What HGTV Editors Can't Travel Without

"Once you go cube, you will never go back! Packing cubes have transformed the way I organize and pack when traveling solo or as a family. I personally like the Shacke Pak Set of 5 Packing Cubes with a mesh window to see what’s inside without unzipping. The set includes an X-Large, Large, Medium and Small cubes along with a laundry bag. You’ll realize they can hold way more items (up to a 14-day vacation), and unpacking is a breeze. However you like to organize, packing cubes are my #1 travel hack that I cannot travel without." — Jennifer Cicatelli, Director of Commerce Analytics

"I just discovered these last year and I’ll probably never travel again without them. I was able to fit a lot more clothes (and souvenirs) in my luggage. When I first used them, I was concerned that my clothes would be more wrinkled than normal, but not the case. My clothes were actually less wrinkled because they weren’t moving around inside the luggage. Having the bags also helped keep me organized during the trip — I used them for dirty laundry and to separate my stuff from my husband’s. Also, they’re easy to use, no vacuum needed. In fact, you don’t even need a lot of muscle to get the air out of the bags. They’re reusable and well worth the $20 price tag." — Jackie McGilvray, Commerce Editor

"It’s so annoying to discover lint all over a cute outfit before heading out to a nice dinner or work event on a trip. That’s why I love this compact retractable lint roller from the brand Flint. It twists like a lipstick to reveal a roll of adhesive and retracts back when you’re done, meaning the adhesive doesn’t collect lint when not in use, like when stored at the bottom of a purse. It’s the perfect lint roller for quick touch-ups on the go." — Laura James, Commerce Editor

"Traveling with liquids can be such a pain, but Cadence travel containers are a lifesaver and eliminate single-use waste. They're standard size, so no need to worry if you've gone over the liquid limit, plus they are leakproof. I know because mine have been put to the test more than once. All sets are customizable. Choose colors and labels that fit your travel style for a fun organizational element. My favorite feature, however, is that all containers are magnetic, so I never have to worry about losing one." — Caroline McCarley, Digital Producer

"I like to pack light and am a sucker for a compression bag. This set of compression cubes has been a game-changer for packing my carry-on, so I don't have to check a bag on short trips. I love that they're made by a top outdoor brand that prioritizes both durability and sustainability." — Kelly Smith Trimble, Senior Editorial Director

"These tiny spray bottles are perfect for those items you just need a little of. On a recent trip, I filled one with rubbing alcohol to clean my phone, red light therapy mask and other devices throughout the trip, and I was so impressed how much it held without taking up valuable space. Alternatively, I found these squeeze bottles and these larger spray bottles ideal for products I needed a bit more of but didn't want to waste a full 3 ounces worth of bag space on." — Keri Sanders, Editor

"I've had my Herschel Chapter Travel Kit - 5L for over a decade, and it's still in excellent condition after countless trips. This travel kit is my go-to companion, perfectly accommodating my toothbrush, toiletries and medications. The waterproof zipped closure ensures that your essentials are protected from any spills, while the two pockets help organize smaller items like hair ties. Additionally, it's available in a weather-resistant design, making it ideal for keeping everyday items dry in any condition." — Jennifer Cicatelli, Director of Commerce Analytics

"The name of this backpack is pretty self-explanatory, but even so it deserves all my praise. I originally bought this backpack for my study abroad semester, where most international airlines charge extra for carry-ons (which became a bit costly as a student). To save money on airfares I resorted to the Mother Lode, which counted as a personal item yet is essentially a full carry-on on my back. It opens like a suitcase (pictured), revealing a main roomy compartment for packing cubes and a convenient mesh pocket for shoes. There is also a padded laptop sleeve, a deep front zip compartment (with even more interior pockets) for easy access to items without opening the entire bag, two additional 'quick grab' front pockets for a passport, phone, etc. and a side water bottle pocket. Everything I needed for a long weekend trip fit in this backpack, while still being compact enough to comfortably fit on my back, under my seat or in the overhead compartment. I didn't think I'd be using The Mother Lode much after my international travels, but boy was I wrong. It is the ultimate one-bag solution." — Julia Morlino, Commerce Associate Editor

"I love this Solgaard suitcase – I have the carry-on, and packed a week’s worth of clothes for a wedding in Italy. I don’t use the closet system, but my husband does and enjoys it. A few of my favorite features: the hard shell with a lock (creates a great “sit on and close” experience), the charging port with an integrated USB and the four wheels on the bottom for easy movement. My husband also has the backpack – it was the perfect travel companion for a weekend at Oktoberfest in Germany." — Virginia Moon, Managing Editor

