We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
1. A very thorough travel checklist so you can triple-check that you packed enough emergency underwear and a bottle of sunscreen. From extra pairs of socks to prescription meds, this list makes sure all your bases (and then some) are covered. You can never be too prepared!
The pad has 60 sheets, so it'll last a long time — even for frequent fliers.
Promising review: "We travel frequently and have two children. As any parent knows, packing for yourself and your children can be overwhelming — especially for trip longer than a few days. I have found this list to be a lifesaver and I also give it as a gift for other traveling families. It is easy to plan, organize, and list out items that are easily forgotten. You can also list the quantity of each item needed. Variety of clothing options and space to add more. As my children reached their pre-teen years I have been able to make them their list on these sheets and then they can use it to do their packing. I just show them how to highlight each item after it has been packed so it is easy to see you took that one off the list. Overall, wonderful purchase and has likely saved me many forgotten items!" —I-really-bought-this
Get it from Amazon for $7+ (available in three styles).
2. A compact portable safe if you're tired of constantly worrying about your valuables while catching some waves. This little safe is the perfect companion for all your beach adventures. Attach it to your beach chair and throw a towel over it, and your belongings will be safe and sound while you soak up the sun.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly recommends it: "After putting this in MANY travel stories, I bought one for myself for a summer European vacation where I found myself at several beach clubs. It was perfect for keeping mine and my friend's belongings safe while we dozed in our beach chairs or swam in the sea. Plus, it's the perfect size to hold phones or wallets, and easily carry in your beach or tote bag.
Promising review: "This safe has become a MUST-HAVE on all our vacations. We no longer travel without it. We put two iPhones, cash, and car keys in this little safe, locked it to a beach cabana, threw a towel over it and took off for a hour of snorkeling. Never once worried about our belongings. We now use several of these as room safes AND as 'hide a key' lockboxes outside our vacation condo for teens who come and go throughout the day. They are invaluable!" —KeepIT Reel
3. Or a water-resistant lock box perfect for larger families or groups who need a bit more room to secure everyone's valuables.
You can also use this in your room to keep valuables protected in case there isn't a safe.
Promising review: "I bought this to take on a vacation to the Virgin Islands because my husband is super paranoid about leaving valuables unattended on the beach. At first, he scoffed that this little plastic thing wasn’t going to stop a thief, and I had wasted my money. Then he admitted that the plastic was pretty sturdy, and it was cool that we could secure the cable to our beach chairs, a fence, or a tree (most petty thieves don’t carry around cable cutters). Next thing I know, he’s storing his wallet, phone, and room keys in it along with mine. He laced the cable through other things he didn’t want stolen, like the bags containing our snorkel gear. Neighboring beachgoers asked about it and where they could get one, and he was quick to demonstrate its features. And when we got home, I overheard him showing it to his friends, with as much approval as he could muster. Hate to say I told you so...OK, no I don’t." —Patsy
Get it from Amazon for $44.95 (available in four colors).
4. A lipstick-size cordless portable charger that'll be a lifesaver when you're waiting for your Uber to arrive, but you've just spent an hour trying to get the perfect shot of the Sydney Opera House and now your phone battery is at a mere 10%. This small but mighty charger is capable of charging smartphones lightning fast when in a pinch.
Britt: I'd had my eye on this bad boy for a while, and finally ordered it to take on a two-week trip to Europe. Let me tell you: LIFESAVER. I'm the type of person who loves to spend hours and hours exploring new cities, but with the amount of photos and videos I take, my phone's battery tends to drain really quickly (relying on Google Maps to get literally everywhere doesn't help, either). With this, I knew I'd have some backup when there weren't any outlets nearby, and it was *so* nice not having to connect my phone to a clunky charging bank via cord. 100% recommend!
Promising review: "The holy grail of portable chargers!!! I was traveling to Disney for vacation and knowing me, I would drain my battery with just taking pictures alone. I wanted a portable battery but didn’t want a carry a cord either, so I was excited when I found this little baby! It does exactly as described, pretty pink color, and I get one full charge of battery for my iPhone 11. Get it, you will not be disappointed!" —Meghan Doble
Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in three colors).
5. An Apple AirTag for keeping a keen eye on your luggage because you've heard too many horror stories of airlines losing bags. This little device can attach to your belongings and help you keep track of them using the "Find My" app on your phone so you don't become the next victim.
