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Travel Size First-Aid Kit: What to Pack & Downloadable Checklist

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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When you pack for a trip, especially a trip overseas, it’s easy to forget about medications and first-aid. That’s why you should always bring a basic first-aid kit with you on your travels.

I always keep a pre-packed first-aid kit ready to go so I don’t have to think twice about it when I’m packing. Of course, you may need additional items depending on where you’re going and what activities you have planned. But this first-aid kit packing list covers the basics.

15 Tiny Travel Products to Help You Stay Healthy on Vacation

What Do I Need in My Travel First-Aid Kit?

These everyday medications will take care of most common aches and pains that come with a long day of travel.

• Antihistamine
• Antacid tablets
• Hydration pills or electrolyte replenishers
• Cold relief medicine
• Motion sickness relief
• Muscle relaxer

For minor bumps and bruises, make sure you have these emergency first aid supplies in your medical kit.

• Various sized bandages
• Alcohol swabs or antiseptic wipes
• First aid balm or sting relief, anti-itch cream , & antibiotic cream

From treating splinters to sunburns, these miscellaneous items are must-haves in your travel first aid kit.

• Thermometer
• Hand sanitizer

First-Aid Kit Tips

• Look in the school supply section of your local drugstore for a small container, or order a small tackle box from Amazon .
• Only separate medication from its labeled bottle if you know you’ll be able to differentiate pills.
• Keep prescription medications separate from your first-aid kit.
• Include over-the-counter (OTC) medication based on your needs; i.e., if you’re traveling on a cruise and need motion sickness pills, make sure to include those.
• Pack a natural balm like GREEN GOO First Aid , which can relieve symptoms for dry skin, insect bites, scrapes, rashes, chafing, cuts, sunburns, blisters, and poison ivy.
• Include various-sized bandages ; they double for blister protection if you plan on doing a lot of walking.
• Hand sanitizer , a small tissue pack , lip balm , and sunscreen are also must-haves.
• Be sure to fill out the Medical ID on your iPhone and list any allergies, emergency contacts, and your doctor’s information.
• Keep a laminated copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card accessible during your travels as well as a photo of your card available on your phone.
• Remember to pack extra face masks if you plan on visiting a destination or attending an event where masking is required

Download and print this checklist to make your own travel first-aid kit.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Family Travel Kit – Learn From Our Mistakes!

When you have kids in tow there are some essentials that just make life easier. These are items that have certainly been fantastic while traveling with our littles. Please Enjoy Our Family Travel Kit.

Let’s start with AFFORDABLE luggage. Packing for the whole family is a lot of work and a lot of luggage. No need to over spend for fancy luggage, the airlines are probably going to ruin it anyway. Checkout our go to brand for affordable luggage for the whole fam here. COOLIFE luggage for the whole fam!

Packing C ubes

And to keep everyone’s clothes organized don’t forget to grab packing cubes! We like to pack everyone’s outfits for one day together in a cube for easy access and organization on vaca. Don’t skip the packing cubes!

Travel P illows

Whether you’re flying or driving, long travel days are exhausting. Keep your whole family a little bit more comfortable with our favorite travel pillows. This is not your average travel pillow. Double up the side you want to rest your head for extra comfort. B Cozzy Travel Pillows

Travel C ar Seat

We love this travel car seat for the airplane. No need to carry around those bulky car seats that require an engineering degree to install. The WAYB Pico Travel Car Seat folds up into its own case for easy carrying and is super easy to install. For kids 22-50lbs. Best Travel Car Seat

Kids Headphones

Speaking of kids on an airplane, make sure they all have their own headphones to watch their favorite shows on the airplane headrest screens. Also great for car travel! POGS come in the funnest colors!

Travel Stroller | Family Travel Kit

Nobody wants to lug around their bulky travel system strollers on vacation either. It’ll take up much needed luggage space in the car! Checkout our favorite travel stroller brand HERE!

Sound Machine  | Family Travel Kit

And to help everyone sleep in the hotel, don’t forget a sound machine. We like the Hatch Mini because it’s not too big to throw in the suitcase and can be operated from your phone. 

Hatch Mini Sound Machine

Slumber Pod | Family Travel Kit

If you’re traveling with crib aged littles, do not even think about traveling without a SlumberPod. It’s a blackout sleep nook that allows babes to sleep in a crib or play yard without being disturbed by the lights and movements of others sharing the room. 

SlumberPod Baby Sleeping Quarters

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How to Prepare a First Aid Kit for Kids for Any Trip

Posted on Last updated: June 4, 2024

Home » Travel Tips » How to Prepare a First Aid Kit for Kids for Any Trip

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Are you planning a family vacation and want to feel prepared? Keep scrolling to get my top tips for how to create a travel first aid kit for kids!

This travel first aid kit for kids packing list post was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Are you looking for a way to prepare your family for any kind of travel? If so, then this article is perfect for you! In it, I’ll be sharing my top tips on how to create a travel first aid kit.

These are great if you’re planning a long road trip with the kids, going on vacation at a resort, or camping with them. And they’re even useful when traveling internationally!

You’ll learn what items should go in your travel kit for kids and why they’re important. So keep reading and get ready to feel prepared no matter where life takes you!

When packing for family trips, there’s nothing worse than realizing that something crucial was left behind. That’s why it’s always best to plan ahead by creating an emergency first aid kit before heading out the door.

This will ensure that all bases are covered during your journey – no matter what comes up along the way!

Whether it’s an upset stomach from eating too much ice cream or getting stung by a bee while hiking through the woods, these supplies will help make sure everyone stays safe and healthy throughout their travels together.

Plus, having everything in one place makes things easier when trying to find medicine quickly in case of emergencies like fevers or allergic reactions.

It also helps prevent panic attacks from parents who don’t know where anything is located within their home cabinets (been there!).

Trust me – once you have everything organized into one place like this list recommends.

You’ll be surprised at how much stuff can fit into one small bag. I’ve even included some of the items that we use on our trips!

It’s also important to note that this is not an exhaustive list but rather just what I have found works best in our travels.

Pack these items before your next big adventure so you can focus on having fun instead of worrying about whether or not there will be bandages if someone gets hurt.

And don’t forget – always check expiration dates before using anything from the kit!!

Happy traveling, everyone!

Travel First Aid Kit FAQs

It can be really helpful to have a first aid guidebook , in case you get flustered. You’ll also want lots of bandages and Neosporin. I’d also add in something to help soothe teething pain.

I’d add in infant Tylenol and infant ibuprofen . You might also include baby nail clippers, cotton balls, and a NoseFrida .

In case your car breaks down, it’s nice to have emergency blankets . You can also include cold packs , a first aid guide , and these vomit bags .

What to Put in a Travel First Aid Kit

What to include in a travel first aid kit really depends on where you are going.

Traveling to remote jungles or deserts poses different potential risks than a resort vacation in a well-populated area. It’s always helpful to check the CDC website for any recommended vaccines or medicine to pack.

Next, consider how easy or difficult it will be to acquire medical and first aid equipment in your destination. Are there local pharmacies that will sell items you frequently use?

Even if you are going somewhere remote, you will need less personal first aid equipment if you are traveling on an organized trek because this will be provided for you.

Whether you are staying in a town or the wilderness, though, there are certain things that should be found in any first aid kit for travelers.

DIY Travel First Aid Kit Items

Anything brand-specific.

If you prefer certain brands, take them with you , even if the items are easy to buy overseas. It will save you a lot of stress and keep you from wasting time looking for items at local pharmacies.

Oral Medications

This applies particularly to oral medication. While you may be able to purchase antihistamines at your destination, you may find you can’t purchase the non-drowsy kind.

If you will be driving on a road trip then take the non-drowsy kind with you if you think you may need them.

To ensure that the antihistamines you take are non-drowsy, they should contain “loratadine.” If you take medication from home, retain the original packaging in case of questions at airport security.

Baby Products

If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, you might want to include any specific ointments that work well for your child.

This also applies to any baby Tylenol, teething items, gripe water, etc. We even have stashed extra pacifiers because our kids were super particular about the brand.

Painkillers

Painkillers containing aspirin, paracetamol, or ibuprofen will be effective against a host of problems such as headaches, back pain, menstrual discomfort, and toothaches.

If you have children, be sure to take the soluble kind with you as they may not be universally available.

You should take blister packs of anything in tablet form because when carried loose, even in a tightly sealed bottle, they can absorb any moisture around and this will render them ineffective.

I always do this with allergy medicine, like Claritin or Allegra .

It can also be helpful to add dissolve-in-your-mouth medication in case you don’t have anything to drink with it.

And for kids, make sure to have baby Tylenol and/or children’s chewable Tylenol .

Some antiseptic -like antiseptic wipes – is a must. You may need to cover a wound before you can get some water to clean it and if this is the case then an antiseptic wipe or spray will kill any germs in the wound.

For ointment, our family goes through a lot of Neosporin. This tube is great. Plus, they even have a wound cleanser for kids .

Bandages or Band Aids

Plasters and bandages are the most important thing if you are camping or planning a remote vacation. You never know when someone will get hurt out in nature.

The trick here is to pack a variety of sizes of bandages . That way, you’ll have the right size no matter how big the cut is.

We used to include character bandages but quickly learned it was better to just pack plain bandages like these .

If you will be away from medical facilities, it’s good to also pack a sling . You may be able to improvise a sling if necessary but don’t rely on always having something appropriate to hand.

And it’s a good idea to pack an ace bandage . A couple of safety pins should be included for securing bandages, in case you lose the clips.

Tummy Medicine

Toilet troubles are super common when traveling away from home, especially in hot weather.

And any change in our diets can work in two ways. It can stop us up, or it can cause us to be rushing in pain to the nearest toilet.

Eating plenty of fiber (or adding in Miralax ) and taking in plenty of fluids will help to prevent constipation. But it’s wise to pack an over-the-counter remedy in case of more severe problems.

Diarrhea can be unpleasant and debilitating. Pack an over-the-counter remedy that contains “loperamide,” such as Imodium as well as sachets of an oral rehydration remedy like this one will replace lost fluids and restore salt levels.

Allergies and Skin Problems

Sunscreen can be bought worldwide, but if you want a very high factor of protection, you should take it with you.

Not everyone is as concerned with minimizing the harmful effects of the sun as you may be. We tend to only use reef-safe sunscreen , too.

In addition, you may need an after-sun product. If you do, consider taking one that contains aloe vera which can also be used to soothe other skin conditions such as some allergies and prickly heat. We love Maui Vera or Sun Bum !

A good anti-histamine will provide some relief from bites and allergies. Take them with you if you have a preferred brand, as you may find choice limited wherever you are going.

You can also add an anti-itch medicine to your stash of first aid items.

Motion Sickness

Travel sickness medicine: we may travel well at home, but traveling when overseas may cause inexperienced travel sickness, especially on uneven roads in hot, cramped vehicles.

Choose something that is suitable for all kinds of motion sickness. Personally, I always use Dramamine . Some medicines have different recommendations and may be better for sea journeys.

First Aid Kit Tools

Extras like scissors , tweezers , and a thermometer are useful additions to a first aid kit.

If you are carrying luggage on an airplane, be aware that you may not pack scissors or tweezers in carry-on bags. Instead, you should place these items in checked luggage or buy them at your destination.

Tweezers can be used to remove splinters of glass or grit from cuts and other wounds and ticks or stings.

If you are concerned about hygiene standards where you are going, then consider taking a pack of sterile needles and syringes .

If you choose not to do this and still have concerns, then insist on seeing the person attending to you remove these items from their wrappers to ensure they are clean.

Ready-Made Family Travel First Aid Kits

Sometimes, the easiest way to create a first aid kit for kids is to start off with one that’s ready-made and add your own items.

Personally, I think THIS is the best travel first aid kit.

Small First Aid Kits

If you’re looking for a first aid kit to throw in your diaper bag or carry-on luggage, the DecorRack First Aid Kit is a great option. It has 84 pieces compactly stored in a small plastic case.

We also like this Hard Shell Mini Compact First Aid Kit . It has 85 essential first aid supplies for treating common cuts, scrapes, minor aches, and injuries.

Plus, there are scissors, gloves, tweezers, a rescue whistle, a mouth-to-mouth mask, and other things besides an array of bandages.

First Aid Kit for Car Adventures

This Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit is really helpful for minor cuts, scrapes, sprains, and burns. It has 140 pieces, and it’s perfect for your glove box or in an RV.

Another option for a car first aid kit is this Mini Survival First Aid Kit . This is a 112-piece kit that’s helpful for outdoor adventures like camping and hiking.

And if space isn’t an issue and you want to be fully prepared, order this Trauma First Aid Kit . This is a great first aid kit for road trips.

It has all the regular first aid supplies plus a flashlight, knife, fire starter, compass, whistle, emergency blanket, and more.

Best First Aid Kit for International Travel

For international travel where you aren’t sure you’ll be able to find medicine, get this International Traveler First Aid Kit . You can find similar first aid kids, but I like this one because all the medicine is individually wrapped, which is super helpful.

