Finally, the world is beginning to open back up again: Slowly but surely, vaccines are being doled out across the country, restaurants and museums are setting up shop, and the weather is getting warmer. So naturally, people are itching to experience the joy of going on vacation once more (Plane tickets! Hotel chocolates! Road trip playlists!).
That said, in case we’ve forgotten in the course of this past travel-less year, vacations aren’t without their worries. Leaving your home unattended can be a plenty stressful process of its own variety. From panicking over whether or not you remembered to unplug your hair straightener, to stressing about your dog at home with the sitter, there are plenty of scenarios that can keep you up at night. And the last thing you want to experience on your getaway is an ever-present anxiety about the place you got away from.
To put your mind at ease, we pulled together a master list of products that will keep your home safe and secure while you're out of town. From state of the art video doorbell systems to self-operating plant water gauges, these are the goods that'll ensure your home remains in good hands (specifically yours thanks to smartphone-accessible apps) in your absence.
Botanium Hydroponic Self-Watering Planter
This self-watering planter waters every three hours, then drains and recycles the excess so your herbs’ or veggies’ roots stay moist. The tank holds enough water to last for weeks — so you won’t have to worry about your rosemary kicking the bucket during your girls’ trip.
Botanium Hydroponic Self-Watering Planter, $, available at Bespoke Post
Ring Video Doorbell
Keep an eye on your front door from anywhere in the world with Ring’s next-gen video doorbell. The WiFi-enabled video doorbell system will alert your phone whenever it detects nearby motion.
If you need to maintain more than a few indoor houseplants, a smart timer may be worth the investment. This attachment fits most garden hoses, drip systems, soaker hoses, and sprinklers. With the accompanying app you can now control your watering from literally anywhere, so long as you have internet access and a smartphone.
Melnor RainCloud Internet Controlled Smart Timer, $, available at Home Depot
Honeywell Wi-Fi Smart Color Silver Thermostat
You know that panicky moment when you think you may have forgotten to turn off the A/C before leaving home? Invest in a smart thermostat that you can access from your phone or tablet while on the road. It also boasts permanent, temporary, and vacation hold settings so you won’t have to disrupt your auto settings for a weekend getaway.
Honeywell Honeywell Wi-Fi Smart Color Silver Thermostat with Wi-Fi Compatibility, $, available at Lowe's
Litter-Robot
Asking your neighbor to drop by and feed your cat is one thing, but expecting them to clean the litter box is another. Litter Robot’s self-cleaning litter box sifts out your feline’s waste after each use into a removable tray below. This way, your cat will have a consistently clean box without your sitter ever having to lift a scooper.
Litter-Robot Litter-Robot 3 Connect, $, available at Litter Robot
Ring Indoor Camera
Speaking of cats: An indoor camera is another worthy investment if you're a diehard pet person — especially one as sleek and unobtrusive as this one. With this thing, you can watch your pets sleep all day while you’re experiencing separation anxiety from your hotel pool.
While we’re discussing cat habits, here’s another easy gadget to provide some peace of mind: This cat door syncs up with your pet’s internal microchip, allowing them, and only them, to access to your home. While you’re away, your indoor/outdoor kitty can party in the backyard without any unwanted furry friends following her into your home.
PetSafe Microchip Cat Door, $, available at Petsafe
LED+ Dusk to Dawn Lightbulbs
Keep would-be snoopers or intruders at bay with these automatically activated light fixtures. With the built-in sensors, GE’s Dusk to Dawn light bulbs trigger on after dark and switch off once the sun rises.
GE Lighting LED+ Dusk to Dawn 100-Watt Lightbulb, $, available at Amazon
If you'd rather not dole out spare keys to your pet sitters, housekeepers, family members, and the like, a smart lock grants access to your home with just the touch of a few buttons. Through the app, you can change your code at any time and monitor who is coming in and out of your doors.
Ultraloq Ultraloq Deadbolt 1-Cylinder Biometric Electronic Lock, $, available at Lowe's
Masterlock Lock Box
Alternatively, a cheaper option is an old-school lock box. Just mount it somewhere outside your home and your guest will be able to access a set of physical keys with a combination code.
Master Lock Masterlock Lock Box, $, available at Master Lock
PupProtector™ Waterproof Throw Blanket
Fido might know to not jump up on the couch when you’re around, but even the most well-trained pet can crack when left alone for long periods of time. Cover your bed, couch, or other desired surface with a protective cover while you’re gone. These extra-large throw blankets are even waterproof and machine-washable to combat any accidents your pet may experience.
