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TPG’s 7 favorite face masks and where to buy them

Aug. 01, 2021
5 min read
Man on plane wearing face mask
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Editor's Note

This post has been updated with new information.

Masks aren't going away anytime soon.

Airlines and airports still require them while traveling, public transportation in many cities requires you to wear one while riding and many businesses require them for entry.

And now that the CDC is recommending the wearing of masks while indoors in high transmission areas, we'll continue to see more places where masks will be a necessity for entry.

It's important to find one that's comfortable and appropriate for you. To help you narrow down the list, we're highlighting a few of the products TPG staffers are using right now.

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KENNY FLOWERS

(Photo courtesy of Kenny Flowers)
(Photo courtesy of Kenny Flowers)

If you ask The Points Guy himself, Brian Kelly, what brand of mask he loves, he'll tell you about Kenny Flowers. These masks are made of soft, colorful fabrics, so they're comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. They are non-medical grade masks you can easily machine-wash. Masks cost $10, while a mask and shirt combo is $89.

VENTED N95 MASK PAIRED WITH A SURGICAL MASK

Several TPGers, including editor-at-large Zach Honig, prefer to wear a vented N95 mask paired with a surgical mask. These products provide top-of-the-line protection for both you and those around you.

Be aware that there are two types of N95 masks: vented and unvented. The unvented (medical grade) masks are the type health care workers regularly use -- although they can also use a vented (non-medical grade) mask paired with a surgical mask over it.

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When wearing a vented mask, you are not protecting those around you -- just yourself. So, if you do buy a vented mask, be sure to also layer on a surgical mask to ensure both you and people nearby are protected from the potential spread of any pathogen.

MARINE LAYER REUSABLE DOUBLE LAYER MASKS

(Photo courtesy of Marine Layer)
(Photo courtesy of Marine Layer)

What we love about Marine Layer masks is the fact that they've got adjustable fabric loops or ties, depending on the version you buy, instead of a one-size-fits-all elastic. This makes it super easy to customize the fit for anyone in your family. Made from soft fabric, these masks are comfortable and breathable, so you can wear them for extended periods when necessary. Spend $25 to buy three Adjustable Sport masks (with adjustable over-the-ear loops) or five Signature Tie masks (with fabric ties).

Related: Best credit cards for Amazon purchases

SWEATY BANDS FACE MASK

(Photo courtesy of Sweaty Bands)
(Photo courtesy of Sweaty Bands)

There's a Sweaty Bands mask for just about everyone since the company makes some with elastic ear loops, adjustable ties and fabric loops. Teens gravitate to these masks but they're available in various sizes ranging from youth to adult extra-large. Masks are made with a stretchy fabric that's 88% polyester and 12% spandex. Prices vary, starting from $9.99 for a three-pack.

Disney face masks

(Photo courtesy of Disney)

Disney is once again requiring masks indoors and throughout attractions. Luckily, Disney has a large selection of face masks featuring characters and patterns inspired by your favorite Disney movies and shows — from Star Wars to Marvel to Mickey Mouse himself.

Whether you have kids or just want to embrace your inner child, these masks are sure to put a smile on your face. You can order a four-pack for $19.99 on Disney's website.

Johnny Was face masks

TPG travel editor Madison Blancaflor swears by her Johnny Was face masks, which come in patterned or embroidered packs of three or five. The masks are non-medical grade with a cotton lining, and they have a slot to add a filter for added protection.

You can get a pack of five embroidered or signature sateen masks for as low as $25.

THE POINTS GUY FACE MASKS

(Photo courtesy of The Points Guy)
(Photo courtesy of The Points Guy)

And, finally, if you want to show your allegiance to the travel industry, pick a mask sporting an aircraft or beach scene. The Points Guy is selling these durable two-layer fabric masks, constructed from a blend of cotton and polyester, for $12 each. The masks feature adjustable elastic ear loops that customize the fit. And, there's a nose clip that helps prevent your glasses from fogging up.

Additional reporting by Madison Blancaflor.

Featured image by Featured image by EugeneEdge/Shutterstock.com
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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    Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.

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    Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

    670-850
    Excellent/Good

Why We Chose It

Build your loyalty to Delta by applying for the carrier's mid-tier card option, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum card. The annual fee is quickly recouped by the card's travel perks, such as an application credit to Global Entry or TSA Precheck, annual companion certificate and so much more. Plus you can fast-track to elite status simply through card spend.

Pros

  • Earn bonus Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) and an Medallion Qualifying Dollar (MQD) waiver when you hit specific spending thresholds with your card within a calendar year
  • Receive a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year
  • Statement credit for TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee (up to $100)
  • First checked bag free

Cons

  • Doesn't make sense if you don't fly Delta
  • SkyMiles aren't the most valuable airline currency
  • Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Receive a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights. Plus enjoy Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding and settle into your seat sooner.
  • New: Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
  • Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
  • Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
  • Enjoy a per-visit rate of $50 per person for Card Members and up to two guests to enter the Delta Sky Club when traveling on a Delta flight.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Authorized Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Earn up to 20,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) with Status Boost® per year. After you spend $25,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can earn 10,000 MQMs up to two times per year, getting you closer to Medallion® Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion® Status and are different than miles you earn toward flights.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $250 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees