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1. Start with a packing checklist so you can identify the *essentials* for your trip, depending on length, location, and itinerary — and what should probably stay behind. If you (like me) are a chaotic packer whose typical process is throwing a bunch of things in your suitcase and praying it closes later, seeing everything laid out like this can ensure you're not over-packing — and that you don't forget your toothbrush, either.
Promising review: "We travel frequently and have two children. As any parent knows, packing for yourself and your children can be overwhelming (especially for a 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. It has a variety of clothing options and space to add more. Overall, wonderful purchase and has likely saved me many forgotten items!" —I-really-bought-this
Get it from Amazon for $7.
2. Or, try another approach: Start by laying everything you think you might need out on the bed, then going through one by one to identify what you *know* you'll wear versus items that are just a "maybe." Circle back to the "maybes" pile only once you've packed all the essentials — and see how much space you have left, if any.
3. And if you have nooo idea where to even start — especially if it's your first time traveling out of the country — try following a ~formula~ like this blogger's 5-4-3-2-1 packing guide, which has you start with five flexible tops, and work your way down to one of each essential accessory: a hat, a watch, and sunnies.
4. Weigh your suitcase using a digital luggage scale so there aren't any surprises (and unplanned over-capacity fees) when you get to bag drop-off and have to heave it onto that big scale. Plus, if you're traveling between multiple cities or hotels during your trip, it can help give you a reality check before you're in the middle of Seoul lugging a packed-to-the-brim suitcase up the subway stairs (side-eyeing my past self here). Do you reeeally want to carry 40+ pounds around with you from location to location?
To use, 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 review: "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 six colors, as well as a two-pack and another style).
5. Opt for clothing that can be styled multiple ways, especially if your trip spans a week or longer — don't worry, it's OK to be an outfit repeater (despite what Kate Sanders from Lizzie McGuire might have taught us). Except, you're not really repeating an outfit when you have a truly versatile piece like Hackwith Design House's Everything Top, which can be worn more than five ways!
Hackwith Design House is a woman-owned small business that creates made-to-order apparel. This shirt can be worn as a V-neck, off-the-shoulder, boatneck, V-back, and even open as a jacket.
Promising review: "I’m being honest when I tell you this is the most 'worth-it' top around. I read a review from some frequent flyer who claims this is her go-to for flying. She said aside from the top’s flexibility — which allows much less packing as the top itself looks and behaves like four shirts and a jacket — it’s a savior on planes because it allows you to get into a usually overheated plane, and to weather the transition to iceberg that happens about 20 minutes into most flights, and it holds its shape and looks great. I was skeptical, as I do not have the money to blow on someone else’s opinion, but my husband told me to try it as I have the same issues with temps. Long story short, I got it. It’s a gorgeous fabric despite my usually hating the ribbed thing. It’s nice. REALLY nice. Yes, it’s extraordinarily flexible, and yes, it’s like a jacket. Ordering in the off-white now." —Mary B.
Get it from Hackwith Design House for $145 (available in women's sizes XS–4X and in five colors).
6. One-piece outfits like rompers, jumpsuits, and dresses are a great option here, too, since they're an all-in-one fit and can more easily be styled in a variety of ways. This particularly cozy jumpsuit is even flight attendant-approved and boasts over 33,000 5-star Amazon ratings!
7. And where possible, reach for pieces made of thinner materials that'll allow room for more options in your suitcase, like a lightweight slip dress for a chic dinner or going out look! You can always layer a cardigan, jacket, or shawl over it for warmth — and to style it in different ways for multiple occasions!
Psst — for a cheaper slip dress in more sizes, we love this Amazon option!
8. Roll your clothing instead of folding it into stacks — it'll take up less room and help prevent wrinkles!
9. And utilize compression cubes with a genius double-zipper system that'll press out excess air and condense the clothes to reduce bulk. You'll also be able to plan and pack specific outfits together, leaving you with a perfectly organized bag that won't turn into a mess by the end of your first travel day.
Promising review: "Must-have traveling accessory. Best way to pack a suitcase! I’ll never go back to stuffing everything in on its own. These compartments held way more than I imagined and kept me organized. I will definitely add more to my collection. Makes a great gift for frequent travelers, too!" —Lisa
Get them from Amazon for $18.95+ (available in 10 styles and in packs of two, three, or six).
