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• Nov 26, 2023

Top Ten Delightful Travel Items from the Folks at IKEA

Who doesn't love IKEA? Apart from a couple of hair-pulling episodes for some of their larger intricate assemblies (glaring at my 4 piece sectional 8-foot high corner bookcase), I've always been a fan of their minimalist concepts. In truth, until I recently went wandering around their store, for once without a specific item in mind, I had never noticed the abundance of simple travel items that they carry as well. Here is a list of some of those items I felt would be really quite useful in various travel situations. Some of which I already own, others I will take the highly favorable reviews at face value for. With the typical low fanfare and practicality that we've come to expect from IKEA most of these items come in under $20.

All images are courtesy of the IKEA website and they link to the respective product page.

FÖRNUFTIG Air Purifier:

If air quality in hotel rooms or other accommodations is a concern for you consider packing one of these along with you. It measures 12 x 18 x 4 inches and works to remove 99.5% of smaller airborne particles such as PM2.5 particles, dust, smoke, and pollen with the included filter. It can also be equipped with a gas filter, sold separately, that will help to remove chemical content from the air such as those noxious compounds found in many cleaning products or cigarette smoke. The fan speed can be adjusted so that at night time you can put it on the lower setting to reduce the noise level, unless you like having it as white noise in the background.

$74.99 for the air filter unit

$18.00 for the gas filter add-on

RENSARE Clothes bag, set of 3:

Keep your clothes organized in your luggage with these handy cubes. The set of three includes one larger bag measuring 13.5 x 9.75 x 3.25 inches and two smaller bags 9.75 x 6.75 x 3.25 inches. They are suitable for machine wash cold and tumble dry low. They may not be as rugged as some of the other luggage cubes out there, and the zipper is only on two sides for some reason, but with a price tag of only $5.99 you really can't go wrong.

RENSARE Waterproof bag

Also in the RENSARE line up is this very useful waterproof bag. Perfect for carrying around your wet swimsuit or workout clothes from the hotel gym back to the room. Use it as a small beach bag to keep sunglasses, sunscreen or phone and charger.

It has a buckle at the top that works as a handle or it could be attached to the top strap of a backpack. Maybe strap it to the back of your kayak to keep things secure and dry. The uses are many and it is just $3.99.

RENSARE 2 Gallon Bag

Rounding out the RENSARE collection is this simple drawstring 2 gallon bag. Ideal for storing dirty laundry during a trip, or for keeping your luggage interior clean by storing your shoes in the bag.

As with the RENSARE luggage cubes this bag is also machine wash cold, tumble dry low, normal cycle. Combine with the waterproof bag and you have a complete set ready for the beach! Pick one up (heck, grab a couple) for only $2.99 each.

VÄRLDENS Weekend bag

Keeping in the theme of bags this 15 x 17 x 7 inch bag is perfect for a quick weekend getaway. On the front side you have three compartments with zippers – store your cell phone, wallet or anything else you want close at hand.

On the inside you'll find a compartment and one small bag that is removable.

On the back there are two additional compartments and the side pockets have room for water bottles, umbrella, or curling/straightening iron. Pick one up quick as it is marked as a last chance buy for $56.99 while they last.

VÄRLDENS Accessory bag

One last entry in the bags list is this little gem. You can use it for pencils, pens, markers, and anything else an artist, writer or child might want to bring along.

It also works very well as a mini toiletry kit for a weekend stay housing your toothbrush, toothpaste, moisturizers and makeup handily.

It measures 8 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches and has a zipper close to keep everything inside. These are only $4.99 and are worth every cent to keep smaller items organized.

VAGN Bottle, Set of 4

Perfect for your toiletry kits these bottles are also good for a carry-on. Store your moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner etc. in these right sized bottles. Ideal for a short trip they hold 3 ounces each, just enough for that long weekend escape. The have a removable screw cap and a flip top to access a small spout. Pick up the set of 4 for only $3.99.

HÄSTHAGE Luggage tags, 1 red, 1 black

These fun and cute luggage tags help your bag stand out from the others with the help of the iconic IKEA Swedish Dala horse. They are made of a sturdy synthetic rubber and a plastic sheet insert to protect your information. You get both the red and the black tags each measuring about 3.5 x 3.5 inches for just $2.99. Grab a couple for your next trip and giddy-up.

KNALLA umbrella

A compact umbrella that will easily tuck away into a tote bag is always a useful item to have on hand when traveling. In its compact state it is only 9.5" long and extends to 22.5 inches with a 37 inch diameter. Perfect for a lightweight individual umbrella.

Available in black, red or yellow, this $6.99 purchase will keep you dry when that sudden rain squall catches you off guard while shopping in Paris.

FINSKUREN Travel flatware with case

Closing this list is another very useful item to have on hand when traveling. I've written about this type of item in my traveler gift idea blog which featured a high-end offering from Hydroflask, but IKEA makes one that is simple, efficient and very reasonably priced.

$5.99 will net you a set of stainless steel cutlery and a small polyester pouch to tote them around in. The pouch has a slot on one side to slip the cutlery in and then you'll fold the flap over and secure with the elastic straps. Perfect for someone who prefers to dine in their hotel room on take out but loathe using those flimsy plastic utensils one gets with the food.

In keeping with the simplistic stylings of IKEA I'll just say that brings us to the end of another post. Hope that you saw a couple things that made you think "Oh, I could totally use that!"

I know I've added a couple of these to my shopping list since researching them.

Trevliga Resor! (Happy Travels)

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10 Really Great Travel Accessories You Can Buy at IKEA

From organizational pouches to full-fledged luggage, you can get everything you need for your next vacation at IKEA.

Published Jun 6, 2017 1:49 PM

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It’s no secret that we love Ikea’s home goods, but we also love Ikea for their infamous Frakta bag , and their food (it’s true!). While we couldn’t imagine we could possibly fall deeper in love with the brand, we stumbled upon yet another reason: Ikea hits the mark with their affordable travel accessories. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or have a huge trip on your agenda, Ikea can help get you ready for your next vacation. Are you in the market for a new suitcase? A toiletry bag? Both? Check out these offerings, and we’re pretty sure you’ll be making Ikea your go-to shop for all your travel needs.

This bag packs up nice and small making it the perfect extra bag to bring on a trip. You know, bonus space if you plan on shopping while you’re there.

KNALLA Sports Bag , $4.99.

Shoe bags are a lifesaver when your luggage only has one general space for all your clothes and (potentially dirty) shoes.

BRODERLIG Shoe Bag , $1.99

Rarely can you upgrade your backpack game for under $10. This bright option even comes with a removable tote bag—so you don’t have to take the whole backpack with you as you wander around a new city for the day.

STARTTID Backpack , $9.99

Don’t let your luggage turn into a black hole. Instead, keep your clothes as organized as possible with individual packing bags.

UPPTACKA Packing Bag , $9.99

We don’t know about you, but it’s hard to fit all our accessories into one small bag. Try getting a matching set of three instead. It doesn’t hurt that these mesh cases are see-through, eliminating time digging around for that matching earring.

FORFINA Accessory Bag , $6.99

While this simple carry-on looks rather unassuming, the under $15 dollar price tag makes it a gem.

STARTTID Carry-on Bag With Wheels , $14.99

A laundry bag is a must when traveling. This set makes it even easier when you get home, since you’ve already separated out your lights and darks.

BRODERLIG Laundry Bag , $2.49

If you have a skincare routine you can’t live without, but the jars are too heavy or large to pack in a carry-on, grab yourself some of these fun colored bottles. Now, you can have a mini version of your routine that’s perfect for travel.

UPPTACKA Bottles , $1.49

It’s hard to find a duffle bag on wheels for under $100. It’s even harder to find one that has a divider so you can separate your clean and dirty clothes—but here it is.

UPPTACKA Duffle Bag On Wheels , $79.99

Some great advice is to stow all the “messy” items (loose change, charging cords, etc)  inside neat pouches before you place them in your backpack or purse. These pouches from IKEA lay flat for an even more streamlined experience.

BRODERLIG Accessory Bag , $1.49

Related reading: 

This IKEA Staple Is The Star of a New Short Film How to Hack Your IKEA Kitchen on a Budget The Retro IKEA Pieces You Didn’t Know You Needed

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12 eco-friendly travel products from ikea you need to add to your packing list.

