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Whether you’re embarking on a long-awaited vacation or heading to visit family, traveling should be an enjoyable and hassle-free experience. But, in reality, it’s usually the complete opposite. From delayed flights to long lines, there are so many uncontrollable factors that make traveling a bit of an anxiety-inducing experience.
To keep myself calm during the chaos, though, I have invested in a few products over the years that keep me as organized and comfortable as possible while I travel. From a roomy personal item bag that easily slides under the seat on flights to a memory foam neck pillow that supports my head, neck and chin, these tested and reviewed travel accessories have been in my rotation for some time.
The best travel essentials 2025, at a glanceHow we test
We put all of our products through a rigorous testing process and travel essentials are no different. From personal item bags and carry-ons to power banks and passport wallets, we test every product for at least a week (usually longer), and use them in real-time air travel scenarios for practical, trial-based testing. In some instances, our product testing experts will reference products they’ve been using for years.
From testing if a personal item bag easily fits under the seat on a plane to if a travel pillow is supportive enough to hold your neck upright for a full in-flight nap, we’ve put it all to the test.
You can read more about how we test luggage and travel accessories on our dedicated page.
Why trust us
While implementing and enforcing a thorough testing process is essential for producing honest and well-researched content, we also believe that experience is invaluable. This is why all of our testers are experts in their field.
Moriba has been testing and reviewing travel products for over six years and formulates the testing methodologies and rubrics we use in this vertical as well as our tech and men’s fashion reviews and buying guides.
His reviews are honest, impartial, direct and don’t shy away from highlighting the bad as much as the good to help you make the most informed buying decision.
The best travel essentials 2025, tested and reviewed
1. Best personal item bag: Calpak Luka Duffel
Calpak Luka Duffel
US$138
Product SpecsMaterialPolyesterStandout featureBuilt-in shoe storageFits under the seat on planes?YesDimensions12 x 16 x 8 inchesTrolley sleeve?YesWhat we love
Personal item-approvedThis bag easily fits under the seat on commercial flights
Deceivingly spaciousThough it’s a personal-item-sized bag, it holds almost as much as a full-size roller carry-on
Dedicated shoe storageKeep your footwear completely separate from your other packed items
Easy personalizationAdd a monogram, text or patch at an extra $25 charge
What could be better
Scuffs fairly easilyWet marks easily show up on the bag’s outer fabric
Slightly loses structure when fully packedCorner borders and trims bend easily when the bag is at full capacity
Review
I have two personal item non-negotiables for air-travel. It must be roomy enough to hold everything I need (especially as an avid over-packer), and must easily fit under the seat on my flight. The Calpak Luka Duffel is one of the few bags I’ve reviewed over the years that passed both tests with flying colors.
After noticing the hype surrounding the Calpak Luka Duffel, I was prepared to reduce it to an overhyped but underperforming TikTok find. So, when I learned, first-hand, that the quality matched the hysteria, I was pleasantly surprised.
The best way I could describe this bag is “deceptively spacious.” I fully packed it for use as my personal item on an international flight and was surprised by my findings.
Not only did it fit everything from my over-ear headphones case, iPad, Kindle and toiletry bag to a medium-sized packing cube filled with a change of clothes and a water bottle, but it slid under the seat with no struggle whatsoever — while fully packed.
What impressed me even more is the extra room that was left after all of those contents neatly stacked inside the roomy main compartment with ease.
As far as under-seat-storage-approved personal item bags go, this one gets an A+. For its overall grade, though, it loses a few marks for its easily scuffed polyester fabric and slightly flimsy structural build.
All in all, though, this bag is worth the investment and just became my first-pick for the best personal item bag for worry-free air travel.
US$138
Full review: Calpak Luka Duffel, tested and reviewed
2. Best roller carry-on: Carl Friedrik Carry-On X
Carl Friedrik Carry-On X
US$695
Product SpecsMaterialGerman-engineered Makrolon polycarbonate shellStandout featureHard-shell zippered front laptop pocketFits in the overhead bin?Yes (both flat and on its side)Dimensions22.3 x 14.8 x 10.2 inchesWhat we love
Zipperless frameIntegrated TSA-approved locks keep your belongings secure and help you avoid broken zippers
Tough exteriorBuilt to withstand the rigors or travel and baggage claim (if you decide to check it)
Built-in compressionTwo sets of compression straps and a compression pad allow you to fit more
What could be better
ExpensiveWe wish it were just a bit more affordable, but it’s sure to last a lifetime
Review
I’ve been testing luggage for many, many years. From affordable and viral pieces to premium and more obscure options, I’ve reviewed my fair share of suitcases.
After all of that research and first-hand trialing, I’ve found that the Carl Friedrik Carry-On X is the best roller carry-on bags money can buy.
This hardsided suitcase has been my dedicated carry-on for over three years now and hasn’t failed me once. It has a luxe, understated design that’s both chic and timeless and a zipperless frame that makes overstuffing it much easier than risking popping a main zipper.
What makes it a standout, though, is its integrated front pocket that has built-in organization for storing a laptop, notebook, travel documents and more. It’s so spacious that I even stored a pair of sandals in there while returning from my honeymoon, and it still fit overhead with no issues.
Best of all, when the front pocket was both stuffed and empty, this carry-on passed the overhead bin storage test on several flights across major airlines like JetBlue, Delta and United.
If you’re looking for a reliable investment carry-on that you’ll only have to buy once, this one is a tested and reviewed masterpiece that checks all of the boxes.
US$695
3. Best affordable weekender bag: Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle Tech
Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle Tech
US$160
Product SpecsMaterialRecycled polyesterStandout featureSeparate shoe storage compartmentDimensions11 X 20.5 X 12.6 inchesTrolley sleeve?YesWhat we love
Roomy separate shoe compartmentStore a couple pairs of shoes in this roomy compartment, complete with a pocket for socks
Fleece-lined laptop compartmentYour device (up to 16 inches) will remain unscratched and well protected
Internal sleeveStore your tracking device here to always know where your bag is located
Approachable priceEven when not on sale, this bag is one of the most affordable that you’ll find
What could be better
Polyester buildThe bag isn’t made of the most high-quality material
Review
Herschel has a reputation of being a trusted and affordable bag brand. In fact, the classic Herschel Novel Recycled Nylon Duffle was my very first weekender bag as a college freshman many, many years ago. So, curious to see how the brand’s grown, I recently tested its Novel Duffle Tech bag and was impressed after just my first use.
To start, it has more room than the original duffle (45L to the original’s 43L). It also has a more thoughtful design, complete with a trolley sleeve for easy luggage pairing, and a fleece-lined laptop sleeve to keep your device scratch free.
I also found several other compartments for easy organization and packing. The element that made shoppers initially fall in love with Herschel’s affordable duffle bags, however, still remains: the dedicated shoe storage compartment.
This time, however, it’s roomier than ever and even has an additional internal pocket for storing your socks.
While it’s definitely a worthy purchase, the Herschel Novel Duffle Tech does have a couple drawbacks. The polyester material doesn’t have that premium feel that many shoppers seek in their travel gear. In certain areas, it can feel a bit thin and unrefined.
However, all in all, given this bag’s price, overall design functionality and roominess, it comes highly recommended from me, especially for those who need a budget-friendly bag that holds quite a lot.
US$160
Full review: Herschel Novel Duffle Tech, tested and reviewed
Full buying guide: Best weekender bags of 2025, tested and reviewed
4. Best passport wallet: Nomad Passport Wallet
Nomad Passport Wallet (Pen Edition)
US$139
Product SpecsMaterialHorween leatherStandout featureIncluded pen made of steel and aluminumTravel document slot?Quick-access flap with magnetic and silicone attachment for boarding passesNo. of card slotsFourAdditional slots?Three (including one passport slot)What we love
Premium materialsMade of Horween leather that develops a patina over time
Slim but substantial buildThermoformed shape that still feels sturdy in your hands
Magnetic pen slotIncluded pen stays in its slot magnetically until you take it out for use
What could be better
Limited color rangeOnly comes in one color (rustic brown)
Review
Being organized before arriving at airport security is the secret to a mostly calm traveling experience. When you think about it, it’s just about half the battle.
