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38 Ways To Pack Light And Save Space In Your Suitcase For An International Trip

Because you don't need a heavy, jam-packed suitcase weighing you down while you're out exploring the world.

Jenae Sitzes

BuzzFeed Staff

1. Start with a  packing checklist  so you can identify the *essentials* for your trip, depending on length, location, and itinerary — and what should probably stay behind. If you (like me) are a chaotic packer whose typical process is throwing a bunch of things in your suitcase and praying it closes later, seeing everything laid out like this can ensure you're not over-packing — and that you don't forget your toothbrush, either.

packing checklist that says pack this

Promising review: "We travel frequently and have two children. As any parent knows, packing for yourself and your children can be overwhelming (especially for a trip longer than a few days ). I have found this list to be a lifesaver, and I also give it as a gift for other traveling families. It is easy to plan, organize, and list out items that are easily forgotten. You can also list the quantity of each item needed. It has a variety of clothing options and space to add more. Overall, wonderful purchase and has likely saved me many forgotten items!" — I-really-bought-this

Get it from Amazon for $12.63 . 

2. Or, try another approach: Start by laying everything you think you might need out on the bed, then going through one by one to identify what you *know* you'll wear versus items that are just a "maybe." Circle back to the "maybes" pile only once you've packed all the essentials — and see how much space you have left, if any.

blogger packing clothes and accessories into their suitcase

This great tip comes from blogger Katherine over at Camille Styles, who writes : "Once you have everything you need, lay it out on the bed and divide into sections so that you can easily find all your items once you reach your destination. I like to divide mine out by tops, bottoms, undergarments, shoes, accessories, and toiletries (including hair and makeup supplies).

Lay it all out, then see if there’s anything you can omit from the piles. Only keep items that you know you will wear on your trip. Anything else that is a ‘maybe’ gets put into a separate pile, which you can go back to and pull from depending on how much space you have after you have packed all of your essentials. Once you have the necessary items, gently fold each one into a small square to try and prevent wrinkles forming once everything is stacked up in your suitcase."

3. And if you have nooo idea where to even start — especially if it's your first time traveling out of the country — try following a ~formula~ like this blogger's 5-4-3-2-1 packing guide , which has you start with five flexible tops, and work your way down to one of each essential accessory: a hat, a watch, and sunnies.

a graphic detailing the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 packing rule and what items fall into each category

This is *actually* genius, and you should check out blogger Geneva's full breakdown over at Collective Gen . Of course, be sure to keep in mind the climate you're traveling to and your itinerary as well!

4. Weigh your suitcase using a  digital luggage scale  so there aren't any surprises (and unplanned over-capacity fees) when you get to bag drop-off and have to heave it onto that big scale. Plus, if you're traveling between several cities or hotels during your trip, it can help give you a reality check before you're in the middle of Seoul lugging a packed-to-the-brim suitcase up the subway stairs (side-eyeing my past self here). Do you reeeally want to carry 40+ pounds around with you from location to location?

reviewer using a digital luggage scale to weigh a red suitcase by attaching it to the handle and lifting up

To use, just hook the scale to your luggage handle, lift up, and the LCD display will show the weight! You can also switch between pound and kilogram measurements. 

BTW, BuzzFeed Shopping editor  Elizabeth Lilly  put this scale to the test while packing for a trip to Iceland — check out her demo of how it works on TikTok !

Promising review:  "Took this for a 10-day trip overseas with lots of flights. Weighed the luggage as things were added to it/purchased, and when we weighed in at the airport, it was perfectly accurate. Very important when the airline will charge $70 more for a suitcase that is too heavy or make you open the whole thing up and take stuff out in order to fly with it. Saved so much hassle." — B. M. O'Connor

Get it from Amazon for $10.99+  (available in seven colors, as well as a two-pack and another style). 

5. Opt for clothing that can be styled different ways, especially if your trip spans a week or longer — don't worry, it's OK to be an outfit repeater (despite what Kate Sanders from Lizzie McGuire might have taught us). Except, you're not really  repeating an outfit when you have a truly versatile piece like Hackwith Design House's Everything Top , which can be worn more than five ways!

a model wearing the black long-sleeved wrap top in three ways: off the shoulder, tied in the front with a square neck, and tied in the back with a V-neck in front

Hackwith Design House is a woman-owned small business that creates made-to-order apparel. This shirt can be worn as a V-neck, off-the-shoulder, boatneck, V-back, and even open as a jacket.

Promising review: "I’m being honest when I tell you this is the most 'worth-it' top around. I read a review from some frequent flyer who claims this is her go-to for flying. She said aside from the top’s flexibility — which allows much less packing as the top itself looks and behaves like four shirts and a jacket — it’s a savior on planes because it allows you to get into a usually overheated plane, and to weather the transition to iceberg that happens about 20 minutes into most flights, and it holds its shape and looks great. I was skeptical, as I do not have the money to blow on someone else’s opinion, but my husband told me to try it as I have the same issues with temps. Long story short, I got it. It’s a gorgeous fabric despite my usually hating the ribbed thing. It’s nice. REALLY nice. Yes, it’s extraordinarily flexible, and yes, it’s like a jacket. Ordering in the off-white now." — Mary B.  

Get it from Hackwith Design House for $145  (available in women's sizes XS–4X and in five colors). 

6. One-piece outfits like rompers, jumpsuits, and dresses are a great option here, too, since they're an all-in-one fit and can more easily be styled in a variety of ways. This particularly cozy jumpsuit is even flight attendant-approved and boasts over 35,000 5-star Amazon ratings!

reviewer wearing the black jumpsuit while standing in front of mountain scenery

Promising reviews: "I bought the navy blue to take on vacation after reading an article about how easy care these jumpsuits are. I loved it so much I bought the green. I take them out of my suitcase, hang them up, and they are ready to go in a few hours , no ironing needed. I get compliments every time I wear one of them." — AKSunshine

"This jumpsuit is super comfortable . I wore it on an international flight, and it was the best fly day outfit with a denim jacket over it. Comfortable and cool without looking like I'm wearing pajamas in public. Easy to slip on and off in the bathroom. Only complaint would be the little button in the back is hard to use on your own. Thankfully, I had enough give that I didn't have to undo it to get it on and off." — Leigh Ann

Get it from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in women's sizes S–3X and 32 colors/patterns).

7. And where possible, reach for pieces made of thinner materials that'll allow room for more options in your suitcase, like a lightweight slip dress for a chic dinner or going out look! You can always layer a cardigan, jacket, or shawl over it for warmth — and to style it in different ways for different occasions!

Writer in a black spaghetti-strap slip dress

This dress is made from lightweight Japanese satin with a bias cut that gives it a slinkier, curve-hugging shape.

Elizabeth says, "I've worn the hell out of this Aritzia dress since buying it in 2019. Here, I was dressed for rooftop aperitivos in Rome and have worn it on a number of occasions when I wanted to be as comfy as if I were in PJs , while looking as if I'm dressed for anything but going to sleep. I bought it again in deep red on Black Friday 2022. It's THAT good."

Get it from Aritzia for $118 (available in women's sizes 2XS–2XL and in 17 colors). 

Psst — for a cheaper slip dress in more sizes, we love this Amazon option !

Amazon reviewer in the black slip dress

Promising review : "Great for a capsule wardrobe. I bought this for a summer trip to Italy. It paired beautifully with a cotton blouse. It's especially good for evening." — theof

Get ir from Amazon for $33.40+ (available in women's sizes XXS–5X and in 25 colors).

8. Roll your clothing instead of folding it into stacks — it'll take up less room and help prevent wrinkles!

Also, it'll help you more easily see all of your clothing options at a glance, if you don't plan on fully unpacking your suitcase once you get to your destination. 

9. Utilize compression packing cubes that are see-through so you can find what you need without having to tear them all open. These'll also tickle that itch if you love organization since you can pack them by outfit or by clothing type (jeans in one, tees in the other, etc.).

Hands demonstrate compressing clothes in a storage cube for efficient packing

The set comes with two large packing cubes, two medium packing cubes, a bag for dirty clothes (handy!), a cable organizer bag, and a shoe bag.

Promising review: "I am a carry-on-only girl. I frequently do 10+ day international travel and only use a carry-on size backpack. Thus, adding any extra bulk or weight just does not work. Ta da! Enter these compression packing cubes! They're lightweight, see-through (making it a snap to locate what I am looking for in my bag), and able to compress, allowing me to take an extra outfit. These cubes are one of my all time favorite traveling accessories. Love, love, love them!" — Voracious reader

Get the set of seven from Amazon for $19.99 (available in eight colors).

10. Or, for a particularly long stint abroad, consider  vacuum storage bags  designed to squeeze out every bit of air and increase your storage space by a whopping 80%. If you're traveling with bulky apparel like coats and sweaters — or just want to bring a wider variety of clothing options — they're a lifesaver.

Open suitcase before and after using space-saving bags, showing increased packing capacity

This highly rated set comes with a small travel hand pump.

