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Packing your bag for your upcoming trip and searching for useful travel accessories? Keep reading for my expert picks!
I’ve been traveling for many years, from work trips to study abroad to living abroad to international vacations. My trips have been as short as a day or two or as long as a few months. During all of my travels, I’ve had the chance to try lots of travel hacks and accessories and narrow them down to the best and the brightest.
So, this post is a roundup of my favorite travel accessories to bring with me and others that I know are popular. From the bare essentials like luggage and sleep masks to the extras that make my trip a little more pleasant, there are some things I just know I don’t want to travel without.
Keep in mind that I don’t bring every item on every trip – it’s still important to ask yourself if you really need an accessory before you pop it into your bag! So, without further adieu, here’s my list of the most useful travel accessories to consider before your next trips!
Table of Contents
55 Useful Travel Accessories
Top Travel Accessories
Best Flight Accessories
Top Organizational Tools
Day Pack Essentials
Top Picks under $25
Top Picks Under $50
Cold Weather Accessories
Culinary Accessories
Travel Accessories for Study Abroad
FAQs
Conclusion
55 Useful Travel Accessories
Here’s a list of useful travel accessories to bring on your next trip. Most of these are my personal favorites – things I have owned for years and absolutely love. I also asked a few of my friends for their picks and included those, as well.
From travel essentials to gear for your flight to study abroad must-haves, keep reading for a list of the best travel accessories.
Top Travel Accessories
Every travel accessory on this list has the potential to make your next trip a little easier. For a quick reference, however, I wanted to share my very top picks.
1. Apple AirTags
Never worry about losing your checked luggage again with an Apple AirTag. These small devices will let you know if your checked bag accidentally ended up in Miami far before the airline is able to track it down.
The batteries last about a year and are replaceable, they’re water resistant, and you can see the live location of your AirTag on your phone anytime.
Traveler’s Choice: Apple AirTag
2. Universal Outlet Adapter
Travel adapters are so important for visiting Europe that I wrote a whole post on the topic. If you’re traveling between continents, you’ll almost certainly need a device to change the shape of the plugs to fit your electronics.
A universal outlet adapter is a great travel accessory because it works in over 150 countries, including the UK, mainland Europe, and the US. Note that this adapter will not work in India or South Africa, along with a few other destinations.
Traveler’s Choice: Universal Outlet Adapter
3. Patagonia Down Sweater
I absolutely love my Patagonia Down Sweater and take it nearly everywhere I go. It’s warm, incredibly lightweight, and has a lifetime guarantee – so if I ever have a problem with it, I can just take it into a Patagonia store for a repair. It is also somewhat packable, as you can stuff it into its inner pocket for travel (be warned, though, that it’s not especially small when packed).
For what it’s worth, I also own a Patagonia Nano Puff and I find the down sweater to be the more versatile of the two for the types of places I travel.
Traveler’s Choice: Patagonia Down Sweater
4. USB Data Blocker
Did you know that third parties may be able to access data on your phone when you use USB chargers to charge your cell phone? You can protect yourself with a USB data blocker, a small device that plugs directly into the USB port on your plane, bus, or outlet.
Data blockers essentially disable the “data pins” on your USB cable while allowing power to flow through the “charging pins.” All you really need to know is that these little devices make it so the USB port is charging your phone like it would if it were plugged into a normal outlet (instead of a computer).
Traveler’s Choice: USB to USB Data Blocker OR USB to USB-C Data Blocker
5. Addalock Portable Door Lock
One of my biggest fears as a traveler is having someone enter my room without my knowledge while I’m sleeping. These portable door locks from Addalock work by wedging the door closed, and it works well for most styles of door.
Note that this lock will not provide any protection for doors that don’t have a locking mechanism on the inside or sliding doors.
Traveler’s Choice: Portable Door Lock
6. Oura Ring
I love to travel with my Oura Ring, which tracks my heart rate, sleep, and stress levels along with my overall activity. It can be hard to know exactly how much you’ve moved or slept when traveling, and I appreciate the insight that I can glean by quickly glancing at my stats in the app.
