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35 Travel Essentials for Any Length of Trip

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

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➼ For Overnight Trips ➼ Weekend Trips and Excursions ➼ Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half ➼ Two Weeks or Longer ➼ A Month or More

. For Overnight Trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

. Weekend Trips and Excursions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you’re skipping the carry-on, this is an easy way to organize your beauty routine now that you’ve condensed it into teeny bottles and containers. The recycled faux -leather bag zips closed and features enough compartments to keep everything neat and organized.

. Anywhere From Five Days to a Week and a Half

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

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

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

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

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

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

. Two Weeks or Longer

It’s time to check your bags. Fill your carry-on with the essentials and save the rest for your suitcase. Opt for two-in-one products, space-saving containers, and clothes you can dress up or down. Pro tip: Don’t forget to invest in a luggage tracker to make sure your suitcase arrives when you do.

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

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

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

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

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

. A Month or More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Airline Baggage Fees Are on the Rise — Here's How to Fit Everything in a Carry-on and Avoid Extra Charges

These 12 items make everything you need fit in a single carry-on, and they start at $4.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

I’m currently looking to book the new nonstop flight from New York to Auckland with Qantas. Like many international carriers, Qantas allows every passenger to fly with a complimentary checked bag, even on domestic flights. Unfortunately, U.S.-based airlines aren’t as generous, especially as of late. Last month, JetBlue raised its checked baggage fees by $10 and American Airlines followed suit . Shortly after, a spokesperson from United told Travel + Leisure that it’s increasing its baggage fees for the first time in four years . 

But this doesn’t mean that I’ll pay more, or travel less in my career as a travel writer. Like many budget-minded travelers, I plan on perfecting the art of packing just a carry-on. Fortunately, living out of a smaller bag has never been easier thanks to the plethora of space-saving and dual-purpose products out there (personally, I’m a huge fan of these game-changing vacuum-sealed storage bags ). Of course, any travel accessory that you buy requires an initial investment, but it will probably pay for itself in a trip or two. Plus, you won’t have to wait at baggage claim or worse, deal with the cost of replacing items when your luggage is delayed or lost. 

If you, too, are about to enter your carry-on-only era, keep reading. Below are 12 travel products that will help you avoid having to pay hefty baggage fees. Finally, because more passengers will be vying for that precious overhead bin space, try to be first in line for your boarding class. But don’t shove. That’s just bad travel karma, and no traveler can afford that.  

Travelpro Crew Classic Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Pilots and flight attendants love Travelpro carry-ons so much that I’m surprised that their Barbie and Ken counterparts don’t come with them. I have my eye on the brand’s latest carry-on, which launched in January, for many reasons. For starters, it expands by 2 inches, giving you another 667 square inches (or about 10.7 liters) of extra packing space. I also love that it comes with a removable compression organizer. Unlike packing cubes that don’t compress, this one makes it easy to remove excess air and free up even more room. 

Finally, it weighs just 7 pounds, which is about 1.5 pounds lighter than most carry-ons. Do a few ounces matter? They do when you’re trying to lift something over your head. “This is the perfect carry-on for my business trips,” wrote one shopper, who said it easily fits four to five days' worth of stuff in an “organized manner.” 

Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus Suitcase

Although it’s slightly heavier, I’m bringing this on an upcoming 13-day trip to Nicaragua. It’s designed for week-long trips (or longer) and holds an impressive 43 liters (note: most standard carry-ons hold around 40 liters). I’ll be staying at Rancho Santana, a property that participates in Pack for a Purpose , so I’ll need those extra few liters of space to bring school supplies for children in need. Despite being roomier, the brand notes that it still fits in the overhead bins of “all major airlines in North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania.” And because it’s from the brand’s extra durable Hybrid line , it’s guaranteed for life. 

I also like that its frame is zipperless. I’ve had to throw out entire suitcases before when their zippers broke and were impossible to replace. As for its spaciousness, one reviewer vouched: “My Monos’ maiden voyage was more than I could’ve expected…I packed 18 days' worth of clothing, including scuba gear, photography equipment, and of course, my laptop and accessories.” 

Tube Pillow You Stuff With Clothes 

According to one TL contributing writer, this travel pillow is the ultimate packing hack to get three days’ worth of extra clothes through TSA. Unlike most travel pillows, which are filled with memory foam or another form of synthetic stuffing, this pillow gets its cushioning from the clothes that you’d be packing anyway (i.e. it frees up tons of space in your carry-on that can be used for something else). A chin strap keeps this pillow in place around your neck and can be used to attach it to the outside of your bag. 

In one shopper review , a traveler, who brought it on a trip to Thailand, called it "very comfortable to use,” adding that they were able to fit five summer outfits inside. The reviewer also mentioned that they appreciated the pillow’s zippered exterior pocket, which they used for stashing their eye mask and ear plugs. When not in use, the pillowcase folds down into its own pocket. 

ScotteVest Women's Featherweight Vest

I’ve been strategically sporting my bulkiest layers on planes instead of packing them in my suitcase for years. But it wasn't until recently that I thought about replacing my go-to jacket with a travel vest like this one from ScotteVest. With 16 pockets, including a removable RFID frequency-protected wallet pocket, this vest can easily fit all of the essentials that I keep in my personal item. Then, I can put more toiletries or clothes in that bag. I also love that it has a loop that I can clip my water bottle to since I like to store my beloved Rumpl travel blanket in my backpack’s water bottle holder.

In a review titled, “ Comfortably holds a lot ,” one traveler said that this vest “let me access anything I needed during a flight, [it] passed through TSA easily, and didn't count as my carry-on or personal item because it was ‘clothing’ and held everything I considered ‘important.’” Note: If $175 doesn’t fit your budget, or you don’t need all 16 pockets, consider this cute $44 cargo vest . Its four front pockets are big enough to hold your passport, phone, wallet, and snacks. 

Bagsmart Compression Packing Cube Set

“Compression packing cubes are the best tool out there when it comes to packing smarter,” Rilee Smith , one of TikTok’s most popular “packing influencers,” recently told me. Her packing cubes of choice are the Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes, which are ranked no. 3 on Amazon's list of best-sellers travel packing organizers . They have more than 6,100 five-star ratings and 2,000 sets were sold last month, according to the retailer. Unlike regular packing cubes, these feature an extra zippered compartment that functions like a vacuum seal to suck out air. According to Bagsmart, this allows you to pack twice as much, or pack the same amount, but in half the space. 

What's more, I like that these cubes, which come in an assortment of sizes, also have an ID tag so you can label them. “I am an overpacker but managed to bring many items in my Béis carry-on luggage for an eight-day trip to Italy,“ wrote one satisfied shopper . Chiming in, another traveler , who took them on a six-day trip to Alaska, wrote, “I was really impressed by how easily I could pack two puffy vests plus a couple of turtlenecks into a single large compression bag.” 

Anker Powerline II 3-in-1 Charging Cable

Smith also told me that travelers should try to “ditch the tangle of cords” they pack for all their devices and invest in this three-in-one cable instead. It’s just one cord, but it has three ends, including a USB-C for your AirPods or Kindle, a lightning cable for your iPhone, and a micro USB for your smartwatch. And Anker promises that it charges devices at the “safest possible speed.” While I don’t personally own this cable (yet), the brand’s best-selling power bank keeps my phone charged for days. Plus, I love that Anker is so confident in this product it includes a hassle-free, lifetime warranty. 

