The Very Best Travel Products of 2023, According to T+L Editors

Cuyana Small Easy Zipper Tote

View on Cuyana.com

This tote has it all: it’s lightweight, secure, stylish, and perfectly pairs with interior pouches to up your organization game. Even without adding a pouch, plenty of gadgets and essentials can fit inside thanks to a spacious main compartment as well as an interior slip pocket and keychain strap. The Italian leather bag is soft to the touch and both looks and feels luxurious. Our favorite thing about it, though, is just how many options you have to choose from — it’s available in six colors, four sizes, and both zippered and zipperless styles.

“I prefer to rotate between a crossbody and a lightweight tote when traveling, and I was shocked by how light this leather zippered bag is at just over a pound,” associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker said. “Not only does the fully enclosed tote make me feel comfortable in crowds and on public transport, I love the snaps inside to rotate other pouches in, too. I’m eyeing the System Flap Bag and Adjustable Strap next so I can carry this tote crossbody style and also use the smaller pouch with the strap as a separate purse on my trips.”

Samsers Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard

$55 at Amazon

It may surprise you to learn this keyboard isn’t just for your laptop or tablet — it’s also for your phone! Gone are the days of cramping fingers and thumbs after texting novels to friends back home about your trip. With this compact, folding keyboard that wirelessly connects to a phone (or other device) via Bluetooth, you can text just as easily as you’d type at your desk. It’s equipped with a magnetic closure, seamless hinge for folding, PU leather exterior, and sensitive touchpad in place of a mouse. It even comes with extras like a USB-C charging cable, adjustable folding stand, and velvet storage bag. When opened fully, the keyboard measures in at 13.4 by 4.6 inches, which is standard keyboard size.

“Anyone who’s tried to write anything more than a sentence or two on a smartphone has likely cursed those tiny keys and autocorrect a time or two,” Parker said. “I ordered this Bluetooth keyboard and now I rely on it when I’m texting a lengthy tale of my travel adventures and can use it with my tablet (or laptop!) for more significant work as well. I ordered four versions to compare before committing and found this one has the best keypad response and the PU leather made it feel sturdier and look a bit sleeker, too.”

Charmast Small Portable Charger

$19 at Amazon

You won’t find a portable charger more subtle and stylish than this one from Charmast. Roughly the size of a tube of lipstick, this compact device is just as easy to transport as it is to use. Just toss it in your purse, carry-on, or pocket for quick access and simply plug into the bottom of your iPhone to begin charging. Its non-bulky design makes it easy to continue to use your phone while it works, and you can even charge both your phone and the charger itself at the same time by keeping them connected and plugging the charger into a USB-C cable and block. The best part? It comes in seven colors including pink, white, and blue.

“I went to a lot of stadium concerts this year so I made sure to stock up on the essentials for getting through long nights, and this little charger has been a true lifesaver,” writer Anna Popp said. “I also brought it with me on four international trips and it takes up virtually no room in a purse. I am the queen of leaving the house with a phone on low battery so this portable charger for my iPhone is easily the best money I've spent this year.”

Iioscre Small Sling Crossbody Bag

$16 at Amazon

This is one of the most versatile bags around, and it’s proven itself to us all over the world this year. Its simple, mostly monochromatic design allows it to blend effortlessly in situations ranging from shopping to sightseeing to commuting. The bag is also lightweight, comfy to carry, and capable of housing a handful of items like a phone and charger, AirPods, a wallet, keys, and cosmetics. The affordable and adjustable purse comes in 12 colors, but we’re especially fond of the various shades of pink and green.

“I wanted a minimalist bag to bring to Asia with me and this budget-friendly one from Amazon was the perfect accessory,” Popp said. “It fits more than enough for a long day of sightseeing and it's super compact to fit in a suitcase or personal item without taking up much space. It's versatile enough to wear for both outdoor adventures and urban escapades so it's usually the first thing I pack before leaving for a trip now.”

Frye Veronica Combat Boot

View on Amazon $258 at Nordstrom $200 at Zappos

If you’re looking for a pair of stylish and sturdy travel boots available in more than just run-of-the-mill black leather, consider ordering the Frye Veronica Combat Boots. They’re comfy enough to wear all day long and thanks to high-quality leather and rubber construction, they expertly glide over debris of all types. Waxed cotton laces stand up against moisture and mud, while a one-inch block heel and antiqued appearance add a hint of style. They come in eight unique colors and 13 sizes including half sizes.

“A travel writer friend of mine recommended these boots for safaris, and I'm so glad I took her advice,” digital editorial director Nina Ruggiero said. “I wore them all day for over a week — including on two walking safaris and four long haul flights — and they were comfortable, durable, and complimented all of my safari looks. I'll be taking them on outdoor adventures of all kinds from now on.”

