After years of traveling, we’ve had our share of epic luggage fails (like dragging a suitcase with broken wheels through a crowded airport) and packing victories (hello, two months in Europe with only a school‑sized backpack — not the rugged mountain‑adventure kind).
Over time, we’ve figured out which items actually make the journey easier. Here are a few of our favorite travel accessories that help you pack it all or pack light, sleep anywhere, look good, stay entertained, learn about your destination, and document your adventure. We’ve included affiliate links to help you find the goods!
Pack It All
We’ve had so many suitcases destroyed over the years that we basically became experts at filing airline claims. We turned into the “call us when your luggage breaks” friends. So, we were ready to invest in a pricey, well‑known brand, but decided to test this affordable set first.
It ended up being the best luggage we’ve ever owned. Durable, lightweight, and shockingly long‑lasting — even after multiple flights. If you’re looking for budget‑friendly luggage that survives real travel, this set is the one we recommend.
🛍️Shop in USA or Canada
Pack Light
Since our first trip to Europe with only a backpack, I’ve been a die-hard fan of SwissGear. It’s affordable, durable, and practical. The one I use is no longer available (yes, they really last that long), but I’ve rounded up two choices very similar to the one we use. Also, keep your eyes open at Costco around back-to-school time. You can often get them then.
🛍️ USA – SwissGear 2762 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack or SwissGear SA6752.
🛍️ Canada – SwissGear 2762 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack or SwissGear SA6752.
Sleep Anywhere
I instantly fall asleep on planes, trains, or basically anything else that moves…but I was always rudely awakened when my head flopped forward. Not anymore! This neck pillow attaches to the headrest and keeps your head nicely in place.
🛍️Shop in USA or Canada
Look Good
I used to sacrifice hair‑styling tools when traveling light — partly because of space, partly because I never understood how the whole “voltage difference” thing worked abroad. Then I found this travel curling iron. It’s small, dual‑voltage, has three heat settings, and honestly… it replaced my regular one.
🛍️Shop in USA or Canada
Stay Entertained & Learn About Your Destination
Having time to read is one of the simple pleasures of traveling. I also love diving into guidebooks before takeoff — it’s essential for getting the most out of your trip. That’s where the Amazon Kindle comes in. It’s light, compact, and perfect for packing along, and with Kindle Unlimited you can find guides to just about any destination.
🛍️Shop in USA or Canada
Document Your Adventure
I love writing on paper and used to carry a notebook for EVERYTHING. Sadly, I couldn’t travel with all of them. My husband saw my dilemma and bought me a reMarkable — which I now use for everything from travel planning and journaling to jotting down tasting notes while sipping wine.
For Canada, I’m including a link to the Amazon Kindle Scribe as well, since the price of the reMarkable is much higher here.
🛍️ Shop in USA or Canada
Conclusion
Finding what works for you takes time and experimentation, but we hope these products — which have served us well — do the same for you. If you end up trying anything, send us a message. We’d love to hear what you think.
Happy travels! ✈️🌍
