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Matt Jancer

The Best Travel Accessories to Make Your Trip Easier

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

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

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Charge Ahead

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

Charge Everything at Once

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

Learn to Adapt

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

Tag, You’re It

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

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Hand holding small silver circular disc with an engraved apple logo on it in front of large silver luggage case

Keeping Track

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

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

Curvy dark blue pillow on top of orange surface with a green plant in the background

Catch Some Z’s

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

Small outlet surge protector with 2 small slots up top and 3prong space on the bottom

To Safeguard Your Electronics

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

Pillow

A Better Pillow

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

A small black compass shaped device with a handle and silver hook to weight items

Tip the Scales

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

Black laptop case with topright rounded edge and a silver laptop partially inserted

To Protect Your Laptop

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

Two blue sleeping bags on a padded surface with a thin black mosquito net hanging down from above and draping the bags...

Mosquito Guard

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

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

A Good Book, or 20

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

Cable Matters Thunderbolt 4 USBC cable

Top Up Your Devices

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

EPOS Sennheiser headphones

Maintain Your Sanity

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

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

For Compact Peace and Quiet

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

Sennheiser IE200 inear headphones

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

Wandrd Roam camera bag

A Nice Travel Sling

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

Mountainsmith Tour bag

An All-Day Stash

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

new OLED nintendo switch

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

Roverlund Pet Carrying Bag

Bring Your Best Friend

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

Pocketalk device on yellow background

Make Yourself Understood

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

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

White rounded rectangular device with two buttons on the front and a cord coming out of the top

Connect the Unconnected

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

Two hands holding up a large beige blanket that has 2 pockets toward the bottom. To the right is the small soft carrying...

For Chilly Flights and Nights

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

Small clear jar with silver lid and white label. Small white tablets are scattered in the background.

Don't Forget the Toothpaste

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

Hydro Flask Coffee Mug with Flex Sip Lid

Stay Hydrated

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

White cylindrical container with an angled spout on the top left and a handle on the rightside. A small burst of steam...

Get Steamed

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

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The best travel accessories to pack on every trip

By Madison Flager

Image may contain Clothing Apparel Human Person Bag Handbag Accessories Accessory Hat and Sun Hat

Packing lists will vary based on where you're going and how long you're travelling for, but the best travel accessories can improve every trip. From tech gadgets to keep your electronics powered up and luggage accessories that ensure you're not hit with an overweight baggage charge, having the right gear means a smoother journey, every time. Below, we've rounded up 27 essential items to pack inside your carry-on bag , weekender , or checked luggage . Consider these the travel gear staples to bring on your next trip – and all your future holidays after that.

  • A trusted tote
  • A travel wash bag
  • Packing cubes
  • Jewellery case
  • Reusable travel bottles
  • Hydrating skincare products
  • A portable charger
  • A power adapter
  • A luggage scale
  • A way to find your luggage
  • An e-reader
  • A portable fan
  • A portable steamer
  • An eye mask
  • A neck pillow
  • A shawl or blanket
  • Hand sanitiser and wipes
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Snack containers
  • A passport holder
  • A back-up travel bag
  • An umbrella

1. A trusted tote

A tote bag is the ideal personal item. It's roomy enough to store all your odds and ends, and everything you'd want with you during a flight, and is usually pretty pliable, meaning you can squeeze it under the seat without taking up all of your foot room. Look for one with comfortable shoulder straps, should you overload it with snacks. A trolley sleeve is a nice feature, too, so you can slide it over your suitcase while cruising through the airport.

real simple best travel accessories

2. A travel wash bag

A travel wash bag is key to staying organised — and avoiding spills in your luggage. We like these options from Away and Bagsmart for their water-resistant materials and ample space for your toothbrush and toothpaste, razor, soaps, and more. A hanging bag, like those below, also allows you to keep items tidy and off the bathroom counter.

real simple best travel accessories

3. Packing cubes

Don't underestimate the power of a good packing cube . Articles director Lale Arikoglu has waxed poetic about her love of Paravel's packing cubes (other editors are fans of Away's set ), which come in a range of sizes to store everything from bathing suits and socks to T-shirts.

best packing cubes

4. Jewellery case

A rule to live by: never check your valuables, especially jewellery. Keep necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings safe and neatly organised inside a jewellery case. We like Monica Vinader's for smaller accessories; if you're packing sunglasses and watches, you'll want something slightly bigger, like this Smythson option.

real simple best travel accessories

5. Reusable travel bottles

Rather than buy plastic travel-sized toiletries , get yourself a set of leakproof travel bottles that allow you to bring your at-home favourites on the go. They're great for storing toiletries and beauty products, and tubs can also be used to keep small items like jewellery or vitamins.

real simple best travel accessories

6. Hydrating skincare products

Even if you're not the type of person with a multi-step in-flight skincare routine , a few basics can go a long way in keeping your skin happy and healthy after a long day of travel. Since hand sanitiser remains a travel essential, a hand balm to apply once or twice a day is equally important to keep them moisturised. Aesop's smells incredible, and will last for several trips to come — a little bit of the thick, creamy balm goes a long way. Don't forget a hydrating lip balm, either.

real simple best travel accessories

7. A portable charger

There's nothing like a dead battery to slow down a trip. Keep all your accessories charged up with a power bank — Anker is our favourite, but iWalk's mini charger is a great option if you're short on space.

real simple best travel accessories

8. A power adapter

For international travel, a power adapter is a must to make sure you can get devices charged up in the airport and your hotel room. Apple's World Travel Adapter Kit comes with seven AC plugs with prongs that fit into different electrical outlets around the world, and each one is labelled with the regions they are compatible with. (As for compatibility, it works with Apple USB-C power adapters; MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters; 10W, 12W, 30 and 35W USB ports; and portable power adapters.) We also recommend this Bluetooth converter , which lets you use your regular cordless earbuds to watch a movie in flight.

real simple best travel accessories

9. Headphones

Whether the plan is to listen to music, watch a movie, or just drown out noisy neighbours, most of us won't board a plane without headphones. Make sure you have your go-to on hand, plus a pair of corded earbuds (if you don't have one of these Bluetooth adapters ).

real simple best travel accessories

10. A luggage scale

Give yourself some added peace of mind with a digital luggage scale; it’ll let you know how much damage your souvenirs did before arriving at the check-in counter on the way home.

real simple best travel accessories

11. A way to find your luggage

Speaking of luggage, the Tile Pro and Apple AirTags can help locate lost bags (or wallets, or keys, depending on what you attach it to). In fact, a luggage tracker is one of the items contributor Harrison Pierce wishes he had when he began travelling full-time .

real simple best travel accessories

12. An e-reader

Even travellers with a library full of books at home have to admit it: E-readers are an essential travel accessory for bookworms . They are so much lighter than even one paperback book, and let you bring as many options as you want along for the ride.

real simple best travel accessories

13. A portable fan

If you're headed somewhere warm, or just tend to run hot, do yourself a favour and pack a portable fan. Whether you choose a handheld option or one you can wrap around your neck, it'll give you the breeze you need whether you're in the back of a crowded bus or van, standing in line at Disneyland, or kicking back in a beach chair .

real simple best travel accessories

14. A portable steamer

If you're travelling to a wedding or heading out on a business trip, you may want to bring a portable steamer along to make sure your formalwear looks its best after you take it out of your suitcase. Traveller contributor Erinne Magee put nine travel steamers to the test to find out which ones are the best options for travellers — below are two of her favourites.

real simple best travel accessories

15. A tech kit

All of those tech items mean you're going to have plenty of charging cubes and cables to keep track of. Save space in your backpack — and save yourself the headache of digging through your bag — by keeping everything wrapped up in a tech kit like the ones below.

real simple best travel accessories

16. An eye mask

For a comfortable journey at 30,000 feet — especially one where you hope to get some shut-eye —an eye mask is crucial. For more help sleeping, try the Bluetooth sleep headband recommended by US contributor Iona Brannon, which lets you listen to music or white noise without anything in or around your ears; in a pinch it can even double as an eye mask, she says.

real simple best travel accessories

17. A neck pillow

Another comfort essential: a travel pillow . It can take some time to find the style you like best, and your pick might vary depending on whether you're in-flight or in a car. Two we like: The classic memory foam wraparound neck pillow, which can be tightened or loosened per your preference, and the innovative fleecy neck wrap recommended by commerce writer Charley Ward .

real simple best travel accessories

18. Cosy socks

We love a good pair of compression socks to fight that pins-and-needles feeling that comes from sitting still for too long, be it on a long-haul flight  or a road trip . For those who prefer a cosier option, we recommend socks from Barefoot Dreams .

Ostrich Pillow, Compression Socks

19. Earplugs

When you need some peace and quiet, swap your noise-cancelling headphones in for earplugs. This set comes with multiple sizes, so you can find the right fit, and share with any family members you're travelling with.

real simple best travel accessories

20. A shawl or blanket

For those who run cold, an oversized scarf will get plenty of use in transit, and can even double as a blanket. Opt for a quality material you can pack for years to come, like cashmere.

real simple best travel accessories

21. Hand sanitiser and wipes

As for general wellness, hand sanitiser is a must — buy a set and drop one in all your most-used totes and sling bags so you're never without. Some biodegradable wipes are nice to have on hand too, especially if you're travelling with little ones .

real simple best travel accessories

22. A reusable water bottle

Rounding out our collection of the best travel accessories are some odds and ends, like a good reusable water bottle, so you can stop buying overpriced bottles at the airport (and be kinder to the environment).

real simple best travel accessories

23. Snack containers

If overpriced airport snacks aren't your jam, come prepared by filling reusable Stasher bags with popcorn, crackers, fruit, or whatever else you'd like in-flight before you leave your house. A reusable utensil set is another nice-to-have travel accessory that'll allow you to turn down the plastic cutlery you might be handed in the airport or elsewhere on the road. The spoon and chopsticks are particularly TSA-friendly (while utensils are technically allowed through security , it's at the discretion of the agent if they'll let plastic knives or forks).

real simple best travel accessories

24. A passport holder

Also handy: a high-quality passport holder (bonus points if it has space to hold your credit cards) to keep your most important document protected. Aspinal's can be personalised with your initials for an added £20.

real simple best travel accessories

25. A back-up travel bag

For trips where you plan to shop, something lightweight, like Paravel's Fold-Up Bag or Baggu's Cloud Bag , is a smart addition to your packing list. Stuff it with souvenirs on your way home, or use it for overnight or weekend trips within a longer holiday.

real simple best travel accessories

26. A travel umbrella

Depending on your destination, a travel-size umbrella might be worth the space in your luggage. And if you're driving, tossing one in the backseat is a no-brainer. Contributor Claire Volkman tested out around a dozen options on our US sister site to determine which are the sturdiest and most compact. Shop two of her favourites, both available in the UK, below.

real simple best travel accessories

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EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

Universal Travel Adapter

There's no need to stock a full suite of power adaptors—even if your travels take you all over the globe. A universal adaptor is a must, says Delia Monk, a tour director for group travel company EF Ultimate Break . This single device can be used to charge all of your electronics no matter where you are.

memobottle Reusable Slim Water Bottle

Reusable Slim Water Bottle

The lack of humidity in a plane's recirculated air can leave you parched, or worse, dehydrated. And that small cup of water? It's not going to cut it. This slim water bottle fits neatly in the seat-back compartment. "It's so much more practical," says Anne Scott, founder of Girl Gone International , the world’s largest community of women who live, travel, and move overseas. Plus, for every bottle sold, the company provides one person in need with clean drinking water for one month.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader

Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader

An e-reader not only provides entertainment en route, and a chance to catch up on buzzy books , but also helps you actually pause and relax while on vacation. "With my Kindle—or any eReader, for that matter—it’s easy to unwind anywhere," says travel blogger Lisa Stentvedt .

Mossio 7 Pack Lightweight Luggage Cubes

7 Pack Lightweight Luggage Cubes

If you tend to throw everything into a bag when you're traveling, let these cute pink leopard print packing cubes help you organize and save space in your luggage. It even comes with three matching laundry pouches and a shoe bag.

yoozon Selfie Stick Tripod With Bluetooth

Selfie Stick Tripod With Bluetooth

You may roll your eyes, but the selfie has become a routine part of any vacation. And there's no denying that a selfie stick helps you get a better shot. This one has an integrated tripod option, a wireless remote shutter, and is compatible with a wide range of devices, says travel blogger Maria Potehina .

supergoop Supergoop! x Gray Malin Everyday Getaway Kit

Supergoop! x Gray Malin Everyday Getaway Kit

Headed somewhere warm? This kit comes in a water-resistant pouch featuring a whimsical print from famed photographer Gray Malin, and is packed with travel sizes of Supergoop! sunscreen (a favorite amongst Oprah Daily editors). There's also a handy SPF balm for your lips .

Anker Portable Charger

Portable Charger

When you're using your phone's map app all day, you'll zap the power in a flash. A portable power bank can save you from having a dead device. This one can charge seven times before needing to be charged itself. In fact, it's so reliable that husband and wife travel bloggers Katie and Ben Zweber carried theirs with them to Everest's base camp.

YUNI Beauty Shower Sheets Body Wipes

Beauty Shower Sheets Body Wipes

Took the red-eye and have no time to shower before a big meeting? Or maybe that walking tour has you sweating bullets. Either way, body wipes can save the day. They'll keep you feeling and smelling fresh, despite the fact that they're non-toxic, plant-based, biodegradable, compostable, and free of harmful ingredients, says Scott.

Sharpty Inverted Windproof Umbrella

Inverted Windproof Umbrella

Unfortunately, rain happens—even when you're on vacation. Be prepared when the weather turns with this clever umbrella. It's a traveler favorite (it has over 1,500 five-star reviews!), because the lightweight frame folds inside out to keep drips contained.

Maaji Calm 5-Pack Face Coverings

Calm 5-Pack Face Coverings

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, face masks are a wise choice to take on your travels. Instead of the surgical looking masks, upgrade to this set of 5 pretty face coverings that the whole family can wear.

Seat Covers in Check Me Out

Seat Covers in Check Me Out

If airplane, train, or bus seats have always made you a tad skittish, keep them covered with this whimsical, washable set. If you're not a gingham gal, it comes in numerous other colors and patterns, including dinosaurs for the little ones.

Rothys White Rainbow

White Rainbow

When you're logging a few miles a day, you need shoes that can keep up. These flexible fabric shoes are easy to pack. Plus, they're machine-washable.

Belkin SurgePlus USB Swivel Surge Protector and Charger

SurgePlus USB Swivel Surge Protector and Charger

It's hard enough to find one available outlet in a busy airport terminal, so what are you supposed to do when you need a charger for your phone, your laptop, and your e-reader?! Carry a simple old-fashioned power strip, says Samantha Brown, host of the Emmy-nominated PBS show "Samantha Brown's Places to Love." Any basic power strip will do, but this one, with three three-prong receptacles and two USB ports, is a step above the rest.

Baby Shusher Sleep Miracle Soother

Baby Shusher Sleep Miracle Soother

There's nothing more stressful than walking a screaming baby up and down the aisles of a plane. Thankfully this handy tool can help. It uses a real human voice to lull your baby to sleep with a calming sush. "This has been the only way we have been able to travel with our newborn without her screaming the entire ride," says one reviewer. "It's small enough to keep in the diaper bag. Worth every penny," says another.

OPTP Super Pinky Ball Massage Ball

Super Pinky Ball Massage Ball

When your feet are sore from logging dozens of miles touring a new city or your back is in knots from a cramped plane seat, this simple pink ball can help. "I put two balls on the floor, lay my back on them, push up with my knees, and roll them down my back, quads, and back of legs," says Brown. "They work out all the kinks, knots, and sore muscles."

URPOWER Dog Seat Belt

Dog Seat Belt

Bringing your furry friend along on your family road trip this summer? Don't forget to get them their own seat belt to make sure they're safely and securely strapped in.

trtl Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow

Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow

Anyone who's dozed off while sitting up knows the subsequent neck pain is real. "This travel pillow gives you better ergonometric head and neck support than a regular U-shaped neck pillow and adapts to fit anyone," says travel blogger Sveva Marcangeli . Need proof? "I slept for 10 hours straight on a 16-hour flight from New York to Hong Kong." Plus, unlike U-shaped travel pillows, this one is compact and only weighs half a pound to conserve space.

Polaroid Now Instant Camera

Polaroid Now Instant Camera

Capture all those precious moments on summer vacation with an instantly-rewarding polaroid camera. This one comes with autofocus, a self-timer and flash to help you get the most out of your pics.

Yoobi Hand Sanitizer - Set Of 50

Hand Sanitizer - Set Of 50

Sometimes it can be bulky to carry around a bottle of hand sanitizer when traveling—and that's when these small individual sized packets come in handy. Slip a couple into your toiletry bag every day, and you'll thank yourself come lunch time.

Roku Streaming Stick

Roku Streaming Stick

You no longer have to choose between splurging on expensive on-demand movies or settling for basic cable. Travelers say this small USB-powered device is a game-changer for evenings in hotel rooms. It plugs into any USB-enabled TV to give you access to all your favorite streaming services, even when your own couch is thousands of miles away.

