23 EDITORS’ TRAVEL ESSENTIALS WE REFUSE TO LEAVE BEHIND

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  • Luggage and Bags
  • The Carry-On You Dont Have to Shove Into the Overhead Bin
  • Sleep Essentials
  • Organization and Tech
  • Skincare and Haircare
  • Health and Wellness
Approximately 1.52 billion people worldwide traveled internationally last year,, while millions of Americans traveled domestically,and our editors are just a small part of those record-breaking numbers. Weve traveled both domestically and internationally to see family, check another place off our bucket list, and explore new cultures and destinations. Plus, traveling is good for our mental health, making us happier, inspiring creativity, and relieving stress.

Regardless of how you travel plane, train, or automobile the process of packing is exciting (and sometimes overwhelming). My husband and I have stuffed an impressive amount of luggage and other items into the back of our Corolla, and weve both stuffed our carry-ons into the overhead bin on a flight, hoping the flight attendant can shut the door without issue. And as a mom, Im not just worrying about myself, but about my kiddo, too (and if you have kids, you know how traveling with them is an entirely different experience).

Part of the reason our editors enjoy traveling is that weve found travel essentials we now swear by that make the experience comfortable. A few of our essentials include carry-on bags that actually fit under the airplane seat or in an overhead bin, an eye mask for a good nights rest, a portable power bank to charge our electronics, and more. Can I just shoot it to you straight? We won't leave for our trips without these items. Keep reading to see our top travel essentials.

Luggage and Bags to Store Your Essentials

A luggage or bag to hold your clothes, toiletries, and other items is a must-have for any trip. And depending on how you travel, the size, capacity, and other important features of your travel gear can make or break your trip. How do I know? I once took my husbands Army backpack on a flight because he insisted it would fit under the airplane seat. Unfortunately, even after using all of my strength to kick and push it under there, some of it still stuck out, resulting in a polite, yet firm warning from the flight attendant to keep trying (That was my first time flying solo, by the way. Never again will I take it on a flight, I told my husband.).

Our editors shared their favorite carry-on luggage, backpacks that actually fit under an airplane seat or the floorboard of your car, and a sling bag youll want to take with you on activities.

A Bag Thats a Marvel of Physics

Nanobag

This bag is a marvel of physics, says editor Olivia Campbell of the Nanobag a reusable shopping bag that folds to an impressively small size for storage. Campbell says shes tried other foldable portable bags, many of which have stiff fabric or dont fold small. Yet, the XL size, which holds 25 liters, is ridiculously light, simple, and convenient, she adds. What we really appreciate is that the bags pouch is attached to the bag, helping us keep track of it while traveling.

The Nanobag also comes in Standard, Sling, Pack, Micro, and Daypack sizes, in fun colors and patterns. Just note that the diamond ripstop fabric isnt thick, so we dont put anything sharp or too heavy inside the bag. But weve used it for months and havent had any quality issues.

For Daily Exploration

Baggalini Securtex Anti-Theft Daytripper Sling Bag

I swear by this Baggallini sling bag for exploring during your trip. The 2.9-liter capacity has three main compartments, two of which have their own interior pockets for additional storage. I can fit all of these essentials with ease: A wallet, my keys, my phone, a bottle of lotion, hand sanitizer, lip balm, eye drops, and a Band-Aid or two.

Its surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to wear, thanks to the adjustable, cut-resistant double-cable strap. I appreciate the exterior water-repellent material and scratch-resistant material in the phone pocket that protect my belongings.

The Carry-On You Dont Have to Shove Into the Overhead Bin

Lipault Paris Plume Cabin

I tested this lightweight luggage a few years ago, and it remains the one I grab for flights because it fits in the overhead bin. I also love it for road trips. My favorite feature is the 360-degree double wheels that make walking or running with it (seriously, I ran through the Atlanta airport with this luggage once) an absolute breeze. I appreciate the two portability options: A side handle for carrying or a top handle for pulling and pushing.

With multiple pockets and a large interior, theres a lot of space to pack your clothes, shoes, and toiletries. It also comes with a TSA-approved lock to keep your items safe, meaning TSA can open the bag without damaging the lock or luggage (not all locks are TSA-approved).

