light travel best

The 8 Best Lightweight Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Bags that won't weigh you down

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TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

As the price of fuel and therefore air travel increases, one way to cut down on costs is to avoid overweight fees by investing in some quality lightweight luggage. Whether you’re in the market for a carry-on, a checked bag, or an adventure-ready backpack, lightweight materials to look out for range from weather-resistant nylon or polyester to hard shells made out of polypropylene or polycarbonate. Lightweight luggage can vary hugely in price and features, with possible options including smart compression systems, integrated TSA-approved locks and weight indicators, and USB charge ports.

To help you find the perfect bag, we tested dozens of lightweight suitcases in the TripSavvy testing lab. We scored each for capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value—and reviewed the results to choose winners for each category below.

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Durable exterior

Handles well and converts smoothly

Modern style available in multiple hues

Limited interior organization

The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner was a clear winner for us, representing the next generation of lightweight suitcases while remaining surprisingly affordable. The streamlined shell is constructed of polypropylene, the lightest possible material for hardside suitcases , while the ridged design helps to deflect scuffs and scratches. Indeed, after our repeated drop and bat tests, it showed hardly any wear and tear—so much so that we would feel completely confident if we had to check it.

Samsonite claims this suitcase offers more space than other Samsonite carry-on models. We could fit everything on our packing list without using the expansion feature. We liked that there was a zippered pocket for delicates and a separate section for shoes or dirty laundry; however, we wished we didn't have to choose between the two. Compression straps help to keep your belongings secure during transit, while a TSA-approved lock allows security staff to open the suitcase without damaging it.

Finally, the bag's double spinner wheels afforded good maneuverability at various speeds. We felt it had the best glide of any suitcase we tested, and we particularly liked how easy it was to transition from two to four wheels or adjust the handle's height for better control. The suitcase comes in various colors, from sky blue to black, and has a limited 10-year warranty.

Dimensions: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | Materials: Polypropylene

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

Minimal yet effective

Plenty of internal organization

Glides efficiently over uneven terrain

Few color choices

Retailing for roughly half the price of our overall winner (and even less than many of the other suitcases on this list), the Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside Spinner is a worthy budget buy that exceeded our expectations on every single test. We loved the simple sleekness of its design, although colors are limited to black, navy blue, blue, or orange. The ABS hard plastic shell also features a scratch-resistant finish, which stood up well to our drop and bat tests with no visible damage.

We could fit everything in without using the expansion feature (which provides up to 15 percent more space). The interior is fully lined and includes compression straps, a divider, and three zippered pockets. Four double-spinner wheels give the suitcase 360-degree maneuverability, while the adjustable telescoping handle offers different heights. We found that the bag performed equally well over bumps, carpet, and around the kind of sharp turns one might expect in a crowded airport.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.9 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.3 pounds | Materials: ABS

Best Budget Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Integrated tech pouch

Spacious and well-designed

Easy to lift and load

Unremarkable aesthetic

If you’re looking for a convenient travel backpack that won’t break the bank, try the Asenlin 40L. Designed to adhere to airline carry-on size restrictions, it features water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth and survived our durability tests with no internal or external damage. The interior is roomy, with helpful compression straps and multiple packing cubes that allowed us to load everything with space left over.

We liked that there is a padded sleeve for a 17-inch laptop and that the side water bottle holder has a zippered expansion feature. There’s also a pocket on the front of the backpack for keeping your passport or wallet handy. We found the backpack comfortable and relatively lightweight even when packed full. In particular, we appreciated that there are multiple ways to carry it—including hooked over your suitcase trolley system or using the top and side grab handles.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Materials: Polyester Oxford cloth

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Checked

July checked bag.

Beautiful, unique design

Space-saving elements

Comfortable and adjustable handle

Light colors show scuffs

This 26-inch checked bag from July offers 80 liters of space protected by an aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell. We loved that it felt strong but smooth at the same time and didn’t suffer any structural damage during our testing process. However, we found light colors marked easily and would only recommend purchasing darker versions of this suitcase. There are many to choose from, from moss green to magenta, with options for personalization as well.

The well-designed interior features several zippered pockets, a Y-strap compression system, and a secret laundry bag that’s both smell- and stain-resistant. We were able to pack all of the items on our prescribed list with ease. The suitcase includes July’s proprietary SilentMove wheels, which glide noiselessly over all surfaces. However, we found that it performed much better on hard floors than on carpet or gravel. With its ultra-soft grip and 20-plus height settings, the telescoping handle is a highlight—as is the included lifetime warranty.

Dimensions: 26 x 18.75 x 11 inches | Weight: 8.3 pounds | Materials: Polycarbonate

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Sturdy yet chic aesthetic

Well-organized interior

Various carry options

Relatively expensive for a backpack

Stylish, comfortable, and infinitely versatile, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack impressed our testers on many fronts. First, its rugged TPU-coated polyester and ballistic nylon construction survived our durability tests completely unscathed. Second, we loved that the main compartment opens suitcase-style, making it much more accessible than a conventional backpack. Although the pack is relatively unstructured, it has enough shape to allow neat packing and plenty of convenient, different-sized zippered pockets.

It also has a padded laptop and tablet sleeve, a top zippered pocket for stashing your essentials, and carabiner lash loops for attaching your coat. The weight-distributing harness system makes the backpack super comfortable (we especially loved how the straps contoured to the shape of our chest and shoulders). All straps tuck away, too, so you can use the reinforced grab handles on the top and side to carry it briefcase-style—a desirable feature whether you're looking for a carry-on for men or women. Finally, it comes in colors such as blue and amber with a contrasting rain cover.

Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Weight: 3.8 pounds | Materials: TPU-coated polyester

Best Underseat

Travelpro carry-on travel tote bag.

Durable, protective treatment

Impressive capacity

Compatible with other luggage

May be too large for some seats

Now that some airlines have started charging for overhead compartments, bags that can fit under the seat in front are becoming increasingly popular. Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 Soft Tote is a winner in this category (although it may not fit beneath the seats of some smaller airplanes). It features sturdy polyester with a water- and stain-resistant DuraGuard coating, high-tensile zippers, and a wipe-clean interior with an additive that protects it from moisture.

Despite the bag’s small size, we found it surprisingly spacious and could fit everything with space to spare. There’s a quick-access front flap and built-in pockets on the exterior for stowing last-minute items (although these are pretty small—think spare socks or toiletries). When transporting the tote, you can use the sturdy carry handles or the padded detachable shoulder strap, or slip the rear sleeve over the handle of your larger checked bag. Colors range from champagne to orchid.

Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 8 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Materials: Polyester

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best for Adventure Travel

Patagonia black hole 40l duffel bag.

Long-lasting, weatherproof material

Convertible

Packs away into an interior pocket

Limited choice of colors

The ideal solution for those needing a bag that can go anywhere, anytime, and survive to tell the tale, the Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel is made for adventures. It features an extra-durable, 900-denier ripstop polyester exterior with a PU-coated lining for added water resistance. Stranded at your destination in rain or snow? Your belongings won’t suffer for it. The carry-on-sized bag with its padded base also emerged from our durability tests without a scratch or scuff.

We found it comfortable to carry duffel-style, with a Velcro flap holding the reinforced haul handles together. Using the removable padded shoulder straps, you can also wear it as a backpack. External storage includes a zippered side pocket and daisy chains, while the main compartment features a conveniently large opening, several pockets, and a large mesh lid pocket. We also loved that when you’re not using the bag, it collapses and stows neatly into one of its own pouches.

Dimensions: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 inches | Weight: 2.05 pounds | Materials: Ripstop polyester

TripSavvy / Nick Kova

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

Rugged construction protects your belongings

Thoughtful storage solutions

Use as a duffel or a backpack

Would like to see improved shoulder straps

The 40L Nomatic Travel Bag offers an all-in-one solution for business travelers, converting from a duffel to a backpack in seconds using the patented strap. We liked that it comes with a detachable hip belt, but weren’t so keen on the shoulder straps, which we felt could have been more comfortable. Nevertheless, the waterproof tarpaulin material stood up to durability tests well, and the bag received top marks for its interior and exterior organization—including designated pockets for just about everything.

These range from a water bottle pocket to an RFID-blocking pocket, a separate laundry bag, and two ventilated shoe compartments. There’s a water-resistant pocket for your toiletries, and perhaps most usefully, a TSA-ready laptop sleeve that allows you to keep your computer in your bag through security. We found the main compartment spacious and loved how the structure made packing easy and kept folded clothes neat. The bag is carry-on compatible and comes in just one color—timeless, professional black.

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 4.05 pounds | Materials: Not listed

We enthusiastically recommend the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner . It scored top marks in our durability and maneuverability tests and easily fit everything we needed to pack. If you are looking to maximize value and performance, the AmazonBasics 21-inch Hardside Spinner is a great find.

We used a similar testing process for checked and carry-on luggage —the only difference was that we tested carry-on luggage to see how it fit in an overhead compartment and packed with enough clothing and other travel items to simulate a four-day sightseeing trip rather than the seven days stipulated for checked luggage. First, we weighed the luggage to check the accuracy of the manufacturer’s specifications. Then we packed our prescribed list of items, noting how easily everything fit and how effective the bag’s organization options were.

Next (where relevant), we tested maneuverability on two and four wheels at different speeds and over various terrains, including concrete, carpet, and gravel. Afterward, we wheeled luggage through an obstacle course of bumps and turns meant to simulate a busy station or airport. Finally, we tested each product’s durability by pushing it from the top of a shelving unit and beating it with a baseball bat. Both tests were repeated multiple times to target different potential weak spots. We scored bags for capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value.

What to Look For in Lightweight Luggage

Although design and features play their part, the material is one of the most significant factors affecting the weight of your luggage. Polyester and nylon are typically the two lightest choices if you prefer softside suitcases. For hardside suitcases, polycarbonate, ABS, and polypropylene are popular, with polypropylene being the lightest option. Consider the materials used to make your bag’s trolley system, too, if it has one. Aircraft-grade aluminum is a good option since it’s durable and lightweight.

Portability

Several luggage designs shave off the pounds by ditching the trolley system (wheels and handle) entirely. Wheel-less bags are a great choice when lightness is your top priority—but you still need to be able to transport them comfortably from A to B. Ways to do this include sturdy, cushioned carry handles; backpack straps and hip belts; or adjustable crossbody strap for slinging the bag over your shoulder. The best designs often allow you to switch between these carry methods as required. 

Lightness was often synonymous with poor quality in the past, but fortunately, that’s no longer true. Hardside materials such as polypropylene and polycarbonate are stronger than ever, while polyester and nylon come in ripstop versions that are scratch- and tear-proof. Things to look out for include reinforced high-wear areas and abrasion- and weather-resistant coatings (for softside bags), and scratch-resistant finishes, texturing, and armored corner guards (for hardside bags). Quality wheels, zippers, and handles are also important.

Some bags keep things light with a simple design and few additional features. Others come with a range of extras that you may find worth the extra weight and expense. Things to consider include organization—will you have enough pockets, compression straps, or dividers? A telescoping handle makes maneuvering a wheeled suitcase more comfortable while switching between duffel handles and backpack straps might make life easier when choosing a wheel-less bag. Other extras range from TSA-approved locks to USB charge ports.

Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before cleaning your luggage. However, as a general rule, you can spot-clean most interior linings and use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away superficial stains, scuffs, and dirt from the exterior. You can also protect your luggage from getting dirty in the first place by investing in a PVC luggage cover or having it plastic-wrapped at the airport. Luggage should be completely dry before being put away and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

If you want a softside suitcase, the lightest luggage materials are polyester and nylon. If you’re a hardside fan, look for suitcases made of polypropylene, polycarbonate, or ABS (in that order). The design of the bag makes a difference too. Trolley handles and spinner wheels are convenient but add quite a bit of weight, so if lightness is your top priority, consider ditching them in favor of a duffel or backpack that relies on over-the-shoulder or crossbody straps instead. And, of course, size matters, so opt for a carry-on over a checked bag if possible.

Not necessarily. Extensive research has gone into making luggage materials simultaneously lighter and stronger—for example, a polycarbonate suitcase shell may feel thin (and therefore flimsy), but actually, it has been specially developed to flex upon impact and bounce back into shape to prevent cracks or dents. As long as you choose a product from a respected brand that uses quality materials and has consistently good customer reviews, you should be able to find a bag that’s as durable as it is light.

Jessica Macdonald is the Africa travel expert for TripSavvy and a regular contributor to e-commerce roundups in fields related to adventure and family travel. She has plenty of experience choosing and using lightweight luggage, having lived out of a backpack on a seven-month adventure around Southeast Asia and on extended trips across Europe, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

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Light-Travel Packing List: 20 Essentials To Remember

Here’s our packing list. We are light travelers, so we only bring our carry-on.

Table of Contents

Let’s start with the things we are most likely to forget.

• Cash (local currency)
• Power converters (remember to check the size of the wall sockets too!)
• Small backpack for daily use
• Playing cards
• Painkillers
• Music / Podcasts / Movies (on your smartphone / iPod)
• Pen / Paper
• A good book

If you remember these things you’ll be good to go, and you will have some entertainment (playing cards) and the opportunity to get a little privacy (headphones) and sleep (earplugs).

Clothes and toilet stuff – for men

• Warm shirt (for chilly nights / cold airplanes
• Shorts / Swim-wear
• A nice shirt
• Walking shoes
• Deodorant / Perfume
• (liquids and container for contact lenses)

Tips for super light traveling

Traveling with a minimum of items makes the whole experience more enjoyable.

We have never been heavy packers, I traveled in Mexico 12 years ago (for 7 weeks) with only one pair of pants, 2 T-shirts and a hoodie.

It is easier to get around, you don’t have to worry. Here is my best tips on how to travel light.

1) Bring a little bag of washing powder

It only takes a few minutes to hand-wash a little underwear and socks in a sink and this way you don’t have to bring to much. You only need a handful if you are going for a months time.

If you bring thin underwear and socks they will dry much quicker. In a warm country, you can normally hand them outside to dry during the night, unless the humidity is too high.

2) Bring some worn out clothes and underwear

It’s good to be able to lose some stuff during the trip. This way you can fit some souvenirs in your suitcase (carry-on) on the way home.

3) Get items designed for travel

E.g. the power adaptor, which will allow you to plugin to every power socket can be super chunky. Find a sleek design like this for instance:

Image credits: Wattoo.dk .

4) Choose microfiber towels

Towels of microfiber are excellent for traveling. They will fit in a pocket, and they are designed to absorb water really well despite their low weight and thin fabric.

5) One carry-on per person

Choosing to only bring the carry-on’s has a lot of benefits. It is cheaper because you only pay for the luggage you check in. It is better for the environment when the planes are lighter.

It makes travel time a lot more enjoyable when you don’t have to haul and drag all those pounds around through traffic, narrow streets and upstairs. You can move faster and even fit in a normal cab.

A big bonus: You minimize the time you spend choosing what to wear. When you only bring a few items, there is not a lot to choose from. You get out the door a lot faster, and after all, traveling is about touring and seeing places – not wasting time deciding what to wear.

Most people spend 80% of their time, wearing 20% of their clothes, so leave the 80% at home and you will be fine.

Here’s a video I did about how I pack my carry-on:

In 2007 we went to New York City for 3 weeks.

We went through Heathrow and British Airways lost our luggage in the transfer. We didn’t have any clothes, shoes etc. and we had to spend time shopping for essentials and calling the airline instead of focusing on seeing the city.

After 2 weeks the luggage arrived, with only one week left, and we didn’t really miss all that stuff! After that experience, we have only been traveling with carry-ons.

6) Wash on the destination

Here’s a good tip that will help you travel light. Bring a little laundry soap in a travel-size bottle. This way you can wash your clothes in the sink as you need to.

I typically don’t bring a lot of underwear and just wash every other night. Bring items that dry quickly.

7) What/how much clothes to bring

Here is a list of what I typically bring to a warm destination. Men can typically get away bringing even less.

• 2 pairs of shoes: one for walking and a pair of sandals, that can be used both on the beach and be going into town at night.
• 3 shirts: one tank top, one decorative for dinners and one long sleeve. Preferably one I can fit over the other two.
• 1 pair of jeans. If I don’t bring jeans I bring a pair of tights or leggins and two dresses.
• 1 skirt that goes with everything, and 1 or 2 dresses. If I bring two I will bring a thin and a thicker one(mostly if Im not sure about the weather)
• 1 or 2 pairs of socks and underwear.

Always wear the heaviest items, like jeans, on the plane. They take up too much space and it helps to keep the weight of the carry-on down. And it’s nice if it gets chilly on the plane.

8) Travel Size liquids

Sometimes people use big shampoo bottles as a reason to check in a bag when they fly, they bring enough lotion to last a month.

In most supermarkets, you can buy small travel versions of shampoo and sun lotion. Bring a small sun lotion for the first day or two, so you don’t get burned, and then buy one in a supermarket.

Salespeople at home will try to convince you that the sun lotions you can buy in other countries have less SPF, because it’s not stored in direct sunlight. The SPF does go down when a bottle is kept in direct sunlight, but buy sun lotion in a supermarket, and you will be just fine.

We always buy everything small, because we travel a lot. So we don’t have to think about bottle sizes when packing, and the small perfume bottles are also super cute:)

9) Souvenirs with use-value

We like having memories of the places we visit. We don’t always buy something, but when we do we try to find something with high use-value.

You can make your kitchenware a collage of travel memories. Small bowls, spoons, a plate, a knife, maybe something for the bathroom, towels, clothes, shoes, jewelry and bags are great.

Make a wish list on your phone, with the things you want or need within the next year. Then you know what to look for when you travel.

I have had a leather jacket and a new purse on my list for a long time. I finally found a nice red leather purse in Berlin in December. Right now we are in Crete, Greece, and I just bought a nice short tight leather jacket last night for a fraction of the price I would have to pay at home! These are my souvenirs, and I am reminded of these great places when I use them.

Remember to check your “wishlist” before you buy something, so you don’t get too carried away.

10) iPhone instead of the camera

The camera in my iPhone 4s is so good, that I don’t need my old digital camera anymore. If you are a photographer you might have a hard time with this, but if you just have a normal small digital camera anyway, my guess is you could do without – If you have a new smartphone.

Hope you find these tips helpful. Please let me know (comment) if you have more tips, that would be helpful to others:) I would love to hear your experiences on this.

Sources: Friluftsland.dk

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How to Travel Light & Not Look Like a Slob: The Lazy Girl’s Guide

Last Updated: July 11, 2022

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Wondering how to travel light?

First I have to warn you: whether you’re a backpacker or carry-on traveler, one of the downsides to traveling light is that your wardrobe is, by definition, woefully limited.

Now, don’t get me wrong – there are many things worse in this world than having only 2 bikinis on your Hawaiian beach vacation, but it seems like nowadays people are divided in two camps: the minimalist light packers who favour function, and the glam #OOTD traveler types who are inexplicably always wearing gorgeous flowing dresses.

… but my question is: what if I’m neither?! What if I’m both?! And also inhumanely lazy?!? (mostly that)

I’m by no means a stylish fashionista (I literally own 15 different grey cardigans and don’t know why), but looking presentable while travelling is still important for me.

From my experience, people are generally nicer and more willing to help you, plus on a very vain level, twirling in floral dresses is just really fun.

Genuinely, I don’t have the self-confidence to rock the stereotypical ‘backpacker’ look.

While other girls might look badass, carefree and cool in their loose tops and topknots, my attempts at this aesthetic veer more towards ‘deranged hobo’… which is a look that cannot be saved by any accessory.

… so for my fellow deranged hobos, this article is for you. The in-betweeners… who want to pack light, look decent, but not worry about looking glam at every second.

In this post, I detail how to travel light and feign that you’re put together wherever you go! Don’t worry fellow lazy girl, I gotchu.

Of course, these packing light tips are much more relevant to certain destinations than others. Most of my travels have been around Europe, where style might be more of a concern, but of course, if you’re reading this blog, I know you’re brilliant and amazing anyway… so use your common sense as to which tips make sense to where you’re headed.

How to Travel Light (and Not Look Like a Slob): Golden Packing Light Tips

1. pack a few knockout accessories – especially bold pieces like statement necklaces.

Honestly, beautiful accessories are the closest thing we have to magical ‘instant glam’ fairy dust.  People often question why “I look so dressed up” when legitimately all I’ve done is put on a sparkly necklace.

It’s a sneaky (and wonderfully lazy) way to look good, so I always try to have 2-3 nice pieces along with me, especially since they weigh close to nothing. (And cost next to nothing too… look at ALL these ridiculously pretty ones for less than $20).

Where can you find said magic dust? Well, if you’re looking for inspiration, Happiness Boutique has a wide selection of gorgeous pieces, including the sparkly gem I’m wearing in the photo above.

For other travel-inspired options, ModCloth has a bunch of beautiful necklaces I’m obsessed with at the moment!  Browse (and lose all self control) here.

2. Bring only what you wouldn’t mind being photographed in

Those wondering how to travel light should remember this: we’re living in the 21st century so odds are, at some point during your travels, you’ll be wanting photos taken.

My tip to you is to never ever bring anything that you wouldn’t want to see in photos, no matter how comfortable.

Many people tend to have a “lazy outfit” (probably giant sweatpants and hoodies, though I’m partial to this kangaroo onesie , myself). The problem with these is that they only serve one purpose: when you want to vegetate and become a human burrito.

