best travel gear 2022

The Best Gear for Travel

By Wirecutter Staff

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

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

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

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

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

The research

Flying/riding, just in case, travel tips.

A well-packed bag is one that contains less than you think you need but everything you actually need. If possible, fitting everything into one carry-on and personal item will give you more freedom compared to checking a bag or two. You’ll be glad you did if (and when) things don’t go according to plan. Consider this example from OneBag’s Doug Dyment: “I’ve been in situations where I’ve landed in Chicago on my way to New York and everything was snowed in, no flights were flying anywhere, but I was able to rent a car or take a train whereas everyone whose bags were being held hostage by the airlines were simply stuck.” While carry-on-only isn’t feasible (or advisable) for every trip—especially extended business trips or weddings where you need multiple outfits to maintain appearances—if in doubt, it’s better to cut.

Carry-on backpack (non-roller)

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

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

Buying Options

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carry-on bag (rolling)

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Great features, great value.

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

Since 2015, we’ve researched several dozen suitcases and gone hands-on with the 47 most promising candidates in a variety of tests—including having active flight attendants test bags for us in a fake plane fuselage in their training facility. We determined that for most people the  Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner  offers the best balance of features, durability, and price for most flyers who log less than 25,000 miles annually.

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

Upgrade pick

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

For frequent flyers.

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

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

Checked luggage

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

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s)

The best travel backpack for people with longer torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this the most comfortable and easy-to-fit pack sized for people with longer torsos.

May be out of stock

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s)

The best travel backpack for people with shorter torsos.

Thick padding and highly adjustable straps make this the most comfortable and easy-to-fit pack sized for people with shorter torsos.

If you’re going someplace where you’ll need to walk a lot (or if there’s dirt or cobblestone roads), we recommend a travel backpack. Specifically, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s) for men (and tall women) and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s) for those with shorter torsos. The Ruckpack’s thickly padded, stowable straps are fully height-adjustable. The bag is made from rugged, recycled ripstop nylon and is guaranteed for up to a year. And it holds about 60 liters, which gives you noticeably more space than our other picks while still keeping the overall dimensions manageable. You can read all about why we like the Ruckpack in our review of the best travel backpacks .

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

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

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

Luggage tags

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

Strong and easy to see.

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

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

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

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

Another approach to increasing privacy is to hide information in a QR code, as the Dynotag Smart Deluxe Steel Luggage Tag  does, or to provide a user ID number, as the Okoban UID Luggage Tags  do. But these seem like overly complex solutions to a problem that doesn’t really exist. The Dynotag requires a scanner app that many phone owners don’t want to bother with, and the Okoban requires going online and entering a code, which might deter otherwise-willing Good Samaritans.

Compression sacks

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

Osprey StraightJacket (8L)

Easier access, less compression.

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

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

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

Packing cubes

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

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

Well built with easy access.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel underwear

Good travel underwear keeps you feeling fresh and clean, even when your destination is gritty.  To find the best , we researched an array of underwear designed for men and women to find 34 pairs meeting our criteria: moisture-wicking and breathable, quick-drying, odor-resistant, stretchy, stylish, and cut to fit a variety of body types.

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

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

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

Best for most men.

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

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

Patagonia Women's Active Hipster

Best for most women.

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

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

Budget pick

Uniqlo Men Airism Boxer Brief

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

Uniqlo Women Airism Ultra Seamless HipHugger

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

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

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

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

The best quality for women.

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

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

For the best quality.

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

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

Wirecutter’s Michael Zhao once wrote of his Darn Tough socks: “While I haven’t yet owned mine for life, my oldest pair is coming on three years old and I have trouble telling them apart from the newest pair I bought last month. During those same three years, I’ve worn through the heels of two pairs of Smartwool hikers and runners, had three pairs of Icebreaker ankle socks start to unravel, and developed holes in the heels and toes of six pairs of Stoic trail socks. Meanwhile, the Darn Toughs look as good as new. And unlike cheaper socks you can get from Costco or military surplus stores, they’re not so thick that you can’t wear them in warmer climates.”

WrightSocks

Light and fast-drying.

Not as durable but much lighter and faster-drying. A dual-layer design prevents blisters better than any other synthetic sock.

If you prefer a vegan product, have a wool sensitivity, or if you’d like something a bit cooler and are willing to sacrifice some durability, WrightSocks (both men’s and women’s sizes at that link) made from synthetic Coolmesh are a great choice (we like them better than Darn Tough’s synthetic option, which felt stifling). Like most synthetic socks, they’re lighter weight and dry quickly, but what sets WrightSocks apart is their dual-layered design, which prevents blisters by diverting friction between your shoe-lining and the sock onto the inner layer of the sock as opposed to your skin. This combination of blister prevention and light weight makes them particularly popular amongst runners in addition to travelers. Popular women’s travel gear review site HerPackingList calls them “the perfect sock for active travelers who will be on their feet for hours or days at a time.” Wirecutter writer Geoff Morrison switched his whole sock drawer out for these since he started traveling seven years ago and hasn’t looked back. “I've never gotten a blister, even after walking over 30 miles in a day during the 2014 Le Mans,” wrote Morrison in an email interview.

But with the WrightSocks, what you lose in weight, you also lose in durability. After just three trips through a washing machine, both the women’s and men’s versions we tested had substantial pilling in several locations. Morrison notes that his tend to start looking worn after about six months and that he replaces them about once a year. Also, avoid the dryer if you can because multiple user reviewers state that they’ll shrink in the dryer over time. (They dry quickly enough without the dryer that this isn’t really a huge issue.) And because they’re not merino, they really start to stink after a full day of walking around; bring extra.

Havaianas Top Flip Flop (Men's)

The best flip-flops for men.

Durable, grippy, and squeak-free when wet.

Havaianas Top Flip Flop (women’s)

The best flip-flops for women.

Same shoe in women's sizes.

A good pair of travel flip-flops should be lightweight, cheap, and flat. That way they’re easy to take wherever and it won’t matter if you lose them. After testing the super popular Havaianas, Ipanemas, Crocs, and Old Navy flip-flops, our pick is the Havaiana Top (for men and women ). These high-density PVC Brazilian classics are world-renowned for their durability, affordability, and reliable traction, even when wet. They weigh just 150 g, compared to the 220 g Ipanemas. They pack down to almost nothing, unlike the big and boaty Crocs. And while other cheap flip flops can get squeaky when wet, the Havaianas stay mostly silent, which is why they’re so popular in beach towns all over the world. Ultimately, this is what earned them the pick over our previous pick from Old Navy.

Clothesline

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

A secure, hassle-free option

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

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

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

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

Laundry detergent

Minisoak Travel Packs

A travel size version of the best delicates detergent.

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

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

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

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

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

When we first published this guide, this section addressed only toiletry kits and bottles, razors, and packable towels. The times, and traveling, became more complicated. One thing we've learned in the past few years is that face masks can be useful whenever you’re sick and don’t want to share your misery: with a cold, the flu, Covid-19, whatever. Fortunately, compared with early 2020, medical-style N95s and KN95s (which many experts recommend as the best protection) are widely available. They’re easy to tuck into a bag, which we do now whenever we travel. 

Toiletry kit

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

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small)

A space-saving hanging bag.

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

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

L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

For more stuff and longer trips.

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

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

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

Toiletry bottles

Sea to Summit TPU Clear Zip Pouch with Bottles

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

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

Razor (faces)

Gillette Mach3

The best manual razor for most faces.

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

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

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

Five of our eight testers named the Mach3 among their top three razors, and two named it a favorite.

Razor (legs/body)

Gillette Venus Smooth

The best body razor.

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

Disposable razors (both the completely disposable and replaceable-cartridge variety) are fine to take through airport security , and among them we like the Gillette Venus Original best. After testing 22 top-rated body razors and panel testing the five best of them , we prefer its capable, three-blade head and easy-to-maneuver handle to the competition’s. Plus, as with any Venus, the Original’s body is compatible with any other Venus head and many heads from Gillette’s facial razors, making it exceptionally versatile.

The Original’s head has three blades separated by considerable slats of space, making it far easier to clean the head between strokes. And it includes simple aloe strips above and below the blades, allowing the lubricant to ease the shave without transforming your razor into a swamp. The Original is intuitive to hold and secure to maneuver, thanks to a contoured handle with corrugated chevrons of rubber. Though our testers have a wide range of hand sizes, no one found the Original difficult to grasp. Despite the significant ribbing, it doesn’t feel too bulky. Gillette claims its razors have lasted for five weeks; we think one razor for a weeklong trip should be fine.

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

Towel (packable)

PackTowl Personal

The best all-around packable towel.

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

With store pickup or REI membership (limited patterns)

(limited patterns)

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

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

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

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

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

Neck pillow

Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow

More support for most necks.

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

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

Noise-cancelling headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones.

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

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

Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs

For blocking out the most noise.

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

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

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

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

Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask

For air travelers and back-sleepers.

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

When bright lights hamper peaceful shut-eye, we recommend the light-blocking, contoured Nidra Deep Rest sleep mask. Of the 20 masks we tried over two rounds of testing , the Nidra blocked the most light on the most faces. It’s contoured to rest on your face like a pair of soft goggles, with fabric lenses that sit around your eyes (instead of directly over them). This design provides more space for your eyes to flutter during REM sleep, ensuring that you come through red-eye flights with less redness in your eyes. Makeup wearers will also appreciate that, with the Nidra’s elevated eye cups, there’s a smaller chance of smudging.

Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask

A flat, silk mask.

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

If the Nidra Deep Rest doesn’t fit your face quite right, we also recommend the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask . It lacks contoured eyecups and thus applies some pressure to the eyes overnight like any regular eye mask does. But its flat design easily conforms to fit your face, and its silk exterior feels smooth and soft against skin (the padding is made of cotton). Its relative lack of structure makes it more difficult to knock off when you’re tossing and turning. Testers also liked that the Alaska Bear’s unobtrusive buckled strap didn’t snag on long hair the way a Velcro strap could. We think the Alaska Bear is a terrific eye mask for sleeping while traveling or in bed—regardless of your preferred sleep position—but we find the Nidra mask’s roomier eyecups more comfortable.

Sleeping bag liner

Sea to Summit Premium Silk Travel Liner

For a silky feel and extra warmth.

The Sea to Summit silk liner wicks moisture, doesn’t retain smells, packs down to the size of an apple, and even weighs less than one. It makes scratchy motel and hostel linens a lot more bearable.

A silk sleeping bag liner is a great way to insulate yourself from scratchy, cheap, poorly maintained linens you might find at a hostel or motel. On top of the obvious bling appeal of sleeping in silk, it’s the best performing material, too: absorbent yet quick-drying.  This makes silk superior to cotton, which becomes uncomfortable as soon as it gets moist, and synthetics, which retain smells more readily. Silk is also super strong, and its light weight means manufacturers can give you full body coverage in a compact package.

Our favorite is the  Sea to Summit Premium Silk Travel Liner , which is available in a variety of sizes, including regular, long, and even double for sharing. Whichever you pick, it will pack down to about the size and weight of a medium-sized apple. You won’t need it everywhere you sleep, but you’ll be glad you have it the next time you run into a set of scratchy sandpaper sheets at a cut-rate boarding house. (We have also used this for sleeping on long plane flights with great success.) Cocoon and Rab are the only other options when it comes to 100 percent silk liners available online and backed by a real company with a warranty, but those come in only one size. (Western Mountaineering makes silk liners as well, but they’re mainly available through independent retailers.)

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

Unlocked mobile phone

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

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

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

Plug adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Best universal travel adapter.

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

You save $4 (17%)

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

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

Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set

The best plug adapter.

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

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

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

Whether two-prong or three-prong, an adapter just changes the shape of your plug, not anything about the electricity coming through the wires. However, this usually isn’t a problem because almost every power brick that comes with modern electronic gear is capable of accepting both the 110-volt standard used in the US and the 240-volt commonly used abroad. If your device has a power block on the cord, it likely says something like  “100-240 V ~ 50/60 Hz”—that’s the all-clear to use it without a voltage converter so long as the range covers the voltage of the country you’re visiting . This includes the vast majority of modern laptop and USB chargers. Products without some sort of power block at the end or with a non-detachable cord—in particular, things with heating elements like hair dryers and curling irons—are more likely to need a voltage converter. Putting 220 V through a US 110 V device would be like attaching a firehose to a drinking fountain—you’re likely to blow your face off. But voltage converters are tricky devices, and most of the inexpensive ones have awful (or dishonest) reviews. Since hotels and hostels will often have hair dryers and most newer gear can do the full range of voltages, we strongly recommend that, whenever possible, you only bring items that work with a much simpler (and more reliable) adapter.

Wire/gadget organization system

Now that every device has a battery, every battery has a charger, and every charger has a cable—never mind power-plug adapters if you’re traveling abroad—the sheer quantity of accessories needed just to keep your gadgets running can take up more space than the devices themselves. And unless you organize them, you can bet on having to blindly fish them out of the least convenient spot at the bottom of your bag. Unfortunately, our pick for carrying tech necessities, the Incase Nylon Accessory Organizer, has been out of stock for a few years. It will, however, be coming back in 2024, according to Incase.

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

USB battery packs

A USB battery pack (also called a power bank) can keep your small electronics—from phones and cameras to tablets and more—going while you’re on the road. Although the length of your trip will determine exactly how much extra juice you’ll need to have on hand, whatever your requirements, we have a great USB battery recommendation for you. The Zendure SuperMini 20W is about as small and lightweight as a power bank can possibly be while still offering enough capacity to juice up most smartphones up to three times. Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices (and recharge the power bank itself) at top speed with the included USB-C cable and a compatible wall charger (the one that came with your phone will work). The USB-A port can handle any older, non-USB-C devices you might have kicking around, too. The SuperMini’s rounded edges make it easy to hold and slip into a pocket.

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

Travel binoculars

Athlon Optics Midas ED

The overall best binoculars.

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

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

Although the Celestron TrailSeeker ED binoculars don’t offer a clear edge-to-edge view to the same degree of the Athlon Optics Midas EDs , they’re a comparable runner-up model that’ll be lighter on your wallet if having binoculars while traveling is a must. The TrailSeekers are equipped with great light-gathering qualities, close focus, and impressive optical resolution.

Ebook reader

Amazon Kindle (2022)

The best e-reader for most people.

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

The entry-level Amazon Kindle finally got an upgrade, with the same crisp display and USB-C charging as the pricier Kindle Paperwhite has (and with double the storage space of the previous entry-level model). If you have $20 more to spend, the Amazon Kindle Kids is worth it even if you’re not a parent; it comes with a case, one year of Amazon Kids+, a two-year warranty (compared with the standard version’s one year of coverage), and no ads. Getting rid of ads on the base model costs $20 alone. Amazon’s well-stocked ebooks store remains its biggest selling point, along with the ease of checking out library books via Libby and sending them directly to a Kindle.

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

Travel water bottle

CamelBak Podium 21oz Bike Bottle

A lightweight squeezie.

This squeeze bottle is leakproof, light enough to throw into a carry-on for a flight, and cheap enough that if the TSA forces you to ditch it, the loss won’t break your heart.

If you’re tired of paying for a liter of water every time you take a plane trip, try a lightweight water bottle that you can stuff into your bag and then refill once you get past airport security. For years, we looked for a reliable collapsible travel bottle, but we were disappointed so many times: The HydraPak flopped, the Hydaway tasted plasticky, the Vapur and the Platypus collapsed (in a bad way), and the Nomader didn’t pack down very small. And in our experience, the implied way to carry a full one correctly—clipped to a backpack or belt loop—left them swinging around haphazardly. We’ve recommended all of these bottles in the past, but we’ve always been left wishing there was a better way.

Basic, light, and cheap, a squeeze bottle made for cycling is now our sincere recommendation for airport travel, and we like the CamelBak Podium in particular. It has a twist lock that provides extra assurance that it’s closed tight when you toss it in a bag—plus, it’s dishwasher safe. In addition to its being light and relatively compact, if the TSA takes it, you’ve lost only a few dollars instead of your investment in an expensive insulated bottle. The lid on this bottle is not covered, though, so if you dislike the idea of this bottle swimming around in a bag with the drinking surface exposed, you may prefer another of our water bottle picks, the Thermos Hydration Bottle , although some of our testers didn’t like having to fuss with the lid or flip lock on the Thermos.

Packable daypack

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack

A pack that fits in your palm.

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

Packing a stowable daypack, one that stuffs down to fit in your luggage when not in use, is a relatively small investment of space in exchange for a high return of function and flexibility. After researching dozens of packable daypacks across a spectrum of portability, features, and prices, and then packing, unpacking, loading, wearing, and drenching the top-rated finalists during multiple rounds of testing, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack we recommend. Packed up, it is very discreet: nearly the size of a keychain accessory. The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, which means it’s very light and water-resistant. It has reinforced stitching at stress points, allowing the Ultra-Sil to carry more weight than you would expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when compared with our more structured picks.

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

Field Notes 3-Pack Original Kraft Memo Books

For ultimate portability.

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

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

Field Notes Expedition

A weather-resistant option.

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

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

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

Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit

For the best combination of sewing tools.

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

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

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

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

The best umbrella for most people.

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

price may vary by color or style

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

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

Packing method for clothes

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

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

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

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

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

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

Mentioned above

• There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
• The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more. The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks  
• After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage  
• For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably. The Best Travel Backpack  
• After researching 30 models, we found that Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who check bags. The Best Suitcases for Checking  
• We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases. The Best Luggage Tags  

Further reading

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

by Christine Ryan

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

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

by Haley Perry

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

Road-Trip Essentials

by Eve O'Neill

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

The Best Travel Pillow

by Sabrina Imbler

After testing eight travel pillows on four red-eye flights in window, aisle, and middle seats, we think the Travelrest Ultimate is the best for most travelers.

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

Travel must-haves you should definitely pack.

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

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

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

Our top picks:

Best Carry-On Luggage

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked Luggage

Open story hardside luggage large checked spinner suitcase.

Best Underseat Luggage

Samsonite solyte dlx softside luggage.

Best Kid's Luggage

American tourister disney hardside upright luggage.

Best Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

Best Weekender Bag

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Best Travel Backpack

The north face borealis backpack.

Best Packing Cubes

Eagle creek pack-it specter compression cube set.

Best Travel Dress

Outdoor voices exercise dress.

