what are essentials for travelling

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The Five Foot Traveler

Reaching new heights, 137 travel essentials: a comprehensive packing list.

by Sarah Gallo | Aug 15, 2019 | Resources | 2 comments

You’ve decided that you wanted to travel somewhere new, so you booked a flight, secured your hotels, and told all of your friends. You eagerly search Instagram for the must-see spots and, before you know it, you leave in a few weeks! Now, I never recommend saving packing for the last minute, but it’s silly to start gathering your travel essentials few months out too. 

This article is meant to serve as a guideline for the most efficient ways to go about packing your travel essentials. Coming from someone who has visited over 100 countries, it’s safe to say that I’ve done enough trial and error for all of you! In this article you will find the most useful carry on essentials, packing and clothing essentials, outdoor essentials, fitness “on the go” essentials, reading essentials, and business management essentials.

Chimp trekking in Uganda with travel essentials on hand

Now, here’s the thing: this list of travel essentials covers just about everything, so try not to get overwhelmed. No matter your age, no matter your type of travel, this comprehensive list should be used as a guideline to decide what you need to pack depending on your trip. For instance, you certainly won’t pack the same things for a luxury cruise through the Caribbean , an RV trip through New Zealand , or a road trip through South Africa . Of course, it should go without saying, but if you’re going to places like Antarctica or the Arctic, you will certainly need to include gear for extremities, and a packing list is almost always provided. 

Please note: This page contains affiliate links, meaning that The Five Foot Traveler may receive a small commission when you purchase any travel essentials using the links in this article at no extra cost to you. I appreciate your continued support!

I personally use and own everything that I recommend below. 

Before you begin packing, please make sure you go through this checklist of absolute, no questions asked travel essentials:

• Is your Passport valid for six months after you depart your destination and for the duration of your trip?
• Have you checked to see if you have all of the necessary visas for where you’re visiting?
• Have you purchased a comprehensive travel insurance plan ?

Hopefully you’ve answered YES to the above questions, so let’s dive in. First thing’s first, I always recommend having a staging area for your travel essentials well before you pack. For me, it’s the loveseat in my bedroom, but anywhere will do (although I do suggest keeping it out of reach from messy children or pets). Here, you can organize the travel goodies you’ve purchased and start organizing your piles of clothes and toiletries. I find this useful because I usually want to use the things I need to pack, so I’m not a big fan of throwing everything into a suitcase two weeks prior to departure.

And speaking of suitcases, decide early on the way you’d like to travel. Are you going on a luxury European vacation? Trekking through the Himalayas? Relaxing on a beach somewhere? Your luggage should reflect your style of travel. Since I started this travel journey as a backpacker, I initially checked a 55L backpack and used a hiking backpack as my carry on.

When I first started backpacking these were my travel essentials

Then I started traveling carry on only, where I used a spinner carry on and a hiking backpack as my personal item. Then, finally, when I transitioned into luxury travel and *gasp* needed to pack heels and a variety of dresses, I started checking a 24” spinner and bringing with me a carry on spinner on the plane and a cross body bag as my personal item for under the seat in front of me.

I've cleaned up a bit over the years though, don't worry!

I’ve loved every backpack, bag, and suitcase that I’ve owned and highly recommend picking and choosing between the following:

Airplane Personal Item

• Cross-Body Bag:  If you want to look a little more put together, but want easy access to all of your carry on travel essentials, a cross-body bag is a must. If you like to travel with your laptop, make sure you purchase one that has a laptop sleeve too. Of course, it should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you but roomy enough that you won’t have to dig around in it to find what you want. My Recommendation – Vera Bradley Lighten Up Weekender Travel Bag . This is honestly an absolute must for me, and I bring it everywhere I go.
• Backpack: Your backpack should be both supportive and spacious. I love that this also can substitute as a hiking day pack. Everything that I pack in my cross-body bag will also fit in my 24L backpack, so it just comes down to personal preference. My Recommendation –  Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. These both have incredible structure and hip support.

Airplane Carry On Item

• A Spinner Carry On Suitcase: If you’re questioning whether you should get a suitcase with two wheels or four wheels, always choose the four-wheel spinner. It will make your life easier as you both navigate crowds within the airport and on the busy streets of your destination. Trust me on this, as I converted from a two-wheeler to a four-wheeler and it made a huge difference in the way that I travel. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 21” Hardside Spinner. Hardside here is key. It helps you not to overpack, and it is also more durable for your travels. This is one of the most lightweight hardside carry on suitcases that you’ll find on the market, and it has a built-in TSA-approved lock as well as a limited lifetime warranty.
• If you’re not carrying on a suitcase, you may be able to carry on both recommended personal items – depending on the airline, size, and weight.

Airplane Checked Item

• Spinner Checked Suitcase: Again, I highly recommend a spinner four-wheel suitcase over a two-wheel suitcase for the purpose of ease. Personally, I like when my carry on spinner and checked spinner match, which led me back to TravelPro. I like the way that the inside is organized, and it’s helpful that each of their hardside spinners come with a built-in TSA-approved lock. My Recommendation – TravelPro Maxlite 4 25” Spinner and TravelPro Maxlite 5 29” Spinner. Depending on the type of trip you’re taking (and how many shoes haha), you’ll need to decide which size checked luggage works for you. I find it useful to have a 25” and 29” on hand, but 99% of the time I will choose just to bring the 25” Spinner, as I’ve found that’s more than enough for me. If you’d like to purchase the 21”, 25”, and 29” as a set – which is the best bang for your buck – you can do so here.
• Trekkers Pack: Now, if you’re moving around a lot, camping, trekking, and staying in refugios, then a trekkers pack will certainly be the better option for you. When I first started traveling I used a trekkers pack, and it definitely has its benefits for the active among us! When researching which pack to get, make sure that it’s easily opened from multiple points on the bag, that it has plenty of pockets for your smaller items, and provides you with plenty of support. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . I tried on what felt like hundreds of trekkers packs before realizing that these were, hands down, the ideal pack that I was looking for. I have carried quite a bit of weight in mine, and it was always comfortable on the hips and shoulders. Plus, Osprey has an “all mighty guarantee” where they will repair any damage free of charge and, if they can’t fix it, they will replace it at no cost to you. Incredibly, this applies to all of their products, no matter the purchase date. You can read more about it here , if interested. 
• Rolling Duffle: At the end of the day, some people just love duffle bags (my grandpa is one of them!). They’re a great combination of a duffle bag and rolling suitcase, and you have the ability to carry the bag or roll it, depending on your circumstances. My Recommendation – TravelPro Rolling Duffle Bag with Drop Bottom. This comes in all different colors and sizes, but I recommend the 30”, as it’s plenty roomy without being overwhelming. This rolling duffle is lightweight, yet incredibly durable; it survived a few weeks of safaris in Africa with no problems. It also has many different pockets and separators to keep your bag well-organized. 

To keep your luggage organized as a whole, I couldn’t recommend packing cubes highly enough. I originally didn’t think they had much use, but they’ve changed my life when it comes to packing – whether it’s just for a weekend trip or a year-long journey. They come in all different sizes, and I use a variety of small, medium, and large packing cubes. My Recommendation: I have tested many packing cubes over the years, and I can say – without a doubt – that the Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cubes are the absolute best on the market. They are incredibly durable and as lightweight as possible. And look at how nicely they fit into a suitcase!

How I pack my carry on to include all travel essentials

And always remember: lock all of your luggage with TSA-approved locks if you don’t have a suitcase with built in locks. Both checked luggage, and carry on (yes, this means backpacks too). I’ve tried many different locks over the years, but these are my favorite. I presume you’re like me and don’t want people sifting through your checked bag nor people sneaking into your carry on while you sleep (have you heard the stories of valuables being stolen from airplanes?).

But now that you’ve chosen your luggage, you’re probably wondering what travel essentials are actually necessary to pack….

I’m going to break down my packing list into easy-to-organize categories for you. Just remember to pick and choose what you most need for the trip you’re taking. So, let’s do this!

Carry On Essentials

Documents & Confirmations: These are things that you simply must have on you at all times. DO NOT leave your house without packing these into your personal items, as they are absolute travel essentials. 

Comfort: Unless you travel first class, flights are rarely considered comfortable – and it doesn’t matter if it’s an easy 5-hour flight or a 19-hour flight! Make your life easier by packing these few travel essentials for a bit of extra comfort. There’s no way that I could do an overnight flight even semi-comfortably without these!

Noise Cancelling Headphones, Eye Mask, Pillow – Travel Essentials

• Blow Up Pillow:  I’ll start by saying that I think I’ve tried every airplane pillow out there, or just about! Since I take so many overnight flights, and we all know how airplane pillows feel, it makes sense to bring your own. I began not to worry about the shape or size — if it helped me sleep, it was a keeper. My Recommendation – Haobaimei Airplane Pillow. I know, I know it looks a bit silly, but I promise you that it’s the best airplane pillow out there. It has allowed me to sleep comfortably in a variety of positions. I’d like to be able to describe it in detail, but you’re better off clicking this link , and scrolling to the “product description” to see all of the reasons why this pillow is a must!
• Foot Rest: You’re probably thinking, “what?” But yes, airplane footrests are a thing, and quite comfortable. Rather than trying to squeeze your legs under the chair (and slam your shins along the way), you can instead set up your footrest. My Recommendation – Sleepy Ride. I’ve had this footrest for years; it’s incredibly lightweight and folds up tiny. It’s very easy to set up, and you can adjust the height to your preference. 
• Eye Mask – Eye Masks are a tricky thing. Assuming that it will be over your eyes for hours on end, you need to ensure that it doesn’t press against your eyes, doesn’t let light in, and doesn’t slip off your head. My Recommendation – Manta Sleep Mask. I was drawn in not only by their 100% darkness guaranteed, but also by the fact that you can still open your eyes behind the mask too! The fact that there is zero pressure on your eyes, and that it’s fully customizable to your unique face makes it a must have!
• Compression Socks:  Compression socks are important to wear while flying, especially if it’s a long-haul flight! They not only increase circulation, but they help prevent blood clots and swelling too. My Recommendation – Alvada Compression Socks for Men & Women. Get them and remember to bring them on your next flight! 
• Cambridge Mask: I have always traveled with a mask on hand, should I get sick or should there be something going around. Cambridge Masks are amongst the best out there, as their masks meet the N99 standard and protect against almost 100% of pollutants, viruses, and bacteria *if the mask is worn correctly.* Whenever using a mask, make sure that it's snug on your face, avoid touching the front of the mask, and be sure to wash your hands before putting the mask on/taking it off.  My Recommendation –  Cambridge Mask Co.
• Earplanes: Have you ever struggled with painful ear popping on airplanes? Well I get horrible ear pain whenever I fly… to the point where I cannot fly without them. My Recommendation – EarPlanes Pack of 3. These work fantastically to relieve the pressure in your ears during take off and landing, while muffling some of the noise too. 
• Reusable Water Bottle:  I always recommend traveling with a water bottle on hand for two reasons. (1) It’s good to have a bottle that the flight attendants can fill up for you so that you’re not stuck to 3 sips of water until the next flight attendant comes back. (2) Having a reusable water bottle can help minimize your plastic waste. My Recommendation – Hydro Flask. The Hydro Flask is a BPA-free stainless steel, slip free water bottle. It comes in a variety of sizes and will keep hot drinks hot for up to six hours and cold drinks cold up to 24 hours. Definitely handy to have while traveling!
• Sweatshirt or Jacket: Planes (or any type of transportation honestly) can sometimes be unbearably cold! I definitely recommend always having a sweatshirt or jacket on hand, or both, as I doubt anyone wants to be freezing and uncomfortable for hours on end. 
• Change of Clothes: No one likes a smelly person 😉 But in all honesty, it’s important to have a change of clothes on hand for just in case your luggage gets lost. If you’re going on a beach trip, pack a bathing suit. A hiking trip, pack your spandex. You get the point. 
• Carabiners – While this may seem a bit random, carabiners are incredibly useful for travel. I use a carabiner to clip my water bottle to my carry on, as well as to clip my pillow and footrest to the seat in front of me too. You don’t need anything fancy, so something like these will do. 

Technology & Valuables: Anything of value should never be checked. Make sure that all technology and valuables (like jewelry & sunglasses) are packed in your carry on and in a locked compartment. Some of these things may be obvious, but I’m still including them if you reference this as your packing list. 

As a content creator, I obviously pack a lot more tech than the average person, but please use the list below as a guideline for what to pack tech-wise according to your needs. Perhaps you’ll even find something new to bring with you on your next trip! 

A typical day with my laptop on the road

• Smartphone: This is a given these days, but make sure you pack your phone! It’s also incredibly helpful to have some apps downloaded that might help make your travel easier. My favorite is App in the Air 🙂 My Recommendation – iPhone Xs Max. If you’re looking for a new smartphone, I have an iPhone Xs Max 256 GB and absolutely love it. 
• Noise Cancelling Headphones (and iPod):  Airplanes are noisy. People are noisy. Babies are noisy. Get rid of the noise! My Recommendation – Bose QuietComfort 35 II. These wireless, bluetooth noise-cancelling headphones are honestly a dream. They are the very first thing I pack in my personal item, as I couldn’t do a flight without them! Of course, make sure you have music downloaded on your phone or iPod to listen to as well (and yes, I still use an iPod). 
• Earbuds: While I’m obsessed with noise cancelling headphones, it’s always a good idea to have a regular pair of earbuds too. They do make noise-cancelling earbuds as well, but those have never felt right to me. My Recommendation – Apple Airpods with Charging Case. These Airpods automatically connect to your device and charge within 15 minutes once you put them back in their case. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to travel with. 
• Kindle:  I don’t go anywhere without my Kindle. I love that it allows me to travel with as many books as I’d like, without the burden of actually having to lug them around. My Recommendation – Kindle Paperwhite. The flush design is as close to “paper” as it gets and there are no glares (this I can promise, as I always read at the beach in the sun!). It is also waterproof, which is convenient, and pairs with bluetooth headphones as well if you’re an audiobook listener. 
• Laptop:  Depending on what you do or for how long you’re traveling, you may not need to bring your laptop. My Recommendation – MacBook Air or MacBook Pro 15”. These both have very different uses. For travel, the MacBook Air is significantly easier to travel with. While it’s infinitely lighter though, it doesn’t have the same processing power as the MacBook Pro 15”. If you plan on editing a lot of photos or videos, unfortunately the heavier MacBook Pro 15” should be your go-to. I personally used (and loved) the MacBook Air for years before switching to the MacBook Pro 15”, which is what I use now (for a stronger and faster laptop). 
• Laptop Case:  Even if your backpack or messenger bag has a laptop sleeve, be sure to have your laptop in its own protective case! My Recommendation – CCPK Laptop Sleeve. This is as basic a laptop sleeve as it gets, but it is snug and will protect your laptop, without adding extra bulk. 
• External Hard Drive:  If you’re on the road a lot or take excess photos, you’ll certainly want an external hard drive on hand to back everything up! My Recommendation –  LaCie Rugged Mini External Hard Drive. I’ve had multiple LaCie Rugged Hard Drives, and I’ve loved each and every one of them. They’re perfect for any kind of trip, as they’re compact, durable, and water-resistant. And if you’re interested in learning how to better edit your photos, it even comes with a complimentary one-month membership to Adobe! 
• USB Drive: I can’t even begin to tell you how many times people ask if I can give them a USB drive with photos. It’s an extremely small, very useful thing to have on you if you’re in the content creation space. My Recommendation – SanDisk Cruzer Glide CZ60 USB Drive . I personally recommend the 256 GB, as you’ll never worry about running out of space, but any will do based on your needs. 
• DSLR Camera: Now this one is tricky one because every person has different travel needs and preferences. I’ve personally traveled with a Canon, Sony, and Panasonic… but it wasn’t until I traveled with an Olympus Camera that I was fully content. My Recommendation – Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Not only is it the lightest DSLR that I have ever carried around with me, but it’s waterproof and weather-sealed, which makes it ideal for every situation. This is my go-to travel camera these days, and you can read the full review of my Olympus products here.  

Always travel equipped with a good camera!

• Lenses:  Again, lenses will depend on the type of photo that you’re aiming to get. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II can be purchased with two different lenses, or you can purchase the lenses separately. My Recommendation – M. Zuiko 14-150mm f4-5.6 for your everyday lens and M.Zuiko 7-14mm f2.8 PRO for a wide angle lens. I originally thought I wouldn’t need a wide angle lens, but sure was wrong!
• GoPro: By now I’m sure you’ve heard that the GoPro is the best action-cam on the market and, guess what, it’s true. Whether you’re running down the beach, zip-lining through the air, or diving with sharks, the GoPro can help perfectly capture the moment. My Recommendation – GoPro Hero 8. The GoPro Hero 8 prides itself on filming in 4K, taking 12 MP still shots, and having the best stabilization on an action camera. This is a must for any adventure traveler! 
• Memory Cards:  Make sure you purchase high quality memory cards. I always recommend smaller memory card sizes, and a lot of them. If a memory card were to become corrupt, I would hate to lose everyone on a 256 GB memory card! My Recommendation – SanDisk 32 GB Extreme Pro for your camera and the SanDisk 64 GB Micro SD for your GoPro. The Extreme Pro writes quite quickly at 95 mbps and the Micro SD is a Class 10, meaning that it will work great for full HD video playback. Both SD Cards are waterproof, shock proof, and temperature-proof. 
• Gimbal:  No one likes shaky videos. If you’re shooting with a smartphone or GoPro, a gimbal helps stabilize your videos and keeps them smooth. They’re relatively lightweight and portable, and a necessity if you want to get into video. My Recommendation – DJI Osmo Mobile 2. DJI is an incredible reputable brand and their gimbal is one of the most lightweight on the market. Run, jump, do everything in between, and this gimbal will keep your videos stable. 
• FitBit: It’s no secret that I’ve always loved my FitBit. I’ve worn one for years, and I love that it provides me with in-depth sleep analytics while also counting my steps, calories, and distance walked for the day. My Recommendation – FitBit Versa. I’ve had a few different FitBit’s over the years, and the Versa is definitely my favorite! It’s the biggest competitor to the Apple Watch, and I prefer its exercise analytics and sleek design. You can also download your favorite apps and music on your FitBit Versa too! 
• Portable Speaker:  I actually bought the UE Roll out of necessity when our other speaker died on a road trip through New Zealand , but I’m SO happy we did! It’s incredibly portable and easily hung up or carried with you. My Recommendation – UE Roll Wireless. This bluetooth speaker is not only wireless, but waterproof and shockproof too. It has great sound quality, and  it makes for the perfect addition to any camp out, beach day, or general use around the house. 
• Portable Battery Charger: You never know when your phone or camera might die. I always always always carry a portable battery charger with me. Not only does it ensure that I will always be charged up, but it’s also nice to be able to provide your friends with a bit of juice when their phones die too (because, no, they typically never have an external battery charger). My Recommendation – myCharge AdventureMax Portable Charger . The myCharge is an important buy for travelers because, aside from having dual USB ports for charging (which is awesome), it is also splash-proof, drop-resistant, and dirt-proof, making it the perfect travel buddy. It’s also incredibly small and compact and has an attached carabiner, so it’s easy to throw in your purse or attach off a backpack.  
• International Adaptor: No matter where you’re traveling, this is an absolute must. I always carry at least two international adaptors so that, if one breaks, I always have a back up. You would be surprised how many people forget to pack an international adaptor. My Recommendation – Upgraded Universal Travel Adaptor. The reason I love this travel adaptor is that not only does it have a standard plug, but four USB ports as well. Sometimes I don’t have a long time to charge my equipment, but with this adaptor I have the ability to charge everything at the same time. This Universal Adaptor works in over 150 countries, so it’s certainly handy to have!
• Chargers: If you have a lot of gear, it’s likely that you have a lot of cords and cables. While there’s no need to elaborate, these are the main chargers that I always have on hand. 

Medications: When people think of travel essentials, they don’t typically think of meds, but important Medications should never be checked! Should your luggage be lost, you don’t want to be without your daily meds. If you have prescribed medication, ensure that it is packed in your carry on. Aside from our individual health needs, I recommend packing – at minimum – Advil, Allergy Medications, Pepto-Bismol (or something similar), Motion Sickness Tablets, Tylenol AM/PM, and Malaria Tablets (depending on your destination), as well as Neosporin Cream and Hydrocortisone Cream. And, of course, if you carry an EpiPen, don’t forget that either! 

Miscellaneous: These are some small things I wasn’t sure how to categorize, but I make sure to have all of these in my carry on as well!

Packing Essentials

Clothing: Clothing is a tricky one, as this really varies per person. I’ve done 8 month trips where I’ve had 5 tops and 5 bottoms, and weeklong cruise trips where I have 20 outfits for 7 days. I highly recommend Anatomie as your go-to travel clothing brand though, and they’ve actually been endorsed by both Forbes Travel Guide and Condé Nast Traveler. Please take the time to view these three articles:

• The Best Travel Pants For Women
• The Best Travel Shirts For Women
• Travel Clothes For Women 

With the founders of Anatomie, my go-to travel clothing!

In general though, you can use the table below as a rough guideline for the types of clothing you should pack. I don’t go anywhere without these things – no matter what season it is. Remember when packing, your clothes will typically get a bit wrinkly, so I recommend bringing a travel-sized wrinkle releaser as well as a dual-voltage travel steamer. 

Toiletries: Do yourself a favor and purchase the Eagle Creek Pack It Quick Trip Toiletry Bag . It’s the perfect sized toiletry bag and very lightweight. It should easily fit all of your toiletries, aside from your Microfiber Towel ( this is a must! ). There’s no need to explain what each toiletry is needed for though, so I’m providing you with another table with what to bring – 

Shoes: Shoes are always a personal preference. I used to travel with just one pair of flip flops and one pair of hiking boots, but times have changed a bit. I know other people who practically need a whole suitcase just for their heels. With that said, these days I typically pack sandals, a pair of flip-flops, black heels, nude heels, cross-training shoes, sneakers, and hiking boots when I’m going on a longer trip. And, of course, plenty of socks! I recommend Puma’s ankle socks and Darn Tough hiking socks. 

Gotta have a good pair of heels while you're cruising!

Outdoor Essentials

Camping: So you’ve decided that you want to become one with nature, or you’re simply on a trip that’s better suited for camping – awesome! Years ago I spent two months camping through Central America and another two months camping through Africa, and both were incredible experiences. It helped that I was well-prepared though! It’s important to note that even if you decide to camp in the summer (or in a desert), it is not always warm at night. I’ve learned this the hard way, so make sure you pack many layers and are prepared for every type of climate, every time. My go-to camping equipment is as follows –

Couldn't have camped in New Zealand without my lightweight tent!

• Big Agnes Tent: Big Agnes is the best of the best when it comes to finding the most lightweight, durable tents. I used a bulkier tent for my first camping trip and regretted it instantly. My Recommendation – Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 3. I’ve loved every night that I’ve spent in this tent — it’s unbelievably light for a three-person tent, very comfortable, and weatherproof too! I always opt for a three-person tent over a two-person tent so that we can keep our gear inside with us and have a little extra space. 
• Sleeping Pad: A good sleeping pad is a necessity. When I first started camping I tried to go cheap to save money, but it was a terrible decision. It definitely isn’t fun spending the night slipping and sliding off your mat, or feeling the ground under your back. My Recommendation –  Big Agnes Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad. This sleeping pad comes with the option of it being insulated or uninsulated, and I’d definitely recommend the insulation as it’s rated for 3-season camping and still only weighs in at 21oz! This folds up incredibly small (about the size of a water bottle) yet doesn’t compromise on its comfort. 
• Sleeping Bag: A roomy yet packable sleeping bag is also, obviously, very important for camping. I recommend getting a 2-3 season sleeping bag and doing your research to ensure that it’s super lightweight. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Spark Down Sleeping Bag. The beauty of this sleeping bag is that it weighs just over a pound and packs down to just 4.9L! It also comes with a compression bag so that it compresses down to the size of a water bottle. This sleeping bag is water resistant, has a great hooded component, and will keep you warm all night. 
• Sleep Liner: This is something that a lot of people forget about, but it’s incredibly handy. I suggest traveling with a sleep liner for a few reasons. First, it can be an extra layer if it’s colder outside, but it can also be your only layer if it’s too warm for your sleeping bag. Also, it doesn’t need to be used just for camping. When I used to stay in hostels, I’d use my sleep liner in bed rather than use the blanket. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Adaptor Coolmax Liner Traveller with Insect Shield. I’ve used this all over the world. You can purchase it without the insect shield, but I personally prefer having the extra insect repellant treatment, especially when in outdoorsy locations. 
• Ultra Light Pillow: You want a comfortable, small blowup pillow to have with you. I’ve seen way too many people fold up their clothes into an uncomfortable pillow when they could have just brought a lightweight pillow. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow Ultra Light. I’ve had this pillow for about five years now, and it’s never let me down. I won’t go anywhere without it. Not only does it pack down to smaller than the palm of my hand, but it’s genuinely comfortable! There have been many times where I’ve been in luxury hotels with pillows that were too high for me, so I just blew up this little pillow.  
• Hammock or Sleeping Hammock: If you’re camping, sometimes you just want to hang out outside of the tent… literally. A hammock definitely comes in handy during those times! Travel hammocks are easy to set up and are great for lounging, napping or reading a book. My Recommendation – ENO DoubleNest Hammock. This is a two person hammock, but comfortable for just one as well. It folds down small and is quite lightweight. Sometimes we bring it on our hikes as well, rather than just keeping them at the campsite! If you don’t feel like sleeping in the tent, or have a third-wheeler tagging along, the ENO Ember 2 Under Quilt could be of use too. 

Who doesn't love a good hammock?!

• Cookware: If you’re camping, you’ll definitely want the ability to cook easily. We all know though that no one wants to lug metal pots and pans to their campsite. My Recommendation – Sea to Summit X-Series. It doesn’t get much better than lightweight, durable, and collapsible cookware! The 5-piece set comes with one pot, two bowls, and two mugs, so you may need to order more than one set depending on how many people you’re camping with. They fold up smaller than you could imagine! 
• Spork: A spork is just one of the most convenient things you could have. Whether you need a spoon, knife, or fork, the spork has your back! I always carry a spork with me in my daypacks as well, as you never know when you will need one. My Recommendation – Tapirus 5 Spork of Steel Utensils Set. I highly recommend these rust-proof stainless steel sporks over their plastic equivalents. I had numerous plastic sporks break on me before transitioning to stainless steel and haven’t had any problems since. 
• Inflatable Lounger: Have you seen these things?! They’re infinitely better than any camp chair and fold up even smaller! These are truly one of the most interesting and useful camping additions that I’ve seen. My Recommendation – AlphaBeing Inflatable Lounger. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, click that link and check it out — it’s one of those things that is better visualized than described.  
• LED Camping Lantern: You certainly need something to light up your campsite or tent once it gets dark. As I like to keep things small and portable, I always suggest going for a lantern that collapses into itself. My Recommendation – MISPO 6 Pack Portable Camping Lantern with LED Flashlights. These are the perfect mini lanterns to put in and around your campsite. Then, when you’re not using them, they barely take up any space and pack away easily.  