Pro tip: Pack an empty one of these at the bottom of your suitcase in case you buy more clothes while on your trip and need to condense!

Promising review : "We needed to travel for a long trip to Japan, which included two days of skiing, and make all our clothes and gear fit in carry-on luggage. These bags were incredible. They worked well without any issues, and they were able to compress ski pants and gloves and warm sweaters down to a nearly flat surface. Everyone in our family used at least two in their carry-on bag, and that was what allowed us to pack everything we needed. Each bag worked well repeatedly, as we opened and shut them during the trip . Highly recommend when traveling and space is an issue." — whitnch

Get a six-pack from Amazon for $23.99  (available in four sizes, as well as other multipacks).

11. Toss in a 50-count set of  laundry soap sheets  for easily washing your clothes on the go so you *can* wear them on repeat and not have to fill up a bulky "dirty clothes" bag over the course of your trip. They'll come in clutch whether you're hiking or camping or just don't want to use your hotel's expensive laundry services — plus, you can pack them in your carry-on since they're nonliquid!

reviewer photo of the orange pack of laundry soap sheets on top of a blanket

These work best with hand-washing! If you have quick-drying clothing  you can pack, even better. 

Promising review:  "This came SO in handy during my vacation to Europe! I was making lots of different stops to places with different types of weather. With these laundry soap sheets, I was able to wash my clothes in the sink — letting me pack just the right amount of clothes for all the different places I went." — Katie Fujarski

Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for  $10.85  (also available in hand soap sheets ).

12. And prepare for the possibility that you miiiight accidentally drip pasta sauce on your nicest shirt while dining at that fancy Italian restaurant — and problem-solve ahead of time by packing a little  Tide stain-removing pen . It'll take up HARDLY any space, but it'll let you spot-treat your visibly dirty top (instead of having to rely on one of the precious few non-stained shirts you have left). 

hand holding tide to go pen

This pack comes with three, but you could just pack one (and leave the other two at home where they will, no doubt, get plenty of use in everyday life).

Promising review: "Now I'm a believer! Always had one in my desk at work. Now I have one with me whenever I travel. If I've worn something for just a couple of hours for dinner and gotten a few drops of coffee on it, I can't see sending the garment to the hotel laundry. I just use my Tide Pen. Works great on men's ties. At first it looks like nothing's happening but keep working it and suddenly the spot magically disappears! It helps to put a tissue or paper towel behind the area you're cleaning. They take out just about anything and don't leave a ring like my prior spot-cleaning efforts did. The pens are small so they're not practical for huge stains but for small mishaps, they're amazing." — GlamGalLovesStuff

Get a pack of three from Amazon for $7.88 .

13. And! Plan to freshen up your wrinkled blouses and dresses from your *tightly* packed suitcase with a  mini steam iron  so small and lightweight, you'll hardly notice it in your travel bag — but its effectiveness more than warrants its inclusion. Bonus: It's dual-voltage and comes with a travel bag, so it'll be ready to go for all of your worldwide jet-setting. 

the mini steam iron in a suitcase

Yes, some hotels have irons in the rooms, but many don't (or they're broken/have seen better days) — and that's if you're even staying in a hotel!

Promising review:  "This iron is so cool. It operates on dual voltage. I often go to Europe and this was so helpful for me. Super lifesaver. Also it worked very well in UK. This does get super hot, so if you forget to turn it off, it may burn the cloth. Be aware of that. It clears out tough wrinkles (like cotton fabrics). It's very lightweight, so you can carry this in your carry-on. It's TSA approved. 100% recommend this item for all travelers." — Honey Kohli

Get it from Amazon for  $24.99  (available in two colors).

14. Pack up to three pairs of shoes in a single, space-efficient  shoe bag  — like your sneaks for walking tours, sandals for the beach, and flats for a nice dinner. It's a great compromise between wearing the same shoes the *entire* trip and, well, bringing along your entire Carrie Bradshaw-level collection. Plus, it'll help keep the dirty soles from touching your freshly laundered clothes.

reviewer image of the shoe bag in pink, filled with shoes

Of course, sticking to just one pair (that you wear on the plane) is the *most* space-efficient option, but if your trip includes a mixed itinerary of casual days and fancier reservations, this is a great way to cover all of your bases.

Promising review:  " You can totally fit three pairs of shoes in this! (I wear a women's size 6.5 shoe, and it fits heels, wedges, and sandals.) I bought two and will absolutely be buying more for my husband. 10/10 would recommend! I travel frequently, and I always overpack; this helped cut down space and stress immensely! " — Taylor

Get it from Amazon for $18.39  (available in nine colors and patterns). 

15. Aaaand fill shoes with smaller items like socks, bras or underwear — because every inch of space counts! If you're only bringing one extra pair, stash them in a shower cap that won't add any bulk but *will* keep dirty soles from making a mess in your suitcase.

a pair of shoes in a shower cap with socks and undies inside them

16. Take some time to research what items are provided by the hotel or Airbnb you're staying at as well as any tours you're going on (or what you can borrow from your local friend, lol) so you don't waste space packing items you don't need!

Arrow pointing to people on rented beach towels under an umbrella

This tip comes from Elizabeth , who says, "For example, will you be visiting French Riviera beach clubs that'll rent a towel to you for a few euros? (The one above in Nice did!) Do you need some athletic sneakers for zip-lining through the jungle? Or, will the whitewater-rafting company have water shoes you can wear as you paddle through some picturesque canyon?"

17. Don't forget your universal travel adapter , especially if you're planning to hit a number of countries on your trip — it'll ensure you're never left looking in confusion at a strange new outlet shape like, "Um...what am I supposed to do with that ?" No need to pack separate adapters, either — and your USB cables can plug right into it!

travel adapter plugged into an international outlet

This style has one universal input and three USB ports, including two USB-A and one USB-C, so you can charge up to four devices at once. It works with outlets in most parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Dubai.

Note: This isn't a voltage converter , so be sure to check what voltages your devices are rated for.

Ceptics is a small business that makes travel plug adapters for worldwide travel.

Promising review : "I bought this adapter some three months ago and it worked perfectly in Vietnam, Cambodia, Bahrain, Oman, and Italy (where I saw two different outlet types). My phone is at the stage where it needs to be charged once or twice per day. This is my 'need to pack item' when traveling. I also like the fact that it has USB outlets because I often have to charge my phone and something else at the same time. By the way, it also worked well in the Delta One cabin and in the ANA All Nippon Business cabin. This is also what I use for charging my phone, iPod, and smartwatch using the USB connections right here at home in the US." — Mark, WV

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 .

18. Leave the jewelry box at home, but that doesn't mean you can't sport some bling while exploring the world. Fill a slim, foldable  jewelry organizer  with the necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings you need to ~accessorize~ on the go without having to detangle the chaotic mess of chains when you finally get to your location. It'll hardly take up any space and won't add noticeable weight!

a jewelry organizer holding necklaces

Promising review:  "Best jewelry travel pouch ever. Plenty of room for all my travel jewelry needs. Half the size of previous pouches I have tried and holds more than any of them. " — T Rex Mom

Get it from Amazon for $15.98+ (available in two sizes and 11 colors).

19. Consolidate all of your medications into a sturdy, lightweight  eight-compartment pill organizer  so small, it'll fit into the palm of your hand — no more juggling half-empty bottles. Because leaving behind your prescription meds isn't exactly an option, but they don't have to be a space-hogger, either.

reviewer image of the pill organizer in green, full of different pills

Promising review: "My husband and I travel a lot and take a number of prescription drugs. It was always a hassle accessing our medication when needed, so I purchased this organizer to make things easier. I used a label maker and labeled each little compartment, and it has performed wonderfully. I highly recommend this organizer to anyone who travels and needs medications throughout the day." — Jacqueline

Get a three-pack from Amazon for  $7.97 , and a single organizer  here  if you only need one (but it's more cost-efficient to get the bundle). 

20. And *even* if you're checking a bag, transfer your shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and other essential liquid toiletries into  travel-sized bottles  that'll take up way less space and add less weight than those full-sized bottles. No need to go out and buy them in a mini size (if they're even sold that way at all)!

Four travel-sized toiletry bottles in a clear plastic case on a bathroom counter

PS: It also comes with pre-printed labels and a handy, clear zipper pouch! The label options are: soap, sunblock, conditioner, lotion, shampoo, or blank (so you can write your own label).

Promising reviews:  "Just took a trip to the Dominican Republic and  used carry-on luggage only throughout the entire trip, never once was questioned about the size.  The holes are big enough to get your product into the bottles without any complications. My fiancé and myself had plenty of shampoo, conditioner, sunblock, and lotion for seven days." — Stephanie Miller

" I had in checked luggage, and they didn't spill or leak, are easy to fill due to the wide mouth, and are easy to dispense.  Used for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Much more convenient to fill my own bottles than search for travel sizes or use products I don't prefer!" — Suzanne Edwards

Get a set of four 3-ounce bottles from Amazon for  $12.99+  (available in a variety of sizes and colors).

