Canvas Backpacks for Travelers: The Perfect Carry-On Companion

Do you plan to go on a journey that involves navigating busy streets or uneven terrains? Consider getting a canvas backpack. These bags are super comfortable even when carrying heavier items, and their internal organization systems are top-notch. The material quality is also durable and sturdy to withstand daily tears and abrasions.

When choosing a canvas backpack for travelers, there are multiple things to consider. The best bag must tick the right boxes, like size, comfort, and functionality. In this article, we’ll share tips to help you choose the right backpack for travelers.

Why Canvas Backpacks Are Ideal for Travel?

There are several reasons why canvas backpacks are ideal for travelers. First, these bags are built using high-quality materials, giving them the desired roughness and versatility. Most times, canvas backpacks use leather and woven nylon materials, which are known for their durability. You can take these bags to countless adventures without worrying about sudden tears and scratches.

Other reasons to choose a canvas backpack include:

  • Resistance to weather conditions like sun, rain, and wind.
  • The reinforced stitching ensures the bags can handle heavy loads.
  • Multiple compartments and pockets for increased storage.
  • Anti-theft zippers and hidden pockets for increased security.

The Perfect Size for Carry-On Travel

When choosing a canvas backpack for travelers, always consider the size and other things like airline weight restrictions. Most airlines restrict canvas backpack weights to 15lbs and 22lbs. The United States, however, focuses more on size compliance than weight.

But even if the airline accepts bigger and heavier backpacks, a bag that weighs 40 or 50lbs can be challenging to carry around. Therefore, a smaller backpack is lighter and easier to carry. The 20L to 35L range is the ideal size for travelers.

Comfort and Functionality

Don’t underestimate comfort when choosing a canvas backpack for travelers. A good backpack must feel light and comfortable on your back. Therefore, consider choosing a backpack with thick and breathable padded straps. This should cushion your shoulders with prolonged use.

While at it, pay keen attention to the load distribution. The best canvas backpacks often have waist or sternum straps to transfer weight from your shoulders to your hips. That can be a game-changer if you’re going on longer trips.

Other things that can increase comfort include:

  • Load lifters for distributing weight and improving stability.
  • Back panel ventilation to prevent excessive sweating.
  • External attachments for better organization.
  • Choose lighter bags because they are less straining to carry.

Style That Travels Everywhere

Style and versatility should rank high when comparing canvas backpacks for your long travels. Always choose a style that you can take anywhere. You can go for a classic and simple design that blends nicely with casual and formal outfits. Neutral colors like black, brown, and grey can also match any outfit. And yes, a water-resistant finish will be handy if it starts to rain.

Choosing the Right Canvas Backpack

It’s evident that choosing a canvas backpack for travelers requires extra care and consideration. Getting everything right can go a long way towards enhancing your adventurous spirit. A good bag must provide the right balance between your practical needs and travel style.

Meanwhile, don’t underestimate the bag’s material and build quality. The last thing you want is a surprise tear while hustling your way through the airport. Therefore, ensure the backpack material and stitching are top-quality. Most importantly, let your practical needs guide your purchasing decision.

How to Choose the Perfect Hypoallergenic Apple Watch Band

Choosing the ideal Apple Watch band involves considering tens of factors. In addition to your personal style, the watch band must be comfortable and safe to wear. This is where a hypoallergenic Apple Watch band comes in. These hypoallergenic iwatch bands deliver comfort, style, and skin-friendliness in equal measure.

So, this article discusses what hypoallergenic watch bracelets are and the best options to buy at sharkwatchband.com or your favorite store. We’ll also share important tips for choosing a skin-friendly watch strap and how to care for it.

Understanding Hypoallergenic Watch Material

A hypoallergenic watch strap is an Apple Watch band with anti-allergic properties. These straps essentially prevent skin irritation after reacting to moisture and bacteria. They can protect sensitive skin against unwanted side effects like itching.

