During a recent spin through several area stores that cater to travelers, I noticed that often the newest and niftiest items were those that make it easier to pack lightly or stay healthy.

I started shopping at an unlikely place: the gift shop at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, which has dozens of gadgets for travelers and where I spied one of my best finds. The shop carries nylon tote bags that are perfect for anyone who likes to shop, but doesn't want to schlep around those tacky plastic shopping bags, and they are easy to tuck into luggage. I found them everywhere I went, including Urban Traveler (Ridgedale and Rosedale), various AAA stores around the metro area, Luggage World in St. Louis Park and the Container Store in Edina. But if you're looking for smart design, head to the Walker, where I found several options, including a quirky neon-orange bunny bag ($27) from Picnica, and cheaper options, such as the popular eco-sac for $9.50.


A BETTER CARRY-ON

Because many airlines now charge to check luggage, and more are restricting the weight of bags, the overhead compartments in many airplanes are getting stuffed like never before. That's why Briggs and Riley, along with several other smart luggage manufacturers, have come up with carry-on luggage that's shorter and wider than traditional carry-on bags, which sometimes are so long that they have to be stowed sideways in the overheads. I found a dandy one from Briggs and Riley at Luggage World in St. Louis Park. This "wide-body upright" sells for $369, but you'll get a $100 discount from the manufacturer. At 20 inches long, it's 2 inches shorter than typical carry-on bags, but it's also 2 inches wider than normal and meets most airlines' minimum standards. Other manufacturers, including Eagle Creek, are following suit.

QUICK-DRY SKIVVIES

Because everyone wants to travel light these days, products that make doing so easier are flying off the shelves. Among the hottest items at Luggage World are quick-dry undergarments by ExOfficio, which can be washed and dried in about 20 minutes. Here's a tip: buy two sets, so you can let one dry while you're wearing the other. The ExOfficio ($24 for men's underwear; $17 for women's) and other quick-dry brands are also available at outdoor stores such as REI and Midwest Mountaineering.

TOTES-A-PLENTY

Here's something I'd love to keep for myself: "Urban bags" from a San Francisco-based design company that sells its products locally only at the Walker. The orange leather envelope bag ($59) has all the room you'd need for a map, slim camera and a few thin guidebooks, but it comes with high style. Designed for men with dress shirt lining interior, these bags will also appeal to women who appreciate simple, understated design. Prices range from $39 for a small tote to $88 for a super-practical carry-on bag.

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Light sanitizer

LUGGAGE SCALES

OK, they're not sexy, but here's a stocking-stuffer that I bought in multiples: luggage scales that will help you avoid a last-minute crisis at the check-in counter after discovering that your bag is overweight. Trust me, it's happened to me many times. These gadgets are available at stores throughout the Twin Cities and have been very popular.. The Container Store, which carries this digital model ($19.99) , says that they are now sold out, but you can order them at www.containerstore.com.

SEAT SANITIZER

Travelers these days, me included, will do just about anything to avoid getting a sniffle while on holiday, so that's why I picked up the Flip-Open UV-C Light Sanitizer ($32) from Urban Traveler. The manufacturer claims these cell phone-sized devices can eliminate up to 99 percent of "many germs on most surfaces in seconds." You simply turn it on and wave it over seats, armrests and any other surface that could harbor germs. I didn't test it, but they're apparently very popular.

PASSPORT PROTECTOR

Technology has become both a traveler's friend and foe. Here's why: Data thieves apparently can mine the handy new computer chip that's embedded in some newer passports for personal information just by brushing up against you with some sort of high-tech device that you don't know they're carrying. That's why the RFID-blocking passport case by Travelon is going to be a good stocking-stuffer this year. I bought one at Urban Traveler for $19.99. Travelon products are available at many stores, including AAA stores and outdoor gear stores.

A PICTURE TELLS A THOUSAND WORDS

Know someone who just isn't willing to -- or can't handle -- foreign languages? Get them the Icoon Global Picture Dictionary ($9.95), a nearly weightless back-pocket-friendly book that contains drawings of more than 2,800 items that are sure to be globally recognized. For example, wondering where to buy a bandage, but can't ask for one in Russian? Just point to a picture of one in this handy little book, which might also keep kids busy in a pinch.

Jim Buchta • 612-673-7376