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Vacation packing list: 27 essentials for any trip.

This vacation packing list covers the major essentials you don't want to forget.

Vacation Packing List

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Make sure you have everything you need for your next getaway.

While every vacation packing list ultimately looks different based on a variety of factors – the destination, traveler(s), budget and more – consider this guide a jumping-off point for the must-haves. You can also scroll down to More Vacation Packing Lists to see recommendations for specific trips.

Vacation packing list

For the journey, for the vacation.

Courtesy of Coolife

Before your adventure begins, you'll want to decide what type of bag(s) to pack. To determine the type of luggage you'll need, consider:

• How many days will you be traveling? If you're traveling for a week or longer, you may want to bring a large suitcase that can be checked in at the airport, or perhaps a complete luggage set . For a shorter trip, a carry-on and personal item (such as a backpack or small weekender bag ) should be sufficient.  
• Who are you traveling with? Determine if you can combine your belongings to avoid unnecessary checked luggage fees. If traveling with children who can help carry bags, consider some kids luggage they'll be excited to carry or roll along. 
• What type of climate(s) will you be in? For cold weather vacations, you might consider stuffing all of your outdoor gear into a rolling duffel bag . 
• What are the baggage restrictions for your mode of travel? Check carry-on size requirements for your specific airline to ensure your luggage will fit in the overhead bin. Cruise lines also have weight and quantity restrictions for luggage, so consult your cruise line's website for additional details.
• What kind of clothing will you need? Is this a casual trip or will you need formalwear for dinners and other gatherings? If you'll need the latter, you might want to purchase a garment bag to prevent wrinkled clothing. 

Packing cubes

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

To maximize suitcase space and stay organized, invest in at least one set of packing cubes. Travel experts recommend any of the packing cubes by Eagle Creek , as well as this cheap, quality set on Amazon . For more options, check out The Best Packing Cubes, Chosen by Travel Experts .

Credit cards

When traveling, it's good to have at least two credit card options with you. That way, if there are any issues with one card (or maybe a merchant doesn't accept American Express or Discover, a common occurrence when traveling abroad), you've got a backup payment option. It's also helpful in the event your credit card gets compromised and subsequently locked.

Read: The Best Travel Credit Cards

Travel documents

Having your boarding pass and personal identification is essential no matter where you're traveling. For international travel, you'll want a passport wallet for your passport along with any visa or customs forms you may need. Be sure to keep these documents either on your body or in your personal item that you place in under the seat in front of you on the plane (not in the overhead bin, where you may not always have access).

Travel pillow

Courtesy of Cabeau

Whether it's a long flight, train ride or car trip, dozing off without support can be a literal pain in the neck. Depending on what's comfortable for you, the Cabeau Evolution S3 and the Trtl Travel Pillow are two of the top U.S. News travel pillows . If you're short on space, you may want to consider the multitasking Tube Travel Neck Pillow , which doubles as a packing cube.

Water bottle

Staying hydrated while on the go is essential, and traveling with a reusable water bottle is an environmentally friendly way to do it. The LifeStraw Go is dishwasher-safe (when you remove the filter) and made of BPA-free plastic; the flip-straw has a two-step filter to trap bacteria and more. To keep your water cold for hours, the YETI Rambler has a durable stainless steel construction in a variety of colors and is the perfect canvas for travel stickers you collect along the way. To save space, try the Nomader Collapsible water bottle.

Hand sanitizer and holder

Keeping your hands clean while traveling helps fend off germs and unwanted illnesses. Hand sanitizer is essential for any trip, and clipping a travel-size bottle of it to your carry-on or handbag makes it easily accessible when you need it. You can find hand sanitizer holders on Amazon or at your local dollar store. You may also want to consider some antibacterial wipes for your in-flight tray table and sticky situations.

Toiletry bag and toiletries

Organizing your makeup, hair products, personal hygiene items and shaving supplies in a quality toiletry bag – such as the well-rated Lug Trolley on Amazon – makes it easy to find your essentials while traveling. Depending on what you plan to pack, a hanging style like the L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag , with a removable shower caddy and built-in hook, helps to save counter space and is especially useful in tight cruise ship cabins. To easily see everything at once, choose any of the clear cosmetics cases from CALPAK , which are available in multiple sizes and color trims.

