best travel cases 2023

Condé Nast Traveler’s Luggage Week 2023: The Essential Guide to Suitcases and Bags

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Wherever you're headed—be it a bucket list trip across the globe or a lowkey staycation in your own city—you're going to need luggage. Minimalists and overpackers alike need durable and easy-to-carry suitcases and bags to safely transport clothes, travel accessories , and any souvenirs picked up along the way. As travel editors, we have high expectations for our gear—requiring that reliable, long-lasting bags accompany us on every journey.

This often sparks debate among our team: What is the best luggage for travelers? Who are the top brands in the industry? Checked bags or carry-ons? Soft-sided or hard-shell? To help us hone in on the absolute best luggage to recommend to our readers, we decided to put the most talked-about checked suitcases, carry-ons, weekenders, and backpacks from best-selling travel brands to the test. More than a dozen Condé Nast Traveler editors and contributors spent months testing out luggage to determine the best of the best. We packed these bags to the brim, lifted them into overhead bins, rolled them down cobblestone streets, and inspected every bump and scuff they endured. With this, we bring you our first-ever Luggage Week: An honest review of the best checked suitcases, carry-ons, weekenders, and backpacks in the biz.

The testing process:

Over a dozen editors and contributors tested a variety of suitcases, backpacks, and duffels over a period of several months (and in some cases, several years), taking them for a spin as much as possible. These bags have gone on planes, trains, and buses, taking weekend trips to upstate New York and coming onboard for 10-day European cruises . We considered how heavy each bag is when empty, how much it can hold, how well it holds up or shows wear and tear, and how well-designed it is (looks matter, sometimes). And while some travelers are willing to splurge on a luxe piece of luggage, we know that's not always necessary to find great-quality bags that are built to last. Our favorite pieces vary in price, from budget-friendly Amazon finds to designer luggage you'll travel with for a lifetime.

After traveling with each bag, we carefully reviewed each one, keeping this criteria in mind while also identifying standout features to whittle down which ones are worthy of a spot in our Luggage Week lineup.

Below, the tried-and-true bags we highly recommend—well-made and absolutely-worth-it pieces we're taking on our next big adventure (and you should, too). —Meaghan Kenny

Luggage Week table of contents

Checked luggage, carry-on suitcases, hard-shell suitcases, soft-sided bags, kids luggage, travel experts' favorite brands.

• The best of Béis
• The best of Calpak
• The best of Away

The essentials

Checked bags are a staple for longer trips (anywhere from 10 to 14 days) and for anyone who wants or needs more room in their suitcase.

Read more →

Shown in safari green

Shown in shadow lavender

Shown in beige

Carry-ons are arguably the piece of luggage travelers pull out most often—these are the ones we turn to time and time again.

Shown in red

Shown in scout tan

Shown in nutria

Our favorite duffels, expandable totes, and garment bags to take on overnighters or use as a personal item.

Shown in oatmeal

Shown in black

Whether you're hopping on a bike , trekking across rugged terrain, sightseeing, shopping, or jetting off to a business meeting , the best travel backpacks give you the freedom to explore hands-free.

The great debate: hard-shell or soft-sided?

Hard-shell cases that will last for years to come, from trunks to lightweight spinners.

They may not be as popular these days, but they sure can fit a lot.

More luggage to consider

The bags frequent travelers trust for their little ones.

We've found our favorites, but we also wanted to know which luggage brands industry experts swear by.

Our favorites from Béis

This relative newcomer has turned out tons of stellar pieces, from its weekender bag to water bottle slings and suitcases.

Our favorites from Calpak

Calpak designs durable and practical luggage for frequent travelers—here are our editors' most-used pieces.

Our favorites from Away

Mixing durability, dependability, and style, Away changed the way we look at packing.

Still not sure?

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The Best Travel Accessories to Make Your Trip Easier

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Charge Ahead Nimble Champ (Series 2) Read more

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Tag, You’re It Artovida Neoprene Luggage Tag Read more

Travel isn’t always as luxurious as the brochures make it seem. Sure, the destination may be intoxicatingly gorgeous, but the journey to get there is often one of cramped seats and uninterrupted noise. Traveling can be a gauntlet to be endured or, if you equip yourself properly beforehand, a mere speed bump to glide over. From travel pillows and noise-canceling headphones to luggage trackers, it turns out you actually can purchase peace of mind. These are the best travel accessories after years of traveling and testing.

Don't forget to check out our Best Travel Bags and Best Travel Adapters guides for more recommendations.

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Charge Ahead

Don't count on always finding an outlet. You never know when the café or airport you’re in will be outlet-deficient, and it's almost a running joke at this point at how often the airliners' onboard outlets are broken. The Nimble Champ Series 2 is our top recommendation in our Best Portable Chargers guide because of the company's environmentally friendly efforts in its manufacturing and packaging . Its light at 6.2 ounces, and we recommend the medium-size 10,000-mAh option, which can recharge a smartphone several times. There's a smaller version and a larger one too.

Charge Everything at Once

For the Apple devotee who travels complete with an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, consider picking up this 3-in-1 charger that can top off the juice in all three of your devices at the same time. No more prioritizing which one of your devices gets the precious outlet. No wonder WIRED senior reviews editor Julian Chokkattu raved about it in our Best Apple 3-in-1 Chargers guide . It comes with a felt pouch, plus a charging adapter and cable. There are three pads, one with a grooved spot for holding AirPods, one magnetic pad for MagSafe iPhones, and another for the Apple Watch.

Learn to Adapt

When I'm traveling, there are never enough power outlets. WIRED reviewer Simon Hill gave this model top marks in his Best Travel Adapters guide because of how securely plugs stick into this outlet. It has enough built-in outlet styles to charge devices in 200 countries. It also offers three USB-A ports, which deliver a maximum charging rate of 15.5 watts, and two USB-C ports, which deliver up to 18 watts through one PD and one QC 3.0 port. That's enough to juice up iPads and smartphones, but stick to the outlet for your laptop.

Tag, You’re It

Any little thing that makes a bag stand out from the acres of look-alikes on the baggage carousel, the better. These come in a snazzy rotating collection of designs by select artists, and they attach surprisingly securely by slipping the larger end through the hole after looping it around a baggage handle. Even after tens of thousands of airline miles, mine have held up without wear or tear. Call me paranoid, but you should have two luggage tags, in case one gets torn off. Good thing these come in a two-pack.

Mark Andrews

Kathy Gilsinan

Adrienne So

Keeping Track

We have mixed thoughts on AirTags, but if you have an iPhone, they are among the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. These trackers utilize the sheer number of iPhones and Apple devices out there to regularly report their location back to your device. Even if you don't plan on checking your bag, you might end up having to gate-check it on crowded flights. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination.

AirTags don't work with Android devices, so if you use an Android phone , our recommendation is the Chipolo One ($25) . We have more details about it in our Best Trackers guide , but the setup is simple, and you can even get alerts if you leave the house without it.

Catch Some Z’s

I've never been one to fall asleep on a plane. It's not that the audience bothers me—I'll never see these people again—but rather that it’s impossible to fall asleep in a near-vertical seat. The Travelrest ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) is the ultimate neck pillow because it remedied this problem. Thanks to its high, contoured sides and a flat back that keeps it square against the seat, I can reliably nod off on any flight. The Travelrest easily beats those rounded, doughnut-shaped neck pillows for comfort and support.

To Safeguard Your Electronics

Some countries have less reliable electrical infrastructure, and you never know how well-wired that discount hotel's outlets are. Protect your device from getting fried with this compact, one-outlet surge protector. It has a lifetime warranty and $5,000 of coverage if your device is damaged from a power surge while using it. I haven't had to test that aspect of it, but the two USB-A ports are convenient when I've had to charge earbuds, battery banks, and other accessories.

A Better Pillow

Hotel pillows tend to have all the firmness and support of a wet roll of toilet paper that's been stomped on for 30 minutes. That tends to mean that vacation memories are accompanied by a stiff neck. Side sleepers like me need a firm yet poofy pillow. I've caught more good nights of sleep on this Therm-a-Rest than I can count. It rolls up into an integrated pouch, and a cinch compresses it into the size of a large water bottle for storage.

Tip the Scales

A scale is handy to have when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Avoid those enormous surcharges and make sure your bag is under the airlines’ weight limits before you arrive at the check-in counter. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even US airlines will be unforgiving about the weight of checked bags. I've used this scale for years, and I prefer the simplicity of not needing any batteries. It's accurate, easy to read the gauge, and the strap is strong enough in the long term to handle some seriously heavy luggage without fraying or breaking.

To Protect Your Laptop

Travel through enough airports without a case and it’s only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Protect your devices from banging around in the security bins against keys, phones, and belts with this slim laptop sleeve, available for laptops of several common sizes. The water-resistant zippers are smooth and slide easily, and the padded, non-scratch material protected our MacBooks from a few bouts of rough handling by over-eager TSA agents without any exterior damage. Even if you don't normally use one, consider picking one up just for travel. For tablets, check out the Zugu iPad Case for $50 . We have guides for choosing the best laptop backpacks and laptop totes , too.

Mosquito Guard

In much of the world, mosquitoes aren't just pests. They carry life-threatening diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Japanese encephalitis. Even in hotel rooms in certain places, you're not safe from them. When I traveled through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos last year, I brought this mosquito bed net with me. It's large enough for most two-person mattresses, and an elastic rim tucks underneath the mattress so that there are no gaps for critters to sneak through. The World Health Organization says a minimum of 156 holes per square inch are needed to keep mosquitoes out. This model has 500 tiny holes per square inch, making it that much more secure.

A Good Book, or 20

There's nothing like tackling a long ride on a train or plane with a good old book. But if you're a voracious reader or traveling on a long trip, a few books can take up a lot of room in your luggage. The Kindle Paperwhite's glare-resistant E Ink display is less harsh on your eyes than a typical tablet screen, so you can read for a long while before fatigue sets in ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). With 8 GB of storage, there's room for thousands of books. You can find more recommendations in our Best Kindles and Best Ebook Readers guides.

Top Up Your Devices

Not all USB cables are made equal. This Cable Matters cord came out on top in our testing (read more in our Best USB Cables guide ), thanks to its ability to handle 100 watts—enough to charge a power-hungry laptop. It also can transfer data at an impressive 40 Gbps. The 6.6-foot cable is an active cable too, which means it has a chip inside to push data further without degradation. It supports DisplayPort Alt Mode (DP Alt Mode), meaning you can use it to connect your laptop to a portable monitor, along with USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) and Programmable Power Supply (PPS), so that certain devices will fast charge through the cable. Seriously, it's the one USB-C cable to rule them all.

Maintain Your Sanity

Anyone who's spent time on public transportation knows that the cacophony of shouting, crying, and other people's loud devices can be maddening when you're stuck in your seat for the next few hours. The Sennheiser Adapt 660 ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) are our favorite value noise-canceling headphones . WIRED associate reviews editor Parker Hall says they are comfortable and one of the lightest headphones he's tested. You can count on excellent sound quality for up to 30 hours of usage.

For Compact Peace and Quiet

WIRED reviewer Simon Lucas praised these Bose earbuds as having hands-down the best noise-cancellation. It's the top pick in our Best Wireless Earbuds guide, though they are expensive. He says their “naturalistic, vivid sound” is untouched by any counter-signal or audio evidence that the noise cancellation is working to muffle unwanted background sounds. That means you can enjoy that movie or album without jet engines and passenger chatter disturbing your peace.

Whether you'd like to plug directly into the seatback entertainment system or just don't feel like juggling one more device that needs frequent charging, wired headphones are by no means obsolete. These nabbed the top spot in our Best Wired Headphones guide , thanks to the excellent sound quality of the two 7-mm, full-range dynamic drivers that deliver punchy, finely detailed audio at a reasonable price. WIRED associate reviews editor Parker Hall reports that they're comfortable and secure in his ears, and the detachable cable is braided for durability.

A Nice Travel Sling

You don't want to tote around a heavy bag when you're seeing the sights at your destination. Pack the small version of the Wandrd Roam ( 3 liters ) and you'll have plenty of space for a compact camera, a spare lens, cables, a phone, a wallet, and more. The YKK weather-resistant zippers ensure things will stay dry in the rain. Available in 3, 6, and 9 liters , you can size up if you feel like you want to carry a little bit more on your journey. Read more about it in our Best Camera Bags guide .

An All-Day Stash

Think past the journey to the destination and consider how you'll keep your devices, maps, snacks, and charging accessories handy when you're at your destination. The Tour is our best all-day waist pack and another great mini bag to consider aside from the Wandrd Roam. Thanks to pockets galore, WIRED editor Michael Calore says he can fit a change of clothes and a couple of ready-to-eat meals in there, with room to spare. Two water bottle pockets and a zippered phone pouch maintain the essentials, and when the pack gets too heavy, an included shoulder strap turns it into a sling.

Entertainment is awfully limited if you rely on the seatback video system of an airplane, and its absent on trains, most buses, and some low-cost carriers. If you're feeling particularly active and want something other than a book or movie, delve into any fantasy world of your choosing with the Nintendo Switch OLED ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu found the 7-inch OLED screen fantastic and the kickstand much-improved over the old model. It’s stable, secure, easy to pull out, and adjustable to a wide range of angles, and you can get that long gaming session in by propping it on your meal tray, no matter how far back the guy in front of you reclines his seat.

Bring Your Best Friend

More of us are taking our four-legged pals with us on our journeys these days, but the trials of travel are no easier on them than they are on us. WIRED senior reviews editor Julian Chokkattu loves this pet carrier for how stable and soft its base is. He says the straps are thicker than most competing bags, and they stayed on his shoulder securely. You can clip a leash to the built-in carabiner, and there's a small stash pocket for poo bags. The best part is how well-ventilated it is, and there are multiple ways to open the bag and check on your pet. It's compliant with most major airlines’ policies.

Make Yourself Understood

It's tough to learn a new language, especially if it's just for a vacation booked a few months in advance. But you really should know the basics of conversation to be a good guest. WIRED contributor Christopher Null reviewed the Pocketalk Plus Voice Translator ( 7/10, WIRED Review ), which translates conversations between different languages in real time. He praised how reasonably quickly it provided translations, its intuitive interface, and the number of supported languages. This kind of device makes sense only if you're traveling to multiple destinations in a year. Otherwise, you can probably get by with Google Translate.

If you want to work toward learning a new language yourself, check out our Best Language Learning Apps guide .

Connect the Unconnected

Love your wireless earbuds but hate that you can't connect them to the screen embedded in the airplane seat in front of you? The AirFly is a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into a standard headphone jack and connects to your wireless buds. I used the AirFly SE model, and I found no noticeable change in audio quality, at least from a few feet away when I took it on a flight. You get volume control buttons so you don't have to tap on the screen, and a double-tap mutes the audio too. Twelve South claims 20 hours of battery life, and although battery life can differ based on usage, it felt like a pretty accurate estimate in my experience watching movies and listening to music on the plane.

For Chilly Flights and Nights

You can't count on your hotel being as warm as you might like, and don't get me started on how cold they keep airplane cabins. Forget the scratchy blankets they sell on board and bring this lightweight, packable travel blanket if you're prone to the chills. I like how my feet fit in the “leg pockets,” my hands in the hand warmers, and how securely it stays around my neck with the button snap. The zippered pocket was perfectly sized for my AirPod case and for at least a few of those free snacks I felt like saving for later. It's also a great blanket to bring for road trips, in case you plan on sleeping in the car.

Don't Forget the Toothpaste

Consider this alternative to conventional toothpaste, especially if you find yourself butting up against the TSA's 3-1-1 rule . WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano enjoyed these toothpaste tablets while she was running tests for her Best Electric Toothbrushes guide. You just bite down on them and start brushing. You also get bonus points for reducing the amount of plastic waste you'd otherwise generate via toothpaste tubes—the packaging here is all glass bottles and compostable pouches.

Stay Hydrated

Travel, especially air travel, puts you in a bit of a bind when it comes to cutting down on your usage of single-use plastics. While you can't show up at the airport with your own drinks, you can do your part after you've passed through security. In my search for the best travel mugs , this Hydro Flask Coffee Mug came out on top. It's insulated, so it'll keep your coffee warm for longer than any flight. It's narrow enough to fit any cupholder, and no matter how much I banged it around, the tough powder-coated metal showed neither a scratch nor a dent. Unlike many water bottle manufacturers who use lead in their bottle construction , Hydro Flask has been lead-free since 2013.

Get Steamed

Hotels often have an iron and ironing board available, but I find it quicker and easier to steam my clothes. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using Urpowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything in a minute or two. You just need to refill it often; one reservior is enough for one or two garments, at most. If you're going to another state or country for an important event, like a wedding, this is a must-have.

Eric Ravenscraft

Julian Chokkattu

Amanda Hoover

Brenda Stolyar

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The best suitcases for stylish storage on the go

By Owen Gough

Shop GQ ’s pick of the very best suitcases to get you where you need to be, from Antler and Rimowa to Gucci and Louis Vuitton

There’s nothing that can kill the joy of a summer getaway than having to deal with a low-quality suitcase. From wonky wheels to broken zippers, there’s only so much you should put up with when prepping for a summer holiday, so we recommend you give your luggage a much-needed spruce up. We’ll literally do anything to make that airport queue slightly more bearable. Pair it up with a quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones and a fancy new passport holder and you’re all set up to breeze through departures with swagger.

Your only upcoming issue is having to figure out which suitcase is going to be best for you. From wheeled suitcases and cabin bags to luggage sets ripped straight from Jennifer Coolidge’s White Lotus collection, we’ve got a good eye for picking out the best luggage brand options, so allow us to guide you through the best options.

What is the best suitcase to buy?

Horizn Studios H Series

Horizn Studios

Blending a super slick aesthetic with eco-friendly credentials and suitcase smarts like a phone charger and compression pad, Horizn's H Series cases have it all, and at not too scary a price tag.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Away Travel

If you're a regular long-weekender, Away's bigger carry-on can handle much longer than three nights but won't have you in a sticky situation at the departure desk. Features like a USB charger and accompanying laundry bag will make your trip all the more organised, too.

Rimowa Classic Cabin S

Rimowa is the collaborator of choice for fashion houses as high up as Dior, so you know it's doing something right. Its aluminium luggage is a first-class travel companion you'll never tire of packing.

• Best lightweight suitcase: American Tourister Soundbox, £145 £120 at amazon.co.uk
• Best suitcase for personalisation: Carl Friedrik, £465 at harveynichols.com
• Best suitcase for suits: Briggs & Riley Baseline, £599 at briggs-riley.co.uk
• Best suitcase for tardis-like capacity: Eastpak Tranverz, £112.50 at amazon.co.uk
• Best suitcase for security: Delsey Monacy, £146 at amazon.co.uk
• Best suitcase for city breaks: Antler Clifton Cabin with Pocket, £199 at antler.co.uk
• Best leather suitcase: Brunello Cucinelli, £4,150 at  matchesfashion.com

SKIP TO: How we test the best suitcases | What luggage brand is best? | What size suitcase do I need? | Is hard or soft-sided luggage better? | What material should I look for in a suitcase? | How much should I spend on a suitcase? | Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 2024 | When is Amazon Prime Big Deal Days 2024?

How we test the best suitcases

To guarantee that your travels pass without frustration, we’ve tested a number of suitcases from some of the best brands around. Our editors have picked out a selection of luggage options designed to cope with planes, trains and automobiles, assessing ease of use, packaging space, durability and any other features that might be useful, like materials, expandable storage options and colourways to make them easier to spot on the carousel.

What luggage brand is best?

We're glad you asked. We've got a dedicated guide on the best luggage brands you need to know about to smooth over any potential travel mishaps, but generally, there's plenty of choice when it comes to who you buy with.

You'll all be fully aware of the most popular options like Samsonite and Rimowa ; titans of travel who are well-versed in what makes up a quality suitcase. These options will be perfect companions on your journeys, with bags, carry-ons and large trunks that can cope with weekend getaways, adventurous city breaks, and long-haul visits to the other side of the world. Here, bags can start on the affordable end of the scale, making it a great choice for cheap and cheerful luggage to get you through your immediate travel plans.

More rugged options like that of DB and Antler will scratch the wander-lust itch in you, with models to cope with more arduous journeys that stray away from the luxury of the Business Class lounge.

As for the the sartorial options, we'd recommend taking a look at Carl Friedrik , Globe Trotter and Tumi for suitcases that boast a stylish presence from the front door to the hotel bed. Granted, these will be much more costly, but consider them an investment piece. If you travel often and want to stay stylish throughout, you won't find many better options.

What size suitcase do I need?

As any frequent traveller knows, the golden rule is to always travel with the best carry-on luggage if you can. To avoid getting caught out by any exorbitant last-minute handling fees, check that any cabin case you want to store in an overhead locker is no longer than 55cm and is no bigger than the listed requirements on the airline’s website.

An easy way around this problem is to opt for a smaller expandable suitcase in the first place, with compression straps that can cram in as much as possible. Also, make sure your hand luggage doesn’t boast ridiculously large wheels or a massive handle, as it’ll have less chance of squeezing into those metal sizing frames that airlines are so fond of. Should you be in need of a large suitcase to check in, opt for something with a length upwards of 75cm and a capacity of around 70L, and look out for suitcases that are expandable for roomy storage. Remember, however, that the larger the luggage, the weightier, so you could be better off opting for a soft shell suitcase to keep kgs down.

An alternative to wheeled suitcases is to check out our guide on the best backpacks . You might think this is a less sartorial option and betrays your potentially breezy journey through the airport as you lug your gear over your shoulder, but there's plenty to appreciate about rucksacks generally. Often the choice for long-distance backpackers and journeyman travellers, the best travel backpacks can house a surprising amount of gear to be taken onto the plane, train or bus, with the freedom to tackle stairs or more adventurous modes of transportation than chunkier suitcases can cope with.

Of course, if you’re travelling within the UK (may we direct you to our guides to the best UK holiday cottages and hotels ), just make sure it’s the right size for your car and/or won’t take up too much space on a train.

Is hard or soft-sided luggage better?

Unless your bag is being put in the overhead locker, stay clear of soft-sided suitcases to avoid damage to your possessions inside. Either way, ask to have your luggage marked as fragile and it will be one of the first to come off of the plane. Hard-shell suitcases tend to be the most durable and are the kind of luggage most pilots use for good reason. It also tends to be much more stylish, with luxury aluminium finishes offering an especially high-end look.

That said, your suitcase is still likely to get chucked about a fair bit on its journey, so get a case that has separate compartments to make sure that you don’t smell like duty-free vodka for the entirety of your weekend away. You can keep things neat with the help of packing cubes, which brands such as Away offer in multipacks of various sizes ( set of six , £65).

What material should I look for in a suitcase?

Leather or waxed twill cotton are the usual suspects in the soft-shell area, thanks to their water-resistant capabilities and durability. Generally, you won’t be lugging around any bulky digital equipment, so you could choose to avoid the clunky protection of a polycarbonate shell suitcase, though the sleeker aluminium casing by brands such as Rimowa and Samsonite is increasingly appealing. Similarly, don’t buy a case that is going to look dirty and damaged after one flight – stay away from white or cream colours. If it’s a short trip and you’re not a heavy traveller, a duffel bag offers a convenient way to get around without the hangups of wheels, bulk or weight.

How much should I spend on a suitcase?

As with most travel essentials , the important thing here is that you do get what you pay for with a suitcase. Granted, airport security will gleefully break open your bag if they can’t access it easily, but durability is crucial in any luggage item.

So do the sensible thing and test all the TSA locks, zips and other appendages that could break before investing. Luggage that comes with a one-year warranty is also a huge boon, should some baggage handler chuck your case around as though it’s Thor’s hammer. This increased hardiness comes at a price, so if you’re after proper protection, anything more than £300 should be best placed to get you through your trip. Top picks will inevitably cost more, around the £500 mark, but if you’re working with a budget, £150 can get you from A-to-B comfortably.

As you should expect, designer-led options will easily shoot the cost beyond the £1,000 mark, radically elevating your sartorial travel reputation well into the luxurious. These exceptionally pricey models don't offer any more protection but will unlock the option to release a smug smile as you witness admiring glances through security.

Finally, if you’re a frequent flyer, think about the extras you actually want from a suitcase, such as easy-access front pockets, an extendable handle or wheels. An in-built phone charger is all very well, but most airplanes have a USB port embedded by your seating as standard…

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Shop GQ's full edit of the best suitcase you can buy for 2024…

Tumi Short Trip Packing Case

We like: Huge range of luggage options | exceptionally luxurious, high-end design | Several storage shelves for packing

We don’t like: Very expensive

• Type: Hard case
• Sizes: Carry-on (35L), short trip (55L) and world-wide trip (122L)
• Best colourways: Silver or Matte Black
• Max capacity: 122L
• Weight: 6.2KG

Easily one of the most sought-after suitcases, at least in GQ's office anyway, is Tumi's durable, ultra-luxe set of bags, cases and luggage. Seriously, just look at this thing. If it doesn't catch the eye of every globe-trotter in your lounge, then we don't think the world has taste or style.

And below that gorgeous outer shell, there's a whole host of useful packing features to guarantee a smooth journey. The top-tier option has packing shelves that dissect the interior for more organised storage but it also is cavernous across the range, so you'll find plenty of space to pack suits, shoes and all your swim shots without fretting. The locks are, of course, TSA-approved, and its high-price tag presents an air of confidence that this is a truly quality product. From £950. At uk.tumi.com

Antler Prestwick large

We like: Water resistant materials | Surprisingly robust

We don’t like: Pricey

• Type: Soft shell
• Sizes:  Cabin, medium, large and luggage set
• Best colourways: Nav
• Weight: 3.2KG

If it’s a first-class case to take you into the lounge, then Antler’s Prestwick set offers a suitable amount of sophistication alongside its hardiness. The lightweight softshell is water-resistant, and robust and looks properly good as you glide out of customs. Storage is decent, though we’d perhaps like a little more at this price. And, as with all Antler options, it comes with a lifetime warranty, serving you well for your 25th trip to the Costa Del Sol. £240. At antler.co.uk

Carl Friedrik The Check-in

We like: Can be matched as a set with The Carry-On | Spacious | Hard-shelled four-wheeled suitcase

We don’t like: Very expensive | Not a good option for vegan travellers

• Type: Hard shell
• Sizes:  Large and standard
• Best colourways: Cognac would be our pick but it also comes in a special edition Alpha Tauri collection
• Max capacity: 65.8L
• Weight: 4.5KG

In our opinion, you can’t go wrong with a lovely bit of Italian leather to level up your luggage game. Carl Friedrik’s Check-in series is a luxurious case designed for travelling in style. It’s not the most spacious or largest on our list, but it’s big enough for a week’s worth of clothes and has a strap to properly clamp things down inside. The silent spinner wheels are the gold standard of transportation, though it does come with the deluxe price tag. £465. At carlfriedrik.com

Samsonite Upscape

We like: Five-year guarantee | Eye-catching design | Huge capacity

We don’t like: Combination lock is hard to reach

• Sizes:  Large only
• Best colourways: Climbing Ivy is a gorgeous colour to see rolling around the carousel
• Max capacity: 83L
• Weight: 2.16KG

Any traveller worth their salt will have heard of Samsonite’s jet-setting pedigree and we think the Upscape set is well worth considering if you’re looking to upgrade your luggage. The hard-shell case comes in four dazzling colours that are heavily accentuated by the ripple-effect design that protects it from dents and bumps. There’s plenty of space for a two-week holiday and the shock-absorbing wheels go a long way to dealing with any bumps on the road. £219. At johnlewis.com & amazon.co.uk

By Jessie Atkinson

By Daphne Bugler

Carl Friedrik All Black Edition

We like: Beautiful design | Front pocket for laptop storage | TSA-approved lock | Removable compression pad and straps

We don’t like: Very expensive | Shell is easy to scratch

• Sizes: Carry-on (40L), carry-on Pro (43L), Check-in (65.8L) and Large Check-In (90L) (122L)
• Best colourways: Black on black
• Max capacity: 43L
• Weight: 4.3KG

We adore Carl Friedrik's heavyweight travel pedigree that's been accumulated over the last few years, featuring in ultra-luxe shows such as Succession and White Lotus . However, for the ultimate stealth wealth flex, the all-black edition of the set – from smaller carry-on up to large check-in – is our top pick.

