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Apple Store Online Launches in Saudi Arabia
Apple Store Online Launches in Saudi Arabia

TECHx

timea day ago

  • Business
  • TECHx

Apple Store Online Launches in Saudi Arabia

Home » Latest news » Apple Store Online Launches in Saudi Arabia Apple has announced the expansion of its retail presence into Saudi Arabia with the launch of the Apple Store online and the Apple Store app. This marks the first time customers in the Kingdom can access Apple's full range of products and services directly in Arabic. The launch introduces a new way for customers in Saudi Arabia to explore, shop, and receive support from Apple. Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's Senior Vice President of Retail and People, said the company is excited to connect with customers and help them experience how Apple innovations can enrich daily life. The Apple Store online offers a personalized shopping experience tailored to users' existing Apple products. Through the Apple Store app, customers can compare models, save items, and track orders with ease. Apple has also introduced configure-to-order options for Mac, allowing users to customize chips, memory, and storage. For the first time, customers can enjoy free engraving in both Arabic and English on selected products such as AirPods, AirTag, Apple Pencil, and more. • Customers can personalize their Apple Watch combinations • iPhone 16 lineup features Apple Intelligence and enhanced privacy Apple also revealed a range of retail services for Saudi Arabia. Shoppers can get live support via chat or phone to choose the right product. After purchasing, Apple team members are available online for help with setup, switching to iOS, and cellular activation. To improve accessibility, Apple introduced an affordability solution via Tamara, offering Buy Now Pay Later with four monthly installments at 0% interest. The Apple Trade In program is now available in Saudi Arabia. Customers can exchange eligible devices for credit or have them recycled for free. AppleCare+ will provide customers with two years of expert support and device protection. The Apple Education Store is also now active in the Kingdom. Students, parents, and educators can enjoy discounts on Mac and iPad. A back-to-school offer is running until October 21, offering free AirPods or another accessory with eligible purchases. Apple has further announced plans to open its first physical Apple Store locations in Saudi Arabia by 2026. The first flagship location is expected in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This expansion builds on Apple's ongoing investments in the region, including the Apple Developer Academy, which launched in Riyadh in 2021 in partnership with the Saudi government, Tuwaiq Academy, and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University.

Aaron Phypers accuses Denise Richards of drug abuse and infidelity
Aaron Phypers accuses Denise Richards of drug abuse and infidelity

Express Tribune

time3 days ago

  • Entertainment
  • Express Tribune

Aaron Phypers accuses Denise Richards of drug abuse and infidelity

Aaron Phypers, estranged husband of actress Denise Richards, has accused her of long-term Vicodin addiction and an ongoing affair in a letter obtained by Page Six. The claims follow Richards' allegations of domestic abuse, for which she was recently granted a restraining order. Phypers, 52, alleges Richards, 54, has been abusing Vicodin, Adderall, and alcohol for years — referring to Vicodin as 'Vitamin D' or 'white chestnuts.' He claims her substance use endangers their daughter Eloise and that he has witnessed her passing out from the alleged combination. In the same letter, Phypers also accuses Richards of having an ongoing extramarital affair, stating he discovered explicit messages and broken promises. He says she physically assaulted him on July 4 — the day he filed for divorce — and that she smashed his phone to conceal evidence. Phypers further alleges stalking via an AirTag, denial of access to belongings, and harassment of his elderly parents. Despite Richards' claims in court documents that Phypers abused her throughout their marriage — including slapping, choking, and verbal assaults — he denies all allegations, stating he never physically harmed her. Sources close to Phypers claim Richards' bruised face photo was from a fall while intoxicated in 2022. Richards has not commented publicly on Phypers' latest claims. The former couple, who appeared together on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, are now entangled in a bitter legal battle involving abuse accusations, drug use, and infidelity.