Vuori Scout Jogger

View on Vuoriclothing.com

These casual-yet-cute joggers are the travel pants you’ve been searching for. They’re so comfy that we’ve slept in them, but they remain stylish enough to wear to the airport, while exploring new towns, and straight off the plane to the office. They’ve never felt heavy or restrictive to us, and their abundant pockets make traveling, commuting, and running errands simpler than ever. You can snag them in two colors (army and dark salt) and sizes ranging from XXS to XXL.

“Like many SoCal residents, I live in Vuori’s activewear, but to me, these joggers are not for jogging,” Ruggiero said. “Instead, they’re the ultimate travel pant. The cargo look is definitely in right now, but it’s also practical — you can never have too many pockets on the go. Plus, these are comfortable, breathable, waterproof, and lightweight (but not too lightweight). I wore them on a 25-hour flying day and didn’t even need to change into pajamas for the overnight flight.”

Béis The Backpack

$88 at Nordstrom $88 at Beistravel.com $88 at Revolve

There are hundreds of travel backpacks on the market, but few impressed us as much as this one by Béis. It’s full of padded pockets and compartments (including a dedicated slot for a laptop), and it even has fun extras like a key hook and trolley sleeve to attach it to wheeled luggage. We’re also all about the comfy, cushioned straps: after a few particularly agonizing travels, slipping this backpack’s straps over our shoulders was like a breath of fresh air. There’s even a top handle for those who want to give their shoulders a break altogether. Grab this bag in six neutral hues including maple, beige, and navy.

“I used to only travel with a tote bag, but my go-to bag was sneakily giving me back and shoulder pain since it was so heavy to lug around,” editor Emily Belfiore said. “After a painful flight experience, I decided it was time to ditch it for a backpack, and I knew Béis would be the right brand for the job (I literally bought it in the cab on the way to my hotel from the airport). The Béis Backpack has a carry-on-style design with a spacious main compartment and compression straps. It also opens like a suitcase for easy packing, and there are two built-in pockets on the main flap that are perfect for toiletries, tech, and other tiny essentials. It’s so much more comfortable to carry and I feel like it makes my trip through TSA smoother — especially with its laptop pocket.”

Uniqlo Ultra Warm Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

View on Uniqlo.com

Keeping a warm and cozy base layer in your travel wardrobe is wise no matter where you live — just take it from one of our Southern California-based editors. That’s why this breathable-yet-warm set from Uniqlo’s Heattech line is one of our favorites. It’s made of a comfy fabric blend that simultaneously locks in heat, wicks away moisture, and efficiently stretches to accommodate all types of movement. It’s even knit in a way that prevents snagging, and it’s quite soft to the touch. Pick it up in four colors ranging from off-white to brown.

“Living in LA, I really don’t have a lot of winter clothes,” Belfiore said. “But a recent trip to Big Bear made me realize I had to step up my base layer game, which is where the Uniqlo Heattech line came in very clutch. I sported the Ultra Warm Crew Neck Long-sleeve Top and leggings on a hike, while exploring the town, and while cozying up around the fire at our cabin. It really trapped in the heat and made me feel equipped for the chilly weather. I also picked up the line’s gloves and socks for the trip — and they were equally amazing.”

Shokz Open Run Headphones

$130 at Amazon $90 at REI View on Shokz.com

These headphones are revolutionizing workouts for runners, hikers, and even travelers who simply like to listen to audio on the go. Not only do they stay put during high levels of activity, but they also offer quality sound without silencing the world around you. This is especially helpful for those looking to remain alert or have conversations while listening to their favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks. The headphones are also waterproof and capable of holding a charge for eight hours — plus, feature a quick-charge mode that provides 1.5 hours of power from a 10-minute charge.

“I bought these bone conduction headphones for outdoor runs in NYC,” deputy photo editor Skye Senterfeit said. “They sit just above your ear and let you listen to music while still being able to hear what's happening around you, and others near you can't hear the sound. They've been great for runs but have also been a surprise hit for me for traveling too. When you're wearing them you can still easily hear safety demos, flight attendants asking you if you'd like almonds or cookies, or train and subway announcements. A tip: the mini size is bigger than the name would suggest, and might be the right fit for most people."

Fenty Beauty Blurring Skin Tint

View on Fentybeauty.com $36 at Kohls.com View on Harveynichols.com

We understand wanting to look put-together while traveling — but who wants to waste precious sightseeing time doing a full face of makeup? This Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint by Fenty has been a lifesaver for us this year because it evens skin tone with almost no effort at all. Unlike foundation, the light-coverage drops can be quickly and easily blended into the skin with the fingertips to cover small imperfections and discoloration. It’ll never look cakey or streaky, and it’s buildable for those days when you do want to layer more makeup on top. And in true Fenty fashion, it’s available in over two dozen shades.