A Backpack That Stores Your Laptop Safely

Fjllrven Knken Laptop 17

If youre traveling with a laptop in tow, we cant recommend a laptop backpack enough. The Fjllrven Knken Laptop 17 features a separate, padded 17-inch laptop compartment, keeping your tech safe and sound through your adventures. The backpack also comes in 13- and 15-inch sizes, so it fits a wider variety of laptops. Editor Katie Tuttle says she can also fit snacks, my headphones, and a charger in the bag, adding, It also works well as a hiking pack. Tuttle has taken this on many trips, and reports that it still looks great despite heavy use.

A Backpack That Actually Fits Under Airplane Seats

Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L Updated

The Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L Updated is one of our editors go-tos for carry-on and car trips (and yes, it really will fit under an airplane seat). It cleans super easily, so I don't worry about it getting gross on the airplane floor, shares editor Ashley Ziegler. At 11.4 x 7.3 x 16.5 inches and with a 22-liter capacity, it offers plenty of storage pockets, space for a laptop or tablet, room for a water bottle, and more. We also love the padded shoulder straps; they help distribute weight evenly, giving our backs a break while traveling.

Sleep Essentials to Help You Snooze Comfortably

If youre like me, sleeping in a new place is nearly impossible (unlike my husband, who can fall asleep anywhere). To help make the transition easier, were packing sound machines, night-lights for the kids, travel pillows, and sleep masks. For parents of newborns, I highly recommend a safe sleep space for little ones, like a portable playard, because while many hotels may have cribs, you dont know their history or whether theyve been recalled.

For Snoozing On the Go

Trtl Travel Pillow

Have you ever tried sleeping on a flight or a long car ride? Tuttle says she wont do any long flights without the Trtl Travel Pillow, and we dont blame her. It wraps around your neck to support your head while you sleep, helping prevent that sudden jerk-awake moment when your head drops. While its lightweight, its odd shape makes it difficult to shove easily into a backpack. Still, were taking it with us any chance we get. Plus, it comes in several colors.

To Help You Find the Bathroom in the Night

Eufy Plug-In Night Light

Whether were staying with family or at a hotel, we always find ourselves needing a light when traveling. We find them particularly helpful when looking for the bathroom in the middle of the night. I particularly like these night lights because they have sensors, so they only turn on when it's dark, and the light is angled low, so they don't shine in your face or fully illuminate the room, Campbell says. The Eufy night light gives off a warm, gentle glow and is small and slim. Just note that the prongs dont fold, so youll want to be careful when packing.

To Block Out All the Light

MZOO Side Sleep Mask

Both Ziegler and editor Lili Ladaga recommend an eye mask as a travel essential; it blocks out light so you can sleep peacefully. This eye mask is different from any others weve tried. Rather than lying flat on your eyes, the mask features 3D contoured cups, which sit around your eyes like goggles just much more comfortable. The material is silky soft, and you can adjust the headband for the best fit, says Ladaga.

A Safe Sleep Space That Doubles As a Play Area

Graco Pack N Play Portable Playard

The Graco Pack N Play saved me during the newborn and toddler stages because it doubles as a safe sleep space and play area. My son had jaundice at birth, so when we werent sitting in the car with him in the sunlight, he napped in this portable playard in the living room with the sun shining in. My husband and I also took it on a few trips because it folds to an impressively compact size for how large it is (39.5 x 28.25 x 29 inches). When kids arent sleeping, they can play safely inside the space while you get a few things done.

For Wearable for Stress Relief

Apollo

The Apollo is a vagus-nerve stimulation device you can wear on your wrist or ankle to help you sleep, relax, and more. I use it at home, and I never leave the house for a trip without it, says editor Alexandra Klausner. Since travel is stressful, this helps a lot.

The vagus nerve helps control digestion and other important functions. A vagus nerve stimulation device delivers silent sound wave vibrations to your body and has been used to help treat depression, migraines, pain, and more.While larger studies are still needed, in one small study, a vagus nerve stimulation device helped those with chronic insomnia sleep better.