10. Or, for a particularly long stint abroad, consider vacuum storage bags designed to squeeze out every bit of air and increase your storage space by a whopping 80%. If you're traveling with bulky apparel like coats and sweaters — or just want to bring a wider variety of clothing options — they're a lifesaver.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jasmin Sandal is a fan: "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: "We needed to travel for a long trip to Japan, which included two days of skiing, and make all our clothes and gear fit in carry-on luggage. These bags were incredible. They worked well without any issues, and they were able to compress ski pants and gloves and warm sweaters down to a nearly flat surface. Everyone in our family used at least two in their carry-on bag, and that was what allowed us to pack everything we needed. Each bag worked well repeatedly, as we opened and shut them during the trip. Highly recommend when traveling and space is an issue." —whitnch
Get a six-pack from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in four sizes, as well as other multipacks).
11. Toss in a 50-count set of laundry soap sheets for easily washing your clothes on the go so you *can* wear them on repeat and not have to fill up a bulky "dirty clothes" bag over the course of your trip. They'll come in clutch whether you're hiking or camping or just don't want to use your hotel's expensive laundry services — plus, you can pack them in your carry-on since they're non-liquid!
These work best with hand-washing! If you have quick-drying clothing you can pack, even better.
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 a pack of 50 from Amazon for $9.02 (also available in hand soap sheets).
12. And prepare for the possibility that you miiiight accidentally drip pasta sauce on your nicest shirt while dining at that fancy Italian restaurant — and problem-solve ahead of time by packing a little Tide stain-removing pen. It'll take up HARDLY any space, but it'll let you spot-treat your visibly dirty top (instead of having to rely on one of the precious few non-stained shirts you have left).
This pack comes with three, but you could just pack one (and leave the other two at home where they will, no doubt, get plenty of use in everyday life).
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." —DeeNicole
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $7.74.
13. And! Plan to freshen up your wrinkled blouses and dresses from your *tightly* packed suitcase with a mini steam iron so small and lightweight, you'll hardly notice it in your travel bag — but its effectiveness more than warrants its inclusion. Bonus: It's dual-voltage and comes with a travel bag, so it'll be ready to go for all of your worldwide jet-setting.
Yes, some hotels have irons in the rooms, but many don't (or they're broken/have seen better days) — and that's if you're even staying in a hotel!
Promising review: "The best travel item I have purchased this year! It irons so well. I took it on a trip to Germany a few weeks ago. I just placed a towel on the counter or on the bed, and it took minimal effort to iron out the creases. The steam works very well. I hardly had to use the max heat option because it’s pretty powerful. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who does business travel and are going to areas that don’t have irons available in the hotel rooms or for leisure travel as well. It doesn’t take up much room. It fits in the palm of my hand. I also had no problem getting through security in Germany, London, or the US." —Erica Kowsari
Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
14. Pack up to three pairs of shoes in a single, space-efficient shoe bag — like your sneaks for walking tours, sandals for the beach, and flats for a nice dinner. It's a great compromise between wearing the same shoes the *entire* trip and, well, bringing along your entire Carrie Bradshaw-level collection. Plus, it'll help keep the dirty soles from touching your freshly laundered clothes.
Of course, sticking to just one pair (that you wear on the plane) is the *most* space-efficient option, but if your trip includes a mixed itinerary of casual days and fancier reservations, this is a great way to cover all of your bases.
Promising review: "You can totally fit three pairs of shoes in this! (I wear a women's size 6.5 shoe, and it fits heels, wedges, and sandals.) I bought two and will absolutely be buying more for my husband. 10/10 would recommend! I travel frequently, and I always overpack; this helped cut down space and stress immensely!" —Taylor
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in nine colors and patterns).
15. Aaaand fill shoes with smaller items like socks, bras or underwear — because every inch of space counts! If you're only bringing one extra pair, stash them in a shower cap that won't add any bulk but *will* keep dirty soles from making a mess in your suitcase.
16. Take some time to research what items are provided by the hotel or Airbnb you're staying at as well as any tours you're going on (or what you can borrow from your local friend, lol) so you don't waste space packing items you don't need!