21. Or, invest in a simply *stunning* (and TSA-compliant) set of Cadence Capsules made for packing your various pills, lotions, cleansers, and accessories in perfect travel-sized amounts. Not only are the colors and labels fully customizable, but these lightweight capsules also click together magnetically so everything's easy to find in one area of your suitcase. 

a set of six multicolored containers stacked in a pyramid

Cadence is an AAPI woman-owned small business that was founded by Steph Hon with the goal of eliminating single-use travel-sized plastics. The containers are made from recycled ocean-bound plastic. 

BuzzFeed Shopping editor  Abby Kass is a fan: "I recently got a set of four of these, and, wow, I love them so much. I used them on a six-day trip recently, and they were perfect. I customized the label so I knew which one was my shampoo vs. conditioner and did a general label for any other things I wanted to bring along. They do hold a surprising amount. According to the brand, they hold approximately one to two weeks of skincare products, more than two weeks' worth of serum, two to three days' worth of haircare, and more than 15 tablets (for medicine and such). And while two to three days worth of haircare might not seem like enough, I found it held more than that for me, but I also don't wash my hair every single day. They were small enough to slip right into my toiletries bag and go through TSA with no problem. The container was easy to open in the shower (even with wet hands), and I had no leakage from them (like I did from my face wash bottle that will not be making the trip with me next time. SMH). These are an incredibly useful tool anyone who travels will want in their luggage."

BTW, you can also  create and customize your own set of Capsules  with a variety of different container sizes, labels, etc. And check out all of their different container sizes + bundles  here !

Get a set of six from Cadence for $84  (available in many customizable labels and seven colors). 

22. And for liquids you only need a tiny amount of, fill a spare contact lens case that'll take up barely any space and will prevent any leaks en route. I mean, this is just genius.

a contact lens case being filled with lotion on one side and makeup on the other side

Don't forget to pack your actual contacts if you wear them, though!

23. Stop making room for both your huge curling iron and straightener in your suitcase by opting for a 2-in-1 tool that'll take up literally half the space and give you ~options~ for how you want to style your hair every day. Reviewers swear by it for international travel — it's dual-voltage!

reviewer with half of their hair curled and half of their hair straightened

Promising review: "The international traveler's BFF. Don't be fooled by the tiny price or size, this little baby is serious. If you are looking for a small travel option rather than lugging your big straightener and giant curling iron around the world, then I think you'll love this . It performs really well, turning my frizzy, wavy hair into a smooth and sleek style. The curling iron option also creates shiny, silky lasting curls! It's easy to transition between both. I also like the grippy handle and the fact that the curling iron clip is a different color than the straightening bars because that helps me see how I should be maneuvering it around. The voltage goes up to 240 so you are good using it internationally without a converter (but you will need an adapter just to fit it into various foreign outlets) . At this price, definitely give it a try and flaunt your tresses abroad." — Christine

Get it from Amazon for $59.94+  (available in black or white). 

24. And keep a  Hairbrella  on hand in case you get caught in a downpour, since it folds up into a little pouch for travel (goodbye, unwieldy umbrella) and is more effective at keeping your hair dry (even Niagara Falls was no match for it, reports one reviewer ). Here's the real kicker, though: It's satin-lined, meaning it won't give you that dreaded "hat hair" or frizz once you're ready to take it off. 

Reviewer wearing the hairbrella

Of course, this'll only cover your hair, so make sure you're packing some kind of rainproof jacket or a little fold-up  poncho if the forecast looks wet. BTW, people who wear glasses say it keeps them from getting wet, too!

Hairbrella  is a Black-owned small business that specializes in hats that protect hair from all kinds of weather. 

Promising review : "Traveled to London last month with a raincoat that did not have a hood, and wanted something that would protect my head/hair/blowout without lugging an umbrella. This definitely did the trick. Two of the three days were rainy (some quite heavy), and my hair stayed totally dry. It stows nicely, too. I'm still learning how to adjust it while it's on my head (easier to adjust first and then put it on), and I wish the adjustment/clasp was less prominent. But, all in all, this is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their blowout fresh in the rain ." — Miss Information

Get it from Amazon for $44+  (available in nine colors).

25. Ask yourself if you REALLY need to bring a slew of full-sized makeup products and ~options~ on that trip abroad. Multi-use products are your friends here, like the reviewer-beloved Ilia Multi-Stick to pop gorgeous color onto your lips, cheeks, and lids — and the genius Alleyoop Pen Pal that functions as an eyeliner, lip liner, brow pencil, *and* highlighter!

model holding the ilia multi-stick to their face with it applied to cheeks and lips

You won't need to pack brushes for products like this — just blend as needed with your fingers — and no risk of powders cracking or crumbling while traveling!

Promising review (for the Multi-Stick): "I am traveling to Costa Rica and don’t want to pack/bring makeup with me. That being said, my natural complexion is 'death warmed over' so I wanted to bring something that was packable, easy to apply, can be worn over sunscreen, and looks natural . This product is perfect! Love it and might even start wearing it on a daily basis at home, too." — CJBpepper

Promising review (for the Pen Pal): "Really great addition to your makeup collection, especially if you want to take your makeup with you but you don't want to take 10 things . This makeup pen is great, and you always have what you need in your packet. I really recommend you to get one." — Teresa W. (BTW, Alleyoop is a woman-owned small biz!)

Get the Ilia Multi-Stick from Amazon or Sephora for $36 (available in up to 12 shades) and the Alleyoop Pen Pal from Amazon or Alleyoop for $20 (available in three shades).

26. And plan on taking off your makeup using a  makeup-removing cloth  instead of packing a bulky set of disposable makeup remover wipes. It's cheaper, more eco-friendly, gentler (no tugging!), and requires only water to get the job done — meaning you don't need to pack any heavy liquid makeup removers, either.  

Split image of a person’s face before and after makeup removal

Reviewers say it's comparable to the infamous Makeup Eraser — only this is cheaper!

Promising review : "This is incredible! I can't believe how well this works! I travel a lot for work and usually take makeup remover wipes because of the liquid restrictions for travel, but they are expensive and heavy. I have been using this cloth all week and LOVE IT! A bit of warm water and everything comes off in a few easy swipes. I am super excited to travel with this. It weighs nothing and rolls up to take very little space. I am ordering another for my mom who also travels. Highly recommend!" — KT

Get it from Amazon for $6.99  (available in five colors). 

27. Pack a teeny-tiny  travel Gillette Venus razor  in place of your full-sized razor and kit, especially if you're embarking on a long trip abroad. Your baby-smooth skin is going on vacay with you!

a hand holding a travel razor next to the pink carrying case

It comes with a little carrying case, and one blade lasts for up to 30 days! Reviewers also love that regular Venus razor refills work with it. 

Promising review : "I am a minimalist, so for me, the less the better, but you do need the essentials, especially when traveling abroad. This little mini razor came in so handy. You hardly even know it’s in your toiletry bag; it’s so small, but big enough to get a good grip and shave. I always bring this little razor with me whenever I travel. I love the compact size. Highly recommend as a space-saver when traveling." — Deb H. 

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 . 

28. If you're not bringing your heavy shampoo and conditioner and would rather not pack an aerosol dry shampoo bottle either, this small tub of dry shampoo powder will keep you fresh on the go! It's so easy to apply while traveling: Just dab it on your roots to release an ultra-fine powder that absorbs oil and revives ~volume~. 

Reviewer before using the dry shampoo powder, with extremely oily blonde hair, and after using it with hair looking much fresher and less greasy

BTW, this is cruelty-free and benzene-free!

Promising review: "I was looking for a dry shampoo that would be easy to use on the go for a trip I was taking. I had no issues taking this through TSA and it was so easy to use on the go. You literally just pat the poof on your scalp and then rub the powder in. I do have black hair so dry shampoo is usually very visible in my hair, but I didn't have any harder time than usual rubbing this powder in. It did a really good job of soaking up all the oil and giving my hair volume. I'm not a fan of the price for the amount that you get, but it is lasting longer than I thought it would. I would definitely recommend and will purchase again." — Teresa

Get it from Amazon for $18 . 

29. Swap that bulky bottle of sunscreen for a slim  SPF 50 stick version  that's solid — meaning you won't be getting any side-eye from TSA if it's in your carry-on, and it's much more lightweight than the liquid kind. Plus, it'll be so easy to reapply (without mess) when you're out seeing the sights all day!

model applying solid sunscreen to face

Just be sure to apply it evenly, and don't miss any spots!

Elizabeth  brought this on an international trip and loved it: "I first bought this for a weeklong Croatian vacation in 2021 when I did carry-on, and as long as you are *thoroughly* reapplying, this stuff stays on pretty well. On a beach club afternoon, I did haphazardly reapply and missed a strip on one arm, but I tend to do that with spray-on or lotion sunscreen, too. Since then, I've packed this for any trip I've been on , including a two-day Disneyland trip where I toted this around in my bag and shared it with friends. 