Another option is this Complete Travel Size Medicine Kit with 6 different travel medications.

This first aid kit includes medication for fevers, headaches, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, motion sickness, allergies, tummy aches, insomnia, heartburn, and dehydration.

First Aid Kit for Kids Wrap-Up

In this post, I have shared some of my favorite first aid items to pack in a travel first aid kit for families.

Remember that the key is finding things with more than one purpose and taking these whenever possible.

It may seem pessimistic to take so many supplies, but it’s better to come home without any need for them than to have taken them on your trip.

If you are traveling with a partner, share the burden by splitting up the kit to save room. This makes a first aid kit more handy, thus easier to bring out anything that’s needed.

We hope that we’ve been helpful and look forward to hearing from you!

Check out our other family travel content below if interested!

Looking for more family travel tips? Find out how to go camping in fall , best tips for road tripping while pregnant , tips for getting through airport security with kids , and tips for packing for winter travel .

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Ultimate Family Travel Packing List

This ultimate family travel packing list will help keep you organized and ensure you don’t forget anything before you leave on your next trip.

There are so many things to think about when travelling with kids.

To make the process easier, it’s always best to have a packing list handy.

It can be hard to remember everything you need for an overnight trip or long flight, let alone all of the little details that will keep your family happy and comfortable!

That’s why we’ve created this blog post – packed full of useful tips and items that will help you pack like a pro next time you’re travelling with kids.

This family travel packing list covers everything from your clothes and travel gear to all the little things that will keep your kids happy while you are travelling.

To make it easy to read, we’ve included links in each section so you can easily find what you’re looking for.

We’ve also included links to Amazon, in case you want to learn more about certain products. (We only recommend products that we personally use and love!)

Before You Go

Before you even start packing, there are some preparations to be made. In addition to the obvious ones like booking travel tickets and accommodation and ensuring passports are up to date, there are a few other things to do before you leave.

• Book travel tickets
• Check if visas are needed
• Ensure passports are up to date and valid for 6 months past your return date
•  Check if vaccinations are up to date, or needed for travel
• Purchase travel insurance
• Organize documents and photocopy an extra set
• Book accommodations , at least for the first few nights
• If you own a home, turn down the heat, close and lock all windows and doors, arrange for mail to be picked up, empty the garbage and arrange for someone to check on your house

Read more | 16 Things to Do Before Leaving for Vacation

How long of a trip is this family travel packing list good for?

This family travel packing list is perfect to use for any length of travel, whether you are going away for one week or a few months.

We’ve noted where things may be added or not necessary, depending on how long you are travelling for.

For instance, if you are travelling for a week you won’t need to bring laundry soap, but if you are travelling for a few months, laundry soap will come in handy!

Family Travel Packing List at a Glance

Documents: Passport, ID, Driver’s License, tickets, flight/train/hotel reservations, visas, International Drivers license, health insurance, travel insurance, credit card, emergency contact info

Carry-on Essentials: phone, book/magazine, gum, pen, snacks, water bottle, lip chap, sunglasses, tissues, activities for kids

Luggage: backpack or suitcase, carry on or personal bag, packing cubes, travel organizers

Clothing: tanks, tees, sweater, pants, skirt, dress, shorts, bathing suit, hat, scarf, undies, bras, socks

Shoes: walking shoes, hiking boots, shower shoes or flip flops

Accesories: coat, hat, mitts, warm scarf

Toiletries: shampoo, soap, toothpaste & brush, hairbrush, elastics, face moisturizer, makeup, deodorant, quick dry towel

First Aid Kit: – bandaids, gauze, ointment, scissors, tweezers, thermometer, pain relievers

Electronics: camera, lens, memory card, battery charger, USB Flashdrive, portable speaker & cord, laptop & charger, phone & charger, external hard drive, headphones/ear buds, tablet

Other travel accessories: door stop, water purifier, travel clothesline, clothespins, laundry soap, laundry bag, Ziploc bags, umbrella, sunscreen, aloe vera gel (for after sun!)

Apps: booking.com, airbnb, google maps, google translate, maps.me, XE currency, whatsapp, skype

Read more | 15 Great FREE Travel Apps for Families

Types of Luggage

You will also need to decide what kind of luggage you are using.

This may depend on how long you are travelling for – if you are heading away for a week, you may only need a carry-on bag but if you are travelling for a few months, you may want a larger suitcase or backpack.

Read more | How to Travel with Carry On Only: 11 Tips to Pack Light

Other things to consider are the ages of your kids. Can they carry their own things or you need to pack their clothes as well?

Depending on the answer, you may need a bigger suitcase or if your kids are carrying their own suitcases, you may only need a smaller one.

We travel with either a 55L Osprey backpack (that holds all the clothes as well as the extra travel stuff), or a small carry-on size backpack, two small carryon suitcases (for the boys’ books and toys), two small backpacks (boys’ carryon bags) and a larger carryon (mom) with the camera and carry-on things.

Travel Gear for Family Travel

Adult Luggage : Backpack versus suitcase is a great debate and it really just comes down to personal preference. I’ve used both and prefer having a backpack, especially with young kids, so that my hands are free.

The Osprey Fairview is what I use now.

I love that it opens up similar to a suitcase so you can access everything inside, not just what’s at the top. It also has a handy day pack that zips off when needed. 

I have both the 40L and the 55L and use the larger one when we travel for more than a month.

Kids luggage: Kid luggage is a bit trickier. Depending on the age (and size) of your child, traditional carry-on luggage may be too heavy and awkward for them to use.

There are plenty of suitcases designed for kids, but some aren’t practical for travelling.

We’ve found that wheeled suitcases are good, but two wheels work better than the 4 wheeled suitcases.

The boys use these lightweight fabric suitcases , which are a touch smaller and lighter than a regular carry-on size suitcase. They’ve been carrying their own suitcases since they were 4 and these were perfect size for them to manage.

Read more | The Best Carry-On Luggage for Family Travel in 2022

Daypacks: We all have a carry-on backpack that doubles as a daypack. Mom carries a Neewer Camera Bag that holds the cameras, while the boys carry their own daypack with the things they need (activities, change of clothes, water and some snacks).

I also take this carry-on bag that holds the camera bag, plus anything else we need to keep handy. It’s pretty large and can also double as a day bag on our travels, if we aren’t taking the camera bag.

Packing Cubes: We love compression packing cubes and everyone has a different coloured set, which makes it easier for us to stay organized. 

If you’re not using packing cubes yet, here’s a whole post on why you should use them .

Cord Organizer: This Bagsmart cord organizer has been a lifesaver for me! It holds all the cords, chargers, USB sticks, SIM cards and earphones and it zips closed, keeping everything neatly in one spot.

Passport and Document Organizer: This travel wallet is handy to keep everything together, all the passports, tickets, boarding passes etc. We also carry a few other documents, including a reference card and emergency contact card. You can find a list of essential documents here.

Other Gear You May Want to Pack

Laundry Bag:   We just use an extra pillow case to hold the dirty laundry but you can find specific laundry bags to use. Really, anything that will keep the clean and dirty clothes separate works!

Wet Bag: If you’re planning on spending some time at the beach or a pool, a wet bag may come in handy! We use ours to put wet bathing suits in, whether to come back from a day at the beach, or if we are leaving the hotel before our bathing suits are fully dry.

Clothespins: Clothespins are handy for a few different things! Many places won’t have a dryer, so you might need to hang laundry to dry. Clothespins are also great for clipping curtains together to keep out the light!

Travel Towel: If you’re staying at a hotel, you may not need a travel towel, but if you’re staying at a hostel or other type of accommodation, you may need one!

There are so many different options, from a small, compact travel towel to larger, but AMAZING, Turkish towels.

Decide which works best for you, depending on how much room you have in your luggage!

Dishes: We travel with two small bowls, two plastic plates and two plastic cups.

If you’re staying in apartments or airbnb’s on your travels, they probably have dishes, but they may not have kid-size dishes.

I always feel better taking our own non-breakable ones for the boys to use.

They also come in handy if you are eating a meal in a hotel room!

Laundry Soap: While we don’t always carry this, if you’re planning on being away for more than a few weeks and need to do laundry, you can always bring a bit of your own laundry soap.

We used to carry a small Ziploc bag of laundry powder, measured out to do a few loads while we are away, but recently I’ve switched to using these amazing laundry sheets !

Reusable Bag: Many places are not providing plastic bags anymore, so having your own reusable bag is a good idea!

There are many small bags that fold up into a small pouch and easily fit in your purse or daypack.

They’re great for getting groceries or to use as an extra bag when your kids decide they don’t want to wear their sweater/hat/sunglasses anymore!

Door Stop Alarm: As a solo parent travelling with kids, I feel much safer bringing this door stop alarm along! We’ve used it in hotels as well as apartments and it just makes me feel a touch safer!

Get the Packing List Delivered to Your Inbox

Clothing to pack for family travel.

Much of this list will depend WHERE you are travelling to and the climate there.

Use this family travel packing list as a basic list, omitting what you don’t need.

Keep in mind that you will inevitably overpack and you won’t need everything you pack!

You can always do laundry or rinse clothes out in the bathroom sink.

Tops: Aim for 7 tops, a mix of t-shirts, long sleeve and tank tops, depending on the climate

Bottoms: 4 or 5 bottoms, a mix of shorts and pants (jeans, dress pants, comfy pants)

Sweater: one zip up sweater (if you’re flying, wear this on the plane!) and one fleece (depending on climate)

Coat: Chances are you will need at least one type of jacket, whether it’s a rain jacket or thicker winter jacket. I like the puffer style winter jackets, as they pack really well.

Scarf: I always bring a scarf with me. It’s great for those chilly airplane drafts and can be worn over the hair/head if needed in certain places.

Underwear: 7 to 10 underwear – This is where we overpack a bit, but it saves me doing as much laundry and underwear is small enough that I think it’s ok to bring a bit extra! 

Socks: 2-5 pairs of socks. Depending on the climate that you are travelling to, you may not need socks at all, but I always pack at least one pair to wear with my running shoes.

Shoes: Everyone will have different ideas about how many shoes are needed! We travel with at least 2 pairs, wear one and pack the other. We usually try to bring a pair of sandals and a shoe or boot. The boys take a pair of keen sandals and a pair of crocs (lined in the winter, unlined for the summer). I love my Birkenstocks and will wear them unless it’s snowing! A pair of flip flops or water shoes are also a good idea if you are heading to the beach or a pool.

Hat: sun hat or baseball cap for warmer weather and a winter hat for colder temperatures.

Sunglasses: Winter or summer, sunglasses are a good idea to pack!

Bathing Suits: If you are heading somewhere with a pool, be sure to pack a bathing suit! Googles are also a good idea for kids, and a travel towel. My guys have this microfiber towel from Dock & Bay that’s great to travel with!

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo/Conditioner – many hotels will provide shampoo (but not all!) and if you are staying at an apartment or airbnb, you will need to bring your own.
• Soap – again, most hotels will provide some, but you will need to provide your own at some other accommodations.
• Other daily care items – deodorant, brush, moisturizer, qtips, hairdryer, etc.
• Travel Towel – most places WILL have towels, but I still carry one, just in case!

Optional: You may also want to bring sunscreen or bugspray, depending on where you are travelling to.

**Keep in mind that any liquids, shampoos, etc that are larger than 100ml (3.4oz) will need to be packed in checked luggage. If you are travelling with only carry-on, make sure to have travel size containers and have them readily available in a Ziploc bag to pass through security.

First Aid Kit:

If you don’t have a first aid kit for travelling yet, head over to this post to see what you should have in a travel first aid kit. You can also find some premade on amazon .

• Charger for everything!!  Laptop, phone, camera, tablet, whatever device you bring, make sure to bring the charger too!
• Camera and charger
• Laptop and/or tablet and charger(s)
• Phone and charger
• Universal Travel Adaptor
• Optional: USB Flash Drive, extra memory card, earphones

**We use this electronics organizer to keep all the cords, memory cards, SIM cards and USB cards together in one place.

Extras Items to Pack when Travelling with Kids:

Blanket: It’s great for the plane and to provide a bit of comfort away from home Books: yes, you can get books online, but we still enjoy paper books as well! Colouring or activity book – and crayons! A few small toys if your kids are young

Read more | What to Pack in a Carry-on When Travelling with Kids

Snacks: I always pack a few snacks in the carry-on bag for the beginning of the trip, but also bring a few extra in my bag. While you can buy snacks wherever you are travelling to, it’s nice to have a few ‘from-home’ snacks that you know your kids will like, and it will save you from having to go shopping the first day or two or your trip!

Car Seats: Depending on the ages of your kids, you may or may not need car seats. If you are planning to rent a car while you are travelling, you may want to bring your own car seat! Here are some of the best car seats for travel , including booster seats and alternatives to car seats. We love the mi-fold – it’s really compact and lightweight, easy to install and safe for kids 4+ who are over 40lbs.