Hiking: It’s important to practice safe hiking anywhere you go. As always, I recommend looking up your hiking trails in advance, letting someone know where you’re going, and having a trail map handy. Bring many layers, in addition to the following –

Couldn't have tackled the Matterhorn Base Camp without my hiking poles!

• Hiking Backpack: If you’re planning on taking day trips from your campsite or accommodation, a good hiking backpack is a necessity. I always look for things like good waist support and structure, as well as ample pockets. My Recommendation –  Osprey Sirrus 24 Women’s Hiking Backpack and Osprey Stratos 24 Men’s Hiking Backpack. If you don’t remember why I chose these packs specifically, please scroll back up to the “luggage” section. 
• Trekkers Pack: If you’re going on a multi-day hike or staying in refugios along the trail, then you’ll need a bigger and better trekkers pack. Like the hiking backpack, this needs to be both structured and very comfortable. My Recommendation – Osprey Ariel AG 65 Women’s Backpacking Backpack and Osprey Atmos 65 AG Men’s Backpacking Backpack . Jump back up to the “luggage” section if you’d like a refresher on these options.  
• Hydration Pack: Whether you’re going out on a two hour hike on a hot summer day or a long trek, a water bladder makes a massive difference! You won’t have to deal with taking off your backpack to take a sip, or worrying about your water bottle falling out of the side pocket. Plus, you can carry far more water with a hydration pack as well. My Recommendation – CamelBak Crux 2L or 3L Reservoir. I originally thought I’d save money by going with a non-name brand, but when I did that my water always tasted like plastic and, quite frankly, it was disgusting. CamelBak deserves the praise that it gets, and it’s definitely worth the price tag. I have both a 2L and a 3L, depending on what type of hike I’m doing. I find the 3L more useful on a day-to-day basis, as it doesn’t always need to be filled to the top.
• Hiking Poles: Hiking Poles are a necessity for any hiker, in my opinion. Hiking poles not only make you a bit faster, but they take some pressure off your knees too. I always look for carbon poles are they are a lot lighter than aluminum poles. My Recommendation –   Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles. Not only are these lightweight, 100% carbon fiber, and of the highest quality, but they also fold into three sections which makes them incredibly convenient to pack or attach to a backpack when not in use. 
• Headlamp: Whether you’re completing a sunrise or sunset mission, wandering around your campsite in the evening, or misjudged the length of your hike, it is imperative to carry a headlamp on you whenever you’re hiking! My Recommendation – Black Diamond Storm Headlamp. This headlamp is both waterproof and dustproof, which is always helpful! It also had three different color LED options, as well as adjustable intensity. I also love that it has a lock mode, which keeps my headlamp from turning on in my pack!

Hiking in the dark can be dangerous without a headlamp

• Water Filter: A water filter is very important when you’re out hiking. If something happens and you run out of water, you can stick it into any water (from a dirty puddle to a river) and it should come out clean. My Recommendation – LifeStraw Personal Water Filter. The LifeStraw removes waterborne bacteria, waterborne parasites, and micro-plastics found in the environment from your water. It is the most reliable water filter system for a hiker on the market. One of the admirable things about LifeStraw is that for every product purchased, a child receives safe drinking water for an entire school year – pretty remarkable! 
• Pocket Tissues: You never know when you’ll have a runny nose, have to clean up a spill… or need to pee. Just have them on you. 
• First Aid Kit: This should be a given, but I know plenty of people who don’t hike with one. Should anything happen, it helps to know that you’re properly prepared. My Recommendation – M2 Basic 150 Piece First Aid Kit. This is a travel-sized first aid kit that is about the size of your hand, so there’s no excuse not to put it in your backpack!
• Bug Spray Wipes: Applying bug spray is typically a pain and tends to leave you sticky and oily, but not with the wipes! My Recommendation: Repel 94100 Sportsmen 30-Percent Deet Mosquito Repellent Wipes. I started traveling with these in 2013 and haven’t looked back. They’re incredibly easy-to-use, portable, and protective. 
• Clif Bars or Clif Protein Bars: You definitely need to ensure that you have some sustenance to keep you going while hiking. Although I’m not a big fan of the sugar content in Clif Bars, there’s no debating the fact that they were designed to help give your body fuel while active. My Recommendation – Clif Bar Variety Pack or, if you’re looking for a higher level of protein, the Clif Builders Protein Bar Variety Pack. While Clif Bars are – hands down – the tastiest protein bars on the market, my favorite flavors are the White Chocolate Macadamia and the Chocolate Mint. 
• Hiking Boots: Wearing good hiking boots is, of course, imperative. Over the years, I’ve spent ages researching the best and most comfortable brands. Another aspect that’s always important to me is that they’re waterproof, as you never know what conditions you might be hiking in or if the weather might take a turn. My Recommendation – Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot and Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot. Once I discovered Lowa, I never turned back. I’ve owned four different pairs of their hiking boots, as I’m incredibly happy with the model. They are properly waterproof and supportive, and perfect for any type of hike be it short distance or long distance. 
• Hiking Socks: If you hike a lot, you know how important a comfortable, breathable sock is. If you’re anything like me, your socks probably also take a bit of a beating, so you need to find something reliable. My Recommendation – Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Womens and Darn Tough Hiker ¼ Cushion Sock – Mens. Not only are Darn Tough socks incredibly comfortable and antimicrobial, but they are guaranteed for life! If you’re a frequent hiker, there’s no brand more reliable than Darn Tough, and they’re certainly worth the price tag.  
• Base Layers: Base layers have saved me time and time again while out for long hikes, and I cannot stress their importance! If I’m not wearing my base layers, they’re in my bags. While there are so many brands and base layers out there, it’s important to do your research as I simply can’t list them all. My Recommendation – Women’s Ultra-Soft Long Johns & Warm Top Set and Men’s Thermal Underwear Set. Always, always make sure that your base layers are moisture-wicking!
• Down Jacket: I carry a down jacket with me on every trail, every camping trip, and even every airplane. It doesn’t matter whether it’s sweltering hot or freezing cold, I always have one with me to ensure that I’m prepared. My Recommendation – Mountain Hardwear Women’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket and Men’s Ghost Whisperer Down Hooded Jacket. These jackets are, in my opinion, the best lightweight down jackets on the market. The hood is important, as it provides that extra warm, and they’re both machine-washable. Another aspect that I love – and find to be incredibly useful – is that it folds up into itself so that it packs down extremely small. The jacket is worth every cent to me, and I wouldn’t travel without it!

Staying warm in Iceland thanks to my down jacket

• Rain Jacket: You’re pretty much crazy if you decide to go hiking without a rain jacket. Not only could the weather change from a beautiful day to an ugly storm in the blink of an eye, but it also serves as a windproof layer as well. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s Aspire Jacket and Outdoor Research Men’s Horizon Jacket. After testing out multiple lightweight rain jackets, and finding myself soaked after a good rain, I decided to invest in a GORE-TEX rain jacket. While they’re slightly bigger, these rain jackets will still packs down small enough to throw in your backpack… and it will actually keep you try! They are waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable due to the multiple venting systems. 
• Hat: An easily packable sun hat always comes in handy. While there are plenty of “cute” ones out there, I like to make sure that I purchase hats that can both be thrown in the wash and are moisture-wicking. My Recommendation –  Outdoor Research Women’s Solar Roller Hat. I discovered this hat a few years back, and found it so convenient that it’s the only hat that I ever hike or travel with. While this is obviously a women’s hat, the male or uni-sex equivalent would be the Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat.  
• Buff: Buffs have many uses – whether you’re wanting to keep your neck, face, or head warm. They’re lightweight and incredibly useful. My Recommendation – Buff Polar Multifunctional Headwear. I’ve owned many buffs in my life and, when I’m outdoors, the Polar Buff is most definitely my favorite. It has a SPF 50 and has fleece at the bottom and microfiber at the top, making it the perfect accessory to keep both your neck and face warm in chilly temperatures. It’s also moisture-wicking and quick-drying, and can be worn in over ten different ways! 
• Gloves: There are honestly so many warm, cozy gloves on the market that it’s hard to choose just one. My Recommendation – Outdoor Research Women’s PL Base Sense Gloves and the Outdoor Research Men’s PL Sensor Gloves . You need a glove that can withstand cold weather, is wind resistant, and offers touchscreen compatibility. 

Fitness “On The Go” Essentials

I get asked all the time how I stay in shape while on the road. Whether I’m in a luxury hotel and eating my heart out, or camping and carb loading, I can’t say that it’s easy. But I will say that it takes conscious effort every single day. I’ve learned to say no to two $0.25 ice cream cones in the same day, as tempting as it is! I also implement a strict workout routine, which has gotten infinitely easier since I started using LiveKick Fitness. They specialize in one-on-one personal training and private yoga done via live video — think FaceTime but for fitness! You can choose your (highly qualified) instructor for a time that works for you, no matter where you live in the world! I’ve done everything from high intensity exercise in my ocean view hotel in Australia to yoga in my office at home in the States. And the best part is, you don’t need access to a gym or any equipment if you don’t want! You could try out LiveKick Fitness here, and be sure to use the code “FIVEFOOTTRAVELER15” for 15% off your LiveKick plan! Other than being armed with my LiveKick Fitness App, I travel with –

Screen cap of my LiveKick personal training (left) & yoga (right)

• Resistance Loop Exercise Bands – I started using looped resistance bands when I injured my knee two years ago, but it’s a fantastic addition to any workout when you’re a new exerciser or an exercise junkie. I use these largely for strength training and physical therapy.
• Flat Exercise Bands – Flat exercise bands give you a few more options, which allows you to truly get a full body workout whenever you want.
• Rumble Roller – My 12-inch RumbleRoller is one of my favorite things that I pack, when I have the space! Nothing feels better than this spiky foam roller after a good hike or exercise. 
• Cross-Training Shoe – I’ve made the mistake many times of doing aerobics and weight-lifting in a running sneaker, which just isn’t good for you! The Nike Air Bella’s are light-weight and comfortable trainers.
• Running Shoe – If you’re also a runner though, I’d recommend packing your running shoes too. Maybe you’ll be luckier than I and could find a one-shoe-fits-all for you though! I’ve worn Brooks Ghost sneakers for many years now and I’ve been quite happy with them. 
• Travel Yoga Mat – I always wanted the ability to be able to stretch anytime, anywhere, which led me to research travel-sized yoga mats. The Plyopic Travel Yoga Mat is both lightweight, eco-friendly, and foldable so that you can bring it wherever you need. 

Reading Essentials

Beach reads are always necessary. Sometimes it’s nice to get lost in a good story and enjoy a book with a view. While I could individually summarize these books, I think it’s best if you check them out yourself to see which one is best for you 🙂 Here are some of my favorite travel books –

It may not be the beach, but I thought it was a great spot to read!

• Love with a Chance of Drowning by Torre DeRoche
• What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding by Kristin Newman
• Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
• Wild by Cheryl Strayed
• On the Road by Jack Kerouac
• In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
• Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
• Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
• Drink, Play, F@#k by Bob Sullivan
• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

If you feel like being slightly more intellectual on your vacation, I highly recommend these excellent entrepreneur books:

• Expert Secrets by Russel Brunson (#1 recommended biz book!)
• DotCom Secrets by Russel Brunson
• 177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class by Steve Siebold
• How to Make Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
• The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck by Mark Manson
• Ca$hvertising by Drew Eric Whitman

Business Management Essentials

More and more frequently you will find people on the road who have the freedom to work remotely. If you are a business owner, or wannabe business owner, these are my absolutely necessary softwares and systems needed to keep my business running online, even when I’m not in front of my computer. Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean that you need to stop making money 🙂

Working remotely on the beach in Australia

• ClickFunnels – Whether you run an online business or you’re looking to become a digital nomad, ClickFunnels is an absolute must! This software helps you great the highest converting sales funnels amongst many, many other incredible features. They offer a free Affiliate Bootcamp that I highly recommend going through if you’re new to the online space. If you aren’t new to working online, and haven’t checked out ClickFunnels though, you can grab your free trial here. Email me if you do, and I will share with you my top converting sales funnel.  
• GetResponse – Email marketing is key to success. No matter what business you’re in, you need the ability to directly reach out to your followers or consumers without every having to think about social media algorithms. Through email marketing you can get your audience to know, like, and trust you… and ultimately buy from you. And the beauty of this is that if you’re on a trip, you can set up an email autoresponder series to continually bring in sales without you having to even open up your computer! GetResponse is free for under 1,000 email contacts, and have incredibly reasonable rates after that given the service they provide. You can sign up for your free account here.  
• BlueHost – Do you have a blog or website? It needs to be hosted somewhere to be kept safe! Your web host ensures that your site continues to run smoothly and backs up your site daily should anything go wrong; it’s your website’s safety shield. BlueHost offers incredibly low rates, and I’m able to give them to you for even lower. You can purchase your BlueHost web hosting for just $3.95/month here! 
• ClickMagick – I personally never click on an “ugly” link – a link that has a ton of numbers and letters and seemingly goes on forever. ClickMagick allows you to turn those long ugly links into short, clean URLs using your domain name. You can grab your ClickMagick account here.
• Later – If you’re wondering how people post to Instagram on the go or have beautifully crafted Instagram feeds, it’s likely because they use a tool to help them get organized. I first discovered Later last year and have used them ever since to help schedule, analyze, and organize my accounts. Because they’re an official partner of Instagram, you can craft your posts and then schedule them to be automatically posted to Instagram! And the best part is, it’s free! Set up your free account here. 
• TailWind – If you understand the value of Pinterest for your business, TailWind is an absolute must. It allows you to easily schedule out your Pins and re-Pin from others in your niche. You can adjust your settings so that you auto-Pin throughout the day, without having to sit in front of your phone or computer the whole time! Pinterest is a huge driver of traffic to websites, so it’s important that you take advantage of its benefits. TailWind is also free, and you can claim your account here.  
• LiveLeap – Are you someone who likes to go live on social media a lot, either to showcase what your business has to offer or to show off your latest vacation? LiveLeap allows you to live stream on Facebook across multiple pages, which can increase your views ten times more than without it! So if you stream on your business page, you can also connect it to your personal page and Facebook group so that your live video goes live on all of those pages at once. It’s a great way to expand your reach! You can set up your account here. 

I hope that this list of travel essentials didn’t overwhelm you! I obviously travel full-time and am always over-prepared, so you just need to pick and choose which of these items is most important for the type of trip that you are preparing for. I wish you the best of luck with packing… as I sure as heck know how much we BOTH need it! As you pack and prepare for your next trip, please let me know in the comments below if I missed any important travel essentials. 

I'll leave you with some penguins – and a great travel hat!

In the meantime, please ensure that you purchase travel insurance before you leave! Of all of these travel essentials, t ravel insurance is arguably the most important thing to have on hand (after your passports and visas). I’ve had to use my travel insurance multiple times on the road, even though I’m healthy. You never know when something might happen; take comfort in knowing that whether your flight gets cancelled or you wind up sick and in the hospital, you will be covered. I recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance for all of you. You can get a free quote here.  

Pin “137 Travel Essentials” For Later!

The only thing I would add is: a few zip lock bags. I’ve done a lot of travelling…roadtrips, backpacking in Europe, rail and air travel, and won’t go anywhere without them. You never know when something will start leaking, or you have leftover snacks, or need a waterproof place to stash your phone or pocket camera. They take no space at all, and never say “I told you so!” when you do need one.

YES! Great tip! I always have them on me too 🙂

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Hi, I’m Sarah!

Hello World! I’m Sarah Gallo, The Five Foot Traveler, and I choose to dream out loud. After conquering a crippling fear of flying, I’ve developed an unquenchable passion for traveling. Since my newfound freedom, I have set foot on all seven continents, explored 114 countries, and continue to strive to live life to the fullest. Continue Reading…

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67 Most Useful Travel Accessories: Must-Have Travel Items 2024

By: Author Milijana

Posted on Published: October 11, 2023  - Last updated: April 21, 2024

Categories TRAVEL TIPS

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Wondering what to carry while traveling? Here are the most useful travel accessories and top travel items you need to have on your packing list to travel smart. Here are the things that make travel easier beyond traveling essentials!

AWESOME TRAVELER ACCESSORIES – Travel Must-Haves

If you are into a digital nomad lifestyle or simply into travel long-term, here’s a list of must-have digital nomad gear, travel supplies, and travel equipment. But if you are a seasonal traveler, the next travel accessories will make your travels easier and more comfortable.

It doesn’t matter if you work remotely and long-term travel is your lifestyle, or you take short business trips and prefer short weekend gateways to recharge your batteries in your leisure time but opt for distant exotic destinations only for your vacation.

What matters here is traveling . Even more, comfortable and enjoyable travel .

Therefore I am listing here the must-have traveling accessories and the best accessories for travel .

Here you will find must-have travel items and best travel items, top traveler accessories ( must-have travel accessories and best travel accessories, but also cool travel accessories and unique travel accessories ), and travel gadgets (must-have travel gadgets and best travel gadgets) every smart traveler has. In short, the things you need to take traveling.

Take a look at my list of the best things for travel, vacation must-haves, favorite digital nomad gear, and the best travel gear every traveler should have … to pack like a professional traveler. [no_toc]

Here’s my travel accessories list with the best items for travelers :

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO. 

67 INCREDIBLY USEFUL TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL PACKING LIST  (2024)

BEST THINGS FOR TRAVELING: SMART TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND SMART TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

Travel must-haves

Let’s start with travel essentials and must-have traveling accessories.

1. HAND SANITIZER WIPES

One of the cheap and useful travel items that can make a big difference to your health while traveling. Hand sanitizer wipes are one of those essential travel items and small travel things that make a big difference. Seemingly banal but one of the best items for travel health-related. They are the most needed travel accessories these days. Take care of your health, always!

2. FOLDING TRAVEL TOOTHBRUSH

A  small on-the-go travel toothbrush is an essential travel thing. The folding feature puts travel toothbrushes on the list of the best things for travel. Again, a foldable travel toothbrush is one of those must-have small and useful travel things.

3. TRAVEL TOWEL

A quick-drying and a space-saving towel is a travel must-have . Don’t bother with big fluffy towels when traveling. Instead, opt for a towel to go, a small absorbent towel, and a quick-dry travel towel. A microfiber towel is among my top 10 travel essentials! It served me well, especially on my long-distance hiking trips, such as the one-month-long Camino del Norte in Spain , when I carried all my stuff in my hiking backpack for one month. A lightweight and space-saving microfiber is one of the best travel items, I highly recommend! Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a lightweight microfiber travel towel you need to have. It is a great microfiber beach towel, an excellent microfiber gym towel, an amazing microfiber camping towel, and a great microfiber backpacking towel. Pack your small and fast-drying travel towel with you!

4. TRAVEL PILLOW

A good travel pillow is a must-have for travelers.  Scarf-looking and super light Trtl Travel Pillow is one of the essential travel items on long flights. This essential travel pillow is a one-sided neck brace, adjustable to your neck and head for maximal comfort. And what’s important, it’s an ultralight travel pillow. If you are looking for a tiny travel pillow and the best travel neck pillow for long flights, the Trtl neck support travel pillow is your best bet! Forget blowing inflatable travel pillows and check out Trtl Travel Pillow .

5. TRAVEL WALLET

Another super useful travel item is a multipurpose RFID-blocking travel wallet. This tri-folded RFID-blocking travel wallet keeps safe and well-organized your international travel essentials and valuables: your passport and ID card, and your credit and debit cards. Keep your valuable documents and cards safe, and get your RFID blocking travel wallet .

6.  TRAVEL SPACE BAGS

Travel space bags are some of the best travel products. Roll-up compression bags save space in your suitcase or backpack. Even more, good travel space bags protect and organize your clothing. I can’t image traveling anymore without using traveling space bags. Sometimes I use only small zipper bags to separate my tiny carry-on travel items. I can find my tiny travel products in a minute! Zipper bags are super practical packing travel tools! Make your packing easier and go for travel space saver bags. Trust me, space-saving travel bags are some of the best backpack travel accessories and suitcase travel accessories.

7. TRAVEL PACKING CUBES

You don’t like the sound of roll-up compression bags, but still want to keep your clothing protected and organized? In that case, these awesome travel packing cubes are for you. Travel packing cubes are some of the top must-have travel accessories! Travel packing cubes, with space-saving travel bags, are the perfect packing tools for travel!

8. TRAVEL SHOE BAG

The waterproof and transparent shoe bags for travel separate your dirty shoes from clean clothing. A travel shoe bag is especially useful after hiking trips when you need to separate your dirty hiking boots from the rest of your clothing. Travel shoe bags are must-have traveling items! They are simple packing tools for travel, cheap travel accessories, and highly useful travel accessories!

RELATED READ: 15 Amazing Women’s Hiking Boots Top 18 Women’s Comfortable Sandals For Walking Best Gifts For Hikers Check out my Amazon Influencer Store for some great travel accessories ideas!

9. TRAVEL LAUNDRY BAG

Interested in some more top travel products? I would argue, that travel laundry bags are essential for travel! A machine-washable laundry bag that keeps the dirt and smell of your laundry away from your clean clothing is essential. Unnecessary to say, that this travel laundry bag is a highly useful travel accessory and one of the best backpack accessories and suitcase accessories you need to take on your travels with you.

10. TRAVEL SHEETS LAUNDRY DETERGENT

These eco-friendly sheets are must-have travel items if you are planning a longer trip. These detergent sheets are travel-friendly. They are not messy, unlike liquid and powder detergents. You can’t spill them. Just toss them in with your laundry and that’s it. Cut a sheet in half and use one half for smaller loads. And, use one sheet for larger loads.   Laundry Club Sheets dissolve completely and clean the clothes.  Laundry sheets belong to the most useful travel items! One package comes with 50 sheets. If you are making a shorter trip, you can pack just a few sheets in a Ziploc bag.

11. SHOE CLEANING TRAVEL KIT

If you prefer a tidy look and would love to keep your shoes clean when traveling, consider getting the Crep Protect Cure Shoe Cleaning Travel Kit . This mini on-the-go kit includes a brush, a microfiber cloth, and a Cure cleaning solution. It does an amazing job with suede, leather, canvas, and nubuck. I especially recommend the kit for cleaning white sneakers!

12. DOWNY WRINKLE RELEASE

Dislike wrinkled clothes when traveling?! Me too! But, I found a great solution for wrinkled clothes! Downy Wrinkle Release Spray  is a game-changer and my new favorite travel item. It fixes wrinkled clothing without ironing. Just hang your clothing, spray it, leave it for a few moments… and ta-da! Trust me, it is one of the most useful travel products ever! After trying it, you will probably want to get it for home use. Check out this bundle !

13. MINI TRAVEL UMBRELLA

This super small umbrella doesn’t take up much space in your travel bag but keeps you well protected from the sun and rain. One of the travel necessities and one of the extremely useful mini travel accessories when needed, agree?!

14. RAIN PONCHO

A raincoat is a small, cheap, and useful travel accessory that you can always carry with you to cover yourself in case of unexpected showers. This travel rain poncho is a cool travel item and an exceptionally useful travel item!

 15. WATERPROOF RAIN JACKET

Sometimes while traveling rainy days can’t be avoided by any means. Especially, if you have fixed dates for your vacation. If you don’t like umbrellas or don’t feel comfortable with a rain poncho, then consider getting this top-rated super lightweight Columbia’s women’s waterproof jacket or this Columbia men’s rain jacket These rain jackets are worshiped among travelers! After all, Columbia is celebrated as one of the very best travel accessories brands when talking about travel clothing and sportswear.

16. SLEEP SACK LINER FOR TRAVEL

Looking for more useful travel accessories and small travel items?! This fist-size and lightweight Vumos sleeping bag liner is voted as a piece of the best travel gear. It is especially beloved by outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping.

17. POCKET BLANKET

A pocket-size travel blanket goes on the list of great outdoor gear you must have. You never know when you might need an extra blanket. And this extra small blanket is one of those ‘good-to-have’ helpful travel items!

18. PASHMINA SHAWL AND WRAP

Pashmina is one of the favorite traveling items and one of the best travel accessories for women ever . I wear it as a shawl and a scarf.  It covers my arms when visiting sacred places and when a respectful dress code is needed. But I use it as a practical travel blanket too. My pashmina is my travel essential! My pashmina shawl wrap protected me many times from the coldness caused by the extreme use of air conditioning at many international airports, on buses, trains, etc. It is one of my favorite travel items ever! Women’s pashmina is at the top of my list of must-haves for traveling!! Please, add pashmina to your list of must-have traveling accessories for women. Trust me, you will thank me! 🙂

19. COMPRESSION SOCKS

Travel compression socks go on the list of the most useful travel accessories. They are the travelers’ must-haves for long flights to prevent swollen feet on long-haul flights. Travel compression socks are some of the best travel accessories for long flights! They are some of the most popular travel accessories for a good reason! Travel compression socks are the top travel essential items for anyone with blood circulation and swollen legs issues. Have you tried them?

20. COMFORTABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT TRAVEL PANTS

Light, quick-drying, and waist-adjustable travel pants are travel must-haves for comfortable travels. Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Pants provide maximum comfort to ladies, while Columbia Men’s Pants provide freedom and easiness of moving to men while traveling.

21. TSA CABIN-APPROVED COSMETIC LIQUID CONTAINERS WITH ZIPPER BAG

These travel liquids containers and zipper bags are allowed as airplane accessories. For instance, if you need liquid containers for your contact lenses liquid on your flight, these TSA cabin-approved liquid containers need to be on your travel essentials list. I keep my spare contact lenses and the liquid containers always with me! They are my essential carry-on travel accessories! Travel liquid containers with zipper bags are the small travel accessories you need to have!

22. PILL ORGANIZER

Care for your health shouldn’t stop when traveling. On the contrary, a new environment seeks adjustment for your body. Don’t forget to take your vitamins and minerals with you. When you are young, you might not need them so much. But sadly, as you age, they are a must-take. This tiny folding pill organizer for travel keeps your vitamins and medicine well organized. A pill organizer is a basic travel item, but one of those traveling accessories that can make your life much easier while on the road.

