Best Travel Accessories, According to Our Editors
26 Editor-Tested Travel Must Haves You'll Actually Use
As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
No great vacation is complete without the perfect travel accessories to make sure your journey goes smoothly (well, as smoothly as possible). And luckily, PS editors are constantly searching for the latest and greatest travel products to put to the test, whether on a plane, train, or automobile. As a result, we have recommendations that'll make you want to book your next getaway, stat — from personal item carry-on bags and packing cubes to wireless earbuds that'll help you tune out even the loudest passengers.
Our favorite travel accessories prioritize practicality. For example, one of our former editors never travels without an Apple AirTag, which conveniently tracks down your luggage when TSA says it's gone MIA. And, of course, there's the famous Béis Weekender bag, which one of our editors attests is worth all the hype it's garnered on social media.
Whether you're anticipating a busy season of travel, are attempting to simplify the hassle of flying with a few new travel gadgets, or simply want to tap into the best of the best in travel gear today, we've rounded up a list of the most stellar travel accessories on the market — according to our team of shopping experts, of course. Keep scrolling to learn about the aforementioned picks, with quotes straight from the editors who love them.
1 Best Packing Cubes
Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Cubes Set ($20)
If you struggle to keep things organized while you're traveling, consider investing in a set of packing cubes — just like this affordable bundle from Amazon. It comes in a pack of four and you can choose between a variety of sizes and colors. The mesh top makes it easy to keep track of what's inside, so you won't have to rifle through every cube to find what you need. Our editor tested this set out and wrote all about her experience in this Amazon Basics Packing Cubes Set review.
Editor Quote: "First and foremost, I appreciate the variety of available sizes, which ensures I can shop out the packing cubes best-suited to my luggage. Travel cubes I've previously tried have either been too small to fit any practical amount of clothes or too large to really make much of a difference within my suitcase. Fortunately, the medium size works great for a standard suitcase, with some extra room to spare for items I might not want packed away in the cubes — like toiletries or hair styling tools." — Kyley Warren, former assistant editor, Shopping
2 Best Travel Adapter
Epicka Universal Travel Adapter ($20, originally $23)
This universal travel adapter has you covered in more than 150 (!) countries. It's super convenient to have if you're a frequent international traveler and want an easy way to simultaneously charge multiple items at once. For more info, read our review of the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter.
Editor Quote: "The adapter itself is fairly compact; it fits in the palm of my hand, so it's really easy to throw in a carry-on bag. It has one standard plug, with the addition of four USB ports and one USBC port. This means that you can charge up to six devices at once, and it actually works. Every night, I could charge my computer, phone, AirPods, and Oura ring without any issue." — India Yaffe, former associate editor, Shopping
3 Best Sunscreen Face Mist
Vacation Super Spritz Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Mist ($23)
If you're looking for a water-resistant face sunscreen you can mist over your makeup throughout the day, give this option a try. It has a broad spectrum SPF 50 formula and can be tucked away in your purse. Our editor brought it to her trip to Paris over the summer and raves about it. For more of her product recommendations, check out her full Paris packing list.
Editor Quote: "Face sunscreen with a high SPF that's also easy to reapply is a nonnegotiable. This SPF 50 sunscreen mist from Vacation is water-resistant, invisible, and dries down quickly, which makes it ideal for spritzing over your makeup throughout the day." — Yerin Kim, former editor, Features
4 Best Luggage Tags
Apple AirTag ($25, originally $29)
Apple AirTags are a must have travel essential if you want to track your checked baggage from afar. It'll instantly connect with your iPhone or iPad to help you track its exact whereabouts in seconds. For more, read our review of the Apple AirTag.
Editor Quote: "I thought these little devices were brilliant. They're tiny; all four fit in the palm of my hand, as shown above. They took about 30 seconds to set up; all you need is your iPhone close by, and they pair automatically." — IY
5 Best Portable Charger
iWALK Small USB-C Portable Charger ($27)
If your phone rarely makes it through the day (guilty), this portable charger is a game changer. Several of our editors tested it and loved how compact and stylish it is. Even better? It can fully charge your phone in just an hour. Compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, as well as most Android devices, it's the perfect addition to your travel kit. For more info, read our review of the iWalk Portable Charger.