Documents to Pack:

• Credit Cards, debit cards
• Travel Insurance – take the pocket size card with the details and contact info
• Visas – check ahead to see if a visa is needed
• Drivers License
• Birth Certificates for kids – **Bring a photocopy and leave the original at home!
• Emergency Contact Info

*Both of the boys carry a photo copy of their birth certificates and a copy of all the passports, as well as an emergency contact card with several phone numbers, just in case….

After having my purse stolen once, including my wallet with the photocopy of their birth certificates which meant we had a hard time re-entering Canada, I now keep an extra copy of birth certificates, passport numbers and health card/travel insurance in each of the boys backpack, as well as a copy in my backpack. 

Read more | Essential Documents to Travel

Other Useful Packing Tips:

• Less is more!  Plan what you think you need to pack, then cut it in half. You can always pick up things along your travels.
• Practice before you go. And I don’t mean the hour or two before you leave. Pack a few days ahead of time, make sure it all fits AND that you can carry it!
• We’ve used this list for everything from one week vacations to 3 month trips in several climates.
• Be sure to pack any liquids larger than 100ml/3.4oz in checked luggage. If you are taking a corkscrew or pocketknife, that needs to go in checked luggage as well!

I hope this family travel packing list was helpful!

If you’d like to know more about any of these items or if there’s something missing, be sure to reach out and let us know! We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Have a great trip with your family!

Get the Family Travel Packing List

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

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11 Best Travel Box Subscriptions For Kids / Families – Travel Around The World From Home

by Mommy And Me Travels | Product Review | 5 comments

Welcome to the discovery of the best travel box subscriptions for kids article. I’m so excited to share all of these fun vacation in a box ideas with you to explore at home.  These travel the world subscription boxes will take your family to a new destination every month with different activities focused on new countries and cultures in every family box.  These are great family fun subscription boxes for boys and girls.

This is a full list of monthly subscription boxes kids love that have brought great joy to my boys during our time of social distancing at home.   We have all  missed traveling and exploring the world, so I looked and researched ideas to help them continue to learn about cultures, countries, and foods from around the world.   I’m now sharing with you which monthly family boxes are best for kids and families.  

Interested in more?  Click here to discover our favorite around the world kids cooking subscription boxes !

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In addition to all of these travel subscription boxes for families, make sure you check out the best TV shows about traveling that your kids are sure to love.   The cute characters in each of these shows will continue to build the inspiration for travel at home in your kids.

This post contains affiliate links which means I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase using the links in this article.   Click here to see my disclaimer . 

Best Travel Box Subscriptions For Kids And Families

Little Passports Travel Subscription Boxes

Little Passport monthly subscription boxes for families come in 3 different age groups making this perfect for all kids in your family.  Early Explores Subscription is for ages 3-5. World Edition Subscription is for ages 6-10.  USA Edition Subscription for ages 7-12. We have personally enjoyed the passport kids boxes of Early Explorer and World Edition boxes since this is the age appropriate travel box subscriptions for my boys.  Check out Little Passports monthly subscriptions here for the latest prices and for more information.

Early Explorer Travel Box Subscription

The Early Explorer Subscription is perfect for you littlest globe trotters.   These around the world boxes will bring fun filled discovery to your little ones each month.   The first box comes with an orange suitcase (perfect for keeping all of your kids items together) and a wall-sized world map. Included in the first box, and all those after, your kids will get items such as luggage tags, stickers for their suitcase and map, photos, activity books, fun toys, and a letter from their pen pals Max, Mia, and Toby.   Ready to sign your little one up? Click here to check out the latest prices !

World Edition Travel At Home Subscription

The World Edition Subscription is geared towards your little ‘big’ kids ages 6-10.   These around the world kids travel boxes will allow your little one to explore a different country each month from the comfort of your home.   The first passport box comes with a blue suitcase (great if you have kids in different travel box monthly subscriptions), a wall-sized map, play passport, country coin board, fun squishy animals, and access to online content that is focused on each months country-theme.   Included in each following travel gift boxes are fun toys / souvenirs from each country, collectable coin for their board, activity sheets, photos, stickers for suitcase/passport/map, and a letter from their pen pals Sam & Sofia.   Start getting your kids involved with travel around the world by clicking here to discover Little Passports !

USA Edition Vacation In A Box Subscription

The USA Edition Subscription from Little Passports is focused on vacationing in the USA for your kids ages 7-12 with 2 new states each month.   Your kids will receive everything they need to get started exploring the USA in their first travel gift box which comes with a USA field guide, scratch book, and USA map.   For this month and each after your kids will receive items like a photo scavenger hunt, activity-packed State journal, stickers, note from pin pals Sam & Sofia, and access to more fun online. Click here to sign up for your USA travels now!

Cratejoy Travel Subscription Kids Monthly Boxes

Cratejoy has more than 2,000+ subscription boxes to choose from.   Don’t let that scare you.  I’ve done the hard work for you and found the best subscription boxes for travelers kids available to you from Cratejoy .  Bonus ~~~ Most subscription boxes inside Cratejoy are small businesses. By shopping on Cratejoy for gifts you are supporting mom and pop shops.

Geo Journey Subscriptions For Kids

Geo Journey subscriptions for kids is similar to the Little Passport subscriptions above but at a significantly lower price. This geography subscription box will have them learning geography through fun activities. Your children will get a starter kit and then explore a new country every month through photos, fact cards, stickers, and souvenirs. Souvenirs are fun things like a Japanese Fan from Japan or a Boomerang from Australia. This is a great family fun box to start with if you are wondering if your child would enjoy traveling boxes.   Click here to get your Geo Journey Subscription !

Our Little Globe Monthly Travel Subscription Boxes

Our Little Globe  subscription is similar to the other family boxes on this list except they provide exploration of countries a little differently. Your kids will get a mini suitcase, world map, and passport in their first box.  Each month after that your kids will receive the fun items of stickers, letter from their pin pal, craft activities, and a country poster. In addition, they will also receive a spice pouch and recipe card so they can taste the country they are discovering that month. Note that this is a British Company but they ship world wide. The cost is in British Pounds per month but don’t let that deter you.    Click here to get more information about Our Little Globe boxes !

WompleBox Kids Monthly Subscription Box

The WompleBox  monthly kids box is geared towards kids ages 6-11. This kids monthly travel box will have your little adventures exploring new countries each month through an early reader illustration book, craft activities, a map and country guide, collectible keychain, and much more. The WompleBox even comes with enough items in each box for 2 kids making this the perfect family fun box. Click here to get your WompleBox and start discovering new countries every month .

Finders-Seekers – Escape Room Family Subscription Box

Finders-Seekers – Escape Room Game  family subscription box is the most unique of all the travel boxes here. Each month your family will get excited about exploring new cities and cultures through an escape room challenge by solving puzzles and deciphering codes. This family night subscription box even come with a Facebook group community that can help you if your family gets stuck or you could use the included clues in your family game night box. This is a fun filled family adventure that both kids and adults will love while learning about new places each month. Click here and order now to start your monthly family game night Finders-Seekers – Escape Room Game family night box subscription .

Little Global Citizens Travel Box Subscription Plus Bonus Sibling Box

The Little Global Citizens  travel box for kids subscription is focused on teaching your kids about countries around the world through inspiration about the people and culture in each country. These monthly boxes for kids sends a different country to explore through children’s guides, crafts, games, puzzles and quizzes, language skills, recipes, and a high quality story book. If you have more than one child, make sure you buy the monthly + sibling box as you’ll get an extra set of the material needed so this can be an entire family box to explore the world. Start your kids journey around the world and buy the Little Global Citizens Box here .

KiwiCo Atlas Crate Travel Educational Subscription Boxes

KiwiCo Atlas Crate  travel educational subscription boxes for kids will have your children exploring new countries each month through fun STEM activities. Each month your kids will get hands-on fun through projects and activities that focus on new cultures, creative learning activities, a keepsake book to collect their cards and stickers each month, and lots of information to discover new cultures with their friends Anya & Milo. The Atlas Crate Box is geared towards kids ages 6-11. If hands-on and play based learning about new cultures is for your kids, click here to get your Atlas Crate .

Top Secret Adventures Club – Detective Game Worldwide Box

Top Secret Adventures Club from Highlights is a kid world travel guide to solve mysteries in a detective style game through activities, games, puzzles, facts, and photography. In each of these travel subscription boxes for kids your child will learn about a different countries people, culture, history, terrain, and geography monthly. Each world box comes with a mission assignment, puzzle book, villain cards, country guidebook, and a collectible mission tag. Click here to send your child on their first expedition with Top Secret Adventures Club .

Up And Away Adventures Travel Box Subscription

Up And Away Adventures  kids travel box subscription will come to your children bi-monthly. These bi-monthly box for kids are set up to have your kids exploring different countries through their 5 sense; touch, taste, smell, sounds, and sights. Each bi-monthly travel box comes with activities and games to learn about a new culture over 2 days worth of activities. If you want your kids to explore a well researched destination every other month then Click Here for more details about Up And Away Adventures .

Related: Check out our full review of Up And Away Adventures Box For Kids here !

Wrap Up Of The 11 Best Travel Box Subscription For Kids / Families – Travel Around The World From Home

I hope you have found a monthly subscription box for your kids on this list that is perfect for your whole family that will keep the children excited about traveling the world from home. Use these monthly family boxes to teach kids about your bucket list items or just to explore new cultures.

Once you are ready to take off on your next family adventure , check out all of our tips and tricks for planning your next family vacation .   You can even get our tried and true family travel hacks , learn how our kids fly free , and discover everything you need to know for a road trip with kids on our blog Mommy And Me Travels .

If you haven’t joined our Facebook Group: Little World Adventure Travelers yet then don’t wait.   You will get to hear about all types of places around the world and ask questions to make sure you aren’t missing anything as you take off to build your next adventure.   Join our private Facebook Group…. Little World Adventure Travelers .

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Really love this idea as a way to keep kids learning and excited about traveling to new places, especially during these times when we’re stuck at home!

These subscription boxes look so cool! Great list you’ve put together.

I completely agree with Jennifer & Amy – great gift ideas! My friend subscribes to Little Passports, and she loves it! Even as an adult I was having fun looking through her daughter’s collection of cards and books from different places around the world. Thanks for sharing this list! My wife & I are trying to have our first child, and I am both excited and nervous to see what this will mean for future travels. The idea of bringing travel into our home makes me smile!

I’ll definitely need to decide on one of these for my granddaughter for Christmas.

These are really cool. What a great gift idea for a birthday or holiday!

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27 little travel luxuries to make any trip feel first class

Treat yourself to room service, fuzzy slippers and other simple pleasures that help relieve stress.

Key takeaways

Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed.

• Before travel, pack strategically, including eye mask, magazine, salt, utensils.
• At airport and on plane, take advantage of food, relaxation options, or brew your own caffeine.
• At hotel, use your own slippers, order room service and make the space your own.

Did our AI help? Share your thoughts.

Flying is a grind. The long airport lines, the tight connections, the ever-shrinking legroom, the mystery of lost luggage — at its most chaotic, the experience can feel like being pummeled by a jackhammer.

Your coolest summer

When you’re facing the draining prospect of redeye flights or multiple layovers, even the smallest acts of self-care take on new importance. These little gifts don’t have to be elaborate or expensive to provide a dash of comfort. They might even fit into your carry-on bag or coat pocket.

In preparation for the hectic summer travel season, we assembled a list of 27 things you can do that promise to improve your mood while you’re away.

Pack better

1. keep a set of toiletries just for travel.

To avoid forgetting a toothbrush and having to brush with your index finger, keep your toiletry bag stocked with its own set of supplies. Replenish it between trips, throwing the products directly into your beauty case, or order the whole kit and caboodle, such as Aesop’ s seven-pack of essentials. Once home, store it away (but don’t unpack).

2. Refresh with essential oils

A drop or two of an essential oil does wonders to revive musty travel clothes or calm your nerves. Try eucalyptus for spa vibes or lavender for a more relaxing aroma, starting at about $5 a bottle .

3. Pack a DIY spa kit

Do you have an extra sheet mask or fancy samples of night cream or foot lotion lying around? Put them in your bag for your next trip, and treat yourself to a DIY spa experience. Bring cozy socks for the full pampering experience.

4. Block out lights with an eye mask

We’ve said it before , and we’ll say it again: Hell is tiny hotel lights you can’t shut off. Save your future self by packing a light-blocking eye mask. We’re partial to models from Manta Sleep . To double down on your fight for total darkness, pack light-blocking stickers for fire alarms, WiFi routers and other blinking pests.

5. Stash fancy salt, spices and hot sauce

It may look tiny, but a little flaky salt goes a long way. Jacobsen Salt Co. sells a perfect container for traveling gourmands for $6. You can add more flavor with Tajin to-go packets, a key chain bottle of Cholula hot sauce , Diaspora Co.'s versatile “Popcorn Masala” or Yellowbird’s handy travel-size hot sauce bottles .