23. TRAVEL TOILETRY BAG 

How many times you have found that your toiletries have leaked out onto your travel clothes in your luggage? Well, this waterproof cosmetic organizer is another item on the list of useful travel accessories that make a big difference. Having a good travel toiletries bag not only helps you easily organize your toiletries but also protects your toiletries from leaking out onto your travel clothes. Dear ladies and gentlemen, this waterproof cosmetic organizer belongs to the best travel gear for women and men. Consider getting it!

24. SOLID SHAMPOO BAR FOR TRAVELS

Solid toiletries are among the best products for travel. If you travel long-term, one of the best travel items to always have with you is a solid shampoo bar. Ethique eco-friendly solid shampoo bar nourishes you and the environment.

25. SOLID CONDITIONER FOR TRAVELS

If your hair needs a great conditioner, especially in tropical climates, Ethique eco-friendly solid conditioner will do the work.

2 6. MENSTRUAL CUP

Talking about hygiene travel products and travel accessories for ladies, Lena reusable period cup is one of the top-rated women’s travel items. Ladies know how essential a good menstrual cup on travels can be! A menstrual cup is an essential travel item for women!

27. TRAVEL MONEY BELT

A travel money belt is among the most popular travel accessories. This comfortable and adjusting travel money belt with RFID block (an antitheft protection) keeps your valuables safe every moment. A practical and extremely useful travel item, enough said.

28. TRAVEL SCARF WITH SECRET HIDDEN POCKETS

Talking about women’s travel accessories and useful travel accessories, this travel scarf with secret hidden pockets happens to be one of the best travel items. Decorative and useful. Ladies simply love it.

29. TRAVEL BOOTS WITH SECRET POCKETS  

Another stylish and highly useful travel item is ankle travel boots with secret pockets . These boots are for hard-core travelers who enjoy adventures and want to keep their personal valuables safe. These boots are available in different colors, to match everyone’s taste. But, what’s more important, they keep safe everyone’s travel valuables.

30. SUNSCREEN SPF 50

Good sunscreen is a must-have travel item. This sunscreen is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation and National Eczema Association. Please do yourself a favor and wear sunscreen.

31. COLLAPSIBLE WATER FILTERED BOTTLE  

This roll-up portable travel water bottle keeps you hydrated on your travels and takes minimal space in your travel bag. Quite a handy travel item, right?!

3 2. PORTABLE CHARGER

Talking about things you need when traveling, a mini power bank ‘on-the-go’ is one of the modern essential travel gadgets.  This Anker portable battery with an ultra-high capacity of 20100mAh is one of the top travel accessories and must-have accessories for travel. 

33. UNIVERSAL WORLDWIDE TRAVEL ADAPTER  FOR 150+ COUNTRIES 

Talking about must-have electronics, a good travel adapter is one of those international travel must-haves. Admittedly these days our phones connect us with our families, friends, and business more than ever. And to be connected to our families and business when traveling matters a lot. In that sense, one of the worst things that happen on our travels is not being able to charge the phones. And here is where this universal travel adapter for 150+ countries comes in.

34. GLOBAL DATA SIM

If you don’t have a super affordable global data plan and you don’t like the idea of depending solely on wifi when traveling, you need to know that this Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM card works in 64 countries in Europe, Asia, North, and South America. Hello, globetrotters, this global data sim card could easily become your new favorite travel item.

35. WIRELESS TRAVEL ROUTER TO MAKE YOUR PRIVATE SECURE WIFI NETWORK 

But if you prefer to use a wired network on your travels, you certainly want to have a secure one. This HooToo Wireless Travel Router is a light, small, and powerful travel thing. It changes wired networks into a private secure wireless network and enables you to safely back up your travel photos and enjoy media streaming. Looking for a  travel router Best Buy? Check out TP-Link N300 Wireless Travel Router .

36. PORTABLE USB SOLAR CHARGER

What about travel accessories for cars? This portable USB solar charger can sit on the dash in your car and recharge your phone and tablet when driving. One of the greatest car travel accessories ever.  But if you are into hiking, you can simply put your Anker USB Solar Charger onto your bag and keep charging it on the go.

37. TSA APPROVED SCAN-SMART ANTITHEFT AND WATERPROOF BACKPACK

If you want to avoid unnecessary hassle with airport security and also to avoid becoming a victim of theft on your travels,  you should consider buying a smart travel bag.   This SwissGear Smart DayPack is a  very trendy travel backpack and one of the most popular travel-safe bags ever. It is a top antitheft travel safe backpack and one of the best laptop backpacks ever. Certainly, one of the best traveling bags you can find on the market. Read more about SwissGear Smart DayPack here.  

38. UNIVERSAL TRAVEL CABLE AND ELECTRONICS ORGANIZER

Talking about practical travel accessories and things that make travel easier, consider getting electronics organizer travel accessories. This BagSmart Electronic Organizer is a travel charger organizer and electronics travel bag that  keeps your electronics and cables on your travels well organized. If you are searching for the best travel cable organizer, you consider getting BagSmart Electronic Organizer .

39. DIGITAL LUGGAGE SCALE

This small and super light luggage scale protects you from overpacking and paying extra for overweight luggage fees. A must-have travel item and a useful travel item.  If you don’t want to give extra money for overweight luggage, don’t think twice and just put FREETOO digital luggage scale onto your international travel list. A digital luggage scale is among the all-time best travel buys! Remember, small travel things can make a big difference.

40. ROLLING DUFFEL BAG 

Searching for the best luggage for frequent travelers? The best best gear for travel? It is hard to say what’s the best travel bag. But many travelers swear that rolling duffel bags are the best luggage for frequent travelers as they are light, flexible, and roomy and you can put more things in them than into hard suitcases. But on the other hand, duffel bags might be more vulnerable to theft than suitcases. In any case, this Samsonite Wheeled Duffel is a light travel bag and  waterproof travel bag you should take into account.

41.  TRAVEL SUITCASE WITH SPINNER WHEELS

A wheeled suitcase is arguably the best option for refined travelers and business travelers. A wheeled suitcase is the best gear for travelers who like to travel. in style. If you are looking for the best suitcase for business travel or the best suitcase for European travel, this Samsonite Winfield awesome suitcase is on the list of the best suitcases for business travel and the best suitcases for traveling to Europe. It could become with ease your best travel suitcase and your best business travel luggage ever.

42. CARRY-ON WHEELED BACKPACK WITH A DETACHABLE DAY BAG

Are you a light traveler who is looking for the best luggage to travel internationally with a mini travel backpack? Looking for one of those multipurpose travel bags you can easily carry around? This 3 IN 1 Bag goes as a wheeled bag, a backpack, and a day bag. A perfect travel bag, right? Perfect equipment for travelling, indeed! High Sierra AT3 carry-on can be rated as the ultimate travel bag, unique carry-on luggage, and coolest carry-on luggage. But in any case, it is the best-buy backpack. 3 in 1, remember?!

43. ULTRALIGHT BACKPACK

If you ask backpackers what’s the most useful travel item. They will say, a light backpack of course! It is one of the essential travel items after all. This TETON Sports backpack is one of the best lightweight travel backpacks and top-rated travel backpacks. 

44. LUGGAGE STRAPS

Darller Luggage Straps  belong to the travelers’ must-haves. The straps keep your suitcase tightly closed. You can also tie two suitcases together with them and keep your luggage together. Darller Luggage Straps come in vibrant colors, not only in black. The bright colors help you spot your luggage quickly at airports. There’s no doubt, that the luggage straps are among the best luggage accessories.

45. TSA APPROVED TRAVEL LUGGAGE LOCK

Some extra security gives peace to the mind. So consider adding this travel luggage lock to your luggage accessories . This small safety accessory can make a big difference on your trip.

46. PERSONALIZED LUGGAGE TAGS

47. MINI PERSONAL TRAVEL FAN

Gaiatop Mini Portable Fan is one of the best travel accessories you could wish for when in heat. It is a lifesaver in heat! It is a small and lightweight but mighty device. You can put it in your purse and use it on the go. It is one of the top must-have travel items in the summertime!

48. LIGHT LAPTOP FOR TRAVELLING 

For digital nomads and people who work remotely a light laptop is one of the business travel essentials. Light 13-inch MacBook Air is my working tool. The small and light 13-inch MacBook Air  fits perfectly into my women’s laptop backpack.

My iPhone XS Max goes in the package with my MacBook Air. My Macbook Air and my MacBook Air are my essential business tools. To sum up, my iPhone XS Max is one of my top travel must-haves.

50. UNIVERSAL WATERPROOF PHONE CASE

One of the must-have accessories for iPhone or whatever phone you have is this JOTO universal waterproof phone dry bag . You want to protect your favorite must-have travel gadget, right?!

51. LAPTOP STAND

If you work long hours in front of your laptop screen, this super lightweight, portable, and foldable support laptop stand protects you from neck pain and keeps your health. Amazing travel gadget for people who work remotely! And one of the top digital nomad accessories!

52. BLUETOOTH KEYBOARD 

Trifold pocket-sized iClever Bluetooth keyboard is another great travel gadget you can hardly resist, especially if you are a digital nomad. This is a great travel gift too. Hmm, Christmas is coming soon.

53. NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES

Noise-canceling Bluetooth Sony WF-SP900 headphones keep you away from sound distractions. A useful travel gadget. You can’t deny it, huh?!

54. EARPLUGS

 If good sleep on your travels matters to you, and I believe it matters a lot, then these earplugs for sleeping are a must-have accessory. Earplugs for sleeping, earplugs for swimming, earplugs for snoring … you name it. Yes, you need them. They are the absolute must-have items for traveling!

55. HEADLAMP

One of the cool items to buy for travel and useful traveling gear is a headlamp. Whether you like reading in your hostel bunk bed at night or as outdoor gear for camping and hiking, the DanForce Headlamp is a cool travel item and a great travel gadget to have.

56. MINI TRAVEL FLASHLIGHT

This super small flashlight is one of the most useful travel accessories you simply must have.

57. TRIPOD WITH WIRELESS REMOTE FOR TAKING PICTURES AND VIDEOS

A tripod with a wireless remote is one of the top gadgets for travel! Why? If you travel solo or want to have travel photos with your all family members in the photos, this Ubeesize tripod will do the work for you. A hint? It comes with a lifetime warranty.

58. CANON G7X VLOG CAMERA

If you are interested in high-quality travel videos, Canon G7x is on the way to becoming one of your favorite travel gadgets. Highly useful and essential for vloggers. And, it is another great gift for travelers.

59. GO-PRO HERO 7

Talking about gadgets for travelers, and when it comes to GoPro, a special introduction is unnecessary. The world has gone crazy for GoPro Hero 7 ! One of the best travel gadgets for adventure travelers and beyond.

60. TRAVEL FIRST AID KIT

This portable and lightweight first aid kit is one of the best travel kits. It has bandages, alcohol wipes , ibuprofen, aspirin tablets, antiseptic cotton, sterile pads, first-aid tape, scissors … Hikers, campers, …outdoor enthusiasts, and long-term travelers … simply adore it. You might too! 

61. TRAVEL DOOR ALARM

A small travel door alarm is one of those useful travel accessories that can make a big difference if you happen to need to sleep in a dodgy hotel.

62. SAFETY WHISTLE

A safety whistle is one of the cool cheap things to buy on Amazon , but it can be life-saving in case of an emergency! Your life is worth much more than the few bucks you are going to spend on buying a safety whistle , agree?! Buy it and take it with you. And let’s hope you will never need to use it.

63. PHONE SANITIZER WITH FAST WIRELESS CHARGER

Recent global events taught us that cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing are more important than ever before. This eco-friendly sanitizer cleans easily and safely a huge range of products: from phones, earphones, computer mice, and watches to USB sticks, car keys, makeup tools, jewelry, and more. It’s disinfecting everything. It is usable at home, office, and on travel. This easy-to-use sanitizer is undeniably one of the most useful travel items at the moment.

64. MEMORY FOAM SEAT CUSHION

If you are a digital nomad who works remotely, then you appreciate a comfortable office chair. This ergonomically designed gel memory foam seat cushion will make your back pain back gone or minimalized. It is great for traveling, office, home, driving (car seat), and even wheelchair use.

65. PORTABLE TRAVEL CLOTHESLINE

If you enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, boat riding, or traveling slowly, you would appreciate this elastic stainless travel clothesline with clips . Put the clothesline between trees, on the balcony, in an RV, or bathroom, and make your drying space anywhere. People who hiked Camino de Santiago , like me, know how useful this small travel item can be on multi-day treks. (Check out my Camino de Santiago packing list !) Hang your towels, socks, etc on the clothesline and get your clothes dry naturally! This clothesline is lightweight, easy to pack, and one of the most useful travel accessories for multi-day trips.

66. PORTABLE BIDET

This Portable Bidet with Travel Bag is one of the most popular travel items. Keeping good personal hygiene is important at home and on travels. The HappyPo Travel Bidet is easy to use. It doesn’t need batteries or a connection. You just need to fill it with water, squeeze the bottle, and voilà – a nice wide spray comes! It is small, handy, and easy to carry on. A portable bidet is a must-have travel item for people who like to feel cleaner on their travels.

67. PORTABLE ESPRESSO MACHINE

If you follow my blog, you know how much I appreciate good coffee. On my coffee travels around the world , I sipped fabulous Vietnamese coffee in Vietnam , enjoyed siphoned coffee in Laos, had authentic luwak coffee in Bali , cruised famous coffee houses in Vienna , indulged in Italian espresso in Italy, etc. If you are anything like me, you need a cup of coffee to start your day with. This mini portable espresso machine is a top travel item a coffee lover could ask for! It is lightweight, portable, and easy to use. This handy travel-sized espresso machine is one of the best travel items for coffee-loving travelers!

Hope you find useful my list of the best travelling equipment. You can use it as a travel checklist for packing your essential travel items and favorite travel accessories.

I did my best to cover travel gadgets and accessories, outdoor gear, travel aids accessories, smart travel items, best luggage for travel … domestic and international travel accessories. If you would like to add something to my list of useful travel accessories and help fellow travelers, please leave a comment or send me a message.

Happy and safe travels, always!

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Saturday 9th of July 2022

I was looking for ideas for gift basket for a coworker who is traveling across the country, and really loved your suggestions. It was the small ordinary things we usually overlook! Thank you

Graeme Stewart

Saturday 10th of April 2021

That's a lot of stuff to carry. I would reduce the bags to just one and save a lot of space and airline fees :)

You know that your phone has a flashlight right? That can replace the mini-light.

Otherwise, very helpful. Thanks for sharing.

Hi Stewart,

thanks for sharing your thoughts. I gave some options here, of course. Anyway, I still believe that a mini flashlight is one of the really useful travel accessories. It takes almost nothing of space and it can be helpful. It's mini. After all, we don't need to have our phones with us all the time. :-)

Thanks for reading and taking your time to comment! I appreciate it. Milijana

Tuesday 29th of September 2020

The portable solar USB charger is definitely on top of my list! As a travel enthusiast myself that is often found hiking or trekking, I can definitely soak all that natural energy and convert it into power for my electronics.

Great article!

Kim Goodwin

Thursday 5th of December 2019

Hey Milijana, You have given the quality information for the travel. It was helpful to choose the necessary gadgets for my trip. What I personally like in your blog is you've provided many safety gadgets. Keep on like these posts. I am waiting for more information post from you.

I am glad to read this. Thank you for your feedback, Kim!

Wednesday 4th of December 2019

Thanks Milijana for this quality post. Thumbs up!!

Thank you for reading and commenting.

I hope some of the travel accessories I've listed will make your next trip more comfortable, more safe, easier and more enjoyable overall.

Happy and safe travels, Milijana

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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.

You Might Also Like:

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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The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Packing can be one of the most frustrating elements of traveling. It doesn’t seem to matter if it is your first trip or your 10th, you always seem to miss something. We put together this ultimate packing list t o help you avoid those packing mistakes on your next trip.

Table of Contents

The Perfect Packing Checklist

It is important to note that we compiled this ultimate travel packing list from 10 years of being professional travelers and bloggers. The goal of this packing list is to provide you with packing tips that will allow you to travel as efficiently and as comfortably as possible.

Travel Packing List for Luggage

Choosing what type of luggage you are going to use is a personal choice. We have used everything from hi-tech wheeled luggage to the latest backpacks. These are our top recommendations for checked luggage and carry-on luggage that is durable and lightweight.

Aluminum Roller – Known as the Rolls Royce of Luggage, Sterling Pacific is the top choice for luxury travelers, frequent fliers, and pilots. Its aluminum body is lightweight and the Italian leather handles give it extra points for style. Plus it has a lifetime warranty.

4 Wheeled Roller : Our yellow   Voyageur Check-In 28  turned heads. We didn’t worry about anyone mixing up our bags on the conveyor belt with our unique color and design. We found the 28-inch a bit too large, but you can order 24? or 26?. But with the large handle and ultra-quite 360° spinner wheels it was super easy to navigate through the airport

Carry-on Roller : Pro Carry-on with Laptop Pocket  by Level8. We felt so chic going through the airport with these hard cases and modern design and it was easy t o  pop out my laptop and documents right from the front hard case pocket when going through security.

Travel Backpack : If you are heading to destinations that are less developed, you are going to want a reliable backpack. You will want something in the 55L size and it should be comfortable on your back. We recommend the Osprey Fairpoint for men and the Osprey Fairview for women.

Rolling Duffel Bag Eagle Creek Rolling Duffel – Duffel bags are lightweight and durable for rough terrain. We like the separate compartments for hiking boots and how it can still look elegant when going into higher-end hotels.

Messenger Bag Travelon Antitheft Messenger Bag   – Deb carries an over-the-shoulder bag that crosses over her body. It keeps valuables secure from any snatch and grabs and the RFID component helps with any cyber security.

Carry-on Backpack – We’ve recently started using this carry-on backpack by Standard Luggage. The 3 in 1 bag turns into a backpack, suitcase, and shoulder bag to suit your needs. It meets all airline cabin rules which is a bonus and expand from 35 – 45 L. Plus, it’s water resistant to help keep valuable electronics and camera gear safe.

In addition to your luggage, you are going to want to keep everything organized.

Organizing Your Luggage

The first thing you will want to purchase will be packing cubes. These are lightweight compression bags that can help you separate your different types of clothes and keep your bag organized.

• Electronics Organizer
• Toiletry Bag
• Foldable Day Pack
• Document Organizer

Pro Tip: When checking in at the airport, take your computers out of your carry-on bag and put them in a collapsible tote bag (we fold it in the front pocket of our carry-on.) That way it lightens your load should you be weighed, but it doesn’t look like an extra piece of luggage.

Travel Packing Lists for Clothes

Packing clothes can be the most confusing and frustrating experiences of all. What we have learned over the past 10 years fo traveling is to have a base set of close, or capsule wardrobe , consisting of pieces that can be mixed and matched. We then add on from there depending on the length of the trip, the weather at the destination, and if we are going carry-on only or not.

Capsule Wardrobe for Women

• 1x Travel Skirt
• 1x Convertible Pants
• 2x Casual Pants (Usually 1 pair of leggings and 1 pair of pants that can be dressed up or down)
• 1x Long-Sleeved Shirt (I may add one depending on the cultural norms of the country I am visiting.)
• 4x Short-Sleeved Shirts or Blouses
• 1x Bathing Suit
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater or Fleece
• 4-6x Sports Bras and Underwear
• 1- Dress/Sundress
• 2 Pairs of Shoes (1 casual pair and 1 hiking pair)
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool Hiking Socks)

Travel Accessories for Her

• Buffs or headbands
• Rain Jacket or Outer Shell

Capsule Wardrobe for Men

• 1x Long Sleeve Shirt
• 3x Short Sleeve Shirts
• 2x Convertable Pants
• 1x Lightweight pant or jeans
• 2x Shorts (1 doubles as a bathing suit)
• 4-6 Exofficio Underwear
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool )
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater
• 2x Pairs of Shoes (1 casual and 1 for hiking)

Travel Accessories for Him

• Rain Jacket/Outer Shell

Pro Tip : If you are looking for a winter vacation planning list make sure to check out our How to Dress for Cold Weather article.

Checklist for Packing Toiletries

No travel packing list worth its weight would be complete without a comprehensive checklist for packing your toiletries. The first step is to make sure you have a good toiletry bag. We use this one as it is spacious, light, and hangs on the back of any door. To make it easier for you we have broken down to the travel essentials and the extras.

What to pack in your Toiletry Kit – Toiletry Essential Checklist

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and Conditioner (We transfer ours in GoToobes for easier storage)
• Tweezers and Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• Gold Bond Medicated Powder (for hot climates)
• Face/Body Moisturizer
• Chapstick/Lip Balm
• Prescription Medication

Toiletry Extras Checklist

• Hair products like hairspray and hair gel
• Travel Mirror
• Shaving Kit and razors
• Pegless Clothesline
• Travel Towel
• Hairbrush or Tangle Teezer
• Toothbrush Sanitizer

Read:  7 Tips for Stress-Free Travel  – here you will find a travel packing list of what we take in our care package on

Packing Checklist for Electronics

When it comes to electronics there are a lot of variables that will determine what you take and what you leave at home. In today’s day and age, there are certain things that everyone will want to take with them, and most of them will fit easily into your carry-on luggage. This checklist for packing electronics will give you the tools to bring back great memories and pack as light as possible.

• World Travel Adaptor : Each country that you visit may have a different plug configuration. This adaptor has you covered for every country.
• Belkin Mini Surge Protector : This is one piece of electronics we don’t leave home without. It protects your electronics against surges, has 3 plugs and 2 USB outlets for charging.
• iPhone/Smartphone: We use the iPhone 11 Pro. : Almost a necessity in today’s world, a smartphone can come in handy in so many ways. You can use it as a camera, a place to store your itineraries and keep friends and family up to date on Social Media.
• Travel Camera: Our recommendation would be the Sony RX100 VII : A good camera that fits in your pocket should be on everyone’s travel checklist. We recommend one that is small, lightweight, and can fit in your pocket.
• Noise Cancelling Headphones: If you want to get any sleep on a plane or bus ride these are essential. We use Beats Studio 3 but some people prefer earbuds. Whichever you choose make sure they are good quality to drown out all that noise.
• Portable Power Bank : The last thing you want to do is run out of power for your electronics when you are on the road. We carry a portable power back that keeps all of our electronics charged.
• Memory Cards : Always pack spare memory cards so you don’t run out of space when you want to capture that perfect shot.

Optional Electronics

• E-Reader or Kindle : If you are into books this is something you will want to add to your packing list.
• Laptop (This is for extended trips) : We carry one everywhere as that is our business. We recommend you pack one for longer trips or if you are into taking a lot of photos and videos like us. We recommend the MacBook Air for most people.
• External Hard Drive : Plan on taking a lot of videos and photos? Make sure you back them up so if something happens you don’t lose all your precious memories.
• Drone: We use the Mavic Pro 2 : Add a whole new element to your memories with a drone. We have been using one for years and love it.
• Portable Bluetooth Speaker : If you love music as much as we do you have to pack one of these for some tunes in your hotel room.
• Travel Tripod : Whether it be for selfies or night photography you will be glad you have on in your bag for those unique situations.

Are you into Travel Photography? Make sure to check out my Travel Photography Gear Guide and find out what is in my camera bag.

Packing List for Comfort

If there is one thing we have learned after all of these years is that a little comfort goes a long way. Especially when you are traveling on airplanes and busses. By adding these travel accessories to your packing list you can rest assured you will be comfortable . All of these have been tested on long plane, train and bus rides so you know that they work.

• Travel Pillow : After flying over 500,000 miles we have found the Trtl Neck travel pillow to be the best travel pillow out there. It is comfortable, gives great supports, and takes up almost no room in your bag.
• Eye Mask and Ear Plugs : No plane flight would be complete without these. The Pretty Care Eye mask is what we recommend. IT doesn’t rest on your eyes, is padded, and blocks out all light.
• Foldable Water Bottle : Staying hydrated on the plane is paramount to feeling refreshed when you arrive at your destination. WE fill this up after security so we always have water on the plane with us.
• Sarong : We have found that plane blankets just don’t cut it. That is why we always have a sarong with us on the plane if the air is a little too cold and you want to bundle up.
• Chapstick and hand moisturizer : WE all know how dry the plane gets. I pack this moisturizing kit so that my hands and face stay moisturized throughout the flight.
• Flight Flap Phone and Tablet Holder : WE discovered this last year and fell in love with it. No more sore necks from watching movies on your phone and tablet. This hangs on the back of the seat so you can watch in comfort.
• Travel Socks : I started using compression socks because they prevent DVT. I know more than a few people who have gotten DVT and this can be very serious. Compression socks help prevent blood clots and are highly recommended.

Packing List for First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential piece of travel gear. We have a n extensive first aid kit as we do a lot of adventures, but most people can get by with the essentials. You can buy pre-made first aid kits. This compact first aid kit  is a good start but it is just as easy to make one at home from your medicine cabinet. That way you only pack what you need.

• Prescription Medication – with a photocopy of our prescriptions
• Insect repellent 
• Advil or Tylenol for pain relief
• Gravol – for nausea  
• Benadryl and Claritin – For allergic reactions
• Allergy Eyedrops
• Imodium – for mild diarrhea
• Rehydration tablets and electrolyte tables – in case of dehydration or severe diarrhea.
• Topical Ointment like Polysporin or prescription Fucidin Cream – For cuts and scrapes
• Antiseptic spray – it’s important to clean cuts quickly, especially in tropical climates. 
• Moleskin – protects your skin from blisters.
• Thermometer
• Do you want to be prepared for every travel emergency? Check out our Ultimate First Aid Kit Packing List.

Travel Documents

Keeping your essential travel documents in order and organized can really take the stress out of travel. Using a travel organizer allows you to all the things you need in one convenient place.

• Passport and Visas- Make sure to have an electronic copy of both in case yours gets lost.
• Personal ID like a drivers license
• Bank cards, Credit Cards. Keep a contact number for your bank and credit card companies in your phone for emergencies.
• Emergency cash: We suggest 1 days worth of USD.
• Frequent Flier cards
• Travel Insurance documents, policy number , and contact information.
• Immunization records if needed.
• Itineraries or reservations- either printed out or stored in an app like Tripit.
• Boarding passes
• Emergency contact information.
• Guide book or maps- in either hard copy or digital copy.