17. Don't forget your universal travel adapter, especially if you're planning to hit multiple countries on your trip — it'll ensure you're never left looking in confusion at a strange new outlet shape like, "Um...what am I supposed to do with that?" No need to pack separate adapters, either — and your USB cables can plug right into it!
18. And instead of packing a slew of chargers, streamline the process with a 3-in-1 magnetic wireless charger that folds up *so* small but can juice up your iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch all at once! It's so slim, you could literally carry it in your pocket (and free up your backpack for other items).
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 don't fit well in my bags, or I am always worried I will break them. This is compact and folds so well that I can fit it 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 on the market. Love it and been using it for two months now with no issues!!" —Sbreddy
Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in nine colors).
19. Don't bring that unread pile of books by your bed and instead pack a slim, waterproof Kindle to fill those long hours on the plane or train with some ~light~ reading — literally. It won't weigh down your bag or add any bulk, and you'll be able to download new books on the go whenever you have access to Wi-Fi!
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Haley Zovickian says, "I recently bought a Kindle, and it has, no exaggeration, revolutionized my life. I love mine for so many reasons — it's truly helped me incorporate my love of reading into my often hectic life, and all my titles literally live inside of this half-pound wonder gadget, so I can switch between books super easily. For traveling, this is a literal dream. I don't have to pick between titles and then regret the entire trip that I didn't bring the one I left at home — and, as any book lover knows, traveling with books is heavy as hell, and the Kindle literally completely eliminates that weight. Traveling will never be the same for me. BTW, I am also obsessed with the Libby app, which allows you to check out e-books from your local library on your Kindle!! My inner child is *screaming* with joy."
Promising review: "I love the feel of books and even the smell if I am being honest. ... But as a traveler, lugging around the five books I like to read at a time is a back-breaker. I have grown to love the Kindle in more ways than just the light load. The fact that I can read in bed without a light glaring is A+. I can access books at anytime, anywhere in the world...even the doctor's office! The library app is amazing. Absolutely my FAVORITE purchase on Amazon of all time." —Jefi Moultrie
Get it from Amazon for $139.99+ (available in 8GB and 16GB sizes, in three colors, with or without lockscreen ads, and with three free months of Kindle Unlimited).
20. Leave the jewelry box at home, but that doesn't mean you can't sport some bling while exploring the world. Fill a slim, foldable jewelry organizer with the necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings you need to ~accessorize~ on the go without having to detangle the chaotic mess of chains when you finally get to your location. It'll hardly take up any space and won't add noticeable weight!
21. Consolidate all of your medications into a sturdy, lightweight eight-compartment pill organizer so small, it'll fit into the palm of your hand — no more juggling half-empty bottles. Because leaving behind your prescription meds isn't exactly an option, but they don't have to be a space-hogger, either.
Promising review: "My husband and I travel a lot and take a number of prescription drugs. It was always a hassle accessing our medication when needed, so I purchased this organizer to make things easier. I used a label maker and labeled each little compartment, and it has performed wonderfully. I highly recommend this organizer to anyone who travels and needs medications throughout the day." —Jacqueline
Get a three-pack from Amazon for $11.97.
22. And *even* if you're checking a bag, transfer your shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and other essential liquid toiletries into travel-sized bottles that'll take up way less space and add less weight than those full-sized bottles. No need to go out and buy them in a mini size (if they're even sold that way at all)!
PS: It also comes with pre-printed labels and a handy, clear zipper pouch!
Promising reviews: "Just took a trip to the Dominican Republic and used carry-on luggage only throughout the entire trip, never once was questioned about the size. The bag they are in seems thin, but it worked great to put bottles back in as well as some smaller items fit in the bag, too, like lip gloss, mascara, and such. The holes are big enough to get your product into the bottles without any complications. My fiancé and myself had plenty of shampoo, conditioner, sunblock, and lotion for seven days. Highly recommend these bottles; they are perfect for carry-ons!!" —Stephanie Miller
"I had in checked luggage, and they didn't spill or leak, are easy to fill due to the wide mouth, and are easy to dispense. Used for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Much more convenient to fill my own bottles than search for travel sizes or use products I don't prefer!" —Suzanne Edwards
Get a set of four 3-ounce bottles from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in a variety of sizes and colors).
