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1. One of the most stressful parts of packing for a flight (especially if you're not a frequent flyer) is figuring out what size carry-on you can bring on the plane. Thankfully, Amazon has a really handy guide for this, so you can *instantly* find all the bag options that'll work with Alaska Airlines or Air France, for instance!
2. And be strategic with your personal item if you're really trying to pack as much as possible without checking a suitcase — a roomy backpack like this one will fit under the seat in front of you and is great for stashing your laptop, book, and other items you might wanna have on the flight. Remember: your smaller purse can always get packed in your carry-on to use at your location!
3. Reference 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.
4. 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.
5. And if you have nooo idea where to even start, 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 a few essential accessories. Of course, be sure to keep in mind the climate you're traveling to and your itinerary as well!
6. On that note: Check the weather forecast for your destination, or the seasonal average for that time of year if you're planning ahead. Ask a friend in the area if you have one! Any intel you can gather in advance can prevent you from packing unnecessary bulky sweaters or give you time to order a waterproof jacket if you're there during a rainy season.
7. Roll your clothing instead of folding it into stacks — it'll take up less room and help prevent wrinkles!
8. Or try one of these packing techniques that'll keep everything organized, more easily visible, and (perhaps most importantly) wrinkle-free.
9. Instead of just tossing random articles of clothing in your suitcase, plan your outfits out by day, and organize them together so you don't forget what top you planned on wearing with that skirt by the time you get there. Large zip-top bags work well for this!
10. Or upgrade your travel arsenal with a sturdier option: compression packing cubes that are see-through so you can find what you need without having to tear them all open. These'll also tickle that itch if you love organization since you can pack them by outfit (as mentioned above) or by clothing type (jeans in one, tees in the other, etc.).
11. If you're less concerned about organization and mostly need to utilize every dang inch of space in your suitcase, 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.
12. 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).
13. 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 35,000 5-star Amazon ratings!
14. 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 style it in different ways for multiple occasions!
Psst — for a cheaper slip dress in more sizes, we love this Amazon option!
15. ~Maximize~ your packing capacity by utilizing those nooks and crannies in your suitcase, like the space between those pesky metal bars! Your full-sized clothing basically just sits on top of these, so stuff smaller items like rolled-up undies, bras, and bathing suits into these spots.
16. Showing up to that business meeting with a creased collar would be a nightmare, so spare yourself future embarrassment by looping your belt inside to help maintain the shape. Pack smarter, not harder.
17. Pack up to three pairs of shoes in a single, space-efficient shoe bag — like your sneakers 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).
18. 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.
19. Or clip that extra pair of sneakers to your personal item using a shoe holster so you don't have to make room for them in your suitcase — it keeps their dirty soles away from your clean clothes too!
20. That wide-brim hat is a *must* if you plan on spending your days out in the sun, but it's one of the most awkward things to pack. Make it earn its spot by stuffing small, foldable items inside — that's prime packing space, people! Bonus: it'll keep your beloved sun hat from getting crumpled en route.
21. Or just clip it onto your suitcase, purse, tote bag, or backpack using a magnetic clip that won't damage your hat, but *will* hold it securely as you're dashing through the airport. Now you don't have to choose between packing it or wearing it non-stop!
22. 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 $7.97, and a single organizer here if you only need one (but it's more cost-efficient to get the bundle).
23. Whether you're taking them through TSA or using a checked 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! The label options are: soap, sunblock, conditioner, lotion, shampoo, or blank (so you can write your own label).
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 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." —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).
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. If you're not bringing your heavy shampoo and conditioner and would rather not pack an aerosol dry shampoo bottle either, this small tub of dry shampoo powder will keep you fresh on the go! It's so easy to apply while traveling: Just dab it on your roots to release an ultra-fine powder that absorbs oil and revives ~volume~.
BTW, this is cruelty-free and benzene-free!
Promising review: "I was looking for a dry shampoo that would be easy to use on the go for a trip I was taking. I had no issues taking this through TSA and it was so easy to use on the go. You literally just pat the poof on your scalp and then rub the powder in. I do have black hair so dry shampoo is usually very visible in my hair, but I didn't have any harder time than usual rubbing this powder in. It did a really good job of soaking up all the oil and giving my hair volume. I'm not a fan of the price for the amount that you get, but it is lasting longer than I thought it would. I would definitely recommend and will purchase again." —Teresa
Get it from Amazon for $18.
26. For any toiletries you're worried about spilling in your bag, just secure the top with a layer of cling wrap (because we *don't* need to start off vacay with a bottle of hair oil leaking onto our best dress).
27. If you're constantly frustrated by how few toiletries you have space to bring, upgrade to this reviewer-fave bag (with over 44,000 5-star ratings) that seemingly breaks the laws of physics to fit in more bottles and tubes than you ever thought possible. Bonus: It has a built-in hook for hanging it so you can see what's inside each transparent compartment at a glance *and* save that precious hotel counter space.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says, "I will scream this thing's virtues on every corner of this earth. I used this on an eight-day international trip. It fit a veritable arsenal of products — all of my skincare, makeup, hair supplies, toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant were wedged in the different pockets, and still compacted easily and went right into my carryon backpack. It made setting up at the hotel a two-second process of hanging it up and having all my products instantly accessible to me and easy to put away. I cannot imagine traveling without it, especially now that I've used it on a multi-city trip where it was so handy to fold back up and take through several hotels. At one point, I forgot to properly close a lotion, and it exploded a bit, and the bag was super easy to clean from the inside!
