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TravelJohn TravelJane Disposable Urinal for Women 3.0ea

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Description.

• Odorless absorbent pouch

For Women on the Go!

• Odorless Absorbent Pouch

The key ingredient in TravelJohn™ is Liqsorb®, a biodegradable polymer substance that immobilizes bacterial growth quickly, absorbs liquid waste and turns it into odorless, non-toxic waste-disposal safe substance.  This gel, combines with an inner, Liqsorb® biodegradable, non-woven fabric, polymer pouch to be disposed of in an easy, clean and environmentally safe manner.  Plus, TravelJohn's unisex adaptor makes it easy for anyone to use while sitting or standing, and the spill guard prevents back flow during use.  Compact size.  Easy to use.  Leakproof, secure handling.  Simple, safe disposal.  Because no one should have to hold it in!

Odorless, leakproof, portable, unisex, hygienic, non-toxic, disposable, environmentally safe.  Reusable until it is full!

1-888-518-8389

Made in China

©Reach Global Industries Inc.

Product Specifications

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This product has no shipping restrictions.

Shipping Weight (in lbs): 0.29

Product in inches (LxWxH): 4.75x 2.0x 4.25

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The Complete St. John USVI Travel Guide

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you planning a trip to the stunning Caribbean island of St. John? If so, this comprehensive St. John USVI travel guide will ensure you have the tropical vacation of a lifetime. If this is your first time visiting the island, you are going to be in awe of its turquoise white sand beaches and lush foliage. However, St. John is no ordinary island, and there are many unique factors to consider when planning your trip.

The views on St. John are certainly quite stunning to behold, and I’d choose it every time if I could only pick one place to “get away from it all”.

It’s a slow paced life on the island, and it’s quite easy to get lost in it and forget all about the daily grind. There’s always a handful of times each year where my husband and I look at each other and seriously consider whether we could just drop everything and move here.

However, there’s no getting around the fact that little island nations like St. John come with their own set of challenges. After eleven years of visiting this beautiful, albeit sometimes frustrating tropical paradise, we’ve encountered plenty of setbacks in various degrees. Just when I think I’ve seen it all, there is always something new to keep us on our toes.

That being said, I still think St. John is one of the best places on this earth to vacation. So, let’s get into this St. John USVI travel guide and make your trip as amazing (and smooth) as possible!

• Why St. John
• Island Overview

Prepare for your trip

When to visit, getting to st. john.

• Renting a Vehicle
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat

Other Things to Know

Why st. john.

There are so many Caribbean islands to choose from, so why should you choose the little island of St. John? Well, as I mentioned above, St. John is freaking gorgeous . This can be largely attributed to the fact that about 60% of the island is Virgin Islands National Park. For that reason, you are treated to unadulterated views of rocky island terrain completely covered in lush plant life. The island is smaller and less developed than the other USVI’s, but has incredible beaches and plenty of things to do.

You cannot get to St. John by plane and you will not find mainstream chain restaurants, stores or large resorts overtaking the beaches. This provides the rare opportunity to truly unplug and be present in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Don’t worry – they definitely still have plenty of beach bars where you can get your vacation quota of rum-filled beverages.

The sun seekers who return to this island, including myself, appreciate St. John’s laid-back and fuss-free culture. There is no dressing up required in this casual beach bum environment, which is how I like it. T-shirts and shorts all day!

Need some Christmas gift ideas? Check out my St. John themed gift guide!

St. John USVI Island Overview

As any good St. John travel guide should do, I’ll give you a brief overview of this island’s logistics. So, first things first, St. John is one of several islands in a group known as the Virgin Islands. The Virgin Islands are located in the Caribbean Sea about 50-ish miles east of Puerto Rico and 1100 miles south of Florida. They are broken up into the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), of which St. John is part of the latter. Of the four main islands making up the USVI’s, St. John is the second smallest.

The Virgin Islands are actually formed by the peaks of mountains submerged below sea level, which is what you can thank for their rocky terrain and sweeping views. The islands are known for their lush greenery and white sand beaches that rival any tropical destination in the world. St. John in particular showcases this untouched natural beauty thanks to its national park.

Related: All my tips for saving money in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Here are the things you should start thinking about in advance of your St. John trip . Some of the below are the very things that have landed me and my family in a pickle at times.

• No passport required . The U.S. Virgin Islands are a territory of the United States, so U.S. citizens can travel without a passport. A driver’s license is an acceptable form of ID; however, beginning May 7, 2025 it will need to comply with the new REAL ID identification requirements (if 18 years or older). I still find it easiest to travel with my passport, as it’s required if you’re chartering to the nearby British Virgin Islands.
• Bring cash with you . The ferry, some vendors, and many taxis only take cash. There are ATM’s on St. John (and St. Thomas), but they cannot always be relied upon to be in working order when you need them. On our most recent visit, somehow all four people in our party forgot to bring more than about $20 and the airport ATM was broken. Thank goodness the sympathetic cab driver still drove us across the island to the ferry dock, where there was a functioning ATM.
• Pack light . We like to pack carry-on only, and I’ve created a sample Caribbean packing list here . St. Thomas has a small airport, and if checked bags go missing, they can be a huge pain to recover. Trust me – my family had five go missing one year, and it was not a fun experience.
• December – April: St. John’s busiest and most expensive time to visit. There’s no arguing that the weather is lovely and just hot enough this time of year. You may get the occasional drizzle, but any rain is very fleeting. It’s a wonderful time to come and escape winter; the only downside is large crowds and high prices.
• May – July:  Prices on flights and lodging decrease quite a bit during this time. You’ll find thinner crowds, but the weather will be toasty. I’d still go in a heartbeat. You can always cool down at the beach with an ice cold beverage.
• August – November : This timeframe largely consists of hurricane season and plenty of rain. This is especially true in September and October. In November, you’re more likely to have good weather and things haven’t gotten too expensive and crowded yet.

You can find an even deeper dive on the best times to visit the US Virgin Islands here .

While I wrote an entire post on getting to St. John here , below are the three basic steps:

Step 1: Arrive in St. Thomas

Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on how you look at it, there is no airport on St. John. Therefore, you will need to fly into the Cyril E. King Airport on nearby St. Thomas .

There are several airlines that fly to St. Thomas. Many major American cities have a direct flight option, although some go through San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Travel Savvy Tip

Depending on where you are flying out of, there may not be many flights from that city to St. John in a day. For example, we used to go through Atlanta to catch the daily Delta flight to St. Thomas. A couple times we got delayed from our first flight out of Cleveland which caused us to miss our connection in Atlanta.

In this instance, you either scramble and see if you can get rebooked on another airline, or you wait until the next day. These options aren’t ideal, so if you need a connection, it may be good to fly into that city the night before.

Step 2: Cross the Island to Red Hook

Your next step will be to cross St. Thomas over to the town of Redhook where the ferry dock is located. This step will require either a taxi or a rental car. It’s about a half hour drive from the airport on a winding road full of twists and turns that will reward you with pretty views over the sea.

Step 3: Take the Ferry Over to St. John

After you get to Redhook, make your way over to the ferry dock and buy your tickets. Note that you will need to pay for your tickets in cash , but there is an ATM in the building (remember my tip about ATMs above!).

• If you rented a car on St. Thomas, then you will need to catch the car ferry. This is a big ol’ barge that will carry as many cars as it can hold across the short trip between St. Thomas and St. John . Be sure to check the schedule in advance and arrive at least 30 min prior to departure. The ride will take about a half hour.
• What I consider to be a better option is renting your car on St. John and taking the “people ferry” . This is faster, more comfortable, scenic, and cost effective. The ride takes about 20 minutes and leaves every hour on the hour.
• Both options will drop you off in Cruz Bay on St. John. You can then grab your rental car if you took the people ferry. After that, there is an abundance of restaurant and bar options around for your first island meal. We normally pop into High Tide , since it’s consistent and close to the ferry dock.

Renting a Vehicle in St. John USVI

Check to see if you need a 4×4.

Depending on where you are staying, your rental may only be accessible via Jeep. Note that I said Jeep – not every 4×4 will do the trick, as it must be somewhat lightweight and able to maneuver over bumpy uphill (and likely unpaved) driveways. I’ve also seen some little Suzuki’s riding around the island, so those may work as well.

What won’t work? Clunky Ford Explorers (speaking from experience). You can try something like the Ford Escape if you want, but if your rental specifies Jeep, then you definitely need a Jeep.

Note that not all rentals require a Jeep, as some are more easily accessible than others. Double check with the owner or original posting of the property, as renting a Jeep can be pricey. You don’t want to get one if you don’t need one.

Rent on St. John if you can

I recommend renting your car on St. John for the convenience of taking the people ferry and then grabbing your vehicle. My reasons are twofold:

• Car rentals at the airport can be a bit unpredictable, meaning they may not have the Jeep you requested. This happened to my family one year (the Ford Explorer year), and only one of our two vehicles could be muscled up the driveway.
• The people ferry is such a pleasant and scenic experience, and much faster than the claustrophobic car ferry.