Shoppers will be delighted to learn that this three-in-one charging cable has more than 3,100 five-star ratings from shoppers, including one traveler , who was so happy to report that it worked so well on a four-week trip that they bought two more. 

Abiudeng Large Double Layer Toiletry Bag

An overpacked toiletry bag hogs up a lot of valuable space in your personal bag and carry-on. Instead of making cuts to your already-streamlined toiletry roster, ditch your bulky bag for a sleek, multi-compartment one like the Abuideng Double Layer Toiletry Bag. Its 5.5-inch by 7.9-inch by 4-inch stacked frame never shows signs of overpacking as it's stocked with a strategic zippered compartment on the bottom, plus several internal pockets and organizers to fit everything that you'll need. 

Shoppers love its wide-opening top, which allows you to see everything that's inside without having to fumble through its contents. And, one traveler added , "I had this case with me on a one month long trip and it fit perfectly into my carry-on bag (which was my only suitcase)." 

Fouews Travel Pill Organizer

Nothing takes up room in a carry-on faster than pill bottles. Leave the bulky bottles at home and fill up this travel pill organizer instead. Measuring only 4.3 inches by 3.5 inches by 1.2 inches, the compact travel accessory has six compartments for small medications and two large ones for bigger pills and supplements, helping you stay on track with your wellness routine in an organized, space-saving fashion. It's small enough to fit in your jacket pocket, and can even be used to store tiny must-haves like jewelry and other accessories. 

According to a shopper , who regularly takes a "bunch of medications and supplements" on a daily basis, "I used to carry them all together in their cans and that used to be very annoying because of the large size they occupy. This pill organizer saved my life." 

Kitsch Rice Bar Shampoo and Conditioner Bar

Unlike travel bottles, which stay the same size even if they’re mostly empty, shampoo and conditioner bars shrink as you use them. Plus, they don’t count as liquids, which frees up space in my quart-sized bag. While I’ve long been obsessed with Viori’s hair products , I’ve recently discovered this top-selling bar duo from Kitsch that’s about $6 cheaper (a.k.a. just enough to treat myself to a coffee at the airport). 

This set is so popular it has nearly 2,500 five-star ratings and 20,000 units were sold last month alone, according to Amazon. “So far I’m loving them and see an improvement in the softness and shine in my hair,” wrote one discerning shopper , who identifies as “picky customer.” They’ve also noticed that they can go longer between wash days, which any traveler can appreciate. 

Shu-Shi Women's Beach Cover-Up

Whether it’s a pair of convertible zip-off pants or a carry-on that doubles as a desk , I love a good dual-purpose product, especially when I’m tight on space. Enter: this multi-purpose beach cover-up, which makes a deceptively useful travel accessory since it can be used for so many things. In a review by one of its near-5,000 five-star raters, a shopper said , “This works great as a cute skirt, a convenient lightweight travel blanket, a picnic blanket, or a towel.” It currently comes in 30 colors and is made with soft, fast-drying rayon. 

Patagonia Black Hole MLC Pack

Speaking of versatility, how about this carry-on-sized duffel bag from Patagonia that has three carrying configurations? “It was so much more convenient to carry things on my back than to roll around a suitcase,” wrote one shopper, who recently relied on it during a 10-day Europe trip. Despite offering a whopping 45 liters of space, the Black Hole MLS Pack weighs less than 4 pounds, which is about half as much as a hardsided carry-on. Thanks to its padded, stowable hipbelt, it’s comfortable to wear as a backpack. But if you prefer to distribute the weight over your shoulders, you can wear it that way as well. 

I also love that it has a dedicated, easily accessible compartment for your laptop so you don’t feel like you’re holding up anyone on the TSA security line. Finally, this bag is great as a carry-on because it boasts external "lash points,” which allow you to pack more gear outside instead of squeezing it inside — if it’s on the outside of your bag, it doesn’t really count, right? 

Arolina Women's Summer Maxi Dress With Pockets

In my past life, when checking bags was cheap, I was a folder. But these days, I’m definitely a roller. I have to be. For example, soon, I’ll be traveling to Loapi Tented Camp , where I’ll be limited to packing a softsided carry-on since like most safari lodges (it’s only accessible via puddle jumper). If I’m going to fit all of my clothes for the week in a carry-on, I'll need to roll them. Fortunately, I plan on packing wrinkle-resistant pieces like this Amazon-favorite dress, which is made with polyester and spandex, two synthetic fabrics that don’t easily wrinkle.

It comes in dozens of colors and prints and has more than 7,300 five-star ratings. One shopper dubbed it the “perfect dress for traveling,” adding that they love the “convenience” of the deep side pockets and all of the compliments that they get while wearing it. 

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I’m a mum-of-12 – the Home Bargains, Tesco & Aldi treats I buy for a big holiday… and the 99p essential I can’t resist

• Nadia Cohen
• Published : 13:06, 21 Jun 2024
• Updated : 13:06, 21 Jun 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

A MUM-OF-12 has revealed how she stocks up on piles of essentials for a family trip away.

With so many hungry mouths to feed, super mum Zoe has had to learn to be a savvy shopper.

And when the whole family set off for a week away, she wanted to treat them all to some special goodies.

But she revealed there is much more to a supermarket shop that just filling the fridge.

To ensure she and hubby Ben also get a rest, she found fun ways to keep the younger kids occupied.

Before setting off for an action packed week in a rural cabin in the Scottish countryside, Zoe did a series of big shops at Home Bargains , Tesco and Aldi .

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Sharing her haul with more than 100,000 social media followers, she piled her trolley high.

Starting with fruit, Zoe stocked up on watermelon, grapes and packs of berries before she started planning a pizza night.

But a fun night in for this lot means eight pizzas, four boxes of garlic bread, dough ba lls and dips.

And with Ben and Jerry's ice cream on offer at £3.75, she added three tu bs.

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But as well as all the grub, she made sure to add plenty of activities too.

At £2.49 each, Zoe could not resist adding a selection of brightly coloured reusable bottles to the trolley.

Cheap holiday essentials

IF you're jetting abroad this summer, here are the cheap holiday essentials you won't want to miss.

PACKING CUBES: They're loved by mum-of-22 Sue Radford and not only do they save space in your luggage, but they'll ensure that your case is super neat and tidy.

TAG TRACKER: There's nothing worse than loosing your luggage, but thanks to this handy £15 buy from B&M , you won't have to worry about that on your next trip.

KIDS' CABIN BAG: Don't worry if you can't afford to splash the cash on a Trunki, as Aldi are selling an alternative dupe buy for just £29.99 - and it's great for children.

HAND LUGGAGE CASE: For those that are opting to go hand luggage instead of paying a fortune for a check-in bag, Morrisons are selling extra small cases, that are perfect for taking on a flight, for only £7.99.

She also bought fun blue Slush Puppie face wash for just 99p and a whole range of colouring books for just 99p each.

Zoe and husband Ben from Burghead, Moray, are parents to one of Britain's biggest broods.

The giant family range in age from one to 19 and they often share updates about their family via social media.

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Shoppers run to nab £5.99 under seat bag from Home Bargains…it fits ‘more than you think’ & makes airport trips a breeze

• Abigail Wilson , Senior Digital Writer
• Published : 4:28 ET, Jun 19 2024
• Updated : 14:20 ET, Jun 19 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

SHOPPERS are legging it to get to their nearest Home Bargains store, eager to get their hands on a £5.99 bag that’ll make travelling a breeze.

