The Travel Essentials I Swear By (And Actually Use)

A practical, minimalist packing guide featuring my go-to accessories, smart Amazon finds, and the comfort items that make a huge difference when you’re on the go.

11/21/20252 min read

black DSLR camera near sunglasses and bag
black DSLR camera near sunglasses and bag

Travel is so much easier when you have the right essentials — the kind you actually use, not the kind TikTok tells you to buy. In this post, I’m sharing the exact travel accessories that help me stay organized, comfortable, and stress-free on every trip. You’ll find links throughout so you can shop the same items (or super similar versions).

Packing & Carry-On Essentials

I love a structured weekender, and this Amazon weekender similar to my Beis bag (link) is the perfect dupe. I also never travel without packing cubes (link) to keep everything organized, and a simple insulated stainless steel water bottle (link) that I refill at airports. My liquids go in a TSA-approved toiletry bag (link) so check-in is quick and easy.

Tech Must-Haves

If you're traveling abroad, you need a European plug adapter (link) — seriously, don’t skip this. I also bring a reliable portable charger (link), a multi-charging cable (link) that saves me so much space, my tiny mini microphone (link) for videos, and of course AirPods/wireless earbuds (link) for flights.

Comfort Items I Actually Use

My holy grail for planes is the TRTL travel pillow (link) — it’s so much better than the fluffy U-shaped ones. I also pack cozy socks (link), hydrating lip balm (link), and a lightweight cardigan/wrap (link) that's great as an extra layer if you get cold easily.

Bags & Organization

I try to stay hands-free, so I always use a crossbody with a zipper (link) for my passport, cards, and phone. All my chargers go into a simple zip pouch (link) I already had, and for exploring, I carry a small, fashionable black backpack (link) — it’s cute, lightweight, and fits all my essentials.

If you’re gearing up for your next adventure, these are the items that genuinely make my trips smoother, lighter, and way less stressful. If you end up trying any of them, I hope they make your travels feel a little easier too. You can shop everything I mentioned using the links above — they’re all pieces I personally rely on or close dupes I’d recommend in a heartbeat. Safe travels, and happy exploring. ✈️🤍

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.