travel essentials near me

The Ultimate List of Travel Essentials

By CNT Editors

The secret to packing smart will not be found in a YouTube tutorial. (Rolling socks? How innovative!) The real trick, as our perpetually on-the-road editors will tell you, is to find those brilliantly designed lifesavers, like a natural hand sanitizer that won’t offend the entire cabin, headphones that will make coach as silent as a Zen garden, and these other balms, bags, and gear we can’t stop talking about.

This story was originally published in May 2017 and has been updated with new information.

In-Flight Beauty

Fake a Good Night Sleep: “For those of us too vain to get on an overnight flight sans makeup, these wipes clean, exfoliate, hydrate, and prep skin for that pre-landing swipe of bronzer.” — Rebecca Misner, West Coast Editor

Buy Now: Ursa Major, Essential Face Wipes, $24 for pack of 20, huckberry.com

Three Products In One: “I use this balm as a makeup remover, face cleanser, and moisturizer. Also it smells like vacation: a not-too-sweet blend of coconut, vanilla, and mango.” — Lauren DeCarlo, Deputy Editor

Buy Now: One Love Organics, Skin Savior Multi-Tasking Wonder Balm, $49, thedetoxmarket.com

Like Q-Tips, But Better: “Twist the swab and the tip becomes moistened with a cleanser that gently removes eye makeup.” — R.M.

Buy Now: Too Cool for School, Dinoplatz Magic Wand, $12.90, amazon.com

Stay Superhydrated: “Unlike most face serums that reek of essential oils, this one has a nice nutty smell and dispenses neatly through a tiny pump.” — Alex Postman, Features Director

Buy Now: Malaya Organics, Rejuvenating Face Serum, $75, amazon.com

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Keep It Healthy

If You're Headed to the Zika Zone: “I love that this organic, essential oil-based bug spray—which actually works—smells like cedar, geranium, and rosemary instead of a high school chem lab.” — R.M.

Buy Now: Zoe Organics, Insect Repellent, $19.95, dermstore.com

For the Germophobe: “I semi-obsessively use this sanitizer on my seat and tray table every time I fly. Nobody minds, though: the light scent of mandarin rind and rosemary leaf are quite welcome in economy." — Mara Balagtas, Style Editor

Buy Now: Aesop, Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash, $10, shop.nordstrom.com

The Accessories

Yep, We Are Pro–Fanny Pack: “Say what you will, but a flush-against-your-hip bag like this is the easiest place to stash your boarding pass and phone.” — Pilar Guzmán, Editor in Chief

Buy Now: Clare V., Fannypack, $259, clarev.com

The Packable Brim: “Finally a Panama hat sturdy enough to survive getting crammed in an overhead bin.” — M.B.

Buy Now: Janessa Leoné, Adriana, $207, janessaleone.com

The Classic Shades: “The original folding pair of lenses that pack super small; in tortoiseshell they go with everything.” — P.G.

Buy Now: Persol, PO714, $370, sunglasshut.com

Featherweight Kicks: “Head-spinningly light, they pack down to almost nothing so I don’t have to give up my morning run .” — Erin Florio, Senior Editor

Buy Now: APL 'Techloom Pro' Running Shoe, $139.95, shop.nordstrom.com

High and Low Tech

Make Movie Magic: “So long to shaky hands and bad vacation videos: This gimbal keeps your smartphone shots Kubrick smooth.” — Phil Falino, Video Producer

Buy Now: DJI, Osmo Mobile 2, $139, store.dji.com

Dance Party in Room 204: “It’s got tremendous sound and nearly endless battery life, but the real kicker is that this waterproof Bluetooth speaker floats.” — Paul Brady, Articles Editor

Buy Now: Ultimate Ears, Wonderboom, $67.99, amazon.com

The Best Way to Stay Charged, Period: "You never know where that hotel room outlet is going to turn up, so I carry extra-long twin-head cables that can charge my phone and a speaker." — Paulie Dibner, Managing Editor

Buy Now: Native Union, Belt Cable Twin Head, $39.99, nativeunion.com

What to Wear

The Blazer: “This classic shape, with a little stretch, pulls together a look, particularly if you’re rushing off the plane to a meeting.” — M.B.

Buy Now: J. Crew, Regent Blazer, $198, jcrew.com

No Breaking In Necessary: “These ultra lightweight boots feel like your most comfortable sneakers right out of the box, so there's no need to spend the week before your trip breaking them in.“ — Andrea Whittle, Contributor

Buy Now: Danner Women's Mountain 600, $200, danner.com

Maybe the Best Airplane Pants Ever: "These pants were made for travel. They're flexible enough incase you find yourself sprinting to your gate and comfortable enough to withstand an 8-hour flight. I love to throw them on in the morning while I'm running out to the nearest cafe to grab a coffee. — A.W.

Buy Now: Lululemon, On the Fly Pant, $98, shop.lululemon.com

Packing Upgrades

Dead-Simple Organization : "Not only do they make you a far better packer, but packing cubes are ideal for multi-city vacations. Plus, you can snap them up in fun, eye-popping colors." — Lale Arikoglu, Digital Lifestyle Editor

Buy Now: Paravel, Packing Cube Trio, $55, tourparavel.com

A Solution for Swim Trunks: “When you’re roadtripping with kids who can’t resist a hotel pool, these waterproof totes are everything.” — A.P.

Buy Now: Flight 001, Go Clean Wet Suit Bag, $18, amazon.com

Tame Carry-On Clutter: “I keep receipts, business cards, and other stuff tidy in this textured vinyl pouch—in sunflower yellow—that looks like Comme des Garçons.” — E.F.

Buy Now: Delfonics, Quitterie Pouch, $22.10, amazon.com

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing List

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35 Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

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

For Overnight Trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weekend Trips and Excursions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two Weeks or Longer

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

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

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

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

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

A Month or More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Editor’s Picks

Travel plans this holiday season? We've rounded up the 12 best essentials you should have in your bag

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. 

Holiday season is here and brings with it inherent plans of travel. Whether you're going home for the holidays, heading to a winter destination or planning a warmer getaway, this is the time when travelers start dusting off their luggage. But what to pack? No matter if you're planning long-term or a last-minute trip, things like  great luggage  and  useful travel accessories  make any journey easier and more comfortable.

Get on the nice list. Sign up for our newsletter to get all the best gift guides, deals and holiday planning advice.

Read on for the best travel essentials every traveler needs this holiday season, from must-haves for your electronics to items that'll keep you afloat on your journey. 

►The ultimate holiday gift guide :  Shop the best gift ideas for everyone on your list

1. Stay charged on the go with this portable charger

Being stuck with a dead phone battery is never a good thing, but it can be especially troublesome when traveling. So it’s no surprise that a portable charger is at the top of the list when planning to journey far from home.

Miady’s chargers (two come in a single order) feature a USB-C and two USB ports. Each charger weighs just under 12 ounces and measures six inches tall, with the capacity to charge a phone up to three times. (The multiple ports means a friend can borrow some juice as well.) A tap of the button on the side shows how much the device is charged, with four LED lights indicating a full battery or one light equating to 25 percent. 

2. Pack efficiently with these packing cubes

There’s an art to packing , especially if you’re about that carry-on life . Packing cubes can be handy for those struggling to pare down their selections, especially for longer trips. Yamiu's seven-piece set includes one large, medium, two small cubes, a shoe bag and two clear toiletry bags. One side of the cubes has a mesh design so you can see what’s inside, and there’s a convenient handle on one end. The large cube can easily hold 10 outfits. 

3. A travel pillow that’s actually comfortable for sleeping on a flight 

A good travel pillow is a must-have for long flights and the TRTL is  Reviewed-approved . Most travel pillows have the U-shape design that goes around the back of the neck—not exactly comfortable for many wearers. However, TRTL’s take on the pillow is like a soft brace, allowing you to rest your head in a more comfortable position. Another bonus? It’s less bulky than traditional pillows so it takes up less room in your bag. 

4. A foldable bag for shopping excursions 

Going to a destination where shopping is a high probability? Then you might (as in, should ) want to bring an empty bag with you. This Narwey duffle bag is easily foldable, lightweight (it’s less than 7.5 ounces) and expands to a generous 18 by 13 inches. The interior holds a 25L capacity, making it a great option for any overflow pieces that can’t fit in your luggage—and it fits the dimensions to be classified as a personal item for a budget airline like Spirit or Frontier. 

5. Trendy luggage that’s worth the hype 

Away gets a lot of buzz for being trendy, but we think the gear lives up to the hype.  The Carry-On bag is made of polycarbonate, with a hard-shell design that can take a few bangs. The interior features a compression divider pad to help pack a few more items and the 360-degree wheels roll smoothly, even when rushing through the airport or over uneven walkways. The Carry-on comes in fun colors like lavender and blush as well as neutrals like black and navy. 

6. A water bottle to stay hydrated from point A to B 

Whether it’s remembering to stay hydrated on the go or refusing to pay astronomical prices for pretty much anything in the airport, carrying a water bottle is a great idea when traveling. Reviewed’s best overall water bottle this year  goes to the Brita BB11 for holding just enough liquid to keep you hydrated (20 ounces!) without being bulky—major pluses when traveling. It’s also slim enough to fit into a backpack pocket and the secure lid means no spills. A single push of a button reveals a straw that has a filter attached, which is said to reduce chlorine in tap water. 

7. Portable tripod to capture your memories

Of course you need to snap photos for travel memories, and this small 6-ounce device is convenient, especially if you’re traveling solo. When collapsed, it measures just under eight inches, but extends up to 31 inches as a tripod. It had three different height levels and it’s easy to attach pretty much any phone to the secure holder. What’s really cool, however, is that it comes with a Bluetooth remote that conveniently snaps onto and off of the tripod. 

8. An adapter that will keep you powered overseas 

A lot of planning goes into an international trips but one thing people forget is an adapter for their electronics. Epicka’s cube-shaped converter has the capacity to charge up to six devices at once. It works in more than 150 countries, and simply requires the user to push a button, which releases the appropriate plug type. 

9. A document holder for all your important things

Depending on your travel destination, having a vaccine passport on hand might be necessary. To keep such an important document safe, a holder like this is a newfound must-have. One side perfectly houses a passport and the other has a clear window for your vax card. Not only does this mean the card is protected, but it also makes it easily visible. The holder has a slim design, so it fits in a purse, backpack or even a pocket—and it’s available in a dozen colors.

10. These TSA-approved toiletry holders 

Carrying full-size beauty products is a TSA no-no for anyone opting for carry-on only. Kitsch’s travel set includes 11 pieces that all meet TSA’s 3.4 ounce or 100 ml max rule for liquids, creams and gels. There’s a spray bottle, two pump bottles, flat pouch bottles and mini jars, so all liquids (like sunscreens and body wash) can be transported with ease. There’s also a funnel and spatula to transfer your products from their full size bottles to these convenient containers. 

11. Headphones worth the price tag 

If you’ve ever lost an expensive AirPod or teeny earbud in the crevice of an airplane seat, then you know a solid set of over-the-ear headphones might actually be more convenient. A top-rated pair is Sony’s WH-1000XM4 , which we loved for its lightweight design, impeccable sound and noise-canceling ability. These aren’t cheap, but you’re sure to get use out of them even when not traveling. The headphones seamlessly connect to two Bluetooth devices, so you can go from your personal phone to your laptop for a work Zoom meeting in minutes.