Pup Protector PupProtector™ Waterproof Throw Blanket, $, available at Paw
SentrySafe Fire-Resistant and Water-Resistant Box Safe
Disasters happen when you least expect them. And the last thing you want to deal with when coming home from a vacation is a burst pipe or fire damage. Keep your important documents and keepsakes safe from any major accident with a fire- and water-resistant safe.
SentrySafe SentrySafe Fire-Resistant and Water-Resistant Box Safe, $, available at Walmart
BoxGuard Plastic Package Drop
Accidentally order one too many packages before your trip? Prevent porch pirates by hiding all of those Amazon Prime boxes away. Position this package drop box somewhere away from prying eyes and instruct your delivery persons to place your mail inside.
Cosco BoxGuard Plastic Package Drop, $, available at Wayfair
WiFi Smart Plug
For those who like the idea of having total control, buy some smart outlets in bulk. Amazon's WiFi-enabled version will allow you to monitor any and all plugged-in appliances (think: hair curlers and living room lamps) through your Alexa or Google Assistant — or you can simply set each outlet on its own timer.
In the era of quarantine, during which most of our activities happen on the couch — whether we're in Zoom meetings or, let's be honest, scrolling through TikTok for three hours — comfortable clothing has never been more integral to our lives. We've traded in our workwear for nap dresses and restricting denim for functional leggings. But after nearly a year of making athleisure our uniform of choice, we're in desperate need of a revamp. It's time to find a way to stay comfortable (and ready for that mid-day yoga YouTube video) without forgoing style.
Thankfully, making activewear-centric outfits look put-together is far easier than you might think. To prove it, we styled four everyday athleisure looks using Old Navy's new Powersoft pieces, creating outfits that are as comfortable as they are chic. Read on to reinvigorate your daily wardrobe.
If you do have to venture outdoors, you can do so without ditching your quarantine best friend, aka your leggings. Enter: the ultimate street-style get-up. To complement these snake-print leggings (which boast a hidden pocket for your phone), we’re adding an oversized faux leather hoodie and pops of lavender.
Baggu Medium Crescent Nylon Shoulder Bag, $, available at Urban Outfitters
& Other Stories Chunky Platform Leather Boots, $, available at & Other Stories
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Powersoft Leggings, $, available at Old Navy
Rosie Sugden Cable Knit Beanie, $, available at ShopbopZoom meeting-appropriate up top, workout class-ready down below. Your boss never needs to know you have an online cardio session booked after your one-on-one. Inject some energy into your WFH outfit with bright hues, simple and subtle jewelry, and a pair of kitschy socks that keep up the good vibes.
Old Navy High-Waisted Powersoft Side-Pocket Biker Shorts, $, available at Old Navy
Reformation Waffle Zip Top, $, available at Nordstrom
Kule The Women's Take Out Sock, $, available at Kule
Adidas Wmns Falcon Raw White, $, available at Goat
Mejuri Chunky Hoops, $, available at MejuriChannel your inner influencer with an outfit that's brimming with all of the best quarantine-era trends. From tie-dye joggers to a cropped cardigan and a longline sports bra, this look hits every style mark effortlessly. Just add a set of layered chain necklaces and chunky sneakers, and voila, you’re on your way to becoming a bonafide Instagram baddie.
WSLY The Ecosoft Classic Jogger, $, available at Bandier
Old Navy Light Support Powersoft Longline Sports Bra, $, available at Old Navy
Madewell Toggle Chain Necklace Set, $, available at Madewell
Outdoor Voices Women's HOKA x OV Clifton, $, available at Outdoor VoicesFeel like lounging around in nothing but a T-shirt and leggings? That can still be arranged. Give this tried-and-true ensemble a chic upgrade by picking out a long-sleeve tee with a breezy silhouette (we recommend this Old Navy performance top that boasts a super-comfortable four-way stretch), stretchy split-hem leggings in a neutral colorway, and a pair of square-toed flats. Then transition your comfy outfit into one that’s outdoor dining-ready with a statement tote and a classic trench.
Old Navy Powersoft Mesh-Back Long-Sleeve Performance Top, $, available at Old Navy
Sure, you could wish upon a star for all your Disney gift needs this holiday season. Or, you could just consult this guide aimed at the adults in your life who are big kids at heart. But just because these grown-ups
wish they lived in the magical world of Disney doesn't mean they deserve a gift made for children. That's why this list is full of age-appropriate gifts from the House of Mouse.
