33 Travel Items You'll Love So Much, You'll Never Go Without Them Again
1. An airplane seat back organizer, because losing your earbuds in the endless void of the seat pouch in front of you is a really lousy way to start your vacation. This keeps your personal effects organized and on hand for that mid-flight boredom — no more having to stand up and reach for the overhead compartment to find your novel. Plus, this way, you won't accidentally leave behind your fave lip balm on the plane.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Very useful, especially when traveling with kids. Provided easy access and storage to things like a water bottle, hand sanitizer, snacks, wipes, and headphones. I didn't have to access my carry-on." —JJ
Get it from Amazon for $29.99.
2. Plus, a drink holder for my window seat people who don't want to try balancing all their personal effects, as well as their beverages, on the teensy tiny tray table that somehow gets smaller and smaller with each passing year. It even holds some other essentials, like your headphones, glasses, or phone!
Amazon
Heads up — you can only use this if you're sitting in a seat that has access to a full window!
Promising review: "I used this for the first time on a 737. It was fabulous! It didn't intrude into my sitting space nearly as much as I expected. Because the actual window is recessed from the side wall, this only sticks out from the side wall about an inch. If you're considering this, you likely fly enough to know that seats aren't always aligned with the windows. If your window happens to be right beside your seat or the seat in front of you, this won't be of much use. But because it doesn't just come out as much as I thought, you can use it in more situations than I expected. And when you can use it, it's great! I love not having to have my entire tray table down just to hold a 3-inch cup. My only suggestion would be to add a place to hold trash until the flight attendant picks it up. This is very small, very lightweight, and very useful. I'll be taking it on every flight from here on." —JBC
Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
3. A *mini* Kindle to carry an entire library's worth of books so you're always entertained during that eight-hour flight, that poolside vacay, or during some downtime in the Airbnb while you're waiting for your always-chronically-late friends to finish getting ready. After all, not only does it carry thousands of downloaded books, but the battery life lasts up to six-freaking-weeks!!!
www.amazon.com
Check out a TikTok of the mini Kindle in action.
Promising review: "This is such a great Kindle! It's lightweight, the perfect size for going in a purse or bag, and the matcha is SUCH a great color. I already have a Paperwhite SE that I love, so I decided to get this Kindle for travel purposes. The battery life isn't as great as my Paperwhite, but it still lasts me a while with daily reading! It fits perfectly in my hands and makes reading very comfortable. The only thing it is missing is the warm light option, but that is not a deal breaker for me. If you are looking for a lightweight and comfortable Kindle, this is the one for you." —Christine Heath
Get it from Amazon for $109.99 (available in two colors).
4. A 4-in-1 makeup brush set with a makeup sponge, eyeshadow brush, eyebrow/eyeliner brush, and blush/blending brush — literally everything you could possibly need for a full face of glam without needing to bring an entire case full of brushes.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "The bristles are soft, and they apply the product very well. Love that it has a case, which is perfect for traveling. Now I don't have to travel with 10+ brushes." —Yashira
Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in 10 styles).
5. A universal travel adapter to prove that you are always prepared, no matter which country you end up stumbling upon, as it works in over 160 different countries! Making an unscheduled trip to Argentina, you weren't quite planning on? Don't worry about your devices running out of charge since this adapter has got you covered, no matter where you end up!
www.amazon.com
But remember that this is not a voltage converter!
Promising review: "I am a digital nomad, so I travel full-time around the world. I have a lot of devices to charge (laptop, Kindle, phone, backup battery, portable Wi-Fi device, camera, the list goes on). A lot of times, hostel bunks or hotel rooms only have one outlet, and with the previous adapter I was using, I had to charge one device at a time. I used to literally set my alarm to wake up in the middle of the night and switch devices so that I could get more than one device fully charged overnight. I did my research, finally, and settled on this one because it is universal and has four USB ports. What a GAME CHANGER. On my latest trip, I was able to charge all my devices at once, and it made traveling so much smoother. It seems well-made and of good quality, too. Definitely recommend for my digital nomad and traveling peers. Happy travels! :)" —Maggie A.
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in two colors).
6. An AirFly Pro wireless transmitter that'll let you connect your AirPods (or any wireless headphones) to your airplane seat! Now, you won't have to use those uncomfy plastic earbuds the airline gives you — you can use the headphones of your choice while still enjoying the free in-flight entertainment that is offered!
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "If you have a wireless earpiece and fly frequently, this is a must-have. Most newer planes have a monitor on the seat backs that enables you to watch movies, etc. This unit enables you to do it using your wireless earpiece. Connection is simple and automatic once you have initially paired your device or devices. It's convenient. I'm happy with the purchase." —JCE
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in four colors and five styles).
7. A set of silicone "EarPlanes" to help prevent those awful ear pains that are sure to happen the moment the plane takes off or lands.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This product has changed my life. I travel fairly frequently and always have issues with ear pressure on the plane. My ears will be clogged up, and it is painful to swallow for a day or two after short-distance flights. But now, I use these and fly incident-free. You are supposed to insert them before the plane takes off and then before landing. I have found that it works best if I leave them in the entire flight from before takeoff until landing, but they work almost as well if you take them out once you reach cruising altitude." —Thomasina
Get a pack of one from Amazon for $7.89.
