So, you got a match on a dating app. Things are going well, and you’re ready to meet up for a bite to eat. Congrats! There’s only one problem: you’re in charge of picking the place.
Luckily, Portland is a great city for date nights — yes, even compared to Seattle. However, with so many fantastic options located throughout Portland’s best neighborhoods, deciding on one is a daunting task. The cost of living in Portland is also enough to make you cautiously scan the menu for prices before committing, and obviously, you want just the right vibe.
We’ve taken these factors and more into consideration to bring you the best romantic restaurants in Portland.
Ava Gene’s
Photo source: Facebook.com/avagenes
Location: 3377 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
Portland’s Richmond neighborhood is home to the light and airy Italian eatery Ava Gene’s, the first on our list of best romantic restaurants in Portland. It’s adorned by lots of marble, lacy curtains, floating lights and plenty of greenery. The atmosphere will absorb you and your date as soon as you walk through the door.
The menu is equally enchanting, offering a variety of locally sourced, hyper-seasonal Italian-inspired dishes dreamed up by chef and owner Joshua McFadden, who is making culinary waves on an international level. Special events like their Trattoria Nights and wine series celebrations offer super special price-fixed meals, but the regular menu is dazzling and modestly priced, including a fantastic selection of local wines.
Broder
Photo source: Facebook.com/BroderPDX
Location: Multiple
Looking for a romantic brunch spot? Broder is a unique choice with 3 equally alluring locations around PDX. If you’ve never tried Scandinavian food, prepare to fall for the rich comforting, flavors, both sweet and savory, that have drawn crowds for years. Gaze into your companion’s eyes in the morning light over a plate of Norwegian crepes with a lingonberry mimosa in hand and get swept off your feet.
Cabezon
Photo source: Facebook.com/cabezonpdx
Location: 5200 NE Sacramento St, Portland, OR 97213
If you’re craving seafood in an intimate atmosphere, Cabezon in the Rose City Park neighborhood is a great choice for a special occasion. This bustling neighborhood bistro and fish market is serving some of the freshest, locally-sourced seafood in town prepared with the finest seasonal ingredients and a fantastic wine list.
Start with oysters on the half shell and work your way up to a hearty entrée like the cioppino or the mahi-mahi. This quality of food is a little pricier, but it’s fair and you really feel that you’re getting what you paid for, making Cabezon worth the splurge, even on a renter’s budget.
Canard
Photo source: Yelp.com/biz_photos/canard-portland
Location: 734 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
A more low-key offshoot of Portland’s famed French restaurant, Le Pigeon, Canard in Buckman offers a taste of fine dining at a price point and setting that’s more reminiscent of a bistro and wine bar. Small plates are key here, so make sure that you and your date are on the same page about sharing because you’ll want a taste of everything.
The ambiance is a cross between casual and sophisticated, reflected in the menu with dishes like tantalizingly elegant steam burgers, foie gras dumplings and the extravagant duck stack pancakes.
Kachka
Photo source: Facebook.com/kachkapdx
Location: 960 SE 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
There’s something specifically romantic about toasting a flight of specialized vodka over plates of classic, family-recipe Russian dishes at Kachka in the Buckman neighborhood. Maybe it’s the history and tradition you can taste in every bite, maybe it’s the high ceilings and tall, tapestry-covered walls or maybe it’s just the infused spirits, but there’s something uniquely intoxicating about the place. And it’s certainly one of the best romantic restaurants in Portland.
Share a plate of pelmeni, trade forkfuls of the herring under a fur coat and enjoy the mutually shared bliss of this faraway culinary adventure right here in Portland.
Khun Pic’s Banh Thai
Photo source: Facebook.com/KhunPics
Location: 3429 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214
There are plenty of Thai restaurants in Portland, but few that are as charming as Khun Pic’s. This hidden gem is in a beautiful Victorian home with a gorgeous garden patio in Sunnyside. A meal here feels more like being invited into a family’s house and served a home-cooked meal. Enjoy your favorite reasonably-priced, traditional Thai food selections while basking in the romantic glow for a quaint date night.
Location: 4039 Mississippi Ave N Ste 101 Portland, OR 97227
A pizza date is always a good idea. Sharing a cheesy pie is fun, light-hearted and keeps the mood casual yet intimate. That doesn’t mean the food isn’t amazing. Lovely’s Fifty Fifty in the Mississippi neighborhood serves some of the freshest, most beautiful toppings you’ll ever find on a pizza in a warm, welcoming space.
As a bonus, there’s no need to buy your date flowers. Lovely’s will serve them for you baked right in. Do yourself a favor and save room for dessert. They make their organic ice cream in-house and it’s the perfect way to cap off a romantic evening.
Looking for a dinner destination that’s more on the hip and trendy end of the spectrum? Head downtown to Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen for a vibrant menu of creative takes on traditional Vietnamese dishes in an atmosphere that’s bustling, but not too loud or distracting for quality table talk. Loosen up with a tasty cocktail like the Asian Vacation and get to know each other better over pho, rice plates and elevated banh mi.
Luce
Photo source: Yelp.com/biz_photos/luce-portland
Location: 2140 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
At Luce, the focus is first and foremost on the food. This is a small Italian market in the Buckman neighborhood filled with large shelves of authentic imported goods and fine wines, large windows and tons of vibrant green plants. Eating here feels like you’ve stumbled into a closely guarded secret. But the secret is out and they don’t take reservations. Your best bet to score a table is on an intimate weeknight outing. The menu is just as authentic, featuring a carefully curated selection of seafood, pasta, antipasto and desserts. You’re sure to find something to woo your special someone.
TEOTE House Cafe
Photo source: Facebook.com/TeoteHouseCafe
Location: 1615 SE 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
To complete the list of the best romantic restaurants in Portland, let’s spice things up a bit. Head to TEOTE House Cafe in Ladd’s Addition for a colorful menu of authentic Latin American dishes at prices that will let you try a little of everything. Grab a table inside the renovated house-turned-restaurant or snuggle up beside the fire pit on their huge, heated patio. Mezcal is the house drink here and a creative cocktail is sure to pave the way for an enjoyable evening, especially paired with a few arepas.
