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    44 Travel Essentials Thatā€™ll Help You Have A Stress-Free Summer Trip

    Summertime and the livin' is easy šŸ˜Ž ā€” or at least it can be with these travel products in your life.

    1. AĀ set of packing cubesĀ you'll soon wonder how you ever traveled without. All your summer 'fits will stay nicely folded (or rolled!) and you'll save room in your suitcase. Expert packing level officially šŸ”“unlocked.

    reviewer's clothes neatly organized in green packing cubes
    the closed green packing cubes inside reviewer's suitcase

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

    Get a set of four from Amazon for $21.99 (available in 10 colors).

    2. AĀ waterproof toiletry bagĀ designed to hold *tons* of stuff ā€” it has four compartments so you can easily fit all your travel-size items. There's also a handy hook for hanging it up in hotels!

    reviewer photo of several toiletries next to the bag
    same reviewer showing how all the toiletries fit into the bag

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

    Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in two sizes and 12 colors).

    3. A luggage-mounted cup caddyĀ so you can easily zip through the airportĀ and make it to the gateĀ withoutĀ spilling your beloved iced coffee.

    See it in action on TikTok here.

    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." ā€”Philip

    Get it from Amazon for $15.99+Ā (available in 33 colors/patterns).Ā 

    4. A portable hammockĀ when you want the option to ~hang out~ wherever you feel like it. A summer hike is fun and all, but sometimes you need to take a break (or five).

    a reviewer in a blue hammock
    a reviewer holding the portable hammock bag

    The XL hammock is made from parachute material and can fit two people or up to 500 pounds. It comes withĀ two 10-foot-long straps (each with 18 loops) and two locking carabiners so you can adjust the height and slack.Ā 

    Promising review: "Oh my god! Where to start? Okay so this hammock is like so easy to hang up! Like I hang it up in two minutes. It fits me and my roommate in any position be it sitting down doing homework or laying down talking about life while having it closed to avoid the sun ( thatā€™s how much space). It is fresh so it isnā€™t like disgusting laying in your own sweat or anything. It's also so easy to put back in the small and convenient pouch! I love it!!! If I could give it like a million stars I would! If I could also control Virginiaā€™s weather and make it nice enough to be in the hammock every day I would do that too." ā€”Ruth DelgadoĀ 

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two sizes and 17 colors).

    5. AĀ waterproof pouchĀ if you want to keep your phone protected when you embark on a tropical adventure this summer. Plus, you'll be able to take some pretty epic underwater photos without sacrificing your device.

    reviewer holding a phone pouch
    sea urchin taken with phone in a waterproof pouch

    It fits any phone up to 3.35 inches x 6.69 inches It also keeps out sand, dirt, and rain!

    Promising reviews: "I lost my phone in the ocean over a month ago. A big wave knocked it from my grip and I thought it was lost forever. A diver found it in perfect condition, in 8 feet of water and a foot under the sand. Once it charged up, it was like nothing happened. If that doesn't convince you toĀ buyĀ this, I don't know what will! Highly recommend šŸ‘Œ" ā€”Rachael

    "Used it while snorkeling and it worked great for iPhone 13! If you open and close it consistently it may not work as well but for the price, I wouldĀ buyĀ againĀ for another trip." ā€”Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in 14 colors).

    6. AĀ weekender bagĀ you'll use even when you're not going on a trip! Reviewers love how spacious it is *and* that it fits under airplane seats as a personal item. Don't forget theĀ pass-through trolley handle for easy carrying on busy travel days.

    reviewer's black weekender bag on top of a rolling suitcase
    another reviewers black bag under the airplane seat

    Promising review: "Used this as my ā€˜personalā€™ carry-on item with my carry-on luggage. Fit three pairs of heels plus some other knickknacks, then I had to stuff my actual purse in it at the last minute to ā€˜hide.ā€™ It all fit (my purse was small). The zipper storage is great for phone, boarding pass, charging cords quick access, and is not bulky to slip over luggage handle. Used it twice now and itā€™s holding up well. BUY IT. Fits all airline requirements and could be used as a weekend bag as well on its own. Buying another color for hubby." ā€”Krystal J.

    Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in 14 colors/patterns).