Best Walking Shoes

Allbirds tree runners.

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

The Best Travel Gear for Packing

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: The 12 Best Underseat Luggage to Buy

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

READ MORE: Best Kids Luggage

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

READ MORE: Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

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

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

READ MORE: Best Travel Backpacks of 2023

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

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

The Best Clothing for Traveling

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: Best Walking Shoes for Women

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

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

READ MORE: Best Compression Socks for Women

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion

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

READ MORE: Best Hiking Socks to Protect Your Feet

Vionic Amber Adjustable Sandal

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

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

Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron

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

READ MORE: Best Steam Irons of 2022

Norwex Laundry Detergent Strips

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

READ MORE: 5 Best Laundry Detergent Sheets

The Best Beauty and Hygiene Travel Must-Haves

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

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow Dryer

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

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

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case

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

READ MORE: Best Toiletry Bags

Truffle Clarity Jetset Case

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

READ MORE: Best Makeup Bags to Stash All Cosmetics

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Soothing Gel

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

READ MORE: Best Hand Sanitizers

Maskc KN95 Face Masks

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

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

The Best Travel Gear for Sleeping

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

Cabeau Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

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

READ MORE: Best Travel Pillows

Bucky 40 Blinks No Pressure Solid Eye Mask

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

READ MORE: Best Sleep Masks for the Most Restful Sleep

Mack's Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs

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

READ MORE: Best Earplugs for Sleeping

The Best Travel Electronics

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

Bose QuietComfort 45

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

READ MORE: 12 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Apple AirTag

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

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

Apple iPad 10.2” 2021

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

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

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

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

READ MORE: The 5 Best E-Readers to Buy

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

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

Joomfeen Travel Adapter

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

Bubm Electronic Organizer

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

Unique Travel Accessories

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

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

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

READ MORE: The Best Beach Towels for Summer 2023

CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle with Tritan Renew

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

READ MORE: 12 Best Water Bottles of 2023

Nikon Monarch M7 8x42 Binocular

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

READ MORE: 10 Best Binoculars for Seeing Every Detail

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

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

READ MORE: Best Fanny Packs

Etekcity Luggage Scale

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

Travel Hack: Why Our Experts Recommend Using Packing Cubes

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

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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

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

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15 Essential Travel Items AFAR Editors Bought (and Loved) in 2022

These are the services and gear that we couldn’t leave home without this year..

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The new Hybrid luggage from Monos is made with an aluminum frame and corners plus a polycarbonate shell to combine the durability and lightweight properties of both materials.

Courtesy of Monos

As a gear editor, I’m always on the lookout for holy grail products that will make my travels more organized, comfortable, or convenient. (A little bit of style doesn’t hurt either.) And I know I’m not alone. Over the past 12 months, my colleagues and I have obsessed over finding the perfect packing cubes , carry-on suitcases , and travel pillows , while supporting sustainable and small businesses along the way, where possible.

Since we’d never gate keep these finds, here are some of our favorite travel accessories, apparel, luggage, toiletries, and even the international phone service subscription that improved the way we travel in 2022. We hope you love them as much as we do.

The Monos Hybrid Check-In Medium suitcase in silver

Monos Carry-On Pro Plus and Hybrid Check-In Medium suitcases

Buy now: Carry-On Pro Plus, $305–$335 (was $321–$353), monos.com ; Hybrid Check-In Medium, $395, monos.com

This fall, after months of covering the long lines, delayed and canceled flights, and mountains of lost luggage plaguing air travel all year, I decided it was time to hang up my Team Checked Luggage hat and finally join Team Carry-On. What made the transition a smooth and delightful one was the Monos Carry-On Pro Plus (in the highly recommended limited-edition Terrazzo colorway that looks just like the beloved tile of the same name). What I love about this super lightweight spinner is that it features an exterior pocket that fits a 15-inch laptop as well as numerous interior compartments (some of which are removable to make it as segmented or more open as needed).

I was so impressed with the carry-on version, I opted to get the heftier, medium-sized Hybrid checked luggage for when I’m traveling with my kids and have zero chance at being able to do carry-on only. Major added bonus: Monos is an eco-conscious company that uses vegan materials, recyclable and reusable packaging, and 1 percent of revenues go to nonprofits dedicated to “preserving and restoring the natural world.” — Michelle Baran, senior travel news editor

Baboon to the Moon’s Go Bag—Small

Buy now: from $189, baboontothemoon.com

I’m a strictly carry-on type of traveler , and I’m not really a fan of suitcases (there’s just something about them that feels ultimately cumbersome by nature no matter how many wheels they have). For the past two years, I’ve been on the hunt for a new duffel bag to replace the basic, quilted bag I bought at TJ Maxx in high school that was totally not intended to be used as a regular travel bag. I wanted something functional, easy to clean, and, of course, cute.

Enter Baboon to the Moon’s Go Bags, which come in three sizes: big, small, and mini. I opted for the small, which has a capacity of 40 liters and is TSA-approved as a carry-on. Unlike other duffel bags out there that have a zipper running flat across the top, Baboon to the Moon’s Go Bags open like a suitcase, making it much easier to pack, and the interior has several convenient pockets. The small bag is marketed as able to hold three to five days of clothing, but I was able to squeeze enough things in for a week (and a pair of shoes!) on a recent trip. Once I got home, I simply wiped down the waterproof exterior of the pack with a disinfectant cloth. Best of all? The Go Bag’s straps can be worn backpack style, used as a cross-body bag, or held as a duffel bag. —Mae Hamilton, assistant editor

Cotopaxi’s Allpa 50L duffel bag

Buy now: $140, cotopaxi.com

Typically when you go on safari, you’re not allowed to bring hard-sized or wheeled suitcases, as they don’t easily fit in the tiny bush planes or jeeps. I got this handy Cotopaxi duffel for my trip to Uganda and Rwanda this year, and I’m so glad I did. Because it has handles and backpack straps, it was easy to schlep through the airport, and when I needed to gate-check it, I knew it would come back to me in one piece, as it’s made from highly durable ballistic nylon. At 50 liters, there’s plenty of room for two weeks’ worth of clothing and toiletries, but if you’d rather, it also comes in an extra-large 70-liter size . —Bailey Berg, associate news editor

Samara The Ocean backpack

Buy now: $150, samarabags.com

In lieu of a purse, I carry a backpack everywhere . It goes with me to work, to meetings, under airplane seats and restaurant tables, on road trips and weekend getaways. It also has to look sleek and chic enough that I won’t be embarrassed toting it to a cocktail event. Enter the Samara Ocean backpack. It’s incredibly compact, lightweight, and lean—barely three to four inches wide, even with a laptop, notebooks, and makeup bag inside—with water-resistant fabric in a city-friendly navy. Samara lured me in with its all-female business working with vegan leather and recycled plastics to make its products last a lifetime while not taking down the planet in the process. The Ocean backpack is made with 20 bottles’ worth of recycled ocean plastics and feels and looks good doing so. —Laura Dannen Redman, digital content director

Travel accessories

Thule’s compression packing cubes will help save space in your suitcase.

Courtesy of Thule

Thule Compression packing cubes

Buy now: $45 for two, thule.com ; nordstrom.com

I’ve been a packing cube devotee for years. Away’s packing cubes were my go-tos until I was given a pair of Thule’s Compression Packing Cubes in medium and small as a gift last September. Not only are they made with Bluesign-approved ripstop nylon that is manufactured with minimal impact on the environment, but that fabric is also water-repellent and ultra-durable. Plus, the set of double YKK zippers allows you to close the cube and then zip it even tighter to eliminate extra air and reduce bulk, making packing less stressful. —Lyndsey Matthews, senior commerce editor

Cadence Capsules are made from recycled plastic and eliminate the need for travel-size toiletries.

Courtesy of Cadence

Cadence toiletry capsules

Buy now : $14 for one or $74 for six, keepyourcadence.com

The refillable travel containers by Cadence are small, leakproof “capsules” that stick together with magnets. At 0.56 ounces, they’re best for makeup and toiletries you don’t need much of—like a weekend’s worth of shampoo or your under-eye cream—but I love how much more organized my toiletry bag is thanks to them. —Jessie Beck, senior manager of video & SEO

Camping gear chic enough to use in your home

Courtesy of Balmuda

Balmuda lantern

Buy now : $149, us.balmuda.com ; amazon.com

From the Tokyo-based company Balmuda, this rechargeable lantern has become a staple in my car camping kit this year, but it’s also stylish enough to use at home as well (I certainly do). I especially love that you can turn the dial to easily switch between a warm, ambient light while relaxing to a powerful, bright, white light for when you need to see what you’re doing. —J.B.

Travel apparel

Snow peak flexible insulated zip-up hoodie.

Buy now : $240, snowpeak.com

Snow Peak’s Flexible Insulated Zip-Up Hoodie quickly became my go-to travel jacket this spring, summer, and fall. It’s super lightweight, easy to pack, and surprisingly warm for its weight. Its water-repellent finish, hood, and multiple pockets are some of its most practical features, but I’ve been grabbing it again and again thanks to the minimalist, monochromatic design that’s stylish enough to wear round town (a rarity among outdoor apparel). —J.B.

Yaktrax Walk traction cleats

Buy now : $25, yaktrax.com ; $22, amazon.com

I live part time in the Pacific Northwest and love hiking in the nearby mountains. Come springtime, when all the snow is melting, the trail conditions can get pretty slippery. I’ve started using Yaktrax Walk traction cleats to add some extra security while walking on icy or snowy surfaces. They’re super easy to wrap around your hiking boot or shoe and so lightweight and portable that I can easily throw them in my weekend carry-on when there’s a good chance I’ll be walking in the snow. —Jennifer Flowers, senior deputy editor

Helly Hansen’s Alphelia Infinity ski jacket

Buy now: $600, hellyhansen.com

If you go to any ski resort on the Epic Pass, you’ll notice that the entire staff—from the chairlift operators to the guides—is outfitted in Helly Hansen gear. After getting my own HH jacket this season, I see why—they’re just that good. Because the brand prioritizes performance, this jacket has some clever features, like helmet-compatible hoods and a vented temperature regulation system, so you’ll stay warm but won’t overheat. I particularly like the highly insulated chest pocket, specifically engineered to preserve your phone’s battery life, which can get zapped by the cold. I also feel good knowing that HH makes it a point to use durable and environmentally friendly components. Bonus: Each jacket or snow pants purchase comes with a free lift ticket at one of HH’s partner resorts. —B.B.

MAÄT The 1.0 leggings

Buy now: $148, maatactive.com

These leggings come with a ribbed knee pad that provides a surprising amount of cushioning. Technically, they’re supposed to be used for yoga practice (which I’m sure they’re also great for), but I’ve been wearing mine while snowboarding—I fall down a lot, and they’ve saved my knees from bruising after a long day on the slopes. —B.B.

Travel toiletries and skin care products

There’s no need to rely on chemical sprays to ward off bugs.

Courtesy of Kinfield

Kinfield Golden Hour bug repellent

Buy now: $22 for three fl. oz., kinfield.com

I finally found a DEET-free bug repellent that actually works. Made with a mix of citronella, lemongrass, and cloves, Kinfield Golden Hour kept me bite free (and smelling amazing) on the Inca Trail in Peru last May and during a two-week trip through Indonesia this November. The three-ounce spray bottle is TSA friendly—just don’t spray it indoors. It may be DEET free but the clove oil can be a tad spicy in close quarters (as I learned after I sprayed it inside a van in Bali and caused a mass coughing fit by accident). —L.M.

Ursa Major travel skin care

Buy now: Golden Hour Recovery Cream, $20 for 0.5 fl. oz., ursamajorvt.com ; Fantastic Face Wash, $15 for 1.96 fl. oz., ursamajorvt.com

Travelers of a certain age (cough, cough me) may be spending more than they used to on skin care, and frankly, self-care. (The pandemic was hard!) Given how dehydrating flying and traveling can be, especially in the winter months, I can’t say enough about how miraculous and restorative the Ursa Major skin care line is. This was one of those Instagram ad impulse purchases I made late at night, drawn in by the Vermont-based company’s brand values: all natural, gender-neutral products (skin is skin); B Corp status; lightweight creams using ingredients like spearmint, cedar, calendula.

Do I smell like a forest when I use the Fantastic Face Wash or Golden Hour Recovery Cream? Nope—but a deep inhale boosts my serotonin and the eye cream and face cream have legitimately eased the lines around my mouth and eyes. I started with travel sizes and now use it daily. —L.D.R.

Heladerm Morning Glow skin care bundle

Buy now: $95 (was $110), heladerm.com

I spend most of the year somewhere between 6,000 feet of elevation (I live in Colorado) and cruising altitude, which means my skin is constantly dry. However, the moisture-rich ingredients of Heladerm’s products have done a beautiful job of making my skin look dewy and feel hydrated. I particularly like the Morning Glow Bundle, which comes with the brand’s Melting Cleanser, Vitamin C Serum, and Illuminating Crème. Even after a red-eye flight, it helps me look (and feel) refreshed. —B.B.

Travel services and subscriptions

Google fi subscription.

Buy now: From $17 per month, fi.google.com

I made the switch from Apple to Android (specifically, a Google Pixel 6) a couple of years ago. My primary motivation was to have a better camera, but earlier this year, I became intrigued by a service called Google Fi. For years, whenever I’ve traveled internationally, my routine has been to go through passport control, take out some cash in local currency, and purchase a SIM card in the airport.

My routine worked, but it was clunky and time-consuming. Some countries have lengthy security checks to get a SIM card. And SIM cards are tiny, fiddly things that have a tendency to get lost, no matter how much Scotch tape you use.

Purchasing a Google Fi subscription this year has been a game changer for my travel life. It gives me 4G coverage in over 200 countries for a fraction of the price of most international mobile plans (and 5G, depending on your phone and the country you’re traveling to). I can pause the service when I’m not traveling—for up to three months at a time—and not be billed for those months. My data is sent through a secure VPN connection—far preferable to entering my credit card information over an unsecured Wi-Fi network in a train station coffee shop. And you don’t have to be an Android user like me to use it; Google Fi works on most iPhones, too. —Sarika Bansal, editorial director

The Best Travel Gear and Travel accessories

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Our travel gear has evolved over the years, and while there are still a few old standby items that we recommend, there are a lot of new ideas for you to add to your travel list too. Things have changed a lot in travel. We have to think about a few more things when stepping on a plane, eating out, and staying in hotels. We’ve updated our travel packing list to include the best travel gear for 2023 and beyond!

Table of Contents

Best Travel Gear and Travel Accessories

Enjoy our suggestions of items to add to your travel gear list.

When we travel, we carry a lot of electronics including cameras, computers, iPhones even a drone. It’s our job, so we go overboard with gear, you don’t have to carry so much, but the travel gear listed below are great options to support the electronics you bring with you. For charging, storing, and keeping everything safe we’ve got you covered.

Cool Travel Tech Gear

1. Belkin Mini Surge Protector

The Belkin Surge Protector has three plugs to charge multiple items as well as two USB ports to charge things like your iPhone or camera. We can charge five items at once and only have to carry one adapter with us. The surge protector also ensures that our electronics never get fried in unstable environments. We travel to some sketchy destinations and it’s not uncommon for power surges that could easily ruin your computer.

2. Portable USB Charger

Have you ever made a point of going into a coffee shop or restaurant just to use a plug to charge your phone? Well, if you get yourself a portable USB external battery charger you won’t have to worry about missing calls or updating facebook during your travels ever again.

Make sure to get one with two outlets and 20000 mAh so you have lots of charges. We’ve charged GoPros and cameras with our portable chargers and never miss a shot! This has been a lifesaver on safaris when we’re out all day and the batteries go dead on our cameras. We never miss a shot!

3. World Travel Adapter

Forget all the different adapters you used to have to dig out of a drawer before traveling, now you can get all the world’s power outlets in one cube. The World Travel Adapters have come a long way. Wherever you land, you’ll have the right plug at your fingertips in one compact place. All you have to do is fold or pull out the right plug for the right country and you are good to go. We will never go back to the old individual adapters. Check it out.

See our full travel packing list at The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

4. Gear Ties

Have you noticed that with all the electronics that we’re all carrying, our charging cables are getting all mixed up and tangled? When we pack our iPhone cables, computer chords, and camera chargers, we wrap up all the loose ends with Gear Ties They’re way better than tape or zip ties because they coil and uncoil with ease.

Best Travel Organizers

5. Packing Cubes

These nylon sacks help to organize our gear and clothing and free up a lot of space. I put my clothes in color-coded cubes. Underwear in white, shirts in red, shorts and skirts in blue. They are lightweight and durable and we have had some of our packing cubes for nearly a decade. We can stuff our clothing into them and have a completely neat trip back. We recently read that Eagle Creek has gone out of business, but they are still on Amazon for now here at Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cubes . That is what we use, but you can also look at Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set

6. Compression Cubes

If you want to save space in your travel bags, Compression Cubes are an amazing addition. The   Eagle Creek Compression Cube Set is an excellent choice. They act as stuff sacks where we can cram our clothes into a bag and then zip it closed to free up even more space in our backpacks. We cram odds and ends in, pack it to the max and then use the second zipper to compress it down to a small and neat little bag holding everything.

7. Toiletry Bag

A good toiletry bag has really kept us organized, neat, and clean. The Packit Wallaby is a great organizer that we can hang on the back of doors. Its zipper pockets keep things from falling out and it is compact enough that it doesn’t take up the space of bulky leather toiletry bags. Read more: Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing

8. Foldable Hiking Bag

Even if we are staying at a five-star resort and using our travel pro suitcase instead of a backpack, we like to keep a small foldable hiking bag on hand. This bag is a great lightweight option to add to your packing list. It saves space, is very lightweight, and folds up to pocket size. It is perfect to fill with beach items and essential hiking gear and it can hold some small photography equipment. We always have it as part of our travel gear list. Check it out on Amazon

Another accessory we keep in our bag is a small waterproof dry bag. Get dry bags that are lightweight. when kayaking, hiking through rain, or heading out on a boat, we love having our photography gear and even our wallets in a waterproof bag rather than a regular bag. Plus, if you are kayaking or canoeing, you can hook the bag onto the boat so you won’t lose your valuables. Buy it now

Unique Travel Gadgets

10. Hidden USB

Luckily she was organized and had all her travel documents backed up. You too can keep backups of all your documents in a USB that never has to leave your body. USB Bracelets and necklaces can hold all backups of your travel documents in one place. Get your Hidden USB here.

