Travel essentials for 2025

Starry-eyed adventurers may need only the clothes on their backs, but fortifying travels with a tailored kit will help smooth the way.  

That doesn’t mean every bag and gadget is essential for travel. Each piece must earn its keep, serving not just one purpose but several, in some instances. (Think a backpack carry-on or scarf with discreet zippered pockets.) After all, the best travel kit serves its unique traveler: you.  

Thankfully, the past year introduced some seriously innovative gear, and this year is poised to be just as promising. With that in mind, we’ve put together this definitive list of all the travel products we love most, from recent hits to new and improved releases.  

Our picks for the best travel essentials in 2025 

Travel essentials is a broad term. For easier navigation, this list is divided into three categories: bags, clothes, and accessories. From wind-resistant backpacks that double as carry-ons to breathable, wrinkle-resistant shirts that transition from formal dinners to hiking excursions, here’s everything worth packing for your next adventure. 

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For many travelers, packing all your belongings in a single bag is a dream. This backpack makes that dream a reality. At first glance, it looks like a standard 35L backpack, but it expands to a whopping 45L. Even the side pockets extend to hold bulky items like tripods and canteens. Thoughtful design features include quick-access pockets and internal dividers to keep gear organized, as well as padded straps and waist support for comfort. 

Best travel laptop backpack: Thule Aion 40L 

With more luggage capacity and organizational pockets than your typical backpack, the Thule Aion 40L is ideal for travelers who can’t escape work. The dedicated tech pouch fits laptops up to 16 inches and tablets up to 12.9 inches. Plenty of separate zippered pockets wrangle cords, chargers, and other small accessories. The main compartment has compression straps for clothes and a removable TPU rolltop bag to keep moisture-prone items separate from pricey electronics.

(8 expert-loved backpacks for your next hiking adventure)  

This compact toiletry bag offers a surprisingly spacious interior and innovative compartments to separate items you don’t want to mix (looking at you, magnetically sealed toothbrush pocket). The pull-out pocket linings make it easy to wipe up spills, plus the built-in hook lets you hang the bag away from wet surfaces or when counter space is limited. 

The soft Italian leather may be reason enough to add this lightweight tote to a packing wish list, but the practical design will have travelers reaching for it for every trip. With multiple pockets, a key clip, a secure zipper closure, and a roomy interior, it’s perfect for stowing essentials in style. If you need more organization, Cuyana offers add-on bags and longer shoulder straps that snap in. 

Inside the sleek exterior (which comes in five trendy colors) lies an adaptable packing system with compression straps, zippered pockets, panel dividers, and wet compartments. The 360-degree spinner wheels make maneuvering through crowded airports much less stressful, and the durable polycarbonate shell can withstand the bumps and bangs of travel. It’s no wonder this particular collection is a favorite among pilots and flight attendants. 

(These are our favorite carry-on bags)

There’s a reason this hip pack keeps popping up on our experts’ best lists; it’s versatile, stylish, and functional. The 2L size is perfect for on-the-go essentials like a wallet, phone, sunglasses, and small snacks. It also features a hidden zip pocket on the back for added security. We love that you can wear it as a crossbody or fanny pack for hands-free convenience that doesn’t compromise style. 

We love the built-in shoe compartment in this duffle for keeping dusty hiking boots away from clean clothes. That feature along with the zippered mesh internal pocket and side sleeve pouch make this duffle a better option than most for organization. Plus, the waterproof zipper and 42.5-liter capacity make it a reliable choice for weekend trips or as a secondary bag on longer journeys, especially if showers are in the forecast. 

The carry-ons that promise more space tend to push the limits of airline size regulations. This carry-on has smart design features—like two interior pockets built with overpackers in mind—that maximize existing space. While the recycled polycarbonate hard-shell exterior is made to resist dents, Nex’s Million-Mile Return policy allows travelers to return used bags for credits toward a new one, up to a million miles traveled. 

Don’t want to fiddle around with pockets and zippers while traveling? This stylish belt bag keeps essentials within arm’s reach. Travelers won’t find advanced organizational features, but the single interior mesh pocket and zippered back pocket are plenty for cards, keys, and a small phone. Plus, the water-repellant polyester and nylon fabric helps keep belongings safe from unexpected spills or light rain. 

(Go hands-free while you travel with a crossbody bag)

This durable and functional backpack is built with a customizable padded interior that allows travelers to organize camera equipment as they see fit. At the same time, it provides quick access when that perfect shot presents itself. The backpack also has a separate laptop sleeve for a 15.6-inch laptop and a tablet—convenient for keeping all your tech together. 