6. Bring a magazine

You scroll on your phone every day, and you need a break. Books are great, but magazines (and, ahem, newspapers) are more mobile: lightweight, as breezy as you require and recyclable when you’re done. If you grab a magazine from a stack at home, you get the added benefit of decluttering.

7. Carry your own utensils

Unlike disposable plastic cutlery, utensils made of such sturdy materials as bamboo, stainless steel or recycled razor blades won’t snap under pressure. (Butter knives are okay with TSA ). In addition to providing a more civilized dining experience, the reusable utensils are eco-friendly. Some cities and countries, such as England, have banned single-use plastic items.

At the airport

8. save up podcasts and audiobooks.

The episode recaps of your favorite show have been piling up. That latest best-selling thriller is burning a hole in your AirPods. Don’t waste them on your daily commute. For road trips , it’s even better to stock up on pods or books that you and your traveling party all enjoy.

9. Buy a baller snack

If the Toblerone bar as long as your arm is calling, it’s your duty to answer. Even if the price of Chex Mix is high, grab a few bags of your favorites off the snack wall at Hudson News. Scout out local bakery outposts if an airport has one, such as Ladurée at Charles de Gaulle in Paris. Vending machines have evolved, with cupcakes and edible cookie dough in Las Vegas and hot ramen at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

10. Or splurge on an airport meal

Yes, airport food is overpriced . Yes, you could meal prep instead. But it’s ultimately a gift to yourself to let someone else serve and prepare your supper — not a sad Starbucks wrap but an actual sit-down situation where you can relax near-ish your gate. Is it going to be the best Caesar salad of your life? Probably not. But you can increase your odds of making it worth your while if you pick a trusted local brand .

11. Shower in between flights

Found in almost every major international airport lounge, the airport shower offers a sudsy sanctuary from other people.

12. Moisturize at Duty Free

The best part of Duty Free isn’t shopping without tax — it’s the access to free samples of high-end products. Hydrate your skin with the latest moisturizer of the moment, or try on a new personality with a spritz of spicy cologne.

On the plane

13. carry your favorite pillow.

Sleeping on a plane can be a disaster for your neck, but a good pillow can help. Some turn to travel options that fit in your bag, like our beloved Trtl or the Cushion Lab Ergonomic Travel Neck Pillow. Others shun minimalism in favor of maximum comfort and bring a full-sized pillow (sorry, neighbor).

14. Brew your own tea

Stash a variety of fancy tea bags in your wallet or in a travel mug, which a flight attendant or food service employee can fill with hot water. Some airports (see: Istanbul) also provide hot water dispensers. Throw in a few honey sticks or straws for a touch of sweetness.

15. Ditto, for coffee

For various gross reasons , we have been warned against drinking coffee on planes. If you desire a good, clean and immediate cup of coffee, there are lots of caffeinators to choose from: frozen capsules by Commeter , gourmet instant coffee from Verve Coffee Roasters or the self-sufficient AeroPress Go , which comes with its own mug and menu of coffee drinks. Prep your coffee in the airport, to avoid the dubious hot water onboard.

16. Carry a cocktail kit

A commercial flight could never stand in for your favorite cocktail bar, but an in-flight cocktail kit can bring you a step closer. There are just-add-booze iterations for many tastes, whether you’re looking for a dirty martini or a Mai Tai .

17. Put on noise-canceling headphones

One of our staff got Sennheiser over-ear headphones for a birthday this year and he wore them on a flight to Florida. Afterward, they learned from their spouse that the 8-year-old sitting behind them had been loudly arguing with his brother the whole flight. They didn’t hear a thing.

18. Rest your feet in a sling

For less than $30, you can turn your ho-hum seat into something more akin to a hammock. The “ Airplane Footrest ” connects to your tray table to create a sling to rest your feet. It helps eliminate the rumbling of the plane floor vibrations, relieving back tension and soothing your entire body — a win-win-win for a long haul.

19. Wear compression socks

Compression socks are a lifesaver on a long-distance flight. One of Amazon’s top-sellers, a moisture-wicking pair from “Physix Gear Sport” ($16), helps reduce swelling and improve blood circulation during sedentary stretches at high altitude.

20. Spritz your face with mist

Face mists — like these travel-size tins from Evian , or this antibacterial one from Tower 28 — are a flight attendant favorite that deliver an instant dose of freshness. Just make sure not to dampen your neighbors.

At the hotel

21. step into your own slippers.

If you have space in your luggage, bring your plush house pair. For a more portable option, consider spa-style slip-ons or thick socks with antiskid soles, like the ones made by Bombas . Your feet will feel toasty and hermetically sealed.

22. Order room service

You could go out, but you’re exhausted. Maybe you’re feeling a little lazy — and a lot hungry. Now is the time to indulge in the convenient luxury of a cheeseburger clad in a cloche.

23. Pay for a hotel movie

Room service and a movie are a perfect duo. There’s an underappreciated comfort in watching a movie from a bed that isn’t your own. Perhaps best enjoyed on a premium channel, while wearing a robe and basking on a bed with extra-fluffy pillows.

24. Or stream your own shows

To keep up with your binge watches, bring your Roku, Fire TV Stick or other streaming device along. Then there’s no need to re-log into apps on another device in an Airbnb or hotel.

25. Give yourself a mini massage

If a full-on massage isn’t in your budget for every trip, you can still work out the knots with a portable massage gun like a Hyperice Hypersphere ($149), the Hypervolt Go 2 ($129) or a Theragun mini ($169).

26. Turn on a white noise machine

Annoying hotel noises are right up there with annoying little lights. The icemaker down the hall, the kids thwarting bedtime next-door and the industrial air conditioner can all keep good sleep at bay. Combat them all with a mini white noise machine. This one is small enough to fit in your pocket but powerful enough to tune out toddlers and traffic.

27. Aromatize your pillow

Signal to your body that it’s time to snooze by applying aromatherapy to your pillow. There are endless options out there, from the budget-friendly Dr. Teal’s lavender sleep spray ($8) to higher-end ones like Jo Malone’s Moonlit Camomile Pillow Mist ($50).

Ryan Bacic contributed to this article.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

• Massachusetts
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• Playa del Carmeen
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• Venice, Italy
• Florence, Italy
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Barcelona, Spain
• Seville. Spain
• London, U.K
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Cayman Islands
• Saint Lucia
• Turk and Caicos
• United Arab Emirates
• Cartagena, Colombia

• All Inclusive
• National and State Parks
• RV Vacations
• Skiing/Winter Activities
• Summer Vacation
• Winter Travel
• Spring Break
• Animal Encounters
• City and Culture
• Virtual Vacations
• Weekend Getaways

• Packing Tips
• Road Trip Tips

Family Travel Tips

• Travelling With Babies
• Travelling With Toddlers
• Gifts and Gear -Travel Gift Ideas
• Submission Guidlines

Best Travel Luggage, Carry-Ons, and Backpacks for Kids and Families

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One of the most common questions we see on our Facebook group, Families Who Love to Travel , is “ What’s the best travel luggage for kids ”? Finding travel luggage that lasts, is durable, and is also stylish can present a challenge for globetrotting parents. However, based on the wealth of suggestions from our members, we’ve created this handy guide featuring the Best Travel Luggage, Carry-Ons, and Backpacks for Kids and Families. Whether you’re looking for the best backpacks for kids, the best luggage for kids, or the best travel gifts for your favorite travelers, this article covers it all! In each section, you’ll also find our recommendations for a variety of price points and hear what our families have to say. The best part? All of these recommendations have been vetted by real parents who love to travel with their kids.

Best Travel Luggage for Kids

If you’re looking for the best travel luggage for kids , these options are sure to please! Based on suggestions from members in our Facebook group, Families Who Love to Travel , these are our top recommendations for the best kids’ luggage.

RELATED : Review of the BÉIS Kids Roller: A Game-Changer for Young Travelers

BÉIS Kids Roller

Why We Love It

As seasoned family travelers and experts in the travel industry, we are often asked about stress-free, functional, and affordable luggage for kids. Luggage created for children is often cute and fun or highly functional – but usually not both. Well, the BÉIS Kids Roller truly offers it all!

As one of the best suitcases for kids, parents love the well-designed features like the exterior tablet pocket, the included laundry bag, the versatile carrying options (including a three-tiered trolly handle and a strap), and more! Plus, kids adore the bright colors of berry and citron ! Even better, you can even pair the Kids Roller with a coordinating backpack, lunch box, and travel buddy. Not to mention, there are mommy and me options too through the adult Sherbet Collection ! Finally, be sure to read our Review of the BÉIS Kids Roller: A Game-Changer for Young Travelers .

The BÉIS Kids Roller starts at $168.00. Buy now.

Why Our Families Love It

“The best part about this luggage is the pouch to carry my laptop and iPad,” says Sanara, “Before, I used to carry them in my backpack, and it made my backpack really heavy. But now, I’m so excited that I no longer have to carry my laptop in my backpack. I can use my backpack for fun stuff like art supplies and other things.” – Sanara, age 12

Micro Kickboard

Parents looking to splurge on one of the best travel gifts should look no further than Micro Kickboard ! Offering a variety of luggage options for kids, as well as stand-alone scooters, Micro Kickboard provides families with a multi-functional suitcase with ample storage space.

Kids can ride in style through the airport behind this suitcase upon the attached scooter. Or, children as young as 18 months can sit comfortably and safely on the luggage’s attached seat, while parents pull it along. Due to this, some parents may even decide to leave the stroller behind! There are sizing options from 18 months to 13 years old. Options convert easily, store nicely, and are incredibly durable, making Micro Kickboard an easy choice for the best travel luggage for kids!

The Micro Luggage 3.0 (13+) starts at $299.99. Buy now.

“Love these! Micro Kickboard also has them for teens and grown-ups, though not nearly as colorful.” – Dawn Jasper

Zinc Flyte Scooter Suitcase

With a motto like “turn every trip into an adventure”, kids adore traveling in style with their Zinc Flyte Scooter Suitcase ! Available in two age groups (the Mini for ages 2-4 and Midi for ages 4-8), families will find a suitcase that suits their child’s size, as well as their unique style. With over 10 styles to choose from (like sharks, flamingos, and monsters), kids can also embrace their inner fashionista when selecting one!

The Zinc Flyte Scooter Suitcase is compact, versatile, and designed specifically for children. The special scooter feature built into the suitcase makes them easy to use and fun for kids! When children are tired, parents can stow the scooter and pull it along instead. This is certainly amongst the best travel luggage for kids due to its design elements, available bundle packages (including a matching backpack and pencil case), as well as its easy use.

Buy now directly from Zinc Flyte, prices and availability vary by style and size .

“Our son has been using this for the past two years, multiple trips per year and it’s the best gift he ever received. He’s a tall 5yo now and I think it still has 1-2 years left for him size-wise.” – Jessica Pflueger

“We have them and our boys love them. They scoot their own suitcase which is a parenting win!” – Felicia K Wong

Best Travel Luggage for All Ages

Next, we have the best travel luggage for teens and parents. These adult-sized suitcases are perfect for avid travelers due to their durability, sleek style, and ease of use! Keep reading to discover more of the best travel luggage for kids and families.

Monos Travel & Luggage – Designed in Canada. Made for the world.

Best Carry-Ons for All Ages

Families looking for carry-on luggage should look no further than this list. From roller bags to large duffle bags, these carry-on pieces are perfect for family travel by plane, train, or car! Keep reading to discover the best travel luggage for kids and families to carry onto the plane.

READ NEXT : The Ultimate Guide To The Best Family Travel Gifts 2022-2023

Away Bigger Carry-On

Not only does Away have the best travel luggage for checked bags, but also for carry-on sizes! Families can find carry-on options with and without battery capacity. Plus, the Bigger Carry-On comes in at least 10 colors, allowing everyone in the family to personalize to their taste.

This lightweight carry-on also fits in most overhead bins. There is even a hidden laundry bag in each suitcase! Parents will love the option to have kids keep track of their own laundry while traveling. Not to mention, the Bigger Carry-Ons have versatile spinner wheels that allow you to get through the airport with ease. If you want a soft-sided option, try the Expandable Bigger Carry-on. As with the larger luggage, families will love their 100-day free trial, where you can travel and enjoy the luggage as much as possible to ensure you love it. If not, return it for a full refund.

Available directly from Away, starting at $245.00 for the Bigger Carry-On. Buy now . Or, $245 for the Expandable Bigger Carry-On. Buy now .

“Love love our away Bigger Carry-On! Highly recommended. It moves so smoothly, packs efficiently and is a really great bag.” – Erin McCombs

“Each family member has our own “bigger carry-on” and “medium” size. Previously, my kids had Pottery Barn luggage and the wheels were horrible. These are much easier to navigate. Matter of a fact, my youngest managed her own suitcase on a three-week trip to Europe with zero issues.” – Melissa Bourgeois

Petunia Pickle Bottom

The stylish totes, backpacks, and diaper bags offered by Petunia Pickle Bottom make excellent carry-on bags, especially for parents traveling with young children. Plus, their diaper bags come with changing pads! The tote bags , for example, provide ample compartment space, perfect for holding your items, as well as those needed for your baby. Parents will love finding a carry-on that matches their personal style. Whether you prefer bold colors, patterns, or more neutral colors, Petunia Pickle Bottom has what you are looking for.