11. PacSafe Products

If you are traveling to an area where you don’t feel completely secure or if you are taking a lot of public transportation, we highly recommend PacSafe .

When traveling India, we wrapped the PacSafe’s steel coil around our bags and locked them to our seats and slept easily with peace of mind. When we stayed in questionable accommodation, we’d put all our electronics inside and lock them to something secure. It is amazing for peace of mind.

Read more at The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories Another option for this is to get a padlock and bike chain. It doesn’t completely cover your bags, but it does secure your bags.

• Pacsafe RFIDsafe Blocking Travel Organizer – This carries all my money, passports, and credit cards and it blocks anyone trying to steal our information.
• PacSafe Bag Protector – the steel net goes around your luggage or backpack protecting against theft and you can lock it to anything. This is the best travel gear for anyone backpacking, staying in dorms, and taking a lot of public transport.

12. Iron Socket VPN

While it isn’t exactly a travel gadget and is more of a virtual gadget, this is a great addition for any traveler. If you are using public wireless wifi, a VPN can help to add security to your computer. If you have to do banking, you can cloak your IP address keeping others off your system. A VPN is a must for travel to countries like China too. Behind the iron curtain, you can still access Twitter and Facebook. We also love watching TV when traveling but we find that a lot of our favorite shows aren’t available overseas. A VPN allows you to change your computer’s IP address. Check out Iron Socket VPN

13. E Sim Card

We use Airola for our international sim card. It is a virtual e-sim and we don’t need to change any SIM Cards or put on any stickers. We just purchase data before leaving for our destination and then when we land, we activate the e-sim switching easily from our home sim to our travel sim.

14. Portable Wifi

We’ve been taking things one step further than a SIM Card these days. While traveling in Europe and always rent a MiFi. It’s a personal wifi that uses 3G and allows up to 5 devices at one time to use the Internet. It’s amazing to keep up to date on work and to stay connected with your friends and family.

You order it online and they deliver it to your hotel when you arrive. Once you are done with it, you send it back in the return envelope and you are all done. It’s that easy. There are a few options, we tend to use TepWireless.

Electronics Travel Gear

If you want to take your organization even further, this top-rated electronics organizer is economical, well laid out, durable, and the perfect size for traveling. What I like about its multiple elastic loops for all our cords and it has a holder for SD cards as well. See it here: BAGSMART Electronic Organizer Travel

15. Laptop or Tablet

Even the regular traveler who isn’t working might want to carry a laptop or tablet these days. I have read that remote controls carry a ton of germs. Download your favorite series or travel movies and watch them on your laptop and then you can avoid the entertainment system on the plane and in your hotel room. My laptop has become one of my most used pieces of travel gear. The Macbook Pro 13 inch is small and lightweight like a MacBook Air, but it has the power of a full MacBook Pro for video and photography editing.

16. Portable Hard Drive

When taking travel photos, you want to make sure that you have memories to take home with you. It’s important to back up your photos while on vacation. I’m not lying when I say that we’ve met more than one person who has lost all their photos during their and didn’t back them up. Even if you want to keep the photos on your SIM Card until you get home, back them up on a hard drive too. We love the Samsung T5 2TB hard Drive. This tiny hard drive is as lightweight as it gets, it hold a ton of data and is high quality. I can edit videos directly on this.

17. Noise Cancelling Headphones or EarBuds

Whether you are on a flight, a bus, or a train, noise-canceling headphones are a lifesaver. Many times people are talking too loud, children are crying or there is a lot of noise in general. We put on our noise-canceling headphones (We like Apple’s earbuds pro) and with some mellow music, we sleep like a charm.

18. GoPro Hero 9

For waterproof sports cameras, you really can’t beat the GoPro. We have been using GoPros since they first came out and the GoPro Hero 9 is revolutionary. With a front screen, and a great mic for adventure travel (you don’t necessarily need an external mic for quick talking). It is waterproof, takes high-quality 5k video, and has amazing steadiness if fits all our needs. Add it to your travel gear today. Details here.

19. Kindle Paper White

I actually prefer reading on my iPad, but I have a Kindle as well and it’s great for the outdoors or in bright sun. Save browsing books on the shelf and browse on your own device so that you can sanitize and read with ease. Kindles are great for travel. They are lightweight, free up space (in comparison to several books) and save money. My Kindle editions of books are cheaper than hard copies. Get this Kindle Paper White – it is now also waterproof which is awesome at the beach or by the pool

Best Luggage and Accessories

20. Carryon Luggage

Known as the “Rolls Royce of Luggage”, Sterling Pacific is the top choice for luxury travelers, frequent fliers, and pilots. The 35 L carry-on weighs only 11.5 pounds and its streamlined design is made to fit in the overhead compartments while being roomy enough to hold clothes for a long weekend trip. Its elegant aluminum design is a head turner with full-grain Italian leather handles, a retractable full-aluminum trolley, and Aluminum Wheel Housings making it elegant yet durable.  If you are looking to buy a  gift for a traveler  in your life, or want to treat yourself to a luxury item, you will love this piece of luggage that stands out from the competition.

Another favorite of our carry-on luggage is the Pro  Carry-On with Laptop Pocket  by Level8. It is a prime example of specialized, lightweight luggage. The bag is made with aerospace-grade material to maximize protection yet minimize unnecessary weight. It glides easily, has a pocket for my wallet and laptop and easily fits in most overhead compartments.

21. Roller Luggage / Suitcase

We have graduated from backpacks to TravelPro lolling luggage for our travels. When traveling to cities, islands, or resorts, we really love using proper luggage with wheels. The TravelPro is a high-quality travel bag that has lasted us for years. It is lightweight, durable, and fashionable. Our checked luggage is  TravelPro Maxite 5 Spinner  – If you are traveling to a place that has paved roads and sidewalks, this is the best travel gear for you. Four wheels make it easier to roll and they tend to be more durable.

22. Rolling Duffel

If you aren’t ready to make the switch to a suitcase Eagle Creek’s 28 Road Warrior  rolling duffel is fantastic. It’s not too big so you won’t overpack. it stands up on its own with ease and it is made for stacking packing cubes and wardrobe envelopes.

23. Backpack

Okay, I know I said we don’t use backpacks anymore for our luggage, but that is not entirely true. When traveling to Africa on Safari, to the polar regions on an expedition, or if we are going overland in Southeast Asia, a backpack is still the best option. They are easy to throw onto buses, carry over beaches, and lug through subway stations. We recommend the  Osprey Fairpoint for men  and the  Osprey Fairview for women.

• The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)
• Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
• Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing
• Packing a Travel First Aid Kit For Long Term Travel

Carryon vs Non-Carry On

Dave and I don’t do carry-on only. We have been traveling around the world for nearly two decades and we rarely travel carry-on only. What’s the reason? We carry a lot of camera gear when we travel and that pretty much fills up our travel bags. Between our drones, DSLR cameras, laptops, and hard drives, we wouldn’t have a lot of room for our clothing and toiletries.

Besides, we don’t just do beach vacations. We often backpack through mountains, and different climates so we travel with an array of gear including everything from winter layers to hiking boots and water shoes. Just make sure you have a care packing in your carry-on. If you do have a delay and have to wait for your travel bags you will want the essentials.

To help decide what travel bag is right for you, read: The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories

Best Travel Photography Bags

24. Adventure Camera Backpack

Shimoda Explore 40 adventure camera backpack is well organized and can hold all of my photography gear. In addition to that, it is durable, comes with a rain cover, has a waterproof zipper, utilizes a rear entry (so I don’t have to worry about thieves), it uses a modular insert system that allows me to customize the inside of the bag and take things in and out with ease and it is carry-on friendly. I use it for hiking and walking around the city. It is by far my favorite photography backpack to date.

25. Small Camera Bag

Deb uses the Peak Design Messanger Bag for her videography gear. It is a fantastic piece of gear that she wears over the shoulder. It carries my DSLR video camera, Go Pro Hero 8s, phone, and computer. Plus there are pockets for wallets and phones. Peak Design Everyday Messenger V2

Photography Gear

We have an entire article sharing our complete photography gear list .

You can take a lot of great photos these days with your smartphone, so if you aren’t looking for completely professional photos, our iPhone combined with the GoPro Hero 9 does the trick. But we also have a drone, 3 DSLRs (two for photography, and one for video) plus a small vlogging Sony camera. See our complete photography gear list here.

Health and Safety Gadgets

26. Collapsible Refillable Water Bottle

Get this collapsible water bottle to take through airport security and to reuse cutting down on waste. Staying hydrated helps your immune system so having water on hand is a must. Being Collapsible, it goes through security with ease and save space in your carry-on bag. Buy it here.

27. SteriPen

The SteriPen purifies water in a snap, it is a great compliment to your water bottle and it an essential part of our travel accessories. You can fill your reusable water bottle with tap water and even water from lakes and rivers and purify the water using the Steripens UV lighting. Another alternative that we have used is a LifeStraw. It is a great two-in-one water bottle and water purifier. But I prefer the water bottle with Streripen as I can purify a lot of water at once and I don’t have to drink out of a filter, I have an open lid. But check it out here and decide what works for you.

28. UV Phone Sanitizer

Let’s face it, our phones are a cesspool of germs. We carry them everywhere, they are a part of us, but we never clean them properly. This UV Phone Sanitizer and Charger kills 99% of bacteria and viruses that build up on your phone. It’s fast easy and will help to keep the germs away. Get it on Amazon for $27.95

29. More Travel Accessories for safety

It’s a good idea to pack a few travel essentials for hygiene and cleaning in your carry-on bags. Travel-size hand sanitizer spray, disinfectant wipes, and surgical gloves are great items to keep on hand. We always have surgical gloves in our first aid kit. Make sure they are lightweight, travel size to go through security (less than 50 ml)

• Travel Size Lysol Disinfectant Wipes
• Mrs. Myers Clean Day Antibacterial Spray Lavender Scent.
• MedPride Surgical Gloves
• This compact first aid kit comes with the essentials that you can easily add to.
• See our full essential travel first aid kit list.

Travel Essentials

30. Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance and in a post-COVID World, this has never been more important. We have used our travel insurance on four continents including being airlifted out of the Amazon when Dave broke his back. We have several articles highlighting the importance of travel insurance that you can read below. But the best advice we can give is to call your company before you fly to ask about restrictions, what it includes, how much your deductible is, and what activities you are allowed to do on your vacation.

Read our Travel Insurance Tips

• Travel Insurance During Covid-19 What You Need to Know
• Busting 5 Common Travel Insurance Myths
• Do I Really Need Travel Medical Insurance?
• How We Choose Travel Insurance To Best Suit Our Needs

31. Ear Plugs

These may seem obvious, but I cannot tell you how many times I’ve forgotten my earplugs. Or I have forgotten to keep them on me while riding on a bus or train. If you don’t want to sleep with music, make sure you pack earplugs. When backpacking around the world on a budget, you will be staying in some pretty loud hotels (say someone snoring next door?) and earplugs are a must for any world traveler. Get them on Amazon

We now also use a white noise app and listen to the sound of a fan or ocean waves to rock us to sleep. It drowns out thumping music and loud neighbors.

32. Headlamp

I know what you are thinking. But I have a flashlight on my phone! That is true, but a headlamp is a must for hiking, camping, or even doing astral photography. It is more powerful than your phone light and it is hands-free so you can wear it on your head and get all your tasks done. We like to invest in a high-quality headlamp for optimal lighting and this Black Diamond headlamp is also rechargeable by USB. Read our tips for camping: 25 Camping Tips and Hacks for Happy Campers

For more ideas for travel gear and gadgets, check out the Ultimate Travel Packing List

Do you have any travel gear suggestions that you can’t live without? Have you discovered a new gadget or item that everyone should pack in their travel kit? We’d love to hear your thoughts.

• Check out our complete travel packing list here: The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

Eager for more travel tips?

If you enjoyed our list of the best travel organizers, why not check out some of our other travel packing tips to help you get the most out of your next vacation?

• Packing for Europe – Tips That Will Make Your Travel Life Easier
• Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
• The Ultimate Camping Gear List
• The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories
• Best Travel Tips From 20 Years Traveling the World

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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28 thoughts on “The Best Travel Gear and Travel accessories”

Not a gadget, but I take several feet of gaffer tape (think duct tape for the real world) with me when I travel. It can be rolled on itself for travel (or around a qtip, if you must). Can be used for “field expedient repair” of shoes, pants, and bags.

Travel insurance is most important in Covid 19 Pandemic. Thanks for the article!

Why oh why have I only just came across your site! You guys are amazing. This list is so handy, a couple things I never thought about. I am about to make the move out to Australia and do a working holiday visa for a couple years before maybe making the full move out. Your guides are really helpful! Stay safe!

Hey guys – just came across your list. Great stuff! I love the Belkin surge protector. I never take a trip without mine. I would add the Dream Essentials Escape Luxury Sleep Mask – I honestly can no longer sleep without it. It has little eye sockets – awesomeness. Also a pack-it folder is a must. At least if the trip involves wearing descent looking clothes. I love the Bluff Works pants though. I’ll have to check them out.

Thanks for the tip on the mask. We’ll check it out. We’re also going to look for the folder, we have never had to worry about clothes looking good in the past, but now that we are doing more business travel, it’s becoming an issue and we didn’t know how to pack nice clothes without wrinkling them.

Ha, I love the list. I especially love the pegless clothes line as I usually had to wash my clothes during my trip. One thing I would suggest is this foldaway travel bag http://shop.thespicejourney.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=64&product_id=58 I have another version – black – but these ones are so cute. I love putting my last minute souvenirs-hunting in this bag.

I am so so happy you wrote this article – it has on it almost everything we have been talking about. Ugh – all my business ideas out the window haha! As you can imagine, packing up a motorbike is really challenging as both weight and size are critical.. very similar to backpacking. Sadly, we have 3 panniers to share so items are very, very limited. We have been looking into solar chargers, which may be a good addition..?

Love my clothesline and have to try the goodwill. Hope Bluffworks makes women’s travel pants soon!

*Hoboroll not goodwill – darn incorrect!

Wow! I want every single one of theses gadgets! They seem so useful! It’s a shame I’m reading this now, just a day before a 3 weeks holiday. I’ll make sure to check them out for next time!:)

Thanks for the list!!

Hoborolls is an idea but I just use my side pockets for small items, one for my 4 pairs of socks, and the other for my 5 pairs of Pop&Go PopandGo Knickers.

The digital age has taken the world by storm, with the introduction of the camera phone, photo digital imagery tools are at the fingertips of consumers today because they are built-in to low end and high end styled cellular devices that are the rage with American all over the country.,

Our personal internet page <"' http://www.prettygoddess.com/

Love the Hoboroll from GobiGear and the Belkin. Those are always in my gear bag. I’ll have to check out that VPN. I have been using Hide My Ass for a while now which is great too.

Ha, what is Hide My Ass? I like the sounds of it:-)

In China, we used Astrill, which is another really popular VPN. I don’t know about the HMN (other than the great name), but Astrill allows you to switch locations. Personally, I find Portland and Seattle to be the best connections.

If you can beat the Chinese government, you can beat anyone! Hehe

Awesome suggestions – I love finding things that just work, that just make sense. Keep the gear reviews coming!

This is a very good post. I want a hobo roll now.

Will do, we’re already gathering more ideas for gear that we’ve tried and loved.

Thanks! I’ve enjoyed using the Belkin many times. It helps at airports when the electrical outlets are all taken. I can offer to share and help others and myself! The Lacie HD has also been a useful travel ally. I look forward to checking out your other recommends.

I also suggest packing SPF clothing from SunPrecaution. http://luxurytravelmavens.com/destinations/spfclothesfortropicshome/ You still need Sunblock for your face and hands, but it can easily take care of the rest of you and is versatile for jungle, sea or restaurant. Happy Travels! @TravelExplorer

I love my pegless clothesline! Such a simple idea, but so useful!

Love the suggestions, going to look more into mifi.

One thing we use that saves us a bit of money traveling through Central and South America is the Steripen. You just pop it in your glass of tap water for 50 seconds, and hey presto, you have purified water! It’s crazy how buying bottled water all the time can eat into your travel budget.

Excellent list! I was looking at the Lacie Rugged Hard Drive a few days ago. I think the items 4, 6, 7 & 8 are must haves for any traveler these days.

Great stuff, I like these Go Sim and Mifi gadgets, I will go and buy those strait away

Can you use the Belkin surge protector overseas in countries that have 220V power? I’ve tried with others and they fry.

No, thats the only problem i have with it…since it is a surge protector, it cant handle autoswitching/220-240v. Otherwise, I take it everywhere, even using it on planes.

These are some cool gadgets!

Wonderful article. For me it has to be my Grid-it to keep all my wires neatly arranged and flat and GoToobs for perfect liquid travel containers. Now Im really hoping there’s a female equivalent to those gorgeous Bluff Work Pants to help with stylish travelling!

I have the clothesline and must admit that it is super useful.I’ll have to check our the hoboroll and mifi. Thanks for sharing.

23 Best Travel Accessories for Every Kind of Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Accessories

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

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

What to Consider When Buying Travel Accessories

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

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

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

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How We Selected These Travel Accessories

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

Twelve South AirFly Pro

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

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

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

Sekoess Airplane Footrest

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

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

Bellroy Classic Pouch

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

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

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

Cadence Weekender Bundle

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

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

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

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

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

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

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

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

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

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

Cabeau S3 Evolution

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

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

Alongza Portable Charger

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

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

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

HiBar Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

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

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

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

Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

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

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

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

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

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

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

Sony WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

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

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

JBL Clip 4 Speaker

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

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

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

Panasonic Lumix G7 4K Camera

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

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

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

Peak Design Packing Cube

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

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

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

Thule Subterra Carry-on Roller

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

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

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

Baseus Blade

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

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

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

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

Ombraz Armless Sunglasses

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

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

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

CM Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

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

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

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

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

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} Best Product Reviews of 2024 .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

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The 12 Best Travel Products of Summer 2022

The right gear makes exploring easy.

By Gear Patrol

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

This story is part of the 2022 Summer Gear Awards. To see the full list of winners, click here .