“This skin tint is an easy way to simplify your makeup routine and a good way to look more alive when you're taking an early morning flight without having to slather on a full face of makeup,” testing editor Jackie Cucco said. “It's longwearing without being too thick or heavy. I usually wear it in place of foundation while traveling so that I don't have to pack extra makeup brushes.”

Alo Explorer Fanny Pack

$74 at Aloyoga.com

Fanny packs are back in a big way, and we’ve enjoyed partaking in the trend this year with this sleek option from Alo. Forget the bulky, style-compromising fanny packs of yore — the Explorer is spacious yet subtle, structured, and lightweight enough to carry all day. It boasts two exterior pockets and one interior zip pocket to keep small items secure, plus the adjustable strap unclips completely for quick styling either around the waist or across the body. It comes in four monochromatic shades: black, ivory, fog, and espresso.

“I jumped on board the fanny pack train with this Alo bag, although I prefer to wear it as a sling bag,” Cucco said. “I like how compact it is, so you can keep your essentials close without taking up too much space, giving you easy access to your wallet and phone when you're out and about.”

Findcozy Toiletry Travel Bag

$12 at Amazon

There are toiletry bags, and then there are hanging toiletry bags. We love this one from Findcozy — when hung up, it opens into four separate compartments, each with at least one pocket to store and separate your items. All of the compartments and pockets are either clear plastic or mesh so you can see what is in each of them. Plus, at 12.5 by 9 by 5.5 inches, the bag is large enough to store even your most sizable bottles and makeup palettes, yet it’s still small enough to easily pack into a suitcase. And, thanks to two durable top handles, carrying the bag on its own is equally as simple.

“I'm obsessed with this hanging toiletries travel case — I bring it on every single trip I go on,” editor Sophie Mendel said. “It has a ton of different compartments for everything from bandaids and medications to travel-sized shampoo and makeup remover wipes. It's an awesome one-and-done case to stick in your luggage and hang on any hook or door handle for easy accessibility to all your toiletries when you're on the road. It's a bit large (as I'm a chronic overpacker), but always makes me feel confident that I have everything I'll need while on a trip.”

Don Oehl Paris Print

View on Donoehl.com

There’s nothing like some fine art to elevate your space and bring back memories of your most cherished adventures when you're back home again. This year, we added this fun Paris print from artist Don Oehl to our collection. It’s not too busy or too abstract, and it’s a great conversation piece. At first glance, you may not even notice the hidden Eiffel Tower, but once you do, the print is sure to evoke Parisian daydreams.

"I love collecting art as my travel souvenirs and this vibrant print just makes me happy,” updates writer Taylor Fox said. “While it was actually made by an artist based out of New York, this print reminds me of the time I've spent in Paris, enjoying all of the fashion and architecture. It's so unique and can be paired with another beautiful travel print to add to a gallery wall or as a standalone piece.”

Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed

View on Nordstrom $160 at Backcountry.com $160 at Dick's

These extra-comfy clogs are basically slippers you can wear outside, on errand runs, and even to work. They’re so soft that your feet will never feel sore in them, even after hours of wear. That’s thanks to their natural cork and latex footbed that provides superior cushioning and weight distribution, as well as a leather and suede upper that won’t rub uncomfortably against your foot. We love that they come in three colors and match with just about every outfit in our closets.

“After seeing these Boston Birkenstocks all over the internet and on the streets of New York City, I must've stepped into the Williamsburg storefront every day for an entire week waiting for them to be restocked,” writer Alexandra Domrongchai said. “And when they finally did, I immediately purchased a black pair and then proceeded to wear nothing but these shoes for the entirety of spring and summer. They go with absolutely everything in my wardrobe — whether that be a pair of joggers or jeans — and even with the temperatures dipping, they wear just as great with a pair of fleece-lined socks.”

Mystery Ranch Mission Stuffel 30L Bag

$109 at Amazon $109 at Backcountry.com $54 at Zappos

Here at T+L, we test a lot of luggage and bags each year. So when we say we loved one piece of luggage so much that we used it all year, it’s kind of a big deal. The Mystery Ranch Mission Stuffel 30L Bag came with us pretty much everywhere this year, from journeys across the world to short road trips. The bag can be carried as a duffel or backpack, and it’s able to fit several day’s worth of clothes. It features small interior pockets, tear- and abrasion-resistant nylon, and a horseshoe zipper opening to help you see everything inside. On top of that, it’s reinforced in areas that may wear quickly, so you’re sure to have this bag for years.