If you prefer to rent on St. Thomas, that is fine too, and you can pick up your car right at the airport upon arrival. The pro to this is you won’t need to hire a taxi to take you to Red Hook to catch the ferry. Just know the car you requested may not be what you get, which could be fine if you don’t need a 4×4.

On St. John, Mr. Pipers Jeeps and St. John Car Rental are two companies we have used and had good experiences with. No matter who you choose, make your reservations well in advance (at least 8 months if booking in high season), and always make sure your reservation is confirmed and a deposit is paid .

Otherwise they may very well run out of Jeeps for your dates in busier times of the year. If no confirmation is received, call the car rental agency immediately to confirm everything and make sure nothing got lost in the shuffle. It happens…

Where to Stay in St. John USVI

There are two main areas on St. John where visitors usually stay. There is Cruz Bay, which is where you land when you arrive on the ferry. Then there is Coral Bay over on the other side of the island. Most lodging options are in these two areas.

In between is the lush jungle of Virgin Islands National Park, which is largely what makes St. John so much less developed than the other U.S. Virgin Islands. Because of this, you won’t find many large resorts or hotel options on the island.

Cruz Bay or Coral Bay?

These two areas offer different perks, depending on what you are looking for:

Cruz Bay: What few hotels you’ll find on St. John are located around Cruz Bay. The biggest one would be The Westin , which just recently reopened since Hurricane Irma. Caneel Bay was the other big resort on St. John, but it’s been out of commission indefinitely since the hurricanes. Here are a couple other factors to consider when deciding whether to stay in or near Cruz Bay:

• Cruz Bay is much livelier than Coral Bay. There are a lot more restaurant and nightlife options, and there is better access to the ferry and some beaches.
• The downside? I don’t think it’s as pretty as Coral Bay, and it’s not nearly as remote and peaceful.

Coral Bay: Harder to access but more untouched than Cruz Bay, Coral Bay is the more beautiful and tranquil side of the island. That being said, you won’t find any hotels in Coral Bay. Your best bet would be renting a villa or finding a small bed and breakfast. I personally love Coral Bay for its sweeping views, low traffic, and some of my favorite places to eat. While St. John’s best beaches aren’t right in the vicinity, they are not a very far drive away.

Vacation Rentals

Renting a villa is a very popular lodging choice on St. John. There are numerous options and a lot of them offer stunning views over the sea. We’ve had wonderful stays at all of the following places:

• Villa Dal Mare : A stylish family-friendly villa on Coral Bay’s Majestic Mile with romantic sea views. This luxury stay has a remote feel, yet is just a short five-minute drive from local shops and restaurants. Expect a fully stocked kitchen, abundant outdoor spaces, a lovely pool, and outdoor games that will please your entire group!
• Estate Fortsberg : As a luxury option that can fit around eight people, the views from Estate Fortsberg simply cannot be beat. With 180 degree views of Coral Bay and hardly another villa in sight, you feel on top of the world. I’ve had the good fortune of staying here just about every year, and it’s a hard place to leave.
• A House of Open Arms Villa (or Cottage ): Perfect for couples or small families, A House of Open Arms is the next best thing after Estate Fortsberg. Being off the same road, you still have that beautiful view of Coral Bay, but are just a bit lower on the hill. My husband and I stayed in the Cottage, and loved how we could see the sea from our bed.
• Hawk’s View and Hawk’s Rest : As a more budget choice, these private rooms are hosted by a very friendly couple and are in pristine condition. I should also mention the amazing view you have of Rendezvous Bay from your balcony at very low dollar. My husband and I stayed in Hawk’s View and had plenty of privacy.

SEE MY FULL LIST OF RECOMMENDED VILLAS ON ST. JOHN HERE!

What to Do in St. John USVI

For a small island there sure is plenty to do on St. John during a vacation. Here are some of the best choices:

• Beaches: Obviously, the beach is the number one activity on St. John, especially those along North Shore Road. All are gorgeous and have something unique to offer, from stand-up paddle boarding to complete relaxation.
• Island Hopping: If you can, I highly recommend catching a charter in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay and doing a little island hopping. Book this charter to visit both the Baths at Virgin Gorda and White Bay on Jost van Dyke in one exciting day!
• Kayak Tours: Do a kayak tour of Hurricane Hole, located in Coral Bay.
• Hiking: Hike on one of St. John’s many trails . Those seeking a challenge may choose to do the Reef Bay Trail, which will take you 3 miles down to the ruins of an old sugar mill and a beach.
• Snorkeling: The existence of a nearby coral reef means there is a lot of great sea life near St. John. At every single beach you can find people snorkeling.

Click here for even more awesome things to do on St. John

Where to Eat in St. John USVI

St. John is filled with beach bars and other laid back eateries. Below are some St. John restaurants you can’t miss.

• High Tide: Make this your first stop after arriving on St. John from the ferry. It is a very short walk along the beach from the dock.
• Skinny Legs: This is a St. John staple for a post-beach burger washed down with a painkiller (the drink of the island) . I always go for a bacon blue cheese burger served with chips.
• The Longboard: My favorite restaurant in Cruz Bay, the Longboard serves extremely fresh seafood dishes. We particularly love their ahi tuna bowls and delicious cocktails, with their specialty being frozen painkillers.
• Upscale Dining: For a special night out, book a reservation at ZoZo’s or Extra Virgin .

Click here for the lowdown on the best places to eat in St. John

• Beach Music: It is very much frowned upon to play music within the national park. If you must play music, consider using headphones or keep the volume at a level that can’t be heard more than a few paces away. I try to save my  beach playlist  for driving around the island in our Jeep.
• Drones are not allowed in the national park . Unfortunately, I am seeing more and more violators every year.
• There is some great wildlife on the island. Most notably, you will see a bunch of donkeys and probably some little goats. The animals are used to people and quite friendly, but please do not feed them. Also, be mindful of their presence while driving, as you will see many of them on or near the road.
• Renting baby supplies: Did you know you can rent car seats and other baby supplies right on St. John? This is what I recommend doing over bringing a bunch of clunky items you will need to lug across the islands. That way, you also reduce the risk of losing checked items at the airport.
• Beware of oversold flights back home from St. Thomas. Yes, this can happen coming as well, but I’ve mostly encountered issues when leaving. My husband and I have been bumped from flights before, and been at the mercy of volunteers willing to leave the next day in exchange for a voucher. Just be aware that this could happen to you. Unless you are the volunteer, in which case, you go on and get that flight credit!

Now you have all the information you need for an unforgettable vacation on St. John. Soon you will see why it’s one of my favorite places on this earth, and maybe it’ll be somewhere you return to repeatedly as well!

Is there anything else you want to know about St. John? What are you looking forward to the most on the island?

Related Posts

Thank you for all the info. My trip St John to wait till year because covid-19. Looking forward to it. Have been to St Croix during your travels? Thanks. Love reading your essays.

Thanks Oliverio! Sorry you had to postpone your trip, but it’ll be worth it! No St. Croix yet, but it is certainly on the list.

I can’t believe someone would encourage bringing music to the beach on St. John. Not only is it extremely rude to fellow beach goers it is against the law to play music in the national parks where the beaches on St. John are located.

Playing music is not illegal (although amplified music is, and I’ll add that above). Even Maho Bay and Honeymoon Beach have live music from time to time. However, we always make sure our music cannot be heard more than a few steps away, and that’s what I recommend others do as well.

Going in August! COULD NOT BE MORE EXCITED after reading your review.

Aww yay!! You are going to love it 🙂

We are a party of 7 going next month. We just need a rental car a few days to explore a little of the island and visit a few of the beaches. The rental agency has a Ford Explorer or a mini-van available. We are staying at the Westin. Do you think those vehicles will be sufficient for what we need for a few days or do we need 2 jeeps?

If you are staying at the Westin, a Ford Explorer or mini-van will be perfectly fine for exploring the island!

Great review and my family of 4 will be traveling there in august and cannot wait as this will be our first time visiting St John. Your review has heightened our excitement!!

St. John is one of the most wonderful places! I truly hope you love it!

I am getting married in September 2021 and would like to visit St. John for our honeymoon from the 19th – 24th. While I don’t mind a chance of some rain, I don’t want to be completely rained out the entire time. Should we maybe change our honeymoon destination?

Truthfully, September is a less than ideal time to visit the Caribbean. You may not be rained out but there is a very real risk of hurricanes (September is when Category 5 Hurricane Irma hit in 2017). While you may be totally fine, worrying about potential hurricanes hitting is a source of stress you don’t need! Not to mention, many restaurants, tours, etc. close during this month.

