Essential Travel Gear

Airline crews across the world trust Travelpro for good reason: their luggage always hit a sweet spot between features, quality, and price. The Crew 11 collection continues that tradition. They're built with a sturdy ballistic nylon that's also lightweight and use self aligning wheels unique to Travelpro that make rolling easier. The 21" carry on even takes a cue from modern luggage and includes a power bank pocket for charging devices.

• Limited lifetime warranty
• 21" carry on: 7.2 lbs, ~36L
• 25" checked: 8.8 lbs, ~63L
• 29" checked: 10.6 lbs, ~85L

The Delsey Helium Aero collection is our favorite hardside luggage that's affordable yet still well made. The most important feature is its polycarbonate shell, which is the most durable yet lightweight material for hardside luggage. It comes with a TSA lock and looks pretty sleek for its price too.

• 10 year limited warranty
• 21" carry on: 8.4 lbs
• 25" checked: 10.2 lbs
• 29" checked: 12.5 lbs

Not only is the Maxlite 4 our favorite affordable softside luggage, it's also the lightest: 2 to 4 pounds lighter than competitors actually, which is a lot considering most luggage is around 8 to 11 pounds. It lacks fancy features like the self aligning wheels of its more expensive Crew 11 sibling, but it's ~1/2 the price and is still made with sturdy materials overall.

• Limited lifetime warranty
• 21" carry on: 5.9lbs
• 25" checked: 7.8 lbs
• 29" checked: 8.6 lbs

The Baseline collection from Briggs & Riley epitomizes "buy less, but better": high quality materials like a nylon/rubber/aluminum fabric, a patented compression system that's easier to use than others, a suiter, and other luxurious details. While not exactly trendy, its classic looks are perfect for business travelers. Finally, B&R are one of the few that offer a lifetime warranty that includes airline damage and are often recommended by luggage repair shops for being easier to fix, making it a truly good long term investment and a favorite of frequent travelers despite its price.

• Lifetime warranty that includes airline damage, a rarity
• 22" carry on: 9 lbs (video review)
• 25" checked: 11 lbs
• 28" checked: 11.9 lbs

Rimowa is an all time luggage great due to its German engineered quality and signature good looks, making it a cult favorite among discerning business travelers and celebrities alike. Although the aluminum Topas series made them famous, we recommend the polycarbonate Salsa Deluxe since it's lighter, more durable, and cheaper without sacrificing features like the external bag holder. We won't blame you for sticking with the Topas though, especially the lust worthy Stealth 😍.

• 5 year limited warranty
• 21" carry on: 8.2 lbs, 32L
• 26" checked: 11.5 lbs, 63L
• 29" checked: 11.9 lbs, 78L

Learn more

• Rimowa Buyers Guide
• Profile by A Continuous Lean
• Celebrities with Rimowa

Away is the Warby Parker of luggage, not just because a founder worked there but because their direct to consumer model results in a thoughtful and quality product without the typical retail markup. They're all built with Makrolon polycarbonate (aka the best) and come with a TSA lock, compression system, and removable laundry bag. The carry on integrates a battery for charging any USB device and can nest within bigger Away luggage like Russian stacking dolls. Their beautiful Instagram account also does a great job selling the travel lifestyle.

• 100 day trial with limited lifetime warranty
• 21.7" carry on: 7 lbs, 38L (unboxing video)
• 25" checked: 8.5 lbs, 62L
• 28" checked: 9.9 lbs, 86L

The Bluesmart One is luggage reimagined for today's connected age with smartphone enabled features like a worldwide location tracker, digital scale, digital TSA lock, integrated battery for charging, and easy access compartment for a laptop/tablet. Its hubless wheels are quieter than others while also adding to its slightly geeky looks. An interesting approach that'll appeal to many, but not all.

If you can wait, Bluesmart is launching their new Series 2 luggage series launching in December.

• 100 day trial with 2 year warranty
• 22" carry on: 9.4 lbs, 34L
• Feeling fancy or prefer a more subdued look? See the special Black Edition
• Bluesmart website
• Original Indiegogo campaign
• Video review by The Telegraph

Raden uses an Apple-esque approach to luggage that combines a sleek design with the latest technology and the best materials. It boasts similar smart features as the Bluesmart with a companion smartphone app, but from its minimalist and polished exterior you wouldn't think this luggage was so teched out. The polycarbonate hardshell comes in a beautiful array of colors, but we'd only recommend the lighter colors if you're proud of visible scuffs similar to how Rimowa owners love the stickered patina of the Topas.