    7. Or a durableĀ travel backpack, which may just be *the* perfect personal item thanks to its USB charging port,Ā waterproof design, anti-theft pocket,Ā andĀ dedicated shoe compartment. Yes, there really is room for everything!

    reviewer photo of three people walking through the airport all wearing the travel backpack
    another reviewer's beige backpack in the personal item size checker at the airport
    same reviewer's beige backpack under the airplane seat

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

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

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

    Get it from Amazon forĀ $36.99+Ā (available in two sizes and 11 colors/styles).

    8. A lovely set ofĀ Cadence containersĀ to store your toiletries and any other odds and ends! These handy lil' containers can hold bath products, pills, smaller jewelry items, etc. The magnetic design keeps 'em together for stress-free packing.

    a set of six multicolored containers stacked in a pyramid
    overhead shot of six open containers holding things like pills, skincare products, and jewelry
    Cadence

    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.Ā 

    BuzzFeed Shopping editorĀ 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 (like I did from my face wash bottle that will not be making the trip with me next time. SMH). These are an incredibly useful tool anyone who travels will want in their luggage."

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

    9. Or a set of TSA-approvedĀ silicone travel bottlesĀ if you're transferring liquids into smaller bottles you can easily pack and travel with. It also has spray bottles and jars for other products you may need to bring, like perfumes and creams.

    reviewer photo of all the bottles, jars, and bottles next to the clear bag
    another reviewer's photo of travel bottles inside of the clear travel bag

    These BPA-free bottles feature a leakproof design so you won't have to worry about messy spills while traveling. You get four bottles, four jars, and two spray bottles. It also comes with two scoopers to use with the jars, a funnel for transferring liquids, a clear travel bag, a set of labels, and a cleaning brush.

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

    Get it from Amazon for $16.95.

    10. An AirFly Pro wireless transmitterĀ for connecting your AirPodsĀ (or any other wireless earbuds) to the inflight entertainment system as you head to your fave summer destination. Say goodbye to poor-quality airline headphones!

    You can connect up to two pairs of earbuds at a time and you'll get 16+ hours of battery life that'll help you survive those extremely long flights! It also comes withĀ a USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, keychain holder, quick-start guide, and a manual.

    See one TikTok user using it in tandem with their AirPod ProsĀ here.Ā 

    Promising review:Ā "Just returned from a European vacation andĀ this little device worked like a charm! The sound cancellation worked really well on that horribly long 14-hour flight and I could hear the movie perfectly. JustĀ buyĀ it, it's a must have (until airlines convert their stuff to Bluetooth, don't hold your breath)." ā€”Just a Muggle Mom

    Get it from Amazon for $54.99Ā (also available in two other styles and two colors).Ā 

    11. Or an in-flight phone mountĀ that'll keep you entertained when the airline isn't offering anything good to watch. Simply attach it to your seat-back tray and binge any movies or shows you downloaded before takeoff.

    the phone mount attached to a stowed seat back tray and holding a phone
    Amazon

    See it in action on TikTokĀ here.Ā 

    Promising review: "I bought this nifty gadget about six months ago for a multi-leg, ultra-long-haul trip and it more than held up the entire duration. I was able to finagle it to fit the tray tables on different planes, and like others, I find the height just nice when clamped onto a stowed tray table. It also works on my roller carry-on handle during layovers. However, I find myself using it a lot outside of travel too! Work-wise, I've clamped it onto my office desk shelving to hold my phone at eye level beside my computer. At home, I simply clamped it to a deck of cards and it turns into a versatile stand that I can place on any flat surface. Heck, I've been using it to hold my phone comfortably at eye level while watching videos in bed. It's extremely well-built, and I find myself fidgeting with it all the time. Thus far it still feels solid and I don't anticipate breaking it any time soon. Even if it does break, I'll be happy to buy another one or two of it!" ā€”Earendil

    Get it from Amazon for $12.97.

    12. A Trtl neck pillowĀ with more than 15,000 5-star reviewsĀ ā€” need I say more? You'll beĀ cozy on long flights without having to carry around a bulky pillow. Get some shut-eye before arriving at the resort and you'll wake up feeling super ~refreshed~.

    model wearing a gray trtl pillow while sleeping on a plane
    Amazon

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

    Promising review: "WOW! Literally life changing; used it on my 11-hr flight to and from Norway to SF and I usually can never sleep on planes, but this did the trick! Itā€™s also super packable and doesnā€™t take up too much space!" ā€”Julie Cox

    Get it from Amazon forĀ $59.99 (available in four colors).

    13. Body Glide anti-blister balmĀ so you never have to spend long travel days walking around in shoes that rub your ankles raw. It works best when applied at the start of your day to create a barrier between your skin and your shoes.