Travel Security

Travel security is something we should all take seriously. Most problems tend to occur in bigger cities and in the form of pickpockets or petty theft. If you add these items to the travel packing list it might help deter would-be thieves.

• RFID Wallet: Protects against RFID Skimming, which is a form of theft using wireless transmitters to gain information to your credit and debit card identification chips. They can do it just by walking by.
• Money belt or neck wallet: We used these in the early days and they can be useful in the big cities where there are a lot of pickpockets.
• PacSafe Luggage Lock: This is perfect if you are staying in hostels or guesthouses.
• Luggage tracker: Give you peace of mind and lets you track your luggage if it gets lost.

More Anti-Theft Suggestions: If you want to get more in-depth about protecting your valuables when you travel check out THE BEST ANTI THEFT TRAVEL BAGS AND ACCESSORIES

Pre-Trip Checklist

Regardless of whether you are going on an extended trip or just a 2 week vacation there are a few things you are going to want to do before you board the plane. We have a complete pre-travel checklist that you can see here.

• Call your banks and credit card companies to tell them of your travel plans. This will avoid cards being flagged for purchases in another country.
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check to see if there are any Visa requirements
• Check Immunization requirements
• Leave flight and travel itineraries with a friend or relative.
• Check-in online or check flight information before leaving for the airport.

And there you have it. Our complete international travel packing list. We have done our best to answer all your travel packing questions and give you some packing tips that you can use on your next vacation. After years of traveling around the world, we hope that our extensive experience helps you when you are deciding what to pack for your next big adventure.

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Looking for more packing tips?

If you liked our ultimate travel packing list, why not check out some other great packing lists and travel tips travel that will be sure to help you out on your next trip.

• The Ultimate Camping Packing List : All the essentials you will need for your next camping trip.
• The Ultimate European Vacation Packing List : Great packing tips for your next trip to Europe.
• The Only Pre-Travel Checklist You Will Ever Need Everything you will need to do before you head to the airport for your next vacation.
• The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories : Tips and recommendations on what you need to stay organized while traveling.

You May Also Like These Helpful Travel Planners

• Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
• The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
• Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
• Do I Really Need Travel Medical Insurance?
• How We Choose Travel Insurance To Best Suit Our Needs
• Essential Tips for Essential Travel
• 10 Must Have Items to Make Air Travel Easy

What else would you add to our travel packing list? Add them in the comments below.

Disclosure:  The links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We receive affiliate commissions, but it’s no extra cost to you!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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29 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)”

This is very good content, images to perfect articles, hope you will share more in the future for everyone to see. Thank you very much.

Goig to Machu Pichu in Feb 2020.. 67 yrs young, not a regular hiker. Can you help me with packing list please? Also Amazon headwaters then to coast to relax by ocean for couple of days.

Hi I’m travelling from Australia to India for 2 weeks and will be visitng Dharamashala, Bodh Gaya and Dehli (2 nights)? I am 21yo, well I will be when I leave on 15 January. I am travelling with 7 others. I will be sharing a room with another lady, which I am pleased about as I can be prone to anxiety. Could you please help me with a packing list? Also do you think I should purchase a back pack that will protect my cards from being scanned? Do you recommend some type of money bag/sleeve that I can safely hold my money and passport? Thanks and sorry for all the questions, I don’t want to be caught out!

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

if you are only using a carry-on, you cannot take tweezers, or small scissors. They were taken away from me when I had them in a carry-on.

Actually I have affiliate links for both booking.com and lonely planet, but only on my guides section. The booking.com link works well, $15 for whenever somebody uses my link. On top of it, I do my own hotel bookings through my own link, so I’m actually giving myself a $15 discount 🙂 I only have these links on a very small section of my blog, totally agree with not doing too much of it early on. I’ve seen too many blogs that I previously enjoying selling out to advertising and turning into what looks like an online Casino site 🙂 Frank (bbqboy)

Great to hear Frank! Thanks for sharing.

Hey guys – we ended up going to the Bay and getting a couple of rolling duffels. Plus they had a special over the weekend and picked up bags that were usually $600 each (we went for the higher end models) at 50% off. So great tip about the Bay. Yes, I should be smarter about affiliate links on the blog. I’ve been a bit lazy on the monetization aspect… Frank

That’s fantastic! The Bay is great isn’t it? I love shopping there. Every time I go to the checkout, they always have a surprise discount. Even when it’s advertised on the item that it’s on sale, they seem to have another deeper discount at the desk. I think it’s one of the best places to shop for luggage. Best of luck with affiliates. It took us years to get around to it. You really need traffic to make it happen as you don’t make much off of each item. It’s base more on volume than sales. With Amazon it’s something like 4%. But it’s nice to get a bit of extra in the pockets if you can supply your readers with something of value.

Great! Have one right downtown next to the optometrist I’m seeing today. Thanks!

Perfect. Hope your eyes are doing well 🙂 The bay always has amazing deals on luggage.

I have seen so many of such type of blogs which contains these packing lists. But all of them possesses the same sort of things in the list. You have done such a wonderful job of adding some brilliant things, which can be very useful in any tour. I really appreciate your work.

Thank you for the kind words. We had a lot of fun putting it together. I just went through my bag and started making a list. It was a lot of work, but I think it’s worth it.

Wow…really great packing list especially with the images, never seen this before. It would be great if you can create a smartphone app 🙂

I was never a fan of these packing list posts. But we’ve been travelling non-stop now for a year and have had so many frustrations with our gear. Besides too much stuff (inefficient clothing mostly) our carrying bags (backpacks) just so damn heavy. Like you say, you can go light when travelling for a couple of weeks but when you’re gone for a year you’re going to be carrying more. We’ll be back in Canada next week and one of the many things we have to do during our month there is to re-organize our whole baggage/packing situation. I know I’m asking for a lot here – but any idea where in Montreal we can get some of those Travel bags? I’m not one to buy stuff online, have to see it with my own eyes. Informative post! Frank (bbqboy)

HI Frank, We bought our rolling duffles at The Bay, they always have amazing deals.

Some great ideas here, but I cant fathom traveling with this much stuff or luggage. I take much shorter trips, but do everything in a 20″ expandable rollaboard and daypack.

My concern with packing camera gear in a larger back is what if you are forced to check that bag? Even runway check the bag? My Crumpler camera bag and laptop fit in the daypack so even if I am forced to check the rollaboard, I have my breakables in the smaller bag to carry on the plane.

I do what Stuart mentioned in the above comment. I have a list for a carryon beach/adventure vacation; a list for the checked bag adventure/beach vacation; lists for carryon and checked city vacations and a business trip packing list. All of these can be altered for the weather/sports at the location.

There’s certainly some good kit on this list. A friend of mine swears that the best way to pack is to maintain lists for different types of destination (i.e. one for winter sports and another for beach vacations) and refer to them while packing. I still pack on an ad hoc basis! Enjoy your travels.

Some great tips here guys! I wish I had read one of these before I first hit the road seven years ago! – certainly would have changed what I took! These days, as long as I have my knife and my head torch; I know I’m pretty much ready for any adventure 🙂

Great article Dave and Deb! You guys are travel experts so if you like our clothes we know we’re doing something right. We look forward to continuing following your travels!

I like it so much. Each time I travel and expect long hour travel by plane, I make sure I have a jet lag cure like JetlagFX. It’s a great supplement and works well for me.

I just got a sample pack of JetlagFX, I can’t wait to try it out.

Great lists! As someone who packs light when I travel, I like how you categorized everything and stuck to the basics.

Thanks. We aren’t the lightest packers since we are on the road constantly, but for we find this list does everything we need without too much extraneous weight.

Great article!! i am a girl so is difficult for me to make a Packing list , but i really think that i have to make one the next trip because i always travel with a lot of stuff in my bags.

Wow, it really is a long list of things…. Bags, organizers, clothes, gears………. simply amazing By the way, Deb looks dashing on the image carrying luggage…

Holy moly, that is the motherload of packing lists. I’m bookmarking it for later. I’m particularly interested in your photography and electronics. I have only just started making enough money writing to even begin to think about traveling and writing full time, but I just don’t know where to begin. Thanks for this awesomely detailed post.

Great post! I need some organization in packing wisely when traveling. My favorite was the travel organizers. I probably would not need as much electronic gear as you have. My iPhone is sufficient enough for me when taking pictures. They come out pretty good. Some of your other ideas are great. We usually check on locations for laundry when traveling for any length of time. This too can cut down on the amount that you have to pack. The downside is that it may take up some of your time to do the laundry.

wow great information. i like this list for travel packing.

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• 1 Wallet and passport holder
• 2 Phone charger and adapter
• 3 Reusable water bottle
• 4 Hand sanitizer
• 5 Skincare products
• 7 Travel journal and pen
• 8 Walking shoes
• 10 Sunglasses
• 11 Headphones
• 12 Weather-dependent items
• 13 Travel pillow
• 14 Toiletry bag
• 15 First aid kit
• 16 Travel wrap or scarf
• 17 Book or e-reader
• 18 Lip balm

18 Essentials You Should NEVER Forget to Pack

Once your outfits have been planned and packed, it's time to focus on the things —particularly those items you absolutely can't forget. Consider this your go-to checklist for any trip.

Style + Travel Editor | Instagram @jackiehoman | jackiehoman.com

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Wallet and passport holder

You won’t get very far without your wallet, and same goes for your passport on international trips. If you’re prone to losing things, purchase a wallet-passport holder combo to keep them close. We like this affordable and travel-friendly pick from Amazon, which has slots for your cards, cash, passport, tickets, boarding pass, and more, plus a convenient wristlet strap.

Phone charger and adapter

A phone charger is a must for any trip, and if you’re leaving the U.S., so is an adapter. This one from Flight 001 (available on Amazon ) is color-coded and works in over 150 countries.

Reusable water bottle

Avoid spending money on plastic water bottles at every stop by bringing along a reusable one. With the fold-up capabilities of the Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle , you won’t even know it’s there.

RELATED:   What to Pack for a Beach Vacation

Hand sanitizer

Say goodbye to the all-too-common post-trip cold by keeping hand sanitizer on you at all times. GoodSense is a classic and easy go-to that we suggest for any adventure.

Skincare products

Vacation is no excuse to forgo your skin care routine—in fact, you’ll want to keep it up even better to avoid breakouts and flare-ups caused by flights and new climates. If you’re committed to the products you already own, pack them in these leakproof silicone travel bottles from Amazon. Or, if you’re game to try something new, how about picking out a travel-sized set like Drunk Elephant’s The Littles ?

Create long-lasting vacation memories by snapping better captures along the way (if you’re like us, your iPhone camera roll gets way too clogged up with screenshots and food pics). The  Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Compact Digital Camera ‘s slim design and light weight make it just right for travel.

RELATED:   JS Editors’ Picks: 18 Items We’re Crushing on Now

Travel journal and pen

Keep your travel itineraries, checklists, and journal entries in one place with  I Was Here: A Travel Journal for the Curious Minded ,  which has plenty of space for all of your musings, plus colorful illustrations that pull together the pages. And don’t forget a pen !

Walking shoes

Even if you’ve already perfectly planned all the shoes to go with your outfits, throw in one extra pair of easy walking sneakers or flats, like Everlane’s The Day Glove . We promise you won’t regret it when your feet start to blister from your sandals or heels.

When you’re excited about what you’ll be wearing on days and nights out, it’s easy to forget something to wear in between. Bring along a lightweight pair of PJs, like these from Lunya, to keep cozy in the hotel.

RELATED:   21 Gift Ideas for the Stylish Traveler

Spending lots of time outdoors? Be prepared with sunnies. We love this go-with-anything classic style from Ray-Bans.

You’ll want a heavy-duty pair of headphones for your flight, and we recommend these from Bose, which offer up to 15 hours of play time with a rechargeable battery and a wireless Bluetooth capability.

Weather-dependent items

Check the forecast before you go, and pack accordingly. The SY COMPACT Travel Umbrella is perfect for rainy travel, while this sunscreen is essential for the sunny days. Snow on the radar? Pack these winter accessories .

RELATED: 18 Shoes We’re LOVING for Summer 2019

Travel pillow

If we’re talking airplane essentials, a travel pillow is at the top of our list (also great for train, bus, and car rides). With memory foam filling, a velour cover, and an ergonomic design, this one from Everlasting Comfort gets our pick. Plus, it comes with a sleeping mask and earplugs.

Toiletry bag

Keep your toiletries organized with this hanging kit , which has plenty of room for all the necessities and more.

First aid kit

Safety first, Jetsetters! This mini first aid kit will equip you with everything you’ll need in case of emergency.

RELATED:   The Carry-On Luggage You Need Now

Travel wrap or scarf

Stay cozy on a cool flight with an oversized cashmere scarf, like this one from Halogen .

Book or e-reader

We love books as much as the next guy, but when it comes to travel, an e-reader is really the best option. Lightweight and waterproof, the new Kindle Paperwhite keeps you ready to read wherever you are.

It’s pretty much a given that a flight will dry out your skin, hair, and worst of all, lips. Prevent the chapped feeling with this ultra-hydrating lip balm from cult-favorite brand Mario Badescu.

Traveling? Consider These Luggage Options

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Weekender Convertible

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37 Travel Essentials Travel Experts Never Go on Vacation Without

By Lindsey Lanquist

Whenever I pack, mistakes are made. Though I'm a meticulous list-maker, I always manage to forget something vital—pads and tampons , deodorant , you name it. For one thing, I've never remembered to bring an outlet adapter on an international trip with me. Never. I've forgotten toothpaste on more occasions than I'd like to admit. And in one particularly horrifying slip-up, I went on a weekend trip without packing any underwear at all. While adapters and toothpaste are share-able items, underwear isn't something you can borrow from a travel companion. Thankfully, the underwear I was already wearing was able to tide me over for the three days I was gone. But still. Ick.

I've come to realize that the most efficient way for me to pack is to keep a running list of travel essentials—things I know I'll need for literally any trip I'm taking. I have one list in my phone for domestic travel , and one for international travel; both keep me from experiencing the apparently inevitable oh-my-god-I-can't-believe-I-forgot-to-pack-that slip-up.

To make sure I wasn't missing anything (as I am clearly wont to do), I reached out to self-proclaimed travel experts to find out what their go-to travel essentials are—and they had a ton . While some of their recommendations were pretty straightforward ( books , noise-cancelling headphones, outlet adapters), others were expert-level life hacks I'd never considered before (an on-the-go WiFi hotspot, a mini steamer, a portable luggage scale).

Needless to say, both of my packing lists ended up longer—and better—after writing this story.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing Cubes

"Packing cubes help me stay organized . I always organize my cubes by what's in them: workout clothes in one, fancier clothes in another, and so on. It's made traveling between destinations on the same trip a lot easier." —Louisa G., 32, a luxury travel adviser who goes on at least one trip each month

Buy it: 4-Pack Packing Cubes, $25, amazon.com

On-the-Go Detergent

"I always bring a small container of laundry detergent so I can hand-wash clothes in the sink. If I can do laundry on-the-go, I don't have to pack as many outfits." —Nikki G., 34, a travel blogger who takes four or five international trips and one or two domestic trips each year

Buy it: SinkSuds Travel Laundry Detergent (Pack of 6 Packets), $19, amazon.com

A Microplane

"I bring a microplane with me wherever I go. It's easy to pack (though you have to put it in checked luggage), and it's great for grating spices , ginger, garlic, cheese, and more while cooking." —Josie S., 64, a blogger who spends between three and eight months traveling each year

Buy it: Microplane 38000 Professional Coarse Grater, $16, amazon.com

A Portable Hotspot

"All my work is on my computer. And since I don't always have Wi-Fi access while traveling, I carry a broadband hotspot with me so I can connect to the internet whenever I need to." —Susan S., 70, an author who has lived and worked out of a van, trailer, or RV for the past 30 years

Buy it: GlocalMe Mobile Hotspot, $165, amazon.com

By Jenna Ryu

By Nikki Campo

By Anna Borges

"My eyes are really sensitive, so it's nice to have relief drops on hand whenever I need them." —Lexi P., 25, a marketing manager who travels for work (and fun!)

Buy it: TheraTears Eye Drops (30 Count), $10, amazon.com

Binder Clips

"I always carry binder clips—yes, as in the office supply. You can use them to hang up wet clothes, close bags, temporarily repair torn hems, hold broken luggage straps together, keep track of electronic cords, and, of course, keep any papers you need together." —Kelly H., 56, a writer and editor who's considered herself a "full-time" traveler since 2009

Buy it: 120-Pack Binder Clips, $14, amazon.com

A Small, Battery-Operated Fan

"I always put a small, battery-operated travel fan in my bag. It comes in handy when I travel to warm places with limited outlet space. Plus, the hum of the motor helps drown out some of that distracting noise that always seems to crop up at night."—Kari B., 44, a travel blogger who takes at least 18 trips a year

Buy it: OPOLAR Battery-Operated Fan, $14, amazon.com

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

"I don't go anywhere without my Bose noise-cancelling headphones. I'm a frequent flyer, and my quality of life increased exponentially when I bought them. Anyone who travels often knows how tiring, stressful, and all-around loud it can be. There are so many things you can't control while you travel, but blocking noise is something you actually can." —Lauren M., 29, a writer and public speaker whose job has offices in D.C., Austin, and Barcelona

Buy it: Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones, $349, amazon.com

"When I'm flying, I always travel with Vaseline. The air on planes can get really dry, and Vaseline keeps my skin (and lips) from drying out, too." —Rebecca G., 42, a co-founder of a healthy lifestyle brand who hosts three international wellness retreats each year

Buy it: 4-Pack Vaseline, $8, amazon.com

A Travel Adapter

"If you're traveling internationally, an adapter is a must-have. I always used to forget to bring them with me, but now I keep one in my cosmetic bag." —Jean W., 64, an owner of a tourism company who travels five times a year

Buy it: Universal Travel Adapter, $12, amazon.com

A Mini Steamer

"When traveling, I can't leave home without my Joy Mangano steamer. It's literally the best steamer I've ever owned, and it helps me get any packing-induced wrinkles out of my clothing." —Sandy C., 57, a cruise agency founder who travels at least 20 times a year

Buy it: HiLife Mini Travel Steamer, $27, amazon.com

Travel Underwear

"Travel underwear is a must. It looks just like regular underwear, but the fabric dries quickly when you wash it by hand." —Trang P., 29, a travel blogger who takes full advantage of the vacation days she gets through her job

Buy it: ExOfficio Give-N-Go Bikini Briefs, from $10, amazon.com

"My iPad serves as my travel guide, itinerary, calendar, library, photo storage, and Netflix when traveling. It acts as a book on the beach and as a notebook whenever I need to keep track of great spots I've visited." —Jessica A., 25, a partnerships manager for a travel company who currently lives in Spain

Buy it: Apple iPad Mini, $400, amazon.com

A Small Spray Bottle

"I always put a travel-sized spray bottle in my suitcase. I don't really iron, so I do my best to travel with clothes that don't wrinkle much. But when wrinkles (inevitably) appear, I hang my clothes up and spray them with water. Usually, that's all I need to keep them looking fresh and presentable." —Jessica V., 41, an entrepreneur who spends about half the year traveling

Buy it: 50 Oz. Mist Spray Bottle, $7, Amazon

"I'm British, so I actually bring tea with me on trips. It comes in handy when the breakfast tea isn't up to snuff, or when there's nowhere to get tea near where I'm staying." —Caroline R., 42, a volunteer organization employee who travels for work

Buy it: 20-Pack Tea Bags, $10, amazon.com

A Solar Charger

"A solar battery is perfect for when the power goes out, and it's great for bringing on long hikes , too. I love that I can keep my devices charged even when I'm off the grid." —Kristin A., 32, a travel blogger who spends most of the year traveling

Buy it: Kiizon 25000mAh Solar Power Bank, $40, amazon.com

A Facial Spray

"I'm a big fan of facial sprays—like the Evian ones—for long flights. Flying doesn't have to mean wearing your Sunday best, but it can be an opportunity to relax in a way you don't usually get to. To be honest, I probably take better of myself when traveling than I do on the daily!" —Kate M., 30, a travel publicist who takes one domestic trip a month and several international trips each year

Buy it: Evian Natural Water Facial Spray, $19, amazon.com

"While traveling in Europe with my two kids, the zipper on one of our suitcases popped. Thankfully, it was toward the end of the trip, so we were able to toss everything we no longer needed into that bag and duct tape is shut. We might have looked silly, but it saved us from buying an astronomically expensive suitcase overseas." —Tiffany K., 37, a business owner who travels with her family two or three times each year

Buy it: TopSoon All-Purpose Duct Tape, $7, amazon.com

An Extension Cord

"My extension cord comes with me on any international trip I take. Depending on where I'm staying, it can be hard to find enough outlets—and sometimes, those I do find are hidden or out-of-reach. But when I bring an extension cord with me, it becomes a lot easier to keep my devices charged." —Jacquie W., 61, a travel company owner who takes between three and six multi-week trips a year

Buy it: 12-Foot 3-Outlet Extension Cord, $15, amazon.com

"I always keep bobby pins, gum, and a small vial of perfume with me so I'm able to quickly freshen up any time I step off a plane." —Jennifer L., 33, a travel company manager who travels to up to 20 countries each year

Buy it: 120-Pack Bobby Pins, $10, amazon.com

"I hate walking around barefoot in hotel rooms, on flights, and on train rides, so I always pack some slippers in my bag. My mom buys me a new pair every Christmas!" —Mallory L., 31, a travel blogger who travels eight times each year

Buy it: Women's Velvet Memory Foam Slippers, $18, amazon.com

Face Washcloths

"I tend to visit hot countries, so I always carry a water bottle and face cloth with me. Nothing cools you off like a little cold water splashed onto a washcloth." —Caroline R., 42, who travels for her job at a volunteer organization

Buy it: 6-Pack Luxury Bamboo Facial Washcloths, $16, amazon.com

"My camera is a great conversation starter. It's easy to make friends in unknown places when you're shooting the environment around you. It's also a fun segue into asking locals if there's anything in particular I should see during my trip." —Monica R., 38, a podcaster, writer, and photographer who travels six times per year

Buy i: Nikon D3300, $397, amazon.com

A Foldable Bag

"I always bring a foldable bag that packs flat in my suitcase, because I'm always bringing souvenirs home with me. My favorite is from Longchamp." —Erina P., 33, a luxury travel adviser

Buy it: Longchamp Le Pliage Medium Shoulder Tote, $125, neimanmarcus.com

Portable Mattress Pad

"I always bring a Thermarest mattress pad with me. It's made for campers and backpackers, but it works really well on flat-bed business class seats. I've even used it in hotels where the beds are too hard." —Hilary S., 45, the CEO of a luxury travel company who travels up to nine times each year

Buy it: Thermarest ProLite Self-Inflating Backpacking Pad, $75, amazon.com

A Power Strip

"I always, always, always carry a power strip. You never know when you'll stay somewhere that doesn't have enough outlets for all your gadgets. As a travel blogger, I typically tote around a laptop, heaps of camera gear, a drone, my phone, and more; if I can't keep everything charged, I can't do my job." —Megan S., 34, a travel blogger who spent eight months traveling last year

Buy it: AmazonBasics Power Strip, $10, amazon.com

A Cosmetic Bag Full of Medicine

"I have a ready-to-go cosmetic bag filled with any medicine I could possibly need. You never know when you'll hurt yourself or have a bad reaction to something you ate." —Lori L., 45, a travel blogger who takes six trips a year

Buy it: Parateck Waterproof Travel Bag, $6, amazon.com

A Travel Charger

"To make sure my lifeline—err, phone—is always at full-battery, I carry a lightweight travel charger with me wherever I go." —Megan S., 34, a blogger who travels for eight months or more each year

Buy it: BONAI 5800mAh Power Bank, $18, amazon.com

"The one item you'll always find in my bag is earplugs. I really value getting enough sleep , and earplugs can make even the loudest hotel or worst flight bearable." —Laura L., 37, a travel writer and photographer who spends 100 days traveling each year

Buy it: 50-Pack Soft Foam Earplugs, $18, amazon.com

A Carry-On Pouch Full of First-Aid Supplies

"I keep a carry-on pouch full of things like medicine, bandaids, and a thermometer. I have kids, so I like to be prepared. The last thing I want to do is hunt for a 24-hour pharmacy in the middle of nowhere." —Christina V., 42, a travel writer who takes 10 trips a year

Buy it: All-Purpose First Aid Kit, $15, amazon.com

"I don't get to read that often, so it's one of my favorite things to do on vacation—especially while I'm in transit. I have a lengthy to-read list for these occasions, and my Kindle is a lightweight way for me to work my way through them." —Jme T., 41, a charity founder who's been to seven countries in the last year

Buy it: All New Kindle, $90, amazon.com

A Laundry Bag

"I bring a laundry bag with me any time I go on a trip. It helps me separate my dirty clothes from my clean ones, so the moment I get home, I know what needs to be washed and what I can put back in my drawers." —Louisa G., 32, a luxury travel adviser who takes at least one trip each month

Buy it here: 4-Pack Mesh Laundry Bags, $8, amazon.com

A Lightweight Hair Dryer

"I always keep a lightweight hair dryer and curling iron in my suitcase, so I can keep my hair from getting frizzy on trips." —Kim K., 43, a PR agent who travels for five months each year

Buy it: Berta Hair Dryer, $40, amazon.com

A Portable Luggage Scale

"I always pack a handheld luggage scale. It's always better to have peace of mind and know your suitcase is within the weight limit when coming back from a long trip; the last thing you want is to haphazardly throw things in your carry-on at the airport in a last-ditch effort to make your luggage lighter." —Annie S., 30, an author who takes three or four trips each year

Buy it here: Portable Luggage Scale, $9, amazon.com

Plastic Birkenstocks

"Plastic. Birkenstocks. (Yes, plastic.) They're the ultimate shoe for versatility and durability while also being reasonably attractive. I live in a rural town in Costa Rica, and I spend a lot of time hiking on muddy trails and through marshy rivers. I know exactly which shoes last and which shoes don't; a pair of super expensive, water-resistant shoes lasted me two months, whereas my Birkenstocks have lasted two years (and counting). " —Elizabeth A., 29,

Buy it here: Birkenstock Unisex Sandals, $30, amazon.com

"I always carry antibacterial wipes in my carry-on. Getting sick on the road is the absolute worst, so I try to wipe down tray tables, arm rests, and any other surfaces that might need disinfecting before interacting with them." —Kashlee K., 32, an author who spends at least nine months traveling each year

Buy it here: 20-Pack Wet Ones Antibacterial Wipes, $15, amazon.com

A Travel Organizer

"I love my RuMe travel organizer because it allows me to pack a decent amount of clothing—plus, it folds to fit inside a standard carry-on bag." —Peta-Gaye D., 37, a travel blogger who takes at least two trips per year

Buy it: RuMe Bags Travel Organizer, $33, amazon.com

• Travel Experts Share the 57 Pieces of Luggage They Love Most
• 10 Travel-Friendly Beauty Products Makeup Artists Swear By
• The Pants That Got Me Through 3 Days of an Active Vacation Without My Luggage

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

Protect Your Trip »

27 things you should always pack in your carry-on bag.