This particular set of luggage is forever ready for an adventure, with TSA-approved locks, a charging port to keep your phone topped up and a front compartment to store pens, passports and even a laptop for easy removal when you get to security. Whisper-quiet wheels will see you glide through the terminal, appreciating the admiring glances of those who notice true quality in your luggage. From £445. At carlfriedrik.com

Db Ramverk Pro Carry-on Silver

We like: Great accessibility | Rugged aluminium frame | TSA-approved locks

We don’t like: Fairly heavy across the range | Not the largest set of cases

• Sizes: Carry-on (36L), check-in medium (67L) and check-in large (87L)
• Best colourways: Black Out and Silver
• Max capacity: Up to 87L
• Weight: 5.3KG

Travelling isn't always smooth, but so long as you're equipped with a quality suitcase you can tackle almost any mishap that may befall your journey. This is especially true when you're armed with a proper rugged case like the Ramverk Pro from DB. Built to last and sustainably produced, the aluminium frame combines with a polycarbonate shell that's both lightweight and sturdy, protecting your summer outfits while still giving the globe-trotting aesthetics that are most sought-after by travellers.

For storage, there are plenty of options to cope with a short weekend getaway to a two-week jaunt across the world, with a number of internal pockets to store laptops and vital documents. Dual TSA-approved locks assure you can travel at ease, knowing your luggage is safe, secure and well looked after. £549. At uk.dbjourney.com

TUMI McLaren Aero International Expandable 4 Wheel Carry-On

We like: Desirable collaboration | Removable suit carrier | USB charging port

We don’t like: Expensive | Garish colour scheme

• Type: Tarpaulin soft-shell
• Sizes: Cabin (40L), 30-inch (80L) and 36-inch (155L)
• Best colourways: Neon yellow
• Max capacity: 80L
• Weight: 5.1KG

It comes as no surprise to see that Tumi's special McLaren edition suitcase is forged from premium materials, including durable carbon fibre, and a moulded front panel made from Tegris — an advanced composite material made from polypropylene tape woven into fabric and exposed to heat and pressure to form rigid sheets. Engineering tricks aside, it's a handy bit of kit too, with features like a removable suit/garment holder coming in particularly handy for business trips. Incredibly expensive, but a tantalising luxury option for those looking to splurge.

What we love about this one is that it comes with a USB port for charging your phone on the go. Something that's drastically underappreciated as you careen around the airport quicker than Lewis Hamilton at the end of the season. £1,625. At uk.tumi.com

Globe Trotter Centenary

We like: Beautiful design | Capacious storage | Huge range of colour options

We don’t like: Material is very easy to damage and scuff | Pricey

• Sizes: Carry-on (40L), medium check-in (55L), large check-in and XL Trunk (122L)
• Best colourways: Marmalade Orange
• Max capacity: 40L
• Weight: 4.2KG

It's giving Paddington Bear. It's giving early 20th century explorer. It's a gorgeous travelling trunk that's sure to turn heads across the globe. Globe Trotter's range is among our most sought-after cases simply because it's such a sophisticated set of luggage on the airport conveyor belt.

This particular case from the Centenary range is a perfect companion for that upcoming late-summer trip, with a huge cavern for storage, a sturdy chassis and beautiful vulcanised fibreboard with leather accents and a luxurious polished brass clasps to complete the sartorial gravitas you're likely hunting for. £1,495. At matchesfashion.com and globe-trotter.com

Amazon Basics 3-Piece Luggage Set

We like: Affordable price range | Study design | Prime next-day delivery available

We don’t like: Not the most luxurious set

• Max capacity: 81.4L

The great thing about picking up luggage from Amazon's own-brand range of products is that there's an immensely affordable selection of bags, suitcases and luggage to keep costs down as you jet-set off on your hols. This three-piece range is the complete set, ready and waiting to cope with a two-week trip to some sunny nation, protecting all your gear and gliding through security with the 360-wheels.

And look, there's not a huge amount of luxury to be found here, it's ostensibly an affordable entry to travel, but if you're penny-pinching, you can grab this set on your Amazon Prime account and get free next-day deliveries, and if you're careful and plan ahead, there's more than likely a decent Prime Day deal to be found online to make it even cheaper. £159.99. At amazon.co.uk

Globe Trotter Golf Le Fleur

We like: Gorgeous colourway | Unique design | Spacious options

We don’t like: Scrapes and dents will show up on the colourway | Very luxurious

• Sizes: Carry-on (37L) and large check in (83L)
• Weight: 5.5KG

OK, this is definitely our favourite suitcase we've seen this year. In a brilliant sartorial collab between Globe Trotter and Tyler, The Creator, we introduce to you Gold Le Fleur. Just look at this thing, it's cute as a button, eye-catching but also delivers on the travel-worthy goods where it needs to. This collection is effortlessly unique, with hints of pastel colour splashed across the ivory exterior, giving that air of luxury that befits the mighty cost. £2,295. At matchesfashion.com and globe-trotter.com

Carl Frederik Scuderia AlphaTauri Carry-on

We like: Great design ethos | Secure built-in locks

We don’t like: Expensive | Relatively heavy on its own

• Sizes:  Cabin only
• Best colourways: 1/1 limited edition in navy chrome with personalisable navy leather trims
• Weight: 3.9KG

Opulence is given with Carl Friedrik luggage, which runs the gamut from high-end leather accessories and  holdalls to long-trip check-in cases. Having teamed up with the formidable F1 racing team Scuderia AlphaTauri to design a carry-on fit for the road, the luxury brand proves it’s also in the business of adventure. This small-but-mighty suitcase is a frequent flyer’s dream: a steel-strong navy chrome shell, robust telescopic handles and silent spinning 360 wheels. What wins it the GQ Recommends gold, though, is its lightweight aluminium frame – durable enough to last a lifetime of jet setting, and forged with integrated combination locks for max security.  From £365. At  carlfriedrik.com

Antler Stamford large

We like: Pastel colourways | Lifetime warranty | Huge storage capacity

We don’t like: Pricey | Works best in a complete set

• Best colourways: Khaki
• Max capacity: 152L
• Weight: 5.12KG

While Antler’s Stamford set is best bought as a luggage set so you can colour match, if you can get past the high price tag they are some of the best suitcases around. With whisper-quiet, rotating wheels, a lightweight polycarbonate shell and enough space to pack your entire wardrobe, this is a traveller’s best friend. Suave, lightweight and ready for the long haul. £270. At antler.co.uk

Rimowa Essential

We like: Ultra-luxe glossy design | Very sturdy

We don’t like: One of the most expensive options | Easily stained and marked

• Sizes:  small cabin to large check-in and trunks
• Best colourways: White and Azure Blue gloss
• Max capacity: 44L

The latest colourway in Rimowa’s hyped line of luxe spinner luggage, this supersized check-in suitcase is full of stand-out style. Does its white gloss shell defy conventional luggage wisdom? Maybe. Will it look the part in every one of your vacay snaps? Absolutely. More than just a picturesque partner for bright skies and sparkling blue sea, its practical polycarbonate outer resists scuffs and stains as well as being easily identifiable in the baggage claim queue. Inside, there’s plenty order, thanks to zippered dividers with adjustable compression straps.  £795. At  rimowa.com

Amazon Basics “Hardside”

We like: Affordable | Quick delivery

We don’t like: Not the most durable

• Sizes: 20-inch, 24-inch and 28-inch
• Best colourways: Black and navy
• Max capacity: 39L
• Weight: 3.3KG

Travelling this week but haven't got a case to hastily bundle your wardrobe into? Amazon to the rescue. Available with the e-tailer's next-day Prime delivery, these cost-effective cases in cabin-size, medium and large have all trips covered, no matter how last-minute you've left the packing. The fact that they're spacious, durable and super lightweight doesn't hurt, either. From £48. At amazon.co.uk

Antler Clifton Cabin with pocket

We like: A best-seller | Spacious | Storage space for a 15.6” laptop

We don’t like: Only one colour option

• Best colourways: Matte black
• Max capacity: 38L

For the man who works from anywhere, Antler’s Clifton Cabin suitcase is just as functional as it is chic. You won’t ever find yourself rummaging through socks and boxers at security, because its front compartment is cut with pockets designated for your tech. Easily unzipped for the liquids and laptops check, it securely stashes tablets, headphones and laptops of up to 15 inches within a protective padded sleeve. All encased in a matte-black hardshell that manoeuvres like a dream, thanks to multidirectional wheels and an ergonomically designed twist-grip handle.  £220. At   antler.co.uk & johnlewis.com

Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender

• Type: Leather weekend bag
• Sizes:  Small only
• Best colourways: Chocolate, grey or olive
• Max capacity: N/A
• Weight: N/A

A weekend away calls for a classy holdall, and it doesn’t come much better than Carl Friedrik’s ultra-luxe Compact Weekender. Made of sleek Nubuck leather, big enough for a change of clothes, a spare pair of shoes and your washbag , but we wouldn’t anticipate packing much more. Still, it’s stain-resistant, looks great and is our first choice for a 24-hour excursion. £395. At carlfriedrik.com

Eastpak Tranverz

We like: Huge storage capacity | Affordable

We don’t like: Massive | Not the most eye-catching colourways

• Type: Nylon/polyester soft shell
• Sizes: S, M, L
• Best colourways: Kontrast Lime Pilot
• Max capacity: 121L
• Weight: 3.7KG

For adventure-based travels such as ski or cycle holidays, Eastpak’s cavernous Tranverz suitcase reigns supreme. What this suitcase lacks in the ultra-slickness of aluminium-framed Amex lounge-ready luggage, it more than makes up for with the seemingly endless pit of storage space in its double-decker internal compartments. Not only is it perfect for stowing any means of specialist kit, but when you’re not on the road, it’ll double as a convenient vessel for your out-of-season wardrobe. Be warned though, while you can set yourself apart with a striking colourway, the much-praised practicality of the Eastpak Tranverz means you'd be wise to go the extra step with a personalised luggage tag . From £175. At amazon.co.uk & eastpak.com

Antler Chelsea Packing cubes

We like: Handy storage cubes to make packing organised | Range of size options

We don’t like: No option for shoes

• Type: Packing cubes
• Sizes:  4.5 x 33 x 10cm (large), 33 x 17.5 x 10cm (medium) & 17.5 x 16.5 x 10 cm (small)
• Best colourways: Black

Whatever kind of suitcase takes your fancy, to maximise the room within it you’ll want to invest in a set of packing cubes. Enter Antler’s Chelsea packing set, complete with smaller sizes for your undies and mesh windows so you can keep track of your packing list at a glance. Bordered with compression zips to keep your clothes tightly and tidily packed, they’ll double the number of pieces you have room for and bring as much order to your folding as Marie Kondo or any military man could. And when not in use on your travels, they’re a welcome addition to closets and drawers, thanks to a tesselating design that saves space anywhere you put it.  £50. At   antler.co.uk

Brunello Cucinelli Leather carry on

We like: Supremely handsome design | Telescopic handle and rotating wheels | Ultra-luxe

We don’t like: Ultra expensive | Only one size

• Type: Leather
• Best colourways: medium brown and mahogany brown

A handsome softshell with elegant appeal, designed in Italy for a lifetime of short-stay travels. Elevated by Brunello Cucinelli’s commitment to excellent craftmanship, this leather carry-on is the kind that looks better with age (think rich, tonal patina with a vintage charm) and will signal your fine taste in the first-class lounge. Lined with classic belt straps and gold debossed branded details, it stows your belongings in the utmost style, plus compresses down for easy storage in the overhead locker. A set of 360 wheels and a retractable handle add a contemporary utility to a timeless style you’ll treasure on many a business trip.  £4,150. At  matchesfashion.com ,  mrporter.com &  matchesfashion.com

We like: Stain-resistant | Weight-indicator included | Expandable

We don’t like: Quite heavy

• Type: Polycarbonate hard shell
• Sizes:  26 and 29-inch
• Best colourways: Brown, Black
• Max capacity: 112L

Is there anything worse than waiting with crossed fingers and bated breath at the check-in only to be hit with an overweight fee? Coming in clutch with clever self-weighing suitcases, Beis makes such blunders a thing of the past. Once you’ve filled the cavernous compartments of this expandable hardshell with your shirts,  shorts and souvenirs for all the family, the scale on its top handle will indicate any overpacking. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s sewn with waterproof pouch pockets for your toiletries and compression clasps to ensure your possessions stay put, plus a hands-free bag hook for your duty-free shop. Max storage and max functionality – big yes.  £269. At  beistravel.com

We like: Lightweight | Vegan-approved | Comes with a premium laundry bag

We don’t like: Fairly bland design

• Sizes: H5 (35L), H6 (65L) and H7 (90L)
• Best colourways: Marine green, true red and dark olive
• Max capacity: 65L

German smart-luggage brand Horizn Studios constructs its cases from aerospace-grade polycarbonate for (inter)stellar durability. But that's just the beginning. Its H5, H6 and H7 suitcases span the check-in friendly to the excuse me while I move overseas. Fitted with compression pads to maximise volume, its 360-degree spinner wheels are engineered in Japan, it has an in-built smart charger to keep your devices running during delays and it comes with a premium laundry bag to keep things organised on the other side. And if you're used to travelling a lot for work, the M5 boasts all the same features as the cabin variety, but with the addition of an exterior laptop and document sleeve. From £420. At horizn-studios.co.uk

Rimowa Classic

We like: Decent storage | Telescopic handle | Eye-catching, sturdy design

We don’t like: Very expensive | Heavy

• Type: Aluminium hard shell
• Sizes: Cabin S, Cabin, Check-in M, Check-in L, Trunk
• Best colourways: Silver and navy
• Max capacity: 72L
• Weight: 5.7KG

120-year-old German manufacturer, Rimowa, was bought in 2016 by the brand-hungry LVMH and has since been given some hype CPR. Collaborations with Supreme, Dior and Off-White have turned fashionistas' heads, but it is the brand’s iconic aluminium flagship that will continue to impress long into the future. A suitcase built for a lifetime of use with a strong aluminium alloy shell, not only would be difficult to destroy even if you tried, it's also about as good-looking as luggage gets. From £850. At rimowa.com

We like: Bright colour range | Can add a built-in USB-Charger as an optional extra

We don’t like: Only enough for a seven-day trip | Small storage

• Sizes: Carry-on, bigger carry-on, medium, expandable medium and large
• Best colourways: White, navy, aluminium-edition silver and aluminium-edition rose gold
• Max capacity: 47.9L
• Weight: 3.4KG

Away’s range of suitcases really does have something for everyone, whether you’re a light packer who travels with the bare minimum or someone who prefers to cram in far too many outfits “just in case”. Suitable for anyone in the middle is Away’s Bigger Carry-On suitcase, which is compact enough to fit in an overhead bin but also has plenty of room for everything you need and more. The case is fitted with a laundry bag, interior compression system and has a durable shell and 360-degree wheels that make any connections easier than ever. And if your battery always seems to run out mid-journey, Away's suitcases also come with the option of a removable battery that can hold four phone charges. From £265. At awaytravel.com

American Tourister “Soundbox”

We like: Funky design | Eye-catching colourways

We don’t like: Cheap materials

• Sizes: 55cm, 67cm and 77cm
• Best colourways: Black, yellow and magenta
• Max capacity: up to 110L

American Tourister was the brains behind one of the world's first-ever moulded suitcases. Continuing what it started, the luggage brand has come a long way since then, applying the technique to its Soundbox suitcase with a dynamic swirling pattern that gives it a half-and-half matte/gloss finish. The polypropylene it's made from is both lightweight and hard-wearing – a winning combination when it comes to suitcases – plus the shell of its smallest 55cm model can be expanded while still fitting airlines' increasingly stingy cabin-sized criteria. From £110. At amazon.co.uk

Briggs & Riley Baseline

We like: Expandable capacity | Built-in clothes folder | Durable | Lightweight

We don’t like: Low storage capacity overall

• Type: Nylon soft-shell
• Sizes: Carry-on, Medium, Large Expandable, Extra Large
• Best colourways: Khaki Green
• Max capacity: 49
• Weight: 3.1KG

An American travel icon, Briggs & Riley debuted its all-new Baseline range in April '22 as a reimagined version of its flagship line. Alongside carry-on and checked luggage are totes, duffles, garment bags and toiletry kits for any travel need imaginable, but the stand-out piece has got to be the Essential Carry-On. Not only will it stow 30 per cent more than your average overhead luggage bin bag, thanks to one-touch CX compression expansion, but its tri-fold garment holder will neatly hold two suits without wrinkling and premium panels envelop clothing to reduce creasing, making it perfect for destination weddings. Available in three suave colourways, this kind of luggage is too good not to opt-in for the complimentary monogramming service. From £599. At briggs-riley.co.uk

Delsey Monacy

We like: Reasonably priced | Great colour options

• Sizes: 55cm to 82cm
• Best colourways: Blue
• Max capacity: 55L

Delsey’s Moncey suitcases are a triple-threat when it comes to safety, robustness and manoeuvrability. Really though, the case's above-and-beyond security measures are what make it stand out from the rest on the luggage belt. Not only is it fitted with a central combination lock and TSA lock, but two additional locks at the top and bottom, plus an address door to the rear that should help locate your belongings all the faster should there be a dreaded airline mishap. A choice of five bright colours doesn’t hurt when it comes to locating it either, of which the vivid blue is our personal favourite. From £188. At amazon.co.uk

We like: Gold design is easy to spot on the carousel | Durable | Decent capacity

We don’t like: Heavy

• Sizes: Cabin and Check-in
• Best colourways: Olive green and gold
• Max capacity: 61L

We’re embracing the ’70s in every facet of our wardrobes right now, and Floyd’s suitcases are an extension of the trend that’ll add some real panache to your vacay ‘fits. Its hardshell cases are retro in all the right ways – from the rich, shiny gold colourway to the typography of the logo – while the features are made for the 21st-century frequent flyer. Think 360° wheels, a TSA-approved lock and an interior with two handy separate compartments. Find us wheeling ours down the city streets of one of the destinations outlined in our must-visits guide for 2023. From £445. At matchesfashion.com

Samsonite Lite-Box

We like: Rugged, durable design | Built-in combination lock

We don’t like: Low storage capacity | Fairly heavy | Non-expandable

• Sizes: 55cm, 69cm and 76cm
• Best colourways: Silver
• Weight: 4.7KG

Anodized aluminium is a suitcase luxury that borders on overprotective it's so sturdy, and beyond the durability capabilities of a hotel safe, it also looks incredible gliding through the departure lounge floor. Samsonite's latest release makes it look like you're travelling with a case full of neatly stacked fifties; an aesthetic that's amplified further still by its integrated TSA function locks and slick, silent wheels that barely make a sound. All that's left to do is breeze past the Pret queue, right into the first-class lounge. From £630. At johnlewis.com

Aerolite Super Lightweight ABS

We like: Stunning colourways | Ultra-durable | Affordable

We don’t like: Not particularly big

• Sizes: Cabin (34L), Medium (82L) and Large (127L)
• Best colourways: Wine
• Max capacity: 34L
• Weight: 2.6KG

Aerolite utilises a super-durable ABS hardshell to build suitcases that are made to last. The material is both strong and scratch-resistant, meaning it won't lose its lustre after the first trip you take it on, while a modest weight of 2.6kg for its cabin-friendly size means you'll pack plenty in it before coming close to your weight limit. Inside, handy storage solutions like a zipped divider and zipped mesh storage pocket make it a dream to pack for those who like to keep things organised on their holidays, while smooth, chunky exterior zippers make it all the easier to secure when you're nearing capacity. Aerolite's cases are also extremely easy to control thanks to four 360-degree spinner wheels and a double-tube retractable handle. £59.99. At amazon.co.uk

Travelpro Maxlite Air

We like: Very durable | Eco-friendly

We don’t like: Quite dinky | Expensive for the size

• Type: Lightweight polycarbonate
• Sizes: 55cm - 78cm
• Best colourways: Ensign Blue

At only 2.6kg as a carry-on, Travelpro had every right to name this suitcase as it did. Crucially, though, the brand manages this feat without compromising any durability, engineered to flex on impact to keep safe from cracks, splits and punctures in transit. As an added bonus, for anyone conscious of the impact their wanderlust has on the planet, the lining inside is made entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, which should give you an extra eco-friendly spring in your step as you disembark on the other side. From £162. At travelpro.com

Nere Travel ‘Stori’ suitcase 55cm

We like: The vibrant colourways | Spacious | Hard-shelled four-wheeled suitcase | Reasonably priced

We don’t like: Not ideal for departure lounge wallflowers

• Type: Hardshell
• Sizes:  Standard
• Best colourways: Whilst aqua blue would be our pick, it also comes in a range of pastel and more head-turning hues
• Max capacity: 46L

Oz's most infamously fashion-forward travel brand, Nere Travel's luggage will match any mood you can feel or adventure you can book. As the brand's most iconic suitcase, the Stori makes a perfect pick for quick jaunts to Europe or long car rides alike. Defined by the range's bold colour scheme, the Stori might be easy on the eyes, but it's its ABS hard shell and multi-faceted storage features mean that it's just as kind on your travel essentials. That, and it certainly won't go missing at baggage claim any time soon. £119. neretravel.co.uk

The North Face

We like: Massive capacity | Ultra durable | Built-in Sherpa strap

• Weight: 4.4KG

On the sportier side of suitcases, The North Face goes all-in on space and function, creating bags with a reputation that's nothing short of iconic (see the instantly recognisable, multifunctional Basecamp). From the outdoor favourite’s Rolling Thunder range, this suitcase comes constructed from an ultra-durable tarpaulin that’ll stand up on long-haul and festival trips alike, with an upper capacity limit of 155L that could pretty much fit the contents of a minimalist room inside, or three weeks off the grid without the need to do laundry. And in its fluorescent yellow colourway, complimented by bright red wheels, this is function at its steeziest. £300. At thenorthface.co.uk

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8 best suitcases and check-in travel bags for holidays in 2023

From lightweight luggage to lockable cabin bags and hardy suitcases, our experts have tested the best travel bags and holdalls, article bookmarked.

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Travel is changing, and so are our needs as globetrotters, and the demands on our suitcases and cabin travel bags have never been greater. So, we decided it was time to look for the best suitcases out there, whether you’re a fan of city breaks and are in need of a budget-airline-friendly case , or a lover of long-haul adventures looking for something a little more substantial.

For hard-sided cases, you can’t go wrong with polypropylene, a material that is tough, light and scratch-resistant. For soft-sided cases, we recommend looking for cases made with polyamide, which has similar qualities.

Bonus points go to cases with areas of reinforcement over wheels, or so-called compression zips, which allow you to cram more into your suitcase without risking damaging key components.

When it comes to wheels, hollow ones can mean your suitcase makes significantly more noise when you’re rolling it along, while rubber wheels are generally quieter than plastic ones. And while four wheels will make rolling your suitcase along smooth surfaces much easier, two-wheeled suitcases can be easier to manoeuvre on rough ground.

Finally, if keeping your suitcase in top condition is a priority, hard-sided cases are likely to be the best option. They’re low maintenance and can be wiped clean, and a growing number of hard-sided suitcases have scratch-resistant coatings.

Related stories

How we tested.

We rolled, dragged and heaved our suitcases across various destinations, squeezed them into cramped cars and overhead luggage cabins, and filled them way past their recommended capacity. After all of this, they didn’t just survive unscathed, they emerged triumphant, protecting our travel essentials, gliding smoothly through the most crowded of airports and helping us stay organised on multi-destination trips.

The best suitcases for 2023 are:

• Best suitcase overall – Ted Baker bow detail medium case: £245, Tedbaker.com
• Best super-sized suitcase – Rock sunwave large suitcase: £195, Rockluggage.com
• Best medium suitcase – Tripp banana holiday 6 cabin four-wheel suitcase: £59.50, Tripp.co.uk
• Best lockable cabin bag – Joules bee cabin case: £169, Joules.com

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Ted Baker bow detail medium case

• Best : Suitcase overall
• Size : 69cm x 47.5cm x 28cm
• Colourways : Three: blue, pink and black

Upgrade your explorations with this stylish suitcase from Ted Baker. Its sides feel incredibly rigid (much more so than the average hard-sided case) and we’re bowled over by the gold accents – more specifically, a tiny gold bow on the front, gold zips and gold tips on the side handles.

The suitcase opens clamshell-style to reveal two mesh-covered compartments, and Ted Baker has maxed out the capacity by incorporating two pockets into the material covering the left half (we found this especially useful for separating dirty laundry from the rest of the suitcase’s contents).

Add a simple but secure lock, spinner wheels that glide ridiculously smoothly, and internal compression straps with just the right amount of elasticity (trust us, the right compression straps make a world of difference) and we reckon this might just be one of the best suitcases on the market right now.

Kipling spontaneous S suitcase

• Best : Soft suitcase
• Size : 33cm x 53cm x 21cm
• Colourways : Five: black, bright blue, metallic, brush stripe pattern and light blue

We’ve always thought Kipling’s suitcases are seriously underestimated, and the spontaneous S is a case (excuse the pun) in point. This soft-sided case’s low weight (2.8kg) stems largely from the use of polyamide – a material that is tough yet light.