34 Clever Products Small Enough To Keep In Your Purse
34 Clever Products Small Enough To Keep In Your Purse

Buzz Feed

time4 days ago

  • Health
  • Buzz Feed

34 Clever Products Small Enough To Keep In Your Purse

A teensy two-in-one nausea relief inhaler designed to help with spontaneous nausea, motion sickness, morning sickness, and general queasiness (having a human body is hard). You can either use it as a scent inhaler or rub it directly on the tip of your nose for relief. Summer road trips and cruises just got a HECK of a lot more bearable. A set of luxurious Fomin antibacterial paper soap sheets that come in tea tree oil, sweet orange, and refreshing lavender scents, so even when you're washing up on the side of the road, you can feel like the belle of the ball. Reviewers are especially obsessed with how well these lather with just a little water, giving them an effective, delectable-smelling clean! A 3-in-1 charging cord to juice up your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at the same time. (It's giving witchcraft??) This just solved all your "welp, everything's dying and there's only one outlet in this car/on this flight/in this teensy hotel room" problems for good. The internet-famous Revlon oil-absorbing volcanic face roller that swipes over your face like a magic wand to make excess oil disappear — super convenient and *way* less wasteful than using blotting strips and time wasting than fancy powders that need a ton of blending work. A roll-on migraine stick made with peppermint, spearmint, and lavender oils to help you soothe away headaches, which frankly have a lot of audacity interrupting your day. A Benzene-free, travel-friendly applicator of I Dew Care's dry shampoo powder so easy to use that you can just dab it on your hairline and rub it in for an instant, oil-absorbing refresh. Now your "no wash" days are a secret that you and your roots will never tell 👀. A travel "flossing" toothbrush with two layers of bristles — regular firm bristles, and longer ones that are ten times thinner to clean deep in between your teeth and gums to mimic flossing. Reviewers love how deep the clean feels, and also how soft it is on sensitive teeth! And Boka Travel-Size Mouthwash Tablets to quickly freshen breath and eliminate lingering odors when you're on the move. These fluoride- and alcohol-free tables are made with hydroxapatite to help strip your teeth of microbes without the whole song and dance of regular rinse-out mouthwash. A hands-free portable phone charger that sticks right onto your phone plug and chills there so easily that you might forget it's there in the first place. This mini charger is designed to give you one full iPhone battery per charge, making it a lifesaver for busy humans, particularly ones who love traveling. A set of coin-sized Portawipes, which are compressed towelettes you can expand in an instant to use as a face towel, toilet paper, or sturdy napkin while you're on the go. (Psst — this is a must-have that a lot of parents SWEAR by.) An Apple-compatible locator tag that functions just like an AirTag, but at a more affordable price. Now you can slip it into your purse or wallet to keep track of them, or to pull out and attach to important valuables you might be tucking away in places like gym lockers! Bonus — this even comes with a waterproof case. A set of reviewer-beloved "Loops Quiet 2," aka the "ear plugs for people who hate ear plugs." These lightweight plugs are so subtle that people won't notice you wearing them, and are meticulously designed to muffle distracting, irritating, or overwhelming noise without completely blocking out the world around you. Reviewers love to wear them at the office or in noisy homes — this way, they can still stay aware of their surroundings without getting overwhelmed by them. A chic coffee cup holder so you can carry your favorite beverage *and* answer work emails *and* text your friends pictures of cute dogs at the same! time!!! Reviewers also love this for keeping the cold condensation off their hands. Aquaphor's Healing Balm Stick made with avocado oil and shea butter to soothe all those dry, cracked spots that pop up on your human body. This is perfectly portable so you can get relief on the go! A set of "wine wands" to remove sulfates and histamines from your beloved cheap Pinots in as little as three minutes, basically making "not getting a hangover" your new superpower. A blister-preventing balm that basically magics an extra layer between your skin and your shoe, so you can get your steps in without worrying about getting big ole blisters on your feet without a bandage in sight. And Dr. Scholl's Roll-On Foot Pain Relief Liquid for 12 hours of relief when your current step count is "too many." This fast-acting formula is made with lidocaine and menthol to work within five minutes, and tackle