Internally it is a bit sparse: few pockets and no compression but that isn't too hard to rectify with the right accessories.

• 5 year case warranty and 1 year electronics warranty
• 22" carry on: 8.4 lbs
• 28" checked: 13 lbs
• Raden website
• Unboxing video

While technically not an upstart, Incase has always made high quality, tech focused bags and their take on smart luggage is definitely modern. The NoviConnected hits all the right notes: high quality materials like Makrolon polycarbonate, sleek looks with removable hubless wheels, and app connected battery that can charge USB-C devices. Most modern luggage can't charge USB-C yet.

If you want to add tracking, Incase does offer a separate smart luggage tracker.

• Limited lifetime case warranty and 2 year battery warranty
• 22", 41L

You see this Osprey bag often all around the world and for good reason: it's a really good all around bag and not to mention Osprey's top notch reputation and customer service. It comes with a big panel loading main compartment with compression for easy packing and a lockable front panel with padded device compartments. The technical and outdoorsy look, however, isn't for everyone.

• Conveniently attaches with certain Osprey daypacks, like the Daylite, for easier daily outings
• If you want an even more seamless daypack combo and don't mind something bigger, see the Farpoint 55 with its made for zip off daypack
• Lifetime Warranty ("All Mighty Guarantee")
• 46L, 3.31 lbs
• Video review

Despite not knowing anything about making backpacks, two kiwis decided to scratch their own itch and create the Minaal Carry-on: one of the most well thought out travel backpacks ever. It's admittedly expensive but the quality and craftsmanship are absurdly good, like comfortable magnetic load bearing shoulder straps that are stowable for a minimalist briefcase look. Its sleek design works everywhere including the office and its clamshell design opens fully for easy packing. If you want the best travel backpack, this bag is definitely up there.

• Pair it with customized accessories like special packing cubes
• Lifetime Warranty
• 38L, 3.12 lbs
• Video review by Chase Reeves
• The original Kickstarter campaign

This commuter backpack has long been popular among travelers and the "buy it for life" crowd due to North Face's consistent high quality materials and components. It has lots of dedicated, padded pockets for devices including a lie flat laptop compartment for easy airport travel and a comfortable FlexVent shoulder strap system. The only small downsides are a busy exterior (zipper pull and straps galore) and a top loading style main compartment which isn't as convenient for packing.

• Lifetime Warranty
• 33L, 3.22 lbs
• Need more space? Check out its bigger sibling: Router Transit (41L)

Tortuga is one of the best brands focused on city travel and their newest Outbreaker backpack continues that tradition with quality components across the board: YKK zippers, waterproof sailcloth, duraflex buckles, and more. It has a clamshell design for easy packing and a padded, lie flat laptop compartment. The rectangular design might not appeal to everyone, but the shape actually lets you pack the most while still falling within carry on requirements.

• Warranty: "If something is wrong and is our fault, we will make it right."
• 35L, 4.6 lbs
• Need more space? See the 45L version.
• Video review by Chase Reeves

Paranoid or traveling to a sketchy region? Pacsafe is known for producing high quality, security focused travel products. The Venturesafe EXP45 epitomizes that anti-theft ethos in a sleek bag that doesn't compromise on space or features. You can secure all zippers into a single point, lock the bag to a fixture with an integrated cable, and know your bag is safe from slashing with its steel mesh embedded fabric. For easy packing it has a clamshell design compartment, dedicated device pockets, and stowable straps.

• 5 year warranty
• 45L, 3.81 lbs
• Video review

Among the ubiquitous all-in-one cube style adapters, we recommend this one. Its USB ports charge quickly (up to 2.4 amps, as fast as it gets pretty much, vs. the typical 1 to 2 amps) and it can charge more devices (it outputs a total of 3.5 amps vs. a more typical 2.5 amps). It also has a built in fuse to protect your devices from surges. Important since not every country's electrical grid is that reliable.