    A model applies the BodyGlide Foot Anti Blister Balm to the back of their ankle
    reviewer holding the purple container of balm

    Promising reviews: "Saw this product on a TikTok review and thought to give it a go. I definitely say it causes new shoes to be less painful however if you apply a lot it can be a little transferable on shoes. Overall though I think this product is definitely worth it and it does make a difference with new shoe wear!" ā€”Mich Elle

    "This is a MUST if you're breaking in new flats. Helps prevent blisters. So easy and simple, yetĀ effective." ā€”Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $9.

    14. AndĀ Body Glide anti-chafing balmĀ because when is any kind of chafing notĀ a total trip ruiner? Keep this stuff on hand and you'll never have to deal with this annoyance again.

    A model applying the balm to shoulder
    another model putting the balm in their bag
    Amazon

    Check out aĀ TikTok of the anti-chafing balmĀ in action!

    Promising reviews:Ā "This was a TikTok buy, and it was worth it. Highly recommend it. It does the work. Long lasting and not sticky at all." ā€”EBATL

    "Roll it on like deodorant and enjoy your sweaty hot day of running or walking around Florida or whatever it is you are doing. I used this for my long runs and forĀ travelingĀ to the South and it keeps me happy. My kids also find it works great for them. Quality product." ā€”M. Garrett

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99+Ā (available in two sizes and as a two-pack).

    15. A miniĀ rechargeable handheld fanĀ that'll help you cool down as soon as you feel that first bead of sweat forming. It's USB rechargeable, *and* it folds so you can place it on a surface instead of holding it up.

    Promising review: "I have ZERO complaints!!! My sister got married outdoors and I decided I needed a fan as I sweat a lot. Suffice to say I LOVE IT! I was cool the entire time in the sun, it has a handle and is not too big which makes it easy to tag along anywhere and everywhere. You wonā€™t regret this purchase." ā€”DIONNE HOOK

    Get it from Amazon for $13.59+ (available in five colors).

    16. A cable and charger organizerĀ to help you keep track of all your cords while traveling. If you're tired of pulling out a wad of tangled cords from your otherwise-pristinely packed suitcase, this organizer has your name written all over it.

    above shot of open organizer with many different cables held in it
    photo of closed organizer
    Mister Crafter / Etsy

    Mister Crafter is a small business that creates handmade, personalizable travel products, wallets, and accessories made from 100% top-quality genuine cowhide leather.

    Promising review: "Absolutely beautiful! The custom lettering came out perfectly, and it can easily hold two battery packs and all the cords we could ever need for traveling with cellphones, iPads, and our Switch. So pleased with the craftsmanship! Wonderful purchase <3." ā€”Sarah Kavaljian

    Get it from Mister CrafterĀ on Etsy for $39.80+ (originally $56.86; available in two sizes and two colors, personalization also available).

    17. A set of wildly popular wireless *and* waterproof Bluetooth earbudsĀ if you want to drown out the noise and listen to your travel playlist. These come with a few different silicone tips to help you find the best fit. It's no wonder they have over 200,000 5-star reviewsĀ for being both comfy and affordable.

    reviewer photo of khaki left earbud in their ear
    another reviewer's photo of one khaki earbud in the charging case and another sitting on top of it showing the silicone ear tip

    These come with a wireless charging case that provides up to 45 hours of total playtime (with the earbuds able to play for 10+ hours on a single charge!).Ā 

    I was one of those people still walking around with a cord dangling from my ears because I could never find a wireless pair that worked for me. Enter these life-changing earbuds! I tried all the different silicone ear tips included and got *the* perfect fit. I use them for both listening to music/podcasts and talking on the phone. The sound quality is amazing and I have to charge these MAYBE once a week depending on how much I use them. I'm never going back to AirPods... or dangly wires.

    Promising review: "Best decision! These are the greatest headphones ever! I saw them onĀ TikTok months ago and added them to my wish list. I got a new phone that doesn't have the headphone port, so I decided it was time to finally buy them. They are amazing, and I probably won't ever take them out of my ears! šŸ˜‚" ā€”Kate Arnold

    Get it from Amazon forĀ $23.99+Ā (available in five colors).

    18. AĀ collapsible water bottleĀ that'll help you save some space in your bag and ensure you never go thirsty on a hot summer day. You'll also avoid the painful price tags of airport water, which is a win all by itself.