A White Noise Machine for Adults and Kids

Canopy 3-in-1 Sleep Soother

With 12 sounds, including white noise and ocean waves, a dimmable nightlight, and adjustable volume, this Canopy sound machine works for anyone in the family. My husband and I use it for my kids (almost 7 and 9) and will also pack it for ourselves when we travel alone, says Ziegler. It's great. It can be plugged in or run on a rechargeable battery. If youre using it for littles, take advantage of the cordless option by clipping it to a stroller for on-the-go naps. It also includes a felt diffuser for your favorite essential oil.

Organization and Tech Must-Haves

Aside from the last day of vacation, when its acceptable to throw everything in your luggage or bag, staying organized throughout your trip makes life easier. Its also important to spend your time in healthy ways, such as drawing or reading, and to keep your devices charged. Here are several of our editors organization and tech must-haves.

To Keep Anyone in the Family Busy

Royal & Langnickel Essentials 16pc Drawing Keep N Carry Travel Art Set

Whether youre an artist or not, you wont regret packing this slim drawing set for anyone in the family. The carrying case contains 12 colored pencils, one eraser, one sharpener, and one drawing pad. A zipper closure ensures everything stays put when youre done with your masterpiece. Its so lightweight that we didnt even notice it in our carry-on backpacks during several flights.

It's a great option for older kids as a screen alternative (or when the Wi-Fi is spotty on a flight), says Campbell. It would also be a great calming activity for teens and adults.

To Keep Your Medicine Nearby and Organized

FEATY Weekly Pill Organizer 2 Times a Day

Its so easy to miss taking a pill when youre busy traveling, but we really appreciate how this pill organizer helps us remember such an important task. The container includes separate boxes for each day of the week, including AM and PM compartments, and theyre all color-coded so you dont mix them up. I can take just one day's worth in my bag with me when I'm out for a day (this was especially helpful when I went to Disney with my family I left all of the other days' pills in the hotel room and just carried one day's worth with me), says Ziegler.

It is slightly bulky if you carry the whole thing, but its still handy to travel with, so you can leave medicine bottles at home. We love it so much that it even earned a spot on our list of the best pill organizers.

To Protect the One Thing You Cant Travel Internationally Without

Travelon World Travel Essentials Set of 2 Currency & Passport Organizers

These passport organizers are great for international trips. There are three pockets to hold passports, cash, and cards. I kept three passports in it, but it can fit all five of our family's passports if needed, says Campbell. It was exactly what I needed to feel like I always knew where my passport was (and my younger kids' passports) and that they were protected from the elements. Having our essentials in these lightweight bags actually made it easier to pop them into other bags throughout our trips.

For Charging Your Devices While Out and About

Anker 313 Power Bank (PowerCore 10K)

If theres any technology that will save you more than once on a trip, its a portable power bank. The Anker 313 Power Bank is slim, lightweight, and easy to toss into a carry-on, crossbody bag, or even a jacket pocket without adding much bulk. Despite its compact size, the battery packs enough power to recharge most phones at least once or twice, making it especially handy for long travel days filled with maps, photos, boarding passes, and streaming. I always pack one of these, says Tuttle. I can usually get two full charges out of them, which is important, because theres nothing worse than having your phone die right in the middle of navigating a new city.

For the Bookworms

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Not a fan of the viral trend of doing nothing on a long flight? Neither are we, so we bring along the Kindle Paperwhite. The e-reader allows you to turn pages of your favorite story like a real book, just without taking up space in your carry-on. It's so slim that it easily fits into my pack or a larger purse, says Tuttle. It features a glare-free screen, meaning we can even read it in the sun. The battery also lasts a long time on a single charge (no, really up to 12 weeks via USB-C).

Skincare and Haircare Youll Want Every Day

My least favorite part about staying in a hotel is the tiny shampoo and conditioner bottles provided (Ive stayed in some hotels that provide full bottles, and as someone with long, thick hair, bless those places.). In addition to packing our own shampoo and conditioner without worrying about the TSA liquids rule, were also bringing makeup remover and sun protection.

