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The 7 best packing cubes of 2024, chosen by travel experts.

Packing cubes are the ultimate travel accessory.

The Best Packing Cubes for Travel

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

Even the most seasoned travelers can struggle to  pack efficiently , which is why packing cubes – organizational containers for your luggage – are so popular. You don't have to spend a lot of money for a quality set, either; in fact, some of the best packing cube sets are available for less than $20.

Read on to discover our packing cube picks in a variety of categories, based on travel expert recommendations and consumer reviews.

• Best Overall: Veken Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓
• Best Compression: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set on Amazon
• Best for Backpacking: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set on Amazon
• Best Formalwear: Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set on Amazon
• Best for Kids: EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Best Size Options: Tripped Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes on Amazon
• Best for Style: Lug Compression Packing Cubes on QVC

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and supply chain issues.)

Best Overall: Veken Packing Cubes

Not only do the Veken Packing Cubes have 13,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating on Amazon, but they're also super affordable (and often discounted), making them a traveler favorite. "I never thought I needed packing cubes until I tried out the Veken set and realized how much easier packing (and unpacking!) could be," says Catriona Kendall , associate editor of Travel at U.S. News. "I usually have trouble staying organized, but I've taken these cubes everywhere from weekends away to a campervan vacation in New Zealand, and with all the different pieces in the set I'm finally able to keep my belongings in order."

The eight-piece set includes four mesh packing cubes plus four bags designated for dirty laundry, a pair of shoes, toiletries and miscellaneous small items. The Veken Packing Cubes are available in a dozen different colors.

Price: $23.99 or less

Best Compression: Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set

"I swear by the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set," says Christine Sarkis, editor in chief at FamilyVacationist. "They're lightweight, you can see into them without needing to unzip them, and the fabric texture isn't slippery so as you're wedging carefully rolled items of clothing into them, they don't pop out." Made from recycled materials, these durable, water-resistant packing cubes are also backed by Eagle Creek's lifetime warranty. "I'm going on 20 years with mine!" says travel expert Candice Criscione of Mom in Italy. The Pack-It Reveal Cube Set includes three packing cubes in different sizes.

Price: $40 or less

Best for Backpacking: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set

The Pack-It Isolate Compression Cube Set from Eagle Creek comes highly recommended by frequent travelers, particularly for backpacking trips. Available in a set of two or three, these packing cubes are lightweight yet durable, with self-repairing zippers (standard on all Eagle Creek packing cubes) designed to withstand overpacking. The Isolate packing cubes are also machine-washable – a rarity for packing cubes.

Caroline Teel, managing editor at SmarterTravel, uses packing cubes specifically for adventure travel and appreciates that these compression bags are pre-treated with an anti-microbial agent that prevents odors. "Having used them on an eight-day hiking trip on Mount Kilimanjaro, I can confirm they work in that department!" she says. She adds that while she's tested a variety of packing cubes, she always comes back to Eagle Creek.

Price: $44.95 or less

Best for Formalwear: Eagle Creek Pack-It Starter Set

Slightly different from the Pack-It Reveal and Pack-It Isolate, the Pack-It Starter Set includes a large mesh folder with folder board for minimizing wrinkled garments – a good alternative to a traditional garment bag . The folder can hold up to 12 dress shirts, dresses, and the like, making this set an ideal choice for business travel or cruise vacations with formal nights. The other two cubes (small and medium-sized) are ideal for casual clothing, undergarments and accessories. These packing cubes are also treated with an anti-microbial agent to block odor-causing bacteria and – sans the folding board – they are water-resistant and machine washable.

Price: $54.95 or less

Best for Kids: EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes

Courtesy of EzPacking

"My kids prefer these clear packing cubes," says Sarkis. "They're a little deeper and more rigid, and you can see everything in them, which helps kids pack for themselves and stay organized on the road." Even if you travel with little ones , you may find these clear packing cubes useful for organizing baby gear and locating essentials on the go. The EzPacking Clear Packing Cubes come in a set of four and are available in a variety of colors.

Price: $56.99 or less

Best Size Options: Tripped Travel Gear Compression Cubes

Courtesy of Tripped Travel Gear

Many travelers like the compression cubes offered by Tripped Travel Gear, a small business owned by a globetrotting couple (and their adorable dog). Their innovative luggage line includes a two-, six- and seven-piece set of packing cubes; the seven-piece set is especially noteworthy for its variety of cubes, which includes a shoe bag, laundry bag and a tube-shaped cube that's useful for storing electronics such as hair irons.

These packing cubes also feature an external pocket. "You can use this pocket to store clothing as you use it, to keep the clean and dirty clothes separate," says Andrew Uyal of the travel blog Flights and Footsteps. The packing cubes are available in solid colors as well as national park and other travel-themed prints.

Best for Style: Lug Compression Packing Cubes

Courtesy of Lug

Luggage expert and senior editor of Travel at U.S. News, Rachael Hood , loves the fun colors and patterns – which include tartan plaid, polka dots and florals – on these packing cubes by Lug. The lightweight cubes can store a lot before compressing down to just one inch in thickness, and they each feature a carrying handle. "They make packing so easy," says Hood. "I can fit six to eight tops in the larger one and the smaller cube is ideal for socks and other accessories." She adds that these packing cubes make the perfect travel gift .

Price: $38 or less

How to Use Packing Cubes

• Pack a color-coded set for each person in your group: " We have different color packing cubes for each member of the family so when we open the suitcase, it's easy for everyone to grab their own color and get organized in the hotel room or wherever," says travel writer Terry Ward, who is frequently on the go with her family. She also notes that her family is able to save on luggage fees by using packing cubes in a single checked suitcase .
• Consider buying more than one set: Packing cubes are also useful for organizing toiletries, shoes , travel adapters and cords, and other miscellaneous items.
• Categorize each packing cube: Pack each cube by activity or clothing type, such as activewear, swimwear and underwear.
• Pack with the mesh side facing up: If you buy mesh packing cubes, this packing tip will help you easily identify the contents of each packing cube (which can be especially useful in the event you need to quickly locate items while at the airport).
• Roll your clothing: Many travelers swear by rolling their clothing instead of folding it in their luggage, noting this tactic saves space and minimizes wrinkles. Use the same method when placing items into your packing cubes.
• Use them for dirty laundry: If your packing cubes don't have pockets for dirty laundry like the Tripped Travel Gear bags do, you can still use them to contain dirty laundry; just avoid using mesh cubes if you're concerned about the smell of soiled clothing pervading your bag.
• Take them with you on errands: Packing cubes are useful for everyday outings, too. "I use a smaller packing cube to keep diapers, wipes and a changing pad handy in my backpack when we're out exploring," says Criscione.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most travelers and travel experts agree packing cubes are worth buying – especially considering there are so many affordable, quality options on the market. Because they're designed to save space, they can help you avoid unnecessary luggage fees. Plus, they can be used universally in everything from your luggage set to your weekender bag and even a backpack .

Yes, packing cubes save space by organizing clothing and accessories into individual compartments that neatly fit inside luggage. To maximize space in your luggage, choose compression packing cubes, which eliminate extra air and zip nearly flat.

Compression packing cubes zip nearly flat once packed, while traditional packing cubes maintain their shape and fit neatly into your luggage like pieces in a puzzle. While the decision between packing cubes and compression bags is ultimately a matter of personal preference, most travel experts agree compression packing cubes are best.

Rolling your clothing will help to maximize space and prevent wrinkles, regardless of whether or not you use packing cubes.

Packing cubes are reusable (and in many cases, washable), making them a more economical and sustainable alternative to Ziploc bags.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross strangely enjoys decluttering, a hidden "talent" that's especially useful when traveling. She owns the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set and recommends it to everyone she knows.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Neck Pillows for Travel
• The Most Useful Travel Accessories
• The Best Compression Socks for Travel

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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The 9 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These items organize your luggage better

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

Packing for a trip is no easy feat, yet packing cubes can offer the organization and space we seek. But with so many packing cubes to choose from, how can we be sure which are the best?

We took on this challenge and had six travelers test 23 packing cube sets. They stuffed clothes and toiletries into the packing cubes, running them through various tests to determine which worked the best in terms of capacity, design, quality, and value. The result? We found the top packing cubes in a wide range of categories, from the best for maximum compression to the best for durability, families, and more.

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• Others We Tested
• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, rei co-op expandable packing cube set.

Solid value

Durable, protective exterior

Big time space saving

The REI Co-Op Expandable Packing Cube Set only comes with two cubes. However, our tester loved their clever design, which sees the zipper curve around the perimeter of the cube twice for ultimate compression. In fact, the medium cube can go from 13 liters to 8.5 liters, while the large cube’s capacity changes from 21 liters to 14 liters when using the compression zipper.

Testers noted that the Bluesign-approved ripstop nylon fabric was akin to tent fabric and waterproof to boot. Of course, the mesh section won’t do much against water, but it does allow travelers to see what’s in the cube before opening it. The top handle makes pulling these cubes out of your suitcase easy, while the side handle is a bonus. For the price, you get two incredibly effective packing cubes with the kind of long-lasting material and stitching you’d expect from REI Co-op. The set fits comfortably in a carry-on suitcase and allows room for a toiletry bag.

Dimensions: Large: 14.5 x 10.5 x 6 inches, medium: 12 x 8 x 6 inches | Material: Ripstop nylon (Bluesign-approved), polyester mesh (Bluesign-approved) | Number of Cubes:  2

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Gonex compression packing cubes.

Simple and effective

Could be more protective

Our testers were surprised by the capabilities of this no-frills set of four packing cubes. They stuffed them all to the brim and used the double zippers to compress the cubes down. There was no indication that the threaded seams were stressed. This aspect made the testers overlook that the material is not as water-resistant as advertised. You can always double-wrap liquids, but you can’t always find packing cubes with excellent compression capabilities to fit a lot in a little space. Keep in mind, however, that the zippers do not go all the way around the cube. Our tester didn’t have any problem with that, but it is something we thought best to note.

The four pieces range in size from small to extra-large, giving you plenty of options for organizing all your items. With tons of color options and a phenomenal price point, we had to choose this set as our runner-up.

Dimensions: Extra-large: 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches, large: 4.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches, medium: 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches, small: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches | Material: Ripstop nylon | Number of Cubes:  4

Veken Packing Cubes With Laundry and Shoe Bag

 Amazon

Large selection of pieces

Hassle-free packing system

Contents are easily visible

Not ideal for over-packers

You get a lot for a low price when it comes to the Veken Packing Cubes set. Buyers receive four cubes of various sizes plus two additional bags—a laundry bag and a shoe bag. The set comes in a wide range of colors but lacks a compression zipper, making them more apt for organization than saving space. See inside the cubes via the transparent strip of fabric and a small mesh section or just pack the cubes according to the clothing label found on the bottom right-hand corner of the cube.

Because the packing cubes don’t have compression zippers, this set works best for travelers with large suitcases who simply want their belongings well organized and easy to find.

Dimensions: Extra-large: 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 inches, large: 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches, medium: 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches, small: 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches, shoe bag: 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 inches, laundry bag: 20 x 14 inches | Material: Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyester | Number of Cubes: 4 cubes, 2 bags

Best Compression

Well traveled compression packing cubes.

Great for highly organized travelers

Choice of various shades

Easy to maintain

Not water resistant

The Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes set includes three cubes and one drawstring bag that can be used to store shoes or as a laundry bag. Available in a few colors, this set is reasonably priced and has an excellent compression zipper that maximizes your luggage space. In the larger cube, our tester fit one pair of jeans, two short-sleeve shirts, and two long-sleeve shirts. The medium cube fit two pairs of socks and two pairs of underwear; we packed the small cube with travel toiletries . When a traveler utilizes the compression zipper, the cubes go from 5 inches in width to 1 inch.

These cubes are not as structured as they appear in marketing photos. And unfortunately, our tester found that they didn't protect against spilled liquids. That said, they are machine washable and have tiny pockets to fit one of the 50 luggage cards included in the package.

Dimensions: Large: 10 x 5 x 14 inches, medium: 8 x 5 x 11.5 inches, small: 5.5 x 5 x 7 inches, laundry bag: 11 x 18 inches | Material: Twill fabric | Number of Cubes:  4

Best for Families

Shacke pak 5 set packing cubes.

Budget-friendly

Ventilation/viewing patches

Also available in set of eight

Could be more functional

Go with the packing cube set from Shacke Pak when packing for a family vacation . This five-piece set comes in a few color options and includes four cubes and one drawstring bag. Although our testers didn’t mention whether the fabric was water resistant or not, Shacke advertises that it is. Of course, that doesn’t include the mesh panels that allow you to look inside the cubes.

The cubes don’t have compression zippers, so they’re primarily intended for those who need a lot of space to keep each family member’s clothes organized and separated. You’ll better fit all these cubes in a large suitcase than a carry-on bag. Investing in multiple sets (one for each family member) is also a realistic option given the set's reasonable price tag.

Dimensions Extra-large: 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches, large: 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches, medium: 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches, small: 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches, Laundry Bag: 20.5 x 15.75 inches | Material: Unknown | Number of Cubes: 4 cubes, 1 bag

Best Durability

Peak design packing cubes.

Peak Design

Super light and tough fabric

Two compartments

Sustainably built

Pricey as a set

Somewhat involved to get into

You can buy Peak Design Packing Cubes as a single small or medium cube or shoe pouch or as a set of three, six, or eight. The way our testers raved about the small packing cube they tested, we suggest going for the three-piece set. But keep in mind the sets are expensive.

These packing cubes come in three color options, are designed with two handles, and have a moveable internal divider that lets you separate clothes however you see fit. Thanks to the double compression zippers, you can fit two packing cubes in the space of one. More specifically, the cubes are about 6.7 inches wide when fully expanded and have the capability of compressing to 3.1 inches. It's important to note that you'll have to use both zippers simultaneously when you want to open the main compartment.

These durable cubes are waterproof, though there is a slight gap near the zipper that, theoretically, water could get into. The likelihood of that happening is low. As we said, the price of this packing cube set is considerable, but with the superb craftsmanship and a lifetime guarantee warranty, you'll likely be satisfied with your buy.

Dimensions: Medium: 12.6 x 12.6 x 6.7 inches, small: 12.6 x 6.7 x 6.7 inches | Material: Ripstop 70D nylon/poly shell | Number of Cubes: 1 to 8

Best Personalized

Paravel packing cube quad.

Water-resistant fabric

Sustainable materials

Not the most affordable

Lacks some nice-to-have features

We can see the Paravel Packing Cube Quad being a phenomenal gift for the traveler in your life, mainly because of the excellent colors and the opportunity to have the cubes embroidered with custom monograms.

Of the four cubes, we used the larger one to pack three pairs of shoes and the medium cube to pack a couple of sweatpants, two long-sleeve shirts, two short-sleeve shirts, two pairs of underwear, and two pairs of socks. Basically, you can get a lot of clothes in the larger cubes and use the small cube for extra socks, underwear, or toiletries. Our tester noted that there was still some space left for them to pack more items in the cubes.

Although the cubes have two-way zippers, they aren’t compression zippers. We were also surprised that the cubes didn’t have handles but liked that they do have clear windows to see inside. Environmentally friendly travelers will appreciate that the fabric features 16 upcycled water bottles and meets the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and the Global Recycled Standard . It's also water resistant. The only downside? The hefty price.

Dimensions: Large: 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches, medium: 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches, small: 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches | Material: OEKO-TEX Standard 100- and Global Recycled Standard-certified, water-resistant Negative nylon | Number of Cubes: 4

Best Splurge

Calpak packing cubes 5-piece set.

Fun and classic options

Feature filled

Long lasting

Only the pouch is water resistant

No compression

Packing cubes can be so bland in style, but not the Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set. Styles range from astrologically inspired to groovy wavy designs and even a few that have solid colors like hazel, olive, or black. Our tester found the four cubes and envelope pouch to be very durable. All the cubes (not the pouch) have mesh panels, organizing labels, and handles. While these cubes don’t have compression zippers and the price is a bit high, the durability of the material and the design options might be worth it.

Dimensions: Large:   17 x 12 x 3 inches, medium:   15 x 11 x 3 inches, small: 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches, envelope pouch: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches | Material: Polyester | Number of Cubes:  5

Best Budget

Ebags classic medium compression cube.

Good capacity

Packing cubes don’t have to be expensive to be of good quality; at least, that’s what the eBags Classic Medium Packing Cube proves. This single cube is budget-friendly and spacious enough to fit four to five pieces of clothing, plus a medium-weight winter coat. The compression zipper did an excellent job of removing air and saving space. In fact, the cube offers 1.5 inches of compression or expansion. Our testers found that the thin fabric of the cube could get caught in the zipper if the cubes were not packed to the brim.

The small mesh pocket fits a set of keys or a label the size of a business card that spells out what’s in the cube. Small note: the mesh is not see-through. The top handle strap is a nice feature, as are the two different color options. The fabric is more water resistant than waterproof, so it’ll keep your clothes dry as long as excessive liquids haven’t spilled.

Dimensions 14 x 10 x 5.25 inches | Material: Nylon | Number of Cubes:  1

With excellent compression capabilities, durable ripstop fabric, and a price that won't break the bank, the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set earns our top pick. Another set that performed well was the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes , thanks to their double-zipper compression and range of available colors, not to mention that they come in a set of four.

After removing the packing cubes from their packaging, we quickly assessed the materials, checking aspects such as the stitching and zippers for durability. Our next step involved packing the cubes with apparel, shoes, and accessories such as toiletries and cosmetics before zipping them up and placing them in a carry-on suitcase to see how much space they took up. We also splashed them with a bit of water to test the water resistance of the packing cube material.

For each packing cube set, we made extensive notes on the capacity, design, material quality, and value. With any carry-on luggage , space is limited, and we wanted to ensure we chose packing cubes that not only allowed us to fit as many items as possible but had the kind of material and design that would be durable for frequent travel use. To round it out, we wanted the price to reflect the features presented.

Other Packing Cubes We Tested

Béis The Packing Cubes : While we loved the label that came with these bags, we didn't think that the price reflected the space or quality of the material.

Herschel Travel Organizers : This set's small and medium cubes were wonderful, but we found the large cube awkwardly huge. It made packing a carry-on difficult and didn't offer the kind of space-saving functionality we desired.

Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes fit a decent amount of clothes, seemed durable, and had an excellent expansion feature, but there wasn't anything that particularly wowed us. One drawback was that one full side of the packing cubes is mesh, which won't protect your clothes if a spill occurs.

Away The Insider Packing Cubes : Mesh is great for breathability, but the mesh cover of these packing cubes isn't going to do much against spilled liquids. Not to mention, they're a bit expensive, which seems to be mainly because of the brand name.

Eagle Creek Pack-it Starter Set : If you only need two regular cubes and a folder-style cube, the Eagle Creek Pack-it Starter Set isn't too shabby, mainly because it held up to our water test. If you haven't used a folder-style cube before, it can be confusing to pack.

L.L.Bean Packing Cube Set : The price point seems accurate for L.L.Bean but may be expensive for what you get—cubes with a little stretch and a partly mesh top. Our tester wanted the cube to have a bit more structure.

Bagail Compression Packing Cubes : The price is right, and the design is pretty standard, but we were a little worried about the seam work, mainly when the compression feature was utilized. These may not last as long as others.

YAMIU Packing Cubes 7-Pcs : These packing cubes are standard, but does one need seven packing cubes? And you'll have to be okay with see-through toiletry bags.

Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : These no-frills packing cubes may work for the newbie traveler, but fitting all three in a carry-on was a challenge for our tester.

EZPacking Clear Packing Cubes : These may work if you're comfortable with see-through packing cubes. The small cube only fits a few toiletry items.

OEE Luggage Packing Organizers : Who doesn't love a bargain? Unfortunately, the price reflects super thin material that doesn't do well with thick clothing and flimsy zippers that get caught in the mesh.

TRIPPED Compression Packing Cubes for Travel : These cubes were a bit expensive, especially since they didn't feel sturdy and the zipper didn't go all the way around the cubes, making them a little harder to pack.

What to Look For in Packing Cubes

If you check your suitcase, weight is always a consideration. Choosing packing cubes that are light enough to make a negligible difference to the airline scale is therefore important. For the most part, packing cubes are not particularly heavy, though we’ve seen some structured ones that may add a few pounds to your bag. 

Packing cubes are typically made of nylon, though some use better nylon than others. Ripstop nylon, for instance, is less likely to tear than other types. Although we love to see a water-resistant or waterproof packing cube, many of our testers found that the water resistance or waterproofness wasn’t as effective as expected. Many packing cubes have mesh panels that somewhat defeat the purpose of using water-resistant fabric. Of course, mesh panels let you see inside the bag and are more breathable than plastic panels.

Packing cubes come in various sizes that differ from brand to brand. (A size small from one brand will have different measurements than a small packing cube from another brand.) Look at the dimensions for the packing cubes before buying. Most packing cubes will fit in a carry-on suitcase, though we’ve seen some large or extra-large packing cubes that are too big, take up too much space, or are an awkward size. The same thing can happen with small packing cubes—some are just too small to really fit anything inside. While not everyone likes packing cubes with compression features, they remove air and save space, which is a nice feature to consider.

Number of Cubes

Do you need more than five cubes? That all depends on the size of your family if you plan on buying one set to share, or if you're buying for a checked bag and a carry-on. Packing cube sets can range from two cubes to as many as eight. It never hurts to have a backup cube in case you rip one, lose one, or it just wears out, though if you want to limit how much you pack , it might be a good idea to buy a two- or three-cube set.

How you pack your cubes in a carry-on suitcase will depend on the type of luggage you’re using. No matter what type of carry-on bag you have, you’ll most likely have to play Tetris to figure out the best method for fitting the packing cubes in the luggage. Those with carry-on suitcases might find that positioning the cubes vertically rather than horizontally provides more space, but again, this can only happen if the suitcase is deep enough to allow such a packing strategy.

While you can find many tips and tricks for packing clothes in packing cubes, it’s likely that when you remove your clothing, it will have some wrinkles. Rolling your clothes—once you’ve buttoned and zipped all tops and bottoms—may reduce wrinkles. This is because there are fewer folds in the fabric. You could also try limiting the pressure exerted on the outside of the cube to prevent folds from compressing and forming wrinkles. Or, save yourself a headache and pack clothes made of fabrics resistant to wrinkling. As a last resort, consider bringing along a travel steamer .