When items only work for one certain occasion or purpose, then you’re not maximizing the space in your bag. So, even with things like sleepwear, think of items that are both comfy and decently put together (e.g. yoga pants instead of fuzzy panda bear fleece). This way you can potentially use them in other situations.

PRO TIP: Look into buying one of those dresses you can wear multiple ways. They’re so easy to find (and really cheap too! Here’s a cute one for under $20). They’re perfect for the day to night transition (and for pretending you’re not recycling the same 4 outfits over and over. lulz)

3. BUT don’t forget to prioritize comfort

This means those platform heels should probably stay at home, along with that skin tight clubbing dress.

Again, make sure the pieces you pack are multifunctional.

For instance, a nice top paired with dark jeans can be used for going out in the evening, and also for sightseeing during the day (with a pair of casual shorts).

One test I use is to think: “Would I mind sitting on a 12 hour bus with this on?”

If the answer is no, then I won’t pack it. There’s a wide variety of pretty clothes that are comfortable, so opt for those and never pack something that is *ultra cute* but uncomfortable to wear. I guarantee you won’t bother putting it on.

RECOMMENDATION: I seriously swear by my dress sandals from Clarks.  They’re the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned and one summer, I literally wore them everywhere, to the point where I got THE worst tan lines in history. Here’s a similar pair to what I have.

4. Make sure all your tops match all your bottoms

One of my favourite packing light tips.

Making sure all your tops match all your bottoms is an easy but simple trick to maximize the different outfits in your bag!

This will usually mean picking some kind of colour palette for your wardrobe, but since I have a weirdo obsession with colour palettes anyway, that’s more of a reward for me than anything else!

There are also some companies out there who now specialize in convertible travel wear that you can wear in a bunch of different ways. VacayStyle for instance has awesome collections, with pre-matched pieces that combine into over a dozen outfits . Perfect for the hopeless and uncoordinated! (aka me)

5. Pay attention to the fabrics! Pick items that don’t easily wrinkle

When I’m at hone, my favourite thing in the world is my clothing steamer, which works like magic and instantly smooths wrinkles.

Unfortunately, bringing this mammouth gizmo with me isn’t an option on the road, and as a result I’m often stuck with wrinkly clothes (which I vainly try to fix with my hair straightener).

Save yourself the grief – you want clothes that you can grab right out of the suitcase and throw back in just as easily. While irons may be available at hotels and hostels, ain’t nobody got time for that.

What fabrics are ideal? Well some travellers swear by Merino Wool ( scope out products here ) but there’s plenty of good options out there.

Of course, you know your wardrobe best (i.e. what holds up to wrinkles, what dries quickest) but for a good guide, check out this post on Best Fabrics for Travel from Her Packing List.

6. Pack a pretty scarf or two

A nice scarf is probably one of the most versatile things that you can pack.

I use mine for so many purposes (as a blanket, to wrap around fragile goods, as a makeshift pillow on buses, etc.) that I sometimes forget you’re actually supposed to wear it.

A colourful scarf can jazz up your basics immediately and is a sneaky way to make it look like you have several outfits! It’s also perfect for emergency situations where modesty is a must (e.g. visiting certain churches).

PRO TIP: Consider getting one of those secret passport scarves that let you hide your valuables like a ninja. Yes, these exist. Loads of options online for less than $20 ( see them here ).

7. Quality > quantity, pack only pieces you love (rather than more just for the sake of variety)

If you wanna know how to travel light, you should keep quality > quantity in mind, and never pack anything for the sole purpose of “just in case”. If that 1 in 1000 case pops up, there’s stores abroad where you can probably get the item you need.

8. Bring plenty of layerables

A good question is how to travel light even when it gets cold.

The answer is layers!

Even during the summer, odds are there will be some random anomaly of a day where low temps will make you feel like a human popsicle.

Bringing clothes that layer well together is crucial.

Don’t be that girl who had to wear a fancy trench coat over a casual denim jacket over an oversized sleeping T-shirt (aka me once because I’m useless).

9. Avoid lights and whites

For long-term travel, I’d stick to darker tones.

A lot of bloggers advise that you bring a plain white t-shirt because “it’s so versatile” and “effortlessly cute”.

I don’t know what kind of stainless universe these bloggers come from, but if you ask me to pack a white t-shirt, that thing will probably have chocolate on it before it even hits the suitcase (shout out to Tide to Go for being your gal’s BFF).

Pastel and lighter shades should also be avoided. One of my favourite light blue dresses started turning brown in certain spots during my 3 months abroad, which ruined the princess appeal just a bit.

Depending on the length of your trip, you’re going to want items that last through some wear and tear, so darker shades work better.

PRO TIP: Buy some travel-sized laundry detergent pockets . Tide makes these affordable ones for sink use. They could save your life between proper laundry runs.

10. Have one little black dress

LBDs are a lazy girl’s best friend (well, 2nd best friend after Netflix).

It’s an easy way to look nice and its versatility is unmatched. You can dress it down with a scarf and cardigan during the day, then quicker than the Flash, add some bling and you’re ready for a night out. Pro tip: A-line dresses like this one  are perfect for hiding any travel-induced food babies!

11. Invest in a nice purse

“But what about money belts and fanny packs” you murmur.

I’m sorry – I can’t do it. I just can’t.

Fanny packs and big clunky backpacks to me are akin to a giant sign that reads “I am a tourist. Please rob me if you can”.

To me, it doesn’t matter if you have the nicest outfit in the world, the wrong bag really shatters the whole ‘put together’ illusion that we’re attempting to create.

Luckily, there’s a lot of great bags out there that combine function and style. I would highly recommend the Lo & Sons Claremont camera bag, which is big enough to hold a camera + lens and plenty else if you get creative. There’s even a secret zipper on the back for your valuables! I bring it pretty much everywhere and it’s my go-to “look presentable” companion.

12. Pack shoes that can transition from day to night

While running shoes are practical, I argue that you can find flats, walking sandals and boots that are just as comfy, but more versatile for travel purposes.

Unless you plan on doing hikes or other sporty things, invest in some really good walking shoes that can be passable for a night out (e.g. high heeled boots, strappy sandals, etc.), again, rockin’ that dual purpose.

RECOMMENDATION (AGAIN):  One last plug for my favourite sandals ever. I promise, Clarks makes the most comfortable shoes. I’ve gone hiking in them!  Here’s a similar pair to what I have.

13. And this isn’t for everyone, but bring a friend who’s your size!

Here’s the thing: you can mix and accessorize all you want, but after a certain amount of time on the road, there’s no shaking the fact that  you  feel drab from wearing the same thing over and over.

If you’re able to travel with a friend, you have the potential luxury of sharing your wardrobe which, trust me, can work wonders on you feeling recharged and ready to take on your travels.

Even if you’re not the same size, share accessories like scarves and necklaces and you’ll feel brand new! No friends? This product makes it easy to grow one. … just kidding. *starts sobbing*

But you know, of course, I wouldn’t recommend choosing your travel partner based on their clothing size. That’s a little too  Mean Girls  for my liking.

A final note on modesty:

Depending on where you’re going, certain types of dress may be considered inappropriate, or will earn you the kind of looks you don’t want.

In Morocco for instance, I had to make sure my dresses were long and that my legs were covered because otherwise I would get stared down everywhere I went. Bring a pair of leggings/stockings and a scarf on every trip for moments like these when you need to cover up in a pinch.

So, do you have any extra tips on how to travel light?

Oh, come on guys, I’m definitely not perfect. Let me know in the comments if you have any extra tips on how to travel light and still look good!  Until next time! 🙂

Pssst… I hope you enjoyed this guide on how to travel light! Please note that this post does contain affiliate links, which means I would earn a commission from purchases made through my recommendation (but come at no extra cost to you). Feel free to email me if you have any questions!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

32 thoughts on “How to Travel Light & Not Look Like a Slob: The Lazy Girl’s Guide”

Great tips. I think the number one thing is making sure that every piece can be used and matched in different ways. The second to most important thing to me is: make sure you bring clothes that don’t get super wrinkled or in some other way need a lot of TLC. When you are traveling, the last thing you want to worry about is spending 30 minutes ironing one shirt or folding the cardigan in just the right way so that the hole doesn’t show. Bring your most effortless clothes!

Thanks, Susanna!! Yeah those are definitely key ones. You learn a lot just from trial and error I think, but hopefully this post will help a few newbies out !

I love this article! My color palette is basically grey, blue and black LOL! Great tips! May apply a few to prevent that hobo look!

Nothing wrong with that haha! Those are my go-to shades as well. Like I said in the post, I own 15 grey cardigans. #hoarderproblems

I am also very lazy so packing isn’t high on my prio list but I do want to look decent indeed, especially with all the pics happening. I always bring a scarf for fashion statements and/or comfort/warmth/pillow. I will never look like I’m in a photoshoot but as long as it is comfortable and I feel good in it, I am happy.

That’s my exact attitude as well! Sometimes I see these gorgeous photos of girls in long, flowing dresses on top of mountains and I just… I just don’t get it haha. I’m constantly pursuing that happy medium, because I know I’m not cut out for high fashion style blogging, but I still want to feel comfortable/confident.

Great tips! My last trip was the first time I properly tried to do the matching thing and it was amazing! Ive never gotten dressed so quickly in the morning as I could literally put on any clean top and any clean bottoms. I’ve even found myself thinking this way back home and now if it doesn’t match, I don’t buy it!

It’s SUCH a gamechanger, isn’t it?! And so cool that you’re doing that at home too. I just did a mass purging of all my clothes and am now trying to be more minimalist in my wardrobe. Think I’ll keep matching in mind for my next shopping trip!

Agreed, one must pack the bare minimums and repeat it in different combinations.

Heh exactly! I suppose guys are also less fussy about this kind of thing, hey? 🙂

Either I’m going for the deranged hobo look and just don’t care, or I can pull it off! Things like merino wool are my best friend! I’m actually wearing a jumper made of wool as we speak… And I’m at home! With my (somewhat still packed in boxes at my mums house) full wardrobe! It’s interesting seeing how everyone thinks about packing. I’m finding my bags are slowly getting less and less full as time goes on!

I think you just pull it off haha. So envious of that! But yeah I’m trying more these days to downsize my packing too. It’s definitely a work in progress but over time you really do learn what you need and what you don’t.

I actually never care how I look on pictures when I travel. But I have many friends that do and those will be very helpful for them 🙂

That’s so good to hear! Admittedly, I can be a little vain haha so how I look really impacts my confidence. Hope some of your friends will find this article useful!

This is such a great list! Like you, I don’t want to look like a complete slob but I’m not about checked luggage or a ton of wardrobe changes. A scarf is my best friend when traveling. I’ll have to remember the statement necklaces though. So easy and takes up very little room.

Yeah I think all travellers have their go-to ‘pretty scarf’ haha. It’s genuinely a lifesaver! And yesss so happy to have another girl join the statement necklace bandwagon. Hop on! It’s a sparkly ride 😉

Wow, great tips thanks. I always try and pack light as who wants to carry around a heavy rucksack but it is difficult to look good. I love your idea of travelling with a friend of the same size. Technically you could then travel very light and just wear her clothes 🙂

Hahah that’s brilliant. You show up to the airport with just a purse and she’s like “where are your clothes??” Then you give her a big hug, point at her backpack and whisper “OUR clothes.”

Yup to all of these tips! Although I love my pastels, so there’s always at least one piece that travels with me! But I also bring Tide to-go, just in case 😉 But you sound like my husband when it comes to white tees…lol, it’s like he attracts stains! Thanks so much for the little blurb to my blog! 😀

Great tip about the statement jewelry. I could definitely use a few pointers on that as I am awful at accessorizing. Overall great tips, and I think we have the same style on a lot of items! Thanks again for the link back 🙂

This is great, I will definitely have to keep these in mind! Keep up your wonderful work pretty gal! x

adelelydia.blogspot.com

Thank you, Adele!! <3

This is so necessary! My sister makes fun of me for buying all neutral colors but I always am glad that I have items to match pretty much everything. Thanks for the great advice. 🙂

Hehe no problem Gina! Team Neutral all the way. Like I said, I own 15 grey cardigans. How, I don’t know, but I do haha.

Great tips! Packing clothes that look good for day and night is absolutely essential for me!

Thanks, Emily!! Yess it can be tough to find those transitionable pieces at first but once you find the perfect one… best feeling ever.

This post is amazing thank you so much! I’m going travelling in South East Asia this summer and I have no clue how I’m going to pack light (I’m the kind of girl that needs a mini suitcase for one night away! But I’m also the kind of girl that then wears the one comfy outfit the whole time!) I’m terrible at packing light even though I know I won’t wear all that I do actually pack! Goodness me this post is helpful! Thank you!O

Yay Olivia – so happy you thought the post was helpful!! Pro tip for SE Asia: pack only the bare essentials because you are going to do a LOT of shopping. You can pick up super cute dresses for like $5 USD if you haggle, and the comfiest pants ever so don’t worry about packing much at all because there’s tons of opportunities to shop and pick up what you need once you’re there.

This is the answer for my upcoming one-month eurotrip this May! I’ve been thinking on and off about bringing lighter shade clothes and dress because I still want to look ‘cute’ though I only want to bring eight pieces, but now I read this… I should reconsider it again. Thank you so much!

hejnerissa.com

You’re welcome, Nerissa!! SO happy you found it helpful. Have an amazing time in Europe!

It’s 2020 so no travelling but when I do get to travel again I will incorporate some of your tips. I find these useful whether you are a backpackers or luggage hauler. Last year my daughter & I went to Costa Rica. She took a backpack. I took luggage. Both of us learned some valuable lessons from that trip. I over-packed. She under-packed. Her clothes were a wrinkled mess. I had to lug that suitcase up many, many flights of stairs. No elevators in Costa Rica. And my nice white t-shirt that I wore numerous times ended up very dirty and stained. Lessons learned. Thanks for the tips.

Just came up on Pinterest. Good advice. I usually go light, and yes avoid light colours and for me, also black. But I have to be colour coordinated or I don’t feel right, which actually makes putting a wardrobe for a trip easier. a couple of things – longer sleeves are useful for under layers, hot places (I burn) and for modesty, and shirts that roll up can be worn several ways. And your “little black dress” – the concept is excellent, but the colour can be any darkish colour that makes you look great – for me, it’s more likely to be dark green, dark brown or aubergine. Black makes many look sallow or washed out.

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How to travel light: 12 travel hacks to travel light

By: Author Monica

Categories Packing Tips , Travel Tips

I’m always harping on about how important it is to travel light. Travelling light gives you extra freedom and flexibility that you just don’t have with heavy luggage.

You can move quickly through airports and train stations and it’s so much easier to take public transport with a small bag. You’ll save money by not having to check your bags in on a plane and you can keep your luggage close when you’re on trains and buses.

You’re also less likely to lose things when you travel light because it’s easier to keep track of your belongings.

I’ve been thinking a lot about travelling light recently because I’ll soon be travelling with a baby and I’m pretty sure that travelling light + baby is pretty much impossible. I might not be able to pack light for the baby but I’ll definitely be able to pack light for me so the travelling light challenge is about to get extreme!

I could go on all day about the benefits of travelling light but I’ll leave it at that and start sharing my top tips for travelling light.

1. Use a small, lightweight case

The oldest trick in the book and possibly the simplest way to pack light – Use a small suitcase or backpack so you can’t possibly fit too much in it. Don’t be tempted to get a case that’s slightly too big because you will fill that space with unnecessary crap.

For more inspiration and proof of the benefits of travelling with a small bag, check out this post by Chris over at Backpacker Banter: My 25L Backpack Challenge . Yep, he travelled for 3 weeks around Thailand with nothing but a 25L backpack!

I like to travel with just hand luggage and recommend my range of luggage which is all available on Amazon. There’s the Travel Hack Cabin Case, the backpack and the tote.

It’s designed to be the perfect size for cabin baggage, meaning it’s as big as it possibly can be without being too big. It has separate compartments to keep everything organised and is an absolute dream to travel with. This is a great option is you plan to travel with cabin luggage only.

Below are a couple of great luggage options if you’re trying to travel light.

The Travel Hack Cabin Case

The Travel Hack Cabin Case is my all-time favourite for travelling light. The suitcase is perfect for a carry-on case for most airlines and weighs just 2.7kg but still has a massive 45 litre capacity. It also has handy pockets so you can access your belongings easily, whether you’re on the plane, going through security or at the airport.

• Generous 28 litre main compartment with packing straps and a variety of zipped pockets for everything from toiletries to straighteners.
• Rear padded compartment for a Macbook or a small laptop.
• Stylish 600D PU outer shell with faux leather inserts and rose gold detailing.

Cabin Max Metz

The Cabin Max Metz backpack is within the dimensions for most airline carry-on luggage and weighs just 0.7kg!

If you’re looking for ultra light but spacious luggage then this is the one.

• CARRY ON BAG 55x40x20 cm soft shell design to fit 94% of worldwide hand luggage gauges including: EasyJet and Ryanair, Eurowings, Vueling, Norwegian, Virgin, BA, Lufthansa, Jet2, Wizz Air, Iberia,...
• MAXIMUM CAPACITY - Large 44-litre capacity cabin bag makes it possible to fly without checking in baggage to the hold. Lightweight yet durable cabin bag 55x40x20 0.7kg (1.5lbs).
• CABIN BACKPACK - Featuring 3 main lockable zipped compartments, including document pocket, organisational accessories and tech pocket, including 2 zipped compartments. High strength durable,...

Tripp Ultra Light 4 wheel cabin case

If you’re looking for a lightweight suitcase then you can’t go wrong with the Tripp Ultra Light 4 wheel cabin case. It weighs 2.1kg, so you’re going to be left with 7.9kg for your belongings.

• 4 Wheel Carry On Suitcase
• Colour: BLACK
• 5 year guarantee

Antler Clifton Suitcase

The Antler Clifton Suitcases are great quality and so reliable. The cabin case is a little heavier at 3.5kg but if you’re looking for a really good quality case and you’re not as worried about weight then it’s a good option.

• CLIFTON LUGGAGE: Our Clifton cabin suitcase is everything you could want from a lightweight suitcase. Designed to last with its polycarbonate material, this carry on suitcase is strong, eye catching,...
• SIZE & MEASUREMENTS: Our carry on suitcase features flexible carry handles, 4 interior pockets, a zip closure & interior compartments. The cabin suitcase measures 20 x 40 x 55 (cm) with a packing...
• DOUBLE ANTI-THEFT TSA LOCKS: The Clifton cabin suitcase has anti-theft technology with its double TSA-approved locks for added security that separately secures the front pocket & the case itself. This...

Cabin Max Lightweight Backpack Trolley

If you aren’t sure if you want a backpack or a trolley then check out the Cabin Max Lightweight Backpack Trolley. It weighs just 1.7kg and has a 44 litre capacity.

• HYBRID - Cabin Max Lyon trolley backpack is a convenient wheeled carry on suitcase that coverts into a backpack for any type of travel. Just unzip the back section which covers the wheels and backpack...
• PACK TO THE MAX - Combines the maximum size allowed for hand luggage with an abundance of practical features
• DESIGNED TO FIT - At a massive 44L with dimensions 55 x 40 x 20 cm including wheels it is still extremely lightweight at 1.7KG

2. Pack 2 pairs of shoes and no more

Shoes can often be the bulkiest items in our bags so never travel with more than 2 pairs. Wear your bulkiest pair on the plane and a pack a smaller pair in your case.

I’m currently love the On Cloudnova trainers for trips where I’ll be doing lots of walking.

The Veja trainers are nice if you want some comfy white trainers that are a bit more stylish.

A comfy pair of Dr Martens are great for winter trips.

And I like a pair of Birkenstocks for daily wear in warm destinations.

Read more: What shoes should I take travelling?

3. 1 pair of trousers/jeans

Jeans or trousers are another bulky item to travel with so never travel with more than one pair and you should always wear these on the plane.

I usually opt for whichever jeans are my current favourites. You can’t go wrong with a comfy pair of black skinny jeans. My favourites at the moment are the classic Levi’s 501’s . I have them in a few different colours but black is the best for travel because they’ll match everything and no one really notices them, so you can get away with wearing the same jeans for days (don’t judge).

4. Minimise toiletries

If you’re staying in a hotel you can guarantee you’ll be provided with shampoo and shower gel so leave these at home. This means that most guys can get away with nothing more than a travel sized deodorant and toothpaste.

Most ladies will find it a little more difficult because there are some toiletries you just can’t leave home without.

I have a whole post over here about travelling with hand luggage toiletries and some nifty little products to make it easier to travel light! These tiny refillable pots are genius to help travel light with things like makeup and lotions.

How to Travel with Hand Luggage Liquids (& fit all your toiletries in that tiny bag!)

#5. Take an iPad/tablet

Cut down on tickets, books, magazines, a laptop, games, notepads, music, maps and travel guides and simply pack a tablet. My hand luggage used to be chocker with all sorts of entertainment options but now I just have my iPad and it’s made travelling so much easier.

Consider taking a portable powerbank  if you’re planning on taking long journeys. I have one that isn’t much bigger than a lipstick but it will charge my iPad for about 5 hours. It’s a good backup for emergencies too – like if you’ve got your hotel confirmation email stored on your iPad and the battery has died!

6. Pack simple clothes and lots of accessories

If you look at my Travel Style board on Pinterest you’ll see that I’m a bit obsessed with jeans and white t-shirts. It’s such a simple, easy style and so easy to pull off while you’re travelling. I’m really tempted to pack a bag full of white t-shirts next time I go away.