"I sometimes carry it with me in my purse on my everyday adventures because I know it's so easy to apply. Also worth mentioning...I am about the palest lady you've ever seen and swear by daily application of sunscreen. But when on a beach trip, I'm constantly swimming in the water and sweating. So, yeah, this stuff works.  And if you're a bit hesitant about jumping on the solid sunscreen bandwagon, you can pack a stick of this, knowing you have enough sun protection to get you through to finding some spray-on or lotion SPF at your destination."

Get it from Amazon for $9.79 .

30. In place of your full-sized toothpaste that's prone to ~leakage~ inside your toiletries bag, pack all-natural toothpaste tablets that are lighter, smaller, and both mess- and plastic-free. All you have to do is pop one in your mouth, wet your toothbrush, and start scrubbing! And, of course, there's the other obvious benefit: These are solid, aka not subject to TSA's restrictions. 

a hand pouring tablets out of a pouch into a blue tin

Huppy is an Asian-owned small biz creating plastic-free toothpaste tablets out of sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients. Everything is vegan, GMO- and cruelty-free. Best of all? Huppy donates 2% of revenue to fund sustainability initiatives!

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Danielle Healy says, "I love how zero-waste the process is with Huppy. You get a forever tin (pick from blue or blush) and then buy refills that come in compostable pouches. The whole chewing thing can be weird at first (my boyfriend found it aggressively minty, I just think they taste like Altoids), but both of us got used to it pretty quickly. With water, the tabs foam up pretty instantly, and after that, it's just a normal teeth-brushing experience. In fact, I'm actually finding that not dealing with drippy toothpaste and tiny screw-on caps is actually pretty delightful. And I'm absolutely not traveling with regular toothpaste ever again — this is a travel must-have regardless of what you use at home. A cleaner process both in and out of my mouth."

Get 62 peppermint-flavored tablets (the "trial size") from Huppy for $13 . 

31. Also! Keep in mind that you can always buy personal items, makeup, and toiletries at your location — and it can be fun stumbling upon and trying new brands that way!

*Especially* if you're traveling abroad for a long period, don't feel like you need to pack enough sunscreen, moisturizer, or shampoo for the entire time you're away from home. You're just weighing yourself down unnecessarily!

32. Wear your bulkiest clothes onto the plane: chunky boots, thick sweaters (it's cold on there anyway!), sweatpants, etc. Aside from the space-saving benefits, you'll also be cozy as heck while you binge-watch your downloaded movies on that looong flight.

Person in ripped jeans and chunky boots sitting on a step, with a leopard print top and black outerwear

If you wear layers, you can always take one off if you start to overheat! We also recommend  compression socks  for the plane if you're prone to swelling. (Read more about compression socks and their benefits at  Cleveland Clinic .)

Psst — these  lug-sole Dr. Martens Rometty boots  are just one of our favorite pairs of  comfortable travel shoes ! Check out our full list for more picks that won't make your feet ache by the end of day one. 

Get them from Amazon for  $109.86  (available in women's sizes 5–11). 

33. And in place of that huge neck pillow that's an absolute *pain* to lug around for the entirety of your trip, treat yourself to a  Trtl neck pillow  that's waaay more space-efficient and lightweight (not to mention more ergonomic and comfortable). When traveling internationally, a neck pillow is one of those real "worth it" items, but it doesn't have to be a burden to bring along. 

Model wearing a gray Trtl pillow while sleeping on a plane

It also easily attaches to backpacks and luggage handles (see the photo on the right), weighs less than half a pound, and is machine washable!

My former colleague  Ciera Velarde  has used this pillow for the past few years and swears by it: "Before this, I always found traditional neck pillows uncomfortable and would end up ditching them halfway through the flight and getting frustrated. The Trtl pillow is adjustable — you wrap the pillow around your neck and secure it with Velcro, and  if you find it's too loose, just make it a bit tighter! I've truly never slept better on a plane than with this pillow. " 

And check out our full Trtl neck pillow review for more on why it's worth the hype!

Get it from Amazon for  $64.99+  (available in five colors).

34. Upgrade your carry-on bag situation with a genius Carry-On Closet that, honestly, might make you forgo the price (and headache) of checking a bag for good. Its built-in compression and organization will help you pack your carry-on as efficiently as possible, with a six-tier pop-out shelving system that'll let you bring along all of your cutest 'fits for roaming the world without a bulky full-size suitcase. 

the open suitcase, which has several small storage compartments on one side and a larger one on the other

Psst: Its lining is made with plastic from coastal communities that otherwise could have ended up in the ocean! The smaller size is accepted as a carry-on by all international airlines, including European budget ones, while the larger one meets all US airline standards. 

Promising review: "Great design that allows me to organize everything I need in much less space than I ever expected . Take your time to select and pack your things thoughtfully and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much you can get into this carry-on. I have several pieces of luggage in different sizes and I’m giving them away because this is all I need. The size and versatility make it the perfect carry-on." — Michelle C.

Get it from Solgaard for $295+ (available in two sizes and 14 colors). 

35. And for your personal item, don't waste it on a skimpy purse or tote; instead, choose a sturdy travel backpack that can also double as your day bag for your entire trip. You can't go wrong with the sleek  Beis backpack , which literally zips open like a suitcase (!) and features *extensive* storage with stretchy X straps to keep it all secure. For a shorter trip, this might even be all you need, if you're a minimalist.

Open backpack stuffed full of things for a long weekend

Elizabeth says, "I snagged this backpack after hearing my colleague Chelsea Stuart sing its praises. I wanted a bag for some upcoming travel (two and a half weeks in Europe with *just* carry-on for five flights) that opens up like a suitcase for easier packing. Since buying it, I've taken it on two long-weekend trips with no complaints. In fact, for both of those trips, I packed MORE than I needed. 

"Inside, you'll find a mesh zippered pocket and a plastic pocket perfect for your toiletries. I can fit as many 'wet' toiletries in the second pocket as I'd be allowed to carry on for a plane.  The main compartment is deceptively deep, so you can easily roll clothes and Lego-fit them in together without using packing cubes. AND it has stretchy X-straps to keep it all secure, like you'd see in a roller suitcase, so when I unzip it, everything stays put . I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won't fall out.  Plus, it has a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, writing pens, etc. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into those overhead storage compartments on trains. This isn't the cheapest backpack option, but if you're a frequent traveler, you'll get so much mileage on it and seriously save on some baggage fees, making it well worth the cost. This backpack and I are going places, for sure."

Get it from Beis for $88 (available in eight colors). 

36. Also: Instead of a big ol' fanny pack, make one of the most unassuming (yet v necessary) clothing accessories do double duty for you — we're talking about a  money belt , folks. Yes, it'll snugly hold up your pants when you're making a steep climb to see a cool view. It'll *also* hold your cash thanks to a hidden zip-up pocket that even the sneakiest of pickpockets can't reach. It's 2-in-1 brilliance at its finest!

Model putting a $100 bill into the concealed zipper belt

I mean, you can *literally* wear this onto the plane so you don't even have to pack it. 

Promising review: "Wore this belt on a recent 10-day trip, with several hundred dollars neatly folded in its full-length zippered pocket. The bills (USD) had to be folded lengthwise, in thirds, and for practical reasons, in stacks of four to five (or less). My belt had room for four such stacks, so theoretically $2,000 could be comfortably carried in complete concealment. The nylon buckle was perfectly adequate for its purpose, and nothing about the belt would indicate its hidden purpose. Well worth it." — Tony B.

Get it from Amazon for $17.99  (available for pant sizes 20"–50" and in six styles). 

37. Strap your hefty shoulder bag onto your suitcase using a  luggage strap  that'll be the extra set of hands you *desperately* need when you're dashing to make your connecting flight from one country to the next. It'll help lighten the physical load you have to carry and make it feel like you're only rolling around one piece of luggage. It's great for holding bulky coats and sweaters, too!

a suitcase with a coat strapped on top

Promising review: "Saw this in an article about travel items and decided to get it for a trip overseas. So glad I did — the forecast said rain so I packed my rain jacket only to find hot sunny skies. Rather than tie this around my waist and have it fall or get in the way, I wadded it up and used this strap to attach it to my bag. The strap is adjustable, so you can get a tight fit. Carried my coat for me. Would also work to attach a bag to a suitcase, water bottle to a purse, etc. So many uses, just get it and try it out. Really helpful and handy little travel item." — David Shaughnessy

Get it from Amazon for $8.99+  (available in six colors and in sets of two).

38. Or, let that personal item sit on top of your suitcase (strapped securely using a travel belt ) so it can go for a ~ride~ as you're dashing through the airport or navigating to your hotel so you can keep a free hand on your phone. Again, condensing your luggage in this way will help lighten the load on yourself — because traveling internationally is physically taxing enough as it is!

a brown bag strapped to the top of a suitcase

The travel belt is adjustable to 38 inches to fit most bags. The belt itself is vegan leather with elastic accents and a quick-release buckle.

Cincha is a small business in California that develops adjustable travel belts made out of vegan leather. The brand donates 100 airline miles for each purchase, which are used to reconnect separated migrant families.