Date night doesn’t have to break the bank
Portland is a foodie’s paradise with so many cuisines and atmospheres to choose from. Maintaining a renter’s budget might disqualify some of the city’s finer dining establishments. But that doesn’t mean you can’t meet up for a unique meal with an amazing ambiance. Discover some of the city’s most romantic restaurants and find the perfect fit for your next date night.
Jake Borower has written on behalf of an entertainment website, a renewable energy initiative and has spent the last four years as a social media content specialist working in the multi-family housing industry. A graduate of Appalachian State University’s Public Relations program, during his free time he enjoys pairing a pint with the perfect vinyl record, going to concerts, traveling and trying new restaurants in his current home of Portland, Oregon.
Inside: Looking for the best travel essentials? Look no further! This guide has everything you need to pack for a trip.
There’s no feeling quite like the thrill of embarking on a new adventure, and with these top-notch travel essentials, your journey is set to be an absolute blast!
These travel essentials play a crucial role in not just enhancing your travel experience but also in keeping your trip organized, efficient, and absolutely “funner”!
Prepare to soar into hassle-free travel filled with joy, convenience, and unforgettable moments.
Many of my readers diligently save for their vacation and sometimes forget the small details like – travel essentials.
Traveling can transform from a stressful ordeal into an exciting escapade when armed with these must-haves that smart travelers swear by.
So, buckle up for an exhilarating journey ahead, knowing you’re perfectly prepared to take on the world. Let the adventures begin!
What are Travel Essentials?
Getting back to travel? Isn’t it just lovely!
Well, travel essentials are your new best friend! Waves of seasoned globetrotters have prepared this special guide for your benefit.
These items qualify as essentials because they streamline the packing process, afford comfort while traveling, and add a dash of fun to your adventures.
Also, there are so many cool gadgets available now that make traveling seamless.
What things are essential for Travelling?
Before you head off on the trip of your dreams, pack the right travel essentials to maximize your fun!
Meds: Don’t forget your prescriptions and common medicines for allergies or pain. Remember, health first!
Travel Insurance: Give yourself peace of mind by buying travel insurance – especially if you are traveling internationally.
Travel Credit Card: Credit cards are a simple way to pay when traveling. Make sure you have no foreign transaction fees!
Document Copies: Keep digital copies of essential documents to minimize panic and ensure quick verification in case of loss. And share this with someone in case you lose your phone!
Joyous journeys come from well-prepared travelers!
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What are 3 items to take on vacation?
Embrace the exhilarating aura of preparing for your much-awaited vacation!
Tuning into your needs and wants as a traveler, three crucial items stand out as top priority:
Anti-Theft Bag: This is an ideal travel companion – it comes with built-in security features that keep your belongings secure, reducing the risk of theft during your travels. With advancements in fashion, you can now find stylish options with exceptional functionality, making them perfect for vacations where style and security are priorities.
eReader: like the Kindle Paperwhite, makes the perfect vacation companion as it combines the portability and weightlessness of a single book while providing the capacity to store thousands of novels for entertainment. Moreover, its adjustable light settings and long battery life facilitate reading during transit, whether it’s mid-flight or at night, without disturbing others – a luxury traditional books can’t offer.
Tech Organizer Case: ensures all essential tech accessories like cables, adapters, and devices are neatly organized and easily accessible. This not only eliminates the hassle of rummaging through your bag for a tangled cord but also helps to maximize the efficient use of space within the bag.
Remember, the key is to pack smart and embrace savvy travel essentials that optimize comfort and convenience!
Best Travel Essentials Everyone Wants
Planning for a trip often entails the excitement-charged task of selecting the right essentials to pack.
This section highlights the best travel essentials that everyone craves, from the appropriate attire to tech gadgets, that go a long way in enhancing convenience during your journey.
These items, carefully curated by experienced travelers, promise to make every trip, whether short or long, a hassle-free experience.
1. Apple AirTags
Get ready for your next adventure with a travel essential that’s as smart as it is useful – the Apple AirTag.
This tiny gadget can make your trips stress-free by preventing the harrowing instances of lost luggage.
As a modern-day traveler, you’ll love the security it brings to your journeys. Simply sync the AirTag with your ‘Find My map’ and place it in your luggage to keep track of your belongings from point A to point B.
Lost luggage is increasingly common, but with an Apple AirTag, you’re covered.
Don’t forget these handy AirTag holders!
2. Travel Backpack
A travel backpack is your next must-have travel essential!
It’s an easy and convenient way to keep all your essentials – think wallet, phone, keys, passport – in one place, and with some even featuring a built-in USB port, you’ll never run out of battery on the move.
Its versatility and functionality, such as several compartments for organization and a separate section for shoes, are just unbeatable. Seriously, these travel backpacks are way cooler than your backpack from high school!
3. Luggage Scale
Traveling soon? Don’t even think about neglecting the trusty luggage scale!
This small but mighty tool, loved by frequent travelers like us, is your ticket to a stress-free journey.
With this compact gadget, say goodbye to dreaded overweight baggage fees.
Pack it in your carry-on for on-the-go convenience and weigh it with precision every time. One of my best gifts ever!
4. Anti-Theft Bag
An Anti-Theft Bag offers peace of mind when traveling, with built-in safety features deterring theft. These bags aren’t just secure but also fashionable, which is perfect!
The locking zippers act as a deterrent against potential theft as they add an additional barrier of protection.
Moreover, the incorporation of RFID blocking technology in these bags ensures your valuable information stays protected. This technology prevents identity theft by safeguarding any object with an RFID chip, such as passports issued after 2006 and credit/debit cards, from being read through your bag.
While traditionally, anti-theft bags have been seen as lacking in style, new versions of these bags are coming up in several fashionable options. As stated, they are now available in various colors like navy, charcoal, merlot, and blush apart from the usual black.
5. Underwater Action Camera
As a travel essentials superstar, the Underwater Action Camera ensures you never miss capturing a thrilling aquatic adventure. Turning ordinary snapshots into extraordinary keepsakes, this camera becomes a must-have for wanderlust souls.
Remarkably sealed, this camera captures stunning photos even from underwater.
Perfect for beachy holidays, and even more beneficial for snorkelers and swimmers.
Get for a tech-free vacation!