Most packing cubes can be put in the washing machine on cold, but you should double-check the tag to see if they need to be hand-washed. If you put them in the washing machine, zip them up so the zipper doesn't snag on anything. Most people suggest air drying the packing cubes as the material tends to do poorly against the heat of a dryer. A hand sanitizing wipe can clean away germs or small spills if you're in a bind. Although some suggest using Febreze or essential oils to refresh packing cubes, be mindful of how oily the product may be, as it could cause the packing cube to get sticky or stain your clothing. Putting a dryer sheet in the cube may be a better option.

Author  Alex Temblador  is an outdoor and travel journalist who lives in Texas. Alex seeks out adventurous travels all around the world, and often uses packing cubes to get to her destination. Throughout her career she has rappelled in Mexico, kayaked in Puerto Rico and Thailand, skied in Telluride and Montana, surfed in Zihuatanejo, scuba dived in Bonaire, and hiked in Peru and Switzerland. Products for this article were chosen according to the results of lab tests carried out by the TripSavvy team.

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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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Packing Organizers: These Luggage Accessories Help You Travel Carry-on

Backpacking , Best Suitcases , LUGGAGE , Packing , Packing Tips

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So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil, you’ve finally perfected your travel wardrobe and created a chic capsule collection – now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage accessories and packing organizers will work best for you?

How to Choose the Best Packing Organizers

Written By: Chantelle Mallin

Table Of Contents

Packing organizers have risen in popularity over the past years, with many traveling folks unable to imagine packing for a trip without them, (TFG included!). They allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and re-packing your travel capsule wardrobe simple and stress-free.

The following guide looks through the top packing organizer types, allowing you to choose the ideal style for your personal travel itinerary.

There are a few types of packing organizers

Packing cubes, packing folders, compression sacks.

• Other Packing Organizers

Here, we’ll explore all of them in more detail.

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

The packing cubes come in two different sizes: slim and regular. Slim packing cubes like the Compass Rose featured above can be packed next to each other, perfect for carry-on luggage, backpacks, and travel duffels. The regular cubes are large square shapes, ideal for a regular size or large suitcase.

Every traveler’s favorite luggage accessory is the packing cube! Coming in a wide variety of sizes and colors, travel packing cubes are mesh and fabric containers that organize your luggage allowing you to pack efficiently.

Watch this video and learn how to use packing cubes for carry-on travel

Follow this video tutorial to learn how to pack your belongings using packing cubes and save valuable space (think souvenir shopping).

Packing cubes are deemed the ultimate packing organizers. They allow you to maximize the space in your bag, even squeezing in none practical items such as bulky coats and leather items. They can also be used to store electronics and other fiddly bits such as power chords and cables. Similar products, such as underwear/ t’s/dirty laundry, can be packed together, meaning they can be easily found without much rummaging.

Planning a trek? The cubes are great for taking on day trips during your travels. Ideally, for storing items such as scarves, socks, and sleeping liners, they are also perfect for long flights or travel journeys, giving your easy access to comfort items such as clothing layers, travel pillows, and blankets.

The packing cubes can even be used when you’re back home. It allows you to neatly store clothes, maximizing small storage space – beneficial (if you’re like me) and your room is slightly size challenged.

TFG’s favorite are these packing cubes from Compass Rose . They’re our own brand!

Slate Travel Garment Folder

It holds up to 6 items of clothing, allowing you to fold and store bulkier items in a larger bag, freeing up valuable luggage space for other essentials.

These organizers feature instructions depicting the best folding methods for your items and a Velcro closure that keeps the clothing neatly folded and wrinkle free.

Eagle Creek Travel Gear Luggage Pack-it Garment Folder

Travel packing folders are designed to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. It means they are a very popular option among business travelers. They are available in an array of sizes storing around 7 – 15 items (perfect for shirts and trousers that tend to crease easily) and fit perfectly into most carry on size luggage.

A packing folder is perfect if you dislike rolling your clothing. Simply use the board to assist with folding garments then store them flat within the packing folder, creating organization and structure within any bag, simple!

Take a spare packing folder to space to store your dirty laundry. It’s definitely more efficient than stuffing it into a laundry bag as it maximizes room in the luggage ensuring that the unlaundered clothing remains separate from your clean items.

The  Dot&Dot Packing Folder , is a popular packing organizer with travelers and designed to fit in a carry-on size bag.

Sea to Summit Compression Sacks

Compression sacks are the perfect packing organizers for travelers who need to pack bulky, trekking, and activity-based clothing items.

You simply stuff your clothes into the sack and compress, creating an easy, space efficient and flat packing aid.   Compression sacks can be useful when packing with a top loading backpack. Check out the Sea to Summit Compression Sacks for light and durable packing aids.

Eagle Creek Pack It Specter Compression Cube Set

Planning a hike? The Eagle Creek compression sack set is great for compressing bulky items. Such as sleeping bags and camping gear, there are also waterproof versions available for water sport enthusiasts.

The bags are great for use at home, too, for storing out of season clothing efficiently and effectively until next year’s use.

Check out TFG’s guide on how to choose a travel backpack .

Additional Organizers and Luggage Accessories

We all know packing can be frustrating, so we want to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Below are some additional space-saving products to ensure your luggage is packed as efficiently as possible.

eBags Pack-it-Flat Toiletry Kit

Pack-it-Flat Toiletry Kit

The Pack-it-Flat toiletry kit from eBags is the ideal savior product for all those times you’ve packed your luggage, only to discover that you didn’t leave enough room for your toiletry products.

At only 2-1/4” thick, the Pack-it-Flat kit has the same ease of packing another pair of jeans, simple! It features four compartments to keep your essentials organized, an expansion zipper for packing flexibility and a removable hanging hook for versatile storage.

For more styles, check out TFG’s Top Toiletry Bags for Travel .

Travelon Set of 7 Packing Envelopes

Set of 7 Packing Envelopes

The sturdy PVC mesh set of packing organizers come in a variety of sizes providing storage for your toiletries, charger cables, cosmetics and other travel necessities, and features transparency providing easy viewing of its contents, a water resistant, easy clean design and zip closure to ensure contents remain secure.

eBags Shoe Sleeves

Shoe Sleeves

The unisex shoe sleeves are designed to fit both women’s and men’s shoes, comfortably fitting up to a size 13. The pouches protect both shoes and clothing from dirt and debris and their stretchy, soft design allows you to fit your shoes easily and snugly into small packing spaces, bonus!

Pack-It Complete Organizer

These packing organizers from VASCO make a great choice when packing for business trips, summer vacations, or out-of-town family holidays–or for dorm rooms or simply heading to the gym. They’re sleek looking and come in some lovely colors!

The slim toiletry kit offers ample space like with a large-size dopp kit, yet it folds flat, taking up about the same amount of space as a pair of jeans, perfect for space-saving placement in any suitcase or travel bag.

The solution for backpackers and travelers that are constantly on the go are toiletry bags with a hook! Check out our best hanging toiletry bags !

Ziploc Big Bag Double Zipper

Ziploc Bags

These are the basic bags you use at home to store food or other items, but they still count as packing organizers! Many travelers prefer to use Ziploc bags because they’re cheap, clear, and you probably already have some at home.

Traveling without Ziploc bags is like traveling without your passport, it just can’t be done. Storing items in the clear bags ensures your suitcase remains organized; the transparency means products can be easily found without the need to up turn your entire luggage.

Ziploc bags can be used in a number of ways, such as:

• Protect your camera: A great way of protecting your precious travel camera in the rain.
• Document holder: Keep your passport/ travel money/travel insurance safe and sound all together in one place, no more rummaging in the depth of your bag.
• Jewelry pouch: Lost an earring? Store all your jewelry together in a sealable bag; it’ll save your favorite pieces from becoming lost.
• Cables store: The best way to store all your cables and chargers – stopping them from becoming tangled.
• Swimsuit bag: A great way of transporting your wet swimwear/towel from the beach back to the hotel. Alternatively, we also love these dry bags.
• Airport inspection bag: The easiest way of displaying your liquids for inspection at the airport, store in the front pocket of your luggage for easy access.
• Liquids storage: Who doesn’t hate a burst shampoo leaking all over their freshly packed luggage? Double bag your products in Ziploc bags to ensure you avoid the nightmare.

Travel Tip: Avoid using these bags if you’re planning to stay in a hostel. Don’t be that person  crunching plastic when others are trying to sleep. Find out other hostel essentials and tips!

The Carry-On Caddy

This hooked caddy pouch from Misslo allows you to take your most important grooming products through airport security with ease. Fill with the interior with travel-sized products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant, face or body cream, and more.

Grid-It Organizer

The p erfect packing organizer to keep all your small necessities such as cosmetics/electronics/phone/iPod etc. together and perfectly organized, freeing up valuable space in your luggage. This unique packing aid features loops, pockets, and pouches to store all your essential accessories making it the perfect organizer for the gadget aficionado.

Travelon Set of 2 Compression Packing Bags

Compression Packing Bags Set

This Travelon space-saver includes a reusable medium and large sack featuring an easy seal closure, the ability to be compressed without the need of a vacuum cleaner, an airtight and leak-proof design. The bags are great for making the most room out of the least space!

Here’s a quick review on each luggage accessories and packing organizers for travel: 

Which of these packing organizers will you choose to organize your clothing?

For more tips and ideas on packing organizers, please read:

• Packing Cubes Video Tutorial: Learn How to Pack Light
• Packing Clothes for Travel: How to Organize like a Pro
• How to Use Packing Cubes: 8 Step Strategy to Travel Carry-on Only
• Alternate Uses for Packing Cubes – Organize your Closet Space!

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I hope you found these tips on how to choose packing organizers helpful. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

30 comments.

Love these travel organizers. Travel light and helps me find items quickly.

When will compass rose packing cubes be back in stock?

Hi JA, we have some on the way now. They should hopefully be available in time for Christmas 🤞

I love packing cubes! I’ve been using them for many years when packing my medium-sized suitcase. On my last trip I took carry-on only and I loved the freedom of it. Most of my current packing cubes are too big for a carry-on suitcase, so I’m definitely going to look into the Compass Rose cubes. They look to be the perfect size.

What is the best packing cube/system for bras/underwear?

Hi there, you could designate one packing cube just for your bras and underwear. I like to place my underwire bra along the right or left corner of a slim packing cube. This way the underwire follows the cubes edge and then I place underwear or socks in the space between the cups and the bottom of the cube, making sure I use all the space. I hope this helps! 🙂

My favorite is the Eagle Creek compression packing cubes. Expensive yet so handy! I’ve used the ebags brand and while they’re great, I don’t like the frame. The eagle creek ones I can at least compress down and squish to maximize even more space in my bag. I used to just use the packing cubes when I fly, but now I use them on weekend and overnight trips. It helps organize so I have “drawers” in a sense, in my suitcase and not rifling through my whole clothes in my suitcase.

Who travels without packing cubes anymore? I mean besides my husband who stubbornly refuses to use them. We never take anything bigger than a carryon, no matter how long were going for. I have several sets in different colors so it’s easier to find the cube I want.

Awesome!! Yes, I love packing cubes so much! They are so helpful! Thanks for reading Sharon!

Thank You for the info! Ive just ordered my first set of packing cubes! Woo!

Love this! I hope you like them Emma 🙂 I swear by them!

Great article, thank you! For a recent trip to Germany and Switzerland in the summertime (though we had to pack warm clothes for a trip to Zermatt), I SWEAR by the rolling method and then compression bags. I bought mine at REI. I had one for tops, one for bottoms, one for undergarments and one for scarves. When I arrived, I lifted out the four bags and could easily drop them into hotel drawers (if staying for a few days) or put them around my bag if staying for longer.

I agree that ziplocs are great for seeing things and keeping items together.

Any tips on charger cords. They are my NEMESIS.

Thanks again….

Hi Stacey, sounds like a great strategy. They are useful for so many things. As for cords, CableKeeps look like a good idea although I haven’t tried them: http://amzn.to/1xWURKQ You’ve just inspired me to order some though! I’ll let you know how it goes 🙂

I use hair claws to keep cables and cords in order.

great idea!

I use Dot&Dot packing cubes and folders everytime I travel and they work really great! It’s refreshing to see my luggage so organized! 🙂

will check them out. thanks!

Any packing organizer will ultimately help you save space. I personally recommend these for anywhere and everywhere: https://travelfashiongirl.com/video-tutorial-how-to-pack-light-using-ebags-packing-cubes/

Also, this post might help with clothing: https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-backpacking-south-east-asia-holidays/

So how do you deal with all the wrinkled cloths when you get settled.

I don’t really deal with them. If you watch this video choosing clothing with great travel fabrics is key to packing: https://travelfashiongirl.com/learn-the-secret-to-packing-light-in-60-minutes/

Wrinkled clothes and not over paking

I am in packing folders category 🙂

I know now the difference on how using packing cube and packing folder to pack light…for my family of 4. Thank’s a lot Alex 🙂

That’s great to hear! Congrats!

This is great—thank you! I’m definitely interested in the packing folders. I’ve never heard of them before, but they are exactly what I am looking for. Love this blog!

I have the ebags packing cubes (both slim and regular S,M,L size) and I LOVE them! I use them every time I travel now. If I am checking a bag, the M and L size go in that bag (along with anything else bulky, like big shoes etc) and the slim cubes and S size cube go in the carry on. Would never travel without them now! I also use compression bags sometimes if I need to pack thick things like winter coat, etc.

Yes, once you’ve used packing cubes you never go back! I sing their praises all day long 🙂

Are Ziplocs not the most versatile packing accessory ever? I use them for so many different things & always bring a few extra just in case!

I love packing cubes, I use them every trip. They are great!

I do agree!

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The best packing cubes to save space and keep you organized

These travel cubes will keep your suitcase in order, whether you’re going on a short getaway or a round-the-world adventure.

Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway or planning an around-the-world adventure, packing cubes can help streamline the packing process. Packing cubes are bags that come in different sizes in a set. They can help organize clothing and save room in your suitcase. Frequent traveler Kayli King uses packing bags daily to keep clothes organized in her van while traveling. “Honestly, after traveling so long, I can’t imagine not using them,” she says.  

After talking to King, we compared packing bags, looking for durable travel cubes with functional designs and a wide variety of sizes. Our top overall pick is the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes. Compression zippers, handles, and a low price tag make this set the best all around.

Our picks for the best packing cubes for travel

The best packing cubes for travel, best overall: gonex compression packing cubes.

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it:   The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our choice for the best overall packing cubes. Despite being one of the more affordable travel cube sets on this list, these compression bags have plenty of features, including ripstop nylon, reinforced seams, and handles. They compress via double zippers that pull the edges of the travel packing bag together. The packing cubes can hold everything from socks to jackets and are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces. They’re also available in over 10 colors.

Keep in mind:   These packing cubes unzip only halfway, so you have to stuff your clothes inside rather than lay them flat. Some reviewers note that the compression zippers are difficult for people with arthritis or reduced mobility.

Product details: Size: 4-piece set: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), and 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon | Weight: 12 ounces (set)  

Best for traveling light: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set  

Buy it now at   Backcountry

Why we like it: At 4.2 ounces, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is half the weight of other packing cubes on this list, but they’re far from flimsy. They’re made of ripstop polyester and have “self-repairing” zippers—if a gap opens in the chain, you can slide one of the zippers over it to close it. Eagle Creek also offers a warranty that covers fabric tears and zippers. Because they’re lightweight and sturdy, these travel cubes are great for hikers and campers who want to organize their backpacks.  

Keep in mind: The set includes only three smaller-sized travel cubes. While great for backpacks and carry-ons, you may want bigger packing cubes for checked luggage.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 4.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches (extra small), 7.25 x 10 x 3.25 inches (small), and 10 x 14.25 x 3.25 inches (medium) | Material:   Ripstop polyester | Weight:   4.2 ounces (set)  

Best for overpackers: REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Buy it now at   REI

Why we like it:   The packing cubes in the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set are the opposite of compression bags. Each cube has a second zipper that, when unzipped, increases its width to six inches—double the size of other packing bags on this list. They’re designed to last with ripstop polyester treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. The packing cubes also meet the Bluesign criteria, the highest environmental standard for sustainable textile manufacturing.

Keep in mind:   REI Co-op recently updated its packing cubes, and some buyers believe the quality has suffered as a result. Third-party reviews mention thin material, unreinforced zippers, and mesh that snags.

Product details: Size:   3-piece set: 8 x 6 x 3 inches (small), 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium), and 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) | Material:   Ripstop nylon, polyester mesh | Weight: 8.3 ounce (set)  

Best upcycled option: Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle

Why we like it:   The brightly colored Cotopaxi Cubo Packing Cube Bundle is an upcycled option you can feel good about. The packing bags are made of 100-percent repurposed nylon and mesh. Kayli King likes that the mesh panels allow your things to air out and that you can hang them up by their handles.

Cotopaxi’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond its packing cubes. The company says that 94 percent of its products use repurposed, recycled, or responsible materials. They also offer programs to repair items and trade them in to avoid landfills.

Keep in mind:   Despite its competitive price, this bundle comes with only three packing cubes. The size range is small compared to other packing cube sets. However, King prefers this set for longer trips.

Product details: Size: 3-piece set: 7 x 8 x 2 inches (2-liter bag), 6 x 11.5 x 3 inches (3-liter bag), 10 x 11.5 x 5 inches (10-liter bag) | Material:   100 percent repurposed nylon and mesh | Weight: 9 ounces (set)

Best style: Calpak Packing Cubes Set

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   While many packing cubes seem to favor function over fashion, the Calpak Packing Cubes Set balances both. The packing bags come in over 20 colors, with patterns like “cheetah” and “lime viper.” They’re durable, with thick polyester sides and mesh covers that let you see inside. Each packing cube has a zippered pocket for smaller essentials and an ID tag to write down the contents. If five travel cubes aren’t enough, you can buy additional Calpak travel organizers, like shoe bags and laptop totes.

Keep in mind:   The Calpak Packing Cube set is by far the heaviest and most expensive option on this list. You may want lighter packing cubes if you travel with just a carry-on or are concerned about overweight luggage.

Product details: Size:   5-piece set: 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small x 2), 5 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large) | Material: Polyester and mesh | Weight: 1 pound, 12.8 ounces (set)  

Best set: Tripped Checked Bag Set

Why we like it:   The Tripped Checked Bag Set has a travel cube for almost every packing need. The set includes seven packing bags, including two extra large sizes, a slim cube, a shoe bag, and a roll-top laundry bag. Mix and match the travel cubes to fit your suitcase and packing needs. Most of the packing cubes in the Checked Bag Set also have a compression feature. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and an illustrated set featuring national parks.  

Keep in mind:   While the packing cubes are made from a ripstop blend, reviewers mention that the material and stitching feel thin and flimsy. Some of the travel cubes don’t unzip all the way, making packing more difficult.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 12.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches (shoe bag), 12.5 x 4.5 x 3 inches (slim cube), 21 x 11.5 x 0.1 inches (laundry bag), 10 x 7 x 4 inches (small), 14 x 10 x 4 inches (large), 16 x 12 x 4 inches (extra large x 2) | Material:   Ripstop nylon-polyester blend | Weight:   15.5 ounces (set)  

Best budget: Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes

Why we like it: The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes come with six packing cubes, including a laundry bag and a shoe bag. They cost less than half the price of most other packing bag sets on this list. The low price doesn’t mean low quality, though. The Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes are made of thick polyester, with sturdy zippers and mesh panels to help keep clothes fresh. Plus, they come in 12 colors.  

Keep in mind: The laundry and shoe bags are small. The polyester is not ripstop and can melt if dried on high heat.

Product details: Size: 6-piece set: 4.7 x 17 inches (shoe bag), 14 x 20 inches (laundry bag), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 13.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 17.5 x 12.15 x 5 inches (extra large) | Material:   Polyester | Weight:   10.4 ounces (set)  

How we chose the best travel packing cubes

We weighed the following qualities when curating the best packing cubes:

Third-party reviews:   We considered reviews from sources other than company websites and spoke with seasoned travelers to find out what they liked.  

Brand reputation: Anything you use for traveling should be functional, long-lasting, and, preferably, good for the planet. We looked for brands that value high-quality gear and sustainability.

Quality of material:   We chose travel cubes that were made to last, with durable materials like ripstop nylon and polyester, reinforced seams, and strong zippers.

Size range: Different-sized packing bags make for an easier packing experience. We chose packing cube sets in a range of sizes, from extra small to extra large.

Compression options: Some packing cube brands offer compression bags, which can be a nice feature if you’re tight on space.  

Tips for buying packing bags

Here’s what to consider when picking your own packing cubes:

Brand reputation  

Choose a trusted brand with a proven reputation. Brands with zipper and fabric warranties or repair programs will also help you get as many vacations as possible with your travel organizers.

If you only use carry-ons or smaller luggage, choose a packing cube set with fewer, smaller travel cubes. If you prefer to use checked luggage, go for a packing cube set with more travel cubes and bigger sizes.  

If you travel with just a carry-on or want to use packing cubes for hiking, choose an ultralight packing cube set. Every ounce counts when packing light, and some travel cube sets are nearly 1.5 pounds lighter than others.

Packing cubes are typically made of polyester or nylon, both strong synthetic fabrics. If you need something even more durable, look for ripstop nylon or polyester, which has extra threads to prevent tears from becoming bigger.

Some brands offer compression bags, which can save space. However, King finds that compressed bags can be awkwardly shaped, making them harder to fit together in your suitcase. If you are a heavy packer, travel cubes for shoes or laundry can help keep the rest of your luggage clean.

Frequently asked questions

Are packing cubes worth it?

Packing cubes can help save space in your suitcase and improve organization, reducing stress while traveling.

Does TSA allow packing cubes?

Packing cubes are TSA-approved, provided everything inside is within the regulations. Check with your airline on what is allowed in carry-on and checked bags.

How many packing cubes do you need for a suitcase?

How many packing cubes you need depends on the length of your trip and the size of your suitcase. Four to six packing cubes is a great starting point. You can adjust the number as needed.

How much does a packing cube cost?

The packing cube sets recommended here cost between 20 and 70 dollars. Some companies may sell individual packing cubes for less.

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These Packing Cubes Helped Me Stay Organized on a Trip Abroad

Whenever I pack for a trip, I go into it with the best intentions. I'll start by carefully folding my coat into one corner of the luggage, then tightly stack my jeans into another. I like to reserve one side of my suitcase for bulkier items like shoes and toiletries, while I use the other primarily for clothing. I'm always hopelessly optimistic (read: semi-delusional) that my strict packing process will somehow ensure that everything stays organized throughout the duration of my trip, and am left woefully disappointed when that doesn't pan out — aka every single time I travel.

