No matter where you’re heading, an essential part of traveling is ensuring that you have the right gear. From rolling suitcases and hands-free backpacks that hold everything you need to products that will keep you comfortable, safe and entertained, our Good Housekeeping Institute experts — with the help of over 150 consumer testers — put travel gear through the wringer to find the items worth investing in.
LUGGAGE & BAGS | TRAVEL TECH | WELLNESS | OUTDOOR & ADVENTURE | PARENTING HELPERS
A minimalist hardside made of durable polycarbonate, this Monos carry-on suitcase has an expandable design to add 1.6 inches of depth to your luggage in case you need to pack a little extra. Its telescopic handle adjusts to four heights, and as a bonus it includes a laundry bag, two shoe bags and a faux leather luggage tag.
TESTER NOTES: Testers were amazed by the organizational features — including interior compression straps and small zippered compartments — and how much they could fit inside. “I was able to hold a week’s worth of clothes in it without even using the expanders,” one said. Another noted, “The wheels glide effortlessly, making it super easy to maneuver through crowded airports.”
Aer’s luxe carry-on has a built-in wheel brake system to prevent it from rolling away when you let go of the adjustable handle. Its wheels are designed to be smooth and extra quiet when gliding, and it features a smooth polycarbonate shell, a TSA-approved lock, a leather luggage tag and a hidden smart tracker pocket.
TESTER NOTES: In Lab tests it fit our entire standard packing load, which GH analysts attributed to its well-organized interior. Consumer testers found it easy to roll around in our staged obstacle course. “It was so light and extremely easy to maneuver,” one noted. Our reviewers also highlighted its appearance, calling it “sleek” and “timeless,” and agreed that the wheel lock was unique and helpful.
Not only is American Tourister’s carry-on impressively lightweight, but also it costs much less than other hardside options. One side of its interior has compression straps, while the other is made up of zippered compartments. The polypropylene shell comes in five colors, including bright options to help your case stand out.
TESTER NOTES: Our reviewers rated it as having the smoothest wheels compared with other models during our obstacle course test: It rolled easily over carpet, wood and tile. Testers also praised it for being lightweight and having a built-in zipper lock, and one added, “I like the appearance and sleek style of the luggage.”
No need to worry about your devices running out of battery during your travels: This July suitcase features an ejectable battery with standard USB and USB-C docks. Its polycarbonate shell has reinforced edges for extra durability, while its interior has one zippered side and one compression-strap side for flexible packing. It even has a compact compartment to store its included laundry bag.
TESTER NOTES: In our Textiles Lab‘s packing tests, analysts were blown away by the fact that it fit our standard carry-on load with room to spare. Travel testers appreciated the easy-to-adjust telescopic handle that accommodated their different heights, making it comfortable to maneuver through the airport. One added, “I’ve never used a carry-on with wheels this smooth.”
Perfect as a “personal item” when flying, this Baggallini backpack is key to carrying it all while staying organized during your travels. Its padded compartments will help protect your belongings and give it a structured shape, making it easier to pack. It also features two stretchy water bottle holders, an RFID-protected zippered pocket and internal sleeves and pockets for smaller items.
TESTER NOTES: In our packing tests, analysts appreciated the padded and spacious laptop compartment, which includes pockets to hold chargers. Testers agreed, saying it was easy to access and remove their laptops when flying. They also loved the pack’s layout, with one saying, “It keeps the more important things in places that are easy to find but easy to hide from other travelers as well.”
It may look like a regular backpack, but Cotopaxi’s travel bag has a spacious 35L interior to hold enough clothes for a three- to five-day trip. The wide padded shoulder straps help distribute the load evenly, while the chest and hip straps offer additional lumbar support. All the straps are stowable, so the backpack can be carried as a duffel bag too. Plus, the shell and the lining are made with 100% recycled materials, making this a more sustainable purchase.
