Whether we’re headed out for a 3-day weekend getaway or a multi-week international trip, there are a few travel items that always make it into our bags. Over the years (and many miles), we’ve figured out which essentials actually make a difference … and which ones are just taking up space.
This list includes our personal ride-or-dies for staying organized, comfortable, connected, and sane while on the road. And while everyone travels differently, we can honestly say that these are the items we never leave home without!
Let’s break down our top travel essentials for 2025:
A Solid Carry-On Suitcase & Personal Item Combo
We’re team carry-on whenever possible – it saves time, money, and lost-luggage headaches. Having a durable carry-on and a spacious personal item are non-negotiables!
→ Our current favorites: Amazon brand carry-on & travel backpack
Noise-Cancelling Earbuds or Earplugs
You’ve heard us say it before (especially after our 15-hour flight next to two screaming babies and a snoring champion)… noise-cancelling earbuds or earplugs are a game-changer. Whether you’re flying, sleeping in a loud hotel, or just trying to zone out during transit – they help cut the noise without cutting you off from the world.
→ We love our AirPod Pros and Loop Earplugs!
Trtl Neck Pillow
Yes, it looks like a little neck brace. And yes, it works so much better than those U-shaped fluff pillows. The Trtl keeps your neck supported so you can actually get some sleep sitting up, and had been our secret weapon on our most recent long-haul flights in economy!
Portable Phone Charger
Nothing derails a travel day faster than a dead phone, especially when your boarding pass, hotel info, maps, and dinner reservations all live there. We never fly without a fully charged portable charger in our personal item.
→ Pro tip: Anker makes super slim chargers that slide into any bag or even a jacket pocket.
Compression Packing Cubes
We swear by compression cubes for keeping our clothes organized and maximizing space in our suitcase. They’re perfect for when you’re living out of a suitcase for multiple weeks or switching hotels often!
Universal Travel Adapter
If you’re traveling internationally, a universal adapter is a must. Get one that includes multiple USB-C ports and standard outlets, so you can charge all your devices in one go.
→ Bonus points if it has surge protection.
Travel Insurance (Seriously!)
Something you’ll always try to skip … until you need it! From flight delays to lost luggage to unexpected illnesses, having coverage takes the stress way down. We have an annual plan with Travel Insured and highly recommend at least basic coverage for every international trip.
A Travel-Sized Medicine Kit
Speaking of peace of mind – having a small medical kit with the basics (think pain relievers, electrolytes, motion sickness pills, etc.) can save you when you’re not near a pharmacy.
A Digital Organizer or Travel Wallet
There’s nothing worse than digging through your backpack for a charging cord or passport while holding up the security line. We love using a slim travel wallet or tech organizer to keep all the important stuff in one place.
Bonus: Your Go-To “Plane Outfit”
Not exactly a product – but a cozy, layered outfit can make or break a long travel day. Think breathable fabrics, slip-on shoes, and layers you can add or remove easily based on the cabin temp.
Final Thoughts
We’ve learned the hard way which travel items are worth the space in your suitcase – and which ones just sound good on paper. The products listed above help us stay comfortable, connected, and way more organized while traveling, and we’d recommend every one of them.
If you’re gearing up for a big trip soon, we hope this helped you level up your packing game. Got a travel essential you never leave home without? Leave us a comment! We’re always on the lookout for our next go-to item.