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Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.

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23 Best Travel Accessories for Every Kind of Trip

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

best travel accessories

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Accessories

  • Best In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Adapter: Twelve South AirFly Pro
  • Best Travel Footrest: Airplane Footrest
  • Best Cord Organizer for Small Items: Bellroy Classic Pouch
  • Best Containers for Toiletries: Cadence Weekender Bundle
  • Best Blanket for Cold Flights: Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket
The Expert: I’m a freelance travel writer and editor who usually focuses on adventure travel. That’s led me to take some pretty lengthy flight patterns (most recently, 54 hours of travel on the way to Rwanda) and fairly remote road trips (through central Alaska). But traveling frequently doesn't mean anything goes. Like everyone else, I have my personal annoyances while traveling: I get cold easily, I’m sensitive to noise when sleeping in new places, and I always need to be able to work on-the-go. What all of that means is that my experience with travel accessories isn’t just about finding those that make flights more comfortable, but also those that improve my productivity, help me enjoy myself in new destinations, and make packing as painless as possible. I think I've used just about every type of travel product out there, and truly feel the ones I have selected are the best of the best.

What to Consider When Buying Travel Accessories

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

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

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

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How We Selected These Travel Accessories

orvis packable jacket

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

Twelve South AirFly Pro

AirFly Pro

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

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

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

Sekoess Airplane Footrest

Airplane Footrest

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

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

Bellroy Classic Pouch

Classic Pouch

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

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

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

Cadence Weekender Bundle

Weekender Bundle

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

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

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

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

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

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

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Ultralight Stuff Pack

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

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

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

Cabeau S3 Evolution

S3 Evolution

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

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

Alongza Portable Charger

Portable Charger

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

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

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

HiBar Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

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

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

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

Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

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

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

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

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

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

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

Sony WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

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

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

JBL Clip 4 Speaker

Clip 4 Speaker

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

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

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

Panasonic Lumix G7 4K Camera

Lumix G7 4K Camera

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

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

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

Peak Design Packing Cube

Packing Cube

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

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

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

Thule Subterra Carry-on Roller

Subterra Carry-on Roller

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

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

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

Baseus Blade

Blade

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

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

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

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

Ombraz Armless Sunglasses

Armless Sunglasses

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

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

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

CM Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

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

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

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

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

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Protect Your Trip »

The 13 best travel accessories, chosen by our editors.

Discover our editors' favorite finds for making every adventure better.

The Best Travel Accessories

Traveler suitcase and luggage with travel accessories and items preparing for travel

Getty Images

U.S. News Travel editors and contributors recommend you pack these must-haves for your next getaway.

When packing for a trip, you of course have to decide what to pack in your carry-on bag and checked luggage, including what clothing, toiletries and other essentials to bring. Having the right travel accessories can make your packing process and travels smoother. From noise-canceling earbuds to condensation-free water bottles, the travel editors and contributors at U.S. News have compiled a list of their favorite travel accessories that make every journey more comfortable.

S'well Stainless Steel Traveler

Staying hydrated while traveling is essential, so it's always a good idea to pack a reusable water bottle. This S'well travel bottle is made of stainless steel with triple-layer insulation. Featuring special technology to keep the exterior free of condensation and an ergonomic design, this bottle is ideal for travelers to put in their backpack or carry-on. The bottle is designed to keep cold drinks cool for up to 60 hours and hot beverages warm for 20 hours, making it the perfect on-the-go companion.

What our travel editors say: "I never fly without a refillable water bottle so I'm not at the mercy of in-flight service to stay hydrated. While it's not as large as other travel bottles, S'well's skinny design makes it easy to slide into my (usually overstuffed) purse or the side pocket of a backpack. The silicone loop attached at the top holds the lid when my hands are full, and water refills at the airport stay cool for the full travel day. I've used mine for four years, and aside from a few scratches, it doesn't show any signs of wear." – Elizabeth Von Tersch , Senior Editor

Price: $50 or less

Lug Mini Swizzle Jewelry Case

This compact jewelry case is perfect for travelers who like to pack extra earrings, rings and small accessories. The case comes in a variety of colors, including metallic shades like silver and walnut (a warm gold), and has a light gray lining that makes it easy to see its contents. The interior organization maximizes space with five soft-lined sections for rings, hoop earrings or cufflinks; a removable mesh pouch; and a soft-lined pocket. The petite design and pliable exterior helps to save space in your travel bag.

What our travel editors say: "I got this as a gift and it's one of the very first things I get out when I'm packing for any trip. I always pack a pair of pearls, some statement earrings to dress up for evenings, and a necklace or two. Once I'm traveling, the ring slots are the perfect safe place to store my rings at night. I love the top handle, which makes it easy to grab out of your bag, and the colorful exterior makes it stand out in any space so I never leave it behind. Plus, it's just so cute!" – Rachael Hood , Senior Editor

Price: $33 or less

Holii Daily Pill Organizer

This compact daily pill organizer allows quick access to your medications – which are vital to have on hand while traveling – as it can be easily tucked into a pocket, purse or backpack. Small but durable, the organizer features eight compartments: two large and six small. Its locked lids mean your pills will stay safe and secure even if you drop the container. The organizer is made with high quality food-grade plastic and is available in khaki, pink, purple and blue.

What our travel editors say: "As someone very prone to motion sickness, I needed a lot of different seasickness medications for my last cruise trip. This pill organizer securely fit everything I needed and more. It's also easier to pack than typical daily pill box dispensers that are too lengthy. Note: The included plastic accessory that looks like a guitar pick is for opening each of the compartments. It's a lifesaver for fingernails!" – Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer

Price: $12.99 or less

Apple AirPods Pro Wireless Earbuds (Second Generation)

The Apple AirPods Pro wireless earbuds are the perfect travel companion for those who like to listen to podcasts or music, or watch videos on their phones or tablets while traveling. The standout feature of these earbuds is the noise-canceling capability, which is twice the strength of the first-generation AirPods Pro earbuds. These AirPods, which are resistant to dust, sweat and water, come in a small MagSafe charging case (USB-C) and stay charged for up to six hours of listening time (with noise-canceling enabled); if you use the charging case, they last for up to 30 hours of listening time. Touch controls on the side of the earbuds allow you to adjust volume and press pause or play, as well as mute, unmute and end a call. Four pairs of silicone tips come with the earbuds so you can choose the perfect fit.

What our travel editors say: "I was skeptical about moving on from my beloved and generic wired Apple earbuds but the AirPods Pro wireless earbuds have been an extremely pleasant surprise. The noise-canceling quality is exceptional; it's truly wild how loud an airport or plane is and how quiet it gets just by putting in the AirPods and using the noise-canceling feature. These fit comfortably in my ears and it's nice that the product comes with several silicone tip options so you can select the right fit for you. The sound quality of music or podcasts I listen to is great and I find I don't need to charge them that often even though I use them frequently. With more airlines also trending toward using Bluetooth technology for seatback entertainment, I think these AirPods are a great investment for any traveler." – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Price: $249 or less

QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds

QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds in open case.

Courtesy of QuietOn

If you're looking for an alternative to Apple's noise-cancelling earbuds, these by QuietOn are compact and designed for sleeping with active noise cancellation (ANC) technology and passive noise reduction. Perfect for when you encounter thin walls in a hotel or late-night partiers on a cruise ship , these earbuds help to block out the noise to get a good night's rest. The company touts them as the world's smallest ANC earbuds, making them more comfortable than many other options, especially for side sleepers. They come with soft comfortable tips in four sizes. These earbuds also have a long battery life.

What our travel contributors say: "I never leave home without my noise-canceling earbuds when traveling. They're compact and one of the first items I put in my carry-on bag. They've made all the difference in getting a great night's sleep or staying awake and listening to sounds that you can't block out with other earplugs when staying in a hotel or sailing a cruise ship." – Gwen Pratesi , Contributor

Price: $289 or less

real simple best travel accessories

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K) against white background.

Courtesy of Anker

Worrying about your phone battery is the last thing you want to be doing on vacation. This Anker power bank is roughly the size of a cellphone, making it easily portable, and it can charge a single device four to five times. You'll even be able charge two phones at once with this power bank, since it has two USB ports. Anker also sells power banks for laptops and even magnetic batteries that can charge your phone without a cable.

What our traveler editors say: "I rarely step foot outside the house without my Anker portable charger. It's especially convenient for long travel days, so I can ensure my phone is always fully charged for displaying my digital boarding pass, playing music or consulting Google Maps. But even when I'm just relaxing at home or at the hotel, it's so nice not to be tethered to a wall outlet." – Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor

Price: $49.99 or less

Apple AirTag

Front and back of Apple AirTag against white background.

Courtesy of Apple

AirTags aren't the most exciting product Apple has released since 2021, but they've changed how many travel. A bit larger than a quarter, an AirTag allows you to determine the approximate location of an item and set up alerts if you become separated (about 30 feet), so it's perfect as a luggage tracker . The features prove particularly useful in an airport when you misplace your carry-on at the food court or want to track your checked bags after a tight connection. AirTags last about a year and use easily replaceable CR2032 batteries. (You'll find the same batteries in most car key fobs.) They also need an Apple product such as an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, but alternatives such as the Tile Pro are also available for Android users.

What our travel editors say: "Apple AirTags alleviated travel stress I didn't know I had. Before I trek to the airport, I double-check the trackers in all of my bags, as well as in my wallet. Quickly confirming everything's location provides the peace of mind to rest easy in any terminal." – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Price: $29 or less

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

For any book lovers, traveling with a Kindle Paperwhite is a must. You can download and store thousands of stories, so you'll never run out of reading material mid-trip. Since a single charge can last up to 10 weeks, you might not even have to bother packing a USB-C charging cable. Super lightweight and waterproof, this e-reader also boasts a glare-free, 300 pixels per inch display that makes reading on the device feel like reading from pages of a book. There are even highlight and note-taking features, should you want to keep track of your thoughts while reading.

What our travel editors say: "No matter where I'm traveling or for how long, I always make sure to grab my Kindle before heading out. It's a great way to pass the time before boarding and during flights, plus it makes it easy to relax anywhere." – Christina Maggitas , Editor

Price: $139.99 or less

Worlds of Wonder: A Coloring Book for the Curious

From a long flight to a lengthy layover, having something to focus on can help to pass the time. This coloring book has 80 pages of gorgeous designs, filled with rich imagination. Users will be able to color everything from houses to mushrooms to bicycles to flowers. The book is made from a cardstock-like material and measures 10 x 10 inches.

What our travel editors say: "Coloring is one of my favorite hobbies and this coloring book is my absolute favorite. I find that coloring especially helps to pass time on long flights since it keeps my hands and mind busy (and I don't check the time as much). If you decide to use colored pencils, buy the twistable kind so you don't need to worry about a sharpener." – Marisa Méndez , Senior Editor

Price: $17.95 or less for paperback

BeeGreen Reusable Grocery Bags 5-Pack

These reusable grocery bags from BeeGreen are a great addition to any traveler's packing list. Not only are they a more sustainable alternative to plastic bags, but they are also machine-washable and can be easily folded up to fit into your backpack, purse or pocket. Although they are lightweight, the large volume bag can carry up to 50 pounds. This is due to their durable design, which is reinforced with bias tape. What's more, the bag can be folded into the attached mini pouch for easy transport.

What our travel editors say: "Whether I'm buying souvenirs or shopping for the toiletries that I've inevitably forgotten to pack, I frequently find myself in need of a bag when I'm traveling. These reusable bags are great alternatives to plastic bags; I especially love that they come with their own mini bag for easy storage. I usually clip mine onto a lanyard with my keys – this way I never leave home without it." – Alissa Grisler , Associate Editor

Price: $17.99 or less

Magicteam Sound Machine

Whether you're traveling with little ones or just want to block out noise from the hotel hallway, this portable sound machine is a game-changer. Powered by USB, the Magicteam Sound Machine offers 20 non-looping sounds to soothe you and your travel companions to sleep, including white noise, brown noise, rain and a crackling bonfire. It also has 32 levels of volume. You can easily set it for continuous play or program it to stop after one hour or several; its memory function will automatically restore your previous settings.

What our travel editors say: "This sound machine is small but mighty. It works just as well (if not better) than the more expensive Hatch Rest sound machine our toddler has in his bedroom, and its compact size makes it so convenient for travel." – Amanda Norcross , Content and SEO Strategist

Price: $29.99 or less

Aquasphere Defy.Ultra Swim Mask

One of the most compact swim masks available on the market today, the Aquasphere's Defy.Ultra Swim Mask small enough to throw into your beach bag or carry in your pocket. This mask is ideal for keeping water out of your eyes, snorkeling, and getting an up-close and personal view of the sea on vacation. Not only is the mask made to be comfortable and leak-free, but it also boosts underwater sight capabilities and makes it easy to see colorful fish and other wildlife.

What our travel contributors say: "I use this swim mask for all our family beach vacations since it's the only one I have ever owned that doesn't take up a ton of space." – Holly Johnson , Contributor

Price: $99.99 or less

Wander & Perch Wander Wet Bag

Wander & Perch Wander Wet Bag in blue and white striped design.

Courtesy of Wander & Perch

These wet swimsuit bags by Wander & Perch are perfect for vacations that will include swimming in a pool or the ocean. Even though you may hang your gear to dry after a swim, your suit may still be wet when the time comes to pack your suitcase. The wet bag solves this problem by allowing you to store your swimsuit inside its own decorative, zippered pouch. The bags are machine-washable and come in a variety of fun designs.

What our travel contributors say: "This bag is such a great essential for travel because you can pack your wet swimsuit without getting your other clothes wet! And it comes in great patterns." – Sharael Kolberg , Contributor

Price: $38 or less

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  • Vacation Packing List: Top Essentials for Any Trip
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Rest, Play, and Relax With the 30 Best Travel Accessories [2023]

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Amar Hussain

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

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Keri Stooksbury

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29 Published Articles 3093 Edited Articles

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

Rest, Play, and Relax With the 30 Best Travel Accessories [2023]

1. Travel Organizer

2. passport holder, 3. power bank, 4. neck pillow, 5. sleeping mask, 6. earplugs, 8. compression socks, 9. hand sanitizer, 10. travel adapter, 11. travel converter, 12. luggage tags, 13. money belt, 14. electronics organizer, 15. travel-size bottles, 16. toiletry bag, 17. travel hairdryer, 18. jewelry organizer, 19. travel laundry bag, 20. packing cubes, 21. travel towel, 22. daypack, 23. water bottle, 24. bug spray, 25. tsa-approved lock, 26. first aid kit, 27. luggage scale, 28. portable safe, 29. footrest, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

The trick to really enjoying every trip is being able to take control of your own well-being from the outset.

From keeping your important documents neatly organized in transit to finding accessories that will make your life so much easier while you are away, there are lots of awesome bits of gear out there that will help you to rest, play, and relax a little more easily on the go.

The Best Travel Accessories

Keep your passport, cards, and cash all in 1 place with a handy and secure travel organizer . Compact and slim, they offer practical and well-thought-out storage space throughout.

Made from tough and durable material, a travel organizer features oversized slots to keep your passport, boarding pass, and travel documents neatly organized, as well as cardholders and zippered compartments.

A good travel organizer will not only keep your most important items close at hand, but it will also keep your cards and data safe from theft or fraud by offering RFID-blocking linings . Make it easier to access your passport, cards, and other essentials on the go by investing in a dedicated travel organizer for your next trip.

Protect your most important travel document with a dedicated passport holder . Designed to help protect your passport from the wear and tear of regular travel , these holders come in a huge variety of styles and designs to make them easy to find in your bag.

Not only does a passport holder offer protection for your passport, but they can also offer additional storage space that lets you keep your boarding pass, tickets, and even your credit card close at hand.

Made from durable materials, a passport holder will last you through many adventures to come, and for super style-conscious travelers, you can even buy passport holders that match the style and design of your travel bag or carry-on.

With more and more backpacks and carry-on cases now offering USB charging ports as standard, a portable power bank is fast becoming a must-have accessory for tech-loving travelers.

Small, lightweight, and easy to use, a power bank will give you the extra charging power you need to give your phone or tablet a reliable power source on the move. Simply charge your power bank using a USB before leaving home to deliver anything between 1 and 4 full charges in transit .

Compact and highly capable, you can find power banks that are as slim as a credit card for emergency top-ups or invest in a slightly larger model that lets your phone, camera , or tablet charge up as you travel.

Bottom Line: These super-useful little packs of power can also be used to charge your phone while you are out sightseeing, chilling back at your hotel, or simply for portable charging back at home.

Avoid a stiff neck and enjoy a more comfortable sleep with a dedicated neck pillow . Made with memory foam or beaded interiors and soft and washable covers, these ergonomic and easy-to-carry portable pillows will help to support your head and neck while you snooze, read, or relax.