TESTER NOTES: It fit our standard load for a carry-on suitcase (and more!) in Lab tests, and consumer testers were also impressed by its spaciousness. One said, “I was completely shocked at how much I fit in the bag and would say I overpacked!” Testers also liked the appearance, especially the option for “bright, vibrant and fun” shades.
You can head on a weekend-long adventure with only this well-organized backpack from Bagsmart. Its entire front unzips for easy packing (with built-in compression straps!), and it has a separate shoe compartment. The back section has a padded laptop sleeve and convenient pockets for chargers and accessories. All this makes it an excellent value at less than $100.
TESTER NOTES: After bringing this bag on a two-day trip, a Textiles analyst reported, “This travel backpack really has it all: It somehow manages to fit everything I need for a short trip without feeling overpacked or heavy.” Its compact design made it easy to store in our review, and a tester told us, “The option to zip the bag all the way open allows you you fit a lot of clothing and makes it really easy to access.”
This quilted backpack from Vera Bradley mixes fashion and function with its good organization and lightweight nylon material (it is available in floral prints and solid colors). It also has helpful features like a side zippered pocket to hold a water bottle, a luggage trolley sleeve and a hidden pocket to hold a passport or a wallet.
TESTER NOTES: All testers agreed that this bag fit everything they needed for a weekend away and was easy to pack. One tester who used it on multiple weekend getaways said, “Despite looking like an ordinary backpack, it enables you to channel your inner Mary Poppins by fitting more than three outfits, shoes, toiletries, tech chargers and a computer and still have room to spare.” Users also liked that the material was light, sleek and trendy.
Designed especially for parents, this carry-on bag from No Reception Club has removable interior shelves and a variety of pockets to help keep all your essentials organized. And thanks to its convertible padded straps, you can use it as a duffel or as a backpack. There’s even a water-resistant compartment for dirty clothes and an insulated pouch to hold snacks.
TESTER NOTES: Our travel testers unanimously said this bag was well made, well organized and comfortable to carry. They especially appreciated, as one said, “the thoughtful compartments and the secret pockets, which keep everything organized.” Another commented, “I’ve already recommended this bag to all my mom friends!”
Great for long trips and frequent travelers, this set from Calpak includes a carry-on suitcase, a large checked bag, five packing cubes and a luggage tag. Both suitcases are expandable by up to 2 inches and have excellent organizational pockets to accommodate extra loads. It’s available in both neutral shades and limited-edition bright colors.
TESTER NOTES: The polycarbonate luggage proved durable in Textiles Lab tests. For starters, it showed no visible scuffs or marks in our scratch tests. It also showed no signs of damage even after going through the wringer in our drop tests — and travel testers said there were no signs of damage after they had checked it. One tester who identifies as an overpacker said the system made it “super easy to unpack and find clothes without pulling apart my entire suitcase every morning.”
A beach bag and so much more, this Case-Mate tote is made of an iridescent waterproof material and has a spacious interior and wide straps to make it easy to carry. It also has a built-in waterproof pouch to keep a phone secure yet within reach. And because it’s see-through, you can easily find everything inside.
TESTER NOTES: Our testers brought this bag seemingly everywhere, from pools and beaches to sporting events, road trips and more. “The holographic colors looked great, and I got so many compliments when I wore it,” said one tester. Another noted, “I carried everything I needed for my entire family of four on a wide range of outings, and even when I filled it up it was never a burden to carry.”
You can bring a spare bag on your trip with this packable style from Matador. It folds into its own pocket that's the size of a small cosmetic bag, barely taking up any precious packing space. Its simple design includes useful elements like a chest strap, two side water bottle holders and a trolley sleeve to let it sit on top of rolling luggage.
TESTER NOTES: Our analysts were impressed with the lightweight recycled nylon material, which proved durable in our evaluations. One tester told us, “The backpack is extremely lightweight, and the padded, curved inward straps are very comfortable on the shoulders and chest, unlike traditional backpack strap, which tend to hurt over long periods.” Users also liked the narrow silhouette, saying it made the bag comfortable to wear (even in large crowds).