8. An eight-compartment pill organizer — now, you can keep all of your meds on hand without trying to dig through your bag for different bottles. Each one has eight compartments (two large, six small) and can safely store any size pill or vitamin you need. No need to lug around large bottles in your carry-on; you can just toss one of these little organizers instead.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
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 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 $6.97 (available in two color sets).
9. A 2-in-1 straightener and curling iron so you're not trying to stuff two separate tools into your luggage — but you're well aware of the fact that you can't possibly survive without both a curler and a straightener. Plus, it's dual voltage for international travel!
Amazon
Promising review: "I randomly bought this little curling iron/straightener to save space for travel...and after trying it out, I now find myself reaching for it over my big, expensive, full-sized regular curling iron and straightener. It just heats up so fast and does the best job, especially curling. It curls quickly, and the curls last all day. On both regular hair and extensions. If I could change anything about it, it would be to have it in a full-sized version, too, with the same effectiveness. Not sure if one exists, but if it does, I will buy it." —Melanie
Get it from Amazon for $43.77.
10. A simple luggage strap that can hold your essentials, like a travel pillow, jacket, personal item, and more, as you scoot along through the airport. Here's to quickly gathering all your stuff post-screen and freeing up those hands!
Amazon
Promising review: "Definitely what I needed for my luggage as a flight attendant. Very heavy duty and perfect for me. Works great with my extra luggage and lunch bag to hang on my suitcase. Thank you so much. Will definitely buy again." —Mary
Get it from Amazon for $8.49+ (available in five colors).
11. An electronics organizer to keep all of your favorite small gadgets and chargers on hand and keep the mess of wires compact so that they're not taking up extra much-needed space in your bag.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I am a flight attendant, and I LOVE this organizer! I keep my iPad, passport, cords, paperwork, and hand sanitizer in here. It keeps me organized! Definitely recommend to anyone who travels and needs to keep organized." —amazonislife
Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in four colors and two sizes).
12. A trifold travel wallet that will hold all of your cards, money, and travel documents. It's thin enough to slip into the tiniest of pouches, and this RFID-blocking case can help protect your sensitive information as you catch that last-minute red-eye flight back to your hometown.
www.amazon.com
The wallet has a passport pocket, boarding pass compartment, three credit card slots, an ID slot, a slim card pouch, slim pocket, a ticket slot, a cellphone pouch, a coin zippered pocket, key holder, and pen holder.
Promising review: "This was a great travel wallet to have on a recent overseas trip. I have no idea if that RFID stuff actually works, but the zippers were easy to use, and the wallet snapped securely. Just the right amount of pockets and didn't add too much bulk to my carrying bag! Simple design, decently made and a good buy." —nostalgia88
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 27 colors).
13. A bendy travel pillow so you can get some rest (without hurting or straining your neck), no matter how awkward those budget airline or even your car seats are situated.
Amazon
Promising review: "I'm a flight attendant, and I travel with this pillow all the time! In hotel rooms, I use it to support my neck, on the plane, I use it to support my lumbar area. When I drive, it helps my lower back. I love that it has a liner that can be removed to wash. I bought my boyfriend one too, and it goes everywhere we do!" —Debbie
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in five colors and four sizes).
14. Or a Trtl travel pillow that frankly looks almost like a scarf, you can easily adjust to give you that perfect tilt ratio that brings the ultimate comfort. Time to actually get some snoozes on the plane. 😴😴😴
Amazon
BuzzFeed Shopping contributor loves this! She says: "I've used this for the past few years and swear by it! Before this, I always found traditional neck pillows uncomfortable and would end up ditching them halfway through the flight and getting frustrated. The Trtl pillow is adjustable — you wrap the pillow around your neck and secure it with Velcro, and if you find it's too loose, just make it a bit tighter! I've truly never slept better on a plane than with this pillow."
Promising review: "As a flight attendant, I travel all the time. This makes getting stuck in a middle seat palatable. I've used this in cars, planes, trains, etc. It is great. My sister was so jealous on our last trip to Italy that she kept trying to steal it off me. Ordered her one for Christmas." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $64.99 (available in five colors and four sizes/styles).
15. A collapsible silicone water bottle because you don't want to spend the entire flight asking the stewardess for teensy tiny cups of water that you down in a single shot. Plus, it'll be incredibly helpful when you want to take a bottle of water onto the plane but don't have the time to buy a $10 one at the gate.
Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed
on our BuzzFeed Shopping team says: "I bought this water bottle before a 2.5-week trip to Vietnam (where you don't drink tap water) and Malaysia (where you do). I didn't want to bring one of my ride-or-die S'well bottles because it would take up extra room in my bag when I wouldn't be able to use it during the majority of the trip. This handy silicone bottle did just the trick! It's very easy to roll up and *stays* rolled up thanks to the just-stretchy-enough loop. Said loop was also very handy while walking through airports and just around sightseeing. The bottle is easy to clean and doesn't make my water taste weird. I'm now using it as my daily water bottle and feel confident it'll serve me well for a long time. Plus! With a collapsible water bottle, it's easier to remember if you left water in it before you go through security."
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six colors).
16. An on-the-go Gillette razor to easily fit in even the most stuffed of backpacks. This lil Venus has a pivoting head that adjusts to your curves, so there's no need for awkwardly angling your razor. It's perfect for a quick touch-up before hitting the beaches of Cancun.
www.amazon.com
It comes with one handle and one blade refill but will work with other normal Venus refills!
