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    37 Handy Travel-Sized Essentials That Won’t Cause Airport Drama

    Between the annoyingly specific 3.4 ounce rule and having zero space for the books your plan to read on vacay — these items will make traveling much easier.

    1. A lightweight mini flat iron that'll give you the same flowy locks as your full-size one at home, without being that one thing that keeps sticking out of your bag as you attempt to get through TSA. It even comes with a heat-resistant pouch for extra safety! 

    reviewer showing their naturally curly hair and then pin straight hair achieved using the straightener
    reviewer hand holding straightener

    This mini straightener heats up in only 30 seconds and warms up to a constant heat of 410 degrees.

    Promising review: "I got this nice little and compact hair straightener for my trip to the beach. It is small and lightweight. Perfect for a trip. It heats up really fast; within seconds it is very hot. It comes with a pouch to tuck it away. You do need to move slowly through your hair because the heated part is small, but it does a good job. Also I like the comfort of the design to hold it. Fits nicely in my hand. Not heavy like the bigger bulkier ones are. I took my time and shopped around for a travel one. I think this will be good to use every day. It doesn’t take up much space either." —Connie Cunningham

    Get it from Amazon for $17.97.

    2. The famous Alleyoop Pen Pal, a multicolor, multifunctional four-in-one makeup pen that'll definitely help shrink your makeup bag — aaand prevent people from side-eyeing you and your million beauty items sprawled out in the airport bathroom. With one click you'll have eyeliner, lip liner, highlighter, AND an eyebrow pencil in the palm of your hand. Genius!

    A GIF of a hand pressing down to release the slim eyeliner tip
    model with their makeup done using the pen
    Alleyoop

    It's vegan, and cruelty and paraben free, and the packaging is recyclable! 

    Alleyoop is a woman-owned small biz that takes "beauty efficiency" to a new level. Most of their products are compact and have multiple functions!

    Promising review: "I love the ease of this product. It’s so perfect and the colors are great for all looks — casual, fancy, quarantine extra, everything! I love how effortless it is and how easy it is to use. I’m serious that as a makeup novice, these colors are impossible to mess up. I love it! " —Stephanie H.

    Get it from Alleyoop for $25 (available in three shades).

    3. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, top-rated for providing awesome results in smoothing and clearing skin. It's got over 43,000 5-star reviews and (thankfully) comes in a 1-ounce mini version. TSA won't be tossing this one in the security line!

    a reviewer holding the mini bottle
    a before and after of a reviewer's results on their cheek

    Promising reviews: "I never write product reviews but I am OBSESSED with this product...I am so glad I decided to try something new. I've been using it for less than a week and my pores are smaller, skin tone is more even, breakouts are under control and fading at least twice as fast as usual, and my skin is GLOWING. I have very sensitive, acne-prone skin that is annoyingly combination. I haven't found this to be overly drying or irritating in any way. I would recommend this product to anyone." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $11+ (available in three sizes).

    4. A cute portable charger, because fighting for outlets in the airport can totally be avoided. With this, your phone will ALWAYS be charged, no matter where you are or how long you've been on the road. Its slim, compact, and no cables/cords are necessary!

    gif of reviewer holding the pink charger and showing its built-in lightning cable
    a reviewer holding a phone with the charger plugged into it

    Promising reviews: "I purchased this item before I traveled to Greece for one week. I used to this multiple times at the airport, on the airplane, and during my day trips while exploring during my vacation. This has lasted multiple charges it has been very convenient since you are not attached to an outlet while you’re recharging your phone." —christine k.

    "When traveling I often run down the battery on my phone, especially on cruises when I go off the ship on an excursion and take a lot of pictures. I have had portable chargers before but they are heavy for their size and you need to carry a cable as well. The IWalk solves both problems. It is compact, lightweight, and requires no cable. And it is reasonably priced. I highly recommend this product." —Nancy J.

    Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in five colors). 

    5. A top-rated travel pillow that prevents stiff necks and provides comfy, cozy support because it ~literally~ holds your neck in an upright, ergonomic position. It can also attach to luggage making it super easy to travel with!

    a reviewer sleeps on their side
    another reviewer uses the pillow on a plane

    This pillow has over 16,000 5-star reviews!

    Promising reviews: "I really love this pillow. I am someone who stays cold. So I usually travel in a hoodie with my travel blanket and pillow. With the Ttrl pillow, I no longer need the hoodie. The pillow provides me with neck support regardless of where I'm seated. It can be positioned different ways, keeps my head from bobbing, and fits perfectly in my backpack along with my blanket and travel snacks!! I am a fan!!" —MsMason

    "I’m a side sleeper so this is a game changer for flying. Makes so much more sense than the neck rolls!" —Hollie Schroeder

    Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in black and grey).