We'll be honest: these aren't the best quality, but that's generally hard to find for these near commodity style adapters. We think this one's good enough.

Note: The fuse unfortunately isn't replaceable, meaning you'll have to buy a new adapter if it does blow while protecting your devices. If you prefer the convenience of a replaceable fuse, we recommend this adapter. You do give up 1 amp of total USB charging capacity, but if you don't have that many devices it's not a big deal since it still charges quickly at 2.4 amps.

If you just need something simple, we love these cute color coded adapters that stack neatly like legos from Flight 001. It also comes with a color coded map to match the right plug to a country.

• Accepts almost any type of plug

These fold flatter than any other adapter today which is always nice when traveling. A few small downsides: Quality is ok at best, usage is not as straightforward, and the compact design means heavy items may fall out when plugged in.

• Comprehensive review on Pack Hacker
• Accepts only two prong, no three prong

If you don't need to handle multiple country's plugs in a single trip, these are a good option. Compared to the all-in-one options, the separate adapters in this set are made to higher standards and will fit more snugly at the wall making it easier to plug heavier devices in.

• Plugs have additional third grounding prongs for increased safety
• Accepts almost any type of plug

If you need to convert voltage because your devices only work at 110V or you just feel safer using one, BESTEK's is the tried and true one that's been upgraded to be even better. Its legions of customers have tested its reliability, its USB ports charge quickly (6 amps total!), it comes with plug adapters, and also has built in surge protection.

However, you do give up luggage space since it's a bit bigger and because converting electricity gets hot it has a fan that gets pretty loud. Also, you still can't plug in high wattage devices like blowdryers which is the quickest way to break it.

• Only accepts US plugs

The main reason to recommend the 8 Plus over the 8 is the better dual lens camera with its depth effect aka cool artsy photos usually reserved for expensive cameras.

While the 7 Plus can also do these special photos, the 8 Plus is still a worthwhile upgrade for travelers:

• The camera has been upgraded to be clearer and faster
• It supports a new GPS system that's more accurate
• It has more LTE bands so it works across more of the world
• The base storage is now 64GB vs. 32GB, which we think is enough for most people now while also being cheaper

How about compared to the X? Outside of the bigger screen and slightly better front facing camera, there aren't any huge benefits to the X for traveling. The backside camera is just as good and it supports the same amount of LTE bands while being a few hundred more expensive.

The most convenient way to get an unlocked version is directly from Apple. If you need to, it's easy to sell your current iPhone that's locked to a specific carrier like AT&T on sites like eBay or Craigslist.

The Pixel 2 XL is the best Android option for traveling. Although the original Pixel was a great phone, the new Pixel 2 is better by every measure:

• At its release, it had the most highly reviewed camera for a smartphone ever
• Uses the new eSIM standard meaning no more easily lost physical sim cards (still has a nano SIM tray if the network doesn't support eSIM)
• Even more resistant to dust and water (IP67 vs. IP53)
• Supports an additional 7 LTE bands so it'll work across more of the world

Why do we recommend the XL over the regular? It's not the camera. They're the same for each Pixel 2 (unlike for iPhones). The main differences are the bigger screen and bigger battery, which are big benefits for traveling. It's better for entertainment on the go and you don't have to charge it as much.

• Spend the extra $100 for the 128GB version to ensure you have enough space
• Another plus: You can get it with Google Fi, a great data option for travelers

Despite the S8 coming out, the S7 is still a good option because it's now cheaper, has a camera that's just as good (the S8 didn't update the camera), and works across the world.

• Easily expand its base 32GB memory with a micro SD card yourself.
• Article: Five things I learned traveling with the Galaxy S7 edge

Anker's heavy duty PowerLine+ cables are easily a must have for traveling because of how much abuse they can take. Or to borrow from our current hyperbolic political situation... Let me tell you, compared to normal cables, these are tremendous. Huge! Believe me, no cable beats them. Make Cables Great Again.

Seriously though, they're that good. We recommend the longer 6 ft length for convenience because who doesn't like using their phone in bed?

If you need extreme durability, Anker has a new PowerLine II series. However, in usage it's really stiff and annoying to pack up unlike the Powerline+ which uses a tangle free nylon material. For travel, the PowerLine+ is the better option.