23. Or, invest in a simply *stunning* (and TSA-compliant) set of Cadence Capsules made for packing your various pills, lotions, cleansers, and accessories in perfect travel-sized amounts. Not only are the colors and labels fully customizable, but these lightweight capsules also click together magnetically so everything's easy to find in one area of your suitcase.
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 (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 $76 (available in many customizable labels and seven colors).
24. And for liquids you only need a tiny amount of, fill a spare contact lens case that'll take up barely any space and will prevent any leaks en route. I mean, this is just genius.
25. Stop making room for both your huge curling iron and straightener in your suitcase by opting for a 2-in-1 tool that'll take up literally half the space and give you ~options~ for how you want to style your hair every day. Reviewers swear by it for international travel — it's dual-voltage!
Promising review: "The international traveler's BFF. Don't be fooled by the tiny price or size, this little baby is serious. If you are looking for a small travel option rather than lugging your big straightener and giant curling iron around the world, then I think you'll love this. It performs really well, turning my frizzy, wavy hair into a smooth and sleek style. The curling iron option also creates shiny, silky lasting curls! It's easy to transition between both. I also like the grippy handle and the fact that the curling iron clip is a different color than the straightening bars because that helps me see how I should be maneuvering it around. The voltage goes up to 240 so you are good using it internationally without a converter (but you will need an adapter just to fit it into various foreign outlets). At this price, definitely give it a try and flaunt your tresses abroad." —Christine
Get it from Amazon for $49.95 (available in black or white).
26. And keep a Hairbrella on hand in case you get caught in a downpour, since it folds up into a little pouch for travel (goodbye, unwieldy umbrella) and is more effective at keeping your hair dry (even Niagara Falls was no match for it, reports one reviewer). Here's the real kicker, though: It's satin-lined, meaning it won't give you that dreaded "hat hair" or frizz once you're ready to take it off.
Of course, this'll only cover your hair, so make sure you're packing some kind of rainproof jacket or a little fold-up poncho if the forecast looks wet. BTW, people who wear glasses say it keeps them from getting wet, too!
Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business that specializes in hats that protect hair from all kinds of weather.
Promising review: "Traveled to London last month with a raincoat that did not have a hood, and 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), and 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." —Miss Information
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in 10 colors).
27. Ask yourself if you REALLY need to bring a slew of full-sized makeup products and ~options~ on that trip abroad. Multi-use products are your friends here, like the reviewer-beloved Ilia Multi-Stick to pop gorgeous color onto your lips, cheeks, and lids — and the genius Alleyoop Pen Pal that functions as an eyeliner, lip liner, brow pencil, *and* highlighter!
28. And plan on taking off your makeup using a makeup-removing cloth instead of packing a bulky set of disposable makeup remover wipes. It's cheaper, more eco-friendly, gentler (no tugging!), and requires only water to get the job done — meaning you don't need to pack any heavy liquid makeup removers, either.
Reviewers say it's comparable to the infamous Makeup Eraser — only this is cheaper!
Promising review: "This is incredible! I can't believe how well this works! I travel a lot for work and usually take makeup remover wipes because of the liquid restrictions for travel, but they are expensive and heavy. I have been using this cloth all week and LOVE IT! A bit of warm water and everything comes off in a few easy swipes. I am super excited to travel with this. It weighs nothing and rolls up to take very little space. I am ordering another for my mom who also travels. Highly recommend!" —KT
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in seven colors and in packs of two and seven).
29. Pack a teeny-tiny travel Gillette razor in place of your full-sized razor and kit, especially if you're embarking on a long trip abroad. Your baby-smooth skin is going on vacay with you!
It comes with a little carrying case, and one blade lasts for up to 30 days!
Promising review: "I am a minimalist, so for me, the less the better, but you do need the essentials, especially when traveling abroad. This little mini razor came in so handy. You hardly even know it’s in your toiletry bag; it’s so small, but big enough to get a good grip and shave. I always bring this little razor with me whenever I travel. I love the compact size. Highly recommend as a space-saver when traveling." —Deb H.
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in a pack with three refills).
30. Swap that bulky bottle of sunscreen for a slim SPF 50 stick version that's solid — meaning you won't be getting any side-eye from TSA if it's in your carry-on, and it's much more lightweight than the liquid kind. Plus, it'll be so easy to reapply (without mess) when you're out seeing the sights all day!