Designed to help relieve pressure points , these travel pillows are perfect for use on long flights or road trips, and the lightweight design makes them super easy to attach to your luggage or slip inside their own compact carry case. With lots of colors and designs to choose from, it’s easy to find the right travel pillow to keep you feeling comfortable no matter how long your journey is.

Another great way to stay comfortable and relaxed in transit is by adding a sleep mask to your travel kit.

Designed to shut the world away, these easy-to-wear face masks completely cover the eye area to help you regulate your sleeping pattern. Keep bright light to a minimum and recreate a relaxing nighttime vibe, even in the middle of the day, while also helping to alleviate jet lag as you travel across different time zones.

Available in a variety of different styles and made from a wide range of materials, your eye mask needs to be thick enough to keep the light out while still feeling lightweight enough to avoid putting any pressure on your eyelids.

Earplugs are another great addition to your travel kit, and there are many different types to choose from. Wearing earplugs while you fly can help to relieve the discomfort associated with the air pressure changes that you can experience during the flight.

They also help reduce noise levels, which can offer you more peace and quiet to help you enjoy a much-needed sleep along the way. If the discomfort of “popping” in your ears while you take off and land is really uncomfortable for you, filter earplugs can equalize the pressure against your eardrum to help reduce the pain.

Easy to use and incredibly portable, there are earplugs out there to suit all ages, preferences, and budgets.

Traveling can feel like a dirty business, and sometimes it’s nice to be able to just freshen up on the go. Face and hand wipes can make you feel clean and fresh again after a long flight, are compact to carry, and are super easy to use and dispose of.

Without the need for access to water, you can carry handy packs of wipes with you on the plane to clean your hands before and after you eat or to freshen up before you land. Made from skin-friendly formulations with fresh, natural scents , a pack of hand and face wipes is a must-have for every travel bag.

These specially designed, tight-fitting, knee-high socks are designed to help reduce the risk of developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis) while you are flying.

If you are likely to be in the air for more than 5 hours at a time, investing in a pair of compression socks can help to not only mitigate the risk of DVT in pressurized cabins , they can also be used when back at home as well.

Perfect for use by men and women, compression socks can reduce the pain and discomfort of swollen legs that can be caused by a lack of movement, help with the pain of swollen legs, and even aid with faster recovery after exercise and surgery.

A little bottle of hand gel, foam, or spray makes light work of staying clean and hygienic. Easy to use and available everywhere, hand sanitizer is a must-have item for your travel bag.

Perfect for use when you have no easy access to water or just want to keep clean without leaving your seat, these specially formulated hand sanitizers contain at least 60% alcohol and have been designed to kill many viruses, bacteria, and microorganisms on the hands .

Quick and effective, you only need to rub the sanitizer together on your hands until they are dry for a quick clean-up. A bottle, a pump, or a spray sanitizer should be a priority item for frequent travelers.

Hot Tip: Due to COVID-19, hand sanitizer containers of up to 12 ounces are now allowed through TSA. Learn more about nearly 500 items you can and cannot bring through TSA Security in our detailed guide.

Wherever you are headed, you will probably still want to keep in touch with the folks back at home. Depending on your destination, you may need to take a dedicated travel adapter away with you .

With a range of different plug styles available, you can power your phone, laptop, tablet devices, hairdryers, and other electronics with ease, provided you choose the right type of travel adapter.

Designed to work with different voltages, you may find that a simple travel adapter or plug-to-plug adaptation is all you need, but in some cases, it may not be enough to safely power your personal devices. If this is the case, you will need to invest in a travel power converter, too.

Not only do different countries and continents favor different-shaped power sockets, but in many cases, they also have a different range of electrical voltages charging through their wires. In the U.S., for example, power runs on 110-120 volts, whereas many other countries run at 220-240 volts .

The higher the voltage, the more at risk your appliances are from frying, so it is important that your converter makes them safe to use. There are many dual and multi-voltage appliances and converters out there, so carefully research before you buy.

Make your suitcase super easy to identify with a personalized luggage tag . From simple leather fobs through to brightly colored, witty, and whimsical patterns and slogans, your luggage tag offers a personalized appearance that is easy to identify at the reclaim bay .

What’s more, these tags can also be used to make a record of your personal information, so should your cases or bags go astray, they can easily find their way back to you.

Without a luggage tag, it is very easy for bags to be the innocent victims of mistaken identity, and before you know it, your personal effects could have made it home with somebody else! Be kind to your luggage, and keep it close with its very own luggage tag.

Keep your cash close at hand as you go with a tight-fitting, super-secure money belt . With some designed to weave their way through your belt loops, these super discreet storage belts offer just enough room to keep your notes and cards safe from would-be pickpockets.

Made from tough and durable materials, they function well as a regular belt, and with modern-day criminals not just looking for cash, some of these belts even come with RFID-blocking protection built into the fabric of the belt that will protect your cards from being cloned while you roam.

Bottom Line: Stylish, practical, and easy to use, a money belt is an excellent choice for busy airports and crowded tourist destinations.

Long journeys can fly by with the help of your laptop, cell phone, tablet, or other electronic devices to keep you amused.

With more and more travelers taking a wide range of devices away with them, including cameras and GoPros, keeping your charging cables, power cables, and other accessories neatly organized is more important than ever.

An electronics organizer offers plenty of mesh and zippered compartments, storage loops, and dedicated pockets to keep your cables, SD cards, USBs, adapters, and other accessories easy to find and nice and safe.

Compact enough to keep close at hand in your carry-on, a well-designed electronics organizer will allow you to shoot, play, and stay entertained wherever you are headed.

Stay on the right side of the TSA travel restrictions by investing in a set of travel-size bottles . Designed to fully comply with the TSA 3-1-1 rule , you can purchase specially-made sets that allow you to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. These containers can fit in a 1-quart-size bag that complies with the U.S. carry-on rules, making it easy to breeze through security without being stopped along the way. Suitable for use on both domestic and international carriers, these TSA-approved travel bottles will quickly become one of your most trusted travel items.

Enjoy a few home comforts even while you are away by taking your favorite shower gel, shampoo, and other cosmetics and toiletries with you.

Whether you choose to take full-size products or decant your best-loved lotions and potions into smaller containers, these toiletry bags come with waterproof, wipeable linings and lots of zippered compartments to help you keep your toiletries well-organized.

Some come with hangers that let you easily see and access all of your products in the bathroom, and others are sizable enough to let you carry brushes and other cosmetic items with you, too.

If you don’t want to leave your crowning glory to the mercy of a hotel hairdryer, take your own hairdryer away with you. More compact than your regular full-size dryer, there are plenty of small yet incredibly powerful travel hairdryers that offer superior performance in a smaller package.

Choose from foldable models or those with reduced dimensions , and look for dryers that come complete with diffuser and nozzle attachments for even greater versatility.

Offering high-end features such as ionic technology, multiple heat and speed settings, and even a cool shot button to fix your style, these portable appliances won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. Remember, you may need a travel adapter/converter to use your dryer, so check the voltage details before going.

Get dressed up and glow with your very best bling kept carefully tucked away in your travel-size jewelry organizer .

Made with protective exteriors, these reduced-sized jewelry boxes come with soft-lined interiors and zoned areas for different items , as well as secure clasps or zippers to prevent them from opening up and spilling out.

With multi-layered inserts, lots of space for bracelets, brooches, necklaces, rings, earrings, and even more, a travel jewelry box will let you look your best without weighing you down as you go.

Keep your clean clothes clean and away from unwanted dirty odors with a dedicated lightweight travel laundry bag . With the ability to fold up super small when not in use , these super practical bags can be used to store your dirty undies, wet socks, and other nasties neatly out of the way until you can reach a washing machine.

Made from breathable fabric, they come with drawstring closures that can also be used as carrying handles for trips to and from the laundromat and may have additional pockets for keeping smaller items organized.

These different-sized packing cubes are perfect for organizing your clothes and belongings before you put them in your suitcase or rucksack.

Available in a selection of sizes, these nylon bags let you group together items by type or use and let you maximize your packing power to suit the size of your suitcase. Lightweight and easy to store when not in use, these super useful packing cubes can also help to compress your clothing to let you store more in them while reducing overall space in your suitcase .

If you are traveling light, a packing cube can also double up as a pillow or a laundry bag, and they are an excellent way to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones on the way home.

Sometimes you want to have your own towel with you while you travel. Made from super-absorbent microfiber materials, these travel towels can be folded up really small and are lightweight and easy to carry around with you .

Suitable for showers at the airport, hostels, camping grounds, and wherever you need a quick freshen up, they can also be used to sit on while you’re at the beach or as an emergency blanket should you start to feel the chill. With superfast drying properties, you won’t need to worry about carrying a damp towel around with you, either.

When you reach your destination, you will want a smaller bag that you can use on daily excursions and sightseeing trips.

A dedicated daypack will be able to fold up nice and small when not in use and offer the space you need to keep your wallet, cell phone, camera, snacks, and other essentials close at hand on city streets and out on the trails.

Made from water-resistant materials, these bags usually have a capacity of around 20 to 25 liters , and with lightly padded shoulder straps, internal pockets, and even space for a hydration bladder, a dedicated day pack is a must-have for eager adventurers.

Stay hydrated wherever you are headed with a travel-size water bottle . Made from food-grade, BPA-free plastic materials or stainless steel, these water bottles are perfect for keeping close by your side.

Leakproof and lightweight, having your own personal water bottle with you alleviates the need for buying single-use plastics while you travel, and with a huge variety of designs and styles to choose from , you can even add ice or fruit to cool and flavor your water.

If you are really short on space in your travel bag, you could consider looking at a collapsible water bottle that flattens and condenses when empty to ensure it only takes up a tiny bit of room in your rucksack.

No one likes itchy bug bites, and a reliable bug repellent will help to keep them at bay. If you are traveling to hot and humid conditions or camping out in the open, there is every chance you could end up being a bug’s favorite dinner.

These repellent sprays or creams will help to repel insects and mosquitoes by making your skin less attractive to them. Using either chemical repellents such as DEET or natural oils doesn’t just help avoid unwanted nibbles. They can also help to protect you against the more serious side effects of bug bites, including severe allergic reactions, Lyme disease, and even malaria.

The Transport Security Administration suggests that you lock your checked baggage using a TSA-approved lock . Baring the Travel Sentry logo, you can choose from dial or key locks that are designed to be easy to open by agents to enable them to inspect your baggage and relock your bags should they need to.

Easy to use and readily available, there are lots of brilliant TSA-approved locks to choose from, and many suitcases come with them already built-in. Ensuring that your luggage has the right kind of lock on it will prevent the risk of damage from TSA agents eager to have a good look at your belongings for security purposes along the way.

A portable first aid kit is a must-have accessory for every traveler, regardless of where you are headed. Suitable for use both at home and away, a compact first aid kit will keep you well-protected. Consider what you may need before you go and pack your kit accordingly .

As a bare minimum, you should pack care supplies like cleansing wipes, gauze pads, bandages, Band-Aids, antibiotic cream, Tylenol, a cold compress, and anything else that you or your family may need while traveling.

Hot Tip: You can buy a premade kit or make your own, but do keep all of your emergency medical supplies in a dedicated first aid case or pouch if you can, making it easy to identify when you need access to it in a hurry.

Avoid the stress of overweight baggage fees by taking your own portable luggage scale with you when you travel. Easy to use and incredibly accurate, these small and highly portable luggage scales will let you know just how heavy your bag is before you hit the road .

With easy-to-use hanging hooks, highly accurate sensors, digital display units, tare and load functions, lock weight results functions, backlit functions, and easy-to-read weights and measurements, you can keep an eye on the weight of your checked luggage. You will never get stung with overweight baggage fees at the airport again.

Suppose you are worried about leaving your most valuable possessions such as your passport, cash, ID, and credit cards back at your accommodation while you are out exploring. Why not consider investing in a travel safe ?

Lightweight and easy to carry with you , you can choose from bags and boxes that are made from steel wire mesh fabric that can be securely locked using a TSA-approved lock. With cut-proof wire locks that can be attached to a stationary object, you can safely leave your most precious items back at the hotel without having to worry about their safety.

If you have a long flight ahead of you, you might want to look at ways to increase your comfort without having to upgrade to business class. These portable foot hammocks can be hung from the seat in front of you while allowing you to raise your legs and feet for increased comfort while you fly.

Easy to use and incredibly comfortable, these sling-style portable footrests come with their own carry bag and can be set up super quickly to help you elevate your legs for increased blood flow and comfort.

Take more pictures and let your memories last forever with a dedicated tripod . Made from versatile and durable materials, a small standing tripod will hold your cell phone or tablet to let you take awesome photos from a wide range of angles .

With 3 legs and adjustable holders, you can take incredible pictures or videos without having to worry about camera movement, for improved picture quality.

Capture breathtaking landscapes, fun family snaps, and a wealth of images with a travel-size tripod that is lightweight, portable, and suitable for use with smartphones, GoPros, and cameras alike.

Keep your important belongings close and your favorite items closer still with this brilliant list of travel accessories that will help you sleep better, play harder, and enjoy every second of your next big adventure.

From passport covers to footrests and packing cubes to jewelry boxes, all of these items will help you to stay organized and comfortable on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What accessories do you need to travel.

There are many accessories on the market that make travel easier, safer, and more comfortable. Some recommended buys include a power bank, compression socks, neck pillow, travel adapter, luggage tags, and packing cubes.

Are packing cubes really worth it?

Packing cubes are a worthy investment for your travel gear as they help keep your belongings tidy, can reduce creases, and can protect your clothes from spills.

What are the best travel accessories for electronics?

There are a few great travel accessories that are a must for anyone traveling with electronics. These include a power bank, a travel adapter, a voltage converter, an electronics organizer for cables, and a Wi-Fi hotspot .

Where can I buy travel accessories?

You can buy all the travel accessories you could need from Amazon, but you can also try places such as Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and Samsonite.

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About Amar Hussain

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

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Shop these must-have travel accessories from Lululemon, Away, Dagne Dover and more — starting at $8

An unrecognizable female tourist packing her suitcase in a hotel room after a much needed vacation.

If you're like us, you spend the better part of the year dreaming about all the travel you will do. But whether this is the year you're finally going to take that Southeast Asia adventure, or " White Lotus " inspired you to book a Sicily trip, or you're all about the weekend getaway to that cozy cabin upstate , you'd better make sure that, along with the hotel stays and restaurant reservations, you've got the right travel accessories.

From the makeup bags that will help you stay organized to the best face cleanser to wash off the plane grime to the neck pillow that will make that 12-hour flight fly by, these must-have travel accessories (and some, voted Travel Gear Award winners by Shop TODAY editors) will make your travel easier, more comfortable and less stressful.

Our Travel Gear Awards winners | Travel accessories for long flights | Travel bags and backpacks | Travel organizers | Health & wellness travel accessories | Miscellaneous travel accessories | FAQs | How we chose | Meet our expert | Has your product been featured?

Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winners

Etekcity luggage scale.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Award: Best flight essential | Category: Tech

Serial overpackers know the pain of having an overweight bag and having to transfer items from their checked bag to a carry-on or personal item in the middle of the airport. Partnerships associate Klay Drageset is one of those people and says this product has solved all of her issues. “I even bring it on my trips with me because it’s so small and portable! I typically somehow end up with more items than I brought on the trip, so bringing this device wherever I go has saved me the $150 overweight bag charges many times,” she says.

Zoppen RFID-Blocking Passport Wallet

RFID-Blocking Passport Wallet

RFID-Blocking Passport Wallet

Award: Best travel wallet | Category: International travel tech

Skip the stress of having to dig through your entire bag when searching for your passport, thanks to this designated holder. TODAY commerce analytics manager Amanda Smith likes this wallet because it holds everything she needs and is easy to manage.

“When you’re traveling, you have to take out your drivers license and passport. So, many wallets and passport holders make it really hard to take the ID out. The easy access makes this one less thing to worry about during a stressful trip.”

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Power Adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Power Adapter

Award: Best travel adaptors | Category: International travel tech

If you're anything like us, you're familiar with the sense of panic that sets in three days before an international trip — when all of a sudden, you remember you need a travel adapter , realize you're not sure which type you need and can't recall where you stashed any of yours the last time you traveled overseas.

While we can't help you find yours, we tried the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter for our first-ever Travel Gear Awards and highly recommend it. It has four plug types that will work in most countries, as well as USB ports. Go ahead and buy at least two.

Apple AirTag

Apple AirTag

Award: Best tech for checked bags | Category: Tech

Admittedly, we've been a bit skeptical of AirTags , which are designed to be put in your luggage, so if the luggage gets lost, you can track it. But after three staffers gave it a perfect five-star rating, we knew the hype was real.

"I’ve been nervous about checking bags after hearing horror stories the past few months so having an AirTag in my suitcase helped calm my nerves since I was able to check on it mid-flight (thanks to in-flight Wi-Fi) to ensure that it was traveling with me," shares associate SEO editor Kamari Stewart, who slipped this AirTag in her suitcase on a recent flight to Aruba.

Twelve South Airfly SE

Twelve South Airfly SE

Using Bluetooth headphone on the plane? You'll want this gadget.

