Our travel gear has evolved over the years, and while there are still a few old standby items that we recommend, there are a lot of new ideas for you to add to your travel list as well. Travel has changed significantly, and we must consider various factors when stepping on a plane, dining out, or staying in hotels. We’ve updated our travel packing list to include the best travel gear for 2023 and beyond!

Best Travel Gear and Travel Accessories

Discover innovative items to enhance your traveling experience.

During our travels, we often carry a variety of electronics, including cameras, laptops, smartphones, and even drones. While you don’t have to carry as much gear as we do, the following travel accessories are excellent options to support the electronics you bring along. From charging and storing to ensuring safety, we have you covered.

Cool Travel Tech Gear

1. Belkin Mini Surge Protector

The Belkin Surge Protector features three plugs to charge multiple devices and two USB ports for charging smartphones or cameras. With this, we can charge five items at once, carrying only one adapter with us. Additionally, it provides protection for our electronics against power surges, especially in regions with unstable electricity.

2. Portable USB Charger

Have you ever searched for a plug in a coffee shop just to charge your phone? With a portable USB external battery charger, you’ll never worry about missing calls or social media updates during your travels. Opt for a charger with two outlets and 20000 mAh for ample charging capacity. We’ve charged our GoPros and cameras without missing a shot, making this a travel essential.

3. World Travel Adapter

Forget about various adapters cluttering your drawer. Now, all of the world’s power outlets are available in one compact cube. The World Travel Adapter allows you to access the correct plug for any country at your fingertips. Say goodbye to old individual adapters. Check it out.

4. Gear Ties

With the increasing number of charging cables, tangling is a common issue. We resolve this by using Gear Ties, which are much more efficient than tape or zip ties as they easily coil and uncoil.

Best Travel Organizers

5. Packing Cubes

These nylon sacks are essential for organizing our gear and clothing, freeing up space. We use color-coded cubes for different types of clothing. For instance, underwear goes in white, shirts in red, and shorts in blue. They are lightweight, durable, and have lasted nearly a decade, making our trips neat and organized.

6. Compression Cubes

If conserving space in your travel bags is a priority, Compression Cubes are a fantastic option. The Eagle Creek Compression Cube Set acts like stuff sacks, allowing us to maximize our packing space by cramming clothes in and then compressing them down for a neat little bag.

7. Toiletry Bag

A functional toiletry bag has helped us stay organized and tidy during our travels. The Packit Wallaby organizer can be hung on doors, keeping items securely in place without taking up too much space in our luggage.

8. Foldable Hiking Bag

Even when staying in luxury accommodations, we always have a small foldable hiking bag handy. This lightweight option is perfect for packing essential gear for hiking trips or beach outings. When stowed away, it compresses to pocket size.

9. Dry Bag

We also recommend a small waterproof dry bag. During activities like kayaking or hiking in the rain, this bag protects our photography equipment and other valuables. You can secure it to your kayak to prevent losing your items.

Unique Travel Gadgets

10. Hidden USB

Being organized is crucial while traveling. USB bracelets or necklaces allow you to keep backups of all essential documents close at hand. Get your Hidden USB here.

11. PacSafe Products

If you’re traveling to areas where security is a concern, we highly recommend PacSafe products. During our travels in India, we used PacSafe’s steel coil to secure our bags to seats, providing peace of mind while we slept.

• PacSafe Items we use:
  • Pacsafe RFIDsafe Blocking Travel Organizer – This organizer protects money, passports, and credit cards while blocking theft attempts.
  • PacSafe Bag Protector – A steel net that secures luggage or backpacks against theft.

12. Iron Socket VPN

This virtual gadget is essential for safeguarding your online privacy while using public Wi-Fi. A VPN is vital for secure online banking and for accessing restricted sites like Twitter and Facebook in countries with limited internet freedom. Discover more at Iron Socket VPN.

13. E Sim Card

We use Airola for our international sim card; it functions as a virtual e-sim. This convenient option allows us to purchase data before traveling and activates seamlessly upon arrival.

14. Portable Wifi

For our travels in Europe, we’ve opted for MiFi technology. This personal Wi-Fi device supports up to five devices and helps us stay connected effortlessly. It’s easy to rent online and is delivered directly to your hotel.

Electronics Travel Gear

For travelers seeking organization, a top-rated electronics organizer is both economical and durable. It features multiple elastic loops for cords and a holder for SD cards. Find it here: BAGSMART Electronic Organizer Travel.