So if you’ve got a summer holiday planned, you’ve come to the right place.

Especially if you can’t afford to pay for a check-in bag (because let’s be real, who can?!), you’ll be thrilled when you see this cheap buy from Home Bargains. 

The much-loved chain took to social media to give shoppers a close-up look at the new travel bag, leaving many open-mouthed. 

The chain showed off the under seat cabin bag, which is Ryanair approved, and penned: “Perfect for adding to main luggage or a short trip away.” 

According to Home Bargains, you will “breeze through the airport without any extra charges” thanks to this buy.

The grey bag is cabin approved and is great for weekend getaways, city breaks and short business trips.

It has two handy side compartments as well as two mesh pockets.

There's carry handles with velcro grip and it has 20L capacity.

And at just £5.99, we think it’s a real bargain.

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The bag is available to order online, and is also available to purchase in store. 

The Instagram clip, which was posted under the official @ homebargains account, has clearly impressed many, as it has quickly amassed 480 likes in just 15 hours.

Social media users were left open-mouthed at the affordable bag and many were keen to share their thoughts in the comments.

One person said: “This looks fab.” 

Another added: “This looks so good.”

It was perfect for the flight. Holds more than you think Instagram user

At the same time, many Home Bargains shoppers revealed that they already have this bag, and were keen to praise the bargain buy.

One travel fan beamed: “Brilliant bag, you can get loads in.”

A second chimed in: “I have it. It's great.” 

Someone else penned: “I have this, it was perfect for the flight, holiday. Holds more than you think!” 

Whilst one user explained: “We have one each in our family and have flown 4 times with them, twice Ryanair bags not even glanced at. They fit plenty too.” 

Hand luggage rules for UK airlines

We've rounded up how much hand luggage you can take on UK airlines when booking their most basic fare.

One personal bag measuring no more than 40cm x 20cm x 25cm

One personal bag measuring no larger than 45cm x 36cm x 20cm

One personal item that fits underneath the seat in front and one cabin bag no larger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm weighing up to 10kg

One personal item that its underneath the seat in front and one cabin bag no larger than 55cm x 40cm x 20cm weighing up to 10kg

British Airways

One personal bag no larger than 40cm x 30cm x 15cm and one cabin bag no larger than 56cm x 45cm 25cm weighing up to 23kg

Virgin Atlantic

One personal item that fits underneath the seat in front and one cabin bag no larger than 56cm x 36cm x 23cm weighing up to 10kg

Not only this, but other Instagram users were keen to tag their friends and loved ones in the comments to alert them to this travel essential.

One shopper mentioned a travel lover and wrote: “You need these.” 

Whilst another told a Home Bargains shopper: “Take note.” 

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13 Travel Essentials You Need to Bring on Any Trip

No matter if it’s just for the day, a week, or a whole year, these are the travel essentials we pack every time we leave home.

Here at Pack Hacker, we’re pros at minimalist travel. From finding ways to lighten our packs to figuring out what gear we can live without for a few days, we’re always searching for ways to make the most out of what we’re packing.

While your vacation packing list may change from place to place and season to season, you’ll always find room for some travel essentials . From a way to carry your cash and cards to how you’ll stay hydrated and energized on the road, there are some things we can’t live without, even for a few days. Your phone isn’t any good without a charge, after all.

In this post, we’re taking a look at the gear we never leave home without, whether we’re heading across town or around the world . Let’s get down to the bare travel necessities.

Minimalist Wallet

An unsightly bulge in your front pocket can lead to questions from friends and odd looks from strangers. Avoid the embarrassment—and the backache that comes from sitting for hours on a pile of credit cards and cash—with a minimalist wallet .

It gives you just enough space for your travel essentials, so you can spend less time searching through the cards you don’t often use or won’t need on the road. The frequent sipper card to your local cafe won’t do you much good at the Starbucks in Seattle, after all. It’s more packable, too, so it will fit in a small sling or the front pocket of your pants—without any wardrobe malfunction—for added security against pickpockets.

We like the Bellroy Flip Case Wallet because its hard shell keeps our cards from getting bent, and its leather design looks sleek and professional, so it’ll fit in whether you’re at a fancy dinner or a street market—unlike the duct tape wallet you made in middle school. However, the lack of flexibility limits you to only eight cards or six plus a few bills. Look on the bright side—Bellroy is guiding you on the path to minimalist travel with this one.

Or, for more versatility, try the Fjallraven Kanken Card Wallet . We like that its flexible shape expands to fit more cards and cash when needed without taking up much more space. And since Fjallraven uses the same heavy-duty materials for the Kanken Card Wallet as Kanken bags, it’ll make your travel essentials list for years to come.

Battery Banks and Wall Chargers

A power bank can turn that emoji frown upside down, ensuring you stay connected while on the road. And while it’s nice to have continuous juice to your phone for social media and games, a battery bank becomes a true travel essential when using it for your digital boarding pass. We like banks that fit in our pocket, like the Clutch Charger V2 , one of the thinnest power banks we’ve tested. It has a built-in charging cable, so you don’t have to pack anything extra, though you will have to choose whether you want Lightning, Android, or wireless charging when you buy it.

It’s also important to know the size of your device’s battery before buying a power bank, so you can get a charger that will get your device back up to 100%—maybe even more than once.

While you may have USB plugs at home, or a wireless charger, make room in your backpack for a wall charger. There’s no guarantee your Airbnb will have a place to plug in your cord, so they're travel necessities. We like to choose a wall charger with multiple ports to charge several devices simultaneously, minimizing the wall chargers we have to pack in our carry-on bag .

Merino Wool Clothing

The path to minimalist travel nirvana goes through a sea of versatile gear. Packing options that work for more than one reason will reduce the weight of your bag. We like Merino wool travel clothing because you can bring fewer items, saving space in your pack. You won’t need a T-shirt for each day of your trip if your clothes are made with Merino since it’s naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking to give you more wears between washes.

We suggest washing Merino wool T-shirts after 10 to 20 wears, and underwear can last between 5 and 10 uses before washing (if that doesn’t gross you out). You can wash Merino wool more frequently; just know that the product's lifecycle may shorten the more times it's submerged in soap.

Otherwise, it’s durable, which is great for the digital nomad who needs fashion that lasts through months of non-stop travel—you’re not packing your entire walk-in closet to country-hop through Europe, after all.

You can find just about anything made with Merino wool, from button-downs and dresses to socks, underwear, and workout clothes. Depending on your comfort level, you can wear the same pair of socks or underwear for days between washings, and Merino wool T-shirts act as great base layers, so they're travel necessities in any season. We add Merino wool pants to our travel essentials list because they’re durable enough for any adventure—unlike thin cotton spandex leggings.

Crossbody Sling

Finding the right size bag for any situation is the key to a great trip, and when you’re exploring a new city or checking out the local farmer’s market, a sling can make it easier to carry your travel essentials. Wearing one crossbody style keeps your hands free and your gear within reach.

They’re not just great for shopping for snacks and souvenirs; they can also be great airport companions. When you have to empty your pockets to go through security, you can place your belongings in the sling to keep everything contained in one bin—it’s no fun to be the person called back to the line because you walked off without your passport. On the plane, personal items like your phone, e-reader, and Nintendo Switch will be within easy reach during a long flight.