12. Long-haul flight footwear 

Compression socks aren’t exactly sexy , but they can be a lifesaver when traveling for long periods. The snug socks can help improve circulation to the legs and feet but some brands can be a bit too snug and uncomfortable. Luckily, Figs, a brand specifically marketed towards medical professionals, gets top marks from Reviewed for providing support without being too restrictive. The nylon and Lycra have moisture-wicking properties and as our reviewer noted, the socks “felt as great in the evening as they did in the morning.” Extra points for coming in fun colors and prints. 

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

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These 10 Target must-haves will make your next trip a breeze — and they start at $10

Whether you're planning a quick weekend staycation or are finally heading on that big beach getaway that you've been dreaming about, making sure that you have all the right items on hand is essential for ensuring that your trip goes smoothly

And to do that, you'll want to create a packing list of travel necessities. Luckily, Target has everything you need to make the journey so much easier. As part of our series Shop This List TODAY , we've a rounded up a list of must-haves for a stress-free travel day that you can score entirely at Target. All you need to do is click a button to add them all to your cart.

SHOP THIS LIST TODAY Get everything you need in one place with our weekly Target shopping guides

From a carry-on bag that's chic yet functional to stylish joggers that feel like sweatpants, with these 10 travel packing essentials, you won't have to worry about disorganization and the woes that come with the journey to your destination.

Target travel accessories

Small Travel Accessory Organizer

4000mAh Power Bank

Microfiber Travel Pill Case

Weekender Bag

Gel Memory Foam Pillow

Digital Luggage Scale

Large 2-Piece Packing Cube Set

High-Rise Pull-On Pants

35MM Camera

Toiletry Bag

Brightroom small travel accessory organizer.

Tangled necklaces and rings lost at the bottom of your bag will be a thing of the past with this jewelry organizer . The sleek case features ring slots, three necklace hooks, one pocket, a mirror and additional compartments for earrings and more.

Shop 6 organization finds you need to cut your fridge and pantry clutter — all under $20

Heyday 4000mah power bank.

You don't want to be stuck with a dead phone while you're on the go. That's why you'll want to keep this power bank in your bag, so you'll always have juice. The brand says that you can use it to power up smartphones, tablets and e-readers.

Vera Bradley Microfiber Travel Pill Case

Pill cases aren't typically known for being very stylish, but this version is both sleek and functional. It features a clear organizer with eight compartments for each day of the week (and a bonus slot for extra pills), encased in a solid-colored microfiber case.

Shop These 7 time-saving products will get you out the door on time in the morning

Open story weekender bag.

Whether you're heading off on a weekend trip or hoping to avoid those checked bag fees at the airport, this duffel is perfect for toting around all your essentials. According to the brand, it has a large-capacity main compartment and special slots for your water bottle, keys, sunglasses and laptop.

Made By Design Gel Memory Foam Pillow

No more struggling to find a comfortable head position while in the car or on the plane! This neck pillow is made with gel memory foam, which the brand says molds to your body and helps keep you cool. The best part? It's designed to roll up, so it's easy to store away in your luggage when you're not using it. Though if you don't have any extra space, it also has a clip, so you can attach it to your bag.

Travel Smart by Conair Digital Luggage Scale

There's nothing worse than getting to the check-in counter only to be told that your bag is a few pounds overweight. Thankfully, when you have this handy luggage scale in your arsenal, you'll never be left scrambling to rearrange your bag (or paying those extra fees) again. The portable digital scale is designed to attach to your bag with a hook to measure its weight and will beep if yours exceeds the limit. Thanks to its small size, you can easily pack it in your bag for your trip so you can make sure that all those souvenirs you got don't throw you over the limit.

Made By Design Large 2-Piece Packing Cube Set

When you pack with these organizers, you'll know exactly where to find that pair of pants or your favorite tee in your suitcase. The set comes with one large packing cube with a semi-transparent mesh top and one clear travel pouch. According to the brand, the cube is designed to fit perfectly in your suitcase, though it can also be thrown in a weekend bag or in your car on its own if you're traveling light.

A New Day High-Rise Pull-On Pants

When you only have so much room in your suitcase, you have to be pretty picky about the items that you bring along for a trip. Thankfully, these pull-on pants seem like they'd be a wardrobe workhouse that you could wear for multiple occasions on your trip, from nice dinners to days spent walking around town with family. According to the brand, they're made from a soft, stretchy fabric for all-day comfort.

Heyday 35MM Camera

In case you haven't heard, film is cool again! And this affordable camera makes it easy to capture all your favorite moments from the holiday season. Not only is it super chic, but it's designed with a focus-free lens and a built-in flash, so all you have to do is point and shoot — no need to mess with the shutter speed or aperture. Be sure to grab some film , too!

Sonia Kashuk Toiletry Bag

This stylish bag is the perfect option to throw in your tote or suitcase when you need to transport your toiletries to the gym, to work or on a trip. It has multiple compartments, so you can separate your makeup from your skin care. Plus, it's black so it'll hide those stains that are bound to show up after constant use.

Shannon Garlin is an Associate Editor for Shop TODAY.

Emma Stessman is a writer for Shop TODAY.

18 Simple Travel Essentials for 2024 & Beyond

Whether you’re headed out for a quick business trip, a monthslong world tour, or a laid-back weekend at the beach, our list of 2024’s best travel essentials has you covered.

Sure, some necessities are obvious — toiletries, medications, snacks, phones — we know you’ll pack those. We’re here to cover the game-changing items you may not have thought of that’ll help elevate your packing list and make life easier on the road.

Whether it’s a minimalist wallet, a compact Bluetooth speaker, a lightweight laptop case, or something else, we bet you’ll find a piece of gear here that will add value to your travel bag. We know this because we’ve traveled extensively with every item on this list and stand behind each recommendation.

Packing is a juggling act, so let’s dive into the must-have gear we’d never travel without.

Travel Essentials for Men & Women

• Personal Item Bag: Our Top Picks
• Travel Organizers: Our Top Picks
• Minimalist Wallet/Purse: Slimfold & Travelambo
• Bluetooth Headphones: Apple AirPods Pro
• Titanium Water Bottle: Our Top Picks
• Laptop Case/Sleeve: tomtoc 360º
• Phone Case: OtterBox
• Lightweight Power Bank: Nitecore NB10000 Gen II
• Compact Bluetooth Speaker: JBL Go 3
• Travel Adapter: Anker
• Cellphone Kickstand/Tripod: The Pocket Tripod
• Ultralight Camera Clip: Peak Design
• High-Quality Travel Journal: Moleskine
• The Write Everywhere Pen: Space Pen
• Noise-Blocking Earplugs: Howard Leight by Honeywell
• Merino Wool T-Shirt: Wool&Prince & Wool&
• Versatile Travel Pants: Slim Dungarees & Vuori Ripstop
• Do-It-All Travel Shoes: Our Top Picks
• Tips for a Perfect Packing List
• Final Thoughts: Travel Essentials for Men & Women

Essential Travel Gear & Accessories

Personal item bag our top picks of 2024.

Here’s our top essential: A personal item bag that’ll hold and protect the stuff you need close at hand, every day and everywhere. We’re talking about travel documents, snacks, personal care items, electronics, changes of clothes, and assorted accessories.

Browse through our favorite personal item bags for a wide variety of lightweight, weather-resistant, and feature-rich options. I often take a duffel bag for longer trips, but backpacks and messenger bags are more convenient for hands-free sprints down the concourse near departure time.

What to Look for in a Personal Item Bag: Search for a comfortable, airline-complaint bag suitable for one-bag travel and will help you avoid extra boarding fees by stashing underneath the seat in front of you.

Travel Organizers Our Top Picks of 2024

I like keeping my belongings nice and tidy inside my bag, so travel organizers are lifesavers. I rely on them to help me find essential toiletries, packing cubes, ditty bags, cables, adapters, and all the other miscellany of life on the road. ‘Tidy’ is satisfying.

Trust me, travel organizers make packing and unpacking much less of a hassle. I especially love the transparent and zippered bags that keep everything visible, secure, and easily accessible. Travel is stressful enough; we don’t need the extra burden of chaotic clutter.

What to Look for in a Travel Organizer: Search for durable, water-resistant packing solutions that fit your belongings comfortably and have the proper dimensions to stash inside your main travel bag without restriction.

Minimalist Wallet/Purse Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet Travelambo Purse

A purse or wallet designed for travel is another sanity saver. Monitoring your spending is easier with a lightweight, compact, minimalist front-pocket wallet — we highly recommend the Slimfold Soft Shell wallet pictured above.

Women may want a stylish but minimalist purse with organized storage for the basics. The Travelambo we recommend will efficiently stash your ID, cash, credit cards, and not much else. Minimalism is a good thing when traveling.

Why We Travel With the Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet: It’s soft and stretchy yet durable and sports RFID protection to thwart hackers and thieves. Its lightweight and minimalist design helps reduce bulk in our pockets.

Bluetooth Headphones Apple AirPods Pro

Wireless headphones are a top travel necessity for anyone listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks that muffle their noisy surroundings. I use my Apple AirPods Pro daily when I travel. High-quality Bluetooth headphones like these are a no-brainer.

AirPods are my favorites as they have excellent sound and solid battery life. Plus, you can use their built-in microphone to talk on the phone when a call comes in. And, of course, they’re cordless, so the aggravation of tangled cords will be a non-issue.

Why We Travel With the Apple AirPods Pro: They pump out quality sound and use active noise cancellation to block out background noise. If you’re an iPhone user, they connect to your phone automatically once you put them in your ears.

Lightweight Titanium Water Bottle Our Top Picks of 2024

You need to stay hydrated, whether you’re summiting a mountain or wandering crowded city streets. I recommend sipping your beverage from a titanium water bottle; they’re rugged, ultra-lightweight, and won’t leach off any flavors to your drink.

Titanium water bottles come in all shapes and sizes and should fit easily and compactly in your bag. And by saying ‘no’ to single-use plastic containers, you’re doing your part to combat pollution, including microplastics in the water supply.

What to Look for in a Titanium Water Bottle: Opt for a single-wall bottle if your focus is keeping it lightweight. Go for double-wall if you want to keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. We love the Snow Peak Aurora, pictured above, over all others.

Laptop Case/Sleeve tomtoc 360°

Laptops have become essential for traveling, whether watching Netflix, working remotely, or keeping in touch with loved ones. Packing your laptop without proper protection is a big no-no, so grab a laptop case or sleeve for extra protection.

I like the Tomtoc 360° because its plush padded shell includes corner reinforcement and a decent amount of storage for accessories. I’ve dinged-up laptops in the past, so I’m a big advocate of protective cases and sleeves.

Why We Travel With the tomtoc 360°: It’s the lightest and most straightforward laptop case/sleeve for our needs. It fits our MacBook Pros like a glove, and its zippers are buttery smooth. There are ten colors to choose from!

Durable Phone Case OtterBox

Many people choose an OtterBox as their go-to phone case, and so do I. They’re the market’s most trusted brand, and their cases are definitely ‘engineered to endure.’ There’s a wide variety of stylish designs and colors, so grab one to protect your precious phone.

Imagine trying to travel the globe with a smashed phone. Not a pleasant picture, is it? Too many phones are BSB designs — “Beautiful, Slippery, and Brittle” — so protect your phone and your investment with a rugged case from a trusted brand.