Award: Best in-flight must-have | Category: Tech

Refuse to use the headphones provided during a flight but want to take advantage of in-flight entertainment? Introducing the AirFly , which provides a way to use your personal headphones on every flight here on out. Simply plug the device into the headphone port and connect your earbuds via Bluetooth and stream away!

“I like that the AirFly is compact and that the pairing process is very straightforward,” says branded commerce editor Francesca Cocchi Zaboudil, who recently flew with this adaptor. “Overall, I think this product is great for a super specific purpose or for people who have trouble with the Bluetooth pairing process across products from different brands.”

Native Union Universal Belt Cable

Universal Belt Cable

Universal Belt Cable

Award: Best do-it-all charging cable | Category: Tech

Each staffer who tried this charger raved about how sturdy and useful it is. Designed to charge several devices with just one wire, it’s perfect for saving valuable space in your carry-on. “I can tell it would be pretty good for traveling because the cord is long and also comes with a little belt to help keep it wrapped up, which is super helpful when you’re traveling with an endless amount of cords,” shares partnerships editorial assistant Lauren Biggerstaff.

Moft Snap Stand Power Set

Moft Snap Stand Power Set

Use the code TODAY30 to take 30% off when you checkout at Moft's website, through May 31.

Award: Best portable charger | Category: Tech

Raise your hand if you’re guilty of forgetting one of the many chargers required by various devices while on a trip! This two-in-one power set resolves that issue, charging both iPhones and AirPods on the go. This MagSafe adaptable case even includes room to store cards and IDs, further replacing a cardholder. Additional perk: It can even serve as a phone stand, securing your phone so you can use it to stream movies while waiting at your gate.

Urbanista Phoenix Solar Powered Earbuds

Phoenix Solar Powered Earbuds

Phoenix Solar Powered Earbuds

Award: Best buzzworthy tech | Category: Tech

Both staffers who tried these headphones were enamored with its ability to be charged via natural or artificial light. (Don't worry, you can also charge it through an outlet, if you prefer.) According to the brand, a full charge covers eight hours of continuous playback and 34 hours of battery reserve in the case.

"I’ve never had noise canceling headphones and the sound quality really is impressive (with transparency mode for when I’m walking outside)," says assistant partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky.

Best travel accessories for long flights

Riemot luggage travel cup.

riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder Free Hand Drink Caddy - Hold Two Coffee Mugs - Fits Roll on Suitcase Handles - Gifts for Flight Attendants Travelers Accessories Grey

Luggage Travel Caddy

If you’re like us and like to travel with a coffee in one hand, a wallet in the other and a phone in our back pocket, this two-cup travel caddy is for you.

Made of a sturdy-feeling fabric, this cup holder easily slides onto the handle of your luggage, and when not in use, it folds up for easy stowing. It has three pockets: two holders in the front that can hold up to a 32-ounce water bottle (according to one reviewer, though it’s marketed to be able to hold only up to 24), and a back pocket that can hold smaller personal items like your phone.

The material, while sturdy, is also stretchy enough to be able to fit an array of luggage handle sizes. Plus, it’s machine-washable (always a plus).

FITKICKS Classic Collection Active Footwear, Foldable Shoes, Medium, Navy V2

Classic Collection Foldable Shoes

Shoes are not the most comfortable things on long flights, but going in socks can be questionable. Enter: FitKicks, lightweight slipper-like shoes with rubber soles. Stash these in your carry-on and swap them out for a long flight. They also work great as slippers in a hotel room and can easily be put in the washer or washed in a hotel sink.

Everlasting Comfort Airplane Footrest

Everlasting Comfort Airplane Footrest - Ergonomic Adjustable Foot and Heel Hammock - Memory Foam Portable Air Plane Flying Travel Foot Rest - Long Airplane Flight Accessories for Feet (Black)

Ergonomic Adjustable Foot and Heel Hammock

It feels like there’s never enough room for our limbs anymore when we travel via airplane. Good luck finding a position that’s truly comfortable in an airplane seat. But while we can’t guarantee this “foot hammock” will solve all issues of discomfort when flying, dozens of reviewers say it helps.

“Not everyone can afford a first class airline ticket, but [this] is a game changer. It’s lightweight, foldable in a very handy storage bag, easy for me to put on my backpack and carry around. All you have to do is slip it onto the tray table, and the person seated in front of you may not even notice,” one Amazon reviewer reported, adding that they also use it while working from home. Just note that, if you have a lot of stuff under the seat in front of you, it may not work, others added.

The footrest, which has adjustable straps, is made of 100 percent memory foam and comes with a convenient carrying case.

EO Sanitizing Wipes

Hand Cleansing Wipes

Hand Cleansing Wipes

Whether taking one long flight or multiple flights in 24 hours, these single-use sanitizing wipes are a must-have for disinfecting items . They also work great when it comes to cleaning messy hands after you attempt to eat that hastily-packed sandwich. Amazon sells them in packs of six.

Stanley IceFlow™ Bottle with Fast Flow Lid

IceFlow™ Bottle with Fast Flow Lid | 24 OZ

IceFlow™ Bottle with Fast Flow Lid | 24 OZ

You've probably heard the word Stanley mentioned at least a dozen times in recent conversations! If you don't already have one of this brand's trendy cups, why not start with this chic bottle with fast flow lid? Choose from a variety of colors to match your personality and instantly quench your thirst while vacationing in the Caribbean or Fiji. This water bottle also makes a great travel accessory for long flights to help keep you hydrated and avoid spills.

Ostrich Pillow Eye Mask

OSTRICH PILLOW Eye Mask | 3D Ergonomic mask | Adjusts to The Shape of Your face | Mask for Sleeping, Resting, Relaxing | Blocks Light for Total Darkness (Gray)

3D Ergonomic Mask

Getting a night of good sleep, whether in the form of a nap on a plane or a whole night in a new hotel room, can be a challenge. The Ostrich Pillow eye mask makes it a bit easier. It adapts to your face while blocking out all light — so you can go ahead and sleep deeply wherever you are.

One Amazon reviewer, who likes the mask, shared the following feedback: “Unless you sleep very still, I don’t think it works really well in bed. However, I used it on a long plane ride and it was perfect since you sleep in a seated position, [and] it stayed on the whole flight.”

Trtl Pillow

trtl Pillow - Scientifically Proven Super Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow - Machine Washable (Grey)

Neck Support Travel Pillow

Lightweight and easy to pack, we love this travel pillow’s softness. It also provides excellent shoulder and neck support on long flights and is machine-washable. Just ask Shop TODAY associate editor Fran Sales, who took this pillow for a spin on her five-hour flight back from Utah to New York City — and who had to wait another five hours, into the early morning, because that flight was delayed .

“I knew I needed to get some shuteye at the airport if I were to be functional after getting off the red eye. Luckily, it did indeed support my neck — so well, in fact, that I fell asleep completely for a few blissful hours before boarding,” she reports.

Ostrich Pillow Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow Go - Luxury Travel Pillow with Memory Foam | Airplane Pillow, Car Travel Pillow, Neck Rest (One Size, Grey)

Luxury Travel Pillow with Memory Foam

Made of compressible, high-density memory foam to help with its 360-degree natural ergonomic neck support, this comfy neck pillow, from sleep and self care brand Ostrich , is also one of the most stylish on the market. Its best feature, however, may be that you can remove the cover for washing.

RUNNER-UP: If the Ostrich is slightly too pricey, we also like Cabeau's Evolution S3 , an equally unique take on the typical neck pillow, but about $20 cheaper.

Royce Leather Bound Journal

Leather Bound Journal

Leather Bound Journal

Keep busy on a long flight by writing or doodling in this classic leather-bound journal. Available in six unique shades, this pebble-grain leather notebook is so chic that'll leave all your fellow travelers envious. You can even personalize this notebook by adding your initials at no additional cost.

Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones 700

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700,Bluetooth, Over-Ear Wireless with Built-In Microphone for Clear Calls

Noise-Cancelling Headphones 700

It’s pricey, but with a 20-hour battery life and 10 different noise-reduction levels, Bose’s Noise-Cancelling Headphones will get you almost anywhere you need to go while softening every type of background noise available.

RUNNER-UP: If the Bose pair is above your budget, one of Shop TODAY’s editors currently uses and recommends the Phiaton 900 Hybrid Noise-Cancelling Headphones , which are a couple hundred dollars cheaper. They’re lightweight, have a long battery life and do indeed block out noise (at least in a noisy office).

Best travel bags and backpacks

“For shorter trips, I can’t stress enough the value of packing carry-on exclusively when you can,” says Belles.

“It will save you money if you don’t have airline status that allows for free bags. It will speed you through your arrival airport so that you’re first in a cab or Uber while others are crowded around a baggage carousel," she explains, adding, "Most importantly, it ensures that your belongings arrive with you. Even if you end up needing to gate-check your carry-on , it’s still worth it.”

We found these picks to complement your carry-on luggage — so you can avoid baggage claim.

Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

Everywhere Belt Bag

Everywhere Belt Bag

Hand sanitizer, wipes, phone, hotel card—stash them all in an easily accessible spot thanks to the TikTok-famed Everywhere Belt Bag, a Shop TODAY favorite (that's often sold out!). The only thing it can't do is hold your water bottle.

Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag

Nido Accessory Bag- Del Dia

Nido Accessory Bag- Del Dia

Need a bag to keep your smaller accessories organized while traveling? Look no further than this Cotopaxi pack that features three compartments, side carry handle and interior zippered pocket for safely storing all your everyday essentials. Each pack is completely unique and is chosen for you at random. Who doesn't love the element of surprise?

"The compartments make the bag. This is a great accessory bag. It makes me want to travel more because it’s a great size and well-organized," said one verified five-star reviewer on the brand's website.

Osprey Farpoint 40

Osprey Men's Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack, Black, One Size

Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

We love a bag with a lifetime warranty, and the Osprey Farpoint offers that plus is roomy enough to hold all your essential carry-on gear . It's sturdy but lightweight enough to use as a day pack for when you reach your destination.

Dagne Dover Large Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover Large Dakota Neoprene Backpack - Dark Moss

Large Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Another solid travel backpack with a different aesthetic, we've recommended the Dagne Dover Dakota backpack before, not just for its style, but also because it's designed to slide snugly onto your carry-on's handle.

Its material is soft but water-resistant, and it doesn't lack for compartments, which include a pocket for your phone, a padded laptop compartment and a laptop sleeve.

RUNNER-UP: For an equally chic yet useful option that's hundreds of dollars cheaper, we recommend Target's Open Story Commuter Backpack , which boasts sturdy zippers, a padded laptop compartment and padded shoulder straps. One of our editors says it reminds her of Calpak's Kaya Laptop Backpack , but with an external compartment for water bottles.

Best travel organizers

Bevegekos tech organizer travel case.

Tech Organizer Travel Case, Bevegekos Small Carrying Tech Kit for Electronics and Accessories, Waterproof (Small, Black)

Small Tech Travel Organizer

We’d like to be those people that leave almost all our tech at home, but we’re never going to be. What we can do, however, is share the best way we’ve found to keep tech organized while traveling. Available in several sizes, the Bevegekos Tech Organizer Travel Case makes it easy to stash and find your phone charger , headphone charger and other miscellaneous tech items.

Cozy Essential Travel Compression Bags, Pack of 12

12 Travel Compression Bags Vacuum Packing, Roll Up Travel Space Saver Bags for Luggage, Cruise Ship Essentials (5 Large Roll/5 Medium Roll/2 Small Roll)

Travel Compression Bags (Set of 12)

With an invention like this, you may question why you ever sat on top of your overstuffed luggage to seal it shut. Cozy Essential’s compression bags, which come in a pack of 12 of assorted sizes, are said to be able to save you about 80 percent of storage space — and you won’t even need a pump or vacuum. You simply roll out the air from the zipper side to the vent side and they’ll stay compressed in your carry-on. If you would like to use a pump, it comes with one that reviewers say is easy to use.

Skeptical? We were too, but this Amazon review is pretty compelling: “We’re moving and I have lots of baby clothes I’m not ready to give up yet, as well as skinny clothes and dresses I’m attached to but sick of them taking up space. Three bags took up three huge boxes, and now I can stuff them anywhere.”

Benevolence LA Store Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Box Organizer

Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Box Organizer

Plush Velvet Travel Jewelry Box Organizer

This deceptively unassuming jewelry case made Oprah’s Favorite Things 2022 , and it’s not hard to see why. It checks off everything you need in a travel box: A chic design, a compact-enough size and shape, and still enough room to hold your essential pieces of jewelry. It even says on Oprah’s site: “It’s small enough to stash in your purse.” There’s an array of lovely colors to choose from, including Emerald, Dusty Pink and Periwinkle Blue.

FULL REVIEW: Read about how much one Shop TODAY editor, who owns this Oprah-winning travel case, loves how chic and organized it is .

Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

eagle creek reveal pack-it cube set of 3 Clothing & Accessories Organizers

Pack-It Cube (Set of 3)

While these aren’t as stylish as some of the other packing cubes on the market, they’re solidly built, and their mesh design means you can see what’s in them. Plus, they hold a week’s worth of clothing and keep them organized.

Sea to Summit Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag

Sea to Summit TravellingLight Hanging Toiletry Bag, Travel Organizer for Men and Women, Small, Pacific Blue

TravellingLight Hanging Toiletry Bag

For a week or less of travel, this lightweight hanging toiletry bag is an excellent, inexpensive and compact way to keep your stuff organized, thanks in no small part to its slightly see-through mesh pockets. Plus, it’s made of water-resistant material and comes with a shatter-proof mirror for maximum portability.

Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Case

Mila Toiletry Organizer

Mila Toiletry Organizer

If you don’t love the look of a hanging toiletry bag, this stylish toiletry case from Dagne Dover may be the one for you. It’s designed to sit pretty on a hotel bathroom sink — or even your dresser at home. Available in two sizes and several colors, it’s not the most spacious option, but it has plenty of storage options: Removable dividers, a clip for hair ties and a zippered pocket for smaller items will keep all your toiletries organized.

Away The Insider Packing Cubes

The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 6)

The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 6)

Even if you don’t have an Away suitcase , these packing cubes from the cult-favorite suitcase brand are a useful travel accessory. Available in sets of four and six in a variety of shades, the cubes compress to save space, while their mesh panel makes it easy to find what you need.

“Packing cubes help organize it all. If the accommodations will be limited in size, such as with a cruise, cubes are packed on a per-day basis, so that I can easily begin repacking when items are no longer needed,” says Belles. “Otherwise, I organize the cubes by type: slacks, blouses/sweaters, active/athletic wear, etc., and layer them by the day they’re needed.”

Away ​​The Hanging Toiletry Bag

The Hanging Toiletry Bag

The Hanging Toiletry Bag

Also from Away, this hanging toiletry bag is waterproof, has three mesh pockets that provide easy storage and a clear removable pouch for those prone to spilling liquid items. There’s also an external pocket that’s convenient for high-use items like hair ties . But remember that you may need something bigger for more than a week of travel.

Cadence Travel Capsules

Build Your 6

Build Your 6

It seems that these photo-friendly travel "capsules" are everywhere these days — so much so that it's piqued the curiosity of more than one Shop TODAY editor.

"These are a little pricey, but seem so useful! You can customize a set of 6 travel capsules and they're magnetic," one of our social editors raves. Kamari Stewart, our associate editor, was doubtful of their value for the price, but says her best friend swears by them.

"They're expensive and seemed useless," Stewart says, "but she likes them because they keep her organized. She labels hers, and they're easy to transport, so she can take all of her things and doesn't have to pick because of size/space issues."

With a near-perfect average of 4.8 star ratings among over 5,900 reviewers on the brand's site, as well as specs like being customizable, magnetic, leakproof and durable, we're convinced.

RUNNER-UP : But if you're not swayed or are balking at the price tag, never fear. You can get a similar (but not nearly as aesthetic) travel solution from Amazon. Humangear's Go Tubbs , which are made of a sturdy, BPA-free plastic material and come in packs of three, are portable and designed with a unique lid that can be operated with one hand, as well as a recessed area so that your written labels won't rub off.

Best travel health and wellness accessories

Ouai mini detox shampoo.

Mini Detox Shampoo

Mini Detox Shampoo

We're big fans of the Ouai brand of shampoos for ourselves and our dogs, and this specialty-formulated detox shampoo from the brand, now in a portable 3-ounce version, doesn't disappoint. (In fact, one Shop TODAY editorial assistant wrote a glowing review about it .) The shampoo is a must-have after a day on trains, planes, and automobiles. It cleanses dirt, oil and product buildup while helping to strengthen your hair.

1Saves20 Refresh Hair Collection

1saves20 The Refresh Hair Care Collection

The Refresh Hair Care Collection

For those long-haul flights or exploration days when you may not have time to wash your hair, 1Saves20's hair bundle will help. The collection includes a hair mist that's meant to prep your hair for the dry shampoo afterward, but Amazon reviewers say the mist is fine on its own. It contains 17 all-natural, good-for-you ingredients like aloe vera, sea salt and vanilla.

