September
Sunny Days Ahead for Travel Goods Sector
September 1, 2022
The travel goods sector experienced a much needed rebound in 2021 with sales numbers returning close to the pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
By Nate Herman
August
Best Travel Gear for Digital Nomads
August 17, 2022
More and more Americans are choosing the digital nomad label and lifestyle. Here is the gear that helps them combine wanderlust and working remotely.
By Kathy Witt
July
TGA Board of Directors Chair Cliff Ensley has a message for the industry:
July 15, 2022
On the fence about committing to The 2023 Travel Goods Show? TGA Board of Directors Chair Cliff Ensley has a message for you — and he doesn’t mince words. Read his letter to the industry here.
By Cliff Ensley
June
Back-to-School Gear for Tech-Savvy Students
June 17, 2022
Approximately 23 million Americans have gotten a dog or cat during the COVID-19 pandemic. With more flexible schedules and opportunities to work remotely, many pet owners will be venturing out for long vacations or day trips with their best friends.
By Josie Howatt
TravelBits
June 14, 2022
Hotel that has been in operation since 705 A.D., largest waves ever surfed, best U.S. hotel chain's rewards programs, the Grand Canyon of the East, the hardest-to-snag reservation in South Florida, airline collectables, the world’s most stunning routes, Michelin’s cheapest eats, and more.
May
2023 Is Our Year
May 18, 2022
The last three years have been ones of challenges and costs to our industry. But now it’s opportunity’s turn – and our time to take ownership and move forward together.
By Michele Marini Pittenger
People Gotta Travel, Manufacturers Gotta Create
May 18, 2022
All those daydreams about travel? They’re about to come true as people put their plans in motion. Luckily, travel goods manufacturers have got our backs with items in the “just what we need” category.
By Kathy Witt
April
Travel Gear for Four-Legged Friends
April 4, 2022
Approximately 23 million Americans have gotten a dog or cat during the COVID-19 pandemic. With more flexible schedules and opportunities to work remotely, many pet owners will be venturing out for long vacations or day trips with their best friends.
By Josie Howatt
March
Products Equip Travelers for Pandemic-Shaped Travels
March 3, 2022
Yes, we’d like to tell COVID where to go, but it continues to be an integral part of the travel conversation. See how it has shaped how and where we travel — and the travel goods that equip us to deal.
By Kathy Witt
TravelBits
March 23, 2022
A sunset celebration in Key West, a new species of giant tortoise discovered, all-fun inclusive at Playa del Carmen, best shelling on the east coast of North Carolina, overnight in a flying saucer-shaped home, and more.
February
4 Trends to Support Travel Based Retailers
February 24, 2022
As retail continues to evolve amidst a challenging and competitive landscape, more and more merchants are looking for additional ways to increase revenue opportunities. Among them includes introducing affiliate programs into their strategic marketing efforts.
December
The New Travel Essentials
December 20, 2021
Holiday travel is setting pandemic records, fueled by the need to see family, the ability to work remotely, and the desire for bucket-list adventures. See the new accessory categories — health and safety, comfort, electronics, and pleasure — supporting travelers as they venture back into the world.
By Sara Ecclesine
TravelBits
December 28, 2021
18th-century chateau, book now and pay your trip off over time, open-air geothermal pool in Cornwall, weekend ganja retreats, ruins of a 3,000-year-old under water castle, ramped up the amenities for guests’ canine companions, and more.
November
With a New Travel Landscape Comes New Opportunities
November 18, 2021
There’s no denying the pandemic fueled many changes and challenges to the travel goods industry – but this means new and different opportunities for all of us. Attending The 2022 Show is the best way to reconnect with the industry and strengthen and build existing and new relationships.
By Michele Marini Pittenger
Affiliate Marketing for Retailers
November 8, 2021
As retail continues to evolve amidst a challenging and competitive landscape, more and more merchants are looking for additional ways to increase revenue opportunities. Among them includes introducing affiliate programs into their strategic marketing efforts.