Promising review: "The travel-size shaver is definitely a space saver, along with a lovely case that has holes to help ventilation and prevent mold. Don't let the cuteness fool you. Despite its much smaller size, the handle is easy to handle and grasp." —Sight Seer
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
17. A luggage-mounted cup caddy because the most important item on your travel day checklist is the Starbucks drink you pick up as a reward after braving the tedious security line. This just attaches right onto your suitcase and has two large pockets — perfect for carrying that breakfast sandwich you couldn't resist ordering along with your favorite Refresher.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I'm a flight attendant, and I love this one! I love the Velcro 'quick detachment.' It's the best! I had one before without the Velcro opening that just stretched over the handle, and it was a PAIN! This one is great! There's room for two large drinks and a slim pocket for my phone or wallet. Many people see it and ask where I got my clever little caddy!" —Debra G
Get it from Amazon for $11.39+ (available in 26 colors and patterns).
18. A hands-free (rotating!) phone mount perfect for propping up your device during any long plane rides. The strong clamp can attach itself to just about anything — your seat tray, suitcase handle, etc. And the dual joints and 360-degree rotation allow for the best viewing angles! Now you don't have to settle for absolute boredom when boarding those budget airlines that don't have a screen.
Amazon
Promising review: "I used it on a round trip. It is has a powerful and sturdy clip that will attach to almost anything. I didn't have to attempt to balance it on the food tray or strain my neck. It remained at eye level and never attempted to sway or fall. I'd buy it again. Also I'd consider it as a stocking stuffer for a frequent traveler. This is definitely a thumbs-up!" —Kara
Get it from Amazon for $11.18+ (available in seven colors).
19. A Beis backpack you can zip open like a suitcase to fit enough clothes for your quick weekend getaway. Having this bag on hand is KEY if you're trying to take as many outfits as physically possible, while still keeping things light and compact enough to avoid baggage fees.
Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed
on our shopping team says: "I snagged this backpack after hearing my colleague Chelsea Stuart sing its praises. I had a trusty (now discontinued) InCase backpack I used as a personal item and served me well on dozens of trips for about five years. But I wanted a bag for some upcoming travel (2.5 weeks in Europe with *just* carry-on for five flights) that opens up like a suitcase for easier packing. Since buying, I've taken it on two long weekend trips (Amtrak to Newport, Rhode Island, for a wedding and regional train to a Connecticut country lake house) 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 enough wet toilet toiletries in the second pocket as I'd be allowed to carry on for a plane. In the mesh pocket, I put other necessities like cotton swabs, medicine, eyeglasses, etc. The main compartment is deceptively deep, so you can easily roll clothes and Lego-fit them in together without using packing cubes. In fact, I fit all of the stuff in the second picture in that section (a romper, PJs, a bikini, sunscreen, five pairs of undies, a pair of jean shorts, nap dress, three pairs of socks, two pairs of sandals, two T-shirts, a slip skirt, sleep mask, curling iron, mini flat iron, makeup bag, and tote bag). 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. But before I forget, there's a separate cushioned laptop pocket close to the backpack straps that I found works well for books or a Kindle if your travel leaves you laptop-less.
I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won't fall out. In fact, I stuck a flashlight and an umbrella in one side pocket. (You could always use a flashlight.) Plus! It has a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, writing pens...all sorts of those little extras you need to access quickly. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into overhead storage compartments on the trains. I love the look and construction of it with faux leather and sturdy black canvas, and the trolley pass-through to easily fit on my roller suitcase, I'm about to drag through a bunch of airports. 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 Travel for $118 (available in six colors).
20. A packing list pad perfect for making sure you don't forget the gifts for all your little niblings, the Insta-worthy outfits you've meticulously picked out, and the dozens of extra chargers you need for all your gadgets. Write out your list well in advance so you don't end up panic shopping at the last second in a foreign city when you realize you've forgotten your flip-flops.
Amazon
Promising review: "I hate packing — I mean, I really hate packing! I am always afraid I am going to forget something, and the entire ordeal is a stressful one for me. Since I have to travel a lot, this is a game-changer. No more guessing if I forgot my underwear — everything I need is on this list. I am thinking of just keeping one bag totally packed, filled with the items on the list, and just adding my suit in when I am ready to travel. :)" —Dr. Oceanfront
Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in two colors and a road trip version).
21. A 3-in-1 foldable wireless charging pad so that you don't have to debate which of your chargers you need to leave behind — because carrying three separate wires takes up a ridiculous amount of space. This can charge your phone, smartwatch, and earbuds all at once!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Lift up the circle on the watch charger that doubles as a watch stand. Green lights pop up when fully charged, but that feature can be turned off for those with sensitivity to light.
Promising review: "Super compact and sleek, so far no issues with charging my iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, and performance remains consistent. This charger has eliminated at least two additional cords, and I deeply appreciate not having to shuffle chargers around when packing for travel. The charging light has an on/off feature by the watch pad, so I'm able to keep it on the bedside table at night without a bright green light shining in my face. Overall, a great value for the money and such a great tool for staying organized during travel." —Cassandra
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two colors).