This leather passport wallet never leaves my personal item bag and has been one of my travel staples for over four years. It has a compartment and slot for just about everything you’ll need before and after you’ve taken off.
From a dedicated travel document slot that securely holds your boarding pass in place to four card slots for storing your ID or credit cards, there’s more space in here than you’ll probably even need.
There’s also a slot for cash and another for safely storing and securing your passport for easy access.
This passport wallet’s most impressive feature, though, is its included pen that’s made of a mix of steel and aluminum. It comes housed in its own slot at the center of the wallet and never falls out thanks to its magnetic pull. When you’re ready to use it to fill out immigration forms, for example, just pull a bit and it will automatically release.
Unlike most other travel wallets I’ve used over the years, this one is incredibly substantial and feels weighty in-hand. So, you know you’re getting a quality product that will only get better with time.
US$139
5. Best portable charger: Statik Snap-N-Charge
Statik Snap-N-Charge
US$29.99
Product SpecsStandout featureInterchangeable magnetic connectorsConnector typesUSB-C, Micro-USB and iProductBattery capacity3000 mAhWhat we love
Extremely portableFits in the palm of your hand
USB-C rechargeRecharge with any USB-C cable
Three rotating magnetic connectorsUSB-C, micro-USB and iProduct connectors make it compatible with most smartphones, tablets, headphones, cameras and more
What could be better
Small charging capacity for some phonesOnly able to charge iPhone 15 Pro Max once (to full capacity) before needing to be recharged
Thick phone cases may cause an obstructionConnectors may be difficult to attach to phone’s port with thick cases
Review
There are a few portable chargers I frequent for travel use, and which one I grab all depends on the duration of my flight. For short flights (four hours or less), this palm-sized Statik portable charger is the one I reach for most.
It fits in any pocket in my tech pouch or personal item bag (and even my pocket), and has a travel-friendly design that’s made for easy portable use.
Where this power bank stands out, though, is in its interchangeable magnetic connectors. It comes with three that allow you to charge some of today’s most commonly used devices like a smartphone (both Apple and Android), tablet, and even headphones and some cameras.
Since this portable charger is compact and slim, I’ve also been able to use my phone while the Statik Snap-N-Charge was connected to the device. And if you’re known for dropping your phone, rest assured that the rotating heads of each connector disconnects when your phone drops, is yanked or pulled.
While this may not be the most powerful portable charger I’ve used, it’s certainly one of the most affordable, efficient and travel-friendly.
US$29.99
6. Best tracker: Apple AirTag
Apple AirTag
US$24.99US$29
Product SpecsStandout featureEasily track luggage, keys, wallets and moreBattery lifeOver one yearResistance?Water, splash and dust-resistantWhat we love
AffordableApproachable price for easy luggage tracking
Pairs with “Find My” appiPhone users get the perk of pairing this device directly with this app in seconds
Replaceable batteryBattery lasts over a year and can be easily replaced aftwerwards
What could be better
Limited functionality with Android devicesMade to work best with Apple devices
Not as effective in remote areasSometimes, device struggles to connect in far-revmoved areas
Review
If you’re anything like me, you have a huge fear of your luggage being lost, especially if you’re traveling internationally. So, when Apple debuted its popular AirTag tracking device, I felt like it was made with slightly anxious travelers like myself in mind.
Every time I travel (and I mean every single time), I toss one of these in my checked luggage. After I hand it over to the agents at bag drop, I’m able to instantly track it directly from the “Find My” app on my iPhone, in real time.
Another plus: When I’m waiting for my luggage to come out at baggage claim, the app shows me that it’s made it to my destination, and I can even see when it’s getting closer to me.
This tiny gadget is one of my most prizes travel possessions and I recommend everyone get one, just to give them some peace of mind during what’s inevitably already a stressful situation.
