As we’ve traveled across the US and internationally, we’ve found a few items that have been handy to bring along. Check out our list of top travel items we bring on our travels.
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Slim RFID-Blocking Credit Card Holder
Credit Card Holder RFID Blocking Metal Card Wallet Aluminum Hard Case
Traveling often means carrying multiple credit cards, IDs, hotel key cards, and transit passes, and a bulky wallet can quickly become uncomfortable in a pocket or day bag. A slim RFID-blocking metal card holder keeps everything compact while adding an extra layer of protection against electronic card scanning in crowded airports, trains, and tourist areas. The rigid aluminum design helps protect cards from bending while making them easy to access when you need them most. For travelers who prefer to carry only the essentials, this minimalist wallet keeps your most important cards secure, organized, and easy to reach.
We use this card holder to bring along less-frequently used point-earning credit cards (e.g. hotel, airline and other branded cards). This allows us to have those cards handy should they be the best option for point-earning. We also use it to bring along other infrequently used — but must-have — cards like National Parks Annual Pass, AAA, AARP, etc.
Lightweight Packable Travel Backpack
ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Backpack 30L
Many travelers eventually need an extra bag for day trips, hiking, beach outings, or souvenirs, but bringing a full-size backpack can take up valuable luggage space. A lightweight packable backpack solves that problem by folding down into a compact pouch when not in use. Once you reach your destination, simply unfold it and you have a spacious daypack ready for sightseeing or outdoor adventures. Because it’s water-resistant and easy to carry, it’s perfect for exploring cities, national parks, or cruise ports without hauling around your larger luggage.
Use this backpack on roadtrips when you set out for a hike or to explore the city by foot. Take this backpack on cruises to carry your phone, sunscreen, water and snacks while onboard and to take everything you need while at port or on excursions.
Noise-Reducing Earplugs for Flights and Hotels
Loop Quiet 2 Ear Plugs
Sleep can be surprisingly difficult while traveling, especially with airplane cabin noise, thin hotel walls, or the occasional snoring seatmate. These reusable earplugs help reduce unwanted noise so you can rest more comfortably on flights, trains, cruise ships, or in busy city hotels. Designed with soft silicone and multiple tip sizes, they offer a customizable fit that stays comfortable even during long nights of sleep. Blocking out distractions makes a huge difference when you’re trying to adjust to a new time zone or get rest before a full day of sightseeing, making them one of the smallest but most useful travel upgrades you can pack.
Compact Travel Iron and Garment Steamer
Proctor Silex Compact Travel Iron & Garment Steamer
Clothes rarely come out of a suitcase looking their best, especially after long flights or tightly packed luggage. A compact travel iron and garment steamer makes it easy to remove wrinkles quickly so your clothes look fresh again. This portable steamer heats up quickly and is small enough to tuck into a suitcase, making it ideal for vacations, cruises, weddings, or business travel. Instead of relying on hotel irons that may or may not be available, you’ll have a reliable way to smooth shirts, dresses, and jackets in minutes, helping you look polished and ready for photos, dinners, or meetings.
Though this is a compact steamer, it’s also great for home use — so when you return home, don’t stow it away, keep it handy for daily use.
Note: Most cruise ships do not allow steamers to be brought onboard. Check with your cruise line for details before sailing.
Magnetic Hooks for Cruise Cabins
Neosmuk Magnetic Hooks 30lb Heavy Duty Cruise Hooks
Cruise cabins are designed to maximize space, which often means there aren’t many places to hang backpacks, hats, lanyards, or swimwear. Magnetic hooks solve that problem instantly by turning the metal cabin walls, ceilings and doors into extra storage space. These strong hooks attach securely without tools and can hold everything from day bags to jackets.
We consider them a must-pack item for cruises because they help keep small cabins organized and clutter-free. With a few hooks, you can easily create convenient spots for hanging items you use frequently throughout your trip.
Ultra-Portable 4K Travel Vlogging Camera
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo
Capturing travel memories on a smartphone is convenient, but shaky footage and inconsistent audio can make great moments harder to relive later. A compact stabilized camera designed for travel makes it much easier to capture smooth video and clear sound while exploring new places. Small enough to fit in a pocket yet powerful enough to record high-quality 4K footage, this camera is perfect for documenting trips, creating travel videos, or sharing experiences online. Whether you’re filming a cruise tour, scenic hike, or city walk, it helps turn everyday travel moments into videos that look polished and professional.
We love this camera for the stabilized camera and smooth panning. It makes it easy to video your experiences in high-quality fashion.
Universal International Travel Adapter
TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter
Electrical outlets vary around the world, and discovering your charger doesn’t fit the local plug can be frustrating when you need to power your phone, camera, or laptop. A universal travel adapter eliminates that issue by supporting multiple outlet types used in many countries. With built-in USB ports, it allows you to charge several devices at once while taking up minimal space in your bag. Instead of packing multiple converters for different destinations, this single compact adapter keeps all your electronics powered whether you’re traveling through Europe, Asia, or Australia.
Cruise ship cabins often have limited outlets, and cruise lines restrict the use of extension cords and mutli-outlet plugs. Cabins frequently have an international outlet that’s not usable by travelers that have Type A/Type B (North American-style) plugs. Plug this travel adapter in to the international plug to get an extra cabin outlet, plus some USB ports.
Disposable Mini Toothbrushes for Travel
Crest Scope Mini Brushes Disposable Toothbrushes
Travel days can be long, and sometimes brushing your teeth isn’t as convenient as it is at home. Disposable mini toothbrushes make it easy to freshen up quickly after a flight, a long drive, or a meal on the go. Each brush includes toothpaste and a small pick, so you don’t need water or extra supplies. They’re small enough to keep in a carry-on, purse, backpack, or even a pocket, making them perfect for airports, road trips, or long sightseeing days. It’s a simple travel essential that helps you feel refreshed wherever your journey takes you.
Bring these on long flights or flights that have layovers to brush your teeth while save space in your carry-on bag. They’re also helpful to keep a toothbrush with you when you need to check your bags at the hotel before check-in or after check-out.