22. An adjustable universal travel harness seat perfect for any little ones six months or up, so you can 🪄bippity boppity boo🪄 any ol' chair into a highchair. Now you can secure your kiddo when you find yourself at your airport Chili's, even when there's not a single highchair in sight.
Amazon
FYI, this is suited for little ones from the ages of six months and up.
Liuliuby is a New York-based small business that specializes in stroller and car seat accessories.
Promising review: "This thing was amazing! I give it 10 stars — it fits every type of chair we encountered on our Kenyan vacation! Kept our toddler controlled and made feeding on the go so easy. Very lightweight and packable, a vacation must-have!" —Kireme1
Get it from Amazon for $28.99.
23. A pack of LeakLocks Toiletry Skins that can be extended to fit both full-size and travel-size toiletries like shampoo, sunscreen, or any other liquids — because the last thing you want is droplets of your lotion staining your expensive top.
www.amazon.com
Rinseroo is a small business specializing in problem-solving cleaning, pet, and travel products.
Promising review: "These covered various sizes of products — hair care, body wash, etc. Nothing leaked out of these whatsoever, even after a lid popped open during a flight. These prevented it from leaking out on the other contents of my luggage. Easy to use. Not flimsy. Very flexible. LOVE THESE!" —TAG
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $11.99 (available in two color sets and also available in an eight-pack).
24. A digital luggage scale so you're not zipping open your bulky suitcase right there on the floor of the airport's check-in counter and trying to stuff three different jeans into your son's backpack. Bring this puppy wherever the adventure takes you, and never have to worry about paying those exorbitant oversized baggage fees again!
www.amazon.com
You can also switch between pound and kilogram measurements.
Here's what BuzzFeed editor has to say about this: "I tested this digital luggage scale out when packing for a trip to Iceland — check out my demo of how it works on TikTok!"
Promising review: "We used this on a six-flight trip across Europe and it made it easy to know that we repacked our bags according to the various weight limits. Some bags had a 10-kg limit and some had a 50-lb limit so it was convenient to switch back and forth between units (even though dividing by 2.2 isn't exactly rocket science)." —Robert
Get it from Amazon for $9.89+ (available in four colors and a two-pack).
25. A combination 3D eye mask/travel pillow because the guy in the seat in front of you refuses to close that window shade when it's clearly time for some shut-eye. This will block out the light, keep your head straight so it doesn't bob and jolt you out of sleep, and just overall help you catch some relaxing Zs before you land.
www.amazon.com
This contraption provides 360-degree support thanks to a wraparound design and clips that connect it to your seat's headrest.
Promising review: "Just took a 15-hour flight with this travel pillow, and this was the best travel pillow by far. I've used inflatable and memory foam neck pillows before; the major problem is that they don't secure your head and torso, so either your muscles have to hold up your body, or your head and torso will end up swinging around, and both are disruptive to sleep. With this travel pillow, my muscles can relax, and the padded eye mask will hold up my head and torso. One minor downside is that the pillow needs to be mounted on your seat's headrest; if someone bumps your seat, it can be disruptive, but this rarely happens. Its size and weight are also much less than memory foam neck pillows, and I don't have to bring an extra eye mask, so it is very travel-friendly." —Sky
Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in nine colors).
26. Or a cooling, memory foam contoured sleep mask to block out the light streaming through your neighbor's open window. 🙄 This mask basically molds itself to your face, and its contoured design prevents pressure around the eyes — allowing you to have a comfy sleep even as you try to snooze on the plane.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "The BEST BEST BEST and most comfortable sleep mask I've found. Night shifter for years, and have tried everything. Many other sleep masks have some qualities but not all. This one is AMAZINGLY SOFT, VERY THICK, plush, high quality material, quality stitching that won't come apart like so many others that are cheaply made, and it's EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE even though it's a good price. Very impressed and pleasantly surprised." —Amazon Customer
"I loved it so much, I bought a second for my boyfriend! We both travel so much that sometimes you end up in a hotel room where the blinds still let in light, and this blocks it out without compressing your eyelids where it feels like you're being forced to keep them shut. I love that the compression contours around your eye so that you can open your eyes without feeling like you're restricted. I love it so much I sleep with it at home now and I never travel without it!" —Jordann
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in eight colors).
27. A Pashmina scarf you can use as a cutesy travel accessory, a comfy blanket or pillow, a wrap, a nursing cover, or even a shield from that summer sun since it's got UPF 50+ protection! You're about to drape this around your neck before every trip.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I absolutely love this wrap!! It is the perfect weight and size for travel. It didn't leave my side on an 11-day backpack trip through Europe and was used as a scarf, blanket, towel, and wrap all throughout the trip. Fashionable enough to dress up a basic travel day outfit, warm enough to keep away a chill on a cooler night, and light enough to pack away small into a bag or tie around a purse strap. I can't say enough great things! I am buying these as gifts for everyone I know who travels." —Jenn
Get it from Amazon for $36+ (available in nine colors).
28. Or a nursing scarf with a magnetic snap mechanism so you can feed your little one in absolute style. Drape this scarf around your neck, or keep it on hand, decorating your diaper bag, so you can nurse your baby absolutely anywhere without fear of it clashing with your perfect travel look.