    6.  A Kindle Paperwhite for when vacation — including the long waits at the airport — is when you get TONS of reading done (I mean, same here). This will save you lots of space in your luggage, and give you about 32 gbs worth of books, audiobooks, magazines, and more. It's got an adjustable built-in light and an anti-glare screen, so there'll be no worries about reading at night or out in the bright sun... P.S. it's waterproof, too! 

    a reviewer reading a book on the kindle
    a reviewer showing the main menu of the kindle with tons of books on screen

    Promising reviews: "If you travel, as I do, then this is a great way to take the literature you love with you, in a minimum of space in your carry on." —Geoffrey F. Arnold

    "What's to say about the latest generation kindle? It's just amazing. I'm a book lover and believe me it was hard to let go of my hundreds and hundreds if not thousands of hard cover books. However it's not easy to travel with 400 books that are hard cover in your backpack let alone 800. This latest generation is great I've brought everywhere...it's waterproof and you can read in bright sun under just know comparing it to reading on a tablet or an electronic device such as one of the fire HD tablets. Electronic ink is amazing. You can see as if you're reading a real book and carry your entire collection in a little backpack or your handbag...800 books in my jacket pocket? Yes please!" —Blackout AKA Michael Biggins

    Get it from Amazon for $89.99 (available in four colors).

    7. LilyAna Naturals' eye cream because it can help you hide how tired you really are after a long day of traveling and getting little to no sleep on the plane. The rose hip and hibiscus-infused eye cream helps reduce dark circles and puffiness, leaving your eyes to look bright and wide (or alert and awake).

    a reviewer holding up a 1.7 ounce bottle
    reviewer's before and after photo showing their eye bags disappearing over time

    Promising reviews: "I never write reviews, but...I realized I had to let people know its benefits. The other eye creams/gels I have used this year don’t cut it with the dry skin around my aging eyes. So after applying my newest anti wrinkle, retinol, and whatever else eye cream, I reach for this product and it never fails to leave the delicate skin around my eyes feeling softer and moisturized. I’m glad I found this product and may try some others from this company. The ingredient list is impressive for sure," —Janet

    "Nice thick eye cream goes on very smoothly. Non-irritating and I love that it can also be used all over face which makes it ideal for traveling with."  —Preety

    Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in three sizes).

    8. A set of six Cadence containers that'll change the way you pack your travel-sized items for good. When you don't want to waste tons of space on bulky tubes and bottles, these magnetic cuties are here to the rescue. These containers feature removable labels (that are also magnetic so they don't get lost) and each individual container holds a surprising amount of product! Use these for everything from serums and moisturizers to jewelry and vitamins.

    six containers with labels on top
    a gif of travel size containers now in Cadence containers

    Cadence is an AAPI woman-owned small business that was founded by Steph Hon as a way to eliminate single-use travel-sized plastics. The containers are made from recycled ocean-bound plastic.

    Get a set of six from Cadence for $76 (originally $84; available in seven colors and customizable labels).

    9. A compact digital luggage scale for when you've done some ~major~ shopping during your trip, and you want to be sure your luggage still meets requirements when packing to head home (those over-capacity fees are no joke!). Simply hook the scale to your luggage handle, lift up, and the LCD display will show the weight. 

    You can also switch between pound and kilogram measurements. 

    Promising review: "This scale works and was accurate on four flights. First flight was a test at 46 pounds and Delta scales said it was 46 pounds. The next two flights were at 49 pounds and both United and Delta found it to be 49 pounds. The bag on the fourth flight weighed 49 but the United scale found it to be 48 pounds. Four different airports and scales proved that this scale is a good, low cost must have item for air travel." —Robert

    Promising review: "Love it! Lightweight and easy to read! It even gives you the climate temperature (not that I need it but a neat feature). It reads in both kg and lbs. Definitely recommend if you're a frequent traveler and have weight requirements on luggage." —Patricia Velasquez

    Get a set of two from Amazon for $14.99.