nerve pain for deep relief. A chic minimalist silicone wedding band to temporarily replace the real one, so you can go to the gym, the pool, or any other spontaneous adventures without worrying about losing or dirtying your actual ring. A reusable, *delightfully* portable gel lint roller for quick lil' touch-ups both at home and abroad, because you just plain never know when you're going to experience the full-body serotonin of a furry friend pouncing on you. Not only is this little sphere cute as a button, but all you have to do to restore its stickiness is wash the interior. "Plaud," an AI voice recorder and notes generator that's basically a personal assistant that fits in your pocket. This gadget not only transcribes audio from meetings in real time, but uses ChatGPT to create summaries, minutes logs, and to-do lists based on the audio. Now, those meetings that couldn't be emails can get condensed into one! A leakproof collapsible water bottle to make you feel a little bit like a witch when you roll it back up and it just ~disappears~ conveniently in your purse. A set of leakproof, reusable silicone Stasher bags that, trust me, you will be VERY glad to have on you in a pinch — these are a great way to store random leftovers when you're on the move, or even keep things that got wet (or POOPED ON BY A PIGEON!! ASK ME HOW I KNOW!!!!!!!!) safe from the rest of your bag if you're far from your car or from home. A trusty Tide To-Go stain removing pen, because nobody wants to get a stain on their One Nice Top the first hour of work and have to endure the awkwardness the rest of the day. Enter these tried-and-true bad boys, which will take care of the problem in a pinch. A durable bag strap gripper that not only keeps you hands-free when you've got extra shopping bags, jackets, and other accessories to cart around, but prevents you from forgetfully LEAVING said items in places where you will simply never see them again. (RIP to that one lost water bottle we're all still mourning.) And a ridiculously beloved, Shark Tank-featured Click & Carry Grocery Bag Carrier to help you lift bulky, heavy bags so easily you'll put Superman out of business. With this gizmo you can hook your bags to it and lift up to 80 pounds while comfortably resting the carrier on your shoulder instead of letting all the straps cut into your palms. A beautifully packaged, travel-friendly Touchland Glow Mist hydrating hand sanitizer for anyone who's like "mindfully practicing health and safety, but make it fashion." Unlike other sanitizer sprays, it's infused with aloe vera to keep your skin hydrated and has the most luxurious floral scents. A chic weekly pill organizer you will *love* if you're the type of human whose life is "go go go" — this lets you easily pull out separate days and stick them in a bag or overnight backpack if you're traveling or staying the night somewhere. A four-ounce *travel* size of the wildly-beloved Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray, a hypochlorous acid spray designed to target the bacteria that causes acne and redness. Now you can carry it conveniently in a bag, purse, or car for midday spritzes and keep your skin barrier supported and flare-ups contained. And E.l.f.'s Blemish Breakthrough Acne Fighting Spot Gel you can keep tucked away in your purse like a tiny acne-fighting magic wand. This salicylic acid gel roll-on is invisible when you apply it to oncoming and existing zits and blemishes, but still packs a powerful punch in helping reduce redness and inflammation (and help prevent future breakouts, too!). A set of airtight, moisture-proof mini salt and pepper shakers because life is too short for bland food. Now you can have an easy "fix-it" in your bag at all times. A TSA-friendly "Wallet Ninja" with so many functions that just reading the product description will give you impostor syndrome. This gizmo may slide easily into a pocket or wallet, but it can be used as a cellphone holder, a bottle and can opener, an eyeglass screwdriver, a ruler, and SO much more. A super lightweight, UPF protective travel umbrella for anyone who wants a durable, no frills option for rain and sun protection that they're not going to cry about if they forget it in a random Starbucks (don't look at meeeee). A pack of Neuromints made with a blend of caffeine and nootropics designed to give you energy five times faster than regular coffee — without jitters or sluggishness afterward. All of the zing you need to keep your traveling energy up, with none of the crash. (Or 15 mid-afternoon trips to the bathroom!!) "The Clean Ball," which is a nifty little gizmo you can stick in your purse or bag to pick up all the crumbs and debris that settle down there — now it'll be clean as a whistle whenever you go rooting through it, and you won't have to get all the "ick!!" on your belongings.