Piolina
Say hello to one of my new favorite parenting products!! As a breastfeeding mom, with a baby who is always looking to feed, I'm constantly finding myself either nursing or pumping in public. The previous covers I was using were both as conspicuous as they were... shall we say... not the prettiest?? I was also always worried that the previous cover I had was not providing the proper coverage I needed. And then I got this scarf.
It has a magnetic snap design that keeps the scarf secure around my neck, so I don't need to worry about my daughter snatching the cover off me. It's deceptively large and covers absolutely what it needs to! Plus, it's So. Freaking. Pretty!!! Finally, a mom-necessity that actually elevates my outfit instead of ruining it! It's the perfect accessory — I keep it around the handle of my diaper bag because it looks beautiful there, and it ensures that I always have it on hand. I even took it on a few trips, and I've gotten a ton of compliments every time I use it.
It's literally motherhood made chic.
Promising review: "I'm genuinely in love! I've had my eye on this scarf for a while and decided to buy it for myself for Mother's Day. We spent the day by a trendy pool in Hollywood with my 2-month-old baby, and it was such a great accessory. I was able to comfortably breastfeed throughout the day while looking chic. I love how soft & light it is while offering the perfect amount of coverage." —Hana L.
Get it from Piolina for $82 (available in three colors).
29. A travel-friendly blanket-slash-pillow so you're always comfy, even when those budget airline seats seem to be getting harder and harder each time you book them, and that A/C is blasted to the max. Use it as either a blanket or fold it into a pillow. And with the strap on the back, it can be slid onto your luggage handlebars for easy access!
Amazon
EverSnug is a small business that sells travel sleeping care kits.
Check it out on TikTok here.
Promising review: "I ordered two of these and my daughter and I both use them numerous times while flying recently. They compact nicely, have a loop that can go through the handle of a carry-on, and are the perfect size for snuggling up and sleeping on the airplane. It is lightweight and I will not fly again without it!" —SweetMama
Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in seven colors).
30. A travel jewelry case for storing your absolute *best* of friends. This box has seven slot rolls and three rectangular compartments, so you can store anything from rings to earrings to necklaces! Don't deal with the stress of misplacing any of your favorite pieces within your mountain of clothes — these will keep those gorgeous earrings on hand for date night.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
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 eight colors).
31. And the Ring Thing — a ~waterproof~ case that'll keep your most precious jewels safe and secure whenever you want to take a quick dip in the pool. This can clip onto your bag or reusable water bottle for easy access, because the worst thing that can happen on your honeymoon is losing your gorgeous wedding ring just days after saying "I do". 💍
Amazon
The Ring Thing comes from BringThings, Inc., a woman-owned company dedicated to making "stylish, functional products." They donate a portion of each sale to anti-human trafficking non-profits.
Promising review: "I take my wedding ring off at night when I go to bed. When I'm at home, I put it in a ring dish. But, whenever I am traveling, I'm always afraid that I might forget it or it might get knocked onto the floor, and I won't be able to find it. So this works perfectly for me. Since it has a clip on it, I attach it inside my bathroom bag, and the problem is solved. My rings are safe and secure and won't be forgotten." —CG
Get it from Amazon for $17.95 (available in 15 colors).
32. A Tushbaby carrier with extra pockets for diapers, bottles, and your wallet and phone, so you don't have to carry around an oversized diaper bag or try pushing around a clunky stroller as you visit the gorgeous landmarks on your vacation. This will help support your little one's weight and take some strain off your back and arms, which is perfect for your clingy little tyke who wants to stay as close to you as possible while you're exploring a new city.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "We bought this for a cruise and used it every day. We loved it so much, we now only use this instead of our other, more expensive chest carrier." —Tyson Bowers
Get it from Amazon for $84.99 (available in three colors/designs).
33. And a Cybex Coya travel stroller so your stroller doesn't get damaged or — heavens forbid — lost when tossed around in your airport's baggage claim. This is the perfect travel stroller to have once your little one is able to hold themselves up since it can easily be compacted, has a built-in carrying handle, can fit in a plane's overhead compartment, AND is customizable. Luxury meets convenience.
Samar Hadri / BuzzFeed
This travel stroller is super customizable — you can mix and match the metal of the stroller as well as the color, so you can choose the perfect combination for you.
I love this stroller with every fiber of my being. Now, there may be other travel strollers that are cheaper out there, but believe me, none as comfy and as luxurious as this. Driving this around the airport when I went to NYC, I'm not gonna lie, I almost felt too fancy. My daughter was comfy in the stroller the entire time (and I'm the type of traveler that's there at least a solid three hours early), which is actually super impressive considering she's currently in the "fight for freedom all day, every day" stage.
Traveling with a baby is hard, and if this is your first, you're definitely gonna realize pretty darn quickly how difficult it is when compared to your pre-baby life. This stroller has made it so easy for me. I don't have to worry about the airline sending my checked-in stroller to the baggage claim (thus forcing me to carry a heavy baby for like half an hour), nor do I have to worry about it getting damaged when tossed with other luggage. This easily folds, has a carrying handle built in so I don't have to worry about bringing a separate carrying case, and is super easy to open up when it's time to exit the flight. I can't state enough how much I love this.
Get it from Cybex for $599.95 (available in a variety of colors and customizations).
Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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CNBC
25 minutes ago
- CNBC
Asian visitors to Japan fell because of a strange manga prediction. Here's why
Visitor interest in Japan plunged in June, amid a prophecy in a manga that predicted a "disaster" would strike Japan in July 2025. The prediction was in a 2021 reprint of a Japanese comic book, or manga, titled "Watashi ga Mita Mirai, Kanzenban" (which translates to "The Future That I Saw, Complete Edition") by artist Ryo Tatsuki. In the original printing of the book in 1999, the cover page referenced a "disaster in March 2011." In March 2011, Japan suffered its most powerful earthquake on record, the Great Tohoku Earthquake, which caused almost 20,000 deaths and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster. The Amazon listing for the reprint stated that the author had "new prophetic dreams" including the "real disaster will come in July 2025," according to a Google translation. CN Yuen, managing director of Hong Kong-based travel agency WWPKG told CNBC that the rumor was widely circulated in Hong Kong, where it spread over mainstream media, TV networks and through YouTube influencers. Visitors arrivals from Hong Kong plunged 33.4% year on year in June, following an earlier 11.2% drop in May, according to Japan's National Tourism Organization. Yuen said his agency has seen a 50% decrease in bookings and inquiries in April and May to Japan from last year. Tourist arrivals from other Asian countries also experienced slower growth. Arrivals from South Korea rose just 3.8% in June compared with May's 11.8%. Arrivals from Taiwan slowed significantly as well, from a 15.5% increase in May to 1.8% in June. Overseas visitors to Japan grew 24%, on average, from January to May of this year, compared to 2024. But June arrivals only saw a 7.6% increase, according to Japan's travel statistics. WWPKG's Yuen said he is used to travel downturns related to natural disasters, which usually end after the incident is over. But "this time, it's different, because nothing happened actually. It's only a rumor, or prophecy," he told CNBC. "This is the first time we've seen such an incident." Hong Kong and Japanese media reported earlier in July that Hong Kong airlines cut flights to some Japanese cities, including Nagoya. A January report from Japan's Asahi Shimbun, citing the country's Headquarters for Earthquake Research Promotion, also warned that the likelihood of a megaquake in the next 30 years had risen to 80%—a development that, combined with the prediction, created a "perfect storm" to deter travelers, Yuen said. However, Japan's Meteorological Agency said: "It should be noted that the issuance of information indicating elevated potential for a Nankai Trough earthquake does not necessarily mean that one will actually strike." JNTO data showed that the share of Asian tourists fell year on year in June, but that of Western countries rose. Experts CNBC spoke to gave various reasons, including cultural ones. "Manga is not just entertainment; it is widely read across age groups and carries a bit of cultural authority in some Asian societies," said Zimbayah Kamble, a senior lecturer for hospitality at James Cook University. That, combined with memories of past disasters and the reality of Japan's seismic vulnerability, mean that such warnings "resonate strongly" in the region, she said. Kiattipoom Kiatkawsin, associate professor of hospitality and tourism management from the Singapore Institute of Management, said the rapid spread of the rumors through social media platforms and the collectivist nature of many Asian societies led to a social amplification of perceived risk. "This means that even if some individuals have doubts, the collective response of their community or peers can significantly influence their decisions, leading to widespread behavioral changes, such as travel cancelations," Kiatkawsin said. "In this case, a fictional narrative amplified by social media could have created a compelling, if scientifically unfounded reason to defer travel," he said. But both experts also pointed to a more ordinary reason: the flexibility of short-haul travel. Kiatkawsin said the costs of canceling the flights and hotel bookings are not perceived as a barrier anymore. "If they do not travel to Japan this time, they can go another time without much hassle to arrange again," he said he does not expect the prediction will affect Japan's overall travel outlook, given that the prediction is restricted to the month of July.


Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
Dreams Take Flight At JFK's Iconic TWA Hotel
The stunning TWA Hotel at JFK Airport in New York. David Mitchell Remember when flying used to be glamorous? No? Well, it's time for a stay at the gorgeous TWA Hotel, a welcoming oasis in the chaos and construction that is the current state of New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. The former TWA terminal, which was built in 1962 by renowned architect Eero Saarinen (who also designed the legendary Gateway Arch in St. Louis) and is considered an architectural masterpiece, has been transformed into a breathtaking space that's part hotel, part gathering place for dining, musing and even swimming, and part museum with fascinating historical artifacts and mid-century modern eye candy everywhere you look. Staying here is such a unique experience but is also practical because it's the only hotel on the actual airport property — and it's Air Train-accessible. This makes it an ideal place to spend the night when you have an early morning flight. Even better if your flight is leaving from Terminal 5, which connects to the hotel via super-cool flight tubes. Room with a (runway) view at TWA Hotel David Mitchell There are 512 rooms at the hotel and, although I've stayed in their standard rooms, which are fine, it's absolutely worth splurging for one with a runway view. Unlike the photo above, our king bed directly faced the floor to ceiling windows, providing a bird's eye look at the planes taking off and landing. Honestly, we didn't need a TV in the room (although there was a nice big screen one) because this was a show in itself and we actually spent much of the evening guessing where they were going, talking about where we wanted to go and reminiscing over past