    10. A collapsible water bottle that'll save you SO much space in the bag you take through security. It'll also save you $$$ when you don't have to buy an entirely new water bottle at the airport. (Everyone agrees those are way overpriced, right?) 

    hands holding the water bottle in white, showing what it looks like at full size
    the same hands now showing the water bottle all rolled up, taking up about a 1/3 of the size
    Nomader

    Promising review: "Well this is the coolest thing ever! I travel quite a bit, and I usually don't take a bottle with me because they are big and bulky, and I usually loose it! This collapsible water bottle is a perfect traveling accessory. It stays collapsed until after security, and then i fill it up for the trip. It's a good size and fits in my side compartment in my travel backpack and the cap screws in securely so i don't have to worry about it opening accidentally and spilling all over the place. I follow the instructions on how to clean it and it works just fine." —M. Lyons

    Get it from Amazon for $21.95 (available in seven colors).

    11. A packable, sun-shielding Baggu wide brim hat, because we all know the struggle of packing a sun hat in our suitcase for vacation. It's a travel must, but it takes up SO much space. With this, you get a bendable brim hat that fits in its own travel bag. 

    GIF of model taking off the hat and packing it into its travel pouch
    model wearing the checkered hat
    Baggu

    This hat also features an adjustable headband and has cute chin strap so the your hat won't get blown away on windy days.

    Get it from Baggu for $36 (available in nine colors/patterns).

    12. Tower 28's mini SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray since traveling is a sure-fire way to cause stress acne (thanks mean lady in seat 23B!) — and this facial mist can soothe skin like no other. And because it's made with all natural ingredients, it calmly and effectively soothes blemishes, dry or flaky skin, intense UV exposure, and even eczema! TL;DR: It's a purse and luggage essential!

    A model holding the mini and the full size bottles in one hand.
    a before image of a person with inflammed skin, and an after photo with a smooth and even skin tone
    Sephora

    Tower 28 is a small, Asian woman-owned clean beauty brand designed for sensitive skin. Their products are nontoxic, nonirritating, vegan, and cruelty-free, so you can rest easy when applying.

    Promising review: "HOLY GRAIL!! I tried this spray for the first time about a year and a half ago. I had moved from a dry climate to a humid climate and my acne was out of control! I tried so many products before SOS. When I tell you my acne cleared up within a week…. SHEESH! I haven’t been without this spray since! I keep a mini with me at all times and for travel and recommend to all friends with skin concerns. Don’t walk, RUN to Sephora to get it!" —KuhKristen

    Get it a 1 oz. bottle from Sephora for $12 (available in two sizes).

    13. A heatless hair curler to get bouncy curls without the damage and without taking up the entire front pocket of your suitcase. On top of being heat-free, the curler is made with mulberry satin that helps prevent tangled hair, too.

    a reviewer with their hair wrapped in the curler before bed
    the same reviewer showing big curls the morning after

    This heatless curler comes as a set, so you'll also get two matching silk scrunchies and a hair clip with purchase!

    Promising review: "Can sleep comfortably with this and wake up with beautiful curls! I use it a lot when I travel, no fuss in the morning and get so many compliments for beautiful hair style!" —Olga

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in six colors).

    14. A truly multi-tasking body butter that hydrates dry skin, scalps, tattoos AND soothes irritated skin, eczema flare-ups, and psoriasis. It uses two types of all natural shea butter and other clean ingredients to ~literally~ bring skin back to life. One tube of this knocks out tons of other toiletry essentials!

    Amanda holding up the tube of beauty butter
    two images of the beauty butter on the hand and then rubbed in with
    Amanda Davis / BuzzFeed

    I'm happy to report that I've have found *thee* body butter that not only has my skin glistening like a glazed donut in the sun, but it leaves my skin feeling hydrated, moisturized, AND it smells amazing, too. The rich, creamy, and suuuper thick texture is incredibly smooth, especially when rubbed in. My favorite scent is Egyptian Lavender + Moroccan Mint. I've been using it on my hands daily since I got the opportunity to try the brand. But when I'm feeling ~fancy~ (or am just going out for the night), I apply the Kenyan Hibiscus + Moroccan Rose all over after I shower to lock in a beautiful, floral scent. Once you try it, you won't be able to live without it in your beauty routine!

    54 Thrones is a Black woman-owned small business that makes natural, clean skincare products. 

    Get a 1.7 oz tube from Sephora for $24 (available in five scents).

    Check out BuzzFeed's full review of 54 Throne's Beauty Butter for more details!