The 7 best briefcases for men with style, tested and reviewed
The 7 best briefcases for men with style, tested and reviewed

Business Insider

time6 days ago

  • Business
  • Business Insider

The 7 best briefcases for men with style, tested and reviewed

Best overall: Stuart & Lau Cary Briefcase Combining modern functionality with professional aesthetics, the Stuart & Lau is a great example of contemporary briefcase design. Throughout my testing process, this model was an absolute joy to use, with a flexible construction that still provides enough stability to stand upright on its own, an extremely smooth metal zipper, and rounded leather handles that stand straight up for easy grabbing (unlike other options I tested that flopped over). Its large interior provides a ton of storage options, accommodating laptop models up to 16 inches — larger than most competitors — a full-length pocket with magnetic closure, six open pockets, and two dedicated pen holders. You're also getting way more exterior storage compared to other options, with one side offering a full-length sleeve with magnetic closure for easy access, while the other is segmented into three smaller pockets if you want a little more organizational versatility. This exterior storage also blends in really well with the rest of the briefcase, a design feature I really appreciated. I loved the convenience of the removable laptop sleeve, which utilizes a pair of magnetic latches for quick removal/re-attachment. An integrated umbrella slot (with matching umbrella available for $95), magnetic key ring, luggage sleeve, concealed AirTag pocket, and a cleverly designed semi-hidden "stow pocket" near the handle add even more functionality. The Duralight fabric construction proved not only attractive but extremely durable as well, featuring waterproof backing to prevent rain or liquid spill damage. Despite not being made of leather, the Stuart & Lau looks just as refined as higher-end options. The sophisticated dark blue color, complemented by full-grain Italian leather handles and trim, as well as robust metal zippers and clasps, creates a stylish and professional aesthetic that could work well in a variety of business environments. When it comes to portability, the Stuart & Lau outperformed every other model in my testing pool. Its rounded leather handles were the most comfortable I used, and combined with the overall 2.75-pound weight and upright design, make this bag extremely convenient to transport and travel with. While its slim leather shoulder strap is stylish and comfortable, I did find it a tad slippery, and other briefcases with more textured straps did a better job of staying on my shoulder without slipping off. If you're looking for a briefcase that delivers a ton of functionality without compromising on style or portability (and you're not dead-set on a leather case), the Stuart & Lau Cary Briefcase is a fantastic option. Best for maximum storage: The Samsonite Classic Leather Toploader If you're a professional who needs to keep a decent amount of briefs, paperwork and documents organized and within easy reach, but still wants to maintain a relatively stylish appearance, I recommend the Samsonite Classic Leather Toploader. Despite its utilitarian design (packed with a seemingly never-ending supply of compartments, sleeves, pockets, both inside and out) this case still maintains a sleek, professional look. This bag's impressive three-compartment design features a main section with a laptop sleeve, plus two expandable zippered sections on either side — one for larger items and another packed with multiple sleeves, pockets, and pen holders. Its buttery-smooth zippers and deep opening allow the expandable sections to open wide for easy access, while the durable leather construction and strong metal components stood up well to my stress tests, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability. The bag's ability to stand upright adds practical usability as well, and features like the exterior zippered sleeves and a luggage handle strap enhance its functionality. However, while offering abundant storage, the Toploader's organization skews toward larger compartments rather than dedicated spaces for smaller items, and some interior pockets use thinner materials that may be less durable over time. At 3.1 pounds and slightly bulkier dimensions, it trades some portability for its superior storage capacity. If you prefer the professional look of this bag, but don't need its storage space, the "slim" version could be a perfect match. Best compact: The Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Brief Alex Rennie/Business Insider Thanks to its streamlined yet functional design, the Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Brief is well-suited to those who prefer a more compact briefcase, while still providing a useful amount of storage options. Essentially a slimmed-down version of its beefier sibling (the Samsonite Classic Leather Toploader), this bag features the same professional look, soft leather construction, and buttery-smooth zipper, but weighs just 2.4 pounds and measures 16 x 12 x 2.3 inches, making it significantly more portable than bulkier alternatives. Despite the smaller size, I was surprised to discover that this bag was still able to accommodate laptops up to 15.6 inches. While the interior only features a general storage space and laptop sleeve, the zippered exterior pocket provides much more functionality, with phone sleeves and pencil holders for convenient accessibility. So, even though you're getting fewer storage options than maximum-capacity models, this bag is still perfectly sufficient for professionals who prefer to travel light. The slim profile does sacrifice some stability compared to thicker briefcases (it won't stand upright if that's what you want), but for users prioritizing portability and professional aesthetics over extensive storage, this compact option strikes an ideal balance. Best high-end: Carl Friedrik Palissy If practical, utilitarian briefcases lack the high-end, luxurious aesthetics you're looking for, consider the Carl Friedrik Palissy briefcase ($795). This bag is, in a word, gorgeous. Made with full-grain Italian leather, featuring a rich cognac color and premium metal clasps, everything about this bag clearly indicates high-end craftsmanship. Its rigid construction also gives it that