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16 of the Best Travel Organizers to Turn You Into a Packing Pro
Getaways are fun. packing isn’t—but it can be.
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .
Raise your hand if packing stresses you out. *Pauses for every single person reading this to lift their arm.* Even if you’re an avid traveler, there’s no denying that the process of deciding what to bring when you're away from home—and how to most efficiently fit it into your luggage —can be a universally daunting process. It seems no matter how big our carry-on is, we're always short of space, making our OOTD planning a real challenge. If you’re a fellow stuffer and crammer looking to change your troubled ways, then a trusty travel organizer may just be what you need.
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The Best Travel Organizers at a Glance
Best Travel Toiletry Organizer
Dagne dover mila travel organizer.
Best Suitcase Travel Organizer
Bumblebella by jill martin hanging packing cubes.
Best Pill Travel Organizer
Fullicon pill travel organizer.
Best Hanging Travel Organizer
Calpak terra toiletry organizer.
Best Jewelry Travel Organizer
Nordstrom hexagon jewelry case.
Best Travel Makeup Organizer
Paravel see-all vanity travel organizer.
Best Travel Organizer Bags
M-jump travel organizer bags.
Best Travel Tech Organizer
Dagne dover arlo travel organizer.
Best Travel Passport Organizer
Béis the passport and luggage tag set.
Best Travel Organizer Bag Sets
Mark & graham block print travel set.
Best Shoe Travel Organizer
Eneteck shoe bags.
Best Travel Pouch
Calpak compakt pouch set.
Most Stylish
Sophia joy travel organizer.
Best Innovative Travel Organizer
Cadence travel organizer.
Best Packing Cubes Travel Organizer
Monos compressible travel organizers.
Best Bottle Travel Organizer
Morfone bottle travel organizer set, meet the expert.
Linda Samuels is a New York-based certified coach and professional organizer in chronic disorganization who launched her company, Oh, So Organized! , in 1993. She also serves as the professional organizer advisor for Nest by Revel .
How We Chose the Best Travel Organizers
In addition to keeping an eye out for lightweight picks with good hardware and plenty of extras, we gravitated towards organizers that would best prevent damage to your belongings. This meant choosing ones with water-resistant material (because who wants to open their suitcase to find a soaking mess?). In addition, we researched products that both our readers and shoppers felt strongly about, digging deep into their positive and critical reviews alike to find the cream of the crop. Whether you’re going away for business or vacation, here are some of the best travel organizers that’ll make your transportation efforts a little (or a lot) easier.
35 Travel Essentials, According to Travel Bloggers, Family Travelers and General Adventurers
1. Dagne Dover Mila Travel Organizer
What we like.
- recycled materials
- removable divider
- adjustable compartments
- carrying handles
What We Don't Like
- can be cumbersome to open and close
Dagne Dover
If using all those jet fuel miles has you feeling guilty about your carbon footprint, ease your conscience and help save the planet (sort of) by compensating with the 100 percent Repreve travel organizer that PureWow readers are obsessed with . Made from recycled water bottle plastic, its material manages to repel water to keep your belongings safe. We're also big fans of that interior divider, which features six compartments that can not only be adjusted as needed, but removed entirely, allowing you to fit exactly what you need inside. Oh, and did we mention the toothbrush holders? (Psst: If this one's too large for your tastes, there's also a smaller version , from $50, available.)
- Best for: toiletries
2. BumbleBella by Jill Martin Hanging Packing Cubes
- water-resistant
- compressive
- super sturdy
- multi-purpose
- need to be air-dried
BumbleBella by Jill Martin
We’ve all been there: sitting on our luggage with all our might to make sure the thing actually closes shut. But that was before we got our hands on these BumbleBella by Jill Martin hanging packing cubes. According to the brand, these little babies have 30 percent more compression than their competitors, making it easier to fit your essentials inside your suitcase. What's more, you can link the shelf-like cube bottoms together when the tops are flipped open to create a mini hanging dresser once you arrive to your destination. (Genius, right?) They definitely work: Commerce Director Nicole Briese uses them even when she's not traveling to display her purses. Each set comes with two cubes as well as a mesh skinny garment container for your dirty socks, underwear and the like. Just be sure not to throw the cubes in the dryer, as they could lose their shape.
- Best for: clothes and delicates
3. Fullicon Pill Travel Organizer
- airtight seal
- spacious design
- may not hold as much as it claims
Spilled pills can be a disaster. Luckily, this neat organizer makes sure your prescriptions are one less thing you’ll have to worry about while traveling. Equipped with seven ultra-secure compartments, it's got a rubber ring around the edge to make for an airtight seal, preventing your important medications from getting damp or dusty. According to the company, it can hold between 12 and 14 vitamins or five to seven fish oil pills in each compartment for a total of between 35 to 98 pills, though shoppers say it's a bit smaller than advertised. To be safe, you may want to order the next size up ($12).
- Best for: medications, vitamins
4. Calpak Terra Toiletry Organizer
- collapsible
- sustainable
- toothbrush loops
- doesn't fully zip shut
- can spill in suitcase
This foldable, hanging travel organizer is guaranteed to keep your toothpaste, deodorant, razor and more in check. Why? Because it has a large base compartment with elastic bands at the top and sides to keep everything in place when you’re on the move. It also includes a top handle, so you can carry it around with ease. The 100 percent recycled ripstop polyester material is water-resistant and super strong, and the whole thing weighs less than 1 pound, making it ultra-lightweight.
5. Nordstrom Hexagon Jewelry Case
- interior layers to protect against scratching
- elastic anti-tangle pockets
- takes up a decent amount of room in a tote or suitcase
- bottom compartment sticks
Know what's not fun? Detangling seven necklaces before dinner. Thanks to the clever design of this chic jewelry travel organizer, you shouldn't have to. Its hexagonal shape unrolls to reveal five separate compartments: two for sunglasses, one for earrings, one for necklaces and bracelets (complete with five snaps to keep them in place) and one for rings. Each one also has features to fit the jewelry at hand (the earring compartment, for instance, has a small board to affix your studs to). After testing it out, we can confirm that nothing shifts or falls out when it's rolled up, and it's got enough room for nearly our entire jewelry collection. No wonder this baby sold out during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale ! Our only complaints? We have found that it does take up a decent amount of space in your tote or carry-on and the bottom compartment can stick to the one above, requiring a bit of a tug.
- Best for: earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, sunglasses and watches
6. Paravel See-All Vanity Travel Organizer
- easy-to-clean
- transparent bottom
- stain-resistant
- customizable
If you need your face to be on fleek no matter where you go, then you better make sure you’re storing your cosmetic products with care. This makeup travel organizer will meet your needs and then some. Its open design means you can fit everything from your setting spray and moisturizer to your favorite foundation inside, and the see-through material means you (and TSA) will be able to quickly and easily take stock of your things. The canvas top can be personalized with your initials for an extra $15 to $65, and it's also spill-proof and stain-resistant in case of a leak. The square shape will fit neatly in your suitcase, too, meaning you won’t have to choose between your shoes and your makeup brushes . And if it doesn't? Try the smaller size here ($75).
- Best for: toiletries, makeup
7. M-jump Travel Organizer Bags
- partially waterproof
- reasonably priced
- limsy zippers mesh
- zippers are not waterproof
If you’re going away for more than a week, then you’ll want to give this six-piece set of travel organizer bags a try. Versatile and practical, they'll reportedly hold between seven to ten days worth of just about anything, according to the company, from your cashmere sweaters to your shoes. An added bonus, the breathable mesh cloth will keep your garments fresh and aired out for the duration of your trip.
- Best for: clothes, undergarments, cosmetics, shoes
8. Dagne Dover Arlo Travel Organizer
- water-repellent for protection
- convenient dual-zipper closure
- recycled lining
- hand-wash only
- exterior material can crease and pill over time
If you’ve ever fallen victim to the dreaded tangled cord fiasco while traveling with your phone and laptop, then you won’t regret investing in this little guy. It comes equipped with five handy elastic loops that’ll keep your wires in place, plus several mesh pockets, making everything easily accessible as soon as you unzip. It also comes in a smaller version ($50) if you tend to travel light.
- Best for: charging cables, cords, hard drives, small tablets
9. Béis The Passport and Luggage Tag Set
- hidden magnetic closure for discreteness
- only weighs 1 pound
- pen can make it difficult to close
Picture this: You're next in line for airport security with a line a mile long behind you, frantically digging through your purse to try to find your ID, your passport and your boarding pass, your anxiety growing by the second as your fellow passengers grow impatient behind you. Sound familiar? You need this passport organizer set. The passport holder not only houses your passport, it's got room for your ID, two credit cards and a pen, while the luggage tag will make your bag easily identifiable. As an added bonus, both pieces come inside a clear bag you can use for toiletries and other odds and ends.
- Best for: passport, pens and credit cards
10. Mark & Graham Block Print Travel Set
- waterproof toothbrush case
- easy to clean
- heat-protected interior
Mark & Graham
You know how Samuels advised investing in higher-quality products to save yourself from frustration? This is one of those times. Yes, you could find a cotton cosmetics case, hair bag and toothbrush case for far cheaper elsewhere. But you'd be giving up a lot of stellar features that make this set worth its price tag, like the heat-protected interior of the hair tool bag (excellent for the still-hot straightener you need to throw in your bag last minute), the wipeable interior of the cosmetics case (a true life-saver after a spill) and the waterproof-lined toothbrush holder. You can monogram each of the two cases for an extra-personal touch, and the zipper closures have a tassel that make them easier to pull.
- Best for: makeup, hair products, toothbrush
11. Eneteck Shoe Bags
- minimalist cube shape
- can fold flat
- holds three pairs
- trolley sleeve
- weak zippers
Whether you’re bringing sneakers , stilettos or crocs along for the ride, there’s no better way to pack your kicks than with this travel organizer that's designed specifically for your shoes. Its three stacked layers will keep each pair separate, and its water-resistant mesh areas will keep things nice and breathable. We also love that it includes a trolley sleeve, complete with a cell phone pocket, on the back, so you won't have to take up any extra room inside your luggage to use it.
- Best for: sneakers , flip-flops, heels, loafers
12. Calpak Compakt Pouch Set
- lightweight
- heavy-duty zippers
- hanging loops
- on the thin side
- colors may differ from photos
Store cosmetics, chargers and other small goods to your heart’s content with this set of ripstop nylon organizers in three different sizes. The simple-but-effective craftsmanship includes a heavy-duty zipper that runs along across the top of the cases, and the bright color options will make them easy to identify amongst a sea of packed belongings in your luggage. Reviewers say they're far more spacious than they appear and they're water-resistant, too.
- Best for: makeup, essentials, odds and ends
13. Sophia Joy Travel Organizer
- super spacious
- wipeable lining
- organizational
- compartments
- may be too big for some
Who said you have to sacrifice order for style while on-the-go? With this chic travel organizer, you can get the best of both worlds. According to Walmart buyers, it holds more than expected between its two large compartments, and the gold hardware with double zippers is well-made, earning this bag a near-perfect rating from its fans. If you're short on packing space, however, you may want to opt for something a bit smaller.
- Best for: makeup, hair products
14. Cadence Travel Organizer
- pre-labeled
- customizable sets
- capacity calculator
- too small for long trips
- original and flex systems not compatible
Love to be ultra-organized? Then feast your eyes on these effortlessly cool capsules by Cadence. These nifty little space-saving tiles connect together via magnets to form the shape of a hexagon. Although the pack of six may be a little on the pricey side, Cadence fans say the worry-free, truly leakproof design make them totally worth the splurge. Raved one buyer: "Maybe the first time ever I could travel with no leaks or spills whatsoever."
You can choose which containers you want in your set, and there's a little capacity calculator to tell you how much of something each one will hold. (A typical capsule, for instance, will fit 13 to 14 uses of moisturizer for about one to two weeks of use.) Pay attention to what set you're ordering if you're looking to stock up, however, as the original set linked here is not compatible with the taller, wider Flex set (from $98).
- Best for: shampoo, conditioner, contact solution, vitamins, pills
15. Monos Compressible Travel Organizers
- hard to zip
If you’re the type of person who likes to bring your whole house with you on vacay, this set is for you. It includes four to six separate polyester cubes in varying sizes, and according to the company, each one will maximize the amount of items you'll be able to pack by compressing your items by up to 60 percent. These cubes also offer an air of luxury: One reviewer also noted that the fabric was silky-smooth to the touch, while another raved over the fact that they manage to keep their shape when empty despite still collapsing down for storage.
- Best for: clothes, undergarments, thin shoes
16. Morfone Bottle Travel Organizer Set
- chic trimmed lining
- transparent center
- oily liquids can leak
There’s no doubt that packing your shampoos, lotions and more can be a nerve-wracking experience. That’s because sometimes, even if you do everything right, a goopy mess can still unfold in your luggage due to bumps and turns while transporting your goods. That’s where this set, specifically designed for liquid-like substances, comes in. With four TSA-approved 3-ounce, wide-mouth bottles, four 3-ounce jars, two spray bottles, two scoopers, a funnel, a cleaning brush, labels and a bag to house it all, you'll have everything you need to fill these silicone receptacles up with your most prized salves, balms and more, plus everything you'll need to clean them out when you've used them all up. The bottles also feature squeeze tops that make them easy to use. Buyers say they do tend to work better with thicker liquids, like shampoos and conditioners, than oily serums, however, which can leak.
- Best for: shampoos, conditioners, soaps and other liquids
What to Look for in a Travel Organizer
Considering that your travel organizer could make or break your trip if your beloved belongings don't arrive to your destination intact, you shouldn't choose one lightly. Below, three things to look out for.
- Size: To guarantee the best outcome, Samuels suggests opting for something that’s not too bulky that doesn’t add a lot of weight.
- Hardware: Another key component to look for when it comes to travel organizers? Hardware. Samuels notes that zippers tend to be more inconsistent with cheaper products, and the last thing you want is a broken one that leaves you unable to access your things on-the-go. As such, she says it's sometimes worth it to spend a little more on a selection with more reliable hardware.
- The extras: Last but not least, with the often inevitable turbulence of planes, trains and automobiles, it's common for packed items to break, spill or be displaced on their journey. Therefore, it's best to keep an eye out for padded options that include straps, buckles, hooks and pockets that can restrain your assets from shifting around. Basically? The more bells and whistles, the better!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of travel organizers.