Pro tip: Master using this camera during daylight for better results.
6. Bluetooth Earbud Transmitter – Perfect to Use Your Airpods Pro
Head off on your next adventure armed with the Twelve South Bluetooth Audio Transmitter. This coveted travel essential turns your flight into a personal cinema!
Its superb features include high-quality sound transmission, pairing capabilities with airplane TVs, and functioning as a headphone splitter.
Ideal for tech-savvy travelers and those who love using their own headphones.
7. External Portable Charger
Don’t forget your portable charger – it’s a true travel hero! Imagine never running out of battery while navigating unfamiliar territories or capturing memorable moments.
This external power bank ensures your devices always stay juiced up.
Lightweight and compact size
Fast-charging capability
Can charge multiple devices at once.
Expert tip: Choose a charger that can power your device type at least 4x from zero battery.
8. Lightweight Luggage
Investing in lightweight luggage helps travelers avoid excessive baggage fees.
This is what we did over ten years ago and I can truly say we have saved thousands of dollars.
Look for luggage that weighs less than ten pounds. With most airlines capping luggage weight between 40-50 pounds that gives you 30-40 pounds of your stuff that you can pack.
While it is an upfront investment in new luggage, you will significantly reduce the risk of incurring additional fees.
9. Travel Wallet
This is something I picked up right before my last flight (teal of course)! I loved it because it was lightweight and compact size for easy carrying. Even in my yoga pant pocket!
Heald exactly what I needed with organized compartments for ID, cash, and credit cards
Sleek design that suits any style
RFID protection to keep your information safe
Travel wallets are perfect for minimalist travelers who love simplicity and security.
Learn how much cash can you fly with. It is more than your travel wallet!
10. Passport Holder
A passport holder: the travel essential you never knew you needed.
It’s the perfect companion for safeguarding your most priceless travel accessory – your passport.
Super convenient, passport holders come equipped with slots for important IDs, boarding passes, and even stashed currency.
The RFiD-blocking feature ensures your personal details remain secure from potential scams.
If you are traveling internationally, then this is something you want to seriously consider.
11. Tech Organizer Case
It’s a must-have to neatly stash all your tech essentials. Never be frazzled by tangled cords or lost chargers again.
The Tech Organizer Case, like the top pick FYY Electronic Organizer, is your ultimate travel buddy ensuring a clutter-free trip.
Ample space for multiple chargers, durable, and easy-to-use zippered compartments.
Be the organized traveler everyone envies!
12. Portable Door Lock
You mustn’t miss out on the Portable Door Lock when packing your travel essentials! This compact lock adds top-notch security and peace of mind to your trips.
Portable door locks are hot on the list of travel essentials because of their simplicity – easy to use, install, and pack in your luggage.
Best for solo travelers and Airbnb guests, this device prevents unexpected entrance even with a key.
Pro tip: Always test the lock right after installation for foolproof safety.
13. Carry-On Rolling Luggage
With precise packing, it is feasible to fit everything you need into this one carry-on, thereby ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Picking the best carry-on rolling luggage for your needs requires careful consideration. Rolling luggage with 4-wheels can be ideal as it takes the weight off your wrist and can be rolled effortlessly by your side.
Spacious enough to accommodate all your travel essentials like laptop, shoes, etc.
Opt for brands that offer a good warranty to ensure the durability of your luggage.
If your travel involves different types of terrain or switching from airports to cobblestones, you might want to consider a wheeled backpack which can be rolled or carried as needed. Lastly, always ensure that your chosen luggage is lightweight, versatile, and
These suitcases not only provide convenience due to their mobility but also allow the freedom to avoid checked luggage.
14. Toiletry Bag
Toiletry bags have become an essential part of smart packing for travel.
Hanging toiletry bags, like the Bagsmart option, represent a game changer, contributing significantly to an organized, convenient, and hassle-free travel experience.
Pick one that has the ability to accommodate a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries.
15. Travel Duffel Bag
Whether it’s a long adventure or a weekend getaway, a travel duffel bag is incredibly useful.
It holds your essentials—clothes, tech gadgets, toiletry bag, keys, phone—safely and conveniently.
Remember the thrill of keeping all your belongings organized? You get that with the multiple compartments.
Also, let’s not forget about that separate section for shoe storage—talk about clutch!
Best feature? Some come with a built-in USB port to ensure your devices are always charged.
Expert tip: Look for a bag that’s airline-compliant, lightweight, and durable.
16. Travel Pillow
Ready for your next adventure? Don’t forget your travel pillow – it’s your key to ultimate comfort!
Many popular Travel Pillows offer tailor-made support for your head and neck, especially on those long-haul flights. It’s lightweight and packs easily, meaning less hassle for you.
Best for those who value a peaceful in-flight snooze, this game-changing essential comes with a memory-foam wall offering unmatched comfort.
Pro Tip: Pair it with the EverSnug travel blanket, It doesn’t just keep you cozy but doubles as a compact cushion too! Now, that’s travel made comfy and convenient!
17. Sunglasses Case
Off to a sun-soaked adventure, you need a nifty sunglasses case! It’s a must-have to safeguard your shades from damage while in transit.
Perfect for those eyeing to pack multiple pairs of sunglasses, you’d love this.
Expert tip – Choose a case that securely holds your glasses snugly, ensuring no damage takes place during the journey.
18. Contact Lens Case Kit
After my last late night flight, I was determined to find a better system for my contact. Enter the Contact Lens Case Kit.
Perfect for maintaining your vision care away from home, this kit boasts a mirror, mini solution bottle for your contacts, lens case, tweezer, and remover tool.
You can also get a contact lens and glasses case combo travel kit!
This handy, compact kit is an asset to anyone wearing contacts. Not only will it make your travel simpler, but it’s also affordable, priced under $10.
19. Reusable Water Bottle
Set off on your travels with the ultimate companion, a reusable water bottle!
Refill at any airport water fountain and save on plastic and expenditure – a savvy choice for our planet and wallet!
Plus this is a frugal green item with less plastic waste and sustainable hydration.
Expert Tip: Pack Liquid IV or Nuun tabs to make your drink a fun experience!
20. Packing Cubes
Say goodbye to disorganized luggage with packing cubes—your best travel buddy!