In particular, I love the daily Readiness Score, which helps me know if I need more downtime or to push myself. I do miss the ability to read text messages or see my steps without looking at my phone – like I had with my Apple Watch – but the improved data is worth it to me.
Traveler’s Choice: Oura Ring
Top Flight Accessories
Flying tends to be unpleasant, even under the best of circ*mstances. Still, there are some accessories you can use or pack that will make the experience a little more pleasant.
7. Bluetooth Noise Canceling Headphones
I never fly without a pair of bluetooth headphones – mine are an older version of the Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Headphones. I actually bring two pairs on every flight; one pair of lightweight AirPods and another pair of over ear bluetooth headphones.
These headphones are my go-tos because they’re very comfortable, have great audio for video and audio calls on my computer, and they can significantly cut out the background noise around me.
8. Book or Kindle
I always feel better when I spend my time reading instead of scrolling on my phone, especially after a long day of waiting around in airports and on planes. I typically prefer a physical book, but they can be heavy and inconvenient.
A Kindle Paperwhite is a great alternative because, with one slim device, you can hold several books. They also hold their charge surprisingly well and have a built-in option to look up words in the text. With one device, you can read as much or as little as you like on your trip.
9. Sleeping mask
When flying, a sleep mask is one of the most important things you can have in your bag in order to get some zzz’s on your flight. I prefer sleeping masks that don’t directly press on my eyelids because I find it distracting. For that reason, I love my Nidra Sleep Mask and my Manta Sleep Mask, both of which have a sort of “cup” design over your eyes.
The Nidra blocks a little less light but is smaller/easier to carry, and the Manta has lots of padding and is more adjustable. Both come with upgraded versions, with options like weighting and cooling effects.
10. Compression socks
I am a relatively new compression sock user, but I’m absolutely hooked. I put on my compression socks just before I board the plane, and I usually end up wearing them until I get home. The only way I can describe the difference between wearing them and not is to say that I just feel better when I have them.
There’s also scientific evidence that compression socks can reduce your risk of symptomless deep vein thrombosis.
Do try the socks on before you try to fly with them – they shouldn’t be so tight that they’re uncomfortable or overly restrictive. I can comfortably wear mine for many hours at a time. If you can’t, you might need a larger size or one with a lighter compression.
11. Travel Pillow
I used to hate travel pillows because I never found them to be comfortable. About a year ago, I got the trtl travel pillow, and it’s definitely the best one I’ve ever used. They’re a little bit expensive for a travel pillow, so I recommend waiting for it to go on sale.
Alternatively, you can try a cheaper model like this memory foam travel pillow. It might not have the structure of the trtl pillow, but it’s much more comfortable than relying on the airplane seats to prop your head up.
12. Timeshifter App
I first tried the Timeshifter app on a recent trip from Europe to the US and I absolutely loved it. You input all of your flight information – whether you’re going one way, multiple cities, or round trip – and it will give you a schedule for reducing your jetlag for your entire trip. The schedule includes suggestions for when to have caffeine, when to sleep, and when to avoid bright light.
I noticed that my jetlag was significantly lessened by following the advice in the app, especially upon arriving back in Europe.
The app offers a free trial for your first trip (including the return flight) so that you can see if you like it. You could also create accounts and try other apps in order to compare on subsequent trips – most offer free trials.
13. Water Bottle
I never fly without my reusable water bottle. My go-to bottle is a 32 oz Hydro Flask, which keeps my water cold even during the summer. I prefer to use a lid that screws on tightly to prevent leaks (I sometimes keep it in the center pocket of my backpack), but I can understand the appeal of the straw style.
Pro tip: always wash your reusable water bottle with soap and water before you leave home. It’s already a little gross to have to fill up your bottle with water from airport drinking fountains, so you’ll feel better about it if you know your bottle is fresh and clean.