Whether it’s something as small as the packaging of your travel essentials or something as big as the bag you use when going on day tours, everything you bring with you on your trip has an impact on the environment. By making the conscious decision to choose eco-friendly and more sustainable alternatives to pack in your luggage for your summer vacations, you would be helping the earth breathe and, hopefully, inspire others to make the greener switch too!

Fortunately, these days, it isn’t difficult to find these eco-friendly travel must-haves just in time for your trips; all it takes is one visit to IKEA to complete your packing list.

Ahead, we’ve listed down 12 affordable travel essentials from IKEA that can help reduce your carbon footprint!

UNDERSÖKA insulated steel flask

A reusable bottle is one of those items you just can’t leave your home without! IKEA has plenty of water bottles for you to choose from, such as the UNDERSÖKA insulated flask (PHP590) which is made of stainless steel that can carry both cold and hot beverages and maintains their temperature for a really long time.

HOPTRASSLA bottle carrier

Pair your travel bottle like the UNDERSÖKA insulated flask with the HOPTRASSLA bottle carrier (PHP120) which makes carrying your bottles much easier and more convenient! The adjustable drawstring also keeps the bottle from falling out while you’re on the go. You can even use it to store your phone, cables, and other travel essentials!

VAGN travel bottles

These VAGN travel bottles (PHP150/4 pieces) are nifty for bringing liquid toiletries and skincare when traveling abroad. Each bottle can store 100ml of product at maximum so you never have to worry about your favorite product accidentally spilling everywhere inside your bag or being taken away at the airport security checks.

KALAS flatware set

Expecting to eat out often during your trip? Bringing your own flatware is the best way to cut down your usage of plastic cutlery. IKEA’s KALAS flatware collection (PHP100/18 pieces) already comes in six differently-colored sets for the whole family!

ISTAD resealable bags

What’s a summer trip without bringing snacks? IKEA’s ISTAD resealable bags (PHP150/60 pieces) are a life-changer because of how much you can store in them and how they’re completely recyclable, allowing you to use them again and again! What’s more, they’re made of bioplastics extracted from sugarcane. And with 60 pieces of these bags in one box for such an affordable price, there’s no limit to what you can use them for!

RENSARE clothes bags

The RENSARE clothes bags come in a set of 3 (PHP290) which is just the right number for keeping all your clothes neat and secure in your luggage! They’re also all made with 90% recycled polyester material.

VÄRLDENS accessory bags

Even your accessories and knick-knacks need their own containers too to keep them all together in one place! IKEA’s VÄRLDENS collection has a few mini bags (PHP190 each), also made with 90% recycled polyester, made for this purpose that can carry anything from your makeup and hair clips to your chargers and cables.

VÄRLDENS backpack

You’re guaranteed to fall in love with IKEA’s VÄRLDENS backpack (PHP2,190), particularly with just how useful it is when traveling around! It has a padded compartment that can hold a 15” laptop plus tons of pockets to easily compartmentalize your stuff. It even has space for your umbrella or water bottle on the side mesh pocket! With the adjustable straps, you can carry the backpack any way you want to–whether on your back or over the shoulder like a tote. And yup–it’s also made with 90% recycled polyester!

PARKLA shoe bag

Among all our clothes, it’s the shoes that we often struggle to pack into our luggage. IKEA has the solution for that with its PARKLA shoe bags (PHP40) that are made with 40% recycled polypropylene material. This shoe bag is so affordable and can fit two pairs of footwear inside!

SALTSTEN rain poncho

It’s always best to be prepared for every type of weather. IKEA’s SALTSTEN rain poncho (PHP490) that’s made of 90% recycled polyester fabric is a must-have to keep you dry during a sudden rainshower while traveling. It’s super easy to bring around too because it can fold into its own pocket and won’t take up space in your bag.

KUNGSFORS mesh bag

These 100% cotton mesh net bags (PHP350/2 pieces) were designed for carrying food and groceries safely and conveniently! With these, you can completely say goodbye to plastic bags at the supermarket.