• Prefer even longer? There's a 10 ft version
• Article: How Anker is beating Apple and Samsung at their own accessory game

Really handy when traveling because you never know when you'll need to plug your phone somewhere. The open/close design of this keychain cable ensures it'll last longer vs. other keychain cables with their plugs exposed that wear down faster.

If you have a lot of Lightning and Micro USB devices, get a combined cable like this one. It's always a win to pack less and have multiple items combined into one (unless you need to charge the devices at the same time). We like this one from Skiva because it's still MFi certified so you're not sacrificing quality by comining the two types of plugs and it uses more durable material than standard cables.

USB-C devices are starting to become more popular so 3-in-1 cables are now a thing (although don't we wish that wasn't necessary?). This one from dodocool is our favorite because it's still MFi certified so you're not sacrificing quality and also does both power and data, which is somewhat rare if you look at all the 3-in-1 options out there.

There are smaller chargers with integrated cables, but this one has the best balance of features while still being small enough to carry in your pocket on the go (although maybe not that comfortably for some people).

• 6000 mAh: 3 charges for iPhone 7
• Charges quickly at 2.4 amps (pretty much fastest for these)
• Both a Lightning (MFi certified) and Micro USB cable
• Bonus LED flashlight
• Need more power? Jackery offers a similar 10,050 mAh version

If you don't care about integrated cables, this slim option (slimmer than the Jackery Bolt) fits easily into pockets while still charging quickly (2 amps) and with enough juice. Smaller options don't provide enough power for most people while not being much smaller either.

• 5000 mAh: 2.5 charges of an iPhone 7
• Anti-slip material for a better grip
• Combine with a 6 inch 2-in-1 cable and it can basically charge any device without much extra bulk
• Red Dot design award winner (we're suckers for design awards 😍)

If you need more power for a longer trip or a trip with friends, this power bank has a lot of juice in a fairly small package with fast charging speeds. You could fit it into a bigger jacket pocket, but it's probably better suited in a bag.

• 20,100 mAh: 6.5 charges for an iPhone 7
• 2 USB ports that can both charge devices quickly (2.4 amps) vs. others that slow down when more devices are plugged in
• Have an Android device with QuickCharge? Check the Anker PowerCore Speed 20000 QC

Bigger devices like MacBooks or music equipment require AC power. Until recently, that meant plugging into a wall but now there's a new class of power banks that can do the job. They're expensive, but they're by far the best mobile option.

The Omnicharge Omni 20 is our favorite. It can quickly charge nearly any device you throw at it, is a bit smaller than comparable power banks, and has an efficient conversion rate so you lose as little power as possible.

The UE Roll was one of our all time favorite travel purchases, and the 2nd version is even better (although only slightly). Great sound, premium build quality, compact size, and rugged features make it one of the most reliable items to travel with.

• Bungee cord for strapping it on items (more useful than you think)
• Uses slick sound effects 🎼, not low fidelity robotic voices heard in typical wireless audio products
• IPX7 waterproof, 100 ft wireless range, 9 hour playtime, 86 dB max volume

Relative to the gold standard UE Roll, the Anker SoundCore Sport has similar features and is slightly smaller for 1/2 the price. The main differences are slightly worse sound quality and noticeably less wireless range, but for many it's good enough.

• IPX7 waterproof, 33 ft wireless range, 10 hour playtime

The bigger but better brother of the UE Roll 2. Similar features except the Boom has better/deeper sound, longer playtime (15 vs. 9), and Siri/Google Now integration.

• IPX7 waterproof, 100 ft wireless range, 15 hour playtime, 90 dB max volume

Nothing today touches the fantastic quality of Bose’s noise cancelation. They’re expensive, but if noise canceling and auditory peace is what you value most they’re worth it.

• The sound quality isn't the absolute best, but it's good enough considering the noise canceling quality
• Make sure to get the right model for your device (Apple vs. Android/Samsung)
• 16 hour battery life

While its noise canceling isn’t as good as Bose, it’s adequately close (estimated at about 60% to 70% as good) and only 1/6 the cost.