There’s a crossbody sling style out there for everyone. We love the Bellroy Venture Sling 6L because of its exceptional organization in a smaller footprint, although it’s also available in a 9L version when you need more space for travel necessities. If you’re worried about security, the Pacsafe Stylesafe Anti-Theft Sling Pack is your travel necessity, thanks to its slashguard mesh and lockable zippers. And when you’re not sure if you’ll need a sling or not, grab the Matador On-Grid Packable Hip Pack . It folds down small enough to fit in your palm, making it a travel essential for minimalist packers.

To find the best sling for your situation, check out our travel sling guide .

Packable Jacket

When traveling, the weather is the one thing we want to predict. It’s too bad Mother Nature doesn’t get more on board with that plan. Since the one consistent thing about the weather is that it’s constantly changing, a packable jacket is a travel necessity. It’s a great way to ensure you’re ready to tackle anything the skies dump on you, depending on the thickness of the extra layer.

Whether heading to the tropics or the arctic, there’s a packable jacket to suit your travel necessities. Lightweight jackets like the Outdoor Research Helium Jacket are great travel essentials for staying dry in the rain, and they’re easier to slip on over thicker clothing. It’s one of the lightest rain jackets we’ve tested, at 5.93 ounces, and packs down to the size of your fist, so there’s no reason to leave this one home.

For days when you’ll need to stay warmer, a puffer jacket can protect you from the elements. The Patagonia Nano Puff is a packable jacket that always makes our travel essentials list. It’s lightweight at 11.89 ounces and packs into its pocket, so you don’t have to keep track of an extra stuff sack. For wetter days, The North Face ThermoBall Eco Jacket is a great midweight layer with a synthetic fill that repels moisture—you’ll stay warm and dry while wearing it.

Water Bottle

It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of traveling to a new place and forget to drink water en route or during your adventures. That makes a water bottle a true travel essential; it will ensure you never go thirsty, wherever you roam.

Dehydration can exacerbate the effects of jet lag, leaving you feeling dull and tired before you set out for your first day’s excursion. It’s expensive paying for single-use bottles at the airport, train, and bus station, or at the tiny hole-in-the-wall you’ve just discovered for takeout. That’s what makes water bottles travel necessities we recommend you pack. While there’s no guarantee of finding a public drinking fountain, more and more major cities and airports are installing fill stations so you can top off your bottle as you pass by—especially in tourist hot spots.

There are plenty of options when it comes to travel water bottles . Some, like the Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle , are collapsible to easily stow in your pack when you’re through drinking. We also like its built-in carabiner to clip the full bottle to the outside of your backpack. When you want something with insulation, go for the Purist Collective Mover 18 oz Bottle , which keeps your drink looking good and tasting cool (or warm, depending on what you're pouring inside!). The thin layer of glass coating on the stainless steel bottle prevents your water, coffee, or tea from tasting metallic.

There’s a water bottle to suit every travel need and taste, so plan for hydration to stay happy and healthy on the road and abroad.

Sometimes your travel pack is a super-organized laptop bag or travel daypack . Sometimes, however, we pack for the weekend in a classic duffle bag with little to no organization. When there aren’t pockets, zipper compartments, and sleeves to spare, it’s easy to lose small gear inside your pack. That’s why pouches are travel necessities for staying organized on the go.

There are plenty to choose from—we should know! (Go ahead and sort our reviews by “organizers and pouches.” We’ll wait for you to go through the pages of available options.) Finding the right one for you is key to a successful remote work trip and a fun vacation. When your pack has a dark interior, choose a pouch with a bright colorway to help it stand out from the shadows. If you’re planning adventurous travels off the beaten path, a durable exterior ensures everything inside will stay safe and sound. Some even come with loops and D-rings to attach to a Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS) or attachment loops inside your bag.

We like the Osprey Arcane Zip Pouch for its simple design and solid construction. The recycled nylon ripstop shell prevents tears, and the top zipper is from YKK, one of the most reliable brands out there. Or go for the line-up of Topo Designs Accessory Bags ; with a wide range of colors and three sizes, you can mix and match to suit your needs and complement your pack. No matter which you choose, the bright liner makes it easy to spot even the smallest gear on a dimly lit plane.

Whether hiking a dusty trail through a national park or exploring a new city, the places we like best to explore aren’t always the cleanest. That’s why carabiners are a great travel essential—they hold onto gear you don’t want to set on the ground, no matter if it's your water bottle or your backpack.

These handy clips top our list of travel necessities due to their versatility. Keep your backpack or tote off the restroom floor while you change after a red-eye flight or before a business meeting. Some carabiners, like the Heroclip Hybrid Carabiner Clip , have a built-in hanging hook to turn any table or ledge into your personal bag check. There’s no more need to sling your crossbody bag over the back of your chair where you’ll worry about it walking off with help from someone with nefarious intentions—hang it on the table next to you to keep it close at hand.

Carabiners are also great for hooking pouches, water bottles, and hats outside your pack. For added protection, pick up a locking carabiner. Designed for rock climbing, they'll also ensure your favorite water bottle won’t pop off your pack.

Carabiners are so small that they won’t add a ton of weight, but when you add them to your travel essentials list, you can travel like a scout and always be prepared.

A travel essential you may not know you need is a multitool. We don’t think about it until a screw comes loose on the kitchen chair in an Airbnb, or we want to crack open a local brew.

Here at Pack Hacker, we’ve found them to be surprising travel necessities. Depending on which you choose, it may have a screwdriver to tighten loose hardware on a table leg. You can also use the flathead edge to clean the goop off your airplane’s armrest or your shoe—we always seem to pick up something we don’t want when traveling up and down city streets. Scissors or a wire cutter are handy for cutting loose threads or taking the tags off your new hat.

Many are small enough to fit on a key ring, so you can make new friends as you put your multitool to use. Just be sure to check the local regulations of the airport and country you’re traveling from and to—you may be asked to leave it behind if it’s not allowed. Ultimately, whether you can pass with it or not is up to your TSA officer, so be kind and courteous if they inform you that yours isn’t allowed.

Nothing brings a fun trip to a screeching halt like a hangry travel companion. Fueling your body is just as key to a good travel experience as the gear you bring along. While hopping an early flight is the best way to make the most of your vacation days, airport restaurants may not be open before you leave, and shops and cafes at your destination may still be closed when you land.

Power up with a snack bar on the go to stay satiated before your next meal. Some come with a full meal’s worth of protein and carbs, so you can skip lunch and save the money you’d spend on one of the airline’s snack boxes, which we never think look very appetizing anyway. If you have a faster metabolism, larger bars packed with nuts and granola fuel your body and brain to avoid the post-travel slump.

We also think nut packs, dried fruit, and snack crackers are great travel essentials. They’re lighter alternatives since you never know if your airline will offer a complimentary snack—or if that tiny pack of peanuts will be enough. They’re also great to carry throughout your travel day, for when you want to hop from museum to museum without taking a break. You only live once, and while some of us live through our stomachs, others would prefer to skip lunch to do.all.the.things.

Sunglasses and a Hat

What’s a more quintessential travel necessity than the sunglasses and hat that will protect your winter-pale skin from the tropical sunshine? Protecting your eyes and face from the sun’s bright rays is vital no matter what time of year or where we're heading.

The best travel sunglasses will be flexible and—preferably—foldable to fit in any size bag or pocket without breaking. We like the ROAV Eyewear Franklin Sunglasses for their packability—they’re some of the smallest foldable sunglasses we’ve come across. There’s no curve in the lenses, which helps them fold completely flat, although it takes some getting used to the reflection that causes. Or try Foldies Polarized Folding Classics (V2) for a stylish and effective yet budget-friendly option. At least if you leave them in your hotel room, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to replace them!