14. Passport Holder
I love my passport holder, which I’ve had for many years. In it, I keep small travel documents, travel cards, extra cash, and SIMs in case I need to switch my phone plan. Although you need to take your passport out to actually go through security, a passport holder can help you to stay organized while on the road.
Passport holders are one of my favorite gifts to give someone traveling abroad, especially if they’re going abroad for the first time.
Pro tip: save the small SIM changer that you get when you buy a new phone and slip it into your passport holder. That way, you’ll always know where to find it when you need it.
15. Hand Sanitizer
Let’s face it: traveling is grimey, and your hands are bound to get pretty gross when walking around an airport or taking the subway.
One of the most useful travel accessories you can have on hand is a bottle of hand sanitizer. As a bonus, keeping your hands clean can help to prevent some common colds and illnesses that seem to strike travelers.
I prefer hand sanitizer sprays to gels, but both work to kill bacteria.
16. Moisturizing Face Mask
A friend recently suggested that I try using a moisturizing face mask the evening after a transatlantic flight and it was honestly such a pro move. After I shower off the dirtiness of the plane and airport, I put on a disposable face mask and relax for about 20 minutes. By the time I take it off, I’m ready to fall asleep and my skin feels revitalized.
These organic face masks from ORGAID contain vitamin C and were never tested on animals. Each sheet is packaged separately, so you only need to bring what you need for your flight.
17. AirPods
I always travel with two or more pairs of headphones. One is an over ear style, like the aforementioned Bose Bluetooth Headphones, and the other is a pair of Apple AirPods.
My 3rd Generation Apple AirPods are always in my bag, and I love them for situations when I’m on the go. The microphone struggles a bit in situations with loud backgrounds, but they’re otherwise perfect for my needs. I recommend keeping them safe with a case, like this one from Incase.
Best Organizational Tools
Staying organized while on the road is a nearly constant struggle for me. I’ve been known to dig into my bag with increasing fury in search of headphones, a pen, or my passport, especially when I don’t put in the effort to get organized before I leave. These organizational tools can help you to avoid frustration while managing your gear.
18. Compression Packing Cubes
Packing cubes can help you get organized before you ever board a plane and stay organized while you’re on your trip. I particularly like these compression packing cubes because they can free up a little extra space in my bag as I pack.
These compression packing cubes include several sizes, so you can keep your pants, shirts, and underwear in their own cubes. The set also comes with a roll top bag that I like to use to store my dirty clothes.
19. Toiletries Bag
It can be a hassle to organize your toiletries while you’re traveling, especially if you bring several skincare and cosmetic products. A toiletry bag is a great solution, and it will save you from having to root around in your suitcase at 3am searching for your toothpaste (a maddening experience, trust me!).
I have a hanging toiletries bag, which is really nice for using in hotels and Airbnbs. I have an older toiletry bag with fewer features, but it is similar to the highly rated toiletry bag from BAGSMART. I would personally go for the medium size.
20. Bag for Dirty Clothes
I hate having dirty clothes mixed in with my clean clothes when I’m traveling. I’ve tried a few methods to address this issue, but my current favorite solution is a roll top bag, similar to a dry bag. My set of compression cubes comes with a roll top bag, but you can also buy one separately.
This 4 liter dry bag from Sea to Summit is a perfect size, and as a bonus you can use it when camping or hiking in rainy conditions.
21. Accessories Bag
After years of holding off, I recently bought an accessories bag and love it. I wanted one with a little color so that I could easily find it even in a large suitcase, so I opted for this accessory bag from Cotopaxi.
Cotopaxi bags are well made, with sturdy zippers and durable fabric. The bag has plenty of space for all of the small accessories you might need, including a full size hairbrush and hand wipes. Plus, they’re colorful – and there are even more colorful options than the one I own.