Promising review: "I bought a pair of these AirTags for a trip to France, and I’m so glad I did! First of all, the setup is super easy; I had zero problems and both were done in like five minutes. I put one in my purse and one in my suitcase. On the way back home, the airline lost my luggage. Checked the Find My app where the AirTag is tracked, and I could see that it never left the Charles de Gaulle airport. I felt more assurance being able to track my bag through the app as it made its way across the world back to me. 10/10 would recommend!" —Lindsay Kirby
Get it from Amazon for $27.
6. Plus, an ingenious 3-in-1 foldable magnetic wireless charger you can use to charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at the same time in case your beautifully renovated historical hotel room only has one *working* outlet. It folds up compact so it's not taking up too much room in your luggage.
Promising review: "I use this product to charge my iPhone 13, AirPods, and Apple Watch. Prior to this 3-in-1 compact purchase, I have purchased three different kinds of 3-in-1 chargers — I frequently travel between school and home with carry-on bags on airlines and all of the previous stand version chargers doesn't fit well in my bags or I am always worried I would break. This is compact and folds so well that I can fit in my carry-on or in any zipper pockets without having to worry about breaking anything. Charger works really well and it is the best compact one you can find in market. Love it and been using it for two months now and no issues!!" —Sbreddy
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in nine colors).
7. A TSA-friendly toiletries set so you can fly through security checkpoints without a care in the world. These travel-sized bottles allow you to bring all the essentials you need, from your Olaplex shampoo and conditioner to your Native body wash and lotion.
It comes with four small bottles, three small tubs, two toothbrush covers, labels, and a travel bag.
Promising reviews: "This set is perfect for traveling. Was looking for a set to use for work (flight attendant). I use the bottles for lotion, body wash, hair oil, and shampoo. None of them have leaked yet, and I love that it comes with a bag just in case. The only negative is that sometimes you need to unscrew the cap to puff the bottles back out after you squeeze them, but doesn’t really bother me. It’s a quick fix. Easy to fill/refill." —Kandice222
"I cruise a lot and space is a commodity there isn't much of on a cruise ship. This little pack came in handy because of that. This is perfect for carrying shampoo/conditioner/body wash/lotion along with you anywhere. The little bag is handy as well." —Jennifer Lynne
Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in 15 variations).
8. Or a GORGEOUS set of Cadence containers to hold a variety of items such as medications, small jewelry, and skincare without taking up much space. These magnetic containers connect together so no need to worry about them getting lost, and they come with labeled tiles so you know what's inside each jar.
Cadence is an AAPI woman-owned small business that was founded by Steph Hon with the goal of eliminating single-use travel-sized plastics. The containers are made from recycled ocean-bound plastic.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Abby Kass is a fan: "I recently got a set of four of these, and, wow, I love them so much. I used them on a six-day trip recently, and they were perfect. I customized the label so I knew which one was my shampoo vs. conditioner and did a general label for any other things I wanted to bring along. They do hold a surprising amount. According to the brand, they hold approximately one to two weeks of skincare products, more than two weeks' worth of serum, two to three days' worth of haircare, and more than 15 tablets (for medicine and such). And while two to three days worth of haircare might not seem like enough, I found it held more than that for me, but I also don't wash my hair every single day. They were small enough to slip right into my toiletries bag and go through TSA with no problem. The container was easy to open in the shower (even with wet hands), and I had no leakage from them. These are an incredibly useful tool anyone who travels will want in their luggage."
Get a set of six from Cadence for $76 (available in many customizable labels and eight colors).
9. Plus, a pocket-size, refillable travel perfume atomizer that pumps perfume directly from your full-sized bottle. Now you won't have to risk TSA telling you to toss your brand-new (and expensive) Kayali fragrance.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly loves this thing: "^ 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, 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 $7.78.
10. A resealable, travel-size pack of antibacterial wipes to give that airplane seat a quick once-over and breathe easy knowing they kill 99.99% of germs.
11. And a set of portable soap paper sheets for when there's no restroom in sight. All you have to do is add some water, and voilà — a great lather for all your hand-washing needs.
12. Plus, a pack of Purell hand sanitizing gels, because it's like every surface you touch at the airport is just begging to give you a cold or flu. 🤧 These little guys attach right to your bag so you can have a squirt of germ-killing goodness every 5–10 minutes to ease the germaphobe side of you.
