easy travel accessories

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

• The Big Story
• Newsletters
• Steven Levy's Plaintext Column
• WIRED Classics from the Archive
• WIRED Insider
• WIRED Consulting

The Best Travel Accessories to Make Your Trip Easier

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Charge Ahead Nimble Champ (Series 2) Read more

Charge Everything at Once Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger With MagSafe Read more

Learn to Adapt Ceptics World International Travel Plug Adapter Read more

Tag, You’re It Artovida Neoprene Luggage Tag Read more

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.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com , full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

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.

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.

WIRED COUPONS

Turbo Tax Live Assisted - 10% off

H&R Block Coupons & Offers

Enjoy $15 Off Your Orders With Instacart Coupon

DoorDash Promo Code: 25% off your order

$15 Off Apparel And Footwear Finish Line Coupon

Groupon Promo Code: Extra 10% off Your Next Order

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

The 15 Best Travel Accessories for Your Next Trip, Tested and Reviewed

We test thousands of products every year and these are our top travel accessory picks to make any journey as smooth as possible.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

It doesn’t matter if you’re a minimalist or a maximalist when it comes to travel, there is certain gear that is non-negotiable when packing. Think items you’ll always be grateful to have thrown into your suitcase or carry-on whether it’s your first or fifteenth trip abroad.

The right travel accessories should help to streamline your trip without weighing you down or malfunctioning while on the go — but getting the right gear on the first go can be tough. That’s why we personally tested thousands of different items in our lab and in the real world, all for at least six months. We continuously checked and rated for attributes like comfort, portability, and durability to best ensure our picks will actually go the distance.

The following items rose to the top for their overall quality and longevity so, here, find the best travel accessories, all reviewed by us.

Best Travel Pillow

Infinity pillow travel pillow.

The modular design is very versatile.

It’s not as firm as a memory foam option.

The best travel pillow should support your head and neck comfortably without causing you to overheat or feel restricted — and that’s exactly why we love the Infinity Pillow Travel Pillow. During the testing process, we found that the scarf-like design makes it easy to adjust to your personal preference when traveling; you can wrap it around your neck once for a looser fit or wrap it twice for a bit more support while napping. We also love that this pillow is machine washable which makes it easy to ensure it stays clean and sanitary between trips. The only thing we didn’t love was that this option isn’t as firm or supportive as a memory foam neck pillow would be so you’ll want to keep that in mind if you prefer more support.

Travel + Leisure / Paige VandeWiele

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

There is impressive compression to fit even more clothing inside than a standard cube.

The set is very large and might be too expansive for shorter trips or light packers.

The best packing cube set that we tested , the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes, earned top points across the board thanks to the impressive compression and seemingly endless room in each cube. The clothing cubes are ultra lightweight and the material has held up extremely well even through heavy-duty use. We also love that the zipper doesn’t show any signs of stress when the packing cubes are stuffed to their limit.

The only slight downfall is that the cubes are on the larger side and might be too big to really make a difference if you tend to use a carry-on or pack really light. If you’re looking for something that’ll help organize a small amount of clothes, you might want to choose packing cubes that are on the smaller side, or only bring one from this three- or four-pack.

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Toiletry Bottles

Liquisnugs premium silicone travel bottles.

These TSA-approved bottles are incredibly easy to fill.

The set includes two 89-milliliter and two 60-milliliter bottles so, if you want four bigger bottles, you’ll need to buy two sets.

The quality and utility of toiletry bottles can vary greatly. While we’ve tried dozens while traveling in the past, none of them held a candle to the LiquiSnugs Premium Silicone Travel Bottles. These have a wide opening which makes it easy to squeeze your favorite shampoos and conditioners into portable, TSA-approved amounts. The silicone material is also much more flexible and durable than hard plastic bottles while the malleable material ensures you won’t have to deal with any leakage once you land.

Keep in mind that the price point for this set is higher than the average set of travel bottles (considering it only includes four bottles with no case), but it’s worth the splurge if you want something that’s easy to refill and durable enough not to spill when packed in your own case.

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are an abundance of pockets which makes it easy to stay organized on the go.

It’s expensive if you travel infrequently.

We’re already major fans of Away luggage — and the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree in this case. We particularly like that The Large Toiletry Bag by Away is waterproof and has loads of different pockets inside including one for brushes and a clear pocket for makeup products, along with others for additional toiletry needs. The bag also has a convenient top handle which makes it easy to grab while on the go plus it’s worth noting the nylon material is super lightweight and can handle a lot of products without getting too heavy.

We think this bag is worth the splurge if you want something that’ll last for the long run while also providing an easy way to keep all your toiletries properly organized while in transit, and possibly even at home, too.

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Travel Jewelry Case

Cuyana travel jewelry case.

The oval container offers a surprisingly spacious interior.

We wish there were a few more organizational features.

Investing in a great travel jewelry case is one of the best things you can do if you’re hoping to up your organization game. Not only does a good case keep all your jewelry in one designated spot at your destination, but it also ensures your jewelry is safe and secure while in transit. The Cuyana Travel Jewelry Case earns the top spot in our books as the best travel jewelry case for its deceptively spacious interior and elegant genuine leather exterior. It also has a soft suede interior that will further protect your jewelry from getting scratches or scuffs while on the go. The only drawback is that this option doesn’t have latches for necklaces or bracelets which means any chains you plan to bring along might get tangled in the side pouches.

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

This breathable option won’t irritate the skin even with long-term use.

The belt is large enough to see when it’s under your clothes.

Shopping for a money belt can be daunting — you want something that’s secure and able to store your goods properly but it’s just as important to find something you can wear for hours on end. We found the Raytix Money Belt comfortable and smooth on the skin, while also noting that it can expand to accommodate many different sizes. The material also feels extremely sturdy and durable so you won’t have to worry about the bag wearing out, even after multiple trips.

Although we like that this money belt is large enough to accommodate bigger items (like a passport) without having to struggle to squeeze these in, the size is a little bit bulky and is actually visible with certain clothing types. This might not be ideal if you’re looking for something extremely discreet under a light layer, or a belt to pair with a travel dress .

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Thermoflask stainless steel water bottle.

This unique water bottle comes with two different lids to suit a variety of beverages.

The exterior might get a bit dinged up with heavy use.

When it comes to water bottles , the Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle is one of the best. It’s not flashy or overly expensive like other popular reusable water bottles on the market right now but it’s extremely durable and versatile. We really liked that this option comes with two different lids, one with a built-in straw and one that resembles a more traditional water bottle mouth. We also liked that this option was thin enough to fit in a standard cup holder and also very easy to grip.

During the testing process, we noticed that the stainless steel bottle did get a few aesthetic dings with heavy usage. That being said, the bottle didn’t leak at all nor did it become damaged beyond use throughout the entire process. This makes it well worth the price in our books.

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Bose noise cancelling headphones.

These headphones are intuitive to use and very comfortable to wear.

They don’t fit super tightly on the head.

If you’re willing to spend a bit of money on noise-cancelling headphones , this pair from Bose is going to be a great option. We find the price point totally justifiable as we could hear every instrument as clearly as if we were hearing the music live. We also really liked that the headphones offer different levels of noise cancellation depending on your preference and setting. (Plus, you can easily tap directly on the headphones to change the level or you can do it in the smartphone app.) We found a very dramatic difference from level 0 to level 10 which is great for transitioning from, say, walking in the city to settling into a sold-out red-eye flight. It’s worth noting that at the highest level of cancellation, the tester couldn’t hear a single thing so it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings.

These headphones also earned the top spot in our books due to the fact that they’re extremely comfortable and didn’t cause irritation even when wearing them for hours on end but that also means they don't fit as tightly as some others we tried.

Best Wireless Earbuds

Bose quietcomfort earbuds ii.

These earbuds are super fast-charging and easy to connect to all devices.

The size is a bit more bulky than comparable wireless earbuds.

During the testing process, it was clear that the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II were the best option out of all the competing products. The earbuds were extremely quick to charge and had a 16-hour battery life which is more than enough to get you through most flights or the day-to-day. We also found the wireless Bluetooth functionality was very efficient and easy to pair with everything from a smartphone to a Roku TV, plus the noise-canceling capabilities were sufficient for drowning out the subway sounds or city streets while on the go.

The main drawback we noticed with this set is the bulkier size; these earbuds are quite a bit larger than the average earbud and might take some getting used to. The good part is that they come with three different tip sizes so you can adjust the in-ear part of the bud to properly fit your ear.

Travel + Leisure / Lydia Price

Best Sunglasses for Women

Raen keera sunglasses.

They're stylish and well-priced for the quality.

These sunglasses aren’t polarized.

Few things are worse than getting to the airport and realizing you’ve forgotten your sunglasses (except perhaps realizing you’ve forgotten your passport). The Raen Keera Sunglasses are the shades we’re always packing in our carry-on bags. During the testing process, we found these were our favorite pair of sunglasses for women thanks to the comfortable and secure fit that doesn’t loosen or lose its integrity with regular wear. We also found that the oversized fit meant these shades didn’t pinch or rub at any point, and the arms weren’t sticky or hard to open and close. Keep in mind that this option isn’t polarized, which might not be the best choice if you have notably sensitive eyes.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Mejorada

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best Sunglasses for Men

Huckberry weekenders.

They seamlessly block sun and glare.

The paint chips with heavy use.

Looking for a great pair of sunglasses for men that won’t break the bank while still protecting your peepers? The Huckberry Weekenders are our top pick as the best sunglasses for men . The stylish shades are lightweight and incredibly comfortable to wear (even for hours at a time) while the polarized lenses do a great job at blocking out all sun and glare so you can spend time in the sun without any discomfort or squinting. It’s worth noting that during the testing process, we found that these sunglasses do chip a bit over time if you don’t care for them gingerly.

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wojczyk Wang

Best Compression Socks

Levsox compression socks.

These offer great support in the arches and heels without feeling too tight.

The material is thinner than many other compression socks, which you might not enjoy if you're looking for something thick and sturdy.

Compression socks can help ward away stiffness and swelling during long periods of sitting, making them an essential item for travel in our book. Levsox is our favorite brand to turn to, offering socks that give just enough support without suffocating our feet. Some compression socks are uncomfortably tight, but these are easy to slip on and off, thanks to a lightweight material that feels silky against the skin. And if you're looking for a variety of colors and patterns, Levsox has you covered — you'll find everything from colorful tie dye to animal prints to nurse-themed patterns in each pack.

While the smooth material of these socks is comfortable, it may be a little thin for those used to wearing thicker or more padded socks throughout the day. Ultimately, this comes down to personal preference, so we're still excited to slip these on before a flight.

Best Car Phone Mount

Andobil car phone holder mount.

This car phone mount is very sturdy and won’t fall off once properly installed.

The installation process might involve some trial and error at first.

The Andobil Car Phone Holder Mount will be the last phone holder mount you’ll purchase — or at least that’s how we felt after trying this for ourselves. It can be set in any position once installed and it doesn’t wobble around or fall off. It also has space on the bottom for a charging cable and a built-in release button so you don’t have to worry about squeezing your phone in and out each time you leave your car.

The only downside we noticed was that the installation process might involve some trial and error. This phone holder mount has three different options for installation in your vehicle: there’s a suction cup using a 3M pad to stick on the dashboard or directly onto the windshield, or there’s a different attachment to click into the vent instead. This is great for variety’s sake but can mean trying out a few different methods to see what you like best.

Best Travel Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

Its multi-functional design lets you charge six devices at once.

It’s not safe to use with things like hair dryers.

Charging devices while traveling can be a huge pain if you’re not prepared — and sometimes even when you think you are prepared. Seriously, how many times have you found yourself in a hotel room or Airbnb that seems to have one single outlet for the whole place? That’s why the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is our most preferred travel adapter . This handy little cube can charge up to six devices at once thanks to its combination of USB-A and USB-C ports and AC sockets. It’s easy to switch prongs based on the countries you’re in, and it doesn’t require any additional attachments which makes it quick and easy to pack.

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

It pairs seamlessly with iPhone and Android devices at a much lower cost.

The locator sound is a bit quiet.

Everyone talks about the benefits of AirTags while traveling — but we actually tested out a whole bunch of options and found the Eufy Smarttrack Link to be the best overall luggage tracker . This option seamlessly pairs with iPhone and Android devices, and is hassle-free and easy to use right from the get-go. This tracker is also nearly half the price of the leading competitors, which makes it an even sweeter deal. It’s also worth noting that the Eufy Smarttrack Link is equipped with a keyring hole in the upper corner which allows you to easily attach these onto a handbag or set of keys. The only downfall? The locator sound is a bit quiet, especially if it’s stuffed into the middle of a packed suitcase.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

The Travel + Leisure team tests thousands of different travel accessories, gadgets, and gear both in our New York City lab and in the real world. Any products we test and like, we continue to test for at least another six months to best gauge exactly which items will hold up for the long term while on the road. We evaluate each product category using attributes like comfort, durability, and portability in order to rank which items work best for trips of all types, and our results from various tests lead to this best-of-the-bunch list.

Tips for Buying Travel Accessories

Prioritize usability.

There are a lot of really nifty travel accessories on the market, but when you’re shopping for your next trip you’ll want to really focus on usability over novelty (not to say unique and practical items don't exist). Consider whether or not each item is actually essential for your trip or the destinations you frequent. For example, if you always have to have a drink in hand then a drink caddy for your luggage and stroller could prove indispensable. You’ll also want to reference real-world reviews — like ours — to get an idea of how well a given item works and whether or not it’ll last through the rigors of regular travel. Your carry-on and checked luggage space is precious, so there’s no sense filling it with accessories that won’t streamline your experience.

Consider your trip length and type

Each trip will require a slightly different packing list so to avoid overpacking you’ll want to be sure to think about what each item will actually bring to the table. For example, if you’ve scored an upgrade to business class for your red-eye, you can probably leave your travel pillow at home this time. If you’re jetting off for a quick weekend trip, you likely won’t have to bother with packing cubes the same way you would for a multi-destination trip with different climates to consider.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis worked with travel editors to determine the results for the best travel accessories based on a series of tests completed by expert product testers in our New York City lab.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

20 Best Travel Accessories to Make Every Trip a Breeze

The tried and true essentials T&C 's jetsetting editors never travel without.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

In order to properly fulfill this mission of ours, we need to travel— a lot . And inevitably, over the course of so much globetrotting, T&C 's e ditors have amassed an arsenal of travel essentials they will never take off without. Editor in chief Stellene Volandes, for instance, swears by only this brand of blazers to keep her looking sharp wherever she is in the world. Executive travel editor Klara Glowczewska knows how to turn a toiletry bag into a clutch and fashion and accessories director Dania Ortiz trusts one summer carry-all to take her from the beaches of Miami to the high jewelry presentations in Europe.