Whether you’re taking to the skies for the first time in two years or packing the car for a cross-country trip , travel is, well, back; perhaps not in the ways we’re used to, but the ritual of leaving where you live for somewhere else has been changed forever. It has new steps; new rules; new things to consider, too. As such, you need to be ready for anything. Having the right gear makes every trip easier , even if it makes your luggage heavier.

Best Sunglass Case

Ettinger Spectrum Spectacle Case

• $135.00 at Todd Snyder

The Spectrum Spectacle Case’s curved shape makes it easy to hold or slip into a pant pocket. Plus, the leather exterior will prevent dirt and grime from getting to your lenses, and the soft suede interior will cushion bumps or drops.

RELATED: The Best Cases for Your Specs

Best Body Wipes

Bravo Sierra Antibacterial Body Wipes

• $14.00 at Bravo Sierra

Long rides in the car without stopping are known to incubate BO. Bravo Sierra’s body wipes can stand in for a shower in a pinch — whether you’re ultra-stinky or just sticky from a few laps in the pool.

Related: How to Shower Better

Best Motorcycle Helmet

AGV AX9 Pacific Road Helmet

• $550.00 at Revzilla

The AX9 helmet boasts incredibly lightweight carbon fiber construction, a versatile visor and an adjustable chin guard port for getting airflow where you need it. It also looks pretty badass.

RELATED: Tarform’s Electric Motorcycles Are Ready to Rock — Sustainably

Best Portable Jump Starter

Uncharted Supply Co. The Zeus

• $119.25 at Huckberry $159.00 (25% off)

With 20,000 mAh of power, the portable Zeus has enough juice to recharge everything, from the largest trucks to every single USB device in your backpack.

RELATED: The Electric Truck Buying Guide

Best Motorcycle Jacket

Belstaff Temple Motorcycle Jacket

• $395.00 at Belstaff

The Temple Jacket’s combination of vintage style and lightweight nylon shell with mesh venting makes it the best option for keeping cool all summer long.

RELATED: The Most Iconic Motorcycles of All Time

Best Car Accessory

Spotify Car Thing

• $30.00 at Spotify $90.00 (67% off)

The Car Thing is the ultimate Spotify streaming device for your car. It has a big touchscreen that makes navigating playlists and podcasts super easy, plus a built-in voice assistant so you can control your music hands-free.

RELATED: How to Become a Spotify Power User

Best Portable Gaming PC

Valve Steam Deck

• $649.00 at Steam

This first-of-its-kind portable console allows you to play games you’d typically only be able to access on a PC or a next-gen console anywhere you want — no wireless mouse or keyboard required.

RELATED: Why ‘Gaming’ Chairs Suck

Best Portable iPhone Charger

Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger

• $150.00 at ZAGG

Thanks to its support for MagSafe fast charging, this handy travel gadget can quickly and wirelessly charge your new iPhone, your Apple Watch and your AirPods Pro all at the same time. It also folds up into a compact, travel-friendly design.

RELATED: The Best MagSafe Chargers

Best Duffle Bag

Baboon Go-Bag — Small (40L)

• $199.00 at Baboon

This duffel is straight-up clever: it’s made to be carried just about any way you could want; it’s packed with pockets for easy organizing; and it’s got a durable, waterproof shell.

RELATED: The Best Duffle Bags for Short Trips

Best Everyday Backpack

Jansport Right Pack

• $60.00 at Jansport

This is the Jansport backpack you know and love, but upgraded. The Right Pack features a padded laptop sleeve, a water bottle side pocket and legit old-school style.

RELATED: The 25 Best Everyday Backpacks

Best Packing Cube

Peak Design Packing Cube

• $30.00 at Peak Design

PD’s cube features a smart zipper system that adapts to how much you’re packing, shrinking and growing accordingly. Elegantly designed, it’s also easy to access and divide as necessary.

RELATED: How to Pack a Suitcase (the Right Way)

Best Hand Sanitizer

D.S. & Durga Big Sur After Rain Hand Sanitizer

• $30.00 at Nordstrom

Hand sanitizer might as well be pleasant, right? Stay safe and healthy with this one — but also treat your hands and senses with moisturizer and scents of eucalyptus, magnolia and wet wood.

RELATED: Hand Sanitizer Vs. Hand Soap, Explained

Related Topics

57 Brilliant Travel Accessories Every Traveller Must Have [2024 Edition]

Travel smarter and safer in 2024 with 57 of the best brilliant travel accessories and travel gadgets. From the best adapters, earplugs, space-savers, travel safety to portable chargers.

1. this ergonomic travel pillow.

The smart design of this washable pillow prevents your head from falling forwards as you sleep. Suitable for adults and children and perfect to use on airplanes, buses, trains, cars, camping, while backpacking, wheelchairs, airport terminals, or even while watching TV.

Buy it here

2. Pack more with these awesome space bags ! I have 20 of them!

Saving space in your suitcase is no longer a challenge with these amazing space bags that push out the air when rolled up. You effectively gain up to 50% more space in your baggage. I use the larger ones at home and the smaller ones for travel. They make for great organisers too!

Buy them here

3. Keep your dirty clothes separate with this handing laundry bag

Keep your dirty clothes organized and separate. This handy GOMATIC hanging laundry bag has a strap to attach it to a doorknob. Once your laundry bag is full, you can easily pack it and have it ready to empty straight into your washing machine when you get home. Buy it here.

4. Get this cute secret pocket infinity scarf

5. This Travel-sized Wireless Router with USB Media Storage

Convert any wired network to a wireless network and stay connected! Not only that you can also stream your videos, photos, and music to your connected media devices. If that wasn’t enough, back up and free up space on your mobile devices by using an attached USB flash drive or hard disk.

6. This Travel Door Alarm

Travelling alone or just wanted added peace of mind in your accommodation? Attach this pocket-sized alarm to your door or window and be alerted the second there is an intruder. There’s also a built-in LED flashlight so there’s no fumbling in the dark.

7. This Multi-Bag Stacker

No more bag juggling or pushing multiple trolleys/carts, just attached this nifty strap that connects suitcases and bags together through their handles.

8. These Amazing Space-Saving Laundry Soap Sheets

Add water and the sheet will dissolve instantly. They also come in shaving, body wash and hand soap versions.

9. Protect your phone from water, drops and scratches with this Lifeproof Case

10. this digital luggage scale.

You’ll never be surprised with having to pay for excess weight at the airport again. This compact and lightweight luggage scale can weigh up to 110 lb / 50 kg luggage. No batteries required.

11. No more breaks and leak with this inflatable bottle bag

This versatile roll-up travel bag suspends items in an inflatable air cushion to protect your bottles such as wine and olive oil. No more nasty surprises and messy spills when you open your suitcase.

12. Boost Circulation with these highly-rated compressions socks

13. Keep your Laptop and Other Items safe with a Portable Safe

14. This Vintage Laptop and Travel Backpack that Charges your Gadgets

15. The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Ever Need PLUS Dual USB Ports (Covers 150 Countries)

16. This inspirational luggage tag with card slot

17. Always Be Ready with a Pocket, Picnic and Beach Blanket

18. For Those Who Love a Mini Electric Toothbrush

19. Keep Your Drinks Hot on Long Haul Flights with this Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Different Colours Available)

20. Get This Gorgeous Multi-Use Travel, Hiking, Camping Bag Rucksack

21. This Smartest Carry-on suitcase Built-in USB Charger

22. Keep your toiletries organized with this waterproof organizer

23. Stay clean with these laundry sachets 

24. This personalised passport holder and protector  

25. Charge multiple accessories super fast with this portable compact charger

26. Get some shuteye with this contoured sleep mask

27. Avoid the knots and get this nifty cable organizer

28. Sleep anywhere with the ultimate ergonomic neck supporter

29. Pack like a boss with these space-saving packing cubes with shoe bag

Keep your gear organised with these travel cubes in assorted sizes. Buy it here

30. Keep your stuff safe with this TSA approved luggage lock

31. Keep your jewellery organized with this compact jewellery box

32. Never buy cabin luggage again with this durable and lightweight case

33. Stay hydrated with this collapsible water bottle

34. Breathe easy with this USB or battery operated mini humidifier

35. Take your music with you with this wireless and waterproof Bluetooth speaker

36. Get safe drinking water wherever you go with the LifeStraw water filter

37. Get 18 in 1 multi-purpose credit card size pocket tool

38. These cabin-approved leak-proof travel bottles for makeup and cosmetics

39. Stay charged on the go with this mini power bank

40. Take your phone underwater with a universal waterproof case

41. Protect your camera with this anti-theft shoulder strap by PacSafe

This camera strap is essential for supporting heavy cameras like DSLRs and even popular travel cameras such as Mirrorless ones.

Buy it here $26.87

42. Take this lightweight tripod anywhere and wirelessly take pictures and video

43. Protect your gear with this anti-theft shockproof backpack that’s ScanSmart TSA friendly and water resistant

44. Charge your phone and tablet with this USB solar charger

45. Keep your phone clean with this sanitizer and universal phone charger

46. Put your feel up with this compact foot hammock

47. hang up your washing with this travel clothes line.

No more hanging your delicates over hotel room chairs. This pegless washing line stretches up to 2.5metre and can be to affixed to either a  wall or furniture with its metal hooks or suction cups.

48. Get this beautiful waterproof travel and passport wallet

49. This Convenient Water Bottle with Built-in Pill Organizer

Great way to take your medication while on the go! This water bottle can store your medication for each day of the week. The medication holder can also be detached. Holding 23 oz. or 600ml, the bottle cap also doubles as a cup. Ingenious!

50. Keep all your documents in once place with this travel wallet

51. Alert others when in trouble with this safety whistle

52. Stay entertained with movies, TV shows, songs, Kindle e-books, apps and games on Kindle Fire

Buy on Amazon for $79.99

53. Wash your clothes wherever you are with this machine quality wash bag

Buy on Amazon for $42.44

54. This Clever Tank Top  with Secret Pockets

Keep your  passport, cash and credit cards safe with this versatile tank top. Perfect for both warm and cool climates. It can even fit your cell phones and keys.

Buy on Amazon

55. This Anti-Crease Shirt Transporter

Save time on ironing! This Tupperware for shirts and blouses is called the Shirt Shuttler, perfect for those trips when you know you’ll be spending a night out on the town or in a boardroom, or both!

Buy on Amazon for $24.99

56. This Optical Camera Lens for Smartphones and Tablets

57. The only worldwide travel charger and power adapter you’ll ever need  (UK/US/AU/EU/JP) + Dual USB Ports

Buy on Amazon for $25.99

Want more? Check out these 43 Amazing Money-Saving Tips for Smart Travellers

Stay tuned! I’m constantly updating this page as I discover the latest and greatest travel accessories. If you’re going backpacking or long-term travelling, check out my ultimate travel packing list . Got a favourite travel accessory? Share it below! 🙂

Want more travel tips? Don’t miss these

• How to Travel Cheap: Ultimate Guide to 108 Travel Resources
• 43 Amazing Money-Saving Travel Tips and Hacks
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• 10 Simple Long Haul Flight Tips for Arriving Rested and Relaxed
• 23 Top Travel Essentials: Ultimate Travel Packing List for Backpackers
• What Pack for Winter in Norway: 17 Must-Have Packing Items
• 10 Travel Hacks That’ll Make Your First Solo Trip A Total Breeze
• 20 Clever Ways to Staying Fit While Travelling You Should Try

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Over to you!

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Howdy Michele, I love to travel. I’ve read so many posts about travel gadgets, but you are the best one. Your article was beneficial in finding the necessary devices. I personally like an anti-theft shockproof backpack, which is ScanSmart TSA friendly and water-resistant. It is useful for everyone.

Thank you so much, Kim 🙂

Hello, I have gone through your guide and seems to be interesting though I have one more concern on the WiFi devices. Can you recommend me on the best Pocket Device that will work well on anywhere I travel. I have using AllDayWifi but its very slow on their international data plan. I have been considering RentnConnect though I know very little about it

Hi Collins, have you considered this Skyroam device ? It one of the leaders in the market and very compact.

What about this Trackimo 3G Travel Tracker device this has Light Exposure Sensor – detect/alerts when package or luggage is opened. I am currently using this tracker and i found this very useful to me every time i go travel around the world 🙂

Excellent addition Helen, thank you 🙂

A tracking device would be a great addition to this list.

Amazing! This makes traveling easier.

Definitely brilliant ideas worth sharing

This IS such a cool list! I thought I had everything, but then I found out the door travel alarm (never would’ve thought of it)!. And I wonder how good the neck support (#33) is because there were PLENTY of times I could have used something like that on my trips.

Hey Trang, the door alarm is such a great idea especially for those times when you just don’t feel safe 🙂 Is there anything you’d add to the list?

I just carry a small rubber door stop wedge.

WOW! This is one extensive list of all things travel and certainly one that I will be using to give hints to my friends and family round the holiday season. The new ScanSmart backpack along with the waterproof phone case and solar charger are on top of my list. However my top two purchases are going to be the smart suitcase and the backpack which are absolutely brilliant. Thanks for such a cool list.

Hi Michele, There are all great ideas. I have one more suggestion for you. Smart Blanket! I used it when flying to Zurich to see my son and his family. The plane was freezing, and there were no blankets to be had. I was the only one that was warm and cozy for the whole 8 hours. I love mine. Got it on Amazon http://amzn.to/2hTYlOP I paid $49.00 for mine. Think they are having a sale on them now. Hope you like my suggestion.

The door alarm and aeroplane pillow are a great idea to stay comfy and safe! I always take an extension lead when I travel; so that I have more plug sockets in a hotel room, and it also means you don’t need as many adapters when you travel. You also can’t go wrong with baby wipes and small-ish plastic bags in case a seat is wet, a bottle is leaking or you’ve got a mark on your clothes! ✈️?

All brilliant ideas Emily 🙂 Thanks for sharing. I love the baby wipes idea!

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15 essentials you should always pack, according to a travel writer

Whether you hit the road once a year or you're a frequent flier with premium status, traveling is stressful, especially when you don't have the right travel gear. Even when you're not in the middle of a pandemic there are countless elements outside of your control, like security lines , bag check and finding space in the plane's overhead compartment storage, just to name a few.

Shop 19 family vacation ideas your teenager will actually be excited about

Fortunately, you're in charge of what you bring . For example, a best-in-class carry-on that actually fits in the overhead bin can be all the difference between an easy getaway and a worrisome one. Then there are all the game-changing accessories — many designed by travelers, for travelers — that can elevate your trip from good to great. From compression bags that allow you to pack twice as much to a stow-and-go organizer that keeps everything in its place, here are 14 must-have travel gear picks for 2022.

Must-have travel gear

Hibag 12-pack roll-up space saver storage bags.

12 Travel Compression Bags

Until you try these Shop TODAY writer-approved compression bags you'll never know how much air you're inadvertently packing in your suitcase. Even full, this set — which include six medium bags and six large bags — can take up as little as 20 percent of the space your things would normally take up, the brand says. The best part is there's no need for a vacuum or pump. Simply zip the bags shut, they're airtight, and then roll them up. On Amazon they have a 4.4-star average rating from more than 5,200 reviews.

Stow-N-Go Small Travel Organizer

Travel Luggage Organizer and Packing Cube Space Saver

If packing cubes aren't your thing for staying organized while traveling , consider this collapsible shelving unit that will keep your clothes where they're supposed to be (and wrinkle-free). Thanks to two hooks it easily hangs in any hotel closet. There's even a zippered compartment at the bottom for shoes or dirty clothes you want to keep separate from the clean stuff.

Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

This beyond-durable toiletries bag isn't new. It's been a bestseller at L.L. Bean, where it has a 4.8-star average rating, for years. The handle is designed to "withstand breaking force of 300 pounds," according to the brand. They also shared built-in-hook can hold up to 25 pounds, and the YKK zippers will last 20,000 zips and unzips! It comes in 11 colors and three sizes including a family size. They all feature plenty of pockets and a removable mirror and shower caddy. For an extra touch of personalization while you travel, you can monogram it with your initials for an additional $8. (It also makes a great grad gift .)

Shacke Pak Packing Cubes

5 Set Packing Cubes with Laundry Bag

These flight attendant-approved packing cubes have an impressive 4.8-star average rating from nearly 15,000 reviews. They come in seven colors and are made of quality materials. In other words, you won't have to worry about tears or broken zippers after heavy use. Each set includes a laundry bag and four cubes: one small, medium, large and extra large. "In the XL cube I was able to pack 4 pairs of jeans, 2 sweaters, 8 pairs of underwear, 2 sets of running compression pants, and 2 pairs of basketball socks," writes one reviewer.

Shop How to create a capsule wardrobe for travel, according to stylists

Anker portable charger.

Portable Charger 10000mAh Battery Pack

There are still plenty of planes out there without charging ports. And sometimes, the ones that have them don't work. That's why it pays to pack this portable charger. On a complete charge it is capable of fully charging a tablet, an iPhone 13 twice and a Galaxy S21 1.6 times, according to the brand. At just 0.5-inches wide, it's one of the slimmest portable chargers out there. It's also designed to be durable with a three-feet drop test and safety features like overcharge protection, short circuit protection and temperature control. On Amazon, it has a 4.7-star average rating from nearly 45,000 reviews.

Pillow Slippers

Rosyclo Pillow Slides Slippers

If you're looking for a pair of slippers to throw in your travel bag for the hotel room, quick walks out to the pool or the beach, these No. 1 bestselling pillow slides are perfect. Pillow slides are not only super trendy right now, but this lightweight pair is designed to be quick-drying and washable, so you shouldn't mess up your clothes if you're just throwing it in your suitcase or backpack.

Kizik The Madrid Eco-Knit Slip-On Sneakers

Madrid Eco-Knit Slip-On Sneakers

When you're preparing for the airport, you should think about your shoes. Lightweight options that are supportive enough for long walks to the gate, but are easy off and on for TSA lines, are best. These super popular (they've gone viral on TikTok) options are made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles, according to the brand, but that's not the biggest selling point. They are designed with a "rebound heel" so when you slip them on, the back will easily pop up — no readjusting or catching on the back of your foot.

Hydro Flask

24-Ounce Standard Mouth Bottle

Since a bottle of water at the airport can easily set you back $5, this uber-popular insulated bottle pays for itself after just seven trips. It comes in an array of colors and has tons of 5-star reviews from Hydro Flask fans who love that it keeps cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks hot for up to six hours.