Before I departed on my most recent trip abroad, I knew I'd need a little extra help keeping all of my essentials organized. My itinerary involved traveling between Manchester and London, which meant I'd only have a couple days in each city — and even less time to unpack, repack, and repeat. As someone who frequently browses Amazon's site, I'd seen these Amazon Basics Packing Cubes ($17, originally $22) pop up on more than one occasion. With more than 28,000 five-star reviews, they're hailed as being some of the best packing cubes on Amazon thanks to their durable build, variety in sizes, and space-saving capabilities. They are designed to help even the most dysfunctional packers (it's me, hi!) stay organized.

Ahead, I break down what exactly makes these travel packing cubes so great — and why they're ideal for all types of travelers.

What I Like About These Amazon Basics Packing Cubes

First and foremost, I appreciate the variety of available sizes, which ensures I can shop out the packing cubes best-suited to my luggage. Travel cubes I've previously tried have either been too small to fit any practical amount of clothes or too large to really make much of a difference within my suitcase. Fortunately, the medium size works great for a standard suitcase, with some extra room to spare for items I might not want packed away in the cubes — like toiletries or hair styling tools.

I also like that these Amazon packing cubes are made from a durable polyester material, which feels thick enough to handle packing bulkier items like shoes or chunky sweaters. The mesh top panel is another practical bonus and makes the cubes somewhat see-through. This has proven to be especially helpful whenever I'm unpacking my suitcase, as it allows me to easily see into the cubes and keep track of which items I have packed away in each.

What's Worth Noting

While these travel cubes are functional and definitely helpful for packing a larger suitcase, they aren't as compressive as other options I've tried. Each cube is made from a polyester material that boasts plenty of stretch — ensuring I can squeeze in as much as possible — but doesn't necessarily shrink down when positioned in my suitcase. Some reviewers on Amazon's site also noted that the mesh top panel shows wear quickly, with several users even noticing rips in the material after only a couple uses.

I'd argue that these medium-size packing cubes are best used in larger suitcases as opposed to carry-on luggage, simply because they aren't particularly compressive. For something more compact, consider shopping out one of the smaller sizes. Additionally, it's worth noting that these travel cubes cost much less than other variations on the market. While their affordability is a plus, if you're looking for a travel set that's more durable, I'd recommend purchasing another option.

Who Are These These Amazon Basics Packing Cubes Best For?

If you (like me) are hopelessly disorganized whenever you travel and need a little extra help keeping everything sorted, I can't recommend these packing cubes enough. They help me carefully separate each product accordingly, whether I want to pack items by style or outfit. And their durable design ensures that all of my clothes are well-protected, regardless of where my travels take me.

Where Are These Amazon Basics Packing Cubes Available to Shop?

These packing cubes are available to shop at Amazon.

Additional Details

• These Amazon packing cubes are available to shop in six different sizes, including: small, medium (my size of choice), large, and slim, among others.
• The medium-size travel cubes have a capacity size of 16 ounces.
• Unlike other styles, this set features a mesh top panel that makes it easier for users to identify the contents of each cube.
• This set is available in several unique colorways, including gray, blue, black, and red.

Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on POPSUGAR Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.

• Product Reviews

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

• How to Travel Cheap: Ultimate Guide to 108 Travel Resources
• 43 Amazing Money-Saving Travel Tips and Hacks
• Travel Insurance for Italy (What You NEED to Know Before You Go)
• 10 Simple Long Haul Flight Tips for Arriving Rested and Relaxed
• 23 Top Travel Essentials: Ultimate Travel Packing List for Backpackers
• What Pack for Winter in Norway: 17 Must-Have Packing Items
• 10 Travel Hacks That’ll Make Your First Solo Trip A Total Breeze
• 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.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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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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Top Packing Hacks: Best Travel Accessories for 2024

Last Updated: April 1, 2024

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Travel success has more to do with intangible factors than we often realize. And one of those intangible factors is packing. How easy – or difficult – it is to pack your luggage can make or break your trip, especially if your trip involves a lot of moving around. When your luggage is your makeshift house, you’d better ensure it’s well organized. Here are some pro packing hacks, featuring the best travel accessories and best travel products to help you save space, stay organized, and make the most of your trip. 

Best Travel Accessories At A Glance

Best travel packing bags for organization – compression packing cubes by knack bags, best packing accessories for toiletries – 3-piece customizable toiletry set by tripped travel gear, best cable and cord organizers – these simple reusable cable ties, best tech pouch for cables, adaptors, and more – tech organizer , by tortuga.

All the above – and so much more – are profiled in this article, along with pros, cons, features, and more. Enjoy!

What are the Best Travel Organizers and Luggage Accessories?

This post is going to outline a whole heap of luggage organizers, almost all of which I’ve used at one time or another. But it’s very important to note: using them all simultaneously will not make you a better traveler! In fact, too many luggage accessories will take up so much space that you won’t have any room for the things you actually need to bring ! 

You’ll also notice that some items are great for travel organization, and others are meant to save space. The best traveling accessories are those that save space and organize your stuff, and when I find one of these gems, I take them on every trip (you’ll read about a few in this post). 

But generally speaking, each trip is different, and you’ll need to employ different travel packing hacks and travel organizers to suit the mission at hand. 

So have a gander at the various must have travel accessories that I’ve used over the years, and pick and choose best travel items that work for you. 

Note: Many of the links below are affiliate links, which means I’ll earn a (paltry, but still noteworthy) commission on anything you buy when you click through. This doesn’t affect your price, but it does help me to keep running this site and kicking out quality content, so for that, I thank you in advance. 

Best Suitcase Organizers for Saving Space

Clothes have a nasty habit of taking up a lot of space. Even if you’re judicious about how many items of clothing you take with you, they’ll likely take up a large portion of your luggage space. With the help of these suitcase organizers, you’ll be traveling in style. 

(See also – Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Clothes for Women )

SegSac Traveler (aka The Hoboroll) – Best Luggage Organizer for Carry on

I reached out to these guys over 10 years ago when they launched The Hoboroll (before they renamed it SegSac Traveler), and we’ve been BFFs ever since. Not only did I adore their product, but with a name like “The Hoboroll”, it was like a match made in heaven for “The Professional Hobo”. 

Ingenious names aside, this has ever since been my #1 all-time favourite travel accessory. So much so, that I use it even when I’m not traveling, because not only is it a fabulous space saver, but it’s a great organizational tool. I traveled full-time for two years with carry on luggage only, and it is in large part thanks to The Hoboroll. It’s that awesome. 

The ultralight cylindrical compression stuff sack features segmented compartments inside (including a zippered pouch for valuables) and cinches shut on both ends. Then, the straps around the body of it compress the contents down to a fraction of the size. 

I use the Hoboroll to organize and compress smaller items that would otherwise be lost in my luggage, like socks, underwear, workout clothes, scarves, hats, gloves, bathing suits ….it’s a catch-all for smaller wardrobe bits. When I arrive at my destination, I simply open one side of the SecSac Traveler to gain access to the contents, and I leave it like that – no need to unpack! 

PROS: Awesome for organizing and compressing; ultralight material takes up no space or weight.

CONS: Honestly? None. Except perhaps that you’d be advised not to order it off Amazon; they’re struggling with knock-off versions. 

SecSac Traveler Features and Specs:  

• Water-resistant, rip-stop, 30D fabric
• 5 internal compartments
• Opens at both ends
• Converts to day bag by attaching shoulder strap (which admittedly I never use, but makes it handy if you want to use it for outings)
• Storage pouch reverses to secret pocket
• Aircraft grade, lightweight aluminum buckles
• 2 compression straps
• NO PLASTIC is used in their packaging or shipping process
• 2 Sizes: 18.5 Liters | 30 Liters
• Weight: 18.5L – 3.5oz | 30L – 4oz
• Size: 18.5L – 15″ x 10″ | 30L – 17.5″ x 12″

Gobi Gear – which also makes the Free Spirit 30L Adventure Travel Backpack (which I review in this video ), is a part of 1% For The Planet, and they donate 1% of their profits to One Tree Planted (a non-profit in Vermont). 

Click here to order your SegSac Traveler (aka The Hoboroll) – and use the Discount Code the-prof-hobo for 25% off ($10 minimum purchase)!

2023/2024 update: Gobi Gear has been on a hiatus as they redesign their gear and product offerings. They will return in 2024 with a newly designed SegSac Traveler!

Are Packing Cubes Worth It? These Compression Packing Cubes Are

What are packing cubes? They’re basically square or rectangular travel pouches with zippers. Nothing special. Packing cubes are great for organizing stuff, but they’re not always the best at saving space. That said – throw in a compression feature, and you’re off to the races. 

Compression packing cubes offer many of the same benefits as the SegSac Traveler – just in rectangular form. I use compressible packing cubes for clothing – especially sweaters and jackets and other things that are especially squish-able. 

From a space-saving perspective, it’s worth noting that I’m specifically recommending using packing cubes that compress . Why? In an ideal world, everything would fit into regular rectangular luggage cubes, which would in turn fit perfectly (like Tetris shapes) into rectangular luggage, making optimal use of all space. In reality, this doesn’t happen. Packing cubes in general are great for organization, but not always for saving space, since it leaves gaps in your luggage that you can’t always fill with other things. But the compression feature in packing cubes marginally makes up for this, which means they’re good for both organization and making the best use of space. 

PROS: Saves space by compressing clothing and organizing items for easy access. Especially helpful when moving around a lot with no time to unpack. Also helpful when packing clothes for multiple climates; keep your sweaters compressed in one cube and only open when you arrive somewhere cold. 

CONS: If you aren’t filling each packing cube optimally, you won’t fully benefit from the compression feature, which in turn means you won’t be saving space (see above for my observations about regular packing cubes). 

I own and am a big fan of Knack compression packing cubes (pictured above). The material is sturdy yet lightweight, the mesh on top allows me to see what’s inside, and the compression zipper is easy to use and helps me save lots of space. Click here for more info on packing cubes and a breakdown of the top brands and styles to choose from !

Compressible Shoe Bags

New to my packing tool entourage in 2021, I am adoring my Knack compressible shoe bags. First of all, they make it easy to pack my shoes without worrying about any of the gunk from the bottoms of my soles sullying anything else in my luggage. The compression straps help to maximize space, and having my shoes in these bags is a great organization tool. The material (similar to Knack packing cubes, as above) is both sturdy and lightweight.

Since my shoes are size Women’s 8.5, I ordered both a medium and large compression shoe bag. The large is absolutely enormous! The medium is plenty big enough, and in fact I can pack both my ballet flats and my travel sandals into it, no problem! I actually use the large shoe bag for dirty laundry, since it’s not just a shoe bag; it’s a great way to organize – and compress – anything at all.

Check out Knack Compressible Shoe Bags here!

Does the Knack name seem familiar? It’s because I own their expandable carry-on backpack and wrote about it extensively here . It’s a solid piece of travel gear.

Spacesaver Bags / Compression Bag for Travel – Vacuum Bags Without the Vacuum

If you have a ton of clothes to pack, then spacesaver bags (also called compression bags for traveling) will be your saviour. They’re the travel version of vacuum bags, which suck all the air out, leaving a compressed brick of stuff. The difference is, you don’t need a vacuum to make these work; simply fill the bag, zip it closed, and roll it so all the air can escape through the one-way valve.  

These travel space bags are incredibly useful for sweaters, puffy jackets, and other items that unnecessarily take up a lot of luggage space. Also, if you are traveling long-term or full-time with a wardrobe for multiple climates, you can have an organized suitcase by keeping your winter clothes in a space saver bag while you’re traveling through warm climates, and vice versa – making them valuable suitcase accessories. 

PROS: These are super duper space saving packing tools. They’ll maximize luggage space more than anything else will. 

CONS: If you use these bags to squish everything down and then you fill up the rest of your luggage space, you may run into weight issues. (Also, if the bag stops working properly part-way through the trip and you were counting on the space it saves, you could be in trouble – this happened to me once). Lastly, prepare for anything you put into these bags to come out horribly wrinkled if its not wrinkle-free material. 

Get your travel space saver bags at Amazon ! 

The Rolo (Roll-up Garment Bag) – Best Space-Saving Travel Clothes Organizer 

The Rolo is another travel organizer bag favourite of mine. It squeaks into the space-saving category only by a hair though – in truth, it straddles the space-saving and organization categories equally. I love it because it’s a portable closet; I pack my clothes into it, roll it up, compress it with the straps, and throw it in my luggage. When I arrive at my destination, unpacking is as simple as unrolling it and hanging it up.

It’s water-resistant and incredibly sturdy; I abused mine for over five solid years of travel and it still looks brand new. However this is a double-edged sword, since sturdy comes at the cost of being ultralight. Thus, when I’m traveling carry-on only with just one bag , I don’t usually take The Rolo with me. 

PROS: Packing and unpacking is ridiculously easy, and clothes get some compression as well. Ridiculously convenient when moving around a lot. 

CONS: It’s a bit heavy and a wee bit bulky for super ultralight packing. Sturdiness comes at a cost. 

The Rolo Features and Specs: 

• 2 big clothing pockets, each 13” x 16.5”
• 2 small clothing pockets, each 14.5” x 8”
• Unrolled size 45” x 17”
• Military grade nylon mesh zipper pockets
• Patented high-performance buckles and zippers
• 360 degree swivel hook for hanging
• Reinforced support bar for hanging 
• Waterproof PVC-coated ballistic nylon fabric shell
• Compression straps on the outside
• Shoulder strap for carrying on its own (which admittedly I never use)

Click here to level up your travel packing strategies with The Rolo travel bag organizer!  2024 UPDATE: Their website says they’ve temporarily closed their doors. I’m leaving this up in the hopes that they’ll get started again! Here’s hoping.

Best Travel Packing Bags for Clothes

Sometimes having your clothes well organized is more important than saving space. For example, if you must travel with clothes that easily wrinkle, squishing them down will only exacerbate the wrinkle-effect. In other cases, you might have plenty of room in your luggage, or you’re moving around all the time, and it’s more important to have easy access to your luggage’s contents than it is to save space. 

If this is you, then these travel packing bags – which aren’t really bags at all – are optimal. 

(See also: Checked Luggage vs. Carry-On – and Why Checked is Best for Long-Term Travel )

Packing Sleeves / Garment Folder

I know people who use packing sleeves and love them. I am not one of those people; at the best of times, folding clothes neatly is not one of my strong suits, which is why I generally must have wrinkle-free travel clothes . 

These little packing envelopes for clothes usually feature a flat board with detailed instructions on how to fold your stuff around it so it lies perfectly flat, then the garment sleeve wraps around your pile of perfectly-folded clothes. You’ll probably love having a garment folder if you have dress shirts and other clothes that are susceptible to wrinkling. Or, if you’re like my boyfriend and you have a compulsive need to fold everything perfectly, even dirty laundry (I find it endearing). 

PROS: Great for folding clothes perfectly and reducing wrinkles. 

CONS: It’s difficult to keep everything in its perfect folded form if you need to access the shirt in the middle of the pile. It’s also time consuming to fold everything (rolling clothes or haphazardly cramming stuff in your bag like I do is much quicker). 

This Garment Folder by Eagle Creek is very highly reviewed! 

Packable Shelves / Portable Closet

Packable shelves will do nothing to help you to save space, but as far as packing accessories go, they make packing and unpacking ridiculously easy. It’s like a mini hanging dresser; put your clothes and other items on the shelves, then take it off the rod and plunk everything directly into your luggage. The bottom zippered portion in the model pictured here is great for dirty laundry, shoes, or miscellaneous items. This fits into carry-on luggage (20”), although it wouldn’t leave much room for anything else (depending on how much stuff you put on the shelves). 

PROS: Packing and unpacking couldn’t possibly be easier. 

CONS: If your luggage doesn’t open fully (or you have a backpack that only opens on one side), I suspect these shelves would be difficult to pack and unpack. 

Sto-N-Go Portable Luggage System Features and Specs:

• 3-tiered organizer with zippered compartment at bottom
• High-strength hooks for hanging shelves in closet, on shower rod, or over door
• Latches help to keep everything in place when stowing shelves
• Fits suitcases 20” and larger
• Measures 17.7” x 11.8” x 25.2”
• Amazon Choice product with great ratings

Click here to get your Packable Shelves!  

Packing Accessories for Toiletries and Other Miscellaneous Items

Clothes are only part of the battle when it comes to organizing and packing for travel. Here are some other best travel gear and tools to help you stay on top of your travel packing game. 

Tripped Travel Gear 3-Piece Customized Toiletry Set – Best Toiletry Bag for Organization and Daily Use

This is a new addition to this article as of late 2023; until this time I traveled with the Sea to Summit bag below. But the bag below had some shortcomings, all of which are solved with this kit!

While both are hanging toiletry kits, this one is infinitely more practical from a daily use perspective. There are three distinct pouches that hang together, and the bottom one can be detached if you want to keep the contents of that part elsewhere, or if you don’t have enough room to hang the full monty.

Here are some of the things I love:

• The three separate hanging compartments allow better organization and access to the contents.
• There are handy slots on each side of the top compartment ideal for holding a toothbrush and razor for super easy access.
• On travel days, the three compartments fold into each other and zip up to make one nice contained package.
• You can access the main compartment from the outside of the bag when it’s zipped up!
• There is a separate TSA 3-1-1 approved liquids bag, that can also be attached to anything and hung anywhere.
• There is also a separate catch-all cube that can be used for anything.

PROS: The separate TSA-approved liquids bag makes it easy to store, use, and travel with your liquids (if you’re going with carry-on only). The alternative is taking your liquids out of a “regular” toiletry bag for travel days and transporting them in a ziplock bag, then dumping them back in the toiletry bag for use at your destination.

The durable clear material of the liquids bag helps protect against liquid spills, perhaps more so than a ziplock bag would.

The rectangular shape of the kit is nice and easy to pack. (Odd shapes leave odd gaps between items in your luggage.)

If you have an early departure and pack the night prior, you can pack everything up and quickly access whatever you need in the morning via the back zipper, without unfolding the whole thing.

CONS: All this organization comes at a cost. It is a bit heavier than the option below.

Tripped Travel Gear Toiletry Set Features and Specs

• Hanging Toiletry Bag Dimensions: FOLDED: 6” x 8.5” x 3”; UNFOLDED: 21” x 8.5” x 2”
• 3-1-1 Liquids Bag Dimensions: 6” x 8.5” x 3”
• Slim Accessory Bag Dimensions: 12.5” x 4.5’ x 3”
• Detachable clear plastic bag on bottom holds four 3 oz liquids and secures tightly to hanging bag with metal snaps.
• 3-1-1 Liquids Bag has an adjustable plastic quick-clip to secure around shower heads or towels racks.
• YKK Zippers and zipper pulls.Fabric is 70D Nylon/poly mélange for super soft feel and ultra lightweight performance.

Get your Tripped Travel Gear 3-Piece Customizable Toiletry Set here !

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag – Best Ultralight Toiletry Bag

A few years ago I did some ultralight trips and got the Sea to Summit Traveling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag. I was initially worried that I wouldn’t fit everything I needed into it, but my worries proved futile. The large size fits everything I need, and takes up less space than I thought it would!

It satisfies a lot of criteria that I believe a toiletry case needs, such as: 

• It hangs, so you can access and use your toiletries anywhere
• Made of water-resistant/waterproof material
• Multiple compartments for organization
• Easy to see the contents for use on the go
• Super-light, strong and water-resistant Ultra-Sil™ fabric (similar to the SegSac Traveler material, which I adore)
• It even comes with a wee mirror, which comes in handier than I thought it would

The Sea to Summit toiletry bag comes in two sizes: Small (3L) and Large (6L). I have the large and although there’s lots of space in it, I wouldn’t want anything smaller. (Then again, I have five months’ of toiletries in the bag. If you’re on a short trip, the small might be just fine.)

PROS: The ultralight material is so strong and takes up virtually no space or weight. Fantastic for carry-on travelers with limited space.

The material is also flexible enough that if the toiletry bag isn’t full, it doesn’t take up any more space than necessary. (This is a big win, since many toiletry cases have solid frames that don’t squish down if you’re not using all the space.

It keeps all your toiletries organized and relatively separate from the rest of your luggage to protect against possible liquid spills (although I still take extra measures to prevent leaks like putting liquids in ziploc bags and using the liquid spill trick below).  (Also, let’s get it right – most of my toiletries are solid; check out this video I made about solid toiletries or geek my personal packing list to see what I use). 

CONS: Toiletry Cases can be a bit impractical if you travel with carry-on luggage; you’ll need to keep your liquids separate in an easily accessible ziploc bag for clearing security.

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Case Features and Specs:

• Dimensions of Large: 10x9x4, 6L capacity, weighs 4oz/112grams
• Dimensions of Small: 9x6x3, 3L capacity, weighs 2.8oz/80grams
• Water-resistant fabric
• Internal mesh pockets and dividers for organization and visibility
• Durable zips with good grabs for easy opening and closing
• Shatter-proof mirror

Get your Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag here !

Pill Organizer (For More Than Pills)

Sure, you can use a pill organizer to bring along nutritional supplements ( here are the supplements I travel with ) and prescription medications (although, for prescription meds, be sure to have the medicine/prescription label in case you’re asked what the pills are). But these handy organizers are also good for so much more! Here are just a few things you could store in them: 

• Over-the-counter meds (painkillers, allergy meds, etc)
• Coins (if you’re carrying around different currencies)
• Spices (if you’re renting an apartment with a kitchen) 

Really, anything small that you don’t want lost in the shuffle is a good candidate.

PROS: Keeps supplements etc. organized without having to carry entire bottles. Invaluable for protecting and storing jewelry. Also an ingenious way of traveling with spices you like to use but don’t want or need full containers of. 

CONS: Too many little things in too many compartments might be hard to keep track of, and will use up more space than just using baggies. 

There are plenty of pill organizers out there. Here’s one that looks pretty solid and fits any budget. 

Small Travel Tubs

There’s nothing worse than a headache on a travel day (or any day). So I keep a small stash of easily accessible painkillers (and allergy meds) in my purse , in a little tub like this one. I also use these small tubs to travel with sunscreen, various creams, and other toiletries that I use in small quantities. 

PROS: Perfect for keeping a small amount of [whatever] handy. 

CONS: Easy to go overboard and have a tub for every little thing. 

GoTubbs are a popular option for travelers; easy to open (and stay shut when they need to). 

Contact Lens Case (for Creams or Condiments)

These are ideal for small amounts of creams and other toiletries you don’t need much of. Also, they’re great for condiments or spices (think: salt & pepper, chili flakes, etc) that you like to add to food on the go but don’t want a whole jar of. 