That said, I still think St. John is a very special place to spend one’s honeymoon. If you aren’t dead set on September, consider doing a short trip after your wedding to somewhere like Napa or Charleston and heading to St. John in late October/November instead! It’s totally worth the wait 🙂

We are attempting to plan a spring break vacation with kids. We have only been to St. John once on our honeymoon and stayed at the Westin. It was great, but we have a group of 7 and are looking to rent a house this go around. What are the logistics on getting food on the island? Given Covid, we may limit our exposure by not going out to eat quite as much as we normally would.

Hi Jessica! You should have no problem buying groceries when renting a home on St. John. I will say, there aren’t really supermarkets, but smaller grocery stores. The selection is small, but they’ll have what you need. The best grocery store seems to be Starfish Market in Cruz Bay. Normally, we stop there for groceries right after picking up our rental car upon arrival on St. John. As we stay in Coral Bay, we usually also stop at Dolphin Market a few times a week to pick up any additional items needed.

Hi. I am trying to decide on whether to stay in Cruz or Coral Bay. Are there accessible beaches in Coral Bay and are there places to go at night?

There are not really any beaches right in Coral Bay, but there are some good ones about a twelve or so minute drive away. The same could really be said for many places to stay near Cruz Bay, though.

There are some good restaurants in Coral Bay, like Skinny Legs and Rhumb Lines. That is also where Lime Out (the floating taco bar) is located as well. However, if you are looking for nightlife, Cruz Bay will have much more of that. Many places in Coral Bay tend to close around 8 or 9 pm.

I went to Cinnamon Bay campground 35 years ago on a trip with a group. I remember all 10 of us riding in the back of a red an white stripe canvas covered truck. Was it a taxi service or perhaps there are drivers, like Uber today? What is the availability of someone driving you on the Island rather than renting a car and driving ourselves. Thanks!

My guess is that would’ve been a taxi. The island does not have Uber or Lyft. If you stay in or near Cruz Bay, it’s not too difficult to use a taxi for your transportation, but it gets a little trickier the more remote you get.

Thinking of staying in Coral Bay but not sure if its better to stay higher up for breezes or closer to town to walk to restaurants. Concern about being lower is bugs and less of a breeze. Thoughts?

I wouldn’t factor in walkability too much into your lodging plans. The island is really hilly, and the best accommodations often aren’t an easy walk to restaurants. One of St. John’s best offerings is its views, so I would definitely take advantage of that by booking something a little higher up. Plus, it’s true that the bugs get a bit better with the breeze, and you’d likely need less a/c up there too.

Great information; thank for sharing! For beach activities, would you recommend bringing snorkeling gear (and fins) and beach towels from home or buying on the island?

You’re welcome, and thanks for reading! I would see if the place you’re staying has those items. Most of our vacation rentals have provided chairs and beach towels, and many do also provide snorkel gear, which saves a lot of space in your luggage! If you need to purchase snorkel gear, I recommend purchasing on the island if you can to help support the local businesses 🙂

We had to postpone our 2020 trip and are now rebooked for November 2121😃 We are fully vaccinated. Will a negative Covid 19 test still be required for our visit?

Yay!! As of right now, a negative test (or proof of antibodies) is still required. However, by November things could be completely different. I will keep this post up to date as I hear more 🙂

Do you recommend going at the end of August? What will the weather be like?

The end of August would not be my first choice since this is the thick of hurricane season. Also, many popular restaurants and businesses temporarily close around this time.

However, if you are willing to be flexible, this trip is still possible. Just keep in mind there could be more rain than usual, as well as the possibility of strong tropical storms that could interrupt your trip. Also, one perk: the island likely won’t be very crowded around this time.

THANK YOU!!! My husband and I got married 5/30/21, and I started planning our honeymoon last fall. Your blog was how I planned the entire trip. I knew exactly where to ask for a taxi to get to, I rented the jeep at St. John car rental, we went to high tide, skinny legs, and did the bad kitty to lime out trip. We would not have had such an enjoyable and easy trip without your guidance, so THANK YOU!!

Maria, you are so welcome!! Your kind words truly just made my day 🙂

Thank you… your blog is great!! My kids and I are booked for August 18th would that be cutting it too close to hurricane season?

Thanks Quiana! August is technically within hurricane season, so there is the potential for storms. If you decide to book, just keep your plans as flexible as possible and follow the weather closely as your dates approach. Also, make sure the place you’re staying has a plan in place for you in case a storm does occur suddenly.

Love your blog about St. John. My stay is at St.Thomas in 3/2022. Do you have any information about that island? Love the information about St.John and plan to to visit while there.

Thanks Karen! Yes, I do have some posts about St. Thomas, and have stayed there a few times. I’ll link them below:

– What to do in St Thomas: 14 Ideas for an Awesome Getaway – 5 St. Thomas Beaches That Are Absolutely Stunning

Let me know if there is anything else you’d like to know about St. Thomas!

How is the weather mid October? Thinking of going the 16-23rd. Is that cutting too close to hurricane season?

October is still technically hurricane season. However, by the end of October it’s beginning to wind down and restaurants start to reopen for the year. Therefore, I think you can book a trip during this time, but stay flexible and vigilant in case a storm does pop up.

Hi, I am thinking about Cinnamon Bay Campground in summer 2022. Although that currently is not even a definite possibility, I am hoping things may change in the months to come. Might you have any thoughts about the Cinnamon Bay Campground?

It’s actually starting to look very encouraging! They latest I heard, the Cinnamon Bay Campground is hoping to open in mid-December. So next summer could be a real possibility!

What would you recommend for New Year’s Eve? I’m considering a last minute trip there.

Hi Courtney! St. John is a wonderful NYE destination; however, this is also the island’s busiest week of the year. It will be very difficult to find accommodations at the last minute, and last minute prices will be at a premium. If you are flexible and not very picky, you may be able to find a place to stay (I’d also check on neighboring St. Thomas). However, I recommend booking something close to town (like Cruz Bay on St. John), so that you can taxi around the island. Unfortunately, it is not likely that many rental car options will be available at this point.

Hi!! So happy I stumbled on your blog. Thinking of doing a trip to st Thomas for 3 nights and then 6 nights in St. John early august 2022. We’re a family of 4 with a 5 and 10 year old who love adventure. Is this a good time? And any kid friendly things to do?

Hi Jenny, thank you so much! August is usually an okay time to visit St. John, but there are a couple things to keep in mind. This is within hurricane season in the Caribbean, so you’d need to keep your plans flexible in case a storm pops up. The other item is that many restaurants and boat charters close around this time for the season. I’d recommend coming closer to the beginning of the month to increase the odds of avoiding these issues.

St. John is a great place to visit with kids! Many of the North Shore beaches have very calm waters, and many with good snorkeling. Kids get a kick out of finding sea turtles at Maho Bay. There are also Danish ruins to explore throughout the island, such as right across from Cinnamon Beach. There is also a cute little ice cream shop in town called Irie Pops that is perfect for young children. Hope these suggestions help!

Hi Theresa,

I love your blog! I am planning my trip to St John this Spring. Would you recommend a good car rental company on St. John? Thanks!

Thank you! My go-to car rental companies are St. John Car Rental and Mr. Piper’s Jeeps 🙂

Hello, We will traveling to St John next month. We are all very excited! Do people bring their lunch to the beaches or are there restaurants? We will be taking the open air taxis. Should I pack a soft cooler? Can we drink wine coolers on the beach? Thank you.

Hi there! So excited for you and your upcoming trip! It is super common to pack lunch for the beach, although a few of the beaches do have food for purchase. Trunk Bay has a concession stand with some sandwiches, and Maho Bay has food stalls at Maho Crossroads. Honeymoon Bay also has Bikinis on the Beach, although I think it recently closed temporarily for repairs. You can bring whatever drinks to the beach you want, as long as it’s not in a glass container 🙂

We are staying at the Westin. I hear the beaches like honeymoon and trunk bay are really nice to go over there . Do we need a jeep to drive there or is it best to get a taxi to explore those beaches ? What would you say are the top 2 beaches to go to on the island if we are staying at the Westin . I also wanted to ask where is the nearest grocery store if we want to buy groceries ? Thanks

It will be really easy to get a taxi from the Westin to go to Honeymoon and Trunk Bay, so a rental car is not necessary unless you want to explore beyond Cruz Bay and the North Shore beaches. Trunk Bay, Honeymoon Bay, and Maho Bay are the top three beaches that most people visit. They are gorgeous with nice amenities, but tend to get pretty crowded. Cinnamon Bay is also incredibly gorgeous with easy taxi access, newly rebuilt amenities, and hiking trails in close proximity. The nearest grocery store to the Westin is Starfish Market in Cruz Bay, and has the best selection of groceries on the island.