classic attache-case stability (it easily stands upright when placed on the ground or desktop while avoiding an outdated look). The Palissy was also one of the most portable options I tested, featuring thoughtfully positioned shoulder strap connections (each end attaches to the sides of the bag instead of the ends) that allow it to hang snugly at your side without banging around too much as you walk. The rounded leather handles (as opposed to thin straps of models like the are also extremely comfortable to grip and hold while carrying around. The smooth, high-quality zipper extends down the sides, providing a wide opening when you need to access the interior. However, despite its stunning aesthetics, the Palissy ranked relatively low when it comes to overall functionality, at least compared to the other models I tested. It lacks the snug, dedicated laptop compartment, opting instead for a loose sleeve, and a single zippered pocket and two pen slots round out the organizational options. While the durable leather resists scratches admirably, the limited organizational features make it hard to justify over more practical options like the Stuart & Lau Cary, which offer superior functionality alongside attractive design. What else we tested Stonington Daily Carry Work Bag Stonington Daily Carry Work Bag Check price at Even though this bag is a little more tote-y than briefcase-y, I think it could be a great fit for a user more concerned with carrying capacity than traditional briefcase aesthetics. You're getting a nice roomy main compartment with multiple sections, including a fleece-lined padded sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15 inches, and four additional pockets (one large zippered option and three smaller ones). The exterior features two side pockets for water bottle or umbrella storage, and another pair of open sleeves for quick access. This storage-friendly design does result in a fairly bulky bag, though, and while the heavy-duty canvas material provides durability, its floppy construction has a hard time standing upright. The canvas shoulder strap was comfortable enough, but the flat leather carrying handles were noticeably less comfortable than the other models I tested, lacking the rounded shape that made them so enjoyable to use. Saddleback Leather Fourteener Thin Leather Briefcase This leather briefcase has a compact, lightweight design with comfortable handles and a distinctive Indiana Jones-style aesthetic. I really appreciated its rigid construction, allowing it to stand upright and not immediately flop over when placed on the ground, as well as the thick, heavy-duty feel (and smell!) of the leather. However, it fell short in a few areas, namely the limited storage options compared to other cases, and a relatively small 14-inch laptop sleeve (the majority of my testing pool accommodates 15- to 16-inch versions), although I was technically able to squeeze my 15-inch MacBook Pro into the main compartment. The full-grain leather also picks up scratches and marks easily, but if you're interested in an authentic, unpretentious look, that could be just the aesthetic you're after. Saddleback bags also come with a hard-to-beat 100-year warranty, and considering the quality craftsmanship — seriously, this thing is tough — the Fourteener could be worth the investment for anyone looking for a compact, low-profile bag. I love the attache-style design of this briefcase, which provides enough stability for it to stand on its own easily at all times (even when rooting around inside). The smooth and shiny leather exterior and traditional flap closure give it a classic, vintage look without feeling outdated, and as long as your personal style and workplace match the aesthetic, it could be a real showstopper. The comfortable leather handles and curved shoulder strap design provide excellent ergonomics, and the front clasp lock makes it the only genuine security feature in my testing pool. However, this traditional briefcase comes with notable trade-offs: at 5 pounds, it's the heaviest option tested, and after weeks of testing, the somewhat stiff clasp lock mechanism took some time to loosen up and finally work smoothly and without occasionally sticking in place. That being said, I really appreciated the variety of storage elements inside, with multiple full-length compartments, zippered pockets, and three elastic pen holders. While undeniably handsome and built to last, its weight and slower accessibility make it better suited for users who prioritize classic style and security over quick, lightweight functionality. How we tested each briefcase To identify the best briefcases for different professional needs, budgets, and lifestyles, I conducted extensive hands-on testing of 7 models across various price points and design types. Using the following criteria, my comprehensive evaluation included both objective measurements and subjective assessments of real-world performance. Here's how I put my testing pool through its paces. Daily Use Simulation I began my testing with real-world usage scenarios, using each briefcase to transport my laptop and work materials during daily commutes to and from my home. For consistency, I loaded each case with identical items: a 13.3-inch laptop, documents, notebooks, pens, charging cables, and other typical work essentials. Each briefcase was carried for at least 30 minutes of walking per day over multiple testing sessions, with each case opened and closed a minimum of 15 times throughout each testing day. During this process, I evaluated ease of access to contents, comfort during extended carrying periods, stability when placed on various surfaces, and monitored for any signs of early wear or structural issues. Usability and Access Regardless of use case or setting, the convenience of operation is important for any briefcase. I tested each model's opening and closing mechanisms extensively, evaluating whether zippers, clasps, buckles, and flaps operated smoothly or presented frustrating obstacles (noting any issues like sharp zippers rubbing against my skin or dark interiors that are difficult to see into). I assessed how quickly and easily I could access items stored in different compartments, noting whether the interior organization facilitated efficient retrieval or required digging through large compartments or struggling to see in low-light conditions. I