For air travel, you'll need to keep in mind the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: that all liquids, gels and creams must be 3 ounces or less and placed into a one-quart clear bag. You can find refillable and travel-size toiletries and reusable quart-sized TSA-approved bags on Amazon .

Read: The Best Toiletry Bags

Medications and first-aid kit

You'll want to be sure to pack any prescription medications in your carry-on bag, along with other medications you may need while traveling, such as Dramamine . It's also helpful to have a travel-size first-aid kit with Band-Aids, antibiotic ointment and more.

Compression socks

For everything from long flights to walking miles exploring a new destination, compression socks can help provide additional support and reduce swelling. With varying levels of compression available, one medium-level option to consider is the Bombas Everyday Compression Socks – a U.S. News top pick .

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Walking shoes

Courtesy of Birkenstock

Every journey includes a fair amount of walking, and nothing can put a stop to the fun like foot pain. Before you depart, be sure to invest in a comfortable pair of walking shoes . For a sneaker style, the ASICS Gel-Contend is a U.S. News top pick. If you'd like a slip-on style, the Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer for both men and women provides comfort and stability, while being able to be dressed up or worn casually. For a sandal, consider a supportive option like the Birkenstock Mayari .

Travel purse/bag

One way to keep identification, credit cards and other personal information organized and protected while traveling is with a well-designed purse or belt bag , such as the Anti-Theft Classic Messenger or the Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack by Travelon . The Lug Convertible Carousel also includes RFID protection and can be worn as a belt bag or as a crossbody.

If you're looking for a fashionable bag that can easily go from day to night, check out the TUMI Voyageur Crossbody , which has a choice of leather or nylon construction with leather accents, multiple compartments and gold hardware. The sustainable and machine-washable Vera Bradley Utility Tote Bag is another great option, with a removable shoulder strap and exterior pockets for your phone and other essentials.

Read: The Top Travel Purses

Long-sleeved shirt

When you're traveling, there's a good chance you might be changing climates or find yourself a bit chilled from air conditioning. Pack a long-sleeve tee, such as the L.L.Bean Beyond Soft Tee for women or the Carefree Unshrinkable Tee for men . This basic wardrobe staple works as a shirt on its own, a base layer in colder weather or a pull-on style over a tee. For young travelers, consider the Kids' Graphic Tee from L.L. Bean for a bit of playful fun.

Button-up shirt

For a shirt that can truly multitask, pack a button-up shirt. A classic style – like a Calvin Klein shirt for men or a timeless white button-down for women on Amazon – can be dressed up for dinner or a museum visit, paired with shorts and rolled sleeves for exploring, or put it on with a bathing suit as a cover-up.

This wardrobe staple is a travel essential. Versatile black, white or navy tees can be worn alone, under a blazer or layered for added warmth as needed. Pack a few basic options like the cotton tees at Lands' End for women , men , girls and boys , then add a fun graphic tee or two.

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

A jacket that can fold up small to be tucked into your luggage is essential for any vacation packing list. From rain jackets to lightweight puffer jackets, choose the perfect packable jacket to keep you warm and dry in any locale.

Evening outfit

Even if you're going to the beach or planning a casual retreat, chances are you'll go out for a nicer dinner at least one night. Women may want to consider a black travel dress on Amazon , which can be dressed up with evening sandals and a necklace (or worn during the day for sightseeing). Men can invest in a packable travel blazer and wrinkle-free dress pants.

Reusable/foldable bag

Whether you're heading to the local market or going on a day trip, a packable tote like the CALPAK Compakt Tote Bag is ideal for stowing your daytime essentials and finds you buy along the way. If you're the type that likes to buy a lot of souvenirs from your travels, the Lug Packable Boxer is ideal to use for a day tote while traveling and as a personal item on your return flight. One of these reusable bags can also double as a beach bag. Or, if you want to bring a beach bag to double as your everyday travel bag, check out the best beach bags from U.S. News for additional recommendations.

Read: The Top Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

Focus on the moment (and enjoy the visual later) with a digital camera like the Panasonic Lumix G100 4K . A mirrorless model with both the ability to capture video and still images offers versatility whether you want to record the waves at sunset or snap a selfie in front of a museum. To get creative angles or have a tripod on the go, the Joby GorillaPod is a flexible and bendable option for travel.