Why We Travel With an OtterBox: OtterBox is the OG in smartphone protection and has a reputation for putting out sturdy, reliable, and ergonomic products. They come in various colors and styles and offer MagSafe options for iPhones.

Ultra-Compact & Lightweight Power Bank Nitecore NB10000 Gen II

Letting your gadgets run out of juice in the middle of a busy day is a rookie move. Use a power bank like the Nitecore to top up your device batteries. Despite its compact size, this will keep your electronics alive until you can return to your home base to charge up and wind down.

This Nitecore is a medium-duty 10,000mAh power bank sized for phones, tablets, and cameras. However, if you also need to charge laptops and other power-hungry devices, consider splurging for a bigger, more powerful unit.

Why We Travel With the Nitecore NB Gen II: It’s the lightest and most compact 10,000mAh power bank on the market. Its carbon fiber enclosure is sleek, durable, and IPX5-rated water resistant.

Compact Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker JBL Go 3

Do you like to listen to music as you get ready in your hotel room or soak in a sunset on the beach? Then, grab a portable Bluetooth speaker. This may not seem like ‘essential’ travel gear, but many of us (myself included) consider it a necessary comfort of home when out on the road.

The JBL Go 3’s sound quality makes it an easy recommendation, as does its portability, waterproofing, and value. I use it to listen to podcasts, create white noise for sleeping in noisy environments, and to motivate myself during bodyweight travel workouts .

Why We Travel With the JBL Go 3: For its size, it cranks out respectable sound and punchy bass. It’s lightweight, portable, waterproof, and dust-proof. At $50, it’s a good value that should last for several years of travel.

Compact International Travel Adapter Anker 735

If you’re a globetrotter like me, you already know that reliable and powerful travel adapters are must-haves. This is the lightest and most compact charger I’ve used that can charge my MacBook Pro, and it keeps all of my other electronics powered and ready to go. Ironically, I use it to keep my Nitecore power bank topped up… a charger for a charger.

Frequent travelers stay in touch and find their way using their digital devices, so it’s wise to recharge with a compact and reliable product. We rely on our adapters, and it’s good to know that Anker has a reputation for reliable and innovative products.

Why We Travel With the Anker 735: It’s about 40% the size of a standard MacBook charger and has two extra USB charging ports; it’s as compact and lightweight as you could ask for. Anker products are as rock-solid as they come.

Compact Phone Kickstand/Tripod The Pocket Tripod

Your phone’s camera will take better low-light photos if you stabilize it with a tripod. And this tripod is the size of a credit card, making it a perfect travel companion. It’s also a kickstand to hold your phone steady while it plays videos as you nod off during the flight to your next destination.

Versatility is why I chose The Pocket Tripod as a travel essential. It’s a convenient and innovative piece of gear that I always have on hand, ready for the next great photo opp. A steady camera means less image blur, better self-portraits, and more hands-free video chats.

Why We Travel With the Pocket Tripod: It reliably props up phones when filming adventures, chatting with loved ones, or watching movies on an airplane. It weighs half an ounce and can be stashed away virtually unnoticed in a wallet or purse.

Ultralight Camera Clip Peak Design Capture

When I travel with a camera, I keep it close at hand with the Peak Design Capture clip. I no longer have an excuse to leave my camera behind because I don’t want to bother with straps or cases. Always having my camera within reach means no more missed opportunities for the perfect photo.

I prefer the Peak Design Camera Clip to tangle-prone camera straps. It’s lightweight and easy to attach to a backpack, bag, or belt. Use it if you travel with an expensive camera to keep it hands-free until the moment you need it.

Why We Travel With the Peak Design Capture: We travel with expensive cameras that must be protected at all costs. Not only does the Capture protect them, but it also allows us to forego annoying and cumbersome camera straps.

High-Quality Travel Journal Moleskine

Travelers keep journals to document and make sense of their lives. Paper journals have been around for centuries, and they’re a tradition that’s far more intimate than typing notes into a cell phone. Moleskine journals are legendary — Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, and David Bowie all captured their thoughts on those distinctive creamy ivory pages.

For me, journaling is calming and therapeutic, especially in nature. My thoughts and memories seem to expand when I write by hand. It’s a ritual I cherish, and traveling inspires me. Set your smartphone aside and give it a try. It’s delightful.

Why We Travel With the Moleskine Soft Cover Journal: Information comes at us from a million different directions while traveling, and we need a journal to make sense of it all. The Moleskine is durable and has 240 no-bleed pages.

The Write Everywhere Pen Fisher Space Pen

High-quality journal pages deserve high-quality pens, and that’s where Fisher Space pens come in. They were designed for astronauts floating in zero-gravity environments! I’ll bet their journal entries are slightly different from yours and mine.

Fisher Space Pens have a no-nonsense heft, plus a special ink with a velvety glide. Their compact Bullet Pens slip easily into purses and pockets, and writing with one puts me in the mood to jot down my day’s adventures. Life’s too short to use Bic pens.

Why We Travel With the Fisher Space Pen: This bad boy will write underwater and in zero gravity, in case your travels take you somewhere out of this world. It’s compact, rugged, streamlined for smooth writing, and will last forever.

Noise-Blocking Earplugs Howard Leight by Honeywell

Moving from Point A to Point B often exposes you to plenty of noise — jet engines, city traffic, crowds, and much more. Battery-operated noise- canceling headphones have their place, but simpler, old-school noise- blocking methods like earplugs are also worth considering.

Traditional earplugs like these colorful inserts from Honeywell can block many of the noises you’ll encounter when traveling. I use mine regularly on airplanes when I’m tired of my headphones but still need relief from the cabin soundscape or Jerry from Omaha snoring loudly in the seat next to me.

Why We Travel With the Howard Leight by Honeywell Earplugs:  Whenever you inevitably cross a screaming child in an airplane, you’ll thank us for this recommendation. These are comfy, contoured, and soil-resistant to prevent dirt build-up.

Essential Travel Clothing

Merino wool t-shirt wool&prince (men’s) wool& (women’s).

Clothes designed for travel enthusiasts should be lightweight, comfortable, and well-fitting. That’s why I suggest Merino Wool T-Shirts from Wool&Prince (for men) and Wool& (for women). W&P is a top supplier of Merino wool clothing and my favorite brand on the market today.

W&P shirts are super soft, anti-microbial, odor-resistant, and perfect for travel. Banish smelly clothes that cause discomfort over the course of a day. The best part for travelers is that these shirts can remain odor-free for several days — quite a benefit for those on the go.

Why We Wear Wool&Prince While Traveling:  We can get away with wearing wool clothing for days, if not weeks , at a time between washes while traveling. Seriously. Wool&Prince shirts are true to size, fit incredibly well, and don’t shrink.

Lightweight & Versatile Travel Pants Outlier Slim Dungarees (Men’s) Vuori Ripstop (Women’s)

I’m a travel pants nerd. When searching for the perfect pair, do your homework and choose one that balances comfort, functionality, and style. You’ll spend long hours wearing these travel pants, so you’ll want to be comfortable and good-looking.

Slim Dungarees and Ripstop pants are two of our absolute favorites. I’ve sampled several pairs of pants and travel jeans , and Vuori is one of my favorite brands. They’re versatile, and I wear them for everything from hiking to bouncing around town.

Why We Wear Ourlier & Vuori While Traveling: Both brands make incredibly stylish, comfortable, and durable pants that fit well. They’re durable enough for year-round use and breathable enough to wear in hot and humid climates.

One Pair Do-It-All Travel Shoes Our Top Picks of 2024

For the no-checked-luggage traveler, I recommend bringing only ONE pair of do-it-all shoes. That can be tricky, especially if your trip involves a mix of city streets and hiking trails. Versatility and comfort should always be your top priorities, but never discount the value of a stylish pair of shoes or boots.

We’ve simplified your choice by listing our favorite footwear for both men and women. From sneakers to loafers and slip-ons to athletic shoes, you’ll likely find several varieties that might pique your interest for your upcoming trip. I only travel with one pair of shoes, so they must be versatile and comfortable.

What to Look for in a Pair of Travel Shoes: Search for a comfortable and lightweight pair of shoes that’ll let your feet breathe as you pile up the steps during your adventures. Bonus points for kicks that can be dressed up and dressed down.

Six Tips for a Perfect Packing List

Efficient travel requires a savvy mix of preparation, planning, and organization if you’re going to thrive out there. No matter the length of your trip, you must learn to prepare and pack wisely. To help you, here are a few tips for putting together the perfect packing list:

If It Doesn’t Add Value, It’s Not Essential

Avoid packing items that don’t serve a purpose or add value to your travels. Leave it at home if it doesn’t make the trip more enjoyable, productive, or efficient.

Define your essentials based on your activities — backpacking, camping, hiking, or visiting a new city. Pack only the essentials: clothing, footwear, technical gear, and personal care essentials that add value to your travel.

Focus on Multi-Purpose Essentials

Have you ever regretted your packing choices while out on the road? To avoid that feeling, pack items that serve multiple purposes. This will save time, and you’ll have fewer items to track.

For instance, select shoes or pants ideal for multiple activities, such as hiking and sightseeing. Another great multi-purpose item is an all-in-one bag like a fanny pack or backpack that can also be worn crossbody.

Aim for Compact and Lightweight Gear

Selecting the right items can be daunting, so if you’re a ‘just-in-case’ packer, you’ll quickly end up with an overstuffed bag. Stay focused on proven methods — lightweight and compact packing is the way to go.

Look for items that’ll pack up tightly and fit snugly in your bag or suitcase. Choose clothing and other items that will last the entire trip and can fold up neatly. Opt for shoes or sandals with lightweight soles that offer grip and traction but won’t overload your bag.

Do Your Homework Before You Buy

Avoid making terrible travel decisions, and always read reviews thoroughly before purchasing. This is especially true when making a rushed, last-minute purchase. Learn from customer experiences and insights into the product’s performance in different conditions and climates.

For example, if you’re shopping for technical apparel or a multi-purpose tool, tap into the wealth of knowledge out there. Solid research could lead you to buy something that performs well and lasts for years.

Embrace Minimalism

If you’re a minimalist traveler, you know the truth of the saying “less is more.” Minimalism is all about embracing the principle and avoiding the temptation of packing too much stuff. Clutter will drag you down and hold you back.

Start by looking for versatile items of clothing and footwear that can be used interchangeably in different settings or scenarios. And when you return home, keep track of the items you used most and decide what can be left behind next time.

Invest in Quality — Buy Once, Cry Once

Last but not least, invest in quality travel gear. The up-front costs of high-quality items are often offset by their greater utility and longer lifespan.

If you have to replace cheaper items every few trips, are they really saving you money? Probably not, especially if the higher-quality items have a solid warranty and offer reputable customer service.

Final Thoughts: Travel Essentials for 2024

Are you ready to draft your own perfect packing list for 2024? Our list of travel essentials for men and women may not match yours, but we hope you found a few items that will add value to your next journey. The goal is to find gear and clothing that will add consistent value to your life on the road.

Please share any tips or gear recommendations you have in the Comments section below. We’re especially interested in hearing what’s worked for you (or not) regarding trip planning, organization, packing lists, and any advice you may have on travel-friendly clothing or general-use gear.

We’d also love to hear your thoughts on the minimalist lifestyle, specifically regarding travel. What kind of travel do you do, and how much do you pack? Have your definitions of ‘must-haves’ and ‘luxuries’ changed over the years? After all, being a nimble traveler is both a physical and a philosophical journey. Let’s share and compare our paths.

