Travel can be stressful, but having the right gear can make all the difference. Plus, packing for a trip can be overwhelming, especially if you're not sure what to bring. That's where I come in! I have been traveling for a LONG time and tried out a lot of gear so I've rounded up the best travel essentials, travel gear, and the best accessories for travelers that will make your trip more comfortable and efficient.
Whether you're doing short trips, going on a long flight, an international trip, or just need essentials for a road trip, a beach trip, or a weekend getaway I've got you covered. Get these items on your travel essentials list!
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TRAVEL ACCESSORY
FlipBelt Running Belt
This accessory is marketed to athletes and fitness buffs, BUT I think it is AWESOME for travel! A more modern version of the old money belt that our parents or grandparents used when they traveled, the FlipBelt is light and moisture-wicking. You can wash it too! Fit money and credit cards, your cell phone or passport, your important docs on a USB key, or just your room key and some spare taxi money. It comes in multiple sizes so you can get one that really fits you! Love this thing!
Travel Essentials for Long Flights
Long flights can be uncomfortable, especially if you have a connecting flight or a long layover. To make the journey more bearable, pack items such as a neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones, an eye mask, and a good book.
A neck pillow will support your neck and head, making it easier to sleep on the plane. Noise-canceling headphones will block out the sounds of the plane and other passengers, allowing you to enjoy some peace and quiet. An eye mask will block out any light, creating a dark environment that will make it easier for you to sleep or relax. Lastly, bring a good book, magazine, or tablet to keep you entertained during the flight.
Here are my tried and true picks:
Cabeau Air Evolution Inflatable Travel Pillow
I prefer an inflatable neck pillow as I don't want my travel gear to take up a lot of space. I have had my Cabeau for years and love it because it is washable. Cabeau has another pillow that is not inflatable, the Cabeau Evolution Memory Foam Travel Pillow which is well-regarded as well.
Sony Noise Canceling Headphones
I avoided these for years! I preferred something more compact but in reality, the quality sucked. Mr. Misadventures had these and finally convinced me to invest in them and of course, getting them in navy blue was a huge bonus. I do not know why I waited so long to get them!
Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eye Mask
I lovemy Lunya silk sleep maskfor home (and hotels) but it is a little too bulky for my taste when it comes to the plane. My choice for my carry-on bag is still silk. I have the Brooklinen Mulberry Silk Eyemask. It feels super soft and is also machine washable which is a big bonus in my book.
Bucky Comfort Travel Blanket Scarf
I love to travel with scarves. On a plane, I want something soft and compact. This jersey blanket scarf does the job and comes in its own bag for transport and packing in my carry-on bag. They also have amatching neck pillowyou can buy too although it is not inflatable.
The Best Travel Gear: Tech
When it comes to traveling, having the right tech accessories can make all the difference in making your trip a smooth and enjoyable one. There are a variety of travel items to choose from to enhance your traveling experiences.
Power banks are one of the most important travel essentials to keep your devices charged while on the go. A smaller portable power bank is perfect for ensuring battery life during a day out.
Additionally, accessories with built-in tracking capabilities can provide added peace of mind when navigating unfamiliar airports and train stations. With so many travel necessities and accessories available, it's easy to customize your travel kit to fit your specific needs and preferences.
These should definitely be on your tech travel checklist:
Anker USB C Outlet Extender
A lifesaver when you have a lot of items to charge! It's a single wall outlet with 2 USB ports, 1 USB-C port, and 3 AC outlets to power up to 6 devices.
Anker USB C Charger (Nano)
A portable charger that has the power to quickly charge your phone, tablet, and USB-C notebook. Perfect when you need your device asap!
Apple AirTag 4 Pack + Case Holders
This has freed my mind of worry when it comes to the stress of knowing where the heck my suitcases are! I also use them for bags, purses, and my hubby!
SAMSUNG T7 1TB, Portable SSD
If you take a lot of photos while traveling or you want to carry some documents with you this slim but mighty external hard disk should be in your tech kit!
FEATURED PRODUCT
Wander and Perch Wander Wet Bag
Eileen, the founder and creator of Wander & Perch shares her philosophy on carrying around a bag for your summer suits: “Life is too short for ugly plastic bags. Travel life beautifully.”
I could not agree with her more! I love myWander Wet Bag Nomad in Indigoblue! I only wish I had it when I was visiting all the thermal spas in the Azores last year, much prettier than my plastic shopping bags! The water resistant interior is awesome!
Bonus: these bags are designed in Encinitas, California and proudly Made in the USA.
International Travel
International travel requires some additional preparation. Also, consider bringing auniversal power adapter, which will allow you to charge your devices in any country. These are really the key international travel essentials.
A travel-friendly travel backpack or tote bag will also come in handy for carrying all your essentials while exploring a new city. And if you are going to be in Europe or any other region where the money is predominantly coins, do not forgeta dual-sided coin purse it is a lifesaver!
International Power Adapter
The Anker European Power Adapter has 2 USB ports besides the outlet plug. I am fond of the whole Anker line, they are lightweight and compact.
Orange Sim Card for Europe
If you own your phone and want an internet connection when you can't access free WiFi, then think about buying a sim card for Europe.
Conair Travel Hair Dryer
This dryer has a folding handle for compact for packing in a suitcase or carry-on bag. Dual voltage, it's perfect for worldwide travel.
Portable Digital Luggage Scale
International airports are pickier about size, weight and shape of your luggage and in particular your carry on. Don't risk it, carry this scale!
FEATURED PRODUCT
LEVEL8 Luggage
I put all my gear, shoes, and clothes into my LEVEL8 cases. I have the Road Runner carry-on and the Voyageur Check-in and love them!
READ my review
More travel products to pack
I do not leave home without these travel essentials!
Pilly Pal
Travel Pillbox
Say goodbye to the inconvenience of carrying multiple pill bottles. MyPillyPal offers the comfort of having all your pills in one place, making medication management hassle-free and convenient. Upgrade your daily routine with MyPillyPal today!
Matador
Soap Bag
Mr. Misadventures loves bar soap and this case has been a savior. It is waterproof and leakproof so it goes inside your toiletry kit without fear! Plus with their Dry-Through Technology, you no longer have to deal with mushy bars!
BUY NOW
Matador Refillable Toothpaste Tubes
Also from Matador, don't pay for expensive travel-sized toothpaste, buy your favorite full-sized version and squeeze it into Matador's refillable toothpaste tubes. Clean in the dishwasher, it's safe! Two tubes are included, for 1 week or 2.
BUY NOW
Quince Leather Jewelry Travel Case
Elegant and practical, this travel case is ideal for transporting your cherished jewelry pieces with ease, ensuring they remain free from tangles. For your weekend getaway or when you only wish to bring along your most adored items.
BUY NOW
Travalo Classic HD Perfume Atomizer
I have been using these for years. I have tried other brands and always come back to Travalo. It is easy to use and durable, I still have my first one and it is more than 10 years old! I take 2 for a month away.
Kitsch 11pc Travel Size Bottles
I like this set because I often buy beauty products in France (and Portugal) when I visit and these travel bottles are lighter than the original bottles which are often glass and heavy!
Nori Press Iron and Steamer
I don't know about you but I often have to eliminate some of my wardrobe items because they wrinkle when I travel. This is revolutionary! Now I can bring my favorite white shirt!
Stasher TSA-Friendly Travel Bags
These bags come in all shapes and sizes. I use them for everything. From daily vitamins and powders to snacks! They are reusable and eco-friendly made with food-grade silicone.
FEATURED PRODUCT
NOMATIC
Minimalism, functionality, and design are all key attributes I look for in my travel essentials and gear. But the thing that seals the deal for me is their lifetime guarantee, if you know me, you know that is incredibly important to me!
- NOMATIC Wallet: I bring as little as possible when I travel, including my wallet. When preparing for a trip I only take 1 or 2 credit cards, an ID (if staying in the US), and my health card. This very slim pocket wallet is absolutely perfect. I have one and Mr. Misadventures saw mine and got one too!
- NOMATIC Packing Cubes: I am a packing cube convert. I have been using them for decades and can't imagine packing for a trip without them. But not all packing cubes are equal and quality matters! I just tried 2 packing cubes from NOMATIC for the first time on my most recent trip to France and they are sturdy and perfectly sized for multiple needs whether that is clothing or accessories!
- Also, check out the NOMATIC Access Sling
Comfortable Walking Shoes
If you aren't sick of me writing about Jambu yet, I will remind you again that I think thatJambu shoesare the best travel shoes around! Plus they also with their own shoe bags!
The Right Travel Bag
Finding the right bag is like finding that perfect shade of lipstick. It is a lifelong search and through my many years of traveling, I have decided there isn't just one! It depends on the trip. Short trip, long trip, business trip, the bag you will need will differ.
And in my case, within a single trip I will bring many of all different sizes. It starts with the plane or car with a carry-on backpack or small suitcase, moves into the trip with maybe a tote bag, fanny pack, or crossbody bag.
I have dedicated an entire article on what I think the best travel bags are and why.
Taking the time to plan your travel gear can make your trip more comfortable and efficient. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, having the right travel gear can make all the difference.
By packing the right, you can avoid overpacking and save space in your luggage. Additionally, having the necessary gear and the best travel accessories will reduce stress and help you feel more prepared for your trip. I hope my gear choices and list of travel essentials help you for your next trip!
How about you? Do you have a favorite brand or product you always have on your packing list that would like to share? Do tell!
Author Bio: Andi Fisher
I grew up a military brat and then a young adult with a gypsy spirit. I settled into my career in marketing at many international companies where I traveled a lot. When I was not traveling for work, I was doing it for fun…so I have tested A LOT of gear!
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