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The best travel accessories to pack on every trip

By Madison Flager

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

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

1. A trusted tote

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

2. A travel wash bag

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

3. Packing cubes

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

4. Jewellery case

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

5. Reusable travel bottles

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

6. Hydrating skincare products

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

7. A portable charger

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

8. A power adapter

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

9. Headphones

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

10. A luggage scale

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

11. A way to find your luggage

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

12. An e-reader

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

13. A portable fan

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

14. A portable steamer

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

15. A tech kit

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

16. An eye mask

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

17. A neck pillow

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

18. Cosy socks

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

19. Earplugs

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

20. A shawl or blanket

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

21. Hand sanitiser and wipes

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

22. A reusable water bottle

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

23. Snack containers

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

24. A passport holder

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

25. A back-up travel bag

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

26. A travel umbrella

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

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When you’re taking off on a new trip, especially overseas, you want to make sure you have everything you need. And, if you’re like us, you almost always feel like you’re forgetting something. What will I need? What if I forget something? “I CAN’T BE WITHOUT MY SILK PILLOW CASE.” We get it, but just remember all you really need to enjoy a new destination are some clothes and toiletries (even those you could pick up along the way). The rest are simply nice-to-haves, and these things below are definitely nice to have!

Just so you know, many of the products and services we recommend contain affiliate links that give us a small commission if you make a purchase. These commissions support our mission to keep going places and create quality travel videos. We are so thankful for your support!

Away Bigger Carry-On

Our favorite suitcase!

Packing Cubes

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Ashley loves it!

GRAYL Purifier Bottle

A must-have on the road!

Bose Headphones

Great for a quiet flight!

iPhone Travel Case

Jordan loves this!

Radix One Slim Wallet

Sit in comfort!

World Travel Adapter

Seriously the best!

RayBan Erika Sunglasses

Jordan’s go-to pair!

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No dirty shoes with clothes!

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One of our top picks!

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Great for road trips!

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Nobody wants a dirty brush!

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Keep your razors covered!

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8 Essential Travel Accessories to Bring on Your Next Getaway

Packing light is fine and dandy, but you’d be wise to make space in your luggage for these eight essential travel accessories. From universal chargers and top-of-the-line travel pillows to the only Bluetooth speaker you’ll ever need, these gadgets are all 2018 must-haves.

1. STASH: It's one of our least favorite things about hopping on a plane: forgetting that water bottle in your backpack and having to toss it before you hit security. For thirsty travelers, HydraPak's ingenious Stash is invaluable. This durable bottle is fully collapsible and lightweight, so you can slide it in your carry-on bag and then fill it up right before you board your flight.

Image courtesy of HydraPak

2. DUBS: Whether it's the roar of a jet engine, the clacking of a train, or simply the chatter of other passengers, travel can be a pretty loud experience. For those times when you're hoping to catch a few z's on the road (or just some peace of mind), DUBS acoustic filters can assist. These essential travel accessories don't muffle all sound: Instead, they've been pre-tuned to block out specific, irritating frequencies, while still letting you converse. Science or sorcery? Honestly, it's hard to be sure.

3. SCRUBBA AIR SLEEVE: It isn't wise to haul around an expensive laptop without stashing it somewhere safe. Luckily, Scrubba's Air Sleeve ensures your tech stays well protected. The laptop case inflates to cushion your computer in a gentle pocket of air, so it remains in one piece even when dropped or manhandled. Even better: This 'airbag for your tech' also over-inflates, so you can use it as a travel pillow (even when your laptop's inside).

4. TWIST+: Hey, globetrotting types: Stop packing a whole sack full of various and sundry converters and chargers when you travel internationally. These days, you only need one gadget to juice up your electronics, no matter where in the world you venture. Meet OneAdaptr's Twist+ World Charging Station , which attaches to any MacBook power adapter and can charge your computer anywhere. Better yet, it's got four USB ports, so you can power up to five devices from a single socket.

5. SPARKR: If you're setting off on an intrepid adventure, the Sparkr is one essential travel accessory to have on hand. Call it Prometheus, 'cause this savvy gadget comes bearing fire and light: It's an LED flashlight and also a plasma lighter, which uses an electrical arc instead of gas. Three-click activation means it won't turn on when you don't want it to, while that electrical current lets you get a campfire going even when the wind's blowing something fierce.

6. EVOLUTION PILLOW: Travel pillow technology must've been overdue an upgrade, because Cabeau's Evolution Pillow is the second groundbreaking example we're adding to our list. Designed for optimum neck support, this cushion is made from memory foam, which means you might actually stand a chance of sleeping through the night in economy. It compresses small enough to be zipped away when you're done, and it even comes with a cell phone pocket and foam earplugs. Lights out in 3, 2...

7. UE WONDERBOOM: Having music on the go might not be absolutely essential, but if you ask us, it definitely makes the travel experience more fun. Liven up the mood in your Airbnb, give your campground a soundtrack, or even throw an impromptu dance party on the beach courtesy of the UE Wonderboom . This palm-sized Bluetooth speaker offers killer sound, 10-hour battery life, and next-level functionality (it doesn't just claim to be waterproof: The Wonderboom straight-up floats ).

8. GOTENNA MESH: Sometimes it's nice to get away from it all...and sometimes there's comfort in knowing you can hit up a buddy, even when you're miles away from the nearest town. The goTenna Mesh makes off-the-grid communications possible when you don't have any signal. Pair your phone with the Mesh to send encrypted texts and map your GPS coordinates, and link with other users nearby. It's like a super-powered, super-smart walkie talkie.

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The 13 best travel accessories, chosen by our editors.

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

The Best Travel Accessories

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

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

S'well Stainless Steel Traveler

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

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

Price: $50 or less

Lug Mini Swizzle Jewelry Case

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

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

Price: $33 or less

Holii Daily Pill Organizer

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

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

Price: $12.99 or less

Apple AirPods Pro Wireless Earbuds (Second Generation)

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

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

Price: $249 or less

QuietOn 3.1 Sleep Earbuds

Courtesy of QuietOn

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

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

Price: $289 or less

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Anker 325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

Courtesy of Anker

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

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

Price: $49.99 or less

Apple AirTag

Courtesy of Apple

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

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

Price: $29 or less

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

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

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

Price: $139.99 or less

Worlds of Wonder: A Coloring Book for the Curious

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

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

Price: $17.95 or less for paperback

BeeGreen Reusable Grocery Bags 5-Pack

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

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

Price: $17.99 or less

Magicteam Sound Machine

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

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

Price: $29.99 or less

Aquasphere Defy.Ultra Swim Mask

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

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

Price: $99.99 or less

Wander & Perch Wander Wet Bag

Courtesy of Wander & Perch

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

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

Price: $38 or less

You might also be interested in:

• Vacation Packing List: Top Essentials for Any Trip
• The Top Travel Gifts
• The Top Luggage Tags
• The Top Toiletry Bags
• The Top Packing Cubes

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Matt Jancer

The Best Travel Accessories to Make Your Trip Easier

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Charge Ahead Nimble Champ (Series 2) Read more

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

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

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Charge Ahead

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

Charge Everything at Once

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

Learn to Adapt

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

Tag, You’re It

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

Reece Rogers

Max Freeman-Mills

Julian Chokkattu

Scott Gilbertson

Keeping Track

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

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

Catch Some Z’s

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

To Safeguard Your Electronics

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

A Better Pillow

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

Tip the Scales

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

To Protect Your Laptop

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

Mosquito Guard

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

A Good Book, or 20

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

Top Up Your Devices

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

Maintain Your Sanity

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

For Compact Peace and Quiet

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

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

A Nice Travel Sling

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

An All-Day Stash

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

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

Bring Your Best Friend

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

Make Yourself Understood

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

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

Connect the Unconnected

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

For Chilly Flights and Nights

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

Don't Forget the Toothpaste

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

Stay Hydrated

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

Get Steamed

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

Eric Ravenscraft

Adrienne So

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73 Best Travel Gifts for Book Lovers, Beauty Gurus, & Everyone Else on Your List

By Madison Flager and Paris Wilson

When it comes to choosing the best travel gifts, there are many routes to take: You can get your go-to vacation companion something practical that they'll reach for every time they take out their carry-on. Or, you can gift something to encourage them to start planning their next trip (and hopefully invite you along). There are also gifts that bring travel to them, making the space between adventures feel a bit more like a vacation, and experience gifts to make their next trip even more exciting. No matter the occasion, or the traveler, we've rounded up nearly 60 travel gifts from brands we love, so you can find something for each person on your list.

For even more specific gift guides, be sure to check out all our recommended gifts for travelers, which we've gathered for you here . And keep an eye on the calendar—the sooner the better if you're shipping presents straight to a giftee, or mailing to yourself to wrap. Standard free shipping deadlines end as early as December 13 for delivery by Christmas, so aim to order by that date if you're hoping to avoid shipping costs.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lunya washable silk pajama set

Washable silk pajamas? Say no more. For the traveler who could use a little luxury in their life, Lunya's matching set—which we've raved about time and time again—will get plenty of use at home and on vacation.

Dreamegg White Noise Machine

This sound machine fits into the palm of a hand and weighs less than five ounces. It's perfect for travelers with small children or who find it hard to fall sleep in new environments. It has a rechargeable USB battery, features 21 different sounds, and has an easy-to-use timer setting.

Ashya Passport Bolo

For those who like to travel light, the Passport Bolo from Ashya is an adjustable, hand stitched leather passport necklace made with 14K gold-plated hardware. It can be worn as across the chest like a slingbag or around the neck like a lanyard. Use it to hold important cards while traveling or as an everyday wallet .

Ember Travel Mug 2

The charge on this mug can last up to three hours, but lasts all day when combined with the charging coaster. When left unattended, it automatically goes into sleep mode, but can keep the cup warm for up to two hours with the help of its thermal hardware.

Kaitlin Menza

Matt Ortile

Kelsey Glennon

Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest

We could wax poetic about what our office has dubbed “the foot hammock,” but it all comes down to this : for those roughly 5'7" and under, it'll transform your in-flight economy experience. Sling it around your tray table and enjoy stretching out your legs (or curling up to sleep) throughout your next flight.

Ralph Lauren Cable Cashmere travel set

This Ralph Lauren travel set is a travel accessory you'll use again and again. It comes with a large shawl that can be used as a blanket, a small pillow, and a soft eye mask—all made from cashmere.

Zendure mini portable charger

For frequent travelers, a small, lightweight portable charger is truly a must-have. The Supermini portable power bank is extremely slim, durable, and is compatible with USB-A, USB, and USB-C ports.

Rifle Paper Co. AirTag luggage tag

If your giftee has gotten on the AirTag train this year, they’ll appreciate this handy luggage tag, designed to hold said tag and look aesthetically pleasing while doing so. The garden party print will add a Bridgerton-meets-cottagecore vibe to their suitcase, and the AirTag compartment is detachable, making it even more versatile.