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

Lauren De Almeida

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14 Essential Travel Accessories for a Seamless Jet-Setting Experience

Add these to your packing list ASAP.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

If you are heading overseas, this list includes several products that will make your travels easier. Think compact packing cubes, cosmetic and jewelry cases, and a luxe eye mask that puts all others to shame. Plenty come from Oprah’s Favorite Things , so you just know they’ll be great.

Our Top Picks:

Best Travel Wallet

Jw pei canvas phone bag.

Best Makeup and Toiletry Bag

Trvl design luxe cosmetic case.

Best Packing Cubes

Bagsmart 4 set compression packing cubes for travel.

Best Wireless Charger for Travel

Ucomx 3-in-1 wireless charger.

Best Travel Iron

Nori press steam iron.

Best TSA-Approved Toiletry Holders

Cadence six-capsule bundle.

Best Packable Jacket

32 degrees women's lightweight recycled poly-fill shirt jacket.

Best Travel Tote

Brouk & co capri everyday stripe tote.

Best Travel Accessory for Safety

Birdie original personal safety alarm.

Best Travel Jewelry Box

Benevolence la velvet travel jewelry box organizer.

Let it be known: These accessories are not simply extra clutter. If used well, each of these items will aid in your peace of mind, productivity, organization, and safety when it comes to packing and traveling. Below, find the best products designed to better organize your life when it’s being lived out of a suitcase. We promise you’ll be thanking us later.

Find our favorite weekender bags here , luggage sets here , and carry-on bags here .

Keeping your phone close to your body is always ideal while traveling. This baby bag has a slot for a phone as well as credit cards slips and a tiny zippered pocket (stash a few bills or even a room key here). Oprah even said that this crossbody "makes life easier" when featuring it on 2022's Favorite Things list .

This travel bag truly does it all when it comes to your makeup. It includes a removable pouch and plenty of slots for makeup brushes, lipsticks, and other products—perfect for organization galore.

This set of four packing cubes is the organizer Holy Grail. The water-resistant nylon compresses for streamlined, compact storage, and the mesh top makes it easy to see what’s inside the cube. Plus, the set is available in tons of other colors and sizes.

Gone are the days of wrangling a gazillion cords for all your different tech needs—this multi-use charging pad can power up your iPhone (12 and up models), AirPods, and Apple Watch all at the same time. It folds up for easy traveling, and can also be configured as a pyramid (ideal for using as a phone stand). Plus, the charger is magnetic, meaning none of your tech will slip around.

It’s nearly impossible to keep clothes from wrinkling in a suitcase, so rather than fight that losing battle, carry this two-in-one steamer/iron when traveling. The device weighs just over one pound and measures 14 inches long. It’s also a time saver, thanks to the two-sided feature that irons both the front and back of a garment simultaneously.

Packing toiletries, from liquid face wash to lotion, in TSA-compliant containers is typically a nightmare. But you don’t have to worry with these adorable capsules. Each leakproof, airtight container holds up to 0.56 ounces of product, and you can customize the tiles on top to match whatever you want the capsule to hold. Plus, each is magnetic—a no-brainer for neat toiletry bags.

Oprah highlighted this fabulously lightweight jacket, which can be packed away in your luggage or in your carry-on, in this year's Favorite Things list . "A packable little shacket—part shirt, part jacket—will be just the thing for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors."

Brouk & Co Capri Everyday Stripe Tote

Affordable and attractive, this handy tote is ideal for carrying all of your essentials on the go. "Doesn’t it look like a more expensive bag?" Oprah highlighted this tote bag in this year's Favorite Things list and couldn't believe the fabulous price point.

Staying safe has never looked so pretty. This tiny device clips onto keys or bags and, when activated, emits a flashing strobe light and a loud alarm. It’s great for travelers, particularly solo female ones, but is also a smart piece to carry around all the time.

Keep your jewelry safe and secure with this adorable box that was featured in Oprah's 2022 Favorite Things list . There are slots for rings, removable dividers, hooks for necklaces (no more tangles!), and a teeny-tiny mirror. Plus, the velvet exterior feels super luxe.

Asutra Silk Eye Pillow

Airplane seats are not the most comfortable, and if you’re going to be en route overnight, trying to catch some z’s in them can be near impossible. “Sleeping with a mask is life-changing—I cannot tell you how much the quality of my sleep has improved!" Oprah said of the mask in this year's Favorite Things list . "This weighted 100 percent silk one stays down and doesn’t let even a pinch of light in.”

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Don’t let an overweight suitcase surprise you at the airport! This device is handy for ensuring your bags stay under the weight limit (before you leave your home). It’s also great for anyone planning on carting souvenirs back—you can check if your bag still fits the restrictions.

Cincha Travel Belt

Here’s the thing you didn’t know you needed. This belt turns any regular bag (think briefcases, totes, diaper bags, etc.) into the ideal carry-on—just strap it around your suitcase handles and you’ll have no trouble maneuvering with bulky bags. Oh, and did we mention the quick-release belt is made from vegan leather? Perfect all around. If you need a little extra storage space, there’s also a belt bag version , which combines the genius of the travel belt with the ease of a fanny pack.

Roverlund Pet Carrier

Sometimes you just have to travel with your furry friend—and when you do, they’ll love this unique carrying case. The innovative details range from a shoulder strap that doubles as a leash to the removable fleece-lined dog bed. There’s also a carabiner for your doggie bag holder and various storage pockets. “This pet carrier is airline-compliant, comes with a bonus leash, and is made from durable fabric that will hold up to that travel wear and tear," Oprah said of the bag in 2022's Favorite Things list .

Cassie Hurwitz (she/her) is an associate editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers everything from culture to entertainment to lifestyle. She can typically be found in the middle of multiple books and TV shows all at once. Previously, Cassie worked at Parents , Rachael Ray In Season , and Reveal. Her love language is pizza (New York slices, Chicago deep dish, and otherwise). 

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

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The Five Foot Traveler

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

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

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

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

Chimp trekking in Uganda with travel essentials on hand

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

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

I personally use and own everything that I recommend below. 

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

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

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

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

When I first started backpacking these were my travel essentials

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

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

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

Airplane Personal Item

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

Airplane Carry On Item

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

Airplane Checked Item

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

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

How I pack my carry on to include all travel essentials

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

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

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

Carry On Essentials

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

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

Noise Cancelling Headphones, Eye Mask, Pillow – Travel Essentials

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

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

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

A typical day with my laptop on the road

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

Always travel equipped with a good camera!

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

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

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

Packing Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outdoor Essentials

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

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

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

Who doesn't love a good hammock?!

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

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

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

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

Hiking in the dark can be dangerous without a headlamp

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

Staying warm in Iceland thanks to my down jacket

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

Fitness “On The Go” Essentials

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

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

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

Reading Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

Business Management Essentials

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

Working remotely on the beach in Australia

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

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

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

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

Pin “137 Travel Essentials” For Later!

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

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

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Hi, I’m Sarah!

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

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I’m a Frequent Flier, and These Are the 15 Best-selling Amazon Products Every Traveler Needs in 2024

Top-rated luggage pieces, comfy clothes, travel accessories, and more are starting at $16.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

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Travel + Leisure / Jaclyn Mastropasqua

Now that we're well into the new year, it's time to reward yourself with some travel goodies in anticipation of your upcoming trips. Not sure where to start? This frequent flier recommends stocking up on Amazon’s best-selling travel essentials , some of which are on sale now and starting at only $16.

After browsing through the retailer’s list of top-selling travel products, I've narrowed down the best options that will suit any type of traveler. In fact, I've used many of them (and have had my eye on a few gadgets to add to my collection of travel accessories). Below you'll find everything from durable luggage pieces and travel clothing staples to reliable outdoor gear and an array of handy accessories that will enhance the way that you fly, drive, ride, hike, camp, and more. Even better? Everything on this list is under $100 and ships fast with Amazon Prime (which is good news if your next trip is fast approaching).

HomeTop Women’s Memory Foam Slippers

With more than 28,000 five-star ratings, these popular and affordably-priced slippers are brilliant for wearing on the plane or packing for cozy, feels-like-home-level comfort at your destination. The classic slip-ons have a furry look and feel, but they’re machine washable. The polar fleece interior is moisture-wicking and keeps your feet super warm, according to shoppers. One wrote , “These slippers are like a mini electric blanket for your feet, just without the cord."

Modoker Convertible Garment Bag

With its inventive design, this bag combines the features of a garment bag and a duffel so it’s extra versatile and multifunctional as a carry-on or weekender. Fold your clothes inside, or hang them up in the garment bag to keep your special occasion or work clothes wrinkle-free. There’s also a separate shoe compartment, which can also be used for extra packing space. It has a generous capacity of 45 liters, so it’s a storage powerhouse but still streamlined for travel. According to one Amazon shopper , it “slides into the overhead compartment with ease, even on those cozy two-seater flights."

Lifestraw Personal Water Filter

With more than 93,000 five-star ratings, this preparedness tool is a must for hikers, campers, and any other outdoor enthusiasts. The micro-filtration membrane removes waterborne bacteria (including E. coli and salmonella) as well as waterborne parasites (including giardia and cryptosporidium) to provide up to 1,000 gallons of clean, safe drinking water when used properly. “With a straightforward design, all it takes is a simple sip to draw water through the filter, instantly turning contaminated water sources into a clean and refreshing drink,” one five-star reviewer wrote . “This feature alone has saved me from worrying about carrying large quantities of water on my adventures.”

SwissGear Sion Expandable 21-inch Roller Bag

This sale-priced soft-sided luggage piece is a solid contender for your next carry-on, especially with its 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels and locking retractable handle. It’s an organizer’s dream thanks to its multiple front panel pockets, a built-in ID tag, a removable zippered wet bag, large mesh lid pocket, and tie-down straps (not to mention that it offers generous expansion capacity). According to one reviewer , "This carry-on roller was exactly what I needed for multi-week trips. I was able to pack about a week's worth of clothes plus an extra pair of shoes, rain jacket, and even a few souvenirs."

Telena Sling Crossbody Bag

This bag is so practical for travel, keeping everything you need accessible when you need it — as well as near your body and away from would-be pickpockets. In addition to the main zip pocket, it has a front zip pocket, card slots, and a slip pocket inside to ensure that your essentials have a place. Wear it as a crossbody, a sling, chest bag, or shoulder bag — the adjustable shoulder strap makes it so versatile. One five-star reviewer called it “secure and stylish,” noting that “it’s an easy way to be hands-free and know where your belongings are with the front wear.”

Gildan Men’s T-shirt Set 

More than 211,000 five-star ratings testify to the popularity of these soft, breathable cotton T-shirts that come in a multipack of five so you can stock your suitcase with them. They’re tag-free, so there will be no annoying itch when you’re touring around town, and have a lay-flat collar for a streamlined look. When listing the "standout features" of these Gildan shirts, an Amazon customer said that the main one was their "impeccable fit."

Lhknl Ultralight Headlamp Set

These headlamps come with an appealing suite of features (despite the budget price point), including the option to turn the lamp off and on just by waving your hand — which will prove to be very convenient when your hands are muddy or full. With a max brightness of 1,200 lumens, these are powerful enough to easily light up a whole tent or the trail ahead. There’s also a built-in rechargeable battery, which can charge and turn on the lights at the same time. “I really like the motion sensor function,” one reviewer wrote . “It's so easy versus trying to push a button with the light on your forehead.”

