I Traveled to All 7 Continents in 1 Year-and This Is the 1 Thing I Packed for Every Single Trip

"As a travel writer, I'm constantly on the go. In 2024, I traveled to all seven continents, and in 2025, I traveled to five, but wherever I go, a Smartwool base layer is always with me. I've worn these base layers while soaring high in a hot air balloon in Turkey, on safari in Botswana, and sailing to Antarctica, just to name a few places."

"While my original favorite Smartwool hoodie is now discontinued, the brand has two equally worthy options that have taken its place on my travels: the Women's Classic Thermal Merino Half-zip Hoodie (which is quite similar to the discontinued model with the exception of a zipper) and the Men's Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Hoodie, a zipper-free option that I like to wear in a size down from my usual size."

"Both my half-zip hoodie and men's base layer are great for travel days and keep me warm and comfortable in all climates, especially during active adventures. I love to wear layers underneath the hoodies-often with another merino wool top below and a jacket on top for cold weather. The fabric's natural temperature- and moisture-regulation, paired with its odor resistance, are especially useful while traveling. These hoodies are warm, cozy, and comfortable, and I love being able to pull the hood up on chilly days."

Traveled to all seven continents in 2024 and to five continents in 2025 with a Smartwool base layer consistently packed. Smartwool hoodies were used in diverse settings including a hot air balloon in Turkey, a safari in Botswana, and sailing to Antarctica. The collection spans over a decade; an original favorite hoodie is discontinued and replaced by two models: the Women's Classic Thermal Merino Half-zip Hoodie and the Men's Classic Thermal Merino Base Layer Hoodie. The half-zip mirrors the discontinued model aside from the zipper; the men's version is zipper-free and often worn a size down. Both hoodies provide midweight warmth, flatlock seam comfort, temperature and moisture regulation, and odor resistance suitable for travel.

Read at Travel + Leisure