Editor Quote: "I can't leave my apartment without my iWalk portable charger in my bag; in fact, I'd rather forgo headphones than this power bank. I love how small and efficient this charger is. I can fit it into my smaller bags, like a wallet on a chain or an evening clutch. Plus, this charger has a lightning port built into it, so I don't even need to bother with charging cables, which take up so much space. Although bigger power banks hold more charging capacity, the iWalk is much less of a nuisance to use; they're too big and clunky, and most of the time, won't fit into my nicer going-out bags. I've had portable chargers that can wirelessly charge my phone, but honestly, it's never consistent since my phone barely stays aligned with the charging pad while out and about. This model has three LED lights to indicate how much power is left in the portable charger." — Anvita Reddy, former assistant editor, Shopping
6 Best Travel Camera
Polaroid Sport Action Camera ($30)
This travel camera is the most affordable sports camera we've come across. You can easily sync it to your phone via an accompanying app to download videos and photos in seconds. Read more about it via our review of the Polaroid Sport Action Camera.
Editor Quote: "I was pleased to find that connecting the camera to my iPhone was super easy. First, I downloaded the Polaroid Wave app, and then selected the WiFi name displayed on the action camera's back screen. From there, my content atomically populated in the app, where I was able to download it and sync it to my camera roll in minutes (maybe seconds, even?)." — Marisa Petrarca, contributing editor, Shopping
7 Best Tinted Sunscreen
Supergoop! Glowscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 ($38)
This lightweight face sunscreen has a hydrating, velvety texture that quickly absorbs into the skin. It's fantastic as a makeup primer and has a clean chemical formula with SPF 40. Our beauty editor tested it out and loved the glow it gave her skin, along with the sun protection. For more details and photos, read her Supergoop! Glowscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 review.
Editor Quote: "The formula has a light, barely-there tint and a pearlescent shine that looks like you bathed in highlighter (but like, in a really, really good way). I smeared it on with my fingertips and found it absorbed within seconds. It feels hydrating immediately upon application thanks to hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, but not greasy or wet like the sunscreen you grew up slathering on before pool days. To add to its list of benefits, it has sea lavender which is a powerful antioxidant and cocoa peptides to protect the skin from blue-light damage — something I'm deathly afraid of, especially because I spend the day sitting in front of a computer screen." — Jessica Harrington, senior editor, Beauty
8 Best Travel Earplugs
Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs ($42)
The next time you find yourself on a flight with a screaming baby or disruptive passenger (hey, you're bound to run into a few), just pull out these Eargasm Earplugs to help you tune out any unwanted noise. One PS editor says they're so effective, she even wears them to concerts. Read more about why these earplugs are worth the hype in our review of the Eargasm High Fidelity Earplugs.
Editor Quote: "As someone who now has multiple pairs of Eargasm earplugs (one for home, one for travel), allow me to explain why they're worth the price. For one thing, these earplugs are designed to lower sound volume, not muffle it completely, which makes them ideal for concerts and festivals as well as many other situations, like loud workplaces. They're meant to 'filter, rather than block out, sound to a manageable level,' Eargasm says on its website; you want to hear what's going on, just not as loud as it really is." - Maggie Ryan, former assistant editor, Wellness
9 Best Travel Sleeping Mask
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask ($66)
This silky eye mask will seriously help to elevate your next flight or roadtrip with its soft composition, light-blocking capabilities, and seamless fit. Unlike other travel eye masks, this version is made from a luxurious silk material that's designed to feel delicate and lightweight against your eyelids. Learn more about why this mask is worth the splurge in our review of the Slip Silk Eye Mask.
Editor Quote: "The silky fabric feels soft to the touch and it is thick enough to stop any light from piercing through. We've both been using ours for a couple weeks now, and have been enjoying uninterrupted sleep. We also have large windows (and no blackout curtains), so on sunny days, our apartment is filled with so much light. This used to instantly wake us up, but not anymore thanks to the sleep mask. It's a simple solution, yet a total game-changer." - Shelcy Joseph, former assistant editor, Fashion
10 Best Travel Pillow
Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow ($69)
Just the very thought of traveling gives us a stiff neck, but this comfortable travel pillow helps prevent those dreaded kinks. The product's 360-degree ergonomic design ensures total neck support and helps you maintain good spinal posture, so you're not experiencing aches and pains by the end of your journey. Read our full review of the Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow.