Create your packing list of essentials and new in-flight finds.

What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag

Packing your carry-on bag for a flight is exciting – but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a concise list of airport and in-flight essentials, you can maximize space and be prepared for your journey.

To help you decide what to pack in your carry-on bag, our team compiled this list of must-have items. Download the packing list here to use while you prep for your next trip, then read on to learn more about what to pack.

Carry-on packing list

Travel wallet, passport holder, toiletry bag, tsa-approved liquids bag and compliant containers, prescription medications, glasses case, travel pillow, packing cubes, tech organizer, luggage tracker, zippered pouches and reusable silicone bags, mini clip bag, hand sanitizer, bluetooth wireless adapter, wired earbuds or headphones, e-reader or a great book, travel adapter/converter, travel first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, activities or games, light jacket, change of clothing.

Protect your credit cards and cash with an RFID wallet like the Travelon RFID Blocking Single Zip Wallet , which prevents scammers from wirelessly stealing your personal information. This travel wallet is especially useful since it can also hold most smartphones.

If you're traveling internationally, an option like the TIGARI Passport Holder can protect your travel document and make it easy to locate in your carry-on bag. You'll need access to your passport at airport security, when you board the plane and when you're filling out entry forms, so keep the passport holder as well as a pen within reach. Once you arrive at your destination, put the passport wallet somewhere safe at your lodging or – if you feel inclined to keep it with you – stow it in your travel purse, belt bag or backpack to ensure it's safe while you explore.

Getty Images

Pack your toiletry bag in your carry-on so you can easily freshen up and so that you'll have essentials like toothpaste and deodorant in the event your checked luggage is lost in transit. Also consider packing toiletries that are useful for travel (particularly the dry air on planes), even if they're not part of your daily routine at home.

U.S. News senior travel editor Marisa Méndez recommends including a facial moisturizer and a body lotion in your toiletry bag. "My skin always dries out on flights and it's nice to have something to soothe my skin," she says.

"I always love having facial spray to freshen up after the flight," says Elizabeth Von Tersch , also a senior travel editor at U.S. News. She always keeps one in her purse. " Mario Badescu and Evian are great." These facial sprays help to moisturize your skin after the drying environment on a plane or give you a little midday pick-me-up.

When packing your carry-on bag for a flight, you'll want to have a clear quart-sized bag that meets Transportation Security Administration guidelines for liquids and gels. Some Dopp kits or toiletry bags include a removable bag for travel-size liquids, or you can buy this reusable TSA-approved clear bag on Amazon . Put any liquids or gels you're traveling with in this bag, including shampoo, lotion, liquid makeup items and hand sanitizer.

Keep in mind that all liquids and gels must be in travel-size bottles or containers measuring 3.4 ounces or less. Remember: You'll need to remove this clear quart-sized bag from your carry-on bag at security, so consider packing it in an external pocket or an easy-to-find spot in your carry-on suitcase. To learn more about TSA regulations, consult our article about what is allowed in a carry-on .

Never stow prescription medications in checked baggage : If luggage is lost or delayed, replacing these medications while traveling can be extremely challenging or even impossible. If you take multiple medications, consider a travel pill sorter like the EZY Dose Pill Organizer , available for about $5 on Amazon.

Whether you wear glasses for vision correction or you're packing your favorite pair of sunglasses, keeping them protected while stowed in your carry-on is essential. If you're bringing multiple pairs, a case like the foldable Dagne Dover Remi Glasses Case can hold up to three pairs, or the Lug Eyeglass Holder & Mini Pill Case works well for eyeglasses and contacts.

Courtesy of Cabeau

Resting throughout your journey can help you feel refreshed when you reach your destination and make the time pass a little quicker. But nothing can (literally) cramp your style like a stiff neck from sleeping wrong. Choose a comfortable neck pillow for travel like the top-rated Cabeau Evolution S3 or the MLVOC Travel Pillow (less than $30 on Amazon). For a travel pillow that doubles as a packing cube, consider the Tube pillow , which holds up to three days' worth of clothing.

Packing cubes aren't just for organizing clothing and shoes. Maximize space in your carry-on bag with these handy travel compartments . While Eagle Creek's PACK-IT line features the top-rated compression packing cubes on the market, many travelers also swear by the Veken Packing Cubes , which are usually available for $20 or less on Amazon. To maximize space even more, consider Lug's compression packing cubes .

If you're planning to travel with jewelry, watches or items that would be difficult to replace, be sure to put these in your carry-on bag, as checked items run the risk of being misplaced. For jewelry, a compact case that is easy to spot like the Lug Mini Swizzle is ideal for rings, cufflinks or earrings.

It's easy to let your charging cords get lost at the bottom of your bag or get your headphones tangled somewhere in your tote. A handy tech organizer such as the CALPAK Tech Organizer or the BAGSMART Tech Organizer , with zippered compartments and sections for specific cords, can help reduce tangled messes (and the need for you to search for your essentials in a tight airplane cabin).

Even though you'll have your carry-on bag with you, it's still a good idea to have a luggage tracker like an Apple AirTag or a Tile Pro securely attached to your bag. In the event you and your bag get separated, you'll be able to track down where you parted ways (because when you're jet-lagged it's easy to be a bit absent-minded).

Smaller than packing cubes, zippered pouches and silicone bags like the Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bags are perfect for storing everything from snacks to scrunchies. If traveling with family, consider different colored pouches for each traveler's items so you can easily tell them apart without removing everything from the bag.

Get a handy little bag with a carabiner clip, such as the CALPAK Luka Key Pouch , to securely attach to the outside of your bag for quick-grab items like gum, hand sanitizer or individual travel wipes . Once you're at your destination, you can clip it on a belt loop or use the elastic band to slide it on your wrist for your room key, lip gloss and other small essentials.

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Let's face it – traveling can introduce your body to a host of unwanted germs. Carrying a bottle of travel hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean on the go, even if there's not a bathroom nearby. To disinfect surfaces like airplane tray tables, arm rests or tables, consider having a pack of disinfecting wipes at your disposal as well.

During a flight, the low humidity and high altitude can have a drying effect on your skin and lips. To combat the dry air, consider packing a hydrating lip balm like this new stick option by Aquaphor . What's more, if you choose a balm over a liquid moisturizer, you won't need to store this product in your clear TSA-approved liquids bag.

In-flight entertainment can help your travel day go faster, but being tethered to the seatback with wired headphones can feel a bit constricting. Plus, you may have to unplug to let your seat mates in or out. Avoid those troubles and connect your wireless headphones to the in-flight system with Twelve South's AirFly ($35 or less on Amazon), which wirelessly transmits audio via Bluetooth.

If you'd prefer to connect directly to the in-flight entertainment to watch a movie (or maybe just tune out your seatmates), buy some inexpensive wired earbuds like this well-rated set by Jogteg . You can keep them in your carry-on so you're always ready, even on flights where they don't pass out complimentary headsets.

Having a book or magazine in your carry-on bag is always a good idea. Whether you encounter a delayed flight, a long layover or a plane with less than stellar in-flight entertainment, a good book will help pass the time.

On everything from red-eye flights to international jaunts, a good eye mask can block out light from overhead, the seatback screens and plane windows. The Nodpod Sleep Mask is especially relaxing since it's weighted.

"Even if you plan to grab a bite at the airport or on the plane (if that's an option), pack some snacks," says Amanda Norcross , content and SEO strategist for travel at U.S. News. "Flying is unpredictable and stressful for many travelers, and 'hanger' only makes things worse." Trail mix, granola bars, crackers, pretzels, dried fruit and popcorn are some good snack options you may want to throw in your carry-on. Also put chewing gum in your carry-on to freshen breath and help with ear popping.

It's not always easy to find a charging station at the airport, and there are restrictions when it comes to packing batteries in your carry-on baggage for any flight. One option that meets Federal Aviation Administration guidelines is the Anker 537 Power Bank (PowerCore 26K for Laptop) . This device can charge a laptop, smartphone or tablet quickly, to keep your devices running even on a long flight.

For international travel – since different countries use different plug shapes – packing a universal adapter or converter will enable you to charge your devices and other electronics. Before purchasing, consider what your needs will be, especially regarding the shape of the wall outlet plugs and the voltage of the countries you'll be visiting.

A travel adapter such as the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon makes plugs from the U.S. fit into electrical outlets around the world, whereas a travel converter like the ALLWEI International Travel Adapter converts the electricity voltage. If you're traveling overseas from the U.S., you'll need both of these devices to use electronics like laptops, curling irons and hair straighteners (unless your device is dual voltage, like the BaBylissPRO Nano Mini Straightening Iron ).

For minor injuries like blisters from new shoes or unexpected cuts and scrapes, pack a first-aid kit with Band-Aids and triple antibiotic ointment like Neosporin in your bag.

Staying hydrated while traveling is a must. Pack a reusable water bottle like the Corkcicle Canteen Triple Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle to fill up at the airport before your flight and refill throughout your travels. Even better – an insulated bottle will stay cold for hours.

Whether it's a long flight or layover (or maybe you just need a good distraction), having some activities like a miniature coloring book and mini colored pencils or small packable games can be really useful.

"I took a small coloring book and a small set of pencils on a flight once and it was life-changing," Méndez says. U.S. News senior digital producer for travel Leilani Osmundson says she and her husband love to bring a deck of cards and portable two-player games to pass the time.

"I typically wear a lightweight jacket on the plane to free up space in my carry-on," says Norcross. "If the plane is too warm, I can easily stuff it under the seat in front of me with my backpack." If you're in need of a simple yet effective packable jacket , check out the Amazon Essentials Puffer Jacket .

Whether your coffee spills off your tray table or you lose your checked baggage, an extra outfit is handy to have. Pack a versatile outfit (including socks and underwear) into your carry-on bag so you have a backup option, or perhaps have your swimwear and flip-flops ready to head directly to the beach the moment you arrive. For tired or swollen feet, having a pair of compression socks and a change of walking shoes can make your travel day much more comfortable.

What not to pack in a carry-on bag

When packing a carry-on bag or suitcase, it's important to note that some items are prohibited on all flights, due to Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The prohibited list includes aerosol products (such as anti-static spray or pepper spray), lithium or lithium-ion batteries, firearms and ammunition, flammables, and explosives. For more details on what you can and can't pack in your carry-on, visit the TSA's What Can I Bring? and the FAA's Pack Safe websites.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood loves to see how much she can fit in her carry-on bag. She always brings a few snacks, a good read and little luxuries to make the journey comfortable. Hood used her personal travel experience, along with her retail background and research expertise, to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Top Luggage Brands
• Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline
• What to Do If Your Flight Is Canceled
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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29 Essential Travel Items That Are a Complete Game Changer

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: February 17, 2022  - Last updated: March 31, 2024

Share with your friends!

Packing sucks.

You always feel like you’re forgetting something.

Or you over-pack and end up using only half of what you brought.

Packing for your next trip doesn’t have to be this way.

As a full-time travel blogger and after loading up my carry-on luggage dozens of times, I’ve learned to bring some essential travel items that keep me organized and play double duty so that I don’t bring stuff I don’t need .

Whether you’re packing for an international trip, a long flight or want to know what you should put in your carry on, there are some things you should never travel without . 

Being prepared also means I save money when I travel, since I know I have everything I need and don’t have to worry about buying things on the road.

Avoid tourist tax and don’t pay double or triple what you should when you forget something simple like sunscreen! 

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you make a purchase through them – at no extra cost to you. I only share products that I use myself and love, btw.)

This list shares my most unique items that every traveler should have that aren’t so obvious but make your life so much better and easier when you’re on the move. 

You won’t find all the same-old, overdone, boring recommendations that are obvious like remembering to pack your phone charger or packing cubes.

TRAVEL PRO TIP: Packing last minute? A lot of the travel items on this list can be found on Amazon. And if you have Amazon prime, most items will arrive the next day. Sign up for a free trial of prime here (and then you can cancel your membership before the month is over). 

Let’s get to my list of 29 essential travel items that will make your life way easier.

1. A Scarf With Hidden Pockets 

This super sneaky scarf is one of my most recommended travel must haves.

There’s a hidden zippered pocket inside the scarf where you can store cash, keys, sunglasses, a passport and even your phone if you want to.

It’s perfect if you’re traveling solo and want to have your valuable items hidden but easily accessible.

Or if you’re worried about pickpockets, this scarf is a stealthy way to hide your things.

It’s probably one of the best travel accessories for women out there.

The perfect travel accessory - discreetly hide your cash, credit cards, ID, jewelry and other lightweight items.

If you’re browsing a busy farmer’s market or at a crowded festival, it’s perfect for keeping your hands free and not showing off a flashy purse when you want to buy something.

Plus, it’s also the perfect air travel accessory, since it doubles as a small purse which won’t count as a personal item and it will keep you warm and cozy. 

2. A Stuffable Neck Pillow

A stuffable neck pillow is my favorite item for packing light and saving money carry-on luggage fees.

You can easily fit several articles of clothing into this soft, neck pillow shell, and it doesn’t count towards your carry-on luggage.

In the neck pillow above, I packed:

• One cardigan
• One light athletic zip-up
• Two t-shirts
• Two tank tops

So if you’re only traveling for 5-6 days, you could fit your entire ‘top half’ of your wardrobe in this neck pillow, and it won’t even be close to being overstuffed.

I demonstrated packing this neck pillow in my YouTube video about packing light (without feeling like you’re packing light).

Buy this neck pillow on Amazon

3. Soothing Tea Bags for the Plane

Speaking of air travel accessories that you might not have thought about…I always pack my own tea bags with me when I travel, especially on flights.

Just ask the flight attendant for hot water and brew your own.

My favorite is Eucalyptus tea – it opens up your airways and helps prevent your nose from getting all stuffed up.

It helps soothe your throat too.

My throat always gets scratchy from all the stuffy, recycled air on the plane.

A soothing tea is also one of the most useful things for traveling if you’re prone to getting sick when you travel. 

TRAVEL PRO TIP – If you’re an anxious flyer or have trouble sleeping on the plane, you HAVE to try the Sweet Slumber tea made with valerian root . This stuff will put even the most high strung traveler to sleep.

The main ingredient is Valerian root, which is also known as nature’s Valium.

And with some chamomile and lavender for calming, your slumber party is only minutes away.

If you can’t find tea bags, you can build your own or just pack loose leaf tea into a travel mug.

This is my favorite travel tea mug which comes with its own infuser.

So yeah, sleepy time tea is one of the most underrated but essential travel items in my opinion!

TIP: get immediate access to crazy discounts on flights (including business class) when you sign up for FareDrop here (it’s my current travel hack obsession ).

4. Solid Lotion Stick/Body Butter

Another one of my favorite items for travel is a lotion stick (instead of liquid lotion).

It’s one of the best products for travel because it’s not considered a ‘liquid’ when you put it in your carry on.

Plus, there’s no risk of it spilling or exploding in your bag.

Having lotion on you when you travel is always important, because your skin gets so dry from airplane travel or if you’re traveling in a lot of buses with the air conditioning blasting.

As this means one less liquid to pack in your carry on bag, it’s definitely an essential travel item for any trip I take. 

See also: 14 Brilliant Travel Hacks for Packing Toiletries

5. White Noise Machine

The sound quality on a white noise machine is so much better than anything you'll find on the phone apps.

No matter how comfy it is, sleeping in a different bed in a different location is never the same as sleeping in your own bed.

Using a white noise machine can help put you to sleep.

It covers up potentially weird sounds from your hotel room, and the variety of soothing sounds helps keep you asleep.

I like this compact white noise machine , which can also be hung.

I also like this one that changes color and doubles as a night light.

Read more: What to Pack for a Hotel Stay (13 genius ideas)

6. A Tassel USB Charger  

Ok, this is a cool travel accessory that you will absolutely love. The USB cable and cord is cleverly hidden within the leather tassel .

Just clip it to your purse or your overnight bag and it’s conveniently available whenever you need it.

No messy cords to untangle, this is one of my newest favorite items for travel. 

Keep it clipped to your purse or travel bag for those 'oh no' moments when your phone is almost dead!

7. Microfiber Travel Towel 

This is another one of those essential travel items that have a dual purpose.

First, being microfiber, this towel will be fast drying, which is important when you’re on the move.

The one I have is barely even damp by the time I’m done drying myself off.

Plus, if you’re traveling on a budget, I find that cheap hotel rooms have the worst towels that don’t really absorb.

And since they’re so compact, they make the perfect air travel accessory since it can double as a blanket when you need it. 

Doubles as a blanket on the plane/train and also great if you're sensitive to the hotel towels that use too much bleach.

8. Compression Bags 

Wondering how to pack your clothes for travel? Compression bags are the way to go.

Everyone loves travel cubes these days, but compression bags are so much better.

All you do is lay your folded clothes inside, then roll up the bag to push all the air out.

You are then left with super flat clothes that take up 50% less space.

They’re great for saving space and staying organized.

Plus, they’re clear -making your airport security experience go much more smoothly than the cubes which are usually opaque.

Honestly, they’re one of the most useful things for travelling I’ve come across in a long time. 

However, if you DO prefer packing cubes, I also use this set which have a compression component built in to them.

These cubes really are the best of both worlds.

Have a 15 lbs (7kgs) weight limit for your carry-on luggage? Here are 7 bags UNDER 6 pounds that we tested on multiple airlines.

9. A HeroClip Carabiner

This isn’t just any carabiner – this is a clip that hooks to almost anything, anywhere so you can hang your things and keep them off the ground. 

I use this to hang my purse off the table at restaurants and in public washrooms when there’s no hook on the door to hang my bag.

It even hangs off the hinge of the door if there’s no gap to use. 

It’s the perfect travel accessory to hang bags (backpacks, duffel bags, etc) off the floor when you’re traveling like when you need to change in a bathroom stall and there’s no hooks. 

You can attach a water bottle to your bag, or even at the gym. It’s a great ‘gear holder’ for any item, anywhere. 

These are so versatile.

Choose your HEROCLIP here

Keep your bags off the floor! Use these to hook your purse on the table, hang your bag at a public restroom when there's no hook on the door, anywhere!

Read next: These Travel Gear Essentials for Men Are Game-Changing

10. Luggage Tracker

Worried about lost bags? It’s an unfortunate reality that this happens, and when it happens to you it sucks. Especially when you’re starting your vacation.

Attach these smart luggage tags to your bags, and if they get lost, just activate the code on the website to start tracking.

Most bags are recovered within 24 hours.

Luggage trackers for half the price of AirTags!

Plus, you’ve got added security because you don’t have to write your phone number and address on your luggage tags, which is a dead giveaway that you’re not home to potential thieves.

If you’re a bit of an anxious traveler, these are definitely a must have travel item for peace of mind. 

11. A Legit Carry On Bag

Another traveller essential is a high quality and trusty carry on bag.

There are tons of carry on bags out there to choose from, but I have to include the two bags I use on this list.

I only fly carry-on and never check a bag, and this bag (pictured above) has held up great.

I’ve taken it on several different airlines and have never had a problem.

It’s small enough that I use it for a weekend getaway, and big enough for packing two weeks worth of clothes. 

This is the carry-on bag I use the most and has been featured on my YouTube channel!

You Might Also Like: 20 Things to Pack for An All Inclusive Vacation

12. Towel Clips

Towel clips are such a travel hack!

I use these at the beach, at the all-inclusive resort and on cruises!

You can even use them at the local pool or when you’re at the pool in Vegas.

They’re perfect for saving your towel on your lounge chair, so that you don’t have to leave items like sunglasses, books or sunscreen to save your spot.

I like these fun towel clips because they come in all kinds of fun themes – flip flops, pineapples, flamingos, etc!

Planning a trip to Mexico? Check out These 26 Travel Tips for Mexico You Are Guaranteed to Use

13. A Hanging Toiletry Bag

The #1 best-selling toiletry bag on Amazon! It now comes in 12 different colors.

This is one of those travel products that everyone needs, but no one likes to spend the money on a good one.

Well, my life changed forever when I found this bag on Amazon that hangs from a hook or a towel rack.

It’s roomy enough to carry everything you need without being bulky.

It’s perfect for when you check into your hotel and realize there’s zero counter space for your stuff.

Just hang it from a towel rack or even the shower rod and you’re good to go. 

14. A Multi-Tool That’s Safe to Fly With

This multitool is TSA-compliant.

Pack one of these TSA-compliant multitools into your travel bag and keep it there!

The TSA allows you to fly with a multitool in your carry-on bag provided it does not have a blade and has scissors less than 4 inches in length:

• “Multi-tools (multipurpose tools) with scissors less than 4 inches may be placed in carry-on bags.” – source: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all

This one is TSA compliant as it doesn’t have a blade. But it does have tweezers, pliers, a nail file, etc.

It’s perfect for those small, inconvenient travel moments where a little tool would come in handy.

Fixing jewelry, removing clothing tags or when you need to get rid of a splinter.

15. An Extra Long Phone Charger

Keep your regular phone charger at home, and pick up a 10-foot cord for traveling.

You never know where the electrical outlets will be in your hotel room, and more often than not they’re only on one side of the bed.

16. Insulated Tumbler

Comes in multiple colors, comes with 2 different lids, fits perfectly in cupholders. Simple, elegant and classy!

For road trips, camping, the beach, a cruise, an all-inclusive resort or any kind of travel, an insulated tumbler is a must-have travel accessory.

This tumbler has an insanely high amount of 5-star ratings on Amazon and comes in a variety of funcolors!

These are perfect at the all inclusive resort or when you’re walking around in the Las Vegas heat – this cup keeps your drinks ICE COLD (but can also be used for hot beverages)!

Use it for your poolside drinks and to stay hydrated all day long.

17. Bed Shelfie

Perfect for hotel stays, travel trailers, cruises, holding CPAP machines and staying at Airbnbs.

Don’t you hate it when you check into your hotel room and there’s a small bedside table or no bedside table at all?

This bed shelfie is the perfect solution.

Use it to hold your phone, drinks, books, glasses, anything.

If you travel with a CPAP machine, it will fit on the bed shelf, too.

A lot of people use these for their RVs and travel trailers and attach them to the sofa.

18. Fanny Pack/Belt Bag

Fanny packs (or belt bags depending which generation you’re from) are in and I am SO okay with this trend.

They’re the perfect size for carrying your essentials without being too bulky.

I also love that it stays close to my body for feeling more secure and keeps my hands free to take photos or hold a drink.

You can go hiking with them, or when you sit down at a restaurant you don’t need to set it down anywhere.

A good fanny pack has been one of my most useful items for traveling.

I love my black lululemon fanny pack. I wear it for all my Las Vegas trips (perfect for pool parties, too).

But this fanny pack comes in 18 different colors and is the perfect bag for a music festival this summer!

19. Vicks VapoInhaler

This is so handy to have on road trips or on the airplane for instant relief from the dry air.

It’s small and super stealth to use so no one will notice.

Check out Vicks VapoInhaler here .

20. Chub Rub Anti-Chafing Balm

This is the ultimate hack to staying comfortable in a warm climate.

If you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, cycling or hiking on vacation, you need this chub rub to prevent chafing!

Wear your beautiful dresses and skirts without having to worry about any thigh chafing.

Once you try it, this is the summer travel accessory you won’t ever leave home without.

Try the all natural anti chafing stick here .

21. Bottle Protectors

No more wrapping your bottles in towels and hoping for the best!

Bring home your bottles of wine or liquor safely, securely and stress-free with these bottle protectors, also appropriately named ‘ wine angels ‘.

Grab a set of wine protectors here .

22. Slippers

If you’re coming back to your hotel room after a long day of walking and adventures, it’s so nice to take your shoes off.

But I never trust how clean the floors are in hotel rooms, which is why I won’t ever go bare foot and not even in my socks.

So I pack a pair of slippers to wear in the hotel room and problem solved!

These slippers have memory foam , so they’re ultra comfy for sore feet (and they come in 10 colors)!

23. An e-SIM Card

If you’re visiting another country, an e-SIM card is the easiest, most convenient and usually the most affordable way to get data on your smart phone.

Airalo offers data plans in 190 countries around the world.

All you do is visit the website, download the app, choose your country and the amount of data you need and activate your eSIM.

No need to pre-buy a physical sim card.

Plus, if you’re not sure how much you need, if you run out, you can easily add more with the press of one button.

As a Canadian, I’ve used Airalo eSIM cards in Mexico , France , Germany and the United States .

24. A Bag That Fits Under the Airplane Seat (Personal Item)

Airlines are jacking up the prices on luggage and carry-on bags. On short trips to save money, you could try and only bring a personal item that fits under the seat.

This bag is the largest one I can find that fit under the seat, but still holds lots!

I packed cowboy boots, a jacket, sweater, one pair of pants, two pairs of shoes and a few small travel accessories.

View the bag here in 20 different colors and patterns.

This is my number one travel bag. It's small enough for your second carry-on item (fits under the seat) but large enough to fit enough for a weekend trip. It has an internal wet pocket if you need to travel with a wet swim suit!

25. Luggage Cup Holder

Go hands free through the airport when you have your coffee, water and other small items - no spillage!

This luggage cup holder is one of the most useful travel accessories I’ve ever owned.

Slip it over the handle of your luggage, and you’ve got two cup holder or one cup holder and another spot to hold your phone or other small items that you need quick access to.

When you’re waiting in line at the airport gate and have a coffee in your hand and need to have your boarding pass and ID ready, this luggage cup holder is a life saver.

View the cupholders here (dozens of colors to choose from).

26. Toiletry Skins for Leak-Proof Travel

Grab these viral travel accessories!

These are plastic ‘skins’ that you slip over top of the tops of your liquids bottles (almost like a condom, lol)!

The idea is that they’re watertight and prevent a bottle from opening or leaking.

View the toiletry skins here .

I also love this set of LeakLocks® that were featued on Buzzfeed!

27. Airplane Foot Hammock

This foot hammock has been the biggest flying hack when it comes to comfort.

I sling it behind the tray table in front of my and now my feet are elevated.

This helps with circulation and my legs are so much more comfortable.

The foot rest is adjustable and it folds flat so it takes up no room at all.