They’re a lifesaver for the frequent flyer seeking an organized and hassle-free travel experience. Especially those traveling with kids!
With features like shoe sleeves and compressibility, they’re ideal for chronic over-packers or shared-luggage travelers. I cannot say how helpful packing cubes are for trips!
21. Luggage Straps
Luggage straps are a travel essential you shouldn’t overlook! These handy accessories offer added security and ease for every traveler.
Designed with durability and convenience in mind, luggage straps, such as the TSA-approved luggage nylon straps, keep your checked bags secure during long flights. You’ll also love their visibility feature – bright neon colors that make your suitcase easily identifiable!
Ideal for people frequently on the go, they’ve garnered solid endorsements from seasoned travelers.
22. Travel Pill Box
Say goodbye to loose pills and experience medication portability at its finest with the Travel Pill Box – a real game changer for travel essentials!
The sheer convenience it offers makes it a must-have for every traveler.
The Travel Pill Box keeps your medications organized with multiple compartments that can be labeled as you wish.
Ideal for people on the go, it eliminates the need for bulky pill boxes and plastic bags.
Expert Tip: Allocate distinct sections for different medications and times of the day to ensure regularity even when your travel schedule is unpredictable.
23. Universal Travel Adapter
This top-quality adapter is a jet-setter’s delight, ensuring you’re always powered up on your globe-trotting adventures.
A travel adapter is a useful device that allows travelers to use their electronic devices in countries where different plug standards are used. It provides a hassle-free way to keep electronic devices like laptops, phones, or cameras powered up, vital for staying connected and entertained during international travels.
With its functionality in over 150 countries and capacity to charge six devices simultaneously, it’s perfect for the tech-savvy traveler.
Remember, it’s not a voltage converter, so ensure your devices are dual-voltage. If not, pack an adapter that converts voltage.
24. TSA Approved Luggage Lock
Secure your luggage with the TSA Approved Luggage Lock, an absolute must-have for every savvy traveler.
With this lock, enjoy peace of mind on your journeys, assured your luggage is safe and no one has been through your stuff!
Featuring easy-to-read dials, an inspection indicator, and a durable zinc alloy design, it’s perfect for frequent flyers and security-conscious travelers.
Expert Tip – Always lock your suitcase when unattended to deter theft. And carry an extra in case yours is lost.
25. TSA Approved Travel Bottles
These TSA Approved Travel Bottles are magnificent game-changers for any frequent flier.
They’re precisely designed, with an easy dispensing mechanism, and leak-proof tops, plus conform to TSA size limits.
A supreme choice for savvy travelers, they’re reusable, eco-friendly, and wallet-friendly.
26. Luggage Cup Holder
The Luggage Cup Holder is about to be your new jet-setting best friend. (In fact, I’m buying this for my son for Christmas.)
This genius accessory deftly holds your coffee or water bottle, freeing you up to maneuver through busy airports effortlessly.
Even better, it features a handy pouch for storing essentials like ID’s or credit cards.
Juggle less and travel more, with this brilliant travel necessity!
27. Compression Socks
Long-haul flights call for compression socks! They increase blood flow while reducing swelling and the risk of blood clotting which may occur due to prolonged periods of sitting, such as during long flights.
Thankfully, they are way more stylish than the traditional hospital-issued white compression socks. This has caused their popularity to soar, providing pressure from the ankle upwards, making them essential for flights.
These socks provide graduated compression especially high at the ankles and reduce upwards towards the knee, facilitating increased blood flow.
Moreover, they are not only meant for those with medical conditions, but also beneficial for travelers, athletes, and those who stand for long hours at work. They enhance overall leg health by minimizing swelling, fatigue, and discomfort, thus improving the quality of your daily activities and sleep.
28. Cruise Luggage Tags
Get ready to sail in style and convenience with one indispensable travel essential – cruise luggage tags.
It’s that little gadget you never knew you needed until you’ve used one and seen its magic.
Here’s why: These tags make your bags unmistakable, reducing the risk of losing them amidst a sea of sameness. It’s a godsend for frequent cruisers as your company-issued tags won’t fall off.
Go for brightly-colored, durable tags. A simple trick, but could save you from a world of lost luggage stress.
29. Laundry soap sheets
One of the best ways to pack less is to run a quick load of luggage on your trip. So, these laundry soap sheets come in handy! We also pack two dryer balls as well.
Ready to pack for your next adventure? Don’t forget laundry soap sheets, a travel game-changer! –
They’re lightweight and occupy minimal space. This is great when packing a minimalist capsule wardrobe.
No time to find a laundromat? Then, use SinkSuds which can be used anywhere!
30. Security Cameras at Home
Securing your home with surveillance cameras while traveling is a crucial precaution.
The peace of mind offered by a vigilant “electronic eye” is incomparable. These cameras capture real-time footage, aiding in deterring burglaries and providing evidence if needed. Perfect for frequent travelers, it assures your abode’s safety from afar.
When we travel, we install one inside our house with an instant notification on our phones. As motion is detected, a siren noise goes off, which I’m sure would terrify any intruder!
Expert tip: Opt for cameras with remote-access features, so you’re always a glance away from your home.
What are the five most important items you need for these vacations?
Setting off for your much-anticipated vacation?
Here are the top five must-have travel essentials for an easy-going and memorable adventure.
Travel Planner and Journal: This bundle is essential for planning your trip and keeping track of your daily activities. The planner helps organize your itinerary, while the journal provides a wonderful means to record memories and experiences from your trip.
Multipurpose Clothing: Items like versatile shoes or pants that are ideal for multiple activities such as hiking and sightseeing are crucial to pack. Such items can save you space in your baggage, simplify your travel outfits, and cover a variety of travel occasions or activities.
All-in-One Travel Bag: A multipurpose bag, like a fanny pack or backpack, is an important versatile travel essential. This item keeps your essentials within easy reach, aids organization, and can adapt to a variety of travel situations.
Personal Care Essentials: Depending on your destination and planned activities, personal care items may include sunblock, moisturizer, or insect repellant. They ensure you are prepared for the environmental conditions you may face and can greatly enhance your overall comfort and well-being during your travels.