The Gym People Women's Joggers

Perfect for a day of travel, these lightweight lounge pants feature side pockets for stashing your essentials when you’re on the go. An elastic waistband makes them comfy enough for even the longest-haul flights, and the smooth, wide waistband lays flatteringly flat. "Without a doubt, these are high-quality and comfortable pants and the fit is flattering," a traveler was happy to report . "They were just what I needed for travel to Europe for three weeks."

Repel Compact Umbrella

This compact and budget-friendly travel umbrella has well over 53,000 five-star ratings, each of which has been well-deserved, according to reviewers. It weighs less than 1 pound and is less than 1 foot long when folded, so it’s perfectly streamlined and convenient for travel (especially considering that it has an auto open-close button for ease of use). “This is a quality product — well-designed, good size, and built to last,” according to one five-star reviewer . 

Amazon Essentials Women’s Fleece Sweatpants

These affordable, wear-everywhere sweats are ideal for travel days. They’re made of super-soft brushed fleece with a close fit that looks tailored but still feels comfy. The rib-knit waistband has an adjustable drawstring, plus front slant pockets for storing essentials. One five-star reviewer called them “the best sweatpants,” writing, “ They fit great… they're so soft and comfortable, and you can't beat the price.”

U.S. Traveler 2-piece Carry-on Luggage Set

This hugely popular two-piece carry-on luggage set comes with a tote with a detachable non-slip shoulder strap. Both pieces have a retractable, push-button, self-locking handle system for easy maneuvering, and they fit together with a piggy-back strap so you can go hands-free. One reviewer , who has “had this set for 15 years and taken it all over North America (and twice to Europe),” noted that its toughness and durability "can take the abuse of baggage handlers.”

Benevolence LA Velvet Travel Jewelry Case

This compact travel organizer for jewelry is soft and elegant, and it’s a must for keeping valuable jewelry tangle-free and ready to go while on the road. It features a secret earring compartment and a built-in compact mirror, and comes in 13 color options. "I have used for travel and none of my necklaces became tangled," an Amazon shopper assured . "It's great for rings and bracelets, too."

Ihuan Men’s Winter Gloves

Warm gloves are packing essentials for cold-weather destinations, and these are popular, highly-rated, and under $20. Waterproof and wind-resistant on the outside with a fleece lining on the inside, these gloves have reviewers' hands dry and comfortable. “The interior is incredibly soft, like putting fuzzy socks on your hands,” one five-star reviewer wrote . “The touchscreen feature works well and is surprisingly precise considering that gloves create more bulk on where you tap.”

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

With more than 44,000 five-star reviews, this hanging toiletry bag gets high marks for its practical design. It features a hanger so you can hang it from a door, rod, hook, or just about anywhere on the road to keep surfaces clear and tidy (a bonus for small spaces). It has four roomy, separate zippered compartments, and elastic straps to hold products in their place. Vouching for the product, a reviewer shared , “It is well designed, and the ability to hang it up is extremely useful."

Yeti Rambler 14-Ounce Mug

This insulated travel mug is ideal for camping, cozy cabins, or other uses on the road. Its double-wall, vacuum-insulated body protects hands from hot or cold contents while keeping your drink or food at just the right temperature. The unique lid is magnetic for extra leak-proof staying power. According to shoppers, you can bet that it won't spend a lot of time in your cupboard. “This mug has become an indispensable companion for my outdoor adventures, daily commutes, and cozy evenings at home,” a fan said . “With its exceptional performance and unbeatable durability, it has truly earned its spot as my favorite mug.”

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16 Best Travel Items on Amazon That Will Make Every Trip a Breeze

The best backpack, coffee mug, and neck pillow for your best trip ever.

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

The 500+ Club helps take the guesswork out of shopping on Amazon. The product experts at Good Housekeeping have vetted the below products to ensure they’re worth your money. Each one boasts at least 500 reviews and a minimum 4-star rating from real, verified reviewers, so you can trust that you’re purchasing products that actually work, according to users and experts.

To help with your biggest and smallest travel woes, here are the best travel items we could find on Amazon . Below, you'll see necessities like folding toothbrushes and mini razors, and handy travel gadgets such as a portable steamer. Some of these even make great gifts for your friend who's always seeking her next adventure.

Here's to hoping that some of these travel finds make packing for your next trip so much simpler!

trtl Soft Neck Support Pillow

Ditch bulky pillows that get in the way and slip on this this fleece alternative instead. Reviewers say the Trtl does a great job at supporting your neck and helping you fall sleep : "It's worth every penny because I don’t have to go to the chiropractor after every trip anymore," says one reviewer.

Star rating : 4 stars Reviews : 28.5k

iMangoo Shockproof Case for Electronics

One Amazon reviewer calls this carrying case the "perfect little tech organizer" because it fits everything you need while keeping cords safe and neat. The pearlescent cover is actually water resistant and shockproof, so it protects your devices from getting damaged .

Star rating : 4.6 stars Reviews: 11.9k

ZOPPEN Tri-Fold Organizer Holder

Sometimes it's a good idea to keep your everyday wallet at home, especially since there's a greater risk of you losing it on your trip. Instead, trade it for this slim, tri-fold organizer that easily holds your passport, documents, credit cards, and travel cards all in one place.

Star rating : 4.6 stars Reviews : 17.1k

NEWVANGA Universal Adaptor

This travel adapter accepts plugs from more than 150 countries . It features two USB ports so you can charge two low power devices at once. “It’s great because I can charge my Apple watch and iPhone at the same time, wake up, and everything is good to go,” says one Amazon reviewer.

Star rating : 4.6 stars Reviews : 5.5k

Teapile Travel Bottles for Toiletries

Amazon reviewers recommend this toiletry bottle set for a reason. You receive four bottles, three circular containers, and two toothbrush covers packed in a clear case. "The small pots also have additional lids inside so creams and lotions are secure ," says one reviewer.

Star rating : 4.4 stars Reviews: 12.3k

BAGSMART Travel Jewelry Organizer

Traveling with jewelry doesn't have to be difficult. This clutch keeps your necklaces organized and stops them from getting tangled . There are even compartments for earrings, rings, bracelets, and zippered pockets for whatever else needs storage.

Star rating : 4.7 stars Reviews: 8K

YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags

You definitely don't want used shoes to touch your clean clothes. These bags will fit all of your heels and sneakers neatly — Amazon reviewers warn however, that larger-sized high top sneakers might not fit seamlessly.

Star rating : 4.7 stars Reviews: 8.3k

BAGAIL Packing Cubes Set, Various Sizes

Included in this set are six pieces of various-sized packing cubes that can squeeze into backpacks, carry-ons, and duffel bags . Amazon reviewers appreciate the high quality fabric at the low price.

Star rating : 4.8 stars Reviews: 7.1k

Gillette Venus Snap Razor with Extra Smooth Handle

Not only is it the perfect size for travel, this razor comes with a protective case that snaps shut — keeping your other toiletries safe and untouched . Reviewers love that the Snap works just as well as Gilette's full-sized razors and provides a smooth, clean finish.

Star rating : 4.7 stars Reviews: 10.6k

Hilife Handheld Travel Steamer

And before you find out your hotel didn't include an iron in your closet (or you're too lazy to drag out the ironing board), pack this mini handheld steamer with you instead. "It takes only minutes to steam an outfit ," says one Amazon reviewer. The steamer is small but shaped oddly, so another reviewer recommends keeping the box it came in to make packing easier.

Star rating : 4.3 stars Reviews: 74.6k

Luxebell Digital Luggage Scale

According to one Amazon reviewer, using this gadget is " much easier than the 'subtract my body weight from the bathroom scale' method ." The T-shape design allows you to weigh your luggage with one or two hands. Plus, it's small enough for you to take it along with you on your trip.

Star rating : 4.6 stars Reviews: 5k

Contigo Snapseal Byron Mug

One reviewer calls this mug the "best travel thermos cup ever," and advises shoppers to read the instructions to properly set up the leak-proof seal. Thanks to its Thermalock feature, it keeps drinks hot up to nine hours and cold up to 21 hours . It also rated highly in our tests of the best travel mugs .

Star rating : 4.7 stars Reviews: 57.5k

MZOO Contoured Sleep Eye Mask

If you need your surroundings to be pitch black when you sleep, Amazon reviewers say this sleep mask "blocks all ambient light." The padding protects your eyes from being smushed while putting zero pressure on your under eye area.

Star rating : 4.7 stars Reviews: 69.9k

AUTOARK Car Seat Organizer

On road trips, we often keep our drinks in the trunk where the cooler is so there's leg room for passengers. But this car seat organizer is easily accessible and provides an insulated material that keeps drinks hot or cold . Plus, it features extra pockets for snacks and other small items.

Star rating : 4.2 stars Reviews: 3.7k

Travelpro Expandable Suitcase

Amazon reviewers love that this carry-on bag is "lightweight, but well-built." It expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing capacity , plus features two exterior compartments. During our best carry-on luggage reviews , this model was rated one of the top in the two-wheel category.

Star rating : 4.6 stars Reviews: 2.8k

MATEIN Laptop Backpack

If you're going on a business trip or want to take your personal laptop with you while traveling, this sturdy backpack fits laptops up to 15 inches long . It also has an external USB port, lots of pockets, and plenty of space for clothes, if you want!

Star rating : 4.8 stars Reviews: 64.2k

Shanon is a writer and editor who specializes in best-of product roundups and deals. She has over six years of experience, including almost three years as a Good Housekeeping product and reviews editor, covering the best sales and products across home, appliances, health, beauty, parenting and more.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Finds on Amazon From the GH 500+ Club

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PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Don’t leave home without these 32 travel essentials that make your trip easier, cleaner and overall, well, funner . We looked to travel bloggers and other frequent jet-setters for picks, and came away with these absolute must-haves, from a luxe pair of slipper-shoes to wear in-flight to pair of stylish Polarized sunglasses and pickleball set for outdoor fun.

Bon voyage!

20 of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S.

1. Qtshine Portable Charger Power Bank

Travel Blogger Dan Flying Solo maintains that “any traveler knows that keeping their devices charged is essential these days” and he recommends taking a handy portable charger anywhere you go. This model can charge most phones up to six times and tablets twice, and can charge two devices simultaneously.

2. Calpak Mini Hue Carry-on

We reviewed this bag and loved it for its surprising roominess, durability, style and ability to finally restrict us to the travel capsule wardrobe we’ve always dreamed of.

3. Carry Onwards Travel Yoga Mat

At three pounds, this is lighter than many other quality yoga mats, and made to fold flat so that you can throw it in your carryon or backpack without a bulky rolled-up situation.

4. Cadence A Capsule A Day

These leakproof, waterproof BPA-free plastic containers fit together to hold everything from pills to shampoos. Choose among seven colors to code your daily self-care regimen while you’re away from home.

5. Yolo X Scarosso' Travel Slippers

Designed by Yolanda Edwards, the founder of travel and lifestyle magazine YOLO Journal , these lightweight slippers have a velvet body and rubber sole, making them attractive and oh-so packable. “[They] go with everything from dresses to jeans,” she says. “And because they come in so many different colors, even when I'm traveling and always wearing the same black/navy/grey look, I feel like I have some life on my feet!”

6. Mingseecess Portable Underwear Travel Organizer

Don’t want to search for your socks and knickers in your luggage anymore? Travel blogger Caz Makepeace recommends a dedicated travel organizer with slots for bras, bikinis and whatever else is going on with your undergarments.