(The 25 best places in the world to travel to in 2025)

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The Athleta Endless Cargo High-Rise pants are as versatile as pants can get. The stretchy recycled polyester and spandex material is breathable, wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying, and stylish enough for a day of hiking or exploring the city. You can adjust the cuffed ankle hem for a cropped or full-length look. We also like the slim cargo pockets and all the colors and sizes. 

Made from organic cotton in Sri Lanka, these ’70s military trouser-style pants are tough as nails, yet comfortable with an adjustable waistband and roomy pockets. The tapered leg opening gives knees a little more room to move, while the button-flap back pocket adds a touch of style and security. 

The most pack-worthy travel garments go with multiple outfits and are easy to clean. Patagonia’s Capilene Cool Daily Shirt is both. With built-in wicking and odor control, this classic tee is made to withstand the effects of a long hike or bike ride. The minimal seams and soft, recycled polyester material help this top prevent chafing and feel comfortable in many climates. 

The name says it all: The organic cotton twill feels about as soft as a favorite blanket. With a modern relaxed fit and classic design, this shirt can be dressed up for dinner or thrown over a tee for a casual day. The variety of muted color options make it easy to style with any outfit, while the durable construction ensures it will last through many trips. Whether you wear it on its own or under a jacket, this button-up is sure to be a keeper. 

When you’re facing a 16-hour flight, comfort is key, and few things are more comfortable than cashmere. Quince’s Mongolian Straight Leg Pants and Full-Zip Hoodie are constructed out of 100 percent Grade-A Mongolian cashmere that feels warm and luxurious without being too bulky. The pants have a comfortable drawstring waistband, while the hoodie has a relaxed fit that’s perfect for layering over a T-shirt. 

This pant-and-hoodie combo is comfortable enough for an in-flight nap and stylish enough to hit a happy hour after landing. The pants are made from the brand’s signature Italian merino wool, which is odor-resistant, quick-drying, and wrinkle-free. The hoodie is a blend of merino wool and cashmere, giving it all the same benefits as the pants with added softness, plus it’s machine washable.  

We appreciate that these Bombas Everyday Compression Socks are made with medium compression that’s targeted at the ankle and relaxed around the calf. The result is a wearable fit that helps support achy legs and keep swelling down. Bonus: Bombas says it donates an essential item of clothing to homeless shelters for every pair of socks sold. 

Dresses can be difficult to pack. The Unbound Mini Merino Travel Dress is lightweight and wrinkle-resistant, making it perfect for stuffing into a carry-on. The merino wool is naturally antibacterial so you can wear it multiple times before washing. With a versatile look that dresses up or down and four classic color options, travelers will get a ton of mileage out of this travel dress. 

A lightweight and packable jacket is an essential for any traveler and the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody is one of the best. Both the shell and the insulation are made of recycled polyester. The latter is treated with P.U.R.E. (Produced Using Reduced Emissions) technology that helps lock in warmth, even when it gets wet. We also love the zippered hood and pockets—particularly the internal chest pocket that doubles as a stuff sack with a built-in carabiner loop. 

(Stay dry with top-notch rain jackets for men and women)

When you’re venturing to colder climates, you need an insulated jacket that isn’t bulky. Soft and durable, the Outerknown Puffer gets its insulation from recycled down and its lightweight shell from recycled fishing nets, according to the company. The fleece-lined zip pockets are just an extra cozy touch that you’ll be thankful for when the temperature drops. 

Multiseasonal layering is a must when packing light. Made from water-resistant PrimaLoft Gold insulation (a planet-friendly synthetic alternative to down), the L.L. Bean PackAway Vest can handle rain, wind, and mild temperatures. It’s designed with two zippered hand pockets, a zippered chest pocket, and an internal media pocket. Even cooler, the vest packs into the media pocket. 

(These are the most comfortable travel clothes for women)

Insulated vests serve a dual purpose: They add an extra layer of warmth and allow for more mobility compared to a full jacket. The Stio Hometown Down Hooded Vest is the perfect example of this, with its 800-fill Responsible Down Standard-certified insulation and durable water repellent (DWR) finish. It also has all the pockets you need for storing essentials, including two hand warmers and an interior one for stashing stuff like a wallet. We also love the fixed hood for chilly mornings on the slopes or unexpected rain showers. 

Even if most of your adventures call for rugged attire, it’s good to have at least one polished piece in your suitcase. The Eddie Bauer Women’s Departure Blazer offers more than just a professional look. The lightweight, polyester spandex blend fabric is stretchy, moisture wicking, and UPF 50+ rated. It’s available in four versatile colors for effortless, dressed-up fits. A hidden zippered pocket is great for stashing valuables. 

The Relwen Flyweight Flex Blazer is made of soft cotton that’s meant to look wrinkled, so you can cross off ironing from your to-do list. This casual sports blazer is made to last with reinforced stitching, yet it has an unfussy laid-back look that’s right at home anywhere. 