Editor Quote: "This neck pillow is so easy to pack and not bulky, making it the perfect travel accessory. The product includes a protective bag to store my neck pillow when I am not using it, which is ideal and helps keep it clean. The softness of the neck pillow's outer sleeve is so cozy, and the memory foam makes me feel like I'm laying my head on one of the pillows that I sleep with daily." — Indira Diaz, former social strategy coordinator
11 Best Affordable Carry-on
iFLY Hardside Luggage Fibertech 20 Inch Carry-On Luggage ($68, originally $78)
This hard-side luggage is practically famous at Walmart, with more than 30,000 rave ratings. It's ultra lightweight with multidirectional wheels, multiple packing compartments, and an expansion zipper. Learn more about the product by reading our review of the iFLY Hardside Luggage Fibertech 20 Inch Carry-On Luggage.
Editor Quote: "It's as functional as more pricey carry-ons I've tried. When I opened it up, I was surprised to see that the full lining was scarlet red, which gave it a luxe feel. Also, I was quick to spot the large zip mesh compartment and a small one, as well as tie-down straps to keep your clothes in place. Oh, and if you find that it's *very* full (like, to the point where it's difficult to shut), you can utilize its expansion zipper to add two inches of packing space." — MP
12 Best Affordable Weekender Bag
Open Story Weekender Bag ($80)
This popular weekender bag has a nearly perfect rating at Target. Shoppers love how it's small enough to fit underneath the seat on most flights and that it can count as a personal item. It features a spacious main compartment, an interior zip compartment, a padded laptop compartment, side slip pockets, and an exterior zip pocket for little things like sunglasses and keys. For more details, check out our review of the Open Story Weekender Bag.
Editor Quote: "If you're in the market for a personal-item carry-on bag that prioritizes organization, this is the bag for you. It has plenty of interior and exterior pockets to keep your necessities in specific zones, so you can easily access and see where your things are." — Anvita Reddy, former assistant editor, Shopping
13 Best Backpack
Béis The Backpack ($118)
For a backpack that functions like luggage, it doesn't get better than this option from Béis. It's loaded with smart organizational features and has an extra-large interior compartment. Our editor tested it out and writes about her experience in this Béis The Backpack review.
Editor quote: "There's a padded sleeve that's perfect for carrying laptops, iPads, Kindles, and other delicate tech; an equally large compartment with suitcase-like compression straps to hold clothes or packing cubes; two smaller, zippered internal compartments (one with clear plastic and one with mesh); and a smaller external compartment to stash things you need to reach for quickly and easily (think: keys — yes, there's even a key leash — your cell phone, wallet, and a couple of pen slots)." — Angela Elias, contributing editor, Shopping
14 Best Travel Blanket
E Marie Travel Blanket and Eye Mask ($98)
This plush travel blanket from E Marie has earned the praises of Oprah and PS editors alike — so you know it's good. The accessory made it onto Oprah's 2019 Favorite Things List, and one PS editor gushed that it was so versatile, it's like a "Swiss Army knife." Read our review of the E Marie Travel Blanket for the full product details.
Editor Quote: "The soft brushed knit is super lightweight, thanks to a blend of polyester, rayon, and spandex. It's also large enough to keep even the tallest among us warm at 85 inches x 36 inches. Best of all, it's both machine washable and dryable, so you won't have to bother with dry cleaning after using it on a not-so-clean airplane." - Amber Katz, former contributor
15 Best Small Travel Bag
Béis Mini Weekender ($98)
The Béis Mini Weekender is a more compact version of its bestselling predecessor. It's best for those headed on an overnight trip or even for minimalist packers. Just like the original, it features a main compartment, a built-in padded laptop sleeve, and a separate bottom compartment. For more, read our review of the Béis Convertible Mini Weekender.
Editor Quote: "The Béis Mini Weekender Bag has the two main features I loved from the original version: the double-zip shoe compartment and the pass-through trolley sleeve. Plus, this bag has a padded, built-in laptop sleeve; two exterior zip pockets; a large zip pocket on the inside; as well as two small slip pockets. It even has a key-ring strap where you can attach pouches, keys, or your wallet for easy access." — AR
16 Best Personal Carry-on Item
Béis Weekender Bag ($108)
This personal carry-on bag is TikTok famous for several reasons — one being that it's super chic and functional. Another big draw is that it has two main compartments: a spacious one for clothes and a bottom one to keep your shoes and toiletries separate. Read why our editors love it so much in this review of the Béis Weekender Bag.