“I picked up this bright-orange duffel in preparation for a safari in Kenya, and it was the perfect frame-free luggage for hopping in and out of small planes and Land Cruisers,” news director Paul Brady said. “What's surprised me, though, is that I now use it for almost every trip, even quick weekend getaways closer to home. It's big enough to hold a ton but squishy enough that you can slip it through as a carry on. I also like the separate pocket for things like boots, swimsuits, or whatever else, that helps keep things tidy.”

Glossier Ultralip High Shine Lipstick

$22 at Glossier.com $22 at Sephora

Imagine hydrating your lips after a longhaul flight and adding color and shine in a matter of about ten seconds. Believe it or not, it’s possible with Glossier’s High Shine Lipstick With Hyaluronic Acid, which we’ve used countless times this year. The feel-good lip product — which is part lipstick, part balm, and part gloss — is lightly tinted, allowing users to quickly swipe it on for some color without worrying about applying it perfectly. It’s a must-have for travelers and those who enjoy looking good, but often don’t have much time to dedicate to their appearance. Grab it in nine colors ranging from soft peony pink to deep mauve.

“After years of hearing people rave about Glossier makeup, I finally bought the brand’s High Shine Lipstick With Hyaluronic Acid this year, and it’s become a travel go-to,” associate editor Hillary Maglin said. “It’s surprisingly pigmented for what is essentially a tinted lip balm, but it’s also one of those no-precision-needed lip products, so I can slap some on without even using a mirror (which is perfect for plane seats and train cars). I have the dusty rose shade, and it does an awesome job of providing subtle color, moisture, and shine. If I’m lucky, I can even skip regular lip balm when I’ve got this on hand.”

Zuihug Travel Pill Case

$3 at Amazon

Traveling with pills can be a pain, especially if you’ve packed several different kinds. Leave your large, cumbersome pill organizers at home and transfer your medications and vitamins to a travel pill case when you hit the road. Zuihug’s 10-compartment Travel Pill Case has the space to secure dozens of pills, yet it folds up into a compact case small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. It easily slips right into carry-ons and personal item bags, and it comes in transparent colors like blue, pink, gray, and more.

“This compact little pill organizer is such an improvement on the bulky cases I've used in the past,” senior editor Lydia Price said. “There are ten separate compartments of various sizes, so it's easy to fit bigger pills like my hair supplements and vitamins while keeping smaller medications tidy. I'm one of those travelers who basically brings an entire pharmacy with them wherever they go, and this has made it effortless to pack everything from prescriptions to melatonin in virtually any bag.”

NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner

View on Ulta $9 at Amazon $10 at Target

Got a long travel day ahead of you? Don’t risk looking like a raccoon by the time you reach your destination — just apply NYX’s Epic Ink Waterproof Eyeliner before you leave. This eyeliner has serious staying power thanks to its matte, waterproof formula, so wherever you apply it is where it’ll stay for the next several hours. We also appreciate that, unlike many other liquid eyeliners that require MUA-level precision and skill, the Epic Ink eyeliner glides onto lids and creates clean lines with minimal effort. Plus, it’ll hold up through torrential downpours, swimming, and skiing.

“I've tried a ton of different eyeliners from all over the price spectrum, and nothing has impressed me more than this drugstore buy,” Price said. “The tip is so fine and precise that even a shaky-handed gal like myself can get a nice thin line. With my video work for T+L, I have to feel confident in front of the camera everywhere from snowy ski slopes to scorching-hot beaches, and this eyeliner is actually waterproof enough to get the job done every time. It doesn't even budge when I fully submerge my head.”

Skyroam Solis Lite

$160 at Amazon $160 at Target $112 at Best Buy

It’s always a good idea to have a little Wi-Fi boost on hand. If you’re searching for the perfect compact device to bring on your travels, look no further than the Simo Solis Lite Hotspot. This hockey-puck-sized device majorly increases the speed of your Wi-Fi connection nearly anywhere in the world if there is a network nearby. It’s small enough to fit in virtually any purse, backpack, or suitcase, and it makes working or browsing the internet a breeze. To top it off, we’re obsessed with its bright orange exterior!

“I took this hotspot on a five-city trip around India and to Japan this year,” Price said. “It's truly a tiny powerhouse that provides lightning-fast Wi-Fi in all but the most remote locations. It connects to the fastest cell signal in any given area, so I'm free to use my phone and laptop as long as there is some type of network around, and I have just as good of service as the locals do anywhere I go. Simo also has a flexible, generous data plan, with users getting 250 megabytes for free each month and their choice of day passes, monthly subscriptions, and pay-per-gigabyte options after that.”