Bellroy Tech Kit

Every organized traveler needs a good tech kit. We like Bellroy's for its many pockets and loops that will fit any size cord and offer a safe place to stash AirPods, portable chargers, and work-from-anywhere accessories like a mouse or Wi-Fi extender.

Dagne Dover Seoul Dopp kit

Ahead of the holidays, Dagne Dover released a new slate of items in its eco-friendlier collection. The Seoul Dopp kit, much like the rest of the collection, is made from 100 percent recycled polyester while the interior is made from a spill-proof recycled poly lining.

Canada Goose Trillium Parka Heritage

For winter travel, a thick, packable coat is a necessity. The Canada Goose Trillium parka is built for extreme cold but is by no means bulky, and actually has a slimming effect. It has a chin guard to protect the neck from cold air, interior pockets, and a hoodie with removable trims, giving your giftee some style options.

Comrad Knee High Ombre compression socks

Socks have a reputation as a boring gift option, but for travelers, these ones are an actually thoughtful pick. Comrad is known for bringing comfort and style to the world of compression socks, which are designed to help regulate swelling and keep the blood pumping through the legs. They're perfect for long flights, road trips, or just walking around sightseeing.

AeroPress coffee maker

The AeroPress coffee and espresso maker is perfect for coffee lovers who can't go without their morning cup. It's durable, shatter-proof, and fits compactly into a backpack . It's easy to use and easier to clean, making it a must-have for travelers.

Pak Réve The Wilder Bundle

Trying to make it out of the house as a new parent can be stressful to stay the least. The Wilder Bundle, designed by Traveler contributor Jordi Lippe-McGraw , can fit everything you need and more. On the exterior, we see a full-size backpack, but its included attachments—a mini backpack, wristlet, and insulated lunchbox—easily snap off to lighten your load when you don't need them, or to be used separately.

Parks by Brian Kelley

From intricately drawn brochures and eye-catching advertisements emerges a collection of over 400 designs produced by the United States National Park Service over the last century, compiled into a giftable portfolio by photographer Brian Kelley.

Shinola The Canfield Sport

The Shinola Canfield Sport watch is a timeless piece of jewelry that can withstand whatever life throws at it. It features a stainless steel outer case and bracelet with a gunmetal finish making it extremely durable. Its sportier look is perfect for casual wear but the black finishing makes it easy to dress up.

Filson x Chris Stapleton Traveller Bag

Country music star Chris Stapleton recently collaborated with Filson on the Traveller collection that features both clothing and travel gear. One of the standout pieces is the rereleased archived duffel. The Traveller Outfitter Bag is one of Stapleton’s favorites and we understand why: It has an adjustable shoulder strap, a large main compartment for a few days' worth of clothing, and a comfortable leather grip handle. The leather on the handle won’t transfer any color and with each wear, the leather gets softer.

Browit silk sleeping bag

This silk sleeping bag sack gives a subtle glamping touch to any camping trip. The sleeping bag liner can be put into a sleeping bag for added comfort, or placed on top of a blow-up mattress or even a hotel bed. It comes with a drawstring bag that makes it easy to store and pack.

Simo Solis Portable Hotspot

When it comes to working outside of your home, we all know how unstable Wi-Fi can be. Instead of struggling through Zoom meetings on an Airbnb’s outdated router or a hotel on a crowded line, invest in your own hotspot. This one has a better bandwidth than the one you find on your phone, lasts longer, and won't run down your phone battery.

Collapsible Food Tent

This is an ideal gift for those who love to host outdoor get-togethers. Each tent is handwoven with long-lasting sinamay abaca fiber. It can easily be placed over trays, bowls, plates, and cups to keep bugs out of the food.

Béis The Expandable Pouch

Versatile is the best way to describe The Expandable Pouch from Béis. It transforms from a fanny pack into a sleek, lightweight backpack, with plenty of space to fit must-haves for a whole day. It's great for trips with packed itineraries, and when you find yourself picking up items throughout the day.

Aman x 111Skin nourishing gold algae eye mask

Perfect for the skincare routine queens on your list, these eye masks blend the expertise of Aman and 111Skin. A set comes with eight Nourishing Gold Algae Eye Masks to hydrate and brighten the under-eye area. They’ll come in handy after long-haul flights, or just the post-holiday drive home.

Té Company Tea set

The Formosa tea set is a perfect starter bundle for those looking to expand their tea palate. It has seven different blends and includes detailed instructions on the tea-making process to guide your giftee toward the perfect cup.

Four Seasons velvet slippers

Slippers are a no-fail gift option for pretty much anyone on your list, and this velvet style from Four Seasons will bring a touch of luxury to their day. The elastic back makes them easy to slip on and off, and the recycled rubber sole adds some durability to them.

Oui The People Body Renewal set

Oui The People has been bringing some heat to the skincare world, with formulas that produce an unmatched glow. The brand's holy trinity includes the new Clean Slate body wash, Cheat Sheet body exfoliant, and Featherweight body oil. The trio work together to achieve visibly smoother, brighter, and more hydrated skin.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones can improve any journey, whether they're blocking out a snoring plane neighbor or immersing you in movie after movie on a long car ride. This popular option from Sony offers multi-device Bluetooth pairing, so you can connect to two devices at once and switch between them seamlessly.

Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon’s best-selling, waterproof Kindle Paperwhite is perfect for bookworm travelers—its battery lasts for weeks, it can hold more than 2,000 e-books, and the adjustable warm lighting emulates actual book pages.

Verloop trio colorblock knit touchscreen gloves

Add some fun to a practical gift with these colorblock touchscreen gloves from Verloop. The nano-metallic knit fingertips allow you to keep using your phone without sacrificing warmth—ideal for winter travel, especially on days when you’re relying on Google Maps to get around.

Malin + Goetz Essential Starter Kit

This is the ideal stocking stuffer for the traveler who is always squirreling away shampoo and body wash minis from hotels. They'll be treated to a full swath of toiletries—face cleanser and moisturizer, body wash and lotion, shampoo, and conditioner—all with the delicious scents Malin + Goetz is known for.

Pi7 S2 Wireless earbuds

Bowers & Wilkins have created an industry first: a wireless audio retransmission case, so you no longer have to worry about swapping out your headphones on the plane to enjoy in-flight entertainment. Simply plug each end of the included audio cable into the case and seatback console for up to five hours of crystal clear audio.

Shinola denim duffle

The denim duffel is Shinola Detroit's spin on an American classic. It's made from American denim and reimagines the brand's traditional cotton duffel with a more elevated flare. Accompanied by a striped band, you can carry it as a crossbody, over the shoulder, or opt to tuck the strap in and use the elegant arched handles.

Patagonia Provisions roasted garlic mackerel

Upgrade your outdoorsy traveler's camping meals with anything from Patagonia Provisions. We're fans of the brand's tinned fish , and especially this tender, garlicky mackerel. A single can makes a great stocking stuffer, but if you're shopping for a full-on seafood lover, splurge on the Tinned Seafood Sampler Box .

Lyft Gift Card

Calling Lyfts while traveling can quickly add up; a gift card helps take the pressure off any back and forth over whether a car is worth it or not, making it a great gift for younger travelers heading out on group trips or gap years. Another perk: Lyft's partnership with Delta means SkyMiles members can earn miles with each ride.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole mini hip pack

We love a good fanny pack here at Traveler , and Patagonia's is ideal for any frequent hikers (or bikers) on your gift list. Given its size—it stuffs into its own small pocket when not in use—and light weight (3.5 ounces), it's great to throw into your suitcase to use on city trips, too.

Apollo Walker picnic backpack bag

This all-in-one picnic fits comfortably inside a backpack and includes everything one could imagine: a set of stainless steel knives, forks, spoons, dinner plates, napkins, and wine glasses, just to name a few. As the cherry on top, it comes with a waterproof blanket.

Oak Essentials Mini Routine

Fancy skincare products are always welcome, especially when they come in a travel-size set that means you don’t have to rely on whatever’s in the hotel or Airbnb. This set, which comes with complimentary gift-wrapping, comes with the five products that make up Oak Essentials’ routine: a cleansing balm, balancing mist, ritual oil, moisture rich balm, and restorative mask.

Yellowstone National Park magnet

Like Parks Project , another  Traveler -favorite company for gifts for outdoorsy pals, The Landmark Project creates national park-themed gear that raises money to preserve outdoor spaces. These national park magnets make great stocking stuffers, and if you purchase something from the  Smokey Bear collection , 10 percent will go to the US Forest Service. 

Away The Bigger Carry-On

When it comes to luggage, Away is a solid choice—you can find this bag and many other Away styles in the closets of many a Traveler editor. Treat the graduate, new traveler, or family member in need of a suitcase upgrade to this larger-than-average carry-on.

Amalfi Coast coffee table book

Perfect for the traveler who just moved, or is in the middle of redecorating, this Assouline coffee table book will add a splash of color to any living room. Inside, there is plenty of eye candy and details on the 13 towns that comprise the Amalfi Coast.

Cadence The Bestsellers

These toiletry travel bottles have changed the game when it comes to bringing your own products with you—they are entirely leak-proof, and are magnetized, making them snap together to minimize they space they take up in your Dopp kit and the hotel shower.

Carbone print

Created by a former New Yorker editor, All the Restaurants offers limited-edition, hand-drawn sketches of iconic restaurants in New York, London, Paris, and Napa Valley. Order one to commemorate a special meal with a loved one, or one you’re still dreaming of visiting together.

1,000 Perfect Weekends: Great Getaways Around the Globe

For the traveler who doesn't know where to go next, this National Geographic book will give them plenty of inspiration. It is filled with 36- to 72-hour weekend guides to places around the world, with itineraries meant to tack onto existing trips or use as a weekend getaway from home (tags let readers know what hub the destination is within six hours of). Inside, you'll find ideas for beachy escapes, nature parks, food and wine-focused trips, even pet-friendly vacations. Also mixed in: helpful insights like wheelchair-friendly beaches to visit in the U.S.

Allbirds Tree Dasher

Traveler readers went wild for Allbirds' first running shoe when it debuted in 2020 , and again when a higher-ankle version was released last year. Share the wealth of comfortable kicks this holiday season—they come in nearly a dozen colors, are lightweight and pack down well, and look sufficiently non-sporty enough to wear throughout a trip, not just while exercising. (For those who live in cold-weather climates, the newer Wool Dasher Mizzles are a good option, too.)

Noshinku refillable pocket hand sanitizer (three-pack)

A practical, but extremely useful travel accessory: hand sanitizer. Noshinku gets bonus points for its slim profile, aesthetically pleasing colors, and refillable design. File this under gifts that will most definitely be used.

1Mii Bluetooth 5.0 adapter

Sometimes, the best gifts are the most practical. This pocket-size Bluetooth transmitter lets you watch in-flight entertainment with your AirPods, or any other cordless headphone you may use. Never stress about forgetting that second pair of earbuds again.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

A favorite of Traveler editor Meaghan Kenny, this popular lip balm makes for another great stocking stuffer or gift set inclusion. Use it at bedtime, in the morning, or mid-flight to hydrate dry, flaky lips.