The Makeup Remover You Didnt Know You Needed

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

It doesnt have to be a challenge to keep your skin healthy while traveling. We rely on micellar water to remove our eye makeup because its sensitive enough for the eyes and removes everything. Micellar water is a gentle solution made with purified water, moisturizers, and mild surfactants that help remove impurities and makeup from your skin.Since I have ocular rosacea, lid hygiene is very important for me, says Klausner. Having a travel-size option is great, so I don't need to worry about bringing a giant liquid bottle through TSA. We recommend taping it shut as a precaution to prevent leaks.

Sun Protection, but Make It Cute

Solbari Wide Brim Beach Hat UPF 50+

In addition to applying sunscreen, consider a UPF sun hat for extra protection on daily excursions (plus, its a cute accessory to any outfit). The Solbari sun hat has several features we love: a ponytail hole, an adjustable bungee for a good fit, a neck strap to keep it close, and more. Plus, a wired rim ensures it can be shaped however you want it and always looks great when wearing, says Campbell. The strap occasionally unhooks itself from the hat if you're moving around a lot while wearing it down on your back and shoulders. Otherwise, Campbell hasnt had any other issues and found it incredibly useful on a trip to Italy.

Shampoo and Conditioner That Flies Past TSAs Liquid Rules

Kitsch Ultra Sensitive Shampoo & Conditioner Bar Combo

When flying with a carry-on bag, liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container. However, with the Kitsch shampoo and conditioner bars, you dont have to worry about this rule. The shampoo bar doubles as a body wash, and the conditioner will leave your hair silky soft (or can double as a shaving cream in a pinch). Plus, each bar is pH-friendly and free of color and fragrance, so those with sensitive skin can pack it without worry. The travel container can hold both bars, and it's handy to have all your shower essentials in one place, says Ladaga. Two fewer liquids we have to try and shove into a quart bag? Sign us up.

Health and Wellness

Dont forget to take care of yourself while traveling. Youre going to need a water bottle to stay hydrated, a mini fan to keep you cool in hot temperatures, compression socks to reduce swelling after a long day of exploring, and more.

For Hydration Your Way, All Day

Owala FreeSip Sway

Ive said it once, and Ill say it again: Owala water bottles are some of the best ones out there, especially for travel. They feature a two-in-one spout that lets you sip through a straw or tilt the bottle back to take a swig like a bottle. I have a few of the Owala FreeSip Sways, which feature a handy top handle for portability and a sliding lock mechanism to prevent spillage. My water also stays cold for hours; I put ice cubes in the bottle in the morning, and by lunch, when I refill it, there are still some left. The water bottles come in 30- and 40-ounce sizes and tons of fun color options.

For a Pain-Free Traveling Experience

Sockwell Women's Circulator Moderate Graduated Compression Socks

Whether walking through a Disney park or driving or flying all day to reach your destination, your swollen feet and legs will thank you for compression socks. They can help reduce swelling and promote better blood circulation in the legs.These Sockwell socks are made with Merino wool and have moderate (1520mmHg) graduated compression and a lightweight cushioned sole.

VIDA Litespun Recyclable 3D Mask with 98%+ Electro-spun Nanofiber Filtration

For those who like to wear masks while traveling, were wearing these Vida KF94 masks. I like this particular envelope style because it conforms better to my face than KN95 masks, says Ladaga. I also get less fogging on my glasses. They arent reusable, but you can still do good with them because the company will recycle them for you (all you have to do is send in your used masks).

The LifeSaver Youll Use Well Beyond Traveling

JisuLife Handheld Fan Life8

I can think of several times a portable mini fan was useful while traveling, and so can Campbell. Weve both taken one on multiple trips: for her, Arizona and Italy; for me, Galveston. We love how the JisuLife fan is compact and rechargeable, and it doubles as a flashlight and power bank. It folds up to the size of a small remote and is easy to slip into a purse, pocket, or fanny pack, says Campbell.

For Hand Sanitizer That Actually Smells Nice

Noshinku Refillable Hand Sanitizer Spray

Noshinkus Refillable Hand Sanitizer Spray is a far cry from the sticky, harsh-smelling formulas that youre probably used to. The slim bottle is easy to slip into a carry-on or belt bag, while the moisturizing formula helps keep your hands from drying out. I actually look forward to using this one on travel days, says Tuttle. The scents are amazing, and it isnt too harsh on my skin. Bonus: The refillable design makes it a little less wasteful than constantly tossing single-use plastic bottles.

