
11 Items To Keep Your Suitcase From Ruining Clothes
If you're tired of unzipping your suitcase at your destination to find your things in a less-than-desirable state, we've rounded up some travel-friendly products that can prevent these woes. From a portable steamer that can zap wrinkles to storage solutions for keeping clean clothes clean, these travel essentials can make sure packing stays as stress-free as possible.
A multifunctional, portable iron steamer
Not much bigger than your average curling iron, this similar-looking handy gadget works as a wet and dry iron to get wrinkles out of your clothes. The water tank holds up to 50 milliliters, which can let you steam continuously for about six to eight minutes at a time. The 5.5 foot-long cord gives you some freedom of movement, but the whole product weighs only 1.16 pounds, so it won't take up much room in your suitcase. The steamer comes with an included measuring cup to add the water, and a storage bag.Note: Since this is corded, don't forget to pack the right travel adapter if you're going abroad!Promising review: "Finally got a portable iron that I travel with. Works very well on all fabrics I brought on my recent trip (cotton, linen, polyester). Works pretty fast even though it's compact and fits really well in a suitcase without taking up too much space/weight." —PatrickGet it from Amazon for $76.99.
A set of packing cubes to keep your clothes separated and secure
Not only does a packing cube set like this eight-piece one by Veken make it easier to find everything in your suitcase, but it can also act as a barrier to keep your clothes from shifting around too much during travel and prevent wrinkles. This one also comes with a shoe bag and laundry bag, so any dirty or smelly items can be kept away from the rest of your clothes.In addition to those two bags, this set has cubes of four different sizes, plus an accessories pouch and a cosmetics or toiletries bag with a hanging hook. The latter has a waterproof zippered pocket to prevent leakage. The set comes in 16 colors, so you can pick your favorite or match it to your suitcase.Promising review: "I was skeptical of packing cubes wondering how much of a difference can they actually make? Well...a huge difference!! I roll packing my clothes anyway, but using these bags were a game changer. I was able to pack so much more and they were compartmentalized so nicely and very few wrinkles. Will always use these now!" —MistyGet the set of eight from Amazon for $19.99+.
This Bagsmart toiletry bag with a near-perfect rating
4.8 stars across more than 58,000 reviews? Say less. This Bagsmart toiletry bag is water-resistant, spacious and convenient. It's also spill-proof to keep your clothes from getting wet or damaged — you can thank the plastic compartments and elastic straps designed to keep tubes upright for that. You can zip and unzip the compartments from top or bottom for quick access to your products, hang the bag up using a hook to see all the items at once and easily transport the bag with its handle. The bag is available in a range of solid colors and patterns, and two sizes.Promising review: "Used this for a recent trip and packed it in my checked luggage. One of my perfume bottles leaked and I was shocked to find that the toiletry bag contained the mess! It didn't leak into any of the other zippered compartments of the toiletry bag, nor the clothes in my suitcase. The hook is sturdy and hung over our hotel door with ease." —Gina ZGet it from Amazon for $11.99+.
A powerful handheld garment steamer with a longer cord
If the clip iron design isn't for you, or you just want a longer cord for less restriction, try out this HiLife portable handheld steamer with an 8.6-foot cord. This steamer also has a larger water tank capacity than the iron steamer: You can use up to 300 milliliters at a time for 20 minutes of continuous steaming. Enjoy both power (1100 watts of it) and user-friendly operation (there's just a single button to deal with, no bells and whistles), and then enjoy your wrinkle-free clothes. As an added plus, this bad boy comes in eight colors.Note: Like the other option, this is corded, so don't forget to pack the right travel adapter if you're going abroad so it's not unusable while you're away. Promising reviews: "Ok, so we're taking a trip out of state,12 HR drive. I know that when we get there our clothes will be smashed. So, I start reading reviews..found this steamer. I'm telling you that this little steamer is the best! EASY to use. Got the job done. I'm having too much fun..looking for some more wrinkled clothes! 🤩" —Wendy P.Get it from Amazon for $30.99+.
A leakproof travel soap case
Bar soap users, this one's for you. Packing up shower products at the end of a trip can be a struggle — it's like they're never actually as dry as they seem to be, and then water has leaked into your bag and potentially onto your clothes. But this silicone soap case can solve that problem with its unique ventilation and drainage features, including a vent valve and drainage layer to keep your soap dry. Reviewers confirm that this thing is air- and watertight, so even if you don't have a leakproof toiletry bag, you can rest easy without the imminent threat of water all over your stuff. Get the case in seven colors.Promising review: "I took this soap case with me on a two-month cruise to Japan. It performed perfectly. No leaking; the lid is secure. I was confident to toss it into my [suitcase] with my clothes, books, and papers. My only wish is that it came in a slightly larger size so I could also include the scrubby I use with my giant bar of soap. I would buy that!" —Stephen OrrGet it from Amazon for $11.99+.