In fact, you can even get Disney-inspired bags ! Small kids will love sporting their favorite Disney characters around the parks! Choose from Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Toy Story , and other iconic Disney friends. Families can also find accessories, masks, and wraps perfect for family travel. Not only are these items versatile, well-made, and trendy, they also are among the best travel gifts for your favorite globetrotters!

Rick Steves Europe Flight Bag

Compact and easy to carry, the Rick Steves Europe Flight Bag is perfect for an overnight trip or as a carry-on. Available in four colors, this easy-to-carry bag has an over-shoulder strap and padded handles. The back of the carry-on can also slide over the handles of any roller bag, making it a breeze to transport through the airport! The generous storage compartment also includes a variety of pockets to ensure you can store your items in an organized fashion. With so many pockets, it can also double as a stylish diaper bag and carry-on for those traveling with babies .

Developed specifically for overseas travel, this carry-on is the only one you will ever need! It is functional, versatile, and fashionable all at the same time. Finally, it is also a great option for those who prefer not to have a roller bag.

Available directly from Rick Steves, starting at $39.99. Buy now.

“Rick Steves Euro Flight bag for a carry-on personal item. Fits under the seat and in the smallest stroller baskets and stores a lot of items.” – Maureen Nez

Best Backpacks for Kids

If you’re looking for the best backpacks for kids, our list includes parent-tested options that are sure to impress your kids. 

READ NEXT : The Best Headphones for Kids of All Ages

Eddie Bauer Stowaway

Families looking for the best backpacks for kids will love the Eddie Bauer Stowaway ! This lightweight daypack is perfect for kids and adults alike. Available in two sizes (20L and 30L), families are sure to find one that fits their child.

Backpacks are also outfitted with mesh pockets and water bottle holders. Kids will love sporting one of these daypacks around Paris, Buenos Aires, or Tokyo! They are also ideal for young adventures on day hikes and camping trips. The breathable, lightly padded straps won’t slip and will sit comfortably on children of all sizes. In addition, families who like to pack light will love that the Eddie Bauer Stowaway folds into itself, fitting into a smaller front zip pocket. This way, families can easily store it when not in use. No matter what kind of family trip you are taking, the Eddie Bauer Stowaway perfectly pairs function with style!

Or, directly from Eddie Bauer, starting at $30.00. Buy now.

“Eddie Bauer stowaway packable 20L and 30L packs. Inexpensive and packs into the top pocket. I fly with one as a personal item.” – Eric Love

Osprey Backpacks

If you need a high-end, adventure-proof backpack for kids, Osprey has everything you’re looking for! It is truly one of the best backpacks for kids , featuring a large main compartment that is easy to load. Available in multiple colors (including orange, purple, and more neutral colors), Osprey backpacks are designed for comfort. Then, the mesh shoulder straps and padded handle make carrying it through the airport or on a hiking trail a breeze. Plus, the back pocket is suitable for a hydration reservoir (sold separately). Additionally, the front pocket and the inside mesh pocket and key clip allow for increased organization and easy access to important items, like keys and flashlights.

Osprey also offers some of the best larger travel luggage options for kids, whose storage is increased by attaching the daypacks and backpacks. Finally, parents will love Osprey’s versatile and compatible nature, while kids will love the many colors available.

Or, directly from Osprey, starting at $65.00. Buy now.

“Osprey backpacks are great for lightweight. I love the hard side Delsey Cruise spinner suitcases for our checked luggage. My kids have these smaller E-bags Allura hardside ones for carry-ons, and they can handle them in the airport and they have held up great. Oh, and they fit in the overhead!!” – Amanda Chancey Boyle

“Osprey hands down! I have it for my entire family. Me, husband, son, and daughter.” – Jenni Ponder

Deuter has been manufacturing German-engineered outdoor backpacks for over 100 years. Built to last, they are ideal for outdoor adventure families. Families will love the selection offered, from alpine bags to backpacks. Given the numerous options, families are sure to find a fit and style that best meets their needs and destination.

Consider the AVIANT ACCESS 38 for standard travel needs. With comfort and durability in mind, this carry-on size backpack is perfect for quick-moving families who want to skip the luggage carousel. If you’re headed off on an extended European or Asian backpacking tour – or trekking through a national park , the AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL is a great option. Its ergonomic fit ensures you can jump on and off trains with ease, while its smart design means everything is packed in a tidy and organized manner. No wonder it ranks highly among the best travel luggage for kids !

Pro Tip: Families love Deuter’s lifetime warranty!

“I love how versatile the Deuter backpack is. Our backpacks are 10+ years old and travelled all around the world. They have withstood the test of time.” – Sonia Villeneuve

“I’ve been traveling with my Deuter travel backpack for years. It all started when I did a backpacking trip through Europe. Now, years later, with 2 toddlers, I still have a Deuter travel backpack and we travel everywhere with it. I think the only times I didn’t travel with it was when I was pregnant and it could fit on my belly. I love the flexibility a travel backpack provides: our hands are always free so it’s easier to carry a stroller and/or the kids, or simply to hold their hands. Plus, it’s more suitable than a suitcase on cobblestone streets or dirt streets. We will be traveling the world with our 2 little kids and our 2 Deuter backpacks.” – Emilie Brillon

eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack

Families looking for the ideal balance of ease of use, budget, and versatility will love the eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack . This affordable carry-on-size backpack offers ample space for belongings. In fact, each bag offers a variety of pouches, pockets, and fasteners to keep your items in place and organized.

The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack also features an extender, allowing you to create more space for additional items – or to add souvenirs on the way home. Easy to carry, the eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack may be a great option for backpacking kids who aren’t quite ready for their own large liter bag. Families on the go will also love how this bag has a variety of straps and handles. Not only can you carry it like a traditional backpack, but you can tuck away straps and grab it easily from planes and trains using another handle.

“Baggage fees are annoying, and so is waiting to get your bags after you land at your destination. A couple of years ago, my wife and I juggled duffle bags and basic backpacks to New York City and Paris. We liked having everything condensed into carry-ons, but those bags wore us out. The next time we were planning a trip overseas, I did some research on the best travel backpacks that could fit our needs AND fit in the plane’s overhead bin. My search led me to purchase two eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpacks , and they have served us well on adventures near and far from home.” Learn more about why Jason and his family love their eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpacks he r e . – Jason Carlton

JanSport Backpacks

JanSport lets kids highlight their style with vibrant, patterned, or neutral colors. Perfect for school, flights, and hiking, JanSport offers a plethora of options as one of the best travel luggage and backpacks for kids!

These reliable backpacks are well-known for their durability and spacious storage. Additionally, their straps are specifically designed for all-day comfort for kids and adults alike. Not only are the straps well-padded, but so is the back, allowing kids to carry their own items without complaint. Backpacks also come in four sizes; mini, small, medium, and large. This trusted brand is sure to provide kids with the creative style, comfort, and storage they need for family vacations. JanSport also offers accessors and other bag options for kids, such as lunch boxes and fanny packs. Finally, families will appreciate the lifetime guarantee offered by JanSport.

Or, directly from JanSport, starting around $30.00. Buy now.

“My 11-year-old likes Pottery Barn teens and larger JanSport Backpacks…for carry-ons.” – Nikki Hanselman Haftl

Thank You to Our Community

As always, this article on the  Best Travel Luggage, Carry-Ons, and Backpacks for Kids and Families  would not have been as helpful, informed, or family-friendly without the contributions and input from the amazing members of our Facebook group,  Families Who Love To Travel ! For more travel recommendations on the  best travel luggage for kids  or other vacations with children, be sure to join us on Facebook at  Families Who Love To Travel .

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community. 

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I’ve Been Visiting Disney Parks With My Kids For a Decade—Here’s What We Always Pack, From $4

These 15 essentials keep my family of four cool, dry, and charged up at Disney World.

As a travel writer and mom of two living in Orlando, it’s probably no surprise to you that my family visits Disney World a lot. Since my teens were toddlers, we’ve visited theme parks at least twice a month, so I’ve learned a lot about what you really need to bring on your family Disney trip—and what you don’t. 

Over the past decade, I’ve found my favorite hands-free belt bag for my park supplies, an affordable neck fan that keeps us all cool, the best easy SPFs for all ages, and much more. So, if you’re wondering what to pack for your next trip to the House of Mouse, my family’s Disney packing list is below. We never visit the parks without these 15 essentials, starting at just $4.

Vrurc Portable Phone Charger

Between taking family photos and using the theme park’s app to check ride wait times, phones quickly lose battery on a day at Disney. This portable charger can power up to four devices on a single charge and has various built-in charging cords for various phone and earbud models. It’s loved by hundreds of five-star Amazon reviewers, with some saying it “ charges super quickly ” and is “ the perfect size for traveling .”

Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Face Stick

This may be a kids’ sunscreen, but it’s always in my park bag for my entire family to use. I love swiping this stick sunscreen onto all the places that get hit hard by the sun while walking through a theme park, like noses to shoulders. The sunscreen stick has over 1,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, as well: “Applying the face stick is a breeze and we love how convenient it is to use, especially when we're on the go,” shared one shopper .

HandFan Portable Neck Fan

I love these inexpensive, wearable fans so much that I wrote all about them last summer. These rechargeable fans are worn around the neck, have adjustable speeds, and work wonders to break up the humidity and cool you off on hot summer days. Everyone in my family owns one and wears it at Disney and beyond, and nearly 4,500 Amazon shoppers love it, too.

"It worked like a charm,” said one reviewer who took the fan on a summer trip to Disney World . “Battery lasted all day on medium to high speeds.” 

SportsNew Large Belt Bag

This oversized belt bag is my go-to theme park bag. It has lots of pockets to hold my family’s gear and a special buckle for my sunglasses, so I don’t lose them on rides. It can be worn as a fanny pack, crossbody, backpack, or shoulder bag, and it comes in nearly 10 neutral and bright colors.

“I used this for my recent two-day trip to Disney,” said an Amazon shopper , who reported that “It held up great, held a ton of stuff, and for fellow plus-size girls, the extension is awesome!!” It’s also useful for new parents , noted another reviewer who took this belt bag “everywhere” during their maternity leave.

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler

It’s important to stay hydrated during your Disney trip. There are water bottle refilling stations scattered across the parks for guests who bring their own bottles from home, which is a big money saver. I like to bring this leakproof Stanley tumbler since it won’t spill in my bag.

Plus, its vacuum insulation “keeps my beverages icy cold for hours on end, even on hot summer days,” wrote one of over 21,000 Amazon shoppers who gave this tumbler a five-star rating. “I love the handle and that the bottle itself isn’t too heavy,” added another fan .

Sukeen Cooling Towels

When soaked with cold water, these cooling towels take on a chilly temperature guaranteed to bring down the heat on your longest Disney day. The four-pack comes with four differently colored towels, meaning family members won’t get theirs mixed up, and four individual bags and clips to keep you organized. Inside the parks, these towels sell for much more, so they’re worth stocking up on before your trip.

“This kept the family nice and cool during the hot days walking around Disneyland,” praised one Amazon shopper . “Everyone had their own color and it clipped nicely to each bag we were carrying.”

Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm

There’s nothing more miserable than returning to your hotel after a long day in the parks to discover you’ve gotten a lip sunburn. Spending the rest of your vacation struggling to eat and drink because of blistered lips is a bad situation, so I always pack (and frequently reapply) this Sun Bum lip sunscreen. It’s great for everyone in your travel party since it doesn’t have a glossy shine, and it’s gotten nearly 20,000 five-star ratings on Amazon.

Lume Acidified Deodorant Wipes

These Lume deodorant wipes are my favorite hack for staying stink-free in the high Florida temperatures. They can be used everywhere from underarms to foreheads to private areas and make for a great mid-day refresh during a day at a theme park. “I keep my wipes in a bag and use them to freshen up my armpits on hot days when my deodorant is starting to fail,” said one fan . “They leave me fresh-feeling and I notice it calms the moisture down a little.” Plus, I can fit the pack of wipes in my go-to belt bag.

Dr. Frederick’s Original Better Blister Bandages

While there are plenty of comfortable shoes out there for your long days at the park, blisters do still happen sometimes. I always bring some blister bandages in my park bag, as they cover and cushion blisters and make walking with a blister painless. They’re a  “lifesaver for Disney World,” said one Amazon shopper who gave the package of bandages a five-star rating. “We walked over 20,000 steps a day and that wouldn't have been possible without these.”

Purell Sanitizing Hand Wipes

These Purell hand sanitizing wipes have become my go-to hand sanitizer for my theme park bag because they’re individually wrapped and stay moist for when you need them. I use them to wipe off tables before we sit down to eat, clean our hands after gripping a roller coaster bar, and more. The handy multi-pack is “convenient for quick wipe downs,” reported another family who used them on a Disney World trip.

