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
- First Aid Kits
- Water Purifiers
- Travel Insurance
- Sun Protection
- Bug Repellents
- Travel-Size Toiletries
Outdoor & Adventure
- Hiking Gear
- Weather Protection
- Travel Towels
- Camping Equipment
- Adventure Cameras
- Sports Equipment