Travel organizers are ideal for protecting your belongings and neatly displaying them while simultaneously saving you precious storage space. And given the increasingly chaotic nature of traveling (can you say " delays ?"), they can also bring you a much-needed sense of calm during your excursion. “The more organized you can be with your physical belongings, [the more it] will reduce some of the stress that you have with regular travel,” says New-York based professional organizer Linda Samuels of Oh, So Organized! As Samuels points out, getting to your destination and adjusting to a new setting is overwhelming enough as it is, so the last thing you need is a cluttered mess when you finally unzip your luggage. “[If] you have a suitcase or a small bag, and you have things all in a jumble, it's hard to just access what you want,”she tells PureWow. “The more that you can ... create homes within the little home that you're working [with], the easier [things will] be to access."
Where are the best places to buy travel organizers?
While Amazon will be your best bet if you’re planning a last-minute getaway, sites dedicated to travel, such as Calpak and Béis , have a large selection of dependable products that’ll whip your packing game into shape.
The Top 17 Pieces of Underseat Luggage (Because Have You Seen Those Airline Baggage Fees?)
Freelance Writer
Why you should trust us.
The Best Travel Organizers for Every Type of Trip
All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Packing for a trip requires organization. And there's no better way to keep toiletries, makeup, digital gear, jewelry, and other small travel essentials safe during transit than with the right bag. Whether you're headed on a two-week vacation or a short weekend getaway, durable travel bags, pouches, and cases will always come in handy. We've rounded up a comprehensive list of the best travel organizers for every type of traveler, whether you need a sturdy cosmetic case for makeup products or a smart tech kit for cords and chargers. Below, our tried-and-true travel organizers, from waterproof pouches to essential packing cubes.
Dopp kits for women
Dopp kits for men, makeup bags, packing cubes, jewelry cases, hanging toiletry bags, water-resistant pouches.
Every traveler needs a go-to Dopp kit that will keep small toiletries like contact solution, moisturizer, and sunscreen organized in one place. These roomy and reliable bags also ensure your clothes and other personal items will be protected against any accidental leaks while traveling. The best Dopp kits for women offer enough space for your essentials while still being compact enough to fit in an already-stuffed carry-on or weekender .
Read more : The Best Dopp Kits for Women
There are plenty of great Dopp kits for men on the market—Dagne Dover, Herschel, Rains, and Bagsmart make some of our favorite travel-friendly (and budget-friendly) bags. These options make skincare and grooming products easy to find and easy to pack in your suitcase. No matter where you're headed on your next getaway, a trusty Dopp kit is essential. (Any of these sleek bags would also make a great gift for the travel-loving man in your life, too.)
Read more : The Best Dopp Kits for Men
We've all been there: You're sitting in a small, cramped seat in economy hopelessly searching for your iPhone charger in your under-seat bag. The solution to never-ending bag searching and tangled cords: A smart tech organizer that keeps all of your digital gear neat and tidy. These organizers are a true game changer when it comes packing cords, portable chargers, AirPods, and any other tech essentials you're toting around.
Read more : The Best Travel Tech Organizers
I've ruined a few tote bags by throwing a lipstick or loose powder inside and hoping for the best. You can't always be gentle with your personal item or carry-on while in transit, so a durable cosmetic bag helps protect your makeup products and everything around it. If you want to make getting ready in a hotel bathroom even speedier, opt for a clear cosmetic case or the Lay-n-Go drawstring bag that makes finding all of your products easier than ever.
Read more : The Best Travel Makeup Bags
If you're not already using packing cubes, let this be your sign to start. Our editors swear by packing cubes to keep clothes organized and compressed—meaning you can fit a whole lot more in your suitcase with these. Packing cubes also help you separate clean clothes from dirty ones and help protect special items like dresses and suits from any spilled liquids in your carry-on. Paravel and Calpak make some of our favorite packing cubes, but we also love the more budget-friendly options you can find on Amazon from Bagail and Alameda.
Read more : The Best Packing Cubes
The last thing you need upon arriving to your destination is to find all of your necklaces and bracelets tangled. Or worse, discover that you lost a special (or expensive) piece of jewelry while in transit. A sturdy jewelry case ensures your favorite pieces will be safe and protected from being squashed or broken. And if you're in need of a thoughtful gift , a well-made and sleek jewelry case will be much appreciated.
Toiletries can quickly create a cluttered bathroom counter. The next time you stay at a hotel or Airbnb, consider placing a hanging toiletry bag on the back of the bathroom door. It will help you see all of your products at a glance and limits the need to unpack and repack at the end of your trip. Use these to store anything from skincare and beauty products to jewelry and hair tools .
Sometimes, you need a water-resistant pouch or an extra bag, just in case . Options like the Aloha Collection pouches and Baggu set can hold wet bathing suits, dirty clothes, or sand-filled beach items, making it safe to toss them back in your tote or backpack . These types of bags can also keep your phone and other electronics safe if you're lounging by the pool.
16 Travel Organizers to Keep Your Luggage & Bags Tidy
Last Updated: July 12, 2024
The best travel organizers eliminate clutter, bring order to your life, and make packing a cinch.
If you aim to keep your travel gear organized on the go, you made it to the right place.
After all, when you’re dialed in, you won’t panic nearly as much over your passport’s whereabouts.
But there’s more to it than safeguarding government-issued documents.
Packing cubes, ditty bags, toiletry kits, laundry bags, jewelry organizers, and more each help you maximize your space and ensure you bring what you need and know exactly where to find it.
With that in mind, we looked at all the most trusted brands in the travel organizer space, like Eagle Creek, Nomatic, Osprey, and more to help you pack with intention.
So, if you’re ready to streamline your life on the go, the best travel organizers for your luggage and otherwise are just a scroll away.
Best Travel Organizer Gear
- Best Overall: Eagle Creek
- Ultralight Cube Set: Osprey
- Cubes on a Budget: Suited Nomad
- Best Overall: UltraLite Sacks
- RFIDsafe Travel Organization: Pacsafe
- Drawstring Bags on a Budget: Outdoor Products
- Best Padded Pouch: Minaal
- Best for Photography Gear: Peak Design
- Waterproof Laptop Case: AquaQuest
- Best Overall: Nomatic
- On a Budget: BAGSMART
- Portable Makeup Bag: Relavel
- Mesh Laundry Bag: Nomatic
- Lightweight Shoe Bag: pack all
- Velvety Jewelry Case: Benevolence LA
- Underwear/Bra Bag: Toplive
- Factors We Considered When Picking Products
- Final Thoughts: Best Travel Organizer Gear
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are one of the most efficient tools to organize clothing before, during, and after any big adventure.
With just a few cubes, your backpack goes from a place of anarchy and dissonance to one of order and harmony.
Perhaps that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but by packing well and coordinating clothing to specific cubes, you’ll find your pants, underwear, and that favorite shirt in record time.
Best Overall Packing Cubes Eagle Creek
MSRP : $40 Dimensions : 14″ x 10″ x 3″
Shaped like a pair of laptop cases, Eagle Creek’s pack-it compression cubes expand to fit all your clothing and then zip down tight to make them compact and manageable.
But compression alone isn’t what differentiates Eagle Creek’s cubes from the rest.
Rather, this set completely unzips along the perimeter of the cube for full access to its interior, making packing and unpacking your clothes a snap.
Pros : Durable, lightweight, well constructed, mesh front makes seeing contents easy Cons : Zipper can get stuck when compressing Best for : Travelers who want to make their clothing more compact and manageable
Ultralight Cube Set Osprey
MSRP : $42 Dimensions : Small (1L) : 7.5″ x 5″ x 2″, Medium (2L) : 10″ x 7″ x 2″, Large (5L) : 14″ x 10″ x 2″
Compared with the Eagle Creek clothing organizers above, you won’t find compression zippers on this ultralight set.
But for minimalist travelers, compression might not be necessary, and the extra materials used to make it work may weigh you down a bit.
On the other hand, Osprey’s Ultralight cube set weighs just 6.3 ounces for the entire three-pack.
Pros : Durable, smushes down next to nothing when not in use Cons : Small for some, top access might make retrieving items at the bottom an annoyance Best for : Backpackers, minimalist travelers, and hikers who don’t want to tote around empty weight
Cubes on a Budget Suited Nomad
MSRP : $35 Dimensions : Medium : 11″ x 8″ x 4″, Large : 15″ x 11″ x 4″
Buying little bags to fit into your bigger bag might seem silly at first.
Maybe that’s your rationale behind not wanting to overspend on packing cubes.
And if you’re on a budget, I get it.
But just because you don’t have money to throw around on packing cubes doesn’t mean you can’t get a high-quality set.
SuitedNomad’s travel organizer bags are made of tremendously durable materials with reinforced seams that can handle everyday use and frequent compression.
Plus, because they come in a three-pack, you score more storage space for fewer cash than Eagle Creek.
Pros : Lightweight, well made, zippers feel sturdy and robust, double zipper compression saves space Cons : Don’t fully unzip, making clothing retrieval difficult at times Best for : Travelers looking to get a good deal on three good-sized bags
Ditty Bags for Odds ‘N’ Ends
Small bags and pouches, also called ditty bags , help keep small personal items like toiletries, first aid supplies, and repair tools organized and ready to grab at a moment’s notice.
So, instead of rummaging through your backpack looking for that small thingamajig that always seems to get lost, you’ll always know exactly where to find it since you dutifully placed it in your ditty bag.
Best Overall Ditty UltraLite Sacks
MSRP : $19 to $26 Dimensions : Regular : 9″ x 4″ x 2″, Large : 10″ x 4″ x 3″, XL : 13.5″ x 5″ x 4″
You’ll never know that the best ditty bag on the market is in your pack until you jam some of your travel essentials inside of it and hit the road.
Weighing in at just 29 grams for the highest-volume ditty of the bunch, all your miscellaneous items will remain firmly in one place without adding extra heft.
And because it’s made of high-quality materials like Challenge ULTRA, the Zippered Cube won’t break down in the middle of an adventure.
Pro Tip : Grab a couple of UltraLite Sacks’ zippered pouches and ultralight wallets to add internal organization to your ditty.
Pros : Exceptionally strong yet lightweight, waterproof YKK zipper keeps your battery-powered items safe, comes in nine colors/patterns, easy to reach in and retrieve stuff Cons : Some might consider it pricey for a simple pouch Best for : Backpackers, hikers, and travelers who value lightweight yet durable materials
RFIDsafe Travel Organization Pacsafe Gadget Pouch
MSRP : $119.95 Dimensions : 5.9″ x 10.6″ x 3.5″
In the digital age, travelers have more small objects to corral than ever before.
Plus, many items like passports and credit cards use RFID technology to simplify identification and payment.
But that convenience comes at the cost of security.
A bad actor could steal your personal information with the right tools, and you’d never know it.
Stop that thief dead in their tracks while keeping your cords, wireless earbuds, and external battery packs in order with Pacsafe’s Gadget pouch.
Not only will you gain peace of mind, but you’ll always know where to find your AirPods.
Pros : Made from seven plastic bottles to mitigate plastic waste, water-repellent fabric keeps your gadgets safe, RFID blocking keeps skimmers from stealing your info Cons : Expensive Best for : Digital nomads who seek security and organization
Minimalist Drawstring Set on a Budget Outdoor Products
MSRP : $14 Dimensions : Small (1 L) : 4″ x 9″ x 4″, Medium (5 L) : 5″ x 11″ x 5″, Large (6 L) : 6″ x 13″ x 6″
Ditty bags don’t have to be all flash and pizzazz like the Pacsafe Gadget Pouch.
Sometimes you need a basic stuff sack to cram your necessities into.
Thankfully, Outdoor Products’ three-pack of color-coded drawstring bags wrangle all your gear without fuss.
And because a set is made up of three sizes, you’ll have a bag for items as small as a comb to as big as camp kitchenware.
Pros : Inexpensive, lightweight, simple, lifetime warranty Cons : Lose storage space at the top due to drawstring Best for : Campers and hikers who want to keep their areas and backpacks organized without spending a bunch of money
Padded Organizers for Tech & Electronics
Remote work in faraway lands represents freedom.
But you can’t work without a laptop, cell phone, and the cords and accessories that accompany them.
Some of you may also need to bring a camera along for the ride.
If you want to protect your investments, padded organizers work like a charm, so we rounded up the best ones just for you.
Padded Pouch for Delicate Electronics Minaal Tech Toolcase
MSRP : $49 Dimensions : 7.9″ x 5.9″ x 2.0″
If you’re like me and you stuff chargers, cables, and earbuds haphazardly throughout your backpack and promptly forget where you put them, you need the Tech Toolcase from Minaal.
This case safely stores everything that makes your gadgets work, so you’ll never wonder precisely where you wedged that laptop charger or external battery.
Ultimately, it’s a great tool to help keep your gear organized, charged, and at the ready so you’re never caught off guard while boarding a plane.
Pros : Made from very durable and strong 150D Bean Chaff, EVA foam protective walls handle bumps and drops well, moveable dividers ensure your gear fits Cons : Price may scare some off Best for : Travelers who need to retrieve all their tech gear in an instant and put it away just as fast
Made for Photography Gear Peak Design Camera Cube
MSRP : Small : $50, Medium : $70, Large : $90 Dimensions : Small : 12.6″ x 6.3″ x 6.7″, Medium : 12.6″ x 12.6″ x 6.7″, Large : 12.6″ x 18.1″ x 6.7″
Traveling with a camera presents several challenges, with the chief concern resting on how to protect the darn thing.
I’ve packed my camera and lenses into a traditional camera bag, an oddly shaped padded case, and loosely into my backpack.
Problems arose from all three.
Carrying around separate bags and cases makes travel cumbersome, and letting your camera jostle freely in a backpack hardly inspires confidence.
That’s where Peak Design’s Camera Cube comes in.
With three available sizes, you’ll have the space you need for all your photography, videography, and drone equipment.
It’s just a matter of accounting for your gear and choosing the correct size.
Pros : Fits in any Peak Design Travel Bag, weatherproof recycled 400D nylon canvas shell protects your sensitive electronics from water, foam lining absorbs bumps and drops, durable material stands up to rigorous use Cons : Odd sizing, smaller cube doesn’t fit in smaller backpacks Best for : Travelers who use Peak Design products already, those with the need for a full-sized photography backpack
Padded Waterproof Laptop Case AquaQuest
MSRP : $50 Dimensions : Sizes available to fit 11″ to 17″ laptops
Arguably, the most important piece of tech in any traveler’s bag is their laptop. But laptops have one glaring weakness: water.
Because rain, snow, and water balloons can strike at a moment’s notice, you need the assurance of a 100% waterproof sleeve that will stand up to rain, snow, and flying latex.
For those who don’t want to risk it, AquaQuest’s Storm sleeve will protect your investment from summertime storms in the city, random April dustings in the high country, and errant tosses from Steve.