    A reviewer's white bottle unrolled in a desert
    another reviewer's green bottle collapsed and ready for travel

    Promising review: "Great water bottle for travel. It is durable, compact when not in use, and versatile. One of the main reasons I like this collapsible bottle over others is the sliding band on it. It allows you to hold it firmly without squeezing the bottle and squirting the contents out of the top and all over the place. I bought mine, and a friend liked it so much that she bought one." ā€”Vivian

    Get it from Amazon forĀ $34.95Ā (available in two colors).

    19. And! AĀ leakproof, portable dog water bottleĀ for your favorite type of travel ā€” you know, the one that involves your pup! The water spout is also a mini dish for them to drink from so they'll always be hydrated on your adventures.

    Promising reviews: "I saw this on a TikTok video and checked on Amazon and ordered it. My toy poodle loves it and drank out of it with no hesitation. With the heat wave we are having in California right now, I want to be sure she is well hydrated. Before I leave the house I fill the holder with ice and water, and I am set. Easy to clean and no spilled water in the car. Easy to throw in my purse and have it when we are out walking around." ā€”Amazon Customer

    "This water bottle is truly a godsend! I cannot imagine using any otherĀ travelĀ water bottle for my pups! It is slim, fits perfectly in a bottle slot in myĀ travelĀ bag; it is lightweight and has a loop to put around my wrist when I walk with my pups. It is extremely convenient on car rides, when my pup is thirsty and needs a quick pick-me-up! I especially love the fact that it sucks the water back in, so that I am not wasting unused water." ā€”LV4NMLS

    Get it from Amazon for $17.98 (available in two sizes and three colors).Ā 

    20. A compact travel umbrellaĀ you can quickly open to protect yourself from that random sun shower. The genius inside-out design keeps the wet part inside when you close it, which prevents water from dripping all over.Ā 

    reviewer's maple leaf pattern umbrella closed
    reviewer's umbrella open

    It also has a windproof design so it won't turn inside out in windy conditions!

    Promising review: "This is the best travel umbrella Iā€™ve ever owned! Itā€™s very easy to open and close one-handed with the push button. Itā€™s very sturdy and fits nicely in a carry-on or backpack." ā€”C.J.

    Get it from Amazon for $23.99+Ā (available in four sizes and dozens of colors).

    21. Plus, a satin-linedĀ HairbrellaĀ if you need to be prepared for an unexpected summer rainstorm at any moment. It's small enough to fold up and carry in your bag and it'll protect your locks from rain, wind, snow, humidity, etc.

    Reviewer wearing black flexible cap with small plastic visor on their head
    Model pouring water on another model's head while wearing the hairbrella, then taking it off to show hair perfectly styled and dried

    Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business that has been creating fashionable hats that protect hair from all kinds of weather since 2016.Ā 

    Promising review: "I traveledĀ to London last month with a raincoat that did not have a hood, and I wanted something that would protect my head/hair/blowout without lugging an umbrella. This definitely did the trick. Two of the three days were rainy (some quite heavy) and my hair stayed totally dry. It stows nicely, too. I'm still learning how to adjust it while it's on my head (easier to adjust first and then put it on). Also, when I do have it tightened/pulled to the right place, the loop/slack from where I adjusted it sort of sticks out and gets in my peripheral vision. I wish the adjustment/clasp was less prominent. But, all in all, this is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their blowout fresh in the rain." ā€”Miss Information

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

    22. An adorable and efficientĀ portable chargerĀ to keep your phone juiced up so you don't have to fret aboutĀ a dead battery while you're traveling this summer. Listen to all the music and take all the photos!

    gif of reviewer holding the pink charger and showing its built-in lightning cable
    another reviewer photo of person holding iPhone plugged into the portable charger

    It's able to charge an iPhone 8 1.5 times and an iPhone X one full time on a full charge.Ā 

    See it in action on TikTokĀ here.Ā 

    Promising review: "This was perfect for when I went to Disney since you have to use the app for most things, even the tickets are on your phone. It really sucks if your phone dies so this was perfect and gave me peace of mind to take all the pics I wanted without having to conserve battery. It is also the perfect size forĀ travelĀ and no cord needed when you use it." ā€”Barbara

    Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in six colors).Ā 

    23. Or anĀ Apple Watch and phone chargerĀ for charging your two most important devices *at the same time*. If you're worried about having to pack several different chargers for a trip, this will def put you at ease!

    the charger being used to charge both an iPhone and Apple Watch
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This works well. I bought it for charging my iPhone and Apple Watch whileĀ traveling. I use this on my boat and in hotels. It charges fast, too. I love that it also serves as a battery backup." ā€”acms702

    Get it from Amazon for $45.99 (available in four colors).