Dryer sheets to keep your suitcase smelling fresh
Life hack: If you're worried about your suitcase and clothing getting smelly over time, the solution can be as simple as tossing in a dryer sheet to keep things fresh (this is a Reddit-approved tip). We're not sure we've ever seen a higher-rated product than these sheets by Bounce, which have 4.8 stars and more than 106,000 reviews on Amazon. One box comes with 240 "outdoor fresh"-scented sheets, so these can last you many trips and laundry cycles.Promising review: "It's Bounce for Pete's sake! Makes great scents for drawers and putting away summer clothing in "Space Bags" or in drawers or in suitcases. They make everything smell delicious. They're not just for dryers anymore!" —JeMicheSunshineGet them from Amazon for $8.24.
A travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray if you can't bring a steamer
We get it: Sometimes, you just don't have room in your luggage for any appliances. Or maybe you're traveling on a cruise, or internationally, and aren't sure what type of outlets you'll have if any. In any case, you can still get rid of wrinkles without a plug-in steamer using a wrinkle release spray like Downy's. All you have to do is spray, tug and smooth out your clothes' wrinkles. The spray has a light scent that also gets rid of unpleasant odors for a two-in-one product.Promising review: "Perfect size for travel. I bought these to take on our cruise since they don't allow you to bring steamers on board and there's no irons in the room. It's not important enough for me to send something to laundry to be ironed. These were the perfect travel size and worked great." —L. CookGet a two-pack from Amazon for $7.99.
A 4-pack of reviewer-beloved miniature lint rollers
These travel-size lint rollers are technically designed for pet owners to pick up pet hair, but multiple reviews assure that they're well worth the buy even if you don't have pets. Having earned 4,000 5-star reviews and counting, this four-pack comes with 120 easy-tear and easy-peel sticky sheets to pick up lint, debris, dust, dirt and more. These are small enough to fit in a purse, carry-on bag or the glove compartment of your car for a road trip so your clothes can stay clean on the go.Promising review: "Ordered these for my mom, who was visiting my sister (a certified animal hoarder.) These travel rollers fit in her bag perfectly and she said they removed all the pet hair from her clothes and suitcase on her trip! Now she has a few extra to keep around the house or in the car for any hair and lint." —KatyGet the four-pack from Amazon for $8.99.
These laundry bags to keep your worn clothes from dirtying your clean ones
Dirty laundry is a hotbed of odor and germs, so the more you can keep your clean and dirty clothes separate throughout your travels (as in, please don't just throw them into the same suitcase compartment nilly-willy), the better.Laundry bags like these by JHX are all you need: The bags fold down flat and to about the length of a cell phone when not in use, so you can easily chuck them in your luggage. They can hold up to 22 pounds of clothing and have helpful features like a drawstring slider, carrying handles, carabiners to clip onto another bag, an outer pocket for detergent or other items and a nylon material that is itself machine-washable, so you can truly throw everything into the machine as needed. You can buy a single or two-pack (pictured here) in gray or black.Promising review: "These bags are great! The amount of clothes that fit in the bags is way more than I expected. I ordered these while on a two week vacation to take back new clothes I bought as well as dirty laundry. The handles on the bags are super helpful, all the other ones I looked at only had the drawstring. Highly recommend these!" —Jamie MunseyGet it from Amazon for $7.19+.
A portable, retractable clothesline you can hook on anywhere
Whether you want to air your clothes out to get rid of odors from your suitcase or dry off wet swimsuits and just-washed laundry, a travel clothesline can come in handy. Equipped with an elastic line that can stretch up to 10 feet and 12 clothespins, plus stoppers in between each one that prevent sliding, the clothesline can be hooked onto a balcony, your hotel bathroom or anywhere else you might want to hang your clothes. Promising review: "When you travel outside the US, many rental properties will have a washer but not a dryer. On our recent trip to the UK, we used this travel clothesline multiple times, and it worked great! The end hooks made it super easy to install, and we were surprised by how much weight it held (wet blue jeans). The clips that keep the clothespins from sliding were a brilliant addition to this product. It takes up so little space in my bag, and I'm planning to take it with me every time I travel." —Kelly GlazeGet it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in four colors).
A 3-pack of deodorizers that can eliminate odors for up to 60 days
Like the concept of the dryer sheet hack we mentioned above, but you'd rather use something less disposable? These baking soda odor eliminators by Arm & Hammer are just as easy to fit in a suitcase at less than 2 inches tall, and work to keep your stuff smelling fresh for up to 60 days, so you don't have to change them out nearly as often. They're also similarly affordable. You can choose between a range of scents that includes calming lavender, white linen, forest pine and more.Promising review: "I bought these for my luggage when I had to go visit family for over a week. As soon as I opened my suitcase, it smelled so good! I put one in my car, and another in my dad's car. They're pretty neat. Just buy them. If you're here looking at them, just give in already!" —Your Friend Down the RoadGet the three-pack from Amazon for $5.98+.