7. Fly Girl: A Memoir by Ann Hood

This memoir of a former TWA flight attendant in the 1970s (People called her a “gifted storyteller”) is full of bygone days of travel glamour as well as more turbulent times of massive industry deregulation and labor strikes.

8. Maui Jim Polarized Sunglasses

“Best sunglasses I’ve ever owned,” says the author of the Going Awesome Places blog, who cites them for their optical clarity. We like how the brand has a wide range of styles, whether you’re going for a sport fisherman vibe or something more chi-chi resort.

9. Fenglaoda Compression Socks

The globetrotting blogger behind The Blonde Abroad won’t leave home without packing compression socks which increase pressure around the ankle, upwards toward the knee, helping decrease incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT, aka blood clots in the legs). We like these because they’re low-key cute, unlike the many loudly printed options we’ve seen elsewhere.

10. Bleusalt The 2-yard Wrap

Makepeace (of Y Travel ) also recommends taking a blanket-sized scarf for everything from a too-cold hotel room to an over air-conditioned flight. This wrap, which comes in 18 colors, is just large enough (44 x 72 inches) to work as a lap blanket while you’re in the air and do double duty as a shoulder wrap once you’ve reached your destination. The Tencel modal and spandex fabric is breathable and can be washed and dried without shrinking…and it comes in its own drawstring bag, meaning it won’t come unfolded when not in use.

11. Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

Travel blogger Hey Ciara says she’s used this as her carryon for years, after purchasing one in Paris. She even got one for her mom—which is the most ringing endorsement we can think of for this leather-handled nylon tote with a zip and snap-top closure. Additionally, it’s great to throw in your checked luggage since it folds down to a flat square.

12. Fenty Beauty Invisimatte Blotting Paper

This refillable mirror case holds small sheets of paper that are genius for absorbing extra moisture without harming makeup—because when you are in transit, you won’t always have a chance to put your face back together.

13. Zoppen Travel Wallet

This is the indispensable item you need to stay organized during your travels, with card slots for identification, a sleeve for any notes and your itinerary as well as places to stash currency. Sure, your ticket is probably a QR code on your phone, but we still like a place for physical items. And the RFiD-blocking material means that scam artists won’t be able to scan your personal information when it’s tucked safely inside.

14. Apple Airtag

Lost luggage is a real buzzkill, but there are strategies to avoid it. “Besides the obviously mandatory name tags, buy Apple tags and put one in each of your checked luggage," advises Yolanda Edwards . “And bring an extra in case a bag is overweight on the way back and you’re asked to check it.”

15. J.Crew Packable Hat

The raffia is bendable, rollable and still emerges from your suitcase looking cute and shady thanks to the medium-size brim.

16. Conair Folding Handle Hair Dryer

This tiny, lightweight blow dryer justifies taking up precious room in your luggage because it’s got more power (1600 watts) and functions (dual heat settings, a cold shot button to set style) than whatever dryer you’ll find in your hotel room. And did we mention it’s only 1 pound and folds up?

17. Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera

Social media is great, but sometimes you want a tangible keepsake to share with friends on a trip. That’s why frequent traveler Hey Ciara enjoys bringing along an instant camera—but only on shorter trips, because the film can be pricey.

18. Caoodkdk Electronics Travel Organizer

Seriously, isn’t it time you stopped rooting through the bottom of your carryon for the right charger or to find your earphones? This lightweight semi-padded case includes tiny pockets to fit small cords, larger slots for power banks and even a pocket for your phone…in case you decide to use your in-flight time for a digital detox.

19. Recess X J.crew Pickleball Paddle

Pickleball is America's fastest-growing intergenerational sport, so when you're visiting your folks, a steely game of pickle ball should be on the agenda. Think of how psyched out your opponents (aka beloved family) would be if you were to whip out a fiberglass paddle and tailored cover.

20. Beats Solo 3

Travel blogger Hey Ciara recommends these for listening on board your flight since they have comfy cupped padding on the ears and a stylish look to boot. Plus, they give up to 40 hours of performance on a single charge.

21. Beis Weekender

Our reviewer deemed this bag the unsung hero of her two-week vacation, citing its minimal good looks, Velcro-lined laptop sleeve and wire-rim opening that makes it easy to see everything inside. (Special shout-out to the zippered luggage trolley sleeve that allows you to rest it on your checked or carryon roller bag.)

22. Joto Waterproof Phone Pouch

Even if you’re not planning to take your phone with you snorkeling in some exotic locale like Nomadic Matt , you’ll feel a lot more secure slipping your phone into this dry bag that’s got an easy snap closure yet is certified waterproof to 100 feet down. It’s transparent on both sides, so you can stash a car key and some money in there too, and it comes with a detachable neck strap.

23. Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

Like a spot of luxury with you when you leave home? Make like The Blond Abroad and travel with a silk pillowcase. It’s soothing and known to reduce hair breakage.

24. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

Sometimes you just have to check a bag, and when you do, you want to feel confident that it will stand up to any amount of baggage handler roughhousing. That’s why you’re opting for a Travelpro, the spinner luggage designed by a pilot to be lightweight and durable. This model has a handle that stops at two heights, four durable 360-degree spinning wheels and a two-inch expansion zipper to fit all the purchases you’ll be coming home with. We love the lifetime limited warranty and one-year guarantee for repair…just in case the airline does any damage.

25. Airwasher Kf94 Adjustable Face Masks

The big innovation here is a clever little loop along each side that lets you tighten the mask to fit your face. There’s also a smart three-dimensional design which lets you wear it with some room between your mouth and the mask, so that your lipstick won’t just immediately rub off.

26. Lifestraw Go Water Filter Bottle

The center filter in this reusable BPA-free water bottle is good for reducing microplastics, bacteria, parasites, pesticides and overall cloudiness in your water. We discovered this brand on blogger Hey Ciara’s web site and think it’s indispensable for backpacking and camping.

27. Toneof Cell Phone Tripod

Travel blogger Nomadic Matt recommends taking a small portable tripod for capturing hands-free shots. We’re fans of this model, since it only weighs three-quarters of a pound, folds into a slender 11-inch wand for portability and extends to 60 inches tall. Also, there’s a remote shutter release that stores right in the tripod shaft.

28. Dagne Dover Toiletry Pouch

This stand-up toiletry case's inventive design shows why PureWow readers love the brand—the 5.5-inch round and tall case has a removable Velcro insert that keeps all your travel bottles and jars exactly where you want them. And it's all 100 recycled materials. Bonus: There's also a large size .

29. Monos Cleanpod Uvc Sterilizer

A high-energy beam of ultraviolet C light zaps out of this portable device with the push of a button. According to a study co-authored by Columbia University, UVC light kills invisible airborne germs, thus the rationale of using this device on that airline armrest or taxi door handle.

30. Away Insider Packing Cubes

These four organizers come in seven colors and have mesh tops so you can see what’s inside, as well as a water-resistant nylon base and sides. There’s one for socks, one for underclothes, one for shirts and trousers…and they all fit, puzzle like, into a standard carryon bag.

31. Hest Camp Pillow

This small memory-foam pillow is ergonomically shaped and only 2.2 pounds, and has a dirt and water-resistant cover that’s machine washable.

32. Supergoop! Spf 40 Mini Defense Refresh (re)setting Mist

A real game-changer in the sunscreen game, this mist can be applied and reapplied over makeup without rubbing it in. You simply spray a light coating on each side and center of your face (with your lips tucked in because you don’t want to eat sunscreen) and you’re good to go.

The Best Affordable Luggage (That Definitely Doesn’t Look Cheap)

Senior Editor

Travel Essentials List: 30 MUST-HAVE Items to Carry-On

Are you planning a trip and wondering what travel essentials to bring? Check out this travel essentials list of 30 items you should pack in your carry-on backpack! A printable travel essentials list is included below.

No matter your travel destination, there are certain travel necessities you should always pack in your carry-on backpack. A pen. Tissues.Lip Balm.

I can’t leave home without these must-have travel items. They help me survive long flights.

As I get older, not having certain travel essentials makes for an uncomfortable flight, especially if traveling abroad.

Compression socks are now at the top of our travel essentials list for our next international flight. The last time I left them, my feet were swollen throughout our two weeks in Italy. No fun.

This travel essentials list includes 30 items to make your travels more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. It should be part of your vacation packing list.

So what should you pack in your carry-on bag?

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

This article provides a comprehensive travel essentials list of everything you need to pack in your carry-on backpack. This travel essentials list is perfect for first-time travelers and experienced globetrotters, as we always look for the best things to carry on.

To make packing your carry-on bag easier, we’ve included a printable travel packing checklist at the end of this article. Print out the travel checklist as a packing guide for your next trip.

Table of Contents

What carry-on backpack or bag should you take?

First, let’s chat about the carry-on bag… or backpack…

There are a few different carry-on options. You can travel with a:

• Rolling carry-on

The type of travel backpack or bag you take is completely up to you and your travel style.

We prefer carrying a backpack as a personal item and then a rolling carry-on suitcase when not checking luggage in.

It’s easier to walk around airports and cities with a backpack. Of course, the backpack must have a sleeve so we can slip it over the luggage handle.

Recently, we purchased the Brevitē camera bag – The Jumper . We chose this backpack because we can customize it to fit my DSLR. It also has a lovely feature where I can easily slip the camera in and out of the backpack. Our MacBook Pro also fits in a separate sleeve inside the backpack.

What we love most about this camera bag is that it transforms into a regular backpack when we are not bringing the DSLR. Since we will mostly use it to travel, the DSLR will come with us. It’s one of the main reasons we purchased it.

We needed a camera bag/backpack that made sense to us. In the future, perhaps we will find something else that will be better suited for our travel needs.

Travel Essentials List for Your Carry-on Backpack

What are the things you should pack in your backpack? You should always carry your passport, wallet, and other travel documents.

Below is our travel essentials list of 30 items you should always have in your carry-on backpack. They’ll make everything from easy travel days to long-haul flights more comfortable.

1. Pack Your Passport & Official Government ID

This travel essential is a no-brainer. You need your passport to travel internationally and some form of government-issued ID when traveling domestically. Keep these items in an easily accessible but safe place in your carry-on bag.

Consider your passport your golden ticket.

Also, make sure it’s not expired. If it’s a year from expiring, we suggest renewing it ASAP. Do not wait to renew it. We recently waited three months for passport renewal. It is taking quite a bit of time these days, so it is best not to wait.

Read More: Common Travel Mistakes To Avoid

2. Have All Tavel Documents Printed

In our digital age, it seems old-school and wasteful to have to print out all your documents, but it’s a must. Do not leave home without a copy of your travel arrangements.

You never know when you have to pull them out. And you can’t always rely on technology. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

• Hotel Reservations
• Cruise documents
• Car Rental Reservations
• Tour Confirmations
• Travel Insurance
• Copy of your vaccine card

Save now to come back to read later !

3. CDC Vaccination Card

Proof of vaccination is being required less and less. Some destinations still require you to submit or show your vaccination card upon entry. Do not leave home without your vaccination card. Put this at the top of your travel essentials list and keep it with your passport.

You can purchase a passport holder and vaccine holder , or you can keep your vaccination card should keep it safe in a clear slip .

This is one travel essential people forget about, but a pen is handy for travel documents and filling out forms.