What Are TSA Requirements for Liquids?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) follows the 3-1-1 liquids rule. When traveling by air with a carry-on bag, liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container. A few among them are shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, mouthwash, and lotion. These items must fit in one quart-sized, clear bag, and each passenger is limited to one. Containers larger than 3.4 ounces must be inside checked baggage.

How Big Can a Carry-On Be?

Youre allowed two types of items on an airplane when not checking luggage: A personal item, such as a backpack or small bag, that fits under the seat in front of you, and a carry-on bag, which fits in the overhead bin. The size of a carry-on bag depends on the airline. I checked four major airlines American, Delta, United, and Southwest for their carry-on size requirements. For American, Delta, and United, carry-ons, including the wheels and handles, cannot exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches.Southwest has a slightly larger size requirement at 24 x 16 x 10 inches, which also includes the wheels and handles.

If your carry-on is too large, you may be required to check your bag instead (meaning youll have to pick it up at baggage claim at your destination). For any other airlines, be sure to check their size requirements before heading to the airport.

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Whether you need travel insurance is a personal decision and one of the most important ones. The unexpected can happen at any time, causing stress and anxiety before, during, and even after your trip. Travel insurance can alleviate much of that with healthcare coverage, trip cancellation reimbursement, auto insurance, and more. The U.S. Department of State recommends travel insurance, especially when traveling outside the country, because the U.S. government doesnt cover medical costs for citizens abroad.

Ive had to cancel a trip before, and because I bought travel insurance, I was fully reimbursed for expenses. Ive also been on the other side when I didnt purchase it, and everything went well. Overall, its not a requirement, and youre taking a big risk without it, so weigh your options, including how long your trip is, where youre traveling, and who is going with you.

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Katrina Cossey

Author

Katrina Cossey is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience in broadcast and service journalism. Over her career, shes covered topics such as the COVID-19 pandemic, new...

Justin Laube, MD

Medical Reviewer

Justin Laube, MD, is a dual board-certified integrative and internal medicine physician, retreat leader, and healing educator with over 15 years of experience caring for patients w...

Ray Finch

Fact-Checker

Ray Finch is a content specialist with expertise in fact-checking, copy-editing, sensitivity reading, and content management, and has worked with publishers including Health.com, P...

Katie Tuttle

Editor

Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing. Her work has appeared in EatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She h...

Ashley Ziegler

Tester

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time writer with extensive experience covering womens health, babies' and kids' health, mental health, and wellness. Her work has appeared on websites inc...

Katie Tuttle

Tester

Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing. Her work has appeared in EatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She h...

Olivia Campbell

Tester

Olivia Campbell is the New York Times bestselling author of Women in White Coats: How the First Women Doctors Changed the World of Medicine and Sisters in Science: How Four Women P...

Lili Ladaga

Tester
Lili Ladaga is a freelance editor on the Marketplace Team at Everyday Health.

Alexandra Klausner

Tester

Alexandra Klausner is a freelance health writer and editor with over 10 years of journalism experience. Prior to going freelance, she worked as a reporter and editor at the New Yor...

EDITORIAL SOURCES
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Sources
Resources
  1. World Tourism Barometer. UN Tourism. January 2026.
  2. Mark Schieldrop. Air Travel Was Up in 2025, But Growth Slowed, Patterns Shifted. AAA. February 18, 2026.
  3. Security Screen. TSA.
  4. Vagus nerve stimulation. Mayo Clinic. December 20, 2024.
  5. Zhang, S, MD, PhD, et al. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Chronic Insomnia Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Jama Network. December 2, 2024.
  6. Micellar Water: What It Is and How To Use it. Cleveland Clinic. November 21, 2022.
  7. Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels Rule. TSA.
  8. Everything You Need To Know About Compression Socks. Cleveland Clinic. August 17, 2023.
  9. Carry-on bags. American Airlines.
  10. Carry-On Baggage. Delta.
  11. Carry-on bags. United.
  12. I want to know about the carryon & personal items policy. Southwest.
  13. Travel Insurance. U.S. Department of State. August 11, 2025.
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