If you're an active traveler, a GoPro HERO9 is a must-pack item. It has built-in stabilization features, and you can livestream your endeavors, film video or shoot images with this waterproof design. For a vintage-infused photo gallery, the Fujifilm Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera is a hybrid camera that allows you to store images on a memory card or print them directly from the device. It's the perfect way to document your travels along the way.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the oceans with reef-safe sunscreen . Depending on your destination, some places – including Hawaii; Key West, Florida; Aruba; parts of Mexico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, to name a few – have laws against the sale of sunscreens with reef-harming ingredients such as oxybenzone and octinoxate. Many of the traditional brands of sunscreen have these ingredients, so look for an effective mineral-based sunscreen like Blue Lizard or Sun Bum .

In addition to sunscreen, a hat protects your face from the sun's harmful rays. What's more, it can be a fashionable addition to your beach attire. A packable style like the San Diego Hat Company women's large brim hat can be rolled and packed into a suitcase or carry-on, and provide a generous amount of shade at the beach, by the lake and beyond. For more recommendations, see U.S. News' list of the best beach hats .

While there's an endless array of bathing suit options, classic styles like a black tank suit for women can be paired with a long skirt to be transformed into an outfit. Or, a classic men's swim trunk can be worn with a polo top to maximize your vacation wardrobe. For the kids, Lands' End offers cute and functional designs for girls and boys .

Beach towels

Whether you want to add something soft to your favorite beach chair or you want to lay it right on the sand, a beach towel that repels sand and dries quickly is a vacation must-have. Consider a quick-drying oversized Turkish towel from Amazon or an attention-grabbing Lilly Pulitzer beach towel . You may also want to invest in a beach blanket .

Ideal as added sun protection or for walking through the air-conditioned corridors of a resort or cruise ship, a cute swimsuit cover-up is another packing essential. Some options include a chic J.Crew beach shirt , a stylish romper or a sheer La Blanca kimono .

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

Nothing says laid-back vacation like a pair of flip-flops. Havaianas has styles for the whole family , in an array of colors and prints to coordinate with your beach attire.

Water shoes

Cuts on feet from coral, shells or even glass can be extremely painful. To protect the soles of you and yours, consider the Native Jefferson shoes , available in both children's and adult sizes. Designed for street wear, these versatile shoes are also water-friendly, making them ideal for everything from strolling the boardwalk to tubing down the river. For a more traditional water shoe, check out the Keen Newport sandals .

Sunscreen and cover-ups may protect your skin, but the sun can really hurt your eyes (especially when it reflects off the water). Top off your vacation style with Ray-Ban aviators or a classic Wayfarer . If you're seeking a chic retro vibe, you can't go wrong with a Kate Spade cat-eye frame.

More Vacation Packing Lists

Check out these other packing guides compiled by U.S. News:

• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Packing List
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• Road Trip Packing List
• Camping Packing List
• What to Pack in a Carry-on

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves the entire packing process. From finding the right suitcase to curating the ideal wardrobe and accessories for every trip, Hood has been perfecting her vacation packing list for years. Her must-pack items include a TUMI handbag, a Lug cosmetic case and a CALPAK packable tote. She used her personal experience along with retail merchandising background and research skills to create this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Vacation Rental Travel Insurance Plans
• How to Renew Your Passport
• TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry: Which One Is Right for You?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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15 Safety Devices Every Traveler Should Have on Hand for Their Next Trip — Starting at $8 at Amazon

They just might save your life one day.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure

Taking any trip is amazing — but taking a trip with peace of mind? Even better. Safety is of utmost importance when traveling, but even more so when you’re solo or traveling through dense, packed cities that are known for pickpockets. 

Thankfully, there’s a ton of effective travel safety gear out there that can make your time on the road just a bit more secure and comfortable. We identified 15 popular products that are gaining traction with travelers — and best of all, they’re all available at Amazon, so they’ll be shipped to your door with just a click, often in just a matter of days. Take comfort in knowing you’ve covered all your bases with your vacation planning, and enjoy your days off. That’s what a trip is all about, right? 

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

If you’re traveling — and in particular, if you’re traveling solo — this T+L staff-trusted She’s Birdie personal safety alarm could be the most important thing you buy. A loud siren will play and a strobe light will flash when the safety alarm is set off, which is easy to do — just remove the pin from the top. To stop it or deactivate it, you just replace the pin. The alarm can be used multiple times and will continue for up to 40 minutes on one battery (batteries are replaceable). It comes in a ton of colors and attaches easily to your keychain or purse strap, etc. Plus, 5 percent of the profits are donated to organizations that focus on women’s safety. 

