35+ Travel Essentials I Never Leave Home Without

Real Favorites from a Travel Advisor Who's Learned the Hard Way (So You Don’t Have To)

From what to wear and how to pack, I have all the tips and recommendations to make your next trip great

As a travel advisor (and someone who's logged a lot of passport stamps over the years), I’ve tested a ton of travel gear—some great, some not-so-much. But these? These are the travel essentials I truly don’t leave home without.

Whether you're headed to Europe, taking a girls’ weekend, or jetting off for a honeymoon or sabbatical (been there lately 🙋🏻‍♀️), these travel must-haves are the ones I use personally and recommend to every client I work with.

📦 All items are available on Amazon and include affiliate links—so if you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my small business and packing like a pro!

Packing & Luggage Essentials

Packing cubes are a game changer when it comes to efficient packing

📦 Packing Cubes

These completely changed how I travel. I separate outfits, accessories, even swimwear—then just transfer the cubes into hotel drawers. It made a huge difference during our Italy trip last summer when we changed hotels three times!🔗 Buy it here

🧺 Travel Laundry Bag

There’s something oddly satisfying about having a designated place for dirty clothes. On longer trips, this little bag keeps my suitcase and my hotel room organized.🔗 Buy it here

🔥 Silicone Heat Mat

Once, I had to toss a blouse after a hot curling iron scorched it. Lesson learned. Now I pack this every time—it protects my clothes and gives me peace of mind when checking out in a rush.🔗 Buy it here

💧 Refillable Travel Bottles

I love being able to bring my favorite hair products, especially when traveling somewhere humid (I’m looking at you, Mexico). These keep everything tidy and TSA-approved.🔗 Buy it here

👚 Downy Wrinkle Release Spray

This is my secret weapon. Whether it's a dress packed too tight or jeans that need a quick refresh, a couple of spritzes and you’re good to go.🔗 Buy it here

🍷 Wine Angels – Wine Bottle Protectors

In Tuscany, I bought two bottles of wine I could not leave behind. These reusable padded bags got them home safely—no leaks, no panic.🔗 Buy it here

Best Travel Bags & Carry-Ons

TravePro is one of the most popular luggage brands for flight crew - and for good reason!

🧳 TravelPro Underseat Tote (Rolling)

I used this on a short trip to Miami and never once had to hoist it into the overhead bin. It rolls like butter and fits under the seat, even fully packed.🔗 Buy it here

🧳 TravelPro Crew Classic Carry-On

This is my go-to for longer getaways. I’ve pulled it over cobblestones in Lisbon, up steep Paris metro stairs, and it’s still going strong.🔗 Buy it here

🧳 TravelPro Premium Elite Checked Bag

I took this for a 12-day family trip and fit everything (plus room for souvenirs). The spinner wheels are a dream.🔗 Buy it here

Flight Comfort & Wellness Must-Haves

A good eye mask can make all the difference in helping you sleep on long flights

😴 3D Weighted Sleep Mask

I used to struggle to sleep on planes until I found this mask. It doesn’t smush your eyes, it stays in place, and it feels luxurious.🔗 Buy it here

🎧 Bose Noise-Canceling Earbuds

Total game changer. I popped these in during a crying-baby flight to Madrid and managed a full hour of peaceful sleep.🔗 Buy it here

🧦 Compression Socks

I swore I’d never wear compression socks... until I got off an international flight with balloon ankles. These are a non-negotiable now.🔗 Buy it here

💊 Boiron Jet Lag Relief

On my last overnight flight to Istanbul, I used these and felt surprisingly normal the next day. They help with grogginess, stiffness, and nausea.🔗 Buy it here

🎧 Alpine FlyFit Earplugs

My mom's ears are super sensitive, and she swears by these. Now I pack a pair too—no more painful takeoffs or landings.🔗 Buy it here

Tech & Charging Essentials

Having a small, portable tripod & selfie stick will take your vacay pics to the next level

🔋 iWALK Mini Charger

No cords, no bulk. I use this to charge my phone during long sightseeing days—like the time we did 20,000 steps in Paris and I still had battery to snap photos at dinner.🔗 Buy it here

🔋 Slim Backup Power Bank

Great as a backup to your backup (yes, I do that). Slim enough to fit in my evening clutch for nights out.🔗 Buy it here

📱 Airplane Phone Holder

This makes binge-watching Netflix on a flight so much easier. I clip it to the tray table and zone out in comfort.🔗 Buy it here

📸 Selfie Stick Tripod

I used this solo in Lisbon and got some of my favorite photos—no strangers required.🔗 Buy it here

International Travel Essentials

Having the right adaptors and converters for your travel is essential

🔌 Europe Plug Adapter (USB + USB-C)

I keep two of these in my bag when I head to Italy or France. Charges my phone, Kindle, and power bank all at once.🔗 Buy it here

🔌 UK Plug Adapter

England and Scotland? You’ll need a different adapter. I learned that the hard way in London years ago.🔗 Buy it here

🔌 Universal Voltage Converter

If you’re bringing a U.S. hair tool abroad, this protects your electronics from burning out—literally.🔗 Buy it here

Travel Safety & Organization

Keep your valuables safe while you explore in an anti-theft crossbody bag

💳 RFID Passport + Credit Card Wallet

Keeps everything secure and stylish. I keep one loaded with a backup card, my passport, and cash when heading to Europe.🔗 Buy it here

🎒 Wander Plus Anti-Theft Crossbody

This came in handy on a crowded Paris metro when someone definitely bumped me with pickpocket vibes. Hidden zippers FTW.🔗 Buy it here

📍 Apple AirTags

One in each suitcase. One in my handbag. Trust me—once you’ve tracked a delayed bag through three airports, you’ll never travel without these again.🔗 Buy it here

Comfort & Style On the Go

A nice face mist really helps make you feel refreshed after a long flight

🧥 Two-Piece Travel Set

It looks polished and feels like pajamas. I wore this on a redeye and straight into brunch—and got compliments.🔗 Buy it here

🥿 Foldable Ballet Flats

These saved me in Paris when I wore heels to dinner and couldn’t make it back to the hotel. Lifesavers in my tote.🔗 Buy it here

💨 Refreshing Face Mist

I keep this in my personal items and spritz before landing—it feels like a mini spa treatment after breathing dry airplane air for 8 hours.🔗 Buy it here

Bonus Essentials Worth the Space

🌞 Reef-Safe Sunscreen Mist

Protect your skin and coral reefs. I love that this one doesn’t leave you greasy, especially when exploring tropical spots.🔗 Buy it here

🚰 Collapsible Water Bottle

Folds flat for airport security, fills up post-checkpoint, and fits in hotel mini fridges. This lives in my carry-on.🔗 Buy it here

Final Thoughts: Build Your Travel Essentials Toolkit

Packing isn’t about bringing more—it’s about bringing smarter. These are the items that have helped me stay organized, feel refreshed, and travel confidently. If you’ve got a trip coming up (or want to upgrade your current travel kit), this is the list I’d hand my best friend.

💬 What’s your go-to travel essential? Leave a comment or share your favorites—I always love trying new tools.