also evaluated whether each briefcase could be opened and accessed while holding them (both by handles or shoulder straps), if they required placement on a surface to operate effectively, or were rigid enough to stand upright independently. Organization and Storage Capacity I logged the organizational features of each briefcase, counting and measuring all compartments, pockets, and specialized storage areas in order to confidently evaluate one versus another. I tested how well each case accommodated different types and sizes of items, from laptops and tablets to documents, business cards, and smaller accessories. For laptop compartments, I measured maximum device dimensions that could fit comfortably and tested with various laptop sizes (both 13.3 and 16 inches) to determine true capacity limits. I also evaluated the accessibility and practicality of exterior pockets for items requiring quick access. Material Quality and Durability To evaluate build quality and long-term durability, I conducted both visual inspections and stress tests. I examined the materials used throughout each briefcase, identifying leather types (full-grain, top-grain, or bonded), fabric qualities, and hardware construction. I performed aggressive handling tests, swinging each fully-loaded briefcase by its handles and straps to identify potential failure points like stressed seams, pulled stitching, or hardware separation. I also tested water resistance by applying light water exposure to small, inconspicuous areas and evaluating how well different materials repelled moisture. Design and Aesthetics Since briefcases often serve as professional accessories that reflect personal style, I assessed the visual appeal and perceived quality of each model. I evaluated whether each briefcase projected a professional, high-quality appearance or appeared cheap and poorly constructed. I considered factors like proportions, color options, hardware finish quality, and overall design cohesiveness. I also noted how each briefcase's appearance held up after extended use and handling. Although this evaluation is somewhat subjective, it did help me better identify which models would be more suited to a specific wardrobe, personal style, or use case, without feeling mis-matched or out of place. Comfort and Ergonomics I evaluated the comfort and ergonomics of each briefcase's carrying options during extended use. For handles, I assessed grip comfort, size appropriateness for different hand sizes, and whether extended carrying caused discomfort or fatigue. For briefcases with shoulder straps, I tested strap comfort, adjustability, and how well the weight distributed across the shoulder during longer carrying periods, and if the shoulder padding provided enough grip to prevent it from slipping off my shoulder while walking. Additional Performance Metrics Beyond the primary evaluation criteria, I measured and compared several additional factors: Portability: Using precise measurements and a luggage scale, I documented the exact dimensions and weight of each while empty, assessing how compact each case was for storage and transport convenience. The ability to stand on its own (or at least not completely flop over) factored into this category as well. Security Features: I noted if each case featured any kind of locking mechanism, whether that was a dedicated lock and key on the main compartment, or if exterior pockets provided at least a zipper or magnetic closure system to potentially deter any nosy passersby. Maintenance Requirements: I researched and tested cleaning procedures for each material type, noting whether cases required special care, conditioning, or were particularly susceptible to stains and discoloration. FAQs H ow do I clean and maintain my briefcase? Depending on the type of material used in its construction, your model may have different requirements when it comes to spot cleaning, as well as extending its overall lifespan. You should always consult the specific user or care instructions, but as a general rule, leather briefcases can be cleaned with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt, with leather conditioner applied every 3-6 months to prevent cracking. Use leather-specific cleaners for stubborn stains and store away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Canvas and nylon briefcases can typically be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water. Some fabric briefcases are machine washable, just check the manufacturer's instructions first and make sure to remove all contents before cleaning. For all briefcase types, try to empty pockets regularly to prevent debris buildup, and wipe down hardware like zippers and locks with a damp cloth to prevent corrosion. If needed, lubricate zippers occasionally with zipper wax for smooth operation. When not in use, store briefcases in cool, dry places and stuff with tissue paper to maintain shape during storage. D o briefcases look outdated in modern workplaces? No! Briefcases remain absolutely relevant in modern workplaces, though their appropriateness depends on industry and company culture. In traditional professional sectors like law, finance, and consulting, briefcases continue to be the gold standard, projecting the authority and competence that clients and peers expect. Senior executives across industries typically favor briefcases for their polished, established appearance. However, many contemporary workplaces have embraced casual alternatives like messenger bags, backpacks, or sleek laptop cases that align with informal cultures and offer better ergonomics for daily commuting (those classic attache cases aren't exactly subway or bike-friendly, for example). The key here is reading your workplace environment. If colleagues and leadership carry briefcases, following suit can demonstrate a proactive, professional awareness. Conversely, a traditional leather attaché case might appear out of touch in a more casual setting. Luckily, modern briefcase designs have evolved to bridge this gap, offering slimmer profiles, contemporary materials, and hybrid functionality that works in both formal and casual settings (I think the Stuart & Lau Cary Single Briefcase is a perfect example of this). In short, a well-chosen briefcase never looks outdated when it matches your professional environment, and can serve as a timeless symbol of preparedness and professionalism.