Usually, silicone/rubber straps contain hypoallergenic properties, making them excellent for active lifestyles and sensitive skin. However, you can also find other watch materials with anti-allergy properties. Some popular options include:

  • Nylon
  • Leather
  • Ceramic
  • Titanium

Perfect Hypoallergenic Apple Watch Band

Guide for Selecting Hypoallergenic Watch Straps

1.    Watch Material

Certain watch strap materials can cause skin irritation. Nickel, for example, can react with allergic skin. Metal alloys, which can cause rashes and discomfort, should also be avoided. Remember that some metal alloy watch straps can contain nickel.

2.    Comfort

Always consider how comfortable the watch band feels on your wrist. For example, confirm if the strap has a breathable design to prevent moisture buildup. The best hypoallergenic watch straps also use an adjustable design to ensure comfort.

3.    Watch Clasp and Buckle

A watch clasp or buckle is a mechanism that fastens the iWatch to your wrist. Therefore, ensure the clasp isn’t only comfortable and sturdy, but the material must also possess hypoallergenic properties. Again, avoid metal alloys and nickel.

4.    Ease of Cleaning

Most Apple Watch fans often overlook this feature when choosing a watch strap. A reliable watch band must be easy to clean. This prevents possible bacterial buildup, which can cause skin irritation.

Top Hypoallergenic Watch Bands

1.    Sport Band

The timeless Sport Band is an excellent choice for active lifestyles. This band uses high-grade silicone that’s both gentle and comfy. Silicone is also recognized for its outstanding sweat and water resistance capability. Additionally, it’s available in varying styles, complementing many fashion tastes.

2.    Sport Loop Band

Nylon is the material of choice for Sport Loop Bands. This material is known for its breathable design, which allows air to circulate on your wrist during heavy workouts and prevents moisture buildup. Moreover, Sport Loop Bands are lightweight and durable.

3.    Braided Solo Loop

Braided Solo Loop Bands are also excellent choices for active people with sensitive skin. These breathable bands are covered with thin interwoven silicone thread to ensure sweat and water resistance. Braided Solo Loop also uses stretchable material with no metal clasp or buckles.

4.    Full Grain Leather

Full-grain leather is the ideal choice if sophistication is your preference. This iWatch watch strap uses premium-grade cow leather material that’s comfortable and friendly to your skin. The classic pin buckle also uses friendly stainless steel for a relaxed and secure fit.

Tips for Managing Skin Sensitivity

Managing skin sensitivity entails more than just buying a hypoallergenic watch strap. It’s vital to care for your strap to prevent skin irritations. Below are some tips:

  • Clean the band regularly: Use a clean, damp cloth to clean the strap regularly. This prevents dirt and oil buildup. Remember to avoid using harsh chemicals while cleaning.
  • Prevent sweat buildup: Don’t wait until the end of your workouts to wipe out sweat and water spills from your watch. Moisture can be a haven for bacteria breeding..
  • Buy multiple straps: Lastly, buy multiple straps and swap them out depending on the occasion or activity. This is also an excellent way to reduce wear and tear.

Conclusion

Finding a good Apple Watch band for sensitive skin can seem daunting. But with the simple tips above, you can quickly make a confident and long-lasting choice. If you have sensitive skin, use watch band options like silicone, nylon, and leather.

Beautiful Dreamers: A Celebration of Pittsburgh Women

Remember the lovely Sonja Sweterlitsch and her beautiful paintings?

Well, she has been working super hard over the past two years to paint 16 different portraits of Pittsburgh women in preparation for her new show, “Beautiful Dreamers: A celebration of Pittsburgh women.”

Here’s a sampling of her work. Maybe you will recognize a few (or all) of these faces!

All of the portrait subjects are Pittsburgh women who are doing a diverse range of professions and projects in Pittsburgh. You can see the full list of the women featured and read more about Sonja’s work (including the story behind the show) in her latest blog post.

Here are the deets for the opening celebration:

Where: Fe Gallery (in Lawrenceville)

When: Friday, December 7th, from 7-11:00 p.m.