13. A LifeStraw — if push comes to shove and you have to drink from a river during your camping trip, at least you'll be drinking 99.99% bacteria-free water.
It works on up to 1,000 gallons of water before it needs to be replaced, and for each one purchased, a child in need receives safe drinking water for an entire school year. Note: If you’re immunocompromised, be sure to read all the package instructions to make sure it’s safe for you.
Promising review: "I bought this item for a hiking/camping trip in the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and did it work amazing! It is an advantage to carry this around with you instead of bottles of water or a hydration pack. I was not afraid at one second to stick this into a random creek we came across and start to drink. The initial drink was a little tough. (Just need to get the water through the filter) But I would rather it be like that, so I know that the filter is doing its job. After that, the rest of the sips were easy. Make sure you clean this according to the instructions after each use. Do not hesitate to purchase this product and use it in a water source when you are thirsty." —Gadde15
Get it from Amazon for $9.89+ (available in black or green and in multipacks).
14. A waterproof pouch that'll protect your phone while you swim with dolphins, high-five a sea turtle, or when you fall off a Jet Ski in Miami. (Or was that just me?)
It fits any phone up to 7 inches diagonally, and you can also use it to keep your ID and money from getting wet!
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says, "It's also a great fix for keeping out sand and dirt (and a great option for runners, if you're caught in the rain but still want to be able to toggle through your music options)."
Promising review: "I purchased this case in July for an upcoming canoe trip with a friend, and as luck would have it, we flipped our canoe. Being the rebel that I am, I chose not to wear my phone around my neck, and so it, my ID, and my debit card ended up at the bottom of the river and I just assumed it would be discovered a thousand years from now and placed in a museum as an ancient artifact. Fast-forward to this week. I was contacted via FB by an Alachua County Sheriff’s Office diver and guess what he found? Yup, my phone case with all of the contents intact and dry as a bone! He had to cut the case open, but there was not one single drop of water in it and he ended up purchasing a case for himself because he was just that impressed!" —Julie McDonald
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 14 colors).
15. Tide sink packets for when you've landed in London but your checked bags just arrived in Egypt. These little packs allow you to hand-wash your clothes in the hotel sink, giving you the chance to re-wear outfits if needed. And don’t worry, these are well sealed to limit the chance of leaks in your carry-on bag!
Promising reviews: "Great product. Used it to wash some clothes while traveling for a week and half. Did a great job and allowed me to pack less. Will be purchasing again for a two-week trip coming up." —April M.
"Some in our party were forced to check their carry-on bags due to lack of space on the plane. Our connecting flight then got canceled and we ended up on a different plane…some of the bags didn’t make it and these Tide sink packs SAVED US! We were able to keep a rotation of things clean while we waited for our bags. I was ASTONISHED at how much sweat and grime came out of my clothes after a long, hot day of travel! Won’t travel without them ever again." —Kristin St. Martin
Get nine packs from Amazon for $6.46.
16. A portable white noise machine designed to cancel out sleep-disrupting background noise. It produces a consistent, soothing sound that can lull you into a peaceful slumber, no matter if your hotel room is right next to the elevator or your balcony is just above the street level.
It features 11 sleep sounds, and can also be paired with your phone and used as a Bluetooth speaker!
Promising review: "I’m a flight attendant so I spend half my life in hotel rooms, which can be extremely noisy between people running through the hall, the elevator dinging, or loud trucks and cars outside. This lil thing has some major power to it! It really doesn’t have a loop, thank goodness, the volume control is great, and it has so many different sounds to choose from. I am quite impressed with it! It weighs practically nothing, which I’m grateful for because my bags are heavy enough as it is. I wake up and swap it to the speaker mode to play music while I get ready for work. I have honestly never written such a long review before, so take that as a sign if you’re on the fence about buying! If this thing holds up for at least a year I will be happy to repurchase every year because of all the positive things about it!" —Kinsey Alexandra
Get it from Amazon for $28.10 (available in black or white).
17. Plus, a cooling, memory foam contoured sleep mask that doesn't apply pressure to your eyelids (unlike flat eye masks), helping you drift off into dreamland faster than you can say, "Jet lag who?" This light-blocking mask will give you much-needed sleep so that by the time you land at your destination, you won't be a puffy-eyed zombie.