PROS: Super-cheap, great for small quantities of things for short trips. Also water-tight, which is great for liquids and creams. 

CONS: Small enough that they can get lost in the shuffle. 

They’re cheap n cheerful here . 

Electronic Bag / Cord Organizer / Travel Charger Organizer  

This is new to this list as of January 2024. I’ve now taken it on two trips, and it’s currently with me on a 5-month trip where it has been useful not only on travel days, but also every day at my destination in “commuting” to the local coworking space.

I was highly dubious of the Tortuga Tech Organizer Bag at first. After years of using another tech pouch that had more bells & whistles, I didn’t think I’d be able to fit everything into this bag, much less keep it organized.

As it turns out, all those bells and whistles of the other tech bag made me think I had more stuff than I actually did! Everything I have fits into this bag – with room to spare. This includes a USB hub, all my charging cords and adaptors, a portable hard drive, cell phone stand, various USB keys, SD cards and even a compact travel light !

Everything has its place, the construction is solid, it’s made of durable waterproof sailcloth material, but it’s not heavy. It’s also flexible enough that it won’t ostensibly take up any more space than what’s in the bag, so you can fit it into whatever nook or cranny your personal item bag allows.

PROS: Keeps your cords, cables, chargers, etc. well-organized and easily accessible.

CONS: All this organization comes at the cost of some additional space and weight.

Check out the Tortuga Tech Organizer here.

Reusable Cable Ties

At first glance I thought these were thoroughly frivolous. Now, I’m amazed I lived like such a savage before. 

These reusable velcro cable ties come in a variety pack of different sizes and are so handy for organizing cables and cords for storage, and even for keeping excess cord out of the way while in use . This is money well spent – both for home and travel use. 

PROS: Colour-coded ties so you can see at a glance what cord you need (if you remember what colour you’ve assigned to that type of cord). Easy to use and transferrable/reusable. Makes your cords and cables last longer (less wear and tear). 

CONS: It takes a few extra seconds to wrap your cord nicely (compared to simply shoving it willy nilly into your bag). With enough use, I’ve seen the odd thread fray off the ties – it’s mildly annoying but nothing more. 

Click here to get your reusable cord and cable ties. 

The Scrubba Wash Bag

Even though I consistently hand-wash my clothes (because I’m traveling with carry-on only and/or I have delicate items like merino wool that I don’t trust in many foreign washing machines), I resisted getting a Scrubba wash bag for years in the name of minimalism. This is a shame, because only about 50% of the sinks I encounter can properly handle hand-washing. Many don’t hold water properly, and my universal sink plug is often useless (depending on the sink/drain configuration). I initially thought The Scrubba wash bag was simply a water-tight roll-top bag (aka: dry bag), but there’s more to it than that, and it doesn’t take up so much space that my inner minimalist feels violated. 

PROS: You can do hand laundry anywhere, regardless of the sink configuration. Can get clothes cleaner, using less soap and water. Good for not only travel, but camping too. 

CONS: It’s pricey for what it is; ultimately you could get away with using a regular dry bag. Also, if you’re traveling super duper ultralight, it’s small, but still it’s an extra 145 grams (5 ounces). 

Features and Specs of The Scrubba Wash Bag:

• Uses less water than normal hand-washing in a sink would
• Textured washboard inside for thorough cleaning
• Transparent window so you can monitor clothes (eg: make sure it’s as sudsy as you want it to be)
• Twist valve releases air prior to scrubbing with the washboard feature
• Outside backing is sticky so the bag doesn’t slide around while you’re scrubbing 
• Folds down to pocket size when not in use 
• Multi-functional: doubles as a dry-bag

Get your own Scrubba Wash Bag at Amazon ! 

Note: I have the Allurette version of the Scrubba wash bag, which is made for delicate items. This is ideal if you travel with merino wool.

And, if you love multi-functional items, Scrubba makes a wash bag/compression sack/waterproof backpack combo that even serves as an outdoor shower!

Luggage Scale

There’s nothing worse than standing in line to check in for a flight, and watching the check-in agent meticulously weighing all the bags of people ahead of you (even carry-on and personal items), before forcing customers to either pay extra to check their bags or repack on the spot. 

I’ll admit, I don’t own a luggage scale. But, this also means that every time I pack, I’m pretty stressed out. Many airlines weigh carry-on luggage (especially if you’re not checking a bag), and some airlines have very strict (and stingy) weight limits for both checked and carry-on luggage. Thus, a luggage scale is a handy packing aid for luggage that’s on my list of things to get, to reduce pre-travel stress. 

PROS: Know you’re within the airline’s weight limits and/or adjust as necessary before you leave for the airport. 

CONS: I haven’t been able to find one that is rechargeable or uses rechargeable batteries. 

This portable luggage scale is simple, cheap, and does the trick . 

Cheap/Free Travel Packing Hacks and Tips

I didn’t write this post intending that you would race out and buy every single travel product on this list. It’s a comprehensive collection of travel packing aids so that you can pick and choose what works best for you.

Because let’s get it right: if you bought all these handy packing tools, you might not have much space left in your luggage for your actual stuff, nor money left for your actual travels – and travel is what this whole thing is about. 

When traveling across the world, you’d definitely want to come prepared. From packing the right clothes to packing the best travel accessories, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need for an amazing adventure….including what you need to keep it all organized.

I’m frugal (some would say to a fault). So let’s look at my favourite kind of traveling accessories: the free (or very cheap) kind. Also included are some travel packing hacks that I suspect you’ll enjoy. 

To help with packing, I’ve also included some space saving packing hacks and tips that can come in handy:

1. Ziploc bags

Ah, the almighty ziploc bag. I’ve always got a stash of them in various sizes that I use (and reuse and resuse) for a variety of purposes, including: 

• Keep small things separate and organized
• Hand-wash small items
• Makeshift packing cube / space saver bag 
• Pack a wet bathing suit (or other wet items)
• Separate dirty laundry from clean
• Fill with water then freeze and use to keep foods cold while in-transit
• Keep liquid toiletries from contaminating other things if they leak 

2. Dryer Sheets

Luggage can get a bit musty over time, either because it’s not being used enough (and has been stored in a humid airless space for too long), or because it’s being used too much (and has seen too much dirty laundry). In both cases, a dryer sheet will prevent icky smells from setting in. Also great for stinky shoes. 

3. Shower Caps for Shoes

Worried that your items will get dirty from your shoes? To avoid packing in a mess, make sure to cover your shoes with disposable shower caps. This will ensure that your items are kept safe from dirt and debris.

Next time you’re staying at a hotel, grab the free shower caps and use them to cover the bottoms of your shoes before you pack them. (And don’t forget to stuff your shoes with other items to help them maintain their form and to maximize luggage space). 

4. Foolproof Liquid Spill Prevention Trick

This one’s gold. Before you pack your liquid toiletries, unscrew the cap and place some plastic over the opening. The plastic can be cut from a plastic shopping bag, plastic food wrap, an old ziploc bag; you only need a small piece. Then, screw the top back on. Ta-dah! You’ve leak-proofed your toiletries. 

I still take it one step further after doing this and put them in a separate ziploc bag, but that’s as much for organization as for protection. 

5. Go For a Color Schemed Clothing

When everything coordinates, packing becomes a breeze. This means packing clothes in the same color so you can mix and match them. Darker colors are easier to pack as they hide dirt better, while lighter colors can help create more outfit options when mixing and matching. Read more about this in my travel capsule wardrobe for women.

6. The Pillowcase Hack

You might be already aware of this hack but packing the pillowcase hack is an outstanding way to save packing space. To do this, simply stuff your clothes inside a spare pillowcase and zip it up. This will help keep your clothes organized and in place, with less packing mess! On top of that, you can use it as a pillowcase when you reach your destination.

This can also be a sneaky way to bring more stuff on the plane than your carry-on luggage will allow; they don’t count travel pillows as luggage space, so your “pillow” could smuggle some extra things on board.

7. Virtual Packing Check List

You can never be too sure when packing, so creating a virtual packing checklist is the best way to ensure you’re packing what you need. Make a list of all the items that are essential for your trip and then make sure to check them off as you pack.

8. Keep a Toiletry Go Bag

As you’re on the go, packing a toiletry go bag is the best way to make sure you have all your essentials with you. A compact and simple pouch that can fit into your carry-on should do the trick. This hack can avoid several times of unpacking and packing, as you’ll have everything you need in an instant. This is exactly what my 3-piece customizable hanging toiletry set is.

9. Wear the Bulkiest Clothing You Have

You might be confused about this packing hack, but wearing the bulkiest clothing you have is the best way to save packing space. Jackets and boots are usually bulky items that take up a lot of packing space, so wear them while traveling instead. You’ll be in luck if your destination will be cooler than the place you’re leaving from.

10. Foldable Day Pack

A foldable day pack can be folded up to the size of your hand and will come in handy when you need it. Instead of packing a large, bulky backpack, packing a foldable daypack is the best way to go as you’ll have a smaller bag when packing and more space for those items that don’t fit into your suitcase. Here is The Top Ultralight Packable Backpacks for Travel – a comparison so you can decide which one is best for you.

11. Tangle-free Jewelry

Avoid wearing bulky jewelry that can easily get tangled by packing them in a tangle-free jewelry organizer. These organizers come with multiple compartments, specially designed to prevent your items from getting tangled or lost. Honestly I’ve yet to find a truly travel-friendly jewelry organizer, so let me know if you have one! Because of this I travel with minimal jewelry and I always make sure it won’t end up in an irrevocably tangled ball.

12. Laundry During the Trip

You don’t want to be packing too many clothes, so the best way is to do laundry during the trip. This can easily be done depending on your destination. Bring a small bottle or bag of detergent (or even better, some eco-friendly and ultralight laundry strips) and hand wash your clothes when needed. It’s a great way to save packing space and packing time.

15. 3 Ingredients to Keep Your Bag Smelling Fresh

Using a small cedar chip, a sprig of lavender, or even cinnamon sticks can do the trick. Simply tuck them into your packing cubes and enjoy fresh scents throughout the duration of your trip.

16. Use Socks as a Cushion

Heels and hats can easily be crushed or bent if placed in a packing cube. To prevent this, simply stuff socks and fill them with small fragile items such as hats, or even shoes to keep them safe from getting crushed.

15. Pack Spare Clothing in Your Carry-on

Traveling is making sure you’re packing everything you need for the trip. But packing a spare set of clothing in your carry-on is a great way to be prepared for any unexpected outcome. In case of lost luggage or any unexpected event, packing an extra set of clothing can save you from potential packing mishaps.

18. Track Your Items with Photos

Taking photos of your items before packing is the best way to remember what you have and where it’s located. It also helps in packing, as you can easily refer to a photo and find where your items are located within your suitcase. If an unfortunate event happens and your stuff managed to get lost, you can use these images for filing an insurance claim .

17. Roll Your Clothes in a Bundle

It may sound ridiculous, but rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save tons of packing space. Roll each item tightly and secure it with a rubber band or packing cube.

18. Packing Cubes are the Holy Grail for Traveling

I’ve already mentioned that packing cubes are essential for packing. Not only do packing cubes keep your items organized, they also prevent clothes from wrinkling and taking up too much space in your suitcase. Always go for the compressible packing cubes to help maximize luggage space.

Here’s a mammoth article I wrote comparing all the top packing cubes on the market .

19. Wrinkle-Proof Fabric is the Way to Go

Regardless of whether you’re rolling up your clothes or folding them meticulously, they’re going to come out wrinkled. So packing wrinkle-proof fabric is the best way to go. You don’t have to worry that your clothes will be wrinkled when you unpack them. Merino wool , polyester, denim, wool, knits, spandex and lyocell are just a few of the fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily.

2o. Solid Toiletries are a Must

With numerous unpleasant encounters with airlines regarding our toiletries, packing in solid form is always the best way to go. Besides being safer and lighter, solid toiletries can be used for multiple purposes such as shampoo, body wash, and even toothpaste. Even solid perfumes are already available in the market. Here’s a video I made about solid toiletries .

21. Multipurpose Clothing

Since you’ll be wanting to pack light, packing multipurpose clothing is a must. A few items you can bring that suit multiple purposes are shawls, which can be worn as a scarf or used as an extra layer over your outfit or even a beach towel or sarong in a pinch; and packing light jackets with multiple pockets for extra storage.

22. Develop a System

Here’s a final piece of advice to tie everything together. Successful travel packing (and unpacking, and packing again) depends on having a system from which you don’t deviate. Everything has its place, and that’s that. This is especially important when traveling with checked luggage, because the larger your bag is, and the more stuff you have, the more likely you’re going to lose stuff in it. 

I don’t know how many times I had to tear my luggage apart in search of one thing; something I’d ingeniously tucked into a specific pocket (thinking it was so smart I’d never forget) before immediately forgetting where I’d put it. I actually lost something for years , once. Years.

By developing a system that is uniquely yours, you’ll not only be able to put your hands on anything and everything with ease, but it will also dramatically reduce the time it takes you to pack. 

Frequently Asked Questions For Packing Like A Pro

Apart from this amazing list of packing accessories for travel, you might still have some questions about packing for your next journey. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you plan your packing list:

Q: What is the most useful item for traveling?

A: The most useful item for traveling would depend on the type of trip you are taking. However, some of the best travel accessories that can come in handy regardless of your destination include packing cubes, a lightweight daypack or crossbody bag , and earplugs. I’m also a sucker for this travel power strip and surge protector . I never (ever) leave home without it.

If you are a fan of carry-on bags, I would highly suggest that the SegSac Traveler luggage organizer is the most useful item (which I featured at the beginning of this article). It’s an ultra-lightweight packing cube that can fit into any suitcase or backpack, and it’s made with compression technology to maximize space. It also features great organizational systems such as pockets and compartments, so your packing items are neatly organized.

Q: What accessories do I need to travel?

A: When it comes to packing for a trip, the best thing you can do is keep your packing list short and simple. 

Here’s a list of essential packing accessories that everyone should have when traveling: a packing cube or two, a lightweight daypack or crossbody bag, the SegSac Traveler, and some cable ties to organize cords. 

You’ll also need to pack adapters for charging devices such as your phone or laptop, as well as a travel adaptor if the outlets at your destination are a different configuration. If you’re going somewhere with unpredictable weather conditions, packing a rainproof jacket is also a must.

Q: What should you not bring on vacation?

A: In addition to fact that packing light is important, some items are just better left at home. Electronics such as laptops and tablets take up a lot of space and can be difficult to carry around while traveling, if you’re not working remotely along the way. If you’re a professional or a digital nomad who needs to bring your laptop with you, consider packing your tech in a lightweight sleeve and packing it in your carry-on.

Another item that may not be necessary for a short trip is extra sets of clothes. Instead, try packing accessories like scarves and shawls which can be used in multiple ways to change the look of your outfits and won’t take up too much space.

Other items that shouldn’t be brought on vacation include expensive jewelry, excessive amounts of clothing and shoes, and items that could easily get lost or stolen.

Q: How do I pack for 7 days?

A: Knowing how to pack for a 7-day trip can be tricky. To make packing easier, it’s best to plan out your activities and plan what you’ll need accordingly. Planning these are just the beginning and can be too mind-racking as you don’t know what packing items you need to bring.

Packing for a week-long trip can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! To ensure you’re packing everything you need without overpacking, refer to this post for a full packing list guide .

Q: What should I pack and not forget?

A: When packing for a trip, it’s easy to forget essential items. To avoid this, make sure you pack items in your carry-on such as your passport or visa (if necessary), ID and credit cards, any medications you may need, chargers for devices, and some basic toiletries such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer. It’s also a good idea to pack a map of the area you’re visiting and cash in the currency of your destination.

Do you like Travel Gear and Packing Hacks as much as I do? 

It’s okay! You’re not alone. Don’t seek therapy. Instead, read these posts: 

The Ultimate Packing List for Long-Term Travel

The Best Anti-Theft Bags, Purses, Backpacks, and Luggage

Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Wrinkle-Free Travel Clothes for Women

Best Travel Clothes for Men

Checked vs. Carry-on Luggage – and Which is Best for You

The Best Carry-on Backpack for One Bag Travel

…and all my other Travel Gear posts and reviews

6 thoughts on “Top Packing Hacks: Best Travel Accessories for 2024”

Thanks for the great guide Nora! The favorite item on this list that I use all the time is the cable tie, it’s just so helpful in keeping everything tidy 🙂 I haven’t tried the Rolo yet, but it looks interesting; I’ll add it to the list of must-tries items!

Thanks, Kev! Yes, the cable ties were a game-changer for me as well. I use them both at home and on the road!

Looks like the Rolo is no longer available/went out of business. Was looking forward to trying it out. Any suggestions on something similar? Thanks!

Thanks for letting me know, Richard! I’ve reached out to the owner of ROLO to see what’s happening, since their website still says they’re only “temporarily” closed. As for an alternative, the closest thing that I know of are Standard Luggage’s packing cubes that convert into a hanging travel dresser: https://bit.ly/3rM6klA

I didn’t see any mention of Solgaard carry-on luggage (closet) or their handy dandy collapsable hanging bag with compartments,

Do you think so little of their product?

Hey Dan, I haven’t tried it yet, but I think it looks really cool! I like how useful it becomes at your destination to hold stuff if the closets/drawers leave something to be desired. Have you tried it?

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• Lightweight Luggage
• Luggage Sets
• Rolling Luggage
• Softside Luggage
• Travel Tote Bags
• All Luggage & Suitcases
• 18-20" International Carry-On
• 21-22" Domestic Carry-On
• 23-24" Checked - Medium
• 25-27" Checked - Large
• 28-32" Checked - Extra Large
• All Luggage Sizes
• Luggage Pros
• Briefcases for Women
• iPad Cases & Tablet Cases
• Laptop Bags
• Laptop Sleeves
• Leather Briefcases
• Messenger Bags
• Rolling Briefcases
• All Laptop Bags & Briefcases
• Briggs & Riley Laptop Bags
• Piel Leather Laptop Bags
• Samsonite Laptop Bags
• Thule Luggage Laptop Bags
• Travelpro Laptop Bags
• TUMI Laptop Bags
• Victorinox Laptop Bags
• Cosmetic Bags
• Toiletry Bags
• Luggage Tags
• Money Belts & Neck Wallets
• Packing Aids
• Luggage Carts
• Luggage Racks
• Travel Adapters & Converters
• Travel Neck Pillows & Comfort
• Travel Security
• All Travel Accessories
• Briggs & Riley Travel Accessories
• Eagle Creek Travel Accessories
• Luggage Pros Travel Accessories
• Pacsafe Travel Accessories
• TUMI Travel Accessories
• Victorinox Travel Accessories
• Hiking Backpacks
• Laptop Backpacks
• Laptop Messenger Bags
• Leather Backpacks
• Rolling Backpacks
• School Backpacks
• Sling Backpacks
• Travel Backpacks
• Waist Packs
• All Backpacks
• Briggs & Riley Backpacks
• Eagle Creek Backpacks
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Backpacks
• Samsonite Backpacks
• Thule Luggage Backpacks
• Travelpro Backpacks
• TUMI Backpacks
• Victorinox Backpacks
• Crossbody Bags
• Eco-Friendly Bags
• Fabric Handbags
• Leather Handbags
• RFID Handbags
• Wallets for Women
• Wallets for Men
• All Handbags & Wallets
• Baggallini Handbags
• Briggs & Riley Handbags
• Pacsafe Handbags
• Piel Leather Handbags
• TUMI Handbags
• Victorinox Handbags
• Golf Bags & Accessories
• Leather Duffel Bags
• Sports Bags
• Travel Duffel Bags
• Rolling Duffel Bags
• All Duffel Bags
• Briggs & Riley Duffel Bags
• Eagle Creek Duffel Bags
• Piel Leather Duffel Bags
• Samsonite Duffel Bags
• Thule Luggage Duffel Bags
• Travelpro Duffel Bags
• TUMI Duffel Bags
• Victorinox Duffel Bags
• Personalized Luggage
• How to Design MyFly Bags
• Personalized Luggage Tags
• How to Design MyFly Tags
• All Personalized Items
• MyFly Personalized Travel Gear
• $1000 and above

Luggage Size

• Under 6 lbs
• 8 to 10 lbs
• Over 10 lbs
• Non-Wheeled
• Multi-Color
• Eco-Friendly
• Hydration Compatible
• RFID Secure
• Shoe Compartment
• Water Bottle Pocket
• Ballistic Nylon
• Ballistic Polyester
• Faux Leather
• Polycarbonate
• Polypropylene
• Polyurethane

Packing aids keep clothing, accessories and other items organized and secure inside luggage. Toiletry kits are an absolute essential to prevent liquids, gels, lotions and powders from leaking or spilling. Many travelers make use of miniature plastic bottles to take small amounts of things, like shampoo and conditioner, as a means of saving space. Individual containers should be packed in an airtight, waterproof bag. For small, valuable accessories like earrings, watches, rings and necklaces, use a jewelry pouch with separate compartments to prevent items from becoming entangled and damaged. Packing squares, cubes or envelopes, in various sizes, will divide and separate miscellaneous objects including underwear, ties, scarves, socks and shoes. A small first-aid kit that contains prescription medications, aspirin, bandages, a splinter picker and iodine will come in handy in case of an emergency. Shoe bags and laundry bags are handy way to transport shoes, wet swimwear and to keep dirty laundry away from clean clothes.

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Travel Size First-Aid Kit: What to Pack & Downloadable Checklist

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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When you pack for a trip, especially a trip overseas, it’s easy to forget about medications and first-aid. That’s why you should always bring a basic first-aid kit with you on your travels.

I always keep a pre-packed first-aid kit ready to go so I don’t have to think twice about it when I’m packing. Of course, you may need additional items depending on where you’re going and what activities you have planned. But this first-aid kit packing list covers the basics.

15 Tiny Travel Products to Help You Stay Healthy on Vacation

What Do I Need in My Travel First-Aid Kit?

These everyday medications will take care of most common aches and pains that come with a long day of travel.

• Antihistamine
• Antacid tablets
• Hydration pills or electrolyte replenishers
• Cold relief medicine
• Motion sickness relief
• Muscle relaxer

For minor bumps and bruises, make sure you have these emergency first aid supplies in your medical kit.

• Various sized bandages
• Alcohol swabs or antiseptic wipes
• First aid balm or sting relief, anti-itch cream , & antibiotic cream

From treating splinters to sunburns, these miscellaneous items are must-haves in your travel first aid kit.