Elizabeth brought this on an international trip and loved it: "I first bought this for a weeklong Croatian vacation last year when I did carry-on, and as long as you are *thoroughly* reapplying, this stuff stays on pretty well. On a beach club afternoon, I did haphazardly reapply and missed a strip on one arm, but I tend to do that with spray-on or lotion sunscreen, too. Since then, I've packed this for any trip I've been on, including a two-day Disneyland trip where I toted this around in my bag and shared with friends. I sometimes carry it with me in my purse on my everyday adventures because I know it's so easy to apply. Also worth mentioning...I am about the palest lady you've ever seen and swear by daily application of sunscreen. But when on a beach trip, I'm constantly swimming in the water and sweating. So, yeah, this stuff works. And if you're a bit hesitant about jumping on the solid sunscreen bandwagon, you can pack a stick of this, knowing you have enough sun protection to get you through to finding some spray-on or lotion SPF at your destination."
Get it from Amazon for $10.16.
31. In place of your full-sized toothpaste that's prone to ~leakage~ inside your toiletries bag, pack all-natural toothpaste tablets that are lighter, smaller, and both mess- and plastic-free. All you have to do is pop one in your mouth, wet your toothbrush, and start scrubbing! And, of course, there's the other obvious benefit: These are solid, aka not subject to TSA's restrictions.
Huppy is an Asian-owned small biz creating plastic-free toothpaste tablets out of sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients. Everything is vegan, GMO- and cruelty-free. Best of all? Huppy donates 2% of revenue to fund sustainability initiatives!
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Danielle Healy says, "I love how zero-waste the process is with Huppy. You get a forever tin (pick from blue or blush) and then buy refills that come in compostable pouches. The whole chewing thing can be weird at first (my boyfriend found it aggressively minty, I just think they taste like Altoids), but both of us got used to it pretty quickly. With water, the tabs foam up pretty instantly, and after that, it's just a normal teeth-brushing experience. In fact, I'm actually finding that not dealing with drippy toothpaste and tiny screw-on caps is actually pretty delightful. And I'm absolutely not traveling with regular toothpaste ever again — this is a travel must-have regardless of what you use at home. A cleaner process both in and out of my mouth."
Get 62 peppermint-flavored tablets from Huppy for $12.
32. Also! Keep in mind that you can always buy personal items, makeup, and toiletries at your location — and it can be fun stumbling upon and trying new brands that way!
*Especially* if you're traveling abroad for a long period, don't feel like you need to pack enough sunscreen, moisturizer, or shampoo for the entire time you're away from home. You're just weighing yourself down unnecessarily!
33. Wear your bulkiest clothes onto the plane: chunky sneakers, thick sweaters (it's cold on there anyway!), sweatpants, etc. Aside from the space-saving benefits, you'll also be cozy as heck while you binge-watch your downloaded movies on that looong flight.
34. And in place of that huge neck pillow that's an absolute *pain* to lug around for the entirety of your trip, treat yourself to a Trtl neck pillow that's waaay more space-efficient and lightweight (not to mention more ergonomic and comfortable). When traveling internationally, a neck pillow is one of those real "worth it" items, but it doesn't have to be a burden to bring along.
It also easily attaches to backpacks and luggage handles (see the photo on the right), weighs less than half a pound, and is machine washable!
Promising review: "I can't stop recommending this pillow to all of my friends! It has let me comfortably sleep on flights that take place on the most uncomfortable airplane seats. On long flights, I always need to prop up my hand, and I rest my head on it. But this method always ends with my arm falling asleep, and I end up waking up every 30 minutes. Now, this pillow provides that exact same support without needing my arms to prop me up! It's small enough to fit in your bag and doesn't take up much space." —Simona Krifman
Get it from Amazon for $59.99 (available in four colors).
35. Beat dehydration *and* those absurd airport water bottle prices by investing in a sturdy collapsible water bottle that rolls up to fit in the palm of your hand when empty — no more lugging around your bulky everyday bottle. Whether you're backpacking through cities or hiking to ancient ruins, you'll appreciate how little space it takes up in your bag and just how *useful* it is.
It's lead-, latex-, and BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, and can be used for hot or cold drinks.