If you prefer a spray hand sanitizer, I’m also a fan of the best-selling Touchland Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer .

Welly First Aid Kit

This cute first aid kit from Welly comes in a colorful tin and contains things like bandages, wound-cleaning wipes, and antibacterial ointment. I carry this portable kit in my park bag at all times, since you never know when skinned knees or scratches will occur, and having to find the park’s first aid station can be a real pain.

“I love the bright colors and the joyful designs” of the bandages, said one Amazon shopper , while another added that they like to keep one of these first aid kits in their diaper bag . 

Supergoop Lip Screen Shine SPF 40

As a mom who likes a bit of sparkle in my life, this moisturizing Supergoop lip gloss is my personal go-to SPF lip balm. I’m always happy with the sheen it puts on my lips and the sun protection it provides. The product has hundreds of five-star ratings on Amazon and gets high praise for being “ easy to apply ” with “ great shine and minimal SPF taste .”

HumanGear Go Pouch

Reaching into your park bag to find that your sunscreen has leaked or your lip balm has melted can put a damper on a theme park day. I keep things that may leak in these quick-sealing, reusable pouches that help me stay organized and spill-free throughout the day. The silicone bags are easy to wipe down and come in two sizes.

Neutrogena Sport Active Defense SPF 30 Sunscreen

Applying sunscreen at a theme park, where bodies are usually sweat-soaked and overheated, can be a challenge. This Neutrogena spray sunscreen is my absolute favorite because it goes on clear and provides great coverage. Amazon shoppers reported that it’s “ non-greasy ” and “ easier to apply than creams ,” and both the formula and spray bottle are lightweight, too. This lets you toss it into your bag without getting weighed down.

Kitsch Recycled Nylon Hair Elastics

I always toss a few extra hair ties into my theme park bag in case my kids lose one or my ponytail flies loose on a roller coaster. My preferred hair ties are these extra-soft elastics from Kitsch, which don’t pull or tug my hair and are super comfortable for hours at a time.

More than 1,700 Amazon shoppers have given these ties five-star reviews : “I have been looking for a better hair tie and thought they didn't exist,” said one Amazon shopper . “These Kitsch elastic hair ties are so soft and stretchy but have such great hold. They do not damage your hair and are easy to get out when it's time to remove them," they continued.

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

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

1. this ergonomic travel pillow.

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

Buy it here

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

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

Buy them here

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

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

4. Get this cute secret pocket infinity scarf

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

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

6. This Travel Door Alarm

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

7. This Multi-Bag Stacker

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

8. These Amazing Space-Saving Laundry Soap Sheets

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

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

10. this digital luggage scale.

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

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

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

12. Boost Circulation with these highly-rated compressions socks

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

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

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

16. This inspirational luggage tag with card slot

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

18. For Those Who Love a Mini Electric Toothbrush

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

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

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

22. Keep your toiletries organized with this waterproof organizer

23. Stay clean with these laundry sachets 

24. This personalised passport holder and protector  

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

26. Get some shuteye with this contoured sleep mask

27. Avoid the knots and get this nifty cable organizer

28. Sleep anywhere with the ultimate ergonomic neck supporter

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

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

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

31. Keep your jewellery organized with this compact jewellery box

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

33. Stay hydrated with this collapsible water bottle

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. Take your phone underwater with a universal waterproof case

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

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

Buy it here $26.87

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

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

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

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

46. Put your feel up with this compact foot hammock

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

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

48. Get this beautiful waterproof travel and passport wallet

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

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

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

51. Alert others when in trouble with this safety whistle

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

Buy on Amazon for $79.99

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

Buy on Amazon for $42.44

54. This Clever Tank Top  with Secret Pockets

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

Buy on Amazon

55. This Anti-Crease Shirt Transporter

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

Buy on Amazon for $24.99

56. This Optical Camera Lens for Smartphones and Tablets

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

Buy on Amazon for $25.99

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

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

Want more travel tips? Don’t miss these

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

Like it? Pin it for later!

Over to you!

What other travel accessories do you recommend? Have you used any of these? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

35 Best Things to do in Madeira, Portugal // The Ultimate Guide 2024

Top 10 hotels & resorts in the northern territory 2024 // darwin, katherine & alice springs, 16 comments.

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

Thank you so much, Kim 🙂

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

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

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

Excellent addition Helen, thank you 🙂

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

Amazing! This makes traveling easier.

Definitely brilliant ideas worth sharing

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

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

I just carry a small rubber door stop wedge.

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

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

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

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

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Travel Kits for Families

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Getting ready for a trip? With the holiday season upon us, families find themselves packing the kids, the dogs, the food, the presents, and a partridge in a pear tree into the family mobile and heading out on the open road. Traveling with children can be a wonderful experience. But, it can also be worse than a root canal if you’re not prepared.

Experience has taught me that you don’t want to incarcerate yourself in a vehicle with one or more children without some advance preparation. That means entertainment and snacks. You’re on your own for entertainment. Our CD player busted a few years ago as did the travel TV/VCR combo. Our kids tend to entertain themselves. Or the GameBoy and DS do….

I concern myself more with infrastructure. You know, necessary items, those that prevent whining and those that help me in the case of a blowout — diaper, that is. For those, you need a few travel kits.

Last spring I found these very handy plastic shoe boxes with snapping lids. They are the perfect size to hold a lot of kid supplies in a compact package that also slips under the seat of the car!

One travel kit is for snacks. It includes paper products and nonperishable snacks. This box looks like a birthday party, doesn’t it? Junk food and Nemo, what a combo. Truth is the junk food was cheap or free (after coupons) and Nemo was a clearance table purchase. I suggest you first raid your pantry to see what you have.

• dried fruit
• fruit leather
• juice boxes
• peanut butter

Things to include in a Diaper-Changing Kit:

• wipes in a ziploc bag (small size that is easy to refill)
• plastic grocery bags for disposing of soiled diapers (a lot of these bags will fit in a ziploc)
• diaper cream
• hand sanitizer

With a little pre-planning and pre-packing, your road trip with kids can be a smooth ride.

What do you take along to make your car trip a pleasant one?

Wife to Bryan since 1994, mom of 6, cookbook author, writer, home educator, and to-do list maker. Learn more about Jessica.

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19 Comments

When my boys were still bottle feeding, I would keep a case of little bottles of water & a box of the single bottle formula powder packets in my car. Expensive, but since I would only use them in an emergency it was worth it. That way I could always make a bottle if needed.

We also keep a bottle of windex (cleans everything from windows to upholstry in a pinch), a roll of papertowels, and, of course, some plastic bags.

I keep a potty in the mini-van and carry a collapsible one in the stroller (folds two ways, as a stand alone potty or as a seat that can be placed on a regular toilet to keep them clean and from falling in). This is probably the single, most important travel item for my 2 year old twin girls, who are potty trained.

I am taking my girls (who will be 3 and 5) and my son (who will be 11 months) on a trip with my husband back home for my sister’s wedding (24 hours of traveling). I am trying to think of things for my son. I am having a hard time. Do you have any ideas for me???

@Andrea , ah, those were the days. I remember that toddler-stuck-in-the-carseat thing quite well. The best suggestion is to drive at night and nap time. The parents might be wasted, but that’s easier on kids. Otherwise, having lots of change of activity is helpful: videos, songs, snacks, books to look at, toys to play with. Keep a huge box next to you so that you can hand one back. The fussing is generally because they’re bored. Keep them from being bored and you’ll be okay.

Easier said than done, I know.

When my oldest was 3.5 yrs old we took a 4 hour weekend road trip to a waterpark. On the way back, she ended up getting sick and throwing up all over her booster seat (very curvy part of the road we were traveling on) In this particular canyon there is only 1 rest stop and thankfully we had not passed and pulled over – except they used hand heaters, and had no paper towels or anything! Hubby decided to grab a roll of toilet paper, so with that roll of tp and pulling out some old clothes (everything was dirty in the dirty clothes bag!) I cleaned up and changed her!

After that fiasco I started carrying what I call the barf bag in the car. It’s a big paper bag filled with paper towels, spoons (for scooping up chunks – I know gross), extra plastic bags, anti-bacterial wipes and tissues! In case any of my kids ever get sick again in the car I will be prepared!

@Lynette , this is a great solution!

Hello, I was thinking that I saw a great homemade recipe for Fruit Leather on this or on Good Cheap Eats, but I can’t find it, do you happen to even have this post? Thanks a bunch! Great sites by the way;) I read them daily

I have never made fruit leather, but it sounds good. 😉

what a fantastic blog post! I am currently getting ready to do a 14 hour road trip in June with my family. the kids are 3.5 and almost 2 so will be interesting but this post is giving me great ideas to be organized and make it as successful as possible. Thank you so much for such a wonderful blog:)

What a cute idea… sandy toe

My youngest is 7 years old, but I still keep the van stocked with a container of baby wipes. I just seal it in a gallon ziploc bag so they don't dry out, but they have been invaluable many times for spills, sticky hands, and getting stains out of clothing or upholstery. Another thing I would add for trips is a roll of paper towels for using as napkins, kleenex if needed, or cleaning up spills.

I have just been using what I call the 'art bag' in our car, for drawing supplies (crayons, markers, pens, pencils, notebooks, colorbooks, etc). And, there are always a few books in there too; but, I love the idea of the plastic containers for snacks and other items. The bag seems to overflow at times and get all messy, but the containers with lids seem ideal.

We add carrot and celery sticks and use unopened ranch dressing packets to dip in.

In our vehicles we packed a small diaper kit in an empty wipes container. A diaper, cream, wipes (in a baggie) and even an extra onesie will all fit into a wipe container and stores easily in the trunk or under a seat. If you're a mom with young ones and use wipes you don't even have to go buy another container to keep your things.

One of the first posts I ever wrote was http://momsinneedofmercy.blogspot.com/2009/09/cruisin-along-in-automobile-surviving.html

I shared pics of the toys we bought to entertain our very young boys on our 21-hr trip one way to see my family in the Midwest (we live in the West now.) Play foam and Wikki stix were neat. Plus, splurging on the double DVD player that attached to the back of the front seats helped too! 🙂

I am also a huge fan of a change of clothes for everyone. I have tried just packing spare kids clothes, but somehow that is the time when I get peed, pooped, or thrown up on. So I have learned to have spare clothes for me as well as the kids.

Oh and we always have a case of bottled water in the trunk. We never have to buy vending machine water, and we avoid the sugary drinks that way.

My van has a drawer under the front passenger seat. I keep a complete change of clothes for both of my older kids, a small first aid kit, a few feminine items and a multipurpose tool (Leatherman). I also keep an old shoe box in the middle row (within my reach) of baby toys for my youngest and my older two keep toys in the small cubbies beside each of their seats. Maybe I should start keeping extra diapering supplies and a change of clothes for the youngest also (just in case I forget the diaper bag)…

I keep a very ugly diaper bag I got as a gift in the van stocked with sealed snack size food, changes of clothes for each of the kids and me, diapers, and wipes. I love this post. Great tip for moms!!

I never ever ever leave the house without a change of clothes for my daughter- I keep a set of extra clothes socks underwear in the car at all times. 🙂

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• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 13 Best Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep all your beauty and grooming essentials in one place when you're on the road.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Bags We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

There are a few things every traveler needs, no matter where in the world they're going — and a toiletry bag is one of them. The humble case might be an afterthought to some, but these helpful bags are crucial to keeping your travel essentials organized.

We tested 52 toiletry bags and cosmetic cases (and continue to do so for a period of at least six months) in order to bring to you the best of the best, evaluating capacity, design, portability, and value. We also considered the overall quality of the bags, as well as their ease of use on real trips.

Taking our test results into consideration, we've put together a list of the best toiletry bags across various categories; you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.

Best Overall

Away large toiletry bag.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

This bag holds more than you'd expect from just looking at it.

The limited edition colors often sell out fast.

You might be most familiar with Away for its selection of hardside luggage and weekender bags, but the brand carries travel accessories, too, including this large toiletry bag that earned high marks across the board during our tests.

Though we found the bag to be even roomier than expected, there are so many individual compartments including a clear cosmetic bag, a zippered pouch, two mesh linings, and an exterior pocket, to name a few. You won't be reaching into a bottomless pit, rummaging around for individual products here. We also love that the bag zips open wide enough for you to reach inside with ease. We packed it with both large and small items, from travel-size liquid bottles to makeup brushes, and there was still room for more.

We also noted the durability of the water-resistant nylon, which is lightweight without feeling cheap. The interior of the bag is coated with an easy-to-wipe material, allowing you to clean up any spills quickly. The bag comes in five color options (with limited edition colorways offered on occasion), as well as a smaller size option and a hanging version of the bag.

The Details: 10.2 x 3.7 x 5.9 inches | 8.8 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Compact

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

• Capacity 4 /5

It might be small, but it can still fit full-size makeup brushes.

The dividers take up valuable space.