Snap picture-perfect selfies with this Nikon camera, which features a touch screen that swivels around so you can see yourself before capturing the photo. It also transfers images and videos to your smartphone via an app, meaning you can quickly share pictures of your travels without extra cables.
TESTER NOTES: It earned great feedback from both amateur and experienced photographers, who especially highlighted its ease of use. “I like that the camera is lightweight and that the screen opens and flips for when you want to set up for a timed shot,” said one. “It’s also easy to hold in one hand. There is also a feature that takes pictures when you tap the screen, which was cool and quick.”
This compact Twelve South station simultaneously charges an iPhone and either an Apple watch or Airpods. It also doubles as a hands-free iPhone display to conveniently watch shows or join video calls. Another perk: It includes four plug adapters for international travel.
TESTER NOTES: Frequent travelers liked that it took up minimal space in their bag while replacing the need for two separate chargers. “It was the easiest to use—just open it and plug it in right out of the box—no setup required,” said one tester. Reviewers also highlighted its “fast-charging” capabilities and one even raved, “It's the best charger combo for phone and watch I've ever had.”
Sony's over-the-ear headphones combine comfort with noise-canceling capabilities. The brand says it has up to a 30-hour battery life, and you can easily pause, skip tracks and adjust the volume with touch-sensor controls. When you start speaking, the sound and noise cancellation stop so you can have a conversation without taking them off.
TESTER NOTES: Calling these “a must for travel,” a GH analyst applauded the excellent audio quality and their being comfortable to wear on long flights. He was also impressed by the “ridiculously fast charging.” Another tester said they had “excellent noise canceling. I barely heard any screaming babies or plane engines.” Users also liked the compact case for convenient storage.
No more knotted charging cables: This multi-use power bank from Anker includes a portable charger, built-in USB-C cable and foldable plug in one device. And because it’s super compact, you can carry it anywhere.
TESTER NOTES: Our tech analyst, who has tested dozens of portable chargers, was impressed with its space-saving design that could charge her laptop without draining its entire battery. “I like how the plug folds up so you save even more space and that you won't lose the USB-C cable,” she noted. Testers appreciated the clear display to see the bank's charge. “I like that it’s really simple,” said one tester. “There are no detachable items to lose, no extra cords — just the power bank.”
Samsung Galaxy’s smartphone features a built-in camera that captures exceptionally high-quality photos, making it especially ideal for capturing memories. Unlike most smartphones, it includes a stylus that stores conveniently in the phone. It also has built-in AI, which translates audio and text, edits images and helps draft messages.
TESTER NOTES: One tester called it “the perfect phone for a frequent traveler” because it combines smart features with a top-notch camera. GH pros highlighted its impressive photo and video quality, while users said the translation feature made traveling abroad easier. “It was more accurate than other translators I've used for Mandarin,” noted a tester, who is fluent.
Keep germs at bay with this travel-size Lysol disinfectant spray, which adheres to TSA aerosol size restrictions. It kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses (including COVID-19) when used as directed and can even neutralize odors. Use it on both hard and soft surfaces to help disinfect or sanitize everything from your airline tray table to rental car seats to hotel room doorknobs and more.
TESTER NOTES: The GH cleaning pros found that Lysol products work well to clean and disinfect based on extensive testing, noting, “It’s a great idea to bring along a disinfecting product when traveling.” Users said it was convenient to carry, and one tester who has an autoimmune disease said, “I’m always concerned about germs, and to simply have a staple product on hand is comforting.”
This insect repellent from Off works without the strong scent or greasy feel typically associated with bug sprays. Designed to repel mosquitos, ticks and biting flies for eight hours after application, the fragrance-free formula is sold in a pump spray for ease of use.
TESTER NOTES: When comparing it to other insect repellents they’d used, testers said it “didn’t have a strong odor” and “wasn’t sticky.” Another tester noted, “It works, plain and simple.” Reviewers used this spray at the beach, on hikes and just when spending time outside during the summer, and they agreed that it was convenient to carry and effective at repelling bugs. One said, “I’ve never been able to find such a consistently effective insect repellent before.”