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Fox News
9 hours ago
- Fox News
13 must-haves to bring when camping with your dog, from travel crates to outdoor beds
Camping is a fun adventure for the whole family, the dog included! To ensure your furry friend has just as much fun as you while camping, be prepared with the right gear. Just like you, dogs need the comfort of a soft bed and a spacious sleeping bag. Plus, a tie-out lead, harness and water and food dishes are a must. Original price: $20.75 The number one item you should have in your dog camping gear is a lead or tie-out. This tie-out from Amazon is a popular option. It hooks between two trees, and you can connect your dog's leash so they can roam around more freely. They come in different lengths and colors, making it easy to pick one that best for your dog's size and personality. A harness is more comfortable for your dog, especially if they're going to be on a tie-out. This Ruffwear harness is extremely durable, even for dogs who like to pull. It has reflective strips built in, which is helpful when walking your dog around a dark campground. There are plenty of fun colors, so you can customize your dog's harness to their leash. An LED dog collar is ideal for nighttime walks with your dog. Campgrounds get much darker than your average street, so make sure other campers, cars and you can see your dog wherever they go. This collar can be shortened to get the exact size you need, and it's rechargeable. Give your pup somewhere comfortable to relax while you're in the woods. A good outdoor dog bed sheds dirt and water and won't trap dog hair. This Furhaven dog bed from Amazon is stuffed with foam to keep it comfortable. It's also reversible, so you get two color options. Alternatively, the OllyDog's Ridgeway travel bed is a lightweight bed made from soft microfleece that won't hold onto dog hair. When you need to pack up, just roll up the bed and clip it together with an attached buckle. The Basecamp bed from Ruffwear is also an easy-cleaning sleep mat option. It's a fashionable bed that comes in bright patterns, plus it has a waterproof, non-slip base. Your dog needs a sleeping bag just like you do! When you're camping in the fall, a sleeping bag will keep your dog warm and comfortable, plus it sheds hair, dirt and mud. An OllyDog sleeping bag rolls up for easy storage and is made from waterproof materials. Lined with a soft, breathable fleece, your dog is sure to sleep well while out in the woods. Original price: $51.99 A camping cot gets your dog off the ground, which can help keep them and their dog bed clean. An extra-large cot from Amazon can hold large dog breeds like German Shepherds and Retrievers. The cot is made from Teslin fabric, which is scratch- and tear-resistant. Original price: $74.99 Stay organized with a travel bag designed just for pets. Chewy's dog tote has separate spaces for dog food and treats, a pull-out tray with collapsible dog bowls and a huge inner compartment with separate compartments for leashes, toys and more. Travel-friendly water and food bowls are a must when camping with your dog. Amazon has a pair of collapsible dog dishes with carabiners attached for easy storage. Ruffwear also has pop-up food bowls in unique patterns. These lightweight bowls have a waterproof lining and durable shell. To keep the bowls clean, a washable dog bowl mat can help. It's a huge mat with a non-slip base. Being out in the woods is a lot of fun, but it brings mosquitoes, ticks and other bugs. To prevent your dog from getting covered in ticks, use Wondercide, a flea, tick and mosquito spray. Made from plant-based ingredients, the spray can be used on your dog's coat or on their bedding. Should your dog get ticks, make sure you have a tick removal kit on hand. The kit comes with a tick remover, tweezers for small, embedded ticks and a pamphlet that helps you identify different types of ticks, so you know whether you should worry about Lyme disease. If your dog is used to relaxing and sleeping in a crate, bringing a travel crate along can help them feel more comfortable. An Amazon Basics pop-up travel crate sets up in seconds. It has fastening straps that keep unzipped doors rolled up, so your dog can easily get in and out. Mesh windows offer ventilation on all four sides and secure zipper closures keep your dog inside when the doors are closed. Chewy has a similar, slightly more durable foldable crate option that's ideal for larger dogs. Plan to hike on your camping trip? Get your dog their very own hiking backpack. The OneTigris dog backpack has two pockets on either side for bags and treats. The cross-bungee cords also allow you to clip extra gear on. Ruffwear's Front Range day pack is a compact harness with two saddlebags on each side. There are three leash attachment options, including a V-ring, a loop on the back and a webbing loop on the chest. Original price: $44.95 Having a first aid kit on hand for your pet is always a good idea when you're camping or hiking. This first aid kit from Amazon is vet-endorsed and includes a dog thermometer, a dog muzzle, a tick kit and bandages. The whole kit folds into a compact bag that'll fit in your luggage. For more deals, visit You won't regret packing an extra towel just for your dog. When rain comes or your dog goes for an impromptu swim, a towel is a necessity. Amazon's Bone Dry pet towel is made from ultra-soft microfiber, which is extra-absorbent and machine-washable.

Business Insider
11 hours ago
- Business Insider
I'm an American living in Mexico. I love it, but that doesn't mean every day is perfect.