Those reviewers report that it does a stellar job sprucing up next-day, unwashed hair by taming fly-aways and adding a bit of volume. They add that it smells great, and the sea salt in the formula adds a nice, refreshing touch. Make sure to spare your roots, though, some reviewers warn, as it may weigh them down or add build-up.

Instead, after priming your hair, use the dry shampoo — which is a powder you dispense with an eco-friendly pump, not an aerosol — to cleanse, soothe and liven up your scalp and roots. It does so with a blend of rice and arrowroot powders, essential oils, white peppermint and kaolin clay.

Something to note: Some reviewers say that if you don't carefully section hair off and pump directly onto your roots (being judicious with the amount), you risk having white powder everywhere.

EDITOR'S TAKE: One Shop TODAY editor can attest to the products' cleansing and refreshing powers. Having used the products together — first after a long, 16-hour day in Manhattan with a lot of commuting in between, and second after a sweaty workout in a packed gym after a nine-hour work day — her weighed-down hair that's typically more thin and fine at the roots showed more life and volume (and she didn't feel the need to wash it afterward). Her hair smelled wonderful, too, she adds.

Fleur & Bee Rose Water Toner

Rosewater Toner | 100% Vegan & Cruelty Free | Hydrating Rose Water Spray Mist | Alcohol Free | Refreshing Facial Toner for All Skin Types | Rose and Shine by Fleur & Bee - 3.4 fl oz

Rosewater Toner

This all-vegan, phthalate- and paraben-free toner from Fleur & Bee is great for travel, especially when flying on a plane. It can go right in your carry-on bag and, thanks to soothing rosewater and the humectant glycerin, helps to refresh and hydrate skin that can become dry from traveling.

OSEA Vagus Nerve Pillow Spray

OSEA Vagus Nerve Pillow Mist

Vagus Nerve Pillow Mist

We've long been obsessed with the OSEA line of environmentally conscious beauty products, and the brand's Vagus Nerve pillow mist is a lovely way to wind down a day of travel (or a stressful day of work at home). Spray the soothing, delicious-smelling mist on your pillow before settling down for the night and getting ready for a good night's sleep.

Incredi-Heat Portable USB Heating Pad

Cabeau Incredi-Heat Pad- USB-Powered Heating Pad for Back, Knee, etc - Rechargeable Therapeutic Heat Therapy to Ease Muscle Strain and Relieve Pain

Incredi-Heat USB-Powered Heating Pad

Raise your hand if you’ve ever been three days away from a much-anticipated vacation — when suddenly you strain a muscle. This portable USB-powered heating pad is a must-have for those prone to muscle strains. It takes up some space in your bag, but it’s easy to use and relieves pains quickly.

Best miscellaneous travel accessories

Clearalif’s laundry detergent sheets.

Laundry Detergent Sheets Up to 160 Loads, Fresh Linen - Great For Travel,Apartments, Dorms,CLEARALIF Laundry Detergent Strips Eco Friendly & Hypoallergenic - 80 Sheets

Laundry Detergent Sheets (80-count)

If you have young kids , chances are you are planning to do laundry on your trip somehow. For some, it means only renting a vacation rental with a washer and dryer. For others, it’s the good old-fashioned wash-it-in-the-hotel-sink trick.

Whatever your method, lightweight laundry detergent sheets make it a snap to do laundry anywhere. They’re easy to pack, and these ones from Clearalif dissolve fast and work wonders when it comes to getting out food stains .

Travigo 4-in-1 Travel Dispenser Bottle

Travigo 4-in-1 Travel Dispenser Bottle , Includes Four Empty Reusable 1.4 oz. (40 mL) Cosmetic Toiletry Containers for Sanitizer, Soap, Lotions, Skincare, Makeup Products (Blue)

4-in-1 Travel Dispenser Bottle

Say goodbye to having to buy travel-sized toiletries. This Travel Dispenser Bottle lets you refill four pouches with the shampoo, soap and other beauty and wellness essentials of your choice. Simple to use, you simply rotate the bottle to choose which liquid you're picking — and it's TSA-compliant.

LIV3D Travel Belt for Luggage

LIV3D Travel Belt for Luggage

Have you ever been running through the airport trying to catch your connecting flight, only to let all the contents of your purse fall on the floor and slow you down? Make traveling effortless with this belt for your luggage that keeps your hands-free and securely transports your laptop backpacks , purses and more. Rated Amazon's Choice for luggage straps, this trendy belt comes in four different shades and can be easily attached or removed.

"With this strap, I can simply connect whatever heavy bag or backpack I’d normally carry on my back to the handle of my suitcase and just wheel both around instead of having to lug the bag through the airport," raved one verified five-star reviewer on Amazon.

miroposs Rechargeable Makeup Mirror

Rechargeable Makeup Mirror

Rechargeable Makeup Mirror

Look and feel your best while traveling with this rechargeable LED makeup mirror that comes in three different shades. This Amazon's Choice compact mirror features a built-in large capacity 2000 mAh battery that can be charged with a portable power supply.

One verified five-star Amazon reviewer said, "This is a great mirror for travel or for home if you don’t have much space. It is compact and the light is great for putting on makeup and doing your hair. I’m never going to travel without it!"

How we chose the best travel accessories

We looked to TikTok travel influencers , bloggers and other frequent jetsetters for our top picks. We also chatted with Misty Belles , Vice President of Global PR at Virtuoso, a travel network, to get her take on what to look for in travel accessories . In addition, we scoured online reviews and tried out quite a few products ourselves to develop this list of travel accessory must-haves.

Click on a product category below to learn more or keep scrolling to see all of our travel picks and FAQs.

Frequently asked questions

It can seem nearly impossible say to classify items based on their importance because it depends on your purpose for traveling. Still, creating a packing checklist for packing before you leave home, and another one when you're preparing to return home, is incredibly useful for not forgetting anything.

“The most useful item for me is a packing plan, most typically done on a spreadsheet, so that the days and the items needed for each day can be separated out,” says Belles. “When I travel for work, it tends to be longer trips of a week or more, and sometimes to different climates .

There are typically day looks that are more business-like and evening events that can be anything from nice dinners to cocktails receptions or galas. Having a packing plan is absolutely mandatory to ensure I have what I need without overpacking," she adds.

“Funny enough, it’s the little things you use every single day that are often the most overlooked: toothbrush/toothpaste, deodorant, underwear,” says Belles, adding, "The toiletries are easily replaced, and most hotels can provide you with enough to get by.”

“Packing doesn’t have to be onerous, but it is typically [everyone's] least favorite part of traveling. Remember, you don’t have to bring it all with you,” says Belles. “Allow for the opportunity to find new things that you might love even more than your tried-and-true. Then you’ll have room to bring home what you buy, if you haven’t stuffed your bag to the gills to begin with," she adds.

A few other tips include the following: Start packing at least two days prior to your trip, pack light, save on copies of essential documents (such as your passport on your phone), and don't forget to leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs.

“As for improving your overall traveling experience, there are a few services that are worth the investment: Get a subscription to Clear to facilitate getting through airport security, and secure an interview for Global Entry ,” says Belles. “Both will save you time and aggravation.”

Meet our expert

Misty Belles is the vice president of Global PR for luxury travel company Virtuoso Travel, where she’s worked for the past 20-plus years. She has appeared multiple times on The TODAY Show, as well as on CNBC, Fox News Business and The View.

Has your product been featured?

real simple best travel accessories

Shop TODAY is editorially independent, and our team of editors and writers work hard to pick the best products to share with our readers and viewers. We may license our logo to brands or products that have been featured on Shop TODAY. Click here if you're interested in licensing your inclusion in Shop TODAY content or to learn more from our licensing partner, Wrights Media.

real simple best travel accessories

Bridget is a Connecticut-based journalist focused on parenting, food and the environment.

the best travel gear and accessories for your next adventure, according to experts

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

Travel must-haves you should definitely pack.

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

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

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

Our top picks:

The Carry-On

Best Carry-On Luggage

Away the carry-on.

Hardside Luggage Large Checked Spinner Suitcase

Best Checked Luggage

Open story hardside luggage large checked spinner suitcase.

Solyte DLX Softside Luggage

Best Underseat Luggage

Samsonite solyte dlx softside luggage.

Disney Hardside Upright Luggage

Best Kid's Luggage

American tourister disney hardside upright luggage.

 Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

Best Duffel Bag

Patagonia black hole duffel bag 55l.

The Catalina Deluxe

Best Weekender Bag

Lo & sons the catalina deluxe.

Borealis Backpack

Best Travel Backpack

The north face borealis backpack.

Pack-it Specter Compression Cube Set

Best Packing Cubes

Eagle creek pack-it specter compression cube set.

Exercise Dress

Best Travel Dress

Outdoor voices exercise dress.

Tree Runners

Best Walking Shoes

Allbirds tree runners.

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

The Best Travel Gear for Packing

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: The 12 Best Underseat Luggage to Buy

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

READ MORE: Best Kids Luggage

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

READ MORE: Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Vacation

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

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

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

READ MORE: Best Travel Backpacks of 2023

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

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

The Best Clothing for Traveling

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

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

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

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

READ MORE: Best Walking Shoes for Women

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

Cotton Graduated Compression Socks in 15-20 mmHg

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

READ MORE: Best Compression Socks for Women

Darn Tough Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion

Hiker Boot Sock Full Cushion

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

READ MORE: Best Hiking Socks to Protect Your Feet

Vionic Amber Adjustable Sandal

Amber Adjustable Sandal

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

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

Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron

M2 Mini Project Steam Iron

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

READ MORE: Best Steam Irons of 2022

Norwex Laundry Detergent Strips

Laundry Detergent Strips

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

READ MORE: 5 Best Laundry Detergent Sheets

The Best Beauty and Hygiene Travel Must-Haves

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

Drybar Baby Buttercup Travel Blow Dryer

Baby Buttercup Travel Blow Dryer

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

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

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case

Clear Cosmetics Case

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

READ MORE: Best Toiletry Bags

Truffle Clarity Jetset Case

Clarity Jetset Case

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

READ MORE: Best Makeup Bags to Stash All Cosmetics

Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Soothing Gel

Advanced Hand Sanitizer Soothing Gel

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

READ MORE: Best Hand Sanitizers

Maskc KN95 Face Masks

KN95 Face Masks

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

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

The Best Travel Gear for Sleeping

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

Cabeau Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

 Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

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

READ MORE: Best Travel Pillows

Bucky 40 Blinks No Pressure Solid Eye Mask

40 Blinks No Pressure Solid Eye Mask

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

READ MORE: Best Sleep Masks for the Most Restful Sleep

Mack's Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs

Ultra-Soft Foam Earplugs

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

READ MORE: Best Earplugs for Sleeping

The Best Travel Electronics

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

Bose QuietComfort 45

QuietComfort 45

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

READ MORE: 12 Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Apple AirTag

AirTag

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

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

Apple iPad 10.2” 2021

iPad 10.2” 2021

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

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

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Kindle Paperwhite

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

READ MORE: The 5 Best E-Readers to Buy

Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

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

Joomfeen Travel Adapter

Travel Adapter

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

Bubm Electronic Organizer

Electronic Organizer

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

Unique Travel Accessories

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

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

Microfiber Towel

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

READ MORE: The Best Beach Towels for Summer 2023

CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle with Tritan Renew

Eddy+ Water Bottle with Tritan Renew

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

READ MORE: 12 Best Water Bottles of 2023

Nikon Monarch M7 8x42 Binocular

Monarch M7 8x42 Binocular

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

READ MORE: 10 Best Binoculars for Seeing Every Detail

Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack

Ace Fanny Pack

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

READ MORE: Best Fanny Packs

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Luggage Scale

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

Travel Hack: Why Our Experts Recommend Using Packing Cubes

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

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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

Headshot of Olivia Lipski

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

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The 27 Best Travel Accessories for 2023

Travel accessories are a great way to improve any trip. Here are our favorite options currently on the market, as well as some additional information you should know before you go shopping.

real simple best travel accessories

Written by Echo Wang | Edited by Bianca Versoza

What Is A Travel Accessory?

What is a travel accessory, exactly? Is it something small and portable that you can carry with you on plane flights around the world? Is it equipment for campers or boats? Can it be electrical? When does something change from being an accessory to being equipment? Does it need to be travel-related, specifically, or can it include accessories for activities at your destination?

Furthermore, how far do you need to travel for it to be an accessory? Driving three hours to a campground is travel just as much as flying halfway around the world, but both have wildly different expectations.

People have varying opinions on the answers to these questions, so it’s difficult to create a list of travel gadgets that everyone agrees with. That’s why this list of the best travel accessories sorts things by section. Not every accessory matters to every traveler, and that’s okay.

Product Selection And Options

This guide focuses on the best accessories, so quality is the main criteria we’re selecting them by. However, if you’re traveling on a budget, remember that many similar accessories are available at lower prices from other manufacturers. They won’t be the best option overall, but those could be better choices for you.

Necessary Travel Basics

These are the basics that you should get for any trip, near or far.

Apadi Travel Document Organizer

real simple best travel accessories

This particular document organizer is available in several colors to appeal to different owners, which is a nice touch.

Now, the reason this product is the #1 thing to buy is that even if you lose everything else you have on a trip, having your document organizer means you can still find some way home from almost anywhere with travel options and general payment systems.

One thing to keep an eye on with a document organizer is an RFID layer. RFID tags are an increasingly popular component for credit cards and ID cards, but it’s also possible to read them from a significant distance if you have the right technology.

RFID-blocking layers in document organizers stop this from being a problem and help reduce the risk of financial theft from people scanning your stuff somewhere in the world.

As if that wasn’t reason enough to get a document organizer, remember that you might not be able to get home on time if you lose your passport. Keeping documents like that in a larger container is much better than letting them rattle around your luggage.

Jasgood Money Belt

real simple best travel accessories

As the name implies, money belts are essentially zippered compartments inside a belt. These are extraordinarily difficult for pickpockets to reach because the zippers face inward and are usually snug about your waist. If you want extra security, you can wear shirts that cover the belt so even people who might recognize the specific brand can’t tell if you’re wearing it.

Jasgood’s belt has no brand label on the outside, but it does have a durable nylon webbing that’s suitable for use in most travel environments. It’s also long enough to fit quite a lot of money on the inside, which is important for having a reserved cash fund in case of emergencies.

Overall, we like money belts like this over most competitors. The key difference is that the zipper here faces inward, whereas most other products like coats and bags have the zipper face outward. The best way to protect yourself from pickpocketing is to not look like a target to begin with. The more inconvenient it is to access your money, the safer you’ll be.

This belt is also compatible with non-cash items, including keys, small jewelry, and other valuables. Losing keys is almost as bad as losing all of your money, so being open enough to fit other products is a nice touch.

The one notable flaw with this product is that it has no storage options for credit or ID cards. You’ll need another type of storage for those. As far as storing cash goes, though, the Jasgood money belt is easily a top choice for travel.

Brita 20-Ounce Water Bottle With Filter

real simple best travel accessories

Brita is one of the most well-known names in water purification thanks to their line of home filtering products. However, they also produce long-lasting travel bottles, and that’s what we’re recommending here.

This particular bottle holds 20 ounces of liquid, which is enough to be useful without taking up too much space. The soft-squeeze exterior is comfortable and lets you increase the water flow as needed, while the filter itself can handle 150-300 refills. That’s enough for several trips with each filter, and replacements are reasonably affordable.

One thing to be aware of here is that the bottle filters water when you drink it, not when you fill it. That means you won’t have an especially fast water flow, so don’t expect to drink the whole bottle in a couple of seconds. However, it’s fine if you only want a few gulps of water at a time.

We like this slower-flow style because it can help stop you from going through all of your water too quickly. Even better, you can fill your bottle up almost anywhere. If the bottle itself gets dirty, it’s dishwasher safe and easy to clean out.

Larger filter bottles are available, but these can take up too much space, especially if you’re on a trip where every inch of cargo space matters.

real simple best travel accessories

Most of the interior of the straw is one long filter, which stops anything larger than 0.2 microns from passing through. The manufacturer rates this for 1000 gallons of water, which is more than many people actually drink in each year. Even better, the filter doesn’t expire, so you won’t have to buy a new one every year or two.

This is a great emergency tool, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you buy it. First, just like the Brita bottle, actual water flow can be a little slow because you need to filter the water and that slows it down a little.

Second, this straw involves pulling all of the water up with your lung capacity, which is harder than turning a bottle upside-down and letting gravity pull it through an existing filter. That makes the LifeStraw a little more challenging to use in some areas.

Some people address this by attaching pumps. but that takes up more space and isn’t as useful for emergencies. Issues like these are why we don’t recommend the LifeStraw for daily use, but it’s still a fantastic option for regular use.

Just make sure you prove the filter before your trip. For those who aren’t familiar with the terminology, proving a filter involves soaking it in water for about ten minutes, then blowing through it and letting it dry. Once you do that, it should be ready to use. It may not work properly, or at all, if you don’t prove it before you start using it.

Ben’s 100 DEET Insect Repellent

real simple best travel accessories

This DEET-heavy spray offers about ten hours of protection through a fragrance-free repellent system. They’re also travel-safe thanks to general TSA approval, although the link here is for a convenient multi-pack.

Now, some people worry about DEET, to the point that other manufacturers on the market specifically advertise their products as “DEET-free” or some equivalent. However, as Consumer Reports explains as part of an in-depth examination, DEET is broadly safe and extraordinarily effective when you use it as directed.

One thing that stands out here is that DEET is genuine repellent. Many other repelling products are actually poisons that kill insects on contact, but DEET convinces insects to stay away and won’t cause any disruptions to the ecosystem.

Scientists are uncertain of the exact reason DEET works. Some think that it confuses insects, while others believe it smells horrible to them and they’ll avoid it at practically any cost. However, scientists broadly agree on the effectiveness, which is why it’s one of the most-used insect repellents in the world.

The real trick here is bringing along enough for your entire trip. These bottles will provide several uses each, but they’re not particularly large and you may need at least two coats per day to maintain effectiveness. Try to bring along a few spares if possible.

Travel Electronics

People don’t always bring electronics on trips, but if you do, these are vital.

SublimeWare International Power Adapter

real simple best travel accessories

However, the real value of this product lies in its mix of plugs. It has four USB outlets and one AC outlet, all of which you can use at the same time. Note that this is an adapter, but not a converter, so you’ll get the same voltage out that you get in. This isn’t a big problem most of the time, but higher-voltage outlets could burn out some older devices like hair dryers.

Two of the USB sockets on this device are 2.4A smart sockets, versus the regular 2.1A that other devices use. The main difference is that the smart sockets can match power intake for compatible devices, which means faster and better charging for some things. That’s a great feature and helps this product stand out from its competitors.

The pin locking mechanism is also nice. This keeps the pins in place while you’re pushing them into the socket, ensuring overall functionality without having to push the pins back out again. Little details like these make international power adapters better, and best of all, the entire thing is compact enough to fit into almost any storage container. Just mind the knobs on the side.

Targus 4-Port USB Hub

real simple best travel accessories

Whether you need more ports or just more space, the simple solution is a product like this USB adapter. As a USB 2.0 device, it’s compatible with most modern devices through their existing cables. However, the real value here is its balance of price and smart design.

Each port here is far enough away from the others that plugs shouldn’t interfere with each other, and the general build quality is good enough to hold up under international travel.

There are some USB 3.0 versions, which have higher data transmission speeds, but those often require dedicated power outlets and that’s hard to guarantee during international travel. This hub is entirely self-powered through its own connection. Between this and the international power adapter, you should have all the USB ports you need.

GL.iNET Mini Portable Hotspot

real simple best travel accessories

Portable hotspots allow you to stay connected to the internet almost anywhere you can get a signal. Even better, this unit is OpenVPN compatible and lets you use many types of VPN software to keep your information private while you’re traveling around.

What really makes this device stand out is its overall versatility. Plenty of devices work exclusively as hotspots, but since this unit can do anything from extending the range of an existing hotel signal to transforming existing ethernet connections into wireless networks, you can use it to adapt to your existing environment.

This unit offers data speeds of about 300 Mbps, which is plenty for streaming videos from services like Netflix or Disney Plus. Of course, that assumes the network you’re connecting to supports those speeds, but that’s not a problem in most developed areas.

The other thing we like here is the bright yellow coloring. That helps this device stick out so you can quickly locate it when you need it. Most portable hotspots are either white or black, which means they blend in with all of your other electronics and can be hard to fetch in a hurry.

Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Canceling Headphones

real simple best travel accessories

However, active noise cancellation alone isn’t enough to make a headset stand out. It’s all the other features that make this option worth considering for your travel.

A built-in microphone lets you take calls without having a long mic sticking out by your face, while Alexa compatibility means you can get music, information, and more sent straight to your headphones from compatible devices. Touch controls on the ear cup make it even easier to take precise control.

The part we like the best is the quick attention mode. Holding your hand up to the right ear cup instantly turns down the volume for a conversation, and removing your hand returns the volume to its original setting. That’s especially useful in busy environments.

The main drawback of these headphones is their price. These are at the higher end of what you should ever pay for a set of headphones. If you just want the active noise cancellation, cheaper options will get the job done. Most cheap headphones aren’t nearly as comfortable on long flights, though.

Long-term comfort matters when you’re on a plane for anywhere from six to eighteen hours, so don’t skimp on getting good headphones.

Make sure to get an adapter if necessary, though. This is particularly relevant for Apple products, whose Lightning connectors may need an additional adapter to work with regular headsets.

Jelly Comb Electronics Organizer

real simple best travel accessories

The outside shell isn’t hard, but it does have plastic bones that give it a semi-rigid structure and help prevent crushing in your bag. As a bonus, the square design fits well in most suitcases and makes it easier to organize things.

The outside of this organizer is waterproof nylon. While it won’t keep water out if you totally submerge things, the premium zippers and tightly woven surface will protect the interior from rain, mist, and most other realistic threats. For added security, you can padlock the zippers, although this isn’t a true security product and won’t stop a determined thief.

This electronics organizer is most useful for wires and cables, but it’s flexible enough to store numerous other types of products as needed. Creativity is always useful when space is tight for a trip, and that definitely helps this stand out as one of the best travel accessories currently on the market.

RAVPower 32000mAh Portable Power Bank

real simple best travel accessories

10000mAh is the smallest any travel bank should be, but going well above that helps ensure you’ll have the power to keep things running in emergencies. The obvious downside here is that it’s relatively large and heavy, which can be a problem if you’re treading close to a weight limit for flights.

This isn’t a high-speed charger, but it will still charge up most phones in about two hours, which is fast enough for most travel. It does take some time to charge up this power bank, but that’s normal for anything with such massive capacity. This gets more useful the more devices you have, so it’s definitely worth considering for an electronics-focused trip.

Tranmix Portable Solar Power Bank

real simple best travel accessories

This isn’t the same as having a generator and you may not generate enough power for uninterrupted use of any device, but this product essentially guarantees that you cannot run out of electricity long-term.

There are plenty of other portable solar panels on the market, but this one stands out somewhat thanks to its compact folding design. That makes it much easier to pack and store when you’re getting on a plane, which is fundamentally better.

Other features here include a rainproof, shockproof, and dustproof design, as well as a bright flashlight with a built-in SOS flashing option in case you need to call for help.

For context, expect about 40 hours of sunlight for a full charge, or 12 hours if you can plug it into the wall. This is an emergency power bank, versus the regular-use option above, so try to avoid depleting the charge on this one unless you have to.

If 12 hours sounds like a long charging time, remember that this unit provides about 8 full charges for most smartphones. It has a vastly higher storage capacity than they do, so it naturally takes much longer to charge. The built-in battery is better than a solar panel without that, though, since it means you can use your stored electricity anytime.

Storage Accessories

While minimalist travel is possible, most trips are going to require some storage.

OEE Packing Organizers

real simple best travel accessories

The regular bags come with transparent tops so you can see exactly what’s inside them without having to open them, and that’s the kind of touch we like seeing. There are plenty of larger packing organizers on the market, but most of those work better outside of suitcases instead of fitting inside them, which disqualifies them in our view.

One other thing that sets these packing organizers apart is the variety of colors. These organizers come in about a dozen different colors, which means they’re more likely to appeal to your aesthetic preferences than products that only come in one color.

Under Armour Adult Duffle Bag

real simple best travel accessories

Notable features on this bag include a water-resistant finish, abrasion-resistant panels on the bottom and sides, and an organization pocket for quick access. A vented pocket helps store smellier laundry and shoes, too, which means this bag can double as a laundry tote on some trips.

The overall build is 95% polyester and 5% elastane . For those who aren’t familiar with it, elastane (also known by brand names like Spandex and Lycra) is an extremely elastic fabric that helps this bag stretch without tearing. Durability is crucial when you’re on trips because finding replacements on short notice can be difficult, so it’s always nice to see things like that.

Under Armour’s bag is one of the most cost-effective options on the market, offering a good balance between its performance and its price. It’s also available in a wide variety of colors, so you can match it to the rest of your luggage or just get a bag that’s bright and easy to see.

Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack

real simple best travel accessories

Travelon’s anti-theft bag stands apart from other backpacks thanks to its focus on practicality for travelers. It includes RFID-blocking slots for cards and passports, as well as a slash-resistant body and strap pair to resist knives.

That’s pretty good all by itself, but this bag also has locking compartments so people can’t simply unzip them when you’re not paying attention. The locks will typically take at least a few seconds to figure out and undo, which is enough time to notice the tugging and respond to any theft attempt.

Travelon’s bag is significantly better as an anti-theft option than Under Armour’s duffle bag, so if you’re only getting one, this is the better of the two choices. It’s not quite a full-size backpack, though, so don’t expect this to have enough room if you’re going hiking and need to bring a lot of stuff.

Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags

real simple best travel accessories

Spacesaver claims that you can get up to 80% more space through their vacuum bags, although the reality is that it depends on what you’re storing. Regardless, using these can often get you several more inches of space in your luggage, and that’s huge when you want to pack as much as possible.

As a bonus, this set comes with a manual travel pump. Sadly, that means you’ll have to devote some of the space you saved to storing the pump, but you’ll usually come out ahead regardless. These are especially useful if you want to bring your own sheets or pillows on a trip.

One thing to keep in mind here is that the vacuum bags are available in several sizes. It’s generally better to get the smallest bags necessary for storing certain items, so you may need to get several different packs.

That can increase the cost of these fairly significantly, though. In short, vacuum bags are a great choice if you have money to spare but need more room in your bags. They’re a little harder to justify on a tighter budget, though.

Letsfit Portable Luggage Scale

real simple best travel accessories

Letsfit’s digital scale is a straightforward example of these products, capable of weighing bags accurately up to about 110 pounds. That’s heavier than most luggage ever gets, so it’s more than good enough for the job.

A clear backlit LCD provides an easy-to-see readout, while the zero/tare function immediately resets the scale whenever you’re not using it. The slim design will fit into nearly any bag without trouble, while the metal connections to the scale itself provide outstanding durability.

This isn’t as important if you don’t plan to buy anything or aren’t close to weight limits for your flights. If there’s any question, though, investing in a digital scale can help you avoid unexpected charges.

Cleanliness & Hygiene

Cleanliness is a vital part of any trip, from the shortest to the longest. These are some of the best travel accessories for staying clean.

OlimpiaFit Microfiber Towels 3-Size Pack

real simple best travel accessories

One thing you may notice is that these towels are significantly thinner than standard towels. That’s also great for travel because it means they’ll take up less space in your bag. Less obviously, it means they have drastically more surface area and can dry off several times faster than towels made from other materials.

These towels are surprisingly durable for their size, too, thanks to an exterior ring that stops tears. Whether you want to wipe off some sweat or dry off after a shower, this three-set of towels gets the job done and even works for sharing towels in a pinch.

Purell Hand Sanitizer, 36-Pack of Travel Size Bottles

real simple best travel accessories

Purell is a better-known brand, which means their formula is demonstrably reliable. This 36-pack comes with handy 1-ounce travel bottles, which are small enough to fit on practically any flight without problems. You can also get large bottles and empty small bottles if you want, but we think it’s easier to just get the travel-ready pack yourself.

One thing that sets this pack apart from other hand sanitizers is the mix of other ingredients. Purell has a surprisingly long history , but it stands out from some other hand sanitizers thanks to the thickening agents that make it easy to use without waste. Purell also has moisturizers in it, which is ultimately more comfortable than products that only clean.

Purell is about 70% ethyl alcohol, which is the best recognized concentration for killing most pathogens. It’s not quite as good as proper washing with soap, but it’s generally good enough when you’re on the move.

Breezeo Laundry Detergent Sheets

real simple best travel accessories

Each of these laundry sheets comes in four perforated sections that you can tear apart to get as much soap as you need. While they’re mainly intended for use with washing machines, these also work well for washing garments by hand. That’s a vital consideration for travel because you can’t always be sure you’ll have access to machines.

As a bonus, these detergent sheets are much lighter than liquid containers. Every ounce matters for travel on planes with tight weight limits, and even small savings on weight in different areas can lead to a big impact.

The one thing to keep in mind here is that you shouldn’t let these detergent sheets get too warm or too wet. We recommend storing them in a waterproof plastic bag, regardless of whether or not you’re keeping them in their original container.

HOMEST 2 Pack XL Travel Laundry Bag

real simple best travel accessories

HOMEST sells these nylon bags in several sizes, although the XL is the most useful if you have a lot of laundry and want to do it all at once. They’re also a great choice for washing your laundry by hand, which you can do with products like the Breezeo detergent sheets above.

HOMEST uses double-stitched seams and thick nylon for durability here, while the locking drawstring can tie shut to keep everything inside the bag. The extra large options hold about 3-4 average loads of laundry each, while most travel bags hold closer to two loads of laundry.

Finally, we like the “wash me” text on the outside of the bags. These provide a useful reminder of what they’re for. It’s easy to lose track of the purpose of every bag and item during a long trip, so little things like that make products significantly more useful.

Cottonelle Flushable Wet Wipes

real simple best travel accessories

With that said, wet wipes are a useful sanitation measure when you’re out on a trip. Whether you need to clean your hands or other parts of your body, they’ll get the job done when you don’t have access to anything else. This is especially useful if you plan to camp out in places with no access to running water.

Cottonelle’s 252-pack of wet wipes is more than enough for most trips, although you may want to bring two packs for longer trips just in case. These contain no alcohol, parabens, or dyes, just mild amounts of cleaners that can get dirt and other debris off of your body.

Safety And Security While Traveling

A little extra safety and security can go a long way when you’re traveling the world.

Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Locks

real simple best travel accessories

With a closed length of 1.5 inches, these locks have enough space to go through almost anything on your bags and still shut snugly. They also let you set your own combination, which is much better than having to stick with whatever the factory decides.

Even better, these locks don’t use keys. This means you’ll need to remember the combination, but it also means there’s nowhere for thieves to use lockpicks or other basic tools. There’s no plastic on this lock, either, which would be easy to break with a little pressure.

Again, these are not perfect locks by any stretch of the imagination. You’d need to pay a lot more for something truly secure. They’re more than good enough for their real role, though, and that’s all we really want to see from a travel lock.

Lewis N Clark Travel Door Alarm

real simple best travel accessories

If it goes off, this device makes noise at about 91 decibels, which is about as loud as a welder and extremely likely to wake you (and everyone else) up if it goes off out of nowhere. This alarm is also compact and lightweight, with an adjustable cord lock to help it fit over different handles.

While this is technically a door alarm, it works just as well in windows. It might be worth bringing two of these if you’re especially uncertain about the area or plan to sleep near ground level.

Travel Comfortably

Finally, what’s travel without a little comfort? Most people don’t get ultra-luxurious accommodations every step of the trip, but you don’t have to pay a ton of money to make a trip easier on yourself.

Restorz Melatonin Gummies

real simple best travel accessories

These gummies work best when you take them 30-60 minutes before you want to go to sleep. This particular package is a four-pack of fourteen gummies each, and two weeks is about right for longer trips. You can always bring more packs if necessary.

As a bonus, melatonin is non-addictive and doesn’t form habits. The main reason for this is that Melatonin is a natural chemical that your body already produces every day. You might appreciate the restful sleep enough to keep using them even after your trip, though, so keep an eye out for that.

ANBOW Reusable Silicone Earplugs

real simple best travel accessories

Sadly, small items are easy to lose and that can ruin an otherwise-great trip. That’s why this particular pack comes with three pairs of earplugs, including a connecting cable and a convenient travel pouch to keep all of them together.

Earplugs are especially valuable for people who are sensitive to environmental noises. Suddenly being in a new place can be overwhelming, but these soft silicone plugs are definitely worth considering as a way to mitigate sensory input and focus your mind on other things.

Sunany Inflatable Travel Pillow

real simple best travel accessories

As a bonus, this inflatable pillow is easy to adjust to your preferred firmness and comes with a simple hood to help block light coming in from above when you’re trying to sleep. Both of these are rare features on travel pillows, and they’re ultimately the deciding factor that puts this ahead of the competition.

For convenience, this pillow also comes with a durable travel bag. This reduces the risk of accidental pokes and punctures, which are the main weakness of an otherwise-excellent pillow. Memory foam pillows are also decent options, but they tend to have thick middles that push the neck forward. That makes them a little harder to recommend over Sunany’s design.

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Must-Have Travel Accessories for Long Flights

Written by Dan

Updated on March 21st, 2024

real simple best travel accessories

What are the best travel gadgets for long flights? Survive a long flight with these carry-on essentials and airplane travel accessories.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Travel Accessories for Long Flights

Cabeau neck pillow

  • Travel day fanny pack

Peak Design Tech Pouch

  • Travel Blanket
  • Ultrasoft Compression Travel Socks
  • Merino Wool Travel Hoodie
  • Priority Pass membership

Noise-Canceling Headphones

  • AirFly Wireless Headphone Adapter
  • Headphone Jack Splitter
  • Ear Plugs & Ear Plug Alternatives
  • Battery Backup pack or Power Bank

Reusable Water Bottle

  • Audiobooks (via Audible)

Apple AirTags

Comfy socks

Travel locks

  • Comfy pants
  • Passport holders (wallet or pouch)

Travel Pillow

  • Mini Massage gun from Bob and Brad
  • Collapsible/nestable Tupperware or travel food storage

Long flights can be especially rough because you’re trapped for hours and probably not so comfortable. We’ve had various experiences on long-haul flights up to 16.5 hours (NYC to Hong Kong!).

A flight experience is definitely what you make of it and how prepared you are to not lose your sanity. I’m excited to share all of my favorite flight accessories that have helped me stay comfortable and entertained on long flights.

Let’s get started with the travel accessory essentials that could make or break your long-haul international flight experience. A lot of these gadgets and gear are also great for gifts for your favorite traveler!

Browse our 6 favorite picks

  • Get better sleep on your flight Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow
  • Cozy up while flying EverSnug Airplane Travel Blanket
  • Prevent theft & track your valuables Apple AirTags (4-Pack)
  • Keep flight essentials handy Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag (1L)
  • Store your passport and cards Harber London Passport Wallet
  • Read a whole book on the flight The New Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (8GB)

Cabeau neck pillow

The Cabeau travel pillow has been traveling with us since 2017. Becca wears it during all of the flights and long bus rides that we take together. She’s much better at being able to sleep on flights than I am.

real simple best travel accessories

We like this pillow because you can wash the zippered fabric cover, and the design is much more sturdy than any of the other pillows that we’ve used before. It’s also one of Becca’s recommended travel products for women .

real simple best travel accessories

The Cabeau neck pillow is designed to provide optimal neck support and comfort during long travel hours.

Travel day fanny pack

I don’t know how Becca (or I) would travel without her fanny pack. Because Becca has quite a few that she likes and uses them during our travel days, I’ll usually keep important things like my passport and maybe some money with her.

Check out the best-selling lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L , which is a great choice for a travel day waist pack.

I go more in depth in this lululemon belt bag review .

real simple best travel accessories

Becca keeps everything in her fanny pack, like tissues, pens (for filling customs forms), plastic silverware (this has come in SO handy), her phone, her (and my) passport and a tiny bottle of hand cream for curing the dry hands you get when you fly. She has tried quite a few fanny packs throughout the years, and listed the best fanny packs for travel, here .

Fanny packs, or waist packs/hip packs/belt bags (whatever you want to call them) help give you quick access to your most important and valuable items so you don’t have to have them too far from you, like under the seat in front of you or overhead.

This is crucial because you can have the fanny pack on your person during an entire long-haul flight (just loosen the strap around your waist), and have all your top valuables in plain sight.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

The lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag combines vibrant style and practicality, making it the perfect companion for travel days.

Peak Design Tech Pouch

Because I travel with a lot of cords, cables and dongles, something like the Peak Design field pouch or the Peak Design tech pouch is a great way to stay organized and have quick access to everything that you need. I recommend both in my list of my favorite tech pouches for travelers .

real simple best travel accessories

Instead of throwing my phone cable, headphone wires, audio splitter, power bank, pens, my passport (when Becca doesn’t have it in her travel fanny pack ) and everything else into the bottom of my bag, I’ll organize it all with a tech pouch. You can check out more at my Peak Design Tech Pouch review .

The Peak Design Tech Pouch is a highly-organized, efficient, and compact storage pouch designed for carrying your tech accessories. It's an excellent accessory for travelers, photographers, or anyone who carries a lot of small tech gear and wants to keep everything organized.

Travel Blanket

Some flights now make you pay for blankets, and having one of your own is a great way to save money while traveling . A blanket is a nice way to help keep you more comfortable as you try to sleep on a long-haul flight.

Also, I’m pretty sure that airlines don’t wash those blankets (ew) and that they reseal them (can someone let me know if this is true?). Traveling with our own blanket ensures that it’s our blanket, and we know where it came from.

Traveling with my own travel blanket can also be useful for the travels at my final destination; it can be a better option than using comforters at hotels, or better than guest blankets (these are definitely never washed) anywhere else.

If you’re looking for other options, I would look into this travel blanket and this one from Cabeau .

real simple best travel accessories

Ultrasoft Compression Travel Socks

I learned that compression socks, when worn on flights, increase comfort when flying. On a flight, you don’t move around much and your circulation naturally slows down. So, it’s helpful that compression socks help transport blood from extremities to your heart and help you avoid blood clots when you’re sitting in a cramped space.

real simple best travel accessories

A solid pair of travel compression socks can be preventative for post-flight swelling as well. Becca tried a pair during our flight from New York to Vancouver . She thought they were so comfy.

They’re also ideal if you’re doing something like traveling while pregnant , like Becca was. See more ideas at our list of the best socks for travel .

Merino Wool Travel Hoodie

I started bringing a travel hoodie with me, and it’s been a good way to stay comfortable in cold airports and on cold flights.

During all times of the year, airports are typically cold. Flights can be really cold, too. Having a lightweight hoodie that packs away in your carry-on is a perfect addition to your flight kit, and the Aviator travel hoodie that I have has cool features like an oversized hood that helps become a sleep mask.

Becca and I have both worn the Aviator travel hoodies, and they became our favorite travel sweatshirts. See more at our Aviator hoodie review .

Women wearing a aviator first class hoodie

Travel Hoodie

Make sure to check this out and see if it's for you!

Priority Pass membership

We’ve mentioned this must-have in other parts of our site like all about our lounge experience in our airport lounge how-to guide . Our Priority Pass memberships have pretty much changed our travel experiences from “not so great” to “pretty awesome.”

If you have a long flight, and then if you have anywhere from a two-hour to a twenty-hour layover (also, don’t confuse these two, because that’s how I wound up with an unexpected night in Japan….) you will want airport lounge access.

For us, gone are the days when we sit around looking for outlets with which to charge our phones next to uncomfortable chairs near the gate of a departing flight. Also gone are the days when we buy a $5 water bottle and a $15 egg sandwich because we’re desperate for some food.

real simple best travel accessories

Priority Pass is a membership that gets us into airport lounges all over the world. We’ve enjoyed Priority Pass lounges during layovers in Lisbon en route to the Canary Islands , and in Hong Kong before the longest flight we’ve ever taken, which is HKG to NYC (16.5 hours — that is a LONG flight!).

Eating well, charging up and relaxing at an airport lounge puts us in a good mood before stepping on a flight. It also helps us reset in between long flights.

Again, Priority Pass is not quite a physical accessory, but it’s something you may like to have in your stock of “long flight essentials” in order to have the best trip.

For times when you want to sleep on flights, but the lights are still on, a good sleep mask is crucial. Becca claims that a sleep mask is the #1 way for how to get better sleep during travel .

I like this sleep mask because it has memory foam and doesn’t put any pressure on your eyes. It creates a solid seal to let in as little light as possible.

Travel in comfort and bring on the darkness with this sleep mask, designed to ensure restful sleep anywhere, anytime.

These Sony noise-canceling headphones are currently my top pick for headphones. On flights, they are the best because they block out a lot of noise from the airplane and other passengers.

When you have them on with the noise cancellation mode, it’s truly amazing how much of the plane’s white noise the headphones will block out. And, what’s the opposite of white noise? Is it black noise? These headphones help me block out the sounds of people snoring next to me, people having loud conversations, people who insist on talking on the phone before the flight takes off and more.

real simple best travel accessories

They come with a convenient carrying case, so you can make sure they stay in great shape while you transport them and take them in and out of your carry-on luggage.

Noise-canceling Headphones

Enjoy serene, uninterrupted audio with these noise-canceling headphones, a must-have for travelers and audiophiles alike.

AirFly Wireless Headphone Adapter

One thing that we wish we had much sooner was the Twelve South AirFly . It’s a device that you can plug into the headphone hack on the airplane media console and pair your own bluetooth headphones to it. This is amazing, for anyone whose flight experience could be elevated with this!

real simple best travel accessories

This is great for times when you have your AirPods, but don’t have a way to connect them to the airplane media console. We have it and we’re always excited to take it on flights with us!

AirFly by Twelve South

Enjoy wireless freedom with the AirFly by Twelve South, turning any wired audio jack into a Bluetooth connection.

Headphone Jack Splitter

If you’re traveling with a significant other , family member or friend, a headphone splitter is one of the best and smallest things that you can carry with you to enhance your flight. We recommend this in our guide for how to fly with multiple kids because it’s crucial for watching movies and videos together as an activity!

You can plug a headphone splitter into the arm rest to watch a movie with someone. You can also split the audio out of an iPad or a phone to watch something downloaded on any of your favorite streaming services. iPhone users will need this dongle and most other phones can use this dongle .

Headphone jack splitter

Share your tunes easily with this headphone jack splitter, a simple solution to simultaneous audio sharing.

Ear Plugs & Ear Plug Alternatives

A good pair of ear plugs will help most people sleep for a few uninterrupted hours on flights. At least for me, I can’t seem to fall asleep on flights (nor anywhere) without blocking out annoying noises, conversations and any sounds that aren’t ambient.

When the flight staff turns down the lights to try to simulate nighttime, it’s a perfect time to put in your ear plugs to block out any noise from other passengers.

I’m newly into the brand Flare Audio for my ear plug needs. All the ear plugs from Flare are infinitely better quality than the former simple foam ones I used to use. I’m currently using the Flare Calmer ear plugs , which reduce annoying sounds, but also don’t block everything completely so that you’re only blocking out what bothers you.

The “Calmer” ear plugs are great for busy places (while traveling), audio annoyances during flights or transport and any sounds that may trigger you in a stressful way. For smaller ears, there’s the Flare Calmer Pro Mini ! And for all my Flare products, I have the Flare Audio Aluminum Capsule , which is a keychain container for them so they don’t collect dust in my bag.

real simple best travel accessories

You can check them out on Amazon or directly on the Flare Audio website .

Block out the world and focus on rest with these ear plugs, your compact solution for peaceful sleep during travel.

Battery Backup pack or Power Bank

Some of the newer airplanes have power chargers under the seats. Aside from them being super hard to locate, your plug can often fall out, especially when you’re least expecting it.

It’s more on the rare side that the flights I’ve taken recently have these power outlets.

real simple best travel accessories

I like traveling with a power bank on long flights because I can charge my phone, iPad or headphones before they run out of batteries. For flights over the five-hour mark, this is important so that I can arrive at my destination with a fully-charged phone.

Battery back up

Stay prepared with a battery back-up, ensuring your devices remain powered during your travels.

Reusable Water Bottle

Water bottles are a must for me while being in an airport and on an airplane for an extended amount of time.

Airport water is expensive, and can sometimes be $4 or $5! It seems crazy to spend that when almost every airport I’ve been to has a water refilling station. But the catch is, you need your own bottle. I’ve sometimes bought the cheapest bottle of water so that I can reuse the plastic bottle!

To be a sustainable traveler , ask the flight attendants on your flight to fill your bottle instead of drinking several of those tiny water cups. You also want to make sure you’re drinking a lot of water, because it’s easy to get dehydrated on flights. We like to stay healthy while traveling !

I realized that the day after traveling a long distance, I never felt great, and I think that is because I never drank enough water on longer flights.

Black water bottle

These days, I like to sit on the aisle so that I can get up, stretch my legs and have an easy exit to the bathroom if I need one.

Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle, an eco-friendly solution for your hydration needs.

It’s typical for some types of airplanes to not have any entertainment on the backs of the seats. Or, if you get really unlucky, your entertainment center might not work.

On a recent flight that I took, the touch capability on the in-flight entertainment screen stopped working, and I couldn’t change the brightness of the screen. When my movie finished, I wasn’t able to watch anything new!

Luckily, I had my phone, and I was able to watch something on it because I had downloaded some videos. I wish I traveled with my iPad because it would have been much more enjoyable to watch something on a larger screen.

Also, if you are traveling with toddlers or kids, an iPad is a great way to keep them entertained. For times when flights do have entertainment on the seats, having an iPad with kids is still a good idea so that children aren’t bumping and tapping too hard on the seat neighbor.

real simple best travel accessories

I’ve found that this iPad stand is the best lightweight stand to travel with and prop a tablet or phone on the airplane tray table.

Experience technology at your fingertips with the Apple iPad, the perfect blend of productivity, entertainment, and portability.

For the readers in the group, a Kindle is a great way to travel with all of your books, but without carrying any of the weight.

On my most recent flight, I opted not to bring a book because I had no room in my carry-on. I did have room for a Kindle, though.

real simple best travel accessories

If you travel with a Kindle, be sure not to bring it to the beach during your trip and sit on it. I had a friend who did that, and she was pretty upset. Kindles do happen to be more ‘breakable’ than paperback books.

Amazon Kindle

Enjoy a vast library of books in a compact form with the Amazon Kindle, making reading on the go a breeze.

Audiobooks (via Audible)

Audiobooks with Audible are great. I am not a big text reader, but I really do enjoy listening to audiobooks as much as I can. Long flights are the perfect opportunity to catch up on all of your books and make a big dent into your queue.

As a free alternative, look into how you can rent books from your local library!

Audible by Amazon

Start streaming and downloading podcasts and audiobooks.

Apple AirTags

We have Apple’s AirTags (the 4 pack) for putting on our checked baggage. For those who don’t know, Apple AirTags are like tracking devices for your things. While traveling, they’re nice to attach to your overhead or checked bag, as well as backpacks (which will also save your day if something gets stolen).

They work by using other iPhones to help locate your bag, so they work the best in crowded areas where other iPhones are around.

real simple best travel accessories

In the rare event that there is a mix-up with your bag and someone else takes it by accident, you can see and track where your bag is, using your AirTags. A lot of friends have recommended putting AirTags on checked luggage, backpacks and the like.

For crowded flights, where your bag might be stored in a different part of the airplane, this can give you peace of mind that you can track down who took your bag in the event of that rare occurrence.

Regardless of whether you checked bags or not, having Apple AirTags can help put your mind at ease about being able to track your belongings and luggage. Take it from me: I once had my favorite book stolen from under my nose during a flight that wasn’t even so long.

What I’m saying is even if you doze off for 15 minutes and if there are dishonest passengers lurking in your plane, anything from your water bottle to your wallet could get quietly snatched.

Track your most valuable possessions with Apple AirTags, Apple's newest product for protecting against theft during travel.

Comfy socks

It took me a while to figure out that something as simple as comfy socks could make a huge difference in your flight experience.

Because you can be sitting for a long period of time, a good pair of socks can help your feet breathe, keep them warm and keep them cozy during those “nighttime” flight hours when people are supposed to be sleeping.

real simple best travel accessories

I’ve gotten to know the Swiftwick brand and recommend them for this reason! Check out the collection here .

Keep your feet warm and cozy with this selection of comfy socks, designed to cushion your feet at every step.

Travel locks

When traveling to different parts of the world, keeping an extra eye on your things is always a good idea. Becca once had a Lonely Planet China book stolen during a flight because she got up to go to the bathroom, and that’s pretty crazy. Travel locks are a default and are especially one of the best products for backpacking trips .

If I am traveling with my camera and my laptop, I like to put a small lock on my bag to give me extra security that no one can easily open and snoop around my bags, getting into all my mildly-expensive camera accessories .

If you’re sleeping, or if you’re not near your bags on a flight, it’s really easy for someone to open the overhead and grab something from your bag. Locks make it hard for someone to get in there without you knowing.

Ensure your belongings are secure with these travel locks, providing peace of mind on your adventures.

Comfy pants

After so many flights, I really wish I was wearing something more comfortable than jeans or shorts. Sitting for a long period of time isn’t always the most comfortable. Finding a good pair of pants to wear during a flight can make a huge difference in your comfort levels.

We have an article that talks in much more detail about the best travel pants .

We recommend joggers, as they have pockets, and look decent, but they feel soft, comfy and stretchy like savvy sweatpants.

real simple best travel accessories

Passport holders ( wallet or pouch )

A passport case doesn’t really help you travel, but it does help protect your passport from spills or accidents that happen inside of your bag or around you while you have your passport out.

real simple best travel accessories

Having a passport wallet is also a great way to stay organized and keep any additional travel documents, like connection flight tickets , visa information and other IDs all in one place. We keep entry papers, vaccine cards, boarding passes and other documents all inside a shared passport case.

real simple best travel accessories

Fun story: Becca was once in Laos during the spring new year festival when everyone throws water on each other, and her passport almost got soaked. A passport case or protective sleeve would’ve helped out with the stress of the constant water everywhere.

Our Harber London passport wallet is a travel security product that has spots for bills and cards, and also has RFID protection. It has a magnetic closure, which adds a luxurious touch. This passport wallet is the crème de la crème when it comes to how to safeguard your passport in a stylish way.

real simple best travel accessories

We also started using the Tortuga Passport Pouch , which is made of durable waterproof material and has an L-shaped zipper you can see here. If you want to really keep your passport dry and secure, opt for this one.

real simple best travel accessories

Tortuga Passport Pouch

Store your passport with this essential waterproof sleeve that zips.

Travel Pillow

I actually have trouble with travel neck pillows . I’ve tried Becca’s Cabeau and never sleep comfortably with it. I usually want a real pillow and try to scrunch up whatever neck pillow I have to make it into a real pillow. Or, I’ll end up using a jacket or sweatshirt.

A pillow is generally a good idea to travel with. It comes in handy if you have any type of bus travel the roads are smooth enough to take a nap. Also, having a spare pillow is great if your accommodation has really flat pillows.

I would take a look at some of the camping pillows that Sea to Summit makes. They have a selection of inflatable and packable pillows that will pair nicely with travel as well.

Enhance your sleep during travel with a travel pillow, your ultimate travel companion.

Mini Massage gun from Bob and Brad

I’m always really sore after long flights and I’ll typically stretch, to try and stay loose. It’s been really nice to have access to a travel-sized massage gun to help with stubborn knots that are hard to get to with stretching.

real simple best travel accessories

I run a lot when I travel and this mini version of the original massage gun has been a great addition to help reduce injury. You can see above how the size compares to a passport. It can even fit in my personal item on the flight. I think it’s one of the best travel-sized fitness products for being able to work out during a trip .

Massage gun from Bob and Brad

Collapsible/nestable Tupperware or travel food storage

I started bringing my own food to the airport, and it’s been a game-changer.

Living in New York City has a lot of perks. One of my favorite perks is being able to get a sandwich basically at any time. Typically, within a five-block radius, you can probably find a sandwich. It’s delightful.

One time, I brought a sandwich to the airport to bypass needing to spend a lot of money on airport food. I put the sandwich inside of my bag, and lucky me, the sandwich got a little soggy and got my hoodie a little wet. Yikes.

I wish I had a sandwich box or some other more secure bags to keep my sandwich in, and something collapsible and foldable would’ve been amazing.

Becca brought one of our Tupperware containers from home with some nuts and dried fruit. She had a great experience with that, except once the snack was over, the empty Tupperware took up a bit of room in her bag.

Collapsible Tupperware and dining storage is a great solution for being able to bring your own food without needing to carry a lot of bulky food containers with you.

real simple best travel accessories

Nesting stainless steel snack containers might also work well if you want something more sturdy. We like the EcoLunchbox nesting snack containers because they have no-leak lids and are impossible to break.

Collapsible Food Storage Containers

Maximize space and maintain freshness with these collapsible food storage containers, ideal for meals on the go.

Why should you trust us?

We’ve been traveling the world, both separately and apart, and that has involved some VERY long flights!

Both Becca and I have been on flights from NYC to Hong Kong (that is a really long flight) as well as flights to Africa, India, the Middle East and Argentina, between the two of us. Having trusty gear to get you through those types of flights is crucial.

Becca prioritizes accessories that help her sleep, whereas I prioritize accessories that help me listen to and watch entertainment. Different aspects of flying are important to each of us, which is why this list reflects our preferences. Maybe you enjoy a little bit of both these ends of the spectrum!

For us both, we like flying to feel like an experience, even though the flight is simply the journey that gets you from “here” to “there.” Whether you plan to pack in as many movies as you can, or as many hours of sleep as humanly possible, we hope this list of travel accessories for long flights does the trick!

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12 Best Travel Accessories That Make Packing Easy—All Under $300

Béis the jewelry case.

F or avid jewelry wearers, a Béis traveling case is one of the best travel accessories to invest in, well, unless, untangling necklaces is a well-loved hobby. For those seeking out options that are environmentally friendly and meet shopping needs, this jewelry case features recycled plastic water bottles in its design and keeps necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets protected and organized.

Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Bag

Finding the right in-between travel bag for two to three-day trips takes some hunting. However, reviewers of this water-resistant nylon travel bag say this expandable tote is worth the investment. It's one of the best travel accessories because of its durability, its ability to fold down flat as a carry-on bag and its minimalist yet chic design.

As long as the liquids meet flight requirements, skip baggage claim and opt out of baggage fees with this small travel bag.

Tessan Universal Travel Adapter

There's nothing worst than landing in a different country with a red battery icon at the top of your phone screen and needing an international charger. To prevent this hiccup, remember this packing tip and get this all-in-one travel adapter with four different plugs compatible with over 150 countries. Be a smart traveler and stay powered up.

Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer

Packing lighter only makes traveling easier. So maybe minimalist travelers don't need that extra serum or a second shade of lipstick. This toiletry organizer with an exterior made from 100% Repreve recycled polyester makes it easier to think about what a traveler really needs on their next getaway. All of the products are organized to perfection thanks to the design's six adjustable compartments.

Thule Crossover 2 Convertible Backpack

This convertible backpack isn't an ordinary carrier. In fact, the interior features a design much like the inside of a suitcase to easily store clothes, shoes and toiletries. But instead of rolling it around, throw the water-resistant accessory over a shoulder as a backpack or shoulder bag for better portability.

Shacke Pak Packing Cubes

Rolling clothes certainly provides space to pack more, but packing cubes keep things organized and compact. This packing cube set helps any traveler pack for up to 14 days and includes a laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from fresh ones.

Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier

This innovative hip seat carrier is one of the best travel accessories for families traveling with small children, as it helps reduce muscular strain on the spine while holding a little one (ages from birth to 36 months). It features tons of pockets for everything including diapers, keys, pacifiers, a bottle and a toy. And it also works effectively for breastfeeding support too.

Chronically Chic Weekender Travel Pill Case

Staying on top of daily medications and supplements while away takes thoughtfulness (and alarm setting). Designed for a four-day trip, this stylish pill organizer housed in a faux leather case holds 228 pills per day, to avoid bringing bulky bottles on a long weekend trip. Pro tip: don't make the packing mistake of putting this in your checked bag. Instead, pack it in the carry-on, just in case there are travel delays.

Brandon Blackwood Leather Travel Pouch

Juggling a passport, credit cards, money and tickets while rushing through the airport is stress-inducing. But this leather travel pouch with labels for each of the above takes all the guesswork out of where essential documents reside. So when it's time to check luggage sets at the counter, knowing where essential travel documents are without digging through a backpack brings peace of mind. We're sure this brightly-hued pouch will become one of your best travel accessories.

Nishel Toiletry Bag for Women

With over 9,000 five-star ratings, this toiletry bag speaks for itself. The design boasts two water-resistant compartments with mesh pouches to prevent unwanted liquid from spilling out of the bag. Use the included hook to hang up the bag to find the products needed. With this level of organization, repacking your underseat luggage is a breeze.

Bagsmart Electronics Organizer Travel Case

An electronic organizer might not be at the top of a travel checklist , but when working on the go, this case saves time and keeps everything in its place. It features five elastic loops to keep slim cables, earphones or pens organized. Additionally, the design has two elastic loops for longer cables, one mesh zippered pocket, five elasticized mesh segments and a pocket under the zippered pocket to store chargers, USB drives, power banks and USB-C hubs.

Away Shoe Cube

Packing shoes amongst clean clothes isn't the most hygienic choice, given that we pick up debris on the bottoms of our shoes daily. But, lucky for us, people always think of new (and, in this case, more hygienic) ways to pack a suitcase . Made from water-resistant nylon, these shoe cubes —which are collapsible when not in use—offer dividers to store and organize multiple pairs of shoes.

Additionally, interior mesh pockets are built-in for storing bulkier shoes like sneakers, heels or boots. And you can return it anytime within the first 100 days of purchase for whatever reason, even just to get a different size or color.

Stop hunting for the best products and deals—get our expert scoop on secret sales and discounts, gift ideas for everyone and can't-miss products. Sign up for the Stuff We Love newsletter .

The post 12 Best Travel Accessories That Make Packing Easy—All Under $300 appeared first on Reader's Digest .

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Beis The Jewelry Case

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

New month, new deals.

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

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

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

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

Darong Women’s Lounge Two-piece Set

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

Teriveek Oversized Striped Crewneck Sweater

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

Fochier Hardshell 3-piece Luggage Set

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

Real Essentials Men’s Mesh Running Shorts Set

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

E.l.f Squeeze Me Lip Balm

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

Zimfem Portable Camping Chair 

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

OutdoorMaster Beach Tent

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

Glmnes Inflatable Sleeping Pad

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

Yuclet Portable Water Filtration Straw Set 

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

Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon

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

Astylish Women’s Oversized Waffle Knit Shirt

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

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Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

Image:

Breaking News Reporter

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Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

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Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital

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I’m an Amazon Shopping Writer, and My Favorite Packing Secret Is on Sale for $2 Apiece

Snag the best-selling packing cube set while it’s on sale with double discounts.

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Real Simple / Tyler Roeland

While traveling is one of my favorite things to do, packing is not. If you’re an overpacker like me and need some help, look no further. This popular Amazon find is my latest travel hack, and it’s currently on sale for $16.

My new discovery, Bagail’s packing cube set , has 22,400 five-star ratings, and it’s been dubbed an “essential travel companion” by Amazon reviewers. I tried the eight-piece set during my recent adventure to Europe, and they made the most of my limited space and helped me stay organized. And while this deal lasts, the assortment is marked down not once, but twice thanks to the coupon in the product listing.

Bagail Eight-Piece Packing Cube Set

The set comes with a medium, large, and extra large packing cube with built-in straps to compress your items, plus a designated undergarment, sock, makeup, laundry, and shoe bag. I loved knowing exactly where everything was located in my luggage, so I didn’t make a mess digging around for an item. And I was able to fit big items with ease: The largest cube successfully stored my bulkiest jacket. 

For my recent trip, I wanted to fit all of my clothing into five of the included cubes and bags. This forced me to bring less, making my packing experience easier and faster. And the adjustable straps, which keep items compressed, helped me fit more into my luggage. I loved opening my suitcase and seeing rows of neatly arranged cubes, instead of overflowing clothing and toiletries.

Not only are these bags practical, but they are also high-quality. Every cube is made with a durable outer fabric and zipper that protects your items from possible damage and a mesh panel that lets your belongings breathe. And several reviewers noted that the pieces held up after cleaning them in their washing machine.

The cubes can also be used beyond international travel. Many reviewers wrote about using the smaller cubes to tidy up their gym bags and work totes, while other owners wrote that they used the makeup bag to hold all of their favorite beauty products at home. With so many ways to use them, it’s really no surprise that they’re an Amazon best-seller and have already been purchased more than 20,000 times in the past month. 

Overall, these organizers helped me feel more put-together throughout my trip and made packing a breeze. Whether you’re considering the set for its look or convenience, it won’t disappoint. Upgrade your packing experience with the Bagail packing cube set while it’s on sale for $16, or start your shopping with these other discounted travel accessories from Amazon below.

Mrsdry Four-Piece Leak-Proof Travel Bottle Set

Freetoo portable travel scale, eachy travel cosmetic bag, napfun memory foam travel pillow, frienda two-piece passport cover holder, more must-shop products.

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    Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter. When I'm traveling, there are never enough power outlets. WIRED reviewer Simon Hill gave this model top marks in his Best Travel Adapters guide ...

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    Cheeky Panda Bamboo Hand Wipes. £1.99 £0.99 at Amazon. 22. A reusable water bottle. Rounding out our collection of the best travel accessories are some odds and ends, like a good reusable water bottle, so you can stop buying overpriced bottles at the airport (and be kinder to the environment).

  4. The Best Travel Accessories for Your Next Trip, Tested and Reviewed

    Best Travel Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3 Travel Pillow at Amazon ($50) Jump to Review. Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes at Amazon ($30) Jump to Review. Best Toiletry Bottles ...

  5. The Best Travel Accessories to Pack on Every Trip

    Royce RFID-blocking passport organizer. $95 at Royce. Browse more passport holder recommendations. 26. A back-up travel bag. For trips where you plan to shop, something lightweight, like Paravel's ...

  6. 31 Best Travel Accessories for 2023

    EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter. $23 at Amazon. Credit: Amazon. There's no need to stock a full suite of power adaptors—even if your travels take you all over the globe. A universal adaptor is a must, says Delia Monk, a tour director for group travel company EF Ultimate Break.

  7. Best Travel Accessories 2023

    Best Travel Accessories. Best In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Adapter: Twelve South AirFly Pro. Best Travel Footrest: Airplane Footrest. Best Cord Organizer for Small Items: Bellroy Classic Pouch. Best ...

  8. The 13 Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors

    What our travel editors say: "This sound machine is small but mighty. It works just as well (if not better) than the more expensive Hatch Rest sound machine our toddler has in his bedroom, and its ...

  9. Rest, Play, and Relax With the 30 Best Travel Accessories

    The Best Travel Accessories. 1. Travel Organizer. Keep your passport, cards, and cash all in 1 place with a handy and secure travel organizer. Compact and slim, they offer practical and well-thought-out storage space throughout. Made from tough and durable material, a travel organizer features oversized slots to keep your passport, boarding ...

  10. 40 must have travel accessories for 2024

    1SAVES20. $ 24.99. Amazon. For those long-haul flights or exploration days when you may not have time to wash your hair, 1Saves20's hair bundle will help. The collection includes a hair mist that ...

  11. 15 Best Travel Accessories For Every Trip (2024)

    Best travel accessories that easily fit in your luggage. ... Having something simple like a backup battery (with your own phone cord) in your backpack or purse for the day can save you from being stranded, lost or in danger. ... 16 Best Family-Friendly Places to Travel in 2024 (from Real Parents) How to Avoid Pickpockets When Traveling (22 Tips

  12. The 15 Best Travel Accessories for Women of 2024

    Our Top Picks. Best Makeup Case: Béis The Cosmetic Case at Nordstrom ($68) Jump to Review. Best Travel Jewelry Case: Pottery Barn Mckenna Personalized Jewelry Binder at Pottery Barn ($74) Jump to ...

  13. The Best Travel Gear and Accessories of 2023

    Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer Soothing Gel. Now 22% Off. $14 at Amazon. Credit: Purell. The Purell Hand Sanitizer Gel is a favorite among our Lab experts, who find that the aloe and vitamin E ...

  14. The 27 Best Travel Accessories for 2023

    Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Canceling Headphones. Active noise cancellation is one of the best features in modern headphones, and few sets do it better than Sony's travel-focused headset. This option is usable both wired and wirelessly, with comfortable over-the-ear cups and a carry case that fits the adapter plug and cable.

  15. The 10 Best Travel Accessories to Make Life Easier

    Avoid the inevitable trash in the side pocket of the door on your next road trip. This car trash can is the under-$10 travel solution you didn't know you needed. It even has a detachable hook on the back so you can hang it from the back of a seat. Car Trash Can with Lid, $8.99, at Amazon | Image: Amazon.

  16. 27 Best Travel Accessories and Gear in 2024

    Best Travel Accessories: Our Top Picks. Essential Travel Accessory. Shacke Pak - 5 Set Packing Cubes. Best Gadget for Long Flights. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones. Best Travel Backpack. Matein Travel Backpack. Best Accessory for International Trips. Universal All in One Worldwide Adapter.

  17. 24 Must-Have Travel Accessories for Long Flights

    Get better sleep on your flight Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow. Cozy up while flying EverSnug Airplane Travel Blanket. Prevent theft & track your valuables Apple AirTags (4-Pack) Keep flight essentials handy Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag (1L) Store your passport and cards Harber London Passport Wallet.

  18. 12 Best Travel Accessories That Make Packing Easy—All Under $300

    The post 12 Best Travel Accessories That Make Packing Easy—All Under $300 appeared first on Reader's Digest. Reader's Digest. 12 Best Travel Accessories That Make Packing Easy—All Under $300 ...

  19. 11 Best Travel Safety Devices 2024, Tested By A Solo Traveler

    Weight: 3.68 ounces | Dimensions: 5.45 x 1.8 x 1.52 inches | Special features: Made of stainless steel but lightweight and easy to pack This simple but effective door stopper prevents unauthorized ...

  20. 11 Best New Amazon Travel Products in April

    Amazon just released hundreds of new travel essentials for April that are perfect for spring travel. From comfy two-piece sets to on-sale luggage pieces, these are the 11 best new travel ...

  21. 15 Comfortable and Stylish Travel Clothes Starting at $24 ...

    Stylish Travel Clothes on Amazon Under $55. PrettyGarden Two-Piece Outfit, $36 (was $46) Fixmatti Two-Piece Outfit, $43. Nfsion Casual Loose Jumpsuit, $34. PrettyGarden Casual V-Neck Jumpsuit, $36 (was $51) Amazon Essentials Tank Waisted Dress, $24 (was $27) Buenos Ninos Spaghetti-Strap Jumpsuit, $32.

  22. Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in

    Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

  23. I'm an Amazon Shopping Writer, and I Swear By This Set ...

    Bagail's eight-piece packing cube set is on sale at Amazon for $16 in time for spring travel. The Amazon deal comes with eight space-saving bags to neatly store your clothes, shoes, toiletries, and accessories, and it's the best packing cube set on the market, according to a shopping writer who tested it on an international trip.