Travel Luggage: This trendy luggage piece thrills travelers with its durability and sleek design. Make sure your suitcases are lightweight!
Remember, a well-prepared traveler is a happy traveler. Aim for comfort, protection, and convenience!
Which Essentials for Travelling are your Next Purchase?
Ready to embark on your next adventure?
Don’t let unexpected situations curb your enthusiasm – it all starts with being prepared.
Remember, travel isn’t just about the destination but the journey, and the journey includes packing well!
With these travel essentials ideas, you can load up your bags with high-quality travel gear, ensuring comfort and stress-free experiences during your trip and beyond. Many of which are actually Amazon travel must haves.
Investing in essentials now will not just save you money down the line, but also help avoid irritating travel hitches.
Whether it’s tangle-free cords, smart luggage, or convenient packing tools – each item on our list has earned its spot by proving its worth on countless journeys for me.
So, next time you’re planning a trip, remember to refer back to this list. Good preparation equals to great journeys!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Decor Ideas. Project Inspiration. Expert Advice. Delivered to your inbox.
Thank you for signing up to Homes & Gardens. You will receive a verification email shortly.
There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.
Interior designer and co-founder of lifestyle brand Magnolia Joanna Gaines is inspiring us with creative fall craft ideas, more specifically flower pressing.
Taking to Instagram over the weekend, the renowned designer shared a snapshot of a stunning fall-inspired collection of flowers that were in the process of being pressed, which taps into a key floral trend for 2023.
how to press flowers is a fairly straightforward process, but we turned to the flower experts to find out more about this fall craft.
‘Flower pressing can make some beautiful home-crafted pieces and using fall flowers can make a colorful display,’ explains Georgina O’Grady, managing director at Evergreen.
‘Good fall flower options include asters, violas, sunflowers, marigolds and zinnias. Once you have picked your flowers, remove any excess foliage that might cause the flowers to rot during pressing,’ she continues to explain.
Georgina O’Grady
fall colors that reflect the warming and earthy tones associated with the autumnal months is a key step: ‘For fall, opting for warm-toned flowers such as burnt orange, mustard yellow, and muted pink will help to bring the colors you expect to see in nature at this time of year into your home.’
For best results, Blott explains that ‘flowers with fewer layers of petals work best for pressing,’ whilst you can also mix things up and ‘consider also pressing some herbs and grasses for variation in your displays.’
Kate Blott
dried flowers, to begin with rather than fresh, which Blott explains gives a unique look: ‘Already-dried flowers retain some of their contours while fresh flowers become much flatter. Fresh flowers flatten as their natural moisture is wicked away, but a dry flower has already set in its dried state, meaning a completely flattened result isn’t achievable.’
The best bit about flower pressing for fall? It’s definitely the longevity: pressed flowers look great as home decor for years to come, as Blott explains: ‘Unlike standard dried flowers that may be exposed to dirt, damp and harsh light, pressed flowers are often kept tucked away inside journals or behind glass. This will extend their lifespan.’
‘As with all dried floral products, the level of care they are given will directly affect how long they last and look their best,’ Blott concludes.
Feeling inspired to get creative this fall? We’ve rounded up 13 creative fall craft ideas to help transform your home this cozy season.
Die-hard homebuyers, driven by life circumstances, will press forward in October. Everyone else will be inclined to wait for mortgage rates to fall, making homes more affordable. They’ll have to bide their time for months, not for weeks. In September, mortgage rates reached their highest levels since 2000, and they could inch upward in October.
Intrepid home shoppers might discover that more sellers are reducing their asking prices, but most would-be buyers will struggle to find suitable places to make offers on.
Rates rose after the Fed meeting
The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy committee met Sept. 19 and 20. Its updated summary of economic projections included Fed members’ forecasts about the direction of short-term interest rates for the next three-plus years. Mortgage rates didn’t move much in the three weeks before the Fed meeting as the market waited for the summary of economic projections to drop.
The projections surprised the mortgage market. The Fed members signaled that they expect to keep short-term interest rates higher for longer than the mortgage market had expected. Mortgage rates played catch-up after the Fed meeting, with the 30-year fixed-rate home loan rising past 7.25% for the first time since late 2000.
Home affordability fades
Rising mortgage rates chip away at home affordability, which has been declining since early 2021. The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta has a home affordability index with data going back to the beginning of 2006, and July’s affordability (the most recent available) was the lowest in the index’s 17-year-plus history. And mortgage rates have gone up since July, making a home even harder to afford.
Mortgage rates have gone up five months in a row, making mortgage payments higher for a given loan amount. The impact on affordability has motivated almost 40% of home sellers to reduce their initial asking prices, according to Mike Simonsen, president of real estate analytics firm Altos Research, in a weekly commentary posted to YouTube. In spring, when mortgage rates were lower, about 30% of the homes on the market had taken a price cut.
Homebuyers might rejoice at the news that more sellers are reducing their asking prices. But the lack of properties to choose from remains a drag. According to the National Association of Realtors, 1.1 million homes were for sale at the end of August, the latest available data. In August 2019, a closer-to-normal, pre-pandemic market, 1.83 million homes were for sale.
What other forecasters predict
Fannie Mae and the Mortgage Bankers Association disagree in their mortgage rate forecasts for the last three months of the year. Fannie Mae predicts a slight increase at year end, while the MBA expects a sharp decline foreshadowing a recession in the first half of 2024. Both organizations published their forecasts before the Sept. 19-20 Fed meeting that hinted at a sustained level of higher interest rates.
What happened to mortgage rates in September
At the end of August, I predicted that mortgage rates might rise in September because of uncertainty about what the Federal Reserve will do.
Indeed, mortgage rates rose after the Sept. 20 Fed announcement. Freddie Mac reported that the average rate on a 30-year mortgage climbed to 7.31% in the week of Sept. 28, the highest since the week of Dec. 15, 2000.
More From NerdWallet
Holden Lewis writes for NerdWallet. Email: [email protected]. Twitter: @HoldenL.
Equity Prime Mortgage (EPM), which shifted to the TPO business after exiting its retail channel in the fall, has embarked on a new chapter. EPM wants to help grow the industry’s wholesale channel through its newly launched broker recruiting website.
