Reviewed

41 travel essentials for a worry-free vacation

There’s an easy way to get even more excited about a vacation, and it’s not immersing yourself in other cultures; it’s buying yourself some new finds for a worry-free vacation. And with the right gadgets and packing solutions, you can focus on making memories instead of worrying about logistics. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, these 41 highly rated travel essentials will not only help minimize chaos but might also transform your journey into a more enjoyable experience. Think: a personal safety alarm for solo travelers or premium packing cubes to help organize your luggage more easily.

This backseat car organizer for a clutter-free car during trips

Amazon

A backseat car organizer makes your car trips infinitely more manageable and much less stressful. We love this one, which features 10 large elastic pockets for storing your kid’s essentials and a tablet holder. Better yet, this waterproof option is designed for cars but can also work on most airplane seats.

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This crossbody bag is small in size but large in capacity

Amazon

Over 31,7000 five-star reviewers love this crossbody bag for taking your essentials on the go without being tiresome for the hands or arms. It has lots of pockets (including two mesh side pockets) and a padded strap, and is available in 22 colors — no wonder it’s the #1 Best Seller.

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A Malin + Goetz travel amenity kit to keep you feeling refreshed during your travels

Amazon

Using this Malin + Goetz travel amenity kit means you’ll never be caught without premium hair, body, and face products. This kit includes the brand’s six best-selling products, all in travel-sized tubes. They are free of sulfates and 100% vegan. The kit includes peppermint shampoo, cilantro hair conditioner, bergamot body wash, grapefruit face cleanser, and more.

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Mute planes on your next long-haul trip with these noise-canceling Sony earbuds

Amazon

The Sony LinkBuds S earbuds are a lightweight, premium option for your travels. These noise-canceling earbuds have up to six hours of battery life and are water-resistant enough to handle splashes and sweat. Plus, they have touch controls to manage your music and even activate their built-in Alexa.

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Never worry about a spill again with this travel bottle set

Amazon

TikTokers recommend bringing along travel bottles so you don’t skip your skincare routine. This travel bottle set includes four TSA-approved, leakproof bottles that can hold up to three ounces of body wash, conditioner, and more. They’re also made of BPA-free silicone, which means they’re safe for baby food, too.

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Keep your device dry with these waterproof phone pouches

Amazon

These waterproof phone pouches have a suite of premium features, including a detachable lanyard so you can wear your device around your neck, a completely waterproof design, and a TPU construction that makes it responsive to touchscreen, so you don’t miss out on any photo-worthy moments even underwater.

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These socks will keep your legs feeling good, even throughout long flights

Amazon

When it comes to staying comfortable during long flights, circulation is one of the most important requisites. Travelers who can’t always get up and walk around don’t have to worry with these compression socks designed to support blood flow in your legs, feet, and ankles. They’re made from a blend of spandex and nylon and come in three different sizes.

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The Stasher bags are also great for organizing products

Amazon

These are the popular reusable silicone bags from Stasher, which TikTok highly recommends. They are multipurpose and durable and can hold everything from snacks (if you have food allergies) to toiletries, making them perfect for packing medications and vitamins. They can go from fridge to freezer.

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Keep footwear in place and dirt at bay with these shoe bags

Amazon

This set of travel shoe bags was made for travelers of all kinds who want to keep their clean clothes free from the grime of their shoes. Each of the four bags features a durable zipper crafted from lightweight, waterproof nylon fabric, which helps contain odors.

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This dry shampoo provides an instant pick-me-up after a long flight

Amazon

If you’re traveling with limited time to freshen up, having a dry shampoo that works fast and effectively is a good idea. We like this talc-free option that’s the #1 best seller because it absorbs oil using natural rice starch and refreshes hair without leaving a white residue—even after a long flight.

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This large toiletry travel bag fits a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries

Amazon

Travelers on TikTok say that this toiletry travel bag is their go-to for keeping toiletries organized. It features four separate compartments with elastic straps to keep bottles upright, plus transparent sides that make it easy to see all your contents. It’s also added for extra protection.

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This portable steamer has a foldable design

Amazon

For those who want to keep their outfits looking fresh, look no further than this portable steamer, a fan favorite for travelers. This easy-to-use tool helps smooth out wrinkles and crinkles from packed clothes so you can step out in your pre-planned vacation looks with confidence. It’s compact enough to fit in your suitcase yet powerful enough to refresh multiple outfits.