    24. An all-in-one universal wall adapterĀ so you never have to stress about whether you'll be able to charge your devices in a foreign country.

    a reviewer photo of the adaptor plugged into a wall outlet with a USB cord plugged into the adaptor
    a reviewer photo of the wall adaptor with all of the prongs folded outward

    It's designed to work inĀ more than 150 Countries and includes US, EU, UK, and AU plugs.Ā 

    Promising review: "Probably one of the best $13 I spent on anything. If you travel a lot, especially internationally, this is a must-have because you have every kind of adapter on one plug and donā€™t have to worry about constantly buying a certain adapter every time you travel to a different country. This has it all." ā€”Abby Santiago

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99Ā (available in four colors).

    25. A versatileĀ tank top with a padded braĀ you can wear on warm weather excursions *and* on those extra looong travel days where being comfy is your top priority. You may just need it in every color.

    reviewer wearing the yellow tank top
    another reviewer wearing the white tank top

    Reviewers recommend ordering one size up for a more comfortable fit.Ā 

    BuzzFeed Shopping senior writerĀ Emma LordĀ says:Ā "TBH, this crossed my radar because ofĀ Stephanie Buttermore, a popular YouTuber who shares stories of her gym routines on Instagram ā€” but I've had a few friends who do yoga, lifting, and lower-impact activities swear by these both for workouts and for just chilling in."

    Promising reviews:Ā "Yes, I bought this because I saw it on TikTok, and yes, this is as great as I thought it would be!!Ā Suuuper comfortable and now my to-go bra! I bought three right off the bat after reading other great reviews. I have worn all of them alone while working out and as a bra for every day." ā€”Sarah S

    "Itā€™s very comfortable for working out and traveling, too! It looks great on. Iā€™m a small in tops, but I ordered a medium, and it fits perfectly fine. Itā€™s super comfortable, not super fitted, but just about right." ā€”Kevin Shah

    Get it from Amazon forĀ $21.99+Ā (available in women's sizes Sā€“XXL and 20 colors).

    26. AĀ cooling towelĀ that'll make summer trips *much* more enjoyable ā€” you'll never want to travel without it after you experience its ~chilling~ powers. Soak it in cold water, wring it out, and drape it around your neck for some sweet relief.

    reviewer photo of two people with the cooling towel draped around their necks at the beach
    another reviewer's cooling towel draped over a dog

    It's super easy to use! SimplyĀ soak it in cold water, wring it out, and drape it around your neck. If it gets warm, all you have to do is rinse and repeat.

    Promising review: "I live in far, south Texas and love to work outside. It's hot down here and I wouldn't be nearly as comfortable without this wet cooling towel. I cut them in two lengthwise so that it's more comfortable around my neck. I actually give these as gifts to my neighbors so that they can enjoy the comfort and relief the towels bring. Easily wash in the washer and line dry. Great product at a great price." ā€”Dennis Sundermeyer

    Get it from Amazon for $13.97.

    27. A portable door lock, which is an absolute game changer for solo travelers who want peace of mind when it comes to their safety. It's a breeze to install/remove, it'll fit most doors, and it's small enough to toss in your bag.Ā 

    FYI, this mayĀ occasionally be flagged by TSA. You can also check out this otherĀ optionĀ with a sleeker design.

    Promising review: "My apartment door has a deadbolt but no lock on the door handle. The latch is also misplaced, so if itā€™s not dead bolted anyone can just push my door open. Took a few tries to get this right but makes me feel much more secure, and itā€™s easy to use when you get the hang of it! I also take this with me when traveling, as it fits almost all doors. Definitely recommend; thanksĀ TikTok for showing this to me." ā€”Anna

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

    28. A cleverĀ "Pack this!" checklistĀ to replace that feeling of panic with calm as you prepare for your journey. You'll lower your chances of forgetting anything and it'll help you pack more strategically.Ā 

    Promising review: "I hate making lists trying to figure out what I need, and this is PERFECT for trying to figure that out. It has a lot more on the checklist than I would ever take on a trip, but it does accommodate for every kind a trip, from a simple vacation across state lines, to a business trip, to a wedding halfway around the world. I'm pretty pleased!" ā€”Alyssa Kauffman

    Get it from Amazon for $7.