Promising review: "I'm a flight attendant. I've been in need of proper eye shades because I often find myself trying to sleep at a layover hotel in the middle of the day. Some hotel rooms have blackout shades but sunlight always seems to leak in. The 3D Contoured Cup Sleeping Mask makes me feel like I'm sleeping in the darkest of dark caves. No light leaks in at all. And the memory foam makes it feel like I'm wearing nothing on my face. Also, the mask's twin contour cups allow my eyes to blink. This product has made my life sooooo much more comfortable. Seriously. I love this mask!" —Elliott
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in seven colors).
18. And for the plane, a snuggly hoodie with a built-in eye mask to make naps, dare I say, a little bit cozier on flights. Even if you aren't lucky enough to snag a window seat, you can simply throw up the hood, pull down the eye mask, and put on your headphones to doze off catching some much-needed Z's.
Pond Los Angeles is an Asian woman-owned small biz making luxurious travel products that'll make you feel like you're in first class, even if you're flying coach.
Promising review: "I fly a lot and am constantly trying to find a hoodie with a big hood to cover my eyes so I can catch up on some beauty sleep on flights. I saw this product on Instagram and knew it would be a game changer. I was able to use it recently for the first time on an early-morning flight, and let me tell you, it is EVERYTHING I was looking for and more. It’s comfy, cozy, oversized, and the eye covers make you feel like you’re in a whole other world and not packed like a sardine on a plane. My over-ear headphone fit perfectly under it and I got the best sleep I’ve had on a plane — EVER! Like other reviews have said, it is big, so size down if you want something a little more snug. I have been wearing it every day at home and can’t wait to get the black and blush ones!" —Heather G.
Get it from Pond Los Angeles for $102.40+ (originally $128, available in women's sizes XS–XXL and five colors).
19. A portable door lock for instant added security when traveling alone, or just to limit the number of "what if" scenarios in your mind. This easy-to-install lock simply slips onto the door latch for peace of mind.
Just note that if you're flying with it, you'll want to keep it in an easy-to-reach spot in your bag, as one of our BuzzFeed Shopping editors said TSA flagged hers at two separate airports.
Promising review: "I took my first solo trip and ordered this for extra security. It was super easy to install and didn't require me to leave my hotel door ajar for an extended amount of time for installation. My hotel door didn't even move when I tested out the lock. 10/10 recommend for a peace of mind." —Haley Gribble
Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in multipacks).
20. A travel adapter and voltage converter with different plugs built into a single unit that's compatible in over 150 countries, because nothing is worse than starting your vacay and realizing you can't charge your devices.
There are also four USB ports, and it converts 220/240 V to 110/120 V. Plus, it comes with a handy travel pouch!
Promising review: "Worked perfectly on a recent trip to England and France. I used it to power a MacBook Air, a Windows laptop, two iPhones, and two portable chargers. I like the design of the case. The form factor is so much sleeker than most of the other travel transformers available. One thing I didn't realize when I ordered it (because I was in a hurry and didn't read the specs thoroughly) is that this device has a fan to dissipate heat from stepping down the voltage. While the fan is not extremely loud, neither is it silent. I found it a pleasant source of white noise that actually helped me sleep at night, but you might not." —Lake Mist
Get it from Amazon for $35.98.
21. A chic anti-theft backpack if you hate the idea that while you're on the crowded airport shuttle, you would never know if someone unzipped your bag and took something out. With this bag, the only way to open it is from underneath (thanks to the zipper being flush against your back), making it as practical as it is stylish.
Britt: I went to Italy last summer, and as someone who prefers a small backpack over a purse most of the time, I thought this would be a great purchase, as it would give me some peace of mind as I spent hours wandering around different cities. I'm happy to report that after two weeks of daily use, I'm convinced I'll be bringing it on every trip I take from now on. It's small enough so that it doesn't feel bulky or uncomfortable throughout the day, but has plenty of space for everything you'd need on the go — I fit my wallet, sunscreen, glasses case, hand sanitizer, water bottle, snacks, and even a small umbrella, with room to spare! And the fact that it opens from the back means someone would literally have to pry it off of you to get to your valuables. I bought the medium size in black pebbled faux leather, and it's actually quite cute for the price!