Ace Mining Portable Door Lock

Add an extra level of protection to every stay with this Amazon No. 1 best-selling portable door lock. With this easy-to-install gadget, no one from the outside can get in, and you can rest (and sleep) easy knowing you’re safe and sound inside your Airbnb, hotel, or other home away from home. It can be installed in seconds, is small and easy to pack, and has two holes to fit pretty much any door. It’s made of stainless steel and will work time and time again. 

Veger Portable Charger

There are few things more unsafe than letting your phone die, especially if you’re on your own. Make sure that doesn’t happen by keeping this portable charger juiced up and on hand. It’s an all-in-one charger, with an AC port and attached chargers for iPhone, Type C, and Micro USB, plus USB and USB C inputs so you can bring cords should you need. It’s perfectly thin and fits great in any tech organizer; just throw it in a bag or purse when you’re on the go. 

StashBandz Unisex Running Belt

This running belt is great for everyday wear, keeping all your essentials on you while working out, but it also works great as a travel companion — stashing things like passports or keys out of sight while on the go. Especially great for areas that are heavy on pickpocketing, this undetectable money belt has stashable pockets, including a zippered front pocket. And with its extra-wide band, it can store quite a lot. It’s got moisture-wicking technology to keep things (a.k.a. you) from overheating, and is also great for holding medical gear. 

Travelon Anti-Theft Bag

If you’re looking for a fantastic travel bag that’ll keep everything safe and secure, this is the one for you. It can be worn crossbody with an adjustable shoulder strap (for harder access for pickpockets and thieves) and also has an interior organizer with RFID-blocking material to protect your passports and credit cards. Even better, there’s a front zippered pocket under a magnetic flap for maximum security, a tethered interior key clip with an LED light, and locking zipper pulls. 

Munio Self-Defense Keychain Kit

This self-defense tool that was created by a Martial Arts master and endorsed by police goes right on your keychain and can help in the event of an attack; keep it in your hand while walking and use the end to jab an attacker. The discreet design fits comfortably in your palm, and on the outside, it just looks like a decorative keychain. The company provides a free E-book and downloadable videos to show how to use the tool, and it is perfect for travel since it’s actually allowed on a plane. 

TravelMore TSA-approved Luggage Locks, 4-pack

Not your average TSA lock, this one is sleek and well-designed, made with Zinc Alloy for extra durability. Lock them onto your luggage for security, while still being TSA-compliant (they can open and close them without issue). Because they’re so sleek, you can also use them for things like duffel bags, purses, and backpacks, making hiking, train travel, or going to high-trafficked areas more secure — basically a breeze.

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector

You’ve heard the horror stories of carbon monoxide poisoning on trips (and if you haven’t, save yourself the Google and just know that it’s real). This No.1 best-selling portable carbon monoxide detector is the perfect thing to keep in your luggage and set up as you unpack. It comes with two AA batteries and can be placed on any flat surface. “It’s so small we take it everywhere with us,” said one reviewer . 

Homotek 2-Pack Wedge Rubber Door Stops

Another easy way to stop an intrusion before it happens is placing a door stopper underneath the hotel room or Airbnb door; this will help prevent or make it difficult to open the door from the outside. It’s also a great item for making sure doors stay open (and you stay safe), while doing routine things like taking out trash from an Airbnb or seeing what the rooftop views are from your rental. 

Gorilla Grip Mini Flashlight

Yes, most of us have a flashlight on our phones — but that doesn’t quite help in the case of an emergency in which your phone dies. This mini flashlight will keep you cool and calm in any scenario, including navigating dark streets, figuring out power outages, and more. It’s also great to blind an attacker or use as a jabbing tool should the need arise. This one also features a strobe setting, which would be great for (god forbid) if you need to try and get someone’s attention. It’s made to sustain drops as well as water submersion and has an anti-slip handle. 

LifeStraw Water Bottle

If you’re traveling to a destination where water could contain contaminants — or hiking, camping, and the like — you’ll want this water bottle. LifeStraw is known for its technology which filters out everything that could harm you (and obviously improves taste), and it’s been independently lab-tested to meet the protocols established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The filters last for lots of uses, and it’s easy to clean and super durable.