If you're a toiletry minimalist, this is the case for you. The highly compact Dagne Dover Mila keeps all your products neat and organized in a tiny, plush drum made of water-resistant recycled poly. Unzip the lid and you'll see a grid created by a removable insert — use the insert to keep your products separated from one another, reducing their impact if the toiletry bag is jumbled around. There's also a zippered mesh pocket in the lid, as well as four elastic loops to hold items like makeup brushes and lip balm.

We did notice, however, that the insert takes up quite a bit of space in the bag, and you'd be able to squeeze quite a few more items inside if you remove it instead. Of course in that case, you wouldn't have much help in terms of organization. Ultimately, we love the flexibility — you can customize the bag to suit your needs.

The Details: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | 6 ounces | Material | Recycled poly

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Waterproof

Matador flatpak zipper toiletry case.

Back Country

• Design 4 /5

It's extremely lightweight — just over an ounce.

There aren't any extra pockets or pouches for organization.

While many toiletry kits are water-resistant, this one is fully waterproof, and that makes all the difference if you're on an outdoor adventure like camping or a multi-day kayaking trip. It's made from a special nylon that has a secret superpower: "dry-through" technology, which allows moisture to escape from the bag without letting any in. That means your toiletries (like a wet toothbrush) can dry while they're in the bag.

We found this bag to be deceptively spacious, given that it looks like a simple pencil pouch at first glance. The bag expands at the bottom, allowing it to stand alone on a flat surface while giving you the space to fit larger items in with ease. That said, there aren't any useful organizational tools to keep your products in order — this is a fairly bare-bones bag.

The Details: 9.5 x 6.75 x 3.5 inches | 1.1 ounces | Nylon | Waterproof

Best Organization

Peak design wash pouch.

Peak Design

The bag is lined with high-density foam for extra protection.

It's a fairly pricey bag.

When you have a large number of toiletries to bring with you on vacation, the best thing you can do is choose a toiletry bag that helps you keep everything organized. This is that bag! Though it appears small from the outside, the bag is so thoughtfully designed with organizational tools — we found that there's a pocket for just about everything. The main compartment is large enough to fit small bottles, while mesh pockets of various sizes line the walls. There's also a separate pocket for your toothbrush, which keeps it nice and clean.

Other highlights include a wide opening to access each pocket easily, and the ability to stand on its own thanks to the bag's layer of high-density foam that also helps protect the items inside. It also has a handy hanging hook if you'd prefer to keep some counter space clear.

The Details: 10.2 x 6 x 4.4 inches | 8.7 ounces | Nylon

Best Dopp Kit

Dare to roam steward dopp kit.

Dare to Roam

The material is antimicrobial and antibacterial.

Organization is limited to three pockets.

What are dopp kits, anyway? Though the term can be used interchangeably with "toiletry bag" today, the dopp kit was originally a durable toiletry bag devised by German leather maker Charles Doppelt that was popular with military personnel in the 20th century. It typically takes the silhouette seen here in this bag — a large main compartment, sometimes with side pockets.

What dopp kits are great for is space; we were amazed by how much could fit in this bag, especially because it's expandable with side clips and adjustable webbing straps. As such, it's ideal for longer trips where you'll need as much space as you can get. We also love that it's made from an antimicrobial and antibacterial nylon (yes, it's water-resistant), though we think it could use a little more organization beyond two interior pockets and one exterior one.

The Details: 4.5 x 8.7 x 4.7 inches | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best Small Hanging

Sea to summit hanging toiletry bag.

Small and lightweight, it's perfectly portable.

It has to hang as it won't stand up on its own.

When it comes to hanging bags, this one is perfectly balanced. It's made from an ultra-thin, water-resistant nylon and takes the shape of a saddlebag, which is ideal for hanging. We found that no matter how many items we stuffed in there, the bag never really felt weighed down; all the products were perfectly situated and easy to access, thanks to a plethora of pockets.

This bag also comes with a detachable mirror, which makes it great for outdoor adventures when you don't have access to a vanity, as well as handles for easy transport. Ultimately, it is perfect for people limited on space and weight, whether they're on a multi-day trek that requires them to carry all their gear or traveling for an extended period of time with limited storage space. The toiletry bag comes in two sizes (we tested the smaller one) and four color options.

The Details: 10.2 x 3.9 x 8.9 inches | 0.3 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Best Large Hanging

Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag.

This is an excellent value if you need to store full-size items.

The material is difficult to clean.

Bagsmart is known for making convenient travel products at affordable prices, and that's certainly true of its hanging toiletry bag. Before it's opened, the bag looks just like a little quilted briefcase; inside is an extraordinary amount of storage. Unzip the perimeter and the bag unfurls into four panels of hanging storage for your toiletries, which we found perfectly capable of storing just about every toiletry in the book save for full-size bottles of shampoo and body wash. While most of the storage compartments are variously sized zippered pockets, some actually have elastic bands to help hold your items in place.

The quilted material is made of polyester, which we found to be a little difficult to clean. It is water-resistant, though, and the texture adds a nice visual quality. Plus, it comes in ten colorways.

The Details: 12.6 x 9.1 x 4.3 inches | 15.2 ounces | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best for Cosmetics

Béis the cosmetic case.

The brush holder and mirror are removable.

The main compartment is pretty much just one big open space.

The clean, minimalist design that Béis is so loved for comes through in its cosmetic case: a sturdy bag with plenty of space for makeup aficionados. For starters, it's offered in eight elegant earth tone hues. But then there's the simple rectangular shape, which feels almost handbag-like in its sculptural form, as well as luxe hardware that adds to that handbag quality.

Though this bag can carry all types of toiletries, it's specifically designed with cosmetics in mind. That's evident from the removable mirror and brush holder, which has PVC material where the brush heads will go for easy cleaning. There are also a few slip pockets, which we found especially helpful for palettes. One thing to note, however, is that the main compartment of this toiletry bag is simply a vast space without any dividers to organize individual products. That said, we can report that nothing broke or spilled during evaluations.

The Details: 9.5 x 4 x 7 inches | 1.38 pounds | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best for Men

Bagsmart toiletry bag for men.

It opens wide with a double zipper.

It's made of canvas, which may be hard to clean but is water-resistant.

Fun fact: dopp kits were originally designed for men so it makes perfect sense why this one is designed to fit shaving and grooming products in particular. It's made of canvas for a rough-and-tumble look, and it's offered in seven colors (mostly neutrals, but also light pink) and two sizes. Though we consider it sturdy enough to stand on its own, we also found it flexible enough to be stuffed into a packed weekender.

As for storage capabilities, there's a main compartment that's accessible via a double zipper, which means the kit opens nice and wide for you to be able to access your items. That main compartment can fit bulkier items, while smaller items can fill the pockets along the sides. There are also two separate side pockets, one of which is designed to hold wet items.

The Details: 10.2 x 5.9 x 6.3 inches | 6.4 ounces | Canvas | Water-resistant

Best for Short Trips

Tumi response travel kit.

It opens like a clamshell.

It's not water-resistant.

Luxury brand Tumi doesn't only make high-end suitcases and travel bags — they also make high-end toiletry bags. Made from ballistic nylon (and offered in three colorways), this is one of the most durable toiletry bags out there, and it wouldn't be surprising if this bag lasted years, even with regular use.

Its best feature is the fact that it opens like a clamshell, with two distinct compartments in each half. That makes it easy to access everything in the bag, whether you're laying it flat on a countertop or you're hanging it via the attached hook. There are four pockets, including one water-resistant one, and two elastic loops to hold products like toothbrushes or razors. We think it’s a reasonably spacious bag, but only for travel-size products — that's why we recommend it for short trips rather than long ones.

The Details: 6.3 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches | 0.9 pounds | Ballistic nylon

Best Leather

Cuyana travel beauty case.

• Portability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

This is a true luxury item with exquisite craftsmanship.

More care will need to be taken so spills don’t damage the leather.

Take one look at the Cuyana Travel Beauty Case, and it's clear that you're dealing with a luxury item. Made from Italian pebbled leather, this toiletry bag is extremely elegant in each of its three colors: ecru, soft rose, and black. We found that this is high-quality leather that's not so delicate you have to worry about damaging it when stuffing it in your backpack or weekender.

As for storage, there are two main compartments: one with an internal elastic pocket for storing larger items and another that has elastic straps to hold items like makeup brushes in place. They open like a clamshell, and between them is a detachable pouch for smaller items. The pouch is ideal for a few items that can be used to refresh your makeup on a travel day, but it can't hold enough products for a full face.

The Details: 6.2 x 10.2 x 3.1 inches | 1.6 pounds | Italian pebbled leather

MZ Wallace Mica Cosmetic Case

It's a no-nonsense bag — simply stash your stuff and go.

There's only one main compartment with a smaller zippered pocket.

The best thing about a pouch like this one is that it's very straightforward — all you have to do is toss in your items without giving much thought to organization. We loved this particular toiletry bag because it's more spacious than it seems at first glance. That's particularly true of the one zippered pocket inside: it was able to hold seven makeup brushes.

By the same token, the lack of organization might be frustrating to some. Depending on your preference, you might wish there were a few dividers or additional pockets to keep things a little tidier inside the bag. Still, the amount of space it has for items is impressive, and for some travelers, that might be just what they're looking for.

The Details: 9.49 x 4.02 x 5.98 inches | 0.23 pounds | REC Oxford

Best Budget

Wandf toiletry bag.

• Portability 4 /5

It comes in nearly 20 colors.

The main compartment only has one zipper, which makes it a little tough to retrieve items.

As you're probably well aware by this point, toiletry bags can get quite expensive — but they don't have to be. This is a particularly budget-friendly model, yet it accomplishes just about everything you'd need a toiletry bag to do. For one, it has multiple compartments. And for another, it's a water-resistant case, which means it can handle being splashed on a bathroom counter.

The compartments are both the success and the downfall of this toiletry bag. We were beyond impressed with the amount of space inside the main compartment, as well as with the two side compartments with mesh pockets. But we found that the main compartment was almost too spacious and could benefit from another divider of some kind. Given its size, it could also benefit from a double zipper opening, which would allow you to access more items throughout the bag than the existing single zipper.

The Details: 10.24 x 4.72 x 5.91 inches | 3.53 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Other Toiletry Bags We Liked

• Dagne Dover Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag : We love the soft, water-resistant neoprene material of this bag, as well as the two detached pouches for easy organization. (And did we mention the colors? Those are beautiful, too!) Unfortunately, we found it to be a tight fit to squeeze both of the detachable pouches into the main bag when all three had items in them.
• State Bags Bensen Dopp Kit : This is a spacious bag with a detachable pouch for additional storage — there's not much to not like here. But we think it's a bit too expensive, and we found the hook to be too small to use in many cases. Because it's so spacious, it's best for longer trips, as we think it might take up a bit too much room in a carry-on bag.
• L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag, Medium : A favorite for decades, this bag is the king when it comes to storage space and organization — there are pockets for just about everything. Some might find the sheer number of storage spaces to be overwhelming. But others, particularly those going on long trips or families who might be sharing a toiletry bag, will love the roominess.
• Baggu Dopp Kit : This bag packs flat, which is great when you need to store it somewhere. But when you expand it, you'll find that it's large enough to carry all of your toiletries and then some. The only thing we worried about was the durability of the materials. Though it did not fail any of our rigorous tests, we suspect it may wear out over time.

We tested 52 toiletry bags and cosmetics cases in our lab to determine the best products.

Testing started with an analysis of the bag when it was empty; we examined the materials, the construction, and the overall design.

Then we packed the bags with common travel essentials like toiletry bottles, makeup, and dental products, among other items. We then re-evaluated the design of the bag, noting overall capacity; convenience and security of organizational compartments, pockets, and pouches; closure functionality (such as zippers, magnetic clasps, and Velcro tabs); and overall sturdiness and stability of the bag.

Next, we put the bags into weekenders, carry-on luggage, and backpacks to see how they'd fit. We also carried around the larger bags to evaluate the feel of the toiletry bags in them.

Finally, we rated each toiletry bag on its capacity, design, portability, and value, all the while considering extra characteristics like the material's water-resistance, ease of cleaning, and any extra features, such as hanging straps or built-in mirrors.

Testing of the toiletry kits then continues for a period of six months on our real-world trips, and we will continue to update this article based on the results.

When the bag was fully packed, we placed it inside a large weekender bag to get a sense of its weight by carrying it around our lab. We also checked how much space the bag took up inside the weekender bag to determine if there was ample room to store other items, such as clothing and accessories. We then determined whether the bag would be suitable for weekend trips and/or longer vacations.

After rating for all attributes, we checked each bag's price to rate the overall value.

Tips for Buying a Toiletry Bag

Look at the design of the bag.

Some toiletry bags are voids — they have one cavernous space to fit all your items. But others are separated into compartments with pockets and pouches to keep your items in place. Depending on what you're storing in your toiletry bag, you might prefer more organizational tools than a single open space. Also consider the material; more durable, water-resistant materials are ideal for toiletry bags, since they'll be getting quite a bit of use on the road.