Find relief against pesky mosquito bites with Moskinto’s itch-relief patches. The unique grid-shaped stickers gently lift the skin’s outer layer to help drain the itchy residue left by bites — and the product is drug-free, latex-free and waterproof. The pack includes 42 patches in a compact container.
TESTER NOTES: Loved by both GH chemists and real-life users, these patches are “very simple and intuitive” to apply and are effective at minimizing itching for quicker recovery from bug bites. “If you apply it on an active, itchy bite, it’s no longer itchy,” raved one tester who said she brought these patches on all her trips.
Airport food gets a major upgrade with Farmer’s Fridge, which offers refrigerated vending machines with fresh, fully prepared meals and snacks. They’re located in more than 1,500 airports, train stations, office buildings and hospitals and feature delicious salads, grain bowls, yogurt parfaits and more.
TESTER NOTES: GH’s nutrition director loves the concept, and users liked ordering on the brand’s phone app so they could see nutritional and allergen information. Testers even said they continued to buy meals from the machines after trying it because they loved the taste and enjoyed having healthier options. One told us, “The different offerings felt more fresh and unique than standard grab-and-go airport fare.”
Upgrade your water with Liquid I.V. electrolyte drink mixes to help you stay hydrated while traveling. Available in over 15 flavors like lemon lime, tropical punch and watermelon, these single-serve packets fit easily in purses and backpacks, making them great for taking on hikes and long plane rides.
TESTER NOTES: GH’s contributing registered dietitian said that “having electrolyte packets during travel may help prevent dehydration in hot temperatures, combat fatigue and support digestion.” Testers liked the flavors, which they said didn't taste salty or medicinal. The powder mixed well in the water without clumping. “It’s easy to lose track of time when you're traveling or find that you have limited access to water, and these provide the refreshment I need when I'm on the go,” said one tester.
Compression socks can help prevent swelling and improve blood flow while flying by applying graduated pressure to your calves and feet. These VIM & VIGR socks use a merino wool blend, which is soft and moisture-wicking, to help keep you comfortable while they're compressing. They’re sold in six sizes, including wide calf options, to suit a variety of shapes.
TESTER NOTES: They’re consistently top performers in our Textiles Lab’s tests, with users saying they feel snug yet not uncomfortable. Testers especially liked the cozy material, which wasn't itchy and kept them warm on chilly planes. “They kept my legs from aching on such long flights,” said one tester. “I was much more comfortable than I usually am.”
Honeydew Sleep's travel pillow helps you get quality shut-eye on the go (even in coach seats). The fill is a mix of shredded foam and fiberfill that combines a plush feel with top-notch neck support. You can adjust the amount of fill in the pillow to ensure it’s the proper height for you. It includes a pillowcase and a carrying bag.
TESTER NOTES: It was comfortable and maintained its shape after consistent use in consumer tests. Our reviewers liked the curved shape for optimal support. One told us, “I like the size, which is compact enough to take on the go but not too small that it isn't functional.” Another tester added, “I genuinely enjoy sleeping on it.”
Using a proprietary technology, MISSION towels feel instantly cool-to-the-touch after you wet them, and the brand says they can stay cool for up to two hours. The brushed microfiber material is both durable and soft, and their low cost makes them extra appealing.
TESTER NOTES: Even testers who weren’t familiar with the concept of a cooling towel all liked using it and were impressed with how cool it felt. “I’m not sure what the science is behind it, but it works way better than just wetting down a regular towel,” said one satisfied tester. Users called the fabric a “good quality material” that's “lightweight for easy packing.” One tester even told us, “It kept us cool in Valley of Fire State Park in 115-degree heat.”