    15. A portable UV sterilizer reviewers say is a "must-have for traveling" because you know...airports. This compact cleaner safely eliminates 99.99% of bacteria and viruses on everything from ear pods and charging cables to pacifiers and mouth guards (and other small items while you're on the go). Just attach it to your purse or backpack and you're set!

    the sanitizer hooked on a purse
    reviewer hand holding the box-shaped sterilizer

    This is powered with a rechargeable battery (USB cable included!) that can last up to two to three weeks on one full charge. You can also use the top to sanitize larger items!

    Promising reviews: "I love this product! This is one of the lightest sanitizers that I’ve gotten so far. I hate when my daughters pacifier falls onto the floor at the store. This puts everything at ease because it’s easy to use and sanitizers things in about a minute. This is extremely easy to travel with especially because of Covid and makes everything so much easier!" —Maddie Martin

    "I LOVE this sterilizer! It’s portable, wireless, and works in minutes. It gives me confidence when we are out and about...It’s so easy [to use], just place the item in the small sterilizer and BOOM it’s clean!..This is a must when traveling especially with COVID-19 and flu season upon us!!!" —Jarhn

    Get it from Amazon for $22.95.

    16. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint because it combines makeup and skincare into one. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide work together to even tone, while the SPF 40 tint (yes, it's sunscreen too!) provides a weightless, dewy finish. Because this provides the benefits of a serum, foundation, and sunscreen, you'll have two less things to pack!

    a model with a swatch of tint on their cheek
    a different model holding up the bottle that matches their skin tone
    Ilia

    This is silicone-free, fragrance-free, oil-free, noncomedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin. To use, dispense a quarter of a dropper into your hand and apply like a serum. Note that on application, the shade may appear lighter but after 30–60 seconds, it'll adjust to its true color. Because it's silicone-free, natural separation may occur. This is normal and it'll be fixed when applied to skin. Plus, you can recycle the bottle! Learn how to here.

    Promising reviews: " My skin is acne prone, dry, and hormonal. Sensitive at times. This is heaven. CREAMIER than I expected and smoothing, too. I really expected it to be thinner like a serum. But this creamy texture is easier to work with. More than a tint. I'd say light, and buildable. And the DEW! If you don't want glow, do not buy. But this is a gorgeous glow finish. I set my face lightly and it really calms it down if you you want less glow. Another major plus is how easy this is to travel with. I don't HAVE to take my serums, spf, AND foundation. I just need this one product. Totally impressed." —Smolak, Sephora customer

    Get it from Sephora for $48 (available in 30 shades) or Amazon $48 (available in 29 shades).

    17. Or Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen if you prefer your sunscreen without a tint. Seriously, it's called "Unseen" for a reason, because reviewers say that it leaves zero white cast behind and isn't sticky AT ALL. The best part? All three sizes are TSA-friendly. 

    a reviewer holding the sunscreen tube
    a reviewer shows the sunscreen rubbed in, with no white cast

    FYI, This SPF is reef-safe and water resistant.

    Promising reviews: "It's not often I get excited about sunscreen, but Supergoop! Unseen is quite different. The texture is not like any ordinary sunscreen...kind of dry and velvety. It applies surprisingly nicely, sets very quickly, and is perfect as a makeup primer before applying makeup. And the size is perfect for travel, TSA approved for carry-on. This is my new favorite!" —De Anna

    "Everything it claims. Beautiful texture, and great make up primer! Love the 2-in-1! Especially being a busy mom and perfect for traveling. I have sensitive skin and NO BREAKOUTS." —Emily Newton

    Get it from Amazon for $17+ (available in three sizes).

    18. A convenient Beis backpack that you can pack like a suitcase, without losing the chic, minimalist style that is this TikTok and Instagram-famous bag. And bonus points: it's got a trolley passthrough in back so you can secure it on your carry-on! *Swoon* 

    a model wearing the beige backback
    open backpack stuffed full of things for a long weekend.
    Beis, Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed

    My coworker Elizabeth Lilly absolutely loves her Beis backpack: 

    "Since buying [this backpack], I've taken it on two long weekend trips with no complaints. In fact, for both of those trips I packed MORE than I needed. Inside, you'll find a mesh zippered pocket and a plastic pocket perfect for your toiletries. I can fit enough wet toilet toiletries in the second pocket as I'd be allowed to carry-on for a plane [and] the main compartment is deceptively deep so you can easily roll clothes and Lego-fit them in together without using packing cubes. ... AND it has stretchy X-straps to keep it all secure like you'd see in a roller suitcase so when I unzip it, everything stays put. There's also a separate cushioned laptop pocket close to the backpack straps that I found works well for books or a Kindle if your travel leaves you laptop-less. 

