Traveling isn’t always easy. And whether you’re heading out for business or pleasure, it’s important to remember that circumstances can, and often do, change instantly – against all expectations. But you can help minimize your discomfort with the right gear. To help keep you sane on your next trip, here are our picks for the 10 best travel accessories.
Our writers independently select the best products to help you have amazing travel experiences. If you purchase through links on our site, Lonely Planet may earn a commission from the retailer.
PhoneSoap Pro
You don’t have to be a germaphobe to appreciate this sleek sanitizing device. Though created with phones in mind, it can clean all kinds of small objects, like keys, earbuds and jewelry. About the size of a paperback novel, this glossy, plastic gadget uses UV-C bulbs and a reflective coating to destroy up to 99.99 percent of germs like E. coli as well as inactive viruses, mold, mildew and fungi. And, bonus, the PhoneSoap Pro also includes charging ports inside the bay so it can charge your phone as well as clean it.
Buy for $120 at amazon.com.
You might also like: A germaphobe’s guide to travel
EEZ-Y Collapsible Umbrella
Getting stuck in the rain is no fun, no matter where you are in the world. So why not take out an insurance policy and pack this compact, well-crafted umbrella? Made with a vented double canopy to stand up to strong winds, it also comes with a fiberglass and stainless-steel frame. A click of a button will both open and close it, and then it folds down to just 11 inches.
Choose from 15 colors for $22 at amazon.com.
Knomo Unisex Thames Harpsden Backpack
This deal, found exclusively on Amazon, is for the mid-size grey backpack from the London-based travel bag company. Successfully combining form and function, not only can it fit a laptop up to 14 inches in one well-padded section, it offers a plethora of other pockets to help you store and organize everything from extra clothing, smaller electronics and a water bottle. Easy carry options include a chest harness and back panel with straps. Made from welded nylon and polyurethane, this bag is also highly waterproof.
Buy for $25 at amazon.com.
Travel Inspira Digital Luggage Scale
Don’t pay extra for your baggage. Just throw this lightweight luggage scale in your bag before you head to the airport. With an easy-to-read LCD display and a comfortable rubber grip handle, this device is as simple to read as it is to tote.
Buy for $10 at amazon.com.
Homedics Sound Spa
We’ve all been there – your hotel room is close to the elevator, or someone on your floor is having an all-night rager – all while you’re trying to get some shut eye. Fear not, this portable sound machine with 15-, 30- and 60-minute auto timer options will coax you to dreamland with a choice of six sounds, including white noise, ocean, rain and summer night. And because it runs on AA batteries, you won’t need to plug it in or find a charger in order to start relaxing.
Buy for $20 at amazon.com.
Pop Fashion Scarf
This double-duty infinity scarf not only looks great; it also hides your smaller travel items in its hidden zip pocket. The perfect accessory for fashion-forward travelers, the Pop Fashion scarf comes in 13 different colors and patterns and can hold everything from your wallet, keys and sunglasses to a passport, credit cards and cash. Of course, it also fits most smartphones.
Buy for $12.75 at amazon.com.
Yatra Travel Kit
This attractive and well-made travel kit is not only roomy and durable, it also helps educate children in Nepal. For every purchase of this water-repellent, double-zippered travel bag, one book will be donated to a Nepali school child. Available in black and red, the Yatra is crafted from sturdy Cordura and comes with an external pocket for extra storage.
Buy for $21 at amazon.com.
Olukai Nalukai Shoes
These easy slip-on-and-off shoes are good-looking, breathable and comfortable – a stellar companion for any trip. But what makes the Nalukai design so versatile is its drop-in heel, which can effectively manipulate the shoe into a slipper – perfect for security checks and long plane rides. Breathable mesh, arch support and lightweight microfiber lining also make these shoes extra cozy – and you can even remove and wash the footbed to keep them fresh.
Buy for $80 at amazon.com.
myCharge HubPlus Portable Charger Power Bank
Leave all those annoying charging wires and plugs at home and stay organized with this super-effective power hub, which can charge multiple devices at the same time using different integrated cables. The portable, external battery pack is small enough to carry in most bags and purses, weighs in at just 0.5 lbs, and comes with foldable wall prongs to easily recharge it whenever you need a boost. It also includes technology which will charge your devices 75 percent quicker than basic charging cubes, allowing access to more juice when you’re on the go.
Buy for $80 at amazon.com.
Chasbren Travel Sheet
Sleep in peace with this soft, hypoallergenic travel sheet. As environmentally friendly as it is comfortable, it’s made from 100 percent renewable bamboo fabric which is naturally antibacterial. Designed especially for hotel and overnight stays, it offers an extra layer of protection against bed bugs and dust mites – and with two zippers on either side, you can easily get out of this clean, snug cocoon. A large pocket on its back side lets you slip in the pillow of your choice and when you’re done, you can store it in the included draw string bag.
Buy for $70 at amazon.com.
You might also like:
Upgrade your next long-haul flight with these 14 Amazon products
9 great sustainable travel products for your next trip
The best new outdoor gear for your adventures in 2020