Hi…so happy I ran across your blog- so incredibly helpful. My husband and I are looking at a trip to St. John and I have a few questions. Where is the best snorkeling at on Coral Bay? Is the reef within swimming distance off shore or is a boat rental required to get to the reef? We are avid snorkelers and tend to spend hours doing it- looking for less crowded areas. Also, what are the mast requirements right now? Is it relaxed or are folks rigid about it. We do not want to go on vacation and be required to wear a mask everywhere we go- so it could be a deal breaker for us until things lighten up. Thanks in advance!

For snorkeling in Coral Bay, I recommend taking a boat to get to all the little coves in Hurricane Hole. Hansen Bay, Francis Bay, and Waterlemon Cay are also known to be good snorkel spots. As far as masks, the rules have recently loosened. They are still required in some places, like on the ferry and at the grocery store, but you largely will not need them at restaurants are bars since almost everything is open air. They continue to not be required on beaches or trails, so you’re good there.

Traveling July 25, 2022- my husband, myself and two 18 year old(all fully vaccinated) are staying in a 3 bedroom Villa located on Maria Bluff. Want to do a day trip to the Baths in Virgin Gorda…I have been told by the rental company- only way to travel is via ferry with the Inter Island Boat services? When we were there in 2002- we booked with a boat charter company with about 10 others on board. Just wondering what you may know about travel to BVI’s (Baths) in 2022.

Hi Julie! Things could change by July, but at this time the rental company is likely correct. The BVI’s have different requirements for entry right now than the USVI’s, which has made it too burdensome for the day sails you reference to run. That said, I’m sure BVI charters are eager to start running again, and will do so the minute rules in the BVI’s relax. For now, I’d either plan on taking the ferry, or hang tight for a month or two to see if the rules change.

We are a family of 5 traveling to St. John this June. This will be our third trip to the island. In past trips, the cost of food at Starfish Market has been very high and since Covid, we are anticipating it to be even higher. What are your thoughts on renting a jeep in St, Thomas in order to do our grocery shopping first before coming over on the car barge? Our 3 daughters are older and will be traveling in a few days after us so we would have the room to fill it up!

Yay for your upcoming trip! If stopping to buy groceries on St. Thomas is convenient for you, then you may save a little money and find a wider selection of products than at St. John grocery stores. I personally haven’t done this, since my husband and I only buy simple items for breakfast and lunch and prefer renting on St. John. However, if you will do a lot of cooking at your vacation rental, then I could see how it may be worth it.

Im so worried now about the checked bags. We leave next week and we paid ahead of time for checked luggage because it was cheaper than carry on for Frontier. I really hope they don’t lose our stuff. We usually only fly Southwest and never have issues but this is our first time to the USVI and they don’t fly there. We also ran into the rental car obstacle. After calling about 100 places we ended up having to rent on St. Thomas and will have to figure out the car barge to St. John. I was really bummed because it seems like one more thing to stress about now trying to ferry a car across. We are staying on the Coral Bay side in a villa so Ill make sure maybe to get our shopping once we get into Cruz Bay, atleast maybe for the first couple days since Im not sure how close the nearest grocery store would be to us. Hoping this trip goes smoothly, starting to really worry.

I wouldn’t stress about the car barge. We have done it many times, and it’s really quite simple. The only difference is there are less ferry times than the regular ferry, so you’ll need to be mindful of that.

Starfish Market is a nice grocery store to stop at in Cruz Bay. However, there is also Dolphin Market in Coral Bay, which is smaller but still has plenty of items.

There have been a lot of issues with checked bags lately, but that doesn’t mean yours will have any problems! It might be good to squeeze a few essentials into your personal item on the plane, just in case. Just breathe! Once you get to the islands, everything will be fine 🙂

Thank you Theresa. I’ll make sure to check out those grocery stores. If you have any other tips for us first timers please let me know 🙂

We are planning a trip in early november. It is our first time on the island and we love snorkeling with our kids, will the weather and water clarity still be good at this time of year. Likely staying at the westin, but also considering a house rental. Thank you for your awesome blog!

Thank you Tracey! Yes, November should be a good time, as it’s past the peak of hurricane season and crowds have net yet picked up for the holidays. Therefore, I would expect the water to be in good condition too.

The Westin is the most popular hotel, but the rooms are more like villas than traditional hotel rooms. There are also plenty of great house rentals all over the island. I recommend finding something with a view! 🙂

My wife and I are going 8/20-25 for my birthday. I have huge FOMO, and I gotta say your article helped me feel a lot better about being able to cover the bases for our first time in the USVI. We will be staying in Estate Lindholm. Would love your recommendation for a handful of must-see beaches, lookout points, etc. I want to get the best photography spots with my Polaroid while I’m here. If I took a charter for a day trip to an island, what would you pick? Can’t wait to hear your feedback, meanwhile I’ll be reading everything else on your site.

Glad to help! Estate Lindholm is in a great location – close to the beaches but also near dining and shops in Cruz Bay. Along North Shore Road are two great lookout points: Trunk Bay and Maho Bay. You could also take the Upper Lind Point Trail (near where you are staying) for views over Cruz Bay. Trunk Bay is the most famous beach (big, gorgeous, lots of amenities), and Maho is a close second (great water for paddle boarding and sea turtles for snorkeling). For less crowds, I personally like Francis and Cinnamon a bit more. Two more hiking paths with great views and ruins at the top: Peace Hill (100 meters uphill) and Cinnamon Bay (3/4 mile uphill). If I could pick one island for a day trip, it would be White Bay on Jost van Dyke (Soggy Dollar Bar) :). One more place with views: Windmill Bar for some cocktails near sunset (although I’d personally prefer watching the sunset from Beach Bar in Cruz Bay). Hope that helps!

We have booked at the Grande Bay but likely will not have a parking spot. Is there an option to park a rental car (from St. Thomas) in Cruz Bay during our meeting p day stay? Following this we have a week stay on St. Thomas. There used to be a parking lot down beyond the baseball field and a pay lot by the police station. Can you please provide suggestions? Thank you.

Hi John. Yes, you will be able to find paid parking in Cruz Bay. We use the Slim Man’s Jeep lot across from Rum Hut, and I think the lot you reference above is still there too.

We are staying in Cruz Bay, how can we get to the hikes and beaches on the other side of the island without a car rental?

You will be able to take a taxi from Cruz Bay. Just arrange a pickup time with your driver for getting back to Cruz Bay, as taxis are more infrequent near some remote hiking trails and cell service can be iffy.

Renting a car is sooo expensive!! Comments on the St John safari type taxis or the Vitran bus system?? We will be staying in the Chocolate Hole area.

Yes, it definitely is! A mixture of the two would probably be best. I haven’t taken the bus, but I’ve heard good things about it. It seems like it would be useful if you are trying to go into either Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, but not so much for getting to the beaches.

Otherwise, taxis are probably the easiest option. It’s best to call the company when needed or pre-arrange a pickup, since I’m not sure how frequently they pass through Chocolate Hole.

St John Taxi Service – 340-693-7530 Paradise Taxi – 340-714-7875

Hi! This has been full of wonderful information. Headed here in a month and not finding much in the way of jeep rentals. We are staying in Cruz bay, do you think we could see most of the beaches and hiking with a taxi? Do you know how much they cost and if we could bring chairs or coolers with us? Thanks for all of the info!

Thanks for your message! Yes, you can easily get to all the main beaches and hiking trails via taxi from Cruz Bay and bring whatever you need. A few beaches do offer chairs and refreshments, including Cinnamon, Trunk, and Honeymoon. Rates run around $10-$15/person depending on where you are going. Here is a schedule: https://www.vinow.com/stjohn/getting_around_stj/taxis-rates/

Does anyone know if National Parks has awarded a contract to any entity to re build Caneel Bay Resort? After 15 years of going there we long to go back. I know it is open for day trips but we want to stay at Caneel overnight. Thanks for any updates you can share

Unfortunately, it does not look like the resort will be rebuilt any time soon. Right now, the NPS is getting ready to begin clean up of contamination caused by the 2017 hurricanes. Here is a recent status update: https://newsofstjohn.com/caneel-bay-part-ii-what-is-this-rue-all-about/

Just an update, today we were able to use a credit card to buy ferry tickets at Red Hook.

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This Stunning Caribbean Island Has White-sand Beaches, a National Park, and an Epic Underwater Trail for Snorkelers

The island is sometimes called the "Beverly Hills of the Caribbean."

Steve Bennett’s travels have taken him to more than 39 Caribbean destinations (and counting). A PR specialist by trade and West Indian by birth, he is passionate about sharing lesser-known highlights of Caribbean travel and culture.

All Caribbean islands are not created equal. Some embody the quintessential fairy-tale facets of the tropical paradise , with sugar-sand beaches and awe-inspiring natural wonders . St. John, one of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands , fits this bill.

The island is mainly accessible by boat, though car and passenger ferry service operate all day from nearby and much more cosmopolitan St. Thomas . Many visitors also arrive by private yacht . Anyone wanting to come by plane, though, is out of luck as there's no airport here.