In November, I traded the hustle and bustle of city life in Newark, New Jersey, for the tropical climate and beautiful beaches of Tulum, Mexico. I've never been happier. Even though I've lived here for less than a year, I don't think I'll ever move back to the US — but that doesn't mean every day is perfect. Here are some of my favorite and least favorite things about living in Tulum. I've enjoyed the lower cost of living My cost of living in Tulum is much cheaper than it was in New Jersey, in part because of the conversion rates between USD and Mexican pesos ($1 equates to about 19 pesos). In Newark, I rented a two-bedroom apartment for $2,100 a month, but now, in La Veleta, I pay about $600 a month for a one-bedroom apartment. I've found that my groceries are cheaper too, especially when I shop locally. In the US, I would spend about $150 a week on groceries, compared to about $80 a week in Tulum. My life in Tulum feels far more peaceful and relaxed As a model, content creator, and host, I worked 12 hours a day while living in New Jersey. Although I was filming, editing, applying to campaigns, and answering emails nonstop, I was barely making enough income to afford my rent, groceries, and bills. If I didn't pick up enough jobs, I wouldn't be able to cover my living expenses. I felt stuck. Meanwhile, I've found that the lower cost of living in Tulum enables me to work less. I can take my time creating and posting content, edit on a consistent but relaxed schedule, and listen to my body's needs. Although I don't have quite as many opportunities in Tulum — yet — I enjoy my job more now because I have the free time to be creative and build a greater appreciation for what I do. Outside work, I've also enjoyed participating in Tulum's active wellness community through yoga classes and meditation circles. I love being surrounded by so many people who seem focused on inner growth, and I have found it to be very inspiring. I feel more connected to nature, too Living in Newark, I was used to luxury apartments and high-rise buildings lining the streets. Meanwhile, in Tulum, nature feels like part of my experience everywhere I go, from riding down Avenida Tulum to eating at outdoor cafés. Trees, vines, and other plants surround my apartment, so I feel connected to nature even when I'm home. I also like that the beaches in Tulum seem to have clearer water and appear much cleaner than the popular ones I visited in New Jersey. However, I miss having access to all of the same products I used in the US Since moving to Tulum, I've realized that I took a lot of massive stores in the US for granted — it's harder to find one-stop shops filled with tons of options here. Although my groceries are cheaper now, I have to shop at more locations to get everything I need. In the US, I could go to one big supermarket. It's also much harder to stock up on my beloved makeup and beauty products. Although Amazon ships here, there isn't a Sephora in Tulum, so I have to travel an hour to Playa del Carmen to get things like Fenty Beauty foundation and my preferred edge control and mousse for my hair. However, for most other essentials like toilet paper or protein powder, I've just switched to brands that are easily available locally. I've learned to adapt to the different power grids and septic systems Tulum's infrastructure can be more inconsistent than what I was used to in Newark, in part due to differences in the city's septic systems and electricity grids. For example, in some areas, toilet paper shouldn't be flushed because it can clog the pipes. In general, I've noticed the toilets here tend to clog more easily than they did back home. Additionally, I've gotten used to frequent power outages (about three times a month) due to maintenance or storms. Fortunately, though, my power usually returns within a few hours. Friends and others who've recently moved to Tulum have told me they've dealt with similar issues. It's not ideal, but I've learned to adapt. When these things happen, I either wait for the services to return or go to a local café for a few hours. Still, there's nowhere else I'd rather be Despite the challenges, the peace, beauty, and community make living in Tulum worth it for me. I've learned so much about myself since moving here, and I'm excited to continue building my brand and increasing my income. Someday, I'd like to move to another country that's even farther away from the US, but for now, I think Tulum is perfect for me and my journey. Tulum doesn't just feel like another adventure — it feels like home.


Buzz Feed
15 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
These 26 Products Are So Good For Travel That Reviewers Refuse To Go On A Trip Without 'Em
A set of six compression packing cubes to boost your packing game up to the next level. Not only do they help you stay organized (it's so much easier to find what you're looking for when you know your shirts are all in THIS cube and your socks are in THAT one), they also squish everything down with an additional zipper for maximum space-saving power. Starting off with the good stuff: Friends, if I had to pick just one thing — and only one — never, ever to travel without again, it would be packing cubes. This exact set of packing cubes, in fact. I started using them a few years ago, both for multiple-week-long adventures and short little getaways, and believe you me when I say they are life-changing. The set includes one large cube, one medium cube, one small cube, one extra-small cube, a slim cube, and a shoe/laundry bag (it's good for both — source: me; I have used it for both. Not at the same time, though! Pick one or the other and commit to the decision).Promising review: 'You need these if you travel! If you are like me, trying to find a way to organize a suitcase can seem like quite the struggle. I feel like I need to pack my entire life in my suitcase, even for short vacations, or I feel like I'm under-packed. My biggest problem is keeping categories organized. With these organizers, you can easily store all your belongings in an organized fashion. Everything stays in place even if you check your bag (suitcases get thrown around, and usually, my clothes are a mess). These also helped me pack more as the cubes condensed after zipping. I won't travel without these organizers ever again. In fact, I will most likely be buying more! Do yourself a favor and buy some for yourself. Great price point and great quality!' —Yvette BillingGet them