ÖMSESIDIG picnic blanket

If you’re planning to go on nature hikes or trips to the park with friends or family on your trips, IKEA’s ÖMSESIDIG picnic blanket (PHP1,490) is a must-have to keep you warm and dry, no matter where you sit! It’s super lightweight and comes with easily adjustable straps with touch-and-close fasteners, making it convenient to carry around. It won’t take up much space in your luggage either. This picnic blanket is also made with recycled polyester base fabric and filling.

Indeed, with IKEA you can definitely go far with less. Shop at IKEA Pasay City or online at IKEA.ph to discover all these items and more so you can make a difference and achieve that waste-free summer vacation you and the world deserve!

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About The Author

WhenInManila.com's Associate Editor and Head of Entertainment. A storyteller since 8, but she swears she was a fortune-teller in her past life. When she isn't writing, she plays video games, screams about Formula 1, and does tarot readings as a form of therapy. Find her on Instagram, @reseaseo.

18 Simple Travel Essentials for 2024 & Beyond

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

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

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

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

Travel Essentials for Men & Women

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

Essential Travel Gear & Accessories

Personal item bag our top picks of 2024.

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

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

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

Travel Organizers Our Top Picks of 2024

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

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

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

Minimalist Wallet/Purse Slimfold Soft Shell Wallet Travelambo Purse

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

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

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

Bluetooth Headphones Apple AirPods Pro

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

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

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

Lightweight Titanium Water Bottle Our Top Picks of 2024

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

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

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

Laptop Case/Sleeve tomtoc 360°

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

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

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

Durable Phone Case OtterBox

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

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

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

Ultra-Compact & Lightweight Power Bank Nitecore NB10000 Gen II

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

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

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

Compact Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker JBL Go 3

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

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

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

Compact International Travel Adapter Anker 735

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

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

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

Compact Phone Kickstand/Tripod The Pocket Tripod

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

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

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

Ultralight Camera Clip Peak Design Capture

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

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

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

High-Quality Travel Journal Moleskine

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

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

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

The Write Everywhere Pen Fisher Space Pen

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

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

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

Noise-Blocking Earplugs Howard Leight by Honeywell

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

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

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

Essential Travel Clothing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Six Tips for a Perfect Packing List

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

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

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

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

Focus on Multi-Purpose Essentials

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

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

Aim for Compact and Lightweight Gear

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

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

Do Your Homework Before You Buy

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

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

Embrace Minimalism

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

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

Invest in Quality — Buy Once, Cry Once

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

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

Final Thoughts: Travel Essentials for 2024

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

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

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

Last Updated on March 19, 2024

Lauren De Almeida

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The Ikea Essentials: Editors’ 10 Favorite Kitchen Tools

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When it comes to kitchenware, Remodelista editors are known to stockpile a few trusty (and inexpensive) Ikea standbys. Here are our most-reached-for favorites.

For more Ikea favorites, see our posts:

• Ikea Storage Solutions for Minimalists on a Budget
• 10 Favorites: Best of Ikea’s 2018 Collection
• In Praise of Ikea: 15 Ikea Kitchens from the Remodelista Archives

N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran on January 19, 2017.

Product summary   Item 6 161 Item 7 162

Tekla Dish Towels

Ikea 365+ Glass

Sinnerlig Jar

Blanda Glass Serving Bowl

Vardagen Measuring Cup

Grunka 4-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set

Fantast Meat Thermometer/Timer, Digital Black

Ordning Colander

Ikea 365+ Carafe with Stopper

Explore deeper into these areas.

• Editors' Picks
• 10 Favorites
• Kitchen Accessories
• Kitchen Tools
• Kitchenware
• Product Discoveries

Kitchen of the Week: A Designer's Own Ikea Hack Kitchen in Provence, Before and After

10 things nobody tells you about renovating your kitchen, have a question or comment about this post, related stories.

Spring Things: 7 Finds for a Seasonal Freshen-Up from the Remodelista Editors

Editors’ Picks: 10 Essential Kitchen Tools

The Year of Socks: 11 Favorite Pairs (for a Bit of Color in Midwinter)

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8 packing essentials when traveling across Southeast Asia, according to our reporters

• Southeast Asia is a popular tourist destination thanks to the region's year-round tropical weather. 
• But traveling the region can be uncomfortable — especially if you don't pack the right items with you.
• Insider's reporters' packing essentials can make your trip better, whether it rains or shines.

