Regardless of whether you’re packing a tote bag, backpack, or wheeled bag, what’s inside matters, so we’ve put together a list of must-have travel items and some personal recommendations for the best in each category. Pack your carry-on When doing so, you’ll want to focus on creating a seamless airport experience first, and things like a travel wallet and an easily accessible toiletry pouch will help you stay organized and breeze through security. Then, make sure your in-flight experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. This is where travel essentials like headphones, snacks, and a travel pillow come in. And finally, while it’s only a worst-case scenario, there’s always a chance that your checked luggage might not make it to your destination. So you’ll also want to board with something that minimizes the headache of spending a day or two waiting to be reunited with your belongings, like your power converter and all your chargers. With these 32 travel essentials, you’ll be ready to throw your trip at you. , it’s lost luggage, noisy airplane neighbors, less-than-ideal weather, and more.
1. travel pillow
Conventional, U-shaped travel pillows work for some people, but if you don’t see the appeal, we recommend trying the Trtl Pillow — basically, a fleece scarf with a support system built in — or the Infinity Pillow, which is an infinity-applied grade- Consider scarfing down your comforter for a cozy result.
2. notebook
Jot down all your travel-inspired ideas with a simple, luxurious Moleskine notebook that’s sleek enough to slip into any carry-on.
3. eye mask
The light-blocking Mzoo Eye Mask is a no-frills favorite for sleep while traveling, while the Sleep Silk Sleep Mask is a luxurious pick that will ensure you travel in style.
4. Compression socks or tights
If you’ve been sitting in an airplane seat for more than four hours, you may want to change into a pair of compression tights or socks to help your legs circulate. This will keep your legs from falling asleep and help prevent more serious symptoms of sitting for too long, like blood clots.
5. Earplugs
For any situation where you don’t necessarily want to wear your headphones — say, sleeping — but still want to block out the distractions of your surroundings, a set of earplugs is important. Employees agree that you can never go wrong with a Mac.
6. In-flight entertainment
Long flights can be difficult without something to pass the time. Our employees love iPad Mini for movies, games,and more. We also think Amazon’s waterproof Kindle Paperwhite is one of the most travel-friendly e-readers yet.
7. Portable charger and all charging cords
Only a few airlines provide USB slots to charge your devices in-flight, so if you want to watch a feature-length film on your flight without spending the first 30 minutes on arrival to get your battery back into the double digits, make sure to pack a portable battery.
8. Disinfectant wipe
Catching some sort of illness on a flight is the fast track to ruining a restorative vacation. Don’t take the risk. Instead, use these alcohol wipes while traveling to kill germs while you’re on the go.
9. Sunscreen
It’s a given to pack sunscreen to wear on your vacation, but you should also apply it on the flight, especially if you’re in a window seat. Altitude can expose you to harmful UVA rays. We love Thinksport for its skin-softening texture and chemical-free ingredient list, but if you want something light, matte, and unscented, Supergoop’s Invisible Sunscreen is a great option.
10. Travel wallet
Because you’ll likely bring more than your everyday wallet — multiple types of currency, tickets, hotel key cards, etc. — it’s extra important to stay organized. If nothing else, want at least a passport cover to protect your most important travel documents from damage.