11 Genius Accessories Wheelchair Users Swear by for Easier, Safer, and Much More Comfortable Travel—From $12
11 Genius Accessories Wheelchair Users Swear by for Easier, Safer, and Much More Comfortable Travel—From $12

Travel + Leisure

time16-07-2025

  • Travel + Leisure

11 Genius Accessories Wheelchair Users Swear by for Easier, Safer, and Much More Comfortable Travel—From $12

Traveling always offers the possibility of problems, but for those who face the challenges as a wheelchair user, the process could be a bit more daunting. The tourism industry is making great strides to improve accessibility for travelers with disabilities, such as wheelchair-friendly beaches and major hotel chains that prioritize accessibility features. This does provide some peace of mind, but planning for the possibility of unforeseen events is key. Whether it's a gel seat cushion for a more comfortable experience or a universal adapter to ensure your wheelchair battery stays charged no matter what country you're in, there are a few key products that will make traveling smoother and more enjoyable. I spoke with three accessibility travel experts who drew upon their own experiences to share helpful products for other wheelchair users: Jordana Izzo, Director of Accessible Travel with Travelmation; content creator Chelsea Bear, who shares her personal experiences of living with cerebral palsy; and travel agent David Lyons-Black, who is a wheelchair user and specializes in accessible travel. Here are the top travel products they recommend, along with some advice for preparing for possible mishaps. For long stretches of travel time, Izzo recommends packing a gel seat cushion. 'For those longer periods of time in a chair, proper support is needed,' she shares. '[A gel cushion] is a great breathable option, especially in hot climates.' The honeycomb design of this cushion allows air to circulate throughout the thick mattress, keeping it cooler for longer, which will help with overall comfort. The detachable seat cover is easy to clean and provides a protective barrier to help the cushion last longer. 'For my own peace of mind while traveling, I like to keep an Apple AirTag in the pocket of my mobility scooter and any checked luggage I have, so I can make sure it all boards the plane,' Bear explains. 'There have been a lot of issues with airports mishandling mobility devices or even misplacing them, so being able to track my mobility scooter's location helps ease my anxiety.' If you have multiple bags that could use an AirTag, consider a four-pack of Apple AirTags at Amazon for under $75. These handy devices work by connecting with your iPhone's Find My app to show you exactly where your items are, and reviewers praise how easy they are to set up. If you're not an Apple user, there are Android-friendly Bluetooth trackers to shop as well for tracking your belongings. For convenience and organization, add a side seat bag to any outing. Izzo chose this five-pocket model that works with wheelchairs, walkers, and electric scooters. 'These side bags are super incredible for easy access to immediate necessity items, phone, tickets, sunglasses, wallet, water bottles, and more,' she notes. A best-seller at Amazon, this bag is available in a variety of patterns and is made from heavy-duty nylon with adjustable straps so you can get the perfect fit. At less than $20, this side bag will keep your essentials close by for easy convenience. Bear considers compression socks, like her go-to Bombas compression socks, a necessity when flying. 'These are a must with air travel to help keep swelling down in my legs from the pressure and being seated for a long time,' she shares. Reviewers also swear by these Charmking compression socks at Amazon that reduce swelling by providing 15 to 20 mmHg of compression with a stretchy, flexible design for all-day comfort. In order to keep a hotel door open while adding luggage, a door stopper can be a good substitute for those solo travelers. This foldable, long-handle door stop can be a lifesaver. Lyons-Black relies on this product during his trips. 