BLVR – a marketing and promotional campaign launched by EPM on Monday – aims to reach as many retail loan officers to provide information about the wholesale channel.
When retail loan originators visit the website, LOs are asked to fill out their names, contact information and comments or questions about wholesale lending.
A third-party call center agent of BLVR will reach out to the loan officer for a follow-up and potentially connect the LO with another broker to explore business options in the wholesale channel.
“They can continue the conversation [with another broker] to the point where they make the decision to stay in retail or move over to the light side of the force,” Phil Mancuso, president and chief investment officer of EPM, said in an interview with HousingWire.
“As folks come into the funnel, we just push it through a call center and out to the brokers (…) There are no strings attached. If EPM happens to get one of those loans down the line, great, even better. We believe that we will earn business if the pie is bigger.” Mancuso explained.
The goal is to bring more than 4,000 loan officers to the wholesale channel over the next 12 months, EPM said.
The BLVR website gives retail loan officers a glimpse of the opportunities in wholesale origination, Mancuso added.
With mortgage rates having sharply risen since 2022, loan officers who have already made the jump to wholesale say they have an advantage in being able to shop around for lower rates.
Not having to bake in overhead costs found in the retail channel is a key advantage, wholesale lenders say.
About 16.8% of first-lien mortgage originations last quarter came from the broker channel, correspondent lending took up 26.8% and retail consisted of 56.5% of total volume, according to data from Inside Mortgage Finance (IMF).
That’s a jump in the broker (13.9%) and correspondent (24.1%) channels while a drop in retail origination(62%) in Q2 2022.
“The broker portion of the industry is less than it was pre-financial crisis. Yet, brokers have never been more competitive. The offering had never been more compelling. We’re pretty adamant, as others are about the future of this segment of our business (wholesale lending),” Mancuso said.
Home is where we spend most of our time, the safe space that welcomes us at the end of a long day, the special place where we raise our families, bond with our loved ones, or retreat to for some well-deserved solitude.
And much like everything else in life, our home needs to be properly taken care of. I’m not talking about property improvements, upgrades or anything fancy.
Today, we just want to go over some general home maintenance aspects that you’re likely well aware of, but we’re hoping that a little reminder will help bring them to the forefront.
There are many things you can do, from doing regular maintenance with proper cleaning products like the ones from HG to taking extra safety measures. When you take care of your home properly, it will be the most comfortable place in the world. Keep reading to learn more about how you can achieve that.
Perform regular maintenance
The first tip to make your home is always in top condition is to perform regular maintenance.
This usually includes inspecting some points in your house, such as pipelines, roofs, ceilings, and HVAC systems. When you find something wrong at one or some of those points, you have to quickly address the issue.
Of course, you can always rely on professionals who are specialized in fixing such problems if you don’t feel like you have the expertise to do it yourself.
Make a regular cleaning schedule
The next tip is to keep your house clean at all times by making a regular cleaning schedule.
You can set the cleaning schedule once a month, twice a month, or even once a week depending on how often your home gets cluttered. Usually, the more people living in the house, the more easily it gets cluttered and accumulates dust.
You can adjust your regular cleaning schedule based on how many people live in your house. Besides, you have to stock up on several kinds of cleaning products to make your regular cleaning activities much easier.
Take security measures
Another thing you must not miss when taking care of your home is to take security measures.
This is very important because the safety of your house as well as its inhabitants must be a key priority. And this doesn’t only mean safety from burglars who can break into your house. It also means keeping your home safe from hazards such as fire and potential short circuits.
A few easy ways to achieve this is to ensure your home has all the basic security features like security locks, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. It’s also a good idea to install an alarm system and several CCTVs around your home (if your budget can accommodate that) to make it more secure.
Perform landscaping and outdoor maintenance regularly
To make your home more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, you have to perform landscaping and outdoor maintenance regularly.
This is very important because the exterior of your house can change drastically if you don’t tend to it regularly. One of the most important outdoor maintenance activities that you have to do is to mow your lawn due to how fast weeds grow.
You also have to trim bushes and trees if you have any in your yard. You also have to check the drainage to make sure it’s not blocked by dirt.
More stories
7 Top Decorating Ideas for Your Bedroom this Fall: Making Your Room More Cozy & Stylish
Here’s Everything You Need to Set Up a Meditation Corner in Your House
10 Unique Picture Frames and Holders to Create the Perfect Photo Wall
Die-hard home buyers, driven by life circumstances, will press forward in October. Everyone else will be inclined to wait for mortgage rates to fall, making homes more affordable. They’ll have to bide their time for months, not for weeks. In September, mortgage rates reached their highest levels since 2000, and they could inch upward in October.
Intrepid home shoppers might discover that more sellers are reducing their asking prices, but most would-be buyers will struggle to find suitable places to make offers on.
Getting ready to buy or refinance a home? We’ll find you a highly rated lender in just a few minutes
Just answer a few questions to get started on a personalized lender match
Rates rose after the Fed meeting
The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy committee met Sept. 19 and 20. Its updated summary of economic projections included Fed members’ forecasts about the direction of short-term interest rates for the next three-plus years. Mortgage rates didn’t move much in the three weeks before the Fed meeting as the market waited for the summary of economic projections to drop.
The projections surprised the mortgage market. The Fed members signaled that they expect to keep short-term interest rates higher for longer than the mortgage market had expected. Mortgage rates played catch-up after the Fed meeting, with the 30-year fixed-rate home loan rising past 7.25% for the first time since late 2000.
Home affordability fades
Rising mortgage rates chip away at home affordability, which has been declining since early 2021. The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta has a home affordability index with data going back to the beginning of 2006, and July’s affordability (the most recent available) was the lowest in the index’s 17-year-plus history. And mortgage rates have gone up since July, making a home even harder to afford.
Mortgage rates have gone up five months in a row, making mortgage payments higher for a given loan amount. The impact on affordability has motivated almost 40% of home sellers to reduce their initial asking prices, according to Mike Simonsen, president of real estate analytics firm Altos Research, in a weekly commentary posted to YouTube. In spring, when mortgage rates were lower, about 30% of the homes on the market had taken a price cut.