Pros : Padded inner sleeve provides additional protection, sizes available to fit most laptops, provides peace of mind in inclement weather Cons : Sizing issues for some laptops Best for : Travelers who know water is in the forecast, anxious types (like me) who can’t afford to replace their laptop
Travel-Friendly Toiletries Bags
Reaching into your backpack only to pull out a shampoo-covered hand sucks.
It’s happened to me, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s happened to you.
End such annoyances with one of our favorite toiletry bags on the market.
While they can’t prevent all spills — you’ll want to tighten down those soap bottle lids — you can at least confine your mess to a standalone bag.
Our Top Pick Nomatic
MSRP : Small : $55, Regular : $75 Dimensions : Small : 10.5″ x 5″ x 1.7″, Regular : 10.5″ x 5″ x 3.1″
Well-thought-out design, quality materials, and sizing choices make for the best organizers you can buy.
With Nomatic’s Toiletry Bag 2.0, you get all three.
Featuring a dedicated toothbrush pocket, optional hanger, and see-through internal windows, Nomatic put a lot of thought into their bag.
And with waterproof materials and zippers, water should never leak in, and contact solution should never leak out.
Pros : Cleans out easily, zippers positioned so items won’t fall out when the bag is hung, moveable inner wall accommodates larger items Cons : A bit pricey Best for : Travelers who demand durable products that make sense, minimalists who value every square inch of their bags
Best on a Budget BAGSMART
MSRP : Medium : $20, Large : $23 Dimensions : Medium : 9.4″ x 6.3″ x 4.6″, Large : 11.8″ x 7″ x 5.9″
Keeping your gels, goops, toothpaste, and other essential toiletries organized doesn’t mean you have to spend more than 20 bucks.
BAGSMART’s dopp kit for men and women enables travelers to keep all their most crucial bathroom goods safe and secure while on a budget.
Plus, water-resistant materials ensure that clean-up times are minimal when a spill occurs.
Pros : Lots of storage for everything you need, comes in two sizes, inexpensive, works great for on the road and at home, centerpiece unzips for full access Cons : Some quality control issues Best for : Travelers who don’t want to spend an arm and a leg toting their bathroom essentials
Makeup Case Relavel Cosmetic Case
MSRP : $30 to $80 Dimensions : Small : 10.3″ x 9″ x 3.6″, Medium : 13.4″ x 9″ x 4.7″, Large : 16.5″ x 12″ x 5.5″, XL : 16.5″ x 7.3″ x 12.6″
Makeup comes in all different sizes and containers, which makes it challenging to pack.
Plus, there’s always the threat of leakage.
Never fear; with Relavel’s Cosmetic Case, even the most oddly shaped products will fit snugly and securely, thanks to the case’s removable inner dividers.
And with four different sizes to choose from, you can carry everyday go-to items or size up depending on the number of items you need to bring along.
Pros : Water-resistant material keeps liquids in or out, made of durable Oxford fabric, brush compartment in the top of bag keeps them dry, handle for easy carrying, removable frame gives the bag more utility Cons : A tad heavy Best for : Travelers who don’t mind a little extra heft as long as it means they can bring whatever they want
Other Miscellaneous Organizers
By now, you’ve noticed there’s an organizer for just about anything you might need during your travels.
But perhaps you need a more niche product — something for a specific purpose that we haven’t covered so far.
You’ll find it here.
Breathable Mesh Laundry Bag Nomatic
MSRP : $30 Dimensions : 11.5″ x 6″ x 1.5″
Finding a place for your dirty laundry can be a hassle.
Maybe you put it in a plastic grocery bag, find an unused packing cube to stash it in for a few days, or just let it hang loose in the corner of the room. I’ve tried all three to varying levels of success.
That’s why Nomatic’s Laundry Bag is so convenient.
With a hanging strap, you can elevate your clothes off the floor and make it look like you give a damn for once.
Pros : Extremely packable and compact with a collapsible wire frame, breathable mesh enables wet or sweaty clothes to dry, makes laundry day a breeze keeping dirty clothes separate Cons : Could be bigger Best for : Travelers who are sick and tired of wondering what to do with their dirty laundry
Lightweight Shoe Bag pack all
MSRP : $25 Dimensions : Regular : 15.7″ x 8.7″, Large : 17.7″ x 9.8″
Like laundry, another item that can quickly become an annoyance while traveling is your shoes.
If you’re the type who likes to get in long walks or strenuous workouts, bringing a pair of sneakers enables you to get that sweat you’re after.
But putting loose shoes in with your clothing isn’t exactly the most hygienic practice.
Enter the Shoe Bag from pack all.
With a shoe bag, you can isolate your shoes from the rest of your clothing and stop worrying about what you may or may not have stepped in on the way to the gym.
Pros : Lightweight, water-resistant, traps smelly shoe odors inside, comes in two sizes to accommodate most shoes Cons : Handle can tear off Best for : Keeping your shoes away from your tee-shirts
Velvety Jewelry Case Benevolence LA
MSRP : $25 Dimensions : 3.75″ x 3.75″
Every five seconds, a traveler loses a precious family heirloom.
Okay, that’s a made-up statistic, but it feels plausible, right?
Don’t become a statistic, real or imagined, with a compact jewelry case that’ll fit just about anywhere you can think of.
It’s how Grandma would want you to protect the family jewels.
Pros : Velvet finish feels good in the hand, each purchase supports Water Mission, keeps your necklaces from knotting up Cons : Very small, but perfect for travel Best for : Organizing jewelry and keeping it in one spot
Discrete Underwear Bag Toplive
MSRP : $21 Dimensions : 11″ x 6.3″ x 4.95″
I don’t know the first thing about traveling with bras, but I imagine their odd shape and the fact they can get crushed make them difficult to pack.
Thankfully, you can wrangle all your underwear, bras included, into a convenient case from Toplive.
With space for up to five bras, eight pairs of underwear, and a bunch of socks, you can centralize your undergarment packing situation.
Pros : Great as an all-around bag for toiletries and underwear, waterproof compartment keeps your dry stuff dry Cons : Some durability concerns, underwear pockets not big Best for : Keeping your bras safe from the rest of your bag
Factors We Considered for Travel Organization
Choosing an organizer is more than grabbing a random bag and jamming your stuff inside.
If that were the case, using one wouldn’t make sense.
You’d just pile your stuff in a backpack and move along.
To help you better organize, we considered several key factors to help you find organizational bliss.
Travel demands durable yet lightweight materials like the ULTRA you’ll find in the UltraLite Sacks Zippered Cube.
That’s why we picked products that use quality fabrics and materials that stand up to frequent use.
Ease of Use
Enough can go wrong while traveling; you don’t need your organizers to become another pain point.
So, we made sure to include products that are intuitive and simple to use.
Because if they’re not straightforward, you won’t use them.
For the best example of an easy-to-use product, check out Nomatic’s Toiletry Bag.
Its zippers are oriented, so your gear won’t ever fall out, even while hanging.
Padding & Protection
If you’re a remote worker, you know just how important your devices are.
Without them, you’ll have a rough time financing your next adventure.
That’s why we included products like Minaal’s Tech Toolcase to ensure your gear remains operational when you need it most.
Dimensions, Weight & Packability
Nobody wants to carry extra weight on their back if they don’t have to.
Plus, packability ensures you take up as little space as necessary in the vessel you carry your stuff in.
So, for this list, we included the dimensions for every product.
If it’s too heavy or won’t fit in the bag you already own, why bother?
Water Resistance
You never know when a storm will hit and threaten your gear.
Plus, toiletries are notoriously leaky.
That’s why we included products like AquaQuest’s Storm laptop case to protect your laptop from sudden downpours and Relavel’s Cosmetic Case to keep liquids from leaking into your luggage.
The most crucial factor for many of us comes down to price, which is why for every category of product you’ll find on this list, we include a range of costs.
Organization isn’t a privilege reserved for the traveler with the most money; it’s a tool for all.
Final Thoughts: Best Travel Organizers
Thanks for taking a look at the best travel organizers on the market today.
By keeping your travel gear organized on the go, you’re one step closer to getting the most out of the space you have.
So, whether you were looking for packing cubes, ditty bags, toiletry kits, laundry bags, jewelry organizers, or anything else, we did our best to nudge you one step closer to organizational nirvana.
Be sure to check back in for all the best minimalist travel and ultralight gear you can find, not just the best travel organizers for your luggage.
Until next time, safe travels.
Ryan Squires
Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.
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Home » Gear » What is the Best Travel Organiser – EPIC Rundown 2024
What is the Best Travel Organiser – EPIC Rundown 2024
After a few years of staying home and travelling only in our minds, borders are finally opening up for travel. There’s nothing better than setting off on an adventure, whether you’re crossing the ocean to a different continent or heading off on a backpacking trip around your home state. That being said, if you’re a seasoned traveller, you’ll know that a lot of preparation and packing goes into a trip, and it’s super important you have your possessions organised before you leave.
There are two types of packers in this world, the organised packer, and the chaotic packer. We’ve all indulged in a bit of last-minute messy packing in our time, chucking everything into a backpack unfolded and in a disorganised manner. But truly, there’s nothing worse than finding yourself at the check-in counter without knowing where your passport is or sitting on the flight wondering if you forgot to pack your toothbrush. Luckily, these experiences can only help teach us to be more organised in the future.
The easiest way to keep organised on your travels is by using a bunch of travel organiser bags, packs, and wallets to keep all your things in neat order. This way, there’s a place for everything, and you can visually see if something is missing from your packing list.
Not only do travel organisers make your life much easier when you’re packing and unpacking, but they also help you keep track of your possessions while you’re out and about on your adventure.
In this post, we’re going to highlight some of the best travel organisers for a range of adventures, from backpacks to electronics organisers, to make-up bags, to toiletry bags and everything in between. Whether you’re heading off for a local camping trip or are embarking on a worldwide adventure, there are a bunch of travel organisers on the market that will make your packing and unpacking duties less stressful.
Quick Answers – Stay Organised On Your Travels
No time to read the full article? Take a look at our pick of the top eight travel organizers for a variety of occasions and types of travellers:
#1 Best Organised Backpack – Tropicfeel Shell Backpack
- #2 Best Clothes Organiser – Nomatic Packing Cubes
#3 Best Electronics Organiser – WANDRD Tech Pouch
- #4 Digital Nomad Organiser- Nomad Organisers From Harber London
#5 Best Toiletry Organiser – Nomatic Hanging Toiletry Bag 2.0
#6 best travel document organiser – harber london super slim passport wallet, #7 best organised carry on – monarc settra duffel backpack.
- #8 Best Jewellery Organiser – Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer
About The Best Travel Organisers
The very best travel organisers in the world today, some more great ways to stay organised, final thoughts on the best travel organisers.
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You’ll need different travel organisers depending on where you’re travelling to, how long you’re going for, and the type of trip you are taking. We don’t necessarily suggest you buy all of these organisers for one trip, but rather think about what will be most practical for you and your travel style. For example, a backpacking trip around Costa Rica will require you to pack very differently than if you were visiting Paris for Fashion Week.
The best travel organisers on the market are designed well-using quality materials and zippers. For many people, the whole point of packing well is to fit as much as you possibly can into a small space. For this reason, a good travel organiser should have practical storage compartments with optimised internal storage space for whatever they are designed to store. Some organisers even have customisable compartments, allowing you to design the internal storage space yourself.
If you’re travelling by plane or planning to lug your bag around by hand, you’ll also need to consider the bag’s weight. There’s no use being ultra-organised if you rock up to the airport with overweight luggage!
Price is also an important consideration, and you don’t want to end up spending an arm and a leg on travel organisers before you even embark on your journey. Most of the time, the highest quality products are the most expensive, but this doesn’t mean you won’t find practical and stylish travel organisers for a low price. Sometimes, it’s worth investing in a super high-quality bag if you plan on using it enough.
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Tropicfeel Shell Backpack
- > Wardrobe system
- > 3-in-1 adjustable and adaptable design
Nomatic Packing Cubes
- > Small and compact
- > Zippered compression system
WANDRD Tech Pouch
- > Comes in three sizes
- > Mesh organization pockets
Nomad Organisers From Harber London
- > $286 – $430
- > Made from protective and durable leather
- > Come with security fasteners
Nomatic Hanging Toiletry Bag 2.0
- > Comes in small and regular sizes
- > Minimalistic style and slim profile
Harber London Super Slim Passport Wallet
- > Simple and ultra-sleek leather document pouch
- > Made from a soft wool lining
Monarc Settra Duffel Backpack
- > Includes five accessory bags
- > Super functional and spacious
Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer
- > Includes five different pocket zones
- > Folds up to the size of a small wallet
We’ve put together a list of the top thirteen travel organisers on the market in 2024. Pick and choose as you wish, considering the type of trip you are taking as well as your travel style while you browse:
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Tropicfeel created the Shell Backpack for the most versatile travellers. Whether you’re going on an adventurous camping trip or just a weekend away, this is the ultimate modern-day travel backpack and, without a doubt, one of the best travel organisers on the market.
While it’s called the Shell Backpack, this is much more than your ordinary shell. The main feature of the Tropicfeel Shell is its wardrobe system. This allows you to carefully organise your folded clothing into an easy-access foldable wardrobe and compress it into a tight space using the built-in compression system. With this practical technology, you’ll be able to fit in an additional 20% of clothing.
This 3-in-1 adjustable and adaptable design allows you to shift between a 22l and a 40l backpack. Expand it when you’re settled in your hostel, and contract it when you’re moving around.
The entire bag opens like a clamshell, meaning you can forget about digging your hand deep into the bag to unsuccessfully fish something out.
It also offers space to buy additional detachable accessories (such as a tech pouch, camera cube, and toiletry bag), which can be connected to the bag using magnetic Fidlock technology. This is ideal if you need a little extra space. Talking about space – there’s also a 6l expandable kangaroo pocket at the base of the bag, which is excellent for overflow items.
Of course, fitting so much into a small bag is bound to increase its weight. Luckily, Tropicfeel has thought of everything and has created a super durable and ergonomic backpack that is ultra-comfortable even when packed at full capacity. This is owing to the ergonomic back panel made from foam for lumbar support, as well as the adjustable and cushioned straps, hidden hip belt, and dual handle.
On top of all this, the Shell is weatherproof and built using sustainable fabrics and recycled materials. What more could you possibly ask for?
#2 Best Clothes Organiser – Nomatic Packing Cubes
A packing cube can be one of the most useful products and the best travel organisers for your clothes. They’re small and compact and can fit into wheeled suitcases as well as backpacks.
Packing cubes are ideal for trips where you plan to move around every few nights. Without having to unpack and repack your suitcase at each destination, you can easily decompartmentalise the contents of your case without unfolding your clothes or losing track of anything along the way.
Nomatic has a range of three packing cubes (small, medium, and large) for different sized cases, all differing in thickness. They’re built using durable materials, including high-quality zippers, and are lightweight enough not to make much of a difference to your overall bag weight.