Promising review: "This little belt saves so much hassle when traveling . For years, I wound the straps of my underseat bag through the handle of my suitcase, but the bag inevitably shifted while maneuvering through airports. And the straps were a nuisance to unwind when the luggage pieces needed to be separated. Now I don't have to look back to see whether my carryon is secure. When it's time to separate my luggage pieces, the buckle makes it simple. The belt even stays put when the buckle is open because of the part that slips over the suitcase handle. All in all, a nice little extra comfort while traveling. Wish I had bought it years ago." — Trumpetvine

Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in 19 colors). 

The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.

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20 Best Travel GIFs and Memes to Get You Ready for Adventure - Frayed Passport

20 Best Travel GIFs and Memes to Get You Ready for Adventure

By: Nick Callos

Ready for adventure?

At Frayed Passport, we write lots of articles about being a digital nomad , working abroad , and all the types of travel you can do. Today, we’d thought it would be fun to do a listicle of the best travel gifs and memes.

Whether you’re on your laptop dreaming of travel or on your smartphone en route to the next amazing destination , we have travel gifs and memes to inspire and humor you.

Read on, have a laugh, and get excited for the next big adventure.

5 Best Safe Travels GIFs and Memes

Safe travels gifs and memes are great to send to friends and family as they embark on a trip . Take a look at the top five safe trip and safe travels gifs below.

1. Because nothing says have a wonderful journey like a Snoopy pilot safe travels gif…

2. because travel means no worries (and maintaining proper social distance in the era of covid)…, 3. because the simpsons…, 4. because any list of the best safe travels gifs needs zach galifianakis…, 5. because toy story and mr. and mrs. potato head are awesome and this safe travels meme is just so precious….

Potato Head - Frayed Passport

That rounds out our list of the best safe travels gifs. Use one of these safe travels gifs the next time a friend goes on a trip and you want to wish them well. It will surely make them smile.

5 Best Road Trip GIFs and Memes

Now that we’ve done the best safe travels gifs, let’s have a little fun with some road trip gifs. As we mentioned in our travel predictions for the 2020s article, the road trip has become much more popular during the pandemic. These road trip gifs and memes will have you starting your car and journeying to your destination in no time.

1. Because any road trip should involve aggressively jamming out to “Bohemian Rhapsody”…

2. because you need this fast & furious gif for when the road trip goes off track…, 3. because every road trip needs the muppets, especially kermit the frog…, 4. because this scene from dexter was incredibly funny, and this question inevitably comes up each road trip…, 5. because you need the right road trip gif to send to friends and family when you arrive, and dumb and dumber delivers….

That finishes our list of the best road trip gifs and memes. Next time you go on a road trip with friends, family, or your partner, send one of these road trip gifs to them before you go. It will put them in a good mood for the trip!

5 Best Travel the World GIFs and Memes

We’ve covered safe travels and road trip GIFs and memes. Now, it’s time for some travel the world gifs. After all, we love long-term global travel here at Frayed Passport and spend a lot of time producing guides on how to live and work anywhere . So, check out these travel around the world gifs and get ready for your next global adventure!

1. Because Let’s Go Luna! has amazing educational content for children, and this travel the world gif will get you ready to learn about other cultures…

2. because princess leia is a hero, and you need the force with you when you travel the world (or galaxy)…, 3. because this kid president gif will have you spinning a globe to discover your next destination…, 4. because nothing could be as fun as traveling the world with spongebob and patrick…, 5. because any list of travel the world gifs needs amelia earhart, the first woman to fly across the atlantic ocean solo….

That concludes our list of the best travel the world gifs. Hopefully, you’re already looking at booking a trip to Europe , the Americas, Africa , Asia or elsewhere after viewing these travel the world gifs.

Overemployment: What It Is, How to Be Overemployed, and How It Can Accelerate Your Path to Financial Freedom

Overemployment is the act of working two remote full-time jobs to earn extra income and reach financial freedom. More than simply having a side hustle, being overemployed means having two or more full-time jobs that offer salary and benefits. While overemployment may sound difficult and potentially hazardous if caught, the fact is any remote worker can do it successfully with the right approach and commitment.

Read the Guide

5 best holiday travel gifs.

Next up for this article on the best travel gifs is our list of the best holiday travel gifs and memes. Whether you’re heading home for the holidays or going abroad, these holiday travel gifs will have you laughing.

1. Because like Chandler says, “Spring break! Woo-hoo…”

2. because a home alone scene belongs on any list of the best holiday travel gifs…, 3. because this bubly gif captures how great it feels to set up your ‘out of office’ email before a holiday…, 4. because national lampoon’s vacation films are hilarious and every family holiday vacation has this sort of moment…, 5. because this adorable holiday travel gif says it all about returning to work….

That finishes our list of the best holiday travel gifs. Whether you’re traveling to Florida for the new year or backpacking in Central America for spring break, these gifs will put in the mindset for no work and all play.

Let these travel GIFs and memes inspire you to adventure

Now that you’ve looked at the best 20 travel GIFs, how do you feel? Are you ready to plan your next trip?

Let our vacation guides and travel tips help with your trip planning. From advice on how to beat travel price inflation to foodie travel articles , we have all you need to put together the trip of a lifetime.

About the Author

Nick Callos has always had a passion for reading, writing, and discovering the new and unknown. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Nick holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Boston College. He currently splits his time between his hometown, Chengdu, China, and the open road. A full-time travel writer, Nick hopes his work can inspire others to explore the world more deeply and enjoy the digital nomad lifestyle.

Featured image via Unsplash .

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How To Pack A Suitcase, According To A Seasoned Traveler

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Learning how to pack a suitcase can make future trips seamless and stress-free. With plenty of helpful packing methods out there, it’s easy to maximize the limited space of your suitcase so that you can bring as much as possible, depending on your itinerary. The best way to pack a suitcase depends on the length of your trip and other factors, such as the season you’re traveling in and your travel style.

For cruises or a one-hotel trip where you won’t be changing accommodations often, you will only need to think about packing and repacking once. However, if you plan on changing hotels and cities often, you will be packing, unpacking and lugging your suitcase around throughout your trip, meaning you’ll need to have a plan in place. No matter your itinerary, we’ve outlined the best strategies to help you pack more strategically, as well as some essential items to make packing as easy as possible.

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Mesh ballet flats: a surprisingly wearable trend for summer 2024, what you will need to pack a suitcase:.

  • Best Suitcase: Away The Bigger Carry-On
  • Best Packing Cubes: Bagsmart Keep Shape Packing Cubes , Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube , JJ Power Travel Shoe Bag
  • Best Toiletry Kit: Travelon Compact Hanging Toiletry Kit
  • Best Tech Kit: ProCase Electronic Organizer
  • Best Cosmetics Bag: Eachy Cosmetic Bag
  • Best Jewelry Case: Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer Case

Step 1: Consider The Type of Travel

Before you even open your suitcase, you should think about the kind of trip you’re going on and how much space essential items will take up. If you’re packing for a ski trip , you will need to bring heavier, snow-proof gear—but you can re-wear most of it. On a beach trip, your summer outfits will take up less space, but you will need more of them as you lather on sunscreen and deal with sand and sweat.

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally also plays a role in how you pack. On a domestic trip, familiar products are easier to find and you don’t need to worry about packing adaptors to charge your electronics. When you’re flying internationally, there may be some necessities that will be difficult or impossible to find abroad.

Step 2: Decide On The Number of Items

After you’ve considered the essentials for the style of your trip, think about how long your trip will be. Short trips can be the easiest to pack for because you can get away with squeezing in a little bit more than you need, while longer trips of two weeks or more are not so bad if you count on doing laundry somewhere along the way. I’ve found that I’m more likely to overpack on a week-long trip when I don’t think I will have a chance to do laundry and want to be prepared for a few different weather scenarios.

Start with this basic breakdown of how many of each item you should aim to pack depending on how long you’ll be traveling for—with optional items included if you’re traveling somewhere you expect to swim. If you plan on hitting the hotel gym or going for a jog or a bike ride, you should also bring along one outfit for working out and a pair of sneakers.

Weekend Trip

For a weekend trip, you really only need three outfits, or four if it’s a three-day weekend. This includes one nice outfit for going out to dinner, but it does not include what you’ll wear on the way to your destination.

  • 1-2 bottoms
  • 1 dress (optional)
  • 1 pajama set
  • 1 swimsuit (optional)
  • 3 pairs of socks
  • 3 pairs of underwear
  • 1 pair of comfortable shoes
  • 1 pair of “going-out” shoes (optional)
  • Toiletry bag with essentials (toothpaste, sunscreen, makeup, etc.)
  • Chargers and electronics

On a seven-day trip, you will need to pack clothes that can easily be mixed and matched, while prioritizing items that you can use multiple times, like jackets, jeans and sweaters that can handle multiple wears between washes. Always pack extra underwear and socks on a longer trip, especially if you’re doing a lot of physical activity.