trips. We even put away our phones. What's amazing is that, despite the up close and personal views of all the action, you can't hear any of it, thanks to the second-thickest windows in the world. We were also glad to have blackout shades for sleeping but put them right back up as soon as we rose in the morning. I loved the flattering Hollywood-style vanity in the bathroom and the adorable vintage TWA toiletry kit. My husband was happy to grab a *few* (LOL) of his favorite TWA pencils from the well-stocked holder on the desk. Dining at TWA Hotel Enjoy a drink at Connie Cocktail Lounge in a retired 1958 Lockheed Constellation airplane. David Mitchell On previous stays, we usually end up grabbing something to eat in the hotel's expansive Food Hall, which features New York staples like bagels, pizza, Feltman's hot dogs and Mister Softee ice cream. This time, though, we decided to up our game and try Paris Cafe by Jean-Georges instead. Our fish and chips were pricey but delicious and we were intrigued by the fact that the menu was inspired by old TWA in-flight menus. If all the '60s Mad Men vibes are making you crave a martini, head outside, climb the stairs up into an actual 1958 Lockheed Constellation airplane turned cocktail lounge and order a Vodka is My Co-Pilot. Connie Cocktail Lounge, named one of the best hotel bars in the world, is a fun place to have a drink or at least post some selfies. Things to see and do at TWA Hotel Step back into the '60s in the Twister room. Lois Alter Mark TWA Hotel is an Instagrammer's dream, from the eye-popping Twister room (where you can actually play the game) to the pretty in pink Sweet'N Glow Salon to the beautiful lines and curves of the architecture. One of the many exhibits on display at TWA Hotel. David Mitchell It's also a mecca for aviation geeks and historians, who will appreciate the free museum-quality exhibits curated by the New York Historical Society. You can see TWA uniforms from 1945-2001, vintage in-flight amenities and original TWA travel posters, interact in period-perfect recreations of historic rooms and study dozens of photos and timelines. The rooftop infinity pool at TWA Hotel. StephanieBC There's an infinity pool on the roof that's as inviting in the winter, when it's set to a balmy 95 degrees, as it is for cooling off during the hot New York summer. If you feel compelled to work out during your stay, the world's largest hotel gym is complimentary for guests and offers 14 Peloton bikes, lots of other machines and equipment and a full yoga studio. A stay at TWA Hotel is a must for anyone who loves to travel. If only your pre- and post-stay flights were as civilized and sophisticated as the ones celebrated here.


Forbes
an hour ago
- Forbes
The Very Best Personal Item Bags, According To A Travel Editor
If a flight is in your future, chances are you'll be packing a personal item bag alongside your luggage. These bags help keep your hands free at the airport and can easily slide under the front seat on any airline. As Forbes Vetted's senior travel editor and a frequent flier myself, I selected the best personal item bags on the market today, including the editor-favorite Calpak Luka Duffel, and my top personal item backpack pick, the Aer City Pack 2. The best personal item bags keep your hands free at the airport and can easily slide underneath the ... More seat in front of you. Illustration: Forbes / Images: Retailer Unlike carry-on backpacks, which can be an alternative to a suitcase, a personal item bag can be brought on your flight in addition to your carry-on luggage. Generally, a bag measuring 18 x 14 x 8 inches qualifies as a personal item—all of our selections adhere to this guideline. However, 'personal item bags restrictions can vary by airline,' says Ally Gibson, a travel content creator who has visited over 30 countries. 'I always recommend double checking the dimensions before travel.' Below, my selections for the best personal item bags of 2025. Our Top Recommendations Best Personal Item Bag Overall: Calpak Luka Duffel Best Personal Item Backpack: Aer City Pack 2 Best Personal Item Tote Bag: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe Best Convertible Personal Item Bag: Fjällräven Kånken Totepack Best Personal Item Bag For Organization: Away Everywhere Zip Backpack Best Rolling Personal Item Bag: Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 8 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Capacity: 22L | Material: Polyester Best for: Weather-resistant nylon exterior Ample pockets, including shoe compartment Comfortable shoulder handles and crossbody strap Skip if: You want a bag you can wear on your back I've used Calpak's Luka Duffel as both a personal item bag and a weekender bag, and it's always the first item I reach for when I want a duffel option that allows me to easily store a pair of shoes. Alongside its spacious shoe compartment, this bag is a favorite of mine thanks to its soft, pillowy material that makes its handles among the most comfortable of any bag I've used (and the reason I've named it not only a great personal item bag, but one of the best luggage pieces to travel with). Its polyester exterior is also fairly water-resistant, making it a great option for multiple climates, and allowing the bag to be smooth enough to slide under the seat of any airline without snagging. It's an ideal size (there's also a large version available that can serve as a carry-on item), and is reasonably priced at under $150, especially for a style that stands the test of time. Dimensions: 18 x 12 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 2.5 pounds | Capacity: 16L | Materials: Cordura nylon Best for: Easy organization Dedicated laptop compartment A durable Cordura nylon exterior Skip if: You don't want to carry a backpack You want more color options (currently only available in black) San Francisco-based gear company Aer makes some of the most well-constructed travel backpacks on the market today, and the City Pack 2 has become one of my favorites. As its name suggests, this bag is specifically tailored to storing—and protecting—your gear as you hop from city to city. Featuring compartments that house a 16-inch laptop, tablet, phone, cords, chargers and more, the bag makes it easy to stay organized since there's a place for everything—including a dedicated Apple AirTag pocket to help