View the foot hammock I use here .

28. A Flight Deal Subscription

What if I told you there’s an app that finds you crazy discounts on flights (we’re talking an average of 50-70% lower) – especially business class flights!?

It’s called FareDrop .

It’s an app (or desktop version) that sends flight deals straight to your phone (or email) based on your travel goals. 

After you sign up for your free account ( right here ) you simply set your home airport along with places you want to go.

You can sign up for a free membership, or check out the paid plans to score insanely low prices on business class flights.

I also wrote a full review and tips about using FareDrop to its fullest potential .

29. Universal Sink Stopper

Perfect for your hotel room when you need to fill the sink full of ice (if you don't have a mini-fridge) or if you have to do some quick laundry.

I always carry a universal sink stopper for hotel stays.

Here’s how I use it:

• Allows you to use the sink to wash some clothes
• Fill the sink with ice to keep your drinks cold.

Grab your universal sink stopper here

I hope you found this list of traveler essentials to be helpful. I have to say, these are my tried and true best items for travel and they’ve never let me down.

Packing is always a pain in the you-know-what no matter how many times you do it, so I find that list like these are super helpful to make sure you’ve pack all the essential travel items you need. 

More Packing List Posts:

• T hese Travel Gear Essentials for Men Are Game-Changing
• 14 Brilliant Travel Hacks for Packing Toiletries
• What to Pack for a Hotel Stay (13 genius ideas)
• What to Pack for Vegas – 15 Things to Bring (beyond the obvious)
• The Only Road Trip Packing List You Need: 16 Items to Bring
• 20 Things You Should Pack for an All Inclusive Vacation
• Day Hike Packing List | 13 Essentials for Hiking (& how to avoid extra bulk)

Do you have any other travel must haves? Let me know what travel products you can’t leave home without! 

Before you go…

If you want to stay up to date, get behind the scenes content, or connect with me directly – you can follow my YouTube channel , Facebook Page , Instagram or Twitch channel !

New photos, videos and live streams!

Liked this post? Share it with your travel buddies and save a pin to your travel boards so you don’t forget what to pack!

Wednesday 29th of April 2020

Hey Alyssa! Super great post!! I live in Germany and travel a lot but am always looking for ways to fit everything into 1 small carryon bag with the strict bag policy on cheaper airlines in Europe. I am absolutely LOVING that hidden pocket scarf! Genius!! Don't know why I have never thought of that!! And the solid lotion stick is a must!! I like the solid shampoo and travel products from Lush too!! Anyways, thanks again for this awesome post!!

Every product is independently selected by our editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

35 Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

For more of the Cut’s favorite fashion, beauty, and home finds,  sign up for the weekly  Cut Shop newsletter .

There’s something about traveling that is equal parts excitement and stress, especially when it comes time for you to bust out your suitcase and prepare to pack. What comes along with you can vary tremendously depending on the length of your trip and the occasion. Thankfully, the Cut Shop team has traveled far and wide, and has picked up a few tips, tricks, and essentials for packing well. Regardless of whether it’s a quick weekend escapade or a whole month abroad, here are the 39 best travel essentials worth taking along, listed according to the length of time spent away from home .

For Overnight Trips

Whether you’re only traveling ten minutes away for a staycation or venturing to a nearby city for a day, overnight trips can be just as challenging to pack for as longer ones. Our best tip is try to be strategic about stowing all the necessities in a larger tote ba g.

Keep all your chargers and cords organized and untangled in one place. This little case makes sure you can actually find what you are looking for, especially in the depths of a big bucket-shaped bag.

The Nap Dress is comfortable enough for any road trip or train ride or even to sleep in. You really can’t go wrong — it’s like wearing your pajamas but still looking totally presentable. We particularly like the wrinkle-resistant navy dress for easy wear on the road.

This three-pack of pouches might be one of The Cut Shop ream’s favorite purchases. Perfect for everyday use, the pouches are great for housing everything from makeup to dirty clothes to receipts. We always have one in our bags, no matter if we’re leaving the house for a night, an hour, or a whole week.

Perfect for event-specific travel, this tote doubles as a garment bag, protecting those special-occasion outfits. It has just enough space to also pack a pair of shoes you do not want to commute in.

One of the best tinted moisturizers out there, this option from Saie offers hydration and some SPF and will give you light coverage with a dewy glow. When you can’t bring your entire medicine cabinet, this is a great option that combines a bunch of products in a multistep routine.

Because hydration is always important, especially when you’re traveling.

Just because you’re not doing your skin-care routine in your bathroom at home doesn’t mean your skin should suffer. This ice rollers will fit perfectly in your toiletry bag and come in handy first thing in the morning.

Sometimes on those quick trips, we push washing our hair an extra day (or three) so we can leave all our heat tools at home. With some dry shampoo and a cute hair claw , no one has to know.

Weekend Trips and Excursions

Whether you are heading out of town for a wedding, trying to get away for a little R&R, or traveling for work, when it comes to packing a weekender or a smaller suitcase, organization is key.

There are so many options out there for weekender bags, but this water-repellent tote from Béis ticks all our boxes including the trolley pass-through pocket to attach to your suitcase and save your shoulders. This one is just over $100.

Most of the time, travel is associated with flying, but whether by choice or not, sometimes the trip involves hours of car time. A phone mount changes the game on a long road trip and is definitely safer.

For those longer flights where you are in a confined space and not moving around as much (looking at you, window-seat fliers), compression socks can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the legs and feet.

Weekend trips can sometimes mean a jam-packed itinerary, so when you want to sleep, you want to snooze uninterrupted. Enter Loop, a reusable silicone earplug that allows you to get the ultimate fit (it comes in four sizes) so you can get in that power nap.

Forgetting your sunglasses on vacation, especially when headed somewhere sunny, is a rookie mistake, which is why this pair from Le Specs is perfect to just keep in your weekend bag so you are never without.. They’re stylish, sturdy, and under $70 , in case you end up losing or breaking them.

Normally, travel containers are not the most stylish or multifunctional. But these Cadence capsules are both of those things. Unlike traditional travel containers, these can be used for anything from storing pills and skincare products to necklaces and hand cream. Plus, you can design your own set to include different labels and colors

You can never go wrong with a classic button-up . It’s a must-have for any trip, especially a weekend one when space is limited. Wear it on its own, with a dress or pants, or as a bathing suit cover-up.

The Tower28 spray is our skin-care savior , and if you’re looking to pack minimally for weekend trips, this needs to be in the toiletry bag. Perfect for sensitive skin, it’s multifunctional, and a spritz delivers a refreshing dose of hydration and soothes stressed-out skin.

Not only do books take up valuable real estate in a carry-on, they add a bit of weight too. A Kindle is so low profile and light that we do not even think twice about tossing it in our bag. It also saves us time doing the math on how many books we should be bringing on a trip because our next read is just a Wi-Fi connection away.

Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half

A full-fledged trip that still limits you to a carry-on may be the most difficult to pack for. Europe,Cabo, our parents’ house, it’s all about making the most of the room you have, even if you can’t help but pack all your sunglasses , expensive skin care, and cute outfits.

This cashmere cardigan is amazing on its own or as a layering piece in case you get chilly en route or in your hotel room. When you’re packing a carry-on, the more pieces you have that you can wear multiple different ways, the better.

Sometimes you just can’t decide which sunglasses to bring, especially if you are going somewhere extra-sunny. This protective case from Dagne Dover allows you to bring three pairs in a very compact and convenient case that is easy to hang up when you get to your final destination.

There is a reason you can’t travel without seeing one of these suitcases. It fits in the overhead bin of most major U.S. airlines and allows travelers enough room to store all their belongings while remaining light, sturdy, and sleek. Plus, it comes in seven attractive colors and has a USB external battery for those extra-long travel days. It is an essential for the majority of trips you will probably take.

We love using packing cubes when we need to keep a duffel bag from becoming total chaos or for just staying organized when we’re traveling somewhere where we will be doing a wide range of activities that require very different wardrobe options. These packing cubes from Calpak are cute and will help bring some order to a carry-on.

Whether you are in the window seat and do not want to disturb your neighbors to wash your hands or need to do a quick clean after pumping gas on a road trip, having some sort of hand sanitizer while traveling is a good idea. This one from Aesop obviously smells amazing.

Senior writer Sangeeta Singh-Kurtz swears by bringing this foldable sun hat no matter the amount of time you plan to spend in the sun. It packs up so small, it’s easily justifiable to toss in your bag. If nothing else, it’s cute for a photo op or two.

Two Weeks or Longer

Wearing trousers on a plane not only saves room in your suitcase but also makes you feel more put-together on the go. These comfy but tailored pants from Uniqlo can be worn casually or dressed up, making them the perfect pair to travel in for long periods.

A two-in-one product that is perfect for face and lips is a godsend on the road, and this Merit lightly tinted balm is highly rated. It is the perfect product to throw in your bag for when you want to do a real quick touch-up, no matter where you are. Not to mention it’s one of our senior shopping editor’s favorite cream blushes .

The pinnacle of traveling well comes down to one word: Rimowa. The cases are classic, luxurious, and durable, though definitely a splurge. If you’re traveling for long stretches of time, and often, they can be worth the price point.

Pets under 20 pounds are allowed to fly in a carrier under the seat in front of you, and this stylish option from Wild One opens into a bed so your pet can relax at the gate before you both board.

Most fragrances do not come in a three-ounce bottle, and it can be quite a risk to send a glass bottle in your checked bag, so it might be safer to opt for something like this. Even when you are not traveling, these little cases are convenient to throw in a bag so that you always can carry around your favorite scent.

A Month or More

We’re way past suggesting hand cream and new luggage because, at this point, you’re practically moving to your destination. These are the things that upgrade you from a casual traveler to a pro and will make your longer flights and longer stays more comfortable

Carrying an extra six pounds might seem a bit excessive, but if you’re on a long flight and you’re staying over a month in your new destination, you might as well be as cozy and comfortable as possible. This travel0size weighted blanket from Bearaby comes in its own duffel bag, so it can easily be your personal item or be checked in with no problem.

Want to be able to still do full glam while you’re away? This rechargeable and slim travel vanity mirror will help your makeup look flawless no matter your lighting situation.

You may have seen this on your TikTok FYP. It allows you to connect your Bluetooth headphones (hello, AirPod Maxes ) to airplane screens, so you can watch your favorite comfort movie or episode of Sex and the City without worrying about bringing a corded pair or needing to purchase those cheap plane headphones in the air.

Like a weighted blanket for your eyes, this eye mask is sleep enhancing (perfect for long flights and jumping through timezones) and made from super soft silk.

Chances you’ll come back from vacation with more clothes than you went there with are high, so consider packing this foldable nylon tote to hold all your overstock.

Travel with ease knowing that your necklaces won’t get tangled and all your earrings are safe and sound in one place.

This pill case also came from our TikTok FYP and is small enough to fit in any purse, but has enough storage to hold all your medicine, vitamins, and supplements.

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• Top 20 Travel Essentials

Knowing what to pack for travelling can be tricky, so we’ve compiled a list of our top 20 gap year travel essentials to ensure you don’t leave any must-have accessories behind! Some of the entries on this list may seem obvious, while others may be handy add-ons that you’d never even thought of packing! 

1) Travel Backpack

We may as well begin with the obvious essential that is the travel backpack . The size of backpack you require for your backpacking trip will depend on a number of factors, with the first one being how long you’re travelling for. Here are the sizes of backpack we recommend for different trip durations…

1-3 months: 40-60 litres

3-6 months: 60 litres

6-12 months: 60-80 litres

Another thing to consider is your height, if you’re on the shorter end of the height spectrum you should try and stick to 60 litres or less. Key features to look our for when choosing a travel backpack include lockable zips, internal organiser pockets and an adjustable back system. A backpack with a detachable daypack will save you having to buy a separate bag for daily use.

2) Travel Towel

Ahhh the travel towel, the travel essential that always seems to appear on travel packing lists! Designed to pack down to a fraction of the size of a standard towel from home, travel towels are extremely compact, lightweight, absorbent and quick drying. The end result is less bulk in your bag and their quick drying design means they don’t fester and produce unpleasant odours. You can even get travel towels with anti-bacterial protection, which helps to keep them fresher for longer.

3) Sleeping Liner

Most backpackers will likely find themselves staying in budget accommodation, such as hostels, during their trip. Having your own sleeping bag liner will help you avoid sleeping on dirty-looking bedding, as well as helping to protect you from bed bugs while you sleep. Most liners come in cotton, polycotton or silk material, with silk weighing the least and packing down to the smallest size…However, it’s also the more expensive of the three!

4) Mosquito Repellent & Bite Relief

An essential for most destinations around the world, mosquito repellent will help protect you from painful and uncomfortable insect bites. In some countries the risk of tropical diseases such as Malaria, Zika Virus, Dengue and Yellow Fever makes it imperative that you wear a good mosquito repellent, as there’s a lot more at stake than a few itchy bites! For high risk areas, we’d recommend no less than 50% deet. For the unfortunate times you manage to get bitten or stung, make sure you also have some bite and sting cream or spray in your backpack.

5) Mosquito Net

Some accommodation will have mosquito nets readily available, but this isn’t always guaranteed in hostels and other budget accommodation. If you’re travelling to countries with a risk of tropical disease, rural areas or camping outdoors, you should consider packing a mosquito net. There are plenty of lightweight and compact options available, so you can pack one as a ‘just in case’ item without taking up too much space in your backpack.

6) Money Belt

The money belt possibly has a reputation for being the most uncool travel accessory, but sneer all you want, it’s still a backpacking essential. Even if you’re not wearing it day to day, you’ll find it useful on overnight bus and train journeys where you can’t always keep an eye on your bag. Store your passport, valuables & cash in a money belt and wear it under your clothes to prevent someone making off with your possessions while you get some rest!

7) Plug Adapter

You’ll find a worldwide adapter plug to be the best option if you’re travelling to multiple countries, as most styles of worldwide adapters work in over 150 countries. Some countries do have their own unique plug socket, India and South Africa for example, but these adapter types can be bought separately if your itinerary includes these destinations. Of course if you’re only backpacking around a couple of countries, you may just decide to pack a couple of adapters for these destinations instead of a worldwide adapter.

9) Door Lock

This ingenious invention secures doors without locks to you won’t get unexpected visitors in your hotel or hostel room. A great gift for the worldwide traveller.

9) Zip Lock Bags

You don’t have to be travelling during the rainy season to use zip lock bags. Of course you can use them to protect travel documents, currency and gadgets from water, sand and dirt during your trip, but they’re also great for keeping everything organised and easy to find when you need it.

10) Packing Cubes

Bring some order to your backpack by using packing cubes to separate and organise different items of clothing. Packing cubes not only make it easier to find your favourite pair of shorts when you need them, they also keep your clothes neatly rolled and as compact as possible, helping to maximise your packing space.

11) Water Purification

The drinking water abroad is often unsafe to drink, so water purification is often necessary. Of course you could buy bottled water every day, but this is an added expense and also contributes to waste plastic which eventually ends up in landfill. So the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly option is to treat your drinking water. We offer a great range of chlorine and chlorine dioxide treatments.

12) Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel & Wipes

You’d be surprised at how often travellers become ill due to poor hand hygiene on their travels. Avoid this by carrying a bottle of anti-bacterial hand gel around with you. Hand washing facilities aren’t always readily available and if you’ve just been handling some dirty looking currency or need to wash your hands before tucking into a meal, you’ll be glad you have some to hand. A pack of wet wipes is another hygiene essential for travelling, great for cleaning your hands, freshening up after long journeys or getting dust off your feet and legs after a day of exploring.

13) Multi-Purpose Travel Soap

Save space in your luggage by packing multi-purpose travel soap. Multi-purpose soap can clean your body, hair and clothes, so you don’t need to pack separate bottles of shower gel, shampoo and laundry detergent. It’s also more concentrated than standard body wash and shampoo, so a little goes a long way.

14) Travel First Aid Kit

Whether you tailor your own kit to your specific destination, or opt for a pre-made travel first aid kit, you should definitely pack a medical kit for emergencies, minor cuts, scrapes and mishaps! If you’re travelling to remote areas and developing countries, you may also want to consider a sterile needle pack to accompany your first aid kit, or choose a comprehensive first aid kit that includes a set of needles and syringes. Key first aid items for travelling include; diarrhoea relief, rehydration sachets, paracetamol, anti-histamines, plasters, bandages and dressings.

15) Travel Wash Bag

A wash bag is essential when it comes to keeping your toiletries and wash gear organised. Depending on the length of your trip you can opt for a smaller wash bag or upgrade to a multi-compartment design for stashing more toiletries. In most destinations you’ll be able to easily replace toiletries once they run out, so there’s no need to go overboard on lotions and potions!

It may not seem like an essential, but a torch can prove pretty handy when travelling. Nobody wants to be the person who wakes the entire hostel dorm room by turning the lights on during the night. If you need to find something inside your backpack after dark, using a torch to find your way is a fool-proof way to ensure you don’t become enemy number one amongst your fellow backpacking buddies. Torches are also a must have for travelling in remote areas and in countries where blackouts occur frequently. Choose a head torch if you want to keep your hands free.

17) Travel Clothes Line

One of the key ways to reduce the amount of clothes you pack is to do laundry regularly during your trip. Granted laundry facilities aren’t always cheap or readily available, so another option is to hand wash your clothes using travel soap or travel detergent. Rather than hanging your clothes over balconies and hostel bunk beds, invest in a travel clothes line to hang your clothes out to dry. The twisted elastic design means that you just tuck your clothes in, so you don’t need to use pegs!

18) Locks

Security is a key concern for travellers, so make sure you can always lock your backpack with a combination padlock. Get a couple of locks if your backpack has two lockable compartments, or use one for your main bag and one for your daypack. If you’re travelling to or transiting through the USA, choose a TSA approved lock as this will allow airport security to inspect your bag without causing damage to your lock or luggage through forced entry. Cable locks are popular with travellers as they can be used to lock backpack zips and hostel lockers, as well as to lock your gear to fixed or hard to move objects.

19) Ear Plugs

Ear plugs are an essential for any traveller, whether it’s to block out noise inside a loud plane cabin or to drowned out the sound of the snorer sleeping above you in the hostel dorm.

20) Travel Sleeping Bag

If you’re sleeping indoors or travelling in tropical climates you’ll most likely only need a sleeping bag liner, but for camping and travelling in colder climes, you will need a lightweight sleeping bag. Make sure you choose the right season rating for your destination, weather conditions and chosen activity. You can also add a sleeping bag liner to increase warmth and keep the inside of your sleeping bag clean!

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A list of travel essentials to make for easy travelling

Travel Travel Inspiration Travel Tips & Hacks Travel Essentials List

Travel without careful planning is like sailing without a compass - you may end up somewhere interesting, but it's more likely that you'll just get lost. That's why having a good travel essentials list is so important. It helps you to make sure that you've got everything you need for your trip, and that you're not forgetting anything important.

Of course, what counts as a travel essential will vary depending on where you're going and what you'll be doing. A beach vacation will require different things than a business trip, for instance. But there are some items that are generally useful no matter where you're going or what you'll be doing. In this article, we explore travel essentials that we recommend everyone to consider packing.

Tips to select the right travel essentials for you

• Pack essentials based on where you’re travelling: what weather is to be expected, what kind of cultural norms might need to followed and any country-specific guidelines on luggage.
• How long you’re travelling for: the longer your vacation or travel time, the more important it is to prioritize the critical essentials such as medicine, global sim cards etc.
• Budgeting: when budgeting for your vacation, include the cost of purchasing any essentials you may need into it so you don’t spend exorbitant amounts.
• Buy nice or buy twice: the last thing you want to do is constantly replace your essentials because you skimped on the first purchase. Find good and sturdy options within your budget
• Be prepared for unforeseen conditions: in unknown countries, it is always better to be prepared than to scramble around at the nth moment.
• Optimize for comfort: at the end of the day, you’re the one who’ll be using the various products. Ensure they are as per your liking to have a pleasant experience.
• Buy your essentials in advance: have a checklist in place when you’re planning your trip and ensure you purchase them well ahead of time to avoid last-minute anxiety and price hikes.

In-flight Essentials

Travelling can be tough on the back - literally. Lugging around a suitcase or heavy duffel bag can lead to strain and pain. That's why we like to be savvy travelers who opt for a backpack. Backpacks are designed to evenly distribute weight across the body, making them more comfortable to carry over long distances. And, when packed correctly, they can actually be lighter than traditional luggage.

• Lightweight carry-on in which all your in-flight essentials can be organized to keep things easily accessible.
• They're also great for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
• Store your laptop and any other electronic devices/valuables you wouldn’t want to leave in your check-in luggage.
• Weight: The lighter, the better.
• Comfort: The shoulder straps, padding, and carry handles combine to offer varying degrees of comfort.
• Usability: Clever design and placement of features determines the ease of use.
• Durability: Largely depends on the material the bag is made with. Use bags for what they’re made for and they’ll last longer.
• Great organization
• Laptop slot
• Comfortable
• Can be tough to carry by the handle

2 Travel/neck pillow

For a relaxing and comfortable flight journey or a snooze on your roadtrips, a neck pillow is ideal. While sleeping on a plane or train is usually difficult (and uncomfortable), a travel pillow can be a good accessory for getting a bit of shut-eye, especially during long and exhausting travel periods. Since a travel pillow can help you get that much-needed rest, finding the right one matters.

• Comfortable sleep during long hours of travel.
• Provide neck support to avoid strain.
• Inflatable and non-inflatable: inflatable is easier to pack.
• Portability.
• Sleeping position: influences the kind of neck support you need while sleeping.
• Versatility
• No travel bag

If you’re not a fan of having earphones or headphones on to block out the noise, we recommend using earplugs when traveling. Not only can they help you get some much-needed rest on long flights or car rides but also protect your ears from the harmful effects of high altitudes and changes in air pressure. They are a simple and effective way to make travel more comfortable and enjoyable. So be sure to pack a pair before your next trip!

• Block out external noise.
• Protect ears from changes in air pressure.
• Size and fit.
• Effectiveness of blocking out noise.
• Re-usability.
• Frequency of use.
• Noise reduction could be better

4 Sleep mask

It can be hard to fall asleep easily when on the move or in unfamiliar places. The increased exposure to light in certain places can also throw you off your regular sleep cycle. To avoid unpleasant flight experiences during long travels or to give yourself the best chance of getting some shut-eye, we recommend having a sleep mask handy.

• Shut out the light and fall asleep.
• Respite from overexposure to light.
• Shape, size and fit.
• Personal preference.
• Material: smoothness and durability.
• Contoured to fit the face
• Easily washable
• Ear plugs are included
• Can be stiff for the first few uses

5 Compression socks

When we travel, we make sure to pack a pair of compression socks. These socks are designed to support your feet and ankles, and they can help to prevent pain and swelling. They're especially important when sitting for long periods of time, such as on a plane or in a car. In addition, compression socks can help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

• Help to improve blood flow in your legs.
• Reduce fluid retention in your legs.
• Material: needs to be stretchable and strong.
• Appropriate pressure rating: 15-20 mmHg.
• Moisture resistant
• Offers great support
• Durable and high quality
• Can only be washed by hand

Tech Essentials

6 travel adapter.

Take it from our experience, the last thing you want is to not be able to plug in your devices and recharge them because of the incompatibility of your stock adapter with the place you’re in. This is where an international travel adapter is a life saver.

• Compatibility with your appliances’ pin types.
• Safety: earthed adapters to prevent damage from power surges.
• Works in more than 150 countries
• 3 USB-A ports and a USB-C port
• Earthed and protects against shocks
• Can be hard to procure due to high demand

7 Global SIM card

As avid travellers ourselves, we can tell you that a global sim card is an essential item for any trip. It gives you the ability to stay connected with friends and family back home. Whether you're posting pictures to social media or just sending a quick text, it's nice to be able to stay in touch. If you lose your phone or have it stolen, you can use your card to call for help. So if you're planning a trip, be sure to pick up a global sim card before you go.

• Phone calls.
• Internet Data.
• Keep track of your expenses: with most cards, you can view your balance and transaction history online, which makes it easy to stay on budget
• Place of travel.
• Plans/packages required as per your use.
• Network coverage/reliability.
• Seamless data connectivity
• Works in over 190 countries and regions
• Good customer support

8 Portable WiFi

When we travel, we want to be able to stay connected with our loved ones and have access to all of the information we need at our fingertips. That's why portable wifi is such a lifesaver. Portable wifi gives you a personal, secure connection that you can take with you wherever you go. Whether you're exploring a new city or just trying to stay connected while on the road, portable wifi is the perfect solution. And because it's so affordable, there's no reason not to take advantage of this lifesaving technology. So if you're looking for a way to stay connected while you travel, be sure to consider portable wifi. It might just be the best decision you ever make.

• 5Ghz support.
• Battery life.
• Easy to set up.
• Your individual/group data requirements.
• Lightweight, compact design
• Multiple devices can be connected
• Comparatively lower battery life

9 Power strip

One of the most annoying things about travelling is trying to find a place to charge your electronics. Whether you're trying to find an available outlet at the airport or trying to squeeze your way into a crowded coffee shop, it can be a challenge to keep your devices powered up. That's why we always travel with a power strip. It's one less thing to worry about, and it means you'll always have a place to charge your phone, tablet, or laptop. So next time you're packing for a trip, make sure to throw a power strip into your bag. It might just come in handy.

• Plug in and charge multiple devices at once.
• Access hard to reach sockets.
• Output voltage: needs to be in line with the requirement of standard devices.
• Number of sockets required.
• Length of the cord.
• Required pin type.
• Safety: presence of an inbuilt and/or earthing.
• 5-foot power cord
• 2 surge-protected AC outlets and 4 smart USB ports
• Body not of the highest quality

10 Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Another essential to keep handy for times when you wanna tune out and escape the surrounding noise. It can be difficult to constantly be in a noisy environment when you're trying to fall asleep or trying to relax. To disconnect or to keep yourself entertained, it is best to have your trusted noise-canceling headphones with you

• In-flight/on-the-road entertainment.
• Durability.
• Sound quality
• Brilliant noise-cancelling

11 Power Bank

A power bank is one of the most important travel accessories you can pack. Whether your phone is your camera, your map, your boarding pass or your lifeline to friends and family, you need to know it will be there when you need it. A power bank gives you the peace of mind of always having a backup charge for your devices, whether you're stuck on a long layover or exploring a new city. We recommend packing a power bank whenever you travel, so you can stay connected and make the most of your trip.