In addition to being the most remote of the primary U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John is also the smallest, clocking in at just 20 square miles. But this tiny package is loaded with some of the best that the U.S. Virgin Islands has to offer .

A great deal of those bests center on eco-travel pursuits, as two-thirds of the island is covered by the Virgin Islands National Park, established in 1956. The Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, established in 2001, further expands environmental protections to the undersea world surrounding the island.

The result is an unspoiled paradise — no passport required — offering innumerable opportunities to connect with the natural environment by land and sea.

Best Time to Visit St. John

The better question is: What time is good for you? St. John is blessed with a magical combination of warm weather and persistently cooling trade winds throughout the year. During the day, the highs average around the low to mid-80s, while overnight temperatures generally hover within the low 70s.

Rain? Nestled, as it is, in the heart of the tropics, St. John does see its fair share of rain. The island's verdant hills wouldn't be so beautifully green without it. However, there's no set rainy season. At the same time, you certainly wouldn't consider St. John a desert island. Instead, rain generally tends to come and go, rarely washing out full days, much less multiple days in a row. Months with the highest precipitation: September, October, and November.

Crowds? If they aren't your thing, then you may want to steer clear of the peak winter season, which runs from mid-December through March. In a bit of a surprise, though, crowds are also always big in the middle of the summer for July Fourth. The reason: St. John Carnival, which kicks off in early June with a number of low-key pageants and concerts. The excitement builds throughout the month, culminating on Emancipation Day (July 3) and Independence Day (July 4) with a parade, fireworks, and nonstop fun and concerts in the Carnival Village.

On the opposite end of the fun spectrum is hurricane season, spanning from June through November. Late August to mid-October tends to constitute the peak period for storms, with major hurricanes being rare in June, July, and November.

Best Things to Do on St. John

No matter what time of year you visit St. John, you'll always find a plethora of fun things to do. Top of the list for many is enjoying the island's many unspoiled beaches.

Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Maho Bay are the most famous — and for good reason. The stunning seascapes along these shores are the stuff of Caribbean beach fantasies. At the same time, though, lesser-known shores, like those lining Honeymoon Beach, Leinster Bay, Jumbie Bay, Francis Bay, and Salomon Bay, should not be overlooked.

Several of St. John's best beaches are solely accessible by a second favorite activity here: hiking.

St. John's 20 square miles are crisscrossed with a network of more than 20 hiking trails. Many are of the low- to medium-impact variety, with some measuring less than three miles. All of them, though, lead to amazing natural wonders or historical attractions worth discovering.

One such historical attraction, known simply as the petroglyphs, opens a rare window into one of the Caribbean's indigenous inhabitants: the Taino Indians.

Ancient tribal carvings left here centuries ago are set into a rock wall at the base of a waterfall located deep within the Reef Bay valley. If possible, plan to hike out here after a healthy rain to get the full effect of this mystical place. When trekking out to the petroglyphs along the Reef Bay Trail, hikers also pass the ruins of four colonial-era sugar estates. This offers unique access to yet another era of St. John's storied history.

However, not all of St. John's trails run over dry ground. The Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail at Trunk Bay, for example, introduces snorkelers to the island's colorful undersea world. A series of signs along the trail tell of the different coral and fish species snorkelers may encounter.

When not trekking through the bush or diving underwater in search of St. John's natural treasures, visitors delight in traipsing around the famously eclectic shops and boutiques in Cruz Bay, St. John's main town. Mongoose Junction , in particular, is popular for handmade local jewelry and artwork, as well island fashion, gifts, and more.

Where to Stay on St. John

As you might expect in a destination as dynamic and eco-focused as St. John, accommodation options are vast and varied. One thing you won't find here, though, is all-inclusive resorts . But what it lacks in all-inclusive amenities, it makes up for in features that get you closer to the heart of what makes this little island so special.

The Westin St. John Resort Villas

The Westin St. John Resort extends along 1,200 feet of pristine, white-sand beach, covering a total of 47 acres with studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations. Guests can even opt for a townhouse (2,850 square feet) with space for up to eight adults.

Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground

For those keen on visiting St. John to connect with nature, Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground is a solid choice. Cottages, eco-tents, and bare sites are available, offering guests the opportunity to choose just how much they want to rough it. Here, waves crash along Cinnamon Bay, lulling you sleep. Mornings start with a dip in a pretty beach. And wild donkeys vie for the best shaded spots on the sand. For true nature lovers , it doesn't get much better than this.

Estate Lindholm

Originally established as a plantation by Dutch settlers in the 1720s, Estate Lindholm today offers stunning views from its hilltop perch high above Cruz Bay. The property has 17 guest rooms, each decked out in elegant furnishings and decor echoing 300 years of St. John history.

St. John Villa Rentals

Undoubtedly the most popular form of guest accommodations on St. John are villa rentals. For the best rates on the widest selection of properties, St. John Villa Rentals is great option. Booking through this community of local owners and property managers ensures that travelers avoid added service fees.

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John and Annie Glenn Museum houses roots of life, and love, that reached for the stars

Together for 73 years, couple met as toddlers in ohio, married as glenn fought with marines in wwii.

NASA pilots prepare for flying through solar eclipse

One of the four NASA pilots who will be flying through solar eclipse, Tony Casey, discusses the upcoming mission

The roots of a heroic American life that grew to reach the heavens are found in New Concord, Ohio . 

The John and Annie Glenn Museum opens to the public for the 2024 season on Wednesday, May 1. 

"This is where John Glenn spent his formative years," Hope Neal, assistant director of the museum, told Fox News Digital. 

AMERICAN CULTURE QUIZ: TEST YOUR COMMAND OF CLASSIC HOLLYWOOD, KENTUCKY HORSES AND MORE

Glenn was born in 1921 a few miles away in Cambridge, Ohio, but spent almost his entire youth in this dignified home, a picture-postcard image of the American heartland.

The future U.S. Marine Corps pilot and astronaut was just two years old when he moved to New Concord with his parents, John Herschel and Clara (Sproat) Glenn. 

His father owned a plumbing business in the town. 

The John and Annie Glenn Museum is located in the boyhood home of war veteran, space explorer and longtime Sen. John Glenn in New Concord, Ohio.  (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

"John lived here until he was about 20 and then he entered the military and got shipped away," said Neal.

Period actors "invite guests into the home as if they are old friends stopping by to visit the Glenn family," the museum website points out.

OHIO'S SHERMAN HOUSE MUSEUM DISPLAYS HUMANITY, ARTISTRY OF FEARSOME CIVIL WAR GENERAL

"Guests get to see the place in which John’s dreams of aviation were born."

Those dreams allowed Glenn to boldly go where no American had gone before: into space.

He enlisted in the Marine Corps at age 20, shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

In Cape Canaveral, Florida, astronaut John H. Glenn Jr. is shown in a spacesuit beside Mercury-Atlas 6 spacecraft "Friendship 7."  (Getty Images)

Glenn proved one of the greatest fighter pilots in American history. 

He flew 59 combat missions in the South Pacific in World War II and 63 more during the Korean War.

Among many real-life legends of Glenn’s career, he counted Hall of Fame baseball slugger Ted Williams, a fellow two-war veteran, as his wingman during the Korean War.

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, FEBRUARY 20, 1962, JOHN GLENN BECOMES FIRST AMERICAN TO ORBIT EARTH

"Absolutely fearless," Williams said of his friend and comrade in arms. "The best I ever saw. It was an honor to fly with him."

Glenn served as a test pilot and became one of NASA’s first astronauts in 1959. 

He forged his name in the history of human exploration as the first American to orbit the Earth on Feb. 20, 1962. 

John Glenn in the cockpit of the F8U-1P Crusader aircraft. The Marine Corps officer served in World War II and Korea and later became one of America's top test pilots.  (U.S. Navy photograph)

It was a landmark moment in both human exploration and in the Cold War, as the United States frantically rushed to keep pace with the Soviet Union, which enjoyed an early lead in the space race.

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Glenn, among other achievements, spent 25 years as a U.S. senator , representing Ohio.

The museum is also dedicated to the life and achievements of his wife, Annie Glenn, and the lifelong love story the couple shared, beginning in New Concord.

"John & Annie Glenn met when they were just toddlers," the museum website notes. 

"Their parents came to New Concord at about the same time and soon became friends. When they got together for dinner, John and Annie would share a playpen."

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The couple wed in 1943, when John Glenn was a young Marine in World War II.

They shared their lives for 73 years.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle .

Kerry J. Byrne is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

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Facing criminal charges, Lee Chatfield has OK to travel to Kentucky

• Updated: Apr. 30, 2024, 5:00 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 30, 2024, 4:57 p.m.