RSVP: See who else will be joining on the Facebook Invite

There will also be a special night of music on Dec. 14, 7-10pm with singer song-writer and Beautiful Dreamer, Joy Ike.

You remember Ms. Joy, right?! Talk about worlds colliding.

Also, I wanted to highlight that Yinzpiration interviewees Kathryn Heidemann and Casey Hanner are amongst the featured portrait subjects.

I’m also super honored to be included. I haven’t seen the portrait yet—I’m waiting to be surprised opening night. 🙂

I hope you can join for the party. I’m looking forward see these paintings in person as well as meeting Sonja’s group of Beautiful Dreamers.

See you next Friday!

Peace and Love,

Kate

P.S. Who are the beautiful dreamers in your life?

TIPS FOR CREATING A LUXURIOUS BATHROOM STYLE

We all love the look and feel of a luxurious bathroom. However, most of us only experience this in luxurious hotels, but this does not mean that you cannot experience it in the comfort of your home. In fact, creating a luxuriously styled bathroom is a process that begins with the little things. Little choices, such as the type of toilet paper you use or the candles you light, will set your bathroom apart from others. In this post, we’ve put together 5 tips for creating a luxurious bathroom style whether you are creating a new space or renovating an existing one. Read on;

LUXURIOUS BATHROOM STYLE

1. Upgrade the lighting

Lighting is one of the most valuable tools that you can use to create an inviting space. Light is essential for creating a relaxing and calm feeling in any room, including the bathroom. To make your bathroom feel luxurious, consider adding some soft lighting to the area. A high-quality LED light or a pendant lamp will add luxury to even the simplest of bathrooms.

2. Commit to quality

Keeping with the theme of lighting, always choose high-quality items when renovating your bathroom space. Look for products that were made with care, from quality materials. These may cost you more upfront, but they will pay off in the long term as these are items that will last a lifetime. The same can be said for bath linens, toilet papers, and so on. Choose items that are high-quality, such as organic cotton or silk items and your bathroom will feel like a real treat for you and your family.

3. Embrace high-quality and stylish faucets and showerheads

Getting the right fixtures for your bathroom is essential. Choosing quality faucets and showerheads can make your bathroom more luxurious. On this note, install the Homelody Shower Sets which you can purchase on homelody.net. These faucets feature a sleek and modern design that provides the designed luxury without sacrificing durability. Best of all, Homelody showerheads and faucets are available in different styles and finish options to provide a chance of picking one that will match your bathroom style.

4. Settle for the right flooring

Choosing the right floors for your bathroom can make a world of difference. For a start, choose a flooring material that is truly luxurious, such as ceramic, marble, or stone due to their durability and beauty. Do not forget that the material you pick must tolerate water and moisture and resist mold. Moreover, it should be slip-resistant to protect you from slips and falls. So, do your research keenly to ensure that you and your family are safe.

5. Add some art and seating

Having a luxury bathroom does not mean that you do not want to be creative. In fact, adding some art and seating to the space will make it feel more welcoming and comfortable. Therefore, turn your bathroom into a relaxing haven with a dressing table mirror, comfy cushioned chairs, artwork, and cabinets to organize your bathroom essentials.

Conclusion

These are just but a few tips that will help you create a luxurious bathroom style. There is nothing wrong with just doing your favorite colors, but it would be better to incorporate more than one element for the ultimate luxurious look. So, incorporate all of these, and rest assured to see a world of difference!

Why the Apple Watch is worth having for young people

The Apple Watch is one of the most popular smartwatches on the market and for good reason. It’s packed with features that appeal to a wide range of users, including young people. There are so many reasons to get an Apple Watch for the young people in your life and you may be surprised to find out why. Here are just a few of the reasons why the Apple Watch is worth having for young people

Reasons why the Apple Watch is worth having for young people

1. The Apple Watch is a fashion statement on its own

The Apple Watch is more than a fitness tracker and smartwatch. It’s a fashion statement on its own that doesn’t feel out of place in any type of attire.