Team your jeans with sandals, white trainers, winter boots or heels. Then team your t-shirt with a blazer, a cardigan, a cosy jumper or a big scarf and you’ve got outfits for any situation without having to pack too much.

7. Pack ‘hard working’ clothing

No, you’re not sending your clothes to work, you’re looking out for clothes that have more than one use.

Think things like sarongs and scarves which can be used as towels, blankets and wraps.

You also can’t go wrong with black leggings. They’re easy to wash and dry and go with virtually everything.

It can be harder to pack light in colder climates. I love UNIQLO’s Ultra Light Down coats because they pack up into a tiny bag (similar to a cag in a bag) but they’re really, really warm!

8. Use packing cubes

I LOVE packing cubes. Not only do they keep your bag organised but they help make the most of your space and stop you overpacking. I tend to travel with four packing cubes. One for tops, one for bottoms, one for underwear and one for evening clothes. Once each packing cube is full you can’t possibly squish anything else in so you’re forced into packing light whether you like it or not.

Read more: Are packing cubes worth it and do they really save space?

Are packing cubes worth it and do packing cubes really save space?

9. Wash your clothes while you’re away

No matter where in the world you’re travelling, it doesn’t need to be expensive to get your clothes washed.

Fancy hotels in certain cities will charge a fortune to wash your clothes so look out for laundrettes or, cheaper still, wash your clothes in your hotel bathroom. You can’t go wrong with the Dr Beckmman Travel Wash . It’s so cheap and amazingly effective!

I usually soak my clothes in the sink and rinse them out while I’m showering. Laundrettes and apartments with washing machines will become your best friend if you’re travelling for a few weeks or more.

If you’re travelling in a developing country it costs next to nothing to get your clothes washed but be aware that if you’re paying £0.50 for a load of washing, you don’t want to be giving them your expensive designer clothes.

• Special concentrated washing gel
• Formulated to use when you are travelling or away from home
• Can be used in any type of water

10. Remember: you can buy everything out there!

No matter where you’re travelling, you’ll always be able to find the necessities. You might not find your favourite brand of shampoo but you will find something very similar.

If you’re going somewhere where you think you’ll need specialist equipment, wait until you get there to buy it. You’re not the first traveller to visit and you won’t be the last so you can guarantee you’ll find local shops selling everything you need.

When I travelled to Borneo I climbed Mount Kinabalu. I’d spent the past 18 months in Australia and didn’t have a single item of warm clothing or a decent pair of shoes. I was panicking but when I arrived to Kota Kinabalu I realised I wasn’t alone and the city was filled with hiking shops thanks to all the travellers who pass through and pick up the necessary hiking items.

11. Don’t use lots of small purses and pouches

(This doesn’t apply for packing cubes – I mean really small pouches for tiny things like jewellery or socks) The first time I went backpacking I was super organised and had a separate little pouch for everything. A pouch for medicine, one for toiletries, one for souvenirs. Yes, my bag was organised for about the first 5 days (out of about 450 days!) but I had lots of unused space in my bag. Socks and toiletries are the perfect items to squeeze in your bag and fill up the gaps. Lots of pouches lead to lots of gaps and lots of wasted space.

12. Use a bag or case that opens fully

I don’t recommend using a top-loading backpack. This means smaller items slip to the bottom and are forgotten. Use a bag that opens all the way and you have access to everything. You don’t need to be quite as organised and this reduces the needed for all those little purses and pouches.

Do you have any more travel hacks to help you pack light?

You can find even more packing tips over here.

Sunday 24th of March 2019

The last 2 hotels I stayed at offered at the most is the mini bar soaps. The first one gave the soap and had to buy travel sized shampoo, lotion, etc. I take bar soap and refill the empty bottles with everything else I neeed.

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The Ultimate List of Travel Gear for Packing as Light as Possible (2020 Edition)

When traveling, minimalism has become our way of life. During our world trip, we chose to pack light, that is, to travel with cabin suitcases only. And for nothing in the world would we have done it differently because the benefits of traveling light far outweigh any drawbacks.

In fact, during our 15 months trip across 50 countries , the total weight of our equipment was 30 kg for our family of 4. And believe it or not, if we had settled for the bare essentials, we could have reduced it to 20 kg in 2 carry-on luggage.

For some, this form of travel may seem frightening. One only has to try it to adopt it. But to avoid being disappointed, it is best to be well prepared for it. To prevent your preparation from becoming a real headache and to help you take the plunge, I will share with you a list of items that I have carefully selected.

On the day of departure

4 Reasons to Travel Light

First of all, here are 4 reasons to travel light:

1. Travelling with heavy luggage can cause fatigue . This is all the more true when a dense itinerary forces us to move often from one accommodation to another.

2. Suitcases can be quickly packed and unpacked. . Time spent traveling is precious. Optimizing it is the best way to make the most of it.

3. Minimalism helps reduce hassle . We don’t get emotionally attached to materials or appearances. Our only souvenirs are in our heads and in the pictures. When we possess fewer things, it becomes easier not to lose them.

4. Great savings can be made . Travelling solely with carry-on luggage reduces check-in fees and saves time at airports. It also prevents lost, delayed or broken luggage. In addition, one can afford to rent smaller cars with smaller trunks.

The Fiat 500, a car with a small trunk

The only drawback to travelling light is having to do laundry once a week. However, all you need to do is to make arrangements to have access to a laundromat or a washing machine at your hotel or Airbnb. In most developing countries, 5-star laundry services are available and for a few dollars, you can have your laundry washed, dried, ironed and folded.

Selection Criteria For Our Travel Items

Each item that accompanies us has been meticulously selected according to 5 criteria: compactness, lightness, quality, robustness and price.

Since these items constitute our “home” during the trip, we might as well select them carefully. This list is the result of several months of investigation, review reading, comparison and shopping. I therefore put my seal of approval on these items according to the aforementioned criteria!

So without further ado, here’s the list!

N.B. : the links contain affiliate codes that allow us to earn a small revenue on each sale at no additional cost to you. Some links may redirect to non-existing products, depending on your location.

Our Selection of Light Travel Items

Away travel carry-on.

Away Travel is among suitcases what Tesla is among automobiles. With an integrated 10,000 mAh USB charging battery pack, a TSA-approved security lock and an enclosed laundry bag, the cabin suitcase has been designed and engineered for modern travelers. It is lightweight, sturdy, durable, has optimized compartments and dimensions at the limit of those allowed by most airlines. In short, everything in this suitcase is convenient.

We have two Away Travel carry-on suitcases.

Away Travel Carry On

Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 backpacks

Osprey is THE reference for backpacks. Its reputation is well established. Their bags are designed to be comfortable, ergonomic, durable and have a LIFETIME guarantee! So if a zipper breaks or if a samurai accidentally rips open a bag with his sword, Osprey will repair or replace it free of charge.

So you can be confident that you won’t need to buy another bag for the rest of your life… or that of the company, depending which event comes first. But since they are in business since 40 years and no one has ever surpassed them, you can keep traveling with peace of mind.

We chose two 40-liter bags because they have the maximum dimensions to be considered as carry-on luggage by most airlines. The Osprey Farpoint is for men, and the Osprey Fairview for women.

When we returned from our trip around the world, our bags still looked brand new!

Osprey Farpoint 40

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Osprey again. Impossible to miss them, they are the best! The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack is perfect to escape on an excursion with your water and food after dropping off your suitcases at the hotel. It can also be used as a laundry bag. It is easily tucked into a small bag the size of a child’s fist, which is handy when space in the suitcase is limited. In addition, it only weighs a few grams.

And remember, the Osprey warranty is valid for the rest of your life! We’ve worn out both of our day-packs during our world tour. We made use of the Osprey Warranty when we returned and received two new day-packs!

Gonex Packing Cubes

Once again, “the reference” for packing cubes. You’re going to tell me I’m just repeating myself. Then I’ll stop saying it and you’ll just have to keep it in mind for the rest of the post. The Gonex packing cubes are convenient for organizing our belongings within the compartments of our suitcases. Simple isn’t it?

We even bought compression storage cubes to save even more space. But because our items are so compact, our bags never overflow and we don’t need to compress them.

Compression Gonex Packing Cubes

Gonex Packing Cubes Medium

Icebreaker Apparel

I will not make an inventory of the clothes that accompany us on our trip. Known that they have been meticulously picked according to the same criteria as our other travel items, in addition to durability and comfort. Nevertheless, I do recommend one brand of outdoor clothing for serious travelers that I rank above all others.

Do you know the brand Icebreaker ? This New Zealander clothing brand manufactures merino wool garments. The result is simple: the clothes are insulating when it’s cold, they breathe when it’s hot, they don’t keep body odors. Moreover, they are antibacterial, they dry quickly, they are ultra-light, and they are so comfortable!

La Icebreaker family

These clothes have allowed us to do less laundry. Like in Iceland when I wore the same Icebreaker t-shirt for 9 consecutive days (and nights) without ever having to wash it. Even during hot weather, I wear them 3 or 4 days in a row before washing them because they don’t smell at all! And since they are washed less, we don’t pack as much clothing, so we can travel even lighter!

The disadvantage of these clothes, as you may have guessed, is their price. But their quality is well worth the cost!

Tesalate Beach Towel

No more thick and bulky towels. Say hello to the Tesalate microfiber beach towel . It is light, compact, durable, ultra-absorbent and dries very quickly. Sand does not stick to it and it is very handy since it can also be used as a beach, picnic or yoga mat. Tesalate is an Australian company that produces towels designed for travelers. They are available in several sizes with designs as beautiful as one another.

The Tesalate beach towel

Dell XPS 15 Notebook

The Dell XPS 15 is a laptop for those with a need for performance! Some would be satisfied with the 13-inch version. I personally like the comfort of the 15-inch. But since the edge of the screen is almost non-existent, it is the size of a regular 14-inch laptop. In addition to being ultra-thin, my XPS 15 is equipped with an i7 processor, 32 GB of RAM, a 1 TB SSD disk and a 4K touchscreen. Processing my photos with Lightroom has become quite a breeze!

Dell XPS 15

Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB External Hard Drive

There is no external hard disk drive thinner than the Seagate Backup Plus Slim besides SSD disks. It’s perfect for photo backup!

Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2 TB

Fujifilm X100F

Join me and hundreds of thousands of Fuji aficionados: sell your Nikon and Canon right away and choose Fuji! This is the 4th generation of the X100 camera line. The Fujifilm X100F is a mirrorless technology masterpiece, one without which you might not enjoy following us on our travels quite as much. After my wife and children, it is my favorite travel companion. I never get tired of taking pictures. Besides, it’s beautiful!

In my opinion, this is the best compact camera in terms of quality, price and versatility. It takes extraordinary pictures and has unparalleled color rendering that only Fuji can achieve. Its 35mm equivalent fixed lens can somewhat limit the shooting possibilities. With the Fujinon WCL lens which brings it to 28mm, it becomes more versatile in almost all conditions.

Its successor the Fujifilm X100V (5th generation) was released in 2020. If having a fixed lens is an issue for you, I would recommend the Fujifilm X-Pro2 which is the equivalent of the Fuji X100F but allows interchangeable lens. Its successor the Fujifilm X-Pro3 , more recent, is the Fuji X100V equivalent.

GoPro 7 Black

Everybody know the GoPro . I wouldn’t immerse my Fuji in the water, but I would definitely use the GoPro in the water!

Gopro 7 Black

Zippod 45 Tripod

Few tripods take up little space. The Zippod 45 is so compact and light that it should be a piece of equipment for any traveling photographer who wants to save space in his suitcase. It is not very sturdy in the middle of a hurricane, but it gets the job done.

The Pedco UltraPod

The Pedco UltraPod is a very versatile small tripod. It folds up tiny and it can be attached to a pole.

Pedco Ultrapod

Manfrotto Camera Case

I love the Manfrotto brand because the company not only produces good tripods, but also high quality camera bags.

Manfrotto Amica 10

iPad mini 4

During our world trip, each of our boys had an iPad mini for school. Android doesn’t offer the same variety of educational applications as iOS, so we had fallen back on these tablets. We had scanned the class workbooks into PDF documents so that the kids could do their exercises on their iPad.

iPad Mini 4

Asus ZenFone Max Pro 128GB

Under the criteria “long battery life in case I venture into an area without electricity” and “entry-level so as not to be sad if I get it stolen”, I present to you my phone, the Asus ZenFone Max Pro 128GB . You can’t imagine my relief to be able to live without having to charge my phone every day.

Asus ZenFone Max Pro

Deercon Rechargeable Cordless Hair Clipper

Deercon provides a compact electric hair clipper that trims well and runs on rechargeable battery power. And with 3 heads to trim each month, the clipper has quickly paid for itself.

Deercon Cordless Hair Clippers

USB Rechargeable LED Headlamp

For the times when we had to wander at night in the middle of the Jordanian desert or the Malaysian jungle, this USB rechargeable headlamp has proven to be very useful to us. This is the winner of the “just in case” category.

LED Headlamp

Steripen Pure+ Water Purifier

Better safe than sorry, as they say. The Steripen Pure+ can irradiate all microbes and viruses in the water before you drink it and it can be recharged via USB. The lamp can purify 15,000 L of water. That shouldn’t stop you from bringing Imodium tablets!

Steripen Pure+

The Universal 4-Port USB Power Adapter

With all of our devices that we have to charge via USB, the purchase of this travel adapter makes perfect sense.

Universal Adapter with USB plugs

The Ultra-fast USB Car Charger

Here is a USB Car Charger with 2 Qualcomm 3.0 sockets to quickly charge our electronic devices in the car. You’re welcome.

Quick Charge 3.0 Car Charger

Car Phone Holder

A small magnetic phone holder that holds my phone attached to a metal plate, so I can use my GPS when I drive. Check!

Magnetic Phone Holder

Travel Locks

You never know what can happen on a trip. These travel locks are symbolically useful in deterring household staff with bad intentions.

Neck Stash for Passport

You are never safe from an unfortunate situation, but you must know how to minimize the risks. As you can see in the photo, this security pouch can hold 4 passports, credit cards, 500 Euro bills, and even Apple headphones!

Rfid Blocking Neck Stash for Passport

Silicone Bottles

100 mL being the largest format allowed in aircraft cabins for liquids, these refillable silicone bottles are convenient to keep our shampoo and sunscreen in.

Refillable Silicone Bottles

Blizetec Pocket Blanket

To sit on the ground, on the lawn or on the beach without getting dirty, or to cover our belongings in the car away from prying eyes, the Blizetec blanket is always with us.

Blizetec Blanket

The Electronic Luggage Scale

Small and lightweight, this electronic luggage scale will ensure that we balance the loads of our bags before arriving at the airport. This is an indispensable item especially in Asia and Oceania, where low-cost airlines limit the weight of cabin luggage to 7 kg.

Digital Luggage Scale

The Non-essentials

In addition, here is a list of objects that we brought with us at the beginning of our trip, but that we left behind along the way.

The Precision Stylus

In the absence of paper and pencils, the children are entitled to a precision stylus that emulate writing on their iPad.

Stylus for iPad

The Boogie Board

The Boogie Board is ultra light and saves us from travelling with paper. Super handy for writing and drawing, then erasing at the touch of a button. Kids love it!

Boogie Board

Hootoo TripMate Titan Travel Router

Here is another extraordinarily practical thing. Le Hootoo TripMate Titan is a travel router and WiFi signal replicator. When you arrive at the hotel, all you have to do is connect this device to the WiFi, and it transmits the signal through its own network, on which all your devices (computer, phone and tablets) are already configured. This way, there is no need to configure the WiFi on each device every time you move from one hotel to another. Another interesting feature of this device is that it is energy autonomous because it has its own battery. Therefore, it allows you to take advantage of the WiFi at the outdoor swimming pool while working. And finally, with a capacity of 10,400 mAh, its battery can be used to recharge electronic devices via USB, just like a charging battery pack.

Hootoo Wireless Travel Router

MPOWERD Luci Inflatable Solar Light

The MPOWERD Luci is an inflatable light that can be charged with sunlight. It charges in 7 hours in the sun and can provide 12 hours of light. Perfect for playing cards with the family in the RV!

MPOWERD Inflatable Solar Light

Glacial Stream Personal Water Filter Straw

The Glacial Stream Water Filter Straw allows the water to be cleaned in order to remove its contaminants. It is less effective than a Steripen in removing viruses, but no less convenient.

Personal Water Filter Straw

The Cooling Towel

The Tough Outfitters cooling towel is great! Soak in water, wring out, place around the neck to cool down for several hours during a heat wave.

Tough Outfitters Cooling Towel

Mifold Booster Seat

If you cannot travel with car seats and you don’t want to rent one every time you rent a car, the mifold booster seat save a small fortune while ensuring the safety of our children. In addition, they comply with safety standards both in Europe and America.

The Power Inverter

For camper road-trip enthusiasts, the power inverter is a must! No need to hunt for a Starbucks in order to recharge your computer anymore! This little device will do it for you! Simply connect it to the 12V power supply of your vehicle to obtain a 110V AC output.

Power Inverter

Keep reading our great travel stories by browsing through  all our destinations !

Browse through  15,000 of our  most beautiful travel photos  sorted by destination and download them  for free !

I would also like to take this opportunity to share with you  the summary of our exceptional world tour as a family !

To learn some techniques to improve your travel planning skills, have a look at our our travel tips :

• How to book flights at the lowest price ?
• How to enjoy free hotels nights with credit cards ?  (for Canadians)
• How to make the most of your travel points?  (for Canadians)
• Which credit card to carry when traveling ?  (for Canadians)
• How to travel with carry-ons only ? Our lightweight travel gear list
• How to build an itinerary for a world tour ?
• How to estimate a budget for a trip around the world ?
• How to enhance your photos with Lightroom?
• How to start a travel blog ?

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Tested and Reviewed: 10 Travel Umbrellas Worth a Spot in Your Suitcase

By Claire Volkman

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.

As a seasoned traveler, I can tell you one thing that I absolutely never forget to pack : a travel umbrella. No matter where I’m going, except perhaps the Wadi Rum or the Sahara Desert, there’s bound to be some sort of inclement weather. Rain, sleet, thunderstorms; few destinations are without them. Having an umbrella or two on hand allows me and my travel companions to keep our plans intact (and sometimes even see the sights with fewer crowds on rainy days).

Finding the perfect umbrella can be as daunting as selecting a suitcase , though. With about a million options to choose from and all of them claiming to be the best, it’s no wonder so many travelers default to the cheapest option on Amazon or whatever happens to be at the nearest drugstore when that sudden rainfall begins. However, not all umbrellas are created equal, as anyone who has found themselves with a completely inverted one during a torrential downpour will tell you. 

To help you find the best travel umbrella for your needs, I put a dozen or so models to the test (in the windy Midwest , no less), keeping size, durability, and affordability in mind. Below, I've rounded up the options that are worth a spot on your packing list.

• Best overall travel umbrella: Weatherman The Travel Umbrella
• Most durable: Blunt Metro umbrella
• Most compact: Davek The Davek Mini
• Most wind resistant: Davek The Davek Elite umbrella
• Best lightweight: Business & Pleasure Co. The Rain Umbrella
• Most stylish: Rifle Paper Co. umbrella
• Most affordable: Repel windproof travel umbrella
• Best sustainable: Totes Recycled PET Umbrella
• Best for cities: Amy's Umbrellas automatic umbrella
• Best splurge: Sarah Flint x Pasotti umbrella

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Best overall travel umbrella

Why we love it: Sturdy, wind-resistant, lightweight, and compact, the Weatherman travel umbrella is the best on the market. It's surprisingly lightweight, and can easily fit in a carry-on or tote bag ; plus, it features an automatic open and close feature, a reinforced fiberglass base, and a water-resistant, Teflon-coated fabric. With the ability to shield winds up to 45 MPH, this travel umbrella is tough enough to withstand even the heaviest of rainfall. It comes with a lifetime warranty, too.

Worth noting: There aren’t many cons to this umbrella—it was my favorite of the bunch.

Dimensions: Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 12" Weight: 0.88 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Most durable umbrella

Why we love it: This heavy-duty umbrella stands up to even the strongest rainstorms, and offers supreme coverage thanks to its patented wind-tip rounded edges. It’s built with a 360-degree spinning canopy which prevents it from breaking when dropped or knocked over. It’s extremely wind-resistant and has been tested  by the brand to withstand the winds and rains of a category one hurricane (not that they recommend you put it to use in those conditions). Its rip-resistant pongee fabric is quick to dry, so you can take it into a restaurant or museum without needing a plastic cover. It comes in over 24 colors, and new ones are offered each season.

Worth noting: This umbrella only features six ribs, which means it's smaller than Blunt’s other umbrellas.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 39"; Closed length: 15" Weight: 0.85 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: No

Most compact umbrella

Why we love it: When they say mini, they mean mini. The Davek Mini is so small and compact that it fits in the palm of your hand. Measuring less than seven inches when closed, you can easily stash this umbrella in your crossbody , backpack, or even pocket. Plus, it weighs less than a pound, making it almost unnoticeable when not in use. It’s made from reinforced fiberglass and comes in 10 bright colors, so you can coordinate your umbrella with the rest of your outfit.