from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in 11 colors and patterns; also available in four additional configurations). Or, some travel compression bags that'll help you eke out every. Last. Inch. Of suitcase space. Stashing your clothes in these bags and then rolling them up gets rid of the air and squishes down the bulk, truly maximizing your packing potential. Plus, since these aren't the kind of compression bags you need to stick a vacuum into in order to work, they're usable on the return trip, too — whether or not your Airbnb came equipped with a Hoover. Promising review: 'These bags are absolutely wonderful! I will never travel without using them again. I can bring everything but the kitchen sink! I recently packed for a seven-day-long trip with various levels of dress, and these bags saved me from having to pack more than a suitcase, which is my norm. Highly recommended!' —Stacy MalyszkaGet a set of 12 bags from Amazon for $16.64. A TSA-compliant toiletry bag to transport all your lotions and potions, because quart-sized zip-top plastic sandwich bags can be… let's call it unreliable. (Ask me how I know.) This clear zippered bag is made of tougher stuff, so it'll stand up to way more while also being substantially less prone to bursting. (Again: ASK ME HOW I KNOW.) The best part? If your items fit in here, they're good to go — just yank the bag out of your luggage at security and carry on (literally) (get it?) (har har) (I'll show myself out). Promising review: 'Perfect for TSA approval when traveling! I travel a lot for work and I prefer to only bring a carry-on bag, which means I'm limited to only 3.4 oz liquids on the plane. I used to use a sandwich size Ziplock bag and it never worked very well. With this new Lermende toiletry bag, I can fit SO much more. I love that it's clear so you can see everything at one glance. It's well made and the zipper looks like it will hold up well. It came with five bags, so perfect for each family member to have their own toiletry bag. Two thumbs up!' —Rusty Get it from Amazon for $8.98+ (available in sets of two, three or five bags, in two styles, and in multiple color combinations). A travel-size bottle of Bumble and Bumble's Prêt-à-Powder dry shampoo, because when you're on the road, a full wash isn't always in the cards — but that doesn't mean you have to feel greasy all day if you don't want to! This stuff will banish any oil from your locks and add some volume while it's at it – and even better, it won't eat up any space in your liquids bag, thanks to the fact that it's, y'know, a powder. Promising review: 'To anyone who tells me they don't like dry shampoo, I ask if they use a spray or a powder. They always answer with spray. The powder is a game-changer. It not only makes my hair look cleaner, it refreshes my style. I always travel with this in my kit to make my blowout last as many days as possible.' —ELJ23 Get a 0.5-ounce bottle from Sephora for $16. A travel wallet and passport holder with RFID-blocking capabilities to keep all your most important stuff both safe and organized while you're on the go. With tons of card slots, a collection of compartments, and pockets for things ranging from your boarding pass to your cash, a key holder, a pen holder, a spot perfect for stashing your passport (of course), and more, how could it not come in handy? I bring this exact wallet with me whenever I travel (my color of choice is Paradise Blue, for the curious), and y'all, it works wonders for those of us who are a bit, uh, coordination-challenged (hi, it's me, your friendly neighborhood klutz). I find it particularly useful during the hectic-airport-dash portions of my trips; I never have to worry about accidentally dropping my passport, my boarding pass, or any of my other Extremely Important Things, because it's, y'know, all safe and in one place. If I'm super rushed (no one wants to be that person who holds up the entire security line), I can even just shove everything in it without even tucking stuff away in the pockets, snap it shut, and keep it moving until I have a moment to sit down and actually organize it all review: 'Perfect for travel! I kept misplacing all my travel documents every time I took a vacation, and this has saved my life. It keeps everything together all in one place, and I can't travel without it now. Highly recommend!' —Ely Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in 18 colors). A universal power adapter, so you can make sure your devices stay charged no matter where you're from or where you've gone. This handy little cube can adapt to fit outlets in more than 200 different countries; what's more, it also includes both a regular plug and both USB-A and USB-C ports, so you can charge multiple devices at one time. Note that this gadget only converts outlets; for actual voltage conversion, you'll need a separate device. (Stay tuned for that!)Promising review: 'After my passport, the item I must not forget when traveling! I'm writing this as I wait for my next flight. I've used this travel adapter countless times in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. I've given some away as gifts because of the huge value it has for frequent travelers. It's compact and useful… the multiple USB ports save you the need to carry socket adapters for your gadgets.' —tfGet it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in six colors) And a travel voltage converter to keep your electronics from frying when you charge them, too. Most universal adapters are for converting outlets only; if you travel to a location with a different standard voltage than the one in your home country, you'll need to use a voltage converter to keep your devices functioning. This pick'll do that for you — and since it's nice and compact, it packs up well, too. Promising review: 'Hands down, a super converter that can be used at home or abroad. It worked great on all the countries we went to on a six-week vacation. I can use my fav 110-volt flat iron and hot curlers now instead of the low-performing 220-volt versions I was forced to buy for Europe, etc. The two plugs and USB outlets allow for multiple uses, and only one wall plug is needed. We use this at home as well for multiple device charging. The drawstring travel bag helps keep all of the items together for quick unpacking and use. I won't travel outside the house without it. Neither should you.' —Amazon CustomerGet it from Amazon for $35.98 (available in two