October
Innovative Travel Gear for Returning to the Office, Hybrid Work and Business Travel
October 12, 2021
As hundreds of thousands of business professionals return to the office and resume work-related travel, they're in the market for products to make their commutes and trips easier than ever. We've hunted down the newest, most creative solutions for workers on-the-go.
By Josie Howatt
September
And Then Along Came COVID…
September 28, 2021
As if launching a product isn’t challenging enough, a global pandemic comes along to further complicate the process. See how five manufacturers overcome an unprecedented situation.
By Kathy Witt
TravelBits
September 21, 2021
Levitating trains, L’Arc de Triomphe wrapped, relax like a Vanderbilt, Western fantasy, Tennessee through EnChroma lenses, the best stargazing, and more.
August
Sustainable Travel for an Interconnected World
August 2, 2021
As the world begins to reopen, eco-friendly, responsible travel is emerging as one of our hottest travel trends.
By Sara Ecclesine
July
We’re Gearing Up for The 2022 Show
July 7, 2021
Good news for Travel Goods Association members with a look ahead to The 2022 Show and a call for help to President Biden. Read more in this month's blog post from TGA President, Michele Marini Pittenger.
By Michele Marini Pittenger
June
Gearing Up Junior Travelers
June 21, 2021
Kids bring unique concerns on the road and “one size fits all” definitely won’t work for their travel gear. See what does.
By Kathy Witt
Pandemic Tanks Economy…and Sales
June 16, 2021
In 2020, the pandemic brought the economy, and travel, to a standstill, bringing the U.S. travel goods industry its worst year in decades, according to a new report released by the Travel Goods Association.
By Nate Herman
TravelBits
June 16, 2021
Sunshine magic, open-air museum, new Bangkok digs, a living cave, road tripping to Nomadland, hut to hut bike trail, and more.
May
The Humble Backpack
May 12, 2021
These days, regardless of age, sex, hobby, profession, or sartorial flair, one can find a backpack that perfectly blends fashion and functionality.
By Sheila Moon
April
March
Clever Water Bottles and Travel Mugs
March 29, 2021
Self-sufficient commuters and travelers are grabbing a drink on the go – from bottles and travel mugs packed from home. Browse 13 reusable, sustainable designs, including collapsible mugs, built-in water purification, and leak-proof lids and straws.
By Sara Ecclesine
A Case for Pivoting to an Overlooked Market Segment: The RV Traveler
March 18, 2021
Today, there are 11.2 million RV-owning households in the U.S., according to rvtravel.com. That’s up 62% over 20 years ago. Longtime TGA member and seasoned retailer and product developer Chuck Weisbart thinks we should start paying more attention to the RV set. Here’s why.
By Chuck Weisbart
TGA Unveils the Travel Goods HUB to Connect Buyers, Manufacturers
March 10, 2021
The HUB, a place for buyers and manufacturers to connect and conduct business, debuts. See why one retailer says TGA hit it out of the park.
By Kathy Witt
TravelBits
March 16, 2021
Coolest road trip, spectacular thermal baths, history of Black music in the U.S., adrenaline-inducing roller coaster, a west Texas gem, and more.
February
Revenge is a Trip Best Served with Bold Travel Gear
February 23, 2021
With the pandemic dramatically redefining how we travel, travelers take their revenge on a year of lockdowns and restrictions.
By Kathy Witt
The Case for Business Transformation
February 23, 2021
As we emerge from the most challenging year in recent memory, businesses will need to hit the ground running. Here's what can be done to return to growth and profitability.
By Michael Zucker
January
Going Viral: Anti-microbial Tech in 2021
January 25, 2021
Meet the anti-microbial gear keeping commuters, gym-goers, and travelers safe. Molded into plastics, woven through fabric or bonded to surfaces, this technology offers long-lasting protection and peace of mind.
Featured in photo above and left: HEX Anti-Microbial Technical Collection and Gruv Gear KarbonZero Mask
By Sara Ecclesine
Industry Buzz
January 12, 2021
People, product, company news, and milestones for the travel goods industry.