• Number of ports.
• Size and weight.
• Charging speed.
• Battery life of the power bank.
• Battery life
• Fast charging
• Comparatively heavier and clunky

Travel Organizers

12 toiletries kit.

We cannot stress the importance of a toiletries kit enough. It makes your life on the move a lot easier and keeps your grooming essentials such as toothpastes, shampoos, and deodorants within reach. What’s more important, it keeps your toiletries organized so you don’t have to dig through your luggage to keep yourself clean!

• Storage of toiletry essentials.
• Easy accessibility of essentials to freshen up.
• Size of your luggage/backpack.
• The size of the kit depends on the number of items you carry.
• Number of compartments: depends on your organization preferences.
• Durability and ease of cleaning.
• Suitable for both short and long trips
• Has a hook and can be hanged from a towel rack
• Its translucence allows for smooth security checks
• The hook could be slightly bigger

Luggage is one of the most essential items you will need for travel, whether you are taking a short trip or embarking on a long journey. There are many different types of luggage to choose from, but we recommend investing in a quality piece that will last for years. A good piece of luggage should be sturdy and well-made, with plenty of compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized.

• Store all your clothes, footwear, and other items.
• Protect valuables.
• Duration of trip.
• Number of things you will carry.
• Airline restrictions on weight.
• Compactness and portability.
• Compact and lightweight
• The design may fade with use

14 Laundry Bags

We always recommend laundry bags as a travel essential, and for good reason! Not only do they make it easy to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean clothes, but they also help to protect your clothes from wrinkles and damage. Plus, if you're traveling with a group, laundry bags can help to keep everyone's belongings organized. Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or a long vacation, be sure to pack a few laundry bags in your suitcase. Trust us, you'll be glad you did!

• Segregate clean and dirty clothes.
• Wash sensitive clothes to avoid damage.
• Size: based on the number of travellers.
• Style: backpack, cross-body, or handle.
• Closure: types of closures and your personal preference.
• Easy to fold
• Slightly expensive
• Can break if overloaded

15 Packing Cubes

If you're sick of your clothes getting all wrinkled and crammed in your suitcase, then you need to start using packing cubes. Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags that come in a variety of sizes. They make it easier to find things when you're on the go. If you're planning a trip, packing cubes are a must to keep your belongings organized and sorted. Trust us, they'll make your life a lot easier!

• Organize your clothes, toiletries, and other items.
• Save space in your luggage.
• Flexibility.
• Compactness.
• Lightweight
• Good organization
• Could be more spacious

16 Cable Organizer

We can attest to the importance of having a good cable organizer. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to untangle a nest of cords and chargers when you're in a hurry to catch your flight. A good cable organizer will keep all of your cords neatly organized and readily accessible. It's also a good idea to choose an organizer with multiple compartments, so you can easily keep track of which cord goes with which device.

17 In-flight pouch

No more rummaging through your bag for a set of headphones or a book; everything you need is right at your fingertips. Additionally, an in flight pouch ensures that you have easy access to everything you need during the flight. And let's be honest, who doesn't want to be as comfortable as possible when they're stuck in a cramped seat for hours on end? So if you're looking for ways to up your travel game, an in-flight pouch is a great place to start.

• Number of compartments/organization.
• Ample pockets
• TSA approved
• The material could be more sturdy

18 Travel Wallet

As anyone who has ever gone on a trip knows, there are a lot of things to keep track of - plane tickets, hotel reservations, rental car information, and so on. And if you're carrying all of this around in your purse or pockets, it can be a real pain. That's why we recommend a travel wallet as a travel essential. A travel wallet is designed to hold all of your important travel documents in one place, so you can easily find what you need when you need it. It's also much more secure than carrying everything loose in your bag since it has zippered compartments and may even have a strap that goes around your neck or wrist.

• Safety: RFID protection to prevent unwanted trouble with your cards.
• Number of documents/cards you’re carrying.
• RFID protection

19 Travel Pill Organizer

When you're packing for a trip, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not you have all your medications. That's where travel pill organizers come in. Not only do they help to keep your pills sorted and easy to find, but they also prevent them from spilling or getting lost in your bag. Whether you're taking prescription drugs or over-the-counter medication, a travel pill organizer is a convenient way to keep everything organized and within reach.

• Keep your medication organized and secure.
• Easy access to medication.
• Amount of medication to be carried.
• Moisture-proof
• Can be hard to open at times

Accessories for travel with children

• Swaddle blankets
• Portable strollers
• Miniature food containers
• Sleep pillow
• Toddler basket/bed
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Change of clothes in case of accidents/spillage
• Travel games such as Pocket Pictionary, Monopoly Deal, Uno, Ludo, Scrabble, etc.

Sathvik Srinath

Sathvik's love for travel is only matched by his love for football. Born and brought up in the city of Bengaluru, he's been lucky enough to be in a city that's become a melting pot of culture over time. He dreams of living in Norway one day and can't wait to see the world!

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Travel Essentials: What Everyone Should Have in Their Arsenal

By Laura Lajiness Kaupke and Talia Abbas

All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.

Travel essentials—whether you have diamond platinum airline status or occasionally get away—are the key to a successful in-transit experience. First, the obvious necessities, like suitcases from  the best luggage brands to start, be it a large checked style or  carry-on roller. Our favorites are crafted from sleek aluminum or durable polycarbonate and feature double-spinner wheels, interior compression boards, and scuff-resistant finishes. For shorter trips, it’s all about  weekender duffles ,  travel backpacks , or a roomy tote—ideally, ones made from sturdy yet lightweight canvas, leather, and nylon and built with comfortable handles and adjustable shoulder straps.

Vogue Editors’ Must-Have Travel Essentials:

• The Checked Suitcase: Rimowa Essential Check-In luggage , $1,150 
• The Convenient Carry-On: Away The Bigger Carry-On , $295
• The Roomy Overnighter: Paravel weekender , $295
• The New Parent Backpack: Lululemon backpack , $198
• The Chic Makeup Bag: Cuyana leather travel case set , $168
• The Jewelry Organizer: Mejuri travel case , $78
• The Passport Holder: Smythson Mara croc-effect leather passport cover , $190  
• The Travel Pillow: Slip Frequent Flyer 4-piece travel set , $150
• The Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max , $539
• The Non-Drying Sanitizer : Aesop hand wash , $10
• The Hydrating Hand Cream: Chanel Le Lift la crème main , $70
• The Nourishing Lip Mask: Kiehl’s Buttermask lip treatment , $28

Then, there are the smaller  travel accessories , like a jewelry case,  toiletry bags , and packing cubes to streamline what’s inside. Your call whether or not to Marie Kondo your clothes, toss it all in, or abide by the rolling method—when it comes to  packing style and tips , to each their own. Of course, what’s on the outside of your luggage counts as much as the interior—who can resist lovely travel aesthetics like minimalist lines in neutral tones and pastels, vintage-inspired leather detailing, or a fun terrazzo print? And let’s not forget even smaller necessities, like a beautifully-made luggage tag and passport holder for securing and protecting your most valuable information. Don’t forget—these all make  great travel gifts . 

Going beyond luggage and the functional accouterment are the  comfort extras like travel pillows, blankets, and eye masks to make the journey far more enjoyable. There’s nothing like luxurious cashmere, plush faux fur, or supportive memory foam to make an in-transit nap infinitely more sound. 

Speaking of sound,  noise-canceling headphones are another key player in a joyful journey—investing in a good pair will make any sojourn less arduous, not to mention comfier for your eardrums. And  pet parents —you haven’t been forgotten. A stable but attractive-looking carrier or car seat for fur babies is as crucial as your suitcase. If not for your personal taste’s sake, for their comfort and safety.

Keep scrolling to shop  Vogue’s edit of the best essential travel items, from luggage to in-flight accessories. 

Checked Suitcase

Whether you’re packing for a long trip or a chronic over-packer, a large checked suitcase is your savior—Rimoma, Tumi, Monos, and Bric’s make some of the best. 

Essential Check-In luggage

NEIMAN MARCUS

short trip wheeled packing case

large check-in

Bellagio spinner trunk

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

Carry-On Suitcase

The carry-on suitcase is your ultimate journey essential for light travels and short trips alike. Opt for slightly larger options from brands like Away for a little extra room that’ll pass at security. What’s more, luxury versions you’d dare not check are worth the investment in this luggage size.

Bigger carry-on

Aviator carry-on plus

Clifton carry-on

Steamline Luggage

Editor rolling carry-on

Weekender Bag

As it’s said, the clue’s in the name—a weekend bag, oversize tote, or duffle is a must-have for quick, one or two-night trips. Paravel has a great under-$300 pick, while Métier and The Row have timeless styles you’ll enjoy for years (and trips!) to come. 

Perriand XL suede tote

NET-A-PORTER

Margaux 12 leather handbag

Boxford L travel bag

Travel Backpack

The travel backpack is another roomy bag option for shorter stays. The best feature multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized, including a separate section for shoe storage—so clutch. New parents will also love Lululemon’s thoughtful design, which includes pockets for a host of essentials—think snacks, wipes, and diapers—plus (especially clutch!) a changing mat.

ReNew transit backpack

Re-nylon and saffiano leather backpack

New Parent backpack

leather backpack

Cosmetics Case

Toiletries are the bane of many travelers’ existences, but with an excellent cosmetic case in tow, it’s undoubtedly less of a pain point. Fingers crossed for no spills. 

leather travel case set

Ophidia cosmetic case

Bottega Veneta

beauty pouch

BOTTEGA VENETA

Leatherology

LEATHEROLOGY

Travel Jewelry Case

Avoid tangled necklaces and misplaced earrings in transit with a travel jewelry case specifically sectioned for baubles. 

travel case

Caroline large jewelry portfolio

Panama textured-leather jewelry box

Globe-Trotter

Safari jewellery case

GLOBE TROTTER

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are, indeed, a lifestyle—if that’s your travel vibe, look to these sets for easy separation. (Psst: Those who love a monogram will appreciate Paravel’s set, which can be customized with up to three initials.) 

set of 4 compressible packing cubes

packing cube quad

Insider packing cubes

packing cubes set

Luggage Tag

Don’t overlook this small travel accessory—a durable travel tag crafted from leather will ensure your luggage always finds its way to you. We hate to say it, but the possibility of a lost or delayed bag is real. 

Bell'Invito

monogram luggage tag

Royce New York

leather luggage tag

BERGDORF GOODMAN

luggage tag

Passport Holder

Your passport is a very important document. Keep it protected and easier to find in your travel bag with a stylish cover—bonus points for a custom monogram. 

Mara croc-effect leather passport cover

embossed passport holder

passport case

Grenelle passport cover

Let’s face it; a genuinely restful nap in transit is virtually impossible without a comfortable eye mask. The coziest are crafted from cushioned cotton, cashmere, washable silk, or lined with velvet—trust us, it’s worth the extra spend.

elasticized silk sleep mask

Campo Beauty

sleep remedy kit

luxe leather sleep mask

solid vegan silk sleep mask

Travel Pillow

A travel pillow can be cumbersome to carry. But if you’re willing, a good one makes travel infinitely more comfortable, from silk-covered memory foam—Slip’s is an editor favorite—to hypoallergenic down and compressible ergonomic designs. 

Frequent Flyer 4-piece travel set

Ostrichpillow

Go memory foam travel pillow

The Pillow Bar

Jetsetter down pillow

Nook pillow

Travel Sets

Is there anything worse than being trapped on a bus, plane, or train that feels like an icebox? Plan ahead with a so-warm and, of course, stylish travel blanket made of cashmere, organic cotton, or faux fur. Pro tip: opt for one with a case to minimize the space it takes up in your luggage when not in use. 

Pink Lemonade

reversible stripe blanket travel set

Sofia Cashmere

Emilia 3-piece cashmere travel set

horsebit print travel set

Naked Cashmere

NAKED CASHMERE

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Comfort isn’t solely about pillows and masks—sound is a hugely significant component, especially if you’re trying to work or relax in transit. Never journey with a pair of noise-canceling headphones again, and prepare for your trip by downloading a selection of podcasts, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and music.

AirPods Max

QuietComfort earbuds II

Galaxy wireless buds

Bang & Olufsen

Beoplay H95 headphones

Pet Carriers

Pet parents know how difficult it can be to find stylish and safe travel carriers and car seats. Labels like Max Bone, Wild One, and Diggs have become go-to’s for sleek and minimal designs, but equally stylish is Hill House Home’s whimsical tote with interior safety clips and the perfect head-peeking cutout. 

travel carrier

travel pet carrier

all-in-one travel carrier

Hill House Home

HILL HOUSE HOME

Silk Pillowcase

If you’re a silk pillowcase die-hard, chances are you won’t travel without one. Secure a travel-specific style or two to keep in your luggage—even better if it comes with a coordinating eye mask. 

silk pillowcase

Mulberry silk pillowcase

Handbag Essentials

Your suitcase is zipped up, your seat is confirmed, your travel outfit is laid out—all that’s left now is for you to pack your handbag. As for what to absolutely include, other than your passport and ID, of course? Sanitizer and hand cream is a great place to start. We love Aesop’s rinse-free gel, best paired with Chanel’s hand cream and Kiehl’s lip mask to prevent hands and lips from losing too much moisture due to dry cabin air. A nail file is never a bad idea to have around either—manicures and zippers just don't get along. Then, to keep hair tidy, we love a big claw clip, plus a travel-friendly set of brushes and combs.

Le Lift la crème main

Kiehl's

Buttermask lip treatment

VIOLET GREY

URBAN OUTFITTERS

big effing clip

comb and petite brush set

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The best travel accessories to pack on every trip

By Madison Flager

Packing lists will vary based on where you're going and how long you're travelling for, but the best travel accessories can improve every trip. From tech gadgets to keep your electronics powered up and luggage accessories that ensure you're not hit with an overweight baggage charge, having the right gear means a smoother journey, every time. Below, we've rounded up 27 essential items to pack inside your carry-on bag , weekender , or checked luggage . Consider these the travel gear staples to bring on your next trip – and all your future holidays after that.

• A trusted tote
• A travel wash bag
• Packing cubes
• Jewellery case
• Reusable travel bottles
• Hydrating skincare products
• A portable charger
• A power adapter
• A luggage scale
• A way to find your luggage
• An e-reader
• A portable fan
• A portable steamer
• An eye mask
• A neck pillow
• A shawl or blanket
• Hand sanitiser and wipes
• A reusable water bottle
• Snack containers
• A passport holder
• A back-up travel bag
• An umbrella

1. A trusted tote

A tote bag is the ideal personal item. It's roomy enough to store all your odds and ends, and everything you'd want with you during a flight, and is usually pretty pliable, meaning you can squeeze it under the seat without taking up all of your foot room. Look for one with comfortable shoulder straps, should you overload it with snacks. A trolley sleeve is a nice feature, too, so you can slide it over your suitcase while cruising through the airport.

2. A travel wash bag

A travel wash bag is key to staying organised — and avoiding spills in your luggage. We like these options from Away and Bagsmart for their water-resistant materials and ample space for your toothbrush and toothpaste, razor, soaps, and more. A hanging bag, like those below, also allows you to keep items tidy and off the bathroom counter.

3. Packing cubes

Don't underestimate the power of a good packing cube . Articles director Lale Arikoglu has waxed poetic about her love of Paravel's packing cubes (other editors are fans of Away's set ), which come in a range of sizes to store everything from bathing suits and socks to T-shirts.

4. Jewellery case

A rule to live by: never check your valuables, especially jewellery. Keep necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings safe and neatly organised inside a jewellery case. We like Monica Vinader's for smaller accessories; if you're packing sunglasses and watches, you'll want something slightly bigger, like this Smythson option.

5. Reusable travel bottles

Rather than buy plastic travel-sized toiletries , get yourself a set of leakproof travel bottles that allow you to bring your at-home favourites on the go. They're great for storing toiletries and beauty products, and tubs can also be used to keep small items like jewellery or vitamins.

6. Hydrating skincare products

Even if you're not the type of person with a multi-step in-flight skincare routine , a few basics can go a long way in keeping your skin happy and healthy after a long day of travel. Since hand sanitiser remains a travel essential, a hand balm to apply once or twice a day is equally important to keep them moisturised. Aesop's smells incredible, and will last for several trips to come — a little bit of the thick, creamy balm goes a long way. Don't forget a hydrating lip balm, either.

7. A portable charger

There's nothing like a dead battery to slow down a trip. Keep all your accessories charged up with a power bank — Anker is our favourite, but iWalk's mini charger is a great option if you're short on space.

8. A power adapter

For international travel, a power adapter is a must to make sure you can get devices charged up in the airport and your hotel room. Apple's World Travel Adapter Kit comes with seven AC plugs with prongs that fit into different electrical outlets around the world, and each one is labelled with the regions they are compatible with. (As for compatibility, it works with Apple USB-C power adapters; MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters; 10W, 12W, 30 and 35W USB ports; and portable power adapters.) We also recommend this Bluetooth converter , which lets you use your regular cordless earbuds to watch a movie in flight.

9. Headphones

Whether the plan is to listen to music, watch a movie, or just drown out noisy neighbours, most of us won't board a plane without headphones. Make sure you have your go-to on hand, plus a pair of corded earbuds (if you don't have one of these Bluetooth adapters ).

10. A luggage scale

Give yourself some added peace of mind with a digital luggage scale; it’ll let you know how much damage your souvenirs did before arriving at the check-in counter on the way home.

11. A way to find your luggage

Speaking of luggage, the Tile Pro and Apple AirTags can help locate lost bags (or wallets, or keys, depending on what you attach it to). In fact, a luggage tracker is one of the items contributor Harrison Pierce wishes he had when he began travelling full-time .

12. An e-reader

Even travellers with a library full of books at home have to admit it: E-readers are an essential travel accessory for bookworms . They are so much lighter than even one paperback book, and let you bring as many options as you want along for the ride.

13. A portable fan

If you're headed somewhere warm, or just tend to run hot, do yourself a favour and pack a portable fan. Whether you choose a handheld option or one you can wrap around your neck, it'll give you the breeze you need whether you're in the back of a crowded bus or van, standing in line at Disneyland, or kicking back in a beach chair .

14. A portable steamer

If you're travelling to a wedding or heading out on a business trip, you may want to bring a portable steamer along to make sure your formalwear looks its best after you take it out of your suitcase. Traveller contributor Erinne Magee put nine travel steamers to the test to find out which ones are the best options for travellers — below are two of her favourites.

15. A tech kit

All of those tech items mean you're going to have plenty of charging cubes and cables to keep track of. Save space in your backpack — and save yourself the headache of digging through your bag — by keeping everything wrapped up in a tech kit like the ones below.

16. An eye mask

For a comfortable journey at 30,000 feet — especially one where you hope to get some shut-eye —an eye mask is crucial. For more help sleeping, try the Bluetooth sleep headband recommended by US contributor Iona Brannon, which lets you listen to music or white noise without anything in or around your ears; in a pinch it can even double as an eye mask, she says.

17. A neck pillow

Another comfort essential: a travel pillow . It can take some time to find the style you like best, and your pick might vary depending on whether you're in-flight or in a car. Two we like: The classic memory foam wraparound neck pillow, which can be tightened or loosened per your preference, and the innovative fleecy neck wrap recommended by commerce writer Charley Ward .

18. Cosy socks

We love a good pair of compression socks to fight that pins-and-needles feeling that comes from sitting still for too long, be it on a long-haul flight  or a road trip . For those who prefer a cosier option, we recommend socks from Barefoot Dreams .

19. Earplugs

When you need some peace and quiet, swap your noise-cancelling headphones in for earplugs. This set comes with multiple sizes, so you can find the right fit, and share with any family members you're travelling with.

20. A shawl or blanket

For those who run cold, an oversized scarf will get plenty of use in transit, and can even double as a blanket. Opt for a quality material you can pack for years to come, like cashmere.

21. Hand sanitiser and wipes

As for general wellness, hand sanitiser is a must — buy a set and drop one in all your most-used totes and sling bags so you're never without. Some biodegradable wipes are nice to have on hand too, especially if you're travelling with little ones .

22. A reusable water bottle

Rounding out our collection of the best travel accessories are some odds and ends, like a good reusable water bottle, so you can stop buying overpriced bottles at the airport (and be kinder to the environment).

23. Snack containers

If overpriced airport snacks aren't your jam, come prepared by filling reusable Stasher bags with popcorn, crackers, fruit, or whatever else you'd like in-flight before you leave your house. A reusable utensil set is another nice-to-have travel accessory that'll allow you to turn down the plastic cutlery you might be handed in the airport or elsewhere on the road. The spoon and chopsticks are particularly TSA-friendly (while utensils are technically allowed through security , it's at the discretion of the agent if they'll let plastic knives or forks).

24. A passport holder

Also handy: a high-quality passport holder (bonus points if it has space to hold your credit cards) to keep your most important document protected. Aspinal's can be personalised with your initials for an added £20.

25. A back-up travel bag

For trips where you plan to shop, something lightweight, like Paravel's Fold-Up Bag or Baggu's Cloud Bag , is a smart addition to your packing list. Stuff it with souvenirs on your way home, or use it for overnight or weekend trips within a longer holiday.

26. A travel umbrella

Depending on your destination, a travel-size umbrella might be worth the space in your luggage. And if you're driving, tossing one in the backseat is a no-brainer. Contributor Claire Volkman tested out around a dozen options on our US sister site to determine which are the sturdiest and most compact. Shop two of her favourites, both available in the UK, below.

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

The travel essentials we’re most excited for in 2024

Whether your next trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas, here’s the gear—from featherlight binocs to sustainable bags—you should pack.

What do all successful travelers have in common? Often, it’s an arsenal of great gear. After all, what you pack can make a big difference when exploring the best of the world . For our annual Gear of the Year list, National Geographic travel editors searched far and wide for the coolest products to pack. We also asked experts—from pro cyclists to adventure photographers—what they look for in everything from bike racks to binoculars. Here’s what we’re most excited to take with us in 2024.

Our picks for the best travel essentials

Top travel essentials for your next trip, durable roller bag for tight spaces: cotopaxi allpa.

Award-winning travel journalist Tim Neville has journeyed on yaks, buses, and “countless heaving boats” and says that when it comes to packs, “a water-resistant exterior, beefy zippers, and soft, tough sides are non-negotiable.”  

The newest Cotopaxi Allpa has two sturdy wheels made to handle cobblestone streets, stairs, and other rough surfaces. Like earlier versions of the bag, it’s constructed of 100 percent recycled pre-consumer waste (extra materials from the manufacturing process) and features a split-case design and mesh compartments for intuitive organization.

Buy it now:   REI, from $350,   38L   (carry-on compatible) and   65L | Amazon, $349.99

100 percent recycled backpacks: Patagonia Black Hole Collection

Patagonia’s popular duffel bag collection is now completely made from post-consumer recycled (used materials diverted from landfills) polyester ripstop that resists tearing. The Fair Trade Certified pieces still come with a weather-resistant TPU-film laminate coating, rendering them virtually indestructible. We like the addition of a new interior pocket for stashing smaller valuables, such as cords and keys. For even more convenience, look for a duffel with wheels rolling out in August. Available in multiple styles and sizes.

Shop the collection now:   Patagonia, $35-$419

GPS tracker/virtual fence dog collar: Halo Collar 3

Halo’s newest GPS tracking collar not only keeps tabs on dogs with a propensity to escape or wander, it also lets you set a virtual fence to keep them confined to a geographic area, such as a campsite. It takes time for pups to acclimate to the collar’s alerts, which vary from beeps to vibrations—but the Halo app comes loaded with training tips. Available in small and medium/large for dogs 20 pounds and up.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $699, plus a subscription starting at $5.99/month

Fast-drying wool base layer: Ibex Woolies Pro Tech

Ibex’s new collection (tops, bottoms, boxer briefs) is constructed from Nuyarn, purportedly the world’s first performance wool. It’s made from non-twisted fibers, enabling the wool to retain more of its natural properties, such as body temperature regulation. The company claims that this lets the fabric dry five times faster than conventional 100 percent, ring-spun merino wool. It also weighs 35 percent less and offers 35 percent more stretch.

Buy it now:   Ibex (Men’s), $115   |   Ibex (Women’s), $115

Recyclable rain jacket: Patagonia Boulder Fork

Patagonia has plenty of outerwear made from recycled material. This rain jacket, however, is the first from the 50-year-old company that you can recycle. We like the adjustable cuffs, hem, and hood (great for keeping extra dry) and the three zippered chest pockets, which give you plenty of places to stash your things. The sleek, not-too-boxy silhouette is an added bonus.

Buy it now:   Patagonia (Men's) $229   |   Patagonia (Women's), $229

Waterproof, sustainable hiking boots: Oboz Cottonwood

This new boot, ideal for day hikes on uneven, wet terrain, is the Montana-based company ’s most sustainable yet. Both the low- and mid-profile designs incorporate at least 20 percent recycled, responsibly sourced materials by weight. Even better, Oboz’s “B-DRY” lining is designed to maximize waterproofing and breathability—top qualities to look for in hiking boots, especially for trekking through tropical regions or cruising around on Zodiacs.

Buy it now:   Zappos   (Men’s), $155   |   Zappos   (Women’s), $155

Featherlight binoculars: Swarovski Optik CL Curio

Slightly larger than a deck of cards and weighing just 8.9 ounces, Swarovski’s Optik CL Curio binoculars are the lightest, most compact binoculars we’ve found—exactly what you want in the field. With a sleek, seamless bridge by industrial designer Marc Newson , they’re also pretty stylish. With 7x magnification, a 21mm effective objective lens diameter, 7.7° field of view, and 90 percent light transmission, you’ll be able to discern a border collie from a coyote at 100 yards away and count the cracks in the craters of the moon at night.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $899

Budget-friendly, feature-loaded binoculars: Nocs Field Issue

Birdwatchers on a budget will appreciate Nocs’ new Field Issue, which marries the high-quality optics of the Pro Issue with the size and durability of the Standard Issue . It’s ideal for an off-road adventure when you want a super-wide, crisp view in a variety of lighting conditions. Like all the company’s binoculars, this mid-size (it weighs 16.7 ounces) pair is waterproof and fog-proof. But unlike other models, it features the brand’s finest central focusing. While it comes with a cleaning cloth and strap, consider upgrading to a harness to prevent it from awkwardly swinging around your neck.

Buy it now:   Nocs Provisions, $175

Carry-on that converts into a table: PROPS  

This hard-side carry-on has fold-out legs that turn the suitcase into a footrest or a table for your laptop during layovers or travel delays. It’s great for small hotel rooms without luggage racks. The built-in compression packing system and space-saving clamshell opening holds a surprising amount for a 22-inch bag. Look for a 26-inch model in October 2024.