'This helps keep the room door open when traveling alone and bringing luggage into the room,' he shares. The long, adjustable handle eliminates the need to bend down and position the door stop, and the non-slip base works on a variety of floors like carpet, hardwood, and tile. There's always an uneasy feeling when a cell phone's battery is low. While some travel locations might have courtesy charging outlets, it's best to be prepared with a portable power bank. No matter where you are, these are ideal for charging phones and other electronics while on the go. Small enough to fit in a purse, backpack, or a chair's side seat bag, these little boxes provide big power. Bear never leaves home without her Anker portable charger. 'I use my phone a lot when traveling, whether it's to research whether or not a restaurant is accessible, getting directions, making phone calls to coordinate accessible transportation, or taking photos,' Bear says. 'I heavily rely on my phone, especially in the event of an emergency.' Traveling with the portable power from Anker gives her the peace of mind to know she won't ever have to worry about a dying cell phone battery. Small enough to be stowed away in a suitcase but strong enough for any needed support, these portable shower handles are ideal for entering and exiting a tub shower combo at the hotel—or any other time you need a little extra support. They simply suction onto the wall, so they can be placed next to the toilet, bed, or any other location. 'These hand bars are great for situations where you might need extra support other than what may or may not be provided in an accessible room or a standard hotel room,' Izzo stated. 'The suction cups cause no damage and can be reused.' This adaptive JanSport backpack has been a game-changer for Bear while traveling because of its smart design. 'It's very spacious, and I love the accessible zippers and dual side grab handles with additional attachment points,' Bear says. 'It allows me to easily hang the backpack in different areas of my mobility scooter without having to readjust.' With backrest loops, anchor straps, and spacious interior organization, this adaptive pack is spacious to hold essentials and then some, and it comes in a variety of colors. 'I can safely keep all of my essentials with me, whether I use it as my carry-on for a flight or for a day of sightseeing,' Bear adds. If you need electricity for charging your mobility device, Bear suggests packing a universal travel adapter, like this best-selling one from Epicka. 'This is essential when traveling internationally,' Bear states. 'I always make sure to double-check my mobility scooter's label to see if it's dual voltage or not to ensure I pack the right combo.' The Epicka adapter has four plug types that can accommodate the socket plugs of over 200 countries. However, you'll need to double-check your device's voltage and that of your adapter to ensure there aren't any issues when charging abroad. Lyons-Black also suggests being prepared for potential setbacks like a flat tire or needing to replace a tire inner tube. Basic tools, like this 25-piece folding Allen wrench set, will help if you need to conduct some maintenance. Make sure you have spares on hand, like an extra inner tube, 'as not all shops will have your specific size in stock,' Lyons-Black shares. A small portable pump will also help fill low tires or inflate a tire after an inner tube replacement. Additionally, Lyons-Black offers some travel tips to help keep travel trips running smoothly. For times of traveling over loose gravel or sand, a freewheel attached in front will help it roll through loose gravel or sand. Additionally, he recommends carrying a few spare parts, such as front casters and/or a joystick for a power chair. Finally, you'll want to conduct a quick Google search to find wheelchair repair shops in the destination that you are heading to, in case you need them. This will give you peace of mind in case something happens, and you need a repair shop service. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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