December
The 2021 Show – The Travel Goods HUB
December 16, 2020
Important news from the Travel Goods Association
By Michele Marini Pittenger
When Life Gives You a Global Pandemic, Take a Schoolcation
December 17, 2020
Remote learning has created a silver lining for adventure-loving families. Untethered from the brick and mortar school, families are free to travel, study, and work from just about anywhere.
By Sheila Moon
The Best-Kept Tax Secret
December 17, 2020
Whether your travel goods company is experiencing a boom or bust – or something in between – donating excess inventory is one step all businesses can benefit from.
By Gary Smith
TravelBits
December 22, 2020
Roadside magic, touchless delivery, best wintertime national parks, JetBlue and American’s 1970s-style team-up, road trip weddings, private eats, private islands and more trending getaways.
TGA News Briefs
December 22, 2020
The 2021 Travel Goods Show is scheduled to take place Feb. 28 – March 2, co-locating with ASD Market Week in Las Vegas, whose 45,000 retailer attendees will have access to our show.
November
2020 TGA Holiday Gift Guide
November 9, 2020
The 2020 TGA Holiday Gift Guide is here! Our members have shared their newest travel gear to satisfy every gift recipient on your list this holiday season.
October
Garrett Lai, TGA Communications Editor, dies at 54
October 8, 2020
TGA's longtime contributor and friend, Garrett Lai, passed away at 54 years young. Garrett’s vision, can-do attitude, indispensable creativity and friendly demeanor will be sorely missed by all of us.
By Sara Ecclesine
September
Editor’s Note
September 17, 2020
People Will Travel. And We’ll Help Them.
By Michele Marini Pittenger
Working Remotely
September 17, 2020
How travel goods manufacturers’ new items are helping people venture forth, safely, and embrace the new remote working landscape.
By Kathy Witt
Future Travel Gear, Today
September 16, 2020
Bags and accessories that are on the way to becoming future travel goods success stories – by solving travel problems today.
By Sara Ecclesine
Online Outreach in the Age of COVID-19
September 10, 2020
Using social media, Shopify and the ’Net to keep cash registers ticking and stay connected with customers.
TravelBits
September 16, 2020
Roadside magic, touchless delivery, best wintertime national parks, JetBlue and American’s 1970s-style team-up, road trip weddings, private eats, private islands and more trending getaways.
TGA News Briefs
September 4, 2020
The 2021 Travel Goods Show is scheduled to take place Feb. 28 – March 2, co-locating with ASD Market Week in Las Vegas, whose 45,000 retailer attendees will have access to our show.
Industry Buzz
September 3, 2020
People, product, company, and milestones news for the travel goods industry.
July
China Tariffs Affect Economy…and Sales
July 9, 2020
The impact of trade wars and punitive tariffs on the U.S. travel goods market.
By Nate Herman
COVID-19 and the Travel Goods Business, Part II
July 6, 2020
Part II of our series on how the industry is operating amidst COVID-19: We check in with retailers and manufacturers to discover strategies and best practices that are helping them cope.
June
COVID-19 and the Travel Goods Business, Part I
June 29, 2020
What's happening in the industry with COVID-19: Resources, products and reopening best practices from manufacturers and retailers alike.
Industry Buzz
June 4, 2020
People, product, company, and milestones news for the travel goods industry.
May
Show Happenings
May 27, 2020
Upcoming product developments; hot colors; a bumper crop of Tribbles; the rise of silicone; the growth in green; and more in-built organization than ever.
Next in Travel Gear
May 22, 2020
The items and trends that left the biggest, most lasting impressions on retailers as they walked the aisles of the world’s greatest travel products showcase.
By Sara Ecclesine
TGA Product Awards
May 22, 2020
The very best of what’s new in travel gear: Best Use of Technology; Best New Design – Luggage; Best New Design – Backpack; Best New Design – Accessories; Most Eco-Friendly Product
RETAIL LAB Recap
May 21, 2020
Takeaways from The Show’s RETAIL LABS educational sessions, including emerging consumer trends and new best retail practices; generational marketing; social media strategies for time-strapped retailers; and the importance of BOPUS.