MZOO Sleep Eye Mask

S3D Contoured Cup Sleeping Mask

Even when they dim the cabin lights there's no guarantee your seat-mate won't have their reading light on. That's where a quality eye mask comes in handy. Arguably the best one out there, the MZOO Sleep Eye Mask has a 4.7-star average rating from nearly 63,000 reviews. What makes it great is its memory foam padding, fully adjustable strap and its unique 3-D design (so there's no pressure on your eyes). Don't want to spend $20 on an eye mask? Consider this Shop TODAY-approved eye mask for just $10 .

Brazilian Joia Dry Shampoo

It's easy to skip a shampoo or two when you're on the road (or a long-haul flight). That's why a dry shampoo can easily become a traveler's BFF. This is the travel-size version of the Shop TODAY-approved Sol de Janeiro dry shampoo . Just shake and spray on your roots to absorb any accumulated oil and dirt. It elevates your hair from flat to full in seconds and leaves it smelling fresh — Sol de Janeiro's signature Cheirosa '62 scent. According to the brand, it also contains Pro-Vitamin B5 so it won't dry out your scalp.

The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater

The Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater Womens

One of Shop TODAY's favorite cashmere sweaters under $100 , this wardrobe staple is warm enough for even the coldest of airplane cabins. Yet, it's also incredibly lightweight so it doesn't take up half of your bag the way a hoodie would. On the soft scale, the 100 percent cashmere used comes in at "heavenly soft," according to the brand. So even if you're stuck in a middle seat, you'll at least be in something soothing. Choose from 20 colors in sizes XXS-XXL.

Cacala Turkish Beach Bath Towel

Turkish Beach Bath Towels

This Shop TODAY-approved Turkish towel is about as versatile as it gets. Use it as a blanket on the plane, a scarf on the street, a prop during yoga and of course, as a towel at the beach. It's packable: taking up about half of the space a terry cloth towel would take up. And because it's made with longer fibers that get smoother with each wash, it's about twice as soft. While there are a lot of great, affordable Turkish towels out there, the Cacala Turkish beach Bath Towel comes in 38 gorgeous colors and boasts a 4.6-star average rating from more than 3,600 reviews.

Baboon To The Moon Sling Bag

Sling Bag (1.2L)

This sling bag is great for just carrying around the necessities. It is designed to be waterproof and double-stitching to be durable, whether you're using it as a personal item for the plane or as your go-to bag for city excursions. It can pack more than 1L worth of personal effects, and has an adjustable strap to keep it comfortable and safely close to your body.

Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Del Dia Travel Pack

Allpa 42L Del Día

This overachieving 42-liter travel pack with a 4.9-star average rating will make you a Cotopaxi convert for life. Why? For starters, it has a torso strap and adjustable hip belt, so weight is designed to be distributed evenly (preventing back pain). It also has three padded sleeves for electronics, YKK security zippers to prevent pickpockets and a handy rain cover.

Monos Carry-On

Originally $281, the self-proclaimed "iPhone of carry-ons" is now marked down to $225. This sleek, sophisticated suitcase comes in eight colors, all of which feature serious upgrades. Think the quietest of wheels, a virtually unbreakable polycarbonate shell and the most ergonomic of handles. The designers went above and beyond on the inside, too. They used durable, waterproof and even anti-bacterial fabric to line the interiors.

For more stories like this, check out:

• How to create a capsule wardrobe for travel, according to stylists
• 23 problem-solving Amazon finds you didn’t know you needed
• This organizing bin transformed my cluttered freezer in less than 15 minutes

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The Best Men’s Travel Gear of 2022

Upgrade to these versatile trip staples

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Chacos Chillos Sneakers ($65)

This sandal-sneaker love child proved extremely versatile for warm-weather travel . The breathable canvas lace-up is snug and supportive enough for day hikes, sleek enough to wear with jeans, and has a crushable heel, so you can wear it as a cushy slip-on. (7–14)

Royal Robbins ReadyDry Briefs ($22)

Comfortable, moisture-wicking underwear is the unsung hero of a precision travel kit. The ReadyDry is made from wildly soft recycled polyester and was supportive enough for testers to wear on ten-mile trail runs. Plus, it dries extremely fast, ideal for hand-washing in hotel-room sinks. (S–XXL)

Marmot X Pendleton Waist Pack ($40)

This three-liter waist pack weighs four ounces and is stuffed with travel-nerd features like gear loops, a covert passport pocket that rests against your waist, and an adjustable—and stylish—lightweight belt with a print by Pendleton. It stuffs down to the size of an orange.

Sponsor Content Huk Pursuit Volley Shorts ($35)

The Pursuit Volley Shorts are about to be your go to summer companion. With +30 UPF Sun Protections, blended fabric with flexibility and stretch, a durable water repellent finish and quick drying, it’s the ultimate summer short .

Flylow Trailwork Pants ($95)

Flylow’s Trailwork pants are a utility player: sturdy enough for physical labor and plenty stretchy for scrambling, with a slim cut that meets date-night standards. The DWR coating kept valuables dry during an hourlong walk in the rain, while the nylon canvas fabric still breathes like cotton. (28–42)

Reigning Champ Polartec Delta Polo ($115)

This top turned one cotton-T-shirt-loving tester into a daily polo wearer. Credit Polartec Delta, which is knit into a raised grid composed of hydrophilic and hydrophobic yarns that wick moisture better than many tech fabrics. We crushed sprint workouts and then earned style compliments during meetings hours later. (XS–XXL)

Taylor Stitch Lined Utility Shirt ($188)

A layer of light recycled polyester fill inside the organic cotton exterior of this shirt kept testers comfortable on outings into the low forties. The Utility is made to take a beating, but everyone raved about how good the slim silhouette looks. (XS–XXL)

Vaer D4 Meridian USA Solar Diver Watch ($339 and up)

The best travel watch does its job without fuss. Testers never had to worry about the D4’s batteries, since they’re solar powered; nor did they have to be careful on beach days—this timepiece is waterproof to 200 meters. Still, the aluminum bezel classes up any outfit.

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The Best Backpacks of 2024

A backpack isn’t just the bag on your back — it's a mobile home, a traveling office, and a ticket to see the world. After shouldering the best — along with the rest — we’ve found the greatest backpacks for any task.

A good backpack is what stands between you and looking like a traveling junk show. And while backpacks come in a blizzard of different shapes, sizes, and uses, the hallmarks of a good backpack are generally the same: comfortable, spacious, well-organized — with a little style thrown in.

Across all disciplines, our experts have tested hundreds of backpacks across a decade of experience — from months-long thru-hikes to minutes-long commutes across town. We packed them full for quick day hikes in the North Cascades, even fuller for backpacking trips in Alaska, and tried to skirt under carry-on limits internationally.

Whether you’re looking for a do-it-all bag, or a specialized pack for the trip you take once a year, we’ve pulled them all together here. During testing, we focused on challenging these bags at what they do best, tested their carrying capacities, and long-term durability, and even sought fashion opinions from strangers.

Below is our selection of 12 of the best backpacks from across the spectrum — from blitz-around commuters to backpacking-ready load haulers, urban grocery-getters, and packs made to travel the globe with. If this is a strange new world to you, consider diving into our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide section for the low-down. Our FAQ and Comparison Chart sections will also lend a little light — otherwise: saddle up your bindle and let’s go.

• Best Overall Backpack: The North Face Recon 30L
• Best Budget Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L
• Best Hiking Daypack: Deuter Speed Lite 25
• Best Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45
• Best Laptop Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Campus Backpack: REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack
• Best Backpacking Backpack: Osprey Aether & Ariel 55

The North Face Recon 30L Backpack

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 11.6'' x 7.5'' x 19.3''
• Compartment access Zippered top access to three compartments
• Material 210D recycled nylon ripstop with non-PFC DWR finish
• Electronic storage 19'' x 11'' laptop sleeve, internal organizer pockets

• Comfortable and adjustable FlexVent suspension system carries weight well
• Fleece-lined pocket for sunnies or glasses
• External compression straps that don’t interfere with zippered access
• Versatile feature set means the pack can be used for everything from hiking to campus
• Women's- and men's-specific versions available
• When fully loaded, smaller internal pocket robs space from the larger main compartment
• Laptop sleeve isn’t quite suspended enough for full protection
• Only comes in one volume

Is it an urban daypack? Or a campus-to-trail bindle? The North Face Recon 30L ($109) is comfortable existing in the interstitial spaces between backpack categories, and that’s exactly why it lands atop our line-up of backpacks — pure versatility. 

Made to pretty much do it all, and do it all well, the Recon is a classic design from The North Face, and our testers loved it for everything from bopping around town to grabbing for a quick jaunt in the hills. The 30 liters of capacity is just about perfect for fully loaded days on campus and is split up into smart compartments to keep your kit organized.

At the rear of the pack, a separate laptop sleeve backs up to the uber-padded back panel and doubles as a water reservoir sleeve. In front of this is the main compartment, which easily swallows books or binders, and is augmented by the secondary pocket in front of it, which is studded with organization. These organizer sleeves vary from padded to fleece-lined to stretch mesh, making them tailored to pretty much anything you want to stuff away.

Carry on the Recon is sweet as — one of the most padded in our testing outside of backpacking packs — and is supported with articulated shoulder straps and a curved back panel. While the American Chiropractic Association certification on the suspension seems gimmicky to us, you at least can feel assured that you won’t fold like a lawn chair while wearing this pack.

Laptop users will likely want to use a sleeve for their hardware, as while the Recon sports a well-padded laptop sleeve, it is only suspended from the bottom of the pack by about ½” — not quite enough in our books to warrant full protection. And as a jack-of-all-trades pack, the North Face Recon has a busy exterior look that might not appeal to those looking for a sleek commuter or work bag.

Comparative daily-driver packs include the Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L, as well as the Mystery Ranch District 18 — both bags that aren’t afraid to take the scenic route to work. The Osprey Aoede Airspeed Backpack also makes a compelling comparison, but in our opinion, it has a less-refined internal organization compared to the Recon, and puts a higher premium on being stylish over jamming in functionality.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

• Capacity 33 L
• Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

• Cheap price
• Available in many different fabric prints
• Unique insulated cooler pocket
• Not many travel-specific features
• Straps don’t pack away

Available out the door at $75 (and often less on sale), the Dakine Campus 33L earns its keep in our travel backpacks category for its excellent value. The tough 600-630D exterior fabric speaks to a pack worth much more, and for the money, we think the Campus makes the grade for a number of different uses.

While its internal organization isn’t quite as robust as the Recon from The North Face, the Campus still offers up a handful of pen, phone, and notebook sleeves, as well as a padded laptop sleeve that will tote a 14” computer. The 33 liters of volume is just about dead-on for what we consider optimal in an everyday pack, and the bag carries the weight well.

Unique to the Campus, there’s also an insulated (read: not waterproof) pocket at the front of the pack to keep a snack chilled while you make your way to work or school. Slim ice packs are the key here, and while we typically carry a dedicated lunch box for this, we ended up enjoying the integration into the pack. It won’t be for everyone, however.

The fit and finish of the Campus is greatly aided by the tough fabric it’s hewn from, which is either a 600D recycled polyester or 630D recycled nylon, depending on the print (of which there are 14 to choose from.) The budget price point has got to make some sacrifices somewhere, and in this pack one of the places it’s apparent is the zippers, which feel lesser quality and run a little loose.

On the exterior of the pack, the side water bottle pockets are kept low-profile with a panel of stretch-mesh, though this does limit the size of the insulated bottle you can carry to more slim vessels. For those looking for just a bit more functionality, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack adds on a good bit more for only $25 over the Campus.

Sometimes you just need a pack to toss your stuff in and run, and the Dakine Campus 33L has no problem making the run with you. With just enough organization to keep us sane, a comfortable carry, and plenty of different patterns and colors available, it’s a pack that is more workhorse than a show pony — and all at an undeniable value.

Deuter Speed Lite 25

• Capacity 25 liters
• Weight 1 lb., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 21.6" x 11.4" x 7.4"
• Material 100D and 140D high-tenacity 100% recycled polyamide
• Electronic storage N/A

• Carries weight well
• Bluesign-certified body fabric
• Frame limits packability for travel
• Shoulder pocket a bit too small to hold phone

In a sea of worthy hiking daypacks , our testers narrowed in on the Deuter Speed Lite 25 ($120) as the one that made it out on the trail more often than the rest. There must have been a pretty clean cutting room floor at Deuter when they brewed up this pack, as it leaves little functionality behind and carries like a dream.

The running vest style is becoming increasingly popular in light daypacks, and we can dig it. These broad and padded shoulder straps pair excellently with the minimal hip fins, and transfer motion well when the hiking pace picks up. That suspension system is mated to a Delrin U-frame, which creates a supportive structure to port your kit around on and differentiates the pack from simpler stuff-sack-style daypacks like the REI Co-op Flash 22 . 

Internal storage is pretty plain jane, which is common in smaller daypacks, but thankfully there are a few internal storage pockets to stash away essentials like your keys or wallet. Emphasis is instead put on accessibility while moving, and the stretch-mesh pockets on the shoulder straps make the perfect spot to store your phone, snacks, and sunglasses.

That’s all rounded out with three mesh pockets on the back and side of the pack (perfect for stashing a wet rain jacket), as well as the functionality to carry trekking poles and ice axes. Zooming out, the materials on the Speed Lite are made of 100 and 140D polyamide that is post-consumer recycled, meaning it is made of material that would have otherwise been industrial scrap.

The 25 liters of internal space is just about right for most day hikes, but for space to carry more layers, you’ll want just a bit more. For that, we recommend both the Patagonia Black Hole 32L and REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack , which both have a bit more space and more traditional strap systems.   

The fit and finish of the Deuter Speed Lite 25 is decidedly action-packed , and as such it’s a bit much to cut around town with casually. But get it out on the trail where it’s made for, and it shines — perfect for day hikes into the hills. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better daypack than the Speed Lite 25.

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5"
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom
• Electronic storage 16" laptop sleeve

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Dialed to the last stitch, the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L ($300) is a round-trip-ready pack that we’ve carried on international flights to Iceland, national hops to Utah and California, and even lost (and been reunited) — all without a scratch. It easily topped our travel backpack category , and otherwise makes a great backpack for everyday hauling — especially if you are a photographer.

Made to high specifications and using quality materials, the fit and finish on the Travel Backpack is undeniable. Using aluminum hardware, burly 400-denier nylon canvas, seatbelt-like webbing, and chunky #10 zippers, the buy-once, cry-once is strong with this pack, and it’s made to withstand years of luggage carts, baggage carousels, and rough handling. 

More than most any other travel bag, the Peak Design offering embodies the 1-bag travel ethos by expanding to a full 45-liter loader hauler that meets international carry-on size requirements, but also collapsing to a 35-liter day bag that can scoot through crowded public transit once you’ve reached your destination. Genius.

That space is split up into two main compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your items, and a second sleeve at the front that sports multiple pockets and sleeves all of kinds for in-depth organizing. Access is gained by the large clamshell main zippers, or side access for snagging those gotta-have-it items packed away in deep.

While boarding an international flight to Keflavík, Iceland, we found two things to be true: European airlines aren’t as accommodating to American-sized carry-ons, and the strap storage system on the Peak Design pack deftly makes this a non-issue. Two foam panels on the back of the pack pivot away to enclose the straps behind them, secured in place by magnets and creating a slick package.

No doubt about it, the Peak Design Travel Backpack is certainly expensive (only the likes of full-on backpacking packs top it), but based on the torture tests we’ve subjected it to already, we’re fully confident that the bag still has years of fight left in it. Those who will be carrying their pack long after landing might be better served by the Osprey Farpoint and Fairview , but for everything else, Peak Design has it.

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 liters
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18” x 7” x 11.5”
• Compartment access N/A
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6 exterior with DWR coating, 420D nylon interior
• Electronic storage 17” laptop sleeve

• Super-protected laptop compartment
• Aluminum stay reinforces the side-carry
• High-quality materials
• Interior pockets made to be accessed with bag upright or on the side
• Higher price

The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) was the laptop backpack of choice for our remote working testers, and it’s easy to see why — this bag is heavy on smart functionality, and light on over-wrought appearances. Sporting one of the most protected laptop sleeves we’ve ever seen in a backpack (seriously — there’s an aluminum stay protecting it), this pack is made to tote your laptop and everything else you’ll need for a day of work abroad.

Based on the materials and attention to detail on the CPL 24, it’s clear that someone put in some serious effort in designing it. The exterior fabric is an 840D ballistic nylon 6 material that simply doesn’t care what you do to it — it’s not going to wear or tear easily. Two main compartments on the inside of the pack divvy up the space, in addition to the padded laptop sleeve.

That laptop compartment is the star of the show here, and is fully suspended like many other laptop bags, but is also protected from the back by an HDPE frame sheet, as well as thick foam supports to cradle it. We had no qualms about toting our electronic livelihoods around without their laptop sleeves, which is saying something.

Rounding out the carry of this pack are Zote EV50 foam shoulder straps that are differentially cut to wrap around your shoulders, as well as top and side carry handles for toting around on the go. We found the side carry on the CPL 24 to be especially noteworthy, as there is a full-length aluminum stay backing it up, making for a very supported pack.

Is it pricey? Yeah — and we have worse news: It’s absolutely worth it, and you’ll feel validated having spent every cent. For a laptop backpack that leaves a bit more in your pocket, however, the Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17” ($125) and The North Face Recon ($109) both make good sense. If you’re going to be putting some serious mileage on your remote work set-up, however, it’s hard not to suggest going with the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L .

Read Review: Low-Key Looks, High-Key Functionality: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L Review

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack

• Capacity 28 liters
• Weight 1 lb., 12 oz.
• Dimensions 19.5” x 11” x 9”
• Compartment access Zippered top access + zippered side access
• Material Recycled ripstop nylon
• Electronic storage Minimal laptop sleeve

• Bluesign-approved recycled materials
• Hidden daisy-chain loops stay out of sight when not needed
• Trail-to-town style is perfect for any type of day
• Laptop sleeve is on the lighter-duty side, and requires laptop cover to be used
• Raincover storage takes up a bit too much internal space

We’ve come a long way from book straps, and the REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack ($100) is proof of that. A good school bag needs to not only get your textbooks from point A to point B, but carry the rest of your daily essentials, and be up for some extra-curriculars after class as well. The Ruckpack balances all this well and is our choice for an education-ready backpack.