    29. A magneticĀ Ponyback hatĀ because who says you can't rock a ponytail andĀ your fave cap at once? No matter how high/low or big/small your pony is, this hat can handle most summer updos!

    gif of hands opening the magnetic back, showing how it's a large opening
    Model wearing their hair half up in the baseball cap and half down
    Ponyback

    Ponyback is a woman-owned small business that specializes in versatile magnetic snap baseball caps designed for all hair types.Ā 

    Promising review: "I am in freaking love with this hat. All my friends tell me how amazing it looks on me. I have been wanting a nice ball cap, but since I normally have my hair up, I couldnā€™t find one that worked till this came along on my TikTok, and I knew I had to get it. And I was so happy I waited till it was in stock again. I just love this hat. I wasnā€™t sure about the size but just went for a small/medium size since I thought that would fit, and itā€™s just perfect when my hair is up. I am so happy." ā€”NaysaĀ H

    Get it from Ponyback for $42 (available in youth sizes Sā€“L and women's sizes XSā€“XXLG and in 12 colors).Ā 

    30. Or an adjustable UPF 50+Ā roll-up straw hatĀ for anyone who loves the sun but not ending their trip with a burnt scalp. This'll help keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face while you stay looking stylish as ever.

    reviewer wearing a light tan hat with a black band
    another reviewer wearing the khaki-colored hat

    Promising review: "Let me start off by saying I've never been a beach hat type person...until now! I love this hat!!! When I bought it I wasn't sure if I could pull it off. (You know, it looks good on others but not so good on me.) Well, I just got back from Belize and this hat was amazing. I love how adjustable it is. I was able to comfortably wear it while riding a golf cart, all day at the beach, and even out on a kayak without it blowing off or being too tight. And it was just the right coverage for me. Enough to protect my sensitive eyes and fair skin from the sun yet not so large that it was in the way. I wore it much more than I thought I would because it was so useful, cute, and comfortable! Great buy." ā€”Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $25.99 (available in 22 colors).

    31. AĀ sweat-resistant sunscreenĀ when you want to moisturize andĀ protect your skin *without*Ā leaving a ghostly white cast behind. This will do the trick, even if you have a darker skin tone! The sunscreen gods have finally answered your prayers.

    A model putting SPF 30 sunscreen on their hand
    Target

    Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black woman-owned business established in 2016 with products that are cruelty-free and formulated without parabens or other harmful chemicals (psst ā€” they also have sunscreen for kids!).

    Promising review: "I love the fact that there is no white film. I use it in conjunction with my usual face moisturizer. I noticed my skin looks brighter and smoother after using it throughout the day. I have very oily skin, and I sweat heavily during the summer, so I was worried about breakouts, and, surprisingly, no acne. I recommend giving this a try." ā€”Elle Kay

    Get it from Target for $15.99 or from Black Girl Sunscreen for $18.99.

    32. A pair of polarized sunglassesĀ that'll make it easy for you to soak up some sunshine on your trip, especially since your eyes will be protected against harmful UV rays!

    Promising review:Ā "These are so cute. I get compliments on them all the time and people are always shocked to hear they are an Amazon steal under $20! They give a great amount of protection without being too dark. Will definitely order again in the future" ā€”Katie Davis

    Get it from Amazon for $12.74+ (available in 10 colors).

    33. And a collapsibleĀ sunglasses organizerĀ to hold your sunnies and protect them from damage. Now you can travel with your fave pairs so you can serve multiple ~looks~ with your outfits.

    Reviewer photo of the organize hanging with sunglasses in each compartment
    reviewer image of the case closed up, showing how small it can get

    See it in action on TikTok here.Ā 

    Promising review:Ā "This organizer is even better quality than expected. It's really sturdy and solid. Great craftsmanship. It's super cool looking. Definitely looks more expensive than what you pay. The material where the glasses are held is extremely soft like suede, so this should prevent scratches and protect them while transporting. I really like that it has a way of keeping the glasses in place. I noticed other similar items don't have this feature, which is why I chose this above the others." ā€”Namiko Minakata

    Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in two sizes and four colors).