Promising review: "I bought this backpack to use as a purse while on vacation, and it worked perfectly. The main pouch is protected when you’re walking around because the zipper is protected by your back. There are also two side zippered pockets, one of which kept my phone and the other perfect for sunglasses and a few other items that I wanted to access more easily. I loved that I could wear it as a purse to dinner but use it as a backpack during the day so that my shoulder didn’t get tired. I highly recommend this item!" —Allison
Get it from Amazon for $21.59+ (available in two sizes and 14 styles).
22. And a sneaky money belt with a hidden zippered pocket to stash extra money, allowing you to move around more freely and comfortably knowing that your valuables are protected.
Promising review: "Wore this belt on a recent 10-day trip, with several hundred dollars neatly folded in its full-length zippered pocket. The bills (USD) had to be folded lengthwise, in thirds, and for practical reasons, in stacks of 4–5 (or less). My belt had room for four such stacks, so theoretically $2,000 could be comfortably carried in complete concealment. The nylon buckle was perfectly adequate for its purpose, and nothing about the belt would indicate its hidden purpose. Well worth it." —Tony B.
Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available for pant sizes 20"–50" and in seven styles).
23. Or a super smart travel pouch that can be cleverly hidden under clothing, making it even *less* likely to be a target for pickpockets or thieves.
Promising review: "This was a LIFESAVER while traveling. I kept my cards and cash in it and had no stress about thieves lifting my essentials while traveling heavily pickpocketed cities. I loved it so much, I actually continued to use it when I got home instead of carrying a purse! The top flap did start to unravel after about six months — but this was also after six months of everyday use." —Krista Hinz
Get it from Amazon for $18.95 (available in black or pink).
24. Plus, a set of hidden pocket scrunchies for a super discreet (but also super cute) way of keeping emergency cash on you at all times.
They're also great for storing bobby pins or chapstick and since they're worn on your wrist or hair, you probably won't leave them anywhere by accident!
LokiEssentials is a woman-owned, California-based small business established in 2020 that specializes in hidden pocket scrunchies and keychains.
Promising review: "The scrunchies are so soft like promised! They are very spacious for being a hair tie. Perfect for trips or vacations where you just want to carry money and you don't want to worry about someone trying to steal your wallet or purse. A lot of people also don't assume you have a hidden pocket, so it really comes in handy. And the zipper is very durable." —Kayelynn
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $15.99 (available in seven color combos).
25. A nifty gadget called the Bug Bite Thing in case you're not sure whether that was a "normal" mosquito that bit you on your excursion or a super rare exotic one and don't plan on sitting around to find out. This suction tool is designed to extract the insect saliva or venom left behind under the skin when you're bitten or stung and provide relief from itching.
This works on mosquitoes, bees, wasps, biting flies, sea lice (sea lice?!), and more!
Promising review: "I bought this because I saw it on TikTok, and I have been having issues with mosquito bites. Used it a few time to relieve itchiness, and I am convinced it works! I have been recommending it to my family and friends. Read the directions and follow them carefully. Don't use this on your face or neck, or other sensitive areas. Don't do a lot of suction, just a little bit. And do it a few times if needed. Great invention!" —Joe
Get it from Amazon for $9.95+ (available in three colors, as well as packs of two or three).
26. A travel wallet made with RFID-blocking material so no one can "bump into you" and digitally steal your credit card information. There's also a bunch of pockets to easily store and organize everything while constantly on the move.
The wallet has a passport pocket, boarding pass compartment, three credit card slots, an ID slot, a slim card pouch, slim pocket, a ticket slot, a cellphone pouch, a coin zippered pocket, key holder, and pen holder.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this wallet. I needed a new travel wallet, and this holds everything I need all in one place, and it still closes nicely and stays flat! I can fit my boarding pass, passport, ID, credit cards, money, checked baggage tickets, receipts, and more in it, yet it doesn’t bulk up or look like an overstuffed mess. It's just amazing. The description says it only holds US money, but I just used the boarding pass flap to hold all my Japanese yen, which are larger. I didn’t use the zippered pocket for coins as I much prefer a separate coin purse for that sort of thing. I definitely recommend to anyone who travels a lot!" —Anthony Luu
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in 38 colors).
27. A JetKids carry-on suitcase to make traveling with the kids a bit easier and a lot more enjoyable. This piece of luggage is like a personal scooter so you can easily keep your eyes on them at all times. It also has the added bonus of holding your belongings so they don't have to make that dreaded 2-mile walk to baggage claim.