Nodpod eye mask

An eye mask is a light sleeper's travel essential, and Nodpod took things up a notch by creating a weighted version. Best for long-haul flights where you'll be in a lay-flat seat, or to use in bed—the mask can be secured with its pull-through slit, but is best used simply draped over your eyes—it adds a bit of weight to your eyes, promoting a deeper, more restful sleep.

Alex Mill The Perfect Weekday Tote

Every traveler needs a solid tote to bring on road trips and use as a personal item. This Alex Mill bag gets the job done and has a classic look they won't tire of. It fits up to a 13” laptop, plus all the other essentials: phone, keys, wallet, water bottle, snacks, the works.

Lay-n-Go drawstring toiletry bag

Travelers who are also regulars at Sephora or Ulta will appreciate this cool makeup bag : Instead of having to dump out all your products to find what you're looking for, the bag opens up by way of drawstrings, and can be laid out as a circle on any surface, allowing every product to be on display.

Mountain Valley Train Puzzle

The 1,000-piece puzzle, made out of other recycled puzzle boards, is based on the artwork of Lars Stewart. This super-detailed piece captures a scenic ride through the Arizona desert with illustrations of wildlife, maps, recognizable travel gear, and more.

Ceremonia The Scalp Power-Duo

Ceremonia is a favorite of many Traveler editors, and this haircare set will turn any giftee into a fan. It comes with a scalp massager and scalp remedy oil—use the former to distribute the latter evenly and gently exfoliate the scalp.

Behind the Bar: 50 Cocktail Recipes from the World's Most Iconic Hotels by Alia Akkam

Written by Traveler contributor Alia Akkam , Behind the Bar takes readers to 50 iconic hotel bars around the world, offering recipes and historical tidbits from each. Perfect for the consummate host in your friend group, they'll have a good time recreating classics and discovering new cocktails from home.

Parachute Waffle Robe

A cozy robe is always a winner in our book, and Parachute makes some of the best. This classic waffle robe will remind them of days spend luxuriating at the hotel spa.

Papier travel notebook

You're either a journal person or you're not, but if you are, you know you can never have too many notebooks on hand. This pretty Papier pad will be a welcome addition to the stack, and is customizable: choose lined, plain, or dotted sheets, and either a hard or soft cover.

Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow makes a whole bunch of nap-friendly designs , but we're partial to the classic Go Neck pillow for long-haul flights or lengthy road trips. It is made with a supportive (and compressive) memory foam, and has a Velcro close for an easily adjustable fit. Plus, it comes with a carrying case.

Béis The Weekender Bag

A real text I got from a friend after writing about this Béis weekender : “BÉIS CONVERT FOREVER. You did not oversell this. Truly a miracle.” It has plenty of room inside for clothes, accessories, and toiletries, and a bottom compartment for shoes, dirty clothes, or anything else you want to keep separate.

Welly Adventure Kit

Slip this into the stocking of any thrill-seeking , accident-prone traveler. It comes with all the essentials—more than 50 bandages, tape, butterfly strips, antibiotic packets, hydrocortisone packets, Ibuprofen—in a compact, easy-to-stash kit.

Mzoo contoured sleep mask

A good sleep mask is a travel essential for overnight flights. This one is made of memory foam and has raised sections over your eyeballs for added comfort, but lies flat around the nose and eyebrows to thoroughly block out light.

Ugg Scuffita slide slipper

Shopping for a homebody? Consider these shearling-lined Ugg slippers, made for lounging around the house (or hotel, or Airbnb) in peak comfort and style.

Upoy charging station

This multi-port charging station is a gift for the whole family—or for one very tech-obsessed traveler who need to juice up a phone, AirPods, smart watch, and Kindle all at once.

Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag

A re-imagination of Mansur Gavriel's popular Lady Bag, the Soft Lady Bag was released to celebrate the original's five-year anniversary. It's softer and slouchier than its predecessor, meaning it'll pack down better in your suitcase. With room for daily essentials (a phone, wallet, keys, earphones, and even an iPad) and interior compartments to keep you organized, it's a polished crossbody you'll use for years to come.

Paravel Packing Cube Quad (set of four)

Paravel's packing cubes—which helped turn Traveler editor Lale Arikoglu into a more organized packer —are a practical gift any traveler will appreciate. They now come in a set of four, with two small cubes, a medium, and a large; for an extra touch, have them personalized with your giftee's initials.

Diptyque Orphéon Eau de Parfum

Diptyque candles are always a welcome gift, but for something a little more unique, go for one of the brand's eau de parfums. This one was formulated to recreate the scent of a ’60s Parisian bar—the woody scent smells great spritzed around the home.

Airbnb gift card

Here at Traveler, we're always on the hunt for the coolest, coziest Airbnbs, whether we're looking for a romantic cabin getaway , a house with a pool , or one that can brighten up our mood with the sheer amount of color found within its four walls. For the travelers in your life who are also keen on staying in a rental, Airbnb gift cards can be purchased in amounts from $25 up to $500, so you can chip in (or cover) their next stay.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

Arguably the most popular sunscreen amongst Traveler editors, this gel-like face SPF blends in easily, leaves no white cast, and feels great on your skin. It'll be a welcome addition to any stocking stuffer or gift set.

Polaroid Hi·Print 2x3 Pocket Photo Printer

Now that we all walk around with high-quality cameras in our pocket, fewer of our photos actually make it to print. This pocket-size printer from Polaroid spits out vibrant 2"x3" photos, so you can instantly hand over that new family portrait to grandma or share physical photos with a travel companion. 

Sabah slip-ons

Comfortable shoes are a hot topic among travelers and these Sabah slip-ons have articles director Lale Arikoglu's stamp of approval . Handmade in Turkey, they come in a range of colors and are long-lasting: “After six years of ownership, my pair is completely intact with the exception of the color, which is slightly fading in a way that, if anything, has only made them look better,” Arikoglu says.

Nixon Wizard Stick Beverage Sling

This is a niche gift, but there's someone on your list who will absolutely love it. Nixon's insulated beverage sling fits six cans at once; they can bring it along to picnics, camping trips, tailgates, or hikes to keep drinks cold and avoid the clunkiness of a tote bag or backpack.

Hinoki Wood Rice Ball Mold

There are food gifts for friends who want a meal or snack that's nearly ready to go right out of the box. Then, there are gifts that require some effort. For the home chef who's looking to expand their cooking skills, gift a new kitchen tool like this rice ball mold, which they can use to shape homemade onigiri.

Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide

Another great coffee table book, Atlas Obscura's new tome is made for travelers who plan their trips around food. Inside, readers will find a  guide to food experiences around the world, with chapters on every continent (including Antarctica!), as well as features on foodies like Tom Carvel, events like the Chicago World Fair,  and “how to try it” tips. Just a few noteworthy inclusions: Jeju Island's free-diving sea women in South Korea, the world's largest edible mushroom in Zambia, and the great fruitcake toss in Colorado.

The Carried Away Convertible Backpack

Sarah Jessica Parker collaborated with Samsonite on this versatile bag, which has since sold out multiple times. It's a jack-of-all-trades—wear it as a backpack, carry it as a tote, or sling it over your shoulder. It comes with a removable clutch and an extra strap to turn the smaller bag into a cross-body. Otherwise, it has all the bells and whistles you'd expect in a travel backpack : luggage sleeve, water bottle pocket, laptop slot, etc.

Bokksu snack box subscription

There is no shortage of subscription boxes out there, but we're particularly fond of the edible ones. Bokksu, a Japanese snack service that recently launched an online Asian grocery store , sends recipients an assortment of sweet and savory snacks, candies, and teas on a monthly basis, sourced from small, family-run businesses in Japan.

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Commemorate a special trip with a photo book from Artifact Uprising. Whether it's your first big trip this year or one taken decades ago, your loved ones will appreciate the thought that goes into picking out your favorite memories together.

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15 Best Travel Accessories For 2024

Written by Dan

Updated on April 26th, 2024

What are the best travel products right now? See our best travel essentials for all types of trips, from travel accessories to products for working remotely.

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

Best Travel Accessories

• Headphone jack splitter
• Luggage scale
• Apple AirTags

Travel-sized umbrella

• Canvas totes
• International power converter
• Powered USB hub
• Portable travel charger
• Matador pocket blanket
• Travel utensils & eco-friendly travel snack containers
• Laundry bag
• Microfiber towel

Travel is great on its own, but something that really elevates your travel experience is some great gear.

There’s travel clothes, travel accessories, travel tech and travel things you may never have even thought existed. For example, did you ever consider bringing your coffee equipment in your duffel bag when you go away for a while?

What about a black-out travel mask for sleeping on long flights? What about travel clothes that still look great after they’ve been folded up and pressed into a packing cube?

Travel is a time when you have everything you need right in your backpack or suitcase, but you have to make some decisions on what the best type of travel gear for every trip is going to be.

Browse our 5 favorite picks

• Charge everything at once Anker USB hub
• Bring this towel to a pool! Check Availability
• Must have snack containers EcoLunchbox Seal Cup
• Split up dirty laundry from everything else Check Availability
• Keep track of your luggage weight Check Availability

Let’s check out the list of the best and newest travel must-haves that make a trip worth taking.

Travel organization: Packing cubes

The primary uses for packing cubes are to compress your clothes and help to keep things separate in your luggage. If you’re trying to save space in your bag or suitcase, packing cubes can pack down your clothes to be as compact and small as possible.

Packing away your things in packing cubes also makes it easy to pack, rearrange and find things in your bag. Instead of digging through a pile of clothes to find one item at the bottom of your bag, you can take out the one or two packing cubes that contain your clothes.

Check out our in-depth guide to find out what the best packing cubes are, as well as my Patagonia Black Hole Duffel review , as well as other picks in the best travel duffel bags .

Travel organization: Cable and tech organization

Once you’ve gotten into expertly managing your cables and your other tech products, you’ll never ever go back to how you had been doing it previously.

Part of traveling like a pro is in your organization. I’ve learned this over the years. I have my system of how I do things now, and I’m pretty proud of it.

Check out all of our best travel organization pouch recommendations!

Travel day comforts and necessities: Fanny pack

We love using a fanny pack when traveling. It’s a throwback to the 80s, but they are really effective and back in style. I’m such a fan of fanny packs (ha!) that I made this list of the best fanny packs for travel , and there are so many!

When traveling, it’s the perfect size for keeping a phone, passport, pens and anything that you would want quick access to. Fanny packs are also close to your body, and in the front, so you’re being safe and less likely to have something stolen by a pickpocket .

You can find multipurpose fanny packs, like some that can fit a camera , or maybe a very lightweight jacket inside. There are also smaller fanny packs that are designed to be more like a travel wallet.

I typically like recommending products that you can use for multiple occasions. In this instance, I think that the big fanny packs are too clunky, and small fanny packs are hard for easily finding your little things floating around inside.

Let’s explore some of the best fanny packs for travel!

Travel day comforts and necessities: Travel pillows

Travel pillows come in all shapes, sizes and forms. You can travel with a blow-up pillow, a pillow that wraps around your entire head, or a travel pillow choice that is more modest, and goes around your neck.