Each packing cube is designed with a zippered compression system to help you pack 50% more than you otherwise would. The see-through mesh allows you to see what you’ve packed, making it easy to find what you’re looking for without having to open up each pack.
Want a matching bag to put it in? Check out our review of the epic Nomatic flagship backpack , also be sure to check out the Nomatic Messenger bag for keeping your passport and wallet safe.
One of the most frustrating things you can do is forget a charger cable in a wall socket during your travels. Not only are cables, cords, and plugs super pricey, but it’s also impractical not to have your device chargers on hand. Whether you work in the film or tech industry or you’re going on a short or a long trip, these pouches have been thoughtfully designed using high-quality materials for all sorts of travellers.
The best travel organisers for electronics are also designed to keep your cables in good condition, reducing the possibility of them being bent at funky angles and breaking. We’ve all had a dodgy aux cable that just ruins the vibe!
To make your life a little bit easier, WANDRD has designed the ultimate tech pouch to stash your devices and electronic accessories. The pouch comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large), each of which has a unique webbing lock and clip system on the back panel, allowing you to connect two or three bags together depending on how much tech equipment you’re carrying. These tech bags have mesh organisation pockets, as well as pen loops and cord pass-through holes.
For added convenience, the tech bags can also attach to two of WANDRD’s most popular backpacks. However, if you aren’t lucky enough to be kitted out with this brand’s backpacks, you can also use the detachable carry straps to attach your tech organisers to any other bag. They might look small, but you’ll be surprised at how much you can fit into these bags!
Fancy having a look at the WANDRD backpacks? Check out the WANDRD PRVKE 31 if you’re after an epic backpack, or check out the WANDRD PRVKE Lite if you want something smaller. Also, check out the WANDRD Detour Hip Pack for a smaller pack you could also use as an organiser.
#4 Digital Nomad Organiser – Nomad Organisers From Harber London
Harber London is known for creating quality leather products that are practical for a range of activities and uses. Suppose you’re a digital nomad exploring the world while working. In this case, you’ll want to have all your digital devices, notebooks, and stationery packed together in an organised and safe place at all times.
Harber’s broad range can carry different sized devices from iPhones to iPads to personal laptops, all bundled together with your cables, earphones, papers, and more. Made from protective and durable leather, each of Harber’s products comes in four different professional colours.
From their smallest digital nomad organiser to their biggest, each organiser comes with a range of practical sleeves, pockets, clips, and rings to hold everything you might need. Loops and rings are ideal for keeping your keys in one place, as well as organising your electronic cables so that they don’t bend and get damaged.
You can even use the organiser as a wallet, with card pouches and zipper pockets added to keep your cards and cash safe. You also won’t have to worry about your laptop slipping out, as the bags come with security fasteners to keep them safely in place. One big zipper then closes the entire bag ensuring nothing will slide out, and no outside spillage will get in.
Not only are these the best travel organisers for digital nomads, but they can even be used by office workers for everyday use.
Want something smaller? Check out the best travel purses instead.
If there’s one product on this list that you likely already have, we’d guess it was a toiletry bag. They’re a common product that helps us keep all our toiletries in one place, but they’re also super useful in case one of your products buckles under cabin pressure and explodes or leaks. If we packed our toiletries in and amongst our clothing, we would all land up with shampoo-drenched t-shirts.
The Nomatic Hanging Toiletry Bag is one of the best travel organizers in the business because of its hanging straps and internal organisational layout. Have you ever arrived at a hotel or hostel to realise the bathroom has no counter space to lay out all your things? Well, simply attach this bag to a hanger, the shower pole, or the door handle in your bathroom for easy access to your toiletries at any time.
This bag comes in small and regular sizes and is designed with a minimalistic style and slim profile, making it easy to pack into your suitcase or backpack. The bags are built using durable waterproof materials to ensure any leaks are contained (both from internal spills and outdoor weather!)
The Hanging Toiletry Bag is made up of a bunch of mesh compartments, making it easy to compartmentalize your products and see what is where at all times. There is even a dedicated toothbrush holder where you can stash your toothbrush and keep it clean.
Want to know more? We’ve only gone and done a full review of the Nomatic Toiletry Bag !
We’ve all felt our hearts sink when we think we’ve misplaced a passport, card, or money while travelling, so keeping your travel documents safe is a top priority for any global traveller. Harber London has designed a simple and ultra-sleek leather document pouch to keep your passport, travel cards, and cash safe and in one place.
The ultimate goal of this passport wallet is to eliminate bulky pockets. Without this nifty wallet, you’ll have to store your passports separately from your cards and money, making for an uncomfortably chunky pocket.
The organiser can hold between one and two passports, many boarding passes and receipts, and up to four cards. The interior is made from a soft wool lining, which helps prevent your documents from getting scratched or damaged along your journey.
Need a wallet? Check out this list of best travel wallets to see if something suits your style.
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If you’re looking for the best travel organiser to take with you as carry-on luggage , look no further. The Monarc Settra duffel is basically six bags in one, making it one of the most versatile bags on our list.
This dual function bag can be used as either a duffel bag or a backpack and is TSA-approved for carrying with you in an aeroplane cabin. The Settra comes in a grey or a black colour and includes five accessory bags that seamlessly fit into them.
Firstly, there’s a large and a medium compression pack to store your clothing. Secondly, the bag includes a laundry pack which can double as a fashionable tote bag for daily use. You can even use this bag for groceries!
Third, there’s a super practical camera cube with adjustable and removable section dividers. Design your own camera pack interior depending on the model camera you have, or remove the dividers entirely and use the cube for something else!
Fourth, you can make use of the tech pack to store all your devices, cords and cables, drives, journals, and pens. This section is even large enough to store an iPad Mini. There’s also a laptop pocket in the main bag which is large enough to store a 17-inch laptop.
Comfort is key when you’re backpacking, and while other duffel backpacks are typically less comfortable than traditional backpacks, the Monarc Settra has air mesh padding at the back to provide comfort and breathability.
Not only is it super functional and spacious, but it’s also made using 50 recycled plastic bottles and water-resistant fabric that is ethically sewn. Labelled the world’s first certified plastic negative bag, you can rest assured you’re doing your part for the planet when buying this bag. If recycled, eco-friendly products are important to you, we definitely suggest you check out one of our favorite Earth-conscious boot brands, Vivobarefoot.
Looking for something similar? Check out our guide to the best duffel bags .
#8 Best Jewelry Organiser – Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer
Small jewellery pieces are some of the easiest items to lose track of, so it’s important to store all your jewellery in one safe place when you’re travelling. Bagsmart has created an organized foldable jewellery case to keep all your rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and watches together.
The compact polyester bag includes five different pocket zones; two lockable tubes to store all your rings, a panel to safely clip your earrings onto, perfectly sized bangle and bracelet compartments, a watch pocket, and separate clips and pouches to keep your necklaces from getting tangled together.
This compact bag folds up to the size of a small wallet and is the best travel organiser for jewellery for a quick business trip and other adventures. If you own valuable jewellery, you’ll want to keep your valuables close to you at all times, and this organizer is conveniently small enough to keep in your handbag.
#9 A Good Travel Journal – Drifter Leather Journal
Journals are one of the best things you can take with you on your travels. Aside from being practical whenever you need to write something down, they’re also great for documenting your experiences along your journey.
The Drifter Leather Journal is the perfect travel companion for any trip. It comes in two different colours and is made from 100% leather with handmade artisan paper. A snap button closure makes it easy to keep all your thoughts and writings protected from being bent and torn.
The journal comes with 210 blank pages and can be refilled once you’ve gone through all the pages. It’s the perfect gift for someone about to embark on an exciting journey!
Check out the best travel journals for some more options.
#10 The Best Travel Laundry Bag – Nomatic Mesh Laundry Bag
Every true backpacker will know the importance of having a laundry bag on their travels. Without one, it’s easy to end up with a mish-mash collection of dirty, clean, and unfolded clothing all mixed up together.
The Nomatic Mesh Laundry Bag is designed with breathable mesh with a wireframe to help keep its shape. It also has a practical hanging strap so you can hand it in a closet or the bathroom instead of on a questionably dirty hostel floor.
Perfect for stashing in your backpack, the bag is collapsible and compact. In fact, it’s designed to fit perfectly into the shoe compartment of Nomatic’s travel bag.
#11 The Best Sling Pack – WANDRD Roam 9L Sling
There’s nothing more useful than a practical sling bag, whether you’re using it to carry your everyday goodies or safely protect your camera equipment. WANDRD’s Roam 9L Sling comes in either 13-inch or 16-inch sizes with a colour option of black or tan.
This camera/everyday bag is as beautiful as it is practical. While it looks compact, you’ll be surprised by how much you can squeeze into this bag. As a matter of fact, it even fits a 16-inch laptop.
As the best travel organiser sling pack on the market, the Roam Sling boasts a five-point adjustment system that can comfortably fit a bunch of different body types. Wear it over one shoulder, wear it around your waist; the choice is yours! Conveniently, the bag’s back panel (which sits directly against your body) is made from a technical air mesh material, offering maximum breathability even in hot weather.
Ideal for photographers and camera lovers, the bag features removable and adjustable dividers to customise the bag to fit your specific camera model. It even has an expandable water bottle and/or tripod pocket underneath the bag.
Of course, this nifty sling bag includes other practical features, including a key clip, tightening straps and buckles, and three separate handles. Perfect for all weather conditions, it is made using waterproof material to keep your possessions protected from the elements.
Looking for more options? Check out our guide to the best travel slings on the market.
#12 The Best Medication Box to Stay Organised – Combination Medicine Box
An avid traveller knows all too well how important it is to be prepared for anything. This is why it’s always necessary to take a first aid kit with you wherever you travel. Even if you never end up using it, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your physical health.
This Combination Medicine Box isn’t just one of the top travel organizers for your medication, it’s also a nifty piece of equipment to keep on hand wherever you live. The box is made from a light but sturdy aluminium metal with a plastic lid and includes a safety lock to keep children from digging around. The clear cover is useful for seeing what’s inside without having to unlock the box.
This box has six different removable compartments that can store syrups, pill tubs, plasters, gauze, and other first-aid equipment. Great for taking along with you on your travels, the box is small, lightweight, and compact. In fact, it could even double as a cosmetic or toiletry box.
looking for something similar? Check out the best travel first aid kits for your trip!
Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.
So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉
#13 The Best Make-Up Organizer – Chomeiu Travel Make-Up Case
This portable make-up case was built for professional make-up artists and enthusiasts. It has more than enough space to store and organise all your best products. However, it’s also compact enough to fit into a suitcase, making it one of the best travel organisers for an on-the-go artist or to take to a festival.
The internal dividers are entirely adjustable and customizable so that you can design your ideal partitions according to the make-up you own. The case opens out like a zippered suitcase, with adequate storage space for brushes on the underside of the lid flap.
Your brushes will be kept fixed in one position with the help of carefully designed elasticated pouches and a protective flap to cover the bristles, which means they will be kept in top condition for as long as you use this case.
The case is made using a durable and waterproof material, so you won’t have to worry about your prized make-up brushes getting wet. This also makes it super easy to clean, and any professional make-up artist will understand the importance of this!
The Chomeiu Travel Make-Up Case comes with a sturdy and comfortable handle to help you transport your goodies with ease. In fact, it’s a super multi-functional product that can also be used as a toiletry bag or a tech bag.
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There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination and realising you’ve forgotten an essential charger cable or outfit for your holiday. A good travel organiser can make all the difference in your travel experience by allowing you to keep track of your possessions when you pack, during your travels and when you unpack.
That being said, there are endless travel organisers on the market, suitable for a range of needs and personal styles. A general Google can leave you feeling overwhelmed and confused, so it’s important that you know what you want from your travel organizer before you look into buying one. The best travel organisers for you depend on your destination, bag weight limit, and the type of trip you’re taking.
Aside from the weight, size, and practical aspects of a travel organiser, you’ll need to consider the price and quality of the product. In our opinion, it’s always better to invest in the best quality product that you can afford at the time, so it won’t break or fail you during your trip. This way, you’ll be splurging now to save later.
Preparation is vital when you’re travelling, and being underprepared or disorganised can lead to a whole lot worse than having to buy some new toiletries. So, we hope this list of the top thirteen travel organisers has helped you clarify the type of organiser you think you need.
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The Best Gear for Travel
By Wirecutter Staff
Traveling well can be one of life’s great pleasures, whether you’re alone or with family and friends.
But what does it mean to travel well? We’d say that along with traveling safely (of course), traveling well involves avoiding hassle, carrying a single bag (if possible), and bringing only the necessities.
“Traveling well is a fine balance between finding inspiration in the unknown while being grounded in something,” said Wirecutter founder Brian Lam. “Sometimes that is a memory of home, a family, a significant other, friends, etc. Sometimes it’s just the familiar, reliable stuff in your bag.”
Over the past 10 years, we’ve spent hundreds of hours researching and testing dozens of products to find the most dependable items that will help you travel well. On top of that, we sought the advice and wisdom of Doug Dyment, author and creator of OneBag—a traveling businessman and public speaker, he has logged millions of miles over the past few decades—as well as travel-gear reviewer Eytan Levy, the Snarky Nomad.
And we relied heavily on the experiences of Wirecutter staff, an especially mobile group of individuals. Our staffers have worked remotely from every continent except Antarctica—the five most frequent flyers among us travel about half a million miles in any given (normal) year.
The research
Flying/riding, just in case, travel tips.
A well-packed bag is one that contains less than you think you need but everything you actually need. If possible, fitting everything into one carry-on and personal item will give you more freedom compared to checking a bag or two. You’ll be glad you did if (and when) things don’t go according to plan. While carry-on-only isn’t feasible (or advisable) for every trip—especially extended business trips or weddings where you need multiple outfits to maintain appearances—if in doubt, it’s better to cut.
Carry-on backpack (non-roller)
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.
The Allpa’s clamshell design makes organizing your things simple. The strap design lets you easily wear this durable bag on your back or carry it in your hand while you’re on the move.
Buying Options
May be out of stock
Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.
This bag was built with photographers in mind, but most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility and clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts depending on how much you’ve packed. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.
We spent six months testing 22 bags, and in the end we chose two as our top picks for travelers determined to never check luggage again: the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (for most trips) and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L features an easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps that make it a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. Handles on all four sides of this bag make it easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it, and the Allpa’s straps are contoured to comfortably fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away. (In August of 2024, Cotopaxi released a slightly redesigned version of the Allpa 35L; we’re comparing it to the previous version and will report back as soon as we’re able.)