It's recommended for kids ages 3–7 and fits most standard economy seats. Plus, it has an adjustable strap so you can carry it over your shoulder, a top handle, and a mattress inside that can be removed and used while in the air. Parents have even used this product while waiting for their flight to keep kids comfy and content.
Promising review: "I dragged my feet on this purchase because of the price tag, but I have zero regrets after traveling solo with my 2-year-old and 5-year-old. This thing was so easy to maneuver through the airport and through the plane aisles that my 2-year-old pulled it herself for most of the trip. It was slightly too big for her to ride on, but my 4-year-old loved riding on it. The bed feature was super easy to set up and we used it to and from our destination. I was able to pack clothes for a five-day trip, the bed, a blanket and stuffie. I will definitely be dumping more money into this company for our next trip. Happy customer!" —Casie Wilds
Get it from Amazon for $194.65.
28. And for your fur baby, a pet backpack with WHEELS because your spirit can't even fathom the idea of checking Daisy into baggage claim. This carrier allows you to roll your precious cargo around, making it much easier to navigate crowds and long security lines. It's also designed to fit comfortably under the seat of most airlines, so your little bundle of sunshine can be right by your side through the flight.
The medium size fits pets weighing up to 10 pounds, and the large fits pets weighing up to 18 pounds — that said, some reviewers mentioned that the large size works perfectly well for their 20-plus-pound dogs. It can be wheeled using the telescoping handle, held using the strap, or worn as a backpack.
Promising reviews: "First time flying with my dog. I bought a large. He is a 21-pound Cavalier King Charles spaniel. He was able to sit and lie comfortably in the carrier. When on the plane, remove the hard-back bottom to fit beneath the seat. It is easily removable and reattached. I got a window seat, which allowed me to wedge the bottom at the edge of my seat/arm rail when detached." —Karen
"This is the best cat carrier I have ever found. I needed something for when I was flying. It fits under the seat in front of me, and it’s easy to pull because of the wheels. My cats can sit up and watch or they can lie down. I highly recommend." —Jane
Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in two sizes and three colors).
29. A digital luggage scale to avoid that awful stomach drop feeling when you're hit with an oversized suitcase fee at check-in. This trusty scale can help you gauge how overboard you can go with the souvenirs you plan on bringing back without the risk of your luggage being 20 pounds overweight.
Just 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. BTW, BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly recently put this scale to the test while packing for a trip to Iceland — check out her demo of how it works on TikTok!
Promising reviews: "Took this on several overseas trips in the first two months. I can't believe I used to hold my bags and weigh myself and the bag on scales — and then subtract my weight. It was so time consuming, especially when we were either close to the limit or over. This small device literally saved us hours of frustration and possible unpacking at the airport check-in line. We couldn't live without this item now. We bought another one as a backup. Wouldn't hesitate to buy this exact item again." —AB
"Took this for a 10-day trip overseas with lots of flights. Weighed the luggage as things were added to it/purchased, and when we weighed in at the airport it was perfectly accurate. Very important when the airline will charge $70 more for a suitcase that is too heavy or make you open the whole thing up and take stuff out in order to fly with it. Saved so much hassle." —B. M. O'Connor
Get it from Amazon for $10.99 (available in five colors).
30. A memory foam seat cushion designed with orthopedic gel to spare your lower back and sciatica from the ~seemingly~ 4,000-mile road trip to your in-laws house. This seat cushion promotes correct posture, giving more support to the lower back and making it a little more enjoyable to sit for extended periods of time.
Promising review: "A few weeks into working from home five days a week I started having a lot of hip/leg/back pain. I have a good Herman Miller task chair that had been fine for one to two days of WFH a week, but wasn't working for me full time. In the early afternoons my lower back would start cramping. I did some research and bought this pillow and it immediately helped! I also took it on a two-week road trip since a three day road trip earlier this year had made a mess of my lower body that lingered for weeks — and no pain! What really drove me to write this review was that yesterday, unknowingly, I worked all day sitting on my chair without my cushion. I had removed it to use as a spare chair at my dinner table and forgot to put it back. At the end of the day hip was aching and I realized why! Today it's back on my chair and I'm already feeling better." —Lorene
Get it from Amazon for $43.99 (available in three colors).