Speaker of the House Lee Chatfield talks to reporters at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing on Thursday, April 25, 2019. Neil Blake | MLive.com

• John Agar | [email protected]

LANSING, MI – Former House Speaker Lee Chatfield is expected to be arraigned on felony charges this week while vacationing with his wife, Stephanie, in Louisville, Kentucky - on Kentucky Derby weekend.

His attorney, Mary Chartier, told a judge on Tuesday, April 30, that the Chatfields are likely to be at Saturday’s race.

Stories by John Agar

• 3 injured in Muskegon shooting
• Muskegon man indicted, police seize $140K, guns and vehicles in drug investigation
• Man suspected of stealing thousands in property in Kent County, sheriff’s deputies say
• Mom pleads to federal charge after son, 2, fatally shoots himself
• Hart High School principal dies unexpectedly

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Best Travel Insurance for Seniors of May 2024

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Reaching your golden years doesn't mean your adventures have to end. In fact, in this stage of life, you'll hopefully have more time and resources to travel. But as a senior citizen, you'll want to ensure you have travel insurance that covers any health-related issues arise while you travel.

Our top picks for the best senior travel insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for expensive trips: John Hancock Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic trips: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for annual plans: Travel Guard

How we rate the best senior travel insurance companies »

Compare travel insurance for seniors

Your health gets more unpredictable as you age, which makes travel insurance more important for seniors. Unfortunately, it's also more expensive. The best travel insurance for seniors won't have too steep of a price hike compared to rates for younger travelers. It will have high coverage limits for emergency medical coverage, trip cancellations, and and emergency medical evacuation. It's also important that your travel insurance offers pre-existing condition waivers , ideally at no extra cost to the traveler. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance coverage for seniors in 2024.

Best overall: Allianz

Allianz Travel Insurance is one of the most widely recognized names in travel insurance, and it stands out as one of the top travel insurance providers for seniors. It offers a wide range of policies covering medical treatments overseas and emergency medical transport.

Allianz also provides options for varying trip lengths. Its annual multi-trip policies , for example, cover any trip you make during your policy period, even if they aren't yet planned, making it an excellent option for seniors who vacation multiple times per year.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for expensive trips: John Hancock

John Hancock Travel Insurance plans for seniors offer some of the best coverage available. It provides generous maximum benefit amounts while still offering affordable prices.

Each plan includes coverages like trip cancellation, emergency accident, and emergency medical, with the option to add benefits like CFAR (cancel for any reason) . Plus, getting a free online quote is a quick and straightforward process.

Read our John Hancock Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

World Nomads Travel Insurance is a great choice for active senior citizens under 70 who want comprehensive travel insurance. The key difference between World Nomads and many other providers is that it covers 200+ adventurous activities like scuba diving, mountain biking, surfing, skiing, and even bungee jumping. In addition, World Nomads' trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage includes COVID-19-related issues. Many other insurers are excluding that type of coverage now.

For adventurous senior citizens over the age of 70 years, World Nomads suggests working with its partner, TripAssure .

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Travel Guard  offers comprehensive insurance plans for shorter and longer trips. One of its more unique offerings is its Travel Guard Annual Plan.

This annual travel insurance comes with standard coverage benefits (trip delay, baggage loss, etc.) and substantial coverage amounts, which is important for seniors who travel multiple times per year. Travel Guard also offers a preexisting medical condition waiver, meaning those with certain medical issues can still gain coverage.

Read our AIG Travel Guard Insurance review here.

Understanding travel insurance for seniors

Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what travel insurance is and why it's particularly important for senior travelers. The best travel insurance offers financial protection against unexpected events affecting your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Types of coverage

• Medical Coverage: Ensures your medical expenses are covered in case of illness or injury.
• Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage: Provides reimbursement if your trip is canceled or cut short due to unforeseen events.
• Baggage Coverage: Covers loss, damage, or theft of personal items during your trip.

Benefits of travel insurance for seniors

• Peace of Mind: Knowing you're covered in case of emergencies can make your travel stress-free.
• Financial Protection: Shields you from potentially overwhelming medical costs and trip cancellations fees.
• Assistance Services: Many plans offer 24/7 assistance services, providing help whenever and wherever you need it.

Making the most of your plan

After choosing a plan, it's crucial to understand your policy fully and know what services are available to you in case of an emergency.

Understanding your policy

• Read the fine print and understand the claims process to avoid surprises.

Emergency assistance services

• Familiarize yourself with the emergency assistance services offered by your plan and keep all necessary contact information handy.

How to pick senior travel insurance

It's wise to compare several different travel insurance policies for the best coverage and pricing, as premiums vary widely between insurers and depend on factors like your age and travel destination.

That said, some of the more essential coverages to look for if you're a senior citizen include:

• Travel medical coverage - This coverage will pay for your medical bills outside the US.
• Medical evacuation coverage - If you're injured or become sick while traveling, this coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if your condition necessitates it.
• Preexisting conditions - Coverage for known health conditions. You'll need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time period from when you book your trip to qualify for a preexisting condition waiver .
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) - The name says it all! It'll cost extra and you'll need to purchase insurance early, but it's the most comprehensive trip cancellation coverage you can get. Note that CFAR insurance usually only covers up to 75% of your trip fees.
• Trip cancellation insurance - This coverage provides reimbursement for your prepaid and nonrefundable costs if you cannot make your trip due to an unforeseen event.
• Baggage delay insurance - This coverage will reimburse you for essentials like toiletries and clothes if your bags are delayed.
• Lost luggage insurance - This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount if your bags get lost en route.

Of these, the most critical to note are whether or not your policy covers preexisting conditions and the limits for travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation.

Some insurance companies offer a waiver that will cover preexisting conditions. You'll have to follow the requirements for adding a waiver to your policy, like insuring the entire cost of your trip. Or purchase the policy within a specific time after making your first trip deposit payments.

You'll also want to find a policy with high maximum limits for travel medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage. These types of expenses can be substantial, so you want to have appropriate coverage.

How we reviewed travel insurance for seniors

When comparing senior travel insurance options, we looked at the following factors to evaluate each travel insurance provider:

• Coverage limits: We looked at each travel insurance company's coverage amounts for benefits like medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
• Flexibility: We looked at how customizable a policy is, so you can choose what your travel insurance policy covers .
• Coverage for preexisting conditions: Preexisting conditions are one of the more critical factors for travel insurance for senior citizens, so we looked at travel insurance companies that offer the best coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Price: We compared travel insurance providers offering reasonable basic and comprehensive coverage rates.
• Benefits geared towards seniors: We compared travel insurance companies that offer solid coverage for senior citizens, like medical evacuation, COVID-19 coverage, and trip cancellation.

You can read more about our insurance rating methodology here.

What should seniors specifically look for in a travel insurance policy?

Seniors should look for travel insurance policies that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including for preexisting conditions and emergency medical evacuation. They should also consider policies with higher coverage limits to ensure adequate protection. Additionally, seniors should seek travel insurance plans that provide 24/7 assistance services, as well as coverage for trip cancellations, interruptions, and baggage protection.

How much does senior travel insurance cost?

The cost of senior travel insurance coverage can vary depending on your age, overall health, state of residence, travel destination, and length of your trip. However, assuming all other factors are the same, you'll pay more for travel insurance at 70 than at 30.

Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by travel insurance for seniors?

All travel insurance companies, except World Nomads, included in this guide offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as long as you buy your policy within the qualifying period from when you placed your trip deposit.

What is the best travel insurance for seniors?

Allianz is the best travel insurance for seniors due to its wide array of medical coverages and emergency medical transport. Allianz also offers multi-trip insurance policies , which could make sense for seniors who travel frequently.

Does travel insurance have an age limit?

In some instances, travel insurance companies will have age eligibility restrictions, often only insuring people 80 years old and younger.

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Posted by Pat Lane on 6th Mar 2021

My husband is a truck driver and these are a lifesaver for him in his busy schedule and especially on freezing nights! Convenient, loves that they don't leave an odor, and resealable allows for more than 1 usage.

Traveljohn Resealable Disposable Urinal

Posted by Ralph Bullington on 20th Feb 2021

I have to use this product on my wife is completely incontinent but have difficulty placing in correct spot when have to use in conjunction with disposable underwear.