22. AirFly Bluetooth Transmitter
An AirFly bluetooth transmitter allows you to connect your bluetooth headphones to the plane’s entertainment system, eliminating the need for an extra pair of corded headphones. That way, you can use your favorite bluetooth headphones to watch a movie on the plane.
Note that Airflys don’t have the best battery life, so you should be sure to have the extra charging cord on hand to be safe. Some reviewers noted that the batteries only lasted about 5 hours, though this issue might be corrected in newer versions.
23. Cord Organizer
I’m often guilty of having cords wound around other objects in my bag, often ending in a tangled mess. A travel cord organizer can help you get and stay organized on your trip, with separate compartments for different types of cords and chargers.
Depending on the charging block you own, it may or may not fit in this organizer. Regardless of the size, there’s no large pocket specifically for charging blocks.
This style of cord organizer is larger and has a pouch specifically for larger blocks.
24. Clarity Clutch
When writing this post, I asked my friends about their favorite travel accessories and one shared that she adores her large Clarity Clutch from Truffle. She’s had it for eight years and uses it all of the time to carry her travel documents – which is handy when you live abroad and need more than just your passport.
As a bonus, it’s clear so you can also take it to stadiums and concert venues with strict bag policies.
Best Luggage & Luggage Accessories
I’m agnostic when it comes to luggage. I don’t have a strong preference between carry-on travel, checking a bag, or carrying a backpack – for me, it all comes down to what’s the easiest and best bag for any given trip. To that end, I’m including a few options that I love for every type of baggage.
25. TravelPro Suitcase
For trips when I need a rolling bag, I love my TravelPro 21” carry-on suitcase. This carry on bag has changeable wheels, which means that you can swap them when they start to wear down.
I love that the wheels lock in place when you’re walking straight, making it particularly easy to handle on long walks through the airport or train station. The handle is also very comfortable and ergonomic, making the bag easy to maneuver even with a smaller bag or backpack on top of it.
26. Osprey Farpoint
There are times when a rolling suitcase sounds like more of a hassle than it’s worth, and for those trips I prefer my Osprey Farpoint 40. Rolling a suitcase around in Naples or dragging it through the snowy sidewalks of Tromsø is not my idea of a good time.
The Farpoint is very well made, has a compartment for a laptop, and has comfortable straps for long walks or travel days. I love this bag so much that I gave one to each of my sisters for their birthdays over the years!
27. Large Amazon Duffel
I know there are travelers out there who swear by never checking a bag, and I fully support them. I, however, check bags all of the time because it’s sometimes cheaper and/or more convenient, depending on my trip.
When I do check a bag, I love these enormous Amazon duffels because they add very little weight to your total baggage allowance, are almost exactly the maximum allowed size, and fold up to be pretty small. Often, my partner and I will each travel with an Osprey Farpoint and then, when we get to the airport, we’ll put them in duffel mode and zip them together into one large checked bag.
Just be careful not to overpack these guys, because they can get really heavy quickly. Also, it’s best not to put anything fragile in them because they have almost no structure or padding.
28. Digital Luggage Scale
As someone who is often running up against the very limit of the weight allowed in my bag by various airlines, a digital luggage scale is an essential item for me. They’re portable and can prevent embarrassing situations where you need to unpack and repack your bag on the airport floor.
I purchased the luggage scale that I have at an airport in Italy, but you can easily buy one at home before you go. Here’s a highly rated digital luggage scale that you can use for your next trip.
29. Luggage Tag
These leather luggage labels come in a variety of colors, and the design covers your name and address for a little extra privacy. You can choose a color that will blend in with your bag or stand out, depending on your style and taste.
You can save yourself the hassle of redoing the paper luggage tags every time you fly by purchasing a reusable tag. As a bonus, you can reduce the risk that the tag falls off of your bag because the straps are far more reliable and water-resistant than the bands on the paper version.
Day Pack Essentials
There are some items you really just need in your bag while you’re out and about in a new place. From the obvious (a daypack) to the less obvious (PSI bands), these are some of my favorite day to day travel items.
