As a travel products editor logging over 200,000 miles annually on more than 100 flights, I’ve tested countless travel essentials and have come to rely on a few key essentials to make each journey seamless. From innovative luggage and bags to smart travel tech and must-have toiletries, today, we’re going inside my bag to see what trusted products never leave my side.
I rarely check bags, so having a reliable carry-on is crucial. The Briggs & Riley Essential 22-Inch Spinner offers a best-in-class 50 liters of capacity. Its clever design keeps clothes wrinkle-free with a tri-fold garment holder and an external handle that ensures a flat base. It's my go-to bag for any trip, big or small.
Maintaining a skincare routine while traveling is essential. This compact set includes everything I need to cleanse, hydrate and protect my skin, with a refreshing Aloe Vera Cleansing Gel and a soothing Lavender Protective Moisturizer SPF 17. It’s my daily ritual whether I’m getting off a red-eye or at a beach resort.
Compact and efficient, this toothbrush has become my travel favorite. It features powerful sonic technology, a 40-day battery life and a UV self-cleaning case. With USB-C charging, it’s one less cord to worry about, and the 100-day smile guarantee gives peace of mind that it’ll perform well.
Keeping devices charged is non-negotiable, and the Satechi GaN Travel Charger does the job brilliantly. It uses GaN technology to power up devices three times faster than standard chargers. I’ve taken my iPhone 15 Pro Max from 0% to 50% in just 15 minutes. Plus, it comes with four power adapters for global compatibility.
This charger is my secret weapon. It’s a portable charger and wall port in one, with USB-A and USB-C ports for simultaneous charging. I use it daily as a wall charger and then take it on the go for quick power boosts on the go.
I always keep an AirTag in my luggage. It’s reassuring to know that I can track my belongings if they get lost or left behind. The Find My app makes it easy to locate everything from a misplaced bag to a pair of headphones left in an Uber.
For noise-canceling headphones, the Beoplay HX are unbeatable. Their comfort and sound quality make them ideal for long flights or working remotely. With active noise cancellation and a 35-hour battery life, they’ve become my go-to headphones for drowning out distractions on the road.
This interpreter hub is a recent addition to my kit, which is fantastic for multilingual conversations. With real-time, two-way translation in 40 languages and a unique earbud design, it’s a game-changer for international travel, especially when communicating where I don’t speak the language.
I appreciate a straightforward toiletry bag, and Away’s offering is just that. Its water-resistant material and fully enclosed zipper protect against spills, while the compact design fits neatly into my suitcase. It’s simple but perfectly effective.
Originally designed for toiletries, I use this versatile case to organize my tech accessories and cables. The transparent panel allows for quick access. It’s an easy way to keep things organized and accessible.
For the most part, I’m able to sleep pretty well on planes, but this eye mask makes it even easier. With its six different layers, it offers comfortable and dark rest. It’s also highly portable because it compresses significantly for easy packing.
Bottom line
Frequent travel has taught me the value of reliable, thoughtfully designed travel gear. These products have become my go-to essentials because they consistently perform, whether I’m rushing through an airport, navigating a packed itinerary or just trying to stay comfortable on a long-haul flight.
From a carry-on bag that makes packing effortless to skincare that keeps me feeling refreshed, these are my trusted travel companions. If you’re looking to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable, I can’t recommend these items enough.