blue and gold, Catherine’s Palace is located 26 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Named after the wife of Peter the Great, this place was originally a two-story modest building commissioned in 1717.

The exterior, which stretches for one kilometer in circumference, is surrounded by woodlands, lawns, gilded balconies, and reliefs. However, the interiors are even more impressive.

With great halls, a white dining room, an amber room, and more. It’s the perfect place to step back into history and discover what life was like as a Russian aristocracy.

12. Explore Peterhof Palace

If you’re going to visit Catherine Palace, you should tour Peterhof too. It’s a 40-minute drive away, but you can even take a hydrofoil speed boat from right behind the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg center.

Sitting close to the Baltic Sea, Peterhof Palace was constructed by Peter the Great to be Russia’s version of Versailles. The opulent residence surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and tiered staircases leading to the grand entrance evokes mystery and the history of a bygone era.

Inside it is lavishly decorated with dazzling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind artworks and beautiful ceiling frescoes.

On a guided tour, you can learn more about the palace’s history. Discover the Throne Room, Portrait Hall and Peter the Great’s Oak Study. You’ll see dining rooms set for dinner, grand ballrooms where dancing and gatherings would take place, and décor which defies time.

The palace offers great insight into his life and legacy, and if you are interested in history, art and interior design, you’ll love it.

Want to know more about Peterhof?

13. Spend a Day by the Finnish Border at Vyborg

Just over an hour from central Saint Petersburg by train is the city of Vyborg. It sits on the Gulf of Finland and was first settled back in the 12th century. The city has been occupied by Finnish and German forces and suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. However, it has since been rebuilt. 

It’s a charming center to wander around, with narrow cobbled streets, a medieval castle, and Finnish art nouveau structures sprinkled throughout. An easy day trip from St. Petersburg, it can also serve as a stop-off point if you’re crossing into Finland to continue your adventure.

Want to know more about Saint Petersburg?

Where is St. Petersburg | Is St. Petersburg in Europe?

If you want to know “Where is Saint Petersburg?”, you’ve come to the right place. Beautiful St. Petersburg is located in northern Russia. Russia is a massive country, so it is no surprise that many people want to know “Is Saint Petersburg in Europe?”. The answer is yes. 

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

The maritime city is well linked to Europe by air, sea, rail and road. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the rest of your itinerary, you can use one of the following ways to arrive at St. Petersburg.

You can fly into Saint Petersburg through Pulkovo International Airport. There are around 1,100 international flights a week and 1,200 domestic flights operating in and out of the local airport.

Although many flights from European cities to Saint Petersburg are direct, you may have to change flights if flying from further afield.

It’s also possible to travel to St. Petersburg by train. The most popular (and most frequent) routes operate from Moscow, Helsinki, and Tallinn. However, there are options to travel from other areas in central Europe, central Asia, and eastern Europe by rail.

There is a central bus station in Saint Petersburg, with services to and from Moscow, Pskov, Novgorod, Vilnius, Riga , Tallinn and Helsinki. Some of these journeys can be long and arduous.

Therefore, thorough research and choosing the right bus company is important.

Baltic Sea Cruises also operate to St. Petersburg as part of a larger itinerary, and St. Peter Line Ferry sails from Helsinki in Finland and Tallinn in Estonia.

Exploring Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the 5th most populous city in Europe and also a leading tourist destination. Although people sometimes forget about Russia, this city is breathtakingly beautiful and provides plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Now that you know where to go, I hope you have an amazing time in Russia’s most beautiful city.

Friday 19th of January 2018

Thank you! So great review about our St. Petersburg!

What to do in St. Petersburg in 1 day - Probe around the Globe

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] more about the beauty of St. Petersburg from the Unusual […]

Friday 17th of June 2016

Which hostel did you stay at? I am potentially thinking of going to Russia for World Cup 2018 after my World Cup trip to Brazil two years ago. Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities, and so I am very interested in learning more about this city and recommendations from fellow travellers who have been.

Christian L.

I stayed at Soul Kitchen Junior, and I will go so far and say its by far the best hostel I have ever stayed at!! Anywhere in the world, no other hostels even get close to it:)

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• Oranienbaum (Lomonosov)

Visiting Oranienbaum and Lomonosov

Oranienbaum is perhaps the least visited of St. Petersburg's suburban palaces, despite the rich and unique treasures it has to offer. This can partly be attributed to the decades of neglect that have left most of the buildings in critical condition and allowed the park to be overrun by nature. Thankfully, the estate has now come under the auspices of Peterhof's management, and a massive renovation programme is already underway. For the next several years, however, it will be necessary to check which parts of the park and which buildings are currently open to the public.

Oranienbaum is only 12km along the coast from Peterhof, so it is possible for those with some stamina to combine the two in a single daytrip. A marshrutka minibus (K-348) connects the two estates. From St. Petersburg it is possible to take a minibus (K-300) from Avtovo Metro Station, or suburban trains from Baltiskiy Station. Either way, the journey takes a little under one hour.

Oranienbaum Park

Located on a slight incline, this pretty landscaped park is slowly being restored to its former glories, and contains a number of unusual architectural features.

Grand Menshikov Palace

This superbly elegant baroque palace was originally built for Peter the Great's closest adviser, and was the only suburban palace to survive World War 2 intact.

Chinese Palace

The favorite retreat of Catherine the Great, this small but exquisitely designed neoclassical villa has superbly restored interiors in "Oriental" style.

Palace of Peter III

This modest two-storey building was built for the future Peter III, and was the centre of Petershtadt, his peculiar model fortress of which he styled himself the Commandant.

Built as part of a Summer Palace for Peter III, this simple two-storey block by Antonio Rinaldi was later used as a Lutheran church, and is now an exhibition and concert hall.

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St Petersburg

Planning a trip to Saint Petersburg? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

Saint Petersburg

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• What to see
• How to get to St Petersburg
• Where to stay
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Why visit Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg, Petrograd, Leningrad... under any of its names, it's an elegant city with an eventful past . Built by Peter the Great in the early 18th century as a display of the power of Imperial Russia to the world , it's an important artistic and cultural center thanks to the wealth of monuments  and museums  that tell its story.

The City of Tsars and the former Russian capital, Saint Petersburg is also intrinsically linked to the water, earning it the nickname " Venice of the North " for its impressive number of canals and bridges . Lavish palaces, exquisite gardens, and some of the world's best museums complete the city's offering for locals and tourists alike.

Relive the elegance of Imperial Russia by visiting Saint Petersburg's fairy tale chateaux: Peterhof Palace , the Winter Palace , and Catherine Palace await you in all their glory. For a well-deserved break after sightseeing, stop in at a local restaurant to indulge in Russian specialties: caviar, vodka, and beef Stroganoff anyone?

From May to June, the White Nights make Saint Petersburg even more magical, with impossibly beautiful sunsets bringing almost-endless summer nights to a close.

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Saint Petersburg and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city, before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Saint Petersburg  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Hotels in St. Petersburg - reserve here for the best prices!

Why is our Saint Petersburg travel guide the best?

Introducing Saint Petersburg is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers , and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of April 2021. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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