I’ve tried a lot of different options for travel pillows and still haven’t found the perfect one. I have issues with anything that wraps around my neck too tightly. It’s not comfortable for me, and makes me feel a bit claustrophobic.

I struggle to sleep on airplanes, and travel pillows haven’t been a huge help in solving this problem; for Becca, though, she can fall asleep by using the Cabeau .

When I’ve traveled and wanted to pack lightly, I would often use my rolled-up jacket as a travel pillow. It checks the boxes for being soft, multipurpose and easy to pack. It does not check the functionality box, because it doesn’t stay as secure as something that is attached to you.

Browse some of our recommendations for the best travel pillows and see which one works for your needs!

Travel accessories and products for fitness on a trip

If you’re like us, you’ll want to engage in some sort of fitness during your trip in order to not turn into a potato.

We like to stay somewhat active so that we can feel better about some of the choices we make while we’re away! I’ve even run some marathons and half marathons while traveling (that’s on the extreme end of things I like to do in order to stay fit while away from home).

Our activity levels and types of exercise may vary depending on where we are and what the weather is like. Our default activity is to go for a run or maybe something easy like a nice long walk. (Did you know that long walks can burn almost as many calories, per mile, as running?)

We’ve had friends go as far as to travel with certain fitness equipment in order to keep up some of their strength while they are away from home.

If you are interested in fitness (or maintaining your health during your travels) check out our guide for staying healthy while traveling !

Travel accessories for working remotely

You might know that we have worked remotely and traveled through many countries, from East Asia to South America. We really enjoy that remote work can be done while traveling and we’ve come up with lots of tips for working remotely in cities around the world .

Nevertheless, working remotely from places, whether another state or another continent with a whole new timezone, can be daunting.

Trust us, though, if you go through the recommendations below, you will have a great remote work setup that can be packed up, travel-sized and mobile. All it takes is some preparation and some good expectations, and you’ll be ready for success.

See some of our best and most essential recommendations for products to help you work remotely while traveling .

Best travel accessories that easily fit in your luggage

Through our years of travel, we’ve compiled a list of things that we’re glad that we packed during some of our trips. Some of these have created tons of relief, and sure, some of them have gone unused during a trip, but we’re glad we had them on deck for emergencies or conveniences.

Headphone jack splitter

If you’re traveling with someone else, a headphone splitter can help you share media with someone else. You can plug it into the airplane media console, or use what you already have, to split the audio signal.

This is a great way to spend some time with someone during a long trip, before you drift away into your own worlds for a few hours.

During long flights, I will usually watch five or six movies and Becca is fortunate enough to sleep.

Luggage scale

If you’re concerned about the weight of your luggage, or if you plan to pick up a few items at your destination and you want to know if you can still carry on or check a bag, a luggage scale can help out!

They are simple to use. You connect the strap to your luggage, lift up and then you have the weight displayed. We typically are always under the weight limits, but we’ve had some scares when we have weighed our bags and see that we’re at or over the required weight.

Apple AirTags

Apple’s AirTags are a new type of product that will help put your mind at ease when you’re traveling, by helping you track your belongings if you think they’re lost or stolen.

Our friend had her bag stolen in Mexico City and because she had AirTags in her laptop bag, she could track the location of the lost backpack. It was incredible. We just got AirTags for putting on our checked luggage so that on the chance the bag gets lost, we can find out where it is.

AirTags (in this four-pack or this pack of one ) are an expert product for travelers to have these days, and soon, we think most savvy travelers will be using them to trace their valuables while on the road.

It can be easy to think that the weather is always bright, sunny and warm wherever you are traveling. Well, that’s not always the case. It rains everywhere.

Becca and I have gone out for a long walk to explore a city and got stuck in the rain. We were forced to hop into a store or cafe to try and avoid the rain for a few hours.

When we realized that the rain wasn’t letting up, we ran to our Airbnb. Luckily, we didn’t have anything with us that got ruined.

A small compact travel umbrella is small enough to fit in your bag and is easy for you to take around every day when you’re exploring somewhere new! Having one on hand even if there is a smidge of rain the forecast will help you avoid having to search for one or buy one when there’s a flash thunderstorm during your day of sightseeing.

Canvas totes

We love to shop with canvas totes when we’re at home in Brooklyn. When we shop when we travel, we keep the tradition. It’s a great way to save the environment, avoid fees for plastic or paper bags at stores and also, a way to have sturdy bags for buying groceries, souvenirs or anything else like wrapping up something semi-breakable for the trip home.

We don’t like wasting plastic bags and when we want to pick up groceries or things that we need while we’re traveling, we’ll stash away a few totes for the occasion. They don’t take up a lot of space and we keep them folded at the bottom of our luggage.

Before you leave for your trip, shop around at your favorite store and see if they offer any canvas toes that you like.

If you’re in the market for something plain and simple, check out this basic tote bag on Amazon .

International power converter

If you’re traveling internationally, you would be in trouble without an international power converter!

Sure, you can find an overpriced converter at an airport, but they are usually marked up quite a bit. It’s often hard to find a power converter when you’ve reached your final destination, as well.

We’ve got you covered. This power adapter will allow you to plug in for any country type into the front and it will convert for any country type into the back!

Powered USB hub

This powered USB hub will allow you to charge multiple USB-powered devices at once.

If you’re traveling internationally, you only need to have one power converter. You can plug this into the converter to power everything that you have.

I actually use this power adapter when I work remotely to easily charge a few things, like my headphones, phone and whatever else is at my desk. It’s incredibly handy and has saved my electronics from going dead.

Portable travel charger

A portable battery charger will be one of the most valuable assets to have with you if you’re out for the day and need your phone to help you get back to your accommodation. Anker has a wide selection of portable batteries that you can check out. Take a look !

If you’re nervous about plugging your phone into a sketchy power outlet, you can exclusively use your backup battery to charge your phone, and you can charge the battery with the sketchy outlet istead.

Anker is a company that makes excellent portable chargers. Check out this 10,000 mAh version and this 20,000 mAh version for double the power.

Becca has been using their power chargers for years, since around 2013, first getting into the brand with their power charger that is about the size of a lipstick case. Having something simple like a backup battery (with your own phone cord) in your backpack or purse for the day can save you from being stranded, lost or in danger.

A cheap pair of flip-flops can help you in a variety of situations. If you’re staying in a shared living situation, like a hostel, or even one of those historic hotels with shared restrooms, flip-flops can be your dedicated shower shoes.

If you’re headed to a beach and don’t want to get your shoes sandy, you can wear some flip-flops!

Becca and I both had a situation on a trip when our shoes got soaked. We used our flip-flops during the day when our shoes were drying in the sun.

We’re really glad that we each had a cheap pair of flip-flops! They’re low-risk, so in case you lose them, you won’t be too heartbroken. It’s pretty win-win, and usually they cheaper they are, the more lightweight they’ll be in your travel bag!

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Matador pocket blanket

When we’re at home in Brooklyn, we have an old bed sheet that we bring with us to a park when we want to have a picnic.

If you want to upgrade, and have a product specifically made for the modern traveler, Matador has this packable blanket that is light, foldable and perfect! It can work on damp surfaces and folds out to 63”x44.” It’s great for the beach, the park or to have with you when you’re camping.

Travel utensils & eco-friendly travel snack containers

Convenience is key when you want to have a snack during travel. We recommend the EcoLunchbox travel snack containers , which are made of durable silicone leak-proof lids and stainless steel compartments. Try taking these as things to bring on road trips or flights! We can’t recommend them enough.

Depending on your preference for cleanliness, eating with shared utensils might not be for you. Or, if you are looking for something more substantial or reusable than plastic to eat with while you are on the go, check out bamboo utensils.

Bamboo eating utensils are easy to travel with and shouldn’t raise any red flags when you’re going through airport security.

Our favorite brand for bamboo eating utensils is Totally Bamboo. Check out this 3-piece flatware set . We can’t live without it.

If you’re looking to brew coffee while traveling on the road, an AeroPress is a compact way to make a cup of coffee while you’re away from home and traveling.

There may be a little bit of a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making perfect cups of coffee from your hotel, hostel, campsite or Airbnb during a trip.

We like AeroPress because the entire brewing kit is plastic, therefore not breakable, and you can stow it away in a packing cube or wrapped in bags within your luggage.

You may also want something like this travel coffee mug to help you brew your AeroPress.

Laundry bag

If you’ll be traveling for more than a few days, keep in mind that laundry happens. In fact, laundry is one of our favorite things to do, when traveling, because laundry always means you’ll have clean clothes afterward!

To do laundry, though, you need something to keep dirty clothes in, and you need something that won’t break (cheap and flimsy plastic bags are not the answer, and we’ve learned this the hard way).

So, try bringing along a multi-purpose laundry bag that can bring your clothes to a laundromat or a dry cleaners, if necessary. We recommend a laundry bag that folds up into a compact size, like this travel laundry bag by Miamica .

Microfiber towel

We haven’t counted the number of accommodations that we’ve stayed in. Hint: it’s a lot. One thing that we’re always glad about was that we had a quick-dry towel to use when an accommodation didn’t provide a towel.

We’ve also taken our quick-dry microfiber travel towels with us to a beach, public pool or used them to dry ourselves if we got caught in the rain!

Quick-dry towels are great because they are just as effective as regular towels, but a fraction of the size and weight. They also dry quickly, hence their name. If you leave them in the sun after use, they dry in a few hours.

I’ve had my towel since 2016 and it is one of the best travel-friendly fitness accessories for working out during travel . Check out our travel towels .

I always like to have a pen in my bag because sometimes you need one when there are no pens to be found.

When you arrive at an international destination, you typically have to fill in paperwork to present to the passport entry area. Sure, there are usually pens at those tables where you have to manually fill paperwork, but everyone flocks there first. And, those pens are usually half-dead.

If you have your own pen, you can skip the lines and have everything prepared and ready to go. This is one of our favorite travel hacks! Plus, if you receive the paperwork and documents during the flight, the flight attendants never give you pens and you have to have your own. Your in-flight neighbor will probably want to borrow your pen, too.

Becca is a big fan of Flare Audio ear plugs . She uses them to block out noise on an airplane, or to block out noise if we’re trying to sleep somewhere that has a lot of noise (street noise, dripping water, noisy fans or construction) when we’re on a trip. Ear plugs are something we recommend for how to sleep better during travel .

Becca lists the Flare Audio ear plugs as one of the best products for backpackers because of how they’ve helped her sleep in hostels. See Becca’s full Flare Audio ear plugs review to see how they’ve changed her sleep.

Why trust me?

I’ve traveled around the world quite a few times, and through those experiences, I’ve landed on the accessories for myself and Becca that really do the trick. Whether I’m working remotely, going on a photography-heavy adventure, or just taking a flight out to a friend’s wedding, there are quite a few gadgets and handy items that make the trip easier and better.