Southeast Asia is one of the most popular regions to travel in the world — in 2019, it drew over 147 million tourists .

The region is famous for its deep culture, flavorful cuisines, tropical weather, and gorgeous natural landscapes.

Many of Insider's Singapore-based reporters have spent years traveling across Southeast Asia, from the temples of Thailand to the beaches of Indonesia and beyond. Below, eight of us have pooled our top packing tips for tourists exploring Southeast Asia, whether you're here for a weekend or spending several weeks backpacking around.

1. A DIY sun and heat protection kit

To protect myself from the blazing sun, I always pack a DIY sun and heat kit that consists of three key things: a retractable sunscreen stick, an electronic handheld fan, and a UV umbrella.

The UV index in many Southeast Asian countries is generally on the higher side than in many places in the US , so I always bring a retractable sunscreen stick to protect myself from UV rays. It's also small enough to bring as a carry-on.

Since most of these countries are warm and humid, a rechargeable handheld electronic fan — with different wind speed modes — keeps me cool on days when the air is especially still.

Lastly, I also keep a UV umbrella in my bag to shade my face from the afternoon sun and keep me dry during the sudden downpours of tropical rain.

— Amanda Goh, real-estate reporter

2. A pack of cold wipes to keep me cool in the heat

I was born and raised in Singapore, but anything over 90 degrees turns me into a sweaty mess.

I recommend Gatsby's "Ice-Type" cold wipes for my fellow heat-averse travelers. They come in various versions, including some for the face , and deodorizing, scented wipes for the body to keep you cool as a cat.

When traveling in other countries, I also make sure to wear dry-fit clothing, which wicks sweat.

— Cheryl Teh, news editor

3. A three-in-one foldable charging station

When I'm on the go, I always make sure I'm powered up by packing a universal converter, a charging station, and a portable battery.

Sockets vary across Asia and, after working as a travel reporter in the region for over 15 years, and more recently traveling as a mother , I vowed never to find myself stuck without the correct plug again. My go-to adapter features four plugs that are compatible with most countries, in addition to boasting five USB ports, and it isn't overly bulky.

When traveling across Southeast Asia, I use contactless payment at most restaurants and hotels, ride-hailing apps to get around, and Google Maps to avoid getting lost, so being charged up is key. The portable battery makes sure there's always a backup.

And, as these days it's not just about a phone — earphones and watches need juice too — I always bring my three-in-one foldable charging station . In the new work-from-anywhere world, this helped me set up a makeshift office at a café in Ubud when needed — as featured in the photo above.

— Alexandra Karplus, life and culture editor

4. A tourist eSIM card

I recommend travelers pick up a tourist eSIM card to dodge expensive roaming fees.

I often travel to Malaysia on the weekends, which is just a bridge away from Singapore. I used to spend way too much time fiddling around with the tiny iPhone ejector pins and physical SIM cards.

These days, I buy eSIM cards — an electronic SIM card that doesn't require any switching — before traveling. This way, I no longer have to commit to an overpriced tourist SIM card deal from the airport.

— Harris Jamaluddin, social media producer

6. A full suite of ride-hailing apps

I make sure to install and update ride-hailing apps on my phone before every trip.

Hailing non-metered taxis off the streets of some Southeast Asia cities can be stressful, as it often involves haggling. But ride-hailing apps have made hailing a taxi, scooter, or tuk-tuk — an open-air vehicle popular in places like Thailand — super simple.

I always make sure I have Grab and Gojek — the Southeast Asian equivalents of Uber — ride-hailing apps on my phone before traveling. Grab is available in eight countries in the region while Gojek is available in Indonesia, Singapore, and Vietnam.

In some parts of Laos, where Grab and Gojek aren't available, I've used Loca, a local ride-hailing app. South Korean ride-hailing platform Tada is also expanding in Southeast Asia. As prices go up and down depending on demand, checking different platforms is a great way to get the best price.

— Huileng Tan, senior business news reporter

6. A set of travel cutlery

I have quite a bit of experience backpacking around Southeast Asia, and one thing that's come in handy time and time again is a set of travel cutlery.