    I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won't fall out...Plus! It has a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, writing pens...all sorts of those little extras you need to access quickly. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into overhead storage compartments on the trains. I love the look and construction of it with faux leather and sturdy canvas, and the trolley passthrough to easily fit on my roller suitcase I'm about to drag through a bunch of airports. At nearly $80, this isn't the cheapest backpack option but if you're a frequent traveler, you'll get so much mileage on it and seriously save on some baggage fees, making it well worth the cost. This backpack and I are going places, for sure."

    Get it from Beis Travel for $78 (also available in black). 

    19. Touchland's Glow Mist Hand Sanitizer so you're a quick spritz away from killing 99.9% of germs on your hands and moisturizing your skin at the same time. (Which is convenient for traveling and just everyday life in general.) It's common knowledge that sanitizer can be very drying for your skin, but this glow mist does the *exact* opposite and works to rejuvenate skin, too!

    Amanda holding the hand sanitizer
    a gif of the writer spraying the sanitizer
    Amanda Davis / BuzzFeed

    This particular Touchland sanitizer is scented with rosewater, and I absolutely love it! Aside from killing daily germs (which, as the main point of sanitizer, is awesome), it also smells amazing and leaves my hands feeling soft, refreshed, and *not* sticky like many other options on the market. I was so excited to finally get away from the strong, alcohol-scented hand sanitizers and love that this hydrates my hands, too. In my opinion, it's 100% worth the price (especially for my skincare lovers!). It honestly never leaves my purse!

    Promising review: "Sanitizer just doesn't get better than this! The lightweight feel, the hydration, and the fresh rose scent, ugh! Perfection 10/10!" —Natalie S., Touchland customer

    Get it straight from Touchland for $16 (available in 14 other scents for $9+) or from Amazon for $16

    20. Some laundry soap sheets for when the unplanned happens and you need clean clothes ASAP (and yes, this includes airport mishaps). These sheets allow you to hand wash your clothes quickly and easily in a sink OR when you know your hotel has a washing machine but the thought of carrying bulky, heavy laundry detergent makes your muscles ache. 

    This pack comes with 50 bio-degreadable sheets and are 3-1-1 carry-on compliant!

    Promising review: "This came SO in handy during my vacation to Europe! I was making lots of different stops to 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 $7.19.

    21. And a set of mesh laundry bags to prevent your dirty clothes and shoes from ruining the clean clothes yet to be worn. You can also use these to wash your delicates during your travels — just toss them in the bag and into the washing machine with the rest!

    You've got a wide variety of sets to choose from here. Some sets include standard laundry bags, shoe bags, and bra bags — all in multiple sizes and colors.

    Promising review: "They work in front or top load washers...Nothing gets tangled up with other items and doesn’t get mangled with agitator in top loaders. Also good when traveling to put shoes in to keep your clothing items from rubbing against dirty shoes. I’ve also used them to keep rolled up belts, gloves, socks and other items in place in suitcase. The good quality zipper works great and has a place to tuck the pull tab into to prevent accidental opening. I am very happy with my choice and will purchase again." –Ellie D in Az

    Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 12 sets of various sizes).

    22. A luggage-mounted cup caddy so you're not fumbling around searching for your wallet at the snack stand (that would cause some major drama for the line building behind you). It can hold essentials like your boarding ticket, passport, wallet, and beverages. 

    Promising review: "This cup holder is perfect! It helps me a lot! Last time I took a plane with a suitcase and a cup of coffee, I dropped and spilled my drink everywhere when it was my turn to check my passport and ticket. It was a nightmare! This time, I bought this cup holder to do me a favor! I don't have to worry about where my cup and phone are! I can free my hands to do other things. I love it so much! Hope you love it too." —Philip

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in 21 colors/patterns). 

    23. A genius refillable travel perfume atomizer to take your favorite scent with you wherever you go (while avoiding the hefty price tag of sample size perfume bottles and security throwing away the full-size glass bottle you tried to sneak through).

    a reviewer hold a pink and silver atomizer
    a model demonstrates how to use the atomizer

    Using the atomizer is pretty easy: Simply unscrew the cap to your perfume bottle, place the perfume nozzle into the hole at the bottom of the atomizer, and pump the perfume inside.