    34. Portable soap paper sheetsĀ because have you ever encountered one of those public restrooms without a drop of soap available to wash your hands? Not a problem for you anymore!

    person washing hands at sink with three portable soap sheet containers on the counter
    reviewer holding the light blue case with soap sheets in it

    Promising review: "I saw these all over TikTok and since I'm going on a road trip across the states, I thought why not? We all know those rest stops that run out of soap so you either use hand sanitizer (if you're lucky) or wet your hands with just water to trick your conscience into thinking you didn't just leave a dirty bathroom without washing your hands. The sheets are super thin but when you wet them, they create so much lather. I probably stared at my hands in disbelief for a good solid 10 seconds. They definitely feel clean and the smell is a light floral type. I definitely recommend these to have with you regardless what you are doing that day. Plus, these little guys are super tiny and can go into the tiniest purses or even your pockets in your jeans." ā€”Cookie Monster

    Get 450 sheets from Amazon for $12.99Ā (available in three colors and multi-packs).

    35. A handyĀ stain-removing penĀ if you want to eliminate those unsightly stains on your fave white summer garment or accessory ASAP.

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

    Promising review: "This product works great and the three-pack is a good deal, whether you want to label each one for a specific use or share with members of the family. It is easy to use and doesn't take long to dry. I keep one in my purse and of course it is a must-have when traveling." ā€”DeeNicole

    Get a pack of three from Amazon for $7.74.

    36. Expandable hangersĀ when you want to hang up your clothes so they don't get all wrinkled in a drawer. Why do some hotels and Airbnbs think three measly hangers are enough for a week-long trip? Now you're covered!

    Reviewer photo of the hanger completely folded in
    Reviewer photo of the handle partially expanded

    See them in action on TikTok here.Ā 

    Promising review:Ā "I bought these to take on a cruise since there are never enough hangers in the cabin for our clothes. These are very lightweight and come in a nice drawstring bag. Despite being lightweight, they are very sturdy ā€” strong enough to hold my husband's suit coat without any problem. You can extend them to larger for adult clothes or leave them smaller for tank tops/lingerie!" ā€”Gail

    Get a 12-pack from Amazon for $13.99.Ā 

    37. AĀ travel beltĀ for securing your massive (but necessary) tote bag to your luggage for easy-breezy strolling through the airport. If you're one of the brave souls who can travel with only one carry-on and one personal item, I salute you.

    closeup of model securing a bag to luggage with the tux colored ravel belt
    a bag secured to rolling suitcase with the black monogrammed travel belt
    Cincha Travel

    The travel belt is adjustable to 45 inches so it will fit most bags.

    See it in action on TikTokĀ here.Ā 

    Cincha Travel is a Cali-based small biz started by a BIPOC couple that makes these adjustable straps from vegan leather. The brand also donates 100 airline miles for each purchase, which are used to reconnect separated migrant families.

    Promising review: "My backpack was safe and secure with my Cincha belt! Loved that I was able to clip and unclip easily while going through security and while boarding and exiting the plane. I would definitely consider this a nice gift for anyone who enjoys travel!" ā€”Michelle

    Get it from Cincha Travel for $39.99 (available in 20 colors/designs; can be monogrammed for an additional $20).

    38. AĀ bug bite suction toolĀ because there's nothing worse than getting bitten the minute you step outside for some fresh air. This tool sucks the venom or insect saliva out and can help reduce itching, redness, and swelling. It works on mosquito bites, wasp/bee stings, and more.

    A BuzzFeeder's arm with a bite on it, the editor holding the suction tool, and an after photo of the swelling reduced on the editor's arm
    Rebecca O'Connell / BuzzFeed

    Promising review: ā€œYou need this! I am a magnet for bites of all kinds and carry topical and medicines with me at all times ā€“ so I figured this would be a good product to see if it really works. It arrived Monday, and Tuesday morning I woke up with a bug bite on my arm. I used this little tool (3 x per the instructions) and documented with photos.Ā Immediately after using, it stopped itching! And less than 24 hours later the bump/bite gone! There is a very faint red mark from using the thing but a small price to pay IMO. Bottom line: itā€™s awesome. Iā€™m carrying it with me everywhere!ā€ ā€”RebeccaĀ 

    Get it from Amazon for $9.95+Ā (available in five colors and multi-packs).

    39. A drawstring makeup organizerĀ if you can't bear to part with any of your makeup but need a convenient way to carry it. This lay-flat organizer shows you all your items when it's open and closes up into a small bag for efficient transport.