Thrive Mini First-Aid Kit

Don’t travel anywhere without a first-aid kit. Seriously. This one is super compact and easy to travel with and contains everything from antiseptic wipes and alcohol pads to gel burn packets and bandages. It also contains a first-aid guide that explains how to treat common injuries (ideal for when you don’t have technology right by your side). It’s an easy thing to throw and keep in your luggage trip after trip. 

Apple AirTag

Where’s your suitcase? Where’s your purse? Where’s your wallet? With an AirTag, you will know exactly where everything is and how to get to it — perfect for not only keeping an eye (er, location tag) on things but also should something be stolen; you’ll be able to (hopefully) track it down (and alert authorities). It’s one of those things that you don’t know you need as much as you do until you have one. 

FurArt Slim Wallet

With RFID-blocking technology, your credit cards and IDs are safe and sound from identity theft, and with its minimalist design, you can keep this on your body (instead of your bag or purse) should you want. This wallet also ensures you only take what you need on a trip, and you can leave the rest at home (or in a locked safe). It comes in a slew of colors and features a see-through ID pocket so you don’t even have to remove the ID, plus a buckle that you can hook to a keychain, carabiner, or lanyard. 

Amazon Basics Portable Lock Box

This portable lock box will keep your valuables stashed, including passports, jewelry, keys, and more, and has both a combination lock and opening cable to use and lock how you wish. Most reviewers comment on how “ sturdy and solid ” this item is, and how it can fit a ton more stuff than you might think. It’s great for keeping in your carry-on and storing your valuables during a trip. 

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These Are The Most Stylish (and Comfortable) Shoes to Pack Before Your Next Getaway

Start your vacation on the right foot.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

If you feel like you need a vacation, you aren’t alone. After a long winter, the spring and summer travel season is fast approaching, which means it’s time to think about what you’ll pack. In the midst of packing your designer luggage and travel tote , you can’t forget to put on your best travel shoes. As you may only be taking a few pairs, these need to check off all the boxes. Considering the hours you’ll be walking and sightseeing, comfort and versatility are the first things to come to mind—but, no doubt, you also want options that pair well with multiple looks. You may choose to go the summer sandal route or opt for a sneaker —two great options. But you are going on vacation, after all; why shouldn’t they be cute and practical?

When discussing the more logistical aspects of what shoes to bring, consider the potential wear and tear on your feet. You want to come back from your trip rested and relaxed, not worried about problems caused by wearing improper footwear. To start your trip on a positive note, Dr. Danielle Edwards , a New York-based podiatrist, suggests that a pair of sneakers should be your go-to during long travel days, especially when you may be at an airport for hours and then on a plane.

Quiet Luxury

Kindred label hannah thong.

Metallic Maven

Nike v2k run.

Old Faithful

Birkenstock arizona big buckle sandals.

Wash and Wear

Rothy's the weekend slide.

Summer Sneaker

Gola torpedo sneakers.

Sporty Style

Teva midform universal canvas sandal.

Pastel Platform

Adidas sambae shoes.

Something Different

Madewell the sabina flatform sandal.

Slip On Dream

M.gemi the cerchio.

Super Sophisticated

Freda salvador millie sandals.

While a sneaker is ideal for the day you travel, feel free to bring supportive sandals for leisurely activities that don’t involve walking for long periods of time, Edwards says. With that in mind, I’ve rounded up 20 pairs of comfortable and chic travel shoes, from sneakers to sandals, that will set the foundation for a memorable trip. Read on more about the top tips for foot health while traveling and shop the top travel shoe picks.

A chic pair of sandals that fold into a pouch is not only incredibly convenient but also a space-saver for packing. Plus, these will go with any outfit you wear, making them extremely versatile.

Sizes: FR 36-FR 42

Colors: Black, Silver, Gold

Materials: Leather, suede, rubber

Yes, metallic sneakers are still in—and a fun way to add some shine and comfort to your travel outfits.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: 6 options

Materials: Rubber, foam, plastic, mesh

Customer review: “I’ve had these shoes for about 5 months now and they have kept my feet comfortable. They go along with many outfits and can be used for work, gym, pretty much anything. My shoes are still in good condition even after wearing them almost everyday.”

The years may pass, but a pair of Arizonas will always remain a constant in my closet. The big buckle is an updated version I can’t stop thinking about!

Sizes: 36-41

Colors: 10 options

Materials: Leather, EVA

Customer Review: “These shoes are incredibly comfy and have become my newest favorite pair of Birkenstocks!! Very worth the money”

For those who love the fact that you can throw Rothy’s in the washing machine, you will be thrilled to learn you can do the same thing with these slides.