    Promising reviews: "These things are perfect! Easy to use. Great size for traveling! And didn’t change the smell of my perfumes!"—BMF722

    "This has saved me a ton of space in my toiletries bag! I’m able to bring more than one fragrance without the weight of the bottles!...Anyway, the TRICK is to pump out whatever air is or may be in the bottle BEFORE adding your perfume. I must have pumped about 20 times just to make sure there was no compressed air. To prevent from wasting, make sure the atomizer is held upright and not angled when pumping in the perfume. I haven’t had any leaks and have flown three times with these." —Amazon Junkie

    Get a pack of four from Amazon for $8.99.

    24. folding travel mirror that's, sleek, slim, and will come in handy when you need quick touch-ups in the airport or are on a loooong flight with awful lighting. It's got adjustable brightness and with the collapsible feature, it easily fits in your bag, too!

    reviewer holding the lit travel mirror
    reviewer photo of the lit travel mirror propped up on a table

    It comes with a rechargeable battery!

    Promising review: "Absolute must for travel. Hotels and Airbnbs rarely have both good lighting and a good mirror to sit down and do your makeup at. With this guy though, you won't have that worry. The different lights are wonderful for different settings; the mirror is sturdy and lightweight. It does not feel cheap at all, in fact, it is the best travel mirror I have purchased. I am now using this on a daily basis, so I think it was an awesome find, not just for traveling but also for every day! It also is really slim and fits in your carry-on easily." —Alexandra

    Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in five colors). 

    25. A mini Olaplex essentials kit for a salon-like hair treatment even when you're on the road. This set comes with a moisture hair mask, shampoo and conditioner, hair perfector, and bond-building treatment — all made to strengthen and nourish your gorgeous locks. AND all in space-saving sizes (which means more room for the headphones you use to block out the crying baby sitting beside you). 

    a reviewer holding the shampoo mini
    a before and after

    BTW, this little set is actually a steal, as full-size bottles of each price at $30

    Promising reviews: "I love how it makes my hair look and feel. It's the perfect size to put in a bag or suitcase I love this purchase and I already made another."  —Katelynn

    "Obviously Olaplex is a great system in general - this kit is specific is an AMAZING buy... I have shoulder length curly 3b/3c African American hair and I got about three complete uses out of this kit! Can’t beat this for under $30 - you usually get only one full sized product for about that price. This is a great way to try the basic system without spending a lot. I wish it included some of their leave-in products."  —A

    Get it from Amazon for $28.

    26. A mini tube of Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask to have a replenishing face mask handy no matter where you are. This mask calms, hydrates, and nourishes dry and dull skin (which can be a result of traveling) with clean ingredients like vitamin B5, chamomile, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid wrapped up in a creamy, gluten-free and vegan finish. Self care does not stop when you travel — especially when 'Jet Lag' is in the name!

    Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask in full and mini sizes
    a model with the mask applied
    Sephora

    Promising review: "I went on a few plane rides this year and took this with me everywhere I went. Thank goodness it’s the perfect size to get through TSA. I don’t only use this as a mask, I use this as an everyday moisturizer...It’s always tough to find a moisturizer that works just right for my skin type, but this is a winner. I have combination skin, but this really helps add moisture back onto my face. I love the formula, it’s not too thick, but you are able to layer up especially if you use it as an eye cream which I love to do at night. I recommend this to all my friends who are in the hunt for something knew. I definitely need to restock." shwncrz, Sephora Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $26+ or from Sephora for $26+ (available in 1- and 2.25-ounce packaging).

    27. A chic travel belt that'll securely attach your backpack or tote to your luggage so you can avoid shoulder and back pain while traveling. And if that won't convince you this is a travel essential, having this belt will also make running to your gate much easier. As someone who is late every now and then, I think that's a real win!

    a model using the navy blue and pink striped belt
    Another model using the black and tan belt
    Cincha

    BTW, you can personalize it with your initials, too — how cute!

    Cincha is a BIPOC-owned brand that was created by a couple based in Oakland, California who believe traveling in style should also be secure. They've been making the chic travel belt since 2019.

    Promising review: "This is the item I never realized I'd always needed! Bonus points: I had at least 10 different people stop me on the way to my flight to compliment my Cincha." —Lauren

    Get it from Cincha for $40 (available in 10 colors/patterns).