• Thermometer
• Hand sanitizer

First-Aid Kit Tips

• Look in the school supply section of your local drugstore for a small container, or order a small tackle box from Amazon .
• Only separate medication from its labeled bottle if you know you’ll be able to differentiate pills.
• Keep prescription medications separate from your first-aid kit.
• Include over-the-counter (OTC) medication based on your needs; i.e., if you’re traveling on a cruise and need motion sickness pills, make sure to include those.
• Pack a natural balm like GREEN GOO First Aid , which can relieve symptoms for dry skin, insect bites, scrapes, rashes, chafing, cuts, sunburns, blisters, and poison ivy.
• Include various-sized bandages ; they double for blister protection if you plan on doing a lot of walking.
• Hand sanitizer , a small tissue pack , lip balm , and sunscreen are also must-haves.
• Be sure to fill out the Medical ID on your iPhone and list any allergies, emergency contacts, and your doctor’s information.
• Keep a laminated copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card accessible during your travels as well as a photo of your card available on your phone.
• Remember to pack extra face masks if you plan on visiting a destination or attending an event where masking is required

Download and print this checklist to make your own travel first-aid kit.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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37 Packing Hacks: The Best Travel Hacks For Packing

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Packing hacks are the best way to take your travel game to the next level. We have rounded up the top travel packing hacks designed to save you space, time and money – so you can focus your energy on enjoying your trip. Clever and inventive, packing hacks for traveling will enhance your packing skills and overall travel savviness.

37 Best Travel Packing Hacks

I used to be terrible at packing for trips; first I was an over-packer, then an under-packer. Now, as a full-time world traveler, I rely on packing hacks for travel to keep me organized and efficient on travel days. Some hacks for packing have become so ingrained in our travel routine that packing without them is unimaginable.

Our Travel Hacks For Packing

Our list of packing hacks ranges from absolute game changers to creative tricks. Some are tried-and-true traveling hacks for packing, while others are insider tips we gleaned from expert travelers. These packing hacks will work for all travelers – so whether you are seeking backpack hacks or cruise packing hacks, you will surely find a few gems on our list.

We have categorized our list into three sections: Hacks for Packing Clothes, Toiletry Hacks, Carry On Hacks and a few miscellaneous tips, too. This is a mega list of the best packing life hacks – so grab your coffee and settle in.

Get started now with your FREE Packing Checklist !

Clothing Packing Hacks

Because clothing is the main component to packing, we are kicking off our list with hacks for packing clothes.

#1 Packing Cubes Hacks

Of all luggage packing hacks, packing with Packing Cubes ranks most supreme. Providing organization and structure to your suitcase or backpack, Packing Cubes are space-saving superstars. The cubes come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials – all of which need to be considered in order to attain your ultimate packing goal.

Pro Tip : We discuss the different kinds of cubes – and the best packing cube hacks – in detail in our post: Ways Packing Cubes make Travel Easier . 

#2 Cheap Packing Travel Hacks

While Packing Cubes are – hands down – one of the best packing hacks that we use, Packing Cubes are pricey! Personally, we think they are worth every single cent. However, if you are not ready to take the plunge and buy some, rather than packing using Packing Cubes, try Ziplock Bags. This is one of the top travel organization hacks that will save space in your suitcase. 

Gallon-size bags are ideal for organization and compression; however, unlike the quality Packing Cubes we use, Ziplocks have an incredibly short lifespan.

Pro Tip : I used to pack using Ziplocks (before I learned how incredible actual Packing Cubes are!). I would pack one complete outfit in each gallon bag and label it so I could easily find the outfit I was looking for. On the way home from vacation, I used the zip-top bags for my dirty laundry, too!

#3 Clothes-Rolling, Space-Saving Packing Hacks

Rolling clothes – rather than folding them – has long been one of the best suitcase packing hacks for saving space. Travelers can either roll each item individually – or, take it up a notch, and roll an entire outfit (pants, shirt, socks and underwear) together. By rolling a complete outfit, your suitcase becomes a grab-and-go destination when getting ready for the day’s adventure.

Pro Tip : For a tighter roll that stays together, use a ‘military roll’ or hair ties to secure the rolled clothing. If you use hair ties, you will also have backups if you lose or break one on your trip. (Plain rubber bands can be used, too, if you don’t use hair elastics.)

Roll vs Fold Debate

While many travelers rave about the benefits of rolling, it is not one of the packing luggage hacks that we use for our shirts and pants. We find that rolling is time consuming – and although many travelers claim that it can save even more space to pack rolled clothes in Packing Cubes, we have not found that to be true.

That said, the one item of clothing I do roll is my bikini underwear . I start by folding the underwear into thirds – folding each side in to the width of my small Packing Cube. Then, starting at the bottom, I roll up to the waistline. This is actually one of my airport hacks, as much as it is a packing hack, because this way, if my undergarment Packing Cube gets tagged for inspection, the agent rifling through my clothes will be less likely to touch the part of the panties that goes against my skin.

Pro Tip : Another clothes packing hack for underwear is to pack quick drying underwear that will be easy to wash in the sink and dry fast – if need be. A brand that fellow travelers love is Ex-Officio , but I prefer inexpensive and functional Fruit of the Loom . We talk more about clothing materials in a minute!

#4 Folding Hacks for Packing

If you are like us and decide to fold your clothes (instead of roll), then it is key to fold all of your clothing to the exact same size. After spending 10 years working in retail, I am fairly skilled at folding random sized clothing into neat stacks. However, for travelers who find it challenging, one of the packing folding hacks is to use a Folding Board , which will ensure you get a perfect fold on every piece of clothing.

Pro Tip: One of the great business travel packing hacks is to fold your delicate work clothes in dry cleaning bags as it will help eliminate wrinkles on arrival!

#5 Packing Hacks: Travel Clothing

One of the top packing clothes hacks for traveling is to only pack clothing that travels well. There are numerous clothing lines that are designed specifically for traveling, but most travelers don’t need to get that technical – and many items you already own might fit the bill.

The features of clothing that are most important when it comes to packing are moisture-wicking, quick-drying, odor-eliminating, wrinkle-resistant and washable clothing items.

That said, if you do pack clothing that wrinkles, bring travel-size Wrinkle Release Spray  to avoid having to iron on vacation.

Pro Tip : While the right clothing material is essential for travelers, it is equally important to pack clothing that you like and are comfortable wearing…because if it is not comfortable, it will likely stay folded in your suitcase. I share more tips about my packing experience for full-time travel in My Long-Term Travel Packing List: What I Pack To Travel the World .

#6 Pack Multi-Functional Clothing

There are no better packing hacks for traveling light than packing versatile and multi-functional clothing. One of the most useful items I have in my backpack is my wrap – and it has about a million uses.

I have used it as a scarf, a beach cover up, a bath towel, a picnic blanket, a pillow cover, a bedsheet, a head cover, an ear cover, an eye cover, a curtain and a bus seat cover…just to name a few. As long as the wrap is lightweight, dark and washable, the possibilities are endless.

Convertible clothing – like this dress/skirt combo – are awesome packing hacks to save space. Other clothing that can be multi-function are yoga pants (which can double as sleepwear), leggings (which can be layered in cool weather), a casual dress (which can be a beach cover up) and bikini tops (which can be worn as a bra).

Pro Tip : A pillowcase is another good item to pack that is multi-functional. Use it to cover the pillow you sleep on in your accommodations, then fill it with dirty clothes for the trip home.

#7 Capsule Clothing Packing Travel Hacks

Packing a capsule wardrobe is one of the smart packing hacks used by travelers. 

To assemble a capsule wardrobe, first, choose a color scheme of similar shades – like black, dark blue and shades of purple – and only pack clothing that falls into the color palette. Each item – tops and bottoms – need to be able to be mixed, matched and layered with all other items. Outfits can be accessorized with colorful scarves and jewelry.

By using this trip hack, you can pack minimal pieces of clothing that can be combined to make numerous different outfits. Done right, it is one of the space saving packing hacks that allows travelers to pack carry-on luggage only. 

In addition to coordinating my entire wardrobe, one item that I always like to pack is a black skirt . It is something that is comfortable and casual for sightseeing, but can be dressed up with a nicer shirt and a scarf for going out in the evening.

Pro Tip : A life hack for packing clothes for a vacation is to use the Countdown Rule. For example, if you are taking a 5-day trip, pack 5 shirts, 4 pants (or shorts/skirts), 3 dresses, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 colorful scarf (or bold piece of jewelry). Additionally, pack one pair of underwear for every day of the trip, but only one set of pajamas.

#8 Clothes Packing Hacks for Vacation

One of the simple traveling packing hacks that is often overlooked is Destination Research. What I mean by this is that, before you start packing and choosing clothes for your trip, first check the weather forecast for your destination. Also, gain some insight to the destination’s clothing culture and have a basic understanding of what apparel is acceptable at tourist destinations, religious sites, restaurants and clubs.

Pro Tip : Use your itinerary to help decide what clothes to bring. How the Packing Hacks Travel Itinerary works is that, based on your planned activities that you select in advance of your trip, you determine which outfit to wear for each day of your trip. (To book your activities in advance, we use Viator !)

#9 Clever Packing Hacks for Clothing

One of the life hacks for packing that we have long used – and is commonly used by fellow travelers – is to pack clothing items for a trip that you no longer want to keep. After you wear them on your trip, you can donate the clothing at your destination (or, if there is really no life left in the item, just toss it!). This is an especially good tip for families traveling with growing kids.

Pro Tip : One of the truly Travel Light hacks is to reverse this idea slightly. When you leave for vacation, only pack personal items – like undergarments and toiletries. On arrival at your destination, make your first stop a thrift shop and buy new-to-me clothes for the entire trip. On the last day of the vacation, return to the thrift shop and donate all of the clothing back to the store. We have never personally used this hack – but heard about it from a fellow traveler and love the concept!

#10 Travel Hacks for Packing Shoes

To save suitcase space, on any trip, for any length of time, only ever pack three pairs of shoes – I even follow this rule as a full-time traveler! All shoes should be comfortable to wear for long days of sightseeing and, more importantly, they need to go with all the outfits that you are packing. (This idea goes back to the capsule wardrobe method!)

For more travel shoe tips, read our blog post, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Pro Tip : A good way to keep grimy shoes from dirtying up the inside of your luggage and one of the little genius packing hacks is to fit disposable shower caps (the kind that are free at many hotels) over the sole of the shoe before you put them in your bag. The empty space inside your shoes can also be used to store items – like deodorant and shaving cream, just put it in a resealable bag first.

Resealable bags are one of our essentials for packing. They come in handy for everything from an open bag of snacks to your wet bathing suit on a travel day. Find out more tips in our blog post, Everyday Items for Traveling . 

#11 Clothing Airport Hacks

One of the ingenious suitcase packing hacks to save space is to actually wear your bulkiest items, especially on long travel days . In fact, this is one of the top Carry On Only travel hacks. Rather than using valuable luggage space to pack your coat and boots, wear them on the plane! Tie a sweatshirt around your waist or wear layers that can easily be removed once seated on the plane.

Pro Tip : Another one of the travel packing hacks that can save space inside your luggage is tying your shoes or flip flops to the outside of your carry on bag. This also applies if you carry a water bottle…simply clip it to the exterior of your bag if possible…or better yet, travel with a collapsible water bottle .

#12 Hacks for Packing a Suitcase…Without Over-Packing

Over-packing is a downfall for many travelers – it certainly was for me when I was a novice traveler. But I have learned what an absolute drag over-packing can be. It can weigh you down (literally) when lugging your suitcase through an airport, down a cobblestone street and up the stairs of a boutique hotel.

One of the best life hacks for traveling and packing – or rather not over-packing – is to simply commit to packing in a carry on size suitcase. By limiting the amount of room you have, you will be less tempted to over pack, which is much more sensible! We discuss more specific carry on packing hacks later in the post!

Pro Tip: If you are checking luggage, invest in an affordable luggage scale to ensure you don’t go over the weight limit. You don’t want to be surprised at the beginning of your trip with an extra charge!

Everything we pack for world travel fits in a Carry On size backpack! Find out what we pack: The Ultimate Packing List .

#13 Packing Suitcase Hacks

We pack in backpacks, but one of the best suitcase hacks I ever heard was to shift your perspective of your suitcase. Rather than packing stacks of clothing horizontally into the suitcase, pack vertically, from the wheels up.

Another one of the best Packing a Suitcase hacks is to take this idea one step further. Pack vertically, but pack complete outfits and stack them in the order that you plan to wear them (according to your itinerary!). This way, when you get ready each day, all you need to do is grab the outfit from the top!

Pro Tip : Don’t let any space go unused! One of the long time travel hacks packing tips is to take advantage of small crevices in your suitcase to slip in things like a comb or other small miscellaneous items.

#14 Luggage Hacks

Day packs and purses can take up a lot of room in luggage. Minimize how many items you carry by selecting one purse that will work for all occasions. It is even better if you pack a purse or bag that can double as a day pack.

One of our favorite packing for travel hacks is to pack a lightweight  foldable shopping bag , which unfolds to a bigger bag for going to the beach or shopping during your trip.

Pro Tip : Read more about day bags in our blog post, The Best Day Packs for Traveling .

#15 Packing a Suitcase: Hacks for Fresh Clothing

One way to keep your clothes smelling fresh during your trip is to layer each clothing item with a dryer sheet. This is one of the double-dip packing travel hacks because later, if you need to do laundry while on your trip, you will have dryer sheets to use!

Pro Tip : Another way to keep clothes fresh is with Fabreeze. Pack a travel-size Fabreeze with your toiletries! And, don’t worry, we are getting to our toiletry packing hacks in a minute!

#16 Holiday Packing Hacks for Souvenirs

If you anticipate collecting breakable souvenirs during your trip, a good suitcase hack is to use bubble wrap in between your clothes or outfits. Then, use the bubble wrap to protect souvenirs that you are bringing home.

Other travel hacks for packing souvenirs (and some of the creative ways to better ensure breakables make the trip home undamaged) is to pack them inside Pringles cans or even use the free hotel slippers as cushioning. On the other hand, if you are  buying wine, actual wine protectors are the best.

Pro Tip : In many cases, the best and safest way to transport fragile souvenirs is to ship them home…rather than trying to jam them into your suitcase. 

#17 Packing hacks for Traveling: Laundry

One of the best space-saving travel hacks is simply to plan on doing laundry during your trip. By planning to do laundry while you travel, you will only need to pack one week’s worth of clothing – or less! – even if you are on a 2-week – or longer! – trip.

We recommend booking accommodations with a washer and (maybe) a dryer ( Airbnb is our go-to resource for finding the best places to stay). It is a good idea to pack a few individual packages of liquid laundry detergent , just in case they do not provide any. 

Pro Tip : If your accommodation does not have a washer, there is likely a nearby laundromat – or even laundry service. Just remember to bring a packable laundry bag so that you have something to carry your dirty clothes in.

#18 Sink Laundry: Packing Tips and Hacks

Learning how to efficiently do sink laundry is one of the packing hacks for long trips, when you will inevitably need to wash at least a few undergarments. Sink laundry is as simple as it sounds: It’s when you hand wash your clothes in the sink, bathtub or shower.

The most important thing to keep in mind when washing items in the sink is allowing enough time for clothes to dry (and, again, why it is so important to pack quick-dry clothing).

Many travelers wash clothes at night, before going to bed, to ensure they will dry. We like to take advantage of the sunshine (if possible) and wash them in the morning (but never the morning of a travel day!).

Sometimes we just use a bar of soap to clean our clothes, but Sink Laundry detergent is probably better. A sink stopper will help for scrubbing and rinsing in the sink – and a travel clothesline is ideal to hang up wet clothes. That said, draping socks over a heater or in front of a fan can help speed drying times…and a hair dryer works, too.

Pro Tip : A Scrubba Wash Bag is often touted by fellow travelers as one of the top packing hacks for backpacking, but we have yet to use one personally!

Packing Hacks For Toiletries

Our list of packing toiletries hacks is full of ideas that will help you pack better for your next trip! These travel hacks for packing toiletries will hopefully help you avoid spills in your luggage…and save you some space in your bag, too.

#19 Travel Toiletry Hacks for Shampoo and Conditioner

One way to avoid any liquid shampoo and conditioner luggage incidents is to simply not pack it! Many hotels and Airbnb apartments provide shampoo and conditioner. And, if they don’t, you can always buy some at a local store when you get there.

That said, did you know that shampoo and condition come in bars just like soap? Well, you are now in on the secret! Using shampoo and conditioner bars – rather than packing bottled liquids – is an excellent travel packing hack that will ensure you don’t have spilled shampoo in your bag on arrival at your destination.

Pro Tip : Shampoo and conditioner are just one of the solid toiletries you can use on your trip. Other packings hacks for traveling without liquids are using toothpaste tabs and solid perfumes !

#20 All-in-One Toiletry Travel and Packing Hacks

What better way to save space than to use products with multiple uses? The all-in-one Dr. Bronner’s soaps are organic and certified Fair Trade products that are designed for multiple purposes. The soap can be used on body, face, hair and teeth…and also to clean dishes, clothes, floors, windows – and even the toilet – making it one of the best travel packing hacks of all!

Pro Tip : The Castille soap collection comes in a variety of scents and is available in liquid or bars .

#21 Liquids: The Best Packing Hacks for Travel

While eliminating liquids from your luggage is one of the top packing hacks for travel, if you are bringing liquids in your bag, we have a few travel hacks and tips on how to keep liquids from spilling inside your bag.

The best travel hacks for liquids is a 3-part process that includes plastic wrap, tape and a resealable bag. First, unscrew the top off the bottle and place a piece of plastic wrap over the top, then screw the top back on (over the top of the plastic wrap). Next, take a piece of tape and tape the flip lid shut. Finally, secure the bottles in resealable bags. By using the three-step method, suitcase spillage is highly unlikely!

Pro Tip : The bottles you pack in can make all of the difference! Liquid travel containers is not where you want to skimp on quality. Therefore, one of the best travel hacks for toiletries is to use refillable GoToob bottles that are specifically engineered for travel – and promise a spill-proof journey!

#22 Save Space in your Toiletry Bag when A Little Dab Will Do

One of the phenomenal travel hacks to save space in your toiletries case is to only bring as much product as you will actually use on your trip. Rather than packing larger bottles of face creams and foundation, pour a small amount into a contact lens case. Use more than one case if you need to…but just remember to use a contact case with screw top lids.

Pro Tip : Small 10ml bottles also work great for liquids that you will only need a little dab of during your vacation. They are inexpensive and reusable, too, making them one of the best travel hacks!

#23 Travel Size Items

When it comes to transporting liquids, one of the travel packing life hacks is to use refillable travel-size bottles. In fact, we think travel-size toiletries are the way to go in general when it comes to packing and carry-on hacks.

It is amazing how many products are made in a smaller, space-saving size. Some favorites are a travel-size hairbrush , travel-size toothpaste , travel-size deodorant and travel-size shaving cream . Products we don’t use – but that other travelers do – are mini-magnifying mirrors , travel-size hair straighteners and travel towels .

Pro Tip : Want one of our top travel hacks that saves money in the long run? When your travel-size toothpaste runs out, don’t throw it away! The tube can actually be refilled from a regular-size toothpaste tube. Just securely hold the openings together and squeeze from the larger tube into the travel sized tube!

#24 Travel Tips for Shaving Cream Alternatives

Using a travel-size shaving cream is not the only way to save space in your suitcase. One of the best travel packing tips and hacks is to not bring shaving cream at all! Instead, just lather up soap or use hair conditioner in place of shaving cream.

Pro Tip : The Schick Intuition razor is another travel gem – in that the shaving cream is right on the razor!

#25 Minimal Hair Products

While we love the innovative travel-size products that are available to travelers, the fewer you bring, the lighter your luggage. It can be tempting to pack a hair dryer, curling iron and straightener, but we don’t recommend it…even if they are all travel size!

First, check to see if your accommodations provide a hair dryer. Second, choose one low-maintenance hairstyle. This way, you can limit the number of hair tools and products you bring on your trip!

Pro Tip : In the case that your accommodations don’t have a blow dryer, rather than succumbing to packing a hairdryer, one of the travel life hacks is to pack a microfiber towel that can be used to help dry your hair more quickly. 

#26 Makeup: Packing for Vacation Hacks

Many minimalist travelers recommend leaving all makeup at home when taking a trip. While I have never been a heavy makeup wearer, I still travel with makeup – but I limit it to essentials only.

I pack one powder, two small brushes, a travel eyelash curler and mascara…and that is it. At the very least, limit your makeup bag to only one eyeliner, one eyeshadow, one mascara and one lipstick (and make sure they go with your capsule wardrobe color scheme!).

Pro Tip : Using makeup samples is one of the great traveling life hacks for trips! If you have collected any sample-size makeup in the months prior to your trip, select a few to use on your vacation!

#27 The Almighty Pill Box as a First Aid Kit

While a Weekly Pill Box is excellent for its intended purpose, it is also a great space-saving travel organizer! Instead of packing bottles of Just-in-Case medications, store each of the assorted meds in a different day of the week. For example, store pain reliever in Sunday, vitamins in Monday, cold meds in Tuesday and belly meds in Wednesday. Pill boxes are also one of the fantastic travel pack hacks for storing and organizing jewelry for your trip!

Pro Tip : For something a little more flexible than a pill box, use individual travel jars  and small 2×3-inch plastic resealable baggies to pack medications…and jewelry, too! Read more about what we pack in our first aid travel kit in our post, Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling .

#28 Toiletry Life Hacks for Packing a Suitcase

One way to make packing toiletries so much easier is to invest in a Travel Toiletry Case that stays packed all the time! With a pre-packed toiletry case, all you need to do when it comes time to pack is grab the bag and go! Just starting out with traveling? This packaged toiletry case is great for beginners!

Pro Tip : Just remember to refill any used items when you return from each trip!

Carry On Hacks

On travel days, we seldom check bags – we each have carry-on-size travel backpacks and a day pack. To stay organized and efficient in airports, carry on luggage hacks are essential!

#29 Carry On Travel Hacks: Airport Security

No one likes a traveler who holds up the line at security, but there are a few packing hacks for carry on luggage that will get you through checkpoints in a flash.

First, if you are carrying liquids onto the plane, make sure they are in 3.4-ounce bottles (100ml) or smaller…and that they all fit into one quart-size resealable plastic bag. Next – and a key to being quick at security – when you pack your bag, place the bag of liquids in an easy to reach spot.

Electronics – especially laptops, but sometimes larger cameras and phones, which sometimes have to be removed when going through security – should also be placed in an easy-to-access part of your carry on luggage.