It turns out Mickey is willing to put his likeness on a lot of things for the 21 and up crowd. From bakeware to electronics, those mouse ears are everywhere. Wear designer Donald Duck socks, bake your pizza on a Pizza Planet flat board, or throw your bottle of merlot into a plush Mickey Mouse carrier. Of course, a subscription to Disney+ wouldn't be a bad gift either. Especially, for those who are in desperate need of a dose of magical nostalgia after a difficult year.
So get ready to share M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E with the adults in your life who could use a little holiday magic as they head into the new year.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you subscribe to something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Urban Outfitters Disney Villains Anime Crew Neck Sweatshirt
Mover over, Cinderelly. For the villainous fans, gift them a sweatshirt that showcases their favorite characters.
Urban Outfitters Disney Villains Anime Crew Neck Sweatshirt, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Disney x Gucci Donald Duck Cotton Blend Socks
Any true Disney fashionphile has been drooling over Gucci's longstanding Disney partnership for the last few years. If gifting them a $2,000 Mickey skirt is off the table, you can still fulfill their Disney x Gucci fantasies with a minorly more affordable pair of Donald Duck socks.
Disney x Gucci Donald Duck Cotton Blend Socks, $, available at Gucci
ModCloth Take the Apple, Dearie Ceramic Mug
This cup should come with a disclaimer that it does not come with a True Love's Kiss™ remedy in the case of any poison induced comas.
ModCloth Take the Apple, Dearie Ceramic Mug, $, available at ModCloth
Kate Spade New York x Minnie Mouse Minnie Keychain
A little dose of Minnie style that they can carry wherever they go.
kate spade new york x minnie mouse Minnie Keychain, $, available at kate spade new york
Mickey Mouse Beverage Bag
A true "Disney Adult" gift is one that indulges their mutual love of Mickey and alcohol.
Disney Mickey Mouse Beverage Bag, $, available at Pottery Barn
Zara Bambi Disney Sweatshirt
Cartoon Disney characters, but make it chic.
Zara Bambi Disney Sweatshirt, $, available at Zara
The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company By Robert Iger
Bob Iger, Walt Disney Co.'s recently departed CEO is seen as an icon to most millennial Disneyphiles. Last year, he released an account of his tenure with the company, peppering in kernels of managerial wisdom throughout.
Random House The Ride of a Lifetime, $, available at Barnes & Noble
Disney x Coach Minnie Mouse Kisslock Bag
This pretty Coach bag is a steal right now at 40% off.
Disney x Coach Minnie Mouse Kisslock Bag, $, available at Coach
Picnic Time Toy Story Acacia Pizza Peel Serving Paddle
The closest they'll ever get to a Pixar Pizza Planet delivery.
Picnic Time Toy Story Acacia Pizza Peel Serving Paddle, $, available at Bed Bath & Beyond
SK-II x Disney Mickey Mouse Facial Treatment Essence
Even luxury beauty products can benefit from a Mickey overlay.
SK-II x Disney Mickey Mouse Facial Treatment Essence, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Codenames: Disney Family Edition
This fun twist on the popular party game is one the whole family can enjoy.
USAOPOLY Codenames: Disney Family Edition, $, available at Macy's
Zak Designs Beauty and the Beast 23.5oz Plastic Rose Tumbler
When the Disney parks first released their take on the Beauty & the Beast-themed rose tumbler, they sold out like hot cakes multiple times. If they missed out on getting their hands on one the first few times around, make their day with this similar version from Target.
Zak Designs Beauty and the Beast 23.5oz Plastic Rose Tumbler, $, available at Target
Disney+ Year Subscription
The penultimate Disney gift — a year-long subscription to Disney+ so they can binge-watch all their favorite movies and tv shows.
From collaborations with Gucci and Kith, Vans and Opening Ceremony, Mickey and the gang have been a staple in streetwear for well over a couple of decades. While most of the merch has been well out of the average person's price range, this cool under-$70 puffer jacket is the next best thing.
Sleeping Beauty Castle and Walt Disney Funko Pop! Set
A miniature Walt and Sleeping Beauty castle make for the perfect mood-boosting desk buddies.
Funko Pop! Sleeping Beauty Castle and Walt Disney Funko Pop! Set, $, available at shopDisney
Herschel Supply Co. x Disney Nova Mid-Volume Backpack
Herschel Supply Co.'s Disney collab is filled with artsy takes on a classic character.
Herschel Supply Co. x Disney Nova Mid-Volume Backpack, $, available at East Dane
MainStreetMelts Mickey Waffles Candle
Bring home that sweet, sugary Main Street scent with this Mickey Waffles inspired candle.