We also think a hat is a key travel essential. Choose from a foldable option that can collapse down into its brim for the ultimate in packability, or use a KLIPSTA Hat Clip to attach a beach hat to your bag. Whichever way you choose, we’re not leaving home without one.

Crying babies and fellow travelers’ loud conversations are just a few reasons noise-canceling headphones, earbuds, or AirPods make our travel essentials list.

We recommend packing two pairs, if you can, with one having a cord so you can connect to the in-flight entertainment system without needing to ask the flight attendant for disposable ones. Just make sure to pack an adaptable dongle if yours end in a Lightning connector instead of a headphone jack.

Whether you plug in or tune in, the right music, meditation, or movie will help you tune out the cacophony of sounds in the airplane, train, or automobile. We’re partial to Apple AirPods for their great sound and the fact you’ll hardly know they’re in your ears, but they aren’t noise-canceling like some other over-the-ear options. Going with an option that will block all ambient sound will let you fall into the world of an excellent new audiobook or your favorite podcast without distraction. Pick the best option for you, and then tune out the world while you travel to your final destination.

While we know it’s sometimes hard to adjust to a new bed, sleep can be what’s lying between you and a great trip. That said, ambient light from unfamiliar street lamps, the neon LEDs of a hotel room clock, and the blue light from a travel companion’s screen can all come together to block us from getting a good night’s rest.

That’s why we think a buff or a well-fitting sleep mask is a travel essential. The best eye mask will help you fall asleep—and stay there—by blocking the ambient light wreaking havoc on your circadian rhythm. Buffs are great for minimalist travel because they can serve as a scarf, a face mask, or a beanie. These travel necessities are great for when you’re traveling to your destination, as well. Slip a Buff USA Wool Buff or a sleep mask on to get a nap on the train between Paris and Amsterdam and to help you fall asleep on your red-eye flight so you can hit the ground running in London. There’s so much to see that you don’t want to waste time in a tired haze.

If you have room in your pack for a standalone sleep mask, there are plenty of options to consider. You can opt for a silky fabric to reduce the look of fine lines or go for a cooling mask to reduce the puffiness around your tired eyes. There are also ultralight packable options, although most sleep masks won’t weigh down your pack. That means there’s always room for one on our travel essentials list.

So there you have it, the travel necessities we never leave behind when we hit the road. Adding these to your travel essentials list will ease your journey to a new destination and get you to the fun quickly when you get there. What's your favorite travel essential? Join the Pack Hacker Pro Community and let us know!

September 6, 2022

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

The 50 greatest bargains in travel

I t’s the most expensive summer ever for travel. Airfares have soared , hotel rates leapt, restaurant prices keep rising. And not just in the UK. It is the case all over the world. Meanwhile, the cost of living crisis gnaws at our budgets and it is clear that many of us will be approaching this year’s holiday season with a deep sense of financial trepidation. We’ll be trimming our expectations and checking our credit card limits.

But while there is no hiding from the hard reality of inflation, the world is a big place. Currencies and cultures vary hugely and so does the cost of living. And it is always heartening to be reminded that the bill won’t always come as a shock. 

So I have gone bargain hunting. I have racked my brains, consulted with my colleagues and our destinations specialists, and checked back over dozens of recent Telegraph Travel articles to try to find some nuggets of optimism, a few chinks of light amid the financial gloom.  

I have come up with 50 of what seem to me to be the best deals in travel. It isn’t possible to be definitive, of course. But I have tried to cast the net as widely as I can to cover everything from flights and places to stay, to budget beers and cheap eats.

I’m sure there are lots of other travel bargains out there. So please do run your eye over our suggestions and let us know your own tips and ideas.

Discount destinations

• Cheap sleeps

Meal steals

On the tracks, by water and road, cultural highs, money matters, 1. cut-price croatian islands.

Independent travellers who like to book their own flights and go bargain-hunting for hotels will find it hard to beat the value offered by the Croatian islands. Village rooms in the Old Town on Korčula generally cost from £40-60 per night, for example, and the Hotel Odisej on nearby Mljet, highly recommended by our hotel experts, has rooms from €64 a night this spring.

2. All-inclusive Tenerife

The huge popularity of all-inclusive holidays – which include all meals and drinks in the upfront cost – stems both from the certainty they offer those who want to keep to a budget and their sheer good value. And the best value of all – according to a recent survey by Which? – is in Spain. Which? found thatr all-inclusive holidays in Tenerife were cheapest overall this summer, at an average price of £1,097 per person, closely followed by the Costa Blanca at £1,103. 

3. It’s all Greek 

If you are looking for peace and quiet and good value combined, the same data crunch of holiday prices by Which? found that the cheapest option for room-only, B&B and half-board packages was Kalymnos, Greece, just off the coast of its much more popular neighbour, Kos. A week’s stay cost £847 per person on average, while accommodation in the capital Pothia was the most competitively priced on the island – with the cheapest package costing £794. Close behind Kalymnos were Thassos (£862) and Lefkada (£935). 

4. Sri Lankan savings

When it comes to long-haul sun-and-sand holidays, you will be hard pressed to beat the value offered by Sri Lanka . Politically, the island had a troubled time a few years ago and has struggled to reignite its tourist market since the 2019 Easter bombings. The Foreign Office still advises general caution, but tour operators have rebooted their holiday offerings with some highly competitive pricing. Tui for example, is offering half-board holidays from around £1,000 per person, including flights ( tui.co.uk ). 

5. Argentina: for £5 steaks and £3 operas

The Argentine peso has been falling steadily for a decade or more, and it saw a particularly heavy slump in December. The country’s dizzying inflation rate eats up a fair chunk of those savings, and you still have to fork out for your airfare, but once you are there, you get a hell of a lot for your holiday pound. In 2022 our reporter Chris Moss spent a week in Buenos Aires eating £5 steaks, drinking £1 coffees and watching £3 operas. 

6. Cruises – for less than £60 a day

Obviously you can pay through the nose for a small ship cruise or a premium cabin. But if you pick the right itinerary and ship, you can find extraordinary value. Repositioning cruises , when ships relocate for the upcoming season, provide particularly good bargains. For example, a 21-night voyage from Southampton to Galveston, Texas, via Madeira and a clutch of Caribbean islands (departing on October 6 on board Regal Princess), is currently on sale for £1,162 per person, via Iglu Cruise . That’s just £55 a day (plus the cost of a flight back to Britain). 

7. Leaving it late

Our next bargain is not actually a place but a time. The two or three weeks after most schools break up are invariably the most expensive of the year. Having a little patience, however, brings big dividends. Families who book the last week of August (24-31) will most likely save several hundred pounds on their holidays. My most recent price survey found savings of up to £1,072 on hotel packages and up to £1,500 on villas.

Back to index

Cheap sleeps 

8. gentrified youth hostels.

You don’t always have to bed down in a dormitory full of hearty walkers when you stay in a British youth hostel. There are some rimpressive options these days and many offer private accommodation in small rooms. For example, 800-year-old St Briavels Castle in Gloucestershire has family rooms sleeping six from £60 a night, and others sleeping two or three (with a double bed) from £90. It’s popular, so book well in advance ( yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-st-briavels-castle ).