30. Day Pack
A day pack is naturally the top item on this list, as you’ll need an actual bag to pack when you head off for the day. Typically, I would either opt for a day pack that is very durable and doubles as a hiking backpack OR one that is very lightweight and portable.
These days, I’ve been preferring the thicker straps, large capacity, and durability of the 28L day pack from REI. I also have and love my Patagonia Refugio Bag for travel and day to day, though it’s not as comfortable when heavy so avoid overpacking it.
31. A pen
The humble pen is the sort of travel accessory you’ll never think about for a second until you absolutely need one. I always fly with at least one pen so that I can fill out customs forms, jot down notes, write in my journal, or whatever else comes up while I’m on the road.
My favorite pen is the .7mm ballpoint from Muji because it writes smoothly, lasts a long time, and doesn’t smear. But when you just need a pen, really anything will do.
32. Sunscreen
No matter where I’m traveling, I always try to pack some sunscreen to protect myself. I’ve tried a range of natural and conventional sunscreens, and it can be hard to find a favorite that doesn’t smear on in a white paste or leave you with a ghostlike effect.
I fell in love with Trader Joe’s Daily Facial Sunscreen at first use. It’s SPF 40, fragrance free, and it rubs in effortlessly. Plus, it comes in 1.7 fl oz bottles that are small enough to put in your carry on.
Buy it in the store for the best price. If you can’t make it to a Trader Joe’s, you can find it on Amazon for a significant upcharge.
33. PSI Bands for Motion Sickness
If you, like me, suffer from motion sickness when taking boat tours or riding in the backseat of a car, consider keeping some PSI acupressure bands in your bag. These little bands have been lifesavers for me on many trips because they ward off the familiar nausea that sets in on various forms of transit.
They work by pressing on the Nei-Kuan acupressure point and they noticeably improve my motion sickness when I wear them. Note, however, that the effect is mostly preventative, so they won’t help much if you wait until you’re already sick to put them on. I put on my PSI bands as soon as I sit down on a bus or before boarding a boat.
I love these PSI bands. I wouldn’t recommend the sweatband style, as I doubt they could provide consistent pressure over time.
34. Battery Pack
An extra battery pack with built-in cords is a lifesaver when you’re traveling. This is my current favorite style, with cords for an iPhone and a USB-C so it’ll fit most of your devices. The CFIAI blocks charge my phone surprisingly quickly, are lightweight, and come in a few colors. Plus, the digital readout always lets you know how much charge is remaining so it won’t die unexpectedly.
35. Travel-Size Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap
A travel-size bottle of Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap is my best friend when I’m traveling. These little bottles of liquid soap are portable and small enough to take on my carry on. They’re also super versatile; you can use them to wash clothes, as body wash, or even as toothpaste in a pinch.
Usually, one bottle is enough for a trip because you only need to use a few drops at a time.
36. Travel Notebook
I love to keep a notebook on my trips to jot down my thoughts, keep track of things I’m grateful for, and process my thoughts during the tougher moments of my travels. My favorite notebooks are always hard cover because they’re far more durable and have a built-in surface to write on.
At home, I usually opt for the extra large size from Moleskine, but for travel I prefer the large lined notebook. I own a pocket-sized notebook, too, but I find it too small to use regularly.
Of course, notebook size is a personal preference, so get the one that works best for you!
Travel Accessories under $25
If you’re looking for small travel accessories that make a big difference, these are some items to consider for your next trip. From entertainment to a multi use swimsuit coverup to a phone mount for your rental car, these are a few of my favorites.
37. A Deck of Cards
Travelers are typically not strangers to having to wait around. Whether you’re sitting on a train for hours, hanging out in a hostel lounge, or waiting at your airport gate after your flight was delayed six hours, a deck of cards can be a great way to pass the time. For the best experience, teach yourself a few card games before you leave home so you’re not trying to learn on the fly.