The bag is protected by a full lifetime warranty and has the build quality to back that up. Its front panel is made of a waterproof, TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester (a strong fabric covered in a flexible plastic coating), which means you can lay it on its back in a wet field or in gravel without worrying about moisture soaking through or jagged edges ripping the fabric. The rest of the paneling is made with 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which feels similar to a strong canvas but with a more prominent weave. After four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item to store under the seat) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage that Kit Dillon, Wirecutter’s senior staff writer who covers luggage, uses.
One caveat: The Allpa has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth—which is where the personal item comes in handy (see below).
The larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. Not so with the Peak Design: It looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack. You can access the bag through a back panel, which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch, as well as through a front one, if you unzip the pass-through divider. You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps that run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters.
If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. It still feels larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for the ability to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400D nylon and polyester fabrics—it feels tough, but not as tough as the Cotopaxi Allpa. As for flaws, it is expensive, especially if you commit to the entire system of packing cubes and camera cubes . The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses, though Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty.
Finding the right bag is a personal choice, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we have picks in our full review of carry-on travel bags that can double as traveling offices , and bags that are easy to carry while you’re walking long distances .
Carry-on bag (rolling)
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner
Great features, great value.
This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, with high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.
Since 2015, we’ve researched several dozen suitcases and gone hands-on with the 67 most promising candidates in a variety of tests—including having active flight attendants test bags for us in a fake plane fuselage in their training facility. We determined that for most people the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner offers the best balance of features, durability, and price for most flyers who log less than 25,000 miles annually.
It features smooth-rolling, user-replaceable wheels; solid and comfortable, telescoping handles; and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. The Elite only improves on past iterations in the Platinum line by reducing the size of the stowed handle (which used to jut out about an inch) and adding a second zippered, exterior pocket for easy access on the go and a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And at 7.8 pounds when empty, this carry-on bag is about half a pound lighter than its predecessor. Compared with other bags in this price range, you also get surprisingly high-end components and a warranty that covers anything, even airline damage, for the life of the bag (as long as you register the suitcase within 120 days of purchase, which is easy to do on any smartphone).
Upgrade pick
Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner
For frequent flyers.
If you fly more than 25,000 miles a year, invest in a bag with unique features, superior details, and plenty of expandable room. This manufacturer guarantees your satisfaction.
If you fly more than 25,000 miles annually and you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality product, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner. It can fit more clothing than any bag we tested, thanks to a cavernous interior and clever expansion and compression system that can adjust to variable levels beyond open and shut. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter’s founder, Brian Lam, put more than 150,000 miles on his. His only complaint was that longer pants will need an extra fold, or to be rolled. In taller bags, pants will only need to be folded over once.
Personal item (otherwise known as underseat luggage)
As the name suggests, “personal items” are very, well, personal, and no one bag will work for all travelers. Our favorites include the Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag , which shines as a tech organizer that still has enough room to also hold a change of clothes. And it’s still good-looking enough to carry from the plane to the office without raising an eyebrow.
If the Air Porter is too businessy for your taste, you may like the Monos Metro Duffel , a luxuriant shoulder bag with detailed organization and add-ons made specifically for simplifying travel. Should you prefer to roll your personal item aboard the plane, we suggest the remarkably maneuverable Travelpro Crew VersaPack Carry-On Rolling Tote —it’s large enough to carry everything you need for an overnight trip, but it still falls within the average US airline underseat dimensions. See our full guide to underseat luggage for still more options.
Checked luggage
If you need to pack more stuff than a carry-on and a personal item can hold, our first piece of advice would be to reconsider whether you need that extra outfit “just in case.” But you’ll have times when you need to travel with several pairs of shoes, formalwear, a winter coat, special equipment (like diving or camping gear), or all of the above. In these cases, there’s no way to avoid checking a bag.
Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack
The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.
Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.
Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack
The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.
Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.
If you’re going somewhere where you’ll need to walk a lot (particularly if there’s dirt or cobblestone roads), we recommend a travel backpack. We like the Farpoint 55 and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 because they’re comfortable and have plenty of room to store, and separate, our essentials. The front of the main pack unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). It’s also easy to stow. The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.
These bags are made of a heavy-duty recycled polyester that stands up even to long trips–one of our testers has traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time, without damaging it. If something does happen, though, Osprey has a lifetime warranty.
Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner
The best checked bag for most travelers.
The bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most people without going over airline weight limits.
If you don’t plan on walking around while carrying all your stuff, the 25-inch Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner Suiter is our favorite piece of checked luggage for all of the same reasons we loved the carry-on size: It has excellent organizational features, it’s especially durable, and it has a better warranty than anything in its price range.
Luggage tags
Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag
Strong and easy to see.
Rugged silicone and a metal cable mean this tag (which comes two to a pack) may well outlive your luggage. The brightly colored case displays its owner’s name but keeps other personal information out of sight.
A good luggage tag should be durable, simple to use, and discreet. Ultimately, a tag should allow someone to get your luggage back to you quickly and easily, and it should withstand the wear and tear of being thrown onto conveyor belts time and again. After researching the top-rated and best-selling models, reading existing luggage-tag reviews, and comparing fourteen tags , we recommend the Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag for most travelers because it’s the only one we’d trust to survive being smashed by other bags, jammed into walls, and generally abused by baggage handlers. It’s the most durable tag we tested, and it comes in a wide selection of colors to help any bag stand out from the rest.
The Ovener tag’s silicone body seems nearly indestructible and is available in a rotating selection of colors (you get two tags per pack). Whereas other tags also feature metal cables, this tag has a metal grommet to keep the cable from eventually wearing through the silicone case.
Should you lose your bag, the Ovener makes it easy for a Good Samaritan to find your contact information. To fully access the info card, you have to unscrew and remove the metal strap; this lets the card slide out of the case. Most luggage tags we tested secure their info card in this way. It isn’t a difficult or time-consuming process, but it is an extra step compared with using a tag that displays all of your information openly. Still, for anyone who wants to keep their contact information out of view, the extra step is worth it.
Another approach to increasing privacy is to hide information in a QR code, as the Dynotag Smart Deluxe Steel Luggage Tag does, or to provide a user ID number, as the Okoban UID Luggage Tags do. But these seem like overly complex solutions to a problem that doesn’t really exist.
Compression sacks
Originally designed for reducing the bulk of lofty sleeping bags, compression sacks are stuff sacks modified with additional nylon end caps that can be pulled together by strings or straps to remove air and create a smaller, denser package that’s easier to pack. Most travelers use compression sacks to condense socks, underwear, and other stuff you don’t mind getting wrinkled into a package with half as much overall volume. For example, an 8- to 12-liter sack can compress a fleece jacket and a long-weekend’s worth of socks and underwear into something that fits in one hand. They also make a decent pillow in a pinch.
Osprey StraightJacket (8L)
Easier access, less compression.
It has a full-length zipper on its side that allows access to the bag’s entire contents. However, it doesn’t compress as tightly as traditional designs.
Most compression sacks require you to empty out the stuff at the top to get to the stuff below it, but the side-zipper design on the Osprey StraightJacket allows access to the entire contents of the bag at once. The compression straps attach sideways, and are less likely to get tangled and twisted like on most compression sacks with lengthwise straps. It can also sit up on its own, and the handle design lets you break it out as a last minute carry-on to avoid an overweight-baggage fee. However, it doesn’t compress down as compactly as the traditional designs we tested so it’s not the best option if compression is your top priority.
GobiGear’s SegSac takes a different approach to solving the same access issue: It has four inner dividers that run the length of the sack in order to keep your socks separate from your underwear, winter accessories, towel, what have you. This means you don’t have to take out your T-shirts to get to your socks. Unlike the Osprey, it compresses just as much as a normal compression sack, but it loses points for versatility because the segmentation prevents it from handling large items like a down jacket or sleeping bag.
Packing cubes
Packing cubes could change your life. (Okay, maybe just your traveling life.) Packing cubes are basically bags to hold your clothes that you organize within your luggage. Though seemingly superfluous, they’re brilliant in action. If you imagine your suitcase as a dresser, you can think of these cubes as individual drawers: Put all your underwear and socks in one container, all your shirts in another, and your workout clothes in yet another. Then pull out only the cube you want. They make packing and repacking wonderfully simple.
Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set
Well built with easy access.
Simple and solidly constructed, these packing cubes keep your bag organized while you’re traveling.
The three-piece Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set keeps a week’s worth of clothes organized and moves easily from suitcase to hotel dresser.
The full-size cube is great for shirts, shorts, and insulating layers. The half-cube and quarter-cube are perfect for underwear, socks, and other thin fabrics such as stockings or sleepwear. These cubes are made of 300-denier polyester (a strong fabric) and stay upright when empty, so they’re easy to pack. The Pack-It cubes’ windows are made of the tightest mesh link we tested—better for resisting snags—and the smooth zippers close easily around all corners, even when a cube is overstuffed.
The Eagle Creek cubes have the ability to unzip fully to allow full access to their contents while sitting in a dresser drawer. That means your clean clothes stay protected against some potentially dicey motel dressers. In 2022, Eagle Creek updated the design of these cubes, and now the company no longer uses YKK zippers, which are widely accepted as the best around . That said, we couldn’t tell any difference between Eagle Creek’s zippers and other brands’ YKK zippers, even with a magnifying glass, and their performance was indistinguishable. For what it’s worth, an Eagle Creek product manager assured us that the proportion of zipper-related warranty claims hasn’t changed since the company made the switch from YKK. (In 2024, Eagle Creek redesigned the Reveal cubes yet again; we’re currently assessing the new version.)
Most travelers are likely to be well served by the Reveal set. But if you value lightness above all, the more expensive Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Cube Set is about 50% lighter than similar-size competitors (just over 1 ounce for a medium cube, whereas the Eagle Creek classic style weighs about 4 ounces). Unlike the Reveal set, this set is water resistant. However, the Isolate design’s thin sides—which don’t allow the cubes to stand up on their own—make those cubes a bit more challenging to pack than the Reveal cubes. (The Isolate too has been redesigned in 2024; again, we’re taking a look and will report back.)
Buying the right gear can help organize your existing travel kit, but it’s a red herring if your goal is better portability. “It’s mostly the clothing that allows you to reduce what you need to carry,” explains veteran traveller Eytan Levy, better known as the Snarky Nomad . That’s because clothing, which is very voluminous, makes up the bulk of what’s in your bag. He recommends traveling with basic-looking clothes because you can always buy or rent something nice in a pinch, whereas lugging around formalwear just in case will always be a pain. It also helps if you can avoid cotton and stick to merino and synthetic fabrics, which dry faster. This allows you to do laundry by hand in the sink as needed to reduce the amount of clothes you need to carry.
Travel underwear
Good travel underwear keeps you feeling fresh and clean, even when your destination is gritty. To find the best , we researched an array of underwear designed for men and women to find 37 pairs meeting our criteria: moisture-wicking and breathable, quick-drying, odor-resistant, stretchy, stylish, and cut to fit a variety of body types.
We then conducted rigorous pretesting (wearing the underwear for two days at a time, machine-washing them repeatedly, and tracking their drying speed when hung on a clothesline) before taking them out into the real world. Our testers went backpacking 215 miles throughout Portland, Oregon; hiking in the Canadian Rockies, including walking from the lowest point in the Continental US to the highest; and road-tripping to the national parks of the West. Testers who flew to their destinations wore the underwear on the plane, too.
Afterward, we checked for signs of wear, such as seam breakage and pilling on the fabric. As we continued to test the finalists, we repeatedly checked for durability problems. In addition to comfort and fit, we noted whether each pair seemed lightweight and packable.
ExOfficio Men’s Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief
Best for most men.
Durable, quick-drying, and relatively inexpensive, this soft-fabric version of ExOfficio’s time-tested Give-N-Go undies will get the job done for years.
The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Sport Mesh 6″ Boxer Brief is the best men’s underwear for travel because it balances fit, comfort, odor-proofing, and value better than anything else we’ve tested. The Sport Mesh fabric excels at breathing and wicking and has better odor-resistance than other fabrics. It feels soft on the inside and smooth on the outside so it slides against your pants instead of creating friction, reducing potential for chafing. It also features a sculpted crotch area that gives wearers some much-appreciated support, without feeling stifling. These boxer briefs dry quickly, pack compactly, and weigh less than almost all the other boxer briefs we tried—basically they’re everything you’d want from a pair of excellent travel underwear.
Patagonia Women's Active Hipster
Best for most women.
These light, stylish, quick-drying hipsters stay in place whether you’re walking, flying, or hanging upside down.
The Patagonia Active Hipster doesn’t appear special upon first glance. Only after trying everything else and living through their failures to stay put did we remember what “special” really means in a pair of underwear: Feeling as if you’re wearing nothing at all. The Patagonias have the best fit, comfort, and style out of all the panties we tested. The nylon material is fast-wicking and better than most synthetics for odor-proofing, making it well suited for athletic activities. The Active Hipster is lightweight and packable, and is the fastest-drying underwear we tested—making them perfect for minimalist travelers who go weeks at a time with just one or two pairs. But these same characteristics make them great for any traveler looking for comfortable, packable panties, regardless of where you’re going or what you’re doing.
Budget pick
Uniqlo Men Airism Boxer Brief
Comfortable, compact, and fast-drying, these are a great value but don’t fit quite as nicely and aren’t as supportive in the crotch.
Uniqlo Women Airism Ultra Seamless HipHugger
Similar fabric to the Men’s Airism, with a no-ride cut for women, these underwear are the least expensive of any we tested and among the best performing.
If you want to spend as little as possible without sacrificing performance, the Uniqlo Airism line has long been a great choice for men and women who can wear sizes small and medium. In recent years, both lines have expanded their size range somewhat (men to 3XL, and women to XL). If these fit, you can replace an entire underwear drawer on a tight budget, as long as you can deal with the slightly odd cut and less-effective odor-control treatment.
If you’ve never traveled with merino wool socks, you’re missing out. These aren’t the scratchy wool socks your grandpa wore in the army; they are soft and stretchy ones that have natural sweat-wicking and odor-resisting properties that keep your toes comfortable under all conditions—even when wet. This combination of odor, moisture, and temperature regulations makes them ideal for traveling. "Because of its natural anti-bacterial properties, washing merino wool on a daily basis isn’t absolutely necessary,” explains Snarky Nomad , "after letting it air dry overnight while you sleep, it’ll seem brand new.” The only major downside is that merino tends to be a bit pricier than synthetic counterparts. But it’s a worthy trade-off, since you can go for longer with fewer pairs.
Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (women’s)
The best quality for women.
The best mix of comfort, durability, and cushioning in a versatile height.
Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Lightweight Hiking Sock (men’s)
For the best quality.
The same great versatile sock as the women’s model, but in different color options and more sizes.