The pack doesn’t quite have the luxe look that the Osprey Aoede Airspeed does, but instead leans more into the hike-to-campus vibe, and hosts functionality to back that up: The ripstop nylon exterior is coated with a DWR finish that’ll shoulder some light precip. On the front of the pack, trekking poles loops deploy when needed and tuck away when not. And the laptop sleeve doubles as a hydration bladder sleeve. Slick.

For on-campus organization, the Ruckpack tucks away a side-access pocket with organizers from things like pens, chargers, and the like. A zippered pocket on the top of the pack also keeps frequently needed essentials close at hand. And if 28 liters isn’t big enough to carry your full workload, the Ruckpack is also made in a 40-liter version.

Not often seen in packs outside of daypacks and backpacking bags, the Ruckpack series is available in gendered strap styles, which are shaped differently to accommodate differently shaped torsos. This can be key for dialing in on a pack that fits you perfectly, and our testers really appreciated this fact.

While the included rain cover is novel (a feature that none of our other reviewed packs offers), we did find that it takes up valuable real estate on the interior of the pack, and that more often than not we left it behind — defeating the ‘there-if-you-need-it’ aspect. For most light showers, we found the DWR coating on the pack to be sufficient. The laptop sleeve on this pack was also a bit minimal, and we found we needed to use a laptop sleeve to feel fully confident. 

If ramen noodles are on the menu more often than not, check out the Dakine Campus 33L ($75) as a great alternative school bag. The North Face Recon also can’t be counted out as a go-to pack for hitting the quad, and we found that it has a good bit more organization than the Ruckpack, but not quite as much hiking functionality. Well-rounded for all-semester use, the REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 makes the grade in our book.

Osprey Aether 65 & Ariel 55

• Capacity 65 and 55 liters
• Weight 5 lbs., 2 oz. (Aether), 4 lbs., 12 oz. (Ariel)
• Dimensions 33.4" x 15.7" x 11" (Aether), 29" x 15" x 10" (Ariel)
• Compartment access Top drawstring + access panels
• Material 420D nylon packcloth; 210-denier nylon

• Customizable sizing
• Extremely durable
• Lots of options for outside storage
• On the heavier side
• Not a lot of upper-body mobility

Haul a week’s worth of supplies, two ropes, and a full rack of cams… heck an entire basecamp — the Osprey Aether 65 & Ariel 55 ($320) is the mighty workhorse for the job. Packed with features and thoroughly well-designed, the functionality and comfort of the Aether make it a solid contender as one of our favorite heavy haulers.

When long miles with absurd base weights are on the docket, this is the steed we slide from the closet. Its stellar suspension system, luxe cushioning, and fully loaded feature set make this the Lamborghini pack of your dreams. If you’re willing to turn a blind eye to its scale reading.

If the Aether had a minimal weight, it’d be downright difficult to ding it — but dang five pounds is a hard pill to swallow. Some ultralight nuts are winnowing their entire base weight to just over five pounds, which makes it hard to justify a pack that weighs an equal amount on its own. For that reason, we rarely saddle up in the Aether for difficult backpacking trips. It has instead found its lane as our partner in crime for gear-intensive climbing missions, or as a “tote everything to basecamp” pack mule. For these excursions, it’s about as good as it gets.

Although this pack is a classic-style top-loader, a large front zippered access point allows you to get into the depths of your gear without having to fully unpack. We like that Osprey has combined some tried-and-true backpack design elements with clever and innovative features of its own creation. For quick access to bits of essential gear, this pack offers dual-zippered hip belt pockets, stretch-mesh water bottle pockets, and a front “shove-it” pocket.

The Aether also features the ability to fine-tune its fit for a variety of different shapes and sizes, including an adjustable torso length, as well as Osprey’s Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt and shoulder straps.

Other noteworthy features include an internal hydration bladder sleeve, dual ice axe loops, and a versatile compression system that offers additional exterior storage.

Although Osprey also makes a 65L version of the Aether we like the 55L version for its compact profile and slightly reduced weight. For long weekend trips, this pack will offer plenty of space for most users.

While we personally wouldn’t pack ’er up with an ultralight kit and head out on a fast and light thru-hike, we’re always grabbing the Aether when giant loadouts need to be schlepped over gnarly terrain. This thing is ultra-reliable and feels stable and balanced on the trail. If you’re looking for a burly, dependable pack that will last for years, this may be the perfect fit.

Read Review: Osprey Aether 55 and Ariel 55: The Cadillac of Backpacks

Osprey Aoede Airspeed Backpack

• Capacity 21 liters
• Dimensions 18.7” x 11.6” x 8.6”
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with a PFAS-free DWR treatment
• Electronic storage 16” laptop sleeve

• Unique ‘kickstand’ tech helps the back to stand upright while being loaded or unloaded
• AirSpeed back panel keeps your back cool
• Soft fleece-lined pocket keeps phones and glasses protected
• Interior liner is a mixed mélange fabric that looks great
• Weatherproofing covers over some exterior zippers inhibit zipper opening
• Simple shoulder strap construction, with no load lifters, sternum strap, or hipbelt

The new Osprey Aoede Airspeed Backpack ($140) lifts some lines from one of our favorite carry-on travel backpacks, the Parsec 26, but done up in a much cleaner aesthetic to create a slick-looking pack for urban touring. Our testers loved the tough 840D exterior paired with seatbelt-like webbing, and the AirSpeed back panel carries as well as any other Osprey pack equipped with it. 

At 26 liters, the Aoede is right on the money for daily carry, and is split up into a large main compartment, middle admin pocket, padded laptop sleeve, and a fleece-lined stash pocket for items like sunglasses or phones. That large interior space is smart, too, as it sports an internal ‘kickstand’ hoop that spreads the bottom of the pack in order to stand the pack up on its own. Smart.

The exterior is urban-ready and clean, even down to the molded zipper pulls, and was one of the highest rated by our testers when it came to overall style (though the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader gives it a run for its money.) “I’d have no problem using the Aoede as a business bag — pack just plain looks good.”

The strap system is decidedly more minimal than many other Osprey packs, but they’re backed up by the impressive AirSpeed back panel — a tensioned mesh trampoline that provides air space behind your back and contours to your back. We found that when fully loaded the strap system was sufficient, though we did want at least a sternum strap for a little extra security.

As a more urban-minded pack, the Aoede will feel a bit undergunned for taking into the wilds. For this, we recommend more of an all-arounder such as the Patagonia Black Hole Pack, or the Mystery Ranch District 18. Both packs are more amenable to outdoor travel, though at slightly higher price points.

For pure city-slickers, however, the Osprey Aoede Airspeed Backpack is the ticket, and we used it with great success cutting around Seattle during our testing.

Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L

• Capacity 32 liters
• Weight 1 lb., 11 oz.
• Dimensions N/A
• Material 300D recycled polyester with TPU-laminate exterior, 200D PU-coated polyester interior
• Electronic storage 15” padded laptop pocket

• Impressively burly exterior TPU fabric shrugs off dirt and water
• Broad access zipper to laptop compartment
• Back panel and shoulder straps are just OK
• Lack of hipbelt at 30+ liters puts strain on shoulders

The Black Hole line from Patagonia has been around for a while, and for good reason: these tough packs just go and go. The Black Hole Pack 32L ($169) is no different and is built around the newly updated burly Black Hole fabric — a polyester ripstop coated with a recycled TPU laminate that makes this pack darn near life-proof.

Excellent as a capital B backpack , the Black Hole Pack takes on most everything with ease from the trails to the coffee shop, and has the internal and external organization to accommodate both a remote worker headed to a new locale, and the day hiking 10 essentials. There’s a padded laptop pocket, a large main compartment with zippered storage, as well as stash pockets on the front and top of the bag.

The foam back panel and shoulder straps on the Black Hole Pack are fairly boilerplate but comfortable enough to lug around the pack when it’s full. There’s even a back handle tucked away here that makes the pack rolling-luggage friendly for when you want to get airborne. The Black Hole pack has been featured on our travel backpack guide for years now, but we were impressed at just how much else it excels at.

That’s not to say there aren’t a few things we’d change, however. The laptop pocket doesn’t come with the integrated padded sleeve that the similar Refugio pack does (for this reason we recommend the Refugio for more tech-minded users), but it will still accommodate a 15” computer.

Keeping with the trail-to-town idea, it also would have been nice to see a hydration hose port and hanging loop on the Black Hole Pack (such as on the REI Ruckpack), but you’ll have to make do with the two stretch pockets on the exterior for your water bottles. As with any all-around backpack, however, there’ll always be some weighing of the scales and choices made.

The Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L does weigh those scales well for most things, however, and for those who are looking for a generalist bag, this is one that won’t disappoint. 

Mystery Ranch District 18

• Capacity 18 liters
• Weight 2 lbs., 9.6 oz.
• Dimensions 17” x 11.2” x 8.5”
• Material 420D Cordura recycled nylon, 200D nylon liner
• Electronic storage 15” padded laptop sleeve

• Very smart quick-access front compartment
• Main compartment accordion opening is huge, with foam-padded dividers
• Burly 420D Cordura exterior
• A bit heavy compared to other generalist bags on our list

The Mystery Ranch District 18 ($159) is yet another all-around backpack that has little problem slotting into pretty much any activity you’ve got planned day-to-day. An impressively wide-opening main compartment is split up with a few accordion folds, that then even detach completely for a full clamshell opening. And that’s not even the half of it.

At the front of the pack, a slick quick-entry system employs Velcro and a button snap to allow fast access to the storage within. In practice, this can be very fast to open up and have instant access to anything in the pocket. It’s these novel entry solutions that Mystery Ranch is known for ( see their unique 3-Zip designs ) and our testers loved the smart application here.

Cordura and Mystery Ranch go hand-in-hand, so it’s unsurprising to see a burly 420D weave of the proprietary nylon make up the exterior of this pack. That burl factor does come with a little weight penalty (the thick foam back panel and straps add to this) but that comes with the territory, and we were happy with the trade-off during use.

The carry is also unsurprisingly robust, with a pre-curved spacer-mesh foam back panel mated to thick shoulder straps studded with oversized hardware. We found that only The North Face Recon pack has a better padded back panel, but only just. Load-lifters round out the carry system, which are much appreciated and help keep heavier loads close to your back.

Stacked up next to your Patagonia Black Hole Packs , your North Face Recons , and your REI Co-op Ruckpacks , the Mystery Ranch District 18 pack stands tall as another worthy daily driver backpack. We loved the materials, innovative internal storage design, and overbuilt carry system. This is a pack that’ll be around for just about as long as you need it.

Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack

• Capacity 20 liters
• Weight 1 lb., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 16.5” x 11.8” x 7”
• Material Vinylon F material on exterior, 70D polyamide lining
• Electronic storage 17” padded laptop sleeve

• Classic style available in many different colors
• Different-sized packs available for different-sized laptops
• Removable foam sit-pad
• Not much structure to the pack
• Minimal shoulder straps

With an undeniably classic profile and look, the Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17” ($125) brings a touch of modern tech-forward design to a simple backpack for work, school, or travel. Touring the streets of Reykjavík, Iceland recently, we were struck by how many Fjallraven packs we could tally up, and the Kanken is the most classic among them. 

Available in 13”, 15”, and 17” sizes (the rectangle only slightly expands with each), the laptop version of the classic Kanken adds a padded sleeve at the rear of the pack to accommodate your mobile desktop. The shoulder straps are also padded in this version, to better carry the additional load.

The interior of the pack is otherwise pretty simple: one big compartment to swallow all your books, layers, or as one tester pointed out, even baby supplies. Outside of that is a medium-sized zippered pocket on the exterior (perfect for essentials), and a couple of side bottle sleeves. Certainly not the most organization in a pack, but enough to secure things where we know we can find them quickly.

Those classic good looks, unfortunately, don’t translate to much of a structured pack, however, and the Kanken Laptop relies on the included foam seat pad to form a back panel. This is a novel solution (apparently born out of the needs of Swedish school children), but compared to packs that make use of a lot of internal foam for shape, the Kanken is decidedly… squishy.

But for the looks, we’re willing to forgive and forget. This pack was highly rated by testers as being among the most stylish, and sometimes beauty requires sacrifice. The Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17” makes a killer town bag, and we’re starting to think those Icelanders knew before we did.

Aer Go Pack 2

• Weight 1 lb., 4.8 oz.
• Dimensions 17” x 11” x 5.5”
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 210D Cordura crinkle nylon exterior
• Electronic storage 16” suspended laptop sleeve

• Packable travel-friendly design
• High-end materials meet beautiful design
• Luggage handle pass-through loop
• Not much structure or support

Not every travel backpack needs to just barely skirt in under carry-on compliance limits, and the Aer Go Pack 2 ($99) is an excellent example of that. Made to be tucked away in larger bags and deployed on the ground, the Go Pack 2 leans on a supremely nice set of materials rather than a bulging feature set to win you over — and win us over it did.

The exterior material is what catches your eye first, and it’s a boutique-looking Cordura crinkle nylon that has a real luxe feel to it. Aer is among the upper crust of backpack manufacturers (among Nomatic, Evergoods, and Tom Bihn), so we’re sure the choice was carefully considered. The rest of the pack is equally decked out, from the Hypalon zipper pulls to the magnet-assisted buckle that closes off the front pocket.

The interior is decidedly simple, with a single large compartment that hosts the laptop sleeve, as well as a single zippered pocket for collecting small items. On the exterior, an easy-access front stash pocket is secured with that magnetic buckle, and all of our gotta-have-it items found their way into this pocket. This is flanked by two water bottle pockets, sized to fit most slender bottles.

The smaller stature will mostly prevent you from carrying too much in the Go Pack 2, but it should be said that super heavy items should find a more supportive bag to ride in — this is a minimal pack through and through. The shoulder straps are well padded, however, and even fully loaded we had no problem with it.

Other excellent “personal item” backpacks include the TimBuk 2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , as well as the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 , which are both just as materials-forward as the Go Pack 2, just with a few more bells, whistles, and space. Neither will be as packable as the Aer Go Pack 2 however, and if you’re traveling with exploration in mind, it’s the pack we’d suggest finds its way into your carry-on.

Backpacks Comparison Chart

How We Tested Backpacks

Likely more than just about anything else, GearJunkie knows backpacks. We’ve tested them on the trail, on the train, and on the taxiway. Across our various backpack categories, we’ve likely tested north of a few hundred, and our knowledge comes together here to help guide your next backpack purchase.

The testing team for this guide is led by Nick Belcaster — a multisport athlete based in the Pacific Northwest who has a couple of thousand miles notched on his belt wearing packs of all stripes. His gear closet has now reached critical mass, spilling forth with thru-hike-worn ultralight packs , avalanche airbags, mountain-biking hydration packs, and more.

When we tested travel backpacks , our globe-trotting testers hit the tarmac and racked up their air miles — over 10,000 in the last year alone. They lived out of their packs for weeks on end, stuffing them full and challenging any baggage handler to do their worst.

While testing backpacking backpacks , our Senior Editor Chris Carter led the charge — leveraging his experience as a Triple Crown thru-hiker and boots-on-the-ground testing in Appalachia to find the best pack to disappear for the weekend with. At the opposite end of the seasonal spectrum, Senior Editor Morgan Tilton charges headlong into the snow as our winter categories editor, shouldering ski packs of all kinds in the refrigerated mountains of Colorado.

Similar high praise can be heaped on Miya Tsudome, a seasoned gear-tester stationed at the margins of the High Sierra and contributor responsible for our hiking daypack testing, as well as Meghan LaHatte, the remote worker extraordinaire who put the hours into finding the best laptop backpacks available today. 

In order to better test organization, we assembled an average ‘everyday carry’ — an assortment of daily-used kit — and used it to gauge the small-scale management these packs were capable of. We also loaded them down with the maximum, traded notes on style, and generally tried to run them into the ground in our quest to find the best of the best backpacks.

And as sure as new packs come out every year, we’ll continue to stay on the hunt for the best among them, and add them to our lineup. 

Testing History

For our first foray into the world of backpacks in 2024, we assembled seven of our favorite packs from the major styles: travel, laptop, daypacks, and backpacking. Testing for these bags took place across the country, and with gear testers who considered them against like-bags in their respective categories.

In addition to that, we gathered a number of different generalist packs — bags that do it all and do it well — to round out our look at the broad world of backpacks and provide some options for those who want a daily driver. These bags were tested over a summer and fall in the Pacific Northwest, making runs into dense city centers, co-working spaces, and coffee shops.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Backpack

More than just about anything else, intended use is going to be the biggest consideration when choosing a new backpack. Luckily, there’s a bindle for just about everything these days, and once you’ve nailed down what adventures you’d like to into with it, the pieces fall into place.

While some packs can be used for a number of different things, there’s good use in going with the right design for the activity. Most all will be tailored with something in mind, and when you might be carrying it for hours on end or living out of it while traveling, the little details add up to equal a successful camping weekend, trip to France, or quick run to the store.

Once you’ve hammered that out, you can begin to dig into overall volume (just how much stuff you’ll want to tote around) as well as how that volume is organized, and any added functionalities you’ll need. Below, we’ve dug into the dirty details surrounding backpacks to lay plain what makes a backpack just good, and what makes a backpack great. 

By the end of this guide, it’s our hope that you’ve got the understanding needed to make your next pack purchase a breeze — best to save your energy for the next big hill climb.

Types of Backpacks

Everyday/campus backpacks.

Your capital B “backpacks” — everyday packs are made to tote around a little of everything and aren’t too fussy about where you take them. Most often moderate in size, these daily drivers like The North Face Recon or REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 will offer up functionality to appease both hikers and students.

Commuter-styled packs are often styled to be business casual, making use of higher-end materials and a simpler exterior design to fit into your office space. Folks who commute via cycle should look for bike-specific functionality such as blinky light mounts, U-lock harnesses, and waterproof exteriors.

Campus backpacks need to be stout enough to carry a full load of textbooks and binders, but not so cumbersome that you get jammed up in the hallway. They also need to sport a good bit of internal organization, often in what pack manufacturers will call an admin pocket.

While your destination might not always be the same, you can generally rely on the best daypacks as being versatile enough to meet whatever the day brings, whether that’s hiking, biking, trail running, or just kicking around.  