Worth noting: Given its size, the canopy of this umbrella doesn’t provide overwhelming coverage and it’s not built for extreme storms. I found it functions best in light showers.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 38"; Closed length: 7" Weight: Less than one pound Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best umbrella for windy destinations

Why we love it: There’s a reason this umbrella has a near-perfect rating on Amazon—it actually holds up. It may be a splurge at $149, but it is well worth the price tag when you see how effective it is. Surprisingly compact, the canopy extends 50 inches, giving you broad protection against heavy rains, while still being small enough when closed to fit in a carry-on, backpack, or tote. The 210-thread-count fabric makes it luxurious to touch and invincible against rain. The best feature is the wind-tension frame system, which can withstand heavy winds and prevent inversion. I tested this against a very blustery 55 MPH wind day in Chicago, and there was barely any flapping or movement from the tough canopy.

Worth noting : It comes with a lifetime warranty and replacement guarantee.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 50"; Closed length: 35" Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz. Carrying sleeve included: No

Best lightweight umbrella

Why we love it: Despite its stick shape, this umbrella is incredibly lightweight, weighing just under 2.5 pounds. It can fit into most suitcases, is UV protective, and has an impressive 41-inch canopy span. It is also slick to look at and carry, with a wood handle and metal clasp. The umbrella comes in 12 lovely patterns and colors, including the ’70s-inspired aqua and orange Cinque Terre and the sunny yellow interior printed Paisley Bay.

Worth noting: The design is long and narrow, making it only packable in a checked bag or stowed in the trunk of your car for a weekend trip. Because of the lightweight build, the umbrella itself is quite fragile.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 41"; Closed length: 37" Weight: 2.5 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best affordable umbrella

Why we love it: You can’t go wrong with this durable, lightweight, and compact travel umbrella from Repel. With over 36,000 4.5-star reviews, this is a crowd favorite among travelers, worker bees, families, and everyone in between. We tested the durability during a heavy summer rainstorm in Chicago, and it stood up surprisingly well thanks to its nine rib canopy, heavy-duty Teflon-coated fabric, and non-slip rubber grip. Plus, the automatic open and close feature makes it super easy to slip in and out of storefronts and restaurants without getting soaked or stuck. While testing, it stood up to Chicago’s infamous winds, with no bending, flipping, or flapping during big gusts. Bonus: It comes in 10 colors, so everyone in the family can choose their own unique hue.

Worth noting: I didn’t find any problems with the umbrella, though some reviewers have noted that it becomes harder to re-open after longer use and is heavier than comparable brands (it clocks in at 12 ounces).

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 42"; Closed length: 11.5" Weight: 0.93 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: No

Most stylish umbrella

Why we love it: If you’re someone who buys a bottle of wine based on the label, these umbrellas are for you. Known for bold, whimsical, delicate patterns and floral designs, Rifle Paper Company’s umbrellas are their own cheery works of art. The umbrellas come in six beautiful patterns, including the colorful Camont, inspired by an 18th-century farmhouse in France, and city-printed Bon Voyage umbrella pictured above. Each one features a sleek wooden handle and an automatic open/close feature.

Worth noting: While this basic umbrella provides decent coverage in light rain, it is not the one to buy if you're planning to be walking through downpours or heavy winds.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11" Weight: Approximately 1 lb. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best sustainable umbrella

Why we love it: Shopping sustainably is top of mind, and that extends to travel umbrellas. Tote’s umbrella is made from 100 percent recycled PET plastics, with roughly 7.5 recycled water bottles used per umbrella. The handle and strap are also made from renewable resources like bamboo and hemp, and the production process has been adjusted to use less water. The umbrella features Tote’s patented NeverWet invisible coating, too, allowing rain to drip off the umbrella quickly, leaving you with a drier umbrella once indoors.

Worth noting: Its compact design makes it easy to travel with, however, it doesn’t provide much coverage beyond your person.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 43"; Closed length: 11.2" Carrying sleeve included: No

Best for city trips

Why we love it: With a sleek and stylish small wooden or plastic handle, this lightweight umbrella features a wind-defying eight rib canopy that’s UPF 50+ certified. Small enough to walk down the busy streets of Chicago during a shower without the awkward “bump and sideswipe,” it fits easily into smaller bags. It features an automatic open and close button and comes in more than a dozen bright, bold patterns and colors, so that you’ll stand out in a sea of black parasols. It also comes with a five year warranty.

Worth noting: It’s small enough to fit in your hand, which means the canopy doesn’t offer ideal protection in heavy rainstorms.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 38.1"; Closed length: 21.6" Weight: 0.76 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: Yes

Best splurge umbrella

Why we love it: If you’re looking for an umbrella that will stop people in their tracks, this is it. The exterior features a luxurious Italian leather handle, gold-tone button clasp, and sleek navy canopy. However, the real surprise is when you open it to find a beautiful hand-painted blue and white floral pattern on the interior. I brought this umbrella on a recent trip to Charleston and a handful of people stopped me on a rainy street to ask where I got it. Not only is it gorgeous, but it is also functional. The double-lined canopy protects against moderate rain storms, and it’s sturdy enough to withstand relatively high tropical winds.

Worth noting: This umbrella is not the most durable or compact on the list—you'll want to bring it on road trips rather than short flights—but it is a terrific showpiece.

Dimensions:  Open diameter: 42" Weight: Approximately 0.5 lbs. Carrying sleeve included: No

Shop for more rainy weather gear:

• Rain Boots for Women That Won’t Take Up Your Whole Suitcase
• The Best Lightweight Rain Jackets for Travelers
• These Waterproof Phone Pouches Will Actually Keep Your Device Dry

The best travel tripod for 2024: finest lightweight tripods for your camera

The best travel tripods are super-portable camera supports

• Best overall
• Best for budget
• Best Premium
• Best Design
• Best Versatility
• Best Lightweight

How to choose the best travel tripod for you

How we test travel tripods.

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best budget 4. Best premium 5. Best design 6. Best for versatility 7. Best lightweight 8. How to choose 9. How we test

Compact size and lightweight build are the name of the best travel tripod game, persuading you to pack one for outdoor adventures rather than leave it at home or in the studio, unlike the best tripods which can be very heavy and unwieldy. 

In 2024, there's the question of whether you need a tripod in the first place. After all, today's best cameras give plenty of reasons to leave the tripod at home , such as excellent high ISO performance and in-body image stablization. But believe us, there's still plenty of reason to fork out for a decent tripod . 

All of the models in this guide stand firm for long exposure photography, sharp photos and hands-free video while being small enough to be stowed in your camera bag . Most options included here are available in aluminium and pricier carbon fiber versions. Because travel tripods are quite small already, the minimal weight saved by using carbon fiber might not be worth the extra outlay of their aluminium counterparts. 

We've tested more than our share of tripods over the years, utilizing them while we're testing cameras and lenses – so we know if one offers incredibly stable shooting and decent value for money. Within this guide, we have gathered the best travel tripod you can buy right now and included further buying advice at the end of the guide.

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He’s also worked in video production with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi.

The quick list

Short on time? Use our quick round-up below to find the best travel tripod for you. Use the links to jump to our full write-ups for more in-depth coverage.

The best travel tripod overall

The 3-Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0 boasts a full height of 73.2 inches / 1.86m and a stylish design. A truly impressive specification for the price.

Read more below

The best travel tripod for a budget

If you're looking for your first ever tripod, Manfrotto's budget friendly offering ticks all the boxes when it comes to delivering the basics at a good price.

The best premium travel tripod

Smooth operation and build quality that will last a lifetime make this the best option for those who are happy to pay for the best. 

The best travel tripod design

As one of the most compact travel tripods around, the Peak Design makes for a great travel companion, albeit at quite a high cost. 

The best travel tripod for versatility

With an articulating center column, this heavy travel tripod is able to capture unique angles while providing great stability.

The best lightweight travel tripod

A basic offering from Manfrotto that is incredibly lightweight and therefore perfect for taking on your travels.

• ^ Back to the top

The best Travel Tripods in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below, you'll find full write-ups for each of the best travel tripods in our list and a link to a full review. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

1. 3 Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

When it comes to price and quality, the 3-Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0 is hard to beat. For the price, you get an incredible level of versatility with the Brian 2.0, which can transform into a standard tripod, a tall monopod, or even a tabletop tripod when combined with the separately sold Vanz footwear.

The carbon fiber frame is lightweight at 3.70lbs / 1.68kg and provides a maximum height of 73.2 inches / 1.86m. This might be too tall for some, but it's always good to have the option – you don't need to use all the leg sections. Folding away to 16.5-inches / 42cm makes it easy to attach to a bag or throw in a suitcase.

As is custom in the Punks Brian 2.0 range, the tripod is available in either orange, blue, or black, depending on how much you want to stand out.

• Read our 3 Legged Thing Punks Brian 2.0 review

2. Manfrotto Element MII

The Manfrotto Element MII is a fantastic budget option that does all the basics really well. At only $155 / £109 / AU$259 you're guaranteed to get everything that Manfrotto is known for, including great build quality and a well engineered head. 

The Element MII has replaced the Element Big, a change that sees a reduction in leg sections from five to four. These changes make it easier to set up and pack down. Unfortunately, it's only available in aluminum, which makes for a heavy package considering it's such a compact design.

By offering a fairly basic specification, Manfrotto is delivering simple tripod technology at a great price. Through the Element range of tripods, Manfrotto is trying to appeal to beginners and those on a budget. 

• Read our Manfrotto Element MII Aluminium review

3. Gitzo Traveler Series 1

Professional users looking for one of the best travel tripods should look no further than the Gitzo tripod Traveler series 1. All the boxes are ticked with a lightweight and excellent build, with an impressive extended height.

Oftentimes, with travel tripods, the parts don't function as smoothly as their larger counterparts. This is not the case for the Gitzo Traveler Series 1. Moving from folded to extended is a breeze, and the head is as strong and reliable as you'll ever need it to be. The ball head features separate pan locking, and its 32mm ball diameter is just about large enough to support a full-frame DSLR.

All of this premium quality comes at a price. The Traveler Series 1 costs $680 / £539 / AU$1,154 . 95. If you're in the market for a travel tripod that will last a lifetime and you're prepared to pay for it, then the Traveler Series 1 is a great choice.

• Read our Gitzo tripod Traveler series 1 review

4. Peak Design Travel Tripod

The Peak Design oozes a unique design that results in it being one of the most compact and lightweight options on the market. Thanks to the shape, the legs fold neatly into each other, which provides a super slim overall diameter.

The head is integral to the tripod, which takes a little bit of getting used to, and it lacks functionality. However, ultra-low-level and tabletop shooting is possible thanks to the centre column design, so although it isn't in the 'best for versatility' category, it would easily be competing for the top overall spot.

With great design comes a high price, especially if you opt for the lighter carbon fiber frame rather than the aluminium alternative. The 5 sectioned legs are strong, delivering all the stability you could need as you're out and about.

• Read our Peak Design Travel Tripod review

5. Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB

The Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB is heavier and bigger than most of its competitors, something that will put a lot of people off, especially if they're doing a lot of travelling by foot. But with this weight and size comes a high level of stability that is ideal if you're shooting long exposures or time lapses.

One of the main things we love about this travel tripod is the articulating arm , which makes it possible to shoot at ground level. This is great for capturing unique and creative camera angles that would otherwise be impossible without defaulting to handheld.

Thanks to the ability to unscrew one of the legs, this travel tripod is also a very capable monopod, making it a highly versatile offering.

• Read our Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB travel tripod review 

6. Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber

At 1.25kg, this carbon fiber travel tripod is as lightweight as it gets, perfect for taking with you on your travels. It can also fit into small spaces, with a foldable length of just 41cm. If you're after a tripod that blends into the background and doesn't bother you on long journeys, then Manfrotto Befree Advanced will be great.

The lack of weight and size usually results in poor stability, something that isn't the case with this tripod. The legs are rigid and robust, which is not always guaranteed on a travel tripod.

There is no getting around it; this is a basic tripod with limited features. With no monopog leg option and a limited maximum height, it might be worth going for the slightly heavier 3 Legged Thing Brian 2.0 Travel Tripod. But if all simply need a basic support, which is true for most photographers moist the time, then this is a great option.

• Read our Manfrotto Befree Advanced Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod review

What to look for in a travel tripod

Choosing the best travel tripod isn't just about selecting the smallest and lightest model. Indeed, picking the lightest legs isn't always the best plan. Marginally heavier alternatives won't be a noticeable burden, but they can provide much more rigidity and versatility. 

Most of these tripods use a carbon fiber construction to save weight, but this ups the price. Some models also have aluminum counterparts. Each includes a compact ball head, but check carefully: a ball that's too small for a larger DSLR will become a precarious balancing act.

What makes a travel tripod

A neat trick shared by the vast majority of current tripods is that the legs swing fully upwards for stowage. The idea is that you first extend the centre column, then swing the legs up, so that the tripod’s feet end up encircling the head. This reduces the overall carrying length by up to 10cm or 4 inches. Indeed, many of the best travel tripods shrink down to about 30-40cm, making them small enough to fit inside a camera bag or rucksack, rather than needing to be tethered to the outside causing your bag to be unbalanced.

To give them a useful operating height, despite their small carrying size, most travel tripods feature four or even five telescopic sections per leg. Some go further still, with a two-section extending centre column. This naturally enables a greater maximum operating height, so you can be sure no matter how high your camera needs to be it will be able to get the shot you want.

The drawbacks are that each telescoping joint is an area of potential weakness, reducing rigidity, and the bottom leg sections are likely to be quite thin and spindly. A large number of twist or clip locks for all the sections also demands more time for setting up the tripod and folding it down again. 

Do I even need a tripod?

Today's very best mirrorless cameras and computational photography modes especially in smartphones and the OM System OM-1 that go a long way to eliminating the need for a tripod. We list 5 reasons why photographers no longer need a tripod that includes super-effective in-body image stablization for handheld shooting even with professional high-resolution cameras, in-camera HDR modes so you no longer need to do multi-shot exposure stacking, plus improved image quality at high ISOs. 

However, there are times and photography effects that still require a tripod. Tripods can be crucial for studio photography and for video work in general where you can lock off the camera in position for long periods and free up your hands. The same goes for long exposure photography, staging group photos, plus the times you need free hands to attach or remove accessories from your camera, like lens filters and mics. 

Significant advances in camera tech have put the once necessary photography accessory under threat, but there will still be a place for tripods for a long time yet. 

Tripods only have a fairly limited number of features. Despite that, we like to make sure we've tested every single part and compared them to others to see where each one stands apart from the rest.

We make sure to test our travel tripods over a period of time using a range of different cameras and lens combinations. Some tripods will be fine with specific cameras, but not others. By testing multiple types, we're able to see how ubiquitous each one is.

The process of folding and unfolding travel tripods is something that travellers have to do all the time. We therefore go through this process numerous times to see how each one feels and functions. 

Some tripods have features that are truly unique, such as the articulating center column on the Vanguard VEO 3T+ 234CB. Whatever the feature, we put it through its paces to see if it puts it above its competitors.

We do all of this while travelling around and thinking like photographers on the go. This helps us to make comments that are helpful for making informed buying decisions.

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The 8 Best Travel Irons in 2023 [Portable, Dual Voltage]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

761 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3068 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Things To Consider When Buying a Travel Iron

1. mini steam iron with dual voltage, 2. compact and easy-to-use iron, 3. lots of features in a compact iron, 4. lightweight travel iron with 360-degree swivel cord, 5. mini project steam iron with ceramic soleplate, 6. easy to use and portable iron, 7. 800-watt handheld steam iron, 8. 3 temperature settings in a compact iron, final thoughts.

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We’d all rather look well-groomed while traveling. However, any traveler is familiar with the headache of opening your suitcase only to find all your clothes limp and wrinkled.

The most convenient tool for addressing this problem is the travel iron. This handy tool is specially designed to fit in your suitcase and is powerful enough to keep you looking tidy. Choosing the best travel iron can be intimidating, but we will guide you through the whole process.

It’s important to know what to look for when you are setting out to buy a travel iron. Perhaps your foremost consideration will be the size and weight of the iron in order to maximize your luggage storage space.

But there are several other factors to keep in mind, including the iron’s power and heat control. Let’s dig a little deeper into these aspects.

Weight and Size

One of the biggest advantages travel irons have over regular ones is their weight. Made to be easily portable in your luggage, they weigh significantly less than regular irons. Look for an iron that weighs approximately 1 pound .

As for size, a travel iron is built to fit perfectly into your suitcase or travel bag. This convenient tool’s dimensions typically vary from 6 to 8 inches in length.

Ease of Use

When it comes to a travel iron’s ease of use, there are a couple of things you should be aware of. First, take a good look at the handle and see if it looks comfortable . A functional handle will go a long way in making your iron usable. Second, the best travel irons include motion-sensitive technology, helping you iron faster and with greater precision.

On top of that, there are some really interesting additional features you can look out for, like anti-drip or water-spraying features, both of which contribute to overall ease of use when it comes to ironing.

Heat Control

If you’re looking at an iron without the option to control the heat level, think again. Any travel iron on your shortlist should have this ability. You don’t want to iron synthetic clothes with the same level of heat as cotton clothes.

Hot Tip: Look for an iron that has printed indicators on the swivel that denote exactly what each level is for.

If you are traveling to a different country, look for an iron with dual voltage . You will likely be dealing with different voltages, which can render your travel iron useless.

If you plug your iron into a higher voltage source, you run the risk of frying it.

Similarly, power is an important consideration when choosing a travel iron. Simply speaking, more powerful irons are made for heavier clothes or fabrics that are hard to iron. So, choose wisely, and if you plan on straightening heavier clothes like hoodies or jeans, find a 1,000-watt iron that can handle the job .

On the other hand, lighter clothes like t-shirts and shorts will not require a powerful iron.

Portability

Weigh the portability of your travel iron against its power output. You don’t want to have to make room for a huge iron in your suitcase at the expense of something else.

Most travel irons are specially designed to ensure maximum portability, but it’s still something to consider.

The 8 Best Travel Irons

Now that we’ve discussed exactly what to look for in a travel iron let’s take a look at some of the best ones available. We’ve compiled a list of the best options that are versatile and will satisfy all of your expectations for a travel iron.

Steamfast Super Convenient Iron

Steamfast offers a compact travel iron that comes with a lot of features. With 420 watts of power, this iron is built to handle just about any kind of fabric.

In addition, the dual-voltage feature will come in handy if you travel overseas to a location with a different voltage. This iron is made to work flawlessly between 100 and 240 volts , which will allow you to use it on any continent.

Lastly, the overall design is quite interesting and compact. This iron is only 5.2 inches in length and weighs 1 pound, which will save you a lot of space when packing. On top of that, the comfortable anti-slip handle will ensure a good grip for ease of use.

What We Like

• Comes with a traveling bag

What We Don’t Like

• Using steam mode might cause drips

BLACK DECKER Easy Steam Iron

This specially designed iron will allow you to easily straighten every wrinkle out of your clothes. It works well on heavier clothes as well, so consider this one if you’re traveling somewhere cold.

This iron’s anti-drip technology is engineered to prevent dripping by maintaining the correct water temperature to generate steam . This feature also regulates the amount of steam produced in line with the temperature setting. On top of that, this iron features a pivoting cord and 3-way automatic shut-off for ultimate user convenience.

Possibly the best thing about it is the TrueGlide nonstick soleplate, which is designed to glide smoothly over any fabric. There’s also a push-button spray-mist feature that further moistens fabrics to eliminate deep wrinkles.

• Lots of features and easy to use
• Not as small as other travel irons

Hot Tip: Consider our guide to the best portable travel steamers , as well!

Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot 800 Watt Iron

If you’re looking for compatibility and ease of use, this travel iron is a good choice. The well-known Sunbeam brand once again nailed it with this feature-rich iron. For starters, this iron has a dual-voltage system that will allow you to use it just about anywhere in the world.

On top of that, the soft-touch handle with an ergonomically-designed shape will allow you to glide the iron smoothly over fabric, applying pressure as needed . A convenient swivel in the front will allow you to choose the most suitable heat setting.

All in all, if you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-use, and convenient travel iron, you can’t go wrong with this one.

• Slick and compact design
• Steam function can leak

Utopia HomeSteam Iron

Even though this iron is made for in-home use, it’s also a great travel companion. With 1,200 watts and a 360-degree swivel cord, the Utopia Home Steam Iron will ensure your clothes are pressed with minimal effort.

A lightweight and compact design makes this iron a great choice for travel as well. In addition, it features adjustable thermostat control, protection from overheating, and a nonstick soleplate that ensures a smooth glide over any fabric.

Also, this iron is quite easy to use both vertically and horizontally. The steam-ironing feature allows you to steam your clothes while they’re on a hanger or remove wrinkles from curtains and drapes if the need arises.

• Multifunctionality and ease of use
• It’s hard to fill the water tank without spilling

Oliso Ceramic Iron

This Oliso ceramic iron is specially designed to ensure maximum heat control and ease of use. On top of that, it is compact and lightweight, making it a great option for travel. This iron’s soleplate is made of high-quality ceramic with a precision tip that will allow you to easily press cuffs and collars.

Furthermore, it comes with a fabric-selector option that’s very useful for those who like to pack a variety of fabrics. Additionally, you can use it anywhere in the world as this iron features a dual-voltage design.

• Fabric-selector feature
• Handle heats up when used extensively

Rowenta DA1560 Travel-Ready Iron

With a compact design and an ergonomic handle, this Rowenta travel iron is a standout in its field. It’s made with ease of use and portability in mind, but it remains powerful enough to remove every wrinkle on your clothes, no matter the fabric.