colors). AND an external battery that'll make running out of juice when you're in the air — or on a train, or running around a new city all day, or up a mountain, or wherever — a thing of the past. This sleek, slim power bank slips easily into a backpack or pocket, and it holds enough juice to charge most smartphones up to two full times — a must when traveling! Promising review: 'Great product. Small size for travel. Long battery life. This is something I won't travel without.' —D. Brooks Get it from Amazon for $17.59+ (available in three styles). A travel-size pack of Wet Ones wipes for those times when you're not near any water, but still really need a wipe-down. These wipes will kill roughly 99.9% of bacteria, and they're pretty darn good at just getting regular ol' dirt off, too. Promising review: 'Will not travel without them! Used these on my three-week trip where taking showers was an absolute luxury. They were basically my shower replacements, and they did the job really well. The resealable packets did a great job of keeping the wipes wet enough to be functional, despite the many times it was opened and closed. Will definitely get them again for my future trips.' —TexasTraveler Get a set of 10 packs from Amazon for $16.74. A pack of laundry detergent sheets that'll let you do laundry on the go without faffing about with the mess of liquid detergent. Usable both with washing machines and for hand-washing items, these soap sheets are the ultimate travel-friendly item you didn't know you needed. Promising review: 'Love these! I bought these for a recent trip to Europe/Africa for a few weeks with my family of six. We couldn't pack nearly enough to be able to change our clothes each day, but we didn't want to wear dirty clothes. This was the compromise, and we were skeptical. These little sheets weighed very little and were quick to dissolve and be just soapy enough to clean our things. We were able to hand-wash our items when we had to, and to use the small washer/dryer combos in our Airbnb. Needless to say, we loved them. Now that I have found these, I won't travel without them.' —Deb Thornton Get a pack of 30 sheets Amazon for $12.59+ (available in two scents; also available in three packs of 30 sheets each). A travel backpack with an anti-theft pocket, so you can travel light while ensuring your most important documents and other items stay safe. This backpack opens clamshell-style, making it much easier to pack and unpack than a standard, top-zip bag — and reviewers say it fits underneath airplane seats perfectly. Other bells and whistles include a wet bag pocket, a shoe compartment, padded straps, a chest buckle, the aforementioned anti-theft pocket, and availability in tons of colors. Who needs a roller board when you've got this?Promising review: 'A must-have for travel! This came with me on a 3+ week international travel stint, and I will not travel again without it. The zippered sections were just right, and the zippers lined up to be able to use TSA/travel locks. The straps are very, very comfortable, and the bag is sturdy and durable yet soft and comfy to wear for extended periods. I loved the color, almost periwinkle, but if I were to buy this bag again, I'd get a darker color to better withstand the inevitable dirt/marks from air/car/bus travel. This bag kept clothes, a blanket, money, electronics, and everything dry in rainy Ireland, snowy Germany, and a few downpours in Italy. There was a strap on the back that was perfect for the handle of my wheeled carry-on, and the weight distribution was such that the entire setup didn't tip over. I would almost call this bag indispensable!' —Mandi in VA Get it from Amazon for $22.79+ (available in four sizes and multiple colors and styles). And a Travelon anti-theft crossbody bag for those times when you don't need to be lugging everything you packed with you around all day, but still want to look ~cute.~ Travelon specializes in anti-theft gear with its five-point security system, which includes lock-down straps, locking compartments, slash-resistant straps, and body construction, and even pockets with RFID-blocking capabilities. Promising review: 'Best purse I have ever owned! I needed a small purse to use when traveling. I usually carry a backpack, as I like having my hands free. But there are times when a small purse is more practical. With the many anti-theft features, this purse has traveled the world with me keeping everything safe. Turns out I love this purse so much I use it every day, even when wearing my pack. It is small enough that I hardly know I am wearing it, yet the many pockets provide a surprising amount of carry room. The individual zippered sleeves are great and allow for efficient use of space as well as organization. I love the secure key leash. I never have to worry about locking myself out! If this ever wears out, I am getting another. Can't imagine being without it.' —GuraGet it from Amazon for $40.42+ (available in five colors and patterns). A 'Pack This' planner pad that'll make sure you never forget to pack your essentials ever again. With sections for every conceivable thing you might want to bring with you — including places to record what the weather is expected to be at your destination! — and spots to check everything off as you go, this pad is a true travel MVP. Promising review: 'Absolutely indispensable. It also has blank spots in it so you can add things that you want to remember to bring. I don't travel without one of these sheets now!' —Lisarita Get it from Amazon for $7+ (available in three colors and two styles). A packable luggage scale so you'll never have to worry about over-packing. Just hang your suitcase from this digital scale, hold it up off the ground, and wait. It'll give you a readout in — I kid you not — literally two seconds. And it's so small that it tucks right into your bag without taking up valuable space better put toward other things. I travel carry-on only whenever possible — and friends, I started to get really tired of having constant "oh no, is my bag too heavy???" anxiety every time I was about to get on a plane. (Have you seen the carry-on weight limitations — not just dimension limitations! — for most international flights these days??? Absurdity! Absurdity, I tell you!) So I bought myself this little guy last year, and I am pleased to report that knowing exactly how much my bag weighs before I get to the airport has done much to put my mind at rest. It also forces