If you happen to find other travelers with their own decks, you can teach them Nerts (also known as Dutch Blitz or Chauncey). It’s very fun and a little addictive!
These adorable cards from Last Call Cats are unique and playful. You can take them with you on the road, but they’re also perfect for parties you might host at home.
38. Hygge
Hygge is a conversation game that’s perfect for travelers to play. The cards include short prompts that are intended to start meaningful conversations, no matter how long you’ve known the other players.
Each card has three prompts, and there are a few ways to play the game. Some of my favorite prompts are, “Who is the most interesting person you have ever met?” and, “Name something you look back at and think, ‘I can’t believe I did that.’”
If you find yourself sitting with strangers or old friends at a train station, Hygge can be a fabulous way to pass the time and connect.
39. Portable Phone Mount
It took me an embarrassingly long time to buy my first portable phone mount to use in my rental cars, but once I got one I never looked back. I love the phone mounts from PopSocket, which work either by using a magnet or a hook that holds a PopSocket.
These little mounts grip directly to the fan of your rental car, offering a hands-free way to follow Google Maps directions while you navigate a new place.
The non-magnetic version is easier to use, but not as convenient, as you need to have a PopSocket on your phone to use it. However, the magnetic mount is a very strong magnet, so it can be hard to remove your phone without taking the mount with you.
40. Sarong
When traveling to a warm weather place, a sarong swimsuit cover up is a must-pack for me.
Not only are they useful as swimsuit cover ups, they can double as a beach towel, scarf, and even a privacy screen for bottom bunks in hostel dorms. When I was hammock camping in Tayrona National Park in Colombia, I used my sarong as a blanket on the warm summer nights.
Travel Accessories Under $50
Looking for some travel accessories that are a little higher end? These are some of my top picks, all for less than $50.
41. Travel Towel
Budget travelers staying in hostels or camping will definitely appreciate having a travel towel, and the best towels are large enough to actually dry you while you’re traveling. These large travel towels from Sea to Summit are absorbent, quick-drying, and perfect for budget travelers, especially those staying in hostels.
With a polyester travel towel, you’ll have the convenience of a large towel without losing all of that space in your bag.
42. Scrubba Bag
Long term travelers will likely find themselves washing their socks and underwear in the sink at some point on their trip. If you’ve never done this, know that it’s not as easy as it might sound to actually clean anything in the sink.
A Scrubba Bag is a great solution because it allows you to scrub your clothes and rinse them in a waterproof bag. There’s no spin cycle or way to extract as much water as a washing machine, so be aware that your clothes will take a while to dry. You could back a portable clothes line for some extra drying space if you’d like, but I typically just drape my clothes around my room.
You can use a very small amount of detergent to clean your clothes, or a few drops of Dr. Bronner’s soap.
43. BAGGU Reusable Bags
Having a small, reusable bag in your daypack can be handy in a number of situations while you’re on the road. From creating extra space in your luggage in the airport to toting around souvenirs you buy while traveling to grocery shopping before cooking in your hostel or Airbnb, packable totes are a timeless travel accessory.
These reusable bags from BAGGU were recommended by a good friend who has had them for years. They come in a number of colorful patterns, so you can easily find them in your daypack – plus they’re full of personality! As a bonus, they’re machine washable – just be sure to line dry.
44. Laptop Bag
I always use a laptop bag when I travel to protect my laptop while I’m on the road, and I love that they protect my laptop from unexpected falls and bumps. I have the Comfyable Slim Laptop Sleeve and love the sleek design. Mine is the “slim fit” for my 13 inch Macbook Air but there are other sizes available.
As a bonus, I’ve noticed that airport security won’t always make you take your laptop out of a laptop sleeve. When that happens, you can save the step of putting your computer directly in the grubby tubs that go through the x-ray machine.
45. RFID-Blocking Money Belt
For any trip to a place with a pickpocket problem, an RFID-blocking money belt is a great investment. I kept my debit card, cash, and sometimes my cell phone tucked into my money belt while traveling in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. Although they’re a little bulky, I got used to the belt quickly.