An oversized side handle made it easy to haul out of cramped overhead luggage compartments, and the large zippered pocket on the front was perfect for important items (such as boarding passes and passports) that we needed quick access to.

Inside, things get even better. A funky map-inspired design adorns the material that zips over the case’s two halves, and we’re fully in favour of Kipling’s decision to ditch traditional X-shaped compression straps, opting instead for two adjustable straps that span the width of one side of the suitcase.

Antler Clifton case in mineral, large

• Best : Hard suitcase
• Size : 20cm x 40cm x 55cm
• Colourways : Ten: mineral, slate grey, sycamore, ochre, black, navy, blush, taupe, azure and poppy

We’re very aware colourways are probably the least important factor when it comes to suitcases, but we can’t help but be impressed by the choice of 10 shades when it comes to this hard-sided case.

Prone to overpacking? You’ll appreciate the expander zip, as well as the extra-sturdy compression straps you’ll find inside the case.

There’s a sense that no expense has been spared on materials with this bag – the telescopic handle glides out incredibly smoothly and feels wonderfully tactile, and there’s a reassuring sturdiness to every single component, whether it’s the zips, the wheels or the TSA-compliant padlock.

Burton wheelie flight deck 38l travel bag

• Best : Large suitcase
• Size : 56cm x 35.5cm x 23cm
• Colourways : Two: black and blue

Burton’s fight deck case has gone through several reincarnations, although the interior has remained pretty much the same, as has the emphasis on toughness and sturdiness. This isn’t the lightest suitcase you’ll come across, but it will stand up to a serious amount of wear and tear, thanks partly to its extra-thick side walls and the various areas of reinforcement – whether it’s the plastic corner caps or the reinforced handle.

We were sceptical about Burton’s so-called “volume-enhancing stretch CRAM zones”, but we were proved wrong – as notorious over-packers, we loved the way the zippered covers for the respective halves had a huge amount of elasticity, unlike standard covers.

Samsonite proxis spinner

• Best : Wheeled suitcase
• Size : 81cm x 57cm x 32cm
• Colourways : Six: black, petrol blue, honey gold, matte graphite, matte climbing ivy and lime green

Spinner wheels don’t get smoother than the ones you’ll find on the Samsonite proxis, although that’s far from the only reason we love this lightweight suitcase, which weighs just 3.6kg.

Made with roxkin (Samsonite’s very own, ultra-tough version of polypropylene), it’s a suitcase that isn’t just incredibly tough but has clearly been designed by frequent travellers. Added extras – such as the retractable, integrated ID tag, and the presence of multiple internal compartments – haven’t simply been added without thought, but because they’re genuinely useful add-ons.

Tripp banana holiday 6 cabin four-wheel suitcase

• Best : Medium suitcase
• Size : 55cm x 40cm x 20cm
• Colourways : Five: yellow, pink, blue, grey and red

There are lots of things we love about this suitcase, starting with the fact it’s nigh on impossible to miss it on the luggage carousel, thanks to its banana-yellow hue.

It lacks the rigidity we’d expect from more expensive suitcases but, as a cabin bag, it’s more than up to the job. It also comes with various features that aren’t always guaranteed on suitcases at this price point. These include the TSA-compliant lock and the reinforcements above the four wheels.

Rock sunwave large suitcase

• Best : Super-sized suitcase
• Size : 79cm x 53cm x 38.5cm
• Colourways : Six: peach, charcoal grey, white, blue, pink and black

This stylish suitcase, made from ultra-tough polypropylene, is perfect for anyone who struggles with the concept of travelling light. The simplicity of the interior – which comprises two compartments, one of which has X-shaped compression straps – allowed us to make full use of its size, and the brilliant expander zip meant we could create a little more space for some unplanned purchases.

The spinner wheels are double ones, which makes them less prone to wear and tear, due to the weight being spread more evenly, and we loved the fact the case comes with an impressive 15-year warranty. 

Suitcases FAQs

What size does a wheeled suitcase need to be for cabin storage.

This will vary slightly depending on the airline you’re flying with. Generally, you can bring one cabin bag for free, with the option to pay more for a larger bag. Easyjet for instance, allows a 45cm x 36cm x 20cm cabin bag or you can pay more for another, larger bag up to 56cm x 45cm x 25 cm. Similarly, British Airways and Jet2 both allow cabin bags with dimensions up to 56cm x 45cm x 25cm.

What are the best luggage brands to shop?

Depending on how far your budget will stretch and what style of case you’re looking for, there are both lifestyle designers such as Joules or Ted Baker and specialised luggage brands such as Antler, Tripp, Samsonite and Rock to choose from.

Is hard or soft material better?

Hard shell suitcases may provide more protection while being more resistant to the elements and easier to clean, compared to a soft material. That being said, softer materials tend to stretch more which is perfect if you plan on arriving home with more than you set out with. Outside pockets and storage sleeves are more common with soft shell luggage though, which makes important items more accessible during the journey.

What type of luggage is most lightweight?

For the most part, you’ll probably find that soft shell suitcases made with nylon or polycarbonate are more lightweight than their hard shell counterparts.

The verdict: Suitcases

We loved Ted Baker’s bow detail medium case , simply because everything about this suitcase is premium, whether it’s the thick compression straps or the abundance of pockets in the interior. Top-quality materials bagged Kipling’s spontaneous S suitcase the title of best soft-sided suitcase, while we were absolutely smitten with the look of the Joules bee cabin case , as well as the neat internal design and the toughness of the materials used.

For more travel essentials, read our round-up of the best travel wallets and packing cubes

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The Best Travel Gear and Accessories for Your Next Adventure, According to Experts

Travel must-haves you should definitely pack.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

We carefully reviewed this article in April 2023 and stand by our picks.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , our analysts and engineers have been testing travel products for more than two decades across our Labs. Below we feature the travel gear that’s outperformed in our tests and has been rated highly among consumer testers , ranging from reliable suitcases to comfortable walking shoes, beauty must-haves, gadgets to keep you entertained for hours and handy travel accessories . According to our pros, this is the best travel gear to bring along on your next adventure in 2023 and beyond.

Our top picks:

Best Carry-On Luggage

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked Luggage

Open story hardside luggage large checked spinner suitcase.

Best Underseat Luggage

Samsonite solyte dlx softside luggage.

Best Kid's Luggage

American tourister disney hardside upright luggage.

Best Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

Best Weekender Bag

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Best Travel Backpack

The north face borealis backpack.

Best Packing Cubes

Eagle creek pack-it specter compression cube set.

Best Travel Dress

Outdoor voices exercise dress.

Best Walking Shoes

Allbirds tree runners.

After our top picks in each category, read further to learn travel hacks from our experts. If your next trip is right around the corner, check out our guide to the best luggage on Amazon for two-day Prime shipping!

The Best Travel Gear for Packing

No one likes arriving at their vacation destination only to find the wheels of their suitcase broken. To enjoy hassle-free air travel, the experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab recommend investing in a high-quality, durable suitcase. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight carry-on, spacious hard-shell or compact smart suitcase for a quick business trip, these luggage brands and packing essentials will help make preparing for your next adventure a breeze.

Away's trendy, colorful line of carry-on suitcases is a popular pick among consumers and our Textile Lab's best overall luggage brand . Our pros love that it features a spacious interior while remaining super lightweight thanks to a polycarbonate shell. We also like that you can opt for a suitcase with or without a built-in USB charger so you can charge your phone on the go. If you need to remove the battery before boarding, you can do so easily with the push of a button.

READ MORE: The Best Carry-On Luggage to Buy in 2023

When you’re looking for size, quality and value, look no further than this sleek suitcase. Our Textiles Lab analysts were impressed with the performance of Open Story luggage in recent Lab testing, noting that this durable suitcase handled drop after drop without any dents or damage. Consumers pointed out that the suitcase was easy to maneuver on various surfaces and that they found its modern design appealing.

Fighting for space in a crowded overhead compartment or unexpectedly checking your bag at the gate can be frustrating. If you don’t want to take any risks, consider this Samsonite suitcase that should fit under most airplane seats. According to our Textiles Lab experts, it comes with a comfortable handle and compartments for your laptop and toiletries. Best of all, the suitcase’s abrasion-resistant polyester exterior showed no signs of wear in tests.

READ MORE: The 12 Best Underseat Luggage to Buy

Whether or not you’re planning a trip to Disney World, your kids are bound to love this Disney-themed hard-shell suitcase that comes in popular character prints. Our Textiles pros like that it’s super compact and lightweight to make it easy for your kids to roll around without your help, and that it features oversized zippers and a wide, curved handle made for smaller hands. Though it only comes equipped with two wheels, our users still found it easy enough to maneuver.

READ MORE: Best Kids Luggage

Those planning a road trip or an adventure might want to consider leaving their suitcase at home and grabbing this lightweight duffle bag instead. Our Textiles Lab likes this top-performing bag from Patagonia, which can convert into a backpack should you get tired of carrying it on your shoulder or via the top straps. Not only is it offered in several shades, but it can be compressed into a small bag when not in use, so you don’t have a bulky suitcase taking up your entire hotel room.

READ MORE: Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Sometimes you don’t need a big suitcase for a quick weekend getaway. Our pros love this Lo & Sons bag, which is not only stylish but super spacious so you can fit in all your essentials. The Textiles Lab likes that there’s a separate shoe compartment , so you don’t have to worry about your clean clothes getting mixed up with your dirty sneakers. The bag also features a trolley strap so you can easily secure it on top of your suitcase should you end up needing one.

Everything you need on your next adventure comes with this comfortable, spacious travel backpack, including a bungee system on the exterior to hold your jacket , a laptop compartment and an organized zippered compartment for all your smaller travel essentials. In Lab tests, our textiles experts were impressed with the backpack's water resistance, durability and thoughtful design.

READ MORE: Best Travel Backpacks of 2023

Keeping your suitcase organized is no easy task, but that's when these thin packing cubes save the day. Not only are packing cubes useful for keeping track of what clothing is where, but they can help maximize the space in your suitcase — a win-win. The pros at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab love these cubes' durable, lightweight design as well as each built-in handle for easy access whether you're using a backpack, carry-on or duffle bag.

READ MORE: Best Packing Cubes for Maximizing Carry-On Space

The Best Clothing for Traveling

It can be difficult to narrow down the clothing to bring with you on your trip, but it’s important to pack some comfortable, staple items in addition to all your cute outfits. You’ll be happy you brought a pair of comfortable walking shoes after a long day of exploring a new city, as well as that breezy lightweight travel dress on a hot, summer day. In addition to clothing, our pros also recommend packing a few travel accessories like laundry detergent or a travel steamer to keep your clothing in pristine condition no matter where you are.

Exercise dresses are so popular for a reason — they’re extremely comfortable and an easy item to throw on when on the go. Our Textiles experts like this dress from Outdoor Voices not only because our testers rave about it, but because it's moisture-wicking and versatile. It’s the perfect choice for a day you’ll spend hiking, golfing, biking or taking a walking tour. Best of all, it features a built-in bra and shorts for full coverage.

READ MORE: Best Travel Dresses You Need For Your Next Vacation

On days you’re going to be walking for hours, make sure to pack these comfy Allbirds sneakers in your bag. Ninety-one percent of our survey respondents from our tester panel gave this pair a perfect rating for comfort. Our Textiles pros like how you can wear them with or without socks, and once you’re back from vacation all you have to do is toss them into the washing machine.

READ MORE: Best Walking Shoes for Women

Vim&Vigr Cotton Graduated Compression Socks in 15-20 mmHg

Compression socks can work wonders when you’re seeking relief from swollen feet during a long plane ride or after hours of walking. By applying graduated pressure to your calves and feet they can help alleviate swelling and improve blood flow. Our Textiles analysts recommend this pair from Vim&Vigr, which earned top scores in both performance and durability tests and was a favorite among consumers.

READ MORE: Best Compression Socks for Women

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion

Need a quality pair of comfortable socks for your next adventure? Whether or not you plan on hiking, our Textiles experts recommend Darn Tough socks for any everyday activity. This Merino wool pair is moisture-wicking as well as great for colder temperatures. It also helps prevent blisters by staying put securely on your foot with a seamless design. Our pros like that each pair comes with a lifetime guarantee should you experience significant wear and tear.

READ MORE: Best Hiking Socks to Protect Your Feet

Vionic Amber Adjustable Sandal

Nothing makes walking down Italian cobblestone streets more enjoyable than comfortable walking sandals. If you plan on getting your steps in while you’re on vacation, our Textiles experts recommend packing these Vionic sandals . Available in both medium and wide widths as well as various shades , they’re a great fit for a lot of feet. Our pros like that they’re orthotic shoes but thanks to their modern design, no one will be able to tell.

READ MORE: Best Walking Sandals That Are Super Comfy and Cute

Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron

There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at your hotel or Airbnb only to find a suitcase full of wrinkled clothes, with no iron or steamer in sight. Fortunately, this compact steam iron that’s recommended by our Cleaning Lab is easy to squeeze into a suitcase. Our pros like that it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver. In tests, we were impressed by how successfully it pressed out wrinkles.

READ MORE: Best Steam Irons of 2022

Norwex Laundry Detergent Strips

If you’re going away for a few weeks or are trying to pack light, consider bringing along some of these laundry detergent strips so you can clean your clothes and re-wear them. Our Cleaning Lab pros recommend this pick from Norwex, which earned some of the best performance scores in Lab tests and helped remove stains like ketchup, wine and mud. We also like how the strips come in a lightweight paper envelope so they’re easy to pack.

READ MORE: 5 Best Laundry Detergent Sheets

The Best Beauty and Hygiene Travel Must-Haves

There are certain beauty must-haves that you just can’t leave behind (and shouldn't have to!). Whether you’re looking for a reliable eye mask for your next red-eye, or need a bag that's big enough to store all your makeup and toiletries, our pros narrowed down their favorite beauty and hygiene picks that fortunately come in travel-friendly sizes.

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow Dryer

Fight bad hair days anywhere in the world by bringing along your own hair dryer. Our Beauty Lab experts like this travel-sized pick from Drybar, which folds up nicely so you can stash it in your suitcase. Not only does it feature two voltages so you can use it abroad, but it got a perfect score for its easy-to-use controls in Lab tests and impressed our pros with its quick and efficient drying time.

READ MORE: Best Travel Hair Dryers that are Trusty Space Savers

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case

Our pros love this clear toiletry bag for any sort of travel thanks to its spacious, organized interior that features two zippered compartments as well as mesh pockets for smaller items like lipstick or concealer. It comes in both a mini and standard size, but what we love most are the collapsible carrying handles that make it easy to pull out of your bag when going through security, and flat when going back in your suitcase.

READ MORE: Best Toiletry Bags

Truffle Clarity Jetset Case

This TSA-approved clear makeup case makes going through security a breeze thanks to its transparent paneling. Our beauty pros love that it’s offered in three sizes, making it a great choice for any makeup routine. Though we wish it featured organizational pockets, we like its classy, modern design (offered in leather or nylon) as well as its sturdy structure.

READ MORE: Best Makeup Bags to Stash All Cosmetics

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Soothing Gel

The Purell Hand Sanitizer Gel is a favorite among our Lab experts, who find that the aloe and vitamin E formula doesn’t leave behind a sticky residue like other hand sanitizers. We like that it’s not overly drying, even with a 70% alcohol concentration, and that it’s available in a compact travel size , making it easy to fit in your purse or bag wherever you go.

READ MORE: Best Hand Sanitizers

Maskc KN95 Face Masks

Though some airlines no longer require wearing a mask while in-flight, you may want to consider packing one to protect yourself and your loved ones. According to the CDC , “Masking is a critical public health tool for preventing spread of COVID-19, and it is important to remember that any mask is better than no mask.” If you're looking for a pack of 10 KN95 masks that are offered in a variety of tones and prints, one GH analyst found this site easy to order from and loves that it offers great discounts. In addition to soft ear loops that make it easy to wear this mask for an extended time , we also like the adjustable nose bridge so you can get a secure fit.

READ MORE: Coronavirus and Face Masks: Everything You Need to Know Right Now

The Best Travel Gear for Sleeping

Though traveling is exhilarating, it can also be exhausting if you don’t get the proper rest that you need. To ensure your journey is a peaceful one from start to finish, our pros recommend a few essentials to help you get a better night’s sleep. Whether you’re taking an overnight flight or you’ve ended up in a noisy hotel room, these picks should help you get some rest.

Cabeau Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

Anyone who has ever tried sleeping on a long flight knows how hard it can be to get comfortable. This travel pillow is recommended by the Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles Lab, Lexie Sachs . The soft, memory foam pillow features straps that attach to an airplane's seat to prevent your head from falling sideways so you can actually get some rest. Our pros also like that once you've reached your destination, it can be compressed back into its compact travel case.

READ MORE: Best Travel Pillows

Bucky 40 Blinks No Pressure Solid Eye Mask

Most of us have trouble sleeping in a bright room, so it’s a good idea to always have a sleep mask with you. By covering your eyes, these masks are useful when you really need to get some rest. Our Textiles experts like this mask from Bucky, a top performer in Lab evaluations for its contoured design, ease-of-use and durability. It comes in a range of colors and, according to our pros, excelled at blocking out light in tests.

READ MORE: Best Sleep Masks for the Most Restful Sleep

Mack's Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs

Whether it turns out that there’s a nightclub next to your hotel or you can’t sleep because of early morning construction, earplugs can be a lifesaver. Just pop them into your ears to block out pesky sounds that previously kept you up. Shoppers on Amazon love this pick from Mack’s, which has more than 42,000 raving reviews . Though they’re disposable, many users found that they were able to use them for two to three nights.

READ MORE: Best Earplugs for Sleeping

The Best Travel Electronics

While we agree that you should try to disconnect during your vacation, that doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite electronics back at home. Whether you want to bring along some reading material, entertainment or tools to keep your gadgets up and running, our tech experts recommend bringing these top-tested travel electronics on your next trip.

Bose QuietComfort 45

Our Media & Tech pros swear by this pair of wireless Bose noise-canceling headphones when flying. Not only is it comfortable to wear for hours , but it does an excellent job at blocking out white noise, like the annoying drone of a plane. The QuietComfort 45 aced Lab tests for performance and impressed our pros with its excellent sound quality, making this a travel gadget to definitely not leave behind.

READ MORE: 12 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Apple AirTag

There’s nothing quite so disappointing as arriving at your final destination only to discover that your luggage has been lost. To keep better track of your belongings, our pros suggest getting a tracker like an Apple AirTag. Our pros like its compact, lightweight design and that it offers real-time tracking so you know your suitcase is coming before it actually arrives at the baggage carousel. Just keep in mind that if you’re not in the Apple ecosystem, you’ll have to opt for another luggage tracker like the Tile Pro , which unlike an AirTag is compatible with Android devices.

READ MORE: Best Luggage Trackers for Keeping an Eye on Your Checked Bags

Apple iPad 10.2” 2021

Leave your laptop at home and bring along a tablet to keep yourself or your kids entertained on your next trip. This pick from Apple will suit most consumers’ needs, according to our tech pros, with an A14 Bionic chip that can handle a variety of tasks like streaming, gaming or FaceTiming. We like that it’s compatible with the Apple Pencil (1 st gen) and Magic Keyboard Folio should you ever need to take a business call while away.

READ MORE: A Complete List of the Best Tablets to Buy

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Though many of us love highlighting and jotting down notes in a travel guide or flipping through the pages of a book, lugging around too many hard copies can get heavy very quickly. Our tech pros suggest investing in an e-reader like the Kindle Paperwhite, which is not only super compact, lightweight and waterproo f (it’s IPX8-rated, meaning it can handle continuous water submersion), but it also gives you access to anything you want to read, anywhere in the world. We like that, thanks to its slim design, it’s extremely easy to fit in a purse or backpack for the day.

READ MORE: The 5 Best E-Readers to Buy

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

To ensure your gadgets’ batteries never fail you in a time of need (like when you’re trying to find your way home or access your hotel reservation), our tech experts recommend this portable power bank from Anker. Its compact, slim design makes it easy to throw in a backpack without weighing you down, and our pros like that it can charge up to two devices at once via USB-A ports.

Joomfeen Travel Adapter

Don’t forget to pack this universal charger if you’re going to visit another country while you’re on vacation. Since different countries use different plugs and outlets, this adapter enables you to keep using your existing phone, laptop and device chargers. All you have to do is plug the adapter into the wall and then connect everything like you normally would back home, just through the adapter. That's right, no need to rush out to buy a local iPhone charger!

Bubm Electronic Organizer

Much like a great toiletries bag, an electronics organizer can keep your tech accessories in order. Our tech pros like this pick, which features a zippered compartment for smaller essentials like SD or SIM cards as well as various elastic bands and mesh pockets for your cables and chargers. Best of all, this organizer folds up into a flat shape so you shouldn’t have any issue squeezing it into your luggage.

Unique Travel Accessories

While not all travel accessories are essential if you're tight on space, you might be grateful later on that you made that extra room in your suitcase. Packing a few key accessories can spare you the hassle of having to go shopping while on vacation, and it usually prevents you from paying tourist prices. From towels to organizers, these are our experts' favorite travel accessories to bring along with you.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

When you're heading on a well-deserved beach vacation, make sure to grab this microfiber towel that comes in several bright colors. According to the Textiles Lab, it’s a great choice for travel thanks to its quick-drying material s and lightweight construction. Our pros also like that it comes with a handy carrying case so it's easy to transport from the beach and back to your hotel.

READ MORE: The Best Beach Towels for Summer 2023

CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle with Tritan Renew

It’s important to stay hydrated while traveling, which is why our pros advise bringing a water bottle with you. Our Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab pros like this best value pick from Camelback, which is made from durable, BPA-free plastic. It includes a two-finger loop handle that makes it easy to carry around while you explore and, according to the brand, the design is leak-proof when closed.

READ MORE: 12 Best Water Bottles of 2023

Nikon Monarch M7 8x42 Binocular

Whether you’re going hiking or spending a few days on a cruise, it can be nice to observe a beautiful landscape in sharp detail. With a great pair of binoculars, you can easily spot whales far out at sea or watch birds that would have otherwise looked like flies. The Media & Tech Lab recommends this pair from Nikon for traveling, thanks to its lightweight design, impressive magnification and small close focus that makes it ideal for birding or similar activities.

READ MORE: 10 Best Binoculars for Seeing Every Detail

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

If you’ve ever been worried about your bag being snatched off your hand, a fanny pack is an easy way to keep all essential documents close to you and easy to access. Our Textiles Lab experts like this Dagne Dover pick for traveling thanks to its roomy interior compartment and organizational pockets. Our testers also rave about how durable it is should you accidentally spill something during vacation.

READ MORE: Best Fanny Packs

Etekcity Luggage Scale

For those who like to overpack or would feel better knowing how much your suitcase weighs before arriving at the airport, this gadget is for you. A luggage scale not only indicates whether you’re under or over the weight limit , but this pick is compact and lightweight so it’s easy to pack along with your other accessories. Lexi has used it herself over the years to help divide up her belongings between bags and avoid baggage fees.

Travel Hack: Why Our Experts Recommend Using Packing Cubes

Packing your suitcase and fitting everything in the right place isn’t always as easy as it sounds. While most bags these days include a compartment or two for undergarments, clothing and other essentials, items can shift around while in transit or get lost underneath a stack of shirts. To keep your bag in order, Senior Textiles Product Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab, Emma Seymour , recommends investing in a few packing cubes, like this set from Eagle Creek . “Packing cubes are small bags designed to keep your clothes organized and less wrinkled in your luggage,” Emma says. They not only help keep your belongings organized during your trip, but also when you arrive at your destination. When using packing cubes, Emma suggests packing your clothes into the cubes first, then fitting the pieces into your bag like a puzzle. “You can even get packing cubes with built-in compression, so squeezing in that extra outfit (or two!) is no big deal. Whether you’re backpacking or traveling with a hard-shell carry-on, “most packing cubes are available in sets that include various sizes, ideal for organizing intimates and larger pieces.” And once you’ve arrived at your destination and are unpacking your suitcase, GH pros recommend placing the packing cubes directly into the drawers to keep your clothes protected from unknown surfaces.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on the best travel gear and accessories you can buy. Media and Tech reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski , who covers everything from consumer electronics to travel, home, fitness and more, worked with several of the product experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute to feature the best travel gear we’ve tested in our Labs as well as products that have impressed our consumer testers. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s a travel enthusiast with plans to visit all seven continents (with only two more to go)!

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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The Best Gear for Travel

By Wirecutter Staff

Traveling well can be one of life’s great pleasures, whether you’re alone or with family and friends.

But what does it mean to travel well? We’d say that along with traveling safely (of course), traveling well involves avoiding hassle, carrying a single bag (if possible), and bringing only the necessities.

“Traveling well is a fine balance between finding inspiration in the unknown while being grounded in something,” said Wirecutter founder Brian Lam. “Sometimes that is a memory of home, a family, a significant other, friends, etc. Sometimes it’s just the familiar, reliable stuff in your bag.”

Over the past 10 years, we’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing dozens of products to find the most dependable items that will help you travel well. On top of that, we sought the advice and wisdom of Doug Dyment, author and creator of OneBag—a traveling businessman and public speaker, he has logged millions of miles over the past few decades—as well as travel-gear reviewer Eytan Levy, the Snarky Nomad.

And we relied heavily on the experiences of Wirecutter staff, an especially mobile group of individuals. Our staffers have worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica—the five most frequent flyers among us travel about half a million miles in any given (normal) year.

The research

Flying/riding, just in case, travel tips.

A well-packed bag is one that contains less than you think you need but everything you actually need. If possible, fitting everything into one carry-on and personal item will give you more freedom compared to checking a bag or two. You’ll be glad you did if (and when) things don’t go according to plan. While carry-on-only isn’t feasible (or advisable) for every trip—especially extended business trips or weddings where you need multiple outfits to maintain appearances—if in doubt, it’s better to cut.

Carry-on backpack (non-roller)

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

The Allpa’s clamshell design makes organizing your things simple. The strap design lets you easily wear this durable bag on your back or carry it in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind, but most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility and clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts depending on how much you’ve packed. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

We spent six months testing 22 bags, and in the end we chose two as our top picks for travelers determined to never check luggage again: the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for most trips) and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L features an easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps that make it a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. Handles on all four sides of this bag make it easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it, and the Allpa’s straps are contoured to comfortably fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The bag is protected by a full lifetime warranty and has the build quality to back that up. Its front panel is made of a waterproof, TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester (a strong fabric covered in a flexible plastic coating), which means you can lay it on its back in a wet field or in gravel without worrying about moisture soaking through or jagged edges ripping the fabric. The rest of the paneling is made with 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which feels similar to a strong canvas but with a more prominent weave. After four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item to store under the seat) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage that Kit Dillon, Wirecutter’s senior staff writer who covers luggage, uses.