In other words, we've got tips. So whether you're looking for a sleek passport cover that will last forever, or a portable steamer that actually works (not to mention fits into your carry-on), or a pretty jewelry case to keep your valuables organized, see below for 20 of the best travel accessories and essentials that have been tested and approved by T&C .

Tumi Raina Backpack

Executive travel editor Klara Glowczewska relies on her Tumi backpack to take her around the world, from South Africa to Bhutan, French Polynesia to Anguilla. “ It holds everything I might want easy access to—laptop and other devices, book, magazines, toiletries and make-up, travel documents, hair brush, water bottle, shawl, scrunched up hat, socks, sunglasses, you name it. It has many logically organized compartments and dividers, inner and outer, which means that once you decide where things go, you never have to rummage for anything.” And here's a pro-tip: “Get one of the larger, top-of-the-line ones.”

Dimensions: 16.5" x 11.0" x 6.3" Weight: 2.4 lbs.

Smythson Passport Cover

For frequent fliers, an elegant passport cover that is not only chic but will also survive constant use is key. Yours truly has had the same Smythson cover for 14 years—and it still looks brand new.

July Hanging Toiletry Bag

A good hanging toiletry case solves several problems. Limited hotel bathroom counter space, for one. And if it's designed well with spacious interiors, multiple pockets to keep everything organized, and clear and leak-resistant PVC lining for good visibility, it does away with the inconvenience of having to unload everything just to re-pack it all in just a few days.

Dimensions: 10.24" x 7.09" x 3.54" Capacity: 4.2L

Mark & Graham Fillmore Vegan Leather Luggage Tag

You're not seeing things. Everyone has the same suitcase. Never risk someone mistakenly carting off with yours with a colorful luggage tag. Mark & Graham offers so many options—and personalization styles—that it will be hard to settle on one.

Paravel Packing Cube Quad

Anyone who has discovered the magic of packing cubes will tell you it has changed their lives. It has certainly changed mine—so much so that I have gifted monogrammed Paravel sets to every member of my family and all of my closest friends.

Dimensions: 18" x 3.75" x 12" (large); 12.75" x 3.75" x 10" (medium); 8.2" x. 3.75" x 6.25" (small)

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow

There is no greater airport faux pas than to be caught walking around a terminal with a cheap neck pillow around your shoulders. Or strapped to your bag strap. Or really, anywhere that is visible to the human eye. Ostrichpillow solves this problem. Its version is made of a memory foam core that offers much better in-flight comfort and, best of all, coils into a compact shape so you can keep it out of sight until you're on the plane.

Dimensions: 9.8" x 6.7" x 2.7" Weight: 12 oz.

Prada Re-Nylon pouch

“I don’t know what I’ll do if Prada ever stops making these, although so far, mine has survived seven years of constant use admirably well—that Prada nylon is almost indestructible,” Glowczewska says. “In addition to my phone, it holds all my small travel essentials—lip gloss, hand-cream, toothbrush and toothpaste, pens, sunglasses, so on. And it doubles as an evening clutch, which you can elegantly slip over your wrist and be hands-free.”

Dimensions: 11.5cm x 20cm x 9cm

Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Moisturizer

Spending so much time in an airplane cabin will wreak havoc on your skin. And not all moisturizers are created equal—some will even make you drier. Kiehl's is ubiquitous for a reason. “It’s the longest-acting moisturizer I know, with a lovely scent and rich, creamy texture,” Glowczewska says.

Anker Power Bank

For such a slim size and low price point, this Anker is supremely popular on Amazon, where it is highly rated for its 10,000mAH battery power and fast charging time.

Dimensions: 5.87" x 2.68" x 0.55" Weight: 7.5 oz.

Longchamp Le Pliage 18" Large Travel Bag

Even for those who vow to be carry-on only, sometimes it's just impossible. A lightweight Longchamp will give you room for error—say, if you did too much shopping abroad and need a convenient surplus bag—without taking up a lot of space thanks to the way it ingeniously folds up like origami into something so compact you can take it with you anywhere.

Dimensions: 17.75" x 13.75" x 9" Weight: 0.9 lb.

Away The Laptop Sleeve

There is a reason so many frequent fliers swear by Away. Functional, thoughtful design is the brand's MO, and this exemplifies that perfectly. Made from a water-resistant nylon, it can fit up to a 13" laptop, and is layered with several pockets for keeping chargers, cords, keyboards, pens, and notebooks neatly organized.

Dimensions: 13" x 1.6" x 9.6" Weight: 14 oz.

Mark & Graham Small Travel Jewelry Case

It goes without saying that jewelry should never go into a checked suitcase. Keep your valuables close—and well-organized—in a case that is compact enough to fit into a tote or carry-on but with still has plenty of compartments to store your rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Dimensions: 4.5" x 4.5" x 2.25"

Apple AirTag

Other brands might be getting into the Bluetooth tracker game but the first-to-market AirTag still reigns supreme. We have all heard plenty of horror stories about lost luggage, and while there is no way to prevent it from happening to you, consider this an inexpensive way to buy a little peace of mind .

BlueHills Travel Blanket

If the thought of using those blankets they give you on the plane gives you chills (who knows where they have been?), consider a BYO approach. Don't be fooled by the low price of this Amazon option: it's super soft, folds neatly into a pouch that doubles as a pillow, and comes in 13 different colors. Plus, you won't feel so bad if you accidentally leave it behind.

Dimensions: 60" x 43" (case: 11.5" x 10") Weight: 1 lb.

White + Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap

“A miracle accessory,” Glowczewska raves . “The wrap is huge—really, it's an almost seven-foot-long blanket of seven-gauge, two-ply knit cashmere. I sleep under it on airplanes and its softness and warmth transform even an economy-class flight into a nearly pleasurable experience. But it’s so light, you can easily stuff it into it a travel backpack or an average-sized handbag. You can wind it several times around your neck or shoulders and it never feels bulky. Start with black, then get more; the colors are delicious.”

Dimensions: 81" x 36"

Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case

Just as everyone has a specific packing method she swears by, those who spend enough time on the road will also have their own best practices when it comes to organizing their toiletries. Paravel's structured case protects things from getting smushed, it holds a lot , and its clear sides and all-around zip means no annoying rummaging required.

Dimensions: 8.5" x 5.5" x 3.75" Weight: 0.38 lb.

Precious Tails Cat & Dog Bed

“If our dog had its way, he’d ride in the driver’s lap,” says Norman Vanamee, T&C 's articles director—and our resident expert on family roadtrips . “This dog bed with a seatbelt keeps him in one place and relatively happy."

Dimensions: 20" x 14" x 11" (small); 26" x 24" x 13" (medium); 30" x 22" x 14" (large)

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

No more overpaying at the airport for emergency adapters because you forgot (again!) that your EU plug won't work in the UK. This one has 4 plugs that cover 150+ countries, plus 5 USB ports for charging multiple devices simultaneously.

Dimensions: ‎2.8" x 1.97" x 2.04" Weight: 5.4 oz.

Bose Bose QuietComfort Headphones

Screaming toddlers. Zillennials watching TikTok videos on full volume. Bickering couples. Leave the world behind with these Bose headphones, which are wireless (but also come with a cable), have an impressive 24 hours of battery life, and are built with various custom modes to suit whatever you're listening to (or tuning out). Another perk: they come in a range of fun colors, like dark green, lilac, and light blue.

Nori The Nori Press

T&C 's deputy digital lifestyle director Roxanne Adamiyatt calls this steam iron a “a genius invention.” Its list of standout features is long: dual iron plates to simultaneously press both sides of a garment, a pointed tip for hard-to-reach places, six heat settings plus even a steam function, and it all weighs less than 1.5 lbs.

Dimensions : 14" in length

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Travel @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

Can a Car Have Sprezzatura?

Are Hotel Pool DJ's Getting Too Loud?

The Best Room At... JW Marriott Clearwater Beach

The Best Room At... Faraway Nantucket

The Best Room At...AREV Saint -Tropez

How the Superrich Do College Tours

The Best Room At... Raffles Boston

34 Dreamy Quotes About Paris

The Best Hard-Shell Luggage for 2024 Travel

A Snob's Guide to Napa Valley

A Snob's Guide to Copenhagen

17 Travel Gadgets That Will Make Your Next Trip Smoother

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.

Figuring out what you need to pack for a trip can be challenging—especially if you like to travel carry-on only . But whether you’re heading for a weekend away with your best gal pals or a week-long jaunt to a new city, the tech you pack is important. From portable batteries and small location devices to headphone adapters for planes, we’ve tested multiple items to see what the best travel gadgets really are, and which ones simply aren't worth the space.

We promise the products below merit a spot on your packing list . Keep them in a pouch or near your suitcases so you know exactly where they are at all times, and can grab them when the need arises. The best part? All of these accessories are available on Amazon , and most on Prime, so you can get your hands on them quickly in advance of your next trip .

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Madison Flager.

This under-$20 Amazon find has completely upgraded my in-flight entertainment experience. When I fly, I usually watch movies or downloaded videos on my iPhone so I can continue to use my noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones. This means I’m usually rotating between holding my phone in my hand and (unsuccessfully) propping it up on the tray table. This pocket-size phone mount clips onto the top of your seat tray table and perfectly holds your phone in place so you can watch movies, TV shows, or podcast videos hands-free. It features 360-degree rotation, allowing travelers to view their screen vertically or horizontally. The 1.5-inch clamp can be attached to tables, desks, gym equipment, and a variety of other surfaces. While I originally purchased this carry-on essential to use on airplanes, I’ve also attached it to my luggage handle while waiting to board a flight and on a train ride from Lucca to Florence. —Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

If you've been on a group trip, you know the struggle of trying to get ready when there are too few mirrors available compared to the amount of folks in the house or hotel room. Eliminate the hassle with a portable travel mirror, like this fold-out option available on Amazon. It shifts to varying heights, has three light settings (warm, cool, and natural daylight), and folds up flat, weighing less than a pound.

Associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny calls this small wireless device “a complete game-changer—I'm never going back to the days of dry hotel rooms and dehydrated skin post flight.” She's found that sleeping with it, both at home and on the road, leaves her skin less dry and helps her to wake up feeling more refreshed. It's easy to use, too: “For as compact as the humidifier is, it can still fit 11.3 ounces of water—more than enough needed for a continuous cool mist throughout the day or night.”

Read a full review of this product.

Sure, many totes , backpacks , and small duffels now come with a trolley sleeve to secure it to a suitcase handle, but when you find yourself using a bag without that little sleeve, keeping your things together and upright becomes a balancing act. A Cincha travel belt is the workaround: It slips over your suitcase handle, then wraps around most any bag like a seatbelt, with adjustable straps to tighten or loosen as needed.

There’s nothing worse than getting onto an airplane and your wireless headphones not connecting to the seatback entertainment system. That issue is easily averted with this wireless audio transmitter and adapter . The small device pairs to your headphones via Bluetooth and then plugs into the tiny TV on the airplane so you’re never without entertainment on long-haul flights . I keep this Amazon gadget in my pre-packed go-bag, then charge it the night before I fly so I know it's fully charged before heading to the airport. Even better is that the device can pair with two sets of headphones, so if I'm traveling with someone we can both watch the same movie at the same time.

Gimbal stabilizers come in a variety of sizes and price points. If you’re testing the waters with the smartphone travel accessory , you may want to consider this under-$50 option. The anti-shake, one-axis stabilizer allows you to capture smooth videos and crisp photos of your travels without having to think about keeping your hands perfectly still and balanced. One perk of this particular stabilizer is that it doesn’t have a corresponding app that you need to use to make the device work, so you can just pop your phone onto the handle and go. At just 7.5 inches and less than half a pound, the stabilizer can fit easily into your day bag without weighing it down.

We’ve all experienced those long, twisty lines at the airport coffee shop that take longer than expected and leave you rushing off to your gate, juggling an iced coffee and your phone, all while somehow wheeling your carry-on bag behind you. Make that scenario a memory of the past with this luggage cup holder. The hands-free pocket slips over the handle of your luggage to hold up to two drinks and your phone. The adjustable cup holder has a Velcro opening that can be tightened or loosened to fit your suitcase handle and stay securely on your luggage as you traverse the airport. I keep this in my go-to personal item at all times, that way I know where it is before I head to the airport. Even better, if I do somehow spill a drink when using this, the cup holder is completely machine washable; I’ve throw it in with a load of towels to keep it clean.

If you’re headed somewhere warm, be it a theme park or Europe in summer, one of the best travel gadgets to bring along is a mini handheld fan. This VersionTech handheld fan is my absolute favorite of all of the ones I’ve tried. It charges quickly with an included USB charger (you can also use any micro-USB cords you're already packing), and has three speeds to keep air moving and keep you feeling refreshed. The handle of the fan can be folded back to allow it to sit on a table if you stop for a meal or coffee, or find yourself on a hot bus or train. I always have this in my backpack or fanny pack in the summer—when I whip it out and have a cool breeze blowing across my face, my travel buddies are instantly jealous that they don’t have one too.

Keeping your phone charged while traveling through airports can be difficult—not every airport has charging ports integrated into the seats at the gates, and most of the time people are huddled around the one or few outlets near the gate. I love this phone charging passport holder because I can charge my phone with an included power bank, and it has an integrated cable holder, and elastic bands to keep my phone in place as I traverse the airport. I also appreciate that the holder has a space for your passport and RFID blocking credit card slots for added protection.

No matter how meticulously you pack your clothes, pieces always end up wrinkled and looking like you slept in them on the other end. That problem is easily solved with this handheld garment steamer . The small electronic device weighs in at just under two pounds, so it won’t add much weight to your luggage. The steamer takes just 35 seconds to heat up, and has a removable water tank that’s easy to fill and an adjustable steam head so you can get wrinkles out no matter how your clothes are hung up. Leave this at home if you’re headed on a cruise, though; these portable steamers are not allowed on any cruise line.

Find more portable steamer recommendations .

Whether you’re traveling internationally or domestically, having a travel adapter is always a good idea. The universal adapter allows you to plug in your devices to outlets, no matter what country you’re in. There’s also a built-in surge protector and two USB ports so you can charge your phone or watch without having to unplug something bigger like hot hair tools or a laptop.

There’s nothing worse than misplacing something or finding out that your luggage got lost in transit on the way to your hotel or Airbnb. With an Apple AirTag , you can have constant eyes on your belongings, even if they aren’t technically with you. The tiny puck-like devices pair with your iPhone or iPad and use geolocation to let you know where your belongings are. I like that I can check on the location of my luggage, purse, or whatever else I've dropped an AirTag into with the Find My app. This is especially helpful after a plane lands and I want to be sure my luggage made it to my final destination.

Is there anything worse than checking into a hotel room and tossing and turning all night because of loud noises from neighbors or city streets? With this portable white noise sound machine, you can easily drown out the sounds of people, cars, or snoring companions. The machine has three sound options, and multiple volume settings so you can find the option that’s best for you. And because it’s so small at just 3.5 inches in diameter, it can fit in a backpack or carry-on bag with ease.

An electric handheld luggage scale is without a doubt one of the best travel gadgets, especially if you’re prone to overpacking and always have a checked bag at the airport like me. The handheld scale uses a strap to attach to the outside handles of your suitcase. Then you simply pull up with both hands using even force for the scale to display how much your luggage weighs. This is my easy way to avoid overweight fees or having to open my luggage on the airport floor to take things out and squish items into my backpack before racing off to my gate.

After flying through the friendly skies and making your way to your perfect vacation destination, your phone is likely showing that annoying red battery indicating that it’s almost out of power. With this wireless portable charger , you never have to get below 10 percent charge again. The charger can support wireless charging or charging with a connecting cable and can support Apple and Android products. iPhone users will be glad to know that with one full charge of the power bank, the device can charge an iPhone 12 at least eight times.

Keeping your personal information safe should be a top priority while traveling. One easy way to do that is with an RFID-blocking wallet, so skimmers in the pockets of nefarious patrons can’t get your credit card info just by walking by you. The wallet has multiple slots for credit cards, plus two zip pockets that are great for coins and paper money. Everything is further protected with a snap that covers both zippers and keeps the wallet closed.

Another popular travel wallet option: the Slim Mint ultra-thin RFID-blocking wallet. The compact case can hold cash and whatever essential cards you need on you—credit cards, hotel room keys, metro cards—so that they are easily accessible. When empty, it weighs just 3.2 ounces.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

The best travel accessories to pack on every trip

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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. See our full Loop earplug review here .

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.

More great stories from Condé Nast Traveller

For a hit of culture, head to these fabulous exhibitions across London

Our favourite bags for overnight stays and weekends away

New Balance dad shoes are the ultimate travel sneaker

From roomy canvas carryalls to sleek leather work bags, a good tote is a travel essential

The suitcases every British traveller needs to know about

• All Wellness
• All Skin Care
• Moisturizers
• Mineral Sunscreens
• Sunscreens for Kids
• Sunscreens for Dark Skin
• SPF Lip Balms
• Under Eye Patches
• All Hair Care
• Purple Shampoos
• Thinning Hair
• Head Shavers
• Hair Dryers
• All Oral Care
• Electric Toothbrushes
• Toothpastes
• Mouthwashes
• Water Flossers
• Meal Kit Delivery
• Gluten-Free Meal Kit Delivery
• Disposable Face Masks
• Air Purifiers
• Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
• Natural Deodorants
• Period Underwear
• All Fitness
• Exercise Bikes
• Walking Shoes
• Fitness Trackers
• Reusable Water Bottles
• Blackout Curtains
• Sound Machines
• Home & Kitchen
• All Home & Kitchen
• Kitchen Appliances & Tools
• All Kitchen Appliances & Tools
• Coffee Makers
• Kitchen Gadgets
• Small Home Appliances
• All Small Home Appliances
• Air Conditioners
• Space Heaters
• Humidifiers
• Bedding & Bath
• All Bedding & Bath
• Bath Towels
• Silk Pillowcases
• Duvet Inserts
• Office Chairs
• Standing Desks
• Desk Organizers
• Seat Cushions
• Under Desk Ellipticals
• All Outdoor
• Raised Garden Boxes
• Garden Hoses
• Beach Towels
• Solar Pool Covers
• Grilling Accessories
• Electronics
• All Electronics
• Wifi Routers
• Gaming Consoles
• Streaming Devices
• Instant Cameras
• Handheld Gaming Consoles
• 3D Printers
• All Headphones
• Noise Canceling
• Wireless Earbuds
• Smart Gadgets
• All Smart Gadgets
• Smart Watches
• Smart Bulbs
• Garage Door Openers
• All Computers
• Gaming Laptops
• Laptops for College Students
• Computer Monitors
• Ergonomic Keyboards
• Dog Carriers
• Litter Boxes
• Scratching Posts
• Cat Carriers
• All Pet Care
• Nail Clippers
• Flea & Tick
• All Luggage
• Lightweight
• Weekender Bags
• Accessories
• All Accessories
• Luggage Tags
• Travel Pillows
• Tech Gadgets
• Packing & Organization
• All Packing & Organization
• Packing Cubes
• Toiletry Bags
• Gift Guides
• All Gift Guides
• Valentine's Day
• All Valentine's Day
• For Any Loved Ones
• Mother's Day
• All Mother's Day
• Last Minute Gifts
• Best Mother's Day Gifts
• For Moms Who Have Everything
• Best from Amazon
• All Graduation
• For College Grads
• For High School Grads
• For Teachers
• Father's Day
• All Father's Day
• Best Father's Day Gifts
• For Dads Who Love Fishing
• Holiday Season & Christmas
• All Holiday Season & Christmas
• Gifts Under $25
• Practical Gifts
• Other occasions & loved ones
• All Other occasions & loved ones
• For Grandparents
• For Bridal Shower
• For New Parents
• For Any Occasion
• Deals & Sales
• All Deals & Sales
• Most Popular This Month
• Sales This Week
• New & Notable
• What to Buy This Month
• CNBC Select
• All CNBC Select
• Credit Cards
• Small Business
• Personal Finance
• Credit Monitoring
• Help for Low Credit Scores
• Sign up for the Select Newsletter
• Check out Shop TODAY
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Terms Of Service
• NBC News Sitemap

Follow Select

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.

Take 20% off the Twelve South AirFly Pro (in Black) on Twelve South's website with code NBCSELECT through May 27.

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.

• Work With Us

15 Best Travel Accessories For 2024

Written by Dan

Updated on August 17th, 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!

• Shop women’s

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!

Pin Your Favorites on Pinterest!

You may also like

10 Essential Travel Products for Female Travelers

As a woman traveler, how do you choose versatile and compact travel-sized items for ultimate comfort and function? Here’s my list for slim travel products I take on every trip.

24 Smart Road Trip Travel Accessories for 2024

Looking for new road trip travel products that make driving easier, comfortable and tolerable? I list car trip gadgets for the driver, for pets for emergencies, too.

17 of the Best Travel Shorts For Men

I rounded up the best travel shorts for men, from lightweight activewear to casual loungewear. See the helpful travel features like water resistance and zipper pockets in this list.

The 16 Best Women’s Travel Shirts (I Tested Them!)

I tried out and tested these versatile shirts for women travelers. See which of these comfy and durable tees will be a great addition to pack for your next trip.

37 Best Helpful Travel Accessories for Backpackers in 2024

What are the best and most useful products to pack for a backpacking trip? After years of backpacking, I’m rating my favorite backpacker accessories for travelers.

Baby Tula Lite Baby Carrier Review: Lightweight and Compact for Travel

I review the Baby Tula Carrier Lite as a travel product for babywearing during trips. Find out the special features that make this lightweight baby carrier ideal for on the go.

Merhaba ! 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!

We're currently editing photos.

Join the club

You’ll get emails with our latest articles, tips, advice and so much more! You won't find this content anywhere else!

This website 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 .

Among other programs, Half Half Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Item has been added

• Travel Pillow
• Travel Bottles
• Ladies Luggage
• Men Luggage
• Unisex Luggage
• Ladies Travel Bags
• Men Travel Bags
• Unisex Travel Bags
• Ladies Shoes
• Unisex Shoes
• Travel Gadgets

Get 10% Off First 3 Purchase

Exclusive Discounts | Subscribe to our newsletter

It's Time To Travel

Elevate Your Travel Experience With Our High-Quality Products.

Explore Our Travel Collections

 ACCESSORIES

 GADGETS

CARRY-ON BAGS

 PILLOWS

 LUGGAGE

Worldwide Shipping

International warranty, 100% secure checkout, men's luggage collection.

Travel Laptop Bag Exhibition Briefcase

Large Capacity Cowhide Trolley Travel Bag

Business Front Opening Rechargeable Luggage Trolley Case

Men's Corporate Gift Luggage Trolley Travel

Latest products.

Foldable Luggage Bag

Simple Aluminum Magnesium Alloy Universal Wheel Trolley Case

Large-Capacity Portable Korean Short-Distance Travel Duffel Bag

Travel Outdoor Camping Trolley Fishing Pull Trailer Storage

20% sale off, new collection.

Unleash Your Wanderlust; Discover the Perfect travel gear for your Adventure

Easytravelaccessories believed that the right gear could enhance the overall travel experience so we curated essential travel products based on our extensive exploration. 

what our customers say

Shelby Mora

I'm amazed by the convenience these easy travel accessories offer. The travel neck wallet securely holds my passport and essential documents, while the portable luggage scale ensures I never exceed baggage weight limits.

Packing has never been easier thanks to these incredible travel accessories. The compression packing bags help maximize space in my suitcase, and the travel shoe bag keeps my dirty shoes separate from my clean clothes.

Outstanding experience shopping at Easy Travel Accessories. The store has a great range of products, and their attention to customer satisfaction is commendable.

Michelle Spencer

Highly satisfied with my recent purchase from Easy Travel Accessories. The products arrived on time and were exactly as described. Will recommend to fellow travelers

Ashley Davidson

Easy Travel Accessories offers a fantastic variety of travel essentials. The user-friendly interface and secure checkout process make shopping a pleasure.

RECENT BLOG POSTS

Orlando, usa: the ultimate family vacation destination...., the maldives a romantic paradise for your dream honeymoon...., costa rica: the ultimate destination for an unforgettable group vacation...., subscribe to our newsletter.

Don't Miss Out on Our Discounts, New Arrivals, Coupons and other Freebies!!!

Featured collection

Children's Riding Suitcase Trolley Case

$320.00  

Suitcase boot

$25.00  

16-inch Mini Cartoon Cute Suitcase

$150.00  

Front And Rear Opening Universal Wheel Trolley Case

$185.00  

Travel Large-capacity Universal Password Trolley Suitcase

Large Capacity Suitcase Front Lid Pull Rod Case

$270.00  

Retro Ladies Luggage Trolley Suitcase

$790.00  

Universal Silent Wheel Password Box Large Capacity High School Student Suitcase

$636.00  

31 Best Travel Accessories for Any Trip

If you're an anxious flyer, these are for you.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

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

memobottle Reusable Slim Water Bottle

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

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader

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

Mossio 7 Pack Lightweight Luggage Cubes

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

yoozon Selfie Stick Tripod With Bluetooth

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

supergoop Supergoop! x Gray Malin Everyday Getaway Kit

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

Anker Portable Charger

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

YUNI Beauty Shower Sheets Body Wipes

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

Sharpty Inverted Windproof Umbrella

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

Maaji Calm 5-Pack Face Coverings

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

Seat Covers in Check Me Out

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

Rothys White Rainbow

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

Belkin SurgePlus USB Swivel Surge Protector and Charger

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

Baby Shusher Sleep Miracle Soother

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

OPTP Super Pinky Ball Massage Ball

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

URPOWER Dog Seat Belt

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

trtl Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow

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

Polaroid Now Instant Camera

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

Yoobi Hand Sanitizer - Set Of 50

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

Roku Streaming Stick

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

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

How to Build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe

Delta Redefines Traveling in Style with Missoni

26 Travel Outfit Essentials for Your Summer Trips

Our Editors Break Down the Best Laptop Bags

The Best Backpacks for Your Summer Travels

15 Best Beach Hats for Sunny Days Ahead

Editor-Tested and Recommended Packing Cubes

Best Backpacks for Work, Travel

Fabulous Summer Pants for Every Occasion

The Best Fanny Packs for Hands-Free Travel

The Best-Tested Compression Socks for Women

Protect Your Trip »

30 Travel Accessories That Make Vacationing Easier

Add these books, water bottles and more to your shopping list before your next trip.

Courtesy of L.L.Bean

The reliable L.L.Bean Stowaway Day Pack makes for the perfect travel companion.

The global luggage market for trunks, suitcases and bags was worth approximately $21 billion in 2018. That value is estimated to continue growing at a rapid pace – and that doesn't even include all the other essential gear that travelers buy to take along on their journeys.

With so many new and classic products on the market, it can be hard to know what's worth trying. To help, U.S. News hand-picked 30 travel accessories – ranging from Transportation Security Authority-cleared jewelry to efficient cellphone apps to engrossing kids' books – that will make your next vacation go more smoothly.

Active Skin Repair Hydrogel and Spray

Courtesy of Active Skin Repair

For parents, gentle and nontoxic products are a must in a travel first-aid kit. Enter Active Skin Repair products : natural, antibacterial healing ointments and sprays for cuts, scrapes, rashes, sunburns, bug bites and skin irritations in even the most sensitive areas. These clinically proven natural products are available as both an adult-strength hydrogel and spray, as well as a spray designed for babies and kids. A 3-ounce travel-size bottle starts at $24.99. Very satisfied reviewers say the product reduces redness and heals wounds – ranging from scuffed knees to pierced noses – so quickly that it's "amazing."

Bottled Joy Water Bottle Stay healthy and save money with your own personal water filtration system. Bottled Joy's bisphenol A-free reusable bottle purifies any water using a hollow fiber membrane and an activated carbon filter. The $29.99 kit comes with cleaning tools and a replaceable filter good for approximately 400 17-ounce bottles. Positive reviews by travelers and hikers confirm the bottle works easily once you learn how to use the filtration straw, and it even improves the taste of water at home.

BuDhaGirl All Weather Bangles Remain mindful and chic while running through airport security with spiritual-themed, nonmetal jewelry by BuDhaGirl. Handcrafted in Thailand , the popular All Weather Bangles (AWBs) are featherweight polyvinyl carbonate rings filled with gold dust filament. The materials make them so waterproof and soundless that you can race from yoga to a dolphin encounter. The gender-neutral AWBs come in several colors and sizes, and a set of nine costs $120. Reviewers say the bangles make great gifts and rave about how lightweight they are for summer, noting that they're perfect for adding a little extra glamour to a beach trip.

Caribbean Sol Sunscreen Enjoy the sea and protect the environment by wearing sunblock made without oxybenzone and octinoxate, two chemicals that damage coral reefs. Sunblock that can harm reefs has been banned in some destinations, resulting in savvy travelers opting for products with zinc oxide, which has been deemed safe and effective by the Food and Drug Administration. Caribbean Sol sunscreens use zinc oxide as the primary ingredient. The products – which are made for adults and kids – are 100% biodegradable and come in sun protection factor 8, 15 or 30. A 2-ounce bottle of sunscreen starts at $9.99. Reviewers warn the sunscreen is thick and leaves a white sheen on the skin, but they say it's worthwhile because it prevents sunburn well.

Charmking Compression Socks Grandparents, pregnant women and even sightseers in big cities will appreciate wearing these supportive compression socks during their travels. Charmking offers a variety of styles, ranging from anklets to dress socks to colorful, patterned knee-highs that meet medical and comfort needs. All socks are rated at 15-20 mmHg, the compression level recommended to reduce occasional swelling and provide support. Thousands of glowing online reviews confirm the socks are extremely comfortable, feel lightweight enough to wear in the summer and provide relief from swollen feet. Men's and women's packs range from $11.99 to $34.99, depending on how many pairs you want to buy.

GordVE 2.7-Inch Digital Camera Photography buffs should carry an inexpensive digital camera when they're traveling with curious children or vacationing somewhere too hazardous for pricey equipment and delicate cellphones. This camera's display, flash, timer and rechargeable battery rival more expensive models, and it has a USB port for charging. There are dozens of competitors available, but this GordVE digital camera earns almost four stars thanks to its compact size and image quality – combined with a low price of $46.99.

[See: 10 Travel Photography Tips for Getting Better Photos .]

Infantino Spiral Activity Toy Keep baby busy when you're on the go with the multitasking Infantino Spiral Activity Toy . Made of cotton and plush materials, it attaches to a stroller, car seat or crib and has a BPA-free teether and three different toys that rattle, crinkle or swing to keep your little one entertained and stimulated. Designed for infants ages 0 to 12 months, it sells for $12.99. Reviewers say their babies love the soft toys, and parents especially appreciate that the toys make gentle sounds that are not bothersome during endless play.

L.L.Bean Stowaway Day Pack Unfold this durable L.L.Bean day pack and watch it transform into a backpack with thick, adjustable shoulder, sternum and waist straps that provide comfort for miles. The Stowaway is made from ripstop nylon, holds up to 1,343 cubic inches of items and has a water bottle pocket on each side, internal pockets and a front exterior storage panel. While its $49.95 price is higher than many similar bags, happy reviewers say its sturdiness, lightweight design, extra pockets, carabiner loops and compact carry-on size make the backpack a good value.

L.L.Bean Turbo Transit Pack

L.L.Bean products stand for affordable quality, and the Turbo Transit backpack for $89.95 proves why. The weatherproof nylon material, heavy-duty zippers, airflow back panel, lumbar support and ergonomically curved straps enable you to comfortably carry a lot of weight a long way. The upper compartment stores electronics and a week's worth of travel essentials, while the lower section is perfect for shoes, sports gear or wet swimsuits. The Turbo Transit Pack is recommended by 92% of customers, who note they love the durable bag's laptop sleeve and abundance of slots and pockets.

Luckybar Protein Bars Whether you're a family waiting in line at a theme park or a couple needing a museum break, save time and money by bringing your own lightweight, healthy snacks. Luckybars are gluten-free, non-genetically modified organisms, low-sugar bars made in kid-pleasing flavors and wrapped in colorful themed packaging. The preservative-free, 140-calorie Crazy Coconut bar – a popular flavor – weighs 1.24 ounces and has 13 grams of protein. Better yet, reviewers enjoy the bars as much as their kids do. A Luckybar variety pack of chocolate, chocolate caramel almond, strawberry, coconut and peanut butter chocolate bars costs $9.99.

Mock One Compact Framed Hammock Suspend yourself anywhere with the Mock One portable hammock , a Kickstarter success selling for $174.99 each. With its small weighted stand, you can relax even without trees to hang the hammock on. You'll also get a mesh storage basket, padding, a sunshade and a carry bag (extra accessories include an optional bug net and outer tent). Some reviewers complained that the hammock is too compact for tall users and too heavy for hikers to carry. However, all agree that it is easy to assemble, well-made and super comfortable for the beach and concerts.

Mouth Watchers Doctor Plotka's Travel Toothbrush Maintain your photo-ready smile with Mouth Watchers' folding travel toothbrush , a product developed during Boston -based dentist Dr. Plotka's more than 40-year career. This product works better than cheaper disposable toothbrushes with its silver-infused flossing bristles, which naturally eliminate 99.9% of bacteria on the brush in six hours. As Amazon.com's choice for the best travel toothbrush, it comes as no surprise that reviewers love the brush's long, soft, hygienic bristles. The brush comes in red and blue, and it conveniently folds into its own handle for easy storage. A pack of two costs $9.99 on Amazon.com.

MP Magic Socks Don't have time to do laundry while on vacation? That's not a problem with MP Magic Socks , an antibacterial, odorless sock that reviewers confirm can be worn several days in a row without washing. These comfortable, well-fitting socks are made from fabric infused with silver, copper, zinc and other minerals to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing as feet perspire. Having sold more than 100,000 pairs of the Classic MP Crew antibacterial socks, MP now sells sports and city styles starting at $9.90 per pair.

Courtesy of National Geographic

National Geographic Kids Almanac 2020

Leave the board games at home and pack the 352-page "Almanac 2020" by National Geographic Kids . Designed for travelers ages 8 to 12 (though older kids can enjoy it, too), the book – which costs $14.99 – includes richly detailed sections on animals, science and technology, the environment, history and much more. There's news on any topic you can imagine, plus brief quizzes, fun factoids, lists and short stories. Parents and grandparents say kids are obsessed with the beautiful photos and call the book "an absolute must."

National Geographic Kids Weird But True! USA Count on National Geographic Kids' "Weird But True! USA" book to keep everyone mesmerized. Details about a floating post office in Michigan and the magnetic ink used to print U.S. paper money are among the 300 odd statistics and facts about America children can read in the book. With 208 pages, the terrific photos, simple layout, colorful fonts, glossy paper and soft binding make this an easy read worth passing around. Reviewers say this $8.99 book is a great conversation starter for their kids. It is designed for ages 6 and older.

PackPoint Travel Packing List According to reviewers, PackPoint makes packing much less stressful. The free PackPoint Travel Packing List app – a Google Play Editor's Choice Award winner – generates packing checklists based on your destination, travel dates and selected activities. It can even take into account the weather forecast and your access to laundry facilities. You can then share these lists with your travel mates. The paid version of the app, PackPoint Premium, costs $2.99 and offers additional features, such as the ability to export your packing list to the note-taking app Evernote.

[Read: How to Pack a Suitcase: 16 Tips and Expert Tricks for Perfectly Packed Luggage .]

Patagonia Sun Stretch Shirt

Courtesy of Patagonia

Enjoy the sun without harm in Patagonia's stylish performance gear. Sun Stretch shirts made with ultraviolet protection factor 30 protection allow only one-thirtieth of the sun's ultraviolet rays to penetrate. Designed for fishing, these quick-dry, lightweight, nylon-polyester-blend tops have a relaxed fit and enough stretch to accommodate movement yet maintain a fresh appearance. Reviews by outdoorsy travelers say the Sun Stretch fabric quality is much better than other sun-proof shirts they have tried. Women especially find the $95 to $99 shirts perfect for covering up a bathing suit or wearing on a trail.

Polarsteps Travel Tracker The free Polarsteps mapping app has been downloaded more than 500,000 times – for good reason. It tracks your movements and geotags photos (even when your devices are offline), then syncs when you have a Wi-Fi signal so you can add photos or comments and edit "steps" or place names for accuracy. You decide if your journal stays private, posts to Facebook or deserves a printed book. Reviewers enjoy being able to follow the adventures of loved ones through the app, though some users say you may occasionally experience technical errors with the GPS.

Quip Electric Toothbrush Set

Courtesy of Moxie Group PR

Travelers with a strict dental routine at home will love traveling with Quip, a sleek electric toothbrush that runs three months on one AAA battery and stores in a hygienic plastic sleeve that can be mounted on a mirror with a suction cup. Quip is quiet enough that it won't wake your travel companions, and it features a built-in timer that reminds you to move the brush around your mouth every 30 seconds. Prices start at $25, while replaceable heads and toothpaste are available by subscription. Though some reviewers complain it doesn't clean as well as conventional electric toothbrushes, travelers appreciate its compact size and lightweight carry case.

Roav SmartCharge Car Kit F2 Make your next rental car a personal oasis with the Roav SmartCharge wireless in-car FM transmitter , which costs less than $30. This technology provides a stable Bluetooth connection through an FM channel, allowing you to play your own music and make hands-free calls through the car's speakers. The transmitter also has two USB charging ports, and the associated app can remember your parking space by recording the site of the car's last Bluetooth connection. Happy reviewers report that once the Roav SmartCharge is paired, the audio signal is even better than using an AUX-in port.

[Read: 20 Road Trip Essentials for Your Vacation .]

Scosche ReVolt Dual USB Car Charger Road trippers who rely on smartphone navigation apps need lightning-fast charging. Enter the Scosche ReVolt charger , which costs $19.99 and has two 12-watt USB ports that run so efficiently off of your car's power source that it can charge two iPads at once. The ReVolt charger is optimized for the fastest charging of iOS devices, but it works with most other electronics as well. Blue light-emitting diode-lit ports also make nighttime use easy. The ReVolt charger earned five stars from users who appreciate both its charging power and compact profile, which frees up room on their consoles.

Settle Up Vacationers can track group travel finances while processing several foreign currencies and current exchange rates with the free Settle Up app . Even offline, users can keep up with who paid for what and send group members a shared link to see all expenses, group debts and individual balances. Each member can filter their own view, manage the expenses and transactions of others and export data to their email accounts. Satisfied users find the app easy to use and say it's the friendliest way to split costs at the end of a weekend getaway .

Shynerk Baby Car Mirror Don't drive distracted by your tiny back-seat passengers. Instead, install the Shynerk Baby Car Mirror for peace of mind. Made of shatterproof acrylic glass, it easily affixes to a back-seat headrest so you can look in your rearview mirror and get full views of babies in rear-facing car seats. It has a clear, wide-view reflection, pivots a full 360 degrees and only costs $15.99. Users love the mirror's large size and find it's easy to install and adjust for the perfect view.

Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpack Designed for kids ages 3 and older, Skip Hop's animal-themed backpacks are durable and easy to clean, with a roomy chamber that holds all the toys, games and books you'll need for your travels. The $20 packs come in 18 different animal designs and feature an insulated pouch for snacks, a mesh pocket for sippy cups and wide, comfy straps that are perfect for tiny travelers. Parents note the backpacks hold just the right amount of supplies for kids, who reportedly love these adorable animal packs so much, they wear them all the time.

The Clutch Stroller by Delta Children You can carry Delta Children's compact Clutch travel stroller on board your next flight because it weighs less than 12 pounds and folds into a shoulder bag. In addition to durable fabrics and quality swivel wheels, the stroller features smart accessories like reflective tape on the five-point safety harness for nighttime visibility. Reviewers love it for travel but note that the small sunshade and non-reclining seat keep it from being their primary stroller. Relatively affordable at $139.99, the stroller fits babies and kids weighing up to 50 pounds. It comes in black, pink, aqua and red.

[Read: Traveling With Toddlers: 16 Tips to Make Your Vacation Go Smoothly .]

Tilley LTM6 AIRFLO Hat Protect yourself from sun, rain or hail with the classic AIRFLO broad-brim hat . Made by Canadian company Tilley, this $90 best-selling hat comes with a lifetime guarantee. Designed for outdoorsmen and adopted by the rustic chic crowd, it comes in seven colors, has UPF 50+ coating, repels water and stays afloat. Double straps keep it on despite gusty winds, and an air vent at the crown provides heat relief. Reviewers agree that even after a lot of abuse, the hat washes well and is so light that you forget you're wearing it.

Courtesy of Toad&Co

Toad&Co Chaka Skirt

Reduce packing hassles with this sustainably made skirt that goes from temple-touring to the taverna with hardly a wrinkle. Toad&Co's best-selling Chaka Skirt is made of the company's exclusive, machine-washable Samba fabric – a moisture-wicking blend of Tencel (a plant-based fiber), organic cotton and elastane for stretch – which gives it a soft jersey-like drape that keeps its shape. Reviewers say the skirt's broad, gathered waistband, flowing A-line shape and easy care make it ideal for travel. Priced at $60, the Chaka Skirt comes in a variety of colors and patterns.

To-Go Ware RePEaT Utensil Set This bamboo knife, fork, spoon and chopsticks set from To-Go Ware is hygienic, BPA-free, lightweight, stain resistant and even dishwasher safe. Ideal for camping and picnics, portable utensils like these are a great way to keep disposable cutlery out of landfills. Travelers find them so easy to eat with that, in some cases, they have started using them at their office and on the road as well. A bonus: The colorful pouch has a clip-on carabiner and is made of recycled polyethylene terephthalate plastic from used water bottles.

Uniqlo AIRism Collection Whether for an infant, an adult or someone in between, Uniqlo's moisture-wicking base layers keep wearers comfortable in any weather. This Japanese retailer excels in functional design, offering a quick-drying, microfiber line of underwear, tank tops, T-shirts and more that go from hiking to touring a new city. Whether you choose the original AIRism line, AIRism Seamless underwear or the extra-breathable AIRism Mesh garments, you'll enjoy the collection's anti-microbial and odor-free benefits. Reviewers especially love the light feel of the smooth innerwear and say it's stylish and versatile. AIRism products start at $9.90 and come in several colors.

Courtesy of UNIQLO

Uniqlo Blocktech Outerwear

Travel in style – rain or shine – with Uniqlo's Blocktech outerwear . The lightweight, weatherproof coats and parkas for men, women and children come in above-the-knee or hip lengths and multiple matte colors. Blocktech is a proprietary fabric that's sleek, stretchy and breathable while still being waterproof, windproof and easy to roll up in a bag. An adjustable hood and taped seams keep you dry in most storms. Reviewers say the elegant cut makes the coat versatile enough for biking, business trip meetings or evening outings. Prices range from $39.90 to $99.90.

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Tags: Travel , Vacations , shopping

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best sedona tours.

Amanda Norcross Aug. 15, 2024

The Best Grand Canyon Tours from Vegas

Taylore Fox Aug. 13, 2024

The Top Places to See Fall Foliage

Gwen Pratesi and Erin Vasta Aug. 13, 2024

11 Best Niagara Falls Tours

Lyn Mettler and Amanda Norcross Aug. 12, 2024

The Best Movie & TV Tours

Timothy J. Forster Aug. 8, 2024

Best New Orleans Swamp Tours

Amanda Norcross Aug. 8, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

John Rodwan and Amanda Norcross Aug. 8, 2024

The Best Vatican Tours

Lyn Mettler Aug. 8, 2024

The Best Stonehenge Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon and Ann Henson Aug. 7, 2024

The Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

Amanda Norcross Aug. 7, 2024

23 Best Travel Accessories for Every Kind of Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Accessories

• Best In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Adapter: Twelve South AirFly Pro
• Best Travel Footrest: Airplane Footrest
• Best Cord Organizer for Small Items: Bellroy Classic Pouch
• Best Containers for Toiletries: Cadence Weekender Bundle
• Best Blanket for Cold Flights: Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

The Expert: I’m a freelance travel writer and editor who usually focuses on adventure travel. That’s led me to take some pretty lengthy flight patterns (most recently, 54 hours of travel on the way to Rwanda) and fairly remote road trips (through central Alaska). But traveling frequently doesn't mean anything goes. Like everyone else, I have my personal annoyances while traveling: I get cold easily, I’m sensitive to noise when sleeping in new places, and I always need to be able to work on-the-go. What all of that means is that my experience with travel accessories isn’t just about finding those that make flights more comfortable, but also those that improve my productivity, help me enjoy myself in new destinations, and make packing as painless as possible. I think I've used just about every type of travel product out there, and truly feel the ones I have selected are the best of the best.

What to Consider When Buying Travel Accessories

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

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

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

Pack Your Bags: Rolling Suitcases for Your Next Vacation | The Best Carry-On Luggage, Recommended by a Travel Pro | These Travel Bags Keep Your Stuff Safe and Secure

How We Selected These Travel Accessories

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

Twelve South AirFly Pro

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

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

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

Sekoess Airplane Footrest

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

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

Bellroy Classic Pouch

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

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

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

Cadence Weekender Bundle

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

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

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

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

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

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

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

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

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

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

Cabeau S3 Evolution

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

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

Alongza Portable Charger

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

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

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

HiBar Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

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

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

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

Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

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

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

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

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

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

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

Sony WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

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

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

JBL Clip 4 Speaker

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

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

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

Panasonic Lumix G7 4K Camera

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

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

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

Peak Design Packing Cube

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

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

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

Thule Subterra Carry-on Roller

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

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

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

Baseus Blade

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

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

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

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

Ombraz Armless Sunglasses

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

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

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

CM Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

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

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

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

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

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} Best Product Reviews of 2024 .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

The 7 Best Lawn Mower Covers

Save 40% on Greenworks Leaf Blowers at Amazon

The 7 Best Christmas Tree Stands

The 5 Best Water Filters

The 5 Best Rubber Boots We Tested and Recommend

The 9 Best Cordless Leaf Blowers for Yard Cleanups

The 7 Best Upright Freezers

The Best Car Waxes to Protect Your Paint Job

Our Favorite Samsung TV Is $800+ off at Walmart

The 8 Best Leaf Rakes For Fall Cleanup

The Best Smart Glasses We Tested

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

41 Published Articles 3360 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

The best travel accessories, final thoughts.

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

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

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

1. Travel Organizer

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

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

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

2. Passport Holder

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

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

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

3. Power Bank

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

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

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

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

4. Neck Pillow

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

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

5. Sleeping Mask

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

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

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

6. Earplugs

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

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

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

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

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

8. Compression Socks

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

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

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

9. Hand Sanitizer

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

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

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

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

10. Travel Adapter

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

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

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

11. Travel Converter

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

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

12. Luggage Tags

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

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

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

13. Money Belt

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

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

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

14. Electronics Organizer

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

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

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

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

15. Travel-Size Bottles

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

16. Toiletry Bag

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

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

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

17. Travel Hairdryer

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

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

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

18. Jewelry Organizer

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

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

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

19. Travel Laundry Bag

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

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

20. Packing Cubes

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

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

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

21. Travel Towel

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

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

22. Daypack

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

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

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

23. Water Bottle

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

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

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

24. Bug Spray

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

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

25. TSA-Approved Lock

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

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

26. First Aid Kit

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

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

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

27. Luggage Scale

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

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

28. Portable Safe

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

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

29. Footrest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

The 27 Best Travel Accessories To Save Space, Time And Money In 2022

This is a list of useful travel accessories to make your life easier when you are on the road. How many have you got already?

Let me start by saying I’ve seen many articles about “must-have” travel accessories out there that made me laugh out loud. These list-of-things-you-must-have-but-actually-you-dont-need-at-all include everything from wine bags and tampon flash drives – to luxury camping hammocks (WTF).

This list is for the everyday traveler, with actually useful stuff.

I’ve already addressed some of them on resources page and on my online shop . Now I’ll be more detailed. The travel accessories below are supposed to save you either space, time and/or money and make perfect Christmas or birthday gifts.

🧳 Best travel accessories to keep you organized

1 document organizer.

Let’s start with THE most important thing you carry on a trip. Nope, it’s not your laptop nor your mobile. It’s your documentation, especially your passport . Keep your documents tidy and safe is a must.

If you’ve no idea what to get, a basic Amazon organizer does the job.

Amazon Basics RFID Travel Organizer

Compact, secure and with lots of space for all documents and cards.

2 Packing Cubes

I’m a mess at packing. Once I arrive at my destination, my luggage quickly becomes chaotic piles of clothing. Not to mention finding specific items is almost impossible.

That’s why I’m not exaggerating when I say this was one of my best travel purchases EVER. These little helpers makes any packing – and unpacking too – much more tidy and neat. A must for any modern traveler.

Set of 6 Packing Cubes

Say goodbye to messy packing. 3 different sizes to pack your clothes.

3 Travel Bottles

Oh, the enjoyable security lines in airports where everyone is forced to show off their guts and keep liquids to ridiculously tiny amounts. This is where travel bottles can be of huge help and save some money.

Note: The standard in airports worldwide is for containers in carry-on bags to not surpass the 100mL / 3.4 oz of liquid each.

Oursunshine Squeezable Travel Bottles

Pretty much any container with the right capacity will do, but squeezable ones like this set have extra points for functionality.

4 Digital Organizer

Don’t you find it astonishing the amount of SD Cards, cables, plugs, adaptors and accessories we need to pack nowadays? Usually, one of the pockets in my backpack is exclusively dedicated to these “accessories of accessories”, but it soon can become a huge mess.

Unfortunately this potential mess won’t be over soon in 2019. An electronics’ organizer helps keeping everything neat and organized. Look for an waterproof one like this to add extra protection.

5 Duffel Bag

I only use trolleys or conventional luggage in short urban getaways. In most destinations, carrying a backpack or duffel bag is more comfortable, convenient and efficient than a luggage.

On my article about backpacking in Asia , I have a whole section about the important features to look for in backpacks .

For my trip to Japan , I recently bought this The North Face’s duffel bag . You can use it both as a handbag and as a backpack which makes it super versatile.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel-Medium

My most recent purchase for smaller trips. Absolutely love the build quality and material of this thing. It doesn’t come cheap, but it doubles as backpack and is durable and comfortable on your back. Several sizes too.

6 Day Backpack

Whether you’re going urban or rural, to a beach or to a mountain, a backpack is essential to carry the usual vacation stuff throughout your day.

Make sure you go for an unassuming (and basic?) backpack on the outside, but functional on the inside. This one is a good example . This way you can keep your stuff organized without drawing attention to precious stuff like laptops or DSLR cameras.

Geeky Explorer Travel Shop

My travel shop on Amazon with all you need for a smart and hassle-free travel.

📱 Essential Gadgets

7 international travel adapter.

Depending on where your destination is, this can be essential. A good adapter will provide you with all the possible outlets worldwide, ensuring you always stay charged abroad.

Universal Travel Adapter

Essential for a modern traveler. What I love about this particular adapter is that comes with 4 USB ports, so you can potentially charge 5 devices at the same time. Works in 150+ countries.

8 Multi USB Charger

If the previous item has not enough 5 USB ports, invest in a multi-USB port. Let’s be honest, it’s the 21st century – who hasn’t faced the true first-world problem of not having enough power outlets to charge all the devices? Some hotel rooms are scarce in outlets and simply can’t deal with all the charging needs of a modern day traveler.

With the USB port type on the rise across gadgets, this problem will just become more frequent. A multi-USB hub charger can be the solution, particularly if you’re traveling in a group.

Tip: to future-proof this purchase, look for USB 3.0 ports, like this one:

6-Port USB Wall Charger

Conveniently charge all your devices at once with this compact USB hub. One of the 6 ports is equipped with a fast USB charging technology (up to 4X faster than standard chargers).

9 Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Since I’m always traveling with a lot of gadgets or within a group, getting all the devices connected is a HUGE first world problem. A mobile router unlocked to all networks is a game changer: reliable, easy to use, and a potential huge money-saver.

An important thing to look at is the list of frequencies the device supports. Mobile operators in each country use different ones and their SIM card will only work in that range of frequencies. My previous hotspot didn’t work with ANY operator when I traveled to the US!

HUAWEI 4G LTE Mobile WiFi Router

Put any SIM card in the world inside and it will share the data across all your devices via WiFi (up to 10!). The battery lasts 12 hours of working. Can’t recommend it enough!

10 Power Bank

Even though we are planning to send men to colonize Mars, for some reason manufacturers still refuse to launch phones, cameras and other devices with batteries lasting for days. Result: everyone needs extra juice when on the road.

Invest in a compact and potent device. Everything below 10,000mAh is pretty much not worth it – remember they tend to lose capacity over time. Here’s a list of power banks to get you started.

Portable Charger Anker PowerCore 26800mAh

With a 26,800 mAh capacity, this power bank is guaranteed to give you battery to charge your devices for days.

🤖 Best travel accessories to keep you healthy

11 hand sanitizer gel.

You may not realize, but you touch all kinds of stuff when you’re traveling. Most food poisoning cases are caused by dirty hands rather than the food itself, which makes me feel a bit uneasy! Since I knew this, I started traveling with a gel like this .

This is the first layer of protection you have for viruses and bacteria. Now that the world is facing a pandemic, keeping your hands clean is a must.

Fresh Monster Hand Sanitizer

Unscented 70% Ethyl Alcohol hand sanitizer. Comes in a pack of 3 travel-sized bottles.

12 Mosquito Repellent

It’s no exaggeration to say a good mosquito repellent is one of the best things any traveler should invest, especially if you’re going to tropical countries. I mean it CAN SAVE LIVES. Tip: pick one with high DEET content, like this one below.

Ben’s 100% DEET Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent

Offers 10+ hours of protection and contains 100% DEET, recommended for protection against mosquitos, ticks, and biting insects. This was a lifesaver in Thailand’s islands !

13 Melatonin

Melatonin regulates the sleep and your day cycle. Its levels basically determine when your body is ready for sleep. When you travel, this balance can be very quickly disrupted.

When you’re switching continents, this can be great to quickly adjust to a different timezone and minimize jet lag. Kids or perhaps even grown ups – why not? – have the gummy bear version which I’m a bit obsessed about.

Natrol Melatonin

This 100% plant-based supplement can help you to achieve a good night’s sleep, no matter where you are.

📸 Photo & Video

14 digital camera.

Smartphone cameras are getting incredibly powerful year after year and have the advantage of being lighter and more user-friendly. One day they will be able to fully replace a digital camera.

That day hasn’t come yet. DSLR and mirrorless cameras are still superior in some aspects, such as optical zoom. If you are into photography and want to take top-notch pictures, you should consider investing in an extra camera.

Now of course there are cameras (and lenses) for all budgets, but for traveling size does matter so aim to buy something compact and light. I had my old Nikon Coolpix p610 for years because of its 60x optical zoom, but the new version is even more powerful: 83x optical zoom! .

Nikon COOLPIX p900 Digital Camera

With a fantastic 83x zoom, this camera is great for close-ups, something your smartphone simply can’t do.

Sony Alpha a6000 Camera

Smaller than most DSLRs, taking staggering 24MP photos and very intuitive to use with WiFi and NFC connectivity, this is a great camera for beginners.

15 GoPro Camera

I once thought a GoPro was only for snowboarders or crazy people who jump out of buildings.

I got to say I’ve been amazed by the versatility and creative potential of this little action camera. Since it’s so compact and easy to function, you can also create cool-looking videos of more standard vacations (no more shaky videos!).

Anyway here are my favorite uses of a GoPro camera so far:

• Dynamic activities – whether you’re surfing, skiing or zip-lining , there’s nothing better than a GoPro to capture the moment. Underwater videos also look DOPE.
• Big attractions – monuments like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or the Burj Khalifa in Dubai are impossible to fit the frame of a single photo/video. Until you use a GoPro.
• Memory videos – if the hundreds of photos you take on your trip remain on a folder in your computer they’re just worthless. And if you decide to show them to family and friends you’re just killing them of boredom. A short dynamic video made of GoPro clips is fun, engaging and enjoyable.

GoPro Hero 9 Black

GoPro improved the video stabilization and the voice control and you can still take 12MP photos and film 4K HD videos. It’s now also completely waterproof (up to 10 meters).

🔒 Best travel accessories to keep you safe

16 money belt.

Keeping your belongings safe is a major concern whenever you’re going to less safe places. Personally, it was useful in the craziness of Naples and specially in Rio de Janeiro, where safety is the #1 concern .

The thing is: any big city nowadays suffer from pickpocketing and bag-snatching issues at some level. A money belt is an inexpensive way to keep your pocket money and even some documents invisible at all times.

17 Padlocks

It’s often overlooked and one of those things you don’t realize it’s useful until you need it. Depending on where you’re heading, a padlock can be tricky to find. It’s a simple way to add an extra layer of safety whenever you are away from your stuff.

I especially recommend packing one if you tend to stay in hostels or need to ditch your luggage between check-out and your flight back home.

18 Security Camera

Nowadays there are plenty of options for affordable home security cameras that send you email or phone notifications whenever there’s movement detected.

The most popular is Nest with a range of outdoor and indoor solutions. Extra peace of mind and allows you to take quick action if unwelcome visitors decide to show up.

💆‍♂️ Best travel accessories to keep you comfy

19 microfiber towel.

Some of the accommodation places I’ve stayed in don’t provide bathing towels. When they did, they charged for them as a first-necessity item they are.

A simple microfiber towel like this one does the job, does not occupy much volume and dries super quickly. Plus, it can double as a little blanket! Particularly useful if you’re traveling Asia .

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

In spite of its tiny size, it absorbs water effectively and dries fast afterwards. Super handy while you’re traveling.

20 Compression Socks

Not only compression socks keep your feet warm, they also improve your blood circulation and make your legs feel less tired after much sitting or standing. It’s not the most stylish of accessories but they can make all the difference in that long-haul flight.

21 Water Purifier Bottle

A water purifier bottle is an obvious asset to have in third-world countries where tap water is not drinkable.

But even in countries where tap water is drinkable , having an extra purifying bottle is useful. Apart from avoiding always have to shop for plastic water bottles, it’s much more environmentally conscious. I predict this travel item will become more and more of a thing amongst travelers in 2022.

GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle

This bottle makes clean drinking water in only 15 seconds from any fresh water source. Oh and removes chemicals and 99.999% of most viruses, bacteria (including E.Coli) and cysts in the process.

22 Travel Pillow

The first time I flew to Thailand I arrived drousy, sleepy, and with severe neck pain after my long-haul flight. Definitely not my most glamorous moment.

If you’re taking a flight longer then 4 hours, strongly consider something to support your neck while you rest. It can really make a difference for your posture and energy when you get to the new place.

TravelRest Travel Pillow

This pillow has a superior design which doesn’t force your neck to come forward like in other pillows. Plus, it’s compressible which means you can carry it lightly throughout your trip.

23 Ear Plugs

A set of ear plugs can be useful for that loud hostel, when you want to escape the world for a few moments at a crowded airport, or, my favorite use case, for flights. It’s hard to rest up when there’s people talking, flight attendants passing by, and children crying all the time. Let’s not talk about the time I felt like murdering a crying child during my 4-hour flight to Cape Verde .

Additionally, these ear plugs below are designed to deal with in-flight ear pressure due to the changes in altitude.

Mack’s Ear Plugs

Regulates air pressure due to altitude changes in your ears, while it keeps noise levels down. A must if you want to relax on your flight.

🤖 Best travel accessories to keep you entertained

24 noise cancelling headphones.

A GOOD pair of headphones is an investment few regret to make. It can help you focus and in the context of a trip, improve your travel experience. If you’re seeking a pair, go for the noise-cancelling headphones, extremely useful in loud environments like a plane or a train.

Some of my favorite brands right now are BOSE and Beats.

BOSE Noise-Cancelling Headphones

These over-ear phones are some of the best in the market right now. 3 levels of noise cancellation, seamless Bluetooth pairing, and even with built-in Alexa assistant.

Beats Studio3 Noise Canceling Headphones

Premium listening experience, adaptive noise cancelling, and up to 22 hours of battery life. You can’t go wrong with Beats.

25 Headphone Jack Splitter

Even though the tendency is Bluetooth phones, sadly shared-Bluetooth isn’t a (mainstream) feature yet. How to make two or more people listen to the same music, podcast, or movie in the good’n’old audio jack?

A jack splitter basically shares the sounds between 2 (or more) headphone sets, so you can watch that movie with your SO or friend sitting next to you. It can also be useful to share audioguides of attractions and museums.

Tablets are getting thinner and lighter which makes them a great alternative to packing a bulky laptop. It’s perfect to watch movies, plan your daily itinerary or even sketch/draw landscapes you don’t get to see every day. Not to mention take advantage of some cool and useful travel apps . Just please don’t use it to take photos, that just looks silly.

Make no mistake: an iPad is not for everyone. If you’re looking to disconnect on your travels, you should look into taking the least amount of gadgets possible.

On the other hand, if you’re doing a longer trip but still don’t want to take your laptop, an iPad can be very useful. From my experience, they blow out the competition in reliability and CPU power.

Which iPad to get?

The iPad Pro might be too much (in both size and specs) for the standard traveler but you can’t go wrong with either the iPad Air  or its smaller brother, the iPad mini 4 .

Apple iPad Air with WiFi 64 GB

Your computer away from home! The 10.9″ liquid Retina display is guaranteed to give you many hours of entertainment on the road.

27 Amazon Kindle

If you are into reading, a Kindle is a great option to bring lots of books with you without occupying much space.

I recently got into the habit of reading books during my travels which is great to 1) pass time on trains and planes 2) learn new perspectives on the country’s culture.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

The Paperwhite version is waterproof and has a 300 dpi glare-free display allowing you to read on the beach and in bed at night. Plus, a single battery lasts weeks!

Extra: For the ones left behind

As important as the items to bring with you, are the things that can you save a lot of trouble back at home.

First of all, don’t forget the members of the family left behind! Pet feeders are great for cats, rabbits and hamsters when you’re away for a short period of time.

Don’t neglect plants too. A plant waterer can avoid you getting back home to a dry foliage show.

My travel shop on Amazon with all you need for a smart and hassle-free travel. Visit now >>

More useful travel tips

• My List of Online Resources For A Smart Travel
• How To Find Secret Hotel Rooms
• My Favorite Travel Tips Ever
• How To Travel Without Money
• What to Pack to Backpack Through Asia

 Most photos’ rights belong to Amazon.com. This page contains affiliate links which means by clicking them and visiting or purchasing the website, I may get a small commission. Please note there’s absolutely no additional cost to you. Instead, it’s a win-win relationship: you get an awesome product/service and I get to keep this website going.

My travel tips valid anywhere

• 🏨 To find the best deals and book your stay with free cancellation, I recommend Booking.com (from my experience, often cheaper than Airbnb)
• 🚗 Always compare car rental prices before you book anything (and if possible use local rental shops!)
• ☑️ Travel insurance is a must these days – don’t overlook it! I recommend Allianz or Safety Wing if you’re always on the go
• 💰 Use Revolut to save in exchange rates and payments abroad; it’s a game-changer!
• ⚙️ Amazon has the largest offer in travel gear, clothing, and accessories – check out my Travel Store !
• ✈️ Are you dealing with a delayed or cancelled flight? Airhelp may help you get a compensation for it!

What are the best travel accessories for you? What can’t you travel without? Share your favorites so I can add them to the list!

You might also like these articles 💬

10 Essential Travel Apps For Savvy Travelers In 2024

When Is The Best Time to Go To Azores?

27 Europe Travel Tips For Your Euro Trip

Destinations🌎

12 Clever Budget-Friendly Travel Accessories

This post may contain affiliate links.

Traveling is one of life’s greatest joys, but let’s face it, it can also be a bit of a hassle. Ever find yourself tangled in cords or rummaging through your suitcase in search of that rogue sock? We’ve all been there!

Here are 12 clever and budget-friendly travel accessories that will make every trip feel like a first-class adventure—without breaking the bank. For seasoned globetrotters and those planning their first getaway, these accessories promise to enhance your travel experience and keep your wallet happy.

Packing Cubes

Image Credit: pexels

We’ve all seen the meme of someone sitting on their suitcase, desperately trying to zip it shut. Avoid being this person by investing in packing cubes. These handy organizers help maximize luggage space and keep your clothes neatly separated.

A set of 4-6 cubes costs between $15-25 on popular sites like Amazon, so you can efficiently pack more clothes without sacrificing order. No more rifling through your bag in search of that elusive sock or favorite t-shirt!

Toiletry Bag

A hanging toiletry bag is a game-changer for keeping your bathroom essentials tidy and accessible. With multiple compartments, you can organize everything from shampoos to toothbrushes without fear of spills.

Quality options can be found for under $20—consider it an investment in convenience. Enjoy stress-free mornings knowing exactly where your deodorant and face wash are.

Inflatable Neck Pillow

Long flights or bus rides can become neck-straining ordeals. Enter the inflatable neck pillow—a compact traveler’s dream. It provides much-needed comfort and support, allowing you to catch those elusive Zs during transit.

The best part? These pillows pack small and are available for a pocket-friendly $10-15. Say goodbye to waking up with a stiff neck!

There’s nothing worse than trying to sleep when the airplane lights are blaring. A lightweight eye mask blocks unwanted light, creating a serene sleeping environment.

Available for under $10, this simple accessory can transform your travel experience, letting you arrive at your destination refreshed and ready for adventure.

Universal Travel Adapter

Traveling internationally? A universal travel adapter is a must-have. This nifty gadget allows you to charge devices in different countries without fuss. Budget-friendly versions cost $10-15, making them an affordable addition to your travel kit.

Luggage Scale

Avoid the dreaded overweight baggage fees at check-in with a portable luggage scale. Easy to use and accurate, digital scales can be found for $10-15. Never again will you have to transfer items between bags at the airport, reducing pre-flight stress.

Reusable Water Bottle

A collapsible silicone water bottle is not just eco-friendly but also practical. It saves money on bottled water and folds down small for easy packing. Many options are priced under $15, meaning you can stay hydrated while keeping your luggage light.

Travel-Size Toiletries Set

With a TSA-approved toiletries set, you can eliminate the need to buy travel-sized products repeatedly.

These convenient bottles are reusable and cost-efficiently priced between $10 and $15. They are perfect for carrying your essential liquids without fuss.

RFID-Blocking Wallet

Protect your digital data with an RFID-blocking wallet. This slim accessory prevents electronic pickpocketing, keeping your credit cards and passports safe from prying thieves. Many options are available for under $15, providing high security on a budget.

Luggage Tags

Colorful and eye-catching luggage tags make identifying your bags a breeze—no more accidental swaps on the carousel. A set typically costs $5-10, providing practicality and a dash of personal flair to your travel gear.

Portable Charger

Running out of battery is every traveler ‘s worst nightmare. A compact 10,000mAh power bank ensures your devices stay charged no matter how long your day gets.

Reliable options start around $20, providing peace of mind as you document your trip and stay in touch with loved ones.

Compression Socks

Long flights can be tough on circulation, but compression socks improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Available for $10-15 per pair, these socks ensure you arrive at your destination feeling your best, ready to hit the ground running.

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

How to Fold Dress Shirts for Travel: Expert Tips and Techniques

Traveling often requires efficient packing, and folding your dress shirts properly can significantly save space and keep them wrinkle-free. Knowing how to fold dress shirts for travel allows you to maximize your luggage space and maintain a professional and polished appearance.

15 Cheap Hacks To Satisfy Your Taste Buds While Traveling

Cheap hacks to satisfy your taste buds while traveling can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, offering you new sights, sounds, and tastes without breaking the bank.

Similar Posts

12 Plants That Bring in Positive Energy to Your Home

15 Outdated Home Decor That Makes People Think You Are Old

The 12 Worst College Football Stadiums In America

12 Unexpected Downsides of Remote Work Nobody Tells You

10 Plants That Keep Raccoons Out of Your Yard

14 Ways to Reduce Your Household’s Carbon Footprint

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Traveling? Here Are the Best Life-Saving Travel Accessories You Need To Pack, Starting at Just $7

From packing cubes to a foldable, wireless charging station, this is the travel gear you want on your next road trip, long flight, and more..

E! may get a commission if you purchase something through our links.  Learn more.

As someone who has traveled to 5 continents, driven cross country multiple times, and has had to daily pack for 2 small children , I know that any kind of trip can be stressful. However, if you have the right travel essentials , small inconveniences can start to disappear. To help you start packing for your next big trip, I've rounded up the best life-saving travel accessories that you need to have in your suitcase (and they start at just $7). And, believe me, they are game changers .

Once you've got the right travel backpack or luggage , you just need to start with the essentials. From convenient packing cubes to a super soft travel pillow , a travel wallet that can even hold your phone, and a toiletry bag that easily hooks onto the back of any hotel room door, these packing list essentials are great for a weekend trip to a long haul flight. And if you pack right, you might not have to have a checked bag on your trip.

So, keep on scrolling and check out the best travel essentials for any kind of trip. This travel gear is tried and true, and can make your next journey stress-free.

Shop the Best Life-Saving Travel Accessories

Handy 4-pack of tsa-approved toiletry bottles, mrsdry travel bottles for toiletries, 4-pack.

These 4 TSA-friendly bottles have a large opening for easily filling with your favorite lotion, shampoo, and more while you travel. It comes with a clear zippered pouch and reviewers rave that the bottles don't leak.

• Available colors: 11
• Why It's a Life Saver: Makes it easy to keep your favorite products in your carry-on.
• Shoppers say: "I just got back from a 32 day trip to Europe and used these for my shampoo/conditioner and for my lotion and I wanted to let everyone know that they worked perfectly! Each one held about a week/10 days worth of shampoo and the one I put the lotion in lasted me the entire month. There was absolutely no leaking from any of them."

A Super Soft Travel Blanket & Pillow Combo

Eversnug travel blanket and pillow.

Measuring 65 x 40 inches, this super soft travel blanket (that easily folds into a case as a pillow) is a travel must-have. Plus, when it's in the pillowcase, it can easily slip over the handle of your suitcase.

• Available colors: 6
• Why It's a Life Saver: Makes it easy to get some much-needed sleep on a plane, bus, or car.
• Shoppers say: "Bought this for a very long airplane ride, and it was perfect. You can also use it as a pillow if you don’t want to unfold the whole blanket. Soft, cozy, nice material, and very warm."  

A Wireless Charging Station for Multiple Apple Devices

Iseyyox magnetic wireless charger for iphone.

Wirelessly charge your Airpods, iPhone, and Apple Watch all at once with this wireless station . And because it's foldable, it's lightweight and super easy to throw in your carry-on.

• Why It's a Life Saver: Wirelessly charge multiple devices at once, in one easy, foldable package.
• Shoppers say: "I recently purchased this charging station for Apple devices, and it's been a game-changer for me, especially when I travel. It works perfectly with all three of my Apple devices: my iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. The best part is that I no longer need to carry multiple charging cables or scatter my devices around the hotel room to charge them."

A Set of Packing Cubes That Will Transform Your Suitcase

Veken 8 set packing cubes.

Believe me, packing cubes are 100% essential. They make it so much easier to find things in your suitcase. This set comes with 8 pieces of different sizes, including an accessory bag, shoe bag, cosmetic bag with a hook (for hanging in a hotel bathroom), and more. 

• Available colors: 15
• Why It's a Life Saver: Everything in your suitcase is neat and organized, so it's super easy to find what you're looking for when you're traveling.
• Shoppers say: "Me and my family took a big / long trip out of the country, and I thought I should try out these packing cubes. They were a GAME CHANGER!! [...] Having the kids stuff in packing cubes saved me SO much time finding things for them!! It was awesome."

A Phone Holder That Easily Mounts to the Seat in Front of You

Perilogics universal in flight airplane phone holder mount.

Craning your neck to watch videos on your phone while you fly? Well, quit it! This holder easily mounts to the seat in front of you for easy viewing and conveniently folds when not in use.

• Available colors: 10
• Why It's a Life Saver:  Makes it easy to watch videos on your phone while you're flying (and saves your neck).
• Shoppers say: "This phone holder will save your sanity on long flights. I was able to position it and reposition it easily. It holds on to the tray table and the phone really tightly. It packs down to a pretty small size, so it is easy to fit it in your bag. I will use this a lot."

A Collapsible Water Bottle That Doesn't Take Up Room in Your Bag

E-senior collapsible water bottle - 20 oz.

Tired of lugging a giant water bottle everywhere? Well, check out this collapsible water bottle . It easily folds when it's not full, doesn't leak, and is made of BPA-free silicone.

• Available colors: 14
• Available sizes: 3
• Why It's a Life Saver: Keeps you hydrated and doesn't take up a lot of room in your bag.
• Shoppers say: "I bought this for my trip to Europe, brought it with me everywhere. Easy to use, keeps water decently cold, does not leak and can withstand hiking."

A Tube That You Can Stuff With Clothes & Use as a Travel Pillow

Tube the original pillow you stuff with clothes.

You can easily stuff up to 3 days worth of clothes into this tube , then zipper it and use it as a comfy travel pillow around your neck. Plus, it easily folds into its own pocket when you're not using it.

• Available colors: 1
• Why It's a Life Saver: Does double duty as a bag and a travel pillow for your neck.
• Shoppers say: "The TUBE Pillow was a savior on my last trip. It held a surprising amount of clothes and doubled as a dirty laundry bag. I used it as an on-the-lap pillow, but it was a tad awkward to maneuver. Still, for extra storage without extra fees, it's worth it!"

A Mini Razor That's So Easy to Pack

Gillette venus extra smooth on the go razor.

Beloved by Paralympian Anastasia Pagonis , this mini razor is a toiletry bag must-have. It has the blades of a larger razor, just in a smaller package, so you're still getting the smoothness you want.

• Available sizes: 1-pack, 2-pack
• Why It's a Life Saver: If you're hairy, you can get a smooth shave anywhere.
• Shoppers say: "I would always forget my razor and have to worry about putting it in something to travel with, but now I leave this in my travel bag and always have one. It’s the perfect size for on the go and Venus gives the best shave!"

A Travel Wallet That Holds EVERYTHING

Travelambo womens wallet.

When you're going through customs or navigating a new city, you want all your important items (cash, passport, phone) in one easy place. This wallet has room for everything, plus 12 card slots and one zippered pouch.

• Available colors: 9
• Why It's a Life Saver: Holds cash, phone, cards, and more, and makes it easy to find those things on the go.
• Shoppers say: "Very nice product for particular items when traveling. Makes it convenient to get to certain items quickly."

A Travel Toiletry Bag That Can Hold SO MUCH STUFF

Nishel travel toiletry bag.

With tons of space and easy-to-view compartments, this travel toiletry bag is essential. It can hold full-size products and plenty of makeup, plus it easily folds and includes a hook for convenient hanging.

• Available colors: 7
• Available sizes: large and medium
• Why It's a Life Saver: So easy to hook over a hotel room door and easily find your makeup and other toiletries.
• Shoppers say: "This is like a clown car for cosmetics! You won’t believe the amount of stuff that can fit inside this bag, including some full-size products. Packing is so much easier, I just hang it on my towel hook in my bathroom and load it up! So many different compartments make organizing everything so simple!"

Check out these 16 travel essentials recommended by our editor (who used to travel for a living).

• Travel Adapters by Country
• Travel Adapters by Region
• Most Popular Countries
• Individual Adapters
• Power Accessories
• Adapter Frequently Asked Questions
• Shop All Travel Adapters
• Beauty & Health Electrics
• Clothing Care Electrics
• Travel Kitchen
• Lights & Magnifiers
• Tech Accessories
• Shop All Electrics
• About Dual Voltage
• Grounded vs Nongrounded Adapters
• Israel Travel Adapter Video
• India Travel Adapter Video
• China Travel Adapter Video
• US Travel Adapter Video
• UK Travel Adapter Video
• Watch All Adapter Videos
• Rolling Bags
• Carry On Bags
• Checked Suitcases
• Luggage Accessories
• Shop All Luggage & Accessories
• Briggs & Riley Luggage
• Delsey Luggage
• Lipault Suitcases
• Travelpro Luggage
• Packing Cubes & Folders
• Jewelry Organizers
• Toilety Kits & Cosmetic
• Pill Organizers
• Drink & Food Carriers
• Eagle Creek
• Shop All Organizers
• Travel Health & Medical
• Travel Bath Products
• Travel Safety & Security
• Travel Blankets & Sheets
• Ear & Eye Accessories
• Travel Pillows
• RFID Blocking Money Holders
• Hidden Money Pockets
• Waist & Neck Money Belts
• Travel Wallets
• Arm, Leg & Phone Wallets
• Passport & Document Holders
• Books & Maps
• Travel Games
• Travel Journals
• Travel Grooming
• Multi-Tools
• Binoculars & Magnifiers
• Mini Mycra Pac
• Short Mycra Pac
• Tea Mycra Pac
• Long Mycra Pac
• Mycra Pac Raincoats
• Women's Hats
• Women's ExOfficio Underwear
• Women's Travel Tops
• Women's Travel Bottoms
• Women's Socks
• Women's ExOfficio
• Women's Royal Robbins
• Men's ExOfficio Underwear
• Men's Travel Tops
• Men's Travel Bottoms
• Men's Socks
• Men's ExOfficio
• Men's Royal Robbins
• Ex Officio Travel Clothing
• Royal Robbins Travel Clothing
• Clothing Care
• Shop All Clothing
• Adapter Videos
• Adapters vs Converters
• Adapters for iPhones
• About European Adapters
• Traveling & COVID19
• TSA Information
• Going In Style Packing Checklist
• Green Travel Tips
• Carry On Regulations
• Travel Center
• Going In Style Blog
• Going In Style Travel Accessories
• Budd Leather
• Design Go Travel Accessories
• Komfort Kollar Pillows
• Lewis N Clark Travel Accessories
• Lonely Planet Books
• Michelin Guidebooks
• Pacsafe Security
• Rick Steves Guidebooks
• Shedrain Umbrellas
• Tilley Hats
• Victorinox Swiss Army
• Wallaroo Hats
• Adaptors Adapters Travel Adapters by Country Travel Adapters by Region Most Popular Countries Individual Adapters Power Accessories Adapter Frequently Asked Questions Shop All Travel Adapters Electrics Beauty & Health Electrics Clothing Care Electrics Travel Kitchen Lights & Magnifiers Tech Accessories Shop All Electrics Adapter Videos About Dual Voltage Grounded vs Nongrounded Adapters Israel Travel Adapter Video India Travel Adapter Video China Travel Adapter Video US Travel Adapter Video UK Travel Adapter Video Watch All Adapter Videos
• Bags & Packing Luggage Rolling Bags Carry On Bags Checked Suitcases Luggage Accessories Shop All Luggage & Accessories Shop by Brand Baggallini Briggs & Riley Luggage Delsey Luggage Lipault Suitcases Travelpro Luggage Packing Organizers Packing Cubes & Folders Jewelry Organizers Toilety Kits & Cosmetic Pill Organizers Drink & Food Carriers Small Bags Eagle Creek Shop All Organizers
• Essentials Travel Comforts Travel Health & Medical Travel Bath Products Travel Safety & Security Travel Blankets & Sheets Ear & Eye Accessories Travel Pillows Money & ID Holders RFID Blocking Money Holders Hidden Money Pockets Waist & Neck Money Belts Travel Wallets Arm, Leg & Phone Wallets Passport & Document Holders Tech & Gadgets Books & Maps Travel Games Travel Journals Travel Grooming Multi-Tools Umbrellas Binoculars & Magnifiers
• Clothing Mycra Pac Raincoats Mini Mycra Pac Short Mycra Pac Tea Mycra Pac Long Mycra Pac Womens Travel Clothing Mycra Pac Raincoats Women's Hats Women's ExOfficio Underwear Women's Travel Tops Women's Travel Bottoms Women's Socks Women's ExOfficio Women's Royal Robbins Mens Travel Clothing Men's Hats Men's ExOfficio Underwear Men's Travel Tops Men's Travel Bottoms Men's Socks Men's ExOfficio Men's Royal Robbins Ex Officio Travel Clothing Royal Robbins Travel Clothing Hats Clothing Care Shop All Clothing
• Info Adapter Finder Adapter Videos Adapter Frequently Asked Questions Adapters vs Converters Adapters for iPhones About European Adapters About Dual Voltage Travel Information Traveling & COVID19 TSA Information Going In Style Packing Checklist Green Travel Tips Carry On Regulations Travel Center Going In Style Blog Brands We Carry Going In Style Travel Accessories Baggallini Briggs & Riley Luggage Bucky Budd Leather Design Go Travel Accessories Delsey Luggage Eagle Creek Ex Officio Travel Clothing Komfort Kollar Pillows Lewis N Clark Travel Accessories Lonely Planet Books Michelin Guidebooks Mycra Pac Raincoats Pacsafe Security Rick Steves Guidebooks Royal Robbins Travel Clothing Scottevest Shedrain Umbrellas Tilley Hats Travelpro Luggage Victorinox Swiss Army Wallaroo Hats

History of Rainwear

Mycra Pac Raincoats are made from a nylon polyester blend of fibers. Polyester is a durable fabric that stands up to high heat and will protect the wearer from the sun. Polyester is also mildew resistant. Nylon is lightweight and flexible allowing for greater movement and comfort. Nylon dries quickly and, like polyester, is mildew resistant. The blend of the two fabrics make for a comfortable fit and a long lasting rain coat.

Rain Wear is made from fabric that is specially designed to keep the wearer dry during rain showers. Rain gear fabric is designed to repel and absorb water. Rain coats are made from tightly woven fabric that are often a blend of fibers including synthetic, such as nylon and natural fibers such as wool. Today, modern rain jackets are high tech, comfortable and made for extreme climates. Rain coats are specially tailored for men, women and children. However, rain gear did not start out as high tech, fashionable outer wear . Rain gear has a rich history that is well documented as far back as Ancient China.

Rain Gear In Ancient China

For centuries people have been making clothing to protect themselves from the rain. One of the earliest forms of rain protection clothing was designed in Ancient China and were rain capes made of straw or grass. Farmers wore the rain capes while toiling in the dirt and mud during the rainy season. These rain cloaks did a fair job of protecting farmers from the wet weather, but were stiff and heavy. These grass outer garments are well documented in Chinese history through poems that were written around 1,000 AD. As time progressed, new ways to make raincoats were designed. One method was to rub oil on lightweight silk fabric to repel the rain. Also, new grasses and tree leaves were weaved into rain coats that created a more water repellent coat that were a bit more lightweight than the early straw rain cape design. However, the Chinese were not the only ones inventing new garments to protect themselves from inclement weather.

Rain Gear History In South America

In other parts of the world water proof clothes were being made, such in the damp, wet rain forests of South America. Around 1200 AD, Amazonians used the latex like extract from rubber trees to create a primitive waterproofing for their footwear and clothing (today, the rubber tree is still an important natural resource for natural rubber). When Europeans discovered South America in the 1700s and saw the way that the indigenous people waterproofed their clothing, Europeans followed suit.

Raincoats In Europe In the 1700s

History of Raincoats In United States

The United States entered into WWI beginning in 1917. When the United States went to war US military uniforms followed the trend of the water resistant wool trench coat . The wool trench coat became popular for fashion rain wear in the United States.

After the start of WWII, military research lead to improved rain wear technology. Lightweight, breathable fabric was designed my improving upon wool blend fabric and chemically treated fabric. Vinyl rain wear also became popular in the 1950s because of its flexibility and water proof abilities. However, vinyl is not breathable and lost popularity when more advance rain proof wear came on the scene. Synthetic fabric such as nylon was waterproof and breathable.

Today, rain coats are very high tech and come in many kinds of fabrics including natural and synthetic fibers. Not only are rain coats functional rain jackets are also a must have fashion accessory for anyone living in a rainy climate. Mycra Pac Rain Coats are designed and manufactured in the United States and are made from a nylon polyester blend. A rain coat that is nylon polyester blend means that the rain coat is durable, lightweight and breathable.

You can purchase travel rain jackets, rain coats, rain hats and rain gear locally at our flagship travel store at Stanford Shopping Mall in Palo Alto, California. We carry travel rain gear that is lightweight and easy to pack at  Going In Style Travel Accessories 609 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto, CA 94304  - Visit the  Stanford Travel Store website   www.stanfordtravelstore.com  for  directions Going In Style .

Free Shipping on Orders | No Minimums

Free domestic shipping within the continental US on all orders - use code GISSHIP

Hey students, you should consider a gaming handheld like Legion Go or ROG Ally instead of a laptop — yes, really

PC gaming handhelds are basically small laptops that are capable of running various programs on Windows 11.

• Why choose Legion Go

Best Legion Go accessories for students

- Why gaming handhelds are great for students - Gaming handhelds vs student laptops

Laptops are obviously a major part of the student experience whether you're in college, trade school, or grade school. They make it easy to run programs, type up assignments, access online projects, attend virtual classes, and more. But if you want something reliable that doesn't cost as much, you should seriously consider getting a PC gaming handheld rather than a laptop. Specifically, one that runs Windows 11 . 

I've spent a lot of time with all modern gaming handhelds, which is why I can tell you that ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go are leaders in this area, but the latter makes for the better student choice overall. Here's why.

• Best overall for students: Lenovo Legion Go (512GB) | $599.99 at Best Buy
• Runner up: ASUS ROG Ally (512GB, Z1 Extreme) | $649.99 at Best Buy
• Linux lover: Steam Deck (512GB)| $458.18 at Amazon

What makes Legion Go the best choice for students?

When you hear "gaming handheld" you probably think Nintendo Switch , Steam Deck , or maybe even ROG Ally. Lenovo's Legion Go is also decently popular but doesn't get mentioned as much. Honestly, ROG Ally is my favorite gaming handheld. However, Lenovo's device is by far the best small computer for students for several reasons.

1. Gaming handhelds are cheaper than many laptops

First and foremost, PC gaming handhelds that run Windows 11 are well-priced and can cost similar to or less than certain laptops on the market. For example, the 512GB Lenovo Legion Go is  $599.99 at Best Buy while the Acer Aspire 15.6-inch has a starting price of $649.00 at Amazon and goes up from there. Even my go-to college laptop, the Dell Inspiron 15, is only a little less expensive than the Legion Go, with a starting price of  $549.99 at Dell . However, different Inspiron 15 configurations cost more than Lenovo's handheld.

Of course, there are exceptions. The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, for instance, is only  $249.00 at Walmart . But since it's a Chromebook, it cannot run programs locally and cannot save files locally either. This could cause difficulties if you don't have a good Wi-Fi connection in your classes, or you need to use local programs, which is where a handheld once more shines. You can save files locally on Windows 11 gaming handhelds rather than only relying on the cloud.

🎒The best Back to School deals📝

• 🕹️Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (3-months) |   $30.79 at CDKeys (Save $19!)
• 💻Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x (X Elite) | $999.99 at Best Buy (Save $200!)
• 🎮ASUS ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme, 512GB) | $499.99 at Best Buy (Save $150!)
• 💻HP Victus 15.6 Laptop (RTX 4050) | $599 at Walmart (Save $380!)
• 📺Amazon Fire TV Xbox Game Pass bundle | $82.85 at Amazon (Save $37!)
• 💻Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon | $1,361.88 at Lenovo (Save $1,257!)
• 🎧Bose QuietComfort ANC Headphones| $249.00 at Best Buy (Save $100!)
• 📺TCL Class Q6 4K QLED TV (55-inches) | $319.99 at Target (Save $130!)
• 🎮 Seagate Xbox Series X|S Card (2TB) | $249.99 at Best Buy (Save $110!)
• 🕹️Hi-Fi RUSH (PC, Steam) | $9.39 at CDKeys (Save $21!)
• 🖱️Razer Basilisk V3 Wired Mouse |  $49.99 at Best Buy (Save $20!)
• 🖥️Lenovo ThinkStation P3 (Core i5 vPro) |  $789.00 at Lenovo (Save $970!)
• ⌨️Alienware Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard | $149.99 at Dell (Save $50!)
• 🎮Lenovo Legion Go (Z1 Extreme, 512GB) | $599.99 at Best Buy (Save $100!)
• 💻HP Envy x360 16 Laptop (Ryzen 5) | $499.99 at Best Buy (Save $350!)

2. PC gaming handhelds can run any program that a laptop can — they're technically small gaming laptops

Legion Go and ROG Ally are tied when it comes to program functionality. Both run Windows 11 and have an impressive AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor that makes these devices more than twice as powerful as Steam Deck. As such, they're considered to be far more affordable gaming laptops, just with controllers instead of keyboards. They can run just about any program that normal laptops can out of the box, including some more graphically intensive software that cheaper student laptops cannot run. 

To be fair, Steam Deck can also be used like a laptop, but it requires a bit more effort to work conveniently, and, as previously mentioned, it isn't as powerful as Legion Go or ROG Ally. This isn't to say you couldn't use Steam Deck, but it won't be as convenient. With Steam Deck, you'll need to feel comfortable using the Linux-based desktop side of the software. That's because Steam Deck runs SteamOS rather than Windows 11. Working in Linux will be fine for some students but could pose a problem for others.

Get the Windows Central Newsletter

All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.

That said, we can show you how to install Windows on Steam Deck if you want to take the time to do that. But Legion Go and ROG Ally are easier to use like a laptop out of the box.

While Nintendo Switch is fun for entertainment, it isn't recommended as a laptop replacement since it's designed solely as a gaming console rather than a broader computer. You would need to hack it to make it run programs other than Switch games, but this will void the warranty and could damage the system. As such, I did not list it as a student laptop alternative in this article.

3. You can easily connect a wireless keyboard and mouse to gaming handhelds

If you plug a compatible wireless dongle into the Legion Go or ROG Ally's top USB-C port, you can easily type and navigate programs while in class. These handhelds also offer Bluetooth, so you can connect accessories that way. 

Note that unlike the  ROG Ally X,  which has two USB4 ports on top of it, the Legion Go's two USB-C ports are split — one is on the bottom, and one is on top of the handheld. This makes it harder to access these connections unless you're holding the handheld or have it propped up on a stand. As such, it's better to have a wireless keyboard and mouse combo that relies on the same USB dongle. Better yet, get a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse and then keep the USB free for charging. If you want a suggestion, this Dell silent mouse and AI keyboard deal makes these Bluetooth accessories more affordable. We love this keyboard because it isn't very clacking, which means it isn't distracting in quiet studying scenarios. 

Another helpful feature with handhelds like Legion Go is that you can connect your phone to these devices to more easily keep up with your messages and notifications, or even transfer data.  

When you get back to your dorm or room, you can plug the Legion Go into a docking station and display the screen on a monitor while controlling it like a regular computer via a keyboard and mouse. The Legion Go has a taller frame than other handhelds, so you need to make sure you choose a gaming handheld docking station that has a USB-C cable long enough to reach the port without straining. If interested, I suggest checking out my JSAUX 6-in-1 Multifunctional Docking Station review for one such device.

Pro tip:  If you don't like typing notes, you could use the Legion Go and it's microphone to record your teacher or professor while they talk. Some AI programs will even write out the dialogue for you so you don't have to. 

4. It's easy to prop up on small desks and travel with

I know from my own experiences that some college desks have extremely small surface space. In these situations, you can detach the Legion Go controllers to make the device smaller and then prop the display up using the built-in kickstand. 

Once sat up, connect a wireless keyboard and mouse to the Legion Go, and you're set to use the handheld like a laptop or 2-in-1 during class. ROG Ally and Steam Deck both don't have a built-in kickstand, so you'd need to purchase an accessory for them to make this work.

When you're done using it, slip the Legion Go into a carrying case before dropping it into your backpack. It's so small that it doesn't take up much room at all. If you don't need to tote anything else around, you could even just bring a smaller bag with room for the Legion Go, a small keyboard, and a mouse to class and leave your backpack at home.

5. Legion Go's enormous display makes it easier to use programs and type on

While it admittedly isn't as big as a laptop display, the Legion Go has a relatively massive 8.8-inch 16:9 IPS screen, which looks huge next to the 7-inch panels found on ROG Ally, Nintendo Switch OLED, or Steam Deck/Steam Deck OLED. This means that while Legion Go is propped up on its kickstand, it's easier to see specific details on this gaming handheld compared to others. In turn, this makes it more convenient to type up documents or interact with programs without squinting at a tiny display.

By the way, Legion Go's 16:9 screen supports 144Hz and 2560 x 1600p, which helps keep visuals smooth and crisp. Meanwhile, ROG Ally only reaches 120Hz and 1920 x 1080p (although, ROG Ally supports VRR and Legion Go doesn't). Steam Deck OLED only reaches 90Hz at 1280 x 800p, original Steam Deck only reaches 60Hz at 1280 x 800p, and both Nintendo Switch and Switch OLED only support 60Hz and 1280 x 720p. As such, the Legion Go arguably has the nicest screen of them all. 

6. You can easily add more storage to Legion Go

The Legion Go comes with either a 512GB SSD or a 1TB SSD capacity depending on which configuration you go with. Either option can offer plenty of room for average school programs, project files, and a few games. If, however, you find you need more room, you can always insert a microSD card into the top of the device and quickly gain a larger storage capacity that way. 

7. You can play games and watch shows when you have a moment to unwind

I know I hardly ever had free time during college, but whenever I did (and my friends were busy), I relaxed by playing video games or streaming shows. Since the Legion Go can be propped up, you can place it around your apartment or next to your bed and control it with detached controllers if you'd like. This is something that laptops, Steam Deck, and ROG Ally cannot do. Sure, you could also watch shows on your phone, but this display is a lot larger and more convenient to watch from. 

Whether you want to play games via the cloud or play games locally, Legion Go and ROG Ally offer one of the most convenient ways to do so. They're more powerful than basic student laptops, and the majority of games these days play well on PC gaming handhelds.  

You'll need a few different accessories to be able to use the Legion Go like a school laptop. If you don't have everything you need already, here is a list of our top Legion Go accessories for students. 

• Anker Power Bank 25,600mAh | $143.99 at Amazon
• SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSD Card | $42.70 at Amazon
• Logitech MK270 Wireless Keyboard and Mouse | $22.99 at Amazon
• Dell Silent Keyboard and Mouse (KM555) | $95.70 at Dell
• JSAUX Docking Station | $39.99 at Amazon
• HP 24mg FHD Computer Monitor | $149.00 at Amazon
• Anker Soundcore 2 Bluetooth Speaker | $27.99 at Amazon
• HyperX Cloud III Wired Headset | $70.99 at Best Buy
• JSAUX FlipGo 16" Dual Portable Monitor | $599.00 at Amazon

Accessories to consider for Legion Go students

• Power bank: The one area where Legion Go struggles is with battery life. You'll be able to get a lot more time out of this handheld if you bring the charging cable around with you, or you purchase one of the best Legion Go power banks . My favorite is the Anker Power Bank 25,600mAh because it has a large capacity, comes with a wall charger, and supports 65W charging to meet a gaming handheld's needs. It sells for $143.99 at Amazon . 
• Mouse & keyboard: Obviously, you're going to need a keyboard and mouse to interact with your handheld. You can always go with a Logitech combo since these can be extremely affordable. My favorite is $22.99 at Amazon . But if you want something that is quieter and won't bother those around you while studying, you should check out the Dell Silent Keyboard and Mouse (KM555) which sells for $95.70 at Dell . 
• Docking station: You can connect your gaming handheld to a monitor or TV with the help of a docking station, which makes this a helpful accessory to have in your room. There's room to plug additional accessories into these devices. You'll just need to make sure the docking station you choose supplies 65W of power or higher and has a long enough cable to reach your handheld's USB-C port. The JSAUX Docking Station is a good pick for Legion Go and sells for $39.99 at Amazon . 
• Monitor: If you do decide you want to connect to docking station you're going to need a good monitor (if you don't have one already). I recommend going with the low-priced HP 24mg, which sells for $149.00 at Amazon .
• MicroSD card: The Legion Go comes with a 512GB SSD, but if that won't be enough for your needs, you can add to that capacity by inserting a microSD card into the handheld. I recommend the SanDisk 512GB Extreme because it's a good amount of space with fast 190MB/s transfer speeds. It sells for $42.70 at Amazon .
• Headset: Some monitors will have built-in speakers while others don't. But if you don't want to bother those around you, it's best to use a headset. Obviously, these can also be useful in multiplayer gaming sessions. I recommend the HyperX Cloud III because it's inexpensive and still offers a really good mic and speakers. The wired version sells for $70.99 at Best Buy , while the wireless one is a little more, $129.99 at Best Buy .

Seriously, gaming handhelds can be better for school than laptops

• Best PC headsets • Upcoming PC games • Best Xbox controllers • Best small gaming PCs • Best gaming laptops • Best gaming handhelds

Of course, you'll have to consider if this is a good situation for you, but a gaming handheld like the Legion Go can be a fantastic alternative to a student laptop. It's compact, doesn't take up a lot of room on your desk, is relatively powerful, can run various programs, and comes with a gorgeous screen. 

If you have a monitor and a docking station in your room, you can dock the Legion Go and interact with it like you would a normal computer. When done, slip the handheld into your backpack and take it to your classes. The Z1 Extreme processor can handle typical school workflows and then some, since it offers better graphical performance than simple student laptops. 

After you've worked hard and are done with your schoolwork, wind down by watching shows or playing games on that gorgeous 8.8-inch screen. 

Lenovo Legion Go | Starting at $679.99 MSRP

Legion Go is the most versatile PC gaming handheld on the market, thanks to its built-in kickstand and detachable controllers. These features, and the fact that it runs Windows 11, means it can be used like a student laptop for typing up essays, accessing programs, and researching data on the web. 

Buy at: Walmart | Best Buy | Amazon | Lenovo

Self-professed gaming geek, Rebecca Spear, is one of Windows Central's editors and reviewers with a focus on gaming handhelds, PC gaming, and laptops. When she isn't checking out the latest games on Xbox Game Pass, PC, ROG Ally, or Steam Deck; she can be found digital drawing with a Wacom tablet. She's written thousands of articles with everything from editorials, reviews, previews, features, previews, and hardware reviews over the last few years. If you need information about anything gaming-related, her articles can help you out. She also loves testing game accessories and any new tech on the market. You can follow her @rrspear on X (formerly Twitter).

• 2 This mini PC squeezes an RTX 4070 inside and offers very smooth gaming in a small form factor
• 3 The last weapons trailer for Monster Hunter Wilds displays wild new moves for Dual Blades
• 4 PSA — Dragon Age: Inquisition plays extremely well on gaming handhelds, and it's the perfect way to get ready for The Veilguard
• 5 AMD Ryzen 9 9950X vs. Ryzen 9 7950X: The older Zen 4 CPU remains a great option for most users