2. The Apple Watch is virtually indestructible

Unlike the iPhone or iPad, the Apple Watch is virtually indestructible, so problems with it are unlikely to occur at all. Although the screen can break if dropped, the body of the watch will always be able to be used as a functioning watch.

3. The Apple Watch is the future of technology

The Apple Watch is becoming the future of technology. The watch faces are constantly being updated with new features and new looks, while apps continue to be developed for it. If a young person’s parents own an iPhone or iPad, it’s likely that those devices will be replaced by ones that are equipped with the Apple Watch in the near future.

4.. Stay connected without being tethered to your phone

The Apple Watch lets you stay connected to your phone without actually having to carry it around with you everywhere you go. This is perfect for young people who are always on the go and don’t want to be bogged down by a heavy phone.

5.. Stay fit and healthy

The Apple Watch has a built-in heart rate monitor and activity tracker that help you stay fit and healthy. It also encourages you to keep moving and be active, which is great for young people who might otherwise be sedentary.

6.. Stay organized and on top of things

The Apple Watch has a built-in calendar, alarms, and reminders that help you stay organized and on top of things. This is perfect for young people who are always on the go and need a little help staying organized.

7. Stay entertained

The Apple Watch has a built-in music player and can even stream video content from your phone to your wrist. This is perfect for young people who want to stay entertained while on the go.

Apple Watch is worth having for young people

Where to get the best Apple watch band?

There are numerous options that are available when it comes to the best apple watch straps for men or women designs. There is a wide range of bands and watch bracelets available for young people to choose from. One of the best places to get the fancy band is Cxbands.com. The company is the leader in designing and manufacturing luxury and fashionable watch bands for Apple Watch. The site is dedicated to providing the best options for Apple Watch lovers with a huge selection of stylish materials, natural leather, wood and other fabrics, as well as metal finishes creating a perfect aesthetic that can be customized according to your personal preferences.

If you’re still deciding whether or not to buy an Apple watch, cxsbands is a great resource for finding the best band to suit your needs, as well as determining the type of watch you should buy.

10 Things to love about Pittsburgh’s Shadyside Neighborhood

Growing up in Washington County, I had a lot of misconceptions of Pittsburgh (known in my town as the “Big City”), particularly the neighborhood of Shadyside. As a Pitt student, I assumed Shadyside was a mecca of expensive apartments, cool kids in cool bars, and swanky shops. Yet, somehow, I ended up moving here directly after graduation.

Now, several years later, this place is my home. I’ve lived, worked, shopped, and eaten in every corner of this community. There’s some serious history here, including the stunning Victorian-style houses once home to last names like Phipps, Mellon, Negley, and Mellon. A mix of affluent families, young professionals, artists, musicians, and students creates a community that is always growing and changing (and the residents welcome it). Despite the transient nature of a lot of the student residents, Shadyside has a very tight-knit neighborhood feel. Rarely do you walk anywhere without saying “Hello” to a familiar face.

Pittsburgh's Shadyside Neighborhood

My “10 Things to Love about Shadyside” will walk through my perfect weekend in the neighborhood. The best part: no car needed 🙂

1. Fitness
There’s no shortage of opportunities to get your Namaste on. With at least five yoga studios, two major gyms, Dick’s Sporting Goods’ soon-to-open True Runner specialty shop, and Lululemon, Shadyside is a dream for yogis, runners, and bikers.

2. Coffee Tree Roasters
In 2010, I helped open The Elbow Room on Walnut Street and was challenged with selecting our own house brew. The solution was right across the street. Two things I learned: It’s perfectly acceptable to slurp your coffee, and Coffee Tree Roasters is locally owned and roasted. This shop on Walnut Street is the perfect spot for meetings, studying, and seeing familiar faces. On nice days, the garage door opens up to Walnut Street, creating a very welcoming indoor-outdoor space.