31. A bestselling and super affordable pair of flexible ballet flats that are easy to take on and off so you can avoid the awkward feeling of holding up the security line — because otherwise you'd have to crouch over, unlace your tennis shoes, take off off your tennis shoes, put them in the bucket...you get the point.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I normally cannot wear flats because they give me terrible blisters on the back of my feet. These didn't! Bought these in nude for a city vacation with a lot of walking, but where sandals aren't necessarily worn, and these were perfect! They obviously don't have the support of sneakers, but I am so happy to finally have a cheap pair of flats that don't give me blisters. I did break them in with thin socks on around my house before wearing them out and when possible, I wear them with little sock liners. Also — I was able to fold these in half and fit them in a semi-small purse to change into to dance at a wedding! Score!" —Kate
Get them from Amazon for $17.40+ (available in women's sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, and 21 styles).
32. A pair of reusable waterproof shoe covers, because nothing's going to rain on your parade (not even Mother Nature). These covers are made with heavy-duty material so you don't have to worry about water seeping in. They're so compact, they can easily fold down and fit right in your backpack for those unexpected downpours.
There's a handy sizing chart provided on the product listing page so you can find your ideal fit!
Promising reviews: "Truly amazing for a rainy day at Disneyland! I got asked about them by at least 100 people that day, when everyone’s shoes were wet and uncomfortable and mine were super dry!! Highly recommend them. Very easy to use, and also the bottoms were non-slippery! Must-have for a rainy activity day!" —Juhi
"Exactly as described. The size was exactly right for my shoe size. Perfect for a trip, as they take up very little space in a suitcase and work quite well to keep the rain out and puddles away from shoes." —Caroljean
Get a pair from Amazon for $12.89 (available in unisex sizes S–4XL and five styles).
33. And a 100% waterproof, satin-lined Hairbrella that'll spare your freshly done hairstyle from the elements on your travels. The adjustable strap allows you to snugly tighten the cap around your head, making sure every strand stays completely dry. This also keeps your hands free so you don't have to juggle an umbrella and try to open the car door at the same time.
Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business established in 2016 that specializes in hats that both look cool and protect hair from the elements.
Promising reviews: "Awesome hat, a must-have for hairdos. I get my hair done often and don’t want to destroy a great hairdo. I have been out in a rainstorm and taken it on the log ride into the splash down, hair stayed nice and dry. Love it so much I fold it up and keep it in my purse! It even has a ponytail pouch hidden in it." —applekoolaid
"This hat arrived just in time for my trip to Niagara Falls. I have braids and this hat protected my hair completely. The visor provided excellent protection on The Maid Of The Mist as well as the walk behind the falls. This is a must-have." —sandra l darrett
Get it from Amazon for $44 (available in eight colors).
34. A set of J.R. Liggett's solid shampoo bars to eliminate the chance of TSA making you throw your liquid shampoo away. Reviewers say these shampoo bars produce a good lather for a sulfate-free shampoo and leave their hair soft and shiny.
Each bar is equal to about 24 ounces of liquid shampoo. They're also animal-friendly and free of synthetic oils, detergents, or chemicals.
Promising review: "This product is the best. My hair feels soft and clean, and I no longer need to use conditioner. It makes air travel a breeze because I don't have to pack it as a liquid, and it lasts forever. I highly suggest getting this product." —Joanna Shaw
Get a set of three from Amazon for $24.29+ (available in nine scent combos).
35. A set of Sea Bands if you're someone who suffers from motion sickness and knows how much it can ruin your travel experience. These little bands apply acupressure to a specific point on your wrist, helping to relieve nausea without needing to carry around bottles of medication.
Promising review: "I’ve always been kind of sick. I throw up on long car rides, I can’t read in the car, I get horrible migraines 24/7, etc. Recently I changed medications and because of that, my migraines came back with a vengeance. Thinking there was nothing I could do I kind of gave up, until, I was looking at BuzzFeed and saw this in their recommended. I thought it could help with any car sickness that I would get but man I was not giving these enough credit! Since I have bought them I wear them ALL. THE. TIME. I wear them in and out of the car, to bed, and just around the house. I no longer feel nauseous and my migraines are almost nonexistent. Whoever invented these are a freaking god! I don’t know think I could ever live without these! BUY THESE!! They're so worth it." —JohnDz
Get a pair from Amazon for $8.42.