I would generally consider these money belts to be overkill for travel in Europe. Even in Paris, you should be ok with a simple zipped inner pocket. Still, if you’re worried, the money belt is an added layer of safety and security.
Cold Weather Travel Accessories
Winter or cold weather travel is an entirely different beast from traveling to warm destinations. Your clothes are bulkier, it’s more expensive to buy gear when you arrive (usually), and it’s a little more important to plan ahead for the conditions. Here are my favorite cold weather travel accessories for visiting chilly climates.
46. Wool Socks
Winter and wool socks go together like peanut butter and jelly. I like to bring a mix of thin and thick wool socks to make sure I’m covered for various activities. Thin wool socks are great for walks in the city and milder activities, while thick wool socks can keep your feet warm at night.
I love my wool socks from Smartwool. They last for years, keep my feet warm, and offer some cushioning to my hiking boots. My partner swears by Darn Tough socks, which come with a lifetime warranty.
47. Long Underwear
I went to college in Massachusetts and it was there that I learned the magic of wearing long underwear under my pants on winter days. Long underwear can keep your legs surprisingly warm, and they’re thin enough to wear under jeans or other long pants.
I have two styles of long underwear: a thin pair from UNIQLO that are perfect for exploring cities and a heavier pair from Patagonia for outdoor sports. Patagonia long underwear is a little warmer, but it can bunch up and become uncomfortable under tight clothing (and especially jeans). Still, they’re perfect for snowshoeing, winter hiking, snowboarding, etc.
Culinary Accessories
I’m a picky eater in general, and I am willing to go to some lengths to make my food taste good when I travel. Here are my favorite travel accessories for ensuring great morning coffee and livening up some otherwise bland budget travel meals.
48. Chili Flakes
A friend first introduced me to these chili flakes a few years ago and I’m absolutely hooked. I used to travel with a small bottle of hot sauce (sometimes you just need a little extra flavor!), but I’ve since discovered that these green chili flakes are far superior.
First, they capture the flavors of the Colorado chilis that I love from home, and second they’re not liquid, so you can fly with them in your carry on.
I add them to eggs, soups, sandwiches, bagels – really anything that I think could use a little extra flavor. My favorite is the hatch green chili, which I find to be the perfect level of spice while packing a ton of flavor, but there are several other flavors. Beware, the four pepper blend is very spicy!
49. Collapsible Pour Over Coffee Maker
I am an avid coffee drinker and don’t like to compromise, even when I’m traveling. A few years ago, I was planning a trip to rural Ireland and decided to bring my own coffee setup instead of hoping for the best from the local shops.
My favorite coffee tool for the road is this collapsible pour over from Sea to Summit. It fits over most sizes of cups, is easy to clean, and also works great while camping so it’s versatile.
My biggest tip is to use disposable coffee filters, even though they’re not technically required. This will make cleanup 20x easier and helps the coffee to brew much more quickly. Just trust me.
50. Craft Instant Coffee
Another item I’ve taken to packing in recent years is individual servings of craft instant coffee. When I can’t make my own pour over or a French press, a cup of craft instant coffee will do while I’m on the road.
The instant coffee from Verve, a popular California coffee roaster, is decent and drinkable. However, I’d recommend buying smaller craft options from your local coffee shop or roaster because they’ll probably be more unique and original (and, hopefully, fresher).
My current favorite instant coffee is from Rival Bros Coffee – it is available online, but with shipping it’s pretty steep. You can pick it up in person if you’re in Philadelphia.
51. Small Container of Spices
One of the easiest ways to improve the flavors of foods you cook on the road is to properly season it. For trips when I’ll be cooking on the road, I like to bring my own spices – if I forget, I’ll often end up buying a few while I’m traveling.
To carry your spices, you can use a spice carrier, which is about the same size as a cell phone. The individual compartments all screw together, so you’ll have all of your spices in one place when you’re ready to cook.