Editor Quote: "According to the website, the Béis Weekender Bag was designed to take the hassle out of packing for the weekend, and this bag definitely did so. It fit everything we could need for the weekend and then some. In the top tote section of the Weekender Bag, I was able to fit my clothes, my dad's clothes, two thin towels, my iPad, and a small pouch holding my tech accessories." — AR
17 Best Sneakers
Kizik Milan Monument Hands-Free Sneaker ($59, originally $119)
Between the generous arch support and the HandsFree Labs®️ technology that allows for the heel to move back to easily slip on, this shoe scores major comfort and convenience points. It also doesn't hurt that they're cute. Our editor packed them for a summer trip to Paris and highly recommends them. For more of her favorite products, read her Paris packing list.
Editor Quote: "I wore this sleek, leather pair with casual daytime outfits, dressier evening looks, and everything in between. The best part? Kizik's slip-on sneakers are completely hands-free, so I never had to worry about bending down and tying my shoes." — YK
18 Best Sun Hat
Lack of Color The Inca Raffia Bucket Hat ($149)
If you're looking for a compact sun hat, this woven beauty provides UPF 50+ sun protection and couldn't be cuter. Our editor took it with her to St. Barts this summer and declared it an essential in her St. Barts packing guide.
Editor Quote: "This bucket hat from Lack of Color has been a staple on all of my beach vacations, and my trip to St. Barts was no different. I love this accessory because it fits like a classic bucket hat (aka it's extremely flattering), but boasts a woven straw design that won't be affected by sun exposure, so you can confidently wear it for even the longest days spent outside." — KW
19 Best Wireless Headphones
Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Earbuds ($100, originally $150)
These noise-cancelling headphones feature two listening modes: Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) to block all external noise and Transparency Mode, if you need (or want) to hear your surroundings. They provide up to eight hours of listening time and have high-tech on-device controls that allow you to switch between listening modes, control the volume, and more. Check out our complete review of the Beats Studio Buds True Wireless Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Earbuds to learn more.
Editor Quote: "I love how comfortable these earbuds feel. They come with three silicone ear-tip sizes so you can choose your best fit. I prefer the default or medium-size ones. Each earbud fits perfectly in my ear, almost like it was a missing puzzle piece. Plus, you can twist it up or down to get an even more secure and comfortable fit." — AR
20 Best Stylish Carry-on Luggage Set
Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage (350)
If we had to describe this hardside luggage in a single word, it would be "quality." The stylish carry-on bag features a durable, 100 percent polycarbonate shell and sophisticated faux-leather trim. Some standout details are its multidirectional wheels, TSA-approved combination lock, and braking system. Plus, it comes in a handful of different colors. Read our review of the Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage.
Editor Quote: "I love how spacious this carry-on feels, despite the fact that it's — well, a carry-on. So much of this has to do with the smart design of the piece. The interior of the luggage is fitted with two lined compartments that are deep and easy to fit a variety of different styles in at once — including everything from bulky seasonal coats and sweaters to thick jeans and even a couple pairs of boots." — KW
21 Best Travel Tote Bag
MZ Wallace Medium Metro Deluxe Tote ($245)
For a large everyday tote bag that you can carry on your daily commute to the office, back and forth between sleepovers, and yes, even on your next flight, you can't go wrong with this MZ Wallace Metro Tote. The cool carry-on fits seamlessly under an airplane seat or in the overhead bin, plus it features 11 interior pockets that'll help keep you organized when you're on the go. Learn more about the bestselling travel tote in our review of the MZ Wallace Metro Tote.
Editor Quote: "Despite its medium-size frame, the tote's carrying capabilities are that of a comically large bag. It's Mary Poppins-esque — so much so that my friends have joked that I look like I'm performing some kind of magic trick every time I rummage through it, since there's seemingly no end to the number of products I can pull out from it. A full-size Hydro Flask? Easy fit. A travel pillow? No problem. A full bag of flight-specific skin-care essentials on top of my other full-size toiletry bag? I'll admit it's extra, but it doesn't feel like it with this MZ Wallace tote." - KW
22 Best Lightweight Carry-on Suitcase
July Carry On ($295)
This lightweight carry-on suitcase features a built-in charger that low-battery girlies will appreciate. Not only that, but its curved shape, aluminum bumpers, and 100 percent aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell are designed to withstand the elements. Read more via our comprehensive review of the July Carry On.