"While I’ve used and loved Away’s carry-on suitcase for six years now, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to splurge on a matching checked bag that costs around $350 for a recent international trip, especially since I don’t need a checked bag very often. Enter Quince. I decided to try this suitcase bundle that features a 20-inch carry-on and a 24-inch checked suitcase that nest inside each other when stored for under $300 (though you can purchase separately, too) – that’s two suitcases for almost $100 less than one Away checked suitcase. While I was a little hesitant about the quality living up to my Away suitcase, I was pleasantly surprised! The checked suitcase from Quince glided through the airport and came out of baggage claim with minor wear. Lighter colors like the tan will show black scuffs easily, but it comes with a melamine eraser that removes them like a charm. The Quince suitcases feature 360-degree wheels, polycarbonate shells, laundry bags, compression panels, TSA-friendly locks, free shipping and 365-day returns. If you’re looking for stylish, high-quality luggage on a budget, I highly recommend them." — Laura James, Commerce Editor

"I'm not kidding when I say I've recommended this bag to literally everyone in my life. I was skeptical of the unstructured style at first because these kinds of totes tend to become a bottomless pit, but there's actually just the right amount of pockets in all the right places where my most important items can be kept. There's an interior zip pocket big enough for a laptop, two small exterior zip pockets for my wallet, keys, passport etc. and an additional smaller interior pocket for more loose items. The best part of all, though, is the thick shoulder strap. I can pack this tote to the absolute brim and it still feels so comfortable on my shoulder. You can even make it a crossbody for even more comfort. Plus the vibrant colors combined with a quilted fabric and slouch design make this tote so trendy. It's been my go-to carry-on, beach bag and overnight bag for over a year and has yet to do me wrong." — Julia Morlino, Commerce Associate Editor

"I genuinely don’t travel anywhere without this backpack. It’s great for overnights at my boyfriend’s house, or as a carry on paired with a checked bag for a longer trip. It fits under an airplane seat and can be stowed in the overhead compartments. The best part: It has SO MANY pockets — including a separate pocket at the bottom for a pair of shoes, which is great since shoes are often dirty and germy. While I never quite figured out how to use the charging port, the pockets built into this backpack allow me to stay super organized while traveling. Overall, this bag is a steal. (After two years with my current one, I’m ordering another one in a different color)." — Caroline Alkire, Managing Editor

"I don’t go anywhere without my Patagonia Black Hole backpack (I have the 32L, but the 25L is very roomy, too). I can fit everything I need for myself and my 4-year-old for a long weekend trip, and for longer trips or airplane travel I use it as my personal item — it holds a ton but fits easily under the seat. It’s comfortable and durable and easy to keep organized. In addition to the huge main pocket, it has a separate flat pocket for laptops and two separate front pockets: one I fill with snacks and the other with toys and crafts for easy access (some no-mess favorites are colored masking tape and this dough that doesn’t dry out)." — Michelle Buffardi, VP, Multiplatform Digital Content

"If you’re traveling somewhere you plan to shop for souvenirs, this fold-up duffle bag is so useful. The bag packs down and zips up to about the size of a notebook or iPad, but when you unzip it, it transforms into a stylish full-sized duffle bag. I recently traveled to Paris and packed this zipped-up bag in my one-checked suitcase. To make room in my suitcase for the clothes, vintage art and other goodies I purchased during my trip, I transferred non-fragile items from my checked suitcase into this duffle and used it as my second carry-on bag on the return trip. While this duffle doesn’t have the structure to stand up on its own, it works well as a weekend or gym bag, and I love that it comes in several colors and can be personalized — it’d make a great gift!" — Laura James, Commerce Editor

"I usually travel with a hardshell suitcase, but a recent trip required a soft duffle bag with strict size limits. After extensive research, I chose the RTIC Road Trip Rolling Duffle Bag and was thoroughly impressed by its quality. The large size accommodates up to two weeks' worth of clothing, offering flexible packing options with its open capacity. My packing cubes fit perfectly, making it easy to organize everything. The telescoping handles ensure effortless transport, making this duffle bag a fantastic choice for any travel adventure." — Jennifer Cicatelli, Director of Commerce Analytics