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• Outdoor Recreation
• Camping & Hiking
• Personal Care
• Hygiene & Sanitation

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TravelJohn 66892 Disposable Urinal(18 pack),WHITE

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• Revolutionary "bag with a bag" design Small and light weight Volume indicator
• Non-toxic, odorless, spill proof gel, it instantly gels after absorption of liquid thus making it leak-proof
• No closure needed, reusable until it is full
• Waste disposal safe, simply throw away
• Liqsorb super absorbent polymer pouch included

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From the manufacturer

TravelJohn Disposable Urinal (Model TJ1A-C) - For All Genders, Adults, & Children

• Unisex for Any Adult or Kid of Any Gender
• Sturdy and New Wider Adaptor (collar) - Non-slippery handle makes it easier to hold and use unlike other competing soft head design.
• Medical Grade Quality - Passed strict leakage and drop test requirements.
• Odorless - No liquid, no vapor and thus no smell.
• Patented LIQSORB Pouch - No loose powder or gel before and after use, unlike other competing products with a dissolving pouch or loose powder/gel. Any loose gel will make a slippery floor and may cause someone to slip and fall.
• Gels Instantly - Normally under 20 seconds, unlike others competing products that may take more than 1 minute to gel.
• Leakproof - With LIQSORB pouch, it acts as a double shield preventing liquid or gel from leaking out of the pouch after use even if the bag is punctured.
• Hygienic - LIQSORB pouch prevents users from contacting the liquid waste/gel directly.
• No Clean-Up! - No need to clean the product with its self-contained design.
• Multiple Use until Full - Reusable if needed for up to 2 times for any adults or 3 times for any kids.
• Simply Throw Away! - Just toss into any waste bin for quick disposal.

The key ingredient in TravelJohn is LIQSORB, a polymer powder that absorbs liquid waste and turns it into an odorless, waste disposal safe gel. All polymer powder are self-contained inside the LIQSORB pouch so there is no messy loose powder before use. Once the liquid waste turns into gel after use, there is no messy loose gel coming out of the bag because of the self-contained LIQSORB pouch. So the overall user experience is greatly enhanced. Plus, TravelJohn's sturdy and wide unisex adapter (push top and bottom ends together to create a wider opening) makes it easy for anyone to use while sitting or standing, and the spill guard prevents backflow during use.

Ideal for motion sickness, potty training, car travel, outdoor activities, and bathroom emergencies of all types.

Product Description

Traveljohn Unisex Disposable Urinal is convenient, sanitary, discrete and compact. A must have for any situation when or where a clean restroom is not accessible. The polymer will absorb up too 800ml of liquid waste and turn it into gel instantly. The unisex adaptor (collar) provides easy access for man, women and children. The spill guard prevents backflow during use. It’s light weight and compact for storage anywhere. The key ingredient is Liqsorb, a combination of an exclusive biodegradable non-woven fabric pouch containing a biodegradable polymer substance that immobilizes bacterial growth quickly – absorbs the liquid waste and turns it into an odorless, Spill-proof gel bag that is non toxic and waste disposal safe. The unisex adapter makes it easy for anyone and everyone to use while sitting or standing, a spill guard prevents back flow during use.

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TravelJohn 66892 Disposable Urinal (18 pack)

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, portability, ease of use, spillage, and smell of the outdoor recreation product. For example, they mention it works awesome, is indispensable on long road trips, and is completely portable. That said, they are happy with the ease of disposal, and gel. Opinions are mixed on value.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the product. They mention that it works well, is highly useful, and invaluable. Some say that it's great for boys and girls and works like a baby diaper.

"...There was no splashing or dripping at all. It worked really well on a particularly cold night camping (40 degrees f)...." Read more

"...So easy to use and phew! instant sweet relief !! They bring me peace of mind just to have them on me...." Read more

"...couple in the car and in my purse for "just in case" and they work awesome , especially for road trips or when you don't want to use gross..." Read more

"...This item can also be used for a person vomiting. It works very well and since the opening is a firm plastic opening you can put it over your mouth..." Read more

Customers find the portable toilet awesome for travel, indispensable on long road trips, and great for car trips. They also say it's discrete enough to carry in your purse, car, or hiking. Customers also mention that it'll gel solid for convenience.

"...In addition you'll get a handy, foldable travel package of tissues , as well as a resealable clear bag of sanitizing wipes...." Read more

"...They arrive rolled up super small and easy to transport !Saved us with our younger daughters!!!" Read more

"... discrete enough to carry in your purse , car, etc. .. before use-..." Read more

"...it is very small and discrete to put in the purse or glove compartment of the car. I was working as a field rep and was always in the car driving...." Read more

Customers find the product easy to use and discreet. They say it saves time and hassle. Customers also mention that it provides a simple, non-messy solution.

"...being, they are small enough to carry with me in my purse and easy enough to use that I have been super grateful to have them with me way more often..." Read more

"...I found these extremely easy to use . I have a Go Girl and the "cup" portion of this is smaller but actually better shaped...." Read more

"...I've actually only had to use these once, but it was so easy to use , no muss no fuss no mess no problem...." Read more

"...has a "pee-gonomic" opening that provides easy interface for both men and women. But men should use the shallow end of the opening...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the spillage of the urinal. They mention that the gel inside prevents spills no matter what happens during or after use. The liquid turns into jelly so does not drip. They also say that the urea turns into a solid right away and does not spill.

"...There was no splashing or dripping at all . It worked really well on a particularly cold night camping (40 degrees f)...." Read more

"...gel up with a biodegradable gel that absorbs the liquid and prevents it from leaking . Great for kids, too!..." Read more

"...The contents of the bag are turned into a gel that does not spill and is easy to dispose of...." Read more

"...All the liquid was absorb. There was no leaking/spillage . The contents of the bag absorbs just like a diaper. This is a true Godsend...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the smell of the outdoor recreation product. They mention that it absorbs very well with no smell.

"... Very little odor , although I'll be honest, its not like I was really making it pass the sniff test. So easy to use and phew! instant sweet relief!!..." Read more

"...The odor absorption is excellent , too. As a female, I find it hard to use anything like this without any fear of dripping...." Read more

"...Where have these been all of my life? There is no odor , easy to use while in the passenger seat..." Read more

"...The powdered gel also neutralizes odor . Personally I find it easiest to stand which I had never done, being female. This is much quicker!..." Read more

Customers find the disposal of the product easy. They mention that it holds a lot of liquid and solidifies so disposal is easy. Some say that the product is compact and makes no mess.

"...comes with the product packaged in units of three in a nice resealable clear bag ...." Read more

"...Again, amazingly clean and compact. The contents of the bag are turned into a gel that does not spill and is easy to dispose of...." Read more

"...It was nice to have little wipes to clean my hands afterwards, and the little tissue paper for use was perfect. I will keep one in the car...." Read more

"...You don't touch anything and it gels up quickly. Very easy to dispose of ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the gel in the outdoor recreation product. They mention that it gels immediately, solidifies the liquid quickly, and traps any liquid upon contact. The gel inside works great and keeps the bottle from spilling.

"...They gel up with a biodegradable gel that absorbs the liquid and prevents it from leaking. Great for kids, too!..." Read more

"...Pros:- Gel quickly traps any liquid although not instantaneous, so be careful on bumpy terrain-..." Read more

"... All the liquid was absorb . There was no leaking/spillage. The contents of the bag absorbs just like a diaper. This is a true Godsend...." Read more

"...There's an incredible gel absorbent that transforms all liquid upon contact...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the value of the outdoor recreation product. Some mention that it's worth every penny of its price, while others say that it is very pricey.

"...What an incredible and highly useful invention. These were worth every penny to me and I now keep a couple in my car." Read more

"... Worth the cost and true convenience it provides...." Read more

"This is an awesome, completely portable and disposable product for those times when you HAVE to go and just don't have access to a sanitary bathroom...." Read more

"...None, other than the fact that they aren't free . But they are worth every penny of their price.Worth Mentioning:..." Read more

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Glamping With the Stars

Would cloudy weather ruin a visit to the first-ever resort to receive certification from DarkSky International? A stargazer in Utah holds on to her optimism.

Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase, a glamping resort in Utah, is the first resort to be certified by the nonprofit authority on light pollution, DarkSky International. Credit... John Burcham for The New York Times

Supported by

By Colleen Creamer

• May 1, 2024

As I exited Harry Reid International Airport on a bright March afternoon, my hand flew up to protect my eyes, which had grown accustomed to the dull light of a long, gray Tennessee winter. I’d headed west for the sun, but even more so for the night sky, so I was hoping for clear weather ahead. I climbed aboard a shuttle bus that would take me two hours east to Utah, where I planned to spend a starry night at Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase .

The glamping resort, one of 12 Under Canvas sites, is anchored on a canyon rim plateau in southern Utah and is the first resort in the world to be certified by the nonprofit authority on light pollution, DarkSky International . My aim was to beat the heat and the crowds — but what I really wanted was to be an early adopter of certified starry resorts.

The DarkSky Approved Lodging program is another step forward in the nonprofit’s history of advocacy for the reduction of light pollution. Broadly, the requirements for certification include being situated in an “exceptionally” dark location; having approved means of reducing the impact of light at night; and providing educational materials about night sky conservation to guests.

Under Canvas, said James Brigagliano, the program’s manager for DarkSky, was a good fit for the project because the company’s sites are in dark locations, and they already follow eco-friendly practices. Since the Lake Powell site was certified in August, other Under Canvas locations in the National Park Service’s Grand Circle Western parks area have also been approved.

