Looking to Book Your Next Trip? Here are 26 Game-Changing Travel Accessories Our Editors Recommend

ProsLong-lasting batteryPowerful motor for faster inflationCompact design for portability and storageEasy to use for beginnersAuto stop feature when the target pressure is achievedConsNot the best options for trucks and bigger vehiclesRoad trips can be a budget-friendly and exhilarating way to see the world, but things can go wrong, fast. Even the most reliable vehicles are susceptible to air leaks and flat tires, and that’s typically a pretty huge buzzkill. A portable tire inflator is a must, and Etenwolf makes a fantastic one. It’s portable, powerful, and quite literally a lifesaver.The S1 features a high-performance motor with a maximum pressure of 160 PSI and a 20L/min airflow, making it twice as fast as most devices on the market; you can fill a standard car tire in about a minute. Another major highlight: a long-lasting 5200mAh high-capacity battery. To put that in perspective, it can inflate 17 car tires, 60 motorcycle tires, 70 bicycle tires, 80 balls, and more on a single charge. It’s pretty well designed, especially from a portability standpoint. The hose can be neatly stored on the back of the tire pump, and there are dedicated slots for the ancillary accessories. It stows away in seconds and is perfect for long road trips, camping excursions, and everything in between.Key SpecsPSI160Airflow20L/minBattery Capacity5200mAhProsSmallGood battery lifeGiven how small and lightweight this Bluetooth adapter is, I make sure to pack it for every flight where I expect to watch a movie. The adapter plugs into airplane screens and pairs via Bluetooth so you can use your preferred noise-canceling earphones with the in-flight entertainment.It has excellent battery life, but the connection does suffer from some lag. I’ve noticed a very slight audio delay in older planes—and you may need a two-prong adapter on older entertainment systems.If you plan to use the AirFly only to send audio to your headphones, you can get by with the less expensive AirFly Classic, which has slightly better battery life. But if you want to use Bluetooth to send audio to the AirFly (for example, to play audio from your phone in a car without built-in Bluetooth), you’ll need the Pro.Key SpecsWeight.5 ozSize1.75 x 1.25 x .38 in.Battery Life16 hours claimedAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsCompactLight organizationBusiness professional lookMade from sustainable materialsWhether it’s a road trip or an international flight, I always use a small, simple zippered case for my tech gear so I don’t have to fish around for it in the bottom of my bag.Cord organizers have become trendy lately, but some have so many straps and pockets that I still have to search for the exact item I need. Instead, I just use a small case like the Bellroy Classic Pouch. Since I have a separate case for my computer charger and cord, this one has enough space for most of my other small items, including the AirFly and Bose earbuds in this roundup. It has a few basic organizational pockets and zips wide enough so you can find what you need in a hurry.Oh, and if you want a case to fit your computer charger as well as all your other travel accessories, never fear: There’s a larger option. The Bellroy Tech Kit is deeper and longer, with a clamshell-style opening, so it can hold slightly larger accessories like computer charger cubes or a GoPro camera.Key SpecsWeight3 ozSize8.8 x 5.5 x 2.3 in.MaterialLeather or recycled fabrics (depends on color selection)ProsLeakproofEasy to scoop out creamsAvailable in seven colorsConsMay not hold enough for a long trip Extra tiles cost $20 for sixCarry-on-only travelers are familiar with packing small amounts of their favorite toiletries, but mini squeeze bottles make it challenging to use gels and creams that stick to the bottom.Fortunately, you can alleviate that issue with Cadence’s magnetic honeycomb-style capsules, which stick together and take up little space. These convenient containers are made from ocean plastic cleaned from beaches, and you can customize the tile labels and colors of each capsule. I recommend the six-pack for carrying both hair and skincare products, but you could connect three times that number if you so desire.Key SpecsWeight.56 oz (per capsule)Size1 x 1 x 2 in.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsWarmSmall storage sizeMachine washableClip to wear around neck I carry a packable insulated blanket on almost every trip, even to tropical destinations. Aside from being useful as a plane blanket, it comes in handy in hotels where the A/C is definitely working or when there’s only a sheet on the bed.I like the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket because its fill is lightweight and compressible. It’s on the smaller side at roughly 4.5x3 feet, but it’s worth the trade-off for the packability (less than 4 inches wide when packed). I usually carry it in one of the bottle pockets on the side of my carry-on backpack.Because it’s not a full-size blanket, the NanoLoft is best as a lap blanket on cold flights or car rides, and works well as a pillow when packed. For more coverage, consider the full-size NanoLoft (6x14 inches packed, $179+). I recommend getting a tiny stuff sack or compression packing cube to make it into a more manageable carry-on size.ProsLightweightWaterproof and DurableEasy one-hand accessCustomizable storagePeak Design makes some of the most spec-heavy backpacks out there, but they will cost you a pretty penny. The brand has a few travel-specific options, but all of its backpacks can be used for that purpose. I prefer its Everyday Backpack, especially factoring in the price—you’re spending a little more but using it far more regularly. The 30L option is fantastic for commuting, everyday travel, and long flights.It’s inherently a versatile bag. You can customize the inner pockets for organization based on the use case. The expandable design and waterproof exterior make it a durable, travel-friendly bag, and the MagLatch closure offers single-handed access for on-the-go accessibility. The theft-deterrent zipper that’s perfect for international travel (and general peace of mind). Again, you’re spending a little more, but the convenience and versatility make it well worth the investment.Key SpecsCapacity30LMaterialVersa ShellAccessTop and sideAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsGood neck supportWorks in middle seats These pillows are phenomenal, and reviewers say they're the only way they can ever get some sleep when crammed into a middle seat.An adjustable headrest strap keeps the pillow upright and in place, and the comfortable foam never seems to lose its shape. Though most people wear the Evolution around their neck as intended, it works well as a traditional pillow, especially considering the gap in the middle leaves room for bulky over-ear headphones.Key SpecsWeight11 ozPacked Size6 in. diameter by 5.5 in. highMaterialPolyester, memory foamProsLarge battery capacity Retractable cables for easy storageColor display to monitor chargingVery compact for such a high power outputI take hundreds, if not thousands, of vacation photos per trip, and the only camera I’m carrying is the one on my cell phone. To avoid running out of battery before getting back to my hotel room, the ultra-portable and still-powerful Anker 165W Power Bank is a fantastic option.The 25,000-milliamp (mAh) capacity can fully recharge the majority of laptops at least once and offers faster charging than the average outlet charger. It also features two extra ports (USB-C and one USB-A) in the event you need to charge multiple devices at once. I find most power banks too big to fit in my pocket, but this one isn’t too cumbersome. I also like the built-in screen that allows you to track your charges.Key SpecsBattery Capacity25,000 mAhPower Output165WConnectivityTwo USB-C cables, USB-C port, USB-A portAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsConvenient coiled designSnaps on in secondsFast data transferCompatible with the MacBook Neo, Pro, Air, iPads, and most Windows laptopsConsOnly available in Neo-matching colors and silverAdapting is part of traveling. You’ll want your own adapter, in a literal sense, and Satechi makes a fantastic one for Apple users. It coils up into one convenient device, allowing you to forgo carrying an army of adapters when you’re going through TSA.This one is made specifically for the new MacBook Neo, but it could be used for really any of your Apple devices. It boasts a convenient MagSafe-compatible magnetic base that snaps to your iPhone for quick offloads, as well as a mounting feature for easy access. It also features 60W USB-C power delivery, 104MB/s transfer, and both USB-A 3.1 and USB-C. If you plan on working abroad, this is a must-have.Key SpecsHardware InterfaceHDMI, USB 3.0, USB Type CFeaturesData transfer, pass through charge, monitor extension and mirroringColorsIndigo, Blush, Citrus, and SilverProsTSA-approvedNo plastic packagingMultiple typesSafe for treated hair ConsStorage bag not included If carrying 3 ounces of shampoo won’t get you through a whole trip, consider using a solid shampoo and conditioner bar that won’t raise any eyebrows going through the TSA checkpoint.There are five sets for different hair types, each safe for color-treated hair. Be sure to toss them into a plastic bag if you’re planning to pack them before they’re dry.I have very thin, fine hair, and find the HiBar Volumize set works just as well as the far more expensive salon set I use in my home shower.Key SpecsWeight1 lb (set)Size3.2 oz each (roughly 6 in. high)Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsShockingly good noise cancelationQuick chargingComfortable enough for prolonged useEasy to customize noise control without switching modesConsSome of the more expensive earbuds on the marketI love my over-the-ear headphones, but on long flights, they can start to feel a bit sore on my ears. I took a risk on the Bose QuietComfort headphones, since at nearly $300 they’re even more expensive than Apple AirPods. But I’m glad I did.They provide a level of noise-cancellation I never thought would be possible from an in-ear headphone, and