The Ultimate Travel Essentials List: What We Recommend

We are excited to share some of our favorite travel essentials through our partnership with Amazon. We have personally utilized and tested most of the products listed here, ensuring they meet our stamp of approval. Please note that when you purchase any of these items through the links on our website, you’re not just getting quality gear for your travel—you’re also supporting our work. We earn a small commission from Amazon at no cost to you, helping us continue to provide valuable travel tips and insights. We appreciate your support and hope our recommendations enhance your travels! 

Thule Compression Cube Set 

This is one of our favorite travel essentials. We have been traveling with the Thule Compression Cube for quite some time now. Compression cubes maximize luggage space by reducing bulk and keeping clothes organized and dirt- and wrinkle-free.  Durable compression zipper eliminates excess air between clothes to maximize packing space, semitransparent fabric, size perfectly fits most carry-on luggage, small size is ideal for socks, underwear, and shirts, while medium size is great for jeans, leggings, and shirts.

Zipper Pouch

Zipper pouches are handy for organizing and accessing small items quickly, such as toiletries, electronics, or documents. They keep your essentials in one place, prevent them from getting lost, and help maintain order in your luggage.

TSA-approved Approved Cable locks, Re-settable Combination with Alloy Body

Cable luggage locks are useful for securing your bags and belongings, adding an extra layer of protection against theft. Their flexible design allows them to fit a variety of zippers and handles, making them versatile and effective for keeping your items safe. Most durable TSA-recognized and accepted TSA lock, easy to set 3-digit combination, and security with the flexibility of a cable lock.

Acantha Foldable Fork and Spoon Set, Portable Folding Spoon and Fork Set with Two Plastic Storage Cases for Travel Camping Outdoors Picnic

A foldable fork and spoon set is convenient for eating on the go, especially when dining in places where utensils aren’t provided. It’s also eco-friendly and helps reduce waste by avoiding disposable cutlery.

Perilogics Universal In-Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Hands Free Viewing with Multi-Directional Dual 360 Degree Rotation. Pocket Size Must Have Airplane Travel Essential Accessory for Flying. A universal in-flight airplane phone holder mount keeps your phone secure and accessible during the flight, allowing you to watch movies, use apps, or follow travel plans hands-free. It enhances comfort and convenience, making your in-flight experience more enjoyable and organized.

PACKISM TSA Approved Toiletry Bag 

Clear Makeup Bag Waterproof Quart Size Bag, Travel Makeup Cosmetic Bag for Women, Carry on Airport Airline Compliant Bag, 3 Pack. A clear, waterproof makeup bag helps you easily locate your cosmetics and toiletries, especially in security screenings at airports. Its waterproof feature protects your items from spills and leaks, keeping everything dry and organized. TSA Approved: The 7.5 x 5.5 x 2.2-inch clear travel toiletry bag strictly follows TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-on bag of all airlines, see-through & reinforced seams, sturdy zipper & bigger top opening, and portable & reusable. 

Travel Inspira Luggage Scale, Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale

Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included. A portable digital hanging baggage scale helps you avoid overweight baggage fees by allowing you to check your luggage weight before you travel. It ensures you’re within airline weight limits, making your trip smoother and preventing last-minute packing issues.

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel Perfect Travel 

Quick Dry – Super Absorbent – Ultra Compact – Lightweight. A microfiber towel is perfect for travel because it’s compact, lightweight, and highly absorbent, drying quickly and taking up minimal space in your luggage. 

TRTL Travel and Airplane Pillow

Real Sleeping Experience on Long Flights – Neck and Shoulder Support – Super-Soft, Lightweight, Easy-to-Carry, and Machine-Washable Flight Pillow. This brand and the one below are highly recommended by many travelers. Bringing a travel pillow on long flights provides essential neck and head support, making long flights or road trips more comfortable. 

Cabeau The Neck’s Evolution, TNE S3 Travel Neck Pillow

Memory Foam Airplane Pillow – Neck Pillow with Attachment Straps – 360-Degree Support for Travel, Home, Office, and Gaming. This brand and the one above are highly recommended by many travelers. Bringing a travel pillow on long flights provides essential neck and head support, making long flights or road trips more comfortable. 

Basic Concept Footrest (Memory Foam)

Adjustable Foot Hammock for Airplane Travel Accessories, Desk Foot Hammock, Travel Footrest, Comfy Foot Hanger Airplane. Traveling with a footrest can significantly enhance comfort, especially on long flights or bus rides. It helps improve circulation by elevating your feet, reducing leg fatigue and swelling, and allowing you to find a more comfortable sitting position.

Gear Aid Hero Clip, Carabiner Clip  

I love my hero clip. I allow me to hang my bag or other items in different places, keeping them off the ground and within reach. 

MZOO Sleep Eye Mask for Men Women

Zero Eye Pressure 3D Sleeping Mask, 100% Light Blocking Patented Design Night Blindfold, Soft Eye Shade Cover for Travel in black. Traveling with a sleep mask helps you block out light, making it easier to rest or sleep, whether you’re on a plane, train, bus, or hotel rooms.

Hydra Pak Stow (500ml, 17oz) – Collapsible Water Bottle

Ultralight & Packable Travel Bottle. Traveling with a collapsible water bottle is convenient because it saves space when not in use, easily fitting into your bag or pocket. It’s also eco-friendly, allowing you to stay hydrated on the go without relying on single-use plastic bottles. We brought this on our recent trip to Africa and used the entire time while camping in Namibia.

Protect Life First Aid Kit

We never leave home without a first aid kit.

Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter Receiver

For Air Pods or Wireless Headphones – Use with Any 3.5 mm Audio Jack for Airplanes, Gym Equipment, TVs, iPad/Tablets and Auto. A wireless audio transmitter and receiver is a must-have for travelers. You can use your Air Pods or Bluetooth headphones with in-flight entertainment, gym equipment, or older devices, providing comfort, better sound quality, and the convenience of seamless switching between devices. Compact and easy to carry, it’s perfect for enhancing your travel experience.

Portable Charger 40000mah Power Bank

USB-C (22.5W) Fast Charging Battery Pack Portable Phone Charger for iPhone 15/14/13 Series, Android Samsung Galaxy, for Travel. A power bank is another travel essential, ensuring your devices stay charged on the go. It’s convenient for long trips, allows multiple device charging, and serves as an emergency backup. Compact and portable, it keeps you connected and stress-free wherever you are.