    28. A lightweight mini steam iron so you can keep your clothes crisp and wrinkle-free, even if they've been folded up in your suitcase during nine+ hours of travel. Trust me, you'll really appreciate having this when the time comes!

    reviewer holding the mini iron to the side, showing how small it is
    top view of the iron, showing the buttons

    Promising review: "I took this iron on a five-week trip to a desert climate, and I used it to iron linen, cotton, and silk. It did a better job than many full-sized irons. Never again will I wear those hot, ugly, 'wrinkle-free' travel clothes. It is also lightweight, tiny, easy-to-use, and cute. One of the best travel purchases I have ever made." —Eliyahu

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99

    29. An Airfly wireless transmitter that'll connect your AirPods or any wireless headphones to things like airplane seats, gym treadmills, gaming systems, and more. No Bluetooth needed! It's small enough to toss in your purse or carry-on, too.

    reviewer holding it in their hand to show size
    a reviewer using the product on airplane

    Promising review: "These work amazingly well. I was surprised that you can charge and use them at the same time. I use them on planes to listen to the in-flight entertainment with my AirPods. I also use them to listen to music on my laptop with my AirPods. They work really well. Now I don't have to carry my wired earbuds with me when I travel anymore. They really work as advertised. I have not had any issues with them since I started using them." —RPL

    Get it from Amazon for $44.99.

    30. A mini of the bestselling Mario Badescu facial spray with aloe, herbs, and rosewater specifically made to hydrate and refresh the skin. But this gem is a true multi-tasker, because it works as a makeup setting spray, too! So when you need a foundation touch-up after hours of flight delays, this baby has your back.

    the mini 4 ounce bottle next to the normal sized 8 ounce
    Sephora

    Promising reviews: "I can’t live with out this. I spray it on my face and chest after I get out of the shower. It’s so refreshing and leaves skin lightly moisturized and ready for sunscreen etc. When traveling this is my favorite product to fresh up with in airports. Face wipe and then this spray and I’m a whole new person." —blondepande, Sephora customer

    "I have purchased this several times. I use it to refresh my make up throughout the day. Especially, on warmer days. I use it before I put in my setting powder and also as setting spray. Lastly, I also spray some my beauty blender when I need freshen up my makeup when needed. It’s a truly is a multi-tasking product. Love it!" —iluvemakeup, Sephora customer

    Get a 2 oz. bottle from Sephora for $5 or mini set from Amazon for $12 (includes 4- and 2 oz. bottles).

    31. A pair of wireless Bluetooth headphones that are ~super~ easy to travel with because they're completely foldable (!!) and come with their very own carrying case. To top it off, they've got with a really cool adjustable sensory bass feature and a long-lasting charge. Whether you're taking calls while waiting for your flight or want to shut out outside conversations on the plane — traveling will never be the same with the excellent sound these provide.

    a reviewer shows the folded headphone next to the carrying case
    Amanda wearing the light grey headphones and showing the profile view
    Amanda holding up the heading pointing out the bass control adjuster, the play/pause button, and the volume control
    www.amazon.com, Amanda Davis / BuzzFeed

    I've never been much of an over-the-ear headphone wearer. They're usually too bulky, too uncomfortable, and a little too heavy for my taste. But these Skullcandy Crusher Evo headphones?? OMG. It's confirmed I've been listening to music all wrong, because the bass feature on these headphones are amazing. It doesn't ruin the quality of sound AT ALL, and only enhances it (like, a lot). And it can be adjusted for comfort if a song is too bass-heavy or not enough. I wear them while working at my desk, and find myself dancing to the beat way more (what better way to WFH, right?). The best part is that I can wear them for hours at a time without discomfort. I recently wore them on a three hour flight as opposed to my usual ear pods, and I was able to cut out the crying babies and listen to my playlists and podcasts in peace. They easily connect to both my phone and laptop, and I only charge them once about every two weeks. Trust me, these are well worth the investment!

    BTW, they come with their own matching carrying case!

    Promising review: "Truly amazed with how great the experience is when listening to music with these! If you want a head rattle from the sensory bass, they got it! If you want loud volume to block out the noise of everyday life, no problem! Skullcandy nailed it with these and made me have to send back my Beats Studio 3 and Sony XM3's within days of using these bad boys. BUY THEM NOW!!!" Devin

    Get it from Amazon for $179.99 (available in six colors).

    32. A *foldable* mini hair dryer because you can't always depend on your hotel or BnB to have one already. This cutie easily folds into an even more compact tool and reviewers are obsessed.

    a model holding up the blue and rainbow dryer
    a close up of the hair dryer folded
    Walmart

    Promising reviews: "I absolutely LOVE this Packed Party mini travel blow dryer. I love that it's foldable and fits perfectly in my luggage without taking up too much room. Even though it's small, don't let the size fool you. It still has a good blow that doesn't impact my ready time. All in all, I love this hair dryer and it's perfect for all my adventures!" —Jessica, Walmart customer

    "This blow dryer is honestly so perfect for travel...I got it for my recent vacation and now I use it on the regular since it's so compact and perfect for my tiny NYC apartment. And, don't like the size fool you...it may be small but it's super powerful! OH! AND IT'S CUTE AS HECK!"  —Jen, Walmart customer

    Get it from Walmart for $34.88 or from Packed Party for $35.