Get it from Amazon for $23.49+ (available in two sizes and 12 colors/patterns).
28. Delicate necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are one of the trickiest things to pack without them getting tangled (to the point of being unwearable) or lost in the abyss that is your suitcase. The solution: Store them safely in a compact travel case, like this pretty velvet one with seriously luxe vibes.
You don't *have* to stick to the same pair of earrings you wore on the plane for your entire trip! Besides, if you're trying to cut down on how much clothing you bring, having a few more accessory options can help you style outfits for different occasions.
Promising review: "I purchased this box for a weekend getaway. In the past I have just thrown all of my jewelry into little makeup bags, but then everything gets tangled and disorganized. I love that this box keeps everything organized and leaves all my necklaces tangle free!" —Dogmom206
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in 13 colors).
Or fit even more inside this foldable pouch if you really wanna have ~options~ — now you'll have everything you need to accessorize without having to detangle the chaotic mess of chains when you finally get to your location.
This can safely transport necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, brooches, hairpins, and other accessories in its various compartments, buckles, and panels.
Promising review: "Best jewelry travel pouch ever. Plenty of room for all my travel jewelry needs. Half the size of previous pouches I have tried and holds more than any of them." —T Rex Mom
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in two sizes and 11 colors).
29. Don't forget a space-saving laundry bag for all the dirty clothes and stinky shoes that will, inevitably, pile up on your adventures. It folds up super small when you're not using it, and also works great as a shoe bag if needed!
30. Or 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 $10.07 (also available in hand soap sheets).
31. Travel light with a collapsible water bottle so you can beat dehydration *and* those absurd airport water bottle prices while traveling. It rolls up to fit in the palm of your hand when empty, perfect for stuffing into an outer pocket of your backpack or suitcase — no more lugging around your bulky everyday bottle.
It's lead-, latex-, and BPA-free as well as dishwasher-safe.
Promising review: "Bought these collapsible water bottles for a European adventure – because apparently, in Italy, they charge you for water, not to mention it feels like walking through the fiery pits of Mordor during summer. Spoiler alert: These bottles are the hydration heroes we didn't know we needed. They collapse to fit into our bags seamlessly when not in use, proving that staying hydrated can be as effortless as deciding what gelato flavor to try next. If you're planning a summer escapade to Europe, these bottles are the secret weapons against both dehydration and overpriced aqua. Trust me, your taste buds and your wallet will thank you!" —Julie
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in multiple colors and packs).
32. 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!
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 long distances, 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 $62.99 (available in four colors).
35. 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 maneuver it around. The voltage goes up to 240, so you are good at 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 $39.95+ (available in black or white).
36. Don't just haphazardly stuff your bras into your suitcase; follow this ~technique~ that's space-efficient *and* won't damage your nicest bras: fold one bra cup into the other, then stuff the straps and band inside that cup.
37. Your suitcase might be laid flat while you're packing it, but remember gravity will push everything down when you're rolling it upright — so place shoes and other sturdier items near the bottom and lighter items near the handle so your most delicate clothing and toiletries won't end up wrinkled or crushed.
38. Weigh your suitcase using a digital luggage scale so there aren't any surprises (and unplanned 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, Elizabeth 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).
39. Bring a fold-up duffel when you KNOW you'll be bringing back significantly more than you originally left with (shoutout to those international shopping trips!) — on the way back, just pack your purse and use this as your personal item instead.
40. Instead of packing a bulky sweatshirt or coat to stay warm while on the plane, pack a cozy blanket scarf in your carry-on, and wrap up in it during your flight. It's lightweight and easy to fold up small, and gives you another accessory option for wearing at your destination!
41. 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!
HuffPost Shopping writer Haley Zovickian adores her Kindle: "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!" —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).
42. 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 $29.96+ (available in nine colors).
43. Ask yourself if you REALLY need to bring a slew of full-sized makeup products. 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!
44. 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 five colors).
45. Pack a teeny-tiny Gillette Venus travel razor in place of your full-sized razor and kit, especially if you're embarking on a longer trip. 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 $11.99.
46. 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!
Just be sure to apply it evenly and don't miss any spots!
Elizabeth brought this on an international trip and loved it: "I first bought this for a weeklong Croatian vacation 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 $9.84.
47. 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 $13.
48. 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!
49. 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 six colors and in sets of two).
50. 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 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 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: "This little belt saves so much hassle when traveling. For years, I wound the straps of my underseat bag through the handle of my suitcase, but the bag inevitably shifted while maneuvering through airports. And the straps were a nuisance to unwind when the luggage pieces needed to be separated. Now I don't have to look back to see whether my carryon is secure. When it's time to separate my luggage pieces, the buckle makes it simple. The belt even stays put when the buckle is open because of the part that slips over the suitcase handle. All in all, a nice little extra comfort while traveling. Wish I had bought it years ago." —Trumpetvine
Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in 17 colors).
51. If you're stressing over how to pack a stroller, this lightweight folding option is a game changer for family travel days, since it can fit into the plane's overhead bin instead of having to be checked at the gate. There's nothing better than strolling right off the plane and going about your way after a long flight (that may or may not have included crying and fussing).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.