36. And a roll-on migraine stick formulated with oils like peppermint and spearmint to help ease and relax muscles. It can help soothe your throbbing migraine when your teenage daughter tells you that she thinks she left her bag at the terminal on the other side of the airport while getting a bagel.
Promising review: "This stuff is my go-to fix when I feel a migraine coming on. I suffer from sinus headaches and migraines usually once or twice a week. This product I put on each temple, under my nose and on my wrists when I feel the pressure starting and it cuts the pain to a minimum. It seems to stop the worst pain before it has a chance to start. Thank you for a great product! I will buy again and again!" —Brenton1985
Read BuzzFeed's Migrastil Migraine Stick review for more deets!
Get it from Amazon for $12.95.
37. A pack of reusable padded bottle bags to help protect any breakable purchases (i.e., wine or alcohol) so you can enjoy the deliciousness back home without worrying about it spilling in your checked bag.
JetBag is a small biz that makes bags to protect things like wine and other fragile items. It's designed with absorbent padding on the inside, so in the event that the bottle breaks, it won't get everywhere in your luggage.
Promising review: "I love these bags. I frequently travel overseas and always want to bring olive oil, wine, or the like back. These bags are perfect at protecting my finds, and I am comfortable that they will absorb the liquid if it does get broken. My husband actually put a bottle of cracked-open wine in the bag to test it, laid the bag on its side, and it absorbed the liquid!" —JHN
Get a set of three from Amazon for $14.99.
38. A pack of blackberry-flavored melatonin sleep gummies for those flights where it seems impossible to catch some Z's between the cramped seats, noisy passengers, and turbulence. These gummies will provide a little chew and the natural sleep hormone so you could be snoozing away in less time.
Learn more about melatonin, its role in sleep, and more at the Mayo Clinic, and talk to your doctor for more info.
Promising review: "This is the best melatonin I have ever used. I think it's the combination of the ingredients that sends me into a peaceful sleep. Two of these on an airplane and you can actually get some rest on long-haul flights!" —J.D. Hammer
Get a jar of 50 gummies from Amazon for $11.99 (also available in larger sizes).
39. Supergoop's (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder with SPF 35 if you want to protect your skin without the risk of having to throw away a bottle of sunscreen. This setting powder can act as your sunblock while keeping you in the good graces of airport security.
Pro-tip: If you part your hair, brush some onto the exposed scalp — it'll protect the skin and help absorb excess oils!
Promising review: "Purchased this product for my wedding — knew I would have professional makeup done and that we would be taking photos outside. I have very fair skin and burn very easily, so I knew I needed some sort of SPF protection. This was perfect to brush over my face, neck, and shoulders before photos, and I was completely protected from the sun! Highly recommend!" —Jennyg788
Get it from Amazon for $34.95 or Sephora for $35 (available in four shades).
40. A stylish travel belt (as seen on Shark Tank) that'll not only keep your valuables close and secure and protected from sticky fingers, but also keep you from having to rearrange your bags every five minutes because they're constantly falling over throughout the airport.
Cincha Travel is a small BIPOC-owned biz based in Oakland, California, specializing in adjustable vegan leather travel belts. The brand donates 100 airline miles for each purchase to help reunite migrant families.
Promising review: "Worth the money. Like many others, I’ve struggled with purses/totes slipping from my suitcase especially on public transportation to and from the airport. I finally purchased one and I can’t imagine traveling without it from now on. This is made especially for people who use public transportation to and from the airport. It does take a little getting used to when you’re unloading in a hurry but I still recommend it." —VF
Get it from Cincha for $39.99 (available in 19 styles).
41. A chic personalized acrylic luggage tag to not only add some pizzazz to your luggage but also let you know you're grabbing the right bag. And don't worry, your tag won't get damaged in transit! The acrylic material is durable and long-lasting, so you can use it on all your future travels.
Based in Seattle, Little Dot Studio is a woman-owned small biz specializing in engraved keepsakes, like luggage tags and bookmarks.
Promising review: "Love this luggage tag. I bought my son and his wife two as a wedding gift with luggage and just purchased two for me and my husband. I ordered the bright orange so I could easily spot my luggage, and it turned out great!" —Maggie
Get it from Little Dot Studio on Etsy for $15.50+ (available in three strap materials and many color options).
Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.