Pro Tip : Shoes often need to be removed, which is why I like to wear Slip On shoes or flip flops on travel days. However, if you are bringing boots on your trip, you will need to decide whether it is better to wear them to save space in your suitcase or pack them for a swifter pass through security.

#30 Packing Hacks: Carry On Entertainment

The best way to pass time on an airplane is with on-board entertainment, which is why planning your entertainment in advance is one of the best packing hacks for flying. Headphones and portable chargers are a must! 

Once I get settled in my seat, the first thing I do is create a list of movies to watch in-flight. Headphones , however, are essential to enjoying the flicks…so I always bring two pairs (just in case one fails me or gets lost).

On flights where there is no seat-back entertainment, be sure to bring your own entertainment. Make sure your phone is fully charged…and make a few song playlists or download apps in advance. Bring your charging cord (most seats now have USB ports) and a Portable Charger . 

If you like to read on planes (or trains or buses) a Kindle can be a real space-saver and one of the top vacation packing hacks. However, if you are like me and prefer the feel of paper books, then pick up one or two at a used bookstore or free community library…and then pass them along when you’re finished.

Pro Tip : Find out more of the specifics of what should be in your carry on luggage and our other in-flight tips in our blog post, Long Haul Flight Essentials .

#31 Only Hand Luggage Hacks

If you are trying to squeeze all of your items for your entire trip into a carry on, then one way to make a bit more room is to wear a fanny pack onto the plane. What makes it one of the best carry on packing hacks is that your fanny pack shouldn’t count as an extra bag – plus it keeps you hands-free! Besides that, it is a great place to store valuable items (like your passport and wallet), as well as items you want easy access to during the flight (like an lip balm , sleep mask and earplugs).

Pro Tip : Using a backpack instead of a suitcase will also keep you hands-free on travel days! Read more of the pros and cons of each style of luggage in our blog post, Backpack vs Suitcase . 

#32 Organizational Hand Luggage Packing Hacks

There is nothing more frustrating than when the plane is ready for take off…and you realize that your headphones and kindle are stowed in the overhead compartment (which now cannot be accessed until the captain has turned off the seatbelt sign).

To avoid the inconvenience, prepare ahead and pack a small on-board tote that contains your flight essentials, which can fit under the seat in front of you. Items I make sure to have close at hand are sanitizer , wet wipes , water, snacks, phone, headphones, sleep mask, earplugs and compression socks .

Pro Tip : One of the top carry on luggage packing hacks to use if you are checking luggage is to travel on board with a complete change of clothes…just in case your luggage (and clothing) gets lost en route to your destination . I also like to pack a fresh pair of underwear (that I can change into in the airport bathroom to start my trip off feeling fresh!) – as well as a toothbrush and toothpaste to use to freshen up after a long flight.

Miscellaneous Packing Hacks

Our final travel packing tips and hacks are some tricks that we have picked up over the years that make packing so much easier!

#33 Electronic Device Cable Organization

One of our suitcase life hacks is keeping our cables organized. Some of the essential electronics that we travel with are a mini extension cord (because the outlets are not always in convenient places!), a multi-port adapter (because there are multiple things to be charged!) and a portable charger that we carry with us while we are out exploring.

A good way to keep all these cords and electronics organized is with a Grid It board that keeps everything in place and easy to find! 

Pro Tip : For travelers who make frequent trips, an even easier way to stay organized is to purchase duplicate chargers and cables for all of your devices. Secure them on the Grid It – and always keep them packed so they are ready to go when you are ready to go!

#34 Cooking on Vacation

One of the reasons we love staying in Airbnb apartments is that we have access to our own kitchen where we can cook simple meals. That said, not all kitchens come fully equipped. If you plan on cooking during your trip, consider investing in a collapsible colander , a flexible cutting board and an multi-functional knife (but only if you are checking luggage). 

Pro Tip : In our travels, we have found that it is best to pack the spices that we love! To easily pack our spices, we use small resealable bags (the 2×3-inch baggies are the best!) rather than carrying bottles.

#35 Packing Hacks for Traveling as a Couple or with Friends

One thing that we have learned as a traveling couple is to communicate about our packing list. All of the items that can be shared – from lotion to a travel umbrella to a portable Wifi device – are divvied up evenly between us so that we are not carrying duplicates. Whether traveling as couples, friends or families, find out what items might be unnecessary and determine who will carry what.

Pro Tip : Packing Lists are gold! Keep a list of all the items you pack for a trip. When you return, take a few minutes to jot down notes on what you used and what you didn’t and adjust accordingly to make packing easier for future trips!

#36 Packing Hacks for International Travel

As we spend most of our time overseas, we have quite a few international travel hacks for packing. These tips aren’t necessarily travel hacks for packing light, but rather what to pack to make international travel a little bit easier. 

First, make sure you pack your passport and other travel documents in a safe place. We use a Passport Organizer that fits inside a zippered pocket inside our under-the-seat carry on luggage. 

We also think it is important to invest in a Mobile WiFi Hotspot so that you will have an internet connection from the moment you land. We use the GlocalMe device – which can be fitted with a SIM card or you can purchase data online ahead of your trip (the better way to go in our opinion!). 

Next, make sure that you have the right travel apps. Google Translate, Uber (or whatever ride hailing app is popular in the country you are visiting), Booking.com and Google Maps are the basic essentials. 

Bring (and use) a credit card that does not charge international transaction fees (we prefer the Chase Sapphire credit card). 

Pro Tip: We share heaps of tips for traveling from the United States to Europe in this article, How To Plan a Trip To Europe . 

#37 Best Packing Hack for Travel – Make a List! 

We have already touched on making a list as one of the top packing hacks for travel – but it is truly one of the easiest and most often overlooked hacks for organizing your suitcase. 

Start by making a list of what to pack for your next trip. Then, after the trip, reanalyze the list, eliminating the things you didn’t use – and then make a Master Packing List. For future travels, use your Master Packing List as a base for all of your trips. 

However, as each trip is unique with different climates and activities, it is best to take your list one step further and make an Itinerary of Outfits. On this list, note what outfit (or outfits) you will wear on each day of your trip based on your outlined trip itinerary. This way, you can be certain that you only pack clothes you intend to actually wear – saving you from over packing! 

Pro Tip : Our T rip Planning Printables Kit includes itinerary templates and everything you need to organize your trip! 

More Travel Tips and Hacks

Above, we featured our top travel tips for creative and easy packing hacks – but we have so many more travel hacks to save money! 

Cheap Flights

We use a combination of tricks to find the best fares on flights – and we share them all in our article How To Find Cheap Flights .

Best Hotels

Want to find the best hotels at the best prices? Don’t we all! Get there by using our travel hacks for Booking Cheap Hotels . 

Free Packing Checklist 

With our packing hacks for travel, you will be a packing pro in no time! Get started right away with your  FREE Packing Checklist!

Start planning your next trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

We Want To Know: What are your best travel packing hacks? Give us your tips and advice in the comments below!

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If You're A Chronic Over-Packer, These 29 Travel Products May Help You Save Space

These genius packing solutions will make you feel like a true travel expert.

BuzzFeed Staff

1. A wheeled carry-on bag  if you'd rather die than pay for a checked bag. This one is small enough to fit under the seat, so it can even qualify as your personal item on extra strict airlines that shall not be named ( you know the ones ). 

Now you won't even have to pull your suitcase outta the overhead!

Promising review : "If you are a consultant and struggle carrying big carry-ons. This is a perfect one for you. I love this purchase!!! Lightweight. Enough space for 1–3 days of travel. Thank you!" — SS

Get it from Amazon for $105.87 (also available in two other colors ).

2. Or a durable  travel backpack  that is, quite possibly, *the* perfect personal item thanks to its waterproof design, anti-theft pocket, USB charging port, and a dedicated shoe compartment. There's room for everything!

This is super roomy, zips completely open (like a suitcase — so it's easy to find what you need), has plenty of pockets (including one for shoes and a separate wet bag!), and a strap that slides down over your luggage handle for easy transport.

Promising reviews: " I bought this backpack for work. It's the BEST backpack I've ever used. I needed one with several pockets and not too big or heavy. I found that with this backpack,  I can fill it and still have room! There's even a shoe and clothing compartment for traveling! The straps are just wide enough to stay on your shoulders, especially with the snap straps in front. I also love the color, and it's true to the picture color. If you're looking for lightweight with tons of pockets, this is what you need!" — Kelly Miller

"This is a perfect size backpack for traveling on a plane as your personal item, especially to international destinations. You could fit rolled-up clothes in here for another week , and it has a very handy shoe bag and tons of places for your electronics. This will be an excellent addition to my carry-on suitcase. Best purchase all year. I consider myself an expert on travel bags. I have way too many. It’s smaller than it looks but so roomy." — AP

Get it from Amazon for  $36.99  (available in three sizes and 26 colors/styles).

3. A  digital luggage scale  to help you pack the essentials without incurring any overweight bag fees. You won't be filled with dread when you head to the airport because you already know your bag is under the weight limit!

Promising review: "Buy this if you travel a lot. I travel with scuba dive gear and this saved me from going over the weight limit both going to the island and returning. I was a hero with my friends. They had no idea how much their bags weighed. I helped them too from going over their weight limit. It's easy to use and worth the money." — Tinadiver

Get it from Amazon for $11.98  (available in six colors).

4. A travel wallet  for a sensible *and* stylish way to carry important documents so they don't take up space in your carry-on bag. Passport? Check. Boarding pass? Check. Credit cards? Check. 

This RFID-blocking wallet has a passport pocket, boarding pass compartment, three credit card slots, an ID slot, a slim card pouch, a slim pocket, a ticket slot, a cellphone pouch, a zippered coin pocket, a key holder, and a pen holder.

Promising review: "This wallet is durable, chic, and spacious. The lining is very soft and feels expensive. From the design to the material to the zippers and snaps, it's well made. I ordered it in rose gold, and it's a beautiful color. I travel frequently and love the boarding pass pocket. I recommended it to my sister and mom, who also love theirs! They ordered in yellow and bronze and were also happy with the color." — Brianna graham

Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in 31 colors).

5. A  set of packing cubes  you'll soon wonder how you ever traveled without. Your clothes will stay nicely folded (or rolled!) and you'll have more room in your suitcase. Expert packing level 🔓unlocked.

Promising review: "I travel frequently and travel light. My luggage is usually limited to a backpack that slides under the airline seat. For a two-week European cruise, I added a carry-on rolling suitcase. I've used these packing cubes twice so far, and I am hooked. One cube holds everything (including clothing) I take on a three-night trip . The cube slides into my pack, saving massive amounts of room, and everything is easy to find during travel and at the hotel. Taking out one cube and unzipping is much better than digging through a pack! I will never leave home without these!" — Gura

Get a set of four from Amazon for $21.99 (available in 12 colors and as a set of eight).

6. Or some  vacuum storage bags  when you're a serial over-packer...or if you simply need to maximize luggage space. Place your items in the bag and suck out the air with the included travel pump. Who says you can't bring multiple outfit options on vacation?

Former BuzzFeed Shopping writer  Jasmin Sandal says: "I swear by these bad boys not only for general storage purposes, but also if I know I'm going to be traveling for an extended period of time. As someone who tends to pack for every eventuality (who doesn't like to be prepared?!) I have learned that it's better to travel with them than without — especially since it's more or less a guarantee that my clothes are gonna take up a ~substantial~ amount of room in my suitcase. And if I can use something that's gonna shrink the size of my bulky hoodies and/or big tees in order for me to create more space, I'm sure as heck gonna do it. Plus, the satisfaction is indeed guaranteed because when you see those chunky layers flatten into a pancake...it's just *chef's kiss* ."

Promising review: "These are the best packing bags. We used them traveling across the country and... to save space in the suitcase! It's really easy to have the pump right inside the suitcase to flatten the bags when traveling for pleasure. I definitely recommend this for home or travel." — kit

Get a three-pack from Amazon for $32.98+ (available in four sizes and in larger multipacks).

7. A Kindle  for bookworms who keep up with their reading habit while on vacation. While packing a giant stack of *actual* books isn't exactly realistic, this compact and lightweight Kindle is a great alternative.

It has a 300-ppi high-resolution display, an adjustable front light, and dark mode. The battery can last up to six weeks on a single charge and it offers 16 GB for storing thousands of books.

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyer says: " I never thought I'd be an e-reader person, but living in a New York apartment with limited bookshelves changed my ways. I love love (love love love) my Kindle — especially for easily borrowing library books, squeezing in a few chapters on a subway ride, and of course traveling. I lit'rally read 10 times as much with a Kindle in my life."

Promising review: "I was so skeptical about switching from actual books to the Kindle but I have loved it!!! It’s so much more convenient to read and travels well. I’ve only had it like two weeks and have only charged it once (have read three books)!! Its battery life is amazing." — Haley

Get the newest 2022 version of the basic Kindle from Amazon for $99.99  (available in black and blue). 

8. A slim and packable  Trtl neck pillow  that'll take up way less space than the round ones. You don't have to sacrifice your comfort just so there's one less annoying item to pack. Goodbye, sore necks and bulky pillows!

The Trtl pillow is adjustable — you wrap the pillow around your neck and secure it with Velcro, and if you find it's too loose, just make it a bit tighter! I've truly never slept better on a plane than with this pillow.

Promising review : "WOW! Literally life changing; used it on my 11-hr flight to and from Norway to SF and I usually can never sleep on planes, but this did the trick! It’s also super packable and doesn’t take up too much space! " — Julie Cox

Get it from Amazon for  $60.99+ (available in five colors).

9. A  carry-on garment duffle bag  for keeping your fancy clothes free of wrinkles while saving room in your luggage for other stuff. If you're attending a formal event and can't bear the thought of ironing or steaming, this'll do the trick.

It's made of vegan leather and includes a 15" padded laptop sleeve, two additional pockets, an external zipped pocket, and a separate shoe compartment!

Promising review: "This garment bag is an exceptional value for the money. Well built, top quality materials, including 'beefy' zippers, should hold up well for airline travel. Minimal wrinkles if any in garments, and a cavernous bag for storing shoes and other items for a trip. Added bonus, it fits easily in the plane overhead storage , similar in size to a standard roller bag. I highly recommend this product." — Kindle Customer

Get it from Amazon for $57.45 (available in two colors).

10. An amazingly compact  travel stroller  if one of your major anxieties when packing revolves around your essential parenting items. This stroller is so dang portable *and* it can count as a carry-on item.

The stroller is supposed to accommodate kids from 6 months up to 55 pounds (approx. 4 years old).

Promising review: "This stroller is great! So cool looking, too. I constantly have moms coming up to me asking where I got this! So easy to fold, so light, and barely takes any space in my trunk. We took it on a flight, and the flight attendants recognized the stroller and told me that I can just wheel the baby on and put the stroller in the overhead bin. I wish I had gotten this stroller with my oldest, but I was being cheap. This stroller is so worth the money. I regret not getting it sooner! But at least my youngest can enjoy it." — Nai Len

Get it from Amazon for $139.99+ (available in eight styles and four colors).

11. A set of TSA-approved  silicone travel bottles  so your toiletries are ready for flight in no time. This set also includes spray bottles and jars for storing other products, like lotions and perfumes.

These BPA-free bottles feature a leakproof design so you won't have to worry about messy spills. Each silicone bottle also has the capacity printed on it for TSA purposes! You get four bottles, four jars, and two spray bottles. It also comes with two scoopers to use with the jars, a funnel for transferring liquids, a clear travel bag, a set of labels, and a cleaning brush.

Promising review : " This little set is perfect for your travel toiletries. Instead of paying $3 for those little travel bottles, you can fill your favorite products in these. The taller tubes are silicone and easy to fill. For the circular containers, I used the little scooper to fill them. I didn't use the spray bottles this trip, but I did use everything else, and I'm happy to say nothing leaked. Easy to clean after use as well. " — Nicole

Get it from Amazon for $9.48+  (available in four colors).

12. Or a  waterproof toiletry bag  designed to hold tons of stuff — it has four compartments so you can pack all your travel-size items. There's also a handy hanging hook so you won't lose track of it!

Promising review: "I. Love. This. Bag. Seriously, I had a cheap toiletry bag from Target that essentially did the same thing, only way worse. It was too small; the hook didn't rotate so you could only hang it at an angle, if anything ever leaked; it would seep right through the bag, etc. But THIS bag has NONE of those issues! It fits everything I need and then some, meaning I don't have to skimp on my 10-step Korean skincare routine when I travel anymore. It never leaks. And I love that the hook swivels so you can hang it anywhere, and your stuff hangs perfectly. I also love the handle and the overall flatter shape. It makes it so easy to travel with! Cannot recommend this bag enough." — KaiEli

Get it from Amazon for $18.39+ (available in two sizes and 11 colors).

13. A  collapsible coffee cup  so you can get your fix without bringing your huge reusable cup from home. This is much easier to pack in your bag!

It's also microwave-safe! Note that the 12-ounce size does not include a straw, but both the 16-ounce and 24-ounce sizes do.

Stojo  is a small biz founded by three New York dads who wanted a better way to get their convenient coffee fix without all the waste. Now they make stylish collapsible essentials in a variety of sizes and colors, including bottles and food storage containers.

BuzzFeed Shopping writer  Danielle Healy has this and loves it. She says : "This is of the first zero-waste swaps I made and I've never looked back. If you buy to-go coffee – whether you're jet-setting or just grabbing a mid-day pick-me-up — this cup is a must-have . So long as you remember to bring it, it's all the convenience of to-go coffee with none of the waste. It's leakproof and, when you're all done, it collapses down teeny tiny and can be tossed back in your bag. Oh! And it comes with a straw, so all you iced coffee lovers can get in on the action, too."

Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in four sizes and in 24 colors).

14. A  space-saving laundry bag  for keeping your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes. The brilliant design lets you release excess air from the bag to save room in your luggage, which is always needed when returning from a trip with a *few* more purchases than you planned.

Just stuff them in and squeeze to release the extra air!

Promising review:  "As a frequent traveler, this bag has been great for packing dirty laundry on the return trip home. It will hold much more than I usually put in it and compresses nicely in the suitcase . I toss it in the washer along with the clothes, and it has held up for well over a year now." — CC

Get it from Amazon for  $12.15+  (available in two styles).

15. A  travel pill organizer  to ensure you stay on your daily supplement and medication schedule without having to pack a bunch of big bottles in your toiletry bag. It has EIGHT compartments and comes with labels so you know what's what.

Promising review : "I take a daily medication and I like to keep vitamins, supplements, and emergency meds like fever reducer and upset stomach relief with me when I travel. This is compact, feels sturdy, and holds more than I anticipated ." — hw65

Get it from Amazon for $5.97+ (available in five colors).

16. A mini wallet emergency kit  that contains pretty much every *tiny* essential you'll need so you don't have to worry about packing the full-size version. It includes hand sanitizer, pain relief medicine, a hair tie, and more. You can choose the skyline of your fave city for the kit, too!

Here's what it comes with:  Inside your mini wallet, you'll find a lip balm, hair tie, two floss pics, a bandage, emery board, two safety pins, a sewing kit, two earring backs, a makeup wipe, two bobby pins, two mints, deodorant wipe, another cleaning wipe, tampon, hand sanitizer, and pain relief medicine.

Anne Cate is a small Ohio-based business that sells city-skyline-themed accessories and journaling supplies. Their product lineup features 100 hand-designed skylines from various cities and colleges worldwide!

BuzzFeed Shopping writer Danielle Healy swears by this kit and said: "I, your resident forgetful person, bought the NYC skyline version of this at the start of COVID-19 to keep in my work tote. Unfortunately, I haven't touched my work tote in months because...*gestures at the world around*...but it's a really handy kit I know will save me a ton whenever I regularly leave the house again. Everything from Anne Cate is super high quality. The wallet on its own is adorable and could be used for a million different things." 

Get it from Anne Cate for $25  (available in dozens of styles).

17. A pocket-sized, refillable  travel perfume atomizer  because you should never have to travel without your go-to scent. It's easy to use and will take up hardly any space. Pump it on your full-size perfume bottle to fill up the atomizer!

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lily says: "^ That's me pumping my signature perfume into one of these travel atomizers I've been using for about a year. As the reviewer down below mentions, it's great to just throw in your purse on the reg for a fragrance re-up throughout the day. As you can see, it's about the size of my thumb and therefore takes up very little room. Plus! It's smaller than most rollerball travel fragrances you can pick up. This first one is working so well, that I just have the other three in storage. But if this one bites the dust this summer during travels, I'll be OK about digging into my stores to use one of the remaining three...especially at this price point."

Promising review:  "I bought these due to traveling a lot for work and needing to cut down on the size of things in my carry-on bag for flying. I can bring four different perfumes now instead of one big one. They’re super easy to fill and haven’t leaked so far, but I keep them in a sandwich baggie while traveling just in case. I would 100% buy them again." — Emily

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $7.99 .

18. A  small jewelry case  with enough space for your daily wear items, like necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings. It's very compact so you can even carry it in your purse.

Promising review: "I travel a lot for work, and this jewelry box has everything I was looking for! It’s a nice small size and has plenty of storage for necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets, and even a watch! Very good quality, and I love the color. Highly recommend!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" — Morgan

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in 10 colors).

19. A pack of  laundry soap sheets  if you just KNOW there's an outfit you'll want to wear multiple times during your trip. This also allows you to pack lighter since you'll be able to wash a few things, which leaves plenty of room for souvenirs!

Promising review: "This came SO in handy during my vacation to Europe! I was making lots of different stops at places with different types of weather. With these laundry soap sheets I was able to wash my clothes in the sink — letting me pack just the right amount of clothes for all the different places I went." — Katie Fujarski

Get it from Amazon for $9.95 .

20. A convenient  Alleyoop Pen Pal  so you can save space when packing your nearly-exploding makeup bag. It's a 4-in-1 lip liner, eyeliner, brow pencil, and highlighter, so you'll have everything you need in one sleek pen.

It's cruelty- and paraben-free and it's vegan. Plus, the packaging is recyclable!

Alleyoop is a woman-owned small biz that is focused on redefining beauty efficiency. Many of their products are compact and have multiple uses! 