You can pack your favorites, but I would personally pack salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and/or cayenne.
Travel Accessories for Study Abroad
Studying abroad can be really hard to pack for because there are so many unknowns. Not only is it probably the first time you’re leaving the country, but you may be living with a host family and have no idea what to expect in their home.
52. SAD Lamp
If you’re planning to study abroad during the winter in parts of the world without much sunshine, a SAD lamp can be a great travel accessory. These lamps work by mimicking sunlight, which can help to ward off the blues during the winter months. You can use it throughout the day to enhance your mood and feel more awake.
I have two different styles at home, based on the SAD lamps that were on sale and had good reviews when I was shopping. They work almost identically, so don’t worry too much about finding the perfect one.
53. Favorite Snacks and Treats from Home
Having lived abroad for several years, there’s nothing quite like having treats and snacks from home to get me through a rough day. I like to bring a few boxes of mac and cheese, my favorite granola bars, and my favorite peanut butter chocolate treats back with me anytime I visit the US.
If you’re planning to study abroad, I recommend packing a few of your favorite snacks. Before you decide what to bring, you might quickly Google, “Can I buy [treat] in [country you’re visiting]?” to see if they’ll be available. If not, tuck a few into your suitcase! They’ll go a long way towards helping you feel better if you start to get homesick.
These can also make great gifts for your homestay family, either as the main gift or a little added treat. You can bring out your favorite chocolate bars or chips to share with your family – but only if you want to.
54. Oracle Cards
I bought these Oracle cards on the suggestion of a life coach I used to work with and I fell in love with them. They’re a little less prescriptive than tarot cards, and I love the designs on the cards. You can ask the cards a variety of questions, and the cards offer some guidance or things to think about.
When I’m struggling with a decision or feeling anxious, I like to use them as journaling prompts.
55. Planner
I love to use my planner when I’m on the road, and it’s especially important when I have appointments or meetings to juggle. My favorite is the weekly planner from Moleskine, which has lots of room for notes on each page. Like the journals above, I prefer the large size, which is about the same height as my Hydro Flask water bottle.
Between plans with friends, assignments, and side trips, a planner will help you to stay organized.
FAQs: Useful Travel Accessories
Shopping for useful travel accessories and still have questions? Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions from other world travelers.
What does every traveler need?
There are many things to prepare before traveling abroad, whether it’s your first trip for 1,000th. Every traveler needs a bag for their trip that is appropriate for their trip length and style, as well as clothes and toiletries. For international trips, you’ll need a passport and travel insurance.
Before traveling abroad, be sure that your passport is up to date and won’t expire until at least six months after you’re scheduled to return.
What essential things do you carry when you are traveling?
A few essential things to carry as a traveler are: your passport, cell phone, credit cards and local currency, and clothes that will keep you comfortable in your destination. When you’re traveling abroad for the first time, be sure that you apply for a passport as early as possible so that you don’t need to expedite it or stress over the arrival date.
What not to pack overseas?
There’s no need to pack food, aside from a few snacks or specific items, when going overseas. If you’re traveling to Europe from the US, don’t bring any sort of appliance, like a hair dryer, because the voltage is different. Be sure to avoid packing any illegal items, or those that might be flagged for environmental concerns like seeds or fresh fruit.
Conclusion: Useful Travel Accessories
Packing for a trip is always a little stressful, but with the right travel accessories you can stay organized and in control. I prefer to invest in my travel accessories, buying nicer versions so that they’ll last for years and years. I find that it saves me money over time, because I don’t need to replace them very often.
Although there are lots of things that I learn to do without while I’m on the road, there are some essentials that I make room for in my bag. From a great cup of coffee in the morning to my favorite water bottle and book, you’ll find a few of my favorite items wherever I go. In my book, that makes them useful travel accessories.
I hope this list contains a few things that will become new favorites for you, too!