"A compact steamer makes it so easy to de-wrinkle and refresh clothes when traveling, but one thing to keep in mind when purchasing is that some steamers can’t be used internationally because they don’t use the proper voltage (and a lot of outlet adapters don’t convert voltage). I recently bought this Conair steamer that can be switched from 120V to 240V for worldwide use. It worked great on a trip to Morocco! The water reservoir is a bit small, but I found it to be large enough for a quick outfit touchup." — Shannon Phillips, Managing Editor

"After a close call in Europe when my phone continuously claimed to have water inside and would not charge via the lightning port, I searched high and low for a practical solution that wouldn’t mean having to buy a new phone. Enter the Courant Mag:1. This stylish and compact magnetic phone charger is ideal for both home and travel. It has not only solved my charging issue, but it has also made plugging into inconvenient outlets much easier with an extra-long cord (6 feet!). And if those handy features weren’t enough to sell me, the sleek Italian leather certainly was." — Keri Sanders, Editor

"When traveling on a plane or train with young kids, you need to pack them comfortable headphones. Whether they are connecting to the plane TV or a personal device, a comfortable pair of headphones will save you the headache of a complaining child or nearby passengers. On a recent trip my son wore my Soundcore Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones, and it was the most blissful travel experience as a parent. The headphones are lightweight, with a memory foam padding surrounded by a soft leather comfortable for anyone to wear." — Jennifer Cicatelli, Director of Commerce Analytics

"Whether you’re traveling to a theme park with water rides or going snorkeling in the ocean, you need this waterproof phone pouch. I recently took it on a cruise and was able to capture some beautiful underwater photos from our adventures — all without damaging my phone. Tip: Ensure your pouch is completely watertight before first using it by putting a dry paper towel inside and submerging the pouch in water. If the paper towel comes out dry, then you’re good to go." — Morgan Faulkner, Commerce Editor

"This personal safety alarm from She’s Birdie gives me a bit more peace of mind traveling as a woman. Pulling on the top of the alarm will activate a very loud (130 decibels!) siren and flashing light to create a diversion and alert people around you you’re in danger. Beyond travel, I keep this alarm on me in my everyday life, too. The brand also now offers a smart version of this alarm called Birdie+ that can connect to your smart phone and allow access to a 24/7 emergency support line via a subscription service." — Laura James, Commerce Editor

"On a flight to Phoenix, I had the most excruciating ear pain on descent. I truly thought my head was going to explode! If you've been there, you know. Since that flight, I've been using these ear plugs which come with a case so they can be easily stored in your hand luggage. So far, no more issues for me." — Rashidah Bashir, Director of Editorial and Audience Development

"I've taken this pillow on so many flights, and I am constantly recommending it to people. It folds up small enough to fit in the side pocket of my backpack and blows up quickly and quietly. The material is super soft, and the internal padding is a plus. In my opinion, it's ideal for window seats and is one of the only ways I can ever get real sleep on a plane." — Keri Sanders, Editor

"This Lululemon belt bag is truly the perfect size for all the essentials you need on hand in the airport: A wallet, phone, passport, charger, chapstick, hair ties, hand sanitizer and more. It's easier than ever to reach for these small items in my fanny pack rather than sorting through a large carry-on or backpack (you never want to be the one to hold up the security line because you can't find your passport). It also gives me peace of mind knowing all my important travel documents are right in front of me, and I love that I can get away with wearing this in addition to a personal item. There are definitely more affordable dupes out there, as any roomy fanny pack can serve as a great companion in the airport." — Julia Morlino, Commerce Associate Editor

"A reusable water bottle is an essential travel companion, whether you're journeying by plane, train or automobile. The YETI Rambler Water Bottle stands out as a top choice, thanks to its 100% leak-proof design that ensures your bag stays dry. The chug spout lid is particularly useful for airplane travel, as it prevents leaks that are common with straw cups under pressure. For those who prefer a straw cap, the Rambler is compatible with the separately sold straw cap accessory. Additionally, YETI Ramblers are available in a variety of colors, allowing you to personalize your bottle to match your style." —Jennifer Cicatelli, Director of Commerce Analytics

"Slip-on sneakers are a travel must-have for me, particularly when I’m flying. It’s so much easier to get through airport security when you don’t have to untie and retie your shoes. I have a pair similar to these Dr. Scholl’s that are super comfy for trips with a lot of walking, and I like the loafer style versus a more athletic-looking shoe. I’m actually due to replace them because I’ve worn them on so many vacations." Shannon Phillips, Managing Editor

"My feet swell up on long flights so I always wear compression socks. I have these and my sister, who is a nurse, also bought them. Great if you stand or sit for extended periods." — Rashidah Bashir, Director of Editorial and Audience Development