One caveat: The Allpa has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth—which is where the personal item comes in handy. As the name suggests, “personal items” are very, well, personal, and no one bag will work for all travelers; we offer a range of recommendations in our full guide to them .

The larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. Not so with the Peak Design: It looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack. You can access the bag through a back panel, which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch, as well as through a front one, if you unzip the pass-through divider. You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps that run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters.

If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. It still feels larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for the ability to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400D nylon and polyester fabrics—it feels tough, but not as tough as the Cotopaxi Allpa. As for flaws, it is expensive, especially if you commit to the entire system of packing cubes and camera cubes . The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses, though Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty.

Finding the right bag is a personal choice, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we have picks in our full review of carry-on travel bags that can double as traveling offices , bags that are easy to carry while you’re walking long distances , and budget options for travelers who want to give the one-bag strategy a try.

Carry-on bag (rolling)

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Great features, great value.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, with high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Since 2015, we’ve researched several dozen suitcases and gone hands-on with the 67 most promising candidates in a variety of tests—including having active flight attendants test bags for us in a fake plane fuselage in their training facility. We determined that for most people the  Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner  offers the best balance of features, durability, and price for most flyers who log less than 25,000 miles annually.

It features smooth-rolling, user-replaceable wheels; solid and comfortable, telescoping handles; and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. The Elite only improves on past iterations in the Platinum line by reducing the size of the stowed handle (which used to jut out about an inch) and adding a second zippered, exterior pocket for easy access on the go and a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And at 7.8 pounds when empty, this carry-on bag is about half a pound lighter than its predecessor. Compared with other bags in this price range, you also get surprisingly high-end components and a warranty that covers anything, even airline damage, for the life of the bag (as long as you register the suitcase within 120 days of purchase, which is easy to do on any smartphone).

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

For frequent flyers.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles a year, invest in a bag with unique features, superior details, and plenty of expandable room. This manufacturer guarantees your satisfaction.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles annually and you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality product, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner. It can fit more clothing than any bag we tested, thanks to a cavernous interior and clever expansion and compression system that can adjust to variable levels beyond open and shut. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter’s founder, Brian Lam, put more than 150,000 miles on his. His only complaint was that longer pants will need an extra fold, or to be rolled. In taller bags, pants will only need to be folded over once.

Checked luggage

If you need to pack more stuff than a carry-on and a personal item can hold, our first piece of advice would be to reconsider whether you need that extra outfit “just in case.” But you’ll have times when you need to travel with several pairs of shoes, formalwear, a winter coat, special equipment (like diving or camping gear), or all of the above. In these cases, there’s no way to avoid checking a bag.

Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

If you’re going somewhere where you’ll need to walk a lot (particularly if there’s dirt or cobblestone roads), we recommend a travel backpack. We like the Farpoint 55 and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 because they’re comfortable and have plenty of room to store, and separate, our essentials. The front of the main pack unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). It’s also easy to stow. The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.

These bags are made of a heavy-duty recycled polyester that stands up even to long trips–one of our testers has traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time, without damaging it. If something does happen, though, Osprey has a lifetime warranty.

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

The bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most people without going over airline weight limits.

If you don’t plan on walking around while carrying all your stuff, the  25-inch Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner Suiter is our favorite piece of checked luggage for all of the same reasons we loved the carry-on size: It has excellent organizational features, it’s especially durable, and it has a better warranty than anything in its price range.

Luggage tags

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

Strong and easy to see.

Rugged silicone and a metal cable mean this tag (which comes two to a pack) may well outlive your luggage. The brightly colored case displays its owner’s name but keeps other personal information out of sight.

A good luggage tag should be durable, simple to use, and discreet. Ultimately, a tag should allow someone to get your luggage back to you quickly and easily, and it should withstand the wear and tear of being thrown onto conveyor belts time and again. After researching the top-rated and best-selling models, reading existing luggage-tag reviews, and comparing fourteen tags , we recommend the Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag for most travelers because it’s the only one we’d trust to survive being smashed by other bags, jammed into walls, and generally abused by baggage handlers. It’s the most durable tag we tested, and it comes in a wide selection of colors to help any bag stand out from the rest.

The Ovener tag’s silicone body seems nearly indestructible and is available in a rotating selection of colors (you get two tags per pack). Whereas other tags also feature metal cables, this tag has a metal grommet to keep the cable from eventually wearing through the silicone case.

Should you lose your bag, the Ovener makes it easy for a Good Samaritan to find your contact information. To fully access the info card, you have to unscrew and remove the metal strap; this lets the card slide out of the case. Most luggage tags we tested secure their info card in this way. It isn’t a difficult or time-consuming process, but it is an extra step compared with using a tag that displays all of your information openly. Still, for anyone who wants to keep their contact information out of view, the extra step is worth it.

Another approach to increasing privacy is to hide information in a QR code, as the Dynotag Smart Deluxe Steel Luggage Tag  does, or to provide a user ID number, as the Okoban UID Luggage Tags do. But these seem like overly complex solutions to a problem that doesn’t really exist.

Compression sacks

Originally designed for reducing the bulk of lofty sleeping bags, compression sacks are stuff sacks modified with additional nylon end caps that can be pulled together by strings or straps to remove air and create a smaller, denser package that’s easier to pack. Most travelers use compression sacks to condense socks, underwear, and other stuff you don’t mind getting wrinkled into a package with half as much overall volume. For example, an 8- to 12-liter sack can compress a fleece jacket and a long-weekend’s worth of socks and underwear into something that fits in one hand. They also make a decent pillow in a pinch.

Osprey StraightJacket (8L)

Easier access, less compression.

It has a full-length zipper on its side that allows access to the bag’s entire contents. However, it doesn’t compress as tightly as traditional designs.

Most compression sacks require you to empty out the stuff at the top to get to the stuff below it, but the side-zipper design on the Osprey StraightJacket allows access to the entire contents of the bag at once. The compression straps attach sideways, and are less likely to get tangled and twisted like on most compression sacks with lengthwise straps. It can also sit up on its own, and the handle design lets you break it out as a last minute carry-on to avoid an overweight-baggage fee. However, it doesn’t compress down as compactly as the traditional designs we tested so it’s not the best option if compression is your top priority.

GobiGear’s SegSac takes a different approach to solving the same access issue: It has four inner dividers that run the length of the sack in order to keep your socks separate from your underwear, winter accessories, towel, what have you. This means you don’t have to take out your T-shirts to get to your socks. Unlike the Osprey, it compresses just as much as a normal compression sack, but it loses points for versatility because the segmentation prevents it from handling large items like a down jacket or sleeping bag.

Packing cubes

Packing cubes could change your life. (Okay, maybe just your traveling life.) Packing cubes are basically bags to hold your clothes that you organize within your luggage. Though seemingly superfluous, they’re brilliant in action. If you imagine your suitcase as a dresser, you can think of these cubes as individual drawers: Put all your underwear and socks in one container, all your shirts in another, and your workout clothes in yet another. Then pull out only the cube you want. They make packing and repacking wonderfully simple.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

Well built with easy access.

Simple and solidly constructed, these packing cubes keep your bag organized while you’re traveling.

The three-piece Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set keeps a week’s worth of clothes organized and moves easily from suitcase to hotel dresser. We’ve been recommending the previous version of these cubes for years, and after testing this updated set, we now recommend this version.

The full-size cube is great for shirts, shorts, and insulating layers. The half-cube and quarter-cube are perfect for underwear, socks, and other thin fabrics such as stockings or sleepwear. These cubes are made of 300-denier polyester (a strong fabric) and stay upright when empty, so they’re easy to pack. The Pack-It cubes’ windows are made of the tightest mesh link we tested—better for resisting snags—and the smooth zippers close easily around all corners, even when a cube is overstuffed.

The Eagle Creek cubes have the ability to unzip fully to allow full access to their contents while sitting in a dresser drawer. That means your clean clothes stay protected against some potentially dicey motel dressers. In 2022, Eagle Creek updated the design of these cubes, and now the company no longer uses YKK zippers, which are widely accepted as the best around . That said, we couldn’t tell any difference between Eagle Creek’s zippers and other brands’ YKK zippers, even with a magnifying glass, and their performance was indistinguishable. (For what it’s worth, an Eagle Creek product manager assured us that the proportion of zipper-related warranty claims hasn’t changed since the company made the switch from YKK.)

Most travelers are likely to be well served by the Reveal set. But if you value lightness above all, the more expensive Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is about 50% lighter than similar-size competitors (just over 1 ounce for a medium cube, whereas the Eagle Creek classic style weighs about 4 ounces). Unlike the Reveal set, this set is water resistant. However, the Isolate design’s thin sides—which don’t allow the cubes to stand up on their own—make those cubes a bit more challenging to pack than the Reveal cubes.

Buying the right gear can help organize your existing travel kit, but it’s a red herring if your goal is better portability. “It’s mostly the clothing that allows you to reduce what you need to carry,” explains veteran traveller Eytan Levy, better known as the Snarky Nomad . That’s because clothing, which is very voluminous, makes up the bulk of what’s in your bag. He recommends traveling with basic-looking clothes because you can always buy or rent something nice in a pinch, whereas lugging around formalwear just in case will always be a pain. It also helps if you can avoid cotton and stick to merino and synthetic fabrics, which dry faster. This allows you to do laundry by hand in the sink as needed to reduce the amount of clothes you need to carry.

Travel underwear

Good travel underwear keeps you feeling fresh and clean, even when your destination is gritty.  To find the best , we researched an array of underwear designed for men and women to find 37 pairs meeting our criteria: moisture-wicking and breathable, quick-drying, odor-resistant, stretchy, stylish, and cut to fit a variety of body types.

We then conducted rigorous pretesting (wearing the underwear for two days at a time, machine-washing them repeatedly, and tracking their drying speed when hung on a clothesline) before taking them out into the real world. Our testers went backpacking 215 miles throughout Portland, Oregon; hiking in the Canadian Rockies, including walking from the lowest point in the Continental US to the highest; and road-tripping to the national parks of the West. Testers who flew to their destinations wore the underwear on the plane, too.

Afterward, we checked for signs of wear, such as seam breakage and pilling on the fabric. As we continued to test the finalists, we repeatedly checked for durability problems. In addition to comfort and fit, we noted whether each pair seemed lightweight and packable.

ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief

Best for most men.

Durable, quick-drying, and relatively inexpensive, this soft-fabric version of ExOfficio’s time-tested Give-N-Go undies will get the job done for years.

The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief is the best men’s underwear for travel because it balances fit, comfort, odor-proofing, and value better than anything else we’ve tested. The Sport Mesh fabric excels at breathing and wicking and has better odor-resistance than other fabrics. It feels soft on the inside and smooth on the outside so it slides against your pants instead of creating friction, reducing potential for chafing. It also features a sculpted crotch area that gives wearers some much-appreciated support, without feeling stifling. These boxer briefs dry quickly, pack compactly, and weigh less than almost all the other boxer briefs we tried—basically they’re everything you’d want from a pair of excellent travel underwear.

Patagonia Women's Active Hipster

Best for most women.

These light, stylish, quick-drying hipsters stay in place whether you’re walking, flying, or hanging upside down.

The Patagonia Active Hipster doesn’t appear special upon first glance. Only after trying everything else and living through their failures to stay put did we remember what “special” really means in a pair of underwear: Feeling as if you’re wearing nothing at all. The Patagonias have the best fit, comfort, and style out of all the panties we tested. The nylon material is fast-wicking and better than most synthetics for odor-proofing, making it well suited for athletic activities. The Active Hipster is lightweight and packable, and is the fastest-drying underwear we tested—making them perfect for minimalist travelers who go weeks at a time with just one or two pairs. But these same characteristics make them great for any traveler looking for comfortable, packable panties, regardless of where you’re going or what you’re doing.

Budget pick

Uniqlo Men Airism Boxer Brief

Comfortable, compact, and fast-drying, these are a great value but don’t fit quite as nicely and aren’t as supportive in the crotch.

Uniqlo Women Airism Ultra Seamless HipHugger

Similar fabric to the Men’s Airism, with a no-ride cut for women, these underwear are the least expensive of any we tested and among the best performing.

If you want to spend as little as possible without sacrificing performance, the Uniqlo Airism line has long been a great choice for men and women who can wear sizes small and medium. In recent years, both lines have expanded their size range somewhat (men to 3XL, and women to XL). If these fit, you can replace an entire underwear drawer on a tight budget, as long as you can deal with the slightly odd cut and less-effective odor-control treatment.

If you’ve never traveled with merino wool socks, you’re missing out. These aren’t the scratchy wool socks your grandpa wore in the army; they are soft and stretchy ones that have natural sweat-wicking and odor-resisting properties that keep your toes comfortable under all conditions—even when wet. This combination of odor, moisture, and temperature regulations makes them ideal for traveling. "Because of its natural anti-bacterial properties, washing merino wool on a daily basis isn’t absolutely necessary,” explains Snarky Nomad , "after letting it air dry overnight while you sleep, it’ll seem brand new.” The only major downside is that merino tends to be a bit pricier than synthetic counterparts. But it’s a worthy trade-off, since you can go for longer with fewer pairs.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Women’s)

The best quality for women.

The best mix of comfort, durability, and cushioning in a versatile height.

Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (Men’s)

For the best quality.

The same great versatile sock as the women’s model, but in different color options and more sizes.

Darn Tough’s Light Hiker Micro Crew socks (both the men’s and women’s versions) have been our favorite hiking socks for years. Darn Tough made its name through its quality guarantee : “Our socks are guaranteed to be the most comfortable, durable, and best fitting socks you can buy. In a nutshell, if you wear a hole in them, we will replace them free of charge, for life.” Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers (hardcore backpackers who walk from Mexico to Canada in one continuous trip) praise them for their durability, comfort, and blister resistance. When you hold a pair of Darn Toughs next to a pair of Smartwools (which only have a two-year guarantee ), the difference is clear. The Darn Toughs are more tightly knit, the yarns are finer and feel sturdier, and the stitching is tighter.

Darn Tough Women's Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock

The best non-wool women’s hiking sock.

This midlevel cushioned sock for women is the best synthetic option for most climates and terrains.

Darn Tough Men's Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock

The best non-wool men’s hiking sock.

This synthetic men’s sock is perfect for day hiking in most weather.

If you are sensitive to wool, prefer a vegan product, or want a cooler option for the summer, we also like the Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock, which comes in women's and men’s sizes.

We appreciated how breathable this sock felt. While wearing the Coolmax Micro Crew in hot summer weather, our testers’ feet stayed dry and sweat-free. The shorter micro-crew height makes the Coolmax Micro Crew suitable for both boots and shoes, too. And like all Darn Tough socks, this model comes with a lifetime warranty.

Indosole Flip Flops (women’s)

A quality flip flop in women’s sizes.

These stylish beach sandals come in a wide range of colors. Be careful, though: Indosole sizes tend to run a little small.

Indosole Flip Flops (men’s)

A quality flip flop in men’s sizes.

These beach sandals are the same as the women’s version but cut a bit wider; we still think they run a little smaller than regular shoe sizes.

A good pair of travel flip-flops should be lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof. The men’s and women’s Indosole Flip Flops offer the best combination of quality, comfort, and easy packability. Unlike many flip flops, which slap against the ground with every step, the subtle arch support of this flip flop kept it secure against our feet. Plus they’re made from waterproof, recycled materials. Keep in mind, though, that our testers found these shoes to run a bit small, so we suggest sizing up for the best fit.

Clothesline

While doing laundry at home can be a large weekly event, OneBag author Doug Dyment recommends approaching travel laundry as a part of your daily routine, especially if you’re trying to pack as little as possible: “The laundry should be more like cleaning your teeth—something you do everyday. It only takes about five minutes to do it. Every night, do your socks and underwear and you’ll have clean socks and underwear everyday.”

A secure, hassle-free option

The Flexo-Line attaches easily to a door handle or faucet and grips garments securely between its loops.

Check out OneBag’s laundry packing list if you want specific tips on how to do it and what you’ll need, but it’s a pretty simple setup: All you need is a toiletry bottle of powdered detergent, a towel to help expedite drying, and a travel clothesline to finish the drying process while you sleep at night.

Specifically, you want a braided—not twisted—surgical latex clothesline with looped ends, which means you want a Flexo-Line . The Flexo-Line can stretch up to 7 feet long, which is enough to span most hotel bathtubs, and it has loops that you can attach easily to a door handle, bath spigot, or faucet. The braided construction is superior to twisted designs made from other materials because the latex does a better job of gripping garments securely between the loops, which means you don’t need any additional clothespins.

Dyment has tried them all, but the Flexo-Line is the one he comes back to. As he explained to me in an interview, “There are others that are fine, but there are far more that are not fine.” More specifically, Dyment says to avoid anything that’s not made of latex , because clothes will inevitably slip out of them. He also says to never, ever trust a suction cup: “They don’t work, period.” If the Flexo-Line is unavailable, Dyment says that the Rick Steves collection from Kiva Designs also makes a nice braided line that is a bit more expensive. If you have a latex allergy, Dyment recommends going with a length of cord ( paracord is nice because it’s durable and you can use it for other things as well) and stainless steel safety pins meant for cloth diapers , because they take up far less space than a clothespin and won’t rust. In fact, it’s worthwhile to get these items even if you can use a latex line because they’re great for making luggage repairs and performing other MacGyver-ish tasks in a pinch. To hang up the clothesline, we recommend using a bowline knot on one end and a taut line hitch on the other. These knots work well together because the bowline creates a simple, slip-proof loop to anchor one end while the taut line hitch allows you to adjust for tension and locks tightly in place. If you could commit any two knots to memory forever, these are the ones to learn.

Laundry detergent

Minisoak Travel Packs

A travel size version of the best delicates detergent.

Perfect for traveling because you don’t even need to rinse it out.

When you’re washing your underwear in a hotel sink, you want a fast and easy experience. For this, we recommend the no-rinse detergent Soak . That’s right, we said no rinse . You just add a drop to the sink, fill with water, and leave your garments to soak. Then press out the water and hang. Done.

In our tests of delicates detergents , Soak cleaned almost as well as our top laundry detergent, Tide; plus, it comes in individual packets of powder  that are great for traveling, as well as in  travel-size bottles of the liquid version . In addition to unscented, it's available in a variety of scents, although Lacey and Celebration are not the most descriptive of scent names. They all smell nice, not overpowering. Soak also comes in an assorted travel pack with two single-use packets of each scent, if you want to test-drive one or two before you buy. In that mini size, you get eight packets for $11 currently, but you really need only a squeeze, not the the whole packet, to wash a couple of pairs of socks and underwear.

One downside to Soak is that you won’t find it in a grocery store or big-box store. But it is available online at Soak’s site . And if you really want to walk into a store and put your mitts on a bottle, you can find it at most local yarn stores.

Don’t feel like buying Soak or bringing along a bit of your own detergent? Shampoo also works pretty well for cleaning garments in a pinch, so make use of that free bottle from the hotel. But a caveat: Neither Soak nor shampoo contains enzymes , which are biological molecules in laundry detergent that break down certain stains. If you have especially stinky or stained clothes, you might need to break out the Tide .

When we first published this guide, this section addressed only toiletry kits and bottles, razors, and packable towels. The times, and traveling, became more complicated. One thing we've learned in the past few years is that face masks can be useful whenever you’re sick and don’t want to share your misery. Fortunately, compared with early 2020, medical-style N95s and KN95s (which many experts recommend as the best protection) are widely available. They’re easy to tuck into a bag, which we do now whenever we travel. 

Toiletry kit

We’ve researched dozens of travel toiletry bags and dopp kits over the past several years, and we tested 23 of the top-rated contenders in our most recent round of tests. After packing and unpacking a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries, conducting spill tests, and living out of the top performers on the road, we have a few different picks that stand out thanks to their style, packability, and quality of construction.

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small)

A space-saving hanging bag.

This lightweight, well-organized bag fits a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries into a compact package. It’s meant to be hung, which makes it good for tight spaces, but it doesn’t have much in the way of internal structure.

The Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small) is compact and durable. It’s small enough to stash in a backpack or laptop bag, but it holds enough travel-size toiletries to keep us supplied for a week. You can open it and hang it from a shower curtain or towel rod to easily see and grab your items. It comes with a shatterproof mirror, two micro-mesh zip pockets and an open pocket for toothbrushes, lip balm, and tweezers, and a large compartment for bulky lotions and hair-care items.

L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

For more stuff and longer trips.

With a 6.4-liter capacity and over a dozen compartments, this toiletry bag has a place for everything—and everything will stay put during transit, too. It can also accommodate non-travel-size bottles.

The L.L.Bean Personal Organizer (medium) is a great option for longer trips and people who travel with full-size bottles. Its 6.4 liters of storage spread across a dozen compartments means there’s a dedicated place for pretty much everything you could want to bring on a trip—it even has a removable mesh shower caddy for shampoo and body wash. This level of organization is crucial for larger toiletry bags because, as we discovered after years of traveling with our picks, contents that aren’t securely fastened can shift around in transit, which increases the chance of spilling. The downside of all this organization is that the L.L.Bean weighs 14 ounces when empty, so it’s not ideal for carry-on travel.

If neither of these bags seems right for you, read our full review of the best toiletry bags and dopp kits to learn more about our picks and everything we tested.

Toiletry bottles

Sea to Summit TPU Clear Zip Pouch with Bottles

These six TSA-friendly bottles are sturdy and smartly designed, dispensing liquids more precisely than any of the other bottles we tested.

For traveling with liquids in your carry-on, the Sea to Summit set is your best bet. All six bottles conform to TSA size limitations; three of them can hold 3 ounces of liquid each, and three can hold 1.5 ounces each, for a total of 13.5 ounces. Despite the set’s name, the bottles themselves are made not of thermoplastic polyurethane—“TPU" refers to the zip pouch—but a high-density polyethylene material, much like what you’d see used in most plastic milk jugs. It has an almost-smooth, semi-transparent surface just textured enough that it’s not slippery when wet. The plastic is also flexible enough that you don’t have to squeeze very hard to get your shampoo or liquid soap or whatever going. An insert at the mouth of each bottle helps regulate the flow, and the screw tops prevent liquids from leaking in transit.

Razor (faces)

Gillette Mach3

The best manual razor for most faces.

This classic razor’s three widely spaced blades provide the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. Its handle is comfortable and well designed, and replacement blades can be had for a fair price.

We researched more than 100 and tested 11 manual razors for our full razor guide , concluding that the Gillette Mach3 is our top pick for manual razors. Although the three blades require a little extra time for a closer shave, it performs comparably to the latest and greatest offerings for as little as half the price.

The Gillette Mach3 provides the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. The Mach3’s simple, round handle is easy to grip and maneuver, and its three blades offer a close shave without over-irritating the skin or getting clogged with hair. And the price of Mach3 blades—$2 per cartridge or less, whether you buy them online or in a store—came close to, or even beat, the pricing of shave-club rivals, and the Mach3 shaved better than those competitors.

Razor (legs/body)

Gillette Venus Smooth

The best body razor.

This classic Venus is one of the easiest razors to grip and maneuver and its three-blade design keeps the blades remarkably free of hair.

Disposable razors (both the completely disposable and replaceable-cartridge variety) are fine to take through airport security , and among them we like the Gillette Venus Original best for traveling. Although it’s now the runner-up pick in our guide to body razors —it was formerly the top pick—we believe that its simple aloe lubricating strips, which don’t become tacky when wet, make the Venus more travel friendly than our new top pick . Plus, as with any Venus, the Original’s body is compatible with any other Venus head and many heads from Gillette’s facial razors, making replacement heads easier to find when you’re on the road.

The Original’s head has three blades separated by considerable slats of space, making it far easier to clean the head between strokes. The Original is intuitive to hold and secure to maneuver, thanks to a contoured handle with corrugated chevrons of rubber. Though our testers have a wide range of hand sizes, no one found the Original difficult to grasp. Despite the significant ribbing, it doesn’t feel too bulky. Gillette claims its razors have lasted for five weeks; we think one razor for a weeklong trip should be fine.

(Know that, confusingly, the Venus appears for sale on some retail sites under the name Venus Close and Clean or Venus Smooth. It’s the same razor. If you’re unsure which Venus model you’re looking at, check for the Original’s three blades and trademark sea-foam blue color.)

Towel (packable)

PackTowl Personal

The best all-around packable towel.

The PackTowl Personal Towel is lightweight, soft, absorbent, quick to dry, and odor-resistant.

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

(limited patterns)

We put 20 top-rated towels through a battery of tests including regular shower use, a trip to the beach, camping, and a 48-hour stay in a ziplock bag under the hot Hawaiian sun. After all was said and done, the Packtowl Personal Towel is still the best all-around travel towel for most people. In addition to being the softest lightweight towel we tested, it was more absorbent than competitors made of similar materials. It had the best odor-resisting abilities and comes with a convenient mesh carrying pouch. We also have alternate picks for ultralight and all-natural towels below.

The Personal Towel’s suede-like material was the softest of the thinner towels. The Personal Towel also had superior absorption when compared with other similarly constructed towels such as the Sea to Summit DryLite —in our tests, it absorbed 2.8 times its weight in water, while the others absorbed between 2.3 times and 2.7 times.

One of just two we tested that featured an added antimicrobial treatment, the Personal Towel was only a little musty smelling after 24 hours in a sealed ziplock bag, and remained unchanged at 48 hours.

If you’re looking for a budget option, consider the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel , which is a tad smaller than our other picks and is made from a seemingly lighter-feeling fabric. Unlike most budget options, it has an antibacterial coating and still managed to carry a pleasant smell after being testing in different environments.

Regardless of how you get to your final destination, it’s likely you’ll be stuck in a seat that’s less than ideal. Travel gadgets that claim to reduce this misery, such as compression socks, are popular. But when they take up precious luggage space for the duration of your trip—not just the flight or train ride–they need to be worth every cubic inch of space. The less you can make do with, the better off you’ll be.

Neck pillow

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

More support for most necks.

Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.

The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows we tested because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping. This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case. Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, though supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks.

Noise-cancelling headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones.

The Bose 700 headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation in a comfortable, lightweight design that’s traveler friendly—but they carry a high price.

The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 over-ear set has the most versatile active noise cancellation we’ve ever tested. With 10 levels of noise reduction to choose from, everyone should be able to find a setting that meets their needs. We also enjoyed the lightweight and comfortable design and the easy-to-use controls. What distinguishes the Bose 700’s ANC is the amount of adjustability it gives you: Most noise-cancelling headphones offer controls for only on/off or maybe high/low/off, but with the Bose 700 pair you can set the ANC level from 0 to 10, so you have more flexibility to dial in the ideal setting for your comfort. The 20-hour battery life, while not the best we’ve seen, is more than sufficient to get you to most destinations. We have additional options—including earbuds and surprisingly good budget options for  over-ear headphones and earbuds —in our full guide to noise-cancelling headphones .

Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs

For blocking out the most noise.

These blocked the most noise in our controlled testing and got the most votes from our subjective sleep panel.

When you’re traveling, it can be difficult to fall asleep to unfamiliar noises. That’s why we spent several hours researching new contenders and tested four top-rated models while sleeping in a house that was next to an airport in order to determine that Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam earplugs are the best earplugs  for sleeping.

The Mack’s 37.1 dB noise reduction rating was the highest among the models we tested. According to Cooper Safety , that’s enough to reduce the volume of a gas lawnmower to that of a normal conversation. What made the Mack’s earplugs so effective is the fact that we could insert them and rest assured that they would stay in the whole night. Meanwhile, the Howard Leight MAX1 might be a favorite from crowdsourced sleep-aid review site Sleep Like the Dead , but the earplugs would inevitably fall out in the middle of the night. Thus, they failed to block out the noise of planes landing and taking off throughout the night, despite the MAX1’s 33 dB noise reduction rating. The Howard Leights also made our ears ache on occasion, whereas the Mack’s has a tapered shape that was consistently comfortable night after night.

The Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs cost about 20¢-35¢ per pair when purchased in a 50-pair pack. They come in a plastic case is about the size of a large coffee mug, which is small enough to toss in a large bag or suitcase. Many other ear plugs like our runner-up, the 3M’s E-A-Rsoft OCS1135 , can only be ordered in industrial-size lots that, while perhaps appealing to those who travel constantly (or run a hostel), are annoying to store and often lack a reusable container of any sort.

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

For air travelers and back-sleepers.

The lightweight and contoured Nidra mask is a light-blocking win for most face shapes, with deep eye cups that allow the wearer to blink freely and arrive feeling refreshed.

When bright lights hamper peaceful shut-eye, we recommend the light-blocking, contoured Nidra Deep Rest sleep mask. Of the 14 masks we tested , the Nidra blocked the most light on the most faces. It’s contoured to rest on your face like a pair of soft goggles, with fabric lenses that sit around your eyes (instead of directly over them). This design provides more space for your eyes to flutter during REM sleep, ensuring that you come through red-eye flights with less redness in your eyes. Makeup wearers will also appreciate that, with the Nidra’s elevated eye cups, there’s a smaller chance of smudging.

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

A flat, silk mask.

A silken exterior material, a flat design, and an adjustable strap make this mask a fit for almost any face, but it puts pressure on the eyes.

Mzoo Sleep Mask

A smooth, contoured eye mask.

Soft, structured, and contoured, this mask stays on all night and prevents any light from seeping through

If the Nidra Deep Rest doesn’t fit your face quite right, we also recommend the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask and the Mzoo Sleep Mask . The Alaska Bear mask lacks contoured eyecups and thus applies some pressure to the eyes overnight like any regular eye mask does. But its flat design easily conforms to fit your face, and its silk exterior feels smooth and soft against skin (the padding is made of cotton). Its relative lack of structure makes it more difficult to knock off when you’re tossing and turning.

The Mzoo mask’s eyecups have a convex gap so your eyes can open and close. That gap is surrounded by a memory foam padding that rests on the perimeter of your eye sockets. The effect is such that you don’t feel like your eyes are being forced closed, but there is a bit of compression near your temples, eyebrows, and cheekbones. Most—though not all—of our testers found this sensation soothing. One liked how the contour of the eyecup kept the mask from brushing against their eyelashes, which makes it a good choice for people who wear eyelash extensions.

Few things are better than landing at an airport, turning on your phone, and having it just work. No hassles, no stress, no worries about brutal roaming fees. You can check in with loved ones, scope out the route to your lodgings, and maybe post an Instagram story or two—because your phone works just like it does at home. This is especially freeing, and it makes travel so much easier. (Of course, phones aren’t the only useful tech to bring: Check out our accessories reviews for guides to the best cables ( USB-C , Lightning , and Micro-USB ), Wi-Fi hotspots , Bluetooth speakers , and more.)

Unlocked mobile phone

One of the most useful gadgets for international travel is an unlocked smartphone that’s compatible with cheap, prepaid phone plans you can sign up for at your destination. Unless your carrier offers plans including high-speed data that you can access internationally (i.e., you’re with T-Mobile or Google Fi), traveling with a phone under contract with a major carrier means paying an arm and a leg for data. Being able to access data-guzzling apps like Google Maps or Google Translate on the fly is worth the hassle to unlock a phone. Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp are free, easy ways to communicate with people you meet on your trip and people from home. Plus there’s checking email, TripAdvisor, banking, social media, and so on.

An “unlocked” phone means you can buy prepaid SIM cards in the country you’re visiting, letting you access their local network for significantly less money than the roaming fees incurred by your home carrier. With a prepaid SIM, your phone effectively becomes a new phone with a new (now local) phone number. Instead of seeing “Verizon,” “AT&T,” or “Sprint” at the top of your phone, you might see “Vodafone,” “Yes Optus,” “M1,” or whatever provider you choose in the country you’re visiting. The first thing to check is if your phone will work where you’re going. If you’re unsure if your phone will work where you’re going, check the Wikipedia page for your phone or contact your provider.

Your phone will also require a removable SIM. (If your phone has an eSIM, as all new iPhones do, check out our blog post about those.) Most countries require a passport or other ID to buy a prepaid SIM without a contract, but switching the SIMs is easy. Most stores will do it for you while you’re there. Depending on the country/provider, this could take as long as 10 minutes but is often faster. The next question is easily the most complicated: Can you unlock your phone? Each carrier has different rules and criteria. Generally, if you have a brand new, expensive phone, they may not let you unlock it (there’s usually a waiting period after the purchase date). But if it’s a little older, or if you’ve paid it off, they probably will. The thing to remember is that a provider can deny an unlock request without giving a reason. You might be lucky, though; certain phones on certain providers are unlocked by default. Here are Verizon and AT&T’s pages on unlocking. Alternately, you can buy a pre-unlocked phone just for travel. Amazon and Best Buy, for example, sell unlocked phones. This is also a good option if you think you might lose your expensive phone and a cheaper one will suffice while you travel.

Plug adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.

In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we look for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it charged more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with an extra USB cable and a nylon case.

However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), a plug adapter could be what you need.

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.

The tiny plug adapters from Ceptics are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics set will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter. These charts should help you find the shape you need before you order.

However, getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland a few years back. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on those charts, and the plug adapters she had used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) The world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.

Whether two-prong or three-prong, an adapter just changes the shape of your plug, not anything about the electricity coming through the wires. However, this usually isn’t a problem because almost every power brick that comes with modern electronic gear is capable of accepting both the 110-volt standard used in the US and the 240-volt commonly used abroad. If your device has a power block on the cord, it likely says something like  “100-240 V ~ 50/60 Hz”—that’s the all-clear to use it without a voltage converter so long as the range covers the voltage of the country you’re visiting . This includes the vast majority of modern laptop and USB chargers.

Products without some sort of power block at the end or with a non-detachable cord—in particular, things with heating elements like hair dryers and curling irons—are more likely to need a voltage converter. Putting 220 V through a US 110 V device would be like attaching a firehose to a drinking fountain—you’re likely to blow your face off. But voltage converters are tricky devices, and most of the inexpensive ones have awful (or dishonest) reviews. Since hotels and hostels will often have hair dryers and most newer gear can do the full range of voltages, we strongly recommend that, whenever possible, you only bring items that work with a much simpler (and more reliable) adapter.

Wire/gadget organization system

Now that every device has a battery, every battery has a charger, and every charger has a cable—never mind power-plug adapters if you’re traveling abroad—the sheer quantity of accessories needed just to keep your gadgets running can take up more space than the devices themselves. And unless you organize them, you can bet on having to blindly fish them out of the least convenient spot at the bottom of your bag. Unfortunately, our pick for carrying tech necessities, the Incase Nylon Accessory Organizer, has been out of stock for a few years. It will, however, be coming back in 2024, according to Incase. If you prefer mesh to easily see your contents, or simply can’t wait for the Incase organizer to come back in stock, we also like the Container Store Micro Mesh Pouches .

The Incase cable organizer is a poly-nylon blend, so it’s durable. It is a soft-shell bag, however, so its contents can distort the bag’s shape when it’s full. But the bag’s edges remain rigid—so the seams don’t pucker—its contents don’t fall out, and zipping and unzipping the bag is still easy. We have other picks in our full guide to bag and cable organizers , including a roll-up bag and a stylish duo of cosmetics travel pouches ; we’ll also start testing other options to replace this one.

USB battery packs

A USB battery pack (also called a power bank) can keep your small electronics—from phones and cameras to tablets and more—going while you’re on the road. Although the length of your trip will determine exactly how much extra juice you’ll need to have on hand, whatever your requirements, we have a great USB battery recommendation for you. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K weighs about half a pound, and its rounded edges make it easy to hold or slip into a pocket. Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices and recharge itself at top speed (with the right USB-C cable and wall charger), and it can pass power to another device while being recharged from a wall outlet. It only comes in one color, but it has enough capacity to fully charge most smartphones up to three times, as well as built-in USB-C and Lightning cables that are easy to slide in and out of their holsters.

If you’re traveling for leisure, try not to get too wrapped up in technology because you might miss what you’re actually there to do: experience a new place. OneBag’s Doug Dyment said in an interview, “Wearing headphones and staring at a screen is like putting a digital wall around yourself when you’re traveling. It makes you seem unapproachable and uninterested in what’s around you.” That may be a good thing if you do truly want to be left alone, but Dyment went on to say that some of his most memorable traveling experiences were the result of just looking lost and getting help from the locals. “One minute, you’re a lost foreigner in an unfamiliar village, then someone asks if you need directions. Before you know it, you’re eating dinner with his family.”

Travel binoculars

Athlon Optics Midas ED

The overall best binoculars.

Amazingly affordable with great optics, these binoculars have performance comparable with that of many models that cost thousands more.

Our top pick for binoculars is durable and great for near-home hikes. In hot or dusty environments that may call for a clearer optical boost, the Athlon Optics Midas ED 8×42 binoculars deliver top quality. Its focus dial offers a wide range of depths that makes it easier to see whatever it is you desire—birds, grass or darkened areas of the forest. Our recommendation comes with the assistance of a professional ornithologist who spent over 100 hours putting 17 pairs of binoculars to the test in the mountains of Southern California and the rain forests of southern Mexico.

Although the Celestron TrailSeeker ED binoculars don’t offer a clear edge-to-edge view to the same degree of the Athlon Optics Midas EDs , they’re a comparable runner-up model that’ll be lighter on your wallet if having binoculars while traveling is a must. The TrailSeekers are equipped with great light-gathering qualities, close focus, and impressive optical resolution. Or, if you’re concerned about saving space, we liked the Pentax AD 8x25 WP binoculars. While not quite as powerful as our other picks, this compact pair of binoculars is well made and easy to fit into a carry-on while traveling via plane.

Ebook reader

Amazon Kindle (2022)

The best e-reader for most people.

Amazon’s most affordable Kindle is also its most portable, and it’s finally been upgraded with sharper text on its 6-inch screen and support for USB-C charging. Those features bring it in line with much-pricier e-readers.

The entry-level Amazon Kindle finally got an upgrade and is now our favorite e-reader , with the same crisp display and USB-C charging as the pricier Kindle Paperwhite has (and with double the storage space of the previous entry-level model). Amazon’s well-stocked ebooks store remains its biggest selling point, along with the ease of checking out library books via Libby and sending them directly to a Kindle.

Even if you don’t have time for pleasure reading on your trip, it’s worth investing in a Kindle because many major travel guides are available in fully searchable ebook formats now. Furthermore, e-texts will also work on your phone, tablet, and computer, thanks to the Kindle ecosystem.

Packable daypack

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

A pack that fits in your palm.

Toss this lightweight, phone-sized packable bag into your luggage or coat pocket, and you’ll never get caught without a spare bag again. If you need something to carry every day, though, we think you’ll prefer one of our more-structured picks.

Packing a stowable daypack, one that stuffs down to fit in your luggage when not in use, is a relatively small investment of space in exchange for a high return of function and flexibility. After researching dozens of packable daypacks across a spectrum of portability, features, and prices, and then packing, unpacking, loading, wearing, and drenching the top-rated finalists during multiple rounds of testing, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack we recommend. Packed up, it is very discreet: nearly the size of a keychain accessory.

The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, which means it’s very light and water-resistant. It has reinforced stitching at stress points, allowing the Ultra-Sil to carry more weight than you would expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when compared with our more structured picks.

If comfort or waterproofing is important to you, check out the alternative picks in our review of packable daypacks for travel .

Field Notes 3-Pack Original Kraft Memo Books

For ultimate portability.

Field Notes are cheap but contain high-quality paper that earns praise from pen and stationery geeks across the web.

For writing your adventures as you travel, you can’t beat the portability, practicality, and romanticism of a pocket notebook. There’s nothing better in that category than Field Notes (three-packs available in a variety of styles and types ). These pocket-sized notebooks are widely praised for their excellent paper quality, and the Pen Addict’s Brad Dowdy tells me “Field Notes is pretty much the runaway pocket notebook champ.” Dowdy has praised it for the lack of feathering or bleedthrough with almost any pen, as well as for the light brown ruled lines, which are easier to write over than solid black. Austin Smith of Art Supply Critic told us in an email that his recommendation is “Field Notes has it, no question.” The Well-Appointed Desk has reviewed a slew of different Field Notes variants for those looking for something a bit more interesting.

Field Notes Expedition

A weather-resistant option.

Weather-resistant Expedition Field Notes are great if you’re writing in wet conditions, but don’t get them if you don’t need them. The synthetic paper feels weird and can cause some inks to smear.

If you think you’re going to be writing in foul weather, Field Notes also has the waterproof Expedition version with pages made from a synthetic water-and-tear resistant paper. You should only get these if you really need them, because otherwise, they just feel unnaturally slick and are more prone to smearing ink. At least one user has said that the paper shows less soaking through when wet than the similar Rite in the Rain books . The one caveat is that the synthetic paper will only work with pencils and certain inks ; thankfully, the Uni-ball Jetstream RT , our pick for best pen , definitely makes the grade.

Things can go wrong while you’re traveling, both where you are and where you’re not. Though you can’t prepare for every worst-case scenario, the peace of mind that a little bit of preparation grants will allow you to focus on what’s in front of you, instead of having to worry about what could go wrong. But preparation doesn’t simply mean buying more stuff just in case; it also means making efficient use of what you already have.

Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit

For the best combination of sewing tools.

The Merchant & Mills Rapid Repair Kit is the only travel kit we found that had objectively high-quality thread and scissors.

There’s nothing quite like a wardrobe malfunction to put a damper on vacation, especially when traveling with limited clothing. A good travel-size sewing kit allows you to mend a popped button or ripped seam on the fly—or even tackle more pressing issues like fixing a tent, sleeping bag, or backpack. After 15 hours of research, interviews with sewing teachers and avid home sewers, and tests of six travel and full-size kits, we found the Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit had by far the best tools and was the easiest to keep organized. Standard travel sewing kits usually contain mediocre thread and plastic-handled scissors that break easily. They can also be hard to keep organized (a truth we confirmed when testing six top-rated travel and full-sized kits). The Merchant & Mills set was the only one that had high-quality thread, all-metal mini scissors (don’t worry, the TSA shouldn’t stop you ), and a durable tin case (about the size of a deck of cards) to keep everything well organized.

Because the sewing pins are neatly stuck into paper inside a slim envelope and the three needles are housed in a mini glass vial, this kit also limits the risk of losing a sharp object in your bags. We found the Merchant & Mills needles easier to thread than others (no need for a fussy needle threader!) and we also like the vintage-looking safety pins that come clipped together along with two small white buttons. Although this kit only comes with black and white thread, the thread is strong and there’s more of it than you’d get in a flimsier set with shorter strands of multiple colors. We do think it would be nice if the kit included a more durable measuring tape than the paper one included, but overall everything about this kit is leagues ahead of anything else we considered. We didn’t find editorial reviews for any of the kits we tested, but the Merchant & Mills rapid repair kit was recommended by several sewing bloggers and is sold in many reputable indie fabric shops.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best umbrella for most people.

This is a solidly built, easy-to-find umbrella that holds up in high winds. It also comes in a variety of colors.

price may vary by color or style

An umbrella you take traveling should be small, light, sturdy, and affordable. After putting in 66 hours of research and evaluating a total of 48 umbrellas across five rounds of testing (including one thunder-snowstorm), we found that the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is the best umbrella for most people. Its durable, nine-rib construction held up admirably against gale-force winds, and it’s as sturdy as umbrellas that sell for more than twice as much.

The Repel folds up to an 11½-inch long, 14-ounce package that fits easily into most bags and glove boxes. And it forcefully expands at a touch of a button to reveal an ample 37-inch-diameter canopy that protects your head and torso from precipitation in all but the windiest of conditions. Its lengthy, textured handle is easy to grip for hands of all sizes. We also appreciate that the Repel comes in a wide variety of colors, so it’s easier to pick yours out of a crowded umbrella bucket. Finally, despite its affordable price, it’s backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee, but only if you purchase directly from Repel and register the item under the company’s warranty.

Packing method for clothes

While packing cubes and other organization tools are helpful for maximizing your bag’s usable space, efficient packing is also achievable without the aid of tools and compartments. One Bag’s Doug Dyment tried all manners of folding aids and compression products but was unsatisfied with their claims of compression and wrinkle prevention. Frustrated, he developed his own method of packing clothes compactly called the Bundle Method, which he’s used and perfected over several decades of traveling.

The Bundle Method involves layering your shirts and pants at opposing angles on a flat surface, then wrapping them around a small “core” parcel (e.g. a packing cube full of underwear and socks). We won’t get into details, but Dyment does on his website ; you can watch this easy-to-follow video from NBC . The resulting bundle is compact and has no sharp creases that will require ironing out later on. Additionally, Dyment explains that “the slight tension created in the fabric by the wrapping process, along with the anchoring of the resulting bundle, greatly reduces the chances of wrinkling.” You then put it in your bag and use the tie-down straps to provide just enough pressure to keep it together.

While simple to perform, this packing method isn’t something you can master in one go. It takes a bit of practice, but once you get it, it’s like riding a bike. The downside is that you can’t just leave your clothing packed and expect to be able to access your underwear without fully unpacking your clothes first. But unpacking is a good habit to get into anyway, as it allows your clothes to breathe and avoid wrinkles or mildew. Wirecutter founder and frequent traveler Brian Lam says that unpacking the moment he enters a room has a grounding effect that allows him to feel a bit more at home in a new environment.

If this sounds like too much of a hassle for you, you can do what we did before we found out about bundling: roll up your socks and underwear tightly and place them in packing cubes, then put your wrinkle-prone items (shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, jackets) in a garment folder—we used the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Garment Folder . This is also travel guru Rob King’s preferred method of packing. Though the garment folder is not quite as space-efficient as the bundle method due to the added bulk of the folder and folding board, the plastic backboard does go a long way towards preventing wrinkles. Just be aware that if you leave your clothes in there for longer than a day, they’ll begin to develop unsightly creases that require an iron to get rid of.

A big thank-you to the Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland, Oregon, for lending us a suite to use for the photos in this guide.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

Mentioned above

• There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
• The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more. The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks  
• After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage  
• After researching 30 models, we found that Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who check bags. The Best Suitcases for Checking  
• We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases. The Best Luggage Tags  
• After researching and traveling with packing cubes for more than five years, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set is what we keep in our luggage. The Best Packing Cubes  

Further reading

How to Sleep Well (or at Least Better) While Traveling

by Christine Ryan

Our sleep and travel editors recommend gear for coping with travel-induced insomnia, vetted through hours of testing and years of personal experience.

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Haley Perry

You don't have to be a digital nomad to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible.

Road-Trip Essentials

by Eve O'Neill

We spend a lot of time driving each year, and this is our list of essential road-trip gear to include in your packing list.

Tools and Emergency Supplies to Keep in the Car for Winter Driving

by Rik Paul

Here are the essential—and nonessential—items to carry in your car during winter driving to ensure you get to your destination.

The Best Travel Camera Cases and Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your cameras and lenses organized and protected while on the go

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

TripSavvy / Debbie Wolfe

Cameras are still essential travel gear, but unlike flip-flops and toiletries, cameras require special handling and, ideally, a dedicated camera case. If you’re hitting the road (or tarmac) with expensive camera gear, it’s worth investing in a camera-specific travel bag or case that not only protects your investment but has a home for each camera, lens, and accessory you might bring along.

To help you find the perfect travel camera case, we had more than a dozen testers get hands-on with 21 of the most popular camera-specific travel cases and narrowed it down to our nine favorites. We reviewed bags on their design, layout, comfort when carrying, and even tested the waterproofing on bags that advertised it. These nine travel camera cases fit different niches within the category, giving you a wide range of options since not all photographers and videographers travel the same.

Our favorite camera bag overall was the Thule Aspect because of its smart design and layout and its minimalist, streamlined style in a size that should work for most photographers on the go. And because it doesn’t scream “photo case,” it can be used as an everyday pack even when leaving the camera gear at home. Read on for more about the Aspect and the eight other camera cases our testers found were worthy of your consideration.

• TripSavvy's Picks

Other Camera Cases We Tested

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, thule camera bag backpack.

Camera accessible while wearing

The understated design doesn't scream "camera bag"

Fits under airline seats

No cover, not fully waterproof

While they’re not an endemic camera brand and are probably best known for their ubiquitous roof racks and bike carriers, Sweden’s Thule makes exceptional camera luggage. Their XX-liter Aspect strikes an outstanding balance of simplicity and functionality and is unassuming enough to work great as an everyday carry pack even if your camera stays at home. The primary camera and lens storage area has a convenient side entry zip and enough space for a DSLR body with a lens attached and two to three additional lenses and accessories. Our testers loved the placement of this side access compartment because it’s accessible without removing the pack to unzip and pull the camera out quickly if needed.

You can easily rearrange the padded internal dividers to fit your specific gear needs, and there’s a mesh zippered pocket on the inside of the opening flap to hold loose items such as extra batteries and cables close at hand. The top-access compartment provides a separate area to carry extra equipment if you’re gear-heavy or miscellaneous non-camera gear, such as layers, snacks, and water. The laptop sleeve holds up to 15-inch laptops or tablets and is roomy enough that you don’t have to fight to get your device in properly, like some similar sleeves. Like most camera bags, your tripod storage is along the side and uses a mesh pocket and strap to secure it.

The Aspect is water-resistant, not waterproof, but stood up to direct water exposure in our testing. It also wears like a standard daypack and has a sternum strap and substantial hip belt if you fully load the pack. The hip belt also has mesh quick-storage built-in, so you don’t have to overload pockets with things like lens caps and batteries when you’re in the thick of shooting. There’s plenty of room for gear for your average photographer, but the size and shape are small enough to fit under most airplane seat storage areas, so you don’t have to worry about contents shifting during flight.

Capacity: XX liters | Weight: 3.2 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15.6-inch | Materials: 100 percent nylon

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Peak design everyday backpack 20l.

Peak Design

Innovative design touches

On-body access

Pricier than similarly sized bags

Peak Design started as a Kickstarter launch, and their camera bags and accessories are now some of the most sought-after camera equipment. Their Everyday Backpack (now in its second iteration) isn’t just another camera backpack and has loads of intelligent design features you’d expect from Peak Design. Our tester appreciated the ambidextrous side access that lets you into the main compartment from either side by removing one arm from the shoulder strap and slinging the bag around to your front. Inside, Peak’s innovative, origami-like FlexFold dividers keep your camera items from bumping into each other. 

The side-access panels have zippers, but the top flap closes with a dead-quiet MagLatch closure that can clamp down less or more depending on how full that compartment is. The laptop sleeve holds up to a 16-inch size but can be adjusted for smaller computers so they don’t fall down, making them harder to dig for. We tested the 20-liter model, but for a modest additional $20, you can get the same pack in a 30-liter version if you carry more gear than average. If you occasionally need even more capacity, stowaway external carry straps permit multiple configurations for lashing things like jackets, tents, or whatever your adventures call for. There are smart travel features as well. The pack’s back has a sleeve that slides over a roller bag’s handle, and there’s a quick stash top pocket for miscellanies such as phones, chargers, and passports.

Capacity: 20 liters | Weight: 4.43 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 16-inch | Materials: 400D recycled plastic

Tripsavvy / Robert Caponetto

Best Budget

Bagsmart photo camera backpack.

Stylish non-techy look

Built-in rain cover

The top compartment lacks padding

Despite being one of the few bags we tested that retails for less than $100, this is a stylish backpack you could use for everyday carry without anyone knowing you're wearing a camera pack. Our tester said, "It looks like a nice, modern backpack that doesn't scream, 'I have expensive equipment in here!'" Inside the water-resistant canvas, however, is a large lower compartment with padded dividers that holds a camera with a lens attached and three to four additional lenses or other gear items. And like more expensive camera bags, there's a side access pocket that lets you quickly grab your camera while keeping the bag slung on one shoulder.

The expandable top compartment captures the rest of your stuff with a water-resistant cinch top beneath the canvas flap that closes securely with belt-like leather straps. Side pouches with elastic hold water bottles or tripods, and the laptop sleeve keeps your computer up to 15 inches secure against your back. The canvas is water-resistant but also has a pull-out cover in case the weather takes a serious turn.

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Canvas

TripSavvy / Abby Mercer

Peak Design Everyday Sling

Easy on-body access

High durable exterior

Collapsible for travel

Not fully waterproof

If you want to travel light with a stripped-down camera gear kit, a bag or pack can be overkill, making it harder to access what you need. For situations like this, I’ve used an earlier version of Peak Design’s 6-liter Everyday Sling for years, and it’s durable enough that it still looks like new. The updated version remains largely unchanged but comes in additional sizes (you can get it in 3-, 6-, or 10-liter versions) and new color options. The latest version also adds more durable zippers and uses recycled materials. The 6-liter is only big enough to hold a tablet, but you can use the external carry straps to bring a tripod when necessary.

The collapsible sling is thick, padded, and fairly stiff and can flatten enough to store inside a larger suitcase. Alternatively, you could pack the smaller sling sizes with your gear and place it inside other luggage to keep your equipment protected in transit and ready to be deployed for lighter trips at your destination. Our tester loved carrying the smaller pack when traveling, taking just enough equipment, and quickly swinging it around to access gear.