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Never overpack before heading to the airport with this luggage scale

Amazon

A good handheld luggage scale should not only help you avoid overweight baggage fees but also offer ease of use. This Amazon’s Choice option has a 110-pound capacity and features a stainless steel hook with a belt for securely attaching to your suitcase. To get a reading, simply loop it onto your bag and lift it—it’s that easy.

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This 2-in-1 hair tool that effortlessly curls and sets in 1 step

Amazon

This functional 2-in-1 hair tool made the list of thousands of TikTok users—and it’s a great, affordable find. With it, you don’t have to choose between packing a straightener and a curling wand. It can do both, saving space in your bag for more things.

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This passport holder has room for cards, cash, and more

Amazon

Bring peace of mind wherever your travels take you with one of our favorite passport holders. “I can’t leave for a trip without it,” wrote a five-star reviewer. Buyers use this RFID holder to keep multiple documents like a passport, visa, and proof of vaccination when traveling internationally. It also has room for cards, cash, boarding passes, and more.

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This electronics organizer that’s waterproof

Amazon

Heading on a trip? Don’t forget this must-have compact organizer that keeps all your devices and charges in one place. With two layers of storage space, it offers designated spots for cords, cables, adapters, and more. The waterproof case weighs just 3.2 ounces.

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These Dramamine tablets relieve motion sickness symptoms

Amazon

This small but mighty travel essential is a lifesaver for anyone who gets motion sickness. Dramamine is a must-have for car rides, boat trips, or any journey where nausea might strike. It’s easy to take, simple to pack, and can help keep your travel plans on track.

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This lumbar pillow can also be used as a neck pillow

Amazon

Never stress about back pain again when traveling with a trusty lumbar pillow. Buyers recommend this self-inflating option made of memory foam, which contours to your spine and reduces pressure. Better yet, it packs down into its bag for easy storage—and you can even use it as a neck pillow.

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Save space while traveling with this packing cube set

Amazon

This seven-piece packing cube set helps keep your suitcase organized and your outfits easy to find. Recommended by over 1,000 five-star reviewers, each cube comes in a different size—perfect for separating smaller items from bulkier pieces. They’re made of mesh, allowing you to see your clothing options.

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Give yourself peace of mind with this affordable, portable door lock

Amazon

This portable door lock is small enough to slip into a purse or suitcase pocket but strong enough to add an extra layer of security to your hotel or Airbnb stay. Suitable for most doors that open inwards, it’s lightweight, easy to install, and keeps you safe while you’re away from home.

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These travel flats come with a drawstring bag

Amazon

Venture anywhere with these handy foldable travel flats, which buyers call a must-have. They’re super comfy and made of polyurethane leather with a flexible rubber sole. Each pair includes a drawstring bag so you can easily stash them in your purse.

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These travel locks that are TSA-compatible

Amazon

These TSA-compatible travel locks—designed to fit nearly every type of luggage—are a smart choice for travelers looking to boost security on the go. According to the buyers, they’re durable, easy to carry, and especially useful if you’re staying in hostels.

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Snag these disposable toothbrushes with toothpaste

Amazon

Brush up anywhere with these travel-sized disposable toothbrushes from Crest. With a 4.5-star rating and a smart design, these toothbrushes are great for those times you’re on a plane and need to brush. They have toothpaste on them, making your life even easier.

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This handheld fan that boasts impressive features

Amazon

This handy device is a must-have for anyone sensitive to heat or traveling to a tropical locale. Buyers say this handheld fan has an impressive battery that lasts an incredibly long time, a built-in flashlight on the end, and a USB port on the side, doubling as a power bank.

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This universal travel adapter lets you use your electronic devices in different countries

Amazon

If you like to stay connected while on the go, this Amazon’s Choice travel adapter is one of the best adapters out there, thanks to its compatibility with over 150 countries. Better yet, it features four USB ports, one USB-C slot, and a socket that lets you charge up to six devices at once—all at high speed.

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This personal safety alarm is a lifesaver for solo travelers

Amazon

Especially good for those who want to feel more secure while traveling, this compact personal safety alarm features a built-in siren and flashing strobe light. If you ever find yourself in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation, simply remove the top pin to activate the alarm. It’s as small as a standard keyring.

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Bring comfort with you wherever you fly with this inflatable footrest

Amazon

This inflatable footrest helps relieve lower back pressure and increase blood circulation during long flights. We like it because, unlike other models, it adjusts to three different heights and weighs just under 13 ounces, making it super lightweight and easy to pack. Plus, it comes with a drawstring bag.

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This phone holder makes in-flight entertainment way more comfortable

Amazon

This viral phone holder clips onto your plane’s tray table to keep your hands free while you enjoy your downloaded Netflix movie. It offers 360-degree rotation for adjustable viewing angles—both vertically and horizontally—and is compatible with a range of phone sizes.

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This travel umbrella is a smart solution to avoid being caught in the rain

Amazon

We love the convenience of this compact travel umbrella. Perfect for unpredictable weather, it’s small enough to fit in a purse and comes with its own case, so it can travel among your things without worrying about moisture. It’s especially great during monsoon season or summer storms.

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This travel pillow with a unique design

Amazon

This ergonomic travel pillow is a buyers’ pick for added comfort on long journeys, thanks to its adjustable double-arm support. According to buyers, side sleepers can fold it in half and rest it on their shoulder, while upright sleepers can use the overlapping arms to hold their chin up.

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This Belkin portable charger that doubles as a power bank

Amazon

Frequent jetsetters recommend this portable charger from Belkin for its charging capacity and smart design. Acting as a power bank and a wall charger, it offers a fast dual-port charging capability. Take it from Danielle: “This power bank is great for travel. The fact that is charges and works as a power bank is fantastic. I love the small size as well.”

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This travel backpack that went viral on TikTok

Amazon

These days, it’s all about convenience, and this viral travel backpack is ideal for anyone. The spacious main pocket fits several day’s worth of outfits, while the compact bottom compartment is excellent for your shoes. Other standout features include a USB charging port, a wet bag, a trolley strap, an anti-theft zipper pocket, and more. It’s available in four sizes.

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Create a peaceful sleep environment with this sound machine

Amazon

If you’re traveling somewhere where restful sleep might be hard to come by, this compact sound machine is worth packing. Buyers say it’s easy to use and surprisingly powerful for its size, with 10-volume settings that are great for falling asleep fast.

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Keep your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods topped up with this wireless charger

Amazon

This 3-in-1 wireless charger is a game changer for Apple lovers. This foldable charger is just 4.5 ounces, so you can throw it in your purse. It replaces the need for multiple cables because it’s MagSafe compatible. Plus, it doubles as a phone stand you can angle horizontally or vertically—perfect for your airplane’s tray.

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This foldable mirror with bright LED lights

Amazon

Banish bad lighting stress from your travel routine with this compact, foldable mirror that brings your full GRWM setup on the go. It features bright LED lights, three color temperature settings, and a smart touch button so you can adjust the settings.

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You can use this blanket as a pillow, too

Amazon

This microfleece blanket measures 65 inches long and 40 inches wide and comes with a carrying case that doubles as a pillow. It features a sleeve on the back so you can slide it over your suitcase’s pop-up handle, and it also includes a carabiner to attach it directly to your carry-on.

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This affordable Bluetooth tracker can help you locate lost items on the go

Amazon

The Tile Bluetooth tracker can help you find and keep track of your belongings, and it’s a great alternative to an AirTag. Within 500 feet, you can ping it to make noise and use the app to pinpoint its location. Beyond that range, the Tile Network can help locate it. Plus, it’s water- and dust-resistant and has a replaceable coin battery that lasts up to a year.

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Snag this Scoth-Brite lint roller to always look your best

Amazon

Amazon is great for travel essentials like this compact lint roller from Scotch-Brite. This mini roller will remove lint, pet hair, and dust from your clothes, perfect for tidying up your outfit before a formal event or photo-heavy outing.

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These luggage tags make it easier to spot your suitcase on the carousel

Amazon

These eco-friendly faux leather luggage tags ensure your suitcase makes its way back to you if it gets lost in the chaos of travel. Available in over 30 bold colors, the set of two tags features double-sided printing cards with privacy flaps and adjustable stainless-steel buckles.

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This Bluetooth adapter offers solid sound for travelers

Amazon

This small-but-mighty Bluetooth adapter plugs into the in-flight entertainment system’s audio jack and connects wirelessly to your earbuds. “I have been using this product on flights consistently for the past two years and has never let me down. It’s super easy to pair with my AirPod max’s and even comes with a little charger that can be plugged into the plane at the same time it’s being used,” wrote Shelby.

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