MainStreetMelts Mickey Waffles Candle, $, available at Etsy
The Nightmare Before Christmas Tarot Deck and Guidebook
Who needs a traditional tarot deck when your fortune can be told by good 'ol Sandy Claws himself.
Disney The Nightmare Before Christmas Tarot Deck and Guidebook, $, available at Boxlunch
Dole Soft Serve Mix
With Disneyland fully shut-down and Walt Disney World operating at a limited capacity, going to the parks this year was likely off the table. Bring the magic of the parks to them with a Dole Whip soft serve mix that will transport them right to Adventureland.
Just when we thought we were Amazon-ed out after last week's Prime-Day marathon, the massive e-tailer pulls us back in. This week's news-worthy cycle on the site includes a surprise collaboration with the dynamic-Jenner-sister duo's clothing label, Kendall + Kylie. This new partnership was brought to us by Amazon's The Drop — aka the site's in-house brand that pumps out limited-edition-collab hype. Since launching last year, the retail behemoth has regularly partnered with an assortment of global influencers to bring you street-style inspired trends at budget-friendly prices. And now, Kendall + Kylie x The Drop marks its first celebrity endeavor.
The 26 piece line-up is filled with of-the-moment designs including everything from tie-dye loungewear sets to cozy cropped cardigans. Keeping to Amazon's DNA, the affordable collection starts at $35 and tops out at $89 — and, unlike the freestanding Kendall + Kylie line, Amazon is including plus-size shoppers in its special release (according to the size guide, available sizes range from 00 to 24). In case you were skeptical about whether or not the items come truly Kendall and Kylie approved, the youngest of the Kardashian-Jenner dynasty has provided Instagram-friendly selfies proudly showing off the wares as proof.
Browse our favorites from the new drop ahead and be sure to shop the full collection of styles on Amazon.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Kendall & Kylie Puff Sleeve Denim Jacket, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Cargo Pant, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Turtleneck Bodysuit With Cut-out, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Cropped Cardigan, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Balloon Sleeve Crew Neck Sweater, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Vegan Leather Paperbag Shorts, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Front Lace Up Sweatshirt, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Lace Up Jogger, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Turtleneck Bodysuit With Cut-out, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Balloon Sleeve Crew Neck Sweater, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Vegan Leather Jogger, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Cold Shoulder Dress, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Handkerchief Top With Sequin Fringe, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Cargo Pant, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Pearl Embellished Sweatshirt With Back Cut-out, $, available at Amazon
Kendall & Kylie Cargo Pant, $, available at Amazon
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Avengers, assemble! It's time to suit up in some marvelous designer gear, because Coach's latest release is taking on the Marvel Universe — one superhero at a time. Like many of us out there (*raises hand*), Coach and its creative director Stuart Vevers have had a longlasting love for Disney characters — so, as the latest addition to its lineup of magical collabs, the designer is taking on a new realm of the megacorporation's IP by highlighting some of Marvel's most popular hand-drawn faces. Although the new line has been available to Coach Insiders for the last few days, it's officially opened up to the public as of this morning. Meaning, the clock is ticking for when these pieces will completely sell out.
The Coach x Marvel collection is exclusive to the brand's Coach Outlet branch and features over 100 strong pieces: including classic Coach staples (like crossbody bags, card cases, sneakers, and tees) pumped up with fun comic-style quirks (like speech-bubbles and Carol Danvers' decals). The new designs spotlight an array of Marvel's fan-favorite characters with everyone from Spider-Man to Black Panther, Captain America, and Black Widow making an appearance. And, for the more traditional comic-book stans, there's plenty of black-and-white graphics to choose from as well. The best news of all? It looks like the collection is already on sale, with items are showing prices at 60% off — a rare treat for a launch like this.
To ensure that you get your hands on a piece of this exciting new drop, check out coachoutlet.com or peruse some of our favorite superhero-inspired picks lined up ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Coach x Marvel Marvel West Pack With Spider-Man, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel Warren Belt Bag With Coach Bubble, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel Captain America Shield Hangtag, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel Clip Low Top Sneaker With Comic Book Print, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Jes Crossbody with Star Quilting, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel Card Case With Carol Danvers, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel Terrain Crossbody With Captain America, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel Anorak, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel West Backpack With Signature Canvas Detail And B, $, available at Coach Outlet
Coach x Marvel Marvel Spider-Man Collectible Bear Bag Charm, $, available at Coach Outlet
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