Capacity: 3-liter, 6-liter (tested), 10-liter | Weight: 1.72 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 11-inch tablet | Materials: 400D recycled plastic canvas

TripSavvy / Mariah Tyler

Most Durable

Neewer rolling camera backpack.

Three carry options

Large capacity

Attached rain cover

Shoulder straps aren't removable

If you carry a lot of gear, many travel camera packs can make you feel cramped trying to fit Speedlites, large telephotos, and extra camera bodies. Not an issue with Neewer’s luggage-style roller bag that converts to a backpack and also has a regular suitcase carry handle and plenty of interior room and is rated to handle over 120 pounds of gear. The non-removable wheels and telescoping handle give your back a break when navigating airports and city streets, but the backpack straps (including a waist belt) let you go off-road when needed.

Our tester loved the solid structure and substantial padding to protect their gear and felt the bag could withstand drops and other abuse in transit. The exterior is made from waterproof nylon but has an attached rain cover, just in case. This extra-large backpack is just small enough to fit in overhead storage on a plane, but our tester found a few downsides. Because of the size and weight, it’s not the most comfortable for long-term wear as a backpack, and the backpack straps aren’t removable to prevent snagging when used as a roller bag.

Capacity: 60-kilogram weight-rated | Weight: 9.43 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Nylon

TripSavvy / Jacob Fox

Best Organization

Think tank photo airport security.

Extra-durable exterior

Lots of interior space

Meets carry-on size requirement

You expect durability with “tank” in the brand name, but this airline-ready roller carry-on bag should withstand nearly anything with ballistic-grade waterproof nylon outside and heavy padding. Think Tank designed this bag to meet US and international carry-on requirements, but there’s still tons of room inside, and our tester loaded it up with two bodies and large lenses and still had about 20 percent of the volume left unused. Think Tank’s highest-capacity roller bag accommodates up to 600 millimeters of telephoto lenses.

There’s a laptop compartment that will hold up to a 17-inch device, but otherwise, the bag is essentially one giant equipment compartment with tons of dividers, giving you maximum flexibility to arrange the bag to hold your specific gear configuration. While you could fit smaller tripods inside, the bag has tripod-specific straps for exterior carry and a TSA-approved padlock and cable lock for theft prevention. Our tester loved the build and durability, but the downside is that the pack is heavy, which gets magnified when fully loaded, so you’ll want to use the rolling wheels whenever possible to avoid carrying the total weight.

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 12.76 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 17-inch | Materials: 1680D ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Victor Protasio

Most Comfortable

Lowepro protactic 450 aw.

Armored build

Lots of available accessories to attach

Ergonomic build for all-day comfort

For long days shooting in the field, you want a comfortable, ergonomic backpack, and it’s no surprise that a brand with backpacking roots makes our Most Comfortable pick. Colorado-born Lowe Alpine made the first internal frame backpacking pack, and they’ve been making camera-specific years for over 50 years. The ProTactic 450 AW is for adventurous photographers who need to keep their pack on over countless miles and long days with ActiveZone support that uses firm but supportive padding that leaves room for airflow against your back. Our tester specifically called out the extra-wide waist strap for putting the weight on their hips where it belongs instead of the shoulders. Beyond simple padding, the ProTactic 450 employs FormShell construction lands it somewhere between a backpack and hard-sided luggage.

Everything about the ProTactic 450 AW says “tactical,” and its webbing-wrapped exterior permits attachment of LowePro’s many sold-separately SlipLock accessories, such as pouches for water bottles, phone, and other accessories. Included straps and a tripod cup securely attach to the outside. Despite being stiff and armored, there are four ways into the main compartment for easy access to your gear, no matter where the pack is.

Capacity: 25 liters | Weight: 6.26 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 15-inch | Materials: Not listed

TripSavvy / Gregory Dupree

Best Storage

Nomatic mckinnon camera pack.

High volume

Very expensive

Helpful accessory pouches not included

Salt Lake City-based luggage company Nomatic likely paired with popular YouTube photographer/videographer Peter McKinnon partly because of his massive following, but the 35-liter McKinnon Camera Pack has developed a loyal following of its own. The pack stands out for its ruggedly urban looks and enormous storage capacity, expandable up to 42 liters to accommodate lots of content creation gear but a few days' worth of clothes and basics. The TPU-coated 900D nylon is rugged and waterproof, forming a durable armor that's still flexible enough to feel like a backpack and retain some flexibility despite ample padding everywhere. 

We tested the Nomatic pack in the field, and both testers appreciated how the pack forms to your back and the extra padding in the shoulder straps to ease the weight when fully loaded. Like an excellent backpacking pack, the shoulder straps also have load-lifter straps to help position the weight on your shoulders, and sternum and waist straps help distribute the weight more evenly. The pack is heavy compared to backpacking packs, and it needs to be to pad and protect your equipment, but it's light for its capacity compared to other high-volume camera bags we tested. Even for such a nice pack, the price is high, so we wished Nomatic threw in a few helpful accessory pouches and packing cubes that are part of the McKinnon camera gear line.

Capacity: 35 liters (expands to 42L) | Weight: 5.75 pounds | Maximum Laptop Carry Capacity: 16-inch | Materials: EVA back panels, 900D TPU-coated nylon  exterior, Hypalon lashing points

TripSavvy / Henry Wortock

TripSavvy's Picks

Our testers loved the Thule Aspect and the Peak Design Everyday 20L packs for their streamlined profiles and photography-specific builds packed with many innovative features. While the Peak Design bag has tons of unique features we loved, the Thule Aspect edged it out just barely by having a more accessible price point, making it an excellent option for pros and casual photographers alike. We also got most of the same features out of the surprisingly capable Bagsmart Photo Camera Backpack, which has most of the features we loved in pricier packs but was the only one of our picks that retails for less than $100.

Thule Covert 32L Camera Pack : This well-designed, high-capacity pack is an excellent option for balancing personal and camera gear storage via a removable camera pod that works as a sling. However, we felt Thule Aspect was a better option for most travelers, thanks to a much lower price point. Pros who want more storage and versatility should consider the Covert if they find the Aspect too small or simplistic.

Manfrotto Advanced III Rolling Camera Bag : This basic camera roller bag ticks most of the boxes on paper, but our tester found the padding lacking and expected more storage from a carry-on-sized piece of luggage.

Think Tank Photo Airport Accelerator Backpack : Our tester loved this bag's size and build quality, but other options in this category edged it out by having more carry options to ease the burden of carrying a higher volume of gear.

Boundary Prima System : We loved the design and modularity of this pack and its components but wished there wasn't an extra charge to make it waterproof and that they included more parts of their system.

Manfrotto MB MA2-BP-GM Advanced² Gear M Camera and Laptop Backpack : We appreciated the comfort and design of this pack despite lacking a hip belt, but felt it was a bit small for travel since there isn't much space dedicated to clothes and personal items.

Wandrd PRVKE : We tested the 21-liter size, and our professional photographer tester felt there wasn't enough gear storage for most pros. We also felt the price was high, especially considering the additional cost of including the "essential" photography bundle.

Brevite The Jumper Camera Backpack : This stylish, small backpack scored high marks from our tester for being lightweight and easy to carry. It comes in many bright solid colors and could be an excellent choice for someone with a streamlined kit.

Hex Ranger DSLR Sling V2 : This is a more modestly priced sling than our Best Sling pick from Peak Design that could be an excellent option for photographers that don't want to spend over $100 on a camera sling. Compared to the Peak Design sling, it lacks some structure and durability but is about half the cost.

Bellroy Venture Sling 10L: This oversized sling got high marks from our NY-based tester, who loved the quality, design, and ease of use while walking around for street photography.

Tenba DNA 16 Pro Messenger Ba g: If you prefer the ease of access of a shoulder-slung bag like this, the Tenba may be a great fit as a day trip bag, though our tester wished it was a tad smaller.

Lo & Sons Claremont : While it's not for everyone, this shoulder bag looks like an oversized purse and has some basic camera-specific design touches—an excellent choice for someone who wants a camera bag that's a bit chic.

ONA The Bowery Messenger Bag : Another stylish, purse-like shoulder camera bag. Our tester loved the style and could fit her entire kit inside but felt the price was too high.

Gatta Rae Noir : Another leather purse/shoulder bag option. Stylish and reasonably priced but bulky for travel and better-suited for day shoots closer to home for photographers that want a stylish bag.

Poler Elevated Camera Cooler: A fun, lunch tote-style camera bag that converts to a light-duty lunch cooler after removing the padded dividers. A more unisex option for folks that want a shoulder carry day bag for a small camera kit.

More than a dozen recreational and professional testers took 21 camera bags out around their home bases and on road and air travel trips. Testers spent time customizing the travel bag’s organization and trying different configurations. They then took the bags into the field, testing for ease of use and accessibility of gear while worn and comfort in transit. 

We also tested the weatherproofing of the bags when present by taking them out in bad weather when possible and spraying them down at home to gauge how well they keep gear dry. Testers examined zippers, fasteners, pockets, storage compartments, and special features for durability and ease of use.

What to Look for When Buying a Travel Case for Camera

Camera bag makers use various materials to achieve their design goals, and there’s no “best” material to watch when evaluating your camera bag options. Some bags use fabrics such as nylon, and many employ coatings such as DWR or rubbery TPU to give them weather resistance. Many manufacturers will list the Denier rating of fabric, and if durability is important to you, look for exterior materials with higher Denier numbers. However, remember that higher Deniers are usually heavier, bulkier, and less flexible.

Most backpacks and camera bags measure storage volume in liters, which can be a useful way to compare the size of different bags when shopping online. We tested some slings 10 liters or less in volume, and most packs fell between 20 and 40 liters. While you can undoubtedly buy camera bags and cases larger than this, they become too big to carry on and fall more into the luggage category than travel bags. When choosing a bag size for your travels with camera gear, consider not only the amount of camera gear you need to transport but any personal items, such as clothing, computers, hard drives, water, snacks, etcetera, that you’ll want to include to estimate the volume that’s right for you.

Additional Features

With most photographers operating in the digital world, most camera bags have a slot for a laptop, and we’ve included the maximum laptop size for any bags with that feature. If you usually employ a tripod, look for bags with a dedicated tripod storage solution. More advanced bags will often have special, smaller compartments for odds and ends that photographers carry, such as memory cards, hard drives, batters, filters, and more. 

All but one of our picks above cost over $100, and camera bags are generally more expensive than comparably sized backpacks and bags because they include extra features and materials used to organize and protect your gear. You can expect to pay $150 up to $400 for a high-quality, higher-volume camera-specific pack though smaller bags and slings will generally cost less.

Cleaning and care for camera bags will vary from model to model and brand to brand, but your best bet is to spot clean whenever possible. Waterproof bags can be easier to clean as they repel water, resist stains more readily, and can also be sprayed down if they get dirty. A few bags are machine-washable, but always consult manufacturer recommendations on how to clean individual bags.

Smaller bags can qualify as personal items, and several of our picks will meet size requirements for carry-ons for domestic flights. Because these requirements can vary depending on your location, destination, and airline carrier, it always makes sense to consult your airline’s specific requirements and fees before you fly.

When traveling with camera gear, bringing any equipment you might need for a particular trip or a photo shoot is a good idea. While no one wants to lug around more gear than they expect to use, it can be expensive, difficult, or even impossible to replace items you didn’t bring when you’re far from home. If you’re like me and prefer to overpack camera gear, get a bigger pack than you think you need.

Also, anticipate your non-camera needs, such as extra clothes, personal electronics, and food/beverage considerations. If you want one pack to hold everything, choose a camera bag that holds more than just camera gear. Especially when dealing with food and liquids, it’s a good idea to have separate compartments for personal and camera items.

Over 15 years as a professional photographer and videographer, Justin Park has tested and owned dozens of camera bags and cases for both work and play. He has employed and destroyed slings, backpacks, and hard cases filming Olympic games and backcountry sporting events such as mountain bike races and ultramarathons, including Colorado’s Leadville 100.

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The 41 best travel gifts for 2023 — gadgets and gear for jetsetters, roadtrippers and more

Last-minute gifts, expert-approved

Airplane Essentials

Tech gadgets, games and entertainment, outerwear and weather prep, road trip essentials.

1. Airplane Essentials 2. Luggage 3. Tech Gadgets 4. Games and Entertainment 5. Outerwear and Weather Prep 6. Road Trip Essentials

Nothing beats packing your bags and taking off on an excursion, whether by land, sky or sea. Most of us appreciate a good getaway. And gifts that encourage such adventures are almost guaranteed to be well received. 

With the holidays rapidly approaching, these are our 41 best last-minute travel gifts for 2023. From handheld game consoles to sturdy walking boots to the perfect neck pillow, the experts here at Tom's Guide have strong opinions on which items deserve space in your suitcase or carry-on. 

The best travel gifts range in price from under $20 up to several hundred. Regardless of taste or destination, we've got ideas that should please even the fussiest of jetsetters. Now boarding: the best last-minute travel gifts of 2023. 

Mavogel Cotton Eye Mask Combine this super-soft sleeping mask with a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones, like the Bose QuietComfort 45 below, for a relaxing in-flight experience, even in the middle seat. The Mavogel Eye Mask provides complete darkness and is adjustable to fit any head size. They also come with a lovely little travel pouch. 

Bose QuietComfort 45 A quality pair of noise cancelling headphones can mean the difference between a peaceful flight and a headache-inducing one. Don't settle for just any pair. These Bose Bluetooth headphones are battle-tested and staff-approved. Find out why in our Bose QuietComfort 45 review .  

Wandrd Prvke 21L backpack This oddly-named backpack is full of secret compartments and features, including an oversized weather-resistant roll-top for expanding storage and a hide-away water bottle pocket. The main area is also highly configurable, with plenty of space for gadgets and gear — there are even separate sections for a laptop and a tablet. Oh, and it fits nicely under the seat in front. 

AirFly Pro This one is for anyone who has ever wanted to watch an in-flight movie with their seatmate without having to sync up two screens. The AirFly Pro from Twelve South plugs into a standard 3.5mm audio jack and wirelessly transmits audio to up to two Bluetooth-enabled headphones. How romantic. 

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack Keep important items, like sunglasses, hand sanitizer, charging cables, etc., close at hand with this stylish and lightweight hip pack. The Black Hole Mini wears comfortably around the waist or across the body and stows easily in a carry-on until you're ready to board. 

Hydro Flask Beyond being well-rested, staying hydrated is one of the keys to beating Jet Lag. To do that, you need a good refillable vessel. The Hydro Flask is our favorite water bottle for travel because of its thin, attractive design and outstanding insulation that keeps bevs cold for 24 hours or more. It also comes in an array of snazzy colors. 

Keemall Inflatable Neck Pillow A decent inflatable neck pillow just may be the ultimate travel hack. This one is just $15 and has a soft, machine-washable cover. Inflation takes just a couple of breaths into the one-way air valve. And when deflated, the Keemall can be packed into a small carrying case for easy stowage. 

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 Want the best noise cancelling earbuds money can buy? Say no more. These second-generation Bose QuietComforts will isolate you into a tranquil zone of peace and quiet. Audio quality is also excellent, which is perhaps why we called them the best-ever wireless earbuds for noise cancellation in our Bose QuietComfort Earbuds 2 review . 

JLab JBuds Mini For some affordable ear candy, check out these JBuds Mini wireless earbuds. For $39, they provide solid audio quality in a petite and stylish package. They also boast decent battery life and a durable design. For more on why we love them, read our JLab JBuds Mini review . 

Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 This rugged Anker pack is one of the best portable chargers you can buy. The 10,000 mAh battery has plenty of juice to recharge your smartphone multiple times, just in case the seat-back power is once again on the fritz. It also boasts ports for USB-A, USB-C and Micro-USB. (Note: be sure to clip the coupon on Amazon to save 30%), 

Away Travel Bigger Carry-On Smart luggage is a smart move. The Bigger Carry-On from Away Travel features a built-in removable battery to keep gadgets charged. It's also super sleek, durable and overhead compartment compliant. Find out more about why we love the Away Travel Bigger Carry-On in our review . 

REI Big Haul 60 Duffel As its name implies, the Big Haul is all about schlepping lots of stuff — 60 liters worth, to be exact. Best of all, it can be carried as either a backpack or a duffel bag, and the straps easily tuck away when not in use. It also boasts numerous attachment points and a weather-resistant exterior.

Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage Checking a bag? This lightweight, hard-sided spinner suitcase is tough-built and cleared for takeoff. It features two internal zippered compartments, a durable polycarbonate exterior and the ability to expand capacity by two inches (just in case you pick up too many souvenirs). Best of all, it's also designed to survive occasional mishaps like tumbles down subway stairs.

Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses There's more to these stylish Ray-Ban sunglasses than meets the eye. The ultimate hands-free content creation tool, the Meta Smart Glasses boast an onboard 12MP wide-angle camera and five built-in microphones. They're even live-stream capable! Find out more in our Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses review . 

Epicka Universal Travel Power Adapter Picture this: You land in a new country, excited to start exploring. You check into your hotel and go to juice your phone up, but, oh no! You've forgotten your AC plug adapter. Or worse, you brought the wrong one (guilty). Avoid this reality from ever happening with Epicka's sturdy-built universal adapter. It works with the four most common outlet types, which translates to compatibility in 150+ countries. 

Sony ZV-1 vlogging camera Get your vlog on with Sony's pint-sized ZV-1 video camera. It shoots high-quality 4K and is simple to operate. Flip the screen around for selfies or shoot in vertical mode for sharing on social. It also features rock-solid image stabilization and reliable autofocus tuned to human faces. Find out what else it offers in our Sony ZV-1 review . 

Apple AirTag Never misplace your keys, car, smartphone, wallet or luggage again with one of these little round trackers. Sold individually or in four-packs , they offer peace of mind for those on the move, especially when checked bags and short connections are part of the itinerary. Learn more in our Apple AirTag review .

Apple Watch SE (2022) The latest generation Apple Watch SE is a fabulous travel companion and our pick for the best-value Apple Watch in 2023. It even comes in an LTE version for those who prefer to leave their smartphone back at the hotel while they explore. 

Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 The Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 is a stylish and compact instant camera that makes use of the brand's smallest (and most affordable) Instax Mini format. Dead-simple to operate with no shortage of retro charm, the Mini 40 is a great road trip companion. Find out more in our Fujifilm Instax Mini 40 review . 

Theragun Mini massage gun Theragun's most compact massage gun doesn't skimp on the power. With three intensities to choose from and a low-profile design, this little device is the ultimate travel and adventure companion, especially after an eight-hour flight in coach. 

Fitbit Charge 6 Monitor your health and wellness with the best overall fitness tracker of 2023 . The Fitbit Charge 6 keeps tabs on heart rhythm, blood oxygen saturation, pulse, skin temperature, sleep quality and more. Of course, it can also track your fitness stats as you explore. Find out more in our Fitbit Charge 6 review .

GoPro Hero10 Black If getting extreme is part of your travel plans, you'll need a decent action camera to document your exploits. The GoPro Hero10 Black may not be the brand's most recent release, but it's plenty capable and can often be found for a discount. Video quality is top-notch, as is image stabilization. Want to know more? Read our GoPro Hero10 Black review . 

Apple iPad Air The latest Apple iPad Air is the best overall tablet of 2023  and a great choice for travel, thanks to its lightweight (and elegant) design. It also offers great battery life, a truly stunning display and speedy performance. For more on why we love it, head to our Apple iPad Air review .

Amazon Fire 7 A tablet for less than $60? Yes indeed. The Amazon Fire 7 is the best budget tablet in 2023 . Perfect for watching movies and TV, reading the news or browsing social feeds, it's an unfussy tablet for unfussy folks. Read our full Amazon Fire 7 tablet review . 

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro Got kids in tow? The Amazon Fire 10 HD Kids Pro is the best tablet for kids ages six to 12 thanks to its bright screen, simple user interface and durable design. For even younger travelers, consider the non "pro" Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids instead. 

Kindle Paper White The Kindle Paper White is one of the best e-readers out there, thanks to a large 6.8-inch display and ten weeks of battery life. It's also water-resistant and reasonably tough-built. Learn more in our Kindle Paper White review . 

Nintendo Switch (Mario Kart 8 Bundle) One of the best holiday Nintendo Switch deals is this Mario Kart 8 Bundle for $299 at Best Buy. You get a Switch console, a digital copy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and three months of Switch Online. Not to shabby considering the console alone usually costs that amount. 

Nintendo Switch Lite - Blue The Nintendo Switch Lite doesn't offer the same hybrid gameplay as its big brother. But it plays all the same games. And for those often on the go, it may be a better choice thanks to its petite, lightweight design. Find out more in our Nintendo Switch Lite review . 

The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Believe the hype. This game is expansive, nostalgic, fun and totally awesome. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is finally available for the Nintendo Switch (and Switch Lite). Grab a copy today and get lost in the vast lands and skies of Hyrule.

Carhartt Rain Defender Graphic Hoodie Stay warm and cozy while you travel in this relaxed fit, midweight hoodie. It comes in a range of styles for both men and women, including graphic and non-graphic versions. Plus, all Rain Defender hoodies are treated with Carhartt's Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to keep you dry. 

L.L. Bean PrimaLoft Packaway Hooded Jacket This lightweight, insulated synthetic jacket is the perfect mid-layer for cold-weather activities like hiking and snowboarding. It's also a good choice for those who get chilly easily on airplanes. When not being worn, the PrimaLoft Packaway does what its name suggests: packs away into an interior zippered chest pocket. In this form, it makes for a good travel pillow.  

Patagonia Houdini packable jacket Fun fact: This was Houdini’s favorite jacket, hence the name. He even wore it during some of his most famous escapes. Okay, not really, but there is something magical about a packable garment that takes up almost no space, weighs next to nothing, yet provides a fair amount of weather protection. 

Scarpa Maverick Mid GTX Hiking Boot Stylish and supportive, these Italian hiking boots are appropriate for dirt or pavement. The outsole strikes a perfect balance between stiff and flexible, a Gore-Tex liner keeps your toes dry and an odor-crushing insole ensures you don't offend anyone. They're also among the best hiking boots in 2023 .

Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket Offering greater rain protection than the Patagonia Houdini, the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket will keep you dry in all but heavy and/or sustained downpours. It's also lightweight, comfortable and super breathable. Plus, like all the jackets in this guide, it packs down for easy carrying. 

Arc’teryx Venta Glove Keep your fingers warm and toasty with these soft-shell, wind and weather-resistant gloves from Arc’teryx. Lightweight, comfortable and grippy, they will serve you well when the temps drop. Toss a pair in your glovebox for chilly mornings or wear them when you take the dog out for a walk when it's four in the morning, the end of December.

Stanley Adventure to Go Insulated Travel Tumbler Whether you want to keep 35 ounces of coffee hot and fresh for up to 25 hours or a thirst-quenching beverage ice-cold for 27 hours or more, this insulated stainless steel thermos has your back. It boasts a leakproof design with a built-in cup that doubles as a lid. It's also seemingly bombproof.  

Noco Boost Plus GB40 1000A Battery Jump Starter Kiss the dreaded jumper cables and awkward pleas with strangers goodbye forever. For less than $100, an automatic jump starter is a great emergency kit addition, especially if you live somewhere cold. It can also be used to charge electronics and has a built-in LED flashlight. 

Purple Simple Seat Cushion Give your tired buns a rest with Purple's travel-friendly Simple Seat Cushion. It's super comfy, especially for long-haul drives, and designed to work well in most vehicles. The outer cover is machine washable, just in case you spill some coffee/ketchup/etc. 

Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 Ideal for drivers who to minimize obstructing their view of the road ahead, the Garmin Dash Cam Mini is the best small dash cam in 2023 . Offering Full HD video, voice control and a tiny footprint, it's also a bargain right now at just $99. Find out more in our Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 review.  

Fanttik X8 Apex tire inflator The Fanttik X8 Apex may be compact and unassuming, but it's also one of the best tire inflators in 2023. We love it for its petite size, large display, onboard battery and built-in LED flashlight. It's also a piece of cake to use. Want to know more? Read our Fanttik X8 Apex review .

DOT Essential OSHA ANSI Emergency Kit Preparation is the key to any successful trip. This is especially true when embarking on a long road trip. Whether you're driving a new car or a beloved clunker, make sure you have one of the best emergency car kits onboard. The DOT Essential OSHA ANSI Compliant Kit comes in a compact duffel bag and includes many essentials like a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, emergency lights and more. 

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Dan Bracaglia covers fitness and consumer technology with an emphasis on wearables for Tom's Guide. Based in the US Pacific Northwest, Dan is an avid outdoor adventurer who dabbles in everything from kayaking to snowboarding, but he most enjoys exploring the cities and mountains with his small pup, Belvedere. Dan is currently training to climb some of Washington State's tallest peaks. He's also a big photography nerd. 

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23 Best Travel Accessories for Every Kind of Trip

Whether you’re crammed in economy class or on a long drive, these gadgets and accessories will make the time pass quickly.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or you save up for one trip every few years, chances are you already know that what you pack impacts your comfort, your enjoyment, and, perhaps most important, your stress levels both while traveling and when you’ve actually settled in at your new destination. That’s why it’s critical to pack useful, helpful travel accessories. Take the wrong ones, and you may find yourself carrying extra weight for gear you never end up using.

As a full-time travel writer, I enjoy the wonderful perk of being able to travel quite a bit. While chasing down stories, I’ve stayed in five-star suites in the Maldives and slept on the top bunk of a 15-hour budget sleeper train in Vietnam . So I’ve experienced quite a variety of travel conditions while using what’s likely hundreds of travel accessories in the process.

Over time, I’ve been able to narrow down my must-have travel accessories to include a perfect blend of ones that are useful, easy to carry, and multifunctional. For example, a packable mini- backpack can serve as a lightweight bag for day hikes or as an extra carry-on if you buy too much abroad.

These are the 23 best travel accessories I recommend to all my friends planning their next weekend or bucket-list getaways.

Best Travel Accessories

• Best In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Adapter: Twelve South AirFly Pro
• Best Travel Footrest: Airplane Footrest
• Best Cord Organizer for Small Items: Bellroy Classic Pouch
• Best Containers for Toiletries: Cadence Weekender Bundle
• Best Blanket for Cold Flights: Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

The Expert: I’m a freelance travel writer and editor who usually focuses on adventure travel. That’s led me to take some pretty lengthy flight patterns (most recently, 54 hours of travel on the way to Rwanda) and fairly remote road trips (through central Alaska). But traveling frequently doesn't mean anything goes. Like everyone else, I have my personal annoyances while traveling: I get cold easily, I’m sensitive to noise when sleeping in new places, and I always need to be able to work on-the-go. What all of that means is that my experience with travel accessories isn’t just about finding those that make flights more comfortable, but also those that improve my productivity, help me enjoy myself in new destinations, and make packing as painless as possible. I think I've used just about every type of travel product out there, and truly feel the ones I have selected are the best of the best.