Former BuzzFeeder  Jasmin Sandal  loves this thing: "I didn't realize I'd ever use a makeup product in my twenties that had the ability to transport me back to something I used in sixth grade, but here we are; and here I am using a multitool pen...for my face. I gotta say, I love the concept of the Pen Pal from Alleyoop ! After using all of the functions (eyeliner, highlighter, lip liner, eyebrow pencil) and as someone who LOVES makeup but was applying as little as humanly possible during lockdown, I think it’s a great tool for anyone looking to streamline their routine. It's ideal to use for touch-ups come the end of the work day, or a subtle, minimalist way to apply makeup in the a.m. The brow pencil is particularly soft and pigmented, and filled in my eyebrows quickly. I just adore the ease of application of each product, and appreciate the universal, does-it-all-for-you concept. Plus, it saves me so much room in my already overflowing makeup bag!"

Promising review : "This is genius. I’ve been doing a lot of traveling and I like to keep my packing to a minimum. Not only is this convenient and travel friendly, but the color payoff is fantastic !" — Stefanie S.

Get it from  Alleyoop  (available in three shades).

21. A genius  hanging packing cube  to neatly store your outfits without having to play a game of Tetris when you pack. This has dedicated compartments for each 'fit! When you arrive at your destination, simply take it out of your suitcase and hang it up.

It also has a zipper compartment at the bottom for your dirty clothes so they don't get mixed together and you end up just washing everything when you get home (bc that's usually what happens to me).

Promising review: "I just love it. I travel a lot. Now I don’t have to hang anything up but my organizer. I can see what I pack and where everything is. Just love it. I can fit easily seven days' worth of outfits and three pairs of shoes in a carry-on suitcase.  Just great." — Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in two sizes and six colors).

22. A genius  Toptote hat clip  because surely you don't want to stuff your precious hat in a suitcase where it'll get all deformed — and take up way too much space. This magnetic clip keeps your hat free of damage *and* prevents you from losing it.

The magnetic clip securely attaches to your hat brim (damage-free) — just hook the gold hexagonal clip around the strap/holder of your choosing!

The Fileist is a woman-owned small biz, formerly known as Lindsay Albanese.

Promising review: "So happy I discovered TOPTOTE! As a hat lover, this product is seriously a lifesaver! I never have to carry my hats now when traveling and its’ magnets are SO strong. I’ve used it to carry multiple hats on my travels with no problem! Definitely a purchase well worth it!" — Adrianna

Get it from The Fileist for $55  (also available in black). 

23. A  travel umbrella  you can quickly open to protect yourself from the rain *and* it'll easily fit in your bag. The inside-out design keeps the wet part inside when you close it, which prevents water from dripping everywhere. It's also windproof, so it won't turn inside out on blustery days.

Promising review : "This is the best travel umbrella I’ve ever owned! It’s very easy to open and close one-handed with the push button. It’s very sturdy and fits nicely in a carry-on or backpack." — C.J.

Get it from Amazon for $20.95+  (available in four sizes and 41 colors).

24. A three-piece luggage set  so you always have *just* the right size suitcase for your next trip, which makes for an easier packing experience. It comes with a carry-on size, a small checked bag size, and a large checked bag size.

These suitcases have TSA-approved locks, 360-degree wheels, interior mesh pockets, and telescoping handles.

Promising review: "My family travels internationally, which means lots of airplane transfers, rail, ferry loading and unloading. Each member has their own set. Only one cosmetic scuff has appeared. About to order another set for my mother as we are taking her to London, Scotland, and Ireland for the holidays. We rarely use the middle size. The small size we carry on, and the largest size we check. Very pleased with maneuvering and durability of wheels on various rough surfaces. The retractable handle makes for easy storage on ferries and railway. We’ve had zero issues with locking mechanism. We are a family of four with kids ages 8 and 12." — ChiefLaughALot

Get a set of three from Amazon for $159.99+ (be sure to clip the $10 off coupon for this price; available in 22 colors and as a four-piece set).

25. A shoe bag  that'll hold a few pairs if you're always questioning how to fit 'em all. You can store it in your suitcase OR use the slide-on strap and secure it on top of your luggage. Bonus: your shoes won't dirty your clean clothes! 

Promising review:  "You can totally fit three pairs of shoes in this! (Size 6.5 female shoe, fit heels, wedges, and sandals.) I bought two and will absolutely be buying more for my husband. 10/10 would recommend! I travel frequently, and I always overpack; this helped cut down space and stress immensely! " — Taylor

Get it from Amazon for $22.99  (available in nine colors/patterns). 

26. A  packing checklist  to replace that feeling of panic with calm as you prepare for your next adventure. This will ensure you don't forget anything and it'll help you pack more strategically. You'll have a clear idea of what needs to fit in the suitcase as you go down the list.

Promising review: "So helpful! I travel a lot, and so does my husband, and this pad makes packing so much easier and stress-free. The list is quite extensive; while I probably will never need to pack all of it for one trip, it covers everything for a business trip or a pleasure trip. I don't worry about what I forgot to pack anymore. Use a pencil, erase it when done, and one sheet will last 3–4 trips." — Cktine

Get it from Amazon for $7  (available in three colors/styles).

27. A mini lightweight flat iron , which is truly the perfect size for traveling. Your hair will stay ~flawless~ and you won't lose a lot of luggage space.

It also comes with a heat-resistant pouch for easy carrying!

Promising review: "This fits perfectly in my toiletries travel bag that I take with me as a flight attendant. Anything that comes in small size and still works well is perfect for me." — Kathy S

Get it from Amazon for $15.99+  (available in three colors).

28. A  flying USB port  to help you cut down on how many bulky charging blocks you need to pack. This ~super fly~ hub will charge four devices at once!

Multitasky is a small business founded by Julia Xu in 2020. They're known for their adorable and functional tech products, including power banks, laptop accessories, and more!

Promising review:  "It does as it says it does, allowing my Dell XPS15 to operate a pair of USB devices from my lightning port! The laptop has two USB ports, one of which is always occupied by my USB mouse dongle and the other by my protected USB drive. If I wanted to plug in my phone to switch data or add another thumb drive to transfer a device, everything might have to be disconnected, but not anymore. It was really worth it." — Liberty

Get it from Multitasky for $25  (available in three colors). 

29. A fold-up duffel  when you know for a fact you'll be coming home with more than you originally packed. Pack your purse in your luggage on the way home and use this as your personal item instead!

It folds into a tiny pouch when not in use, is tear and water resistant, and even has a separate side pocket for shoes. There's also a side strap that slides easily over your roller luggage handle.

Promising review: "We bought this to take with us when we visited our daughter who is studying abroad for four months. We figured she would not have enough room in her luggage when it was time to come home. Folded up, this bag was so compact and lightweight, it took up almost no room in our own luggage for the trip over. Then, sure enough, she had a ton of clothes and shoes to send home with us and packed this bag full. We checked the bag and it made it through two international flights without a scratch. The BEST feature is the side strap that allows you to slide it over the handle of a rolling suitcase so you don't have to carry it. This is probably the most practical and the best-value item I have purchased in years. " — Tosa Mom

Get it from Amazon for  $18.99  (available in 16 colors/patterns).

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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Home » Gear » How to Choose the Best Backpacking and Travel First Aid Kits (2024)

How to Choose the Best Backpacking and Travel First Aid Kits (2024)

If there’s one piece of advice we’d give to all travelers, it’s plan for the best, prepare for the worst.

Travel – whether backpacking through rugged backcountry or lounging at a beach resort – is unpredictable. Accidents can happen anywhere, any time, and preparedness is the best way to prevent a mishap from becoming something much more serious or downright dangerous.

Whatever you do, don’t consider a travel first aid kit as a  nice-to-have  packing list item. Especially if you’re an adventurous traveler that partakes in high-risk activities, or you’re traveling to a remote, third-world, or under-served area – a travel medical kit stocked with essentials is a  must-have.

Having a first aid kit on hand doesn’t need to mean hauling a lot of extra weight, but you need to carefully consider where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, and how large your travel party is when making your final decision.

To help you choose the right travel medicine kit to keep you and your travel buddy safe during any type of venture, we’ve compiled this list of best travel first aid kits…

Let’s get to it…

Quick Answer: These are the Best Travel First Aid Kits of 2024

#1 – overall best travel first aid kit, #2 – best travel first aid kit for long-term travel, #3 – best travel first aid kit for active weekends, #4 – best travel first aid kit for absolute minimalists, #5 – best backpacking first aid kit, #6 – best first aid kit for day hiking, #7 – best first aid kit for day hiking #2, #8 – best dog first aid kit for travel, honorable mention for the pros:, how to choose the best backpacking and travel first aid kit, faq about the best travel first aid kit, final thoughts.

• Overall Best Travel First Aid Kit – Adventure Medical Kits Smart Travel First Aid Kit
• Best Travel First Aid Lit for Long-term Travel – Adventure Medical Kits World Travel First Aid Medical Supply Kit
• Best Travel First Aid Kit for Active Weekends – HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit
• Best Travel First Aid Kit for Absolute Minimalists – Mini First Aid Kit
• Best Backpacking First Aid Kit – My Medic The Solo First Aid Kit
• Best First Aid Kit for Day Hiking – Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Day Tripper Lite Medical Kit
• Best First Aid Kit for Day Hiking #2 – HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit
• Best Dog First Aid Kit for Travel – Adventure Medical Kits ADS Me And My Dog First Aid Kit

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Adventure Medical Kits Smart Travel First Aid Kit

AMK Smart Travel First Aid Kit is our pick for overall best travel first aid kit

• Best Use: Travel/Backpacking
• Number of days (kit is good for): multiple days
• Weight: 1 lb. 1 oz.
• People: 1 – 2

A decent first aid kit should form part of your adventure packing list so here’s a rundown of the different options available.

When it comes to a travel first aid kit that has it all, this Adventure Medical kit doesn’t disappoint. The contents are neatly organized into clearly labeled compartments that help you quickly identify what you need by treatment type – medical information, medications, and wound care.

It makes for the best backpacking first aid kit because it has everything you need to treat blisters, plus pain or fever medication, all types of bandages, antibiotic ointments, and antiseptic.

A useful item that’s included is a rehydration mix that can be a real lifesaver on an intense, hot day outdoors. The travel emergency kit also includes a disposable thermometer and forceps to remove splinters or ticks.

Another huge plus is its packability and portability. The three compartments fold into a carrying case with a hook that lets you easily hang it anywhere. It’s not the lightest option, but it’s compact and well-equipped for trips lasting over multiple days. For a travel medical kit fit for solo or couple travel, the Smart Travel First Aid Kit is the best.

• Ultra organized and clearly labeled for quick access to needed supplies
• Includes a variety of treatments for sickness, pain, and injuries/wounds
• With book included, will feel heavy for ultralight travel needs

Adventure Medical Kits World Travel First Aid Medical Supply Kit

Meet the best travel first aid kit for long term travel: AMK World Travel First Aid Kit

• Best Use: Travel
• Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz.
• People: 1 – 4

For travelers with plans for a lengthy trip overseas – especially to third-world or remote areas with limited access to medical aid – this world travel first aid is the best back-up you could have. There’s even a visual communication tool you can use when language is a barrier to getting the medical care you need.

It’s not uncommon while traveling for an extended period to encounter bad roads that are sometimes impossible to drive, to have bad cell phone reception, or simply be unable to communicate.

So it’s important to feel safe knowing you have access to a variety of first aid items should an emergency occur. You’ll enjoy peace of mind with all the emergency supplies this travel medical kit contains for injuries, wounds, bleeding, and other issues that need immediate care.

 If you get adventurous with foreign food and your stomach doesn’t agree with your bravery, there are several OTC medication options to help you out. There’s also extra space to add custom items to complete your stockpile. The amount and array of options in this travel emergency kit for extended trips can’t be beaten.

• Wide array of contents is helpful for adventure and remote travel
• Has a Comprehensive Guide to Wilderness & Travel book with medical tips and advanced patient care info
• Must be packed into luggage due to its size and weight

HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit

Our top pick for the best travel first aid kit for active weekends is HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit

• Best Use: Hiking
• Number of days (kit is good for): 2-3
• Weight: 9.5 oz.
• People: 1-2

If a compact, well-rounded travel medical kit that fits easily into your backpack is what you need, then this little guy is perfect. It packs a surprisingly large amount of your essentials to cover you for common outdoor afflictions and other small emergencies. The large pockets have some room to spare to add custom items that suit your needs.

The transparent pockets are clearly labeled, and there’s even a supply list printed on the back that makes it easy to keep track of its contents and what needs restocking.

Including adhesive bandages, OTC medications for common ailments, gauze, and wound-care products, the Hart Outdoor travel first aid kit is the ideal addition to your weekend packing list and worth every inch of space.

• Clam-shell design for packability and easy access to contents
• Includes a small manual with basic first-aid how-to’s
• Doesn’t include tweezers for splinter removal, so must be added

Mini First Aid Kit

The best travel first aid kit for absolute minimalists on our list is this Mini First Aid Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 1-2
• Weight: 3.5 oz.

This is your travel medicine kit solution if space is really, really tight, and you’re just looking to have the most necessary first aid supplies readily available. You can keep this tiny case onhand everywhere you go – whether it’s your backpack or your everyday tote bag. If you get a minor cut or wound, the included bandages and antiseptic wipes will do in a pinch.

If you’re in search of the best backpacking first aid kit for a destination that isn’t terribly high-risk, you can rest assured that this Mini First Aid Kit won’t be an issue to pack away easily.

But, if you happen to encounter an emergency, the kit includes a mini rescue howler whistle to signal for help. Again, this is a very minimalistic kit, so it’s a convenient choice if you’re sure you won’t need more advanced treatment and are safely within reach of medical care in case of an emergency.

• Includes essential items for minor wound care
• Small enough to fit anywhere
• Doesn’t have space to add other items
• Doesn’t include OTC medications or medical tools except for 1 splinter picker and 3 safety pins

My Medic The Solo First Aid Kit

This My Medic The Solo is one of the best backpacking first aid kits around.

• Best Use: Backpacking
• Number of days (kit is good for): 1-4
• Weight: 8 oz.
• People: 1.5

Adventurous backpacking trips come with a handful of potential hazards – from minor blisters and stomach bugs to fractures and sprains. You’ll find the first aid essentials needed to treat common injuries, as well as trauma-care items for more serious events, like fractures or bleeding.

The contents of this travel first aid kit complete the gamut of immediate care while on the go, making the Ultralight Medical Kit the best backpacking first aid kit out there. 

Whether your backpacking ventures involve hiking and zip lining or white water rafting and snorkeling, your first aid essentials will stay safe and dry in the kit’s double-layer waterproof casing.

If you’re unsure about the conditions and elements you’ll face while on your travels, rest assured that this travel medical kit can withstand it all. And it won’t slow you down – weighing less than 8 oz, you’ll be prepared for anything while traveling light.

• Designed for multi-sport travelers
• Has 2-stage waterproofing features to endure all the elements
• Doesn’t include separate compartments for organization by need

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Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Day Tripper Lite Medical Kit

Our top pick for the best travel first aid kit for day hiking is AMK Day Tripper Lite Medical Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 1
• Weight: 3.2 oz.

This travel first aid kit is perfect for day-trippers who love to spend a lot of time outdoors. It has everything a hiker would need to treat minor cuts or wounds while hitting the trail. It contains all your basic first-aid essentials while being small and lightweight enough to pack away easily in your daypack. 

This travel-size first aid kit is organized into injury-specific pockets for quick access to what you need. It includes hiking-friendly items like gauze, moleskin for blisters, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and some OTC medications for common ailments.

It’s conveniently designed to fold in half and zip up to keep everything from falling out. Despite its compact size, it still has space inside to add your own items.

• Organized by injury type, with zippered pockets for easy portability
• Includes items for wound/blister care and OTC medications for common ailments

Our pick for best first aid kit for day hiking #2 is HART Outdoor Weekend First Aid Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 2

If your hiking first aid needs require a level up from the basic essentials to cover a day trip, you’ll want to take a look at the HART Outdoor Weekend kit. This more robust yet compact travel first aid kit comes fully equipped with dirt and sweat-resistant bandages, gauze, wound cleansers, topical relief creams, OTC medications, and more.

The clear, labeled pockets make the contents easy to find, and the kit’s roomy pockets have space to add your own custom items. You’ll have everything you need at your fingertips when you include this handy travel first aid kit in your hiking arsenal.

• Contents are organized into labeled pockets
• Supply list printed on the back for easy identification of contents

Adventure Medical Kits ADS Me And My Dog First Aid Kit

The best dog first aid kit for travel is Adventure Medical Kits ADS Me And My Dog First Aid Kit

• Number of days (kit is good for): 1-3
• Weight: 1 lb 8 oz.
• People: 1 + dog

When it comes to first aid preparedness, it’s important to consider all your loved ones – including your four-legged travel buddy. This handy travel first aid kit has everything you need to treat and provide immediate medical care to both your human and canine companions.

Useful canine-specific items include a triangular bandage to muzzle your dog for safe first aid administration, self-adhering bandages that don’t stick to fur, a splinter/tick remover that can be used on both humans and pets, a 5-inch nylon leash, and more. Venture off with more peace of mind knowing that all outdoor adventurers are covered.

• Includes dog-friendly medications and wound treatment items
• Manual includes information for pet first aid
• A bit heavy for lightweight travel

Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Guide Medical Kit

• Best Use: Mountaineering
• Number of days (kit is good for): 14
• Weight: 2 lbs. 2.4 oz.

For those who need a more robust, all-inclusive travel first aid kit, we’ve included this larger-sized medical kit on the list. This is good for trip leaders going to say, K2 Base Camp, or for any type of group adventure travel.

This travel medical kit includes enough to administer first aid care to several people over the course of multiple days. It includes more advanced tools like hospital-quality EMT shears, a digital thermometer, and a CPR face shield.

A kit map organized into injury-specific pockets is printed on the back of the case that identifies where to find the contents you need at any given time. For large-group first aid care, the Mountain Series Guide medical kit is the best all-inclusive compact travel emergency kit for guides.

• Includes everything a professional guide needs for any type of emergency out in the wilderness
• The organized layout makes what you need easy to find by treatment type
• Has extra space to add items, but not very much without the bag getting too tight

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

• > Includes a disposable thermometer and forceps
• > Packability and portability

• > Visual communication tool
• > Extra space to add custom items

• > Large pockets
• > Supply list printed on the back

• > Tiny tin case
• > Includes a mini rescue howler whistle

• > Complete the gamut of immediate care
• > Double-layer waterproof casing

• > Small and lightweight
• > Designed to fold in half and zip up
• > More robust yet compact travel first aid kit
• > Clear, labeled pockets

• > Both for human and canine companions
• > Include a triangular bandage

Trip Length 

Most travel first aid kits have a rating about how many days worth of supplies they can contain. Make sure you’re choosing a medical kit in line with the actual length of your trip. You need to stay safe and prepared the entire time, but don’t want to slow yourself down with medical-supply overkill.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

If you’re going on a rugged ten-day hiking trip, opting for a small kit made for one or two days – while lightweight and compact – leaves you at risk for lack of supplies in cases of emergency. Whereas packing a large travel medical kit in your backpack for a day hike means hauling around unnecessary extra weight.

Number of People in Your Group 

This is also an important factor to consider. Do you travel alone, with your partner, or with a bigger group? You want to make sure your kit contains enough of the essentials to cover everyone. If you’re in a big group and everyone gets a stomach bug simultaneously, having enough medication to treat every traveler is key.

If you’re a solo traveler, a compact and lightweight kit will likely suffice. If you travel alone to remote, rugged terrain areas, you may want to consider a travel first aid kit with room to add extra items that may not be included in the smaller kits. Always think about how you can be prepared to stay safe as a solo traveler if medical aid isn’t in proximity.

Adding Stuff to Your First Aid Kit 

Adding more items to your travel first aid kit may be necessary for solo and non-solo travelers alike. Depending on where you’re hiking or traveling, making custom additions to the kit’s supply is highly recommended. In times of Covid, masks and hand sanitizer are the obvious choice. 

If you’re traveling to third-world countries or for long periods of time in a foreign country, it’s a good idea to have a general stomach bug antibiotic, like Ciprioflaxin, included in your kit. For intense hiking or activity in hot, humid areas, consider having electrolytes on hand. There are other medications you can customize, such as motion sickness pills.

Weight 

It’s also important to honestly ask yourself how much weight you’re willing to carry. Medical pills and small items may seem low-weight enough, but every ounce can add up quickly. This is especially true for backpackers, as every bit of weight means a heavier load to haul around on your back.

Either way, carefully consider your needs vs. weight limits. Definitely don’t sacrifice an important item that is essential in keeping you safe in cases of emergency just to save a few ounces, but do your best to determine how much you can handle.

Waterproof or Not 

If you are traveling to a rainy place – for example, Thailand during monsoon season – having a waterproof first aid kit is not a bad idea. Bandages and medications are enclosed in paper wrapping, and getting them wet can ruin them for use.

If you have a waterproof backpack that your travel first aid kit will be stored in, then having a waterproof case may not be necessary. If you’re unsure, consider getting a waterproof kit, just in case.

If any part of your travel involves water activities – rafting, boating, etc. – then a watertight first aid kit is advised. Especially if you’re using a water-based vessel to explore remote areas, you’ll want to have a dry supply of first aid items readily onhand.

Medical Safety 

Ensure you understand exactly what is inside your kit when you buy it, and know how to use it. If there are many things you don’t need or know how to use, then maybe the contents are too advanced for your own personal needs. Reading the manual if you’re unfamiliar with some of the contents is a good start.

Whatever you do, do not use a medication without knowing exactly what it is and its intended use. Do your research or basic first aid training beforehand, or opt for a basic kit with items you are familiar with and knowledgeable about.

While some medications can be used to treat similar symptoms, be sure you know the names, and be knowledgeable about every item you’ll be taking with you for medical purposes.

Travel Insurance

Ok, you can’t pack travel insurance in your backpack, but you can take out a cheap policy to insure yourself against theft, flight cancellations, accidents, etc. In the end, having insurance is just as important as packing a good travel first aid kit.

I admit I traveled for many years without having travel insurance. Because of it, I paid the price a few times in foreign hospitals and was handed a hefty bill to go with my injuries!

We use either World Nomads or SafetyWing . You’ll be happy you did if the time comes to use it.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What should I have in my travel first aid kit?

The following essentials are in a travel first-aid kit: 1. Bandages and Antiseptic Wipes 2. Gauze pads and Medical Tape 3. Your own medication, pain killers and antibiotic ointments

Can you bring first aid kits on a plane?

Yes, you can, but you’ll have to leave scissors, sharp objects and liquids at home or put them in your suitcase instead.

What is the best travel first aid kit for long adventures?

If you know you’ll be travelling for a long time, opt for the Adventure Medical Kits World Travel First Aid Medical Supply Kit . It’s got everything you might need during your trip.

How do you choose the right travel first aid kit?