9. Five-star Bangkok

Hotel rates chop and change nowadays, so the picture is always shifting, but for the honour of cheapest city-centre five-star, I nominate the Raweekanlaya in Bangkok, Thailand – a grand, old-fashioned, 19th-century hotel near the Palace and the National Museum where you can often find rooms for 3,000 baht (£65) a night ( raweekanlaya.com ).

10. Chateaux on the cheap

Hotel prices in Paris are among the world’s dearest; not so in rural France, where there are some fantastic bargains. My top pick is the three-star Château Hôtel de la Côte, a 15th-century turreted gem in the Périgord Vert, between Périgueux and Brantôme, where rooms start at €95 (£81) ( chateau-hotel-dordogne.com ).

11. Stay loyal

With air miles, racking up sufficient points for anything worthwhile can seem to take forever – but some hotel loyalty schemes can offer meaningful savings. Telegraph Travel ’s hotel expert, Fiona Kerr, recommends three in particular: World of Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy and Booking.com Genius. For full details, plus further tips on hotel savings, see our recent feature . 

12. Scandi cool – for less than £150

Another Fiona Kerr recommendation is the Well, which opened as a spa in 2015 in peaceful woodland outside Oslo, Norway. Saunas range from the moderately warm 45C meditation sauna to the scorching 90C Finnish variety. The hotel was added a few years later and offers amazing value, especially considering Norway is one of the most expensive countries in Europe. Doubles cost from £148 B&B, including spa access ( thewell.no ).

13. Mountain refuges and bothies

If you don’t mind things a little basic, you can stay in a mountain bothy in Britain for next to nothing. The Mountain Bothies Association runs dozens of remote shelters in Wales, Scotland and the north of England, and for a subscription of £25 per year they are free to use – though a donation is always welcome ( mountainbothies.org.uk ). Other countries have similar schemes, normally with a small additional fee. In Austria, for example, the Austrian Alpine Club charges members from €15 (£13) a night for stays in its huts ( alpenverein.at/britannia ).

14. Cape Town eats

You can find plenty of bargain places to eat in different cities around the world, but among the major tourist destinations surveyed by Post Office Money each year, it is Cape Town that delivers the best value overall. You can typically find a three-course evening meal –  including a bottle of wine – for £34.64 for two people. In Europe, Lisbon is reckoned to offer the most affordable dining, with a bells-and-whistles meal costing £36.60. 

15. The world’s cheapest Michelin-starred meal

You’ll have to queue, and the atmosphere will be entirely different from a top-notch restaurant in, say, Paris, but you can enjoy Michelin-starred cooking for relative peanuts at Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle, on Crawford Lane in Singapore. Depending on portion size, you will pay just £4-6 for a bowl ( taihwa.com.sg ).

16. Bargain bouillons

The bouillons of Paris were conceived as bargain places to eat more than a century ago and some still survive, offering a great Belle Époque atmosphere and extraordinary value for those prepared to queue for a table. One of the best is Chartier, where starters range from €1-7.5 (86p-£6.43) and main courses from €7-13.80 (£6-11.82) ( bouillon-chartier.com ).

17. British fine dining for £35

Set menus in many Michelin-star restaurants in Britain cost more than £100 (and often much more), so the £35 Wednesday and Thursday evening dinner menu at the Bridge Arms, near Canterbury, is a snip. The current offering includes smoked chalk stream trout and Gloucester old spot pork jowl ( bridgearms.co.uk ). 

18. Beer in Vietnam (and Prague)

Enjoy a beer ? According to Post Office Holiday Money, you’ll find the cheapest brew around the world’s main holiday spots in Vietnam, where a glass will set you back about £1.16 in a typical bar. In Europe, online travel company Omio suggests heading east, where Prague (£1.86), Sarajevo (£1.75) and Sofia (£1.66) are among the capitals with the cheapest pints. 

19. Wine on the Algarve

Wine drinkers, according to Post Office Holiday Money, will do best to make for the Algarve, where a glass of decent Portuguese red will cost you about £1.62. If that’s not quite enough, a whole bottle can be had from a wine shop for less than £4.

In the air 20. Ryanair’s lowest fares

The deals and the destinations come and go, so you will have to pick and choose and adjust your timings. But when I last checked, I could book London Stansted to Tirana (Albania) for £14.99 each way – that’s less than the cost of the Stansted Express from Liverpool Street to the airport (£17-23). Several cities were available from £24.99. That’s with minimal baggage of course – the fare more than doubles if you take a full-sized cabin bag – but in a time of spiralling airfares, the Irish airline still offers undeniable bargains.  

21. Around the world for under £1,500

Multi-stop round-the-world airfares are certainly not as cheap as they used to be. But if you have a few weeks you can set aside for a big trip, they are an incredibly good-value way of ticking off some bucket-list destinations. Prices vary hugely, but Trailfinders currently offers a ticket from London-Vancouver-Auckland-Shanghai-London from £1,487 ( trailfinders.com ).

22. London-New York for less than £350

One route that remains especially competitive, simply because there are so many flights available, is London-New York. You have to duck and dive a bit to find the bargains (your departure time makes a big difference), but I found returns from Gatwick to JFK with low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic for £324 (as with Ryanair, this includes just a small piece of hand luggage).

23. La Paz for pennies

The eight lines of La Paz cable cars , which form a network around the Bolivian capital, are arguably the world’s most spectacular public transport system. Not only are they a great way to see the city, but they are incredibly cheap. One-way fares cost from just 3 bolivianos, or 35p.

24. Eurostar to Brussels for less than £80

As a stress-free way of enjoying a city break, it’s extremely hard to beat Eurostar’s services from St Pancras. But it is also getting harder to find affordable fares, especially to Paris. You can still get good deals to Brussels if you book a few weeks in advance, however. I found plenty at £78 return in standard class and £154 in standard premier ( eurostar.co.uk ).

25. Interrailing around Europe

Whether you’re planning a grand tour of Europe, or an itinerary through a single country, Interrail passes will nearly always work out cheaper than buying separate long-distance tickets – especially if you want to travel first class. There is a huge choice of fares: from €283 (£242) for four days’ unlimited travel in any one month across 33 countries, to, for example, €144 (£123) for three days in France ( interrail.eu/en )

26. Across America for £79

The 51-hour rail journey from Chicago, Illinois to Emeryville, California is one of the most romantic ways to cross the United States, and it can be incredibly cheap: from £79 one-way if booked a few months ahead ( amtrak.com/california-zephyr-train ).

27. Scotland by rail – £29.40

The UK is famous for its extortionate rail fares, but there are some isolated exceptions, such as the regular service on the Far North Line in Scotland. Following the coast north from Inverness to Wick, it is one of our most spectacular lines, yet a day ticket for the four-and-a-half-hour return journey costs just £29.40, or even less if you have a railcard ( scotrail.co.uk ).

28. Across India for £10

It takes about 28 hours to cover the 1,300 miles down the spine of India from New Delhi to Goa. But it is a lot more relaxing and much cheaper than flying. A sleeper-class ticket costs just £10 (or £53 in first class air-conditioned sleepers). For booking advice see ( seat61.com/India.htm ).

29. The Himalayas by train – from 43p

It takes 10 hours (averaging 10mph), crosses 950 bridges, stops at 33 stations, and climbs to almost 4,000ft through some of India’s most stunning Himalayan scenery and the snow-capped Dhauladhar range. And the price of a one-way ride on the astonishing Kangra Valley Railway ? Just 45 rupees (43p). Astonishing. 