What to Consider When Buying Travel Accessories

The best travel accessories eliminate the inconveniences and annoyances of life on-the-go. For me, this includes headphones that drown out engine noise (or crying babies), containers that allow me to bring my favorite soap and shampoo on flights, and anything that makes long trips more comfortable. Consider what you value most and look for accessories in that space.

No matter what you’re in the market for, don’t overlook size, especially for liquids. The TSA limits your liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container and prefers them all packed into one quart-size bag. As for luggage, make sure any travel bags you intend to carry on are no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and checked bags no heavier than 50 pounds. Even if you aren’t checking a suitcase, you’ll have an easier, more comfortable experience with less to lug around. Most of the accessories below are relatively lightweight, but they’ll add a few pounds combined.

Finally, a word on price. Some travelers don’t want to spend too much money on items they might accidentally leave in a seat-back pocket, whereas other people tend to take better care of things that cost more. I generally recommend ruling out the very cheapest items in most categories, lest you find your shampoo bottle started leaking mid-flight.

Pack Your Bags: Rolling Suitcases for Your Next Vacation | The Best Carry-On Luggage, Recommended by a Travel Pro | These Travel Bags Keep Your Stuff Safe and Secure

How We Selected These Travel Accessories

In addition to my own experiences using these products as a travel writer and gear tester, I weighed consumer reviews, investigated market research, and did a thorough evaluation of each product's price, features, and overall value. If you’re looking for stuff to make your next trip easier and more comfortable, start with these recommendations.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

Given how small and lightweight this Bluetooth adapter is, I make sure to pack it for every flight where I expect to watch a movie. The adapter plugs into airplane screens and pairs via Bluetooth so you can use your preferred noise-canceling earphones with the in-flight entertainment.

It has excellent battery life, but the connection does suffer from some lag. I’ve noticed a very slight audio delay in older planes—and you may need a two-prong adapter on older entertainment systems.

If you plan to use the AirFly only for sending audio to your headphones, you can get by with the less-expensive AirFly Classic, which has slightly better battery life. But if you want to use Bluetooth to send audio to the AirFly (for example, to play audio from your phone in a car without built-in Bluetooth), you’ll need the Pro.

Sekoess Airplane Footrest

My foot hammock is probably the nerdiest travel accessory I own, but it's a lifesaver—or should I say leg saver. The adjustable-length hammock attaches to your airplane seat's tray table and eases pressure on your low back, knees, and glutes.

I'm much less stiff after flights when I use the foot hammock and have never noticed it bothering the person in the seat in front of me, even while making adjustments. You can also buy versions with more rigid footrests, though I find the more flexible, hammock-style footrest is easier to stuff into a carry-on.

Bellroy Classic Pouch

Whether it’s a road trip or an international flight, I always use a small, simple zippered case for my tech gear so I don’t have to fish around for it in the bottom of my bag.

Cord organizers have become trendy lately, but some have so many straps and pockets that I still have to search for the exact item I need. Instead, I just use a small case like the Bellroy Classic Pouch. Since I have a separate case for my computer charger and cord, this one has enough space for most of my other small items, including the AirFly and Bose earbuds in this roundup. It has a few basic organizational pockets and zips wide enough so you can find what you need in a hurry.

Oh, and if you want a case to fit your computer charger as well as all your other travel accessories, never fear: There’s a larger option. The Bellroy Tech Kit is deeper and longer, with a clamshell-style opening, so it can hold slightly larger accessories like computer charger cubes or a GoPro camera.

Cadence Weekender Bundle

Carry-on-only travelers are familiar with packing small amounts of their favorite toiletries, but mini squeeze bottles make it challenging to use gels and creams that get stuck to the bottoms.

Fortunately, you can alleviate that issue with Cadence’s magnetic honeycomb-style capsules, which stick together and take up little space. These convenient containers are made from ocean plastic cleaned from beaches, and you can customize the tile labels and colors of each capsule. I recommend the six-pack for carrying both hair and skincare products, but you could connect three times that number if you so desire.

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

I carry a packable insulated blanket on almost every trip, even to tropical destinations. Aside from being useful as a plane blanket, it comes in handy in hotels where the A/C is definitely working or when there’s only a sheet on the bed.

I like the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket since the fill is light and compressible. It’s on the smaller side at roughly 4.5-feet by 3-feet, but it’s worth the trade-off for the packability (less than 4-inches wide when packed.) I usually carry it in one of the bottle pockets on the side of my carry-on backpack.

Because it’s not a full-size blanket, the NanoLoft is best as a lap blanket on cold flights or car rides, and works well as a pillow when packed. For more coverage, consider the full-size NanoLoft (6- by 14-inches packed, $179+). I recommend getting a tiny stuff sack or compression packing cube to make it into a more manageable carry-on size.

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Sack is proof that the best travel accessories don’t have to be high-tech or overly complex—just useful. This is a water-resistant, packable backpack with mesh straps, a side pocket, and one small internal pocket. That’s it.

Because it’s so simple, it folds down incredibly small to about 5- by 5- by 3-inches. I often wear it when sightseeing around a city when I don’t want to carry a purse or shoulder bag.

But even if I don’t have a plan for using it, I toss it in my luggage every time. It can come in handy when you’re packing in a hurry and can’t fit everything as neatly into your bag as you did the first time, or if you’re road tripping and want to pull over and walk to a quirky roadside attraction. Most of my other ultra-packable bags are totes, but I prefer the security of a zippable backpack.

Cabeau S3 Evolution

These pillows are phenomenal, and reviewers say they're the only way they can ever get some sleep when crammed into a middle seat.

An adjustable headrest strap keeps the pillow upright and in place, and the comfortable foam never seems to lose its shape. Though most people wear the Evolution around their neck as intended, it works well as a traditional pillow, especially considering the gap in the middle leaves room for bulky over-ear headphones.

Alongza Portable Charger

I take thousands of vacation photos per trip, and often, the only camera I’m carrying is the one in my cell phone. To avoid running out of battery before getting back to my hotel room, I carry the ridiculously small Alongza charger.

It holds about two phone charges, and it won’t power bigger devices like laptops. But because it’s roughly the size of a credit card (though a smidge thicker), it’s easy to carry and is able to charge my phone while walking around.

I find most power banks too big to fit in my pocket, but this is probably the tiniest one I’ve ever used. I also like the built-in UBC-C and Lightning connectors so I can leave my cords at the hotel.

HiBar Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

If carrying a 3-ounces of shampoo won’t get you through a whole trip, consider using a solid shampoo and conditioner bar that won’t raise any eyebrows going through the TSA checkpoint.

There are five different sets for different hair types, each safe to use for color-treated hair. Be sure to toss them into a plastic bag if you’re planning to pack them before they’re dry.

I have very thin, fine hair, and find the HiBar Volumizie set works just as well as the far more expensive salon set I use in my home shower.

Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

I love my over-the-ear headphones, but on long flights, they can start to feel a bit sore on my ears. I took a risk on the Bose QuietComfort headphones, since at nearly $300 they’re even more expensive than Apple AirPods. But I’m glad I bought them.

They provide a level of noise-cancellation I never thought would be possible from an in-ear headphone, and the case can fully charge the headphones three times before it needs to be plugged in again—enough to get you through even the longest of trans-Atlantic flights and chatty seatmates.

The only real minus is the size, as they don’t sit as closely to your head as the popular Apple AirPods. But the sound quality more than makes up for it.

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

At this point, it’s a given to carry a reusable water bottle, but I’ve started bringing my own coffee mug too, especially since I like my coffee piping hot. In many countries, coffee is served in a teacup and not guzzled like I’m used to, and having my own mug is a great way to fill my coffee once at the hotel without bothering the staff to bring more and more.

I’ve recently been using the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Mug. It keeps coffee hot, but most important, it has a tight seal. I can buy coffee in the airport, put the mug in my carry-on, and pull it out mid-flight without worrying that it leaked in the bag I have shoved under my seat.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

When it comes to audio, two big names still reign supreme, at least in my book: Sony and Bose. Bose makes my favorite in-ear headphones, but Sony’s WH-1000XM4 is far and away the best over-the-ear option. The battery life is impressive at 30 or more hours per charge, and the charging is quick—20 minutes powers about 8 hours of listening.

The noise canceling is fabulous, as I’ve learned when trying to talk to someone wearing them, and they fold into a flat case. That said, they’re still a bit on the bulky side, stored or worn, but if you’re planning to carry over-the-ear headphones, their size probably isn’t your top priority.

JBL Clip 4 Speaker

I work remotely and set my own schedule, which means I’m often working for a few hours here and there in hotel rooms on vacation. I also love to listen to podcasts when I’m getting ready in the morning, so I always make sure to pack a small Bluetooth speaker.

The JBL Clip 4 has better sound than expected for its size, including strong bass. The built-in clip makes it easy to hang on a shower rod or suitcase handle, and because it’s waterproof, it’s ideal for use around pools, beaches, hot tubs, and whatever other amenities you may avail yourself to on vacation.

The negative: it uses a lithium ion battery, which means you have to take it in your carry-on, not in your checked bags.

Panasonic Lumix G7 4K Camera

I’m constantly amazed by the quality of photos you can get from an iPhone, but when it comes to shooting in suboptimal conditions (or trying to show depth and scale in landscapes), you’ll probably want a more advanced camera.

The Lumix G7 is a ridiculously good camera with a surprisingly low price, especially considering it’s mirrorless, which makes it lighter and smaller than non-mirrorless options. It shoots photos and videos in 4K, has Wi-Fi so you can send your photos straight to your phone or computer, and has multiple auto settings for beginners, including one specifically for night-sky photography.

It’s packed with features and is the number one camera I recommend to all travelers who want to take better travel photos without spending more serious money on a camera, even if you don’t have any actual interest in using its more professional features.

Peak Design Packing Cube

I’ve become a big fan of Peak Design. The brand's packing cubes are the its first item I ever tried. They have strong zippers that don’t seem to get caught in the fabric while compressing as much as other cubes, and you can fit far more than you’d expect into each one.

I prefer the small size, as it’s easier to stack in a suitcase and fits better in a backpack or shoulder bag. These packing cubes are also light and thin, so you can throw an empty one in your bag (as I found especially useful in Patagonia) just in case you end up buying an extra sweater during your travels.

Pro packing tip: Don't pack small clothing items like underwear, socks, and swimsuits in the cubes. Instead, shove them into negative space around the cubes to maximize all available luggage areas.

Thule Subterra Carry-on Roller

Hard-sided carry-on spinners have become all the rage in the last few years, and while I do love my July bag, I’ve found two drawbacks to hard-sided bags: the second set of wheels eats into the luggage space and there’s no ability to stuff them into an overhead bin or car if they don’t quite fit.

Fortunately, I’ve had the Thule Subterra for a while now and it’s become my most-used bag. That’s thanks to a built-in compression panel with pocket; a small front pocket for passports, keys, and sunglasses; and durable back wheels that seem to have no problem crashing over curbs and steps.

I’ve also come to appreciate its slightly smaller size. While some travelers may balk at the idea of not maximizing their carry-on capacity, I find that it's actually easier for travel, especially when I see my fellow travelers’ larger bags getting forcibly gate checked on smaller planes.

Baseus Blade

I’ve used plenty of backup chargers while traveling (who hasn’t?), but the Blade from Baseus is the one I rely on most. That’s partially because I have a computer with a USB-C charging port, and the Blade is optimized for quick charging of USB-C computers.

I can charge my MacBook Pro from 0- to 100-percent with about a 20-percent charge left on the Blade (which is enough to almost fully charge my iPhone).

Other features I appreciate are its slim design (so I can travel with it in my laptop pocket), a display that shows you both how much battery is left and how much time until the Blade is fully charged, and the fact that it takes only about 1.5 hours to fully charge it.

If I use the entire capacity on a flight, as long as I have at least a 1.5-hour layover, I can be back up and running on the next flight.

Ombraz Armless Sunglasses

I've broken more than a few pairs of sunglasses by shoving them into the pocket of an overstuffed bag or sitting on them at dinner if I put them in my back pocket after a day of sightseeing. That's why when traveling, I nearly always carry Ombraz sunglasses. If I bring a fancier pair, it stays in a hard case in my luggage.

The smartly designed Ombraz shades have a soft adjustable cord in place of arms, so they’re nearly impossible to break or bend. They slide into a flat padded case and come in five unisex styles. You can also buy side shields (ideal for reflective surroundings, like snow or water) and have your prescription added.

The only downside is that you’ll need both hands to put them on, but to me, it’s worth it. I’ve had the classic pair for about three years, and they haven’t showed much wear or abrasion—but there’s a lifetime guarantee on the cord and frame if they ever do.

CM Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

I almost always have my laptop with me when I travel, and since the chunky MacBook charging cube and long cord are too bulky to store with the rest of my small cords, I used to just toss them into my bag. But then I found these tiny travel pouches sized for a computer power adapter.

I can easily fit my computer power adapter and cord in one pouch, and now, I don’t have to pull everything out of my bag to untangle the laptop cord, or use tweezers to remove dirt from the bottom of my backpack that got stuck in the charging port.

The pouches in this set are as simple and lightweight as can be, which is why I like them. They’re also useful for other small items such as GoPros, flash drives, memory cards, and camera batteries.

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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• Travel Essentials & Accessories

9 Best Toothbrush Travel Case for 2024

Published: August 29, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Koren Garry

• Plan Your Trip

Introducing the 9 Best Toothbrush Travel Case for 2023. Are you tired of dealing with dirty and disorganized toothbrushes when you're on the go? Look no further! In this article, we will unveil the top toothbrush travel cases that provide ultimate convenience and protection for your oral hygiene essentials while you're traveling. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just planning for your next vacation, these toothbrush cases offer practicality, durability, and style. Get ready to explore the fascinating world of toothbrush travel cases and find the perfect companion for your future journeys.

Jump to Review

Portable Toothbrush Holder for Traveling, Camping

This product has a rating of A. * What does this rating mean?

Overall Score : 8.5/10

The 4 Pack Toothbrush Travel Case by Hooqict is a must-have accessory for anyone who travels frequently. With 4 different stylish cases in green, blue, white, and pink, you can protect your toothbrush from deformation while adding a touch of personal style. These portable cases are perfect for travel, camping, daily use, and more. The compact size makes it easy to carry, and the double ventilation holes design keeps your toothbrush dry. Made of high-quality material, these cases are sturdy, durable, and comfortable. The toothbrush case measures 7.5 x 1.2 x 0.8 inches, making it suitable for various toothbrush sizes. Keep your toothbrush safe and hygienic with this practical and convenient travel accessory.

Key Features

• Includes 4 toothbrush cases in green, blue, white, and pink
• Portable and ideal for travel, camping, daily use, etc
• Double ventilation holes design to keep toothbrush dry
• Made of high-quality, sturdy, and durable material
• Compact size for easy carrying

Specifications

• Color: Blue, Green, Pink, White
• Dimension: 7.5L x 0.8W x 1.2H
• Size: 4 Count (Pack of 1)
• Stylish and protective design
• Suitable for various toothbrush sizes
• Good ventilation for hygienic storage
• Made of high-quality material
• Compact and easy to carry
• Made of cheap plastic
• May not close fully
• Does not last long

The 4 Pack Toothbrush Travel Case by Hooqict is a practical and convenient accessory for travelers. While it may have some drawbacks like cheap plastic material and difficulty in fully closing, its stylish design, suitable size, good ventilation, and durability make it a reliable travel companion. With a variety of color options and a reasonable price, this toothbrush case is a great choice for those who want to keep their toothbrush safe and hygienic during their travels. Invest in this travel accessory to ensure your toothbrush stays protected and in good condition wherever you go.

Portable Toothbrush Travel Case

Overall Score : 7/10

The SietDESEO Toothbrush Travel Case is a convenient and durable accessory for keeping your toothbrush, toothpaste, and other small items organized during your travels. Made of high-quality PP, this travel case is suitable for kids and adults alike. It offers a large capacity, allowing you to store not only your toothbrush and toothpaste but also other essentials like combs, makeup brushes, tableware, and pens. The versatile design makes it ideal for various settings, including school, business trips, camping, hiking, and more. With its sturdy construction and reusable nature, this toothbrush travel case is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Despite some concerns about the lid staying closed, it offers a practical solution for keeping your travel essentials in one place.

• SIZE: 8 X 3.1 X 2.4 Inch
• IGH QUALITY: Made of durable and reusable PP
• LARGE CAPACITY: Store toothbrush, toothpaste, and more
• WIDELY USED: Suitable for various settings
• AFTER-SALES SERVICE: Assured customer satisfaction
• Color: White
• Durable and sturdy construction
• Versatile and spacious design
• Provides organization for travel essentials
• Suitable for kids and adults
• Easy to clean
• Lid may not stay closed securely
• No ventilation holes

Overall, the SietDESEO Toothbrush Travel Case offers a practical and functional solution for keeping your toothbrush, toothpaste, and other small items organized during your travels. Despite some concerns about the lid staying closed and the lack of ventilation holes, its durable construction, large capacity, and versatility make it a reliable choice. Whether you’re going on a business trip or camping adventure, this travel case provides convenience and peace of mind. Just ensure that your toothbrush fits within the dimensions. With its reasonable price and after-sales service, it’s worth considering for your travel accessory collection.

Mulbozy Portable Travel Toothbrush Case

Overall Score : 9/10

The Mulbozy 4 Packs Portable Travel Toothbrush Case is a must-have accessory for anyone who travels frequently or is always on the go. Made of high-quality PP environmental protection material and natural wheat straw, this toothbrush holder is both strong and durable, as well as environmentally friendly. The unique double ventilation holes keep the toothbrush dry and breathable, while the streamlined design and fine matte texture make it comfortable to grip and easy to carry. With dimensions of 7.9 x 1.2 x 0.8 inches, it is the perfect size to fit most toothbrushes. Whether you're going on a camping trip, traveling for business, or simply need a convenient storage solution for your toothbrush at home, this toothbrush case is a travel essential. Available in four stylish colors, it adds a touch of sophistication to your travel accessories. Keep your toothbrush clean and protected with the Mulbozy Portable Travel Toothbrush Case.

• Package includes 4 toothbrush boxes in Pink, Blue, Beige, and Green
• Made of eco-friendly PP environmental protection material and natural wheat straw
• Double ventilation holes for keeping the toothbrush dry and breathable
• Unique streamlined design with a comfortable grip
• Perfect size for most toothbrushes
• Color: Pink, Blue, Beige, Green
• Dimension: 7.90Lx1.20Wx0.80H
• Sturdy and durable construction
• Variety of stylish colors
• Protects toothbrush from accidental damage
• Keeps toothbrush clean and prevents spills in bags
• Perfect for travel and outdoor activities
• Does not fit all tongue cleaners
• Strong chemical smell
• Delay in delivery for some customers

The Mulbozy Portable Travel Toothbrush Case offers a practical and stylish solution for keeping your toothbrush safe and clean while you’re on the move. Its eco-friendly construction, unique design, and variety of colors make it a top choice for travelers. The sturdy material ensures that your toothbrush remains protected from accidental damage, while the double ventilation holes promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup. Although it may not fit all tongue cleaners and some customers have experienced a strong chemical smell, overall, this toothbrush case provides great value for its affordable price. Whether you’re going on a business trip, camping adventure, or simply need a storage solution for your toothbrush at home, the Mulbozy Portable Travel Toothbrush Case is a practical and stylish choice.

Portable Toothbrush Case for Traveling

The Sunenlyst Travel Toothbrush Holder is a convenient and portable solution for your toothbrush storage needs. Made of durable plastic PP, it has a matte texture and is lightweight, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. The toothbrush holder has a big capacity storage that can fit manual toothbrushes and a small-sized toothpaste. With its suitable size and light weight, it can easily fit into your suitcase or bag. The product package contains two travel toothbrush holder cases in green and gray. It is suitable for toothbrushes within 7.5 inches. The Sunenlyst Travel Toothbrush Holder is backed by a lifetime guarantee and comes with friendly customer service.

• Made of durable and environmental plastic PP
• Big capacity storage for toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Compact size for easy portability
• Comes with two travel toothbrush holder cases in green and gray
• Suitable for toothbrushes within 7.5 inches
• Color: Green and Grey
• Size: 2 Count (Pack of 1)
• Durable and lightweight
• Ample storage space
• Lifetime guarantee
• Does not fit all toothbrush sizes
• May not stay closed securely
• May be too short for standard toothbrushes

The Sunenlyst Travel Toothbrush Holder is a practical accessory for frequent travelers. Its durable construction and ample storage space make it ideal for keeping your toothbrush and toothpaste organized while on the go. The compact size allows for easy transportation in your luggage. However, it is important to note that it may not fit all toothbrush sizes and may have some issues with staying closed securely. Overall, it offers good functionality and convenience for travel purposes.

Travel Toothbrush Case, Set of 4

Overall Score : 8.3/10

The 4 Pack Travel Toothbrush Case is the perfect accessory to keep your toothbrush clean and organized while you're on the go. The set includes four cases in different colors, allowing you to easily distinguish your toothbrush from others. These cases are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for travel, camping, gym, school, and home use. They are designed with double ventilation holes to keep your toothbrush dry and breathable. The oval head design prevents scratching other items in your bag. Made of high-quality materials, these cases are durable and built to last. With their dust-proof and sanitary features, you can rest assured that your toothbrush will be protected from getting lost or dirty. Choose this toothbrush case set for a convenient and hygienic toothbrush storage solution.

• SIZE: 7.5 x 1.18 x 0.78 inch (L x W x H)
• 4 colors for easy toothbrush distinction
• Suitable for travel, camping, gym, school, and home use
• Double ventilation holes for dry and breathable storage
• Oval head design to prevent scratching other items
• Color: Multicolor
• Dimension: 7.50Lx0.78Wx1.18H
• Organizes and protects toothbrushes during travel
• Compact, lightweight, and easy to use
• Dust-proof and sanitary design
• Allows ventilation for quick drying
• High-quality and durable construction
• No air holes for toothbrush drying
• May not fit larger toothbrushes

The 4 Pack Travel Toothbrush Case is a reliable and convenient solution for keeping your toothbrush clean and secure while you’re on the move. With its compact size and lightweight design, it’s perfect for travel enthusiasts, campers, gym-goers, students, and everyday home use. The variety of colors adds a fun touch and makes it easy to identify your toothbrush. The double ventilation holes ensure that your toothbrush stays dry and prevents any mold or mildew growth. While it may not fit larger toothbrushes, it is still a highly functional and affordable option for most users. Overall, this toothbrush case set offers great value and is a must-have travel accessory.

Electric Toothbrush Travel Case

Overall Score : 8/10

Keep your toothbrush clean and healthy while on the go with the 2 Pcs Electric Toothbrush Travel Case by Hovesty. Made of durable and waterproof plastic PP, these travel toothbrush holders are suitable for most electric toothbrushes, including Oral-B and Philips series. The convenient design allows for easy carrying in your suitcase or bag, making it perfect for traveling, business trips, school, camping, and everyday use. With a height of 8.3 inches and a width of 2.8 inches, these toothbrush holders can accommodate toothbrushes up to 8.3 inches in size. The set includes two containers in blue and white. If you're not satisfied with the product, Hovesty offers a lifetime guarantee and excellent customer service.

• Safe and healthy plastic PP material
• Suitable for most electric toothbrushes
• Convenient for travel and daily use
• Includes two containers in blue and white
• Lifetime guarantee and satisfactory service
• Color: Blue,White
• Size: 8.3×2.8 Inch (Pack of 2)
• Durable and waterproof material
• Convenient for travel and storage
• Fits most electric toothbrushes
• Includes two containers
• Not enough space for charger
• Some brushes may not fit perfectly

The 2 Pcs Electric Toothbrush Travel Case by Hovesty is a reliable and convenient accessory for keeping your toothbrush clean and protected during travels. With its durable and waterproof design, it offers peace of mind while on the go. The case fits most electric toothbrushes, making it versatile for various brands and models. Although it may not accommodate a charger, it compensates with its practical size and easy-to-carry design. The lifetime guarantee and satisfactory customer service further ensure customer satisfaction. Overall, this travel toothbrush case is an essential companion for anyone who values oral hygiene during trips or daily use.

Nayalba Portable Toothbrush Cases

The Nayalba Six Colors Portable Dust-Proof Toothbrush Cases are essential accessories for both daily use and travel. Made from eco-friendly ABS plastic, these cases are light and durable. The two-section design ensures that your toothbrushes stay clean and protected. Each end of the case has ventilation holes to keep the toothbrush dry and hygienic. With dimensions of 8.1×1.2 inches, the cases are compact and can easily fit in your bag or luggage. They can also be used to hold other items such as chopsticks or stationery. Available in a pack of 6 in attractive colors, these cases are a great choice for travelers. The Nayalba Portable Dust-Proof Toothbrush Cases provide a convenient and stylish solution for keeping your toothbrushes safe and clean.

• ABS plastic material, eco-friendly, light and durable
• Two-section design, keep your toothbrushes clean
• Each end has holes for ventilation, keep the toothbrush dry
• DIMENSION: 8.1×1.2" (Lx W)
• Can contain toothbrushes, chopsticks, stationery, great choice for travelling
• Dimension: 8.10Lx1.20Wx1.20H
• Size: 6 Count (Pack of 1)
• Lightweight and durable
• Keeps toothbrushes clean and protected
• Ventilation holes for hygiene
• Compact size for easy travel
• Can hold various items
• Material could be more sturdy
• Somewhat loose fitting

The Nayalba Six Colors Portable Dust-Proof Toothbrush Cases offer a practical and stylish solution for travelers. With their eco-friendly construction and convenient design, these cases ensure that your toothbrushes stay clean and protected during your journeys. The ventilation holes and compact size make them hygienic and easy to carry. While the material could be more sturdy, overall, these cases provide great value for the price. Whether you’re going on a short trip or a long vacation, these Nayalba toothbrush cases are a must-have accessory for all your travels.

Portable Breathable Toothbrush Holder for Travel/Camping/School/Home

The 4 Pack Travel Toothbrush Case by NEXCURIO is a must-have accessory for your travel, camping, school, or home needs. Made of high-quality eco-material and natural wheat straw, these toothbrush cases are not only durable but also environmentally friendly. The double ventilation holes keep your toothbrush dry and breathable. Each case can hold one toothbrush, and with four different colors to choose from, they are perfect for your family's color preference. Portable and convenient to carry, these toothbrush cases are suitable for various occasions. Please note that the toothbrush travel case does not include a toothbrush, toothpaste, or towel.

