Taking the Kids now features “cool travel gear” – in our continuing effort to help families on their journeys. The right gear—whether you are going hiking, biking or exploring a new city—can make all the difference. These are Eileen’s reviews of travel clothes– please send us your tips!

taking the kids, cool travel geat, travel clothes, family travel, family vacations

taking the kids, cool travel geat, travel clothes, family travel, family vacations

I’ve long been a fan of ExOfficio whether I want underwear I can rinse out in a hotel sink, a shirt that will repel bugs, reversible leggings that are comfy for planes and shirts that won’t wrinkle. My husband is a huge fan of the Cool Performance Crew Shirt for travel.

Toad&Co is more fashion forward with a modern travel collection.  (The Wisper Cardie not only looks great but is supremely comfortable mix of Tencel and Spandex; Travelers also swear by their  Jetlite Pant that are stretch, slim and  will keep you cool and comfortable.

Whispie Cardie by Toad&Company

Whispie Cardie by Toad&Company

A packable Hat like this one from Soft Surroundings is always a good bet in summer.

Check out Oregon based YALA designs with comfy but sylish dresses, tunics, tops and leggings that can take you anywhere. Another new company I’ve discovered is  Cool Jams  for especially comfy travel PJs, Canadian-based Lisette L  for especially flattering pants that won’t wrinkle and  beijaflor jeans with  Smart Fiber technology to make the jeans lightweight, breathable, water resistant and even quick dray. (The Emana fabric is said to smooth skin!)

Sashi Cool Feet Socks

Sashi Cool Feet Socks

SHASHI Cool Feet Socks, a patented performance grip sock originally designed as a studio sock that also is ideal for travel with a mesh top and Coolmax moisture-wicking fabric. I’ve long been a fan of SmartWool for cushioned, non-cotton hiking socks but now a like their No-Show  Merino socks that manages moisture and keeps you cool.   Try socks made of Celliant, a textile technology infused into fabric that is said to use your body’s own energy to refuel.  The fabric is also used in running gear, yoga pants and PJs.

Next up: Cool gadgets for charging your accessories.