Best travel shoes: Hoka Bondi SR (women’s; men’s)

Nothing slows down a trip faster than achy feet. Keep arches happy and toes protected with a pair of supportive sneakers like the Hoka Bondi SRs. These shoes are designed for maximum cushioning and support, making them perfect for long days of sightseeing. They also have a non-slip sole and an easy slip-on design that makes them great for airport security lines. 

(Explore for hours in a cushy Hoka walking shoe)

The foam footbed and sheepskin-wool blend on these cozy slippers are made for comfort. Yet the EVA outsole (made from sugarcane) is durable enough for light outdoor wear—perfect for the airport. 

If you don’t think slippers are worth the suitcase space, these North Face ThermoBall Traction Mules may make you reconsider. They are lightweight, water-resistant, insulated, and exactly what sore feet need after an eight-miler. The base of the shoe has a textured sole for added traction, making them sturdy enough to wear outdoors. At the same time, they’re flexible for easy packing. 

Seasoned packers know that scarves aren’t just for style. This scarf upgrades this fashion staple with a discreet zipper pocket that fits small items like a passport, cards, and cash. With 15 colors in an ultra-soft polyester fabric, there’s an option for every travel outfit.  

The AKHG Stormwall Rain Jacket is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. The ripstop nylon fabric won’t snag on branches, and the “Batten Hatch” cuffs help keep the sleeves dry on the inside. Additional features like zippered exterior pockets, internal pockets, pit zips, a three-way adjustable hood, and reflective trim only add to the jacket’s functionality. 

The forecast may call for rain, but you don’t have to change your travel plans as long as you have a good rain jacket. This Patagonia Torrentshell has three layers of water repellency, including a DWR-coated shell. A drawcord hem and an adjustable hood that zips all the way to your chin adds even more protection. Travelers may also appreciate this jacket’s microfleece-lined neck and handwarmer pockets, when rain comes with chilly temps. 

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The Cabeau TNE S3 Travel Pillow is a red-eye game-changer. The strap system attaches to your seat, helping to keep your head from falling forward. The memory foam filling, built-in chin strap, and breathable design contribute to a cozy nap. 

With just two pockets inside and one outside, this minimalist bifold forces overpackers to pare down essentials. The smooth vegan leather is made to resist wear and tear, while keeping cards safe.

A travel blanket may not be necessary for every trip, but they come in handy when you’re stuck at an airport or sleeping in a bare bones hotel bed. This multifunctional EverSnug is lightweight, extra plush, and big enough to cover your body, yet it folds up into a compact (but still fluffy) pillow.  

The slim, ergonomic design (and included travel case) makes it easy to pack the Philips One by Sonicare Battery Toothbrush, while the tapered bristles help provide a deep clean that’s made to be gentle on gums. We also love the three-month-long battery life. 

No matter how carefully you fold delicates, wrinkly clothes are inevitable while traveling. The Nesugar Steamer is a compact option that heats up in less than 15 seconds and provides continuous steam for up to 10 minutes, says the brand. We love that it’s small enough to fit in a carry-on and light enough to keep your suitcase from tipping over the weight limit. 

This game-changing travel essential is made of flexible, food-grade silicone that folds down to just over an inch when empty, making it easy to pack and store on the go. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe and BPA free.  

According to the company, the fabric on this Davek umbrella is made with a special film that blocks 99 percent of UVA/UVB solar rays. While it’s primarily designed as a sun umbrella, it still comes in handy during an unexpected drizzle. With the fiberglass and aircraft-grade aluminum frame, it’s a lightweight choice for sticking in a backpack or tote.  

(Rain or shine, be prepared with a sturdy travel umbrella)

Every overpacker should invest in a collection of compressible packing cubes. We like this set from Gonex the best because of the built-in handles and elongated shape that lines up with most suitcases for easier packing. No packing cube will magically fit a closet-worth of clothes, but these will help make the most of the space you have. 

Towels like this one can be handy for a variety of trips, not just camping or beach days. The brand says this polyester towel dries 30 percent faster than its cotton counterparts and feels just as soft. It comes in three colors and four sizes (hand to beach) so travelers can be ready for an impromptu swim or sweaty hike. 

A reliable power bank is likely one of the most important essentials to have in your pack. The Nitecore NB10000 Gen II has dual ports, so you can charge two devices at once. The compact size makes it easy to pack without adding extra bulk or weight. Plus, with its durable carbon fiber frame and water-resistant design, it’s built to withstand the rigors of travel. 

Noise-canceling headphones are a must for any traveler. The Sony WF 1000XMF4 earbuds are some of the best on the market. They have top-notch noise-cancellation technology and a long battery life (between eight and 12 hours). Other travel-friendly features include a portable size and water-resistant design. 

(Here are more of our favorite noise-canceling headphones)