Buy it now:   Magellan’s, $329

Super grippy water sandals: Teva Hydratrek

Inspired by tree frogs, Teva’s latest sandal is built so that a maximum amount of surface area on the outsole stays in contact with the ground. Extra texturing on the top sole helps wet feet stay put, while the quick-dry, traceable recycled webbing helps with durability. An added bonus for light packers: These are water sandals you can also hike in.

Buy it now:   Zappos   (Men’s), $85   |   Zappos   (Women’s), $85

Robust, fast charger: Anker Prime Power Bank 250W

At 27,650 mAh, Anker’s newest model is packed with power. “At least 20,000 mAh is the sweet spot because it allows me to charge my phone four to five times and my laptop once or twice,” says Barry Hoffner, founder of the education nonprofit Caravan to Class , who relied on a power bank while taking public buses across more than 170 countries.  

This new model takes 28 minutes to charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50 percent—a big improvement from last year’s 140W model, which took 40. Yet, at 99.54 watt hours, it still falls under TSA’s 100-watt-hour limit for carry-on packing. Pairing and Bluetooth connectivity via the Anker app enables you to track it if you lose it.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $179.99

Portable solar panel: BigBlue SolarPowa 30 ETFE Camping Solar Panel Charger

BigBlue’s latest travel-friendly solar panel is now made with an ETFE layer, a fluorine-based plastic that can withstand high temperatures. It also resists water, dust, corrosion, and stains. This model reportedly lasts twice as long as a traditional panel and folds to the size of a 14-inch laptop—which not only saves space, but also exposes less surface area to damaging elements.

Buy it now:   Amazon, $79.99

Endlessly customizable backpack: Osprey Archeon

Osprey’s new Archeon set lets you customize your pack via quick-release straps—ideal for when you’re trekking and don’t want to take your full 60L kit on shorter day hikes. Start with the foundational day pack and add accordingly. The chest rig, which straps over your shoulders like a BabyBjorn, maximizes versatility. You can wear it backward, forward, and around your waist like a fanny pack—just attach the day pack’s removable hip belt. Each piece sold separately.

Shop   the collection now:   Osprey, $50-$300

Padded storage cube: Away, The Protective Packing Cube (6L)

Part of Away’s outdoor-centric For All Routes (F.A.R.) collection, the sturdy 6L packing cube has extra padding and six customizable dividers for storing fragile items, like larger electronics or a small pair of binoculars. A removable shoulder strap lets you wear the cube as a crossbody bag when you need to transport just a few things from your suitcase. Plus, it’s made of recycled materials and ships in compostable packaging.

Buy it now:   Away, $72

Heavy-duty universal bike rack: Thule Epos

A good bike rack should have turn and brake signals, according to retired professional cyclist George Hincapie .  

Thule’s newest model includes both signals, plus telescopic arms with pivoting cradles that let you attach any type of bike, even an e-bike weighing up to 60 pounds. It works on any car; in some cases with an easy-to-install hitch. We especially appreciate that it folds up and wheels away for storage. (It weighs just 38 pounds.)

Buy it now:   REI, $999.95   |   Amazon, $999.95

Dog harness/rescue sling: Fido Pro Panza

Hiking in remote areas with your dog can be risky, especially since search and rescue often isn’t equipped for pups. Vets recommend it’s best to be prepared and to think in advance how you can get your dog out of a difficult situation. It’s also a great idea to pack a rescue harness. We like this newly patented harness because it converts into a sling that you can wrap around your dog without too much maneuvering. Included custom pads can save your shoulders over longer distances too. Fits most breeds 35-120 pounds.

Buy it now:   Backcountry, $139

Dog first aid travel kits: Wolf Republic First Aid Kit & Adventure Dog Medical Kit

Having a dog-specific first aid kit can be especially handy while traveling, especially if you're doing adventurous or sporty activities. We love Wolf Republic’s loaded kit for longer trips and Adventure Ready’s compact one for short day hikes. Both come stocked with vet-approved must-haves including triple antibiotic spray, self-adhesive bandages, saline wash, and tweezers.  

Buy it now:   Wolf Republic First Aid Kit, $56

Buy it now:   Adventure Dog Medical Kit,   Amazon, $22.98 for a pack of 2

Related Topics

• ADVENTURE TRAVEL
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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12 Travel Essentials for Men To Make Your Trip Easier

N o man wants to be left high and dry upon reaching a long sought after vacation destination. There is nothing worse than opening up a travel bag just to realize that you forgot the … you name it, because it can really bring down the vacation vibe. To get ahead of that and make sure you never have to feel like you forgot something important again, this packing list of travel essentials for men is here to help.

So, the next time you are in a rush preparing for that dream vacation, don’t get caught up in the “what do I need to pack” mentality; it’s all right here, regardless of the duration or destination of your trip . 

12 Travel Essentials For Men

Spf 30+ sunscreen .

Sunscreen may seem like a no-brainer when packing for a trip, but it is important enough to be on this list of travel essentials for men. No matter the season, if you are exposed to sunlight at any time throughout your trip, you will want to make sure you have on sunscreen. So, how much spf is needed? Well, dermatologists recommend spf 30 for everyday application .

Essential Traveling Apps

Ride hailing app.

If you are flying to your destination then you will most likely need a way to get around. Renting a car is always an option but it can be costly and time consuming, especially if you are going on a short trip. Keep getting from place to place simple by utilizing a ride hailing app like Uber or Lyft. These apps can accommodate for big or small groups and even have rideshare options for a more affordable and sustainable way to get around. 

Foreign Language Translator

Foreign language translator apps are important for traveling out of your home country. It is likely that English speakers and signs will be easy to come across in high tourist destinations, but this is not a guarantee. A reliable app like Google Translate where you can take a picture of a sign and have it translated is essential in case you run into something you do not understand. 

Travel Wallet

A compact travel wallet or organizer to keep your important documents and cards organized and easily accessible is a big travel essential for men. If you are used to carrying a smaller wallet that can only fit a few cards and bills, consider trying a wallet that is made to fit all your necessary cards and licenses, passport, bills, keys or other items . 

Adapters and Power Banks

Tech items are big travel essentials for men. Whether you are answering calls on a business trip, streaming a movie on a plane ride or capturing a video of every moment of your trip, it is important that all your devices are charged. Convenient products to have to ensure battery life when traveling are travel adapters , portable chargers and power banks.

Noise-canceling Headphones

A pair of noise-canceling headphones are high in necessity on the list of travel essentials for men. This is especially true for those traveling solo. Invest in a pair of good quality noise-canceling headphones or earbuds for a more comfortable and quiet journey. Bose, Sony, Beats and more offer comfortable noise canceling headphones with high sound quality. 

Travel Pillow and Eye Mask 

Make long flights or bus rides more comfortable with a neck pillow and eye mask for rest. This may seem excessive to some male travelers, but it can improve the quality of rest you are able to get on a long flight or drive. Having energy is important for not just a travel day but for the entirety of the trip, and these two products can ensure you do not lose any to being uncomfortable. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle, which you can fill up after passing through security. Investing in a double insulated refillable water bottle will guarantee that you can keep your water or other beverage at your desired temperature. Brands like Hydro Flask, Stanley and Yeti are great options for traveling and have plenty of consumer reviews to back them up. 

360 Rolling Suitcase

A good quality, durable suitcase can make a world of a difference when navigating a busy airport. The most optimal suitcases for traveling are the kinds with 360 degree rolling wheels. These suitcases make hauling around heavier luggage a lot less physically demanding. Additionally, a better quality suitcase is more reliable in terms of potentially losing items. 

Comfortable Pair of Nice Jeans and Tennis Shoes

You never know if your flight will be delayed or if you may end up running behind on your itinerary. For that reason, it is important to have a solid pair of good quality, comfortable jeans and tennis shoes so you are the most comfy while traveling but are still ready in the event you do not have time to change before your plans. 

Travel Locks

Travel locks are essential when flying or traveling with large groups of people. This is especially a travel essential for men that are traveling with more than just one carry-on bag. Get convenience-friendly locks for your luggage to secure your belongings when you’re not around.

First Aid Kit

A travel essential for men traveling with children or others is a basic first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes and any medications you may need like over-the-counter painkillers or motion sickness relievers. Having these items fresh and organized for a busy travel day could make any unforeseen incidents or injuries a lot easier to take care of. Also, if you plan on packing any prescription medication into the kit, make sure you use the original container with prescription clearly printed on it.

Best carry-on luggage for your next trip

As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, Localish will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below*

The best carry-on luggage can easily fit in an airplane's overhead compartment and hold all your travel essentials without giving way. I spoke to Briggs & Riley's CEO Richard Krulik about what makes a good carry-on and listed the best carry-on luggage to buy now. Krulik only provided general shopping guidance, he did not make any product recommendations.

Carry-on luggage buying guide

Spinner wheels: "You want smooth wheels since that makes a huge difference when you're rolling the bag through a very long terminal," says Krulik. 360-degree spinner wheels are the best as they can rotate in any direction and will glide smoothly at the airport or train station.

Additional pockets: "A front pocket is always a real plus on a carry-on because you may want quick access to a magazine or a light jacket," says Krulik. Some carry-ons also have extra back pockets.

Telescopic handle: "You also want a firm solid handle that's not flimsy or wobbly," says Krulik. An adjustable handle is also important as we're all different heights, he adds.

Locks: You must buy a carry-on with built-in locks or lockable ones. TSA-approved locks can help keep your bag safe on the off chance that you need to check it in at the gate. You can also use your carry-on to hold travel documents instead of using the safe in your hotel room.

Durability: Ballistic nylon is the strongest and most long-lasting durable material, according to Krulik. That said, reinforced polyester is also a great option if you're looking for hard-sided luggage says Krulik. Before you shop, also make sure to look at a brand's testing requirements. Brands will usually test the bag's wheels on uneven surfaces to see how they hold up, and check how strong the outer shell is by subjecting the bags to drop tests.

Style: This depends on personal preference. Maybe you want a monogrammed travel suitcase or a bag that stands out from the rest - maybe in a pastel color? You'll want to think of your bag as an accessory, says Krulik. Keep your personal style in mind when you shop.

Size: Every airplane has different carry-on requirements, that said most domestic airlines require that your carry-on be 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches in size. International airlines are a bit different, while many follow the same domestic rules, some airlines prefer carry-ons only to be under 22 inches tall. Either way, check your chosen airline's baggage size requirements before purchasing any of the below.

Best carry-ons

Best carry-on bag.

Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner

Samsonite is a brand I swear by, having owned their luggage pretty much my entire adult life. The Proxis is one of their newer collections and a great option if you prefer hard-sided luggage. It has dual spinner wheels for maneuverability, an adjustable aluminum handle and a rugged exterior that won't get bumped or bruised during your travels. It also has a USB port, in case you want to charge any devices and a TSA-approved lock for safety. The interior has mesh pockets for additional storage and cross straps to hold your garments. Since this is a smart suitcase, you may have to remove the installed battery during security check, so keep that extra step in mind.

Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"

Best splurge

Briggs & Riley Essential Expandable Carry-On

Briggs & Riley makes some of my favorite carry-ons and I love them for their lifetime warranty - if you break a zip or see a dent in your suitcase, you can send the suitcase to the brand to have it repaired for free. This particular option is available in three colors and can also be monogrammed, making it easy to identify in a sea of similar-looking luggage. It has a TSA-approved lock and features the brand's flagship expandable and compression technology which allows your suitcase to hold more, without increasing its dimensions. The handle is adjustable too, and there is a carry handle on top, on the bottom and on its sides. There is also a built-in garment folder to make packing easier and zipped pockets on the interior for any essentials.

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 - 11.5 in (includes wheels and handles)

Largest carry-on bag

The Carry-On Roller In Text Me Red

This aesthetic carry-on is one of my favorites as it stands out from the other options on this list. It has a durable polycarbonate hard shell build and is available in multiple colors. It has spinner wheels like our other options and also has top and side carry handles. It also has TSA locks and is expandable just in case you need to fit more in. The interior has compression straps to hold your clothes, and also a separate pocket where you can store dirty clothes or undergarments. While it doesn't have an exterior pocket, it does come with an additional small pocket on the interior that is designed to hold any small valuables.

Dimensions: 22.85" x 15.75" x 9.85" (including wheel & handle)

Best water resistant

Terra 45L Carry-On Luggage

This is the best combination of both soft-side and hard-side luggage. It's made from polyester and polycarbonate. It has 360-degree spinner wheels like the other options and also has multiple exterior pockets for any travel documents or essentials. It has a designated laptop compartment, is expandable and also has a water-resistant exterior - perfect for unpredictable weather. The inside has compression straps and mesh pockets for storage. Plus, the product is made from recycled bottles, making this one of the most sustainable items on this list.

Best budget

Wrangler Smart Luggage

This budget-friendly carry-on sets itself apart thanks to its convenient cup holder attached to the bag. It also has multidirectional spinner wheels, top and side handles and is expandable, if needed. It even features a phone holder and also has a USB port option for your devices. The interior has one large zipped pocket and a side with compression straps. It's the most basic interior layout compared to the other options, but at its price, it's still one of the best carry-ons you can buy.

Best carry-on duffel bag

Away The Weekender

Away is another great luggage brand and they make both carry-on suitcases and duffel bags. The Weekender is a great pick for short trips and can hold a 15-inch laptop plus multiple changes of clothes. It has a detachable shoulder strap for comfort and a water-resistant design that's built to last. The interior has mesh pockets and a detachable key clip to help keep your everyday essentials organized. Right now, you can shop it in four colors.

Dimensions: 20.9" x 11.8" x 9.4"

Is hard-side or soft-side luggage better?

Soft-side luggage is less susceptible to getting scratched up, according to Krulik. That said, one isn't really better than the other, it's more a matter of personal preference. Soft-side luggage also has tons of additional front and back pockets for storage, which is not common on hard-side luggage. If you're packing items that are fragile, a hard-side option is better, according to Krulik.

How can I efficiently pack my carry-on?

"One of the things that I think people don't realize is every time you make a fold in your clothes, it's adding bulk to what you're packing," says Krulik. Fold your shirts in half instead of threes, he adds. "Secondly, there's dead space inside those shoes that you're packing." Stuff them with travel shampoo bottles or anything else that fits says Krulik. Finally, if you have an expandable suitcase, make sure you avoid expanding it till the end of your trip. "If I go with a maximum bag that's stuffed to the limits, I have no place to put anything that I might want to buy on the trip."

Meet our expert:

Richard Krulik: Krulik is the CEO of the travel luggage brand Briggs & Riley. Krulik only provided guidance on how to shop for a carry-on, he did not make product recommendations. Products were individually selected by our editor.

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I’m a Frequent Flier, and These 15 Things Helped Me Survive an 18-hour, Nonstop Flight in Economy — From $6

These comfy travel essentials made my seat in coach feel like first class.

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Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Even the most frequent fliers, like myself, will tell you that flying is hard on the body. Between the altitude change, long periods of sitting in confined seats, and recycled plane air, a long-haul flight can leave your body feeling depleted of energy, sore, and dehydrated. Plus, flying for long periods of time also takes its toll on the mind. Even though I’ve been a travel writer for nearly 10 years (I fly so often that I have all of my major airport codes memorized), I still get anxiety — particularly when I know that I’ll be stuck on a plane long enough to watch “The Godfather” trilogy. 

Fortunately, these types of flights have become more manageable thanks to my trusty long-haul flight packing list . Recently, I flew on Qantas’ new 16-hour nonstop flight from New York City to Auckland, and despite having business class tastes, I was on a coach budget. But, because I was intentional about what I packed in my carry-on , I was pretty comfortable from takeoff to touchdown. Armed with my arsenal of travel essentials , and my foolproof routine for using them, I almost looked forward to my return flight — the key word there is almost . So, whether your next long-haul flight is to New Zealand or Newfoundland, consider investing in these 15 travel writer-vetted items for a more comfortable experience in economy.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow

I upgraded my flimsy, unsupportive travel pillow to this dual-density memory foam game-changer years ago. Now, it has more than 4,800 five-star ratings and is so popular that 2,000 of them were sold last month, according to Amazon. I love that it comes with seat straps, so I can attach it to any headrest and don’t have to worry about it sliding to one side. The removable, washable cover is also handy, and there’s even a pocket where I can stash my earplugs (which I'll go into more detail about later). And like all of the best travel pillows , the Cabeau Evolution S3 comes with a carrying case and compresses down to be about half its size for easy packing. 

Vouching for its comfort, one shopper wrote , “I just traveled to Israel and England this past month using this pillow and it allowed me to sleep an average of six hours on the four long-haul flights, which is the best I’ve ever been able to do in all my years of flying." 

Anker USB-C Portable Charger 

Not having a full charge on my devices stresses me out, and I hate relying on in-seat power stations on flights as, half of the time, they don't work (or the cabin crew won’t let you have your stuff plugged in during takeoff and landing). That’s why I always travel with Anker's best-selling power bank with nearly 5,500 five-star ratings. While the bank itself takes hours to fully charge, it can boost my iPhone 14 to 50 percent in about 45 minutes. And I only need to charge the power bank once every five days despite using it every day to charge my phone, smartwatch, GoPro 12, and Apple AirPods. It’s also compatible with Samsung devices and includes a USB-C port in addition to the USB-A port. A carrying case and cables are included. 

“It worked great,” according to a reviewer , who relied on it for a 14-hour flight. Another traveler chimed in to add that it’s “perfect when you are on planes or in airports for 20 hours.” 

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Facial Cleansing Towelette Singles

If you can’t shower on a plane, washing your face is the next best thing. Of course, the water from the taps in the lavatory doesn’t have a great reputation. For that reason, I travel with these tiny, pre-moistened cleansing towelette singles from Neutrogena. Despite being so gentle on the skin (i.e. no harsh astringents here), they remove makeup and even my mineral sunscreen, which can be hard to get off even with a full skincare routine and proper bathroom counter space). But don’t just take it from me. They have nearly 60,000 five-star ratings and more than 90,000 units were bought in the last month, making them no. 1 on Amazon’s list of makeup cleansing wipes best-sellers . 

Is it cheaper to buy wipes in bulk? Yes. But as you can see from the following review , sometimes, singles are the best way to go: "They don’t dry out when they are individually wrapped and you can take as many as you need for the trip." 

Crest Scope Mini Brushes-Disposable Toothbrushes With Toothpaste and Pick

It’s amazing how having a clean mouth can make you feel like a new person. But it can be hard to brush your teeth while you’re traveling. What’s great about these disposable toothbrushes is the fact that you don’t even need water, or toothpaste. The bristles feature liquid-like “beads” of Crest Scope. And despite being so compact, these toothbrushes also have built-in picks on the ends, which means that I’m not panicking if I run out of floss mid-flight. 

Amazon notes that more than 4,000 of them were sold in the last month, and many of the 3,100-plus five-star ratings come from grateful travelers who spend a lot of time in the air. As a matter of fact, one shopper called them their “go-tos on long flights.” 

Flex Flap Cell Phone Holder and Flexible Tablet Stand

While most long-haul flights have seatback screens, sometimes they don’t work or have the most recent season of “Yellowstone.” That’s why I like to download my favorite movies and shows on my phone. I’m starting to see more travelers do the same, and on my last flight, I noticed one with this handy phone holder/tablet stand. Designed by a flight attendant, the Flex Flap is a lightweight and compact way to prop up, display, and view your smartphone. When you need to mount your device, simply fold or hang the flap and adjust it until you get your desired height and angle. More than 4,000 of them were bought last month, and it has nearly 4,000 five-star ratings. 

According to one traveler , “It can hold your phone or tablet horizontally or vertically… The stand is also very sturdy, so you don’t have to worry about your device falling over.”

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs for Noise Reduction 

Most airlines give you disposable earplugs for overnight flights. The catch? They’re not the best quality (i.e. don’t expect them to drown out the wails of the crying baby two rows behind you). Instead, invest in these noise-reduction silicone earplugs. They come in six colors and include a carrying case, as well as customizable tips so you can fit them to your ears. Before balking at the $30 price tag, just know this: they’re reusable, and with more than 50,000 five-star ratings, they’re ranked no 1. on Amazon’s list of earplug best-sellers . 

One traveler , who wrote that they’ve always struggled to find earplugs that “strike the right balance between comfort and effectiveness,” called them a “game-changer.” 

SB Sox Compression Socks

Last year, when I flew 40 hours to the Maldives, I arrived in paradise with ankles and shins so swollen that I spent the first day scrolling on WebMD when I should have been snorkeling. Fortunately, it all could have been avoided had I worn compression socks . This particular pair not only increases your blood circulation, which prevents swelling and pain, but it also has cushioned heel and toe support to “provide unmatched comfort,” per the brand. 

Taking to the review section, a frequent flier raved that these socks came recommended by their nurse friend: "Thankfully, this [pair] worked so perfectly on my recent trip to Australia and New Zealand. For my long-haul flights, my feet did not swell at all. I will never buy any other brand from now on." 

Grace & Stella Under-eye Masks

These under-eye masks are described as "an energy drink for your eyes” by the brand. Meanwhile, one satisfied shopper , who wears them while “jet-setting around the globe,” called them “magic in a packet" as they get their tired under-eyes "refreshed and rejuvenated like I've had eight hours of sleep in just 20 minutes.” After reading that testimony, I wasted no time adding a pack to my carry-on for this long-haul flight. 

They're easy to slip on right before you land and really wake up your under-eyes with their brightening, de-puffing, and hydrating blend of moisturizing hyaluronic acid, fine line-smoothing glycerin, and wrinkle-reducing sea moss, and strengthening amino acids. 

Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter Receiver 

I don’t understand how we can send people to the moon, but airlines are still having us use headphones with cords. Hopefully, they hop aboard the wireless train soon, but until then, I’ll be using this Bluetooth transmitter to connect my AirPods to the in-seat entertainment console. I love not having to worry about getting tangled up in a cord or having it come unplugged when my seatmate gets up to use the loo. Not an Apple aficionado? No worries. This transmitter, which can last 20 hours between charges, works with most wireless headphones and earbuds. 

“The Bluetooth connectivity to my AirPods didn’t skip a beat,” one traveler was happy to report, noting that they tested it on back-to-back long flights and determined that this product is “worth every penny." 

Basic Concepts Airplane Foot Hammock 

Admittedly, when airplane foot hammocks first came out, I thought that they were dorky. But these days? I’m a believer. Elevating my feet on a long flight not only makes me feel more comfortable, but it also helps minimize swelling. What’s great about this particular foot hammock is its versatility. It offers three different positions, and thanks to its extra-long adjustable strap, it even works for the tallest of NBA players, according to the brand (granted, they should probably be flying business class). 

“I use this every time I go on long flights (like 20-hour long flights) and trust me, this makes economy so much more comfortable,” gushed a reviewer , who appreciated that it’s simple to set up and comes with a travel case.

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Because airplane cabins circulate air pulled from the outside, where there’s very little moisture at cruising altitudes, it’s very important to stay hydrated. Otherwise, you can suffer from undesired symptoms like headaches, dry skin, scratchy throat, etc. Instead of waiting for the flight attendants to come around once every few hours with their drink cart, I pack a water bottle. I’m loyal to my Yeti Rambler ($40), but if that’s too pricey, consider this BPA-free top-seller from Owala with more than 33,000 five-star ratings. It’s also made with stainless steel and features double-wall insulation, so it keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours. 

“I can always count on this bottle to keep my water refreshingly chilled,” one well-hydrated shopper said in their Amazon review. “I also appreciate the thoughtful design features of this bottle, such as the leak-proof lid and convenient carry handle.” 

Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream

Speaking of dry skin, to keep my hands from cracking on long-haul flights (where I use a ton of hand sanitizer), I lather on this best-selling, dermatologist-recommended cream . Its fast-acting formula alleviates dryness quickly, and unlike other hand creams, it's non-greasy, so I don't have to worry about accidentally getting it on my clothes. What's more, its 3-ounce tube makes it TSA-approved for my carry-on. Though it's an M.V.P. for long-haul flights, the Gold Bond Healing Hand Cream is great to have handy on every point of my trip; from the hotel to the beach, and beyond. 

“It lasts a long time, it doesn’t smell, and it keeps my hands soft,” summed up one traveler , who declared it their “favorite lotion.” 

Amazon Kindle

In-flight magazines may be things of the past (I was a huge fan of Skymall, although I always browsed, never bought), but these days, e-readers are where it’s at when it comes to reading on long-haul flights. This 5.6-ounce Amazon Kindle is great for travel because it’s ultralightweight. And despite being incredibly compact (it's just slightly larger than my iPhone 14), with its 16 gigabytes of storage, it can hold thousands of books. Plus, it can go up to six weeks in between charges. The high resolution screen is crisp and clear, and the adjustable front light and dark mode means that you won’t have to turn on your overhead seat light and wake up your neighbor. 

"It’s small enough to take anywhere," a shopper said . "It's fantastic for long flights and days lounging about." 

Benefiber On The Go Prebiotic Fiber Supplement Powder Set 

I have Crohn’s disease, so I have a very iffy digestive system. That said, even if your gut is healthy, long-haul flights — and traveling in general — can do a serious number on it. For that reason, I recommend stocking up on these single-serving prebiotic supplements, which were recommended to me by my gastroenterologist. Unlike most plane fare and junk food that I let myself indulge in while flying, these small packets (which I mix with any non-alcoholic beverage) are packed with fiber. Not only does this fiber increase your chances of having healthy bowel movements (and eliminating uncomfortable mid-flight bloating), it also encourages the growth of good gut bacteria. 

“These are very convenient to maintain a fiber regiment while traveling,” wrote one Amazon shopper , who has already reordered them several times. 

Lky Digital Sleep Mask for Side Sleepers 3-pack 

According to the Sleep Foundation , “Light is the most important external factor affecting sleep.” Scientists agree that we get more sleep, and better quality sleep, in dark environments. While most airlines give you eye masks on long-haul flights, they leave a lot to be desired with their low-quality designs. Fortunately, this mask — which has more than 44,000 five-star ratings — blocks 100 percent of light and promises total darkness. Plus, it has an adjustable headband, so you don’t need to worry about it sliding to one side (a feature that side sleepers will appreciate). And thanks to the 3D-contoured fit, it doesn’t rest flat against your eyes and won’t ruin your mascara. 

“These are great; they're light-blocking, lightweight, and super soft,” according to a traveler , who found that, unlike most masks that put pressure on the face, this one doesn’t leave their eyes feeling heavy and puffy when they wake up. 

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