Darn Tough’s Light Hiker Micro Crew socks (both the men’s and women’s versions) have been our favorite hiking socks for years. Darn Tough made its name through its quality guarantee : “We knit a longer lasting sock that stays comfortable season after season. We’re able to guarantee them for life because we knit them ourselves. If yours ever rip or tear, we'll replace them free of charge.” Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers (hardcore backpackers who walk from Mexico to Canada in one continuous trip) praise them for their durability, comfort, and blister resistance. When you hold a pair of Darn Toughs next to a pair of Smartwools (which only have a two-year guarantee ), the difference is clear. The Darn Toughs are more tightly knit, the yarns are finer and feel sturdier, and the stitching is tighter.
Darn Tough Women’s Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock
The best non-wool women’s hiking sock.
This midlevel cushioned sock for women is the best synthetic option for most climates and terrains.
Darn Tough Men’s Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock
The best non-wool men’s hiking sock.
This synthetic men’s sock is perfect for day hiking in most weather.
If you are sensitive to wool, prefer a vegan product, or want a cooler option for the summer, we also like the Darn Tough Coolmax Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock, which comes in women's and men’s sizes.
We appreciated how breathable this sock felt. While wearing the Coolmax Micro Crew in hot summer weather, our testers’ feet stayed dry and sweat-free. The shorter micro-crew height makes the Coolmax Micro Crew suitable for both boots and shoes, too. And like all Darn Tough socks, this model comes with a lifetime warranty.
Indosole Flip Flops (women’s)
A quality flip flop in women’s sizes.
These stylish beach sandals come in a wide range of colors. Be careful, though: Indosole sizes tend to run a little small.
Indosole Flip Flops (men’s)
A quality flip flop in men’s sizes.
These beach sandals are the same as the women’s version but cut a bit wider; we still think they run a little smaller than regular shoe sizes.
A good pair of travel flip-flops should be lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof. The men’s and women’s Indosole Flip Flops offer the best combination of quality, comfort, and easy packability. Unlike many flip flops, which slap against the ground with every step, the subtle arch support of this flip flop kept it secure against our feet. Plus they’re made from waterproof, recycled materials. Keep in mind, though, that our testers found these shoes to run a bit small, so we suggest sizing up for the best fit.
Clothesline
While doing laundry at home can be a large weekly event, OneBag author Doug Dyment recommends approaching travel laundry as a part of your daily routine, especially if you’re trying to pack as little as possible: “The laundry should be more like cleaning your teeth—something you do everyday. It only takes about five minutes to do it. Every night, do your socks and underwear and you’ll have clean socks and underwear everyday.”
A secure, hassle-free option
The Flexo-Line attaches easily to a door handle or faucet and grips garments securely between its loops.
Check out OneBag’s laundry packing list if you want specific tips on how to do it and what you’ll need, but it’s a pretty simple setup: All you need is a toiletry bottle of powdered detergent, a towel to help expedite drying, and a travel clothesline to finish the drying process while you sleep at night.
Specifically, you want a braided—not twisted—surgical latex clothesline with looped ends, which means you want a Flexo-Line . The Flexo-Line can stretch up to 7 feet long, which is enough to span most hotel bathtubs, and it has loops that you can attach easily to a door handle, bath spigot, or faucet. The braided construction is superior to twisted designs made from other materials because the latex does a better job of gripping garments securely between the loops, which means you don’t need any additional clothespins.
Dyment has tried them all, but the Flexo-Line is the one he comes back to. As he explained to me in an interview, “There are others that are fine, but there are far more that are not fine.” More specifically, Dyment says to avoid anything that’s not made of latex , because clothes will inevitably slip out of them. He also says to never, ever trust a suction cup: “They don’t work, period.” If the Flexo-Line is unavailable, Dyment says that the Rick Steves collection from Kiva Designs also makes a nice braided line that is a bit more expensive. If you have a latex allergy, Dyment recommends going with a length of cord ( paracord is nice because it’s durable and you can use it for other things as well) and stainless steel safety pins meant for cloth diapers , because they take up far less space than a clothespin and won’t rust. In fact, it’s worthwhile to get these items even if you can use a latex line because they’re great for making luggage repairs and performing other MacGyver-ish tasks in a pinch. To hang up the clothesline, we recommend using a bowline knot on one end and a taut line hitch on the other. These knots work well together because the bowline creates a simple, slip-proof loop to anchor one end while the taut line hitch allows you to adjust for tension and locks tightly in place. If you could commit any two knots to memory forever, these are the ones to learn.
Laundry detergent
Minisoak Travel Packs
A travel size version of the best delicates detergent.
Perfect for traveling because you don’t even need to rinse it out.
When you’re washing your underwear in a hotel sink, you want a fast and easy experience. For this, we recommend the no-rinse detergent Soak . That’s right, we said no rinse . You just add a drop to the sink, fill with water, and leave your garments to soak. Then press out the water and hang. Done.
In our tests of delicates detergents , Soak cleaned almost as well as our top laundry detergent, Tide; plus, it comes in individual packets of powder that are great for traveling, as well as in travel-size bottles of the liquid version . In addition to unscented, it's available in a variety of scents, although Lacey and Celebration are not the most descriptive of scent names. They all smell nice, not overpowering. Soak also comes in an assorted travel pack with two single-use packets of each scent, if you want to test-drive one or two before you buy. In that mini size, you get eight packets for $11 currently, but you really need only a squeeze, not the the whole packet, to wash a couple of pairs of socks and underwear.
One downside to Soak is that you won’t find it in a grocery store or big-box store. But it is available online at Soak’s site . And if you really want to walk into a store and put your mitts on a bottle, you can find it at most local yarn stores.
Don’t feel like buying Soak or bringing along a bit of your own detergent? Shampoo also works pretty well for cleaning garments in a pinch, so make use of that free bottle from the hotel. But a caveat: Neither Soak nor shampoo contains enzymes , which are biological molecules in laundry detergent that break down certain stains. If you have especially stinky or stained clothes, you might need to break out the Tide .
When we first published this guide, this section addressed only toiletry kits and bottles, razors, and packable towels. The times, and traveling, became more complicated. One thing we've learned in the past few years is that face masks can be useful whenever you’re sick and don’t want to share your misery. Fortunately, compared with early 2020, medical-style N95s and KN95s (which many experts recommend as the best protection) are widely available. They’re easy to tuck into a bag, which we do now whenever we travel.
Toiletry kit
We’ve researched dozens of travel toiletry bags and dopp kits over the past several years, and we tested 23 of the top-rated contenders in our most recent round of tests. After packing and unpacking a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries, conducting spill tests, and living out of the top performers on the road, we have a few different picks that stand out thanks to their style, packability, and quality of construction.
Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small)
A space-saving hanging bag.
This lightweight, well-organized bag fits a week’s worth of travel-size toiletries into a compact package. It’s meant to be hung, which makes it good for tight spaces, but it doesn’t have much in the way of internal structure.
The Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag (small) is compact and durable. It’s small enough to stash in a backpack or laptop bag, but it holds enough travel-size toiletries to keep us supplied for a week. You can open it and hang it from a shower curtain or towel rod to easily see and grab your items. It comes with a shatterproof mirror, two micro-mesh zip pockets and an open pocket for toothbrushes, lip balm, and tweezers, and a large compartment for bulky lotions and hair-care items.
L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag
For more stuff and longer trips.
With a 6.4-liter capacity and over a dozen compartments, this toiletry bag has a place for everything—and everything will stay put during transit, too. It can also accommodate non-travel-size bottles.
The L.L.Bean Personal Organizer (medium) is a great option for longer trips and people who travel with full-size bottles. Its 6.4 liters of storage spread across a dozen compartments means there’s a dedicated place for pretty much everything you could want to bring on a trip—it even has a removable mesh shower caddy for shampoo and body wash. This level of organization is crucial for larger toiletry bags because, as we discovered after years of traveling with our picks, contents that aren’t securely fastened can shift around in transit, which increases the chance of spilling. The downside of all this organization is that the L.L.Bean weighs 14 ounces when empty, so it’s not ideal for carry-on travel.
If neither of these bags seems right for you, read our full review of the best toiletry bags and dopp kits to learn more about our picks and everything we tested.
Toiletry bottles
Sea to Summit TL Clear Zip Pouch with Bottles
These six TSA-friendly bottles are sturdy and smartly designed, dispensing liquids more precisely than any of the other bottles we tested.
For traveling with liquids in your carry-on, the Sea to Summit set is your best bet. All six bottles conform to TSA size limitations; three of them can hold 3 ounces of liquid each, and three can hold 1.5 ounces each, for a total of 13.5 ounces. Despite the set’s name, the bottles themselves are made not of thermoplastic polyurethane—“TPU" refers to the zip pouch—but a high-density polyethylene material, much like what you’d see used in most plastic milk jugs. It has an almost-smooth, semi-transparent surface just textured enough that it’s not slippery when wet. The plastic is also flexible enough that you don’t have to squeeze very hard to get your shampoo or liquid soap or whatever going. An insert at the mouth of each bottle helps regulate the flow, and the screw tops prevent liquids from leaking in transit.
Razor (faces)
Gillette Mach3
The best manual razor for most faces.
This classic razor’s three widely spaced blades provide the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. Its handle is comfortable and well designed, and replacement blades can be had for a fair price.
With clipped on-page coupon
We researched more than 100 and tested 11 manual razors for our full razor guide , concluding that the Gillette Mach3 is our top pick for manual razors. Although the three blades require a little extra time for a closer shave, it performs comparably to the latest and greatest offerings for as little as half the price.
The Gillette Mach3 provides the best balance of speed, smoothness, and safety. The Mach3’s simple, round handle is easy to grip and maneuver, and its three blades offer a close shave without over-irritating the skin or getting clogged with hair. And the price of Mach3 blades—$2 per cartridge or less, whether you buy them online or in a store—came close to, or even beat, the pricing of shave-club rivals, and the Mach3 shaved better than those competitors.
Razor (legs/body)
Gillette Venus Smooth
The best body razor.
This classic Venus is one of the easiest razors to grip and maneuver and its three-blade design keeps the blades remarkably free of hair.
Disposable razors (both the completely disposable and replaceable-cartridge variety) are fine to take through airport security , and among them we like the Gillette Venus Original best for traveling. Although it’s now the runner-up pick in our guide to body razors —it was formerly the top pick—we believe that its simple aloe lubricating strips, which don’t become tacky when wet, make the Venus more travel friendly than our new top pick . Plus, as with any Venus, the Original’s body is compatible with any other Venus head and many heads from Gillette’s facial razors, making replacement heads easier to find when you’re on the road.
The Original’s head has three blades separated by considerable slats of space, making it far easier to clean the head between strokes. The Original is intuitive to hold and secure to maneuver, thanks to a contoured handle with corrugated chevrons of rubber. Though our testers have a wide range of hand sizes, no one found the Original difficult to grasp. Despite the significant ribbing, it doesn’t feel too bulky. Gillette claims its razors have lasted for five weeks; we think one razor for a weeklong trip should be fine.
(Know that, confusingly, the Venus appears for sale on some retail sites under the name Venus Close and Clean or Venus Smooth. It’s the same razor. If you’re unsure which Venus model you’re looking at, check for the Original’s three blades and trademark sea-foam blue color.)
Towel (packable)
PackTowl Personal
The best all-around packable towel.
The PackTowl Personal Towel is lightweight, soft, absorbent, quick to dry, and odor-resistant.
We put 20 top-rated towels through a battery of tests including regular shower use, a trip to the beach, camping, and a 48-hour stay in a ziplock bag under the hot Hawaiian sun. After all was said and done, the Packtowl Personal Towel is still the best all-around travel towel for most people. In addition to being the softest lightweight towel we tested, it was more absorbent than competitors made of similar materials. It had the best odor-resisting abilities and comes with a convenient mesh carrying pouch. We also have alternate picks for ultralight and all-natural towels below.
The Personal Towel’s suede-like material was the softest of the thinner towels. The Personal Towel also had superior absorption when compared with other similarly constructed towels such as the Sea to Summit DryLite —in our tests, it absorbed 2.8 times its weight in water, while the others absorbed between 2.3 times and 2.7 times.
One of just two we tested that featured an added antimicrobial treatment, the Personal Towel was only a little musty smelling after 24 hours in a sealed ziplock bag, and remained unchanged at 48 hours.
If you’re looking for a budget option, consider the Rainleaf Microfiber Towel , which is a tad smaller than our other picks and is made from a seemingly lighter-feeling fabric. Unlike most budget options, it has an antibacterial coating and still managed to carry a pleasant smell after being testing in different environments.
Regardless of how you get to your final destination, it’s likely you’ll be stuck in a seat that’s less than ideal. Travel gadgets that claim to reduce this misery, such as compression socks, are popular. But when they take up precious luggage space for the duration of your trip—not just the flight or train ride–they need to be worth every cubic inch of space. The less you can make do with, the better off you’ll be.
Neck pillow
Travelrest Nest Ultimate Memory Foam Travel Pillow
More support for most necks.
Its tall memory-foam walls let it offer more support than any other pillow we tested. It’s also shaped to sit flush against a headrest, and it compresses to a manageable size.
The uniquely angled back on the Travelrest Ultimate sets it apart from other travel pillows we tested because it can lay flat against the seat back. Most other pillows have a rounded back, which pushes your head away from the headrest. The Travelrest also has rubber grip dots to prevent slipping while sleeping. This pillow’s spongy memory foam cushions the entire circumference of your neck, preventing your head from leaning far in any direction, and its adjustable Velcro strap ensures it can fit most necks. The pillow’s cozy velour exterior is removable and machine-washable. Although it doesn’t pack flat, the Travelrest weighs less than a pound and compresses to a quarter of its size when rolled into its Velcro-strapped carrying case. Our only complaint is that the Travelrest’s high walls, though supportive, can push over-ear headphones off of the ears of people with shorter necks.
Noise-cancelling headphones
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
The best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones.
The Bose 700 headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation in a comfortable, lightweight design that’s traveler friendly—but they carry a high price.
The Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 over-ear set has the most versatile active noise cancellation we’ve ever tested. With 10 levels of noise reduction to choose from, everyone should be able to find a setting that meets their needs. We also enjoyed the lightweight and comfortable design and the easy-to-use controls. What distinguishes the Bose 700’s ANC is the amount of adjustability it gives you: Most noise-cancelling headphones offer controls for only on/off or maybe high/low/off, but with the Bose 700 pair you can set the ANC level from 0 to 10, so you have more flexibility to dial in the ideal setting for your comfort. The 20-hour battery life, while not the best we’ve seen, is more than sufficient to get you to most destinations. We have additional options—including earbuds and surprisingly good budget options for over-ear headphones and earbuds —in our full guide to noise-cancelling headphones .
Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs
For blocking out the most noise.
These blocked the most noise in our controlled testing and got the most votes from our subjective sleep panel.
When you’re traveling, it can be difficult to fall asleep to unfamiliar noises. That’s why we spent several hours researching new contenders and tested four top-rated models while sleeping in a house that was next to an airport in order to determine that Mack’s Ultra Soft Foam earplugs are the best earplugs for sleeping.
The Mack’s 37.1 dB noise reduction rating was the highest among the models we tested. According to Cooper Safety , that’s enough to reduce the volume of a gas lawnmower to that of a normal conversation. What made the Mack’s earplugs so effective is the fact that we could insert them and rest assured that they would stay in the whole night. Meanwhile, the Howard Leight MAX1 might be a favorite from crowdsourced sleep-aid review site Sleep Like the Dead , but the earplugs would inevitably fall out in the middle of the night. Thus, they failed to block out the noise of planes landing and taking off throughout the night, despite the MAX1’s 33 dB noise reduction rating. The Howard Leights also made our ears ache on occasion, whereas the Mack’s has a tapered shape that was consistently comfortable night after night.
The Mack’s Slim Fit Soft Foam Earplugs cost about 20¢-35¢ per pair when purchased in a 50-pair pack. They come in a plastic case is about the size of a large coffee mug, which is small enough to toss in a large bag or suitcase. Many other ear plugs like our runner-up, the 3M’s E-A-Rsoft OCS1135 , can only be ordered in industrial-size lots that, while perhaps appealing to those who travel constantly (or run a hostel), are annoying to store and often lack a reusable container of any sort.
Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask
For air travelers and back-sleepers.
The lightweight and contoured Nidra mask is a light-blocking win for most face shapes, with deep eye cups that allow the wearer to blink freely and arrive feeling refreshed.
When bright lights hamper peaceful shut-eye, we recommend the light-blocking, contoured Nidra Deep Rest sleep mask. Of the 14 masks we tested , the Nidra blocked the most light on the most faces. It’s contoured to rest on your face like a pair of soft goggles, with fabric lenses that sit around your eyes (instead of directly over them). This design provides more space for your eyes to flutter during REM sleep, ensuring that you come through red-eye flights with less redness in your eyes. Makeup wearers will also appreciate that, with the Nidra’s elevated eye cups, there’s a smaller chance of smudging.
Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask
A flat, silk mask.
A silken exterior material, a flat design, and an adjustable strap make this mask a fit for almost any face, but it puts pressure on the eyes.
Mzoo Sleep Mask
A smooth, contoured eye mask.
Soft, structured, and contoured, this mask stays on all night and prevents any light from seeping through
If the Nidra Deep Rest doesn’t fit your face quite right, we also recommend the Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask and the Mzoo Sleep Mask . The Alaska Bear mask lacks contoured eyecups and thus applies some pressure to the eyes overnight like any regular eye mask does. But its flat design easily conforms to fit your face, and its silk exterior feels smooth and soft against skin (the padding is made of cotton). Its relative lack of structure makes it more difficult to knock off when you’re tossing and turning.
The Mzoo mask’s eyecups have a convex gap so your eyes can open and close. That gap is surrounded by a memory foam padding that rests on the perimeter of your eye sockets. The effect is such that you don’t feel like your eyes are being forced closed, but there is a bit of compression near your temples, eyebrows, and cheekbones. Most—though not all—of our testers found this sensation soothing. One liked how the contour of the eyecup kept the mask from brushing against their eyelashes, which makes it a good choice for people who wear eyelash extensions.
Few things are better than landing at an airport, turning on your phone, and having it just work. No hassles, no stress, no worries about brutal roaming fees. You can check in with loved ones, scope out the route to your lodgings, and maybe post an Instagram story or two—because your phone works just like it does at home. This is especially freeing, and it makes travel so much easier. (Of course, phones aren’t the only useful tech to bring: Check out our accessories reviews for guides to the best cables ( USB-C , Lightning , and Micro-USB ), Wi-Fi hotspots , Bluetooth speakers , and more.)
Unlocked mobile phone
One of the most useful gadgets for international travel is an unlocked smartphone that’s compatible with cheap, prepaid phone plans you can sign up for at your destination. Unless your carrier offers plans including high-speed data that you can access internationally (i.e., you’re with T-Mobile or Google Fi), traveling with a phone under contract with a major carrier means paying an arm and a leg for data. Being able to access data-guzzling apps like Google Maps or Google Translate on the fly is worth the hassle to unlock a phone. Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp are free, easy ways to communicate with people you meet on your trip and people from home. Plus there’s checking email, TripAdvisor, banking, social media, and so on.
An “unlocked” phone means you can buy prepaid SIM cards in the country you’re visiting, letting you access their local network for significantly less money than the roaming fees incurred by your home carrier. With a prepaid SIM, your phone effectively becomes a new phone with a new (now local) phone number. Instead of seeing “Verizon,” “AT&T,” or “Sprint” at the top of your phone, you might see “Vodafone,” “Yes Optus,” “M1,” or whatever provider you choose in the country you’re visiting. The first thing to check is if your phone will work where you’re going. If you’re unsure if your phone will work where you’re going, check the Wikipedia page for your phone or contact your provider.
Your phone will also require a removable SIM. (If your phone has an eSIM, as all new iPhones do, check out our blog post about those.) Most countries require a passport or other ID to buy a prepaid SIM without a contract, but switching the SIMs is easy. Most stores will do it for you while you’re there. Depending on the country/provider, this could take as long as 10 minutes but is often faster. The next question is easily the most complicated: Can you unlock your phone? Each carrier has different rules and criteria. Generally, if you have a brand new, expensive phone, they may not let you unlock it (there’s usually a waiting period after the purchase date). But if it’s a little older, or if you’ve paid it off, they probably will. The thing to remember is that a provider can deny an unlock request without giving a reason. You might be lucky, though; certain phones on certain providers are unlocked by default. Here are Verizon and AT&T’s pages on unlocking. Alternately, you can buy a pre-unlocked phone just for travel. Amazon and Best Buy, for example, sell unlocked phones. This is also a good option if you think you might lose your expensive phone and a cheaper one will suffice while you travel.
Plug adapter
Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
Best universal travel adapter.
With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus faster-charging USB ports (and more of them) than its competitors, this adapter is the best all-around choice.
In a sea of almost-identical travel adapters, the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter stands out, combining the best of the features we look for. It contains the three most common international plugs and a US-style plug, which should cover you in the majority of countries around the world. It has the most USB ports—four of the standard USB-A and one USB-C—of any universal adapter we tested, and it charged more of our devices faster. A replaceable fuse and an included spare should take the brunt of any accidental, unfortunate, or shockingly bad connections. The Epicka is fairly compact and well built, and it even comes with an extra USB cable and a nylon case.
However, no universal travel adapter is truly universal, and they’re all a lot bulkier and more expensive than simple plug adapters. If you want the smallest adapter possible, or if you’re going someplace where a universal adapter won’t work (more on that in a minute), a plug adapter could be what you need.
Ceptics International Worldwide Travel Plug Adapter 5 Piece Set
The best plug adapter.
Individually, these tiny plug adapters are smaller, lighter, and cheaper than any universal travel adapter. To juice up multiple devices, though, you’d need a separate multiport charger too.
The tiny plug adapters from Ceptics are barely larger than the prongs they convert. Small, simple, and cheap, they’re perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like. Like our universal adapter picks, this set contains the three most common international plugs and the US plug. However, it also includes a somewhat rarer plug used in some European countries that has two thick, cylindrical prongs. This means that the Ceptics set will likely cover you in even more places—as long as you pack the appropriate plug adapter. These charts should help you find the shape you need before you order.
However, getting your gear to work in different countries isn’t quite as simple as it should be, and there’s no single solution that’s guaranteed to work for everyone. Our picks should work for you, but you may have some random piece of equipment, or be traveling to some country, for which our “good for most” picks just won’t work. (Case in point: One Wirecutter editor visited Iceland a few years back. The house she stayed in had outlets unlike anything on those charts, and the plug adapters she had used elsewhere in Reykjavik didn’t fit at all. It turns out the mystery sockets belonged to an obscure Italian system from the 1960s that was popular in Iceland for a time. Luckily, the hosts had power strips in the house that her adapters fit into.) The world is a big place, and when it comes to electricity and wall outlets, there’s a lot of variation. That’s important to keep in mind.
Whether two-prong or three-prong, an adapter just changes the shape of your plug, not anything about the electricity coming through the wires. However, this usually isn’t a problem because almost every power brick that comes with modern electronic gear is capable of accepting both the 110-volt standard used in the US and the 240-volt commonly used abroad. If your device has a power block on the cord, it likely says something like “100-240 V ~ 50/60 Hz”—that’s the all-clear to use it without a voltage converter so long as the range covers the voltage of the country you’re visiting . This includes the vast majority of modern laptop and USB chargers.
Products without some sort of power block at the end or with a non-detachable cord—in particular, things with heating elements like hair dryers and curling irons—are more likely to need a voltage converter. Putting 220 V through a US 110 V device would be like attaching a firehose to a drinking fountain—you’re likely to blow your face off. But voltage converters are tricky devices, and most of the inexpensive ones have awful (or dishonest) reviews. Since hotels and hostels will often have hair dryers and most newer gear can do the full range of voltages, we strongly recommend that, whenever possible, you only bring items that work with a much simpler (and more reliable) adapter.
Wire/gadget organization system
Now that every device has a battery, every battery has a charger, and every charger has a cable—never mind power-plug adapters if you’re traveling abroad—the sheer quantity of accessories needed just to keep your gadgets running can take up more space than the devices themselves. And unless you organize them, you can bet on having to blindly fish them out of the least convenient spot at the bottom of your bag. Recently, our pick for carrying tech necessities, the Incase Nylon Accessory Organizer, which had been out of stock for a few years, returned to the Incase website and was briefly in stock. (It’s now out of stock again, alas.) If you prefer mesh to easily see your contents, we also like the Container Store Micro Mesh Pouches .
The Incase cable organizer is a poly-nylon blend, so it’s durable. It is a soft-shell bag, however, so its contents can distort the bag’s shape when it’s full. But the bag’s edges remain rigid—so the seams don’t pucker—its contents don’t fall out, and zipping and unzipping the bag is still easy. We have other picks in our full guide to bag and cable organizers , including a roll-up bag and a stylish duo of cosmetics travel pouches ; we’ll also start testing other options.
USB battery packs
A USB battery pack (also called a power bank) can keep your small electronics—from phones and cameras to tablets and more—going while you’re on the road. Although the length of your trip will determine exactly how much extra juice you’ll need to have on hand, whatever your requirements, we have a great USB battery recommendation for you. The Belkin Boost Charge Plus 10K weighs about half a pound, and its rounded edges make it easy to hold or slip into a pocket. Its USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port can charge most handheld devices and recharge itself at top speed (with the right USB-C cable and wall charger), and it can pass power to another device while being recharged from a wall outlet. It only comes in one color, but it has enough capacity to fully charge most smartphones up to three times, as well as built-in USB-C and Lightning cables that are easy to slide in and out of their holsters.
If you’re traveling for leisure, try not to get too wrapped up in technology because you might miss what you’re actually there to do: experience a new place. OneBag’s Doug Dyment said in an interview, “Wearing headphones and staring at a screen is like putting a digital wall around yourself when you’re traveling. It makes you seem unapproachable and uninterested in what’s around you.” That may be a good thing if you do truly want to be left alone, but Dyment went on to say that some of his most memorable traveling experiences were the result of just looking lost and getting help from the locals. “One minute, you’re a lost foreigner in an unfamiliar village, then someone asks if you need directions. Before you know it, you’re eating dinner with his family.”
Travel binoculars
Athlon Optics Midas ED
The overall best binoculars.
Amazingly affordable with great optics, these binoculars have performance comparable with that of many models that cost thousands more.
Our top pick for binoculars is durable and great for near-home hikes. In hot or dusty environments that may call for a clearer optical boost, the Athlon Optics Midas ED 8×42 binoculars deliver top quality. Its focus dial offers a wide range of depths that makes it easier to see whatever it is you desire—birds, grass or darkened areas of the forest. Our recommendation comes with the assistance of a professional ornithologist who spent over 100 hours putting 17 pairs of binoculars to the test in the mountains of Southern California and the rain forests of southern Mexico.
Although the Celestron TrailSeeker ED binoculars don’t offer a clear edge-to-edge view to the same degree of the Athlon Optics Midas EDs , they’re a comparable runner-up model that’ll be lighter on your wallet if having binoculars while traveling is a must. The TrailSeekers are equipped with great light-gathering qualities, close focus, and impressive optical resolution. Or, if you’re concerned about saving space, we liked the Pentax AD 8x25 WP binoculars. While not quite as powerful as our other picks, this compact pair of binoculars is well made and easy to fit into a carry-on while traveling via plane.
Ebook reader
Amazon Kindle (2022)
The best e-reader for most people.
Amazon’s most affordable Kindle is also its most portable, and it’s finally been upgraded with sharper text on its 6-inch screen and support for USB-C charging. Those features bring it in line with much-pricier e-readers.
The entry-level Amazon Kindle finally got an upgrade and is now our favorite e-reader , with the same crisp display and USB-C charging as the pricier Kindle Paperwhite has (and with double the storage space of the previous entry-level model). Amazon’s well-stocked ebooks store remains its biggest selling point, along with the ease of checking out library books via Libby and sending them directly to a Kindle.
Even if you don’t have time for pleasure reading on your trip, it’s worth investing in a Kindle because many major travel guides are available in fully searchable ebook formats now. Furthermore, e-texts will also work on your phone, tablet, and computer, thanks to the Kindle ecosystem.
Packable daypack
Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack
A pack that fits in your palm.
Toss this lightweight, phone-sized packable bag into your luggage or coat pocket, and you’ll never get caught without a spare bag again. If you need something to carry every day, though, we think you’ll prefer one of our more-structured picks.
Packing a stowable daypack, one that stuffs down to fit in your luggage when not in use, is a relatively small investment of space in exchange for a high return of function and flexibility. After researching dozens of packable daypacks across a spectrum of portability, features, and prices, and then packing, unpacking, loading, wearing, and drenching the top-rated finalists during multiple rounds of testing, the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack is the smallest and lightest packable backpack we recommend. Packed up, it is very discreet: nearly the size of a keychain accessory.
The bag itself is a no-frills sack made from a paper-thin siliconized Cordura nylon, which means it’s very light and water-resistant. It has reinforced stitching at stress points, allowing the Ultra-Sil to carry more weight than you would expect. That said, since this pack is made of such thin, light material, carrying large or awkwardly shaped loads is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when compared with our more structured picks.