I have tested and used all the products you see recommended here, so you don’t need to doubt their value and worth. Take it from me: most of these things are products I wouldn’t leave home without! Sometimes even the smallest thing, like an umbrella or a reusable tote bag, will save you in a pinch or unexpected scenario, just because of their convenience.

I hope this list of the best travel accessories has helped you to rethink what you’ll need in your bag the next time you travel, and I hope you come up with your own ideas, too!

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Guten Tag ! We’re Becca & Dan.

We created this blog to share some of the knowledge and experience that we have around travel , remote work , photography and beyond!

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Travel pre-flight prep

• Prepare yourself for a long flight. To avoid additional stress make sure your luggage is packed days ahead of time and arrive to airport with plenty of time to spare. Check in electronically through the airline's website to minimize standing in line at the airport. 
• Know the  TSA airline rules and regulations  to avoid airport inconveniences and discomforts. Check our  travel information resource  page for links to TSA pages.
• Double check foreign document requirements. Many countries require documents other than your passport. Some countries require a visa, while others require complete blank pages in your passport.
• Great travel accessories to help prepare you for your flight include  packing organizers ,  passport travel cases ,  travel toiletry kits ,  pill organizers  and  packing cubes and folders .

In-flight travel comfort

• During your flight the goal is to be as comfortable as possible. Dress comfortably and be sure to layer as plane cabin temperatures do fluctuate. 
• Surround yourself with  comfortable travel accessories . Think  neck & lumbar pillows ,  compression socks  and  sleep masks . 
• Bring disinfecting wipes for your tray table. Unfortunately they are rarely cleaned so it's a good idea to give a quick wipe before you use it.
• Stay hydrated by drinking at least 8 ounces of water for every hour you're in the air. 
• Try to move your body. Stretching is great to keep the blood flowing and the muscles limber. 

When you arrive to your travel destination

• Upon your arrival, take care of yourself. Drink plenty of fluids, unwind, relax and eat simple foods for the first few days. 
• After arrival get outside in the sunlight so your body can reset its natural time clock to coincide with your destination. 
• Unless you are used to taking short naps you are better off staying awake until the natural bedtime, but If you are extremely exhausted try a 20 minute nap to help refresh.

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10 Travel-Friendly Accessories That You Need Before Your Next Vacation

By lauren dana | jun 30, 2022.

Vacations are fun. Packing for one? Not so much. Fortunately, there are a slew of innovative gadgets and useful organizers that can make traveling a lot easier and (mostly) stress-free. From packing cubes to portable chargers, here are 10 of the best favorite travel accessories to snag before your next adventure.

1. BCOZZY Travel Pillow; From $35

Created with comfort in mind, this adjustable travel pillow—which has 13,000-plus five-star reviews—will help make your next plane ride less of a headache. It's made from cozy microfleece and suede and offers a unique U-shaped design that delivers optimal neck and chin support, too. Even better? It’s machine-washable. Choose from 14 colors and patterns. Buy it: Amazon

2. Bagail Travel Cubes, Pack of 6; From $20

With an almost perfect 4.8-star rating on Amazon, these packing cubes from Bagail make it easy to get (and stay!) organized throughout your entire trip. The lightweight nylon cubes come in 23 colors and patterns, and you'll have three different sizes (two small, two medium, and two large) in each set, making them suitable for carry-on and checked bags. Buy it: Amazon

3. ACdream Passport and Vaccine Card Holder Combo; From $11

Keep two of your most important documents—your passport and vaccine card—safe and secure throughout your travels with this handy RFID-blocking document holder. It’s also roomy enough to hold your credit cards, boarding passes, and cash. The faux leather fabric offers durability and style, and there are more than 25 colors to choose from. Buy it: Amazon

4. Gemice TSA-Approved Toiletry Bottles, Pack of 4; From $12

There’s no need to shell out money on travel-sized toiletries when you can just snag these TSA-friendly refillable silicone bottles instead. Even better? Their leakproof design helps prevent accidental spillage, ensuring your lotions and other essentials will be around when you need them, once the jet lag wears off. Buy it: Amazon

5. Bestek Universal Travel Adapter; From $38

With more than 8000 ratings and counting, the 4.5-star-rated Bestek universal travel adapter is ideal for international trips because it's safe to use in over 150 countries. This small-but-mighty gadget also offers four USB ports and three AC sockets, so it's good for charging up to seven devices simultaneously. The 5-foot-long power cable is also detachable, making it especially easy to pack.  Buy it: Amazon

6. Matein Electronics Travel Organizer; From $18

This travel-friendly electronics organizer is water-resistant, meaning that your cords, chargers, and other valuable gadgets are less likely to be ruined if this holder gets wet. Other features that make this one worth grabbing include its multiple padded dividers and pockets (which are mesh and zippered), as well as its sturdy carrying handle. Buy it: Amazon

7. Anker Portable Charger; From $22

Going for a long hike or somewhere else where you probably won't have access to an outlet? Slip this Anker portable charger in your bag to keep your most important devices powered up and ready to go whenever you are. Though small in size, this sleek unit—which has over 43,000 five-star reviews on Amazon—is renowned for its powerful charging capabilities (it works with both Android and Apple gadgets). You'll get a USB cable and travel pouch with it as well. Buy it : Amazon 

8. MZOO Sleep Eye Mask; $20

Catch some zzz’s while you're in transit to your next destination with some help from this adjustable, light-blocking sleep mask. It's an Amazon fan favorite thanks to its contoured shape (which helps reduce eye pressure and strain) and memory foam padding that will add another layer of coziness.  Buy it: Amazon

9. Anvil TSA-Approved Cable Luggage Lock; From $9

No built-in suitcase lock? No problem. This TSA-approved combination lock—which has amassed an overall Amazon rating of 4.7 stars—offers extra protection for your belongings. Simply thread the cable through your zipper and you'll be good to go. You can choose from various combo packs, or just get a single one for $9. Buy it: Amazon

10. Nishel Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag Organizer; From $26

This space-saving toiletry organizer offers multiple mesh pouches, clear pockets, and a simple zippered construction, making it an ideal holder for securely storing all of your makeup, skincare, and haircare products. Over 6000 Amazon shoppers have tried it, many of whom were impressed by how much it can store. Buy it: Amazon

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46 best Amazon travel accessories for your next trip, according to experts

There are many benefits to traveling, whether it’s seeing beautiful sites, learning about new cultures or spending time with friends and family. However, traveling isn’t always smooth sailing. Airport delays, lost luggage , jet lag or language barriers can add layers of stress that make you never want to leave home again.

At NBC Select, we’ve rounded up some of the best travel accessories that can help ease your stress and give you peace of mind before your next trip.

SKIP AHEAD Best travel products as seen on NBC News Now | Best tech travel accessories | Best travel storage and organizers | Best travel accessories for comfort | Best travel beauty and wellness accessories | How to choose the best travel products

Selected. Our top picks

Top travel products, as seen on NBC News Now

Twelve south airfly pro.

Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

Take 20% off the Twelve South AirFly Pro (in Black) on Twelve South's website with code NBCSELECT

NBC Select editorial coordinator Rebecca Rodriguez says the AirFly, which plugs into the in-flight entertainment's audio jack and connects to earbuds via Bluetooth, has become a travel essential. “I can never use my Apple Airpods Max on airplanes because they don’t come with an auxiliary cable. My AirFly seamlessly pairs with my Airpods with the touch of a button, then recognizes them whenever I use it next. I used it on six, three- to four-hour flights before needing to recharge it, so it has great battery life.”

Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle

This collapsible water bottle frees you from lugging around a heavy metal bottle when you're trying to pack light. "This bottle collapses down super flat," says managing editor Leah Ginsberg. "And I was surprised by how easy it is to carry when filled, as well as its stability, because it looks a little awkward." It fits in a car cup holder, says Ginsberg and held up in the dishwasher. "It's especially good for a trip where you have to go through TSA or where you’ll be doing a lot of hiking," she says.

This Bluetooth tracker is a good alternative to  Apple’s AirTag , especially for anyone who does not use an iPhone. Within 400 feet of the tracker, you can ping it to make noise and use the  Tile app  to help find its precise location. Outside that distance, the Tile Network can help you find your tag. It has a replaceable  coin-shaped battery  inside and is  water and  dust-resistant.

Bagsmart Packing Cubes

Bagsmart 7 Set Packing Cubes for Travel Essentials

Marina Radlinski, home organizing expert and owner of  Palm Beach Organized , recommends this Basgmart seven-piece packing cube set with different-sized cubes. "Think about the space you need for underwear and socks versus the space you need for sweaters," she says. They're made of nylon and mesh, allowing you to see your clothing options inside.

Bombas Compression socks

Bombas Everyday Compression Socks

If you're taking a long flight and want to aid your circulation, the Bombas compression socks are a great pick. "I loved how easy these are to put on, and the material feels amazing, not as tight as some other brands," says senior photo editor, Becca Delman. "As an avid compression sock user, I wore these on a recent flight to Orlando and my legs actually felt great. They didn’t swell and I didn’t feel numb from sitting. After a wash, the material help up, too."

select Whether you’re going away for a week or a weekend, there’s a highly-rated bag on Amazon for you.

How we picked the best amazon travel accessories.

We spoke to travel experts, who have collectively explored more than 200 countries via various transportation modes, and asked them what products are most important to have on hand. When packing, our experts recommend keeping the following in mind:

• Size and weight . Size matters since most airlines allow only one carry-on and a personal item, says travel coach Sarah Rose De Vore . Our experts recommended choosing products that offer the most value at minimal weight and size.
• Comfort . Lack of sleep and discomfort can lead to fatigue long after you deboard, says travel wellness expert Edyta Satchell. To combat these issues, she recommends packing things that help block out light and noise or offer support so you can sleep and sit more comfortably.
• Organization . Easy access to your belongings is essential. Our experts recommend bags and organizers with pockets.
• Health . “You can’t be ignorant of the negative impact travel has on your health,” says Satchell. For example, limited movement on the plane can cause muscle, circulation and joint problems, not drinking enough water can result in dehydration and lack of sleep can cause fatigue, she adds. Satchell recommends packing items that keep you hydrated, such as sheet masks, serums and pre-filled reusable water bottles. She also suggests packing items for comfort, such as neck pillows and compression socks, as well as quality light-filtering eye masks to get proper rest.

Other Amazon travel products to shop in 2024

We rounded up a variety of products no traveler should leave home without, along with some accessories that Select staffers love. We’ve also included some highly rated travel products that align with expert guidance.

Best travel tech accessories

Apple airtag 4 pack.

Apple AirTag 4-Pack

4.8-star average rating from 120,018 reviews on Amazon

Lost luggage can be a nightmare. The Apple AirTag can help you find and/or keep track of your items by syncing it with your smart devices. If your tagged items (like luggage or skis) go missing, you can set your AirTag into “lost mode,” which will automatically notify you when it’s detected back in your network.

Hicober 3-in-1 Charging Station

4.4-star average rating from 6,430 reviews on Amazon

This 3-in-1 wireless charger for MagSafe Apple devices is foldable and just 4.5 ounces, so you can just throw it in your bag or purse when traveling. It takes less than three hours to fully charge and also works as a phone stand that you can angle horizontally or vertically for FaceTime calls or movies on the go.

