18 Travel Essentials You Need for Your Next Trip, According to a Travel Pro

From reusable under-eye maks to plush neck pillows, these items will help make your next travel day so much better.

By Alexa Vazquez Oct 15, 2024 8:00 PM
| Updated Nov 26, 2024 4:58 PM
Tags
Shop - Travel Pro - Hero ImageCourtesy of Getty Images

The products featured in this article are from brands available in NBCUniversal Checkout. E! makes a commission on purchases.

Traveling can be a lot. Between packing your bags, getting through a busy airport, dealing with security, and figuring out your ride, it’s enough to make your head spin.

As someone that used to be a frequent traveler for work– I'm talking getting on several planes per month – I've gathered a few tips (and products) that will help make all the difference between a stressful travel experience and a seamless one.

I'm sharing all of my best hacks that will help you travel like a pro.

For starters, you'll need a spacious (and stylish) tote to pack all of your in-flight essentials, like headphones, a hand cream, a thermos, and of course, your passport.

I like to travel with under-eye patches to help soothe and rehydrate my skin when I land. Skin Gym makes a reusable pair that's ideal for travel!

Even if you aren't taking a long flight, having a neck pillow is key. Couple that with a satin sleep mask and you'll finally be able to catch some proper shut-eye while you fly. 

If you are planning to check your luggage, I highly recommend weighing your bag with an electric scale to save you from paying for those annoying overweight bag fees.

Speaking of luggage, you can't go wrong with a hard-shell suitcase with 360-degree wheels, which can make lugging it around the airport that much easier.

To keep stuff organized, I like to put everything in designated pouches so I know exactly where to find what I need. I found a clear one that makes finding things a breeze.

The must-have items below will help make your next travel adventure a breeze!

read
Ultimate Guide to Cute and Affordable Athleisure: 14 Finds Under $60

Rains Tote Bag

You'll be able to fit all the essentials (and then some) in this spacious travel tote.

Even better, it's made from waterproof fabric to keep all of your stuff dry even in rain or snow.

Supergoop! (re)setting Refreshing Mist Spf40

No matter where you're headed, sunscreen should always be on your packing list.

This one from Supergoop is a great choice since it's travel-sized and provides a refershing mist that will feel so good after a long flight. 

Luminess Conture Mirror

You never know what the mirror will be like at your hotel, which is why I like to keep a compact like this one on me just in case.

Since it's small, it will fit just about anywhere.

Paravel Mini Cabana See-All Vanity Case

If you hate rummaging through your makeup bag, this pouch is a game changer.

Since it's clear, it makes locating the product you need much easier.

Cincha Travel Mini Travel Belt

This belt secures any bag onto the handle of your luggage, so you can roam around the airport with your hands free.

Skin Gym Reusable Eye Mask

Because these silicone under-eye masks are reusable, you can use them again and again throughout your trip. 

Not only do they have a cooling sensation that reduces puffiness, they can help your moisturizers and eye cream absorb more deeply into your skin. Plus, they come in their very own travel case.

GOT BAG Passport Cover

Keep your passport safe inside this chic cover.

It's also great for storing plane tickets and other important documents. 

Besame Cosmetics The Blushing Rose Hand Cream

Made with green tea and shea butter, this cream will ensure your hands stay moisturized no matter how long your flight is.

Corkcicle LLC Series A Sport Canteen

Instead of paying for an overpriced bottle of water, take a thermos like this one instead.

It will keep your drink cold (or hot) for hours on end. 

read
Best Luggage in 2024: Plus Luggage on Sale Now

Thera Neck Pillow Massager

This plush memory foam neck pillow provides crucial support to help you need to keep comfortable, even on an airplane.

It offers massage functions to help alleviate any stiffness or tension you might experience post-flight.

GOT BAG Shower Bag

You can use this water-resistant bag for so many different things.

It's great for holding toiletries, protecting electronic items, and more. 

NapAnywhere Head Support Travel Pillow

If you find it hard to sleep on planes, trains, or car rides, you need this neck pillow.

The unique shape cradles your head, providing the comfortable support you need to get some proper shuteye.

Miami Carryon Digital Luggage Scale With Stainless Steel Hook

This easy-to-use lugage scale can help keep you from paying extra for an overweight bag. 

Since it's so compact, you can even take it on your trip to make sure those souvenirs you bought don't add any unwanted weight to your bag.

Kare Beam Eye Mask

Not only does this eye mask block out light, it also comes with both cooling and warming gels that feel so relaxing after long a day of travel.

Kenny Flowers The Hawaii Waterproof Travel Pouch

This adorable pouch is a great way to stay organized while you travel. 

Since it's waterproof, it's ideal for keeping your things safe and dry.

SUNNYLIFE Portable Travel Speaker

From the pool to your hotel room, this portable speaker is a must for music lovers.

Not only is it lightweight and compact, but the design is super cute.

Kare by Kalani Kare Free Karyall

Featuring a sleek design, this spacious and lightweight bag is perfect for storing all of your in-flight essentials.

Miami Carryon Ocean Polycarbonate Carry-on Suitcase

Consider this your sign to upgrade your carry-on luagge.

This one has 360-degree wheels that make rolling it thorugh the airport breeze. The hard-shell design keeps all of your items protected.