Essential Travel Gear 2025: The BEST Products for Smart Travelers

Looking for the best travel gear that seasoned travelers actually use? I’ve tested hundreds of products to bring you this curated selection of must-have travel essentials. From durable luggage to smart accessories, I’ve got everything you need for your Next Adventure.

Luggage & Bags

1. Carry-on Luggage: Travelpro Maxlite 5 21 Expandable Carry-On

Ultra-lightweight spinner with lifetime warranty. Perfect balance of durability and maneuverability.
TravelPro is my go-to luggage brand and I LOVE this carry-on piece. (It’s what airline stewards often use, as well!)

2. Travel Backpack: SwissGear 1900 Scansmart TSA 17 Laptop Backpack

17-inch laptop backpack specifically designed to speed you through airport security by allowing laptop-in-case scanning.
I have taken this everywhere I’ve traveled ever since I discovered it. It zips open flat with your laptop, iPad, and everything else inside so there’s no taking everything out just to go through security.

3. Packing Cubes: Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Cubes for Travel

Best-selling 4-piece set. Essential for organized packing and maximizing luggage space.
These make finding your items & keeping them organized a breeze!

4. Anti-Theft Bag: Sling Bag, Crossbody Bag for Casual Travel

Multi-pocket and multi-layer, which is the best choice for travel.
I love the pocket that sits against my body, where I can keep my passport. Lots of pockets on this helps keep everything organized while you’re out and about! (I have the Large one!)

Electronics & Tech

1. Power Bank: Anker PowerCore 26800

With a colossal 26,800mAh battery, this power bank can charge most smartphones over 6 times, tablets at least 2 times, and multiple other USB devices.
It’s thin and light, so carrying it around (inside that anti-theft crossbody!) is really easy.

2. Universal Travel Adapter

International Power Adapter for Travel: This universal adapter has 4 different plugs built in which covers over 150 countries.
Check to be sure it works for your devices in the countries you are visiting.

3. My Favorite Travel Apps:

Mobile Passport Control – A free app from U.S. Customs and Border Protection
FlightAware – See if your airplane has arrived and is ready for departure
Rome2Rio – How to get from A to B: Find the best ways to get around in your destination
WhatsApp – Stay in touch with family and suppliers
TripPlans – The app I use to house my clients’ itineraries and documents!

Comfort & Sleep

1. Travel Pillow: 100% Pure Memory Foam Neck Pillow with Mask & Plugs

Machine Washable, Airplane Travel Kit: Memory Foam Neck Pillow, Comfortable & Breathable Cover with 3D Contoured Eye Masks, Earplugs, and Luxury Bag
I like that this one is everything in one. The masks & ear plugs come in really handy on international flights.

2. Compression Socks: Rymora Calf Compression Sleeves

I’ve tried a LOT of compression socks (I wear them daily) and these are my favorites. They are sleeves, so I can still wear my own socks (I don’t like my feet to be all slidey in my shoes) and these provide support without being overly constricting.

Organization & Security

1. Travel Purse: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

5-Point Anti-Theft security system will protect your valuables from pickpockets and thieves.
Includes slash-resistant mesh barrier in all 4 sides and bottom body panels; slash-resistant and lock-down strap; locking compartments; and RFID blocking organizer.
I love this one for when I’m in a destination where I feel confident carrying a purse.

2. Neck Wallet: HERO Neck Wallet

RFID Blocking Passport Holder – Easy to Conceal Travel Pouch
Ultimate universal travel neck wallet conceals passports, IDs, credit cards, cash, iPhones (incl. 15 Pro Max without a bulky case), tickets, and valuables, keeping personal items hidden discreetly on the go.
This is really good for guys and even for ladies who don’t want to carry a purse or crossbody. My son always uses it for international travel.

3. Luggage Tracker: Apple AirTag 4-Pack

I have one in each of my pieces of luggage, one attached to my keys & one in any bag I carry with me.
Use FindMy to track wherever they are (they’re good for finding your parked car, too!)
Holder for Apple AirTag – 4 Pack

4. Travel Locks: TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Luggage lock allows Transportation Security Administration screeners to inspect and relock baggage, without damaging lock.
While you should never pack valuables in your checked luggage, this helps keep your pants safe.

Health & Safety

1. First Aid Kit: Professional 300 Piece (40 Unique Items) First Aid Kit

Compact and Portable: Small enough to take anywhere, this travel first aid kit for travel is perfect and easily fits into backpacks, ensuring you’re always prepared wherever you go.

2. Motion Sickness Patch

SAFE AND EFFECTIVE – 100% Natural Herb, without side effects and causing drowsiness
I take these with me (and use them!) everywhere I travel!

Outdoor & Adventure

Hiking Gear
Weather Protection
Travel Towels
Camping Equipment
Adventure Cameras
Sports Equipment