Anker PowerCore Slim 10000

Anker 523 PowerCore Portable Charger

4.4-star average rating from 9,825 reviews on Amazon

Select staffers Shari Uyehara and Harry Rabinowitz both love Anker portable power banks for their versatility and charging capacity. At 7.5 ounces, the PowerCore Slim 10000 is the company’s slimmest version yet, making it perfect for travel.

Perilogics Universal In-Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

4.6-star average rating from 18,163 reviews on Amazon

This phone holder clips onto your plane’s tray table so you can go hands-free while watching movies, sports or any other media you’ve downloaded. It has a 360-degree rotation to offer different viewing angles (including vertically and horizontally), plus it’s compatible with multiple phone sizes, according to the brand.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

4.7-star average rating from 13,847 reviews on Amazon

Another favorite of Rabinowitz is this Epicka Universal Travel Adapter . According to the brand, it works in more than 150 countries and has four USB ports, one USB-C slot and a socket to charge six devices simultaneously at high speed. It’s also compatible with all USB devices. Keep in mind that this is not a voltage converter and that your devices must have dual or variable-voltage capabilities to use it.

Doboli Silicone AirPods Case

4.6-star average rating from 70,351 reviews on Amazon

This silicone case, which comes in a two pack, provides protection for your AirPods while on the go. It has an LED light to indicate when it’s charging, and each case comes with a carabiner so you can clip your devices to a backpack or carry-on with ease. They’re available in an assortment of colors, including earthy, pastel and neon hues.

Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

4.7-star average rating from 78,151 reviews on Amazon

These foldable wireless Bluetooth headphones have up to 40 hours of battery life and are compatible with iOS and Android devices. According to Beats, five minutes of charging gives you three hours of playback. They are adjustable, with cushioned ear cups for added comfort. The Beats Solo3 comes in four colors, including black, rose gold, silver and red.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16GB)

Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB)

4.7-star average rating from 54,708 reviews on Amazon

Depending on your luggage, carrying a ton of books may not be ideal. If you like to read while on the go, this Kindle Paperwhite will give you access to lots of books without weighing you down. It is one of the best e-readers thanks to its glare-free screen that makes reading in the park or at the beach easy. You can also pair this device with Bluetooth earbuds and listen to audiobooks with an Audible subscription . The battery lasts up to 10 weeks on a single charge too, according to the brand.

Sure Lock Travel Luggage Locks

4.7-star rating from 13,105 reviews on Amazon

These TSA compatible travel locks are durable, easy to carry and work with nearly every type of luggage, according to the brand. It’s good for those staying in shared accommodations, like hostels, or anyone in need of extra luggage security. NBC Page Hannah Fuechtman uses them while backpacking and staying at hostels around Europe, and she highly recommends these for the peace of mind they bring.

Anker Soundcore 2  

Anker Soundcore 2

4.6-star average rating from 119,072 reviews on Amazon

Bring music wherever your travels take you with one of the best bluetooth speakers . Select updates editor Mili Godio enjoys its portability and sound quality. “I’ve brought it to outdoor picnics and parties, and the music is always audible and crisp even when there’s other competing noises,” she says. It’s built to boost low-end frequencies (bass) and deliver little to no distortion at all volumes and it is also water-resistant, according to the brand. This speaker has physical touch controls up top to help you play/pause your music.

Best travel storage and organizers

Fyy electronics organizer.

4.5-star average rating from 22,005 reviews on Amazon

This compact organizer has two layers of storage space to hold all your devices and chargers in one place. At just 3.2 ounces, the waterproof case is compact and lightweight,giving you easy access to cords, cables and more.

Travelwise Luggage Packing Cubes

TravelWise Luggage Packing Cubes

4.7-star average rating from 10,170 reviews on Amazon

This five-piece travel organizer includes one small, two medium and two large packing cubes to compartmentalize items and streamline your packing. Each cube is made of nylon and has two-way zippers for fast opening and closing so you can easily unpack when you arrive at your destination, according to the brand.

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

4.8-star average rating from 53,831 reviews on Amazon

I love my Bagsmart travel bag because it securely holds all my toiletries in one place. When I get to my hotel, I just hang it on the bathroom door hook, which keeps the countertop open and free for other items. This bag has four separate compartments with elastic straps that hold my bottles upright, and transparent sides so I can easily see all my contents. It’s also well padded and protects everything inside when I’m on the go.

Stasher Bags

4.7-star average rating from 6,240 reviews on Amazon

Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says these reusable silicone Stasher Bags are her “go-to eco-friendly storage product.” “I have food allergies, so I always pack snacks to take with me on flights in these reusable bags. They’re also great for organizing toiletries. I’m obsessed with the small ones for packing pills, vitamins and medications.” These come in over 20 colors and are microwave-, freezer- and dishwasher-safe.

Gemice Travel Bottles

4.5-star average rating from 12,283 reviews on Amazon

These leakproof travel bottles are TSA-approved and designed to hold 3 ounces of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion and more for your carry-on. They are also made of BPA-free food-grade silicone so they are safe for other liquids like sauce, salad dressing and even baby food, as detailed on the brand’s website. Sold as a four-pack with a choice of colors, each bottle has a no-drip valve and wide opening for easy filling, according to the brand.

Kayzon Travel Perfume Containers

4.3-star average rating from 7,617 reviews on Amazon

Many perfumes and colognes come in bottles too big for a carry-on luggage, but with these travel perfume containers you’re able to bring your favorite scent on the go. The bottles are made from a leak-proof aluminum, according to the brand, and are easy to fill and refill.

Waterfly Crossbody Bag

4.5-star average rating from 40,022 reviews on Amazon

Susan Henkel, founder of Ola Travel & Tours , always carries a sling bag when traveling. “I don’t like a heavy bag,” she says. “I like to be nimble and not have anything heavy on my shoulder or neck.” According to Henkel, her ideal bag must have a padded strap, lots of pockets, fit close to her body and withstand rain. She recommended this nylon crossbody from Waterfly, which comes in 17 colors and has an adjustable, reversible shoulder strap, loads of pockets (including two mesh side pockets) and a hidden earphone hole.

Travelambo Luggage Tag

4.7-star average rating from 12,142 reviews on Amazon

Luggage tags make it easy to spot your suitcase coming off the bag carousel and also help ensure that it makes its way back to you if it gets lost. These eco-friendly faux leather tags come in a set of two and have a double-sided printing card and privacy flap, as well as an adjustable stainless-steel buckle. They are available in 32 bold colors, including Rose Red, Light Blue, Hot Orange and Blooming Green.

Seyfocnia Weekender Bag

4.6-star average rating from 4,822 reviews on Amazon

This weekender bag has a zippered pocket on the front and back and a slot so you can slide it onto any suitcase’s pop-up handle. It weighs 3.3 pounds and is made of polyurethane leather with a nylon interior. It also has a padded adjustable shoulder strap and a shoe compartment to keep your dirty shoes or clothes separate from the main compartment. It comes in nine color combinations, including some canvas options.

Vorspack Toiletry Bag

4.6-star average rating from 8,948 reviews on Amazon

This men’s Dopp kit measures 10 by 5 by 5.5 inches and is made of canvas with a polyurethane leather bottom. Its main compartment is roomy enough to fit a facial cleanser, electric shaver, travel shampoo and other toiletries, according to the brand, and it has four additional mesh pockets on the inside, and one outside zipper pocket.

Best travel accessories for comfort

Eversnug travel blanket.

4.7-star average rating from over 6,444 reviews on Amazon

At 65 inches long and 40 inches wide, this microfleece blanket has a carrying case that also doubles as a pillow, along with a sleeve at the back so you can slip it into your suitcase’s pop-up handle, according to the brand. You can also attach it directly to your carry-on with the included carabiner. It comes in six colors, including gray, teal, burgundy and black.

Bcozzy Neck Pillow

4.2-star average rating from 29,299 reviews on Amazon

This ergonomic neck pillow provides double support with its overlapping arms that you can adjust several ways, according to the brand: If you’re a side sleeper, you can fold the pillow in half, place it on your shoulder and lean your head to the side; if sleeping upright, the double arms can hold your chin up for extra support. The shell is made of a mix of microsuede and microfleece and is filled with a down alternative, as detailed on the brand’s website. It comes in several colors, including navy, leopard and black.

Lky Digital Sleep Mask

4.5-star average rating from 62,163 reviews on Amazon

When Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg travels, she always brings a structured sleep mask — like this Lky Digital option — to block out light. Designed with 3D-contouring and comfort in mind, this mask lets you blink freely without adding pressure to your eyes, according to the brand. It’s washable, made of a breathable soft foam and has an adjustable strap to accommodate different head sizes too, as detailed on the brand’s website. It comes in a pack of three with multiple color options.

Sunany Inflatable Foot Rest

4.3-star average rating from 4,619 reviews on Amazon

Airplane foot rests can help relieve pressure on your lower back and increase blood circulation, says Satchell. “There is limited space on the plane, which means [you can have] muscle and joint problems because we sit for hours without moving.” This inflatable foot rest adjusts to three different heights and weighs 12.8 ounces, making it easy to carry. When compressed, it’s 7 inches by 4.2 inches and fits into a drawstring bag.

02Cool Portable Battery-Powered Fan

O2Cool Portable Battery-Powered Fan

4.4-star average rating from 21,885 reviews

Former NBC Select editor Christina Colizza always brings this travel fan with her on warm-weather trips. “It’s compact and has an easy-to-use foldable design that sits flat in your suitcase. It only has two speeds, but they’re mighty,” she says. “This little powerhouse got me through an Airbnb stay in Portugal during a heatwave and wildfires and my friend’s woodsy Maine wedding where I slept in a cabin with no electricity or running water.” This fan is five inches tall, has a built-in handle and comes in four colors.

Silky Toes Foldable Travel Flats

4.2-star average rating from 16,426 reviews on Amazon

“Foldable travel flats are a must,” says Ginsberg. These are made of polyurethane leather with a rubber sole and come in 36 colors with its own drawstring bag so you can easily stash them in your purse. “No one wants sore, blistered feet,” says Henkel.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Sleep Pillow

4.3-star average rating from 7,835 reviews on Amazon

Colizza swears by this memory foam travel pillow that attaches to the plane’s headrest to prevent slouching. “I owned several cheap travel pillows before finding this option from Cabeau. As someone who is 5’10, I’ll take all the help I can in getting to sleep while flying, and this pillow has made a huge difference. Plus, it compresses down into a small pouch, which makes it convenient enough to schlep around airports.”

SmartTravel Inflatable Lumbar Travel Pillow

4.3-star average rating from 1,289 reviews on Amazon

Ginsberg also brings along a lumbar pillow, especially on long flights, for added back support. This self-inflating pillow is made of memory foam so it fits your body’s curve and reduces pressure along the spine, according to the brand. You can store it in its own bag and use it as a neck pillow too.