US$24.99US$29
7. Best travel pillow: Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow
Ostrichpillow Go Neck Travel Pillow
US$69
Product SpecsStandout featureSupports head and aligns neckColor variationsSeven colorsExtras includedTravel bagFill materialMemory foamWaterproof?YesWhat we love
Extremely comfortable and supportiveHigh-density memory foam molds to your neck
360° ergonomic designCustomizable velcro closure adjustment, allowing the pillow to mold to your chin, ensuring neck alignment with your spine
Compresses for easy travelFlattens to 60% of its size without compromising memory foam quality
What could be better
Does not pair well with headphonesThis pillow won’t sit around your neck comfortably with headphones or earbuds in
Review
Falling asleep on planes has been difficult for me for as long as I can remember. While I easily drown the sound of crying babies and the plane’s screaming engine with a pair of high-quality over-ear headphones, the real problem lies in my physical discomfort, especially from the shoulders up.
So, when I got my hands on the Ostrichpillow Go Neck Travel Pillow, I figured it couldn’t possibly make things worse. After using it on a flight from New York to San Francisco, I became a believer.
It supported my head, neck and chin, all at once, allowing me to sleep sitting upright with ease — something I was never able to do before this. That was all made possible thanks to its unique asymmetrical shape that contours to the natural lines of the face and neck.
Also, its memory foam fill mimicked the feeling of sleeping on a cozy hotel bed pillow. It contoured to my face and chin so easily. If you couldn’t tell, I’m still shocked it was that comfy.
The cover housing the memory foam fill is also machine-washable, so when you get home from your flight, just toss it in the wash and it’ll be as good as new.
US$69
8. Best toiletry bag: Monos Metro Hanging Toiletry Case
Monos Metro Hanging Toiletry Case
US$95
Product SpecsMaterialNylon twill and microfibre vegan leatherStandout featureAdjustable hanging loopDimensions8.4 x 4 x 6.4 inchesWhat we love
Two-in-one configurationHang it from the loop to access all compartments or use it as a traditional countertop toiletry bag
Loops for additional storageVegan leather loops located on each side to hang your toothbrush and razor
Tons of roomy compartmentsStore both travel and full size products in the deep compartments (both zippered and slip)
What could be better
A bit bulkyWhen fully packed, it can take up a bit of room in your personal item bag
Review
Skincare-obsessed travelers to the front, please! I promise — this is a safe space. For years, I’ve overstuffed the same two or three toiletry bags with my favorite travel-size must-haves to the point that the zippers struggled to close.
So, when I got my hands on the Monos Metro Hanging Toiletry Case, I was relieved since it not only gave me more space to store my products more efficiently (and even pack a few extras), but it had this unique hanging function that allowed me to easily see and access my products while staying at a hotel or any bathroom away from home.
The bag has a loop that unsnaps from the back of the case and extends, allowing you to hang it from a hook in a bathroom or hotel room.
While hanging, the bag expands to reveal two roomy mesh compartments which allow you to see what you’ve packed.
Behind the top compartment is one more main zippered pocket that’s deep enough to store full-size products. But, keep in mind that if you do decide to go this route, you should toss this toiletry case in your checked luggage to abide by TSA’s “3.4-ounces or less” liquids guidelines.
US$95
Our verdict
When in doubt, invest in quality travel essentials that you know you’ll need for every trip. Those include a spacious and airline-approved personal item bag and carry-on like the Calpak and Carl Friedrik picks mentioned in this piece, a portable charger that requires no cables to use and a high-quality passport wallet that keeps every travel document you need meticulously organized.
FAQ
What are the three biggest packing mistakes to avoid?
During air travel, especially, there are a few practices that you should avoid. Check out my big three below:
No oversized liquids in your carry-on or personal item bags: It may seem obvious, but many travelers make this mistake. Avoid packing full-size hair, body and skin care products in the bags that are on your person. According to TSA, all liquids must be in 3.4-ounce bottles or less to be allowed through.Overweight bags: This one’s a bit tricky. It’s easier than it looks for your checked bag to surpass the allowed weight limit on most flights, which is usually 50 pounds (23 kg). To avoid this, invest in a portable luggage scale and weigh your suitcases before you leave home to save yourself any embarrassment.Not customizing your luggage: Millions of people travel by air daily, so it’s easy to accidentally grab someone else’s luggage at baggage claim, especially if your suitcase is a commonly purchased color like black or navy. To differentiate your luggage from the rest, invest in a bright-colored luggage tag (and always check the information on it to ensure it’s yours before leaving the airport).
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The 8 best travel essentials that will make your trip a breeze, according to a professional product tester
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