It's made dining on the go more comfortable in situations where I've been dealing with poorly equipped hostel kitchens, visiting the convenience store late at night, or traveling on a bus or train between destinations. I've also happened to stay in Airbnbs that didn't provide cutlery

On top of that, it's also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint when traveling — there's no need to dispose of single-use plastics. The IKEA travel cutlery set has served me well and includes a stainless steel knife, fork, and spoon wrapped in a black linen cloth.   

— Kai Teo, jr. business news reporter

7. High-quality flip-flops

I've swum everywhere from the coasts of Krabi, Thailand, to the Bali waves — and along the way, I've broken my fair share of flip-flops. Now, high-quality flip-flops are always on my packing list, even if they cost a bit more.

I recommend wearing high-quality footwear like waterproof sandals that stay wrapped around your feet , or flip-flops that are non-slip and made of a thick material that makes it difficult for rocks and sea creatures to pierce through.

Travelers with bigger feet might find it difficult to find a pair of shoes that fit them in Asia, where sizes tend to be smaller, so it's probably best to buy these at home before you start your trip.

— Marielle Descalsota, jr. travel reporter

Editor's note: Some might think that Crocs are only for moms and kids, but  Crocs flip flops are slip-resistant, durable, and can even be worn in the water. 

8. Insect repellent and wet wipes

Dengue is a major health risk in Southeast Asia, so I always carry a bottle of mosquito repellent on my travels. It's a must if you plan to spend the day exploring Vietnam's roadside food eateries or sitting on a beach in Indonesia.

You can also get them as patches , which you can stick to your clothes or luggage to keep the bugs at bay.

— Nidhi Pandurangi, business editor

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Ikea closes all stores and factories in Russia amid exodus of western firms

Top brands from M&S to Apple, Jaguar Land Rover, Expedia and Coca-Cola are suspending operations

Ikea has temporarily closed all stores and factories across Russia in a move affecting 15,000 workers, becoming the latest in a swathe of western firms to halt operations in the country since it invaded Ukraine .

The Swedish flatpack furniture company has mothballed its 17 outlets across Russia but said it would keep its Mega shopping centres open to allow access to essential retailers, such as food shops and pharmacies. The news prompted a rush of shoppers at the stores due to close.

Production at three manufacturing sites in Russia will also be paused, and all imports and exports in and out of the country and its ally Belarus will be halted.

Brands that have quit Russia

A number of companies have pulled their operations and services in Russia since its invasion of Ukraine. These include:

• Ikea has temporarily closed all stores and factories in Russia, affecting 15,000 workers. It has shuttered its 17 outlets across Russia but said it would keep its Mega shopping centres open.
• H&M has temporarily suspended all sales in Russia. The firm said that shops in Ukraine had already been closed temporarily “due to the safety of customers and colleagues”.
• JD Sports has ceased all trading in Russia across both its brand websites and wholesale channels, adding that it represented less than 0.05% of annual revenues.
• Mango, the Spanish clothing retailer, said it was temporarily closing its shops and its online sale website in Russia, while it is monitoring “with sadness and concern” the situation in Ukraine.
• Nike has said it is stopping Russian customers from buying online.
• Adidas has suspended its partnership with the Russian Football Union.
• Marks & Spencer has suspended shipments to its Turkish franchisee’s Russian business. Operation ceased last week at its 10 stores in Ukraine, which employs 250 people. It has 48 stores in Russia and 1,200 employees, also via the franchisee.
• Boohoo has halted sales in Russia and closed its Russian trading websites.
• Asos has suspended sales in Russia. It said it was “neither practical nor right to continue to trade in Russia”.
• Airbnb has suspended all operations in Russia and Belarus. It has also taking bookings from people in both countries.
• Expedia has stopped selling travel in and out of Russia.
• Volkswagen has stopped production of vehicles in Russia “until further notice”. Vehicle exports to Russia have also been stopped "with immediate effect”, it said.
• Toyota halted production at its St Petersburg plant and vehicle imports into the country have also stopped indefinitely.
• General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover and Renault have halted sales and operations in Russia. Mercedes-Benz said it will stop selling cars and vans to Russia, as has Aston Martin. Harley-Davidson has halted motorcycle shipments to Russia.

Drinks industry

• Diageo, the maker of Smirnoff vodka and Guinness has paused exports to Russia and Ukraine.
• Coca-Cola HBC has halted production at its bottling factory in Kyiv and evacuated its employees.

