aerial beach view

Carlos Sanchez PereyraGetty Images

Few of us have ever experienced anything like what we’ve had to live through for the past year. The pandemic has kept us local, stuck in our apartments or even back home with our parents. We’ve talked ad nauseam about the impact the pandemic has had on our world here at Gear Patrol and how we think the world will look moving forward, gear-wise. Now it is time to look to the near future and actually put the gear we love to talk about so much to use. This means going out and finding the perfect vacation to revitalize and energize our souls.

With that said, inevitably, things will be different. There will still be various travel restrictions, you’ll still need to bring masks and you’ll want your vaccine card with you, if you have one. Many countries are still seeing the virus come in waves and many haven’t even gotten vaccines going yet. This isn’t all to say it is impossible to enjoy a trip with few issues, but keep in mind that this will not be like taking a vacation in 2019.

We’ve done a ton of research on planning a summer vacation and what you need to make the most of your first trip post-pandemic. Frankly, this has gotten us fired up and we hope that it inspires others to take the leap (in a safe manner) and get to planning their own killer vacation. If you want to know where to book, what to do or what to bring, we’ve got you covered.

10 of the Best Vacation Rental Sites to Book Your Summer Vacation

Airbnb

We dive deep into the numerous websites that exist to help you find and book the perfect stay for your summer vacation.

LEARN MORE

7 Places to Put on Your Travel Bucket List for When This Is All Over

@valentina_jacks

Jot down these picturesque locales and get yourself ready for a very Wes Anderson-esque vacation once everything is back to normal.

LEARN MORE

These Adventure Vacations Are the Perfect Post-Pandemic Excursion

Pacific Overlander

Sometimes you need more than a trip to lounge on the beach. These are the places to book a trip that is as much about adventure as it is about getting away.

LEARN MORE

16 Things You Need for Your First Post-Pandemic Vacation

Away

You’ve probably forgotten what you even like to pack for a vacation. Plus, the packing list has new items, like a mask and hand sanitizer.

LEARN MORE

The 25 Best Travel Accessories for Any Trip

Getty

After you’ve got the essentials packed, you’ll need to tap into your list of accessories that make the trip just that much better.

LEARN MORE

The Ultimate Guide to Watches and Travel

Hodinkee

When you head out on the road, you need a watch. This is what you need to know about having your watch with you when you travel.

LEARN MORE

The Best Weekender Bags for Your Next Getaway

Tecovas

Whether it is your primary bag for a long weekend away or your second bag to go along with your suitcase, you need a weekender.

LEARN MORE

Everything You Need to Know Before Buying Away Luggage

Away

Away luggage is popular for a reason, it is just plain good. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do your research before you splurge.

LEARN MORE

How to Pack a Carry-On Suitcase

Tetra Images

Packing a carry-on can be tricky business. Overstuff it and you’ll end up with a weight penalty, stuff it wrong and you won’t be able to fit everything in.

LEARN MORE

The 9 Best Packing Cubes for All Trips

Gear Patrol

If you are still having trouble getting your carry-on packed (or any other bag, for that matter), consider buying some packing cubes. These are the best to consider.

LEARN MORE

The 5 Best Aluminum Suitcases Worth Your Money

Courtesy

It is no secret that TSA has a thing for throwing suitcases around. Even if that doesn’t happen, you want your stuff to be safe. Keep it in an aluminum suitcase.

LEARN MORE

Everything You Need for a Great Road Trip

Courtesy

Especially in a year like this, flying seems a little more daunting than usual. If you’re opting to hit the open road, this is what you need to have with you.

LEARN MORE

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io