    GIF of the bag full of makeup and person pulling drawstring closed
    reviewer photo of the closed 20

    Promising review: "Really happy to find this one. Lays out all your makeup, and then, you just gather it back up and go. I love cuter makeup bags that are standard shapes, but it's a pain to dig around to find the product/tool you need. Having a surface to lay everything out on is so much easier and works great no matter where you are (camping in a tent, on your lap in the car, hotel room, etc.)." ā€”Michelle Geraghty

    Get it from Amazon for $29.95+ (available in three sizes and 32 colors).

    40. A TikTok *and* TSA-approvedĀ Alleyoop portable razorĀ with a compact design that'll take up hardly any room in your bag! It comes with two triple-blade razors, a moisturizing bar, and a spray bottle so you can shave on the go.

    reviewer holding the pink circular travel shaver, showing the razor head it comes with
    reviewer holding the razor, showing the moisturizing bag
    reviewer holding the small spray bottle in front of the pink portable razor

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

    Promising review: "I found out about this razor on TikTok, and Iā€™m officially obsessed! Iā€™ve been using it for the last week, so hereā€™s my honest opinion. Itā€™s perfect for missed spots or touch-ups, your gym bag, vacations, and I can see this being great for camping trips. The razor is not meant for full shaves or to replace your regular shower shaving routine, itā€™s very obviously for when you just need a quick touch-up here or there.

    I love that it has everything you need for a close shave ā€” the refillable water spray bottle, a shea butter moisturizing bar that doubles as a pre-shave lotion and an after-shave moisturizer, and two three-blade razors. The product is super compact for everything that it holds.Ā  If youā€™re considering buying this to replace your regular shower razor ā€” donā€™t. But if youā€™re looking for a smart, convenient solution for a quick shave or touch-up, or something more convenient to travel with, then this is your new go-to travel razor!! I think everyone should have one of these in their car, purse, gym bag, travel bag, etc. Honestly canā€™t go wrong with it, itā€™s a 10/10 for me!!" ā€”Helen Mantilla

    Get it from Amazon for $14Ā (available in dusty pink or navy).

    41. A sleep maskĀ when you need to block out your surroundings in that overly bright hotel room and get some rest. It has contoured cups that won't put pressure on your eyes so you can enjoy a relaxing snooze.

    a reviewer wearing the black sleep mask in bed while smiling
    front of another reviewer's sleep mask that blocks out light
    back of same sleep mask with contoured cups that cradle eyes

    Promising review: "Iā€™ve been using this mask for over a week now, and I must say that itā€™s the best mask Iā€™ve ever used yet. I have used a sleep mask every night for... probably the last nine years, and itā€™s the most comfortable one Iā€™ve ever used. I love the strap. No Velcro to get caught in your hair! Itā€™s got adjustable wide elastic that is soft and comfortable. Not the stiff stuff! The mask has nice memory foam in it which cushions your face when sleeping on your side. It has nice deep eye pockets so there is never any pressure on your eyes or eyelashes, which I love. Overall, this is the best mask Iā€™ve ever had. Itā€™s made so well; I feel pampered in it." ā€”DePlume

    Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in seven colors).

    42. And aĀ portable white-noise machineĀ to help create a more peaceful sleep environment so you can *actually* get some rest when sleeping in a strange bed for a change.

    the small circular noise machine attached to the handle of a suitcase
    the small circular noise machine inside of a suitcase
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I was skeptical at first about how well this little noise machine would work in my hotel room (I am a frequent business traveler). However, skepticism gave way to satisfaction. This little sound machine blocked out hotel noises very well and helped me sleep through the night. For a little machine, it provides very good volume and different noise options. I highly recommend this product!" ā€”Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $25.35.

    43. A cooler backpackĀ that can carry plenty of cold beverages for the entire group, which is perfect for camping trips, beach days, and picnics in the park. It can hold up to 20 cans, so everyone will stay hydrated.

    Reviewer shows open white cooler of water bottles while sitting on a beach blanket
    Same reviewer shows front side of the cooler, which has bungee detailing, while relaxing at the beach

    Promising review: "This cooler backpack is absolutely perfect. I plan on bringing it to the beach every time we go. It's actually very comfortable on my shoulders. No leaks and it keeps our beverages and snacks nice and cool! Would 100% recommend." ā€”Anjel

    Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in seven colors).

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

    The duffel in blue
    A reviewer's duffel in pink folded up small, about the size of their hand
    same reviewer's pink duffel bag expanded to full size

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

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

    Get it from Amazon forĀ $16.99Ā (available in 21 colors/patterns).

    What stress-free summer travel looks like:

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