you keep track of your valuables. It has a clean, no-frills design, but don't let its minimalism fool you: The bag's durable Cordura exterior is designed to withstand heavy handling, whether it ends up under the seat or in the overhead storage. Dimensions: 11.6 x 9.4 x 12.7 inches | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Capacity: 23L | Materials: Quilted REC nylon, Italian leather detailing Best for: Organizational pockets Weatherproof exterior Large capacity Skip if: A tote feels too deep for your packing needs You want to avoid leather materials MZ Wallace's Large Metro Tote Deluxe is one of my all-time favorite travel bags—I've traveled with it to multiple continents and have stuffed almost an entire wardrobe inside of it. That bag, however, measures a bit larger than the standard personal item allowance on most airlines, so to be on the safe side, I recommend the brand's Medium Metro Tote as the best option for a tote to bring on board. What really stands out about MZ Wallace's totes are the plethora of pockets: Each bag in this Metro style is built with six zipped interior pockets that include ones right near the handles, making it easy to reach for a passport or wallet. The tote's quilted nylon material is another plus: It's soft and comfortable on your shoulders (it also comes with an attachable shoulder strap) as well as being virtually weatherproof—it kept all of my items (including a laptop) dry when I got caught in a torrential downpour in Athens. Fjällräven Fjällräven Kånken Totepack Dimensions: 14.2 x 11.8 x 5.9 inches | Weight: 11.6 ounces | Capacity: 14L | Materials: Vinylon F (mix of recycled polyester and cotton) Best for: Can be converted to a tote Water-resistant Lightweight Skip if: You want more storage—this is one of the smaller bags on our list If, like me, you love a tote bag but sometimes need a break from putting all of its weight on one shoulder, Fjällräven's Kånken Totepack delivers: Pull down on one of its webbed shoulder handles and transition it into backpack straps for a hands-free carry option. Its flexible design is ideal for when you're on the go, and its dedicated laptop sleeve and three pockets make it great for storing your in-flight essentials without taking up too much underseat space. This bag is made of the brand's G-1000 Vinylon F fabric, a mix of recycled polyester and cotton that's both durable and water-resistant. For extra water protection, it's also compatible with Greenland Wax, a sustainable and DIY-friendly waterproofing method. Dimensions: 12 x 5.9 x 17.7 inches | Weight: 2.45 pounds | Capacity: 20L | Materials: Nylon, leather Best for: Organization Clamshell opening Durable nylon and leather exterior Skip if: You don't want to carry a backpack You need an exterior water bottle holder I've traveled with a wide variety of Away luggage over the years, and the brand has quickly become one of my favorites thanks to its durability. Gibson agrees: 'Away bags always hold up so well, even after tons of travel.' I personally keep reaching for the brand's Everywhere Zip Backpack thanks to its full clamshell opening that makes it easy to spot my items as soon as I open it. The bag also features no shortage of pockets, including several hidden zippered pockets that can store smaller items like keys or lip balm. The exterior's nylon and leather is stylish and durable enough to withstand your flight, and on the backside there's a trolley sleeve that allows it to attach to your suitcase handle. One thing to note: The water bottle holder is inside the main compartment, not on the exterior like with many other backpacks. Samsonite Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner Dimensions: 9 x 13.5 x 16.5 inches | Weight: 5.6 pounds | Capacity: 10.5L | Materials: Polyester Best for: 360-degree spinner wheels Built-in USB port Exterior pockets Skip if: You don't want to roll your personal item bag A rolling suitcase efficiently stores your goods while taking the weight off your shoulders, and this petite version from editor-approved luggage brand Samsonite is designed to fit under most airlines' seats. It has four 360-degree spinning wheels for easy airport maneuvering and a built-in USB port to charge your tech on the go (batteries sold separately). I like its easy-access exterior pockets for items you'll need on hand—like an ID or boarding pass—and its interior compartments protect your small laptop or tablet, toiletries, clothes and more. Take note: If you're traveling with a purse or crossbody, you'll need to store it inside this bag before boarding the plane or the airline will count this as a carry-on suitcase. If there's one thing the Forbes Vetted travel team loves (besides an epic trip, of course), it's a smart travel product. We've researched, evaluated and written about travel accessories—from the best garment bags to the best packing cubes—to make your trip better, easier and more organized. This story was written by Astrid Taran, Forbes Vetted's senior travel editor, who's been to over 40 countries and has over 8 years of experience in the travel space. She is a frequent flier who has used several of the personal item bags on this list. This story was edited by Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung, who approved all product picks. She oversees the travel and fashion sections, and has traveled with her beloved Calpak Luka on domestic and international trips. For this story, Taran spoke to Ally Gibson , a travel content creator who has visited over 30 countries with many of the backpacks on this list. Gibson shared key insights as well as her own recommendations for personal item bags. We relied on expert advice, independent reviews, research and personal experience to select our top recommendations for the best personal item bags. Our travel team evaluated ten different bags for this review, testing many top options over the course of months. Our winners were evaluated based on their design, materials, dimensions, capacity, interior organization and durability. We researched all the brands featured on this list to ensure each has a strong reputation and positive reviews, focusing on models with an average rating of at least 4 stars and negligible concerning reviews, if any. The final products on this list reflect in-depth research conducted by our writer and meticulous vetting by the editorial team.