  • 2-3 bottoms
  • 1-2 dresses (optional)
  • 1-2 swimsuits (optional)
  • 8 pairs of socks
  • 8 pairs of underwear
  • 1 pair of comfortable close-toed walking shoes
  • 1 pair of sandals or flip-flops (optional)

Two-Week Trip Or Longer

If you’re traveling for two weeks or longer, you should plan to do laundry at some point during your trip so you can pack less and have a fresh start somewhere in the middle of your travels. However, things don’t always go according to plan, so you should still pack more than one week’s worth of clothes just in case.

  • 3-4 bottoms
  • 2-3 dresses (optional)
  • 8-14 pairs of socks
  • 8-14 pairs of underwear

Step 3: Choose The Packing Methods And Products To Help You Pack

If you are flying carry-on only, all of your liquids must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and fit in a clear quart-sized bag. If you check your luggage you can bring toiletries that go over this size limit, but you should still pack, wrap and secure them tightly in plastic bags so that if they they leak during transit, the rest of your items will not be ruined.

To keep your toiletries organized throughout your trip, you’ll need a hanging bag like the Travelon Compact Hanging Toiletry Kit . This particular bag is a great choice as it allows you to see everything laid out just how you left it and it’s quick to pack up. However, if you need more space for a large makeup collection, check out the super spacious and customizable Eachy Cosmetic Bag .

Dress Shirts

To minimize wrinkles in your best shirts, use the narrow fold method. Button up the shirt and lie it flat with the buttons facing down. Fold the sleeves across the back of the shirt and then up at a 90-degree angle until the cuffs line up with the collar. Fold the sides to overlap on top of the sleeves, and fold the fest of the shirt up from the bottom until you have a neat square package. You may still have to iron out the folds when you arrive.

To protect your shoes while traveling, pack them in a separate waterproof bag and fill any empty space with socks or other small soft items that will give them extra protection and help them keep their shape. You can use a plastic bag if you’re in a pinch, but these waterproof shoe bags are specifically designed to hold their shape and have an extra pocket to fit a pair of flip flops.

Packing Cubes

These essential travel tools make a world of difference when it comes to keeping your suitcase organized, but most people use them wrong. Your first instinct might tell you to put pants with pants and shirts with shirts, but the most effective way I’ve found to use packing cubes—especially on a trip with multiple transfers— is to group clothing by activity.

Keep your day-to-day sightseeing clothes in a separate cube from your going-out-for-dinner clothes or beach-gear cube. When it’s time to get dressed, you’ll have your outfit pre-planned and I also find that it’s also a good way to store accessories. For example, I always bring my favorite microfiber beach towel with me, so I keep this in a separate cube with my swimsuits, a beach dress and a sun hat. When I’m not looking for my beach clothes, it doesn’t get in the way and it doesn’t get lost.

I prefer cubes with some shape, like these BagSmart packing cubes , but I also like to mix it up. I’ve found that the Eagle Creek Pack-It Tube is the best shape for storing my rolled socks and underwear, which I always keep in my carry-on in case my luggage gets lost.

If you love to accessorize, you’ll need a system to prevent your favorite jewelry from getting left behind in random hotel rooms. Instead of bringing along a hard-sided jewelry box which could tangle your necklaces as they get jostled around, try a folding jewelry organizer like this case from BagSmart , available in three sizes.

Electronics

In addition to a good case for your laptop or tablet, you should also have a separate organizer case for all your wires, chargers, portable batteries, and hard drives. If you’re bringing a lot of electronics, protect them with a hard-sided case like this ProCase Electronic Organizer , which has multiple compartments and partitions to keep your gear tangle-free.

Is It Better To Roll Or Fold Clothes In A Suitcase?

If your goal is to fit as much as possible into your suitcase, rolling is the way to go. However, if you need your clothes ready to go as soon as you land and won’t have time for ironing, folding is preferable. The best strategy is to do a bit of both, rolling items like underwear and pajamas, but folding nice shirts and dresses.

What Is The 5 4 3 2 1 Packing Method?

The 5 4 3 2 1 packing method maximizes potential outfit combinations so you can express your personal style. It works by assigning a number to each category of clothing: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 shoes, 2 dresses, and 1 bag. It’s a good jumping-off point, but you may need to adjust the numbers for longer or shorter trips.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

From meticulously testing and reviewing the best luggage to bring with you to the airport to the best packing cubes to keep you organized, we at Forbes Vetted have dedicated ourselves to helping make travel easy. When it came time to put together a guide to packing a suitcase, we applied the same unyielding commitment to ensure that our readers have everything they need on hand to pack for their trips stress-free.

To break down how to pack a suitcase, we tapped the expertise of freelance travel writer Jamie Ditaranto . Along with contributing to Forbes Vetted, Ditaranto has spent the last eight years writing travel content for Condé Nast Traveler , Travel + Leisure , National Geographic and more. She has lived in Mexico, Spain, Portugal and Brazil and has visited all seven continents. As someone who is always packing for a trip, Ditaranto put her first-hand expertise as a frequent packer to the test for this story.

More Packing Guides

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History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

101 Hilarious Travel and Vacation Memes for Every Kind of Traveler

My 37 Favorite Travel Memes

Last Updated on: 31st March 2022, 10:29 pm

Nothing is better than a Funny Travel Meme

Travel is fun, exciting, exhausting, exhilarating, stressful, thrilling, beautiful, and sleep-inducing. You can travel solo, with your family, with your friends, and with perfect strangers.

But no matter your travel style or travel companions, here are the best travel memes, vacation memes, and road trip memes just for you.

Love travel? Check out 250+ Inspirational Travel Quotes with Images!

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

(If you have the opportunity to travel be sure to do so. Just be sure in advance that all-important matters are under control. This is especially important for students. Have a lot of assignments? Then use a  website that writes essays for you  and travel without stress.)

1. Looking for a Travel Soulmate?

Wanderlust Travel Meme

You don’t want to be locked in a ca bin in winter, a cute summer cottage , or a whole entire RV with the wrong person!

2. Nothing Compares to You

Travel Memes

I would replace #5 with Diet Coke, but the rest is accurate.

3. They Really are the Luckiest

Girls Travel Meme

Life IS about choices.

4. Are There any Other Options?

Travel Meme

5. A Dare is a Dare

Travel Meme

The Dart has Spoken

6. Don’t all Ancient Religions have a god of Skyscanner?

Flight Travel Meme

I’m sure they did in Ancient Rome.

7. Even a Spider Can do It

Flight Travel Meme

Or a good app

8. Just be Chill

Travel Meme

This is 100% how I am. Every time. Still.

9. Seven years into this travel blog life, and I still make this mistake. Every. Single. Time.

Packing Travel Meme

I’m working on getting better.

10. The Best Memes are Airport Memes

Airport Security Meme

Or maybe little bottles of shampoo are freeballing instead of in a convenient ziplock.

Love memes? Check out 250 Hilarious History Memes to Soothe Your Dark Soul

11. NSFW Memes

Airport Security Travel Meme

I mean, duh.

12. I love a good Airport Security Meme

Airport Security Travel Meme

This has literally never happened to me?

13. This Meme is a Dark Meme

Airport Security Travel Meme

I’ve never thought about this before, but mind blown.

14. It’s a Union Thing

Airport Travel Meme

I’ve literally been asked to move 2 lbs from one checked bag to the other.