Sizes: 5-12.5

Colors: Black, Sandy Cat, Oat, Sangria Stripe, Toffee Stripe

Materials: Hemp, rubber

Customer review: “I just love my sandals. They are beautiful and so comfortable!”

Pops of pink and green elevate these white sneakers just enough, and the gummy sole adds a nice contrast.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: White, Black & White Materials: Leather, rubber, textile

Tevas have gotten me through every trip of my childhood, so I am overjoyed to know they’ve become a popular fashion choice today. The platform on this pair is just enough to give you some height without making them too tall to walk in.

Colors: 44 options

Materials: Rubber, polyester

Customer review: “These sandals are SO comfortable. I got them to wear on a trip this past fall to Hawaii, and they were the best thing I brought. Easy to walk in the sand, so commutable to walk on any terrain. You can wash them off if they get dirty. So cushy and soft. Velcro for easy walking and adjustments. Such a good sandal for a walking or beach trip. I can't wait to wear them this summer. They are so cute too!! The mid height is the perfect height and can be dressed up or down. So cute with active wear or with a summer dress. Love!!”

Enter the Sambae, Adidas Samba Sneakers ’ newest sibling—complete with a platform gum sole. You get all the style of the classic counterpart with a new, elevated take.

Colors: Almost Blue/Cloud White/Silver Metallic, Cloud White/Better Scarlet/Cloud White, Wonder White/Cloud White/Silver Metallic, Ivory/Ivory/Pink Fusion

Materials: Leather, rubber

Customer review: “I’m in love, so comfortable, beautiful and stylish. Love the platform”

Signature Cloudlift padding makes it way into these strappy platform sandals. Pair them with all your travel outfits. Denim, dresses, shorts; these will look great with everything.

Colors: Desert Camel, True Black

Slip-on sneakers make traveling a breeze. The woven texture on these makes them unique, while the removable padded sole lets you decide your own comfort level.

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: 7 options

Materials: Leather, nubuck, rubber

Customer review: “Beautifully constructed shoe. Stylish, comfortable + extra cushioning and arch support. Great for travel + touring.”

A fisherman sandal is great for travel thanks to its versatility. You will still look put together going from sightseeing to a nice dinner, which means more room in your suitcase for souvenirs.

Colors: Natural

Materials: Leather, calfskin, rubber

New Balance 237 V1 Classic Sneaker

The colorways on this classic sneaker may be endless, but the subtle gray and pop of green make it the perfect choice for spring and summer vacations.

Sizes: 4-17

Colors: 20+ options

Materials: Synthetic

Customer review: “This is my second pair of these shoes, and I bought them specifically for walking on a long European trip. They are the most comfortable and lightweight shoes. Highly recommend. They are stylish and go with anything”

Tory Burch Kira Sport Sandal

Stay timeless without sacrificing comfort in these sandals with gold accents. The velcro straps ensure a secure fit on your feet without compromising style.

Sizes: 4-13

Colors: Black, Shell Pink, New Ivory

Customer review: “These sandals not only go with every pair of shorts, jeans, and dresses I packed, but they are incredibly comfortable. They were my favorite walking sandals while on vacation in Europe. I purchased black and white.”

Everlane The Day Sneaker

When you find yourself truly unsure of what shoe to bring with you on a trip, go back to a classic white sneaker . Comfortable, cute, and classic. What more could you want?

Colors: White, Canvas Tan/Shadow, Parchment, Pale Pink

Materials: Rubber, polyester, leather

Customer review: “Works for day or evening. Comfy for hitting 25k steps in a foreign city. Thumbs up.”

Loeffler Randall Two Band Platform Sandals

Looking for a pair of sandals that won’t leave you feeling like you might slip out of them? The three straps on this woven pair will keep you secure for those long days spent exploring.

Materials: Rubber, leather

On Cloud 5 Running Shoe

No need to tie your shoes here. The slip-on nature of these sneakers makes them ideal for all-day travel. Go from the airport straight to the city streets without needing to change!

Materials: Rubber, textile lining, recycled polyester

Customer review: “Very comfortable and lightweight. Great travel shoe for long walks.”

Solei Sea Indie Sandal

Metallic shoes will dress up any outfit, which makes these sandals perfect for taking on a trip. Wear them while relaxing, then style them with a dinner look for a seamless transition that doesn’t sacrifice style.