• To improve the noise cancelling and comfort of these, replace the included ear tips with SpinFit ear tips
• 15 hour battery life

If you need both noise canceling and wireless ability, these are the best. Compared to the QC20, the noise cancelation of these is extremely close and the sound quality is slightly better.

Downsides are the neckband design looks weird when worn and once it's out of battery it's done vs. wired options you can continue to use.

• 10 hour battery life

We love the convenience of hanging toiletry bags with hooks. They minimize bathroom clutter which is really helpful when traveling with many people or when there isn't much counter space. This Dot&Dot hanging option is our favorite: a simple design, enough compartments and space for most people, and made of a durable waterproof material.

• Rectangular shape helps it stay upright when not hung and is easy to pack
• Prefer smaller and lighter? Try this Sea to Summit bag (2.4 oz!)
• Want more compartments? Try this Ogio bag

This is great option if you want a flat shape without compromising on compartments and quality. While a bit more expensive than others, it includes quality components like self healing YKK zippers along with a rare limited lifetime warranty.

• Removable hook for hanging if needed
• Left pocket has a water resistant lining
• Right pocket expands to store more if needed

If you don't need the bells and whistles of hanging style bags, dopp kits are a great and straightforward alternative. This is our favorite: made out of a thick heat resistant and waterproof silicon material that's durable and easy to clean, making it a better long term choice than most waxed canvas, nylon, and leather options you see.

• Prefer something fancy? Check out this beautiful leather dopp kit

This dopp kit adds a few more organization features like a quick access pocket and dual compartments while using a thick high quality nylon with water resistant lining and YKK zippers. Plus, Aer's just a cool brand.

This option has the best balance of features among U shaped neck pillows: a large neck support area, inflatable, lightweight, easy to wash, and easy to set up.

• Easy 60 second push button inflation, no need to blow into any valve
• Soft velvet cover is easily removed for washing
• Packs down easily into a carabiner carrying case
• Raised arch neck supports your head and neck more than typical neck pillows

Memory foam pillows are much heavier and less packable than inflatable options, but for many people they're more comfortable. The Cabeau Evolution is a time tested option with a patented back shape that won't push your head forward compared to typical U shaped neck pillows.

• Cover made of a comfortable velour that's easily removed for washing
• Has a media pouch for your mobile device and adjustable toggles

This is a great option if you want a pillow for purposes in addition neck/head support like lumbar support or when laying down where a U shaped pillow won't work as well.

• Self inflatable: Just twist the valve and it's ready to use in seconds
• Inner foam material provides support even if there’s no air
• Made of an easy to clean fabric that just wipes down
• Elastic band for securely strapping the pillow to headrests

For people who can't get comfortable with typical neck pillows, the Trtl is worth a try. It technically isn't a pillow but more of a structured neck supporting scarf made for sleeping while seated. Instead of leaning on a window, you lean into the scarf.

• Made of a soft, hypo-allergenic fleece that's easy to wash
• Scarf shape is lightweight and easily packable
• Video review showing how it works

The Nomader water bottle is the most well thought through collapsible water bottle right now with a solution to every problem you could run into while traveling. It also mimics most closely the experience of drinking from a normal bottle compared to other collapsible bottles with its structured silicon body.

• Twist cap is leak proof and doubles as a hygienic shield
• Made of durable, BPA free, and dishwasher safe materials
• Lifetime Warranty

The Vapur Eclipse is one of our all time favorites and compares very closely with the Nomader (which came out after we started using the Vapur). It's slightly less durable and the bladder form factor can feel more flimsy. However, it's easier to collapse, smaller when collapsed, 5x lighter, and comes in more sizes and patterns.

• Review by Pack Hacker
• Prefer sizes other than 1L? There's 1.5L, 0.7L, and 0.5L sizes
• Prefer a less matte look? See its sibling Element

If you don't care for having the bottle collapse, you might as well go all the way and get a bottle made out of metal so it's more durable and with thermal insulation so your drinks stay cool or warm for longer. Contigo's Matterhorn bottle does these both with aplomb. It also has a big mouth for easy cleaning and adding ice cubes, is shaped normally so it'll fit in cup holders, and has a leak proof lid that's attached so you don't have to worry about losing the cap.

Prefer sizes other than 20 oz? There's 32 oz and 12 oz sizes too.