Seen at The Show: Products
May 21, 2020
Standout items from The 2020 Travel Goods Show, including innovative new carry-ons and checked bags; personal sleep cocoons; personal hygiene and health safeguards; travel security items and more.
By Kathy Witt
Seen at The Show: People
May 21, 2020
The personalities, influencers, and folks who make The Travel Goods Show the soul of the industry.
By Sara Ecclesine
TGA News Briefs
May 19, 2020
The Travel Goods Show is headed back to Las Vegas. Mark your calendars for February 29-March 2, 2021 to attend the world's greatest travel goods showcase. It is your single best source for product info...
TravelBits
May 12, 2020
New cleaning protocols and 72-hour occupation/vacancy buffers; more authentically local experiences; organized crime – on display; 10 great hikes; most-delivered alcohols and more travel news.
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News Tabs
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We Need You to Tell Congress to Renew the GSP Program ASAP
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TGA Urges Congress to Approve the MTB This Year
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TGA Joins Hundreds of Others in Urging Congress to Renew GSP Before it Expires
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FMC Acts on TGA Petition to Investigate Unfair Detention/Demurrage Charges at Ports
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We Need You to Sign This Letter Urging Congress to Renew GSP Now
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Draft TGA Letter Urging U.S. Government to Address False Leather Claims Online — Need Feedback and More Examples![]()
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TGA has drafted a letter urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate widespread false leather claims for products sold on the Amazon marketplace. The letter argues the products making false leather claims have an unfair competitive advantage over TGA members when members are already facing the twin challenge of a supply chain crisis and rising inflation. Please provide feedback on the draft letter by COB next Thursday, September 29, and please share any other examples you have found of false leather claims that we can add to the appendix. travel-goods.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/TGA-FTC-Leather-Ltr-2209_Draft-2-final-220914.pdf
A Fall Preview![]()
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We had an interesting summer as an industry. Despite many headaches for our customers, travel this summer returned with a vengeance. And everyone went back to school in person this fall, leading to brisk sales of backpacks and related gear. This great news remains tempered, however, by ongoing congestion issues, high tariffs caused by Congress’ failure to renew GSP and the ongoing trade war, and more recently, the threat of growing inflation. So, where do we stand as we enter fall and the critical holiday shopping season? Read more in Capital Beat: travel-goods.org/a-fall-preview/
Reconnect at The 2023 Travel Goods Show![]()
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Plans are well underway for The 2023 Travel Goods Show — our first major industry gathering since 2020. Don’t miss reconnecting with your colleagues as we move #ForwardTogether. Buyers from these companies have already made plans to attend: Macy’s, Portmantos, QVC, Magellan's, Irv’s Luggage, Hammacher Schlemmer, Boscov’s, AAA/CAA, Paradies Lagardere, Airline International, Backcountry, Groskopf’s, Luggage Shop of Lubbock, The Mazel Company, TripQuipment, Lazar's Luggage Superstore, The Mazel Company…![]()
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Join them in Las Vegas by registering for your FREE badge today. Exhibitors, reserve your booth here.
Here’s a Who’s Who of SHOW-Offs![]()
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Who’s showing off new travel products at The 2023 Travel Goods Show? Bon Voyage®, Travelers Club®, WANDRD, FLYYPOD® and Jack Georges — that’s who! They’re part of an exciting Show lineup as we all move #ForwardTogether. ![]()
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Qualified buyers register here for your FREE badge — and plan to see who all will be with us in the Entertainment Capital of the World.![]()
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Accelerate Your Trade Show ROI![]()
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The return of in-person trade shows is welcome news to most marketers. There are few marketing channels that generate more qualified leads and grow relationships better than a trade show. As we return to these types of events, however, you might be wondering how to really make the most of these experiences and ensure you see a positive return on your investment. venturebeat.com/business/accelerate-your-trade-show-roi/