You can use this iron both vertically and horizontally for a long period of time, thanks to the 2-ounce transparent water tank and dual-voltage switch . All in all, if you’re looking for a compact and easy-to-use iron that removes all wrinkles, this is a top pick.

• Easy to maneuver and has a stainless-steel soleplate
• The cord is not that long

Conair EZ Press Iron

This Conair handheld iron was designed with comfort and portability in mind. It features 800 watts of power, which is enough to iron almost anything. On top of that, its compact size and lightweight construction will allow you to easily carry it in your suitcase or backpack.

The stainless-steel soleplate ensures a smooth glide over fabric, especially cotton and synthetic clothes. There is also an anti-slip heel on the bottom of the iron for maximum protection from unwanted contact .

• Steam burst feature that eliminates hard wrinkles
• Takes a bit more time to heat up

Sharper Image Convenient Iron

The first thing you’ll notice about the Sharper Image travel iron is its sleek and minimalist design. With a simple color scheme and an in-handle water tank, this iron is designed with functionality and comfort in mind. In addition, it features a quick heat-up time and 3 temperature settings , allowing you to easily remove all wrinkles from any type of clothing.

Additionally, thanks to the dual-voltage feature, this travel iron is equipped for use all over the world. Its 350 watts of power and nonstick rust-resistant soleplate will no doubt serve you well on your journey.

• Quick heating
• Lacks the power of some other irons

Now that you are well-acquainted with the benefits of travel irons, you won’t want to travel without one. Their useful features and compact design will come in handy on every trip.

All in all, we strongly recommend traveling with an iron. Tidy up your appearance and project confidence with a freshly pressed wardrobe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a travel iron.

If you tend to travel a lot, especially in a professional capacity, it’s hard to get around the necessity for a travel iron. Travel irons are made to travel with you and keep you looking polished.

Are hotels equipped with irons?

Not all hotels have travel irons. Of course, you can always check with reception before you arrive at a hotel. But, with a travel iron in your suitcase, you will be prepared either way.

How much does a travel iron weigh?

There are different models on the market with different weights. However, a standard travel iron weighs around 1 or 2 pounds.

Is ironing easy with a travel iron?

Most travel irons prioritize ease of use, with everything from non-stick soleplates to comfortable handles.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The best travel camera in 2024: compact and portable cameras to take anywhere

The best travel cameras are small, lightweight, easy to use and offer a range of features – here are the ones to look at

The Quick List

• Best compact
• Best budget full frame
• Best hybrid
• Best for size
• Best budget
• Best waterproof
• Best action cam
• Best for 360º
• Best for vloggers
• How to choose
• How we test

The Quick List ↩ 1. Best compact 2. Best budget full frame 3. Best hybrid 4. Best for size 5. Best budget 6. Best waterproof 7. Best action cam 8. Best for 360º 9. Best for vloggers How to choose How we test

The best travel cameras have to do one crucial thing: be better than your phone. After all, your phone is almost certainly going to be in your pocket anyway – and it's almost certainly got a great camera. 

That means the best travel cameras need to combine compactness with image quality, advanced features with simple operation, and ideally the ability to get your files onto your phone, tablet, or laptop quickly, to share your holiday photos and vacation videos. Having a camera that's safe to take on the beach, in the snow, or even in the sea could be another key consideration!

Even though the best camera phones can produce great images, you just don't get the same quality as you would if shooting with one of the best point-and-shoots or best mirrorless cameras . Smartphones are restricted by smaller sensors offering lower still and video quality, reduced low light performance, and minimal control over depth of field (for those blurry backgrounds). 

The type of camera you pick comes down to personal preference and budget. To help you decide which is best, we'll look at mirrorless cameras that offer better image quality and more versatility than compact systems but at the cost of increased size and weight. Compact cameras, perfect for keeping on you at all times, won't weigh you down, and are really simple to use – although they have smaller sensors and fixed lenses. And finally, action cameras that are robust cameras made for wild adventuring!

Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. He never misses an opportunity to travel, or an excuse to take photos while traveling, so is best placed to judge what are the best travel cameras for all sorts of different vacations and adventures.

Travel cameras should be small and light, but not lacking in features for amazing photos and video. The Fujifilm X100VI ticks all of those boxes, with a diminutive size, but 40MP images and 6.2K video. And does all this while looking great, with some stunning retro charm.

Read more below ↓

Despite aging a little, the Sony A7 III still offers some features that are competitive with new models like IBIS, auto-tracking, and 4K video. Best of all, the camera is incredibly well-priced, making it the best option for traveling without worrying too much about eye-wateringly expensive kit.

The Fujifilm X-S20 is a camera for everyone, with great quality stills, but is set apart by its deceptively powerful video skills. This makes the X-S20 the perfect travel camera for any hybrid creator who is a versatile and lightweight camera, all in a price tag that won't break the bank. 

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability. If you want to fit a whole photographic kit – that's a camera and several lenses into a bag, then the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around.

If you want a small camera that shoots great stills and video, and cost costs the earth the Panasonic Lumix G100 is the best budget option out there for travel. There is also the slightly newer G100D, which is much the same, but with a USB-C port and upgraded EVF.

If you're planning on a coastal adventure then you need a camera that is fully waterproof and rugged enough to take on the most challenging adventures. This camera offers better stills than your average action cam, so if photos are your main priority  – the Tough TG-7 is for you.

View the full list ⇩

If you are looking for a camera that can withstand some serious adventuring, then look no further than action cameras, the best of the bunch being the Osmo Action 4. The Osmo 4 offers an incredibly wide field of view, image stabilization, and waterproofing for action-packed vacations.

If you want to remember every little bit of your vacation, then you can't go wrong with a 360º camera to capture not what only is going on in front of you, but all around you. The Insta360 X3 is the best all-encompassing camera you can buy, best of all it is easy to slip into a pocket or bag for travel.

If you are looking for a small yet mighty all-in-one camera with quality video and audio made to go straight on social media or YouTube then the Sony ZV-E10 is the best choice. It does take decent pictures, but if you are looking for something more hybrid, check out the X-S20 above.

The best travel camera in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Best compact travel camera

1. Fujifilm X100VI

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a pocketable camera:  the Fujifilm X100VI is a compact camera, the camera, and lens are so small that you can easily slip this into a jacket pocket. ✅ You want a camera that looks good:  This is one of the best-looking cameras you can buy with the beautiful retro looks of old-school film cameras.

❌ You want to change lenses:  the lens is fixed on the X100VI, so you are stuck with the 23mm focal length, although its digital cropping modes give the illusion of more focal lengths ❌ You want a cheap travel camera:  the X100VI does not come cheap, and there are options that produce similar quality if you don't mind a different style of camera.

If you are looking for a camera for traveling, then one of the major things to look out for is something small and lightweight that can easily slip into a bag or a jacket pocket and won't be a drag to carry around for long periods – enter the Fujifilm 's X100VI. The X100VI is the latest in Fujifilm's line of premium compact cameras, hallmarked for their brilliant image quality, vintage looks, and pocketable size.

The X100VI is a fixed-lens camera, which means that it has a single lens that can't be changed. The lens is 23mm, or equivalent to a 35mm length lens on on a full-frame camera,  a perfect length for travel photography as it is wide enough to get in landscapes and street scenes, but narrow enough for portraits and family shots. While there are converters available for the X100V to change the length of the lens, I find these are not worth the money. 

The camera is beautiful to hold, made with premium materials, and with a wonderful hybrid optical viewfinder that shows either the real picture or how it looks through the sensor with a flick of a button. This premium camera comes at a premium cost though, and it is not the cheapest on this list, but for the build quality and features, it justifies its higher price.

The X100V packs in some lovely 40.2MP photos, and has a clever lens to digitally zoom and crop before taking a photo, cutting some of the work out if you are keen to share online quickly. The camera also has 6.2K, 4K, or HD video with 240 frames per second, so you can get creative with high-quality or slow-motion video on your travels. There is also human, animal, bird, and vehicle autofocus tracking, so you can snap away with confidence at anything you come across. Finally, image stabilization helps cut out hand jitters in low light or shooting video, for more stable footage.

And for those who want to share travel snaps as you go, you get access to Fujifilm's awesome film simulations and custom recipes, taking some of the work out of editing, and with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and the Fujifilm X App, you can quickly share ready to post photos and video to social from your phone.

The main downside is the Fujifilm X100VI's slick design however for traveling is the camera is not fully water resistant unless you buy an additional filter ring and filter, in fact you can't use any filters on this lens without the extra purchase, but for the price of this camera, I feel this should really come in the box.

Read our full Fujifilm X100VI review

• Back to the top ⇪

Best full frame on a budget

2. Sony A7 III

✅ You want full frame quality:  full frame cameras can produce more focus separation and are better in low light, the A7 III is the most affordable step into full frame. ✅ You want a camera to use outside of traveling:  the A7 III is a pro-level camera that is not just for travel, you can shoot brilliant photos all year round with a multitude of lenses available for different subjects.

❌ You don't want the expense of lenses:  the cost of lenses can add up, especially ones for full-frame cameras, if you want to keep costs low, choose a fixed lens camera or an option with smaller cheaper lenses. ❌ You want a small camera:  the A7 III isn't huge, but it also isn't small. With a lens attached, it is going to take up quite a bit of room in a bag, and won't be sliding in any pocket.

The Sony A7 III might be one of the oldest Sony cameras still around, it has even been replaced by a newer Sony A7 VI, but it more than holds its own today. Any photographer looking for an excellent full-frame hybrid camera for traveling should seriously consider this camera as an option.

The camera still has a very competitive 24.2MP back-illuminated image sensor, which is paired with an image processor, delivers stunning tonal range, and makes high ISO settings possible, which anyone who is shooting a lot in low light on their travels will really appreciate. A 5-axis image stabilization system also delivers less shake when shooting at night, or capturing video. If you are also looking to capture video footage then the camera has very capable 4K video.

While not the latest algorithms, the A7 III also has solid human face and eye tracking, coupled with a 696-point AF system, you can take reliably focused photos of your friends, family, or any interesting folk you see out on the streets. 

Whilst handing on the camera is very good, it is a little off balance with big pro lenses, although Sony's lens range is extensive and there are lots of smaller primes that suit this camera perfectly for those who don't want to carry a lot while traveling. If size is less of a concern then superzoom lenses like the Sony FE 24-240mm will empower you to capture everything from near to far.

The best thing about this option I think is the price. It’s the best-value full-frame camera out there – and if you are traveling then often how much your camera costs is not something you want playing on your mind.

Read our full Sony A7 III review

Best hybrid travel camera

3. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You shoot video and photos:  the Fujifilm X-S20 is the best of both worlds, with great-looking photos, but frankly awesome video skills too! ✅ You want to balance price and features:  the X-S20 offers a lot for its price, and it is one of the best-value cameras around, you will especially struggle to find matching video specs at this price point.

❌ You don't really care about video:  there are other options that might suit photographers more than the X-S20 with higher megapixel counts. ❌ You need weather sealing:  the X-S20 is not weather-sealed, so if you plan to get adventurous, a camera that can handle dust and water might be a better choice.

When I tested the Fujifilm X-S20 I was just so impressed at the amount of features that Fujifilm had managed to squeeze into its petite body – it's not just a stills camera, it also one of the best video cameras available, and best of all, it is really well priced! I think this is the best camera for any traveler looking to shoot a mix of stills and videos on the market right now. 

Fujifilm chose not to update the X-Trans IV sensor from the X-S10, but this sensor despite its age still holds up very well today when it comes to stills. The X-S20 is also able to use Fujifilm's excellent film simulations and programmable film recipes to create ready-to-use images straight from the camera, which makes any regular social media posting that much easier.  The new X-Processor 5 also brings brand new subject recognition and tracking autofocus, making taking photos on the fly quicker and easier.

But despite its compact size, the X-S20 is a deceptively powerful video camera. The new processor combined with the modest resolution sensor means the X-S20 is capable of 6K video using the entire sensor (open-gate). The camera is also capable of numerous codecs for getting in-depth with color grading. The subject recognition and tracking also carries through into videos and the X-S20 also has dedicated vlogging features.

Some might prefer the classic retro style like the X-T5 or X-T30 II, but the X-S20 is a much more user-friendly camera, with useful features like a fully articulating screen. Handling is great, and the camera pairs really well with Fujifilm's small zoom and prime lenses, making traveling light with a kitted-out X-S20 a little easier. While the price is a little higher than the X-S10 that preceded it, I think the price bump is justified as this is one capable camera for traveling.

Read more: Fujifilm X-S20 review

Best travel camera for size

4. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

✅ You want a small system:  the whole OM Micro Four Thirds system is tiny, with small cameras and lenses, so you can take a lot more gear to cover more subjects. ✅ You want a good-looking camera:  with a cool vintage style based on Olympus's OM film cameras, the E-M10 IV looks as good as the footage it shoots.

❌ You shoot a lot in low light:  the Micro Four Thirds sensor in the E-M10 IV doesn't handle low light as well as larger sensors, not good for frequent nighttime shooters. ❌ You won't use the retro dials:  if you are looking for just fast auto controls then the dials on the top of the E-M10 IV will be largely redundant for your needs.

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability, and the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around if you are looking for a whole system including lenses that can easily slip into a bag. The best Olympus lenses include positively tiny optics that can go a long way for travel photography, helping you keep your kit and weight size down. So if you are the type of carry-on-only travel photographer but with big photography ambitions then this is for you.

Not only does it have an incredibly lightweight body, but the camera will look great on your travels too, with a cool retro design that harks back to Olympus's long pedigree in film cameras. The camera has tactile dial-led controls for anyone who wants to get creative with manual photography, although don't let that fool you into thinking the camera is complicated, as there are lots of automatic modes and helpful features built into the camera.

The OM-D E-M10 Mark IV uses the smaller but still powerful Micro Four Thirds sensor. This has some slight disadvantages in terms of low-light capabilities, so if you like to go out a lot at night when you travel, then a larger sensor might be better for you. 

But Micro Four Thirds does have one big advantage, it effectively doubles the focal length of any lens mounted to the camera; so a 50mm will behave like a 100mm, so if you are about to head off on safari, then this could make all the difference to getting up close to wildlife. Its snappy burst shooting, its accurate autofocus, and its impressive 4K video will also all assist you with creating amazing content. It's a terrific all-around camera. 

Read our full Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review

Best travel camera on a budget

5. Panasonic Lumix G100

✅ You want an affordable camera:  the Lumix G100 is a great deal for the features it offers, and an affordable way to get great travel snaps. ✅ You want a range of small lenses:  there are a lot of Micro Four Thirds lenses, so there is something for every occasion, and best of all, they tend to be on the smaller side for easy travel.

❌ You want the very latest tech:  the G100 is a little on the older side and doesn't have Panasonic's latest autofocus, which puts it a little behind the competition. ❌ You want more serious creative video:  intended as a hybrid camera, there are lots of video-focused features, but the camera lacks IBIS and a headphone jack/USB-C found in rivals.

Sometimes, you just want to create quality images and video while you are traveling, but you don't want to pay a small fortune for a camera to do so, or risk carrying around an expensive camera. The Panasonic Lumix G100 is the best camera you can get for traveling that offers all the quality features you will need but at an affordable price.

The G100 is a super-small, super-cute camera with a Micro Four Thirds sensor. It is still easy to capture high-quality video and stills with simple controls, menus, and its approachable button layout. The camera can be paired with numerous dinky Micro Four Thirds lenses too, especially small pancake lenses to keep the overall size down. Micro Four Thirds also has the benefit of doubling the focal length, so 100mm becomes 200mm, so you can pair the G100 camera with telephoto lenses for capturing far away subjects like wildlife without having to carry huge lenses.

A downside though is there is some compromise for the low price, and the G100 is not the most technically advanced camera on this list, and its autofocus uses Panasonic's cruder contrast-detect technology, which is a little slower than other cameras and is notorious for "pulsing" and "hunting" during video. 

Despite this, the G100 is also a perfect camera for vloggers, with an articulating screen and ready to share footage. But while there’s an inherent risk of dumbing things down too much when creating a camera for social media creatives, Panasonic has avoided that pitfall with the Lumix G100, and this is a great camera if you're just as interested in vlogging as you are in travel photography. 

Read our full Panasonic Lumix G100 review

Best waterproof compact travel camera

6. OM System Tough TG-7

✅ You want a rugged adventure camera:  the TG-7 can certainly withstand some serious adventuring with a rugged water/dust/freeze/drop-proof build. ✅ You want a photography-first adventure camera:  the TG-7 puts photography first and foremost, offering a better experience than smaller fiddly action cameras.

❌ You want to strap the camera to things:  while action cameras have numerous accessories to strap to your sports equipment, there is far less for the bigger TG-7. ❌ You only care about video:  if you are just looking for the best rugged video camera for travel, then action cameras have you covered (see below).

Following the acquisition of Olympus's camera division, the OM System TG-7 is essentially an update to the much-loved Olympus Tough TG-6 under a new brand name. Although that camera has long been the top-regarded travel compact for adventurers who are as invested in photos as video. Action cameras might be smaller and just as hardy, but can't compete with the TG-7 for photography experience.

The TG-7 is ready for any travel adventure and is water-proof, dust-proof, crush-proof, drop-proof, and freeze-proof, so whether your hiking, climbing, swimming, or otherwise take you to the hottest deserts to the coldest tundras, the camera should come out the other side unscathed.

The TG-7 might have a relatively conservative 12MP resolution, although this helps dramatically when it comes to low-light images, as each pixel is larger allowing it to capture more light. Why is this important? Well if you are shooting in darker underwater environments, in gloomy forests, or at night, then you will get higher-quality images. 

The Touch also has RAW images, so you can get even more creative control over the final edit of your images. The camera also has a pretty incredible macro mode as well if you find some small details on your travels that you have to capture.

While it might not be up to the same standard as the best action cameras for video (see below for that), the Tough can capture decent 4K video, and will get some perfectly serviceable footage for social and YouTube of your wild adventures!

Read our full OM System Tough TG-7 review

Best action camera for travel

7. DJI Osmo Action 4

✅ You want a camera that can keep up with your travel adventures:  the Osmo 4 is hardy enough for whatever conditions you throw at it, weather-sealed and fantastic stabilized footage. ✅ You want a tiny camera:  action cameras like the Osmo 4 are great as they are so small they are effortless to travel with.

❌ You want to shoot high quality photos:  the 12MP photos from the Osmo 4 can't compete with more dedicated cameras, and the wide angle lens needs lots of corrections. ❌ You need accessories:  the market for DJI accessories isn't as big as the more famous GoPro, so if you need niche or cheaper accessories, that might be the brand to choose.

For most adventurer-creators, the Osmo Action 4 is the perfect balance of quality and price. Stabilized 4K video looks great and the camera can take a lot – not just rough and tumble but temperature extremes and it's waterproof to 16m without a case. Best of all, it has a larger image sensor than any other camera on the list, so it is better in lower light, making it more flexible.

DJI did have an interesting experiment with modular design, now seemingly abandoned, with the Action 2, but they do retain powerful magnetic mounts which can even partially survive the heat of an oven (we tried accidentally – see our full review). 

Like the more famous competition, DJI has high-quality horizon balancing and image stabilization, which has improved on the Action 3. The resolution limit is 4K, but in practice, this is the ideal resolution for action (and the limit of almost all TVs). More useful is the 120fps capability (or 240fps at 1080P).

The fact that Action 4’s isn’t interwoven with subscription software is one we wholeheartedly appreciate, too, but GoPro seem to finally growing out of this.

Read our full DJI Osmo Action 4 review

Best 360º camera for travel

8. Insta360 X3

✅ You want to capture everything:  the Insta360 X3 can capture all that goes on around you, perfect for capturing immersive travel content. ✅ You want to travel light:  the Insta360 X3 is very small and lightweight, and won't trouble your carry-on bag limits.

❌ You want a versatile camera:  the Insta360 X3 is made for one thing, and that is great 360º footage, if you want to capture more, you might need to bring a second camera. ❌ You want artistic images:  the Insta360 X3 has big 72MP images but the small sensor means they aren't as creative as a bigger camera.

There are times when handling even an action camera's wide-angle lens becomes a problem, and that's where a 360-degree action camera can step in. With two back-to-back lenses and enough smarts to eliminate a selfie stick from the footage, this almost magic camera can capture an image from a point within reach looking any direction you see fit.

I tried it with the bike attachment – which holds the camera a little way in front of the bike, over the front wheel – and was amazed at the footage which makes it look like I'm cycling toward a perfectly controlled drone. Better still, by syncing with my phone I could draw GPS data and have it overlaid, in the form of a speedometer, by the Insta360 app before sharing.

The only real worry is how naked those glass lenses are when the camera is in use; the joy of re-positioning the camera angle after the fact can be hours of fun. 5.7K is good enough for sharing, but more resolution would help pro work.

Read our full Insta 360 X3 review for more details

Best for travel vloggers

9. Sony ZV-E10

✅ You want ready-to-share footage:  this Sony is made for capturing footage with minimal editing to get up on YouTube and social media straight away. ✅ You want excellent audio:  the ZV-E10 has built-in stereo microphones that capture some of the best audio possible on a camera without external mics.

❌ You are more interested in photos:  the ZV-E10 is not a bad photography camera, but its video focused build means other cameras are better for stills shooters. ❌ You want a viewfinder for framing:  if you love a viewfinder for framing shots, then the Sony A6400 is almost the same camera, but with an EVF. 

