Erin Gifford

I am a Washington, DC-based travel & outdoor writer. My writing has appeared in USA Today's GoEscape, The Wall Street Journal, AARP.org, The Washington Post, Thrillist, LonelyPlanet.com, HGTV.com, Costco Connection, AAA Traveler Worldwise, Northern Virginia Magazine, Via and AAA World. I also write about hiking in Virginia at GoHikeVirginia.com and have written three hiking guidebooks for Falcon Guides. When not seeking out new adventures, I'm crossing off the next state in my quest to run a half-marathon in all 50 states (so far, I've run in 43 states).

Southern Living •

This Bluegrass-Loving Mountain Town Is One Of Virginia’s Best-Kept Secrets

Tucked into the quiet folds of Southwest Virginia, far from the hum of the interstates, Independence is a small but spirited mountain town where outdoor adventures meet deep-rooted Appalachian heritage. Hike to spot sturdy wild ponies, pedal along a rail-trail or two, or tap your toes to the twang of old-time fiddle music. It may catch you off guard, but this grounded authenticity is part of the charm.   This is the kind of place that invites you to press pause—to slow down and truly appreciat...
National Geographic •

A Cozy Travel Blanket is the Little Luxury That Packs a Big Punch

It may not seem like a necessity, but a comfy cozy travel blanket can make a big difference on trips.  “Some of us may sleep very well when we travel, while others may struggle,” says sleep expert Rebecca Robbins, an assistant professor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and an associate scientist at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “Bringing elements that are cozy and comforting, such as a blanket, eye mask, or other elements, can remind you of home and help set you up for sleep success whi...
National Geographic •

7 Places to See Wildlife in the U.S. this Spring

Spring is a magical time to witness wildlife in action, as animals emerge from winter and migratory birds return. From paddling alongside wild ponies on Virginia’s Eastern Shore to spotting baby bison in Yellowstone National Park, here are seven unforgettable adventures that will take you to wildlife-rich spots across the U.S. Keep in mind, however, that the best wildlife encounters happen when you keep a respectful distance and observe responsible practices, so grab your binoculars and get read...
AARP •

5 Scenic Spring Road Trips

Spring can be a great time for a road trip, with mild weather, colorful flowers, and breathtaking landscapes – without the summer heat and crowds. According to AARP’s 2025 Travel Trends report, road trips are popular, with 43 percent of travelers 50-plus preferring to travel by car. Domestic travel destinations in the South and West, including Florida (15 percent) and California (11 percent), are top picks. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or an adventure-filled journey, these five s...
AAA's The Extra Mile •

Smooth Sailing: How to Avoid Seasickness on Your Next Cruise

Seasickness can quickly turn a dream cruise into a miserable experience. But with a few smart choices and the proper preparation, you can ensure a smooth, comfortable journey. Here’s how to avoid seasickness and set yourself up for a thoroughly enjoyable sail. Your cruise itinerary plays a critical role in preventing seasickness. Here’s how to choose a route that ensures a smooth journey. Choose a cruise that sails on gentler seas. The waters of the Mediterranean and Caribbean can be calmer and...
Select Traveler •

Michigan's Great Lakes Metros

From the art-filled streets of Grand Rapids to the cherry-laden shores of Traverse City, each city offers its own distinct vibe and undeniable appeal. Gather your group for these five must-visit Michigan destinations, all offering unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experiences. Detroit is a city fueled by creativity, reinvention and an enduring spirit of innovation. Known as the birthplace of the American auto industry, it’s home to giants like General Motors and Ford. A visit to the Henry Ford Museum...
Group Travel Leader •

Winning Wisconsin

Milwaukee is home to an impressive roster of museums and attractions sure to elevate any itinerary. The Milwaukee Public Museum is known for diverse exhibits that range from natural history and anthropology to cultural artifacts and scientific discoveries, including a planetarium and a live butterfly garden. For an entirely different vibe, the Harley-Davidson Museum celebrates the legacy of America’s most famous motorcycle brand with a range of engaging tours, including a VIP experience. For a f...
Southern Living •

15 Best Restaurants In Charlottesville, Virginia

Here are the best places to eat on your next trip to Charlottesville in no particular order. Get ready for a true culinary adventure. Charlottesville, Virginia, boasts a dynamic culinary scene that reflects its rich agricultural heritage and food-forward inventiveness. With a growing number of farm-to-table restaurants, the local food landscape brims with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From comforting Southern fare to creative global dishes, there’s a lot for your taste buds to explore....
National Geographic •

How to Pack Light for a Weekend Trip

Packing light for a weekend trip is all about strategy and being intentional. By planning ahead, prioritizing multifunctional clothing, and sticking to a small weekender bag, you can pack everything you need without feeling weighed down.  “Packing light is about more than saving space, it’s about cultivating mindfulness,” says Shira Gill, organizing expert and author of LifeStyled: Your Guide to a More Organized & Intentional Life. “By choosing multifunctional items and focusing on what you trul...
National Geographic •

Shoe Inserts May Be One of the Best Travel Hacks. Here are Our Top Picks.

Travel is tough on your feet. It’s especially so if your regular routine doesn’t include much walking.  “We see people get flared up … when they have a really abrupt change in volume,” says Milica McDowell, a Bozeman, Montana-based physical therapist and a vice president at Gait Happens, an educational organization focused on foot and lower-body health. “Suddenly you are walking 10,000 steps a day, or 15,000 steps a day. Your body is going to be like, ‘I’m not adapted to that.’”  Shoe inserts ca...
Midwest Living •

Doing Dry January? These Sober Bars Offer Drinks Without the Buzz

Glistening bottles brimming with buzz-free liquid line the walls of nonalcoholic bars and bottle shops across the Midwest, reflecting a trend that's sweeping the nation. Customers come with different rationales for avoiding alcohol, but one of the appeals of an exclusively NA business is to socialize with like-minded sober people. Many of these NA bars double as community gathering spots, with game nights, live music, mindful mixology classes, even crocheting circles. Whatever your motivation, "...
Lonely Planet •

A First-Time Guide to Saguaro National Park

Set on the outskirts of Tucson, Arizona, Saguaro National Park invites visitors to drink up the rugged beauty and charm of the Sonoran Desert. Home to the towering saguaro cactus – the largest cactus in North America – the park is a testament to the remarkable resilience of desert life.Expansive mountain landscapes and iconic cacti as far as the eyes can see set the stage for an unforgettable experience. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the rare and mysterious crested saguaro. Remember to watc...
Load More Articles