Sit around a campfire or tailgate comfortably with this stowaway chair from GCI Outdoor. It folds flat, making it easy to take on the go. It also has a patented spring system for a smooth rocking motion that’s secure on uneven terrain. Designed with ease in mind, it features a contoured edge for pressure relief and a backrest on the tall side.
TESTER NOTES: Camping enthusiasts who had tried many outdoor chairs found this one to be a cut above the rest. One tester said it felt “very sturdy and comfortable” and another agreed, noting, “It’s generously sized and comfortable to sit in; It felt sturdy from the start and was easy to assemble.” Users also appreciated the handy pockets and the beverage holder.
This Gregory gear wagon keeps weight off your back while handling rough terrain. It offers 140 liters of storage for transporting camping gear and includes smart accessories like a rain cover and a storage case into which the entire wagon fits to keep dirt and grime off your car's interior at the end of your trip.
TESTER NOTES: Camping testers said this wagon made it monumentally easier to carry tents, cooking supplies and gear to their campsites. “This thing is built like a tank: it feels very durable,” one tester said. “I don’t think you'd ever have to buy another gear wagon.” Another noted, “We made a dozen trips each way with this thing packed, and it worked great.”
A comprehensive set with 16 pieces, this Gerber cookware will help you prepare food quickly and easily after a day of hiking. The included pot and pan are sturdy with a three-ply design that helps them heat evenly. After you cook and eat, all the pieces can be packed together in the included storage bag.
TESTER NOTES: Our reviewers reported that this set helped them prepare meals at campsites more efficiently and said the pieces all went well together. Testers also said the pot and pan felt “very durable and sturdy.” One noted, “The pot holder was perfect for taking the hot pan down from the grill, and the travel bag is perfect for camping.”
Place this Orvis storage box in your car’s back seat footwell to store essentials while giving your dog more room to sprawl out during a long drive. It has a padded top for comfort and strong construction to support the weight of a pup sitting on top. It has a removable interior organizer and compresses flat for easy storage.
TESTER NOTES: Frequent road-trippers reported that this box helped them stay more organized on the go. Our testers called it “lightweight but tough” and “super easy to carry.” They also said it was easy to move the box between multiple vehicles. One user said, “The pockets inside and outside the box were really appreciated and made it easy to find small items.”
Sleep outdoors more comfortably with a Kylmit camping pillow. It’s filled with shredded memory foam and a gel fiber core, balancing soft comfort with neck support. The pillow has a convertible case: Its water-resistant exterior is for travel while the soft jersey cover is for sleeping. The entire shell is removable and machine washable.
TESTER NOTES: All testers said this pillow was comfortable to sleep on, helping them get quality sleep while camping. One told us this pillow was “much better than other camp pillows” they’d tried, and another noted, “I found it so much more comfortable than an inflatable pillow, and I had the peace of mind that it wasn't going to be punctured and become unusable on a trip.”
Marmot’s sleeping bag is designed to keep you toasty warm in cold weather while being lightweight. It’s made with down alternative insulation that feels plush and cozy while still letting the sleeping bag be packed into a small included case. It also has a puffy hood, a roomy foot box and an extra zipper to allow ventilation.
TESTER NOTES: Our reviewers were impressed with this sleeping bag’s compressibility, with one tester saying, “This was the most lightweight sleeping bag I have ever used.” He added, “It seems well made and durable and was very comfortable.” Campers liked the addition of the neck muff for extra warmth and coziness, especially compared with their previous sleeping bags.
This Uniqlo jacket is super lightweight and packs down into an included carrying case for travel. It features a water-repellent nylon exterior, an antistatic technology in the lining and a 750-fill-power down insulation that is warm without feeling heavy. Not to mention the fact that it is affordable and pairs well with a variety of outfits.
TESTER NOTES: It earned top scores for comfort in our consumer tests. “It truly is the perfect travel coat,” said a tester who wore it on a trip to Chicago during the summer. “I can also see this being a staple in my closet as we approach the fall and winter seasons.” Testers also described it as having ”an amazing fit“ and being “super light and packable.”