Editor Quote: "Beyond being incredibly light (so important to me!), the suitcase has a couple special features that really impress me. First, by the handle of the carry-on, there's an ejectable battery that charges both your phone and your laptop — so convenient! If you don't want to travel with the charger, you simply pop it out and leave it at home. The other feature I love is the 360-degree spinner wheels — they are so smooth and can glide across any surface no problem. I could quickly move through the airport and my hotel without struggling to pull my bag along." — Macy Cate Williams, former content director, Shopping
23 Best Monogrammed Weekender Bag
Paravel Weekender Bag ($215, originally $325)
The Paravel Weekender Bag is designed for — you guessed it — weekend use. The chic design is crafted from 12 upcycled plastic bottles and recycled vegan leather details, making it a great option for sustainably minded folks. You can even get it personalized with a hand-painted monogram to make it your own. For more, read our complete review of the Paravel Weekender Bag.
Editor Quote: "Even though the bag itself appears compact, it actually has a ton of space inside. I can fit electronics, multiple cosmetic bags, and any other extras I want readily available with plenty of space to spare. I also constantly use the side straps that slip over the trolley of your carry-on, so the bag can sit securely on top of my suitcase. It makes rushing through the airport a total breeze." — MW
24 Best Travel Crate For Pets
Revol Dog Crate ($449)
Love to travel with Fido? Check out this travel dog crate, a collapsible crate that's super easy to set up, transport, and store. It comes equipped with a carrying handle and wheels, making it a great option for bringing pets with you on family holidays or car trips. One of our staff members put it to the test with their pup; read their review of the Revol Dog Crate.
Editor Quote: "Its sleek, rounded design blends in with most any aesthetic, and it comes in four neutral, complementary colorways. As for safety, the Revol's diamond-shaped wire pattern on the side panels (which, I should stress, don't need to be handled to transport the crate) help defend against stuck paws or teeth." — Bryan Brandom, senior copy editor
25 Best Hardside Carry-on
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus ($425, originally $495)
It's no secret that our editors are Paravel fans. The Aviator Carry-on Plus is yet another one of the brand's luggage options to consider. It's designed to hold enough stuff for a week's worth of adventures and features multidirectional wheels, a textured finish that conceals scuffing, and a removable laundry bag. We also love how it's crafted from sustainable materials, just like the aforementioned weekender bag. Read our review of the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus.
Editor Quote: "This bag is lightweight and contains a compression pad with clips that helped push down and compact my clothes, and as someone who's into aesthetics, it made my overstuffed suitcase look tidy and clean. It also contains a netted compartment that's great for storing small items like chargers and underwear, and it has wheels that spin 360 degrees, as well as a TSA-approved lock." — Haley Lyndes, assistant editor, Shopping
26 Best Suitcase With Shelves
Royce and Rocket Suitcase with Castle Shelves ($615)
This Royce and Rocket suitcase takes organized travel to a whole new level. Unlike other models, this luggage is equipped with built-in shelves, which make it easier to sort through clothes and other packed essentials while traveling. One PS editor says the suitcase has made traveling "more efficient" in this Royce and Rocket suitcase review.
Editor Quote: "Whether you're a budget traveler (like me) looking to maximize on space in even the smallest hotel rooms or a messy packer ISO something that'll help you stay more organized, this luggage is a fantastic investment that combines the benefits of a closet, dresser, and suitcase all into one seamless product. With the help of this accessory, you'll feel much more efficient in your travels and confident to take on the world in style." — KW
— Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes, Angela Elias, and Marisa Petrarca
Kyley Warren (she/her) is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She formerly worked as an assistant editor on PS Shopping, where she reviewed trending products, monitored commerce trends, developed thoughtful affiliate strategies, and relied on her unique expertise to compile helpful shopping guides for consumers that span a number of verticals — including fashion, home, beauty, and wellness. Before PS, she worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.
Angela Elias (she/her) is a contributing editor for PS Shopping. In her former roles at PS, she led the relaunch of its Latine identity and family-focused verticals, directed its Home vertical, and hosted shopping segments. She has nearly 15 years of experience working in the lifestyle space as a writer, editor, content strategist, director, on-camera talent, and publicist.
Marisa Petrarca (she/her) is a contributing editor for PS Shopping and has more than five years of experience writing and editing beauty, fashion, and lifestyle content. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Allure, and InStyle, among others.
Haley Lyndes is a shopping writer and editor with more than seven years of experience in the publishing space. Specializing in home and lifestyle, she covers everything from furniture and mattresses to beauty products and fitness gear. Previously, she was an SEO commerce writer for Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn. Her writing has appeared in Buzzfeed, Travel & Leisure, and Real Simple. When she's not reviewing her latest home finds or interviewing celebrities, you'll likely find her out for a run — she's also a marathoner.