You might not think you need it because most things are digital these days, but you never know when you’ll need to jot something down or fill out a form that doesn’t have the option to do it digitally.

Besides, with all the germs going around, best to carry your own.

Beach Packing List

Get beach-ready with this packing list! Whether you’re heading on a day trip to the beach or taking a beach vacation, this beach packing list comes in handy every time. Don’t miss packing any of these items. Printable included!

How many times have you heard the story of someone leaving their wallet at home?

Many times! The horror. You could miss your flight this way.

Your wallet probably holds your driver’s license, credit card, money, and other essential items you need when traveling.

It’s easy to forget to transfer it to a carry-on bag. So this is why we are here to remind you not to forget your wallet.

6. Money | Foreign Currency

Don’t leave your home without some cash. Depending on where you travel to, not everyone takes credit cards. Believe me, we love paying for everything with a credit card because we get to rack up those travel points. That cash is important for gratuities and anyone who doesn’t take a credit card.

And if you’re traveling abroad, try to order foreign currency with your bank before you leave the country. The exchange rates at international airports are a scam. Save yourself some time and money.

If you forget to get cash, you can always withdraw from an ATM at a reputable bank. Look for large banks with ATMs inside the bank. You will get the best exchange rate this way, too.

– Don’t Miss: How to Save Money to Travel –

Toiletries, Health & Medications

7. extra masks.

Bring extra masks with you for the plane and during your travels. Some destinations are more relaxed with masks than others, but it’s up to you and how comfortable you feel wearing one.

And t here are international flights that are still requiring them.

8. Bring Disinfectant Wipes & Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes are a must , especially during these times. You will want to wipe down your tray table or armrest on the plane or at the airport.

And let’s not forget about those nasty airplane bathrooms. Yuck. Hand sanitizer is also key when soap and water aren’t available.

Top Travel Resources to Help You Book Your Next Trip

Looking for help planning your next trip? Check out our top travel resources! These tools help you find and organize airfare, cruises, hotels, and more. So start planning the best vacation.

9. Medication | Vitamins

If you take any medications or vitamins daily, pack them in your carry-on and keep them close to you. Having some travel essential meds on hand is also great, like Advil, Tylenol, Immodium, and Zyrtec.

We always recommend taking some extra vitamin C or some Airborne. It never hurts to keep your immune system high.

10. Lip balm

We can’t forget the lip balm! You’ll want to moisturize your lips because the air in the plane dries you out.

11. Hand lotion

We don’t know about you, but our hands get incredibly dry when we travel. The recycled air on the plane dries us out and makes our hands feel rough and stiff.

So always travel with a small tube of hand lotion to keep your hands feeling smooth and moisturized. But remember, it has to be 3oz or less.

12. Disposable Travel Toothbrush or Listerine Strips

The small disposable travel toothbrushes and Listerine strips are great for quick freshening up after long flights where we’ve been eating and sleeping. It’s nice to give your mouth a quick brush or pop in one of these strips to freshen up that breath and taste.

13. Eyeglass Cleaning Cloth

This is for anyone that wears glasses! You know that cleaning cloth for our glasses is essential everyday. We can easily forget to pack it, so it’s a must on this travel essentials list.

Nobody likes to look through smudged and dirty glasses. And we can never carry enough of these because we lose them. Make sure to carry a couple.

14. Tissues

Never know when you need a tissue. The carry-on packs in your local pharmacy’s travel section are perfect.

Sometimes, we’ll take a wad of tissues from our tissue box at home and put them inside a zip-lock bag.

Travel & Airplane Comforts

15. travel pillow.

Let’s chat about travel pillows. We’d say this is an essential travel item if your flight is any more than 3 hours or you’re flying on a redeye.

There are many options, and it will probably take a few different tries to figure out exactly which pillow is right for you.

• Neck Travel Pillows (the most used)
• Turtle Pillow
• Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow
• Small rectangle travel pillow

Because I can’t sleep on planes, I can’t exactly offer the best sound advice here. However, hubby uses his regular travel pillow and sleeps like a baby. I use a small rectangle pillow because I’m not too fond of the neck pillow, but it is a pain to pack.

Cruise Essentials to Pack

A cruise vacation is a perfect way to relax and escape from the everyday grind. But before you set sail, be sure to pack these essentials that will help make your cruise even more enjoyable. These items include everything from sun protection essentials to must-have medications. So don’t forget to add them to your cruise packing list.

16. Shawl, Scarf, or Travel Blanket

A shawl or a travel blanket is on our travel essentials list for a long flight. Unless you’re flight premium economy or first class, expect not to get a travel blanket or pillow. Some airlines will still provide them on international flights. It’s still best to be ready with your own.

You can bring a travel blanket, or you can also bring one of your favorite shawls that you reuse throughout your travels. You can easily roll it up and stuff it into your carry-on backpack.

A travel scarf and shawl, also known as a pashmina, has many purposes. You can roll it up and use it as a pillow. You can use it around your neck. You can cover your head with it. You can use it as a blanket.

17. Eye Mask

An eye mask is key for getting some sleep on long flights. These eye masks block out the light in the cabin and are comfortable so that it doesn’t put any pressure on your eyes.

You want an eye mask that is adjustable so you can get the perfect fit. We purchased the ones above in a two-pack, which have been used multiple times.

It has been a game-changer for us, especially since one of us recently took many red-eye flights to New York .

18. Airplane Foot Rest

Sitting in economy class? This airplane footrest is an easy hack to help elevate your feet and give you a better reclining position. It hangs over your tray table, and you insert your feet into the hammock.

Supposedly it helps with swelling and soreness and also helps you sleep. We have purchased it for our upcoming travels to Ita l y and will report back.

This also works best for people shorter in height.

19. Compression Socks

Compression socks are so important! You should consider wearing compression socks regardless of age or length of the flight.

Compression socks help keep the blood flowing in your legs and feet from swelling and help prevent blood clots.

20. Collapsible Watter Bottle

It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially when you’re traveling. Since they don’t allow you to bring water bottles through security, having a collapsible water bottle ready is great. Most international airports have water stations you can fill the water bottles.

The collapsible water bottle is also easy to store and great to have during your travels.

21. Easy Snacks

Always pack snacks. With the post-chaos after 2020, you have no idea what’s open at airports and if you’ll be fed on the plane.

Bring packaged and sealed items like protein bars, nuts, and freeze-dried fruits.

22. Bring a Book to read

Bring a book and/or make sure you have books downloaded to your Kindle or Kindle App.

If you use a Kindle, download your book selection before losing Wi-Fi . Also, charge the device before leaving your house.

Audiobooks are also a great alternative!

23. Mobile Phone

Speaking of the digital age we are living in, we can’t leave home without our mobile phones. Without one, we shouldn’t travel to another city, state, or country. Your mobile phone is one of the top travel essentials.

You’ll need your mobile phone throughout the entire vacation. Assuming you have a fancy smartphone, it probably is your go-to camera. You probably use the internet for travel research, google maps, and more. These days, a mobile phone is a mini-laptop.

24. Get a data plan!

While we are on the subject of phones… This is not exactly a carry-on, but it’s part of your phone, and in my humble opinion, it’s a travel essential. Make sure you have a data plan that covers you wherever you travel.

Don’t rely on unreliable free Wi-Fi or free map apps that work when it feels like it. I understand we want to save money by not paying for data plans – that used to be us- but there are options. You don’t want to regret it later.

Especially when the gate agent asks you to fill out a form online from your phone, in the present times that we are living in, the chances of this happening are high.

There are options now for data:

• Get a temporary international data plan with your cellphone provider. .. ask them what they have available. We are with T-Mobile, and our monthly international plan includes unlimited data in over 200 countries.
• You can purchase a local SIM card with unlimited data when you arrive in the country you’re visiting.
• Set up an e-Sim option before you fly and arrive at your destination. Note: Your phone must have the capability to use e-Sims.
• You can also invest in a Wifi hot spot .

Now, if you’re looking to disconnect while you travel, good for you completely!

While we are at it, we suggest signing up for a VPN to keep your data safe and ensure that certain sites aren’t blocked when visiting another country. We use Surfshark VPN: click here for more info.

25. Bring a Set of Headphones

You’ll want to bring your own to use on the plane, whether they are noise-canceling headphones or your favorite earbuds. For short flights, you may get away without needing them, but for long-haul flights, they are necessary. The ones they hand out on the plane are not great or comfortable.

Most planes have a regular audio jack and do not have Bluetooth capability. So if you’re headphones are wireless, they will not work with the flight’s entertainment system. We do have a solution for this.

You can either bring a pair of headphones with an old audio jack plugin or bring along a wireless transmitter . The wireless transmitter can be plugged into the audio jack, allowing you to use your Bluetooth headphones.

26. Necessary Chargers and Adapters

Do not forget to pack the necessary chargers and adapters for your electronics . Also, any international adapters you may need. This is one travel essential often forgotten, and we spend money buying new ones. That money does add up quickly.

You will probably need to pack the following:

• mobile phone USB charger and adapter
• laptop plug
• camera charger
• backup battery charger and USB plug
• international adapter / plug
• additional power outlet , just in case

We pack all of these chargers and cables in a travel case . It makes slipping into a backpack or carry-on luggage easier and more compact.

27. Backup charger

A backup charger is one of the best things on this travel essentials list. You should carry a backup charger during all your travels. You never know when you’ll need it.

It can be small enough to fit in your purse or a small backpack.

28. Laptop or Tablet

A tablet may be all you need to travel, which is awesome. It’s lighter and easier to carry. But sometimes, you may need to work on a laptop or have it to transfer your photos to an external hard drive.

Either way, you should always pack your electronics in a carry-on bag . Do not check in valuable items like this.

29. External Hardrive

As you take photos and videos with your camera, you may want to transfer them to an external drive. You should always keep the external hard drive safe in your carry-on. For us, this is a travel essential.

It’s also great to back up those photos to a cloud photo storage like SmugMug .

Some of us travel just with our smartphones, the camera we always have available. If you plan to bring any other cameras, you want to pack those in your carry-on. These are items you do not want to check in with your luggage.

We travel with our Sony A7iii full-frame mirrorless camera and a  GoPro .

We hope this list helps you pack your carry-on for traveling. As always, we welcome any additional travel tips or suggestions from our readers.

What are some of the travel essentials that you can’t live without? Let us know in the comments below!

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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Plan, Ready, Go®

Travel Essentials for Women: 33 Must-Haves

Ladies, figuring out what you need to take with you on your trip can be a major headache…am I right? So, take the mystery out of it all and use our list of  travel essentials for women . 

From clothing to shoes and personal care items, we’ve totally got you covered. 

So, before you start packing, make sure you keep reading this travel essentials list for women. 

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

Need help planning your trip? Check out our list of essential travel planning resources .   

Anti-theft travel purse 

An anti-theft travel purse is an absolute must. I never travel without mine. 

A good anti-theft crossbody also makes a good bag to carry  everything you’ll need for day trips . 

This Travelon anti-theft purse ( find it on Amazon )  is remarkably roomy for the size and includes  must-have anti-theft features : slash-resistant body panels and strap, locking zipper closures, RFID-blocking pockets, and lockdown strap. 

Don’t miss my full  review of the Travelon classic crossbody bucket bag for more complete details and my personal photos of the purse, so you can see how it looks in real life. 

TIP: Keep track of your packing list with this editable travel packing list spreadsheet . Prefer pencil and paper? Grab the printable blank packing lists .