Sizes: 6-11

Colors: Metallic Silver

Customer Review: “I have several pairs of these flip-flops, and they are so comfortable. Love the new colors!”

Allbirds SuperLight Tree Sneakers

The lightweight version of the standard Tree Runner, these sneakers are perfect for traveling without weighing down your suitcase. When you’re back home, you can even throw them in your washing machine to get them clean.

Materials: TENCEL™ Lyocell, foam, TPU

Customer review: “Truly the only shoe I need for traveling. Incredibly light and comfortable. So thrilled with this purchase!”

Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballet Flats

Ballet flats are among the most versatile pairs of shoes you can own, making them a great choice for traveling. This style features the slightest heel, and what makes them better is that they’re well-made and comfortable.

Sizes: 5.5-11

Materials: Leather

Customer review: “Love these shoes. So comfortable and stylish at the same time”

Veja Campo Leather Sneakers

Go on a trip anywhere, and I am sure you will find people wearing these sneakers. They are a great choice for those looking for a stylish sneaker to wear all day long.

Sizes: 36-42

Materials: Leather, rubber, cotton, recycled polyester

Customer review: “I bought these to wear on our trip to Ireland this summer, and I’m so glad I did! They were so comfortable to walk in and went with many of my outfits! I would definitely purchase these again.”

JW Anderson Leather Penny Loafer Espadrille Mules

A penny loafer-espadrille combo is the travel shoe you didn’t know you needed. It’s ideal for all those upcoming trips to a warm destination.

Sizes: 35-41

Colors: Black

Materials: Leather, jute, rubber

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Synonyms of for sure

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Thesaurus Definition of for sure

Synonyms & Similar Words

• undoubtedly
• for certain
• unquestionably
• indisputably
• by all means
• incontrovertibly
• incontestably
• conceivably
• unmistakably
• by all odds

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Zeynep Tufekci

You Don’t Need to Freak Out About Boeing Planes (but Boeing Sure Does)

By Zeynep Tufekci

Opinion Columnist

“Ah, it’s a Boeing Max,” I exclaimed to my travel companions after we boarded our plane a few weeks ago. I looked to see if we were seated next to a hidden door plug panel like the one that blew out on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 in January. We weren’t, but joining a trend on social media , we cracked a few jokes at Boeing’s expense: “Maybe they can charge extra, saying it’s potentially an even bigger window seat.”

The F.B.I. recently informed the passengers on that ill-fated Alaska Airlines flight that they might have been crime victims . The agency hasn’t explained why, but Boeing has told the Senate that it cannot find documentation of exactly how the door plug was removed and reinstalled, even though the company acknowledged it is supposed to have kept such records. Facing all this, the company announced last week that it was replacing its chief executive . But the bad news wasn’t over: On Thursday a New York Times investigation reported a disturbing pattern of sloppy safety procedures and dangerous cost cutting. One expert who had spent more than a decade at Boeing told The Times, “The theme is shortcuts everywhere — not doing the job right.”

Is it any wonder that some travelers are trying to avoid Boeing planes? Kayak, the travel booking site, noticed an uptick in the number of people trying to weed them out ; it recently made that search filter more prominent and even added an option to specifically avoid certain models.

Boeing’s problems, great as they are, are just one reason that consumers might be wary of taking flight. United Airlines now also faces scrutiny for a series of safety incidents, although many experts say the issues there do not appear to be systemic. The biggest danger of all may be understaffing in air traffic control and overstuffed runways , which lead to far too many near misses.

Personally, I am not worried about flying, and other than cracking some ill-advised jokes, I have not changed my behavior. That’s why I hadn’t bothered to check whether I’d be flying on a Boeing Max or any type of Boeing plane until after I boarded.

The trajectory of Boeing as a corporation, however, is another matter. It’s going to take a lot more than a shuffle at the top to fix that company’s problems. But the fact that Boeing managed to cut as many corners as it did is testament to the layers and layers of checks, redundancies and training that have been built into the aviation industry. Aviation safety is so robust because we made it so.

Two seemingly contradictory things are both true: U.S. commercial passenger airlines have gone an astonishing 15 years without a single death from a crash. And there is a huge safety crisis in commercial aviation that we urgently need to fix.

Commercial aviation is a complex system involving many dynamics — technology, engineering, corporate culture, regulation, weather, human factors, politics and more.