Fintie Passport Holder

4.6-star average rating from 6,798 reviews on Amazon

When traveling internationally, you have to carry multiple important documents like a passport, visa, proof of vaccination and more. Keep them all together and safe with this passport holder, a product Fuechtman can’t leave for a trip without. Not only is there a slot for your passport, but there’s also room for cards, cash, boarding passes and more. It also comes in 24 colors and patterns like purple , sage green , orange , floral and more.

Best travel beauty and wellness accessories

Wwdoll kn95 face masks.

4.5-star average rating from 73,629 reviews on Amazon

These are registered with the FDA and come highly recommended by experts in our guide to the best KN95 masks . They have an adjustable nose bridge and are available in nine colors. “I love that they come in multipacks so I can stash a ton in my bag,” says Malin. According to the company, these five-ply masks filter out 95% of particles and have 25 per pack.

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Straw Lid

4.8-star average rating from 2,106 reviews on Amazon

Satchell recommends bringing along a reusable water bottle to fight off dehydration. Listed in our guide to the best water bottles of 2023 , the Hydro Flask comes in four sizes — 20 ounces, 32 ounces, 40 ounces and 64 ounces — and is made with a double-walled vacuum insulation, which keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours, and hot drinks warm for up to 12 hours, according to the brand. It comes in 16 colors and has a flexible strap that makes it easy to carry too.

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm

4.7-star average rating from 13,279 reviews on Amazon

Ginsberg loves this lip balm from Select-reader favorite brand Laneige for sealing in moisture on her lips when she flies. “The shape is streamlined and less messy [for travel], but feels and works as amazing as the Laneige sleep mask ,” she says.

Amika Perk Up Talc-free Dry Shampoo

4.5-star average rating from 15,483 reviews on Amazon

Dry shampoo can provide an instant pick-me-up after a long flight. This talc-free one from Amika absorbs oil and refreshes hair with natural rice starch, leaving no white residue, according to the brand. Its main ingredient is a superfruit that contains the fatty-acid omega 7, which promotes elasticity and provides superior hydration, according to Amika.

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

Cetaphil Intensive Moisturizing Cream

4.7-star average rating from 18,401 reviews on Amazon

“The air on the plane will literally suck you dry,” says Satchell. This intense hydrating cream comes recommended by dermatologists in our guide to the best face moisturizers for dry skin . It works for all ages and skin types and you can use it on both your face and body, according to Cetaphil.

Yougai Manicure Set

4.4-star average rating from 41,673 reviews on Amazon

This manicure kit weighs around 9 ounces and contains 18 tools including nail clippers, eyebrow tweezers and scissors, a blackhead acne remover, a callus remover and a cuticle trimmer. Each item is made of professional-grade stainless steel, according to the brand, and the case is made of polyurethane leather that zippers shut.

Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

4.5-star average rating from 79,767 reviews on Amazon

According to podiatrist Dr. Khurram Khan , if you don’t get up and walk around every 60 to 90 minutes, fluid can start to build up in your legs. Since that’s not always possible on a plane, our experts recommend trying compression socks . These Physix Gear socks promote circulation by gently applying pressure to your legs, feet and ankles, according to the brand. They are made from nylon and spandex and come in S/M and L-XXL sizes.

Bala Bangles

4.6-star average rating from 4,431 reviews on Amazon

Malin says she always brings her Bala Bangles with her to do mini workouts in her hotel room. These wearable weights strap around your wrist or ankles with Velcro and are designed to add extra weight to any workout, according to the brand. They come in eight different colors, and you can opt for a set of 1-lb or 2-lb weights. Bala also uploads videos of fitness routines on its website.

Patchology Hydrate Sheet Masks

4.8-star average rating from 228 reviews on Amazon

Satchell also recommends applying a facial sheet mask to hydrate on the plane. This one from Patchology was recommended in our guide to dermatologist-approved skin-care routines and includes moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. It’s designed to nourish and replenish dry or dehydrated skin after just 5 minutes, according to Patchology.

Sony LinkBuds S

4.1-star average rating from 4,437 reviews on Amazon

Listen to your podcasts and music in peace -- these noise-canceling earbuds, a Select Giftable Tech Award winner, amplify just what you want to hear, according to Sony. Touch control pause, play, skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant and answer phone calls, and the earbuds have up to six hours of battery life (20 hours with the charging case), says the brand. They’re also water-resistant enough to handle sweat and splashes and they come with ear tips in multiple sizes for a snug fit.

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

Loop Quiet Earplugs

4.1-star average rating from 89,446 reviews on Amazon

Traveling to a noisy city? Not sure if your hotel room will have paper thin walls? These silicone, washable earbuds are a Select Wellness Award winner and reduce noise by 27 decibels to help you sleep, focus and protect your ears. They come with different sized ear tips to fit your ears and a carrying case for travel.

L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

4.6-star average rating from 17,512 reviews on Amazon

Hand cream is something Fuechtman always has in her carry-on bag, and highly recommends this one from L’Occitane. It comes in a 30ml tube, making it TSA friendly, and is also made with shea butter, which keeps the hands smooth and soft, according to the brand.

How to shop for the best travel products and pack for your next trip

Satchell recommends swapping large containers for reusable TSA-approved ones if using a carry-on bag. She also suggests carrying ginger gummies in case of nausea. Here are some other important things to remember when shopping for the best travel products, according to our experts.

• Choose your suitcase wisely. To avoid extra fees and overweight charges from overpacking, choose a bag that actually suits the length of your trip.
• Create a packing list. If you travel often, make a general list of things you need so you don’t have to recreate it every time, says De Vore. Then you can make a few adjustments tailored to each trip.
• Make your personal item count. Opting for a good-sized bag, like a backpack, for your personal item is a great way to carry additional essentials like spare clothes, shoes or travel-size toiletries, according to De Vore.
• Put your valuables in your carry-on. If there is something you wouldn’t want missing or ruined, De Vore says to put it in your carry-on bag. Our experts also recommend taking photos of your suitcase and belongings before checking them into the airline.
• Make a photocopy of your passport or ID and keep it in your suitcase. If your wallet or purse goes missing, you’ll need to show proof of identity. Be sure to have copies someplace other than where your original documents are stored.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Sarah Rose De Vore is the founder of The Travel Coach Network and has traveled to more than 84 countries. She was recently named one of 2023’s Most Influential Women in Travel by TravelPulse.
• Susan Henkel has traveled to over 40 countries and is the founder of Ola Travel and Tours , specializing in group travel for women over 50.
• Edyta Satchell is a corporate wellness expert and the founder and CEO of Satchelle Global and Finelle.com, a travel wellness platform for women.
• Marina Radlinski  is a home organizing expert and owner of  Palm Beach Organized .

Why trust NBC Select?

Barbara Booth is a former NBC Select editor who has written a number of guides on bestselling and highly rated products you can buy on Amazon that simplify your life, including bestselling kitchen gadgets and car accessories . For this piece, Barbara interviewed three experts and researched dozens of top-rated travel products on Amazon. We also included some Select staff favorites, along with those that are highly recommended by our experts.

CORRECTION (March 29, 2023, 11:05a.m. ET): An earlier version of this article misstated that Leah Ginsberg has used the Lky Digital Sleep Mask . She has not, but has used a similar style to the one included.

Catch up on NBC Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Barbara Booth is a former CNBC reporter whose work spans a wide range of business and social topics, including work/life issues, international business and personal finance. In addition to CNBC, her work has been seen in USA Today, Huffington Post, Yahoo Finance, HerMoney, and for various television news programs including the Nightly Business Report.

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15 Must-Have Accessories for Adventure Travelers Over 50

Eight years ago, as I left my home country to explore the world, I meticulously dedicated several months to preparing for the unknown ahead. My choice was to do a lot of adventure traveling and not stay in 5-star hotels. Deliberating on the various destinations and climates I anticipated exploring, I curated a collection of essentials to bring with me. Each item was carefully selected to serve a purpose, providing me with a sense of security and confidence.

Here’s an abridged account of the accessories that initially accompanied me. Over time, as my experiences unfolded, certain items emerged as indispensable while others not so much, prompting me to refine and adjust my kit accordingly.

• Comfortable Backpack – Invest in a lightweight, ergonomic backpack with padded straps and ample compartments for organizing essentials.
• Compact First Aid Kit – Include essential items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Quality Walking Shoes – Opt for sturdy, comfortable walking shoes with good traction to navigate various terrains comfortably.
• Collapsible Walking Stick – A collapsible walking stick provides stability and support on uneven terrain, especially during long hikes or treks.
• Quick-Dry Clothing – Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing that wicks away moisture and dries rapidly, ideal for unpredictable weather conditions.
• Wide-brimmed Hat – Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays with a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face and neck.
• Waterproof Jacket – Invest in a breathable, waterproof jacket to stay dry during unexpected rain showers or windy conditions.
• Multipurpose Tool or Knife – Carry a multipurpose tool or knife for various tasks such as cutting, opening cans, or repairing gear.
• Compact Travel Blanket – Stay warm during chilly evenings or unexpected overnight stays with a compact travel blanket.
• Quick Dry Towel – Compact and useful for adventure traveling.
• Insect Repellent – Ward off mosquitoes and other insects with a reliable insect repellent to avoid bites and discomfort.
• Smartphone with Travel Apps – Travel apps can keep you informed, and safe, and help you navigate unknown territory.
• Portable Power Bank – Keep your devices charged during your travels with a portable power bank to stay connected and powered up.
• Waterproof Dry Bags – Protect your belongings from water damage by storing them in waterproof dry bags, especially during water-based activities.
• Headlamp – A headlamp is a versatile and invaluable accessory for adventure travelers.

During my travels, an incident occurred at an airport in Ecuador involving my strangely shaped water filter bottle catching the attention of security agents. Although the situation was swiftly resolved after I explained its purpose, the experience prompted me to reconsider its practicality for future travels. I quickly found that bottled water was readily available in all the places I was visiting, so I no longer needed it. I gave it to a fellow traveling teacher who was venturing into lesser-traveled territory than I was.

Always bear in mind the importance of tailoring your accessories to your specific destination and activities. This is crucial for ensuring your safety and comfort during your adventures.

Accessories for Adventure Travelers Over 50

These are some accessories that you can consider packing if you are going on light to moderate adventures. The items linked are either the ones that I bought and was pleased with or that I would purchase now that I have more experience.

Comfortable Backpack

Invest in a lightweight, ergonomic backpack with padded straps and ample compartments for organizing essentials.

When it comes to backpacks, I trust the Osprey brand. They are renowned for producing backpacks that consistently deliver durability and comfort, making them a reliable choice for adventure travelers.

Osprey FAIRVIEW® 55 TRAVEL PACK

Cotopaxi is a brand that is trending at the moment. I recently adventure traveled with super stylish friends who had matching Cotopaxi backpacks, packing cubes , and fanny packs .

Allpa 42L Travel Pack – Del Día

Want to learn more about backpacks? Read 7 BEST BACKPACKS FOR WOMEN OVER 50 .