    33. A cute macaron-style compact brush complete with detangling bristles and a compact mirror for easy touchups. Reviewers say this brush is super convenient to travel with and is still as effective as a full-size one.

    a reviewer hold the closed brush
    the same reviewer shows it open

    Promising reviews: "I’m obsessed with this brush/mirror combo. I was looking for mini foldable travel brushes and came across this and it did not disappoint!..It fits perfectly in my small purse. Does not look cheap at all. Totally worth the price." —Yolanda

    "It's sturdier than it looks. I have long, hip-length hair. Needless to say, I experience a lot of tangles. I was concerned about the strength of the bristles but this has not let me down. It's stood up to the job and they do not get warped or start to bend over from use. Good value, good quality. The pieces also stay together very well, I don't have to go searching for the other half in my purse." —AH

    Get one from Amazon for $12.99 (also available in blue).

    34. 4-in-1 mini makeup brush that features a highlight brush, a powder brush, an eyeshadow brush, and a lip brush! It's the perfect size to keep in their purse for touch-ups throughout the day, and for saving space while traveling.

    an image showing all four brushes and the tool body broken apart
    The brush set laying out beside a compact
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Perfect travel brushes. Love them!! Was very curious when purchasing and have surpassed my expectations. The brushes are very very soft, softer than a lot of regular brushes I buy. The caps are a tight seal, the holders for the smaller brushes are a tight seal. Nothing moves around or gets dirty in travel. Perfect travel brushes!" —ER

    Get it from Amazon for $10.99 (available in four colors).

    35. An airplane phone mount because it may just be the most handy item on the list. Not all flights have TV screens and free movies, but this will ensure that YOU do! It's small and easy to toss in your bag, too.

    a reviewer's child watching cartoons with the phone mounted on a seat
    a reviewer's phone mounted on a table try

    Promising review: "Okay, after a flight last month, I was convinced I needed a phone mount and ran into this. So I bought it. The wild part was that I haven’t been on another flight yet and yet, I use this gadget every single day. So far, I found this to be durable and can contort to your needs. The different combinations of positions literally allows you to mount and position your device to nearly any position you need it to. I use the iPhone 11 as my device. I mount this on my standup desk at work, at my nightstand to watch movies while in bed, on my treadmill so I could watch something while walking, on a nearby counter as a 'tripod' for my phone and of course, as a standalone stand when I’m sitting at a flat table." —Justine E.

    Get it from Amazon for $12.97

    36. Vacuum seal bags — THEE best answer for space-saving when it comes to bulky clothes like hoodies, sweaters, and jeans. If you're an over-packer like me, this is a must, an essential, and just very very helpful. 😅

    Jasmin's bulky clothes in a sealed bag with text:
    Same clothes now vacuum-sealed with text:
    Jasmin Sandal / BuzzFeed

    My colleague Jasmin Sandal swears by these bags!: 

    "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: "I've used these bags before and they are so helpful. Even use the medium one for travel and I have tons of extra suitcase room. The clothes don't come out wrinkled at all as long as you fold them nicely before placing in the bag, then the air sucks out keeping them safe and sound and very compact." —Susie Kochsmeier

    Get a three-pack from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in multiple sizes or a variety pack).

    37. Tide To-Go stain removing pen for when you don't have time to do laundry after that food stain somehow got on your top after lunch. This pen works like magic, and will remove the stain like nothing ever happened. Truly a great on-the-go alternative! 

    white shoe with a red stain in a before pic, with the stain gone in the after pic
    reviewer image of one orange pens

    Promising review: "These were a lifesaver. I was walking to the bus and decided it was a great decision to drink coffee while walking. Like a scene from an infomercial, I spilled coffee all over my white shirt. Yes, the classic coffee on the white shirt. Luckily I had one of these in my bag (I put one in each of my most-used purses in anticipation of my clumsiness). I went into a store bathroom and quickly scrubbed the Tide To-Go on my shirt. All of the coffee blobs went away and once the awkward wet splotches dried up, my shirt was perfectly white again. You've got yourself a big fan, Tide." —NAD

    Get a pack of three for $7.74.

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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