How to travel with just a carry-on

THE COMPASS

This week’s travel inspirations: Discover coastal Africa’s new hiking hot spot; bike through New Zealand’s wine country; delight in hawksbill turtles in a marine paradise; wind through epic landscapes via train; and pack the best travel gear of the year. We’re also checking into a surprising ski capital and exploring Japan’s heritage towns.

A look inside a train bedroom with a view on cypresses.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID DUPREY/AP

This state has the most ski resorts in the U.S. (it isn’t Colorado)

From family-friendly slopes to adrenaline-pumping terrain, this state has 52 resorts primed for winter sports.

Related: Here’s how to pack for a ski vacation, according to a former ski coach

Every year, around 220,000 people come to climb Mount Fuji, mostly packed into three hectic months between June and August when favourable weather conditions allow for scaling its summit.

PHOTOGRAPH BY OLAF PROTZE, GETTY IMAGES

See the world’s most iconic landscapes—by train

With all the comforts of a hotel on wheels, these trains roll through Australia’s Outback and Zimbabwe’s lush national parks, showing the journey can be just as enjoyable as the destination itself.

9 STUNNING ROUTES

Related: Here’s how to plan the ultimate coastal rail trip in the U.S.

Every year, around 220,000 people come to climb Mount Fuji, mostly packed into three hectic months between June and August when favourable weather conditions allow for scaling its summit.

PHOTOGRAPH BY AMANA, AWL IMAGES

These heritage towns rival Kyoto, with room to explore

The popular city may be hard to beat for culture and history, but dozens of ancient towns preserve wooden buildings, temples, and samurai roots.

6 TOWNS TO VISIT

Related: Here’s a practical guide to visiting Japan

PAID CONTENT FOR TRAVEL NEVADA

PHOTOGRAPH BY TARA KERZHNER

Explore the heart of Nevada

Welcome to Nevada. A place the wild things call home and the wild-hearted roam. Follow the trail less traveled. Get a taste of Basque culture or a feel for American Indian handcrafts. Dip into natural hot springs or climb to new heights. So go on, get a little out there.

Check out the latest product reviews and recommendations from Nat Geo’s editorial team.

A black men bent over a suitcase as he gently packs his clothes.

PHOTOGRAPH BY WAVEBREAK MEDIA PREMIUM, ALAMY

Going abroad? Here’s how to pack light.

Traveling with just a carry-on is totally doable. Just ask our seasoned experts.

10 FOOLPROOF TIPS

Two people walking across wood log over a stream of water.

PHOTOGRAPH BY BITS AND SPLITS, SHUTTERSTOCK

Complete your pack with the best travel essentials

Our ultimate annual list has everything you need to have the best travel year yet.

Related: Not sure where to go? Find inspiration from our favorite books.

A hiker looks up at a gorge in Big Bend National Park.

PHOTOGRAPH BY DAVID CHESKIN

What’s the craic with Burns Night?

It’s January, and across Scotland that means raising a glass to the nation’s beloved poet Robert Burns. But how did Burns Night begin? And where can you join in? Choose the false answer below and read our story for all the details.

A. The first Burns supper was held in 1801
B. Haggis is never served during the celebration (too obvious!)
C. But there is a recitation of Burns’s poem Address to a Haggis
D. None of the above
E. All of the above

CLICK FOR THE ANSWER

Related: Here’s the story behind haggis, Scotland’s national dish

OUR FAVORITE TRAVEL STORIES THIS MONTH

Standup paddleboarders glide down the Wanukaka River

PHOTOGRAPH BY JUSTIN FOULKES

Learn why Cape Verde is suddenly a hiking hot spot

This African archipelago reveals welcoming people and easy days capped with passionate song and warm rum.

Man riding a horse

PHOTOGRAPH BY IMAGE PROFESSIONALS GMBH, ALAMY

Here’s how to bike through New Zealand’s wine country

A new trail system spanning more than 1,700 miles offers up some of the country’s most cinematic scenery.

Related: Here’s why hut hiking is the best way to experience New Zealand

PHOTOGRAPH BY FOUR SEASONS

With 300 islands, this is the sailing adventure you can’t miss

In this Pacific nation, turquoise waters sheltering hawksbill turtles highlights the rewards of protecting marine ecosystems.

Exterior of trehouse hotel

PHOTOGRAPH BY MOLARJUNG, SHUTTERSTOCK

This lesser known Italian region is a paradise for nature lovers

With Roman history and alpine traditions, this dramatic, lofty land is emerging from the shadow of its showier neighbors.

Related: How to scale the “iron paths” of the Dolomites

MORE TRAVEL STORIES
TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT TRIP

Wild ice skating around the world 

Here’s why every trip to Antarctica should inspire action

All the best places to visit in February

Looking for a beach break? Try Norway’s unexpected Lofoten

What is tartiflette and where can you try it?

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