Learn how to use packing cubes to maximize and organize the space in your pack – read BEST WAY TO USE PACKING CUBES – YOU’LL NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT THEM AGAIN!

Compact First Aid Kit

Create your own first aid kit with essentials that you think may come in handy. Include essential items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Protect Life First Aid Kit on Amazon is a good starter kit. You can remove what you feel isn’t necessary and add items that you think are more important to you.

I visited a travel clinic before heading off and got the necessary vaccines and medications that I may need while traveling. Since I was traveling to high-altitude locations, I included altitude sickness medicine in my first aid kit.

Quality Walking Shoes

Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes with good traction to navigate various terrains comfortably will be your best friends when you’re on an adventure trip.

I’ve owned these Merrell hiking shoes for multiple years, and they’ve maintained their excellent condition while still offering reliable traction.

Women’s Moab 3 Waterproof

Read BEST WALKING SHOES FOR SENIOR WOMEN .

Collapsible Walking Stick

A collapsible walking stick (or two) provides stability and support on uneven terrain, especially during long hikes or treks.

I didn’t pack these, but I have met many adventure travelers over 50 who rely on them.

REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles – Pair

Quick-Dry Clothing

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing that wicks away moisture and dries rapidly, ideal for unpredictable weather conditions.

Columbia is my go-to for functional clothing that packs well and is designed for adventures.

Women’s PFG Solar Stream™ Long Sleeve Shirt from Columbia

Women’s Silver Ridge Utility™ Convertible Pants

Other brands that I trust for adventure travel clothing are Patagonia , The North Face , Arc’teryx , and REI Co-op .

Wide-Brimmed Hat

Protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays with a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face and neck. I purchased my Tilley hat approximately a decade ago, and it has accompanied me on numerous adventures since then.

Tilley T3 Classic

Waterproof Jacket

Invest in a breathable, waterproof jacket to stay dry during unexpected rain showers or windy conditions.

Women’s Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket from Patagonia

Multipurpose Tool or Knife

Carry a multipurpose tool or knife for various tasks such as cutting, opening cans, or repairing gear.

This is the one that I purchased and have been finding it super useful. The corkscrew wine opener sealed the deal for me! ;)

Remember: You can’t travel with a knife in your carry-on. You have to pack it in your checked bag.

Compact Travel Blanket or Large Scarf

Stay warm in cold airports or during chilly evenings out with a compact travel blanket or scarf.

I always travel with a large scarf that has multiple purposes. I use it as a blanket or a pillow while traveling, a sarong at the beach, a cover-up or a wrap when in culturally modest destinations.

CARO VISCOSE-CASHMERE LAYERING SCARF at Banana Republic

Quick Dry Towel

A quick-dry towel is an indispensable companion for adventure travel. It offers the convenience of rapid drying times and compact storage, making it ideal for on-the-go adventures and outdoor activities.

REI Co-op Multi Towel Lite

Even when I’m not on the go, I rely on this microfiber towel for drying my hair post-shower. Its exceptional absorbency effectively removes excess water while maintaining gentleness on my hair.

Insect Repellent

Ward off mosquitoes and other insects with a reliable insect repellent to avoid bites, discomfort, and diseases. Choose the right amount of protection for the area you are traveling to.

During my camping trip in Atlantic Canada last summer , I soon realized the necessity of using the maximum DEET concentration to fend off the relentless mosquitoes and ensure a comfortable stay. However, in different destinations, natural repellents such as citronella may suffice to keep insects at bay.

Smartphone with Travel Apps

At this point, I’m pretty sure everyone has a smartphone. Make sure to download travel apps that will help you stay safe and navigate new locations.

Read 20 ESSENTIAL TRAVEL APPS FOR WOMEN OVER 60 .

Portable Power Bank

Keep your devices charged during your travels with a portable power bank to stay connected and powered up.

Choose a power bank that is lightweight and not bulky.

INIU Portable Charger, Slimmest 10000mAh 5V/3A Power Bank

Waterproof Dry Bags

Protect your belongings from water damage by storing them in waterproof dry bags, especially during water-based activities.

SealLine Skylake Dry Pack – 18 Liters at REI

Whether hiking at dawn, setting up camp after sunset, or navigating through caves, a headlamp provides a reliable light source, leaving your hands free to perform tasks. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry.

I have been through a few of these over the years. I have no idea why, but this is the accessory that I lose the most while traveling.

Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp at Rei

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you like to adventure travel? What are your go-to accessories for adventure traveling? What accessories would you never travel without? Tell us about it in the comments below.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Very good packing tips. I use most of your listed items. Have the Fairview pack in a 40L but use my 30L hiking backpack for most of my long trips. I pack minimally and just wash out clothes as needed. With my 30L the weight is never over 20 pounds so I can always do carry on and on some airlines they are strict with weight even in a backpack. And cubes are such a plus for packing backpacks. My opinion is the backpack needs a waist/hip strap. Then weight sits on hips not shoulders. Back packers definitely know this. That is why I never bought the cotopaxi pack. No bottom strap unless they have added it now. Love to travel light, hands free.

This is the one I use. The backpack zips onto the main rolling bag, so you can easily move around weightless with them. Then unzip it to use the backpack as your one personal item, and the rolling bag fits into the overhead compartment. I just looked and didn’t see it on Amazon which is where I think I bought it (I’ve had it a long time so ?), but it’s available on other sites. You can put a lot in there between the two of them. I love mine.

Tags Fashion for Women Over 60 Travel Tips and Plans

Sandra Roussy

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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Amazon Just Released a Slew of Genius New Travel Finds — All Under $50

Think Apple AirTags, Bagsmart belt bags, and Glow Recipe tinted serums, starting at $7.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Weekend getaways, tropical excursions, and outdoor staycations are all on the horizon this summer. So if you’re on the hunt for new travel finds that’ll come in handy during your trip, check out this must-see Amazon list. 

Amazon has tons of clever travel essentials, including several new items that just dropped for May. While the Hot New Releases hub doesn’t have a designated travel section, you don’t have to worry because we did the digging for you. That said, you’ll discover breezy dresses, nifty bags, versatile plug converters, and even Apple AirTags — all under $50. 

Amazon New Releases Under $50

• Apple AirTag , $25 (originally $29) 
• Larmliss Crewneck Short-Sleeve Tunic Beach Dress with Pockets , $23 
• Project Cloud Flat Sandals , $29 (originally $40)
• Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops , $35
• Bagsmart Belt Bag , $11 with coupon (originally $20)
• Simple Modern Mesa Water Bottle with Straw Lid , $23 (originally $30)
• “Funny Story” by Emily Henry , $19 (originally $29)
• Mapambo Travel Power Converter , $43
• Monday Haircare Original Dry Shampoo , $7 (originally $8)
• Taygeer Carry-on Backpack , $34 (originally $51)

Apple AirTag

Apple AirTags can locate your wallet, keys, or earbuds, but travelers particularly like to stick them in their luggage. Why? This way, you can keep tabs on your suitcase at any given moment, which will be especially helpful during connecting flights. This single AirTag, which was recently launched at Amazon, is durable, water- and dust-resistant, and is compatible with Apple phones ranging from the iPhone 11 to iPhone 12 Pro Max. 

Larmliss Crewneck Short-Sleeve Tunic Beach Dress with Pockets

An easy, breezy dress, like this cute crewneck option , is just the thing to throw on as you head to the beach, walk around the resort, or sightsee with a group. Made with cotton and polyester, you’ll notice the dress is both breathable and lightweight, which is ideal for days spent in the sun. Plus, it’s designed with hidden side pockets to stash your phone, room key, or lip balm. It’s available in midi and maxi lengths, as well as 38 colors and prints. 

Project Cloud Flat Sandals

With all that walking you’ll be doing this summer, it’s wise to invest in a good pair of sandals. These discounted Project Cloud sandals are a nice option; they have a memory foam insole, adjustable straps, and a non-slip outsole that’s great for stability. The sandals also have a wide toe box and a suede sole that’ll deliver comfort while walking and standing for hours. Shop them in five colors, including tan, black, and beige.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops

If you tend to wear less makeup while on vacation, you’ll want to add this Glow Recipe serum to your toiletry bag. The formula delivers all the hydration you love from the brand’s classic best-seller with an added bonus that leaves skin looking sun-kissed. The hue drops have a slightly warm tint that goes on nicely, giving the appearance that you’re wearing, well, nothing. And even though this pick recently launched at Amazon, the tinted serum was already bought more than 2,000 times this past April. 

Bagsmart Belt Bag

Anyone who hates lugging around a big bag will appreciate this Bagsmart belt bag that has pockets galore. Seriously, the bag has a big zippered compartment at the top, complete with several internal pockets to store lip balms, chargers, and micro wallets. It has a second zippered area for small items like keys and IDs, too. And because pickpocketing is no joke, you’ll love that it has an unsuspecting anti-theft zipper lock that’ll prevent sticky fingers from swiping. 

Simple Modern Mesa Water Bottle with Straw Lid

Staying hydrated is a travel must, and if you don’t like drinking lukewarm water, this insulated Simple Modern water bottle will do you a solid. The number-one new release has a double-walled design to keep liquids chilled for hours, even if it’s out in the sun. It has a large mouth and a straw lid that flips downward to prevent leakage. It’s available in 24 and 34 ounces and comes in a multitude of colors, including bright hues like lime green and lavender, as well as classic options like beige, white, and black.   

“Funny Story” by Emily Henry

Emily Henry’s “ People We Meet on Vacation ” was pretty much the summer beach read. Yes, this editor even bonded with a vacationer who was also reading the book at a resort in Mexico. So if you’re a Henry fan, check out her latest romance novel that just dropped at Amazon: “ Funny Story .” The book delivers a mix of humor, new beginnings, and a slow burn romance that’ll keep you on that lounge chair far longer than you anticipated.  

Mapambo Travel Power Converter

There’s nothing worse than realizing your travel converter doesn’t work with the outlet in your hotel room. Instead of stocking up on multiple adapters, why not opt for this Mapambo converter that’ll work in about 150 countries, including Italy, Singapore, Japan, and Fiji. It has two U.S. three-pronged outlets, one USB port, and three USB-C ports, which can juice up multiple devices at one time. 

Monday Haircare Original Dry Shampoo

You might miss a wash day or two while out and about, but that doesn’t mean your hair needs to look greasy. That’s where this recently-dropped Monday Haircare dry shampoo comes in. The dry shampoo absorbs the oils on your scalp with just a few sprays, so you can save the slickback for tomorrow. It’s formulated with strand-protecting keratin and has a floral gardenia scent that could totally pass as perfume.  

Taygeer Carry-on Backpack

A stylish backpack that can hold all your weekend essentials? Yep, that’s exactly what this is. The Carry-on Backpack is large enough to hold several outfit changes, your intimates, mini toiletries, hair care essentials, and even an extra pair of shoes due to its 11-by-17-inch build. But that’s just in the main compartment. It also has a double zipper outside with a cushioned pad for a laptop and tablet. The bag even has a luggage strap that can go right over your carry-on handle when you want a break from wearing it on your back.  

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