15. Sometimes You Need a Little Pick Me Up

Airport Travel Meme

16. Seriously tho

Flight Travel Meme

17. So Much Drool. How Did I Drool that Much?

Road Trip Travel Meme

18. I Assume this African Travel Meme is 100% Accurate

Africa Travel Meme

19. These People Should be thrown off the Airplane

Airplane Travel Meme

20. Basically My Entire Childhood

Road Trip Meme

21. Airplane Food Sounds Disgusting Until You Know it’s Too Late

Airplane Travel Meme

22. Tales from First Class

Airplane Travel Memes

 23.  Well Maybe Hotel Memes are the Best Memes

Hotel Travel Meme

24. Like Zero

Solo Travel Meme

25. You Even Get Your Own Hotel Soaps!

Solo Travel Meme

26. Solo Travel Memes are Kind of Amazing Tho

Solo Travel Meme

27. No More Drama

Travel Meme

28. There are Disney People and there Are Non-Disney People

Disney World Travel Meme

29. Cheese Travel Pic Memes FTW

Travel Meme

30. It’s the Thrill of the Fight

Travel Meme

31. Instagram Boyfriends aren’t Always that Enthusiastic

Travel Meme

32. It Usually Works Tho

Foreign Language Travel Meme

33. When It’s Over

Travel Meme

34. Family of the Year

Travel Meme

35.  Travel Money Memes are Also Great Tho

Travel Money Meme

36. Those Pesky Details

Travel Money Meme

38. It’s Called a Work-Life Balance, and It’s Not Happening

travel blogger meme

39. I’m about 20% of the way there so far…

travel counter meme

40. Punny Memes are Funny Memes

Alpacca Travel Meme

41. You know this one is true.

airport security check meme

42. Get that Flight Voucher, Girl

flight booked meme

43. I’m not Saying Babies shouldn’t be on Airplanes, but…

baby on plane meme

44. This one is harder than it should be

charge devices before flight meme

45. Not sure where he picked up a new head on vacation tho

packing vacation meme

46. Business Travel Memes, like Business Travel, is Less Fun

business travel meme

47. YASSSSS!

Road Trip Memes

48. Yes, I do. Like a Boss.

sean bean airport security meme

49. The Classics are Classics for a Reason

travel meme what country next

50. That Last Day of Work before a Vacation is Torture, but the Exit is Pure Magic.

last day of work meme

51. Parents, SMH.

travel packing gif

52. And the pet in “Pet Cemetary”

United Airlines Meme

53. Travel Buddy Memes should always have Pugs

travel buddy meme

54. When Treat Yo Self becomes Pack Yo Self

cat travel meme

55. It was just a Vacation!

annoying vacationers meme

56. I’ll Believe it When I see the Plane Ticket Receipt

friends travel meme

58. Where is this vacation, Heart Attack City?

hotel meme

59. That Purse is the Truth

Airport Fasion Vacation Meme

60. The Feeling of Victory

airplane meme

61. Seriously, this continent doesn’t want people on it.

Australia Travel Meme

62. But I won’t. Even with it.

traveling before gps meme

63. Group Travel Memes Be Like…

group travel meme

64. Joe Biden ::Hearts:: Emily Post

obama biden travel meme

65. Another Punny One

Roman Catholic Travel Meme

66. Why bring 32 if You Could Justify 50?

Packing Meme

67. Another packing meme for you, because the struggle is real.

packing meme

68. If the point is to make more time for travel, then the answer is always yes. Just trust me.

quit job meme

69. The anticipation is palpable.

waiting for vacation meme

70. Jetlag and no cell service are a recipe for disaster.

Jetlag Meme

71. Yeah, because it’s absolute bullshit.

Beach Meme

72. But my legs do hurt, so…

mountain climbing meme

73. It’s about priorities, Debra.

travel money memes

74. Oh, I thought you said to pack matching…

packing travel meme

75. I would be dead, just in a bar somewhere.

Drinking before a Flight meme

76. How about if it’s me?

carry on luggage meme

77. Death by email is a real thing, right?

coming back from vacation email meme

78. Moms always worry, but there are ways to use it to your advantage.

mom worry travel meme

79. How I feel the day before a vacation:

dog meme

80. Different emotions for different experiences.

work versus vacation meme

81. Raccoons should be in every Vacation Meme, like ever

Europe Travel Meme

82. Wach out for the Vacation Over-Sharer

vacation meme

83. Don’t mess with a flight attendant before they’ve had their coffee

flight attendant meme

84. Which is more annoying: talking about study abroad or memes about study abroad?

study abroad memes

85. The Over-Planner might actually be worse than the Over-Sharer

travel packing gif

86. Unless You have a Peanut Allergy…

flight attendant meme

87.  I Like to Travel for the New Cultural Experiences

copenhagen travel meme

88. When Your Bank Account is Incorrect…

travel budget meme

89. Business Travel is Not Fun Travel, and You Can’t Convince me that It Is

business travel meme

90. Those subtitles sure are helpful.

foreign language meme

91. Pun Memes are Fun Memes

korea travel meme

92. And that’s exactly why I stopped telling non-travel people about my travel plans.

Travel Jealousy Meme

93. Instagrammers these days be like:

94. another one for the road (trip meme).

road trip meme

95. Yup, 100% accurate.

travel packing gif

96. Travel Planner? I hardly knew her!

travel agent meme

97. I just want that Jennifer Anniston Sky Bar situation

98. it’s only polite.

travel customs meme

99. He propably saved $30 doing it this way.

Travel Meme

100. But when it is, that’s a whole new kind of trip to take.

time travel meme

101. And finally, #RelationshipGoals

netflix and chill meme

More Fun Travel Resources

250 Hilarious History Memes to Soothe Your Dark Soul 250+ Real & Inspirational Travel Quotes (with Images!) How to Improve Your Travel Photography

Pin 101 Hilarious Travel Memes for Your Next Vacation

Hilarious Travel Memes

In this Article:

5 thoughts on “101 Hilarious Travel and Vacation Memes for Every Kind of Traveler”

As always thank you for great article

You’re welcome!

Dara Pettinelli. Never trust Abby Perlman because she was planing to lock up Dara Pettinelli using CBS’s Otis Livingston!

http://www.TravelNakedVacations.com

Meme 33 happens every weekend. All too quickly!

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These 12 Wrinkle-free Travel Clothes Will Be the M.V.P.s of Your Suitcase — and They’re Starting at $23

They pack like a dream.

travel packing gif

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure

I’m one of those people who can’t leave the house in good conscience with wrinkles all over my outfit. But it’s hard to avoid when you travel. I’ve tried every method — rolling things up Marie Kondo-style, laying each item flat and piling it, using packing cubes — but wrinkles are just a reality of the jet-set lifestyle. Sure, I could bring a travel steamer or mini iron, but there's not always room for one in my carry-on. Or, I could curate a wardrobe packed with wrinkle-resistant tops, bottoms, and one-pieces . That way I can skip the part where I have the ironing board set up and my travel companions are impatiently scrolling through their phones because they’re inevitably ready before me.

Some clothes are specially constructed to be wrinkle-resistant, and you’ll find that in the product messaging. But other times, you just have to look at the materials on the label. Some fabrics, like linen and cotton, though great for the warmer weather, are notorious for wrinkling at the drop of a hat. Others have the natural ability to resist and repel wrinkles. These fabrics include (but are not limited to) Supima cotton, lyocell (brand-name Tencel), an eco-friendly acetate called triacetate, charmeuse, and certain types of polyester. Luckily, a lot of your favorite brands are already on board with the convenience of wrinkle-free clothes. Among them are Athleta, Everlane, Madewell and Summersault. And of course, you can dig around Amazon and find your fair share of wrinkle-resistant clothes that travel well, too. 

Below, I've rounded up 12 of my favorites, from tanks and polos to rompers and cover-ups. Bonus points for the pieces that include other travel-friendly features, like UPF protection and moisture-wicking fabrics. Bottom line: packing these pieces will make your trip go a lot smoother. Your travel buddies can thank me later.

Timeson Three-quarter-sleeve Blouse

A crisp white blouse is a travel M.V.P., but it’s usually made of quick-to-wrinkle cotton. Not this sheer Timeson blouse from Amazon, though. It’s got wrinkle-resistant polyester (with a touch of stretchy spandex) and has a more relaxed silhouette than a traditional Oxford shirt with its tunic-style design. My white blouses are in constant rotation when I travel because they’re so versatile, and this one is unique in that its precise length allows it to look great tucked in or left loose. Plus, it pairs nicely even with yoga pants. Take it from this shopper : “I packed this blouse in a suitcase for a trip and it didn't wrinkle." 

PrettyGarden Midi Summer Dress

Twirl your way through the vineyards in this pretty poplin PrettyGarden dress made with wrinkle-resistant polyester. Its pleated skirt, ruffled hem, and keyhole front make it fun and flirty for any warm-weather destination. And, you can dress it up or down depending on your accessories, so wear it straight out of your suitcase for whatever's next on your itinerary. According to one Amazon customer , it “washes well, never wrinkles" and is "very classy and feminine." 

Babaton New Power Blazer

This long, versatile blazer by Aritzia-favorite brand Babaton is my go-to for travel and the perfect layer to help any outfit transition from day to night. I’ve worn it to elevate a white-tee-and-jeans look and over a bodycon dress for a bit more modesty. Its open front, collarless design and ruched, three-quarter sleeves keep it looking chic instead of stuffy, and the fabric is made of eco-friendly triacetate with a touch of polyester — which is the reason why I can literally ball it up in my suitcase and it will never wrinkle. 

Summersalt The Silky Luxe Beach to Brunch Wrap Skirt

With Summersalt's Beach to Brunch Wrap Skirt, You can pack up your beach bag with all of the essentials and not have to worry about your swimsuit cover-up getting smushed by your towel, books, snacks, and sunscreen. It's made with silky charmeuse fabric and is specifically designed to resist wrinkles. As the name implies, this skirt can be worn as part of your post-beach outfit thanks to its stunning print, stylish details, and maxi skirt length that provides the right amount of coverage for a restaurant or walk around the city. 

Amazon Essentials Lightweight Open-front Cardigan

I’m so glad cardigans are on-trend again because they truly come in handy when I visit places that are hot during the day and chilly at night (Mexico City and Lisbon, I’m talking to you). Roll up this lightweight, best-selling Amazon Essentials cardigan and pop it in your tote without worry because it’s got modal and polyester mixed in, so it won’t look crumpled when you pull it out at night. A reviewer confirmed that it's “wrinkle-resistant and packs well,” and you have your choice of 20 colors and prints to help it maximize your travel wardrobe. 