Pittsburgh's Shadyside Neighborhood

3. Kards Unlimited & Walnut Street Shopping

Pittsburgh's Shadyside Neighborhood

Kards Unlimited is like nothing else in the city. With quirky gifts, funny greeting cards, and a killer book selection, I could spend hours in this shop. After you get your coffee and a few cards, Walnut Street is a great place to window shop and grab a few buys. If you have guests coming in from out of town who are armed with a good sense of humor, take them here.

4. Eden = Vegetarian Heaven
While there’s no shortage of good eats in Shadyside, Eden is a new gem that I can’t get enough of. Local, fresh, healthy, and affordable. Truly a lovely brunch or dinner. I recently shared an ideal outdoor brunch with a few girlfriends. Their menu caters to vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike

Pittsburgh's Shadyside Neighborhood

5. Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte
Personally, I can’t get enough of Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte. Have you had one? The melt-in-your-mouth vanilla cake and sweet candied almonds make for a treat that has been a staple at Pittsburgh family gatherings and birthdays for over forty years. The German-style bakery is always filled with locals and is staffed by some of the friendliest yinzers in town.

Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte

6. A Walk
Sometimes it’s nice to get away from the bustling main streets and stroll along the quieter residential ones. The houses, people, cute pups, flowers, and ice cream stops create a perfect scene for an evening walk or run. Best of all: Shadyside is (almost) flat! There’s a fun mix of buildings and architecture in the community. You’ll see everything from Victorian-style homes to modern style apartment buildings. There are contemporary homes, mod-style designs, tiny buildings, and mansions. May I suggest a stroll west of Walnut Street (towards Oakland). Some of the most historical homes are between Neville Street and Amberson Avenue.

7. Events
Shadyside hosts several annual events. If you are in town for any, plan to check them out!

Jam on Walnut: First Saturday in June, July, & August
Arts Festival on Walnut: August 24 & 25
Shadyside 5k: October 6, 2012
Bach Beethoven and Brunch: Every Sunday, til August 12
Shadyside House Tour: September 30, 2012

8. Nightlife

Nightlife

Full Buffalo Blues Bar during March Madness

While Walnut Street drives the largest night scene, it isn’t alone. Shadyside’s main business districts are composed of S. Highland Avenue, Ellsworth Avenue, and Walnut Street. Here’s a quick run-down of a few spots that are not to be missed:

S. Highland: The home of Mad Mex and Buffalo Blues – two great places to have a bite and a drink. Grab Sunday brunch at Casbah then browse the unique home interior items at Penhollows.

Ellsworth Avenue: Home to two of Pittsburgh’s best LGBT lounges (5801 & Spin), Ellsworth Ave truly has something for everyone. Start with a perfect slice of pizza at Bites & Brews, then sip on a frozen cosmo at Harris Grill. Looking for a place to meet someone new? Stop by Soba for a unique cocktail in the casual-yet-upscale lounge.

Walnut Street: You won’t run out of options quickly. There’s plenty to choose from, but don’t look past Mardi Gras. Since 1954, this bar has been serving some of the best cocktails in the city paired with an old-style jukebox that will take you back a few decades. Very Mad Men-esque. Here, you’re as likely to strike up a conversation with an elderly bar patron as a college junior who just turned 21.

9. Sunnyledge
Sunnyledge is a true gem. A bed and breakfast with a martini bar, restaurant, and patio, this Pittsburgh historic landmark is perched on the hill on the corner of Fifth Ave and Wilkins. Go for happy hour with complimentary appetizers on Fridays, dinner, or brunch, and you’ll have an experience like no other in Pittsburgh. Hint: They use dry ice in their cocktails. It’s something to be seen.

10. Pedestrian Bridge
The Shadyside/East Liberty Pedestrian Bridge is a game-changer for residents of both communities. Linking the residential area of Shadyside to the EastSide shopping plaza (home of Whole Foods, Trek Bike Shop, and the best local Wine & Spirits store) has made a drastic improvement to the walkability factor of our neighborhood. It’s now easier to access East Liberty’s growing list of music venues, restaurants, and shops.

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