It’s extremely hard to predict what will emerge from so many different things interacting all at once — an example of the so-called butterfly effect, in which a tiny insect flapping its wings leads to major weather events on the other side of the world. And though testing every part of the system on its own is necessary, it’s insufficient, since it’s the interaction of many moving parts that creates those hard-to-foresee problems. Solving equations won’t be enough to manage it all because such systems defy easy calculations.

We do, however, have methods to manage complex and safety-critical systems, and if done right, they can work very well.

Perhaps the most important measure is redundancy, the layering of precautions. Since even a minor failure could set off a catastrophic chain of events, it’s important to shore up everything. That’s why many plane parts have duplicates or backups and much of planes’ production and maintenance is subject to inspections by multiple people.

Redundancy, however, while great for safety, is expensive.

The first Boeing 737 Max crash occurred in Indonesia in 2018 . Everyone on board was killed. The next was in 2019 in Ethiopia. There were no survivors of that flight, either. After that, the planes — which had been flying globally for more than a year — were grounded by the F.A.A. (About 387 of them had been delivered at that time, and 400 or so more were in production.)

The public later learned Boeing had added a new software system to the planes to help keep them stable. Because the system made the planes behave more like older Boeing models that pilots were already familiar with, the company got permission from the F.A.A. to avoid retraining pilots on the new planes (a cost savings for the airlines that bought them) or even telling pilots about it.

Those two flights proved the danger of that approach. The new system relied on a single sensor, even though the planes were equipped with two. When that sensor failed, pilots lacked the information to diagnose the problem and avoid disaster. Boeing’s actions were a violation of those core tenets of aviation of building in redundancy and understanding how complicated interactions can create problems that no one predicted.

Given the impossibility of testing for every outcome, keeping complex systems safe also depends on another crucial signal: near misses. If something goes wrong but disaster is averted, the correct response should not be a “whew” and back to normal. It should be caution and investigation.

The Times investigation shows how alarmingly different Boeing’s approach was.

The Boeing plane that crashed in Indonesia experienced the exact same problem with the new stabilization system the day before. But on that flight there happened to be a third pilot, riding off duty in the back of the cockpit . When things went haywire, he was able to suggest the correct sequence of actions and saved the day. Had Boeing updated pilots about the system, would the passengers on the airplane’s next flight have landed safely? We’ll never know.

That third pilot — in that case, present purely by luck — was an example of how redundancy can save lives. So is a co-pilot. Planes fly on autopilot all the time and can even land on their own. Still, regulations require a second person in the cockpit for many types of passenger flights not just to handle things in the extremely rare event that the primary pilot gets sick or dies midflight but also to help manage emergencies and equipment failures . It’s the same reason that planes have more engines, more tires and more ways to extend the landing gear than they need for any individual flight, just in case one of those things fails, as has happened many times.

An extra layer of safety helped avert the Alaska Airlines blowout from turning into a catastrophe: Because the incident occurred so soon after takeoff, all the passengers were still required to wear their seatbelts.

Pilots even do walk-arounds of their planes just before takeoff to conduct final visual inspections. Commercial aviation works because of the principle of trust nothing and check everything.

It’s hard to escape the conclusion that those at the company who took all those shortcuts figured the system, with all its redundancies, would save them. But that’s a gamble. Eventually, two or three or four rare mishaps will align.

A Boeing representative told me that the company was taking responsibility and working to improve quality. But we need to see action, not promises.

So why should anyone still fly on Boeing’s planes? Or fly at all? Because the statistics still show that commercial aviation is miraculously safe, far more so than all the alternative ways of traveling.

While I don’t check for who manufactured the planes I fly on, I do keep my seatbelt on even when the captain says I don’t have to. Other than that, I’m as comfortable as possible while flying. I know that on balance, air travel is a well-regulated system staffed by highly trained crews with layers and layers of safety precautions and a dedication to learning from accidents. Let’s keep it that way.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , WhatsApp , X and Threads .

An earlier version of this article misidentified the agency that informed passengers of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 that they might have been crime victims. It is the F.B.I., not the Federal Aviation Administration.

How we handle corrections

Zeynep Tufekci  ( @zeynep ) is a professor of sociology and public affairs at Princeton University, the author of “Twitter and Tear Gas: The Power and Fragility of Networked Protest” and a New York Times Opinion columnist. @ zeynep • Facebook

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