REI Co-op Sahara Bermuda Shorts 

Outdoor activities in warmer temps call for shorts that are comfy and rugged, and this pair by REI Co-op is the brand’s answer for Bermuda shorts fans. Not only are these water-repellent, stretchy, and outfitted with UPF sun protection, but they’re also wrinkle-resistant thanks to their resilient nylon construction. I’m not even a regular hiker, but there seems to be a spontaneous hike on almost every extended trip that I take, so this pair is going in my cart for summer. 

Madewell Pull-on Wide-leg Pants in Softdrape

Another great fabric option for the wrinkle-free travel life is lyocell — also known by its brand-name Tencel — a sustainable type of rayon that’s known for being super soft, durable, and breathable. That’s what Madewell’s Softdrape fabric is made up of, making its elastic-waist Wide-leg Pants the perfect pair for all-day wear. They can be dressed up or down and paired with anything from a T-shirt or tank to a button-down blouse or bodysuit. According to one reviewer, "They're so comfortable, flattering and stylish. The material is super lightweight and flowy. They'd be flattering on any body type." 

Lands’ End Moisture-wicking UPF Sun Curved Hem Tunic Tank Top

Land's End 

A soft polyester blend fabric is responsible for making sure that this performance tank top won’t wrinkle, and its UPF 50 sun protection helps shield you from UV rays on long walks and hikes. The ribbed top also wicks away sweat and resists odors, comes in eight cute colors, and pairs perfectly with leggings and shorts. I wore a top just like this to go off-roading in a military tank in the Czech Republic, and wish that I had it for my jeep tour of Sintra, Portugal. It also would have come in handy during my Kenyan safari. Moral of the story? Your travels will often present you with hot-weather, open-sun activities, so you’ll never regret packing a top that does as much as this one does. Use the code " FAVORITES " to get select colors on sale for as little as $23. 

Athleta Essential Tee Dress

You’ll always find an occasion to wear this T-shirt dress from Athleta, a brand that masters the intersection between stylish and high-performing activewear and travel clothes. The dress has a playful, flowy shape constructed of breathable, wrinkle-resistant Supima cotton and comes in four colors, including classic gray and black (plus bold hues like orchid pink and rosewood red). The dress makes getting ready a breeze, too — just put it on and pair it with sandals or sneakers, and you’re good to go. One customer wrote, ”I took to Hawaii for spring break… [it was a] comfortable, cute, easy-to-pack, pretty dress." 

Basudam Golf Polo Shirt

If a round of tennis, pickleball, or golf is on the agenda, this wrinkle-free polyester polo shirt should be in your suitcase. Its modified V-neck collar gives it a visual twist to make it more fashionable than your average polo. It’s also moisture-wicking and stretchy enough to handle a day filled with sports, but polished enough to keep you looking put together for post-game drinks or grub. “Female golfer here," an Amazon shopper began their review. "This shirt will be my go-to and I plan on buying every color. It's lightweight, super cute, and comfortable."

Everlane The Supima High-neck Riviera Dress

The importance of a comfy midi or maxi dress that doesn’t cling can’t be overstated. I’ve had at least one in my luggage since I became a travel writer, and this High-neck Riviera Dress from Everlane that's made with wrinkle-resistant Supima cotton fits the bill beautifully. It’s the perfect style to pair with Birkenstocks or with your favorite pair of white, all-day walking sneakers. “I am not usually a huge dress girl, but I will definitely be wearing this for spring and upcoming summer months, too," an Everlane shopper raved, adding that they "have already paired it with a jean jacket and black slides." 

Athleta Brooklyn Utility Romper

Another wardrobe essential that I’d never travel without is a romper or jumpsuit, as one-pieces just make an easy no-brainer for getting dressed and looking put together fast. They also cinch my waist and skim my figure in a way that leaves me feeling confident and securely covered to handle whatever's on my itinerary for the day. Athleta’s Brooklyn Utility Romper takes it the extra mile by being wrinkle-free, too. Plus, it has UPF-protective fabric and resists snags and rips. According to one reviewer, it's “lightweight and simple" and you can "dress it up with a jacket or just go sleeveless." 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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Best carry-on luggage for your next trip

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

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

Carry-on luggage buying guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best carry-ons

Best carry-on bag.

travel packing gif

Proxis Global Carry-on Spinner

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

Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9"

Best splurge

travel packing gif

Briggs & Riley Essential Expandable Carry-On

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

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

Largest carry-on bag

travel packing gif

The Carry-On Roller In Text Me Red

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

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

Best water resistant

travel packing gif

Terra 45L Carry-On Luggage

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

Best budget

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Wrangler Smart Luggage

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

Best carry-on duffel bag

travel packing gif

Away The Weekender

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

Dimensions: 20.9" x 11.8" x 9.4"

Is hard-side or soft-side luggage better?

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

How can I efficiently pack my carry-on?

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

Meet our expert:

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

* By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave Localish.com and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these products with you, Localish is not endorsing these products. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.

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Why I travel with Bose's QuietComfort Ultra headphones instead of the Sony XM5

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The Bose QuietComfort series has been my go-to travel headphones since they released the QuietComfort 35. But in my quest for better noise cancellation, I tried out Sony's WH-1000XM5 , which also feature a sturdier build than the QC45 headphones. In my time with the Sony headphones, however, I realized the grass isn't always greener. I missed the folding earcup design of the Bose headphones, and I'm glad the company has stuck with it for the Bose QuietComfort Ultra .

Also: AirPods Pro 2 vs. Bose QuietComfort Buds 2: Which wireless buds will best rock your world?

The folding earcup design makes these headphones some of the most portable I've used, and is one of my main reasons for keeping them in my travel backpack. But there's more to it than just the design. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra are my favorite travel headphones. Here are two big reasons why I went back to Bose (and one additional consideration): 

Comfortable to wear, compact to pack

The bottom line: the Bose QuietComfort Ultra are the most comfortable headphones I've worn in a while. One of the quirks I experienced with the Sony XM5 headphones was that they made my ears sweaty within 30 minutes of wearing them. By contrast, I've worn the Bose QC Ultras for over two hours straight without feeling uncomfortable at all.

Also: Bose QuietComfort Ultra review: A rightful heir to the ANC throne

I also love the Bose QuietComfort Ultra's folding earcup design because they occupy less space in the bag -- with and without the case. I don't need to carry my case on short commutes, while during longer vacations, the collapsable design means it's compact enough to slide into any bag. By comparison, the Sony headphones have an unusual slant case design, which doesn't fit in bags as well as the Bose case.

At 254 grams, these are five grams heavier than the flagship Sony headphones, but they still feel more comfortable on the head and the neck. Historically, I've found the Sony XM series have a stronger build than the Bose QC lineup, but this time, both pairs of headphones are comparatively sturdy. 

The sound and ANC are top-notch

I like the sound of Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones better than the Sony WH-1000XM5. It could be because I like listening to music with string instruments, and they sound better with a more natural sound profile instead of the warmer sound profile of the XM5s. The bass is stronger on the latter, while it's more controlled on the Ultra. 

That's not to say that bass in songs such as  Vagabond by Wolfmother sound flat – it's still quite strong, but not as thumpy as the XM5s. Personally, I enjoy this sound profile more, especially when I'm working on the go with my headphones on. 

Also: The best noise-canceling headphones you can buy: Expert tested

I also find the active noise cancellation on Bose QC Ultra perfect for travel. They minimize the airplane buzz and muffle ambient street noise with ease, making the ANC right up there with the Sony XM5, if not better. However, I miss the Speak to Chat feature of the XM5s, where the music stops when you speak -- it makes conversing easier without taking off your headphones. 

Bose has also worked on voice calling functionality, which I previously found way behind on the QuietComfort series compared to the Sony XM5. But the QC Ultra have amazing voice-calling performance, even in windy environments. 

During the Mobile World Congress, for example, the QC Ultra allowed me to coordinate clearly with my workplaces while walking through the halls in the exhibition. People I was chatting with on the other side told me that my voice was clear with minimal background noise.

I like the physical controls too. Bose has moved from the buttons for volume control to a slider on the right earcup. It's intuitive and works well. 

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra have a few considerations

And now for some things I didn't love: First, to turn on the Bose QC Ultra, you press and hold the power button for three to five seconds. After that, they switch on and you get a "power on" voice message. The problem is that the process is not consistent: sometimes it immediately turns on after a three-second hold. Other times, you need to keep it pressed for five seconds before it powers on. 

Also:  The best noise-canceling earbuds: Expert tested and reviewed

I liked the power switch on previous QuietComfort models, meaning the device just turned on when I pushed the switch. But here, it doesn't come naturally. And in my multiple weeks of use, I still haven't figured out the sweet spot for press and hold.

Secondly, the QC Ultra connectivity with my iPhone was patchy for me. When I first set them up, it took two or three tries to connect successfully. It was only after I unpaired them and repeated the pairing process again that they started working flawlessly. I haven't had the connectivity issue since, however, and overall have loved my experience with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones.

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    Prakhar Khanna/ZDNET. The Bose QuietComfort series has been my go-to travel headphones since they released the QuietComfort 35. But in my quest for better noise cancellation, I tried out Sony's WH ...