Unlike most rain jackets, this Kühl style is made with a stretchy (yet still waterproof) material for a more comfortable fit as you move. There's an internal drawcord to cinch the coat at the waist, creating a flattering shape. It has two exterior pockets and one interior pocket, all of which close with durable zippers.
TESTER NOTES: Our testers gave it perfect scores for comfort, fit, appearance and waterproof capabilities. “It is lightweight, water-resistant and the opposite of bulky and it has an overall flattering fit,” said one tester who said she usually didn’t like raincoats. Another said it kept her dry on a two-week trip to rainy Ireland: “It was perfect for travel, since it is so lightweight and took up almost no room at all in my suitcase.”
This Backcountry hoodie has a UPF rating if 50, which makes it an easy and comfortable way to protect your skin from damaging UV rays. The stretchy material moves with you, making it great to wear during outdoor exercise and lounging alike.
TESTER NOTES: For activities from beach surf lessons to hiking on trails, this top was loved by testers who visited sunny destinations including Cancun and Hawaii. “It‘s light and breathable but also extremely sun-protective,” said one tester. Users applauded the full-coverage design that didn't feel stuffy or restrictive, saying it had a “light and airy” feel and a “super comfortable” fit.
Designed for on-the-go parents, this premium Joolz stroller can be folded with one hand to a compact size that fits in overhead bins on planes. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to carry with the included shoulder strap, while the padded seat and harnesses make it comfortable for children.
TESTER NOTES: Parents called the one-handed fold “a game changer” and “an amazing feature.” All users credited this stroller with making family trips easier, and one said, “I like that I can remove my toddler from the stroller, quickly fold the stroller with one hand and then carry the folded stroller while holding my toddler’s hand.”
Making it easier to take a car seat along on your travels, WayB’s portable, forward-facing model helps keep kids safer in taxis, airplanes and other situations in which it’s especially difficult to bring a seat. It’s compact and lightweight at just eight pounds, and it fits into an included carrying case for convenient toting.
TESTER NOTES: “It was incredibly easy to pack and fit into the bag, which is often a hassle with other car seats,” said one tester who used it while driving through France on vacation. Parents also said it felt safer than other travel car seats and boosters thanks to its five-point harness and back and head rest. Others noted that it was easy to move between multiple cars.
Perfect for hands-free carrying while you explore, this lightweight Tula carrier features breathable mesh details for a comfortable feel. It includes a roomy hip belt that stores essentials, and the carrier folds into that pouch for storage. Because it’s easy to use, it’s great for the stage when your child is constantly switching between wanting to walk and wanting to be carried.
TESTER NOTES: Parent testers unanimously said they would recommend this carrier to other parents. “Unlike other carriers, it’s quite easy to put in a diaper bag or stroller, as it’s not very cumbersome,” noted one. Another parent added that this carrier was “truly awesome for lightweight traveling and to help reduce the overall load for a trip.”
These oversize Coterie wipes come in a travel-size container to clean up whatever messes you face on the go. The snap-shut top helps prevent the 18 included wipes from drying out, and the plant-based cloth is durable and also soft so as to be gentle on skin.
TESTER NOTES: Reviewers appreciated the wipes’ ability to deal with tasks from diaper changes to meals to tackling all kinds of messes without tearing. Users noted that they needed only one wipe for a given cleaning job as opposed to requiring multiple wipes when using those from other brands. One called these “substantial, thick, sturdy and great for on the go,” even saying they were the best ones she had ever used.
This interactive game from Skillmatics makes pool time even more fun. It comes with over 60 colorful gems you toss in the pool and cards that each indicate a gem to search for. It’s great for involving both kids who love the water and those who want to sit poolside. And because it’s small, the game is perfectly sized for travel.
TESTER NOTES: Our testers said this game entertained their kids and “was great for gaining friends at the pool while on vacation.” Parents appreciated the mesh carrying case and the waterproof cards (which dried quickly), while kids liked the bright colors that were easy to spot underwater.