The ZV-E10 makes for an excellent traveler's camera and is one of the cheapest vlogging-focused cameras yet. Combined with its slim dimensions, and wide choice of lenses, this makes it a perfect choice for travelers who want to shoot a lot of video. 

The big selling point of the ZV-E10 over other cameras capable of similar video is that the ZV-E10 comes with sophisticated built-in mics and a clip-on windshield for noise reduction, making it much easier to get clean audio on your vlogs even outdoors – which works excellently. Sony has put its years of audio experience into this camera and it shows.

The ZV-E10's 4K UHD video is of excellent quality too, and as we've come to expect from Sony, the autofocus is best in class, whether shooting video or stills. The camera has tracking modes for easy autofocus and digital image stabilization that crops your footage slightly but attempts to iron out any shake, which works well except for in very heavy movement.

And a point worth mentioning is that, while the ZV-E10 may be optimized for vlogging, it's still a capable stills camera with a 24MP sensor, and 11fps burst shooting, so photographers needed worry about restricting themselves with it. 

However, if you are more keen on photography than video, cameras in the Sony a6xxx range (like the Sony a6400 ) offer almost the same specs, but with a viewfinder, but you do lose the built-in stereo mics. Making it a tough choice for a hybrid shooter that might want the best of both worlds. 

Read our full Sony ZV-E10 review

How to choose the right travel camera

These are five key things to look out for when choosing the right travel camera for your needs.

1) Image quality: Ask yourself how you will use any photos or videos you capture. If you only plan to share content online on social media then any of the above cameras will be suitable. If you plan to print your pictures, though, then mirrorless cameras with larger sensors and higher megapixel counts will produce better-quality results.

2) Focal range: What kind of range do you need for your traveling activities? Compact cameras can have impressive zoom ranges, but to achieve their tiny size they often lack quality compared to mirrorless cameras. For mirrorless cameras, what lenses are available? So-called standard zooms are a great option for all types of travel, but they can also be large and heavy. A wide-angle lens might be best for capturing cities and landscapes, or if you are going to see wildlife or a sporting event then a compact telephoto lens might be best.

3) Size and weight: If you're going on vacation then the last thing you want to take is a heavy kit – especially given things like baggage restrictions when traveling. With that in mind, both your camera and lens(es) need to be small and light. If you want something that can fit in your pocket, get a compact camera – but if you don't mind taking a bag, a mirrorless system with one or two lenses could be more versatile. 

4) Simplicity: Don't want to get bogged down with camera settings? Most modern cameras have a range of auto modes – especially compact cameras, which take away the stress. Advanced modes and complicated controls don't usually mix with spur-of-the-moment snaps, so decide what is important to you and pick your camera based on that.

5) Price: The cameras in our list have a range of prices, and we try to include cameras that suit every budget. The price of a camera usually reflects its capabilities, although all the options listed here will take great images and video – so try to strike the right balance between what you need in a camera and what you can afford.

Is it better to use phone or camera for travel?

We covered this a little bit at the start of the article, but the answer is that it is always better to use a camera for stills or video when possible. So the question really becomes, "Do your travel plans make using a camera possible?" Phones are so small and quick to use that they go where cameras are too bulky and slow to shoot. A great compromise is a compact camera – or the Olympus Tough TG-6 , which is a weather-proof camera that goes the places that you wouldn't dare to use your phone! 

Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

As a travel camera, mirrorless cameras are usually the better choice for most people. They are much small and lighter than DSLRs, and also usually have a selection of smaller and lighter lenses to match. This makes traveling easier as it takes up less space and weight in increasingly restricted carry-on bags. Mirrorless cameras also are generally newer than DSLRs and most likely have more modern technology, making photography and video easier to capture and of better quality.

What size camera lens is best for travel?

Again, this comes down to what your travel plans entail and what you plan to shoot. The kit lens that comes bundled with many cameras will cover the most commonly used focal ranges, so that's a good place to start (though kit lenses do not deliver the best image quality). We recommend checking out the best lenses for travel photography to see what's right for you.

How we test travel cameras

When we are reviewing cameras, we carefully think about what scenarios each camera could be used for. When considering which cameras would make ideal travel cameras, we judge each camera on how small and lightweight it is for easy packing and transport, as well as carrying for long periods of the day while out exploring. 

We also consider the technical capabilities of each camera, and how suitable they are specifically for travel photography scenarios from beach vacations to safaris, to city breaks. Finally, we consider the price of the cameras to select options that cover a range of budgets and requirements.

We use our real-world experience with each camera and our in-depth camera knowledge to determine a final selection of top cameras that we would recommend as the ideal camera traveling companions.

Want to find out how we test and review DSLR and mirrorless cameras? We trial cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests will generally measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio, which gives us a benchmark by which to compare cameras. 

Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. Our compact camera evaluations are based on real-world testing alone.

For our real-world testing, our reviewers spend time with each camera, testing it in a variety of shooting situations and providing their qualitative thoughts on how the camera was to use and evaluating the images and video it produced. Here's an example of how we literally take a camera on vacation to evaluate it!

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Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.

• James Artaius Editor

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Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best travel laptops - spring 2024 reviews.

When shopping for a travel laptop, a couple of requirements immediately come to mind: size, weight, and battery life. Finding a thin and light laptop isn't so much a problem when it comes to general productivity and media consumption devices, but finding a relatively portable mobile workstation or gaming laptop can still be challenging. You must also ensure that portability doesn't come at the cost of a flimsier, cheaper-feeling build. Screen brightness is another thing to consider, as you want a display that can overcome glare in bright settings, and you'll want a good keyboard and touchpad, as they're your primary input methods. A good port selection is a must if you don't want to carry around a hub or dock, and webcam quality is important if you're often on video calls. Biometrics isn't necessary but nice to have, especially if you don't like typing out your password or PIN in a public area.

We've bought and tested over 105 laptops. Below are our recommendations for the best laptops for travel you can buy. You can also see our recommendations for the  best laptops , the  best business laptops , and the best laptops for college .

Best Laptop For Travel

The best travel laptop we've tested is the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023). This 14-inch workstation has nearly everything you could ask for in a premium model: a sturdy all-metal chassis, a compact design, tons of processing power, and a long battery life. It sports a bright 120Hz Mini LED display, a spacious keyboard, and a gigantic, easy-to-use haptic touchpad. The display is suitable for color work, as it has full DCI P3 coverage and superb factory calibration. Its 1080p webcam is excellent, so your colleagues can see and hear you clearly on video calls.

New in this generation of MacBook Pro is the addition of a base M3 model, similar to the discontinued 13-inch model with Touch Bar. This can be a great option if you don't need all the processing power but still want the 'Pro' features, like the display and up-firing speakers. The main downside is that the RAM and storage aren't user-replaceable, and upgrading them increases the total cost considerably.

The  Dell XPS 15 (2023) is our recommendation for Windows users. It's a larger 15.6-inch device but weighs the same as the MacBook Pro 14. It provides a great user experience and can easily handle demanding tasks like programming and video editing. Unlike the MacBook Pro, the RAM and storage drive are user-replaceable, so you can upgrade or add more space later. Unfortunately, there are a couple of tradeoffs, like its display's basic 60Hz refresh rate and its terrible 720p webcam. Port selection is also a slight downgrade compared to the MacBook Pro, as there's no HDMI port. Lastly, Dell has released new XPS models in 14- and 16-inch sizes, so if you're a fan of the 15-inch size, this is a good time to get one because it's often on sale on  Dell's website .

See our review

Best Upper Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

If your workload includes lighter tasks like text processing, web browsing, spreadsheets, and video playback, get the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022) instead. It's also a high-end model that provides a premium user experience; however, it doesn't have as much processing power, so you aren't overpaying for performance you don't need. Don't worry; its M2 SoC is fast and can stand toe to toe with current-generation Intel and AMD CPUs. While its IPS panel isn't as impressive as the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) 's 120Hz Mini LED display, it's still pretty and bright enough for outdoor use. The main drawback is the port selection, which comprises two USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports with support for a single external display.

As you may have heard, Apple has released a new MacBook Air with its M3 chip. There are only a few changes, including a slightly faster SoC, Wi-Fi 6E, and support for two external displays, though the latter has a caveat, as you can only get two external displays with the laptop's lid closed. We'll have a full review of the new model soon. If you don't need these upgrades, Apple still sells the M2 model as a more budget-friendly option with a starting price of $999 USD. The Apple MacBook Air 15 (2023) is also a good option if you want more screen space and don't mind paying more. It's still very portable for a 15-inch model, but it might not fit into smaller messenger or sling bags.

A Windows alternative would be the LG gram 14 (2023) . At 2.1 lbs, this 14-inch ultraportable is even lighter than the MacBook Air 13. It provides a good user experience overall, and while its battery life is shorter, it's still enough to get through a typical workday. It also has a wider port selection that includes two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4s, allowing you to connect up to two 4k displays at 60Hz with a single cable. Naturally, there are compromises, like a worse dimmer, lower-resolution FHD+ display, and a less premium-feeling magnesium alloy build.

Best Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

Our best mid-range pick is the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022), a 14-inch 2-in-1 convertible Chromebook. It's a very compact device that's easy to carry around, and its battery lasts over 13 hours of light use. The display gets bright enough for use in most indoor settings, and since it's a 2-in-1 convertible, you can set it up in tent mode for media consumption or flip the screen all the way around and use it as a tablet. If you want to take handwritten notes, it supports pen input and comes with a stylus that you can dock into its charging slot at the front of the device. Ports include one USB-A, two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, and an HDMI port.

Spec-wise, this laptop has various Intel 12th Gen CPUs, from a Core i3 to a P-series Core i7. However, only the Core i5 model with 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage is widely available, and even that model is getting hard to find. There's a newer 2023 model, which we haven't tested but expect to be very similar. The upgrades include a faster Intel 13th Gen CPU and a 1440p webcam. You can get the 2023 model on Amazon or at  Best Buy . Lastly, if you're new to Chrome OS, know that the type of applications you can install is limited, so you need to ensure you can do everything through a Chrome browser or Android apps.

Best Budget Laptop For Travel

For those on a tighter budget, get the Acer Swift 3 14 (2020), a 14-inch Windows ultraportable. Acer's Swift models are typically more expensive, but since this is a 2020 version, you can get it much cheaper. It has a nice FHD display, a decent keyboard, and a wide port selection, including two USB-As, one USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, a full-size HDMI, and a headphone jack. It's available with an Intel 11th Gen Core i5 or i7 CPU and up to 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage.

The Intel 11th Gen CPUs are two generations behind Intel's latest offerings but can still easily handle general productivity tasks like web browsing, text processing, spreadsheets, and video playback. Plus, the battery life is amazing at over 13 hours of light use. Its 720p webcam is its main weakness; the image is underexposed, and the microphone sounds staticky.

Best Compact Laptop For Travel

If you need something compact to browse the web or answer emails on the go, get the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021), a 10.5-inch tablet PC with a built-in kickstand and a detachable keyboard. It's super compact, and its battery lasts a little over seven hours of light use. Its FHD+ display looks very sharp, gets bright enough to combat glare, and supports pen input. You get an excellent 1080p webcam, a second back-facing camera, and a facial recognition IR camera for quick logins. Like all Microsoft 2-in-1 tablets, you must buy the keyboard and stylus separately. The keyboard is worth getting, as it's much more comfortable to type on than an on-screen keyboard, and it protects the screen from scratches.

The Surface Go 3 is available with an Intel Pentium Gold or Core i3 CPU. They perform well enough for this tablet PC's intended use, which is to say simple tasks like web browsing, emails, and video playback, but don't expect to do anything remotely intensive. If your budget allows, it's worth upgrading the memory to 8GB, as you'll get a much smoother experience with fewer slowdowns when multitasking. Port selection is limited; you only get a USB-C, a headphone jack, and a proprietary Surface Connect charging port.

Best Gaming Laptop For Travel

We recommend the Razer Blade 14 (2022) for gaming on the go. This 14-inch model is surprisingly thin and light for a gaming laptop, and aside from its green logo on the lid, it has a fairly understated design, so it doesn't stick out in a professional environment if you use it for work. It's available in three preset configurations: a 1080p 144Hz display with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, a 1440p 165Hz display with an RTX 3070 Ti, or a 1440p 165Hz display with an RTX 3080 Ti. All three configurations deliver a smooth gaming experience in demanding AAA titles.

We don't have many complaints about the keyboard; the keys have a good amount of travel and tactility, but they could be more stable. And, of course, it has per-key RGB backlighting. As for upgradeability, the storage drive is replaceable, but not the memory, as all three configurations come with 16GB of soldered RAM.

A newer model of the Blade 14 is available. Its design remains largely unchanged, as the upgrades are internal. The CPU is now an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, and GPU options include an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 and 4070. These new GPUs bring a new feature called Frame Generation, which boosts performance by inserting AI-generated frames. Few games currently support this feature, but as we've seen with DLSS, the adoption rate will likely grow quickly. There's also a new display option: a 240Hz QHD+ panel with a matte finish and VRR support. See  here  for more details about the new Razer Blade 14.

• ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023): The ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023) is a great 2-in-1 Windows convertible and a good alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022). It feels as well built as the MacBook Air and has a gorgeous, albeit slightly dimmer, OLED display. It also has a wider port selection, including two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4s with support for multiple external displays. It's heavier, though, and its battery life is shorter at around eight hours of light use. See our review
• Framework Laptop 13 (2023): The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is a good alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022) if you want a laptop that's easy to repair or upgrade. You can replace any component in the laptop, even the CPU and motherboard. All the parts are available via Framework, and the company provides manuals to guide you through the replacement process. It also has a modular port system that lets you swap out the ports on the fly. However, its keyboard, touchpad, speakers, and webcam aren't as good. Also, depending on where you live, it might be harder to get one because you can only get it via Framework's website. See our review
• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023): The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023) is a great ultraportable alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022). It has a wider port selection and Thunderbolt 4 support, and its SSD is user-replaceable. However, it's slightly bulkier, and its battery doesn't last as long. It's also more expensive. See our review
• Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023): The Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023) is a good alternative to the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022) if you prefer Windows. It provides a great user experience, and its battery lasts around 12 hours of light use. It's a pretty thin laptop, but ultimately, it's still a 16-inch device, so it might not fit into some bags. It also weighs considerably more at 4.4 lbs. See our review
• Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021): The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021) is a good alternative to the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021) if you only need a device for media consumption. It has a much nicer OLED display, and its battery lasts longer. It's a 13-inch device, though, so it isn't as portable as the Surface Go 3. See our review

Mar 15, 2024: Removed the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) from the Notable Mentions because it's discontinued. Added the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) as a Notable Mention. Minor text changes to provide information about new models of the Dell XPS 15, Apple MacBook Air 13, and Razer Blade 14.

Jan 23, 2024: Replaced the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M2, 2023) with the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) because Apple no longer sells the M2 model.

Nov 16, 2023: Minor text changes to provide information about the new M3 MacBook Pro and to add the Dell XPS 15 (2023) as a Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro. Added the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) and Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023) as Notable Mentions.

Sep 18, 2023: Replaced the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2021) with the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023) because the M1 model is no longer available. Small text changes to include the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) as an alternative to the MacBook Pro 14. Replaced the Lenovo Chromebook C340 15 (2020) with the Acer Swift 3 14 (2020) because the Acer is a better value.

Jul 18, 2023: Verified that the picks are valid and available. Added the ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023) as a Notable Mention.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best travel laptops you can get. We factor in the price (a cheaper laptop wins over a pricier one if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no laptops that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).

If you prefer to make your own decision, here’s the list of all of our laptop reviews. Keep in mind that most laptops are available in various configurations, and the table only shows the results of the model we tested, so it’s best to see the full review for information about other variants.

The Best Packable Travel Towels

We love a plush, thirsty bath towel , but a campsite or suitcase just isn’t the place for one—there, we want a quick-drying, packable travel towel.

After putting 20 such towels through 60 hours of testing—including an intense day of sand and surf at the beach—we’ve concluded the PackTowl Personal offers the best balance of drying time, packability, and odor resistance without compromising comfort and design.

A good option for nearly every towel-related scenario, it’s lightweight, extra-large, and supersoft, making it usable for both car camping and travel into the backcountry.

Everything we recommend

PackTowl Personal

The best packable camp towel.

Whether used for camping, hiking, traveling, or general outdoor adventuring, this towel is durable enough to handle extended abuse while remaining soft and comfortable.

Buying Options

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

Budget pick

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

An inexpensive towel that gets the job done.

Good-enough absorbency and drying time for those on a budget.

PackTowl Luxe

A plush, comfortable towel.

Good for car camping, day trips, and hanging at the beach, this towel is made of an incredibly soft fabric that also repels dirt.

Scoring well in nearly every performance category, the PackTowl Personal towel consistently surprised us with its ability to handle the elements. It has an antibacterial treatment to help prevent odor, the “body” size (25 by 54 inches) is large enough to wrap around most folks, and it feels soft against the skin. It’s made of a tear-resistant fabric and was the best towel we tested at absorbing water and repelling dirt. Better still, sand from the beach remained on the towel’s surface so it was easy to shake off, leaving the towel clean after multiple uses. Its drying time was faster than most of the towels we tested and it packs down to a small size in a zippered breathable pouch, making it convenient for travel or camping.

The Rainleaf Microfiber Towel was nearly identical in design to many of the pricier models and scored just as well in our field tests. The only downsides are that its size large is smaller than most other large towels we tested, and it has lighter-feeling fabric. It didn’t handle our day at the beach quite as well and took a little longer to dry, but otherwise it’s comparable in comfort and packability. And, because it’s treated with an antibacterial coating—something not standard on budget (or even some pricey) towels—it passed our smell test with a perfect score. At just a fraction of the price of our top choice, it’s a good pick if you’re the kind of person who goes camping a few times a year and needs something affordable that works well.

If packing your towel down into a tiny space isn’t a concern for you, the PackTowl Luxe is about as comfortable as a towel can get. Although it does take up a bit more room and takes significantly longer to dry, its “body” size has the same dimensions as our top pick but has a plusher feel against the skin. Unlike similar big and luxurious camp towels, it didn’t smell after being put away wet. It absorbed water off the skin without trapping in the dirt and sand, which left it surprisingly clean for a towel with such a high pile. As it was easy to shake off, we enjoyed having it as a wrap and beach blanket, too.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: packtowl personal, how the packtowl has held up, flaws but not dealbreakers, an inexpensive towel that works fine: rainleaf microfiber towel, a plush, comfortable towel: packtowl luxe, microfibers and the environment, the competition, care and maintenance.

We spoke with three experts to get their takes on what we should look for in a good towel. Mark Knight, a product designer currently with Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) , has designed a number of outdoor products, including packable towels, and gave us a breakdown on what he considers to be important when creating products like these.

We spoke via email with Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventures , who has worked as a backpacking, camping, and canoeing guide for the past 15 years.

And we spoke with Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at MEC. He was able to tell us what’s important from a consumer perspective. In addition to these interviews, we read a number of online reviews, pored over camping and backpacking forums, researched microfiber fabrics, and then selected and tested the towels we think cover most activities to determine which one was best overall.

Why doesn’t a regular, everyday cotton towel cut it for most outdoor activities? Knight offered us five reasons your cotton towel isn’t ideal: it’s too big, too heavy, might get damaged or stained, doesn’t get washed at the same frequency it would at home, therefore causing it to smell, and lastly, it’s not always used in the same manner as it would be at home. He added, “As a travel towel, there is also the added functional requirement of being quick-dry. When traveling, you can move around a lot, and a packed wet towel generally means a stinky towel.”

Packable towels are usually made from microfiber , although a few of the ones we tested are made from other materials (which didn’t end up performing as well). These materials are typically a blend of polyester and polyamide, aka nylon, and depending on the blend will produce a towel that feels more suede-like and slick to one that feels more plush like your average cotton towel. There are also packable towels made of nanofabric, which is composed of tiny nanoscopic fibers woven together—think the width of a human hair (or even smaller)—to create a fabric that is incredibly lightweight and small. Though they do the trick, nanofiber towels tend to have a slicker surface, which means they don’t feel much like the towel you’re used to.

According to Oliver, the most popular camp towel size is roughly equivalent to a standard household bath towel—about 26 by 52 inches after washing. Some towels were slightly smaller or larger, but we tried to stay within what would seem like regulation size for most people.

All the experts we talked to shared the opinion that the type of towel you’ll want to purchase depends on the activity you’re using it for. For backpacking or kayaking trips, Newsome told us that “lightweight, small packability and quick drying are the most important factors.” For car camping or other adventures, where weight isn’t an issue, she opts for a larger microfiber towel, and one with an antimicrobial coating, “which means for those longer road trips and tours this towel stays fresh smelling.” Knight’s opinion aligned with Newsome’s: “Some of the lightest towels don’t feel that great against your skin, but the weight means you will actually bring it in your backpack when on a long hike. If you are traveling around the world, weight might not be your primary concern, but comfort will factor highly, as you will be using the towel each day—unless you are a soap dodger ! So, a softer, slightly heavier towel may be the way to go.”

Just as important as how much water a towel can absorb—in other words, how well it dries you—is how well the towel dries after you’re dry. “Nobody wants to put a wet towel into their backpack,” Oliver said.