If comfort or waterproofing is important to you, check out the alternative picks in our review of packable daypacks for travel .
Field Notes Memo Books
For ultimate portability.
Field Notes are cheap but contain high-quality paper that earns praise from pen and stationery geeks across the web.
For writing your adventures as you travel, you can’t beat the portability, practicality, and romanticism of a pocket notebook. There’s nothing better in that category than Field Notes (three-packs available in a variety of styles and types ). These pocket-sized notebooks are widely praised for their excellent paper quality, and the Pen Addict’s Brad Dowdy tells me “Field Notes is pretty much the runaway pocket notebook champ.” Dowdy has praised it for the lack of feathering or bleedthrough with almost any pen, as well as for the light brown ruled lines, which are easier to write over than solid black. Austin Smith of Art Supply Critic told us in an email that his recommendation is “Field Notes has it, no question.” The Well-Appointed Desk has reviewed a slew of different Field Notes variants for those looking for something a bit more interesting.
Field Notes Expedition
A weather-resistant option.
Weather-resistant Expedition Field Notes are great if you’re writing in wet conditions, but don’t get them if you don’t need them. The synthetic paper feels weird and can cause some inks to smear.
If you think you’re going to be writing in foul weather, Field Notes also has the waterproof Expedition version with pages made from a synthetic water-and-tear resistant paper. You should only get these if you really need them, because otherwise, they just feel unnaturally slick and are more prone to smearing ink. At least one user has said that the paper shows less soaking through when wet than the similar Rite in the Rain books . The one caveat is that the synthetic paper will only work with pencils and certain inks ; thankfully, the Uni-ball Jetstream RT , our pick for best pen , definitely makes the grade.
Things can go wrong while you’re traveling, both where you are and where you’re not. Though you can’t prepare for every worst-case scenario, the peace of mind that a little bit of preparation grants will allow you to focus on what’s in front of you, instead of having to worry about what could go wrong. But preparation doesn’t simply mean buying more stuff just in case; it also means making efficient use of what you already have.
Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit
For the best combination of sewing tools.
The Merchant & Mills Rapid Repair Kit is the only travel kit we found that had objectively high-quality thread and scissors.
There’s nothing quite like a wardrobe malfunction to put a damper on vacation, especially when traveling with limited clothing. A good travel-size sewing kit allows you to mend a popped button or ripped seam on the fly—or even tackle more pressing issues like fixing a tent, sleeping bag, or backpack. After 15 hours of research, interviews with sewing teachers and avid home sewers, and tests of six travel and full-size kits, we found the Merchant & Mills for Purl Soho Rapid Repair Kit had by far the best tools and was the easiest to keep organized. Standard travel sewing kits usually contain mediocre thread and plastic-handled scissors that break easily. They can also be hard to keep organized (a truth we confirmed when testing six top-rated travel and full-sized kits). The Merchant & Mills set was the only one that had high-quality thread, all-metal mini scissors (don’t worry, the TSA shouldn’t stop you ), and a durable tin case (about the size of a deck of cards) to keep everything well organized.
Because the sewing pins are neatly stuck into paper inside a slim envelope and the three needles are housed in a mini glass vial, this kit also limits the risk of losing a sharp object in your bags. We found the Merchant & Mills needles easier to thread than others (no need for a fussy needle threader!) and we also like the vintage-looking safety pins that come clipped together along with two small white buttons. Although this kit only comes with black and white thread, the thread is strong and there’s more of it than you’d get in a flimsier set with shorter strands of multiple colors. We do think it would be nice if the kit included a more durable measuring tape than the paper one included, but overall everything about this kit is leagues ahead of anything else we considered. We didn’t find editorial reviews for any of the kits we tested, but the Merchant & Mills rapid repair kit was recommended by several sewing bloggers and is sold in many reputable indie fabric shops.
Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella
The best umbrella for most people.
This is a solidly built, easy-to-find umbrella that holds up in high winds. It also comes in a variety of colors.
price may vary by color or style
An umbrella you take traveling should be small, light, sturdy, and affordable. After putting in 66 hours of research and evaluating a total of 48 umbrellas across five rounds of testing (including one thunder-snowstorm), we found that the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella is the best umbrella for most people. Its durable, nine-rib construction held up admirably against gale-force winds, and it’s as sturdy as umbrellas that sell for more than twice as much.
The Repel folds up to an 11½-inch long, 14-ounce package that fits easily into most bags and glove boxes. And it forcefully expands at a touch of a button to reveal an ample 37-inch-diameter canopy that protects your head and torso from precipitation in all but the windiest of conditions. Its lengthy, textured handle is easy to grip for hands of all sizes. We also appreciate that the Repel comes in a wide variety of colors, so it’s easier to pick yours out of a crowded umbrella bucket. Finally, despite its affordable price, it’s backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee, but only if you purchase directly from Repel and register the item under the company’s warranty.
Packing method for clothes
While packing cubes and other organization tools are helpful for maximizing your bag’s usable space, efficient packing is also achievable without the aid of tools and compartments. One Bag’s Doug Dyment tried all manners of folding aids and compression products but was unsatisfied with their claims of compression and wrinkle prevention. Frustrated, he developed his own method of packing clothes compactly called the Bundle Method, which he’s used and perfected over several decades of traveling.
The Bundle Method involves layering your shirts and pants at opposing angles on a flat surface, then wrapping them around a small “core” parcel (e.g. a packing cube full of underwear and socks). We won’t get into details, but Dyment does on his website ; you can watch this easy-to-follow video from NBC . The resulting bundle is compact and has no sharp creases that will require ironing out later on. Additionally, Dyment explains that “the slight tension created in the fabric by the wrapping process, along with the anchoring of the resulting bundle, greatly reduces the chances of wrinkling.” You then put it in your bag and use the tie-down straps to provide just enough pressure to keep it together.
While simple to perform, this packing method isn’t something you can master in one go. It takes a bit of practice, but once you get it, it’s like riding a bike. The downside is that you can’t just leave your clothing packed and expect to be able to access your underwear without fully unpacking your clothes first. But unpacking is a good habit to get into anyway, as it allows your clothes to breathe and avoid wrinkles or mildew. Wirecutter founder and frequent traveler Brian Lam says that unpacking the moment he enters a room has a grounding effect that allows him to feel a bit more at home in a new environment.
If this sounds like too much of a hassle for you, you can do what we did before we found out about bundling: roll up your socks and underwear tightly and place them in packing cubes, then put your wrinkle-prone items (shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, jackets) in a garment folder—we used the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Garment Folder . This is also travel guru Rob King’s preferred method of packing. Though the garment folder is not quite as space-efficient as the bundle method due to the added bulk of the folder and folding board, the plastic backboard does go a long way towards preventing wrinkles. Just be aware that if you leave your clothes in there for longer than a day, they’ll begin to develop unsightly creases that require an iron to get rid of.
A big thank-you to the Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland, Oregon, for lending us a suite to use for the photos in this guide.
This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.
Meet your guide
Wirecutter Staff
Mentioned above
- Whether you’re planning a week or a weekend away, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del Dia can keep you organized and comfortable on the road. The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks
- After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage
- The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a great bag for tech-carrying travelers to slide under an airplane seat. We also have options for other travelers. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags
- After researching 30 models, we found that Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who check bags. The Best Suitcases for Checking
- We chose five luggage tags that will help you identify your belongings in a sea of similar suitcases. The Best Luggage Tags
- After researching and traveling with packing cubes for more than five years, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set is what we keep in our luggage. The Best Packing Cubes
Further reading
The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip
by Ivy Liscomb
You don't have to be a digital nomad to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible.
Air Travel Is Chaos. This Gear Will Help Get You Through the Exasperating Delays.
by Elissa Sanci
These things don’t make your flight take off any faster, but they can make the wait a little more tolerable.
The Best Gear for Your Road Trips
by Kit Dillon and Wirecutter Staff
After hundreds of hours of research and 1,500 miles behind the wheel, we’ve singled out the gear that’s absolutely essential for your next journey on the open road.
The Best Travel Pillow
by Sabrina Imbler
After testing eight travel pillows on four red-eye flights in window, aisle, and middle seats, we think the Travelrest Ultimate is the best for most travelers.
The Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing
Written By: The Planet D
Travel Gear
Updated On: January 23, 2024
There are a lot of travel organizers on the market today and we have tried most of them. Below we have listed the best travel organizers for everything from electronics and jewelry to toiletries and clothes.
After traveling to 120 countries and living out of a suitcase for 15 years we have learned that the key to smart packing lies in staying organized. Using the right travel organizers can take a lot of stress out of your trip giving you the freedom to move with ease and find anything in a snap.
Table of Contents
The Best Travel Luggage Organizers
If you are not using travel organizer bags in your travel luggage then you are missing out. Packing cubes simplify the process of organizing and help you keep your sanity when you are looking through your entire suitcase for a piece of clothing .
Packing Cubes are always on top of our travel essentials list for travel packing organizers. They are guaranteed to keep your clothes in order and you’ll soon discover that this one affordable piece is the best travel organizer to add to your travel gear.
Recommended Packing Cubes
If there is one thing you need in your luggage it is a set of these slim cubes. They’re simply the best travel organizers out there.
Osprey Ultralight Packing Cubes
Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set – With plenty of color options, you can mix and match bags to separate clothing and gear. This set of three comes in small, medium, and large. These are perfect if you are trying to downsize your luggage to carry-on only as you can stuff your clothes into them without worrying about the zipper breaking.
They are made of nylon fabric and have heavy-duty zippers with an easy grab handle so they slip in and out of your bag easily. You’ll find that when talking to an expert traveler, they will have packing cubes at the top of our organization lists.
Amazon Basics Packing Cubes
Amazon Basics Packing Cubes – If you travel with a backpack you may want to consider Amazon Basics packing cubes. They are a bit more economical than the ones above but are still good quality. These highly rated packing cubes have a mesh top panel that gives easy identification of contents and ventilation. Plus the soft mesh won’t damage your delicate fabrics. We usually get them in medium, but you can get them in other sizes as well.
CipWay Compression Cubes
Cipway Compression Cubes – If you find that you need to pack a lot in your luggage, compression cubes are a great way to make more space to help you easily pack more into your suitcase. Compression cubes squeeze down clothes into a smaller space. You can then pack away those bulkier items in the bottom of our suitcase and get them out at your convenience.
Its reinforced zippers with double stitching make this compression packing cube set extremely durable.
Travel Organizers for Toiletries
We have tried to find the best toiletry organizer over the years that is not too heavy, is durable, waterproof, and can fit everything we need into it. After trying a few different ones these are the toiletry bags that we recommend.
Pack-It Wallaby Toiletry Bag
The Pack-It Wallaby Toiletry Bag – It is hard to find one toiletry bag for 2 people but this one works. It is good quality, it has a removable clear pouch for the TSA security check, a stowable hook to hang on doors and different pockets for different items such as toothpaste, and medication. If you forget to pack a mirror, no worries, there is a shatterproof mirror in this pouch.
Bago Hanging Toiletry Kit for Men and Women
Although a little smaller than the one above, this toiletry travel organizer is laid out well for both men and women to easily fit all your travel accessories. It is made of durable Rip-Stop Honeycomb waterproof fabric, has lots of compartments, and has two easy-access side pockets.
Silicon Travel Bottle Set
This Travel Bottle Set is perfect for organizing our liquids and gels. The TSA-approved travel containers are leakproof and fit easily into your toiletry bags. They are refillable for 2oz or 3 oz liquids including shampoos, lotions, and sprays.
Travel Organizer Bags for Shoes
Shoes are a pain to pack. They are big, heavy, and often dirty. These are the reasons we started using shoe bags. It keeps shoes together for easy organization and stops them from getting other things in your bag all dirty.
YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags
YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags Set of 4 – We recommend the YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags because they are the most versatile. They are big enough for men’s shoes up to size 14, they are waterproof and really durable. They are also lightweight which is very important in today’s travel world. These travel shoe bags fit 1 pair of shoes each so if you are looking for a separate shoe bag for each shoe you might want to consider the ones below.
PCS Travel Shoe Bags
PCS Travel Shoe Bags – These are more of your basic shoe bags. They are made of 100% cotton and close via a drawstring. They are big enough for large footwear and are very durable. They also allow you to space out your shoes when organizing up your suitcase. These are perfect for dress shoes or women’s heels.
Underwear Organizers
If you want to keep your underwear and bras organized and in shape then an underwear organizer is something you will want to consider. Sure, you could throw it all in a packing cube, but this tends to destroy bras and we all know a good bra is not cheap.
Multi-Functional Underwear Travel Organizer
VPang Fashion Portable Multi-Functional Travel Organizer -This underwear and bra organizer is set up perfectly to carry 3 to 5 bras, and 4-6 panties. The bras fit in the bottom and keep their shape while the panties slide into pockets under the top. This is a little on the small side so make sure your bras will fit before buying.
Freegrace Underwear Bag
Freegrace Travel Organizer Underwear Bag – This is the larger of the two underwear organizers and could actually be used as your toiletry bag as well. It has 2 compartments and numerous pockets so you will never run out of space. Built of high-quality materials it is also quite durable.
Packing Pouches
A packing pouch is similar to a packing cube but it is usually smaller and we use them to organize by grouping our small items together, extra toiletries, hair products, camera accessories, and more. These packing pouches are one of our favorite travel accessories.
Travel Organizers Electronics
One of the most frustrating things about keeping our luggage organized is having a mess of plugs and charging cords for all of our electronics. There is nothing worse than reaching into a ziplock bag full of tangled cords and charging cables trying to find the right one.
To avoid that hassle make sure to pick up one of these best travel cord organizers for a tangle-free experience.
BAGSMART Electronics Organizer
BAGSMART Electronic Organizer Travel – This is the top-rated electronics organizer on the market and you can see why. It is economical, well laid out, durable and the perfect size for traveling. What I like about its multiple elastic loops for all our cords and cables and it has a holder for SD cards as well. They have thought of everything.
BUBM Double Layer Electronic Accessories Organizer
BUBM Double Layer Electronic Accessories Organizer – This organization case has two layers. The top layer has 9 elastic loops and 8 mesh pockets and the bottom layer has 2 large mesh pockets. Plus there is a Neoprene soft sleeve pouch for your iPad. The BUBM case has enough room for all your electronic needs and is perfect for digital nomads. The build quality is great and waterproof. You can’t go wrong with any of these choices to organize those unruly cables.
Best Travel Laundry Bags
We used to throw our dirty laundry in a plastic bag and hope for the best but we soon found that a breathable mesh or waterproof bