best travel accessories gq

57 Brilliant Travel Accessories Every Traveller Must Have [2024 Edition]

Travel smarter and safer in 2024 with 57 of the best brilliant travel accessories and travel gadgets. From the best adapters, earplugs, space-savers, travel safety to portable chargers.

1. this ergonomic travel pillow.

The smart design of this washable pillow prevents your head from falling forwards as you sleep. Suitable for adults and children and perfect to use on airplanes, buses, trains, cars, camping, while backpacking, wheelchairs, airport terminals, or even while watching TV.

Buy it here

2. Pack more with these awesome space bags ! I have 20 of them!

Saving space in your suitcase is no longer a challenge with these amazing space bags that push out the air when rolled up. You effectively gain up to 50% more space in your baggage. I use the larger ones at home and the smaller ones for travel. They make for great organisers too!

Buy them here

3. Keep your dirty clothes separate with this handing laundry bag

Keep your dirty clothes organized and separate. This handy GOMATIC hanging laundry bag has a strap to attach it to a doorknob. Once your laundry bag is full, you can easily pack it and have it ready to empty straight into your washing machine when you get home. Buy it here.

4. Get this cute secret pocket infinity scarf

5. This Travel-sized Wireless Router with USB Media Storage

Convert any wired network to a wireless network and stay connected! Not only that you can also stream your videos, photos, and music to your connected media devices. If that wasn’t enough, back up and free up space on your mobile devices by using an attached USB flash drive or hard disk.

6. This Travel Door Alarm

Travelling alone or just wanted added peace of mind in your accommodation? Attach this pocket-sized alarm to your door or window and be alerted the second there is an intruder. There’s also a built-in LED flashlight so there’s no fumbling in the dark.

7. This Multi-Bag Stacker

No more bag juggling or pushing multiple trolleys/carts, just attached this nifty strap that connects suitcases and bags together through their handles.

8. These Amazing Space-Saving Laundry Soap Sheets

Add water and the sheet will dissolve instantly. They also come in shaving, body wash and hand soap versions.

9. Protect your phone from water, drops and scratches with this Lifeproof Case

10. this digital luggage scale.

You’ll never be surprised with having to pay for excess weight at the airport again. This compact and lightweight luggage scale can weigh up to 110 lb / 50 kg luggage. No batteries required.

11. No more breaks and leak with this inflatable bottle bag

This versatile roll-up travel bag suspends items in an inflatable air cushion to protect your bottles such as wine and olive oil. No more nasty surprises and messy spills when you open your suitcase.

12. Boost Circulation with these highly-rated compressions socks

13. Keep your Laptop and Other Items safe with a Portable Safe

14. This Vintage Laptop and Travel Backpack that Charges your Gadgets

15. The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Ever Need PLUS Dual USB Ports (Covers 150 Countries)

16. This inspirational luggage tag with card slot

17. Always Be Ready with a Pocket, Picnic and Beach Blanket

18. For Those Who Love a Mini Electric Toothbrush

19. Keep Your Drinks Hot on Long Haul Flights with this Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Different Colours Available)

20. Get This Gorgeous Multi-Use Travel, Hiking, Camping Bag Rucksack

21. This Smartest Carry-on suitcase Built-in USB Charger

22. Keep your toiletries organized with this waterproof organizer

23. Stay clean with these laundry sachets 

24. This personalised passport holder and protector  

25. Charge multiple accessories super fast with this portable compact charger

26. Get some shuteye with this contoured sleep mask

27. Avoid the knots and get this nifty cable organizer

28. Sleep anywhere with the ultimate ergonomic neck supporter

29. Pack like a boss with these space-saving packing cubes with shoe bag

Keep your gear organised with these travel cubes in assorted sizes. Buy it here

30. Keep your stuff safe with this TSA approved luggage lock

31. Keep your jewellery organized with this compact jewellery box

32. Never buy cabin luggage again with this durable and lightweight case

33. Stay hydrated with this collapsible water bottle

34. Breathe easy with this USB or battery operated mini humidifier

35. Take your music with you with this wireless and waterproof Bluetooth speaker

36. Get safe drinking water wherever you go with the LifeStraw water filter

37. Get 18 in 1 multi-purpose credit card size pocket tool

38. These cabin-approved leak-proof travel bottles for makeup and cosmetics

39. Stay charged on the go with this mini power bank

40. Take your phone underwater with a universal waterproof case

41. Protect your camera with this anti-theft shoulder strap by PacSafe

This camera strap is essential for supporting heavy cameras like DSLRs and even popular travel cameras such as Mirrorless ones.

Buy it here $26.87

42. Take this lightweight tripod anywhere and wirelessly take pictures and video

43. Protect your gear with this anti-theft shockproof backpack that’s ScanSmart TSA friendly and water resistant

44. Charge your phone and tablet with this USB solar charger

45. Keep your phone clean with this sanitizer and universal phone charger

46. Put your feel up with this compact foot hammock

47. hang up your washing with this travel clothes line.

No more hanging your delicates over hotel room chairs. This pegless washing line stretches up to 2.5metre and can be to affixed to either a  wall or furniture with its metal hooks or suction cups.

48. Get this beautiful waterproof travel and passport wallet

49. This Convenient Water Bottle with Built-in Pill Organizer

Great way to take your medication while on the go! This water bottle can store your medication for each day of the week. The medication holder can also be detached. Holding 23 oz. or 600ml, the bottle cap also doubles as a cup. Ingenious!

50. Keep all your documents in once place with this travel wallet

51. Alert others when in trouble with this safety whistle

52. Stay entertained with movies, TV shows, songs, Kindle e-books, apps and games on Kindle Fire

Buy on Amazon for $79.99

53. Wash your clothes wherever you are with this machine quality wash bag

Buy on Amazon for $42.44

54. This Clever Tank Top  with Secret Pockets

Keep your  passport, cash and credit cards safe with this versatile tank top. Perfect for both warm and cool climates. It can even fit your cell phones and keys.

Buy on Amazon

55. This Anti-Crease Shirt Transporter

Save time on ironing! This Tupperware for shirts and blouses is called the Shirt Shuttler, perfect for those trips when you know you’ll be spending a night out on the town or in a boardroom, or both!

Buy on Amazon for $24.99

56. This Optical Camera Lens for Smartphones and Tablets

57. The only worldwide travel charger and power adapter you’ll ever need  (UK/US/AU/EU/JP) + Dual USB Ports

Buy on Amazon for $25.99

Want more? Check out these 43 Amazing Money-Saving Tips for Smart Travellers

Stay tuned! I’m constantly updating this page as I discover the latest and greatest travel accessories. If you’re going backpacking or long-term travelling, check out my ultimate travel packing list . Got a favourite travel accessory? Share it below! 🙂

Want more travel tips? Don’t miss these

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• 20 Clever Ways to Staying Fit While Travelling You Should Try

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Over to you!

What other travel accessories do you recommend? Have you used any of these? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Howdy Michele, I love to travel. I’ve read so many posts about travel gadgets, but you are the best one. Your article was beneficial in finding the necessary devices. I personally like an anti-theft shockproof backpack, which is ScanSmart TSA friendly and water-resistant. It is useful for everyone.

Thank you so much, Kim 🙂

Hello, I have gone through your guide and seems to be interesting though I have one more concern on the WiFi devices. Can you recommend me on the best Pocket Device that will work well on anywhere I travel. I have using AllDayWifi but its very slow on their international data plan. I have been considering RentnConnect though I know very little about it

Hi Collins, have you considered this Skyroam device ? It one of the leaders in the market and very compact.

What about this Trackimo 3G Travel Tracker device this has Light Exposure Sensor – detect/alerts when package or luggage is opened. I am currently using this tracker and i found this very useful to me every time i go travel around the world 🙂

Excellent addition Helen, thank you 🙂

A tracking device would be a great addition to this list.

Amazing! This makes traveling easier.

Definitely brilliant ideas worth sharing

This IS such a cool list! I thought I had everything, but then I found out the door travel alarm (never would’ve thought of it)!. And I wonder how good the neck support (#33) is because there were PLENTY of times I could have used something like that on my trips.

Hey Trang, the door alarm is such a great idea especially for those times when you just don’t feel safe 🙂 Is there anything you’d add to the list?

I just carry a small rubber door stop wedge.

WOW! This is one extensive list of all things travel and certainly one that I will be using to give hints to my friends and family round the holiday season. The new ScanSmart backpack along with the waterproof phone case and solar charger are on top of my list. However my top two purchases are going to be the smart suitcase and the backpack which are absolutely brilliant. Thanks for such a cool list.

Hi Michele, There are all great ideas. I have one more suggestion for you. Smart Blanket! I used it when flying to Zurich to see my son and his family. The plane was freezing, and there were no blankets to be had. I was the only one that was warm and cozy for the whole 8 hours. I love mine. Got it on Amazon http://amzn.to/2hTYlOP I paid $49.00 for mine. Think they are having a sale on them now. Hope you like my suggestion.

The door alarm and aeroplane pillow are a great idea to stay comfy and safe! I always take an extension lead when I travel; so that I have more plug sockets in a hotel room, and it also means you don’t need as many adapters when you travel. You also can’t go wrong with baby wipes and small-ish plastic bags in case a seat is wet, a bottle is leaking or you’ve got a mark on your clothes! ✈️?

All brilliant ideas Emily 🙂 Thanks for sharing. I love the baby wipes idea!

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The 15 best travel pillows for first-class snoozing

By Owen Gough

Say no to middle seat mayhem and heads propped against plane windows; our pick of the best travel pillows is a one-way ticket to comfortable travel

Ladies and gentlemen, GQ Airlines welcomes you to our edit of the best travel pillows . We request your full attention as we demonstrate the value of packing a travel pillow on your next trip.

Before we begin, we'd like to draw your attention to the comfort a travel neck pillow provides you. Especially important on long flights, train journeys and car trips where headrests are far from optimal, they are designed to be portable, easy to carry and thus an essential accessory to your next journey, slipping into your backpack or over your suitcase handle for the most comfortable trip of your life.

In the unlikely event you forget to pack a travel pillow, overpriced and less comfortable options are probably available if you're desperate, but we'd always suggest being well-prepared. Consequences of your negligence may include accidentally dozing off on a stranger's shoulder and spending the first few days of your holiday with a crick in your neck.

A variety of options are available, including memory foam , inflatable, microbead and wrap-around travel pillows catering to various different sleeping preferences, journey times and budgets. Thank you for your attention. We hope you have a pleasant read.

What’s the best travel pillow to buy 2024?

Ostrich Go Neck Pillow

By offering 360-degree support care of a velcro closure that engulfs the front of the neck, Ostrich’s Go neck pillow will keep you propped up and pain-free.

Go Travel 2 Memory Dreamer Pillow

A £20 memory foam pillow that can be easily adjusted to different travel scenarios, this might just be the most cost-effective travel hack you’ll ever come across.

Trtl Pillow

Comfortable, compact and supportive, the Trtl has it all. This wraparound travel pillow will serve you well for the long haul.

• Best overall travel pillow : Trtl Travel Pillow. £54. At amazon.co.uk
• Best travel pillow for support:  Ostrich Go Neck Pillow. £55. At amazon.co.uk
• Best inflatable travel pillow: Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow. 39. At amazon.co.uk
• Best travel pillow for the middle seat: Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow. £25. At amazon.co.uk
• Best luxury travel pillow: Slip Travel Set. £150. At sephora.co.uk
• Best memory foam travel pillow: Tempur Transit Pillow. £85. At tempur.com
• Best budget travel pillow: Life Hall Travel Pillow. £12. At amazon.co.uk

Skip to: How we test the best travel pillows | When should you pack a travel pillow? | What types of travel pillows are available?

How we test the best travel pillows

We don’t mean to brag, but we consider ourselves experts in how to get quality sleep, regardless of where we’re opting to get some shut-eye. Sleeping on planes, buses and car journeys isn’t the most comfortable, so we endeavour to equip you with the best tools to help keep you ergonomically safe. Therefore, our testers have embarked on plenty of trips of all lengths to test out the quality of the top picks below, assessing the comfort, ease of use and portability to ensure we never recommend anything that we haven’t used ourselves.

When should you pack a travel pillow?

More like when  shouldn’t you pack a travel pillow? Part of the beauty of a travel pillow is its compactness, so there’s a strong case for travelling with one in your everyday  backpack . Need to grab an extra 30 minutes of shut-eye on your morning commute? Pack a travel pillow. Taking the passenger seat on a road trip? Pack a travel pillow. Have you got a long-haul flight booked for your summer holidays? You guessed it, make sure you get one to eliminate the dreaded travel neck pain.

When it comes to flying, where these comfy companions really come into their own, there’s no minimum flight time that negates the need to bring a travel pillow. In fact, the designs of short-haul air carriers tend to offer less comfortable positions and smaller seating spaces than larger vessels, so you could argue that there’s even more of a need to keep one in your carry-on for journeys under three hours.

It should go without saying that a travel pillow will make longer journeys all the more manageable, too, especially on overnight flights where onward travel plans depend on you being well-rested. Regardless of your trip, at least you won’t have to suffer through a rattled head on the window seat.

What types of travel pillows are available?

There are several types of travel pillows, with differences that factor into both their cost and the comfort they’ll provide. Here’s a rundown of the main four:

• Memory foam travel pillows: Like their bed-bound brethren, memory foam filling pillows conform to the neck and head and are considered to be the most comfortable option with extra support to keep your head and neck in the right place.
• Inflatable travel pillows : Admittedly, they are not always the comfiest option, but because they’re the most lightweight and compact, they’re the easiest to factor into your packing. You can also adjust the firmness by tweaking the inflation.
• Microbead travel pillows : The tiny beads in these support pillows mould around the shape of your neck and head and make for a softer surface than memory foam, though at the expense of some support.
• Wrap-around travel pillows : These pillows go beyond just the neck and head by also providing chin support, saving you the embarrassing jolt when you wake yourself up from a forward head nod.

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Shop GQ's edit of the best travel pillows 2024…

Go Travel 2 Memory Dreamer

Reasons to buy: Affordable | Different colour options

• Material: Memory foam
• Chin support: Yes
• Carry case: No

A dependable memory foam travel pillow that won’t break the bank, the Go Travel 2 Memory Dreamer combines high-quality materials with an adaptable design that can be tweaked to various sleeping positions. The malleable foam folds to provide support in different modes of travel, or to switch things up between window, middle and aisle seats.

The fact it comes with a convenient carrying pouch means it's easy to keep clean and organised while you’re away, while a removable, washable cover will appease those who go hard on airport/aircraft hygiene. Plus, at £20, it provides more support and versatility for your buck than any other travel pillow in our edit.

Reasons to buy: Very light | Clever neck support frame

• Material: Fleece

This unique wrap-around travel pillow amps up the comfort factor with its ultra-soft fleece material. While it may take on the appearance of fashion’s greatest antihero, the snood, beneath its cosy exterior is a flexible internal support structure that moulds to your neck and will prevent you from waking up on the person next to you’s shoulder.

As compact and lightweight as any inflatable travel pillow, one of the major selling points of this design is that it doesn’t have to be blown up before use. As it’s machine washable, it’s easy to maintain and also comes with a handy travel bag to keep those aeroplane germs away from the contents of your suitcase.

Cabin Max Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Reasons to buy: Compact size | Can be used as an actual pillow

• Chin support: No
• Carry case: Yes

If you’re after something more along the lines of an actual pillow rather than a U-shaped neck-supporting affair, then Cabin Max’s miniature memory foam pillow should fit the bill rather nicely.

Easily packable once rolled up and stored in the accompanying travel bag, you can use it to cradle and support your head while travelling, as well as using it as your main pillow if you’re camping, or looking to bolster the ones your hotel has already provided.

Tempur Transit Pillow

Reasons to buy: Comfortable Tempur material | Three-year guarantee

• Material: Tempur memory foam

For those who are always on the road, investing a little bit more in top-notch travel support is worth considering. You can put your faith in mattress brand Tempur to keep you supported in the best possible way as you clock up those air miles. Using the same signature memory foam that goes into its  mattresses and  pillows , the high-quality material offers its wearer personalised support and incorporates a raised edge that goes beyond most travel pillows to also prevent the head from dropping forward.

Frequent flyers will also appreciate its lightness and compactness, plus a cover that’s easily removed and thrown in the wash. In short, no in-flight entertainment system is going to take precedence over good kip with this in your travel armoury.

By Jessie Atkinson

By Heidi Quill

Reasons to buy: Attractive design | Chin and neck support

Unlike traditional travel pillows which wrap around just the back and sides of the neck, the Ostrich Go neck pillow offers 360-degree support thanks to a memory foam core and ergonomic design that wraps all the way around. Also noteworthy of its shape is the differentiation of each side, one being slightly more bulbous than the other to give a greater variety of sleeping positions.

A selection of colourways means you can match your travel pillow to other essential  travel accessories , and its Velcro fastening makes it easy to fasten around the satellite handles of a suitcase when not in use. If you’d rather transport it more discreetly, it also compresses to 60 per cent of its usable size, neatly stowed in an accompanying travel pouch.

Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Pillow

Reasons to buy: Very light | Compact when deflated

• Material: Polyester

Inflatable travel pillows can often feel like a last-ditch attempt to provide basic comfort on the go, hence why you’ll often see cheap takes hanging near the checkouts of an airport store. This is far from the case with Sea to Summit’s Aeros premium traveller pillow, which is built to last with high-quality materials.

Going further than simply propping your head up, it has a soft, comfortable surface for resting on, while ergonomic bulbous side arms and a thin centre guarantee support in all the right places. Inflating and deflating is a faff-free undertaking thanks to a unique, multi-function valve, which also makes it easy to adjust the firmness to exactly how you like it.

Eono Memory Foam Neck Pillow

Reasons to buy: Affordable | Generous accessories

An ergonomic memory foam pillow for less than the price of a round in a London pub? Yes, please.

Well-padded with snappy elasticity to help retain its shape, this neck pillow's breathable polyester covering should help you keep cool in troublesome hotspots, while a velvet finish should help you drift off in luxury. With a handy bag thrown in to help compress and minimise storage space, you can't really go wrong at this price.

Reasons to buy: Affordable | Different colours available

Why do you buy a travel pillow to snooze on? To be cosy, of course, so it makes sense to buy a product that clearly focuses on that in the name. BCozzy's microfleece material is immensely cuddly and gently supports your neck and head with a wrap-around double-support design purpose-built to get you to the land of nod with no issues.

Packing down to a tiny size is also no issue, with a handy case that squashes it down to a micro bag to keep you cosy in transit.

Snugl Memory Foam Travel Pillow

Reasons to buy: Reversible design | Compact storage

Snugl by name, snuggle by nature, this cleverly designed memory foam neck pillow aims to mould to your individual shape, to help reduce aches and pains with appropriate support.

Its reversible design lets you experiment with different levels of sleeping positions, while dual adjustable straps help you dial in the perfect fit. Roll it up tight enough, and you can reduce its unfolded footprint by around 70 per cent, making compact storage a breeze.

Jiancrate Hooded Travel Pillow

Reasons to buy: Affordable | Hood for warmth/light blocking

You might be on the receiving end of a few odd looks if you pull this travel pillow’s built-in hood over your head and eyes, but who cares when it’s keeping you warm while blocking out harsh cabin light in the process?

With a washable outer cover and all manner of funky patterned designs to choose from, it’s as bold and vibrant, as it is versatile. It even comes with a pair of earbuds and a travel case for an added dash of convenience.

Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow

Reasons to buy: Innovative cross-body design | Excellent neck support

• Material: Flocked PVC

This inflatable travel pillow does things a little differently by strapping to your seat, rather than around your neck. As a result, it’s one of the only travel pillows out there that provides full lateral support to the upper body, making it easier to relax and stay asleep for longer.

It’s especially handy when you’re allocated the middle seat on a flight, with its sash-like form providing more of a base to lean into. It’s on the larger side when inflated, but when not in use it takes up barely any room at all in your luggage.

Slip Travel Set

Reasons to buy: Luxurious silk | Includes accessories

• Material: Silk cover

Giving your in-flight relaxation a first-class upgrade, Slip’s luxurious travel set goes beyond the memo by factoring in its market-leading silk eye and face masks for a peaceful travel experience that spans the senses. Made from high-quality silk, all three are soft to the touch, while the travel pillow employs the same hair and skin benefits as the enduringly popular  silk pillowcase , so you can really catch some beauty sleep on your travels.

Another major pro of silk travel pillows is that the fabric is naturally hypoallergenic and machine washable, so you can easily keep it fresh and clean throughout your travels.

Huzi Infinity Pillow

• Material: Soft bamboo fabric

This rather unusual travel pillow is, in essence, a loop of soft, comforting, supportive goodness, letting you lie/rest on it any which way you see fit. From wrapping it around your neck to using it as a window/desk pillow, the only limit is your imagination (and the potentially curious glances from your fellow passengers)

Available in a variety of colours and with soft, luxurious bamboo and microfibre, the fact that it can be chucked in the washing machine for a freshen up is a welcome bonus.

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow

Cotswold Outdoor

Reasons to buy: Easy to pack down into a small size | Lightweight

• Material: 60 per cent recycled polyester

One of the biggest factors to look out for when investing in travel pillows is largely how easy they are to take with you. None of us want to be lugging around a giant pillow that doesn't fit in the bag with us on a flight, so why not explore Therm-a-Rest's compressible pillow that packs down incredibly small and tight while keeping its supportive properties.

Surprisingly comfortable and effortlessly portable, this is a dream for those frequent travellers who prioritise light packing.

Life Hall Travel Pillow

If, as with additional cabin luggage and allocated seating, you’re not willing to pay the premium for a high-end travel pillow, this Life Hall option is the best of the budget haul. While the memory foam isn’t quite as high-tech as others in this list, we can’t knock it for comfort, which is also bolstered by a raised lobe design for neck tilt support and a plush velour cover.

A rope at each end means that you can both tighten it to adjust for comfort and easily fasten it around the handle of your bag, while the choice of neutral and vibrant colourways means you can tailor your investment for business or pleasure.

By Daphne Bugler

By Ali Howard

By Emily Peck

Find anything you save across the site in your account

Luggage Trackers Are More Reliable Than Your Airline

By Tyler Chin and Timothy Beck Werth

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

Until you can afford to fly by private jet, modern air travel follows the 50/50 rule, as in there’s a 50% chance something will go wrong. But Luggage trackers can at least help you solve one of the following problems: epic delays, unruly passengers, and lost luggage that are all common hazards of flying commercial.

In fact, luggage trackers are becoming increasingly important these days, what with bag transfers persistently bungled by labor shortages in the post-COVID travel boom. According to the Department of Transportation's most recent Air Travel Consumer Report , in April 2023 more than 219,000 bags were mishandled—i.e. damaged, delayed, stolen, or otherwise lost.

As frightening as those numbers are, those with checked bags can rest easier knowing that a cheap luggage tracker in the sub-$30 range can help them keep tabs on their precious travel bags wherever they go. Buying a luggage tracker should really be a no-brainer for anyone who's checking luggage. A five-pack of underwear, some old clothes, and extra toothpaste may cost next to nothing, but when a full suitcase worth of your stuff is spinning out into the ether, your whole trip can be ruined. If your airline ever inexplicably loses track of your checked bags, a GPS luggage tracker can help you locate it.

Just leave the little device in your bag, and if (when?) it goes missing, you'll be able to locate it lickety-split. If you're getting the gnawing feeling that something's amiss—a sensation multiple people have reported as travel kicks back into high gear—they're worth every cent. Even the best tracker, though, won't miraculously teleport your missing items to you. You'll still have to navigate the infuriating bureaucracy that is airport security to reunite with your lost goods. But hey, at least you'll know they're not floating out in the middle of the ocean. Peace of mind typically costs a whole lot more.

The Best Luggage Trackers, at a Glance

Even the very best trackers for luggage typically cost less than $30, and all of our top picks are available via Amazon Prime. So even if your trip is just days away, you still have time to toss one of these trackers into your suitcase.

• The Best Overall Luggage Tracker : Apple AirTag , $29
• The Best Budget Luggage Tracker : Tile Mate , $23
• The Best Luggage Tag for Android Users : Samsung SmartTag+ , $60
• The Best Battery-Free Luggage Tag : Dynotag Luggage Tracker , $23
• The Best Luggage Tag for Real-Time Tracking : Tracki , $16
• The Best Trackers for Forgetful Folks: Tile Mate Essentials , $80

How do luggage trackers work?

Before AirTags and GPS luggage trackers were around, all travelers had were luggage tags, those little paper tags you'd affix to your checked baggage with personal info like your name, address, and phone number. If you were to lose your bag, you'd hope that some kind soul would find your tag and contact you with your bag's location—and hopefully not keep your cargo for themself. Now we have luggage trackers, which utilize Bluetooth, WiFi, and/or cellular data to give you virtual updates on your bag's location.

GPS luggage trackers utilize cellular networks to show you your item’s location in real-time no matter where it is, which is why GPS devices like Tracki are the best luggage trackers for international travel. But what about popular Bluetooth trackers such as Apple AirTags or Samsung Galaxy SmartTags? These work a little differently.

Bluetooth trackers work with an accompanying app to track your items. When the tracker is outside your phone’s Bluetooth range, it pings other devices running the same app or technology. So, if you slipped an AirTag into your spinner suitcase and it’s now thousands of miles away at the wrong airport, the AirTag will look for nearby devices running Apple’s Find My network. And because Apple devices are everywhere , there’s a good chance that someone’s iPhone or Apple Watch will be in range. Tile uses its own network, as does Samsung. If there are no devices in range, the app will show your item’s last-known location.

How do you use a luggage tracker?

Luggage trackers are fairly dummy-proof: Make sure it's on, toss it in your carry-on bag or checked luggage, and ensure it's connected to your phone or computer. GQ shopping editors have tested the most popular luggage tracking devices and apps from brands like Apple and Tile, and the setup process really is that simple. As long as your luggage tracker's battery isn't dead, it should give you its location whenever you request it from your device.

Are luggage trackers really worth it?

Check online and you'll find numerous frustrated travelers have extolled the use of luggage trackers for helping them locate their missing baggage. In short, they do work—just make sure they have enough juice in their battery and, if there's a subscription fee, that you've paid for as much coverage as you would think you need. So, are luggage trackers worth it? The cheapest one we recommend is less than $30, and that's a whole lot cheaper than springing for a whole 'nother bag (and replacements for the personal items within) in case your stuff is gone for good.

Now, the best luggage trackers to keep your sights on your bag even when you're miles apart.

The Best Overall Luggage Tracker: Apple AirTag

Apple AirTag

Air Tag (4-Pack)

Apple debuted its AirTags in April of 2021, and they quickly became popular thanks to their ability to track your lost items. Slightly larger than a quarter, AirTags help you track your missing gear—like a wallet , jacket , or backpack —through a Bluetooth connection. If you lose something with your AirTag affixed to it, you can use your phone to trigger a sound effect letting you know its location; the only caveat is that the missing item has to be within 800 feet of you. But given you'll be using your AirTag to track your lost luggage—which is probably miles away—that feature isn't as relevant.

Hundreds of millions of people own Apple devices, though, and those strangers' gear will actually help you find your stuff. When someone else's iPhone is near the AirTag, encrypted Bluetooth technology will help you locate your lost stuff in the Find My app. Plus, an AirTag has a battery life of one year, so you don't have to worry about it dying on you while you're on the search. And although it's an Apple product, AirTags sync up with Androids too, provided the product in question has the corresponding Tracker Detect app. (For the real neurotics, Apple also builds in a safety feature to let you know when an unfamiliar AirTag has been following you for a long time.) In our experience using Apple AirTags for travel, these Bluetooth devices couldn’t be easier to use.

The Best Budget Luggage Tracker: Tile Mate

Tile Mate bluetooth tracker

Tile became a standout name in Bluetooth tracking way before Apple released the AirTag, and the water-resistant Mate works in very much the same way. It boasts a Bluetooth range of 250 feet, and when it's farther away than that, it'll bounce off of other Tile devices to help you approximate its location. Its battery life is around three years long, which is a huge bump up from the AirTag's. You don't need a Tile subscription to tap into the network of Tile users, but an optional Tile Premium membership offers perks like a Smart Alert—for when you leave something behind—and a $100 reimbursement fee if Tile can't find what you're looking for.

The Best Luggage Tag for Android Users: Samsung SmartTag+

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+

The best luggage trackers for Android users, Samsung SmartTags are essentially AirTags for Samsung Galaxy users. Their Bluetooth range is 120 meters, or around 393 feet, and you can tap into the Galaxy Find Network to find your stuff when things are out of range. The SmartTag+ has a very cool feature that lets you use augmented reality to give you step-by-step directions to your tracker. Basically, you can use your phone's camera to give you real-time directions to locate your tracker, which'll glow green once you're nearby. The only downside, as you might expect, is that SmartTags are made exclusively for Galaxy users so they're largely useless to everyone else.

The Best Battery-Free Luggage Tag: Dynotag Luggage Tracker

Dynotag luggage tracker

Dynotag's tracker relies solely on good Samaritans. (Trust us, they still exist.) You can't track it remotely, but if someone else finds it they can scan the QR code, which will trigger an email sent to you with the tracker's whereabouts. It's essentially a teched-out version of an old-school luggage tag, and unlike the other options on this list, it doesn't require batteries.

The Best Luggage Tag for Real-Time Tracking: Tracki

Tracki looks like an old-school beeper, and it's built for those who are super anxious when it comes to their checked baggage. Using 4G LTE and WiFi networks (both in the US and globally), Tracki will give you real-time, precise updates to wherever your bag may be. If you're wondering why these GPS trackers for luggage are so cheap though, it's because you can only take advantage of this pin-point accuracy by paying a $20 monthly fee. If you're going away for a weeklong trip, that months-long tracking might actually be worth it to offer you some peace of mind. Unlike the AirTag or SmartTag+, the battery on the Tracki is rechargeable, but it drains quickly when in use, or any time you activate it to give you those real-time updates.

The Best Trackers for Forgetful Folks: Tile Mate Essentials

Mate Essentials 4-pack

Although Apple’s Find My network is widely considered the gold standard for item recovery, Tile also boasts a global network of users, which increases the likelihood of recovering your lost luggage. And unlike Apple luggage trackers, you can use Tile devices with iOS or Android. We’ve tested the standard Tile Mate, Tile Mate Essentials, and the premium Tile Pro , and all of these products proved incredibly easy to set up and use. So far (knock on wood), we haven’t seen our luggage or tagged items disappear from GPS while using the Tile App to track real-time location.

Tile Mate Essentials comes with four individual trackers, so you can virtually tag your carry-on and other travel accessories. If you’ve ever left your wallet at home or forgotten your keys at airport security, then the Tile Mate Essentials bundle was made for you. Plus, if you sign up for a paid Tile Premium subscription, the Tile app will also send you proactive smart notifications when you accidentally leave a tagged item behind. The next time you forget something at home in your rush to get to the airport or to leave for work on time, these notifications can be a lifesaver. Of course, if you’re determined to buy luggage trackers with no monthly fee, this is an optional add-on.

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The best travel accessories to pack on every trip

By Madison Flager

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.

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.

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The Best Travel Accessories to Make Your Trip Easier

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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.

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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.

Brenda Stolyar

Nena Farrell

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.

Adrienne So

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The Very Best Travel Gear of the Last Year, According to Our Readers

By Madison Flager and Meaghan Kenny

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.

2023 was an incredible year for travel— new hotel openings , emerging destinations , and trending food scenes brought us further around the world. And with all that travel comes lots of new gear that editors and readers alike loved. From carry-on essentials and cozy loungewear that make long-haul flights a little more comfortable to supportive walking shoes built for those days when you're clocking 20,000 steps, we tested out some pretty great travel gear this past year—and recommended our favorites to you along the way.

As we plan our next big adventures, we're taking a look back on the products that resonated most with Condé Nast Traveler readers in these last 12 months. Below, you'll find the 16 most-purchased Traveler -recommended items of 2023, from lightweight travel pillows and noise-canceling headphones to tote bags you'll wear everywhere. Consider these our best travel gear recommendations of the year, available to shop now in case you missed any the first time around.

Find the best travel gear by category:

In-flight essentials, versatile travel bags, comfortable walking shoes, cozy loungewear, leakproof toiletry bottles, noise-canceling headphones, a supportive exercise dress, waterproof gear, a portable steamer.

Our readers could not get enough of this travel pillow from Trtl this past year. It's much different than your classic travel pillow : shaped like a supportive wrap for your neck, it takes up little space in your carry-on and weighs only 4.5 ounces. Bring this on your next long-haul flight, train ride, or road trip—your head and neck will thank you later.

If you're headed on a red-eye flight, a sleep mask is a non-negotiable. You loved this one for its unique, contoured shape: It has raised sections over your eyes so it's not too restrictive or uncomfortable to sleep in, but lies flat around the nose and eyebrows to effectively block out light while you catch some ZZZs. It's easy to see why this Amazon bestseller has racked up over 71,000 five-star reviews.

Never eat off of a dirty airplane seat tray again! This $30 travel essential is a complete game changer—especially when you're stuck with limited space in the middle seat. The slim, lightweight cover slips over your seat tray like a pillow case, lending you a clean surface to eat and work on. It also features a few handy compartments to hold your Kindle, water bottle, earbuds, and any other in-flight must-haves.

Is there a more stressful feeling than thinking you've lost your luggage? Our readers clearly think not, since Apple AirTags were among the most-purchased travel gear in 2023. Slip one of these tiny tags into your checked bags, duffels, or backpacks so you know exactly where your personal belongings are each step of the way. Use the Find My app on your phone to track your tag and never worry about where your luggage is ever again.

Is there a travel bag more versatile or more chic than good leather tote? Traveler contributor Lydia Mansel raved about Cuyana's popular Classic Easy Zipper Tote . The brand gave the Easy Tote a little facelift in 2023—it can now be fully zipped, making it an even more secure travel companion. It's lightweight, sleek, and the quality speaks for itself. You'll have this thing for years to come.

Calpak's Luka duffel is the perfect travel bag for weekend trips or long-haul flights (we like to use it as a personal item ). Carry it by its soft top handles or by its long adjustable strap. Features we love: the separate shoe compartment, trolley sleeve, and the several internal pockets to keep you organized. I've used many duffel bags over the years, but this one reigns supreme.

Every packing list has to have a pair of comfortable walking shoes on it. We appreciate the effortless cool look and feel of New Balance shoes, especially the 547 Core sneaker. There's no break-in time needed and I've never gotten any blisters after wearing these—even after a long day trip.

If you haven't tried a pair of Allbirds yet, what are you waiting for? The brand is known for its ultra-lightweight, comfortable kicks—the kind that make sightseeing all day long on your feet a breeze. The Tree Runners are versatile enough to pack on any trip and take up little suitcase space.

We all need some comfortable loungewear, whether you're working from home, boarding a long flight, or just relaxing in your hotel room. We love matching sets like one from Cozy Earth—the pullover and joggers are supremely soft, cool to the touch, and offer a perfectly relaxed fit without being too baggy.

When it comes to packing toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and moisturizer, you're going to need some leakproof, reusable travel bottles . Our editors swear by Cadence capsules: These airtight, magnetic capsules stay neatly together in your Dopp kit , take up little space, and are designed without any right angles or edges, so you can get as much product out as possible (this also makes them so easy to clean). Customize everything about your Cadence set—from the color and size to the number of capsules to what each label says. And while the original small capsules are a nice size for short trips, you can also grab the The Extender —an add-on that allows you to increase the size of the bottle when you need more room.

When Amazon Prime Day rolled around in July and then again in October, noise-canceling headphones were scooped up in droves. There are a lot of popular options on the market we love, like the Beats Studio3 wireless headphones. They'll block out all that extra noise on your next flight and let you comfortably listen to all your favorite movies in peace.

More noise-canceling gear we recommend: the Apple AirPods Pro wireless ear buds. If you haven't tried these yet, now is the perfect time. These tiny earbuds come in an ultra-compact case that is small enough to fit in a crossbody bag or running waist pack. I use these every day—while I'm hiking, running, commuting to the office, and everything in between.

Exercise dresses are still having a moment. The sporty yet feminine dress is reimagining activewear—it can be worn just as effortlessly to a workout class or a game of pickleball as it can be to a lunch date. Of our favorite styles, you loved this option from Outdoor Voices most. It offers breathable built-in shorts, adjustable straps, and side pockets, with a flattering silhouette that's neither tight nor restrictive. We have a feeling these will be just as popular again come spring.

Packing an umbrella seems like a waste of space, until you find yourself in a downpour without one. Traveler contributor Claire Volkman put a dozen options to the test ; this sturdy, wind-resistant, lightweight, and compact option from Weatherman was her favorite overall.

Keep your phone safe while at the beach, in a kayak, or on a boat with this waterproof pouch from Pelican. It comes with a lanyard to wear around your neck, but if it does go overboard, you can rest easy knowing it'll float on the surface.

It's nearly impossible to keep clothes wrinkle-free in your suitcase. This becomes especially tricky when you're traveling for a special occasion, say a destination wedding , and you need to touch up formal wear upon arrival. This lightweight, portable steamer was a huge hit with our readers—and we see why: It weighs less than a pound, is easy to pack in your suitcase, and offers 10 minutes of continuous steam. The Nesugar steamer comes with a convenient wall mount, too, so you can keep it neat and tidy back at home.

Looking for more of our readers' favorite travel gear? Take a look back at some of our top stories of the year:

• Comfortable walking shoes for travel
• Our editors' favorite tote bags
• How to sleep on a plane
• Reusable toiletry bottles
• Loungewear sets for long travel days
• The best travel accessories

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.

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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 . 

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The Best Travel Accessories, According to Frequent Travelers

Every travel situation requires a different set of tools and knickknacks, whether you’re taking a road trip, a red-eye, or backpacking from hostel to hostel. That’s why we talked to eight different kinds of travelers who haven’t settled for the sedentary lifestyle — from professional travel writers and expedition leaders to hard-core nomads (one who’s already ticked 65 countries off of his bucket list) about the special travel accessories that have made their journeys that much easier.

They described in-flight necessities that make that cramped plane seat a little more bearable, functional gadgets that are small miracles in off-the-grid regions , and even a de-constructable suitcase that has earned many admirers abroad. (If you’re sniffing out the ideal gift for a seasoned traveler, too, see what other vagabonds are asking for this year .)

“Pacsafe makes all kinds of products geared toward travel experts looking to stay one step ahead of thieves, which are RFID-protected (meaning they keep people from swiping your credit-card information). I personally like the Pacsafe wallets because of their retro design, and the ability to chain the wallet to your belt or belt loop. This is essential not only when you are in a big group of people (like a train station in India or tourist area in China), but also when you have had too much to drink and might leave your valuables unattended and lost.” — J.R. Harrison III, nomadic traveler who has backpacked to over 65 countries and six continents, travel blogger at The Savvy Vagabond

“I always have tons of gadgets when I travel: the Kindle Paperwhite, the GoPro Hero 5, the Sony A7 Mirrorless Camera, the MacBook Air , multiple USB power banks (all of which are Anker, by the way, the best company for this stuff), etc. When couch surfing — or staying in guest houses, especially hostels — around the world, plugs are few and far between. There are also times when you may be on the move for a few days and won’t have time to sit and charge all of your things for 12-plus hours. This is where this wall charger comes in handy: All you need is one outlet that you can reach with the extended cord, and voilà, plug six devices in all at once.” — J.R. Harrison III

“It’s funny-looking, and before they were more prolific , I always worried people would think I was wearing a neck brace, but it’s the most practical neck pillow I’ve tried thus far. And I can sleep through an entire 15-hour flight, so clearly it’s working for me.” — Sarah Khan , travel writer  

“I take quite a few red-eyes, and it’s not uncommon for me to head straight to meetings from the airport, so I always have a great eye mask on hand to ensure I can get a good night’s sleep. Slip makes a fantastic one that we also carry in our stores.” — Jen Rubio, co-founder of Away

“This cap can turn any Nalgene water bottle into a pressurized shower. Just screw on the lid, pump up to pressure, and depress the button. Mist yourself off on a hot day, rinse your dishes, or even wash your hair while camping. It’s pressurized water, wherever you go. We already ordered ours!” — Megan and Michael of travel blog Fresh Off the Grid

“Small and portable, this tripod can be set up instantly. It’s not intrusive to your fellow travelers, easy to use, and compact enough to slip into a suitcase or even a day pack. Add an adapter to safely sync this sturdy little tripod with your smartphone.” — Jen Martin, director of expedition development, expedition leader, Lindblad Expeditions

“This plasma arc lighter is hands down the coolest way to light a fire. Using a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it generates an electrical arc that is 100 percent windproof. It comes with an integrated flashlight and lantern, so you can offer somebody a ‘light’ in every sense of the word.” — Megan and Michael

“Lightweight, compact, and easy to pack, this utensil set is great for camping trips or just having in the glove box of your car. Never use disposable plastic utensils again!” — Megan and Michael 

“I like the Garmin eTrex — it’s rugged, waterproof, and small enough to hold in your hand or pocket. The latest updates have improved screens, resolution, graphics, and ease of use. Having a GPS can come in handy if you want to record where you’ve been or specific locations you’ve visited. (Did you propose on a trail hike? Want to geocache a message for future travelers?) We use them often to record good landing sites, hiking trails, and as an additional safety measure.” — Jen Martin

“I never really invested in quality headphones until now, and I’m so glad I did. Beats by Dre’s new Studio 3 headphones have advanced noise-canceling technology that can drown out everything. I take a lot of red-eyes, and have always found it nearly impossible to sleep with the constant buzz of the plane’s engine, so these headphones are game changers. They’re wireless, so I can connect them to my iPhone via Bluetooth or use the removable cord to plug them in when I want to watch a movie. They’re not cheap, but if you travel a lot, I think they’re worth it.” — Laura Itzkowitz , freelance travel writer and editor

“For a total gadgetry pick — more for fun than functionality — a range finder is high on my list. Tell your distance from a glacier face or know how far your ship is from shore or the nearest iceberg. It’s an interesting option — especially in cold climates, where the ‘white on white’ topography makes it impossible to tell distances. Small and portable, this is highly rated and comes from a company known for good optics.” — Jen Martin

“These headphones block out all the noise in an airplane. The motors, but also crying children and snorting men. The sound is, of course, phenomenal — so perfect to watch a movie, listen to some music, or get into a meditation mode.” — Pauline Egge, travel blogger and creator of PetitePassport.com

“I always use the Pearl when I’m on a trip. It’s designed with the traveler in mind, so everything fits in it. That is, my camera, my phone, a charger, lipstick, my wallet, a small notebook, and a pen.” — Pauline Egge

“I just got the carry-on suitcase by Away, which has a super-sleek design with a virtually indestructible shell, built-in USB charger, and clever internal compartments, including a waterproof laundry bag. Just make sure to remove the battery pack if you’re traveling through Asia! A friend got flagged at security because of it.” — Laura Itzkowitz

“I am absolutely in love with this backpack. It’s expensive, but I really couldn’t find a better option that’s both stylish and practical. If you are carrying anything nice as far as a laptop , gadgets, or a nice DSLR camera, these bags are the TRUTH. It is padded in just about every area, provides easy side-pocket access, a padded slip for a laptop, a pouch for a tripod, and enough space for a Bluetooth speaker, hard drive, clothes, or whatever else you want. Extremely durable, sexy, stylish, comfortable, and practical.” — J.R. Harrison III

“I took this suitcase with me to Asia, Europe, and the States. Everywhere I went, people reacted to the suitcase as if it were a Labrador pup. They wanted to touch it, use it, and basically wanted to take it with them immediately. The Bugaboo Boxer (yes, of the stroller company) is a suitcase you push instead of pull. It has four wheels you can easily fold and unfold. It makes traveling so much lighter. I’m a big fan.” — Pauline Egge 

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

774 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3117 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

1. Travel Organizer

2. passport holder, 3. power bank, 4. neck pillow, 5. sleeping mask, 6. earplugs, 8. compression socks, 9. hand sanitizer, 10. travel adapter, 11. travel converter, 12. luggage tags, 13. money belt, 14. electronics organizer, 15. travel-size bottles, 16. toiletry bag, 17. travel hairdryer, 18. jewelry organizer, 19. travel laundry bag, 20. packing cubes, 21. travel towel, 22. daypack, 23. water bottle, 24. bug spray, 25. tsa-approved lock, 26. first aid kit, 27. luggage scale, 28. portable safe, 29. footrest, final thoughts.

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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.

The Best Travel Accessories

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What accessories do you need to travel.

There are many accessories on the market that make travel easier, safer, and more comfortable. Some recommended buys include a power bank, compression socks, neck pillow, travel adapter, luggage tags, and packing cubes.

Are packing cubes really worth it?

Packing cubes are a worthy investment for your travel gear as they help keep your belongings tidy, can reduce creases, and can protect your clothes from spills.

What are the best travel accessories for electronics?

There are a few great travel accessories that are a must for anyone traveling with electronics. These include a power bank, a travel adapter, a voltage converter, an electronics organizer for cables, and a Wi-Fi hotspot .

Where can I buy travel accessories?

You can buy all the travel accessories you could need from Amazon, but you can also try places such as Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and Samsonite.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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16 Unique Travel Accessories We Didn't Know We Needed in 2024

From drink caddies to pocket tools, these game-changing accessories make travel better.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

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Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

The most innovative travel accessories offer solutions to common frustrations we’ve learned to accept as part of the process, and the truly game-changing ones solidify themselves as the new way we travel. Consider wheeled luggage: for centuries we lugged around heavy trunks and suitcases before someone had the idea to add wheels (and to go back would seem almost like a cruel form of punishment). 

However, with so many new travel products flooding the market these days, it can be hard to know when something is worth your hard-earned coin or a dud. That’s where we come in. We’ve scoped out the scene to find the most revolutionary and unique travel accessories that you didn’t even know existed — or that you so desperately needed. 

Why travel tough when you don’t have to? From space-saving drink caddies and secret, stashable storage to travel bidets and sunglasses that just might replace your earbuds, these are the products that are changing the way we travel for the better. 

Bevledge Airplane Window Organization Station

It’s a slim and portable beverage tray that utilizes the window to hold more than just your drinks. 

It doesn’t work on all window types, and some airlines don’t allow it.

The BevLedge is the answer for all window-seat flyers who struggle with divvying up the real estate on their tray table. This genius travel product functions as a lightweight drink holder that perches at the bottom of most (but not all) plane windows. Just unfold it, slide it into the window frame, pop it out, and voila! you’ve got a double-drink caddy with dedicated space to store two pairs of sunglasses, your cell phone, and two pairs of wired earphones. The slim design measures about six inches wide when folded and can easily fit in your bag's main compartment or a laptop/tablet slip pocket. Using the BevLedge will still shake your drinks if you hit rough air, but they’ll be more secure than on your tray table. 

Price at publish: $20

Vssl Wilderness Navigation Flask & Flashlight

Uncommon Goods

It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of flasks. 

The emergency tools can only be used simultaneously if the flask is empty. 

Swap out those old-school, flat-shaped flasks for the Vssl Outdoor Flask that is designed to not only quench your thirst on the go but can also help you out of some tricky travel situations. The Vssl Outdoor Flask features a built-in emergency, multi-mode LED flashlight, aluminum bottle opener, and precision compass topper — and holds up to eight ounces of liquid plus two collapsible stainless steel 1.5-ounce cups hidden inside. Double insulation and a double vacuum seal promise to keep cold drinks chilled for up to 10 hours and hot drinks steaming for up to five. The 9.3-inch high cylindrical stainless steel design is rugged yet stylish, with a magnetic carabiner clip that makes it perfect for taking out on a day hike, a far-flung train ride, or other places where resources may be scarce. Just be prepared to pour out any remaining liquid if you get lost; the flashlight and compass pieces also function as end caps. 

Price at publish: $115

LokiStashed 3-Pack Velvet Hair Tie Scrunchies

It’s like having a small purse on your wrist or in your hair.

You have to be mindful of the types of items you store inside. 

We’re huge fans of travel accessories that allow us to be practical without losing style points. These LokiStashed Classic Scrunchies do double duty as throwback hair ties and somewhat incognito stash wallets. Each pack comes with three scrunchies with a zippered opening that allows you to store valuables such as cash, tickets, lip balm, or even a loose key. We love the heavy-duty elastic because it’s strong enough to hold long or thick hair, while the plush velvet material keeps it comfortable on our wrists and doesn’t snag on hair. Heavy or bulky items may cause the scrunchie to sag or have its secret storage feature exposed, while delicate stashes may become damaged when twisted around your ponytail.  

Price at publish: $13 for 3

Apollo Neuro

Courtesy of Apollo Neuro

It’s a drug-free option to help lower stress and improve sleep. 

It's pricey and may not work for everyone. 

Frequent traveling, long journeys, and time zone changes can wreck your body and affect your sleep quality. The Apollo Wearable is a health wearable backed by over 15 years of scientific research. This unique accessory doesn’t track your health so much as add to it by using varying vibrations to stimulate the vagus nerve, signaling the body’s natural response to touch. It is said to reduce stress and improve sleep with as little as three hours of daily wear, and attaches with a strap that resembles an inverted Apple Watch. Users choose between eight specific vibration programs in the app for a targeted effect, and can customize the length of time and intensity, too. (We especially like "unwind" to help us relax during travel and "fall asleep" when adjusting to new time zones.)

Price at publish: $349

Rolling Square Keychain Charger Cable

You can use a device as a power source. 

You may have to remove some phone cases to fit the port. 

Sick of packing separate chargers for all of your different travel tech devices? The Rolling Square inCharge 6-in-1 charger swaps out your need to carry around several separate charging cords by providing six different types of charging ports in one portable charger that fits on your keychain. Yes, it’s true — it gives you two main USB-A and USB-C ports that each charge or sync to USB-C, Lightning, and Micro-USB ports. We especially love that it enables you to take the juice from one device to power another. For example, you can pull a charge from one iPhone to charge your wireless earbuds — a life-saver on long travel days. (Note: this feature is only available if you use the USB-C input.) The price is a steal, and the only real downside we have found is that you might have to remove your device case for the port to fit fully. 

Price at publish: $20 

Weatherproof Packable Travel Neck Pillow

It’s a sneaky way to pack a little extra and beat the in-flight A/C.

The comfort level of the pillow really depends on what you stuff inside.  

Packable neck pillows are finally getting the recognition they deserve as clever ways to sneak some extra items onto the plane (they’re practically an additional day bag carry-on), but this product takes it even further. Are you heading to a destination with erratic temperatures? The Weatherproof Packable Travel Neck Pillow comes pre-packed with a lightweight, down-alternative puffer jacket. On the journey, it functions as a comfy neck pillow — and the convenience of packing a solid jacket for your trip without taking up space (a particular boon for those just-in-case jacket needs). We also like that we can wear the jacket on the return trip, if needed, and free up some suitcase space for more souvenirs. This works best if later you stuff the pillow sleeve with larger, softer items like sweaters and scarves since it’ll be less comfy with lumpy items with the jacket removed. 

Price at publish: $70

Cincha Travel Belt

It has serious style and works with most bags and luggage. 

You’ll get more pattern and color options if you order directly from Cincha. 

The Cincha Travel Belt is a stylish solution to the age-old problem of carrying multiple luggage pieces or securing your purse, diaper bag, or other personal bag to the trolley handle of your carry-on suitcase. Think of this as a cinching belt (that stretches up to 45 inches) for your travel bags. We love that it works with almost any standalone bag that can fit with a simple wraparound and click of the belt and adds solid style to boot. The belt features vegan leather accents and is available in 14 core colors and patterns, plus a handful of limited-edition designs at any time (and you’ll get the most variety by ordering directly from Cincha). Even as you’re wheeling around hands-free, you can still access the contents of your attached bag, so there’s no need to clip and reclip. For some sneaky extra storage and added convenience, grab the Belt Bag , a zippered pouch that doubles as both a travel belt and a crossbody or hip pack to wear instead. 

Price at publish: $40

Fila x Revel Tune Smart Sunglasses

Glasses USA

You can snag a pair even if you wear prescription lenses. 

People may look at you like you’re talking to yourself. 

The Fila X Revel Tune SFI502 Sunglasses make carrying around headphones borderline irrelevant. With new technology, the glasses allow you to be able to listen to music and take calls through the sunglasses you’re already wearing. The design combines function and fashion with a slightly more boxy take on the classic Wayfarer shape, and you can expect to get top-notch audio and crisp vision. Like wireless headphones, these audio sunglasses have quick-touch controls at the temples. One of our favorite things about these sunglasses is that you can customize them with prescription lenses, including bifocals or progressive lenses. Prepare for puzzled stares from fellow travelers who could assume you’re talking to yourself when taking calls on these glasses. For now, this limited-edition collab pair is only available on one site. 

Price at publish: $138

Riemot Luggage Cup Holder

It gives travelers the freedom to roll around the airport without juggling too much in their hands.

This works best on spinner suitcases (versus two-wheeled luggage). 

Raise your hands if you wish your stroll to and from the gate could be a more hands-free experience. Consider adding a drink caddy to your luggage or stroller . The Riemont Luggage Travel Cup Holder is a sneaky travel accessory that effortlessly slips over your carry-on trolley handle to give you a temporary, dedicated space to store an airport drink (or two), and your phone. Beverages such as water bottles, baby bottles, reusable water bottles, or coffee cups sit in the front two pockets, while your cell phone, boarding pass, or passport can slip in the back pocket sleeve — and just like that, your hands are free from a cumbersome and delicate balancing act. While you can use this as a caddy as you wait at the gate, if you want to move hands-free through the airport, you’ll need to have a piece of luggage with four wheels to avoid spillage. 

Price at publish: $12

Twelve South AirFly Pro

There’s no need to have wired headphones to use the in-flight screen. 

It can be finicky to set up the first time. 

Wireless headphones have soared in popularity, and airline seatback entertainment systems have yet to catch up. While your wireless headphones will work for app-based entertainment on personal devices, if you’ve gotten stuck on a long flight with only a wired audio plug-in option, it’s hard to forget. Instead of buying and carrying around two sets of headphones, the Twelve South Airfly Pro Bluetooth Transmitter has come up with a solution so obvious we can’t believe nobody has thought of it before. This wired Bluetooth transmitter plugs into your standard headphone jack and lets you transmit and receive audio via wireless earbuds. Even better news? It works with car aux-in jacks, has up to 16 hours of battery life (charged with a USB-C), and can pair up to two sets of earphones simultaneously — making it a great travel product that'll save money in the long run.

Price at publish: $55

Victorinox Pocket Tool

It’s compact enough to bring it on daily adventures, just in case. 

You’ll need to put this in a checked bag for air travel as you cannot bring it into the cabin itself. 

The Swiss Army Knife has finally gotten a modern update. The Victorinox Swisscard Lite Pocket Tool is a 13-in-1 utility accessory that is the size of a credit card, and, at under three millimeters thick, slim enough to fit into your wallet. This impressively-designed card squeezes scissors, a ballpoint pen, a straight pin, four micro screwdrivers, an emergency blade, magnifying glass, a ruler with centimeters and inches, LED light, and tweezers into one space. While we love the compactness of this tool, it’s worth noting that its plastic casing is not as durable as the metal used in the O.G. Swiss Army knife and, since it has a blade, it can’t be carried into an airplane cabin. 

Price at publish: $35

Orihill Water Bottle Pouch

It’s a minimalist packer’s dream come true. 

The new larger size works best on water bottles with a handle. 

The Akisola Water Bottle Pouch is for our truly minimalist travelers out there. Keep everything you need to stay hydrated and organized in the palm of one hand with this strap-on wallet for your water bottle. Board your flight, train, or bus with just your water bottle and an Akisola zippered pouch loaded up with your phone, ID, ticket, passport, money, and other necessary travel items. The elastic strap easily adjusts to fit multiple water bottle sizes and velcros firmly into place. This version sports a new and improved, patented anti-slip grip on the back of the pouch to help keep it from sliding down the side of your water bottle. The new, larger 6.8-by-3.9-inch pouch can fit up to an iPhone 14 Plus but that makes it more difficult to carry on water bottles without a handle. 

Subtl Beauty Starter Stack

Subtl Beauty

All five products in the Starter Stak are gluten-free, fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and vegan. 

Not all pods are customizable for skin tone or type. 

Looking for a handy travel accessory for the woman in your life? Subtl has created an ultra-portable, stackable way to travel with makeup essentials. Their Starter Stak comes with six individual pods that screw-stack on top of each other, perfectly sized for an easy travel makeup routine and touch-ups on the go. Each pod holds 3 to 3.9 grams (up to 60 applications) of cream concealer, highlighter powder, shine control powder, 2-in-1 lip and cheek balm, plus a makeup brush pod and mirrored top cap. Want a taller stack? Adding and customizing your stack is as easy as choosing your shade and adding it to the pack. Each pod is approximately one centimeter deep and under two inches wide, leaving you with a streamlined, TSA-approved cylinder you can toss into your bag without taking up tons of space. For the starter pack, you’ll get to select your concealer shade, which also dictates the bronzer color you'll receive, but everything else has a fixed shade. The makeup claims to be for all skin types, but the cream-based makeup will likely require setting if you have oily skin. 

SoMine Seat Organizer

It keeps all of your travel essentials within arm’s reach in the seat pocket in front of you.

It needs the weight of being fully loaded to keep it from swinging into your shins when in the seatback pocket. 

The SoMine Commuter Essential Seat Organizer is an easy-access storage pouch that puts all of your frequently-accessed travel gear essentials — including your earbuds, tablet, reading material, cords, snacks, and more — within arm’s reach in the seatback pocket in front of you. Load it up with your gear, pack it in your carry-on, and then use the tote handle to pull it out once you’re in your seat and slip the anchor sleeve into the pouch of the seatback pocket. We love this because it limits the number of times you’ll need to bend over or get up to access an overhead bag. 

The main organizer sleeve has four small slip pockets plus one larger main slip pocket that can fit a tablet, plus a metal-reinforced corner cable hole for easy wired device connectivity and charging. The zippered top-layer privacy pouch hides your gear from nosy neighbors and is perfect for storing smaller loose items like ID or credit cards, coins, earbud cases, or your passport. A thoughtful water-resistant lining keeps us calm in case of drink spills, but we don’t love that it knocks into our knees when there’s not enough weight inside. 

Price at publish: $25

Tushy Travel Bidet

 It’s inconspicuous to carry. 

This manual bidet doesn’t have the same stream strength as a built-in bidet. 

Fueled by the Great Toilet Paper Shortage of 2020, more people than we can count became fans of the bidet during the first part of the pandemic — and the Tushy brand was there to answer the call. The popular bidet brand has created a collapsible bidet that travelers swear by. The Tushy Travel Bidet is a discreet and portable squeeze-to-squirt bidet that clips onto or into your travel bag. Just fill it up, pop out the nozzle, get into position, and squeeze. We not only like this product for travelers who prefer bidets, but it can also be a lifesaver when you find yourself in public or makeshift toilet situations where toilet paper isn’t an option. Be warned, though: it’s a manual method that can require awkward positioning, and the stream may not be as steady or robust as what you’re used to with a regular bidet.  

Price at publish: $29

Ostrichpillow Original Travel Pillow

This comes in extra clutch on long layovers and works for multiple forms of travel. 

It takes up a lot of space and looks a bit silly. 

You’ve probably seen the immersive Ostrich Original Napping Pillow pop up in your targeted ads; this game-changing (yet odd-looking) pillow creates a sleep space practically anywhere along your travel journey. The catch? You’ve got to stick your head and hands inside of it. Comfy and soft pillow blocks out sound and light to create a tranquil, padded environment that makes it easier to fall asleep. Slide in and rest your head on your tray table or against a wall or window to create a private sleep environment. It is a top pick for a travel pillow if you’re willing to look strange or carry around a pillow helmet in the name of good sleep. 

Price at publish: $99

Tips for Buying Unique Travel Accessories

Prioritize usability.

Just because something is cool doesn’t mean it will be a must-have for your needs. Consider when and where you’ll use a specific travel product. Luggage space is still prime, so we recommend only springing for the items with the most potential for frequent use. Of course, there’s no harm in treating yourself (if you can afford it) because you never know what unique buy could become your next trip essential.

Consider your trip type

We’re definitely on board with big or small travel accessory purchases that will significantly improve your journey or experience at a destination. If you don’t travel often and have a bucket list trip that requires long-haul flights, why not do what you can to make sure you arrive rested and fresh? If you’re backpacking or hopping on a ton of transit, it’s best to stock up on accessories that are easy to pack, carry, and take from place to place, but less so if it’s a road trip where you can leave these items in the car. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven relied on her expertise and experience as a frequent traveler, conducted thorough research, and collected insights from fellow travelers to share the best and most unique accessories on the market. 

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The 40 Best Travel Gifts for the Coolest Frequent Flyers

Thoughtful presents to take wherever they go.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Sure, engines become more fuel-efficient and in-flight experiences involve better tech, but travel gadgets have evolved too. Improved luggage , travel shoes , dopp kits , and packing cubes make the journey about as enjoyable as the destination. Itineraries change and random adventures ensue, but you can rely on good travel items like these to make that work trip or vacation all the better.

So, if you're looking for a great gift for the traveler in your life, look no further than this list. We've got travel gifts for every kind of nomad, from kiddos to Grandpa and everybody in between. And we're not just dealing in suitcases and travel wallets . No, the best travel gifts do way more than that. The best travel gifts heighten the experience and bring a bit of that familiar comfort from home along with you.

What do we mean? We're talking about gifts that will get some serious use and accrue a lot of frequent flier miles. For example, a sophisticated packing cube that separates clean clothes from dirty laundry ( Eagle Creek's Clean/Dirty Cube ) or a phone mount that attaches directly on to your tray table on the plane ( Perilogics' Airplane Phone Holder Mount ). And if the adventure needs an adventure, there are even rental companies like Polaris that can set one up with that vehicle (snowmobile, ATV, autocycle) they've always dreamed of driving.

Gift the traveler in your life something special. Read on for the best travel gifts in 2023.

Best Gifts for Men | Unique Gifts for Men | Best Gifts for Wives | Best Gifts for Dad | Best Tech Gifts | Best Fitness Gifts

Manta Sleep Sleep Mask

Cozy, adjustable, and breathable, this sleep mask set will set the traveler up with the same caliber of sleep they get at home anywhere they go. The mask is virtually weightless while allowing no light through, meaning a great snooze.

Anker Portable Charger

A great travel gift does not have to break the bank. Proof? This portable charger, which will keep devices powered up no matter where the destination is. The charger is slim but built tough, meaning it can handle all the drops and other oopsies that come with travel.

Read more: Best Gifts Under $25

Away The Medium Suitcase

The word suitcase can conjure up heavy containers and colossal matching sets. This carry-on luggage is redefining the category, featuring a classic look with all the modern amenities. Travelers will admire the durable shell and the unique compression system on the interior, which allows for maximum packing efficiency.

Spigen Wallet S

Bulky wallets are the nemesis of any good traveler. This sophisticated option offers security via RFID blocking and enough space for 12 cards, all while appearing incredibly sleek and minimalist.

Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Does the traveler in your life need a stocking stuffer? This phone holder mount is just the thing, engineered to hang on to a device and clip onto the tray of your airplane seat. That translates to non-stop entertainment at 30,000 feet.

Read more: Best Stocking Stuffers

Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

Smart travel involves being practical. And it's a lot easier to be practical with this bluetooth wireless audio transmitter. Simply plug it into the audio jack on the plane and send that sound wirelessly from the source to your ear buds.

Mezzanine Cali Backpack

Good travel backpacks are functional while great ones offer a bit of luxury. This one is of the latter category, touting a fashionable build with sleek pockets and gussets with hidden magnetic snaps.

Read more: Best Travel Bags

Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Clean/Dirty Cube

The traveler will appreciate this pack-it cube, which separates the dirty laundry from the clean with a floating divider. It makes packing a breeze, keeps odors at bay, and is extremely lightweight, making it very, very portable.

Philips Sonicare Battery Toothbrush

Say goodbye to travel hygiene with cords and spare chargers. This smart toothbrush is battery powered and comes with a slick travel case.

Cadence The Originals - Set of 6

So many things the traveler needs most—the toothbrush, the sub block, the fragrance—are thrown into the bag last minute. Keep grooming items organized in style with this innovative storage set. The honeycomb design makes it stackable while the size is up to the user, as the whole thing is customizable.

Patagonia Men's Baggies™ Shorts - 5"

Ready for anything, these stellar shorts from Patagonia are made for the nomad. Equipped to take on the beach, river, camping trip, or brunch table, they dry quickly and look way better than most multifunctional shorts.

Venom Venom Go

Travel can be stressful, not just on the mind but on the body. That's where a good massage comes into play, soothing you to the core. Turns out you can get a pro-grade massage while away from home with this high-functioning gadget. Best, it throws heat and is about the size of a wallet.

Mack Weldon Nova Travel Kit

Got a traveler friend who's still toting around that dopp kit they grew up with? Time for an upgrade. This one is made from recycled plastic, comes with a smart rubber base that can grip the counter, and even includes four refillable recycled bottles for those toiletry liquids.

olukai Ulele

Built for the beach lover, these flip flops with arch support offer style and beach-y traits, like sliding on with ease and floating when dropped in the water. They grip well, offer tremendous comfort, and evoke just enough class that you can sport them off indoors as well as out.

ARMANI Acqua di Giò Eau de Toilette Travel Spray

What makes a great travel cologne? A great scent, naturally, but also a packable sprayer that can destination hop with ease. Bonus points for delivering a fragrance that offers its own sense of travel, evoking a breezy cliffside in the Mediterranean.

Buck Mason Carry-On Jacket

We love a heavy jacket but they don't travel well. Enter the Carry-On Jacket, inspired by a blazer and softened for both feel and packing pucposes. Now you can look sharp and have some warmth without being weighed down by heftier garment.

Read more: Best Travel Blazers

Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 Electric Trimmer and Shaver

Get the quality of a barbershop trim anywhere with this electric razor . The blade can stretch in all directions making it a great tool not just for beards and head hair but the entire body.

On Running THE ROGER Pro

Superior travel shoes are sneakers on steroids—they handle multiple surfaces, are a joy to wear, and look good enough for most outings. These tennis shoes ace the travel game, great for the actual game but so versatile they can be worn just about anywhere.

Google Chromecast

Dads like to unwind, perhaps even more so while traveling. Whether it's a work trip or vacation, he'll appreciate having his familiar streaming service at his side, allowing him to deep dive into a new series or rewatch his favorite movie.

Le Labo Hinoki Body & Hair Travel Set

Grooming can get lost in the hustle and bustle of travel. Avoid that nonsense with this excellent travel set, candy for hair and skin. It comes with high quality shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and body cream. No more not staying fresh while away from home.

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