Hoping for good weather

In St. George, Utah, I rented a car and headed southeast, the Pine Valley Mountains hovering to the north. The second half of the two-hour drive was on Route 89, which runs from Mexico to Canada. My roughly 60-mile section was marked by sienna-hued mesas and buttes, and cornflower-blue skies.

By 3:30 p.m., I was bouncing along a red dirt road until Under Canvas’s cream-colored tents came into view. There are 50 in all, scattered across 220 acres, all of them with views of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , a massive geological formation that occupies about 1.87 million acres of public lands, from desert to coniferous forest.

As I got out of my car, I looked up at the sky warily. Clouds were gathering.

In the dirt lot, there were vehicles from Western states and a few from the Northeast. Like me, these travelers had come early — one day after the resort opened for the season — to take advantage of the cool weather and outdoor activities like horseback riding, hiking, rappelling in nearby Elephant Canyon and private tours of the Grand Staircase. There is also boating and fishing on Lake Powell, though the water level there has been much impacted by drought .

Many, like myself, came mainly for the night sky in Utah, which has large swaths of land with minimal artificial light and a dry climate that translates into less water vapor, which can blur the stars.

But would the weather cooperate?

Reaching for the stars

Under Canvas is certainly not the first hospitality company to tout its access to the night sky. Over the last 20 years or so, hotels in bucolic settings, along with permanent glamping sites, have been working stargazing into their guest offerings. There’s the observatory at Primland Resort in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, and the astronomy dinner at Soneva Jani in the Maldives. Elqui Domos in northern Chile has geodesic domes and cabins that open to the sky.

With stargazing in mind, Under Canvas began working with DarkSky in 2021 to arrive at a lighting design plan.

“Getting the certification from DarkSky was altruistic in terms of intention,” said May Lilley, the chief marketing officer at Under Canvas. “It’s a part of our mission to make sure our guests leave with a little bit of a different philosophy, whether that means they just turn the lights off when they leave a room.”

DarkSky’s hope, said Mr. Brigagliano, is that the new certification program will become the de facto standard for all lodging in locations dark enough to pass the organization’s protocol.

Attention to the night sky could not happen sooner. A study published in Science magazine in 2023 revealed that the sky glow from cities and towns increased 10 percent each year from 2011 to 2022, underscoring the startling results from a 2016 study that showed that 99 percent of those living in highly populated areas around the world can no longer see most stars, if any.

The category for lodging complements DarkSky’s existing certification program for International Dark Sky Places , of which there are more than 200, including Zion and Yellowstone national parks; the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary in Australia ; the Namibrand Nature Reserve in southern Namibia; and even urban places, like Parc du Mont-Bellevue in the city of Sherbrooke, Quebec.

Response to news of the program was fairly immediate, said Mr. Brigagliano. “So far, nearly 100 resorts, retreat centers, ranches and other lodging properties from the United States, Canada, Britain, Thailand, Australia, India, Germany, Saudi Arabia and the Cook Islands have contacted us regarding the program. We are getting interest from a variety of businesses, from nonprofits to luxury, high-end properties.”

Where are the stars?

Inside the common area — a large tent that acts as a front desk, restaurant, snack bar and hang out — a couple from San Francisco with a dachshund had just finished registering. The woman who registered me took me by A.T.V. to my safari-style tent.

All the tents are within a soft yell of each other and all have decks, en-suite bathrooms with showers, and four vertical walls that provide more room than traditional pyramid-shaped tents. Inside mine was a king-size bed, two leather chairs and a wood-burning stove. My choice, the Stargazer (I paid $432, including taxes and fees), also has a sky-viewing window that arcs above the bed.

I stepped out on the deck. The valley was dark below dense clouds. Back inside, I could hear the patter of rain on canvas. I ditched my plan to walk to the on-site slot canyon — slot canyons can flood — and slid under the viewing window, which was dotted with raindrops. The prospects of a starry night seemed remote.

I zipped up my parka, wishing I had brought better shoes for hiking in the rain, and walked down to the main common area. The roasted trout ($25) looked tempting, but the cafeteria was uncomfortably cold. I pulled out a protein bar from my backpack and took a seat under one of the sheltered gathering areas, noticing how the rain transforms Utah’s striated Navajo sandstone into deeper hues of coral and ecru. The wide valley between myself and Grand Staircase might have been two miles or 20, the scale was so unfathomable. A couple from Idaho in oilskin jackets and hiking boots, who looked as though they could ice-pick up Mount Everest, joined me. Unlike me, they were better prepared for inclement weather, which hadn’t stopped them from hiking nearby canyons.

By 8 p.m. the rain had become a misty drizzle. Hoping for the best, I set my alarm for 3:30 a.m., around the time the outer regions of the Milky Way appear in the Northern Hemisphere (given the right conditions).

When the alarm went off, I opened my eyes to stars shining through the still-damp window. I got dressed, grabbed a battery-powered lantern and stepped out into the night. Above me, in all directions, the sky was at last unblocked; I could not have been more surprised.

I made my way down the dirt path, which was lit by small solar ground lights, to get closer to the canyon rim. Smoke from the stoves in several tents drifted up and disappeared. A jack rabbit crossed my path. I sat down on a patch of dry scrub. This was the Colorado Plateau, one of the darkest sections of the United States, and even with a remaining cloud or two, thousands of stars shone through the darkness. Was that the veil of an aloof Milky Way above me? With a clear view to the west, I was almost certain I could see Venus. Using my stargazer app, SkyView, I managed to find the constellations Orion and Leo.

I lay back and stayed there until the stars faded in the predawn sky and the morning light began its spectacular migration across the wide valley.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Southwest passengers now get a $75 voucher for big flight disruptions

Customers who are delayed for more than three hours can fill out a form online to request the voucher.

Southwest Airlines has launched a new compensation fund for inconvenienced fliers, offering $75 vouchers to passengers whose flights are significantly delayed or canceled for a reason within the airline’s control.

The compensation fund is part of the airline’s $140 million settlement with the Transportation Department, following Southwest’s operational meltdown in December 2022. A mix of winter weather, holiday travel and failing Southwest scheduling systems resulted in nearly 17,000 canceled or significantly delayed flights, affecting 2 million passengers. Southwest agreed to pay the government $35 million and create a $90 million voucher fund for future fliers impacted by operational errors, on top of the $600 million it paid out in refunds and reimbursements to customers impacted by the holiday debacle.

While the original agreement terms slated the voucher program to start Tuesday, Southwest rolled out the fund April 16. Any passenger who arrives at their final destination three or more hours after the scheduled arrival time for domestic flights or six hours for international flights can request a $75 voucher. The money is available only for fliers facing snafus within Southwest’s control, such as a mechanical issue or swapping planes.

To receive the money, customers can fill out a form online . The request must be submitted within one year from the delayed or canceled flight. Southwest should get back to customers within 30 days, according to Southwest spokeswoman Laura Swift. The compensation fund is expected to run for three years.

Last week, the Biden administration announced new rules for airlines to strengthen passenger protection and increase transparency in the industry. Under the new regulations, airlines are required to streamline the refund process for canceled flights and abandon hidden fees by disclosing the price of surcharges for luggage and changes to reservations upfront.

While announcing those rules, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg also mentioned Southwest’s vouchers as a customer service measure that could influence other airlines.

“This is the month when those vouchers as part of the Southwest settlement kick in, and Southwest will now, because we are making them, really lead the market on that,” Buttigieg said. “It’ll be very interesting to see what other airlines respond — not as punishment, but by way of competition.”

In a statement Tuesday, DOT officials said they will be “closely monitoring” Southwest’s program, requiring the airline to submit an annual report documenting the voucher expenditures over the next three years.

Hannah Sampson contributed to this report.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Delta recovers emergency slide that separated from Boeing plane

An emergency slide that fell from a Delta flight just a few minutes after takeoff has been recovered from the Atlantic Ocean in New York City.

The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation said that the airline recovered the slide on Sunday in a jetty near Beach 131st Street in Queens, about 10 miles from where the flight took off Friday at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

"As nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and people, Delta flight crews enacted their extensive training and followed procedures to return to JFK," Delta said in a statement about the diverted plane issued Friday.

The company said that the plane landed safely and "it was observed that the emergency slide had separated from the aircraft," after returning to a gate.

The company confirmed the recovery of the slide Monday and referred to its earlier statement.

Flight returned due to alert crew

Flight 520 to Los Angeles returned to JFK after the flight crew saw an indicator light related to the right overwing exit and heard a "non-routine" sound near the right wing.

The crew also reported a vibration , according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The flight was operated by a 33-year-old Boeing 767 , according to data from  Airfleets.net , and passengers were accommodated on a different flight later in the morning. There were 183 people aboard the flight.

The FAA said it is investigating the incident and Delta said it would cooperate with that investigation.

Contributing: Sara Al-Arshani, Eve Chen, Kathleen Wong