Consider capacity and the items you pack

What do you plan on putting in a toiletry bag? If you're a minimalist who carries very few toiletries — say, just face wash and toothpaste — you might only need a small case But if you have an extensive skincare routine — including sunscreen and after-sun lotion — and you travel with all your makeup, you'll need a bag with enough space for everything.

Think about portability

If you plan on taking your toiletry bag in your carry-on, you'll want it to be as compact and lightweight as possible to save room for everything else in your bag. And if you're packing liquids, gels, or aerosols, make sure your items’ sizes comply with the TSA's 3-1-1 rule . If you're checking your toiletry bag, though, you might have more flexibility with size and weight.

While a clear bag is not explicitly stated on all sections of the TSA website , this is the common practice and can speed things up at the security checkpoint. Toiletry bags that don't hold any liquids, as well as toiletry bags that will be checked in your suitcase (regardless of their contents), do not need to be clear.

Since toiletry bags frequently come into contact with liquids — either from leaking products or from the bathroom counter — water-resistant or waterproof materials are best. Another factor to consider is durability. Toiletry bags are typically fairly heavily used when you travel, so it's best to look for tear-proof fabric that will hold up over time.

A TSA-approved toiletry bag is one that meets the TSA's requirements for the 3-1-1 rule regarding liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes packed in carry-ons. These products must be 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less, and they all must fit in " 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag ."

You can pack just about anything in a toiletry bag, from heatless hair curlers to body washes to makeup. Depending on what you plan on putting in your toiletry bag, you may want to look for ones with special pockets — many toiletry bags have designated spots for items like makeup brushes or palettes to keep them secure.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with a decade of experience. For this article, she incorporated tester feedback and used her own experience with toiletry bags.

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Camping Cookware Set 304 Stainless Steel 8-Piece Pots & Pans Open Fire Cooking Kit | Frying Pan Steamer with Travel Tote Bag | Compact For Outdoors & Indoors Kitchen Family Campfire Hiking RV

( $15.12 / Item )

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About this item.

• COMPLETE COOKWARE SET FOR YOUR ADVENTURES- Sharing a hearty meal over the fire surrounded with people you care about, is priceless. Wealers brings you a complete cookware set to make all that possible, consisting of 1x WITH OUT NONSTICK COATING Frying/ Sauce Pan, 1x Steamer/strainer, 1x Large Pot & Lid, 1x Medium Pot & Lid,1x Small Cooking Pot & Lid.
• SUPERIOR STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION- All our outdoors cooking set’s pieces are made with premium 304 Stainless Steel for extra durability and longevity. Feel absolutely free to take our cookware set on your trips and enjoy wholesome meals cooked over open fire, charcoal, wood or gas induction when you hike, camp, or take your RV to the outdoors.
• PRACTICAL, TRAVEL-FRIENDLY- Our pots are highly portable; they come with a handy, lightweight travel bag, and features folding and removable handles for extra space. The lids have easy-grip handles for safe touching when cooking, and are stackable so that you don’t have to sacrifice room for other important gear.
• INDOORS OR OUTDOORS- Our cookware set delivers perfect results whether outdoors or indoors. With a pure aluminum encapsulated base you get even heat distribution, handles and side grips that are professionally riveted for a lifetime of perfect balance- our set delivers in all fronts. Plus, all our pieces can be used with ovens, stovetops, broilers and can be frozen for easy storage.
• 100% SAFE & TESTED- The Wealers cooking set goes through rigorous controls to ensure that it’s perfectly safe for your health, as it’s 100% Food Grade Material. What’s more, our kitchen equipment is dishwasher friendly to make your life easy and mess-free. DIMENSIONS (diameter): Sauce pan : 14/16cm, Stock pot : 20cm, Frying pan : 20cm, Steamer : 18cm.

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Wholesome Meals With Friends & Family in the Great Outdoors- Cooking Set by Wealers

Enjoy a complete cooking set for outdoors that features all the practicality and quality you need in a single, value-packed deal.

Set Includes:

✅ 1x Frying/ Sauce Pan,

✅ 1x Steamer/strainer,

✅ 1x Large Pot & Lid,

✅ 1x Medium Pot & Lid,

✅ 1x Small Cooking Pot & Lid.

✅ 1x Travel Bag

Take your hiking, camping, RV traveling or any outdoors adventure to the next level with our complete cookware set!

➤ Stainless Steel Construction

When in the Outdoors, you need equipment you can count on. Our cooking set is made with superior 304 Stainless Steel for unmatched, heavy-duty durability-cook on open fire, charcoal, gas induction or wood.

➤ Designed for Adventure

We’re big on practicality so we designed our set to be portable, stackable, with folding handles, top handles on lids for safe touching and a pan with removable handle-we also include a handy travel bag to make life easier.

➤ Quality Build

With an aluminum encapsulated base for even heat distribution, professionally riveted handles and grips, our pots & pans set will not fail you when you least expect it.

Safe for Your Family

Our cookware set is made with Food Grade Stainless Steel, which will never react with food or contaminate its taste.

Plus, it’s dishwasher-safe so that you enjoy less time spent cleaning and more importantly, Stainless Steel will always come out clean like new.

DIMENSIONS (diameter): Sauce pan : 14/16cm, Stock pot : 20cm, Frying pan : 20cm, Steamer : 18cm.

Click Add to Cart Now & Enrich Your Explorations With Amazing Meals & Tastes!

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, portability, versatility, and ease of cleaning of the cookware set. For example, they mention it's well-made, sturdy, and durable. Some appreciate the size, saying it fits well together for compact storage in an RV. That said, they also appreciate the value, ease of use, and quantity.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the cookware set. They mention that it's well-made, sturdy, and made of high-quality stainless steel. The set is easy to clean and maintain, and it cooks evenly. Some appreciate the weight and the fact that it can be used in a fire.

"...The pans are sturdy with heavy bottoms to prevent tipping. Stainless steel makes them easy to clean. Two caveats -..." Read more

"This Wealers camping cookware set is well made and would really excel for cooking over a fire, where its bail type handles and all metal..." Read more

"This cookware set is in our overlander rig, and it's heavy-duty , heavy-weight and durable. Nests well, once you figure out the order of things." Read more

"...Not for me. Without it i have room for other items. Everything is solid . The large pot is really useful for larger meals..." Read more

Customers find the cookware set easy to store, compact, and neatly. They also say the nesting storage is the best feature and it's convenient to travel with.

"...This 304 stainless camp cookware set is a happy exception. Light enough to tote along , big enough to feed a crowd and sturdy enough to last for..." Read more

"This cookware set is in our overlander rig, and it's heavy-duty, heavy-weight and durable. Nests well, once you figure out the order of things." Read more

"... Heavy weight , great nonstick surface on the skillet and the set is easy to nest and put back into the carrier...." Read more

"... Nesting storage is the best feature to me, and my son likes how quickly they heat up.The colander is useless...." Read more

Customers like the versatility of the cookware set. They say it's great for camping and RVs, and it cooks a very good dinner. Some say it’s better than some of the other cookware they’ve used in their home throughout the years. Overall, customers are happy with the quality and the carry bag.

"...Wealers camping cookware set is well made and would really excel for cooking over a fire , where its bail type handles and all metal construction..." Read more

"...This set is better than some of the cookware I’ve used in my home throughout the years." Read more

"...I love how it all perfectly nests and I has a lovely case to carry it all in as well as keep it clean." Read more

"Bought these for my RV and they are really nice . I love how they stack up and save space...." Read more

Customers like the size of the cookware set. They say it fits well together for compact storage, and the carrying case fits the pots well.

"...-carry case is well made and fits the pots well .-a lid for every potthings to be aware of:..." Read more

"...Unbelievable how easy they are to clean. The set fits well together for compact storage in our RV. Great purchase." Read more

"...I do have quite a collection of that, but it is heavy and can take up a bit of space - great if you're going out for several weeks, perhaps mostly..." Read more

" Compact , storage in RV and cooking size for eceryday cooking." Read more

Customers find the cookware set easy to use, clean, and put back up.

"...Stainless steel makes them easy to clean . Two caveats -..." Read more

"High quality! Unbelievable how easy they are to clean . The set fits well together for compact storage in our RV. Great purchase." Read more

"...Solid weight, easy to clean and pack . I love the bag it comes with because it also protects the set. Best purchase ever, well worth the money!!!!" Read more

"...nests and I has a lovely case to carry it all in as well as keep it clean ." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the cookware set. They say it's well worth the money, awesome, and appropriately priced.

"...good things:-well made and appropriately priced at ninety dollars.-a magnet sticks so it should work for induction...." Read more

"...Best purchase ever, well worth the money !!!!" Read more

"... Sweet buy !" Read more

" Awesome buy ... took it camping and did everything I needed it for.." Read more

Customers find the cookware set easy to use and nest. They also say it's sturdy and compact.

"...Heavy weight, great nonstick surface on the skillet and the set is easy to nest and put back into the carrier...." Read more

"...Was easy to use , wash and put back up." Read more

"...is great for saving space in your camper/or home, stores easily and neatly ." Read more

" Easy to use ." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quantity of the cookware set. They mention that the large pot is really useful for larger meals, it's light enough to tote along, and big enough to feed a crowd. The set serves their large family very well, and is a perfect set for 4 people.

"...Light enough to tote along, big enough to feed a crowd and sturdy enough to last for years...." Read more

"...Everything is solid. The large pot is really useful for larger meals ..." Read more

"This is a big set of pots . I was looking for a big sturdy set for our tent trailer. I'll be able to easily cook spaghetti in the largest pot...." Read more

"This set serves my large family very well . We use the two biggest pots and the skillet every day when we’re camping...." Read more

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50 Best Gifts for 10-Year-Old Boys in 2024

Not sure what to get him for his birthday? Look to one of these cool and trendy ideas.

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.

It may seem hard to find gifts for 10-year-old boys (or 10-year-old girls , or any 10-year-olds in general ), but the Good Housekeeping Institute has figured out what gifts tweens like through a fool-proof method: soliciting feedback from actual 10-year-olds. Lab experts evaluate hundreds of toys and gifts each year, checking out the safety and quality of each one. Then, and most importantly, it hands the toys over to real kids, who assess the fun factor. (Each year, the best wind up Good Housekeeping Best Toy Award winners.) We put those results together with best-sellers and editor's picks, and these emerged as the best toys and gifts for 10-year-old boys in 2024.

• The Guardian Test: Legends of Lotus Island #1 , $11 on amazon.com
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• Chillbo Shwaggins Inflatable Couch , $38 at amazon.com
• 3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen , $49 on amazon.com
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There are plenty more where that came from, including STEM sets, building kits, fidget toys and more.

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Chillbo Shwaggins Inflatable Couch

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Force1 Scoot Hand-Operated Mini Drone

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RELATED: The Best Drones for Kids

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ArmoGear Laser Tag Set

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3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set

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Shashibo Shape Shifting Box

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SpyX Night Mission Goggles

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Minecraft: Builders & Biomes Strategy Board Game

This game has everything kids love about Minecraft — the mobs, the biomes, the building — but taken off screens and transformed into a strategy-based board game. Players explore the Overworld, mine resources, build structures and fight enemies to earn points, and the one with the most points wins. And, since the Overworld grid is different every time, it's never the same game twice! If it catches on, there's also a Farmer's Market expansion . Ages 10+

Spin Flip Puzzle

This unique puzzle is made of concentric rings that can be spun around in different directions, so it's a cross between a brain-teaser and a fidget toy. Multiple Good Housekeeping Institute testers say their families picked up a bunch of them to do head-to-head battles and see who could solve it first. Ages 8+

RELATED: The Good Housekeeping Best Toy Awards

Klutz Book of Paper Airplanes Kit

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Comic Book Making Kit

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Koosh Flix Stix Ball Fun

Koosh meets Lacrosse here , and how much more fun can it get? They'll be outside for hours to see who can catch the Koosh ball after the furthest throw. Ages 8+

Walkie Talkies

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Slackers NinjaLine 36' Intro Kit

With 10 obstacles included, this kit makes sure he has everything he needs to become the ultimate ninja. He can swing from one ring to the next and build both upper body strength and imagination. This intro set works for many fitness levels — from beginner, intermediate and advanced training. All obstacles include steel hanging safety clips that hang between two sturdy posts . Parents, make sure to follow the included instructions for proper safety installation! Ages 5+

Inflatable Punching Bag for Kids

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3D Print Pullover Hoodie

You are now entering the Twilight Zone, or at least you'll feel like you are after looking at this hoodie. There are so many cool 3D designs he'll love , but this one is our favorite. Sizes 6 – 16

Newton's Laws Construction Kit

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Penn & Teller VR Magic Lab

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Marisa (she/her) has covered all things parenting, from the postpartum period through the empty nest, for Good Housekeeping since 2018; she previously wrote about parents and families at Parents and Working Mother . She lives with her husband and daughter in Brooklyn, where she can be found dominating the audio round at her local bar trivia night or tweeting about movies.

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