Affordable laptop backpack 

While an anti-theft travel purse is essential for your trip, you might also need something a little larger. 

A backpack designed to carry a laptop ( check out this great option on Amazon ) is a great piece of travel gear and makes an ideal  personal bag for taking on flights . 

Look for a backpack that has a separate pocket designed to hold laptops and also includes a roomy main compartment to hold everything you need to survive a long flight . 

The front compartment will help you keep smaller items organized.

A strap on the back of the pack allows it to fit over your extended rolling carry-on handle. 

It even includes a small anti-theft pocket. I love anti-theft features in travel bags.

Travel insurance is an essential travel item 

You invest a lot of time and money in planning your travel.

You want it to go perfectly, but let’s face it…sometimes life happens.

People get sick, accidents happen, and things get lost or (sadly) stolen. 

We’re blessed to have never needed to file a claim with  travel insurance , but we love the peace of mind that comes with knowing our travel investment is covered. 

It’s a good idea to have travel insurance in case something goes wrong.  

If you get injured or seriously ill while you’re abroad, do you know that you’ll be able to get the medical care you need? 

Essential travel accessories 

Sleep mask .

Does your trip include a long-haul flight? Then a good quality sleep mask is a must to help you sleep on your flight . 

This mask ( buy it on Amazon ) is adjustable so you can get it to the pressure that’s perfect for you and completely block out light. 

And there’s plenty of room for your eyelashes so you can blink freely and won’t destroy your eye makeup.  

It’s hand washable and comes in a ton of fun colors and patterns to show off your personality.

Reusable water bottle 

I never leave my house without a water bottle while I’m traveling. You’ll really love the Super Sparrow sport water bottle ( check it out on Amazon ) . It’s lightweight and spillproof. 

I love that I can toss it in my bag and I don’t have to worry about it leaking on anything. 

If you’re looking for an insulated bottle, you can’t go wrong with a Yeti rambler ( take a look on Amazon ). 

I love that it’s dishwasher safe. That’s a big selling point for me.

Portable charger 

Ladies, don’t forget that making sure that your phone is fully charged is an important part of  keeping safe while you travel .  

It’s essential to  pack a portable charger  to make sure your devices never run out of juice.

If you listen to music or watch videos as you travel, you can drain your battery much more quickly than you might realize. 

This one available on Amazon  is ultra-compact. It’s perfect for packing into your carry-on or day bag. 

Or try this high-capacity power bank ( buy it on Amazon ) so that you can charge more than one device at a time if you need it. 

Plastic storage bags in assorted sizes 

Pack at least a few each of several different plastic storage bags. You never know when you might need one when you travel. 

They’re great for random everyday uses like packing snacks in your day bag or keeping wet swimsuits or a few dirty clothes away from the rest of your clothes in your suitcase, etc. 

Shoes and clothing 

A fashion guru I am not, BUT there are a few basic items that I will recommend to any woman who loves to travel. 

These are things that I believe should be on every packing list…depending on your destination and time of year you’re traveling of course. 

The most comfortable flip-flops ever 

Havianas flip flops are essential for me any time that I travel.

They’re super comfortable and stylish enough to wear out and about. 

You can buy Havianas flip flops here on Amazon.  

They’re also great to just wear around your hotel room or to slip on quickly to make a quick ice run down the hallway. 

Comfortable casual shoes 

If you find a casual and comfortable shoe that works with many outfits, make sure you grab hold and never let go. 

TOMS are my go-to casual slip-on shoes for travel ( you can buy them on Amazon ).

They’re perfect for any kind of city break day trip. 

And they’re exceptionally lightweight and can be machine washed. I always air dry them to help them last as long as possible. 

I haven’t found another slip-on casual shoe that I like better. 

They even make vegan-friendly options.  

Hiking shoes 

Although a good pair of comfortable slip-on shoes are great for exploring in the city, there might be times when you need a more substantial shoe. 

If you’re going hiking, you’re going to want good support. I find hiking ankle boots too constricting, so that’s why I wear hiking shoes.

  Check out my favorite hiking shoes on Amazon . 

They’re comfortable and waterproof. 

In fact, they’re great for any outdoor activity, not just hiking. 

Their substantial soles are great for uneven terrain, like exploring ancient ruins in Rome …just as an example. 

Breathable waterproof rain shell 

Weather happens. You don’t want it to ruin your day of exploring. 

So, don’t forget to take a lightweight, packable, waterproof, breathable rain jacket with a hood. 

I’m in love with my Columbia Arcadia jacket. You can buy it here on Amazon.  

It will easily pack into any day bag…even a fairly small one. 

You really do want to make sure that it’s breathable.

Other waterproof jackets can be quite stifling and it can be very easy to get overheated quickly. 

Warm packable vest 

If you’re going to be traveling in colder weather another great outerwear option is to take a light and packable puffer vest. 

I love Eddie Bauer vests. This one ( check it out on Amazon ) is machine washable, which I think is a great feature.

My Eddie Bauer down vest has lasted me for many seasons and I can’t imagine trying anything else.

In fact, mine has lasted so long they don’t even make that specific down vest anymore.

Waterproof fleece interchange coat

A jacket/coat that can be used in multiple ways has become one of my top travel essentials.

If you’re in the market for a 3-in-1 or interchange jacket, you simply must check out Columbia’s Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange jacket. I really love mine   Check the Bugaboo II price on Amazon here .

• The outer layer is waterproof, breathable, and has a really good, adjustable hood. It’s noticeably warmer than a basic rain shell like the Arcadia II.
• The inner layer is made from thermal-reflective fleece.
• You can zip the fleece layer into the shell to make a cozy, waterproof coat or wear each layer separately.

Comfortable travel pants/hiking pants

Comfy travel pants or hiking pants are on my list of must-have travel essentials for almost every trip that includes at least a little bit of outdoor exploring.

I’m basically in love with my  Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up pants . They’re made of quick-drying, water-resistant fabric that also provides sun protection. They are SUPER comfortable for me. I love that they have a regular waste band but also an internal drawstring so you can adjust the fit.

They’re perfect for long days outdoors and are lightweight enough to work fine in warm weather. Plus you can roll them up when needed.

In cold weather, I like to wear a pair of thermal base layer leggings underneath.

These pants are high quality so they are a bit of an investment, but I totally think they’re worth it.

Beauty and personal care 

Okay, honesty time. 

Packing makeup and toiletries can be the thing I nitpick over even more than clothes, especially when traveling carry-on only . 

These are my top recommendations for toiletries.  

Travel-size skin care kit 

Favorite skin care products in travel sizes are perfect for your packing list. 

I never leave my Paula’s Choice skincare products behind when I travel.

The travel-size kit is small enough even to fit inside your one-quart liquids bag when packing toiletries for carry-on . 

High SPF sunscreen for the face 

Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days. 

Wearing a good sunscreen on your face every single day can help slow the signs of aging and even help prevent the effects of environmental damage. 

This is a great SPF 50 sunscreen for the face ( find it on Amazon ). There’s no white cast and it works great under makeup. 

It comes in a travel size too. 

Healing lip balm 

A good lip balm makes a wonderful travel companion. 

I never travel without a healing lip balm ( find my favorite on Amazon ), especially on those long, dry flights. 

Re-usable beauty product bottles 

If you don’t want to purchase travel-size beauty products, you could purchase reusable containers so that you can just take with you a bit of your favorite full-size products from home. 

Buy popular reusable containers on Amazon.  

Makeup remover wipes 

I never travel without Olay dry cloths ( find them on Amazon ) that you activate with water. That way I can travel with the exact amount I need. 

They never dry out like the moist towelette ones. 

When I travel, these replace any need for a liquid cleanser or face wash. 

You can even cut them in half to stretch them farther and save money! 

Wet wipes, tissues, and toilet seat covers 

I know these are far from glamorous but you’ll be glad that you have them. 

Travel packs of wet wipes are a good idea to pack, especially for use on planes, car rides, and just about every other traveling situation. These are my favorites, and you can buy them here on Amazon.  

Travel packs of tissues  and/or toilet seat covers (depending on where you’re traveling) make good additions to your travel purse or day bag. 

Miscellaneous first aid 

Pack a few first aid items like band-aids, alcohol wipes, and pain relievers just in case.

You want to be prepared in the event of a minor injury (like a cut or scrape) or headache or something. 

You can build your own kit from items you have at home and a small plastic storage bag. 

Or purchase a compact first-aid kit made for travel  like this one which you can find on Amazon here . 

Solid toiletries 

If you couldn’t already tell, I’m a big believer in traveling with carry-on luggage only , but doing that requires keeping toiletries to a minimum. 

If you’re staying in a hotel, you can minimize the toiletries you pack in your carry-on by using the products the hotel provides. 

To help travelers out with minimalist packing, there are a lot of liquid toiletries that can be replaced with solid versions .

They don’t need to be packed in your 1-quart liquids bag, which will free up space for you. 

For example, if you use a shampoo bar like this one ( check it out on Amazon ) you can leave shampoo out of your liquid toiletries bag all together. 

You can also get solid conditioner bars  like this one you can buy on Amazon here . 

Neutrogena makes my favorite solid sunscreen stick ( buy it on Amazon. ) 

You can even buy  solid lotion on Amazon  to help keep you moisturized while you travel (a great idea for long flights with all that drying air). 

More of the top travel accessories

Travel pillow/neck pillow.

Not everyone likes them, but if a neck pillow can help you sleep on your flight, you should go for it.

An inflatable travel pillow packs small ( check it out on Amazon) , so it’s a great option for packing in your carry-on bag. 

If you need more neck support in a travel pillow, you might try the Trtl Pillow  ( buy on Amazon ).

It’s designed to keep your head in an ergonomic position while you sleep. 

I think that getting lost in a good book is one of the best ways to pass the time on a long-haul flight.

It’s one of my most important travel essentials…as well as one of my road trip essentials.

In fact, I usually make sure that I have two or three e-books loaded in my Kindle app before any long journey (whether air travel or a road trip).

If you’re looking for your next great airplane read, check out my article about the  best airplane books .

Packing cubes

Compression packing cubes are a great way to  maximize the space in your suitcase . They help you organize and compress clothes, small items like accessories, and other items into neat bundles that fit snugly inside your luggage.

Plus when you use packing cubes it will help keep your things organized. This makes it easier to find what you need when you’re ready to use them.

Compression packing cubes also help keep everything securely packed in place while traveling so there won’t be any shifting around or spilling out of your bag during transit.

You’ll find a lot of different options online.  This popular set on Amazon  comes with four bags in three different sizes and a wide variety of colors.

Personal travel necessities

And don’t forget that some of the most important items for travel won’t be accessories to go out and shop for or buy online. Your women’s travel essentials list should also include some general travel essentials like:

• Wallet (RFID blocking if you have it) with your travel credit cards in it. Use these so you’re earning points on all your purchases that you can redeem for more travel later.
• important documents/travel documents

Final thoughts on travel essentials for women 

Part of having a great trip is being well prepared.

And when you have all of the essential travel items you need, you’ll definitely be well prepared. 

From clothing to shoes and from bags to personal care, these travel essentials will help you travel like a pro. 

More articles related to women’s travel essentials 

• Essential travel planning resources  
• Best tips for packing light  
• Fun gifts for women who love to travel  
• How to pack light for one week in a carry-on
• How to pack your suitcase to maximize space
• The best products for sleeping on a plane
• Essentials for long flights  

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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