Think about these things: 1. How long is your trip and how many people are coming with you? 2. Can you stock up your kit during your travels? 3. What kind of injuries could occur during your travels?

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There you have it, our prudent, adventure-loving travelers! This is all you need to know about the best travel first aid kits and best backpacking first aid kits available to suit your needs – and what you need to know to find the right travel medical kit for you.

There are several factors to consider when making a choice, but you’ll be happy you took the time to do your research should the moment arise when you need to use your first aid supplies. 

For a go-to, well-rounded travel first aid kit that serves most basic needs, we again recommend the Adventure Medical Kits Smart Travel First Aid Kit as your best option. Unless your needs are extremely specialized, you can count on this kit to have what you need and to have the extra space to add a few items of your own.

We hope you found this travel first aid kit shopping guide useful. Remember, not everyone has the travel style – but accidents can happen any time and anywhere, so it’s crucial to be prepared.

Aiden Freeborn

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The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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Must-Have Items to Pack in Your Carry-On First Aid Kit

This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. For an explanation of our Advertising Disclosure, visit this page .

I recently wrote about my experience getting sick upon returning home from our incredible Caribbean cruise. It's no fun to be sick but it's especially bad when you're on the road. While Covid, flu and RSV cases spike in the winter months, it's smart to be prepared no matter what time of year you're traveling. RELATED: Why You Should Add These 8 Health Items To Your Toiletry Bag When You Travel

I keep mine in my carry-on bag so that when it's time to pack, I don't have to pack everything over and over again, item by item. But, it's smart to check your kit regularly and make sure that you replace anything you may have used up and to make sure that nothing is expired.

I thought you might be interested in what I always have packed in my travel first-aid kit. I've listed everything below but you can also check out a more exhaustive list prepared by the CDC here .

-Tylenol (this is key if you develop a fever)

- A pocket thermometer

-Nasal spray

-Anti-diarrhea pills

-Decongestants

-Antacid tablets

- LiquidIV to fend off dehydration (here's more info)

-Allergy pills

-Antibiotics (ask your doctor for a prescription)

-An inhaler (I used to have asthma)

-These Italian cough drops you can get on Amazon

- Pulse oximeter (I added this to my travel bag at the start of the pandemic and it's great to have and know when your oxygen levels drop. My doctor says it's the new thermometer and I've had to use mine multiple times on my travels.)

- BugBite Thing

-Polysporin or other antibiotic cream

-Sterile gauze pads

-Bandage roll

- Covid antigen test

I carry all of this in a dopp kit like this one from Bagsmart . You can get most of these items on the road, but why wait? And trust me: When you get sick you’re going to wish you had packed all of this stuff before you left home. Here’s a variety of pre-packed first aid kits you can buy on Amazon but they might not have everything you need.

This post was updated on January 25, 2024. It was originally published on June 25, 2022.

KEEP READING:

• Create an Emergency Kit for Your Car
• 11 Tips For Traveling During Cold and Flu Season
• Why You Should Add These 8 Health Items To Your Toiletry Bag When You Travel
• An Easy Way to Get Healthy Right Now
• Warning: These Common Over-the-Counter Drugs Are Illegal in Some Countries

Want more travel news, tips and deals? Sign up to  Johnny Jet’s free newsletter  and check out these popular posts:  The Travel Gadget Flight Attendants Never Leave Home Without and  12 Ways to Save Money on Baggage Fees . Follow Johnny Jet on MSN ,  Facebook, Instagram ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube  for all of my travel posts.

40 Facts About Elektrostal

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 10 May 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Elektrostal's fascinating history, vibrant culture, and promising future make it a city worth exploring. For more captivating facts about cities around the world, discover the unique characteristics that define each city . Uncover the hidden gems of Moscow Oblast through our in-depth look at Kolomna. Lastly, dive into the rich industrial heritage of Teesside, a thriving industrial center with its own story to tell.

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The Ultimate Personal Item Packing List

Keep everything you need within arm’s reach with these tips for packing your next personal item.

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

Organization

Entertainment and tech, health and beauty, frequently asked questions.

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No matter what type of trip — or transportation — you’re taking, your personal item just might be the most important bag you’ll ever pack. Since it remains close by for the whole ride, you’ll want to make sure it’s got everything you need, including your absolute essentials like money, cards, I.D., phone, and medication. This is also where you’ll want to pack those comfort extras and anything you’ll want to keep within arm’s reach, like snacks, headphones, lip balm, and a power bank.

Being smart about what you pack in your personal item will not only make your trip smoother, but it can also help to assuage any anxiety when it comes to losing your bags; you’ll know you’ve got all the necessities, plus a few comforts, right at your fingertips, whether you’re stuck on a long layover, on the tarmac, or in traffic. There are a few basics that you should always pack (and you should always consider the size and weight of each item), but the extras are all up to you — though we wouldn’t be doing our due diligence if we didn’t recommend a few things.

Arrive to thrive as comfort during your travels is nothing to put in the backseat. Packing the right items in your personal item can make the journey as fabulous as the destination so you arrive rested, relaxed, and ready — whether you’re coming or going. I always like to make sure I’ve got the basics (and a little beyond) within arm’s reach because, well, why not? If you can be more comfortable, why would you settle for anything less?

Given the unpredictable state of travel timetables, we always suggest packing a water bottle , lest you get stuck on the tracks or runway with no beverage service. Plus, we’re always a lot more comfortable if we aren’t parched. Additionally, prioritize the items you know will upgrade your experience, and toss in a few extras as space and weight allow. For me, being able to exist and sleep in my seat is top on the list. For others, it might be keeping yourself entertained or maintaining your preferred beauty routine. Decide what matters most, and add those things in your personal item first.

Best Compression Socks

Levsox compression socks.

Keep tired, swollen feet at bay with these knee-high compression socks from Levsox. We love that these offer snug support to promote blood circulation without feeling too tight or constricting. Providing gentle compression all the way up to the knee, these are made with a silky-smooth material that won't rub or irritate throughout the day. They also slip on and off easily, so you can change into a different pair at the airport without struggling in a bathroom stall. We're also big fans of the design selection — choose from quirky animal prints, bright tie dye colors, and more.

Best Cozy Socks

Dr. scholl's low cut soothing spa socks.

Traveling can be tough, so we’re big advocates of taking the transit time to do a little pampering. We love keeping a pair of these Dr. Scholl’s Soothing Spa Socks in our personal item so we can treat our feet at a moment’s notice. These ultra-soft socks are infused with vitamin E and lavender to help moisturize your soles and relax your soul . They make a great pick to wear on flights when you want to slip off your shoes (as they look like regular fluffy socks) and can even be worn inside shoes or when padding around a hotel room later. Depending on where you shop, you’ll either get two or three grippy-bottom socks per pack, and a choice of several colors. When you’re back home, toss them in the washing machine to clean and re-fluff.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau the neck's evolution s3 (tne) neck pillow.

The Cabeau TNE S3 travel neck pillow fastens around your seat’s headrest and is designed with an extra-high pillow rim and chin strap. This extra attention to stability helps to prevent sore or kinked necks, and the chin strap also works to keep your mouth closed while you snooze. The soft, machine-washable cover is comfortable against sensitive neck and face skin while remaining breathable. We love being able to throw it in the wash and start fresh after a long, grubby trip. This thick memory foam pillow rolls up and fits into a compact carrying case, so it won’t take up all the space inside your personal item either, though it can also be hooked on the outside as well.

Best Blanket

Rumpl nanoloft travel blanket.

Prone to feeling cold on planes, trains, or buses? We’ve all seen a pic or two where an airline has passed out soiled blankets to passengers — even when they are folded and packaged inside plastic. Skip the scandal by packing your own blanket in your personal item. Rumpl’s Nanoloft Travel Blanket is made from 30-denier ripstop, post-consumer recycled polyester and has a down-like fill to keep you cozy. What’s great about this travel blanket is that it rolls up and fits into a carrying case roughly the size of a portable water bottle, making it a cinch to keep on hand. When unfolded, it measures 38 x 52 inches and weighs just 0.7 pounds. We also love the included “cape clip” that holds together two edges of the blanket so you can use your hands without worrying about the blanket slipping down while you’re wearing it, and the clip that lets you hook it on a bag’s strap instead of packing it inside.

Best Sleep Eye Mask

Manta sleep mask.

If you’re truly looking to get some quality sleep while traveling, the Manta Sleep Mask is a must for your personal items. This sleep mask straps around your head with padded eye cups that rest around the edges of your eye area to cover them. We like that this design doesn’t put pressure on the eyes and that we can open and blink our eyes normally with no interference. Plus, it won't wreck your falsies or smudge your eye makeup either. You’ll get a 100 percent light-proof blackout seal, regardless of the time of day and the comfy foam eye cups adjust so you can find the right fit for your face, eyes, and nose.

Best Earplugs

Loop quiet ear plugs for noise reduction.

Stash a pair of these Loop Quiet Earplugs in your personal item so you can grab them whenever you want to turn down the background of your travel environment without completely blocking sounds out. Unlike headphones or noise-masking earphones, these won’t add noise to take it away either. The silicone earplugs reduce sound up to 27 decibels and fit snugly inside your ear — and they look good, too. They are great for when you want to create your own space while still being somewhat cognizant of your surroundings. They’re available in seven colors and come with four ear tip sizes to find the best fit for your ears. Store them in the included keychain carrying case to keep them close by and free of debris when you’re not wearing them.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Nomader collapsible water bottle.

We love a good packing hack, and this 25-ounce collapsible water bottle from Nomader feels like a sneaky secret we have to spread. The genius water bottle has a soft silicone body that is rigid enough to keep its shape and stand upright even when empty. But, when it’s not in use, it simply rolls up and tucks into the cap, saving tons of space in any bag. It’s dishwasher safe, leak-proof, and has a solid plastic twist cap with a fat flip-top-spout mouthpiece to control water flow and prevent spills. There’s also a plastic grip ring and a strap to fasten the bottom to the cap when tucked away.

Smart and economical organization hacks will give you the most bang for your buck when it comes to fitting everything in your personal item, no sweat. I find that the best approach for organizing the contents of your personal item is to use the Russian doll technique — where you pack several smaller bags with category-specific things and then toss them in your main bag. This way, you’re keeping things you’ll use together or associate together in one place, making it a lot easier to locate and store these things in a larger personal item (and prevents you from having to dig deep for something small that may be hiding in the crevice of a zippered side pocket). It’s also a bonus hack that’ll help you keep track of your belongings as it’s easier to notice when one item of three or five is missing versus one item out of 25.

Best Belt Bag

Westbronco belt bag.

We like the Westbronco Belt Bag for its compact size, gender-neutral style, and well-organized pockets that make it easy to store and find items in a jiffy. Two main zippered compartments are large enough to hold most mobile phones, a passport, travel medicine , cables, earbuds, mini toiletries, snack bars, and more. There’s also a smaller front zippered sleeve where you can stash receipts, credit cards, your license, or notes. It’s great for grabbing and clipping on while you go through security and transportation hubs, or for snatching out of your bag and wearing comfortably during overnight journeys on public transportation. Plus, it’s made from water-resistant fabric, and features a sturdy, quick-release plastic buckle that’s accessible whether you’re wearing it on your waist or as a crossbody.

Best Toiletries Organizer

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

The 5.5 x 5.5-inch Dagne Dover Mila Small Toiletry Organizer is the perfect size for packing necessary toiletries into your personal item. We appreciate the cylindrical design, which can be identified quickly by touch among everything in your bag. Plus, it’s easy to pull out thanks to the wide top-grab handle. The customizable interior organization makes it a no-brainer — fill the whole compartment or use the removable dividers to divvy up space into six individual compartments. There’s also a mesh zip pocket and triangle carabiner clip on the interior top lid. The whole thing weighs about six ounces and has an overall interior of 2.7 liters, so it holds a lot without taking up a lot of space. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s made from water-resistant recycled materials and is vegan, too.

Best Tech Organizer

Bagsmart universal travel cable organizer bag.

If you couldn’t tell already, we’re big fans of organization that has organization, especially when space is limited. This tech organizer seemingly has a place for all your gear: there are five open storage slots with a thick elastic band (great for all your cords), five small mesh slip pockets (think memory cards, power connector bases, or even rolls of film), one larger mesh pocket (for a phone or power bank), and two tall pockets with elastic loops. All of this zips up nicely into a 1.4-inch thick, 6.7 x 9.8-inch carrying case that lays relatively flat in your personal item. This particular case comes in five solid colors, each with gold zipper accents and a stylishly textured exterior.

Best Pill Organizer

Amoos pill organizer 2 times a day.

Use this colorful, convenient weekly pill organizer to pack essential supplements and pills in your personal item. The Amoos Pill Organizer 2 Times a Day features seven translucent flip-top containers, each labeled with a different day of the week and featuring an AM and PM compartment. Take stock of interior contents with a glance, and easily differentiate days by each different color. We especially appreciate that each compartment can hold multiple larger-sized pills and that you can remove any of the daily containers and slip one in your pocket. Discretion is the key for some, so we like the nondescriptness here. Plus, it comes with a wristlet loop and has a handy interior mesh slip pocket for holding prescription information or other notes.

Having the right tech and entertainment items on hand while traveling is a simple way to make being in public feel a bit more like home. This can also help us stay connected, no matter how far away we may be.

Keeping these picks in your personal item will limit the number of times you’ll have to get up from your seat, making for a more seamless travel experience, too. There are an endless amount of options out there, so we’re just including the basics — and these are the items I personally reach for most frequently in transit from headphones to portable chargers.

Best Over-ear Headphones

Sennheiser momentum 4 wireless.

After extensive testing by the T+L team, these wireless over-ear headphones from Sennheiser snagged our overall best pick for the most comfortable earphones . We were smitten with the whopping 60-hour battery life — and that it only takes two hours to reach a full charge (or five minutes' charging for four hours) — so we know we can rely on these headphones for the long haul. They are notably lightweight, which makes them ideal for lugging around in your personal item, and we found the ear cups and headband are even comfortable if you’re sporting glasses or earrings. The sound is crisp and clear, and there are a number of built-in features, from active noise-canceling and equalizing to different sound profiles and customizable sound personalization. Plus, they fold flat and fit in a compact carrying case and are compatible with both Android and iOS.

Best Earbuds

Bose quietcomfort ultra earbuds.

As the newest iteration of the beloved Bose QuietComfort earbuds, the Ultra improved upon the second generation pair we already loved by adding more immersive audio so the music moves with you, switching between still and motion modes automatically. Of course, we still appreciate the ANC and spatial awareness filters that block out environmental noise, and that this can also be adjusted to allow background noise to filter through without distracting us from whatever we’ve got playing. You’ll get about six or so hours of battery life, depending on your chosen settings, and they work with iOS or Android, connecting quickly via Bluetooth.

Best Headphone Adapter

Twelve south airfly pro bluetooth transmitter.

If you’ve ever been on a plane faced with wireless headphones or earbuds and a corded headphone jack, this product is a personal item essential. Twelve South Airfly Pro connects wireless headphones to any device with a 3.5-mm jack whether you want to play movies on an older tablet or connect your phone to a rental car’s stereo system instead. Its slim, travel-ready profile easily slips into a bag pocket, tech organizer sleeve, or even on your keyring. One charge gets you up to 25 hours of battery life, and it’ll work within 33 feet of your target device with Android or iOS. Extra points for being able to connect up to two sets of headphones at a time.

Best Power Bank

Anker powercore 13000 portable battery.

This popular portable power bank charger has a compact design that easily slides into slip pockets and pant pockets. You’ll get a 13,000 mAh capacity that will work to charge your cell phone, iPad, or iPod several times — and two USB-A output ports means you can charge more than one item once. This is our go-to charger for those quick pick-me-up charges to get you through the travel day, but isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a heavy-duty brick charger to completely power up multiple devices. Keep in mind you’ll need to pack your own charging cords to use with this product.

Best Phone Mount

Urtry travel phone mount.

With the Urtry Travel Phone Mount, there’s no need to hand-hold your phone for long periods of screen time. The adjustable clamp mount and folding stand design allow this to be set up on flat surfaces or pinched onto the edge of what’s around, whether that’s the tray table in front of you, your suitcase handle, a bar countertop, chair backs, or even the metal adjustment bar of a car headrest. The clamp mount is sturdy, can be affixed to anything 1.5 inches thick or less, and is strong enough to hold up against bumpy rides. Best of all, it folds down into a compact 1.7 x 1.5 x 3.8 inches, making it extremely portable. We love pulling this out for a good series marathon or flick in transit and when we’re waiting at the gate or in a passenger lounge.

Best Charging Cord

Deego usb type c charger cable 15ft long.

The necessity of a long charging cord is not talked about enough. When you’re traveling, having a few extra feet of cord to work with can mean the difference of getting a boost of juice when electrical outlets are scarce or located in inconvenient locations. This Deego 15-ft Long USB-C Charging Cable will give you plenty of slack — and it’ll work with most devices, including the new iPhone 15 — so you can plug in and chill out while your device recharges. In a hurry? This cable is also fast-charge capable, as long as you have your phone’s fast-charge wall adapter. We love that the nylon-wrapped cord is tangle-free, too.

Even a short commute is enough time to show yourself a little love. Along with a few treats to nibble on, I always make sure I’ve packed things like moisturizer, lip balm, and odds and ends to help freshen up after travel; a little face spritz and a quick brush of the teeth can do wonders for refreshing the body and mind.

When it comes to keeping healthy, staying hydrated is a must, along with having a few anti-bacterial wipes (you never know when you’ll come across a suspect surface) and always, always, always, a little bit of sun protection. Again, you’ll want to keep these items to small, travel-friendly sizes so you can get past security efficiently. And while you want to keep your personal item light, you won't regret including a few key wellness travel essentials .

Best Moisturizing Sunscreen

Dermalogica dynamic skin recovery spf 50.

This Dermatologica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 Moisturizer is a 3-in-1 moisturizer that tackles broad-spectrum sun protection and fights dryness and dehydration at the same time. If you forgo everything else from this section, this is one we recommend giving a spot in your personal item, no matter what.  It works on all skin types and has a non-greasy finish that can be worn alone or under makeup. It’s a pricey pick, but it’s worth its weight in gold, especially for frequent travelers who like to sit by the window. And we like this specific one because it feels more like a moisturizer than a heavy sunscreen.

Best Dental Kit

Boka fresh on the go.

Boka Fresh On the Go is a top-notch dental kit that covers all of your bases in three travel-sized products. The plastic toothbrush comes in four colors and features Binchotan-activated charcoal bristles, and we love that you can choose between three 1.3-ounce toothpaste flavors — coco ginger, ela mint, and lemon lavender. Each flavor swaps out fluoride for nano-hydroxyapatite to help strengthen and remineralize your teeth. But the real clincher in this set is the jar of 90-count probiotic mouthwash tablets. Just pop one in your mouth and chew — no extra water needed — to freshen your breath and add some helpful probiotics to your mouth’s busy biome.

Best Lotion

Burt’s bees milk and honey body lotion.

This fast-absorbing body and hand lotion from Burt’s Bees is our go-to for soothing dry skin while traveling. Coconut and grapeseed oils pair up with milk and honey to deliver lasting moisture, and it goes on easily without feeling greasy with a mild odor that won’t cause seatmates to gripe. For travelers who are just as cognizant of what they put on their bodies as what goes in, this lotion is 98 percent natural, one of our favorite things about this brand. And the 2.5-ounce size is ideal for popping inside a small toiletry case inside your personal item, or the bag itself, so it’s close by.

Best Lip Balm

Goop beauty clean nourishing lip balm.

Goop Beauty Clean Nourishing Lip Balm is a lip-saver with its soft and silky moisturizing base containing shea butter, plus coconut, jojoba, argan, sunflower, and castor seed oils. It’s dermatologist-approved, and even has a slight scent that makes it feel extra lush. Presented in a sleek yet casual rose gold tube, this balm looks as good as it makes your lips feel, even if they’re already chapped or dry when you first apply. Go with clear for a low-key look, or snag one of the four sheer tints for a barely-there bump of color.

Best Anti-bacterial Wipes

Wet ones sensitive skin hand and face wipes.

These travel packs of Wet Ones Sensitive Skin Hand and Face Wipes are gentle enough to use on delicate baby’s skin for a quick wipe down while still being effective when used on grubby surfaces. We may be out of the thick of the pandemic, but that doesn’t mean keeping a pack of anti-bacterial wipes in your personal item won’t come in handy now and then (as we’ve all seen how in frequently surfaces in public spaces are cleaned ). We like these because they are hypoallergenic and unscented, and the packaging is resealable, so you can take only what you need and feel confident in placing them back in your bag without having them dry out or leak.

Best Face Mist

Josh rosebrook face mist hydrating spray.

Don’t feel like applying moisturizing face lotion throughout your journey? Spray two pumps of this Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator facial mist to give your skin a little drink. Not only does this non-aerosol spray mean you won’t have to fuss with cleaning your hands before or after moisturizing, but you’ll also be fortifying your skin with botanicals to help reduce water loss and skin irritation. It also works as a base layer amplifier for any serums or creams you put on top, making your products work harder and better. This convenient 3.4-ounce travel size fits easily into a makeup organizer or your bag’s pockets, too.

What is the best way to pack a personal item?

Pack your personal item in a way that keeps everything as accessible as possible so you can limit the number of times you’ll have to physically remove your personal item from wherever it’s being stored during your trip. This can mean grouping like-minded things together (like tech cords and adapters), using a bag with easily identifiable interior compartments, or packing several smaller items inside a single, easily grabbable organizer bag so you won’t have to fish for them. You may also want to consider packing anything you know you’ll frequently access (like earbuds or your phone) in a separate bag that will comfortably fit in your lap or somewhere within easy reach.

Keep in mind that many forms of transportation have rules about what you can bring in a personal item. Always look up any possible restrictions and remember it’s key to keep things travel-sized, not just for passing through places like TSA but to save on the overall available space and weight of this bag as well.

What is the best size for a personal item?

Your personal item should be about the size of a backpack — this way, it’ll almost always fit under the seat in front of you, in a storage compartment above the seat, or on your shoulder or back without issue. Regardless of your mode of travel, be sure to check if you’re even allowed a personal item and, if so, if there are any measurements or sizes you’ll need to follow . Remember not to overpack your personal item — it’s not a carry-on — because you’ll have to schlep it around during transit.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven relied on her decades of travel experience and the ghosts of all the personal items she hasn’t packed along the way. She then did hours of research to find the top products in each category, relying heavily on Travel +Leisure -tested best picks.

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