After surveying online reviews, forums, and user ratings, and asking people what type of towel they preferred for their own outdoor activities, we narrowed our field to 19 packable towels, then threw in a standard cotton towel as a plush baseline. We then tested the towels using seven criteria: price, comfort, design, wicking, drying time, odor resistance, and packability.

We washed and dried all of the towels, giving them all an equal starting point, then we scored them in each category. We didn’t score weight or size, but we did make note of whether these features made a difference when comparing similar options.

Comfort: This was a tough one because of the people we asked, some preferred a more textured fabric and others liked the smooth feel of the microsuede towels. We asked individuals to feel each towel against their skin, asked for their comments, and then asked what their overall top picks were.

Design: Here, we looked at how well the towel is made, and whether there were any particular features—good or bad—that made drying off more or less of a pleasure. Key among them was fabric quality, stitching, and what kind of hanging loop—essential!—the towel came with. We also looked at texture, an important attribute for both water absorption and grabbing dirt and grime, rather than just pushing it around. A too-slick towel won’t do much of anything except leave your skin feeling yucky and wet.

Wicking: One of the most important tests we conducted was how well the towel could wick away water and leave the skin feeling dry. When we took our test towels to the beach, we wanted to see how they performed against sandy salt water and whether they were able to clean the skin in addition to drying it.

Drying time: To determine which towel dried the fastest, we applied the same amount of water to each towel and then timed how long it took for them to dry. But how much water to use, and how dry is dry, exactly? We used 4 ounces of water, a quantity we settled on after having multiple testers shower and weigh their towels before and after use. Once the person was dry enough to feel comfortable putting their clothes on, we called that “dry.” We did this a couple of times with each person and used a couple types of cotton towels to get a base number. The average amount of water people removed from their bodies after showering was a ½ cup, or about 225 milliliters. We hung our entire assortment of high-tech, portable towels on the same line and recorded the time it took to leave each one dry to the touch.

Odor resistance: Another important criterion is how the towel smells after multiple uses. “An antimicrobial finish helps with odor management and decreases the frequency you need to wash the towel,” Knight told us. A towel may be used a dozen times before it gets properly washed, and if a towel smells musty or dirty after a couple of uses, it probably is. Many of the towels advertise a protective antibacterial coating and we wanted to see if these coatings actually made a difference.

Our test involved taking the towels to the beach, soaking them in 16 ounces of ocean water, wringing out the excess water as best as we could, and then placing each towel in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours. After that, we opened the bags and took a whiff. Though most remained odor-free (especially those coated with an antimicrobial treatment), we were taken aback by how seriously a few of them reeked.

Packability: As important as drying you—and drying out—are, the other key thing a camp towel has to do is pack small for travel. Some towels came with cases, some didn’t. Our focus was simply how tiny a towel could get.

Price: More expensive doesn’t really seem like a good thing when it comes to something like a packable travel towel, given that there’s such a variance in price and that most towels pretty much claim to do the same thing.

The PackTowl Personal is our top choice because it handled every test we put it through. It’s the perfect option for nearly any outdoor activity that requires a towel. It’s large and durable while still being comfortable and comes with an antimicrobial treatment, which means it won’t smell after multiple uses. Its snap loop for hanging was one of the easiest to use, and the towel packs down to a small size, making it easy to travel with. Its drying time was comparable with that of the fastest-drying towels we tested, and it didn’t absorb dirt or sand into its fabric, an essential feature if you’re taking a towel into the backcountry.

Made of a soft microsuede, this towel was consistently chosen as a top pick by those we asked to rate its comfort. It is soft and light, but still has a bit of texture, so it doesn’t feel slick against your skin the way a nanofiber towel like the Matador NanoDry Shower Towel does. The PackTowl seems built to last, with a nicely seamed edge that should hold up over time. On top of feeling soft, it dried our skin much more readily than the non-microfiber towels we tested, like the Coleman or Outlier. It even dried a bit more quickly than other microfiber products in our test group. We were impressed by how well it repelled sand and dirt from being absorbed into its fabric. The sand that did stick to the towel was easy to shake off—which wasn’t the case of some of the other models we tested that looked like dirty rags after just a short time at the beach.

In our drying-time test, the PackTowl dried much faster than most, with the exception of the linen towel and the Biospired Footprint, which beat the PackTowl’s dry time by 30 minutes. (The towels we tested dried in a range from 1 hour, 45 minutes to nearly 4 hours.) We noticed that the towels with an additional antimicrobial coating took a little longer to dry. We think the extra odor protection is worth the few extra minutes of drying time. As the PackTowl dried, some water initially beaded on the surface, but was then absorbed, compared with towels that still had visible water beads after almost an hour of drying. (Beads of water were a good indication of extended drying times.) Water also dispersed evenly through the towel rather than leaving wet spots, which likely contributed to its fast drying time. We dried the towels in overcast conditions, and noticed that at just over 1 hour, 30 minutes the PackTowl was only minimally damp, and could be packed back into its carrying case if you were in a rush to pack up and go.

We tested the PackTowl’s “body” size, which weighed 6.7 ounces, fairly average compared with the other suede-type towels, and measured 25 by 54 inches, just shy of being the same size as our standard bath towel, and larger than many of the towels in our testing pool.

Wirecutter staffers have owned this towel for multiple seasons and it continues to hold up, with no loose threads or unraveled seams after use.

We didn’t love the PackTowl’s pouch: it doesn’t attach easily to a backpack, and the zipper seemed flimsy. But the pouch is made of breathable fabric, so it won’t trap moisture the way a plastic bag or pouch might. Although the PackTowl is antimicrobial, it did have the slightest ocean water odor to it after our 48-hour smell test, which is not something we noticed in previous tests.

Costing about half the price of our top pick, the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel is a great choice for those that don’t want to shell out almost $30 for a towel. A major bonus is that unlike most of the inexpensive towels we considered, this one actually comes with an antimicrobial treatment and passed the smell test after being sealed up wet for two days. It’s also comfortable, easy to dry off with, and just as packable as the PackTowl.

It didn’t dry quite as fast as our top pick and that may be due to the fact that some of the water beaded off and remained on the surface before being absorbed directly into the towel. The size we tested (L) is also slightly smaller than some of the pricier options but still big enough to wrap around the average person’s body.

Because it is so inexpensive, there’s the option of upgrading to the XL or XXL sizes for just a few bucks more and still have it come in well below price of most other towels. On top of that, it has a functional carrying pouch that is both breathable and easy to fasten onto a backpack so you can pack the towel damp and hang it to dry when it’s time to hit the road.

That said, though it did well drying our testers at the beach, it didn’t handle sand as well as our top pick, leaving a good amount behind on both their skin and the towel itself. If you’re a serious outdoor adventurer who’s going to be putting it to work against the elements, we recommend a towel that can handle gritty, sticky stuff a bit better.

If size and volume aren’t issues and you’re looking for something more soft and comfortable, the PackTowl Luxe performed the best of the plush cotton-like microfiber towels. Not only did it dry the quickest of these towels, it was good at removing sand from the skin and didn’t absorb dirt and mud into the fabric. It also didn’t have any odor after the smell test. A few of the other thicker towels we tested simply reeked—testers used the term “rotten fish”—after a couple days crunched into a ball, but not the Luxe.

If comfort is a primary concern, this towel feels much closer to cotton, avoiding the slick skin-feel common to many microsuedes and nanofibers. As we did with our pick, the PackTowl Personal, we tested the extra-large “Body” size. Also like our pick, at this size the Luxe is a few inches larger than the others we tested of the same type, measuring 25 by 54 inches, offering that extra little bit of coverage.

It does come with a carrying pouch, and though not as stylish or durable as the Sea to Summit Pocket Towel ’s silicone carrying case, it’s adequate for what it needs to do. We consider this towel a solid option for car camping and day trips, when taking up a little extra space won’t matter.

Although durable and light, there’s an environmental downside to microsynthetic fibers: Every time you wash that gear, small quantities of its fibers are shed, ending up in our waterways and oceans. (Here’s a study from the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management on the issue.) For more about the problem and some advice on combating it, see our article Your Laundry Sheds Harmful Microfibers. Here’s What You Can Do About It.

We tested a standard white bath towel—the Fieldcrest Luxury Solid Towel, which has since been discontinued—that was the same size as the majority of the towels we tested. It performed as expected: It was great at drying skin and was comfortable, but it didn’t pack down and had a bit of a funky smell after our odor test. Surprisingly, it didn’t take that much longer to dry than some of the plusher microfiber models we tested and actually outperformed a few of the towels that are marketed specifically for camping.

Biospired Footprint Towel: This had been our runner-up pick, but the size we tested has cycled in and out of stock. If you do happen to run across one, it’s still a good towel, though. We had also tested, and dismissed, the Biospired Endurance Camping & Fitness Towel and the Biospired Trek Pack Towel; for what it’s worth, those towels also tend to have stock problems.

Matador NanoDry Shower Towel : For backcountry campers and hikers that are concerned about weight, this is by far the lightest towel we tested (2.4 ounces). It performed well, but it is very thin and not as comfortable as the others. We decided it was too specialized to be best for most people.

Outlier Grid Linen Towel : Made of a natural linen fabric, this towel was the fastest-drying towel, and it performed well at the beach. But it doesn’t pack down very small, doesn’t come with a carrying case but rather a thick elastic band, and had a faint smell after our odor test. Those drawbacks made it hard to justify its high price.

Sunland Microfiber Towel  (currently unavailable): One of the least expensive microfiber towels, but no antimicrobial treatment and very average performance.

Sea to Summit DryLite Towel : One of the slowest to dry. Another note of caution, many online reviews have reported a problem with the cobalt blue dye running. We didn’t run into this problem, but we tested an orange towel, so it’s likely the issue is with only the darker-colored towels. Another drawback is that the carrying case comes with a Velcro closure, making it possible to snag the fabric when maneuvering the towel into and out of the case.

Shandali Yoga Travel Towel  (currently unavailable): Average performance, no carrying case, and though it does have a little loop for hanging to dry, most of the towels we tested had a loop with a snap, making them more versatile.

YogaRat SportLite Sport + Bath Towel  (currently unavailable): Though this towel did dry quite quickly and was resistant to odor during our 48-hour test, the lack of an antibacterial treatment gave us odor concerns for people taking it on longer trips. And with no carrying case and a snapless loop, this towel was a few steps below our top choices in convenience.

Sea to Summit Tek Towel : Sand stuck to the towel, leaving it quite dirty. Drying time was slow.

REI Co-op Multi Towel  (currently unavailable, but we're looking into a possible new version): Everything stuck to this towel: dryer lint, grass, sand, and dirt, and even though we tested a darker color, it looked dirty after our day at the beach. It also didn’t smell great after our odor test, and it took over four hours to dry.

Lightload Towel : Not really built to be used multiple times, this towel is made of an almost paperlike viscose material, and although very small, once unpackaged it can’t be squished down to its original size (although it does fit in a smaller Ziploc bag). It is incredibly large though, dried quickly, and would probably perform as an ad-hoc firestarter or outdoor survival tool (non-cleanliness-oriented usage scenarios suggested by the manufacturer). Whether being able to set the world on fire is a worthwhile trade-off with this towel’s lack of odor resistance—it was the worst performer in our stink trial—is something we hope we’ll never have to decide.

Coghlan’s Deluxe Camp Towel (currently unavailable): This is the classic outdoor towel that’s been around campsites for years. Some backcountry campers still prefer these towels because they’re small, lightweight, and cheap, but they didn’t perform as well as the microfiber towels that we tested. They dry very slowly, stink up easily, and don’t feel good against the skin.

Coleman Camp Towel  (currently unavailable): Similar in nearly every aspect to the Coghlan’s towel, just with slightly different dimensions—neither is big enough to really function as a full-body wrap—this model also had the drawbacks of rough fabric, odor retention, and delayed drying. (It appears to have been discontinued.)

Most packable towels are designed to repel dirt and bacteria, so they don’t need to be cleaned after every use. Excessive washing can also break down the fabric and any additional antimicrobial technology the towel might be treated with. So, wash only when dirty and don’t dry your towel on high heat unless absolutely necessary; way better to hang it when you can and let the air take care of it.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Nicholas J. Bruce, Niko L. Hartline, Stephanie N. Karba, Elizabeth O. Ruff, Shreya U. Sonar, and Patricia A. Holden, Microfiber Pollution and the Apparel Industry , Bren School of Environmental Science and Management , September 30, 2016

Mark Knight, product designer for Mountain Equipment Co-opand member of the Outdoor Industry Association , email interview , April 21, 2017

Georgia Newsome, owner and operator of Coastal Bliss Adventure and Kilimanjaro Bliss , email interview , March 31, 2017

Craig Oliver, product manager for health and safety at Mountain Equipment Co-op , phone interview , March 29, 2017

What Are The Coolest New Small Gear Companies? , Outside , January 15, 2016

Anne Trafton, Tiny particles may pose big risk , MIT News , April 8, 2014

Meet your guide

Ebony Roberts

Further reading

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

Essential Gear for Traveling Solo

by Ria Misra

Traveling solo is freeing but poses some unique challenges. Wirecutter’s picks help you travel comfortably and securely—and bring home great pictures too.

The Best Beach and Surf Gear: Towels, Totes, Coolers, and More

by Kit Dillon

After six years of relaxing in the sand and playing in the surf, we’ve chosen the best picks to help you enjoy a perfect beach day.

The Best Duffle Bags

After lugging 34 duffles through airports, to beaches, and on weekend trips, we chose seven bags that’ll carry what you need carried in a range of scenarios.

The best toiletry bags for every traveler

Whether you travel light or heavy, a toiletry kit is essential to keeping your luggage tidy. Here are our picks.

The best travel toiletry bag can be the difference between clean, organized luggage and a suitcase full of spilled lotion. After combing through hundreds of customer reviews, we determined that Peak Design’s Wash Pouch is the best overall.  

It incorporates the most important features in a travel toiletry bag: thoughtful design, plenty of multifunctional pockets, durable materials, and a compact size. This bag is a great fit for most travelers, but it’s not the only option. Whether you pack light, heavy, or somewhere in between, here are all our top toiletry bags for your essentials.

Our picks for the best travel toiletry bags

Best overall: peak design wash pouch.

Buy it now on   Amazon   or   Peak Design

Why we like it:   The thoughtful design behind Peak Design’s Wash Pouch allows it to handle all sorts of toiletry items. Inside, multiple mesh pockets organize essentials, a zippered compartment holds smaller items, and a magnetically sealed section neatly stashes a toothbrush. Anything that won’t fit inside tucks into the large zippered pocket outside.

We love that you can set it upright on a counter or hang it via a built-in hook. The Wash Pouch is designed to prevent spills and leaks. However, if something seeps out, the weatherproof nylon material makes it easy to clean up. You can remove the inner lining to clean up bigger spills too. Peak Design backs this bag with a lifetime guarantee.

Keep in mind:   There are only two color options (black and sage green). It may take up a lot of space in a carry-on bag.  

Product details: Dimensions:   10.2 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 4.4 inches tall | Weight:   8.7 ounces | Material:   Nylon | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best toiletry bag for makeup: Eachy Travel Makeup

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it: The best feature on this waterproof toiletry bag is that it opens flat, allowing easy access to makeup. That’s especially helpful for anything that needs to stay upright, like foundation and moisturizer. Multiple interior pockets and partitions keep compacts and tools organized, plus there’s a built-in brush holder. With 24 styles and two sizes (medium and large), travelers have lots of options to choose from.

Keep in mind:   This toiletry bag has a top handle for carrying, but there is no hook for hanging.  

Product details: Dimensions:   9.25 inches long, 4.13 inches wide, and 4.33 inches tall |   Weight:   9 ounces | Material: Polyurethane | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best small travel toiletry bag: Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer

Buy it now at   Dagne Dover

Why we like it:   The Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer may be small, but it packs a big punch in organization. It has a removable insert with six adjustable dividers that turn this simple pouch into a multi-compartment toiletry bag. Two tall and two short elastic hoops keep things like toothbrushes and razors in place, while a zippered mesh pocket helps you see smaller items like bobby pins.

We appreciate that this organizer is made from recycled polyester and mesh and that the dust bag it ships in is made of three recycled plastic bottles. Travelers can stuff products into the smaller option to fit in a carry-on, but the larger option provides a bit more room.

Keep in mind: This toiletry bag isn’t waterproof and requires a little more care to clean.  

Product details: Dimensions:   5.5 inches long, 5.5 inches wide and 5.5 inches tall | Weight: 6 ounces | Material:   Polyester | Waterproof:   No

Best travel toiletry bag for organization: L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

Why we like it: With six liters of space, L.L. Bean’s water-resistant Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag is best for heavy packers. It has multiple large mesh pockets, zippered compartments, plus a removable shower caddy and a built-in mirror to keep everything organized. The hook is hefty enough to hold 25 pounds, according to the company. This toiletry bag is likely a safe bet for durability—L.L. Bean claims they exposed the bag to extreme temperatures, 20,000 zips and unzips, and 150 sandpaper scrapes.

Keep in mind: All that organization sacrifices space. This bag is big and will likely take up lots of room in a carry-on.  

Product details: Dimensions: 9.75 inches tall, 11.5 inches wide, and 3.5 inches in diameter | Weight: 14 ounces | Material:   Nylon | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best hanging travel toiletry bag: Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   Counter space is always at a premium when traveling. That’s why we love the water-resistant Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag, which maximizes vertical storage. It’s got plenty of large and small compartments, toothbrush holders, and zippered pockets. We also appreciate that it’s made from six single-use plastic bottles and is backed by a one-year warranty. The toiletry bag has 10 color options, plus a matching sling bag and duffel backpack.

Keep in mind: The top closes with a buckle, which isn’t as secure as zippers for preventing things from falling out.  

Product details: Dimensions:   8 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 4 inches tall | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Material: Polyester | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best Dopp kit: The Renew Transit Catch-All Case

Buy it now at   Everlane

Why we like it: Everlane’s Renew Transit Catch-All Case is a stylish and functional dopp kit. Durable and water-resistant, it has a spacious main compartment with five pockets and an exterior zip pocket for frequently used items. We like that the main pocket folds down so you don’t have to dig around for that tube of toothpaste. This toiletry bag also gets bonus points for using environmentally friendly fabric (polyester made from single-use plastic bottles) and environmentally safe dyes.

Keep in mind:   This toiletry bag can only be spot-cleaned, which is less convenient than machine-washable options.

Product details: Dimensions: 11 inches long, 6.5 inches tall, and 4.75 inches in diameter | Weight: Unknown | Material:   Polyester | Waterproof: Yes  

Best waterproof toiletry bag: Maliton Hanging Toiletry Bag

Why we like it: No matter how much you try to prevent it, leaks can still happen. Our top pick for best waterproof toiletry bag comes from Maliton. Made with showers and humid bathrooms in mind, it’s constructed of waterproof nylon and has reinforced zippers to help keep spills in and water out.

Besides being waterproof, this toiletry bag has ample space for all your bathroom essentials—mesh pockets and multiple compartments, including one big enough for a towel. And the whole thing folds up for storing.

Keep in mind: This bag is larger than other toiletry bags, so it may not be ideal for carry-ons. suitcase.

Product details: Dimensions:   11 inches long, 4.87 inches wide, and 7.6 inches tall | Weight: 6.4 ounces | Material: Nylon | Waterproof: Yes

Our review process

With so many options, choosing the best travel toiletry bag for you can be time-consuming. To help, we filtered our search by the following attributes:

Third-party reviews: Brand marketing can be deceiving. We made sure to consider only toiletry bags with high ratings and positive reviews from both verified customers and third-party review sites.

Brand reputation:   We looked beyond product descriptions to customers’ opinions about the brand as a whole. Speedy and attentive customer service, ethical manufacturing practices, and a commitment to sustainability are all important aspects.

Functionality:   We looked for toiletry bags with a variety of pockets, compartments, and zippers for maximum functionality. We awarded bonus points for thoughtful design elements such as removable pouches and hooks.

Material and durability:   How a toiletry bag is constructed is key. We looked for bags made with sturdy materials such as nylon and polyester. We gave extra points for innovative materials, like recycled plastic or eco-friendly vegan leather.

Capacity:   We looked for travel toiletry bags with enough room to hold all your essentials, plus a little extra in case of emergencies.

Compactness:   Space is always at a premium when traveling. We kept an eye out for toiletry bags that collapse or flatten to fit into carry-ons.

Tips for buying travel toiletry bags

Type of toiletry bag.

Toiletry bags typically fit into two categories: hanging and dopp kits. Hanging bags have a built-in hook and generally open like a book, revealing multiple compartments and pockets. Dopp kits tend to be more compact and have a main compartment with a zippered opening on top. While dopp kits can have multiple pockets, they’re usually more suitable for packing light.

Because toiletry bags store liquids and powders, they need to be able to withstand in-flight spills. Look for bags made of water-resistant materials like nylon or polyester. The best travel toiletry bag should have at least one mesh pocket for securing items that tend to get damp, like toothbrushes.  

Toiletry bags come in all shapes and sizes. To determine what size is best for you, make a list of must-have toiletries and determine whether you prefer to pack travel-size products, full-size, or a mix of both. Don’t forget to factor in the size of your luggage.

Frequently asked questions

What fabric is best for a toiletry bag?

Toiletry bags made of nylon or polyester are great because they tend to be more durable and easier to clean. These materials also tend to resist water, but always check the label to be sure.

What is a TSA-approved toiletry bag?