30. Rail travel in Italy

Italy’s rail network is a fascinating combination of rickety old local trains and the latest high-speed inter-city services like the Red Arrow. But there is one constant – the fares are excellent value. A random check found me a single ticket all the way from Naples to the north-west coast of Italy – that’s about nine hours on the train – for £31 ( trenitalia.com ). 

31. The Sydney Harbour to Manly Bay ferry

Enjoy a 20-minute trip across the whole sweep of Sydney Harbour, over to Manly Bay, for just £5.30 (standard single) and you’ll probably step off the boat wishing it was your regular morning commute ( transportnsw.info ).

32. Hong Kong’s Star Ferry – just 40p

You could take the metro, but the Star Ferry is by far the most atmospheric way of crossing the strait between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island and (so to speak) immersing yourself in the atmosphere of one of the world’s greatest harbours. There are two links – between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui and between Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui. The 10-minute crossing will cost you just 4 HKD (41p), or 5 HKD (51p) for a seat on the top deck ( starferry.com.hk/en/service ).

33. The free Staten Island Ferry

You may not be able to afford to sail into the Hudson River by cruise liner and be welcomed by the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, but anyone can get a taste of that feeling on the Staten Island Ferry, which runs between St George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island and South Ferry in Manhattan. The 25-minute journey, which passes Ellis Island and the statue, is free ( siferry.com ).

34. Greek ferries from €5

Not all the ferry services between the Greek mainland and its islands are the bargains they used to be. But the 90-minute link to Corfu from Igoumenitsa on the mainland is a supremely relaxing way to travel to the island (or do a day trip to the mainland) and costs just €5 (£4.28) one-way ( corfuferries.gr/en/home-en ).

35. Europe is your oyster – for a little more than £50

Not only is it likely to be the cheapest way to take your car across the Channel this year, but the journey from Newhaven to Dieppe drops you off in one of the prettiest of all the north coast ports. DFDS’s four-hour crossing costs from just £53 for a car and two people for travel between October 1 and December 15 2024 ( dfds.com ). 

36. The €2 gondola ride

A standard tourist’s gondola ride in Venice will cost you €120 (£103) to hire the boat for about 25 minutes. But large gondolas – known as traghetti – are still used by locals in the city at seven different crossing points on the Grand Canal. You can hop on board for the five-minute transit for just €2 (£1.71) – it’s €0.70 for residents.

37. Petrol for pennies

OK, you are unlikely to be taking advantage of it, because the Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to Venezuela – but for the record, this is where you will find the world’s cheapest petrol prices: 2p per litre. Of more interest to travellers are Egypt (22p), Malaysia (34p), Vietnam (79p) and the US (82p), where the car remains king. 

38. Lanzarote for bargain car hire

Enjoy independent exploring when you are on holiday? Car hire prices have soared since the pandemic, but you can still find decent value in Lanzarote, where Which? recently reported it had found the best value, with all-inclusive rates at around £190 for a week.

39. UK heritage memberships – from £68

It costs about £15 for admission to a typical National Trust property, but become a member and all visits are free for a year (the individual annual fee is £91.20; nationaltrust.org.uk ). Visit just one stately home a month and you will effectively be paying half price; one a week and you save nearly £700 a year. A similar logic applies to English Heritage (£69; english-heritage.org.uk ) and Historic Houses (£68; historichouses.org ).

40. London’s wonders for nothing

Given the soaring costs of visiting museums in the vast majority of countries, London deserves a special mention: the National Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, the British Museum, the V&A, the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Tate Britain and Tate Modern, the Wallace Collection… it’s easy to forget what astonishing collections we enjoy for no charge whatsoever.

41. Berlin’s Bundestag

The seat of the German parliament is not only a building of momentous historic importance, but from its terrace and huge glass dome, designed by Norman Foster, it also offers one of the best views of the city. And admission is free – though it’s important to register your visit in advance ( bundestag.de/en/visittheBundestag/dome/registration-245686 ).

42. The free museums of Paris

The French capital has some of the most expensive museums in the world (general admission to the Louvre is €22/£19) but it also has a handful of exceptions with outstanding collections and no entry fee. These include the Musée d’Art Moderne ( mam.paris.fr ), the Petit Palace ( petitpalais.paris.fr/en ), which celebrates the art and design of the Belle Époque, and the Carnavalet ( carnavalet.paris.fr ) in the Marais, which explores the history of the city.

43. The Getty, Los Angeles

Another free treasure house is LA’s great Getty collection, which is housed in two locations on the northern edge of the city. The Getty Center is just off the 405 freeway and holds European art, while the original Getty Villa Museum, just north of Santa Monica, displays art from ancient Greece and Rome ( getty.edu/visit ).

44. The High Line, New York

Lots of parks are free, obviously, but Manhattan’s High Line somehow feels different, more of an experience than just a park, so the lack of an admission charge feels like a bonus. This amazing landscaped artery has been created high above the streets on a disused elevated railway line that runs 24 blocks up from Gansevoort Street to the west side of 34th Street, with 10 staircase entry and exit points ( thehighline.org ).

45. The Pantheon, Rome

You might baulk at my including the Pantheon in this list. It’s only a matter of months since it went from being open to all without charge to having a €5 (£4.28) admission fee. That’s a terrible shame, but for the price of a coffee you can still enjoy one of the world’s oldest and most beautiful buildings.

46. Evenings at the Prado

Admission to Madrid’s Prado Museum – which has one of the world’s greatest art collections – normally costs €15 (£12.85), but from 6-8pm Monday to Saturday, or 5-7pm on Sundays and public holidays, visits are free for all. Expect some galleries to be crowded, however ( museodelprado.es/en ). 

47. The park at Versailles

Tickets to access all the Versailles palaces and museums cost a hefty €32 (£27.42) per person. But the park itself – which is, for many, the most scenic and enjoyable part of the visit – is entirely free. The only exceptions are on days when the Musical Fountains are operating – so check in advance before planning a visit ( en.chateauversailles.fr ).

48. Polish opera: high art, low prices

Many of the world’s greatest opera singers come from Eastern Europe, and if you are looking for a sweet spot between high production values and bargain ticket prices, without enduring a partial view from the gods, you will find it in Poland. At the Polish National Opera, in the astonishingly grand Teatr Wielki, you can sit in decent seats in the circle for about a tenth of the cost of a big production at Covent Garden ( teatrwielki.pl/en ).

49. Multi-trip travel insurance

If you travel a lot, you will definitely save by buying an annual travel insurance policy . As long as you stay within the stated maximum duration for any one trip (usually 31 days), most will allow you to travel as often as you like throughout the year for a single fee. 

50. Charge-free payment cards

Whether you are splashing out or picking up a bargain, you want to make sure you pay for it in the cheapest way possible. Cash is expensive to buy and exchange and some cards can also levy stiff charges when you use them abroad. Go for one which doesn’t add charges and doesn’t take a cut on the exchange rate either. These include Monzo, Starling, Cumberland Building Society, Virgin Money and Kroo.

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Travel Essentials Are Trending on Amazon, and We Found the 50 Best Deals Starting at $8

Including savings from Samsonite, Travelpro, and more top brands

• Travel Essential Deals Overall
• Luggage Deals
• Travel Clothes Deals
• Carry-on Luggage Deals
• Travel Accessories

People / Amazon(4)

Amazon shoppers are gearing up for summer trips with all things travel .