15. Laptop or Tablet

Even non-working travelers often benefit from carrying a laptop or tablet. Downloading your favorite shows allows you to avoid using potentially germ-ridden in-flight entertainment. My Macbook Pro 13 inch is compact, lightweight, and powerful enough for video and photo editing.

16. Portable Hard Drive

Backing up travel photos is crucial. We recommend the Samsung T5 2TB hard Drive. Its lightweight design can store a significant amount of data, making it perfect for editing videos directly.

17. Noise Cancelling Headphones or EarBuds

When traveling by flight, bus, or train, noise-canceling headphones can make a big difference in comfort. We enjoy using Apple’s AirPods Pro for peaceful travel.

18. GoPro Hero 9

The GoPro Hero 9 is a game-changer for action photography, offering waterproof capabilities and high-quality 5K video. It is perfect for adventure travelers and easy to operate. Check it out for your travels.

19. Kindle Paper White

While I personally prefer reading on my iPad, my Kindle is fantastic for outdoor settings or bright sunlight. It allows you to browse books easily and is lighter than packing multiple physical books. Plus, Kindle editions are generally cheaper than their hardcopy counterparts. Get this Kindle Paper White, which is also waterproof.

Best Luggage and Accessories

20. Carryon Luggage

Known as the “Rolls Royce of Luggage,” Sterling Pacific is the premier choice for luxury travelers. Its 35L carry-on weighs only 11.5 pounds and fits easily into overhead compartments while providing ample storage for weekend trips.

21. Roller Luggage / Suitcase

Transitioning from backpacks to TravelPro rolling luggage has improved our travel experience. This high-quality travel bag has proven to be durable and fashionable over the years, making it ideal for cities, resorts, and islands.

22. Rolling Duffel

If you’re not ready for a suitcase, the Eagle Creek’s 28 Road Warrior rolling duffel is an excellent choice. Its compact design prevents overpacking and offers easy storage for packing cubes.

23. Backpack

Despite our preference for suitcases, backpacks are still invaluable for certain travels like safaris or expeditions. They are practical for throwing onto buses and lugging through different terrains. Recommended models include the Osprey Fairpoint for men and the Osprey Fairview for women.

Carryon vs Non-Carry On

While we frequently travel with multiple bags, our camera gear takes up substantial space, often making carry-on only travel challenging. Moreover, our adventures require various gear for different climates. Always prioritize essential items in your carry-on in case of delays.

Best Travel Photography Bags

24. Adventure Camera Backpack

Shimoda Explore 40 is a superbly organized camera backpack that accommodates all my photography gear. It’s durable, comes with a rain cover, and includes a waterproof zipper.

25. Small Camera Bag

Deb uses the Peak Design Messenger Bag for her videography gear. This shoulder-bag comfortably fits a DSLR camera, accessories, and personal items. Peak Design Everyday Messenger V2

Health and Safety Gadgets

26. Collapsible Refillable Water Bottle

This practical collapsible water bottle makes navigating airport security easy while reducing waste. Staying hydrated is vital for your immune system, making it a travel must-have. Buy it here.

27. SteriPen

The SteriPen quickly purifies water, making it a great asset alongside your bottle. It can purify water sourced from lakes or rivers, ensuring safe hydration.

28. UV Phone Sanitizer

Our phones gather numerous germs throughout our journeys. A UV Phone Sanitizer and Charger eliminate 99% of bacteria and viruses. Available on Amazon for $27.95.

29. More Travel Accessories for Safety

Packing travel essentials for hygiene and cleaning is wise. Include hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and surgical gloves for safety. Ensure these items are light and compliant with security regulations.

• Travel Size Lysol Disinfectant Wipes
• Mrs. Myers Clean Day Antibacterial Spray Lavender Scent.
• MedPride Surgical Gloves
• This compact first aid kit has essential items for safety.

Travel Essentials

30. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is crucial, especially in a post-pandemic environment. We’ve used insurance on multiple continents, including a situation where medical evacuation was necessary. Always check your policy for coverage, restrictions, and deductibles before traveling.

31. Ear Plugs

Remembering to pack earplugs can significantly enhance your travel experience. They are essential for staying comfortable in noisy accommodations. Order them on Amazon.

32. Headlamp

Though using a flashlight on your phone is common, a headlamp is invaluable for hiking and camping. It is hands-free and provides optimal lighting, making it a worthy investment.

For many more travel gear suggestions, feel free to check out the Ultimate Travel Packing List.

Do you have travel gear that you can’t live without? Any gadgets or items that should be included in your travel kit? Share your thoughts with us!

Eager for more travel tips?

If you found our travel gear recommendations helpful, explore additional packing tips to optimize your travel experience!