me to pack more efficiently in the first place, so hey, everybody wins!Promising review: 'Best $10 I have ever spent on a travel accessory! I love this thing. I never travel without it because I've paid overage fees or had to check overweight carry-ons or repack bags on the airport floor like an imbecile. I depend on this scale so much when traveling that when I can't find mine before a big trip, I order a new one with next-day delivery (I found the old one, lol).Based on what the scale at the airport reads, this scale is pretty accurate (assuming you can get the bag off the ground). I have weighed suitcases up to 55 pounds/25 kilograms, but any more than that, and it's hard to pick up the suitcase and hold it far enough away from your body and the ground to get an accurate thing will cost a few ounces in weight to carry with you but will save you money when you get to the check-in counter at the airport because you've already packed and repacked your bags to be perfectly within weight limits.' —AK Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in six colors; also available as a two-pack in the color Ash Silver). A pair of super comfy sneakers because when you're off having all sorts of fabulous adventures, the last thing you want to worry about is aching feet. Not only are these sneakers lightweight and supportive, they're also — key point! — cute. Bonus: Since they've got slip-on styling, they're also the ideal airport shoe. Promising review: 'Best overall travel shoes! I purchased these for my trip to Italy and I was pleasantly impressed at how well these shoes held up. These were the only shoes I wore through Roma and through the Tuscany region. I logged 73,000 steps, 56 flights of stairs and inclines, and 33 miles with these. They are comfortable, lightweight, and supportive. Even through the cobbled streets of Rome!' —Pam Caffery Get them from Amazon for $37.19+ (available in women's sizes 6–10 and in 14 colors). A travel jewelry organizer that'll keep all your pretties and shinies corralled, untangled, and safe when you're on the move. This pick features tons of pockets, an earring panel, necklace clips, and more — and since it lays super flat when it's closed up and zippered shut, it'll take up next to no room in your luggage. Promising review: 'A travel must! This is a game-changer. The size is perfect. It doesn't take up much room in your suitcase. I took seven necklaces on vacation, none of them tangled. It fits several pairs of earrings and bracelets. I don't know how I lived without this. This would make a great gift for a trip.' —Jenny TGet it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in five colors). A versatile TravelTube travel scarf and blanket you'll never stop finding uses for — on the road or off! Sure, it might look just like a regular scarf, but it can be used in all sorts of ways, from scarf to blanket to head-wrap to poncho and beyond. And thanks to its unique construction (there's a reason it's called a TravelTube), it does it all in a way that your average travel blanket can't. TravelTubeBlankets is a woman-owned small business based in Bainbridge Island, review: "This is a repeat purchase; I keep finding new people to gift these to! Carlyn is absolutely amazing, and so are the TravelTube blankets she makes. My own blanket is seriously one of my must-haves for travel; I never leave for a trip without it." —xio13t5yGet it from TravelTubeBlankets on Etsy for $95.69 (also available in numerous other colors and patterns for $59.50+). A three-pack of Tide To-Go pens so you can stop stains in their tracks no matter where in the world you are — literally. With this li'l guy tucked in your bag, you can yank it out the second a mess happens, scribble on the splotch, and watch it vanish right before your very eyes. Magic? Maybe not, but it sure feels like it sometimes! Promising review: 'When these first came out, I was skeptical. Now I'm a believer! Always had one in my desk at work. Now I have one with me whenever I travel. If I've worn something for just a couple of hours for dinner and gotten a few drops of coffee on it, I can't see sending the garment to the hotel laundry. I just use my Tide Pen. Works great on men's ties. At first, it looks like nothing's happening, but keep working it and suddenly, the spot magically disappears! It helps to put a tissue or paper towel behind the area you're cleaning. They take out just about anything and don't leave a ring like my prior spot-cleaning efforts did. The pens are small, so they're not practical for huge stains, but for small mishaps, they're amazing.' —GlamGalLovesStuffGet a three-pack from Amazon for $5.99. A large-capacity hanging toiletry bag that packs tons of storage space into a surprisingly small footprint. Deceptively compact when it's zipped closed, it opens up to reveal two huge compartments and two smaller pockets, so you can fit literally anything you might want. Then it all folds up neatly again, taking up only minimal space in your bag. There are two schools of thought when it comes to packing for trips: Pack as light as possible or BRING ALL THE THINGS. If you're a light packer, you may not need something with this much space — but if you're a BRING ALL THE THINGS person, this is the toiletry bag for you. Promising review: 'A TRAVEL MUST-HAVE. I was looking for a toiletry bag where I could fit all my toiletries plus my makeup in one place. THIS IS THE ONE. Everything fits, and it helps me stay organized when I travel. I can't imagine traveling without it now. Bonus for all the color options they have! I have both the medium and large. I recommend the medium for a carry-on suitcase. The large in a carry-on takes up half of one side.' —BrendaGet it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in two sizes and 13 colors). A sleek and compact pill carrying case, so you can stay on top of your meds while you're away without wasting tons of luggage space on individual containers. This pick has a removable divider, so you can either split its space into four compartments or just use it as one big one; it also fastens shut super securely — and it's surprisingly pretty, too. This is the pill carrier I use when I'm on the road — or in the air, or, y'know, anywhere other than home (banana for scale). I've got a couple of medications I need to take daily (talk about a literal can't-travel-without-it situation!), so in order to avoid having to carry a whole bunch of bottles with me, I decant what I need into the four little compartments here and chuck the case in my backpack. It keeps things safe, secure, and all in one place. Also, I… really like its aesthetics. I know, I know — 'aesthetic' is not a necessity for medication storage, but it doesn't hurt that this thing is nice to look at, too. It's the little things, you know?