Right now, carry-on luggage, packing cubes, weekender bags, and more travel essentials are trending on Amazon. If you’re also getting ready for an upcoming vacation, we pulled together the top 50 deals on travel must-haves, including luggage sets, travel pillows, and other accessories. We also found comfortable clothes like travel dresses inspired by Gwyneth Paltrow and Meghan Markle . The best part? Prices start at just $8. 

Best Travel Essential Deals Overall 

• Oprah-Loved: Benevolence LA Plush Velvet Jewelry Box , $19.98 (orig. $26.35)
• PEOPLE Tested : Narwey Travel Makeup Bag , $9.99 (orig. $13.99)
• 80K Just Bought: Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan , $14.38 (orig. $24.99)
• Samsonite Freeform Expandable Checked Suitcase , $167.99 (orig. $239.99)
• Travelpro 21-Inch Expandable Carry-On , $135.99 (orig. $169.99)
• Etronik Weekender Bag with USB Charging Port , $25.99 (orig. $49.99)
• Mlvoc Travel Pillow , $24.99 (orig. $29.99)
• The Drop Britt Tiered Maxi Tent Dress , $42.42 (orig. $59.90)
• Veken 8-Piece Packing Cube Set , $17.99 (orig. $24.99)
• Travel Inspira Portable Luggage Scale , $7.80 (orig. $12.99)

More than 80,000 shoppers just picked up this mini handheld fan that’s on sale for $14. Pack the compact gadget for an easy way to stay cool during hot days. Then pick up Amazon’s best-selling packing cube set , which comes with eight fabric pouches to organize clothes, shoes, toiletries, and accessories. 

Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan

Best luggage deals.

Weekender bags, suitcases, and travel backpacks are discounted for as little as $26. If you’re shopping for matching luggage, grab this 3-piece hard shell luggage set , which comes with a carry-on size suitcase and two checked bags. With the deal, the suitcases are going for $58 apiece. 

For short trips, keep your clothes, shoes, and toiletries organized with this weekender bag . It has a main compartment with plenty of pockets, a bottom compartment to store footwear separately, and it comes with an included toiletry bag. At least one reviewer shared that it’s got “lots of space.”

• Coolife Expandable 3-Piece Set Spinner Suitcases , $174.99 with coupon (orig. $189.99)
• Matein Expandable Backpack , $29.99 (orig. $45.99)
• Travelpro Checked Luggage with Spinner Wheels , $199.99 (orig. $249.99)
• Bovip Weekender Bag Set , $36.99 (orig. $49.99)
• Wogarl Weekender Travel Bag with Shoe Compartment , $35.99 (orig. $49.99)
• Wisepack Travel Duffel Bag with Toiletry Bag , $25.99 (orig. $30.99)
• Hyc00 Large Weekender Overnight Bag , $26.99 (orig. $39.99)
• Coowoz Travel Backpack , $38.86 (orig. $42.99)
• Bagsmart Tote Bag , $30.39 (orig. $39.99)
• Bagsmart 17-Inch Travel Backpack , $42.99 (orig. $49.99) 

Coolife Expandable 3-Piece Set Spinner Suitcases

Best travel clothes deals.

Whether you have a long flight or a road trip planned this summer, it’s an ideal time to invest in comfortable clothes and footwear. These Skechers high-waisted leggings , which are up to 54 percent off, are made of soft and stretchy fabric that’s moisture-wicking. They’re “lightweight” and “comfy,” according to five-star reviewers. 

Pair it with this new oversized striped T-shirt that comes in four colors. With breathable fabric and a roomy silhouette, it’s an easy choice for summer travel.

• Skechers Go Walk High-Waisted Legging , $22.39 (orig. $49)
• Dokotoo Striped Oversized T-Shirt , $17.99 with coupon (orig. $19.99)
• Tanming Knit Pullover Lounge Set , $31.49 with coupon (orig. $42.99)
• Halife Summer Casual Maxi Dress , $39.99 (orig. $45.99)
• Hanes Cotton Zip-Up Hoodie , $15 (orig. $23)
• Zoosixx Casual Lounge Pant , $14.87 with coupon (orig. $17.49)
• Anrabess Casual Long T-Shirt Dress , $34.99 (orig. $52.99)
• Anrabess Loose Linen Overall Romper , $32.99 (orig. $36.99)
• Ekouaer Tennis Skort , $26.99 (orig. $33.99)
• Lauweion Basic Fleece Hoodie , $34.99 (orig. $36.99)

Skechers Go Walk High-Waisted Legging

Best carry-on luggage deals .

Compact carry-on suitcases are currently on sale for as little as $40. This Samsonite hardside luggage has 360-degree spinner wheels that make it easy to roll around. Shoppers who’ve given it a perfect rating rave that it’s “durable” and “spacious.” If you’re in the market for soft-sided luggage, consider picking up this luggage set while it’s half-off. It comes with a carry-on suitcase and a matching tote bag. 

• Samsonite Omni PC 20-Inch Spinner Carry-On , $139.99 (orig. $159.99)
• Rockland 2-Piece Softside Luggage Set , $39.99 (orig. $79.99)
• Kroser Hardside Luggage with TSA Lock , $89.99 with coupon (orig. $99.99)
• Rockland Melbourne Spinner Wheel Luggage , $83.39 (orig. $120)
• Level8 Rolling Lightweight Luggage , $154.99 with coupon (orig. $169.99)
• American Tourister 21-Inch Luggage with Wheels , $69.99 (orig. $139.99)
• Kenneth Cole Reaction 8-Wheel Hardside Suitcase , $79.99 (orig. $114.99)
• Luggex Carry-On with Front Pocket , $49.99 (orig. $59.99)
• Rockland London Hardside Suitcase , $53.99 (orig. $120)
• SwissGear Energie Hardside Expandable Luggage , $159.99 (orig. $169.99)

Samsonite Omni PC 20-Inch Spinner Carry-On

Best travel accessories .

Right now, deals on toiletry kits, neck pillows, packing cubes, and more travel gear start at just $8. Grab the compact Iniu Portable Charger while it’s 40 percent off, then pack it in a belt bag to keep your phone charged on the go. The highly rated device charges quickly and is a “must-have for vacations,” according to a reviewer . Organize your shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and other toiletries with this set of 10 travel bottles and containers , which comes with a clear bag. 

• Iniu Portable Charger , $17.99 (orig. $29.99)
• Vorolo Crossbody Belt Bag , $7.99 (orig. $12.99)
• Depoza 16-Piece Set of Travel Bottles , $12.99 (orig. $15.99)
• Bagsmart Medium Toiletry Bag , $18.39 (orig. $23.49)
• Mrsdry 3-Ounce Travel Size Bottles , $7.99 (orig. $9.99)
• Topeast Initial Makeup Bag , $9.99 (orig. $15.99)
• Forge Travel Locks , $24.95 (orig. $35.99)
• Bostanten Small Sling Bag , $20.79 (orig. $35.99)
• Alameda Compression Packing Cubes , $12.58 (orig. $17.98)
• Napfun Neck Pillow , $16.96 (orig. $21.99)
• Conair Portable Clothes Steamer , $55.65 (orig. $69.99)

Iniu Portable Charger

Keep scrolling to shop more of the best deals on travel essentials at Amazon. 

Veken 8-Piece Packing Cube Set

Narwey travel makeup bag, samsonite freeform expandable checked suitcase, travelpro 21-inch expandable carry-on, mlvoc travel pillow, vorolo crossbody belt bag, depoza 16-piece set of travel bottles, see more from people shopping.

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Saturn Stadium
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center