Per   TSA guidelines, air travelers can carry on 3.4-ounce bottles and aerosol containers of creams, pastes, liquids, and gels in one quart-sized bag. To reduce the chance of being screened, many people opt for clear toiletry bags so that TSA agents can see what’s inside. Some international airports require transparent plastic bags for liquid items. Always check the guidelines for your destination.

What’s the difference between a toiletry bag and a dopp bag?

Generally, dopp bags or kits tend to be made of leather and are rectangular in shape. However, “toiletry bags,” “dopp kits,” and “dopp bags” are used interchangeably in most cases.

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The 14 Best Travel Wraps for All Your Jet-Setting Needs

Bundle up in style.

Our top picks for the best travel wraps in 2024

Best Affordable Cashmere Travel Wrap

Quince mongolian cashmere wrap.

Best Overall Travel Wrap

J.crew oversized cashmere wrap.

Best Travel Wrap Cape

Cuyana square edge cape.

Best Luxe Cashmere Travel Wrap

White and warren cashmere travel wrap.

Best Budget Travel Wrap

Maamgic pashmina shawl.

Best Linen Travel Wrap

Banana republic lina poncho.

Best Lightweight Travel Wrap

Naked cashmere karlie shawl.

Best Travel Wrap with Pockets

Naadam cashmino plaid scarf.

Best Extra-Long Travel Wrap

Bleusalt the 3-yard wrap.

Best Cotton Travel Wrap

Zestt dreamsoft travel scarf.

To find the right style for you, consider your personal preferences. Still run hot despite the A/C blasting? Choose a breathable linen or jersey cotton version, which can also double as a beach cover-up when your carry-on space is limited. If softness if your main concern, opt for a pure cashmere pick. And if you rely on accessories to zhuzh up your travel loungewear, go for a style in a fun or unexpected color.

No matter your needs or travel destination , we scoured customer reviews and did the research to find the best travel wraps ahead. Not only are they compact enough to fit inside a standard travel purse , but they're also surprisingly versatile, so you'll get tons of use out of them.

Pure Mongolian cashmere for under $100? Quince's ultra-cozy wrap is a steal if we ever saw one, done in a plush 12-gauge knit and offered in 10 versatile colors.

Material: 100% Mongolian Cashmere

Dimensions: 81" x 25.5"

This gorgeous cashmere piece could easily be styled as a shawl, scarf, or added lightweight layer draped underneath a coat. You can even get it monogrammed for an especially great gift idea .

Material: 100% Cashmere

Dimensions: 79" x 33"

If you want something with a little more structure than a blanket scarf, go the cape route. Cuyana makes our favorite version, made from alpaca and available in three easy-to-style neutrals.

Material: 100% Baby Alpaca

Sizes available: One size

White + Warren's cashmere number is a best-seller for a reason. It's both relatively lightweight and warm enough to fully wrap yourself in. It also comes in the prettiest colors, from this butter yellow hue to a vivid coral, in case neutrals aren't your thing.

Dimensions: 81" x 36"

This polyester-cotton blend style is both cozy and breathable for year-round wear. Even better, its under-$20 price tag means you can easily grab it in multiple colors for a variety of occasions.

Material: 30% Cotton, 70% Polyester

Dimensions: 27" x 80"

Not everyone wants to bundle up in cashmere in the middle of the summer. Banana Republic's oversized wrap comes in a luxe linen material sourced from Italy. Bonus points if you make it work overtime as a coverup, so you have one less thing to pack.

Material: 100% Linen

Dimensions: 62" x 56"

If you're seeking something wispy that will also work for temperate spring weddings, try Naked Cashmere's Karlie wrap. Made in a 7-gauge knit, this elegant style is lighter than most of its counterparts. Additionally, its pretty pastel color options make it even more apropos for the warm-weather season.

Dimensions: 84" x 36"

Behold: a nifty travel wrap with pockets, which not only offer extra storage, but can also serve as little hand-warmers. The predominately wool blend is toasty, so if you run particularly cold, you'll love this style.

Material: 90% Wool, 10% Cashmere

For the person who wants to be fully cocooned, this luxe option is extra, extra long. It's made almost entirely of Tencel modal, which not only helps create the most beautiful drape but is also super soft, sturdy and sustainable. Because of its length, this silhouette can be styled in infinite ways.

Material: 95% TENCEL Modal, 5% Spandex

Dimensions: 44" x 108"

Anyone with sensitive skin may want to steer clear of synthetic materials or traditionally rougher fabrics like wool. Instead, try this oatmeal-colored shawl, which is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and is fully hypoallergenic.

Material: 100% Organic Cotton

Dimensions: 28" x 78"

Frank & Eileen Aude Travel Scarf

Jersey cotton is buttery soft and more breathable than heavier knits, making it a solid choice if you tend to overheat on flights. At 90 inches long, this scarf done in the material is plenty roomy—plus, it's machine-washable.

Material: 100% Jersey Cotton

Dimensions: 90 " x 44"

Athleta Pranayama Restore Wrap

If you're not one for scarves, Athleta's best-selling wrap has sleeves and even thumbholes to keep it in place. Though it's technically designed as a breathable pre- and post-workout layer, we think it makes a great travel-ready option, too.

Material: 97% TENCEL™ Modal, 3% Spandex

Sizes available: XXS - 3X

Extreme Cashmere Wrap, Pillow, and Eye Mask Set

Go ahead and revamp all your flight essentials with this luxurious cashmere set, which includes a wrap, neck pillow, and eye mask. Yes, it is pricey, but take the plunge and you'll never have to invest in another travel kit again.

Material: 88% Cashmere, 10% Nylon, 2% Elastane

Dimensions: 51.2" x 78.7"

Barefoot Dreams Bouclé Blanket Scarf

When it comes to peak coziness, you can't beat a bouclé scarf. Made by the purveyors of one of our favorite robes , this plush ribbed option will basically make you feel like you're swathed in a cozy throw blanket.

Material: 100% Polyester

Dimensions: 27” x 80”

Elly Leavitt is a fashion and luxury commerce editor at Hearst covering fashion, design, and more across multiple brands. You can probably find her in line at Trader Joe's. You will never find her at SoulCycle.

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13 Best Tinted Sunscreens for All Skin Types

From dry to oily skin, these tinted SPFs provide sun protection without looking chalky.

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.

Best Overall

La roche-posay anthelios tinted mineral sunscreen.

Bubble Plus One Tinted Daily Mineral Sunscreen

Best Tinted Sunscreen for Oily Skin

Skinbetter science sunbetter tone smart sunscreen lotion.

Best Tinted Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin

Tatcha the silk sunscreen.

Best Tinted Sunscreen for Dry Skin

Eltamd uv aox elements tinted mineral face sunscreen.

Best Coverage

Alleyoop sunsational tinted mineral sunscreen.

Best Drugstore Tinted Sunscreen

Cerave hydrating mineral sunscreen face sheer tint.

Best for Mature Skin

Skinceuticals physical fusion uv defense sunscreen.

Best Tinted Sunscreen for Glowing Skin

Supergoop glowscreen.

Best Tinted Sunscreen for Body

Colorescience sunforgettable total protection body shield.

Tinted sunscreens "contain unique blends of zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and iron oxide," said Pearl E. Grimes, M.D. , board-certified dermatologist at The Grimes Center for Medical & Aesthetic Dermatology in Beverly Hills. "Iron oxide provides the best protection against visible light (blue light)."

Though all mineral sunscreens (tinted or not) contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of the two, tinted broad-spectrum options " protect against UVA and UVB radiation and visible light ," explains GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek , whereas traditional broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against just UVA and UVB radiation. Visible light can cause pigmentation and redness, Wnek adds.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab has tested countless SPFs over the years, from natural sunscreen to zinc oxide sunscreen . For this article, Wnek evaluated seven tinted sunscreens; we've included top picks from that evaluation, as well as previous test winners and editor-loved picks.

Great for everyday use, this La-Roche Posay is everything you could want in a tinted sunscreen: broad spectrum SPF 50, water-resistant and lightweight . The fragrance-free mineral sunscreen is one of our Beauty Assistant's favorites; she wears it every day under makeup. "The tint acts as a primer to even out my skin tone," she shared. "I can even wear it on its own without foundation on a light makeup day." It's offered in just one shade, and it can sometimes look a little orange on very light skin tones if not rubbed in fully.

Priced under $20, Bubble's tinted SPF is a great bargain buy and was Wnek's favorite option she evaluated for this story. "The initial texture of the product is like a hydrating lotion and it absorbs quickly ," she shared. Though it's great for any skin type, she especially likes it for combination or oily skin. "The color coverage is sheer to light, and the finish is matte radiant, not oily," she adds. "I was taken aback at how dark it is upon application, but the final shade is similar to my skin tone."

Despite a high level of mineral SPF, this formula proved to blend well with no white cast when Wnek tested it. She likes the mattifying mousse-like texture for oilier skin types. "Of the water-resistant tinted face sunscreens, I liked this one especially for those with oily skin," she said. "It feels light and matte throughout the day." Take note that this option won't give you a ton of coverage, as it's very sheer and feels more like a regular sunscreen than a tinted one.

If you're willing to splurge on sunscreen, this is the one to try. Featuring skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide , this SPF simultaneously protects your skin from the sun while keeping it moisturized and nourished. The formula is more watery than others we've tried, so it feels like nothing on your skin. And the peachy tint blends seamlessly, leaving no white cast behind . Our Beauty Assistant loves the dewy glow that it leaves on her dry but acne-prone skin. "It layers amazingly under makeup or stands on its own," she said.

EltaMD is widely loved by experts, derms, editors and consumers alike. This tinted SPF from the brand applies smoothly on skin. "It feels nice, hydrating and so smooth on skin ," said Wnek. "I thought it is a bit heavier than the UV Clear version , so it may be better for normal to dry skin. It's almost like a lotion in texture." Expect light color coverage and a natural finish with this sunscreen. Note that this is likely best suited for medium to dark skin tones that pull warm, as it is too dark and orange on lighter or cooler skin tones.

Some tinted sunscreens don't provide a lot of coverage, but that's not the case with this one. GH Beauty Director April Franzino calls it her "overall favorite tinted SPF" and loves that it is a medium coverage option. "It matches my skin tone perfectly, provides great coverage and evens skin tone beautifully, so much so that I can skip tinted moisturizer or foundation afterward," she raved. Offered in multiple shades (including options for dark skin tones), it also spreads well and feels soft on skin, she reports, adding that "you can hardly believe it's a high-level mineral sunscreen." If you prefer a sheer sunscreen, this isn't the one for you.

Formulated with ceramides and niacinamide, CeraVe's well-priced creamy and lightweight tinted sunscreen is great for soothing and protecting skin at the same time. "I love that it functions as a moisturizer, SPF and foundation, cutting down on the time it takes me to get ready," said GH Digital Content Director Lauren Matthews . She appreciates that it provides smooth, even coverage with zero white cast, and notes that "it doesn't make my acne-prone skin break out and makes my skin glow ," though some online reviewers find it makes their skin look more greasy than glowy.

What's the secret to a product being good for mature skin? It shouldn't emphasize things like texture, fine lines and wrinkles. A plethora of online reviewers with mature skin rave about this sunscreen, sharing that it smooths their skin and evens skin tone, with many noting they've used it for years.

GH Freelance Beauty Editor Dori Price also loves this product; she shares that it's a "super light fluid that goes on seamlessly and feels so nice on the skin . It's a physical sunscreen but you would never know by how sheer (and not chalky) it is." However, some online reviewers think the fluid is a little too thin and watery for their liking.

Widely loved on TikTok, Supergoop's Glowscreen is often used under makeup or on its own to give skin a sunkissed look. It's the rare tinted sunscreen that has chemical actives (rather than mineral, which is more common when it comes to tinted options). Some online reviewers complain that it pills under makeup, though our Beauty Assistant has never experienced that. "This is amazing to wear for a subtle, summery glow ," she shared. "I love that it's offered in multiple shades so it matches my skin tone better than other options that sometimes look too orange on me." The four shades offered range from fair to deep.

Though most tinted sunscreens are for the face, this option from Colorescience is for the body instead (so it's offered in a bigger bottle than others). Offered in a lighter pinkish shade and a darker bronze shade , you can pick based on your skin tone. In her evaluation, Wnek found that it "feels moisturizing but takes a while to rub in; there is some resistance to it," she shared, though this tends to be the case with mineral sunscreens. She liked the pink undertone of this SPF as it "worked as a brightening pigment," she explains.

Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted Sunscreen

AAPI-owned brand Tower 28 caters to sensitive skin types, and this tinted sunscreen is no different. It has the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance , and GH Deputy Editor Jessica Teich loves it for her dry, sensitive skin. Upon application, you'll find it gives a natural-looking, glowy finish, and she likes that it still lets freckles show through. Plus, it's sold in 17 shade options, more than any other tinted sunscreen we've seen. However, Teich noted that "it takes a while to dry down and may be too hydrating for oilier skin types."

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: I Tested Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted Sunscreen

Bloomeffects Tulip Dew Sunscreen Serum

Sunscreen in a serum form is ideal for the face. This mineral SPF from Bloomeffects has a rich, thick texture and includes skincare ingredients like niacinamide and allantoin. These help make the formula "soothing and softening on my dry skin," said Franzino. She also likes that the sheer tint gives a bit of a glow and balances skin tone as well. It's on the pricier side, but for sunscreen and skincare benefits in one, it's a worthy investment.

Cotz Flawless Complexion Richly Tinted

Most of the tinted sunscreens you'll find on the market are mineral, including this one Wnek evaluated. She likes that it's offered in two shades. This Cotz sunscreen give sheer, light coverage, delivering a dewy finish . "It is thicker in texture and there is some weight to it on skin," she said, recommending it for drier skin types especially. Ensure you check the "best by" date on this tube or give it a good shake before applying, as the sample she had "was separating, so I worry about the integrity of the sunscreen active in this formula," she explained.

How we chose the best tinted sunscreens

Though the Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab hasn't done a test specifically on tinted SPFs, our scientists have evaluated countless options, from body sunscreens to face sunscreens, and their testing has included tinted formulas. To gather the absolute best tinted sunscreens on the market, we pulled winners from those tests and editor favorites.

On top of that, GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek evaluated seven tinted sunscreens, taking into account if the formula was non-greasy, hydrating, lightweight, blendable and more. The top performers from this evaluation are also included in this roundup.

What to look for when shopping for a tinted sunscreen

A key to loving a tinted sunscreen is finding one that's best suited for your skin type and tone. Wondering how to find the right one for you? Here are some of our tips:

✔️ Active type : Most tinted SPFs are mineral formulas, likely because the tint is offsetting the white cast that's traditionally associated with mineral sunscreens, Wnek shared. However, some are chemical formulas or even combine the two. You can choose one based on your personal preference.

✔️ SPF: Dermatologists, Dr. Grimes included, suggest using SPF 30 or higher. For extra protection, our GH Beauty Lab recommends using at least SPF 50.

✔️ Ingredients: Some tinted sunscreens offer additional skincare benefits beyond sun protection, Dr. Grimes noted. Niacinamide, antioxidants such as vitamin C or E, hyaluronic acid and others are great to look out for.

How much tinted sunscreen should you apply?

"Most consumers do not apply enough traditional sunscreen to their face to obtain the SPF listed on the label," said Wnek. "When it comes to makeup with SPF or tinted sunscreen products, they apply even less." To achieve a sufficient amount of sun protection, remember to apply at least a nickel size amount to your face and re-apply every two hours , she advised.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

GH Beauty Assistant Catharine Malzahn works closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab to help deliver fact-based, science-backed beauty coverage. Over the years, she has interviewed experts, written product reviews and tested hundreds of skincare products including all kinds of sunscreens; some of her favorites are included in this list, and she'll never leave the house without SPF on.

GH Beauty Lab Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek has been testing skincare products for more than seven years at the Good Housekeeping Institute. She has experience in using specialized skin evaluation lab equipment to gauge changes in skin moisturization, firmness and facial features like wrinkles and texture before and after product use. She also regularly polls our consumer panels on their purchasing and product use habits as well as weighs in on the benefits of skincare ingredients.

Catharine (she/her) is the beauty assistant at Good Housekeeping , Woman’s Day and Prevention, working closely with the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab to write science-backed beauty content. She was previously an assistant beauty editor at Group Nine Media and returned to Hearst in 2022 after having held editorial internships at Harper’s Bazaar and CR Fashion Book. Catharine received a B.A. in journalism from the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

Danusia (she/her) is a senior chemist in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she evaluates haircare, skincare, cosmetics and beauty tools. She holds a B.S. in chemistry from St. John’s University and a M.S. in pharmaceutical sciences with concentration in cosmetic science from the University of Cincinnati. Danusia has over 10 years of experience in the personal care industry including formulation, product development, claim evaluation and efficacy testing. 

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Your Guide to Sun Protection

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March Madness 2024 at Sky Harbor: What to know if you're flying during the Final Four

With the NCAA Men's Final Four 2024 basketball tournament coming to Phoenix this week, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is preparing for a travel rush.

While the Phoenix airport is well equipped to handle big crowds for major sporting events − Super Bowl 2023 was here last year − travelers should keep in mind that crowds at the airport mean it will take longer to navigate it.

Higher than normal passenger traffic is expected as people arrive for the Final Four tournament that will be played April 6 and 8 in at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, and prepare to leave on April 9.

Here's what to know if you'll be flying through the Phoenix airport during March Madness 2024.

How long are airport TSA wait times? Here's how to find out in real time

Where is the Final Four in Phoenix?

The 2024 NCAA Final Four tournament will be played April 6 and 8 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale.

The tournament was last held in metro Phoenix in 2017 when the venue was known as the University of Phoenix Stadium.

Other Final Four events include the March Madness Music Festival at Hance Park in downtown Phoenix and the Final Four Fan Fest at the Phoenix Convention Center downtown.

What is the busiest day at Phoenix airport for Final Four?

The highest Final Four passenger traffic days are expected on Thursday, April 4; Friday, April 5; and Tuesday, April 9, airport spokesman Eric Everts said. They did not give an estimate of how many people are expected to fly in and out during the Final Four.

Final Four 2024 car rentals

Make your Final Four car rental reservation before you arrive. Everts said the airport expects an increase in car rentals during the Final Four and walk-up customers may have limited options.

Does Phoenix light rail go to the airport?

Yes. People can ride the Valley Metro light rail between Sky Harbor Airport and downtown Phoenix.

To ride the light rail from the airport, take the free PHX Sky Train from Terminal 3 or Terminal 4 to the 44th Street Station, then purchase a pass from the Valley Metro fare vending machine and take the light rail westbound to downtown Phoenix. Cost is $2 per ride or $4 per day.

Use the Third Street/Washington station for events at the convention center, Footprint Center and Chase Field. Use the Roosevelt/Central Avenue or McDowell/Central Avenue stops for Hance Park.

Where do you pick up passengers at PHX?

Everts suggests picking up and dropping off passengers at the 24th Street or 44th Street Sky Train station.

The PHX Sky Train connects Terminals 3 and 4 to these stations, and Everts said pickups and dropoffs near the stations are a "convenient alternative" to using the curbsides at the terminals, which tend to get congested during peak travel times. It's free to ride the Sky Train.

How early should I get to Phoenix airport?

Because Sky Harbor is expecting more passengers than usual on Sunday, April 7, and Tuesday, April 9, Everts advised travelers to follow the "5-4-3-2-1 rule" to make the process of catching their flights as smooth as possible. That means allowing:

• Five hours before departure to check out of your hotel.
• Four hours before departure to return a rental car.
• Three hours before departure to check in at the ticket counter.
• Two hours before departure to get in line at the security checkpoint.
• One hour before departure to arrive at your gate.

Phoenix airport travel tips

Everts offers these tips for navigating Sky Harbor Airport:

• Check your flight status before heading to the airport. Check with your airline or go to skyharbor.com , which also has information about what dining, shopping and services are near your gate .
• Stash your Final Four program in your carry-on bag. Glossy magazines are made with materials that can trigger security scanners and slow down the process of checking luggage.
• Get through security more quickly with the free  PHX Reserve  program, where you can reserve a place in the TSA line up to six days in advance. You can also  check security wait times online .
• Anyone with questions about the airport can ask one of Sky Harbor's Navigator volunteers, identifiable by their purple uniforms. NCAA volunteers will also in the terminals to answer questions.
• Travelers with a hidden disability like dementia or autism can reserve a Compassion Cacti lanyard , which signals to airport staff that its wearer needs more time, assistance or patience in the traveling process. Sky Harbor also has a sensory room for people who need a calm space, plus other services for travelers who need a little extra care .

Sky Harbor Airport parking: Complete guide to terminal, economy and off-site lots

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

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

They just might save your life one day.

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

Travel + Leisure

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

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

She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

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

Ace Mining Portable Door Lock

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

Veger Portable Charger

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

StashBandz Unisex Running Belt

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

Travelon Anti-Theft Bag

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

Munio Self-Defense Keychain Kit

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

TravelMore TSA-approved Luggage Locks, 4-pack

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

Kidde Carbon Monoxide Detector

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

Homotek 2-Pack Wedge Rubber Door Stops

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

Gorilla Grip Mini Flashlight

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

LifeStraw Water Bottle

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

Thrive Mini First-Aid Kit

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

Apple AirTag

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

FurArt Slim Wallet

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

Amazon Basics Portable Lock Box

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

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