Daypacks are the Swiss Army knives of the pack-o-sphere, typically sporting a number of different functionalities to aid you in whatever you’re getting after. This includes hydration-bladder sleeves and accompanying hose ports, integrated rain covers, trekking pole and ice axe tethers, helmet securing systems, and more. 

Most daypacks land at around the 15-30 liter range, with smaller packs having just enough space for the basic 10 essentials, and larger packs being able to carry more layers for colder climates, or more water for arid ones. While they can be used for shorter hikes, backpacking bags are typically overgunned for shorter day-long excursions.

Certain running-inspired daypacks, known as hydration packs , shrink down the overall volume to only the essential handful of liters needed to carry quick calories, and are often more vest-like than packs. Still, some like the Ultimate Direction FastPack 20 offer up a good amount of space for longer runs. These packs often revolve around the hydration bladder they carry, and are poised to provide hydration quickly through smart hose routing.

Laptop Backpacks

The center of the laptop backpack is unsurprisingly, the laptop, and more importantly, the manner in which it’s carried and protected. Laptop sleeves integrated into backpacks are padded areas made to safely port your mobile desktop around, and good versions will suspend the bottom of the sleeve off the bottom of the pack for protection.

Most often smaller to moderate in size, these laptop packs also lean on a good bit of internal organization to keep things tidy, stashing away journals, pens, chargers, and the like. A broad, supportive base is also handy in order to have a pack that stands up on its own, making rifling around in it easier.

Like some commuter bags, travel backpacks typically lean toward the high-polish side of the spectrum, and can be made with durable and good-looking materials such as seatbelt-like webbing, metal G-hooks, waterproof zippers, and durable thick-denier fabrics.

The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L represents one of the best of the best in our opinion and protects your laptop behind walls of foam, HDPE plastic, and an aluminum stay. The Fjallraven Kanken Laptop pack brings a bit of classic flair to the equation, and our testers greatly appreciated the tech-focused functionality of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack .

Travel Backpacks

It’s all about the miles for travel backpacks . Part luggage, part tourism instrument; travel packs have to be modular in order to meet the demands of the savvy traveler, and more often than not are shaped by the parameters placed on them by airlines. You’ve got your carry-ons (almost always near 40-45 liters) and your personal items (closer to 20-25 L). 

Made to also be versatile in their carry, these packs also often sport a variety of different handles, straps, luggage handle pass-throughs, and even strap storage options — meaning you can carry them in whatever way makes sense for the day. They also will be pretty minimal on the exterior, making for a clean profile to get into overhead bins.

Packs like the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L can be collapsed down to a 30L size for daily adventures at your destination and then maxed out to fully take advantage of airline carry-on limits. Comparatively, bags like the TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack and Aer Go Pack 2 nestle in under the seat in front of you.

Backpacking Packs

Backpacking packs are built around the load they’re made to carry, whether that’s an ultralight load-out or an entire NOLS-course worth of kit. Typically built from the frame-out, these bags are made for extended overnight travel and are some of the most complex packs out there. From hydration sleeves to suspended trampoline suspensions, floating brains, and internal dividers, the features can be dizzying.

Because the weight you’ll carry in a backpacking bag is more than most any other pack, sizing is much more important, and these packs are offered in the largest size ranges available, as well as in different gendered suspension systems to accommodate different shaped frames. Consider getting sized by a retail professional, or have a friend measure you up to get the best fit.

For most weekend-ready backpacking packs, an overall volume of 50 to 70 liters should be enough to carry everything you’ll need. For single overnights, many can often get away with 35 to 40 liters. Be mindful that often times the number advertised on backpacking packs may only include the internal volume of the main compartment, leaving some additional space in the exterior pockets and floating lids.

Bags like the Osprey Aether 65 & Ariel 55 offer the full complement of features, and sport supportive frames that will carry a fully weighted down pack. We also have found great success with REI Co-op, Gregory, and The North Face packs.

Specific-Use Packs

For the outer realms of sport, there are specialty packs that are refined for specific tasks, and while many backpacking packs can often cover a good spread, they often lack the sport-specificity to truly excel in their niche. 

Climbing packs are made to be rough and tumble and tote around heavy (and sometimes sharp) equipment and are often split into approach and on-route packs, with the former aiming to tote your whole climbing rack and rope, and the latter just what you’ll need on the wall.

Skiing is particularly tough on equipment, and packs made for skiing need to be equally tough to make it to the end of the tour. Specific storage compartments for avalanche rescue equipment are essential, and some even incorporate inflatable airbag systems to stack the deck toward survival in an avalanche.

Packing out large ungulates isn’t easy, and the best big-game hunting packs have robust metal frames in order to shoulder the weight. They also need to be made from quiet materials, with silent-running zippers and soft-faced fabrics to keep from spooking your quarry.

Dialing in on the perfect pack size depends on a few things: how much you’re planning on carrying in it, and how far you’ll be traveling with it. Sure, you could commute with a backpacking pack or travel with a daypack, but you’d quickly find yourself greatly under (or over) prepared for the task. 

In our lineup, packs range from the svelte 18-liter Mystery Ranch District to the 65-liter load-hauling Osprey Aether. In general, we’ve found the following breakdown to describe the volumes of most packs out there:

• 10-20 L: Most daypacks, small personal-item travel bags, and cycling hydration packs. 
• 20-30 L: Most day-hiking backpacks, daily-driver packs for commuting or campus, and larger daypacks for more intensive adventures. Many laptop backpacks also land in this volume range.
• 30-40 L: Most overnight backpacking backpacks. Many carry-on travel backpacks will also land in the 40-45 liter range — about the maximum allowed by most airlines. This is also where dialed ultralight backpacking packs begin.
• 50-60 L: Most weekend-sized backpacking packs, as well as many climbing packs. Sized for 2-3 days.
• 60-70 L: Appropriate for extended backpacking trips where you’ll be packing extra food and fuel, or winter trips that demand bulkier sleep gear and clothing. Sized for 4-7 days.
• 70+ L: Most expedition-sized backpacks for mountaineering, equipment-intensive backpacking, or big-game hunting packs.

Many packs of all stripes will incorporate some type of compression system, which both lowers the internal volume of the pack for when you aren’t carrying as much and keeps the load closer to your back where it’s better supported. 

A functionality unique to travel packs is an expandable volume, made possible by zippered gills that add space to a pack to meet carry-on size limits, and then collapse when you’ve hit your destination to be a more manageable day bag. The Peak Design Travel Backpack is an excellent example of this.

Frames and Suspension

While smaller volume (~10-15L) packs can get away with little to no frame, most packs will need some sort of support system to properly carry their load. The simplest frames are found in daypacks and use a sheet of foam to transfer some load from the shoulder straps to the hip belt. Packs like the REI Co-op Flash 22 , Arc’teryx Aerios 15 , and Fjallraven Kanken all use frames like this to support smaller loads.

As the volume and load increase, so does the need for a more robust frame system. Because many laptop backpacks are moderately sized but often carry heavier tech, they incorporate stronger frames such as those made from HDPE plastic sheets, which not only increase carrying ability but also protect the laptop inside.

Further frame tech comes in the form of tensioned struts, which act as a sort of spring between the hipbelt and shoulder straps to suspend the weight. Packs like the Deuter Speed Lite make use of simple bent wire hoops, compared to the more static aluminum stays of travel and laptop backpacks (like on the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader.) 

Tensioned mesh panel back panels are big in backpacking packs, with Osprey being an early innovator with their AirSpeed and AntiGravity back systems, and other manufacturers following suit. These suspension systems make use of a supportive trampoline as a back panel, which greatly increases ventilation on long hikes.

Some ultralight backpacking packs eschew a frame entirely, instead relying on an ultralight base weight and some creative packing to form the internal structure of the pack. Care is needed to not over-pack these bags, but when your base weight is less than 5 pounds, going frameless opens up a world of possibilities.

Finally, frames and packs can come in different sizes to suit different body sizes. Typically only seen in larger packs (and a handful of daypacks,) different torso lengths help you get the perfect fit, and can be user-adjustable on the pack itself.

In our lineup of best backpacking backpacks , almost every pack comes in both men’s and women’s sizing (save for some of the smaller cottage-industry brands) with the Osprey Aether & Ariel 55 and Gregory Men’s Katmai 55 & Women’s Kalmia 50 packs landing high on our list.

Shoulder Straps and Hipbelts

Just as important as the frames are the shoulder straps and hip belts that interface with it. These straps are the connection between yourself and the pack, and are important considerations when carrying large loads, or carrying the pack for extended periods. Working together; a frame, shoulder straps, and hip belt are a system for support.

Shoulder straps are typically made in three different styles: J-style straps, which are the OG, S-style straps, which fit people with larger chests, and running-vest style straps — typically only seen on trail-running-styled vests and some daypacks (we love their inclusion on the Deuter Speed Lite packs.) Correctly tensioned, your shoulder straps should take the lesser of the load and instead aim to carry more of the weight on your hips.

Load-lifters are straps that run from the middle of your shoulder straps and connect to the top of your backpack’s frame, which aids in pulling the load in closer to your body. Most lower-volume packs won’t need the added support provided, but they add a good amount of relief to larger backpacking packs. 

Hipbelts connect the majority of the load with your hips, where your body will best be able to support the weight. More of a consideration in larger backpacking packs, be sure to size your pack so that your hip belt lands just about at your iliac crest (the top of your hipbones) for the best load transfer. 

Like different torso sizes, straps are also often available in different gendered sizes, with “Men’s” packs suiting folks with broader shoulders and narrower hips, and “Women’s” packs working better for people with narrow shoulders and wider hips. The straps and padding may also be shaped anatomically for the best fit.

Organization

Some packs are spartan and simple tubes, while others break up the space with a flurry of pockets, sleeves, dividers, secret compartments, and false bottoms. If you are living out of your pack for weeks on end, a good organizational system is paramount to staying sane. Your use case will largely direct how organized you want your backpack to be, but there are a few important things to note.

If you’re looking for some more information on how to best pack a backpack, check out GearJunkie’s How-To where we lay it all out (literally).

Main Compartment

Most every pack on the market will access the main compartment through either an opening in the top of the pack (known as top-loaders) or through panel openings that release a side of the pack (known as clamshell or panel-loading). In the case of packs like the Peak Design Travel Backpack , the U-shaped zipper extends far enough to fully separate the back panel, which can be important for TSA screenings of laptops.

Packs made for daily use (such as commuters, campus, and laptop backpacks) will sport more internal organization than bags made for purely load hauling. These come in the form of divided internal space, frequently of a more simple open compartment, and then one with more pockets and sleeves. Often seen in work or laptop bags, “admin or valet” pockets are meant to harness your pens, chargers, and journals, and generally provide quick access to this kit in an organized way.

Travel backpacks are often much more like luggage internally, and will offer up a large internal compartment, along with some sub-dividers and internal compression straps to keep things in place. We greatly appreciate travel packs that offer some type of “dirty laundry” compartment like the Thule Aion or Gregory Border Traveler bags, which make living out of the bag much more civilized. 

While packs designed for backpacking are typically less involved internally to facilitate easy packing, some will feature a dedicated sleeping bag compartment at the bottom of the bag. This helps to keep your bag cleaner and drier, but in most cases, we find the division to be unnecessary and limit our ability to make use of all the space.

Exterior Pockets

Made for quick and easy access, exterior pockets are ideal for snagging frequently accessed items such as keys, phones, or wallets. They typically come in a few different variations:

• Hipbelt Pockets: Located on the waistbelts of larger packs, these pockets are an excellent place to park the items you want to access without taking off your whole backpack. 
• Floating Lid/Brain: Another feature of backpacking packs, floating lids are affixed to the pack body with straps, and feature a few internal zippered pockets where small items like headlamps, maps, or GPS devices can be stashed.
• Stretch Stuff Pockets: Stretch or dump pockets on packs make retrieval easy, and can accommodate water bottles as well as wet layers like a rain jacket. Very often seen on outdoors-oriented packs such as backpacking bags and daypacks, but less so on laptop or work bags.

Accessory Attachment

For everything that won’t fit on the interior of your pack, there is likely a means of wrangling it onto your pack with an accessory attachment system. One of the most standard is daisy-chain webbing loops, which can be clipped to with carabiners or tied off to fasten gear down.

Other options include elastic cords and toggles for fastening down trekking poles or ice axes, adjustable webbing straps for lashing down bulky kit, or integrated loops for affixing cycling lights. Your use case will greatly influence what attachment systems you may need, so take stock of the items you’re looking to tote around outside of your pack before swiping your card.

Understand also that attachment systems like these will add some complexity to your backpack, and you’ll end up paying a little more for them both out of your wallet and on your back.

Materials and Durability

We always recommend buying a backpack built with high-quality materials, which will not only improve your day-to-day use but also the pack’s longevity.

The fabric denier — a measure of the density of its fibers — is the best quick measure of durability, with higher numbers reflecting a tougher fabric. On our list, fabric deniers range from 140D to 840D, with reinforced areas of up to 900D. Different areas of packs may receive different applications of fabric in order to up their durability in high-wear areas, such as pack bottoms and back panels.

When packs don’t need ultra-tough materials, such as in lightweight daypacks, they often make use of lighter denier nylons and polyesters in their constructions. These can often be shored up by using different weaving techniques to create ripstop or ballistic fabrics, and we greatly appreciate this in rough-and-tumble packs but don’t see much of a need in commuters and laptop bags.

These fabrics often have a durable water repellant (DWR) finish applied to them, which is most often a hydrophobic coating that resists rain and prolongs soaking your backpack but can also be a polyurethane coating as in the case of the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack , or a waxed canvas. Even if we don’t plan on using our packs in the great outdoors, we still highly prefer a pack with some type of waterproofing.

Consider also that your backpack will need to close in some way, and that’s where high-quality zippers, buckles, and webbing come into play. These are the finer details, but still important and a busted piece of hardware can render your bag defunct. Zippers in particular say a lot about the thought put into a backpack, and going with reputable slides from YKK or Riri will keep them sliding into the future.

In terms of long-term durability, one of the best things you can do for your backpack is to keep it clean. For an in-depth look at pack hygiene, check out GearJunkie’s How-To on the subject.

Sustainability

Finally, be mindful of the impact your new backpack will have on the environment — all the way from beginning to end. A great way to limit this is by purchasing packs that are made with recycled materials, which either use industrial scrap that otherwise would have been thrown away, or source it from post-consumer sources such as plastic waste.

Thankfully, many companies are now going further and incorporating PFC-free DWR finishes into their pack builds. Perfluorinated chemicals — also known as forever chemicals — are particularly nasty to the environment, as well as pervasive, and we’ve found eco-alternatives to be just as good at keeping our packs dry.

Different supply chain certifications can also lend some good insight into what exactly went into creating your backpack, including the labor practices used. Bluesign-certified labels let you know that the materials used met stringent standards for eliminating chemicals of concern and that the factories producing them met emissions and labor safety standards.

Fair Trade Certification is earned by meeting standards set by Fairtrade International, an international nonprofit that works to ensure greater equity for agricultural and textile workers. These standards often require meeting a standard minimum wage, ensuring the right to join in collective bargaining, and that buyers pay a minimum price in order to cover the costs of sustainable production. 

Another under-sold way to limit your pack’s footprint is through brute longevity. Packs that last longer stay out of landfills longer, and investing in a pack that will go the distance (and can be repaired) helps avoid early retirement. The buy once, cry once adage rings true here, and we recommend investing in equipment that will stick with you for many years to come.

When considering the style of the packs in our lineup, we first surveyed our testing team, before turning to the general public and soliciting opinions. Style can be a subjective thing, but we all generally agreed on a few important facets that made certain bags stand out in our testing.

For one, we all found that laptop and campus bags were generally more simple in their exterior styling, while holding a great amount of complexity inside the bag. Backpacking packs are the opposite, with relatively simple interior spaces, but cluttered exteriors. ‘Less is more’ certainly applies here, and for a bag that’ll fly on the metro or in the office, keep it simple. Bags like the Fjallraven Kanken rank high in this regard. 

We also all appreciated high-quality materials in the build of our backpacks, including on the exterior. Waterproof zippers, leather accents, custom buckles, and seatbelt-like webbing all gave a classy look, and it made packs like the Peak Design Travel Backpack look every bit of its $300 price tag. 

Finally, know that some packs will be available in multiple different styles, such as the Osprey Aoede which is offered up in a backpack , a messenger bag , and a brief-pack style of pack.

Backpacks can vary wildly in their intended use, and also in their pricing. Simple around-town bags may only cost you a fistful of bills, but larger volume backpacking bags and certain high-quality travel packs can demand hundreds of dollars. Certainly, you get what you pay for with much of this, but it’s good to understand exactly what you’re paying for.

Budget-Minded Backpacks:

Typically the realm of campus, daypacks, and everyday bags, more budget-minded packs won’t break the bank but may make some concessions in order to hit that price point. First off, there’s no escaping the fact that more material costs more to produce, and thus smaller-volume bags are going to cost less than their larger cousins.

Cheaper packs may also leave out some functionalities found in more expensive packs, such as multiple internal organizers, adjustable suspension straps, and expandable volumes. This keeps the price of these packs at around $60 to $120, and for the money, you’ll see more traditional builds rather than complicated access systems. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is a pretty recognizable shape for a school bag, but still gets the job done.

While they typically cost a good bit more, there are still budget backpacking and travel packs, such as the REI Co-op Flash Packs ($199) and the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack ($170) — both perfectly serviceable in their respective niches.

Mid-Range Backpacks:

Mid-range packs thankfully make up the majority of backpacks and mean that just about anyone can get their mitts on a pack that’ll both do what they need it to, but won’t ask for an arm and a leg in doing so. For about $150 to $200, you’ll get a pack that is specialized for the task at hand: whether that’s commuting, hiking on the weekends, or traveling internationally. 

These packs will make use of quality materials, including often higher denier fabrics in typical wear areas. Adjustability, too, enters the equation at this price point, and that extends to both the suspension system, as well as in volume-expanding pockets and folds that’ll make your pack bigger.

Packs like the Deuter Speed Lite 25 ($120), Osprey Farpoint / Fairview ($185), Osprey Exos 58 ($260), and Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L ($169) all excel in their lanes and come in below the truly spendy versions that jam in all the bells and whistles.