• Toothbrush Cover Safe Health: Made of high-quality PP eco-material and natural wheat straw
• Four different colors to meet your family's color preference
• Portable & Durable: Convenient to carry for travel, camping, etc.
• Color: Green, Blue, Beige, Pink
• Dimension: 8.00L x 1.20W x 0.70H
• Made of eco-friendly and durable material
• Breathable design with double ventilation holes
• Suitable for various occasions
• Convenient to carry
• Attractive colors
• Made from wheat products, not suitable for individuals with wheat allergies
• Report of mildew formation in one holder
• Does not include toothbrush, toothpaste, or towel

The 4 Pack Travel Toothbrush Case by NEXCURIO is a practical and stylish accessory for your toothbrush during travel or daily use. Its eco-friendly and durable construction ensures longevity, while the breathable design keeps your toothbrush dry and fresh. With its convenient size and attractive colors, it is suitable for various occasions such as travel, camping, school, and home. However, individuals with wheat allergies should avoid using these cases as they are made from wheat products. Overall, this toothbrush case offers great value and functionality, making it a recommended choice for keeping your toothbrush clean and protected.

Electric Toothbrush Travel Case with Toothbrush Cover Caps

Overall Score : 9.5/10

The Electric Toothbrush Travel Case is a must-have accessory for anyone who travels frequently or wants to keep their electric toothbrush clean and organized. This hard storage bag is designed to fit popular models like Oral-B Pro and Philips Sonicare, ensuring a perfect fit for your toothbrush and its accessories. The case is made of waterproof EVA material, providing a clean and dry storage environment. Its hard PU shell offers excellent protection against scratches. The built-in hard recess can accommodate different types of toothbrushes and heads, while the mesh pocket is perfect for storing the charging base. The case also comes with 6 toothbrush cover caps made of high-quality plastic, ensuring your toothbrush stays clean and hygienic in any situation. With a portable carabiner and durable zipper, this case is convenient and easy to carry. Keep your toothbrush safe and clean with the Electric Toothbrush Travel Case.

• Fits popular models like Oral-B Pro and Philips Sonicare
• Made of waterproof EVA material for cleanliness
• Hard PU shell provides excellent protection against scratches
• Built-in hard recess for accommodating different toothbrushes and heads
• Mesh pocket for storing the charging base
• Comes with 6 high-quality toothbrush cover caps
• Portable carabiner and durable zipper for convenient travel
• Color: Black Sliver
• Fits various electric toothbrush models
• Provides clean and dry storage environment
• Protects toothbrush from scratches
• Convenient storage for toothbrush and accessories
• Comes with toothbrush cover caps
• Portable and easy to carry

The Electric Toothbrush Travel Case offers unmatched convenience and protection for traveling with your electric toothbrush. Its versatile design fits a range of popular models, ensuring a secure and snug fit. Made with high-quality materials, this case provides a clean and dry storage environment and protects your toothbrush from scratches. The additional toothbrush cover caps offer extra hygiene, making it perfect for travel, camping, or everyday use. With its portable carabiner and durable zipper, you can easily carry it anywhere you go. Keep your toothbrush organized, clean, and protected with this fantastic travel case!

Buyer's Guide: Toothbrush Travel Case

Why you need a toothbrush travel case, factors to consider.

• Size and Portability : Opt for a compact travel case that easily fits into your bag or purse without taking up too much space. It should be lightweight and convenient to carry during your travels.
• Durability and Material : Look for toothbrush travel cases made of sturdy materials to ensure the protection of your toothbrush during transit. Durable plastic or silicone cases are great options.
• Ventilation : Ensure that the travel case provides sufficient ventilation to prevent the growth of bacteria and mildew. Good airflow will help keep your toothbrush clean and dry.
• Hygiene : Choose a travel case that has a secure closure mechanism to prevent your toothbrush from coming into contact with other items in your bag, maintaining optimal oral hygiene.
• Compatibility : Check if the toothbrush travel case can accommodate your toothbrush, considering its size, handle shape, and bristle features. It's essential to find a case that perfectly fits your toothbrush to prevent any damage.
• Ease of Cleaning : Look for a travel case that is easy to clean and maintain. A dishwasher-safe or washable case will save you time and effort, ensuring a germ-free toothbrush during your travels.
• Design and Style : While functionality is crucial, you can also opt for a stylish travel case that matches your personality and adds a touch of flair to your dental routine.

Types of Toothbrush Travel Cases

• Plastic Travel Cases : These are the most common and affordable travel cases, usually made of durable plastic. They provide excellent protection for your toothbrush and are available in various sizes, colors, and designs.
• Silicone Travel Cases : Silicone cases offer flexibility and enhanced impact resistance, ensuring your toothbrush remains well-protected. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and often come with creative designs.
• Foldable Toothbrush Cases : Ideal for saving space, foldable cases are designed to compactly fold around your toothbrush, reducing their size when not in use. They are convenient and easily fit into small pockets or bags.
• Sterilizing Travel Cases : Some advanced travel cases are equipped with UV sterilizers, killing bacteria and ensuring the highest level of hygiene for your toothbrush. They are especially beneficial if you're concerned about germs.
• Multi-Purpose Travel Cases : These innovative cases include additional compartments to store other dental care essentials, such as toothpaste, floss, or even dental tools. They provide convenience and all-in-one storage solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Best Toothbrush Travel Case for 2023

Most toothbrush travel cases can be easily cleaned with warm soapy water and a toothbrush. Some cases are dishwasher-safe, which provides a quick and efficient cleaning method.

Yes, some toothbrush travel cases are specifically designed to accommodate electric toothbrushes. Make sure to check the dimensions and compatibility of the case before purchasing.

While most travel cases are water-resistant, few are completely waterproof. It’s important to keep your travel case dry to prevent the growth of bacteria and maintain good oral hygiene.

Yes, a toothbrush travel case with a secure closure mechanism can effectively protect the bristles from bending or fraying during transit, ensuring your toothbrush remains in optimal condition.

Toothbrush travel cases are generally allowed in your carry-on luggage. However, regulations may vary, so it’s recommended to check the specific guidelines of your airline or airport for the latest information.

Toothbrush travel cases can last for a considerable amount of time, but it’s generally recommended to replace them every six months to ensure hygiene and durability.

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Best Travel Soap Case in 2023

Do you always carry your favorite soap bar when you travel somewhere or go camping? Then you really need a travel soap case, which will keep your bars dry and stop them from getting all mushy and useless!

At A Glance: Best Travel Soap Cases

• Best Fabric Travel Soap Case FlatPak Soap Bar Case Jump To Review
• Best Plastic Travel Soap Case Snowkingdom 2 Pack Clear Travel Soap Box Jump To Review
• Best For Round Soap Bars Quatish Travel Soap Holder Jump To Review
• Best Value For Money PUTING Plastic Soap Container Jump To Review

This detailed buying guide features the best travel soap cases, with both plastic and fabric options. Also, you’ll find travel cases for soap bars of many different shapes and sizes, so there’s going to be at least one option that’s a perfect fit for your favorite soap bar. Read on to see the best travel soap cases and find one that’s just right for you!

Top Product Overview

Top products, flatpak soap bar case.

The FlatPak soap bar case is one of the lightest and smallest cases for soap you can get. It’s made from waterproof ripstop nylon and it features a roll-top with buckle closure, which ensures that the soap will never leak through the bag. On the other hand, the case allows the soap to dry through the fabric, so it never gets mushy.

In addition to being extremely waterproof , this travel soap case is also super lightweight and durable. Unlike the plastic soap cases, this won’t take up too much space in your toiletry bag. Also, because it’s made from fabric, you can fold it and manipulate it to fit into pretty much any pocket – if the soap bar can fit, then the case can as well.

This travel soap case is TSA-approved , which should make your time at checkpoints much shorter. Plus, it’s worth noting that the case is waterproof on both sides. The soap can’t leak through the bag, and water can’t penetrate the case from outside to make your soap all mushy and slippery.

When it comes to lightweight fabric soap cases, the FlatPak soap bar case is one of the best options available on the market. The only downside is the high price point, but it is one of those things that you will be buying for life, so I think it’s worth it.

• Waterproof and leakproof
• Very lightweight and packable
• Extremely durable

Product Information

• Material: Waterproof ripstop nylon
• Dimensions: 4” x 2.4” x 1.3” max
• Weight: 0.4 ounces

Snowkingdom 2 Pack Clear Travel Soap Box

The Snowkingdom pack of two soap boxes is a great option if you want something simple and affordable. The pack includes two plastic boxes and two little mesh bags that provide an extra layer of protection. The mesh bag absorbs water and residue, ensuring the soap bar doesn’t get mushy while it’s inside the container.

It’s also a great idea to leave your soap in the mesh bag while you’re using it since it can create lather quickly without making the soap too mushy. My mind was blown when I first tried this, so definitely check it out if you haven’t already.

Also, the inside of the box is ribbed, so the soap bar shouldn’t stick to the plastic even if you put it inside without the mesh bag. It’s worth noting that this specific soap container doesn’t feature a drying rack, so if you don’t use the mesh bag, the soap will get a little mushy. There aren’t any drainage holes either, so the box should stay completely leakproof as long as it’s intact.

The only downside of this soap box is that it can’t withstand a lot of abuse. If it gets thrown around a lot or squished too hard, the plastic will crack and the box will become useless. Luckily, you get two of these in the pack, so if one does break, you’ll have a backup at the ready!

• Great value for money
• Holds even Dove soap bars
• Mesh bags included with containers
• Plastic will crack under too much pressure
• No drainage rack inside
• Material: PP Plastic
• Dimensions: 4.7” x 3.1” x 1.8”
• Weight: 4 ounces

Quatish Travel Soap Holder

The Quatish travel soap case is a great option if you usually buy round soap bars. This round case is made from polypropylene plastic , so it’s very sturdy and durable. Also, the Quatish soap holder is actually sold in packs of two, so you’re getting great value for your money!

This soap holder features a layered design, with a drying rack inside that lets the soap drain and prevents it from sticking to the case. It’s very easy to dump any excess water from the case, plus this design ensures that the soap doesn’t get mushy and disintegrates inside the holder.

The case is waterproof and leakproof , so you can keep it in the shower. Also, although the case features a round design, it’s big enough to hold some smaller rectangular and oval soap bars. The soap holder is available in six colors, and no matter which one you pick, you’re getting two travel cases for less than $9!

• The layered design ensures soap doesn’t get mushy
• The round case won’t fit all square and rectangular soap bars
• Material: Polypropylene
• Dimensions: 3.74” x 3.74” x 1.57”

Kiasona 2Pack Travel Soap Box

The Kisaona travel soap box is another excellent option. It’s a plastic soap case that comes with a sponge inside, which is supposed to absorb any liquids to keep the soap from becoming mushy. It does an excellent job, but it does mean that there’s another part of the travel soap container that you need to clean after a few uses.

The plastic soap box features a removable lid that is held in place with a silicone band. The band is extra sturdy and does an excellent job at ensuring a watertight seal on the case. It won’t leak even when you turn it upside down, and it prevents water from seeping inside the case.

Would it hold up if you were to submerge the soap box entirely underwater? I’m not sure, but that’s not something you should be doing if you don’t want mushy soap anyway! When it comes to keeping the box in the shower, it should keep the soap completely dry until you take it out and use it.

This bundle includes two soap cases with all their accessories, and it’s very affordable. If you’re on a tight budget and you’re looking for a great deal, this is one of the best travel soap cases to buy!

• The sponge keeps soap from becoming mushy
• Takes a while to clean all the pieces
• Material: Plastic and silicone
• Dimensions: 4.6” x 3.3” x 1.8”
• Weight: 4.6 ounces

Marlowe Travel Soap Holder

The Marlowe travel soap holder is a great option if you prefer a fabric soap case. It’s made from waterproof fabric and it features a zipper, so there’s no way this soap case can accidentally pop open. It’s both leakproof and waterproof, and it’s just the right size to hold a Marlow soap bar.

It can also hold other soap bars, and because it is fabric, you can even squeeze in a round bar in this case. The material is soft and plasticky, and it’s able to let the soap breathe so it doesn’t get mushy inside the container. Also, the material is slightly transparent, and the soap inside makes the case look a little grimy from the outside.

Although this case is a bit pricey for what it is, the high-quality materials and excellent performance make it worth every penny. It’s much more durable and reliable than a classic plastic case, and it should hold up for several years. The case is also very easy to clean – you just need to run it through the water to rinse off any residue and that’s it.

• Durable waterproof zipper
• Lightweight and packable
• Easy to clean
• Won’t fit bigger soap bars
• Material: Waterproof fabric
• Dimensions: 5.8” x 2.6” x 1”
• Weight: 0.8 ounces

PUTING Plastic Soap Container

The Puting set of plastic soap cases includes four soap containers , making it an excellent option if you need several of these cases. They’re all standard plastic travel soap cases with a drying rack inside and a PE lid that ensures a watertight seal on the box. The lid is flexible, so it’s very easy to put on, and it will not crack that easily under pressure.

The drying rack is a nice addition because you can keep your soap on it even at the hotel, and the bar will stay dry and not mushy. But you have to take it out of the container, otherwise, all the residue will collect at the bottom of the soap box, and it will be very annoying to clean.

It’s also worth noting that you should drain any water before you seal the box and put it in your toiletry bag. The drying rack works only when the box is in the regular position – turn it upside down, and all that water will get back on the soap and make it mushy.

The Puting travel soap case is large enough to hold even Dove bars, which is very convenient. It won’t be able to hold 9 and 10-ounce bars, but anything smaller than that should fit nicely in the container.

• Great value
• Drying rack inside
• A flexible lid ensures a watertight seal
• The plastic box can crack under pressure
• Does not fit 9oz bars (and bigger)
• Material: PP and PE plastic
• Dimensions: 3.75” x 15” x 2.5”
• Weight: 6.4 ounces

Foamie Travel Buddy

If you use Foamie soap bars, this is definitely the best travel soap container to get. And even if you don’t use their bars, it’s worth checking out this eco-friendly case. It’s made from 80% wheat fiber and 20% recycled polypropylene, so it is entirely sustainable.

The travel container features a silicone band that guarantees a watertight seal , as well as a flexible drying rack inside, which prevents residue build-up.

The only issue with the Foamie Travel Buddy is that it is designed to fit Foamie bars specifically, so it’s not going to fit every bar of soap you can get your hands on. But if you want to get a product that’s affordable and 100% sustainable, this is your best option.

Also, it’s worth noting that the case is a bit difficult to open, which is a really good thing. It just means that it’s a lot harder for the lid to come undone accidentally, ensuring that the container will remain sealed no matter what.

• Eco-friendly and sustainable
• Watertight seal
• Quite small – made for Foamie bars
• Material: 80% wheat fiber, 20% recycled polypropylene, silicone
• Dimensions: 5.24” x 3.35” x 1.57“
• Weight: 1.8 ounces

Dr. Squatch Travel Bag for Bar Soap

The Dr. Squatch travel bag is specifically designed for this brand’s soap bars, so it’s by far the best option if you use them. Dr. Squatch soap bars are quite big, and they don’t really fit in most other travel cases.

This travel bag is made from heavy-weight burlap linen, which is extremely absorbent . It allows to soap bar to dry very quickly, so it doesn’t turn to mush when you pack it.

Also, the bag features a drawstring closure with an Egyptian Undyed Wetspun Warp, which has a higher tensile strength than even cotton. The entire soap case is very sturdy and reliable, and it’s absolutely perfect for Dr. Squatch bars!

It’s worth noting that the linen bag is not waterproof, so you shouldn’t keep it in the shower. Also, you should consider putting the soap case in a ziplock plastic bag, just to ensure that it doesn’t leak in your luggage.

• Perfect size for Dr. Squatch soap bars
• Absorbent material dries soap quickly
• Not waterproof
• Material: Burlap linen
• Dimensions: 4” x 4”
• Weight: 0.6 oz

What To Look For

Plastic or fabric.

Would you rather have a soap case made from plastic or fabric? Plastic soap cases are more common, and they’re generally the cheaper option. They’re usually waterproof and leakproof, but they can get crushed upon heavy impact. That won’t happen with fabric soap cases, since they are much more flexible.

Also, fabric cases are lighter and more packable, and they take up virtually no space in your bag when they’re empty.

The main advantage of a fabric soap case is that you can manipulate it to fit into smaller spaces. A plastic soap requires more space in your toiletry bag, so go with fabric if you usually struggle to close your bag. Also, fabric soap cases are a bit easier to clean, since you just need to wash them out to make them pristine again.

Another great thing about fabric soap bags is that you can fit bars of different shapes inside them. They’ll fit round and oval bars as well as square ones, while a square plastic container might not be able to hold a large, round soap bar.

What Soap Bars Do You Usually Use?

The travel soap cases featured in this review will fit most soap bars on the market. But, there are some brands that make extra-large soap bars, and those won’t always fit in the classic soapboxes. If you use a brand that makes really big bars be sure to check if they offer a travel case for their soap because that’s the easiest way to ensure that your bar will fit in the travel case.

Alternatively, you should look at the dimensions of each of the soap cases, and check whether they’re big enough to hold your favorite soap bar. Also, the shape of the soap bar matters. Most of the boxes featured here are square or oval because that’s the shape of most soap bars.

But if you usually use rounder soap bars as Dove makes, you’ll need to take a closer look at the dimensions to see if the bar can fit in the travel case you want. Or just get the travel case that’s the same shape like your favorite soap bar!

Best Travel Soap Case: Our Top Picks

Still not sure which travel soap case to get? Go with one of our top picks and you won’t have any regrets!

If you like the idea of a fabric soap case, the FlatPak is by far the best option out there. It’s entirely waterproof and leakproof, with Hypalon rolltop closure and a sturdy YKK buckle. Also, the fabric is breathable, and it will let the soap dry, so it doesn’t get mushy.

The case is a lot lighter and more compact than standard plastic cases, and it will easily fit into any luggage.

• Waterproof & Leakproof: Fear no more soap spills with this waterproof and leakproof Matador soap pocket. Put it in a bag and you'll never have to worry the soap leaking into your stuff!
• Flexible Fabric: 3x lighter and 6x more compact than traditional plastic soap holder. The fabric design allows this travel soap case to adapt to the size of soap bars

The Snowkingdom soap holder is a great option if you prefer plastic cases. You get two plastic soapboxes, and each comes with a mesh bag. Store the soap inside the mesh bag to create an instant lather when you use it, but also to keep it from getting mushy and falling apart inside the case. The soap holder is made from non-toxic polypropylene for excellent durability.

• Set of 2 Clear Soap holder, Come with 2 pcs soap bag.
• The snappy latch design allows the lids snap on with two pins securely, makes the soap box and liquid locked firmly and will not slip out while in your handbag or carry-on luggage

In case you usually use round soap bars, you’re better off getting a round soap holder. The Quatish soap case is a great option because it features a layered design with a drying rack.

The rack prevents the soap from touching the bottom of the case and makes it super easy to dump any excess water that drains from the soap bar. The case is durable, waterproof, and leakproof, and it’s easily one of the best travel soap cases you can get your hands on!

• Create a clean, dry and spotless gym bag or suitcase with the three-piece soap dish, drainage tray and lid from Quatish. The bottom tray collects water runoff, and the slotted layer ensures that the soap stays dry after use, which will prolong the life of your soap. The modern, clean design complements any decor, and it is a handy helper during your traveling.
• Leak Proof:This case is very durable. It comes with a leak-proof design and can be locked.The tight lid prevents any possible leaking of the wet soap. The locked design will keep the case from opening unexpectedly. This soap case is handy for carrying your own soap, and keep suitcase clean.

Head over to Amazon to see the prices and color options of all the travel soap cases mentioned in this review. And check out our related posts, for ideas on other convenient items that can help you pack more efficiently!

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Protect Your Trip »

The 4 best travel cribs for babies and toddlers in 2024.

Finalize your decision with one of these four travel cribs.

The Best Travel Cribs

Courtesy of Guava Family

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib is so compact, you can wear it like a backpack.

There are an increasing number of travel cribs on the market these days, and nearly all of them are touted to have a lightweight design and an easy setup, which makes it overwhelming to choose the right one for your pint-sized travel partner.

Taking into consideration key factors like safety, comfort and convenience for travel – as well as recent consumer reviews, expert recommendations and our own experiences – we've chosen the best travel cribs for babies and toddlers.

Best Overall: Guava Lotus Travel Crib

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Lightweight: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light

• Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard

Best for Toddlers: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Note: All travel crib dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.

Highlights:

• Especially convenient for air travel, the Guava Lotus Travel Crib can be worn like a backpack in an included carrying case with padded straps, then checked as a bag.
• The Guava Lotus is GreenGuard Gold Certified , which means its emission levels are even lower (and better) than industry standards.
• It doubles as a bassinet and playard featuring a zippered door for easy access to your baby.

Setup: The Guava Lotus is easy to set up. The sturdy aluminum frame's hinges swiftly snap in place with the touch of a button. Once the frame is assembled, a fabric cover with mesh sides can be zipped on before you place the included waterproof mattress with a sheet (which is not included) inside. Then the mattress is secured to the frame via a buckle on each corner. When it's time to take the crib down, you don't have to disassemble the entire thing – another reason to love this option.

YouTube tutorial: Guava Lotus Setup | Guava Lotus Teardown

Maintenance: The mattress is easy to wipe down, and the crib's fabric portion is machine-washable.

"I've taken this crib all across the world over the past three years, and it still looks as good as new. We initially bought this crib because we were wary of using hotel cribs during COVID. We quickly fell in love with it and still bring it on every trip we take. Additionally, we purchased the optional sun shade, which came in handy on beach trips in our daughter's infant days." – Tamiz Ahmed , co-founder of Poppylist

Courtesy of BabyBjörn

• If you're specifically looking for something lightweight, meet your match: The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is one of the lightest travel cribs on the market.
• The crib comes with a mattress and carrying bag.
• All materials meet OEKO TEX Standard 100, Class 1 standards for baby products – meaning the crib permeates low levels of chemicals and is also free from as many as 350 harmful chemicals, making it safe for a baby's skin and curious mouth.

Setup: The frame of the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is assembled in one swift motion. Next, the mattress is placed inside and secured to the crib's legs. When it's time to put the crib away, the mattress and crib frame easily fold down.

YouTube tutorial: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Setup | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 1 | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 2

Maintenance: The mattress can be wiped down with a damp cloth, and both the mattress cover (which can be zipped off) and the other fabric on the crib are machine-washable.

Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go Playard with Bassinet

Courtesy of Graco

• This crib comes with a full-size bassinet insert that folds with the playard when it's time to transport or put away the crib.
• The crib also has a toy bar with soft toys to amuse your curious baby.
• A carry case is included with this crib.

Setup: First, hit the crib's push buttons to assemble the frame. Once the four rails are locked, you can push the crib floor down before placing the mattress inside. Finally, secure the mattress straps (on the bottom) to the playard. To disassemble, you'll reverse the process almost exactly: Unfasten the mattress straps, remove the mattress, pull the tab at the bottom of the crib and – using the push buttons – fold the crib down.

YouTube tutorial: Graco On the Go Playard Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The crib can be wiped down with mild soap and water, while the carry bag is machine-washable.

" The Graco Pack n Play On the Go Playard offers all the bells and whistles of other travel cribs, but at a far more affordable price ($80 vs. $150-$300). In particular, the removable bassinet is a game-changer during those early weeks of parenthood. My family used it during our first two weeks home with our daughter, and I appreciated that it provided a safe sleep space but didn't require me to bend over and stress my sore body. After that, we moved it to my mom's house and, even though it's super easy to fold and store, she keeps it out because it doesn't take up a lot of space." – Leah Rocketto , Associate Commerce Director at What to Expect

Courtesy of hiccapop

• Long and tall bumpers ensure your little one won't roll off the bed.
• It inflates with an included electric pump and rolls up into an included carry bag.
• The bed comes with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee and top-notch customer service.

Setup: The setup for this toddler travel bed is similar to that of a traditional air mattress – simply use the included electric pump to inflate the bed frame with rails and a mattress pad.

YouTube tutorial: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel bed can be wiped down with soap and water.

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Guava Lotus vs. Baby Björn

When choosing the best travel crib to purchase, the final decision for many buyers often comes down to the Guava Lotus Travel Crib and BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light since they're so similar.

If you're undecided between the two, see which crib wins in the following categories:

Your decision may ultimately come down to the type of traveler you are. If you frequently travel (especially by plane), the Guava Lotus is the best choice.

Guava Lotus vs. Newton Travel Crib

Many people also compare the Guava Lotus with the Newton Travel Crib, a newcomer to the travel crib market. The Newton Travel Crib mimics the Guava Lotus almost exactly, but here are some key differentiators (and the reasons we ultimately recommend the Guava Lotus instead):

• Price: At $299, the Newton Travel Crib is about $50 more than the Guava Lotus.
• Weight: The Newton Travel Crib is also 2 pounds heavier than its predecessor, weighing in at 17 pounds.
• Setup: While the Newton Travel Crib is easy to set up, many buyers say that disassembly is difficult.

Travel Crib Accessories

When purchasing a travel crib, think about the other essentials your baby will need for restful naps and nights in your destination – especially since they'll be in an unfamiliar environment. These might include:

Room-darkening curtains: If your little one is accustomed to sleeping in a pitch-black room at home, you'll want to ensure your hotel room or vacation rental bedroom is as dark as possible. There are a few ways to do this:

• Use foil and duct tape:  It won't look pretty, but covering the windows with foil and duct tape is a cost-effective option.
• Invest in a Slumberpod:  The highly rated  SlumberPod  ($180) is essentially a tent that goes over the travel crib, ensuring total darkness for a peaceful night's rest. For a cheaper alternative, check out the  Dofilachy Blackout Cover  on Amazon.
• Buy portable blackout curtains:  Purchase a set of curtains that won't take up too much space in your luggage. These  portable blackout curtains from Amazon Basics  are highly rated and come with a storage bag.

White noise machine: Even if you already have a white noise machine you plan to pack, you might consider buying an additional, more portable option to use in tandem with it – especially if you'll be in a small space with older siblings who stay up later. U.S. News editors say they've had good experience with both the Yogasleep Hushh Portable Sound Machine (also useful for stroller rides) and this option by Magicteam .

Portable fan:  A small battery- or USB-powered fan is a useful accessory when traveling with little ones – you can attach it to the travel stroller and car seat on hot days and secure it to the travel crib on warm nights. There are a variety of affordable, well-rated stroller fans on Amazon, including this adjustable option by AMACOOL .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a family travel expert who regularly travels with her toddler. Shortly after she found out she was pregnant, she excitedly bought the Guava Lotus Bassinet Kit & Travel Crib and – despite its hefty price tag – never regretted it once.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Diaper Bag Backpacks
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Family Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Spring Break Family Destinations
• The Best Family Travel Insurance

Top All-Inclusive Family Resorts

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Family Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

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