the case can fully charge the headphones three times before it needs to be plugged in again—enough to get you through even the longest of trans-Atlantic flights and chatty seatmates.The only real minus is the size, as they don’t sit as closely to your head as the popular Apple AirPods. But the sound quality more than makes up for it.Key SpecsWeight2.8 ozSize1.18 x 0.49 x 0.98 in. (per earbud)Battery Life6 hours in Quiet or Aware Mode (up to 4 hours with Immersive Audio)ProsDurableComes in many colorsEasy to cleanMultiple sipping optionsConsMight be a little big for certain applicationsAt this point, it’s pretty much a given to carry a reusable water bottle. A lot of the insulated bottles I’ve used in the past tend to get a little messy, especially when I’m in transit. I finally switched to Owala, and it’s my go-to travel bottle.The FreeSip features Owala’s patented lock design, keeping your beverage cold (or hot) without leaking; it’s essentially a vacuum seal. You can flip up the handle and press a single button to flip open the lid—perfect for on-the-go, easy one-hand access. The design allows you to sip through a straw or tilt your head back for a swing—or both. It’s also nice knowing I can pull it out mid-flight without worrying that it leaked in the bag I have shoved under my seat.Key SpecsWeight22 oz (30 oz bottle)Size4.13 x 10.51 in.Hot/Cold Time24 hoursAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsGood noise cancellation and soundComfortableQuick chargingWhen it comes to audio, two big names still reign supreme, at least in my book: Sony and Bose. Bose makes my favorite in-ear headphones, but Sony’s WH-1000XM4 is far and away the best over-the-ear option. The battery life is impressive at 30 or more hours per charge, and charging is quick—20 minutes of charging powers about 8 hours of listening.The noise canceling is fabulous, as I’ve learned when trying to talk to someone wearing them, and they fold into a flat case. That said, they’re still a bit on the bulky side, stored or worn, but if you’re planning to carry over-the-ear headphones, their size probably isn’t your top priority.Key SpecsWeight8.8 ozPacked Size8.3 x 6.6 x 2.3 in.Battery LifeClaimed 30 hours per charge (or more without noise cancellation)ProsGood sound quality10-hour battery lifeBuilt-in clipWaterproofI work remotely and set my own schedule, which means I often work for a few hours here and there in hotel rooms while on vacation. I also love to listen to podcasts when I’m getting ready in the morning, so I always make sure to pack a small Bluetooth speaker.The JBL Clip 4 delivers better-than-expected sound for its size, with strong bass. The built-in clip makes it easy to hang on a shower rod or suitcase handle, and because it’s waterproof, it’s ideal for use around pools, beaches, hot tubs, and whatever other amenities you may avail yourself of on vacation.The negative: it uses a lithium-ion battery, which means you have to take it in your carry-on, not in your checked bags.Key SpecsWeight8 ozSize1.8 x 3.4 x 5.3 in.Battery LifeClaimed 10 hoursAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsMirrorlessWi-FiAuto settingsLightweightConsNot full frameShort battery life for video I’m constantly amazed by the quality of photos you can get from an iPhone, but when it comes to shooting in suboptimal conditions (or trying to show depth and scale in landscapes), you’ll probably want a more advanced camera.The Lumix G7 is a ridiculously good camera at a surprisingly low price, especially given that it’s mirrorless, making it lighter and smaller than non-mirrorless options. It shoots 4K photos and videos, has Wi-Fi so you can send your photos straight to your phone or computer, and offers multiple auto settings for beginners, including one specifically for night-sky photography.It’s packed with features and is the number one camera I recommend to all travelers who want to take better travel photos without spending a lot of money on a camera, even if you don’t have any actual interest in using its more professional features.Key SpecsSize4.92 x 3.03 x 3.39 in.Weight14 ozImage Size16 MPProsLightweightGreat compressionHigh-quality zippers I’ve become a big fan of Peak Design. The brand's packing cubes are the first item I ever tried. They have strong zippers that don’t seem to get caught in the fabric while compressing as much as other cubes, and you can fit far more than you’d expect into each one.I prefer the small size, as it’s easier to stack in a suitcase and fits better in a backpack or shoulder bag. These packing cubes are also light and thin, so you can throw an empty one in your bag (as I found especially useful in Patagonia) just in case you end up buying an extra sweater during your travels.Pro packing tip: Don't pack small clothing items like underwear, socks, and swimsuits in the cubes. Instead, shove them into negative space around the cubes to maximize all available luggage areas.Key SpecsSize11 x 5.5 x 6.1 in. (compresses to 2.5 in.)MaterialRecycled nylonSetsSold separately in small or mediumAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsCompression panelOne soft sideDurable wheelsHard-sided carry-on spinners have become all the rage in the last few years, and while I do love my July bag, I’ve found two drawbacks to hard-sided bags: the second set of wheels eats into the luggage space, and there’s no ability to stuff them into an overhead bin or car if they don’t quite fit.Fortunately, I’ve had the Thule Subterra for a while now, and it’s become my most-used bag. That’s thanks to a built-in compression panel with a pocket; a small front pocket for passports, keys, and sunglasses; and durable back wheels that seem to have no problem crashing over curbs and steps.I’ve also come to appreciate its slightly smaller size. While some travelers may balk at the idea of not maximizing their carry-on capacity, I find it's actually easier for travel, especially when I see my fellow travelers’ larger bags getting forcibly gate-checked on smaller planes.Key SpecsSize9.8 x 13.8 x 22 in.Weight7 lbProsDurable hard shell constructionBuilt-in lockLightweight and ergonomicFully customizable Larger size allows you to forgo checking a bagROAM is a brand that’s become a pretty big disruptor in the space. It was spearheaded by Tumi's founder, with a greater focus on customization. I’ve been using its expandable carry-on, and it’s been a massive game-changer. It features a TSA-approved built-in lock, which allowed me to happily ditch my old one (when I could even find it). This particular model is a little larger, making it a worthwhile option for longer trips without checking your luggage.It’s also one of the more durable carry-ons I’ve used. Despite its lightweight construction, it boasts a premium impact-resistant shell, an aircraft-grade aluminum telescopic handle, and military-grade nylon thread stitching. To top it all off, I had my initials engraved, so it’s easier to spot and claim. That, and the custom New York Knicks colorway I went with. A dead giveaway.Key SpecsSize 22 x 16.25 x 9 in.Weight7.7 lbs.TSA-ApprovedYesAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsCharges quicklyUseful displaySlim designCharges laptopsI’ve used plenty of backup chargers while traveling (who hasn’t?), but the Blade from Baseus is the one I rely on most. That’s partially because I have a computer with a USB-C charging port, and the Blade is optimized for quick charging of USB-C computers.I can charge my MacBook Pro from 0 to 100 percent, leaving about 20 percent on the Blade (which is enough to almost fully charge my iPhone).Other features I appreciate are its slim design (so I can travel with it in my laptop pocket), a display that shows how much battery is left and how much time until the Blade is fully charged, and that it takes only about 1.5 hours to fully charge.If I use the entire capacity on a flight, as long as I have at least a 1.5-hour layover, I can be back up and running on the next flight.Key SpecsSize6.75 x 4 x 0.6 in.Weight1.1 lbPorts2 USB, 2 USB-CProsPolarizedUltra durable designPrescription-compatibleComfortable around pressure pointsMilitary gradeTravel sunglasses are a bit of a two-way street. You can opt for something cheaper that you don’t mind losing, but that can be a losing battle. I've broken more than a few pairs of sunglasses by shoving them into the pocket of an overstuffed bag or by sitting on them at dinner after putting them in my back pocket after a day of sightseeing. These days when traveling, I always carry a durable pair. And Randolph makes some of the most rugged shades around.These might be military-grade, but they always stay in a hard case in my travel bag. The durable gold finish is five times more plated than your classic pair of aviator shades. The 23k gold finish also adds an extra layer of toughness, keeping the frame firmly in place and nearly impossible to bend or break. They also feature custom laminated temple tips to keep the hardwearing metal a little more cozy on the sides of your face. They’re polarized, which is always a plus when traveling, and certain pairs of Randolph shades offer prescription lenses, so you can keep them on while sightseeing.The only downside is that you’ll need both hands to put them on, but to me, it’s worth it. I’ve worn Randolph shades for a few years now, and they’ve shown little to no wear or abrasion.Key SpecsWeight1.2-1.4 ouncesSizes57mm, 61mm, 64mmMaterialGlass, stainless steel, goldTim Kohut is the Deals and Trends Editor for Popular Mechanics, Men’s Health, Best Products, and Runner's World. He has extensive product review and gear coverage expertise, particularly in tech, home, auto, and health. Tim was previously the Deputy Commerce Editor of The Drive and a Commerce Editor at BGR. He’s also overseen gear coverage and strategy at Popular Science, Bob Vila, Outdoor Life, and Field and Stream. He has a strong affinity for cats, Batman, and early 90’s Nicolas Cage films, in that order.Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com. She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine, SkyLife Magazine, Playboy, Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com. Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com.