Home buyers might rejoice at the news that more sellers are reducing their asking prices. But the lack of properties to choose from remains a drag. According to the National Association of Realtors, 1.1 million homes were for sale at the end of August, the latest available data. In August 2019, a closer-to-normal, pre-pandemic market, 1.83 million homes were for sale.
What other forecasters predict
Fannie Mae and the Mortgage Bankers Association disagree in their mortgage rate forecasts for the last three months of the year. Fannie Mae predicts a slight increase at year end, while the MBA expects a sharp decline foreshadowing a recession in the first half of 2024. Both organizations published their forecasts before the Sept. 19-20 Fed meeting that hinted at a sustained level of higher interest rates.
What happened to mortgage rates in September
At the end of August, I predicted that mortgage rates might rise in September because of uncertainty about what the Federal Reserve will do.
Indeed, mortgage rates rose after the Sept. 20 Fed announcement. Freddie Mac reported that the average rate on a 30-year mortgage climbed to 7.31% in the week of Sept. 28, the highest since the week of Dec. 15, 2000.
As someone who grew up in a small town with the closest mall almost an hour away, I didn’t discover Anthropologie until later in life (probably a good thing for my wallet TBH). But don’t worry, I’ve made up for lost time by purchasing every home, beauty, and clothing item I can afford and mentally adding the entire kitchen section to my non-existent wedding registry. What? A girl can dream.
As much as I love Anthropologie, however, I don’t always love their prices. So when I want to get a similar look at a more affordable price, I turn to Amazon. You might be surprised by how much Anthropologie-inspired home decor—ranging from pillows and throws to kitchen and dining items—you can find on Amazon for a fraction of the price. That’s right, you no longer have to shop in the sale section or break the bank to decorate your home in Anthro’s signature boho-inspired style. Keep scrolling for some of my favorite Amazon home decor finds that give you the same look for less (and two-day shipping!).
In this article
Decor & Lighting
Antique Gold Wall Mirror
The Gleaming Primrose Mirror is one of Anthropologie’s most viral products and for good reason. The vintage-inspired design and intricate details make it a beautiful addition to any room, but starting at $548, it’ll cost you a pretty penny. There are several similar designs out there, but none are quite as good as this option from Amazon. The details and color options are nearly identical to Anthropologie’s but at less than half the cost.
Grecian Bust Candle
Grecian busts have been a popular motif at Anthropologie for a while now, mostly in the form of their Grecian Bust Pot. These pots work beautifully as planters or vases, but if you don’t have a green thumb, you may want to opt for this Grecian bust-inspired candle from Amazon instead.
Faux Fur Throw Blanket
Every winter, Anthropologie brings out their line of ultra-plush faux fur throw blankets. Not only are they a great item to give for the holidays, but they also make any room feel extra cozy. However, most of their throws cost well over $100, which is a little steep if you’re buying them for multiple people or more than one room in your home. Thankfully, Amazon has this similar version for half the price.
4 colors available
Woven Pendant Lamp
In the words of Chandler Bing, could this BE any more beautiful? The woven details make this pendant look so luxe that no one would believe it’s only $140. Bonus: natural materials like wicker, rattan, and cane are popular right now thanks to the “tropicalcore” trend, and this light fixture is the perfect addition to bring some vacation vibes into your home.
Velvet Throw Pillow Covers
Soft velvet and bold colors are hallmarks of Anthropologie textiles, so these pillow covers fit right in with the brand’s eclectic style. While these covers don’t come with pillow inserts like they would at Anthropologie, you do get a set of four for only $32, which is a steal.
10 colors available
Brass Snail Figurine
One of my favorite things about Anthropologie is their selection of small but impactful decor pieces. I actually saw a snail figurine similar to this one at Anthro several years ago, and I’ve been kicking myself ever since for not buying it, so I’m glad to see a similar version available on Amazon. These snails would look absolutely adorable styled on a shelf or as paperweights on your desk.
Floral Flush Mount Light Fixture
With feminine, delicate details, this light fixture looks like something straight out of an Anthropologie catalog. Imagine it hanging in an elegant entryway, a stylish bathroom, or airy guest room. The best part? It’s less than $60.
Tufted Runner
Something I’ll never understand is why rugs are so expensive. Even the smallest size can cost hundreds of dollars, but this Amazon runner gives the Anthropologie look for much, much less. At less than $40, I’ll definitely be adding this to cart for my kitchen.
5 colors available
Boho Tufted Accent Pillow Cover
Add some texture to your couch or bed with this Moroccan-style throw pillow cover. Handwoven tufted accents give the cover a sophisticated look, and the thick and durable fabric give it a high-quality feel.
Wooden Bowl Centerpiece
If a hand-carved wooden bowl doesn’t scream boho-chic, I’m not sure what does. Pieces like this are great to have around the house for a variety of purposes. Style it on a coffee table with a candle and coasters, use it was a fruit bowl in the kitchen, or keep it by the front door as a catchall for your wallet and keys.
Woven Blanket
Woven blankets are another boho-style staple, and the colors and tassels on this one are what dreams are made of. Its lighter-weight fabric also makes this one easy to style over a chair or at the end of a bed.
10+ colors available
Kitchen & Dining
Fluted Ceramic Bowl
Another one of my personal favorite Anthropologie items is their Amelie Latte Bowls. I use mine almost daily to serve meals or to hold ingredients while cooking, and I love the French-inspired look of them. While these bowls aren’t that expensive in store, there is a slightly cheaper alternative available on Amazon for those who love a good deal.
4 colors available
Ceramic Berry Baskets
With the grandmillennial trend still going strong, quirky, vintage-inspired pieces like these berry bowls are especially popular. Not only are they functional in helping you keep your fridge more organized, but they also add a fun whimsical touch to your kitchen.
3 colors available
Candles & Candlesticks
Twisted Candle Sticks
For a trendy take on the classic taper look, try these twisted candles. They come in tons of different colors, so grab a four-pack of your favorite shade to re-create Anthropologie’s funky style for less.
10+ colors available
Ribbed Glass Candle Holders
These ribbed glass candlestick holders are a mix of boho and vintage, making them a beautiful addition to any tablescape. Each set comes with six candle holders in three different sizes and styles. Pro tip: mix and match the colors to create a more customized look.