Premium Backpacks:

Because of their feature-packed builds (and the amount of material required to make them), backpacking packs typically command higher price points than other backpack types. The average across all of the packs we tested was ~$270, with some cottage industry packs like the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest ($349), and Zpacks Arc Blast ($375) coming in a good bit above that.

High-end travel backpacks with large volumes, too, will cost you more, with the upper crust going for more than $250, though their prices are typically more due to their build quality than total volume. Packs like the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) and Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) both jam in features into smart layouts that leave little to be desired. 

There can also be premium everyday bags as well, such as the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) which is made out of ultra-premium materials and is customizable and handmade to spec. If you’re a fan of the best materials possible, this is your pack.

First and foremost, you’ll need to decide what you’re going to do with it. The form should follow function, and whether it’s a backpacking pack, a travel-ready carry-on, or a svelte daypack, you’ll want a bag that’s been designed for what you want to do.

Once you’ve narrowed in on the style you’re after, begin to consider how much stuff you’re aiming to carry in it, as almost every backpack is available in a few different volumes. Generally, 20-30 liters will suffice for weekend-long adventures, with less than that being ideal for daily carries, and more working better for backpacking adventures.

Finally, consider the small niceties of a backpack, such as the style, color, and accessories offered. These details can help be the tie-breaker in otherwise difficult decisions over which pack to pick up.

While JanSport still holds a stranglehold on the educated masses, there are a number of different college-ready backpacks available that we’ve come to enjoy and recommend. 

The North Face has a number of different backpacks that are keen on being used for study sessions, such as the Recon and Jester packs. Both incorporate well-padded back panels, protected laptop sleeves, and a clean look that we enjoy for cutting around campus.

The Dakine Campus is also aptly named, and it doesn’t demand much out of your pocket to boot. And for anyone looking for a classic and stylish bag, the Kanken from Fjallraven would not disappoint.

How much you’ll pay for a good backpack will largely depend on the style of the pack. We find that most decent daypacks will run you around $100 to $150, depending mostly on their size, as well as complexity when it comes to the frame system they employ. The Deuter Speed Lite 25 has many die-hard supporters around these parts, as do the REI Co-op Flash 22 and REI Co-op Trail 25 .

Laptop and travel backpacks often get a bit more of a luxe treatment, meaning they can demand a little bit more for the high-end materials they are made from. $150 to $200 will generally net you a bag that will stand up to the abuse of constant daily use and international travel. At $185, the Osprey Farpoint / Fairview packs make a perfect travel companion.

And in terms of backpacking packs, $250 is about the bullseye to aim for in terms of packs that will stand up to entire seasons of living outdoors. These packs will sport enough padding and adjustability to be comfortable over miles of trail, and be made of durable enough materials to kick around outdoors without much care.

For an average daily-driver backpack, aim for an internal volume of around 20 to 30 liters. This will allow you to store everything that you might need for work, school, or exploring a new city, but also incidentals such as extra layers, or some fresh produce from the farmer’s market.

For weekend trips where you’ve got to carry your home on your back, most will need a backpack between 50 and 70 liters. This provides enough space to lug your sleep system, as well as the food and water you’ll need to support yourself over 2-3 days.

Bunking in the hostel on vacation? You can certainly get away with a pack between 30 and 40 liters — which is enough space to bring along a few extra layers and maybe a book or two.

The quality of a backpack has a lot to do with the materials that it’s made with, as well as how it’s been made. Considering the best packs in each of the respective categories, we looked for builds that emphasized durability in the regular wear zones, had good internal or external organization for the specific use, and had suspensions and padding that fit us well and could be adjusted.

Packs on the lower end of the ‘worth-it’ strata will make some compromises, and typically that comes in the form of left-off features, thinner fabrics, and overall less specification for any one activity. These packs make great do-it-all bags, but they won’t excel at certain tasks. 

The importance of a good warranty also shouldn’t be discounted when tallying up quality. Should anything go awry with your new backpack, certain companies will make it right and get you set back up with a new or repaired bag.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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The 10 best toiletry bags of 2024, according to travel experts.

Tote everything from toothpaste to aftershave in one of these bags.

The Best Travel Toiletry Bags

Getty Images

Of all the travel accessories you can own, a toiletry bag may be the most essential – especially if you want to avoid leaks and spills in your luggage. Toiletry bags are necessary for keeping shampoo, toothpaste and other personal care items contained and organized when traveling.

Based on our personal experiences as well as consumer reviews, we've chosen the best toiletry bags in a number of categories, from the top option for men to the best hanging toiletry bag (especially useful in tight spaces like cruise ship cabins).

Best Overall: Peak Design Small Wash Pouch

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Dopp Kit: Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag – Cada Día

Best for men: topo designs dopp kit, best for women: lug trolley mini cosmetic case, best kids: wildkin toiletry bag, best large: l.l. bean personal organizer toiletry bag, large, best small: away the small toiletry bag, best hanging: open story small hanging toiletry bag, best clear: fawn the toiletry case large.

• Best Leather: Mark & Graham Dual Travel Organizer – Large

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. All toiletry bag dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.)

Courtesy of Peak Design

Dimensions: 6 x 10.2 x 4.4 inches

This toiletry bag earns rave reviews for its compact design and variety of internal compartments, which include four mesh pockets, a zip pocket and a magnetic pocket designed for your toothbrush. The bag is also versatile – its structured build means it won't flop over when you set it on the bathroom counter, while an attached hook allows you to use it as a hanging toiletry bag as well. Available in black and sage (as well as a larger size ), the Peak Design Small Wash Pouch is weatherproof and easy to clean.

What our editors say:

This toiletry bag perfectly fits all of my travel-sized essentials for a trip and I love the separated compartment pockets. It's pretty small and its soft exterior makes it easy to shove into a carry-on or a personal item without taking up too much room. It also sits upright on its own, which is a nice touch. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Price: $49.95 or less

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Dimensions: 6 x 9 x 5 inches

If you're looking for a Dopp kit (a style of toiletry bag, typically with a side handle), the Nido Accessory Bag – Cada Día is a solid choice. The toiletry bag offers three compartments as well as an interior zippered pocket. Plus, it's available in Cotopaxi's vibrant color combinations.

The Nido Accessory Bag can fit a lot – much more than I expected, in fact. I can pack my electric toothbrush (with its case!), a full-sized toothpaste, a hairbrush, makeup and more. Even with how much it can fit, I don't find that the bag takes up a lot of space in my carry-on. I especially love the Nido's three different compartments (plus a zippered pocket) to organize my toiletries and accessories. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $45 or less

Courtesy of Topo Designs

Dimensions: 5.5 x 11 x 5.5 inches

Not only does the triangular shape of this toiletry bag make it unique, but it also allows the bag to stand upright on its own. The Topo Designs Dopp Kit is bigger than it looks, and its main compartment offers plenty of space for all the necessities including a razor. The bag is available in a variety of bright two-toned styles and solid colors.

The Topo Designs Dopp Kit's bright colors and unique triangular shape inspired my initial purchase, but its versatility and durability quickly made it my go-to toiletry kit for every type of travel. The spacious bag works just as well in my carry-on as on a camping trip and has stood up to countless spilled shampoos and exploded toothpaste tubes. The Dopp kit stays upright on counters, while the attached hook makes it easy to hang and dry. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Price: $34 or less

Courtesy of Lug

Dimensions: 4 x 8.75 x 3.75 inches

Lug's Trolley Mini Cosmetic Case is perfect for both toiletries and makeup. Inside, the main compartment features a patterned lining and two zippered pockets: one on the back wall and another on the lid. On the outside, there are two side pockets plus a front pocket with a divider for even more organization.

I've had this toiletry bag for four years, and it is the first thing I pack for every trip! I absolutely adore its compact design, multiple zippered compartments that make it easy to reach your essentials without having to sort through an entire toiletry bag, and the wipeable interior (for when that foundation or shampoo leaks in transit). For longer trips, I have the Lug Trolley , which can even fit a curling iron. – Rachael Hood , Senior Editor

Price: $49 or less

Courtesy of Wildkin

Dimensions: 5 x 9.5 x 5 inches

Available in a wide variety of playful colors and patterns (think: trucks and mermaid scales ), the Wildkin Toiletry Bag is perfect for kids. The bag offers a spacious main compartment plus an internal zippered mesh pocket and an external zippered pocket.

I bought this bag to coordinate with my son's Wildkin Overnighter Duffel . The quality of both bags is top-notch, and I know we'll be able to use them for a long time. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist 

Price: $24.99 or less

Courtesy of L.L. Bean

Dimensions: 12.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches

The L.L. Bean Personal Toiletry Bag is a classic, and the largest size is perfect for weeklong trips and even multiple family members. In addition to having a variety of internal and external pockets, this hanging toiletry bag can hold up to 25 pounds. Available in a variety of colors, it also features a carry strap and tote handle as well as a small mirror.

While this kit comes in a few sizes, the large is my favorite. It fits everything I need for a trip, from shower essentials to makeup to medicine. The plastic front on the upper two compartments is beginning to wear away, but I can deal with that considering I've had mine for more than 10 years (if not longer). – Marisa Méndez , Senior Editor

Price: $44.95 or less

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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

Courtesy of Away

Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.3 x 3.15 inches

If you're looking for a small toiletry bag that can be used for short trips, this is the one. But don't let the small size (and name) of this toiletry bag fool you. Two interior zippered compartments – one clear, one mesh – are big enough to hold all of your travel-size toiletries plus medications for even longer trips, and the zippered exterior pocket is perfect for makeup wipes. When you inevitably get the bag wet, its water-resistant nylon material makes it easy to wipe dry. The Small Toiletry Bag is available in black, navy, blue gray and white.

This is the toiletry bag equivalent of Mary Poppins' bag. It holds way more than it looks like it can. – Amanda Norcross

Price: $55 or less

Dimensions: 8 x 8.31 x 3.5 inches

Not only is this hanging toiletry bag well organized, but it also costs less than $15 at Target. The toiletry bag has a built-in hanger, four mesh pockets (two of which have zippers) and an additional compartment that can hold travel-size (or even full-size) toiletries and makeup. It also has an external tote handle. The Open Story Small Hanging Toiletry bag is currently available in light blue.

I've used this toiletry bag for a couple years now, and it's great for my travel needs. The hanging hook saves me a lot of space, and there's plenty of organization inside – all for an incredibly affordable price. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Price: $12.99 or less

Courtesy of Fawn

Dimensions: 6.5 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches

For a clear toiletry bag that makes it easy to see all of your essentials – plus a faux leather trim and matte gold zippers that make it just plain pretty – frequent travelers recommend this option by Fawn. Two interior compartments are large enough to hold both toiletries and makeup, and top grab handles make it easy to pull out of your luggage and transport wherever you go.

I was initially drawn to this bag for its clear vinyl compartments, but after using it for about a year I've been pleasantly surprised by how many items it can hold. I'm able to fit all my travel-size skin care and hair care products, and it doesn't take up too much space in my carry-on. It's also very easy to clean. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Price: $59.99 or less

Best Leather: Mark & Graham Dual Travel Organizer – Large

Courtesy of Mark & Graham

Dimensions: 6 x 9.5 x 2.25 inches

This toiletry bag is both elegant and efficient. Crafted with vegan leather, it's available in eight colors, including red, blush, camel, white and navy, all of which are accented by gold zippers. The toiletry bag has two spacious compartments and conveniently sits upright on flat surfaces.

I really like my large Dual Travel Organizer from Mark and Graham. The main compartment can hold your basic makeup essentials and a travel-sized toothbrush, and the bottom zippered section is ideal for jewelry, a contact lens case or hair ties. The vegan leather material is both soft and environmentally friendly, and you can also get the bag monogrammed for a personal touch. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Price: $99 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

Per the Transportation Security Administration's liquids rule , a quart-sized bag is recommended for any toiletries packed in carry-on luggage ; however, a clear bag is not specified. What's most important is that any liquids (including creams, gels and aerosols) are placed in a small bag and do not exceed 3.4 ounces. For checked luggage , there are no limitations on toiletry bag and liquid sizes.

Anything you use for your personal hygiene at home should be packed in your toiletry bag. This can include:

• Conditioner
• Shaving cream
• Moisturizer
• Contact solution
• Contact lenses
• Feminine hygiene products

Depending on space, you may also want to pack the following items in your toiletry bag:

• Medications

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross regularly reviews and writes about travel gear. She consulted her team at U.S. News as well as recent consumer reviews to determine the best toiletry bags for men, women and kids.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Packing Cubes
• The Most Useful Travel Accessories
• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

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Hundreds of Brand-new Travel Products Just Hit Amazon’s Virtual Shelves — Here's What's in My Cart

New month, new deals.

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

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

We’re just a few days into April, and I’m happy to report that spring travel style is officially in full swing. As I get ready to embark on my upcoming trips, I've been doing a little spring cleaning to rid my closet and travel bags of old clothes and accessories so I can replace them with new must-haves for the season. And while the hunt for the top-of-the-line travel essentials can be an adventure in itself, fortunately, I can always rely on Amazon to continually deliver the biggest and brightest in terms of travel essentials.

In fact, the retailer just updated its massive catalog with hundreds of new arrivals that I’m feeling particularly excited about, complete with durable luggage sets and comfortable two-piece outfits . There’s plenty to shop, so I’ve curated a list of the 11 best travel products that just hit Amazon’s virtual shelves.  

Darong Women’s Lounge Two-piece Set

There’s something so alluring about a matching set. Aside from the next-level comfort that it provides, it’s also a sure-fire way to ensure that you look put together on even the most hectic travel days. In fact, this newly dropped set is crafted with an ultra-soft fabric and easy-breezy design, making it the perfect ensemble for any journey (that can do double duty as an airplane outfit, workout fit, pajama set, swim cover-up, and more) — and not to mention that it’s available for just $40.  

Teriveek Oversized Striped Crewneck Sweater

Despite the gradual increase in temperatures, there’s still a briskness in the air, which means that you shouldn’t completely devoid your wardrobe of long-sleeve tops and sweaters yet. Keeping that in mind, this oversized striped sweater is the perfect top to get you through this transitional season in style. Even better, it's on sale for a limited time for just $28. 

Fochier Hardshell 3-piece Luggage Set

Every trip and destination may look different, but one thing that’s for sure is that every traveler needs a reliable suitcase. Fortunately, this freshly released Amazon set comes with three suitcases: a carry-on, medium-sized checked bag, and large checked bag for each and every trip that you have planned. In addition to getting three bags for the price of one, the suitcases in this set are sturdy, lightweight, feature TSA-approved locks, and multi-directional spinning wheels. What more could you want?

Real Essentials Men’s Mesh Running Shorts Set

These 100 percent polyester mesh shorts are the breathable, sweat-wicking bottoms that you need to get your wardrobe in shape for spring. Aside from their travel-friendly specs (lightweight fabric, adjustable drawstring waistband, and comfortable fit), at just $35 for a set of four, these are undoubtedly one of the best new arrivals and deals of the season. And they come in eight different color combinations for customizable wear. 

E.l.f Squeeze Me Lip Balm

This lip balm came out last summer and has quickly become a fan-favorite in the beauty community. With its recent launch at Amazon, travelers and skincare enthusiasts alike can  stock up on this top-rated lip balm just in time for spring. I’m among the many fans of this lip balm, and have even found that it outperforms plenty of the more expensive products in its category. Infused with hyaluronic acid, shea butter, goji berry, and other beneficial ingredients for the lips, this $4 beauty find is essential for keeping your pout nourished during extended travel periods.

Zimfem Portable Camping Chair 

Even though this portable camping chair is new to Amazon's outdoor gear scene, it's already accrued hundreds of perfect ratings from shoppers, including one who loved that “it folds and compacts neatly, and is light… I can see myself using this chair all the time for camping, beach outings, hiking, and other adventures.” It's not a bad idea to grab this convenient, under-5-pound camping chair — especially while it's $10 off for a limited time. 

OutdoorMaster Beach Tent

You can apply and reapply as much sunscreen as you’d like, but for more robust sun protection, you should really consider adding this UPF 50 beach tent to your gear repertoire. This waterproof tent not only shields you from the sun, but also offers a reprieve from the heat with its shading and ventilation features. Amazon is already a top retailer for innovative warm-weather products, and this genius beach shade is a testament to just that. 

Glmnes Inflatable Sleeping Pad

It can be quite the task to get a restful night of sleep when you're away from home, especially on a camping trip. Thankfully, that’s a problem of the past with this new inflatable sleeping pad that shoppers rave gives them “ ultimate comfort anywhere .” Crafted with a heavy duty and waterproof nylon material, this sleeping pad is not only intended to give you a good night of sleep wherever you are, but to withstand adverse weather conditions and rough terrain.  

Yuclet Portable Water Filtration Straw Set 

As a traveler who always packs with preparedness in mind, I make sure to keep a water filtration straw in my bag in case I run out of water. As you can imagine, I was thrilled to see this on-sale set of four available at Amazon for just $30. These straws boast a four-stage filtration system that effectively eliminates microplastics, waterborne bacteria, and various other contaminants.

Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon

The Oura Ring made its debut back in 2015 and changed the way that we take charge of our personal health and fitness goals. It's now officially launched at Amazon, and if you’ve been hesitant about giving this gadget a try for yourself, allow T+L 's senior commerce writer Merrell Readman to explain what makes the buzzy product so great: “I've always been really particular about my sleep and I love having in-depth data that shows me how my daily habits impact my rest. I'm also someone that struggles to take rest days, but since I got my Oura ring, I've been more intentional about prioritizing down time because I have the data to see what a life of constant motion does to my stress levels.” Compatible with iOS and Android devices, this smart ring tracks your stress levels, heart rate, and can even tell you when you’re about to get sick thanks to its intelligent biometric tracking system. 

Astylish Women’s Oversized Waffle Knit Shirt

Amazon is well-known for refreshing its shelves with fashionable pieces every season, and this waffle knit shirt is no exception. I’ve been a waffle knit fiend lately, so the moment that I spotted this top in the new arrivals section, I promptly added it to my cart. It’ll keep you warm on drafty flights and brisk mornings, but thanks to its breathable material, it won't have you overheating. Even though it quite literally just launched, I already know that it is going to become a fashion-favorite among shoppers (including myself) this spring. 

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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