(Heads up, though, that if you take prescription meds and you're traveling internationally by air, you usually need to keep everything in their original bottles for airport security — so bear that in mind when considering pill cases of all varieties.)Promising review: 'Great pill organizer! Fits perfectly in my carry-on pouch. It has four slots, which don't mix up the tablets in case you accidentally shake or flip them. This travel case has a great lock so your tablets won't spill. For me, I've put antihistamine tablets for allergy days, daily multivitamins, pain reliever tablets, and caffeine tablets for midday sleepiness. I just bring this with me at all times in case I need it.' —HenryGet it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in nine colors; also available in a larger, six-compartment size and in multi-packs). A beverage and drink holder that slips right over your suitcase handle, because there is no greater tragedy than a fallen cup of coffee while you're trying to make an early morning flight. With this handy pick, though, you'll be able to keep your drink secure and your hands free — no more lost or wasted caffeine! Promising review: 'Made my travel SO much easier!! Wow, what a difference this made while traveling. Kept my hands free, and I didn't have to keep going in my purse/backpack for phone, travel documents, or passport. I will not travel without it. I bought it on a whim but didn't realize how much I really needed it. I kept it on my carry-on, and it was no issue at all when boarding the plane to remove it (with a line of people behind me waiting for me to put my carry-on in overhead container). I just took out my drink and slipped it up and off the handle. There is a velcro strip in between the cup folders, but I found it very easy to slip it on and off. I also was concerned about items falling out…nope. No issue whatsoever. My passport, papers, phone were all secured.' —LisalouRN Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in 25 colors and patterns). A roomy yet compact cable and electronics organizer, because when you're on the move, no one wants to waste time untangling your phone charger from your laptop cord from your tablet charger from your…well, you get the idea. This zippered case solves that problem by packing tons of pockets and organizer bands to keep everything from cables to USB drives neat and tidy — and, crucially, easy to find. Promising review: 'Took this on a trip to Bali, and it was really a lifesaver. It was so easy to find my cords and have everything so neat. It was something I never knew I needed but now will absolutely never go anywhere without it.' —Daniela Amao Get it from Amazon for $9.85+ (available in three sizes and 23 colors). A unique camera bag for the jet-setting photographer that'll make carting around all your gear super easy and safe, thanks to the anti-theft buckles. With space for lenses, a tripod, and more, and easy access via two side panels and a front panel, this sling-style bag can't wait to help you get the perfect shot. Promising review: 'Very awesome bag. I have traveled with it to so many parts around the world, from the Cook Islands to Mexico to the Carlsbad Caverns, to name a few spots, and it's always protected my DSLR and lenses. Plenty of room for batteries, etc. Also has a bottom strap for a tripod.' —Michael Soto Get it from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in two sizes and two colors). A little foot hammock to keep you comfortable on even the longest of flights. Hang this unexpectedly useful travel gadget off your tray table, and get ready to put your feet up — literally. Flying coach has never been this luxe. Promising review: 'Game-changer for air travel! I will never fly again without this. I've recommended it to everyone. East Coast USA to Southeast Asia, 24 hours in long-haul flights each way with a serious lower back pain condition to start. But being able to hang my legs, even in a sideways position, saved me from hours of pain that I had endured previously flying in economy leg room. So easy to loop over tray table brackets in both the stowed and open position. This is a must-have for any flight.' —DL FlinGet it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available individually or in two- or four-packs). A Sea Band or two, because you deserve to travel without nausea. Just strap one of these wristbands on and let it work its charms on your pressure points. YMMV, but for many, they're a boon when it comes to staving off motion-induced ickiness. Promising review: 'Worked great! I had to take a nonstop flight across the US, and I really dreaded the turbulence and air sickness I usually feel on these trips. I don't like taking medication, so I found an article about these bands, so I thought I would give them a try. They are simply amazing! I did not expect them to work as well as they had; I will never travel without them again.' —Charity Rue Get a pair from Amazon for $8.27+ (available in six colors) And a discreet money belt, so you can keep your focus on the sights in front of you instead of on the safety of your extra cash and passport. Wouldn't you rather spend your trip marveling at the pyramids or oooh-ing and aaah-ing at the Mona Lisa than constantly fighting the urge to check your pockets? With two pockets complete with RFID protection and a non-bulky design, this money belt straps securely around you and under your clothes where no one will ever know you're wearing it. review: 'Won't travel without it again! We just finished an around the world trip. This money belt went through 18 airports, probably 25 security checks. It never set off an alarm. After six weeks and 40,000 miles, it looks as good as it did when we started our trip. I had one and my fiancé had one. I used mine as my jeans belt with longish T-shirts so it couldn't be seen. My fiancé had his under all his clothing. I kept only money in mine. He kept his passport, money and credit cards in his. We'd take them off and put them right into the safe in our hotel room. Perfect!' —ChazGet it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in four colors)