Promising review: "This heavy-duty plastic bottle stood up to the rigorous international travel to Machu Picchu in Peru. No leaks and took the wear and tear off of the back of my backpack. It folded nicely inside the backpack while going through airport security. Followed the boiling directions when I first received the bottle and NO plastic taste or smell. Easy to clean. A great product." —A Lilly
Get it from Amazon for $34.95 (available in eight colors).
36. Upgrade your carry-on bag situation with a genius Carry-On Closet that, honestly, might make you forgo the price (and headache) of checking a bag for good. Its built-in compression and organization will help you pack your carry-on as efficiently as possible, with a six-tier pop-out shelving system that'll let you bring along all of your cutest 'fits for roaming the world without a bulky full-sized suitcase.
Psst: Its lining is made with plastic from coastal communities that otherwise could have ended up in the ocean! The smaller size is accepted as a carry-on by all international airlines, including European budget ones, while the larger one meets all US airline standards.
Promising review: "Great design that allows me to organize everything I need in much less space than I ever expected. Take your time to select and pack your things thoughtfully and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much you can get into this carry-on. I have several pieces of luggage in multiple sizes and I’m giving them away because this is all I need. The size and versatility make it the perfect carry-on." —Michelle C.
Get it from Solgaard for $275+ (available in two sizes and six colors).
37. And for your personal item, don't waste it on a skimpy purse or tote; instead, choose a sturdy travel backpack that can also double as your day bag for your entire trip. You can't go wrong with the sleek Beis backpack, which literally zips open like a suitcase (!) and features *extensive* storage with stretchy X straps to keep it all secure. For a shorter trip, this might even be all you need, if you're a minimalist.
Elizabeth says, "I snagged this backpack after hearing my colleague Chelsea Stuart sing its praises. I wanted a bag for some upcoming travel (two and a half weeks in Europe with *just* carry-on for five flights) that opens up like a suitcase for easier packing. Since buying it, 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 as many 'wet' toiletries in the second pocket as I'd be allowed to carry on for a plane. 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. 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, etc. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into those overhead storage compartments on trains. 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 for $78 (available in black or beige).
38. Also: Instead of a big ol' fanny pack, make one of the most unassuming (yet v necessary) clothing accessories do double duty for you — we're talking about a money belt, folks. Yes, it'll snugly hold up your pants when you're making a steep climb to see a cool view. It'll *also* hold your cash thanks to a hidden zip-up pocket that even the sneakiest of pickpockets can't reach. It's 2-in-1 brilliance at its finest!
I mean, you can *literally* wear this onto the plane so you don't even have to pack it.
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 four to five (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).
39. Strap your hefty shoulder bag onto your suitcase using a luggage strap that'll be the extra set of hands you *desperately* need when you're dashing to make your connecting flight from one country to the next. It'll help lighten the physical load you have to carry and make it feel like you're only rolling around one piece of luggage. It's great for holding bulky coats and sweaters, too!
Promising review: "Saw this in an article about travel items and decided to get it for a trip overseas. So glad I did — the forecast said rain so I packed my rain jacket only to find hot sunny skies. Rather than tie this around my waist and have it fall or get in the way, I wadded it up and used this strap to attach it to my bag. The strap is adjustable so you can get a tight fit. Carried my coat for me. Would also work to attach a bag to a suitcase, water bottle to a purse, etc. So many uses, just get it and try it out. Really helpful and handy little travel item." —David Shaughnessy
Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in three colors and in sets of two).
40. Or, let that personal item sit on top of your suitcase (strapped securely using a travel belt) so it can go for a ~ride~ as you're dashing through the airport or navigating to your hotel so you can keep a free hand on your phone. Again, condensing your luggage in this way will help lighten the load on yourself — because traveling internationally is physically taxing enough as it is!
The travel belt is adjustable to 38 inches to fit most bags. The belt itself is vegan leather with elastic accents and a quick-release buckle.
Cincha Travel is a small business in California that develops adjustable travel belts made out of vegan leather. The brand donates 100 airline miles for each purchase, which are used to reconnect separated migrant families.
Promising review: "Love this! I am constantly struggling between holding my jacket and two carry-ons. This is the perfect solution! I can’t wait to start using it when I’m back to regular business travel." —Allison
Get it from Cincha Travel for $40 (available in 18 colors, can be monogrammed for an additional $15).
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.