4 colors available
Candle Warmer Lamp
I’ve seen so many gals on TikTok showing off their candle warmer lamps as part of their nighttime routines, and you can consider me influenced. I love the quirky look of the scalloped shade paired with the vintage look of the brass and wood base. And at just $20, this is an affordable way to create a cozy atmosphere for fall.
2 colors available
Rose Quartz Coasters
Anthropologie’s Gilded Agate Coasters are another one of their signature items. I have these in almost every room of my house and often give them as housewarming or Christmas presents. Although the coasters are stunning, they’re a little pricey at $16 a piece, which is why I was excited to find that Amazon sells this set of four natural gemstone coasters for only $40.
Monogram Mug
If you’re unfamiliar with the mug section at Anthropologie, I encourage you to run not walk to check them out. They have a fun selection of monogrammed, floral, and geometric options, but if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative, this mug gives Anthro vibes at an Amazon price.
Lidded Glass Jar Candle
Anthropologie is famous for their candle section, and this glass jar candle looks just like something you’d find in-store. It comes in a variety of colors and scents, but the best part is that it’s paraben- and paraffin-free.
7 colors available
All the Decor You Need to Get the Cottagecore Look This Fall
All is not well in Pasadena, at least not for one of the nation’s largest independent mortgage lenders.
Indymac Bancorp saw its shares fall nearly 20 percent over the last week, and the company now faces the strong possibility of trading below $1.
In recent weeks, Indymac has faced a series of class action lawsuits for what attorneys called “materially false and misleading statements” regarding the company’s operations and financial results.
While Indymac denied the claims, it’s clear that investors have gotten a raw deal, considering the stock is now down nearly 97 percent from its 52-week high.
Last Thursday, Indymac CEO Mike Perry attempted to put his employees at ease by claiming the company was strong in the liquidity department, though he also recognized the fact that it would need to raise capital to guarantee “long-term health.”
At the end of last month, UBS analyst Eric Wassterstrom said the lender would need to raise capital to stay afloat, speculating that Indymac may need to part ways with its profitable reverse mortgage unit Freedom Financial.
The company had previously relied upon its stock purchase plan to raise capital, but with shares trading so poorly, that option is all but out the window.
Indymac said it made $2 billion in loans in May, off 13 percent from April production of $2.3 billion, although its pipeline grew nearly seven percent, signaling stronger June results.
Shares of Indymac were down 7 cents, or 6.48%, to $1.01 in early afternoon trading on Wall Street, dipping as low as $1.00, but no further.
Update: Shares of Indymac ended the day down 28 cents, or 25.94%, to a mere 80 cents, sinking at one time as low as 75 cents.
According to the WSJ, Senator Schumer sent letters to Indymac’s regulators regarding the company’s financial health, noting that the lender had $10.4 billion in advances from the FHLB of San Francisco as of the end of the first quarter.
Well now that the Super Bowl is over, it’s time to look forward toward spring and the rest of 2013.
The holidays have passed and now many individuals are determining what their financial goals are for the year.
Is this the year to finally sell a home, buy a home, or just continue to sit tight?
While all those questions may have different answers, depending upon your current position, it’s clear that it’s a seller’s market right now.
It’s not a traditional seller’s market, largely because most homeowners don’t have much home equity, but the current environment does favor sellers because inventory is just so tight.
There’s also voracious demand at the moment, thanks to the perception that the worst is now behind us, and that if you buy in now, you’ll get a cheap home with an even cheaper mortgage.
Unfortunately, this herd mentality often precedes a bubble, that is, an unwarranted surge in price before a sudden and dramatic correction.
Housing Bubble Part Deux?
So, are we in for more trouble, now that seemingly every pundit, analyst, government official, interested party, and American is in on the supposed recovery?
The few who believe we are in for another bubble basically think the Fed created artificial demand for housing by pushing mortgage rates to new record lows, via quantitative easing like QE3.
It’s hard to argue with that fact – mortgage rates did indeed fall to unprecedented levels, and with that seemed to come a newfound demand for housing.
But even though demand is up, home sales are still lower than they have been historically.
All the recent “killer numbers” are only good, or improved, relative to the preceding dismal years.
And one could argue that home prices are on the mend because they’re cheap, not because rates are low. After all, plenty of recent sales have gone to cash buyers who could care less about rates.
If you look at the historical relationship of home prices and mortgage rates, it’s not what you’d think.
There’s not much of a correlation, and higher mortgage rates could actually come with higher home prices as a result of an improving economy.
It’s not as if the moment rates rise home prices will plummet, though the current situation is a little unprecedented.
Additionally, home prices are only up from the “bottom,” and nowhere close to fully recovered, assuming they eventually match the prices seen during the previous bubble, which history tells us they will.
In other words, inventory shortages and low prices are the real driver of demand at the moment, not necessarily low rates.
The low rates are more a boon to those looking to refinance their now expensive mortgages, not reason alone to purchase a home.
Housing bears also believe unemployment will continue to hinder a real recovery, and that there just aren’t any real buyers, only speculators.
The reasoning here is that there aren’t any first-time homebuyers because the economy is in the dumps, and there aren’t any move-up buyers because existing owners don’t have equity.
I think this is a convenient way of summing things up, but doesn’t represent reality. There are plenty of individuals who “missed” the first bubble, and have been patiently waiting to get in this time around.
There are also millions of existing owners with plenty of equity that want to buy again, especially at much lower prices.
What About Mortgage Quality?
To further argue against another housing bubble, the quality of mortgages this time ‘round is night and day.
Can you really compare a 30-year fixed at 3.5% to an option arm with a 1% teaser rate, which after five years, will reset to a fully-indexed and variable rate of 6% or higher.
Or a more straightforward interest-only ARM that becomes fully amortizing (and fully indexed) after 10 years, pushing a homeowner to the brink of default?
Oh, and those types of loans were also taken out at the height of the market, making mortgage payments that much more unsustainable.
Today, borrowers are taking out mortgages they can truly afford, with more skin in the game and no surprise resets in the future. Surely that will make for a more bubble-resistant housing market going forward.
But don’t be surprised if there are some hiccups along the way, because there will always be ups and downs.