Tech, media and entertainment

• Apple has paused sales in Russia.
• Meta, owner of Facebook, said it had stopped recommending content from Russian state media to all users of Facebook, with Instagram to follow.
• Google has suspended all advertising in Russia after the country’s internet regulator demanded the company stop showing what it considered were adverts displaying false information about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
• Walt Disney Company is pausing its release of films in Russia.
• Netflix said it has no plans to distribute news, sports and entertainment channels from Russian state media.

Luxury goods companies

• Burberry has halted all shipments of luxury goods to Russia “due to operational challenges".

Manufacturing

• JCB, the British construction equipment maker, said it had paused all operations, including the export of machine and spare parts in the country.

Brand owner Inter Ikea and store owner Ingka Group said they had “secured employment and income stability” for the workers directly impacted by the decisions, including its 416 co-workers in Ukraine, where its one store and online operations have been suspended since the start of the invasion on 24 February.

It was one of several firms announcing the suspension of activities in Russia on Thursday.

M&S said it has suspended shipments to its Turkish franchisee’s business in Russia, which has 48 stores and 1,200 employees. The British retailer said: “We are building on our existing support for Unicef’s UK’s Ukraine appeal with a £1.5m package to support the UN Refugee Agency and Unicef to help children and families in need.”

It also said it was sending £0.5m of coats and thermals to Ukraine, where it ceased operations at 10 stores a week ago.

Volkswagen Group announced it had stopped production of vehicles in Russia until further notice, a decision affecting the Russian production sites in Kaluga and Nizhny Novgorod. Vehicle exports to Russia have also been stopped with immediate effect, it said.

Diageo, which makes Smirnoff vodka and Guinness, said it had paused exports to Russia and Ukraine, while the Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company announced it had halted production at its factory in Kyiv and evacuated its employees.

The London-listed company is one of the main bottlers for Coca-Cola worldwide and generated a fifth of its sales and operating profit from Russia and Ukraine last year.

Online booking firm Expedia said it had stopped selling travel in and out of Russia, making it one of the first travel companies to announce such a move.

Ikea has had a presence in Russia since 2000 and is understood to be one of its largest western employers.

It made retail sales of €1.6bn (£1.3 bn) in Russia in the last financial year, which accounts for 4% of total retail sales.

A spokesperson said: “The war has a huge human impact already. It is also resulting in serious disruptions to supply chain and trading conditions. For all of these reasons, the company groups have decided to temporarily pause Ikea operations in Russia.”

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began last week, there has been an exodus of western companies from Russia.

They include some big names in fashion . On Wednesday, the British online retailers Boohoo and Asos announced they had suspended sales in the country, as did the Swedish clothing giant H&M.

Boohoo said it halted sales immediately after the invasion began and has closed its Russian trading websites. The company said: “Sales made by the group into Russia are not material, totalling less than 0.1% of group revenues.”

A spokesperson for Asos said it had “decided that it is neither practical nor right to continue to trade in Russia”. The country accounted for 4% of the group’s sales and contributed about £20m to profits last year.

H&M currently has more than 150 stores in Russia, its 2020 annual report says, which will all be shuttered. Its shops in Ukraine have already been closed temporarily due to safety concerns.

The Spanish fashion retailer Mango announced a temporary closure of its 120 shops in Russia and its online sales site there.

Burberry said it had ceased shipments to the country, effectively shutting down its online operation there. The British luxury fashion brand has three stores in Russia, one of which is run by a franchisee and one in Moscow’s Red Square, and these currently remain open but they are not receiving new deliveries.

Nike has said it is preventing Russian customers from buying online and Adidas has suspended its partnership with the Russian Football Union.

Other brands to have taken action include Apple which is pausing sales and Meta, the owner of Facebook, which said it had stopped recommending content from Russian state media to all users of Facebook, with Instagram set to follow.

Carmaker Ford said it had suspended its commercial van joint venture in Russia “until further notice”. And in the past few days, General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover and Renault have all halted sales and operations in Russia.

The Walt Disney Company, Sony and Warner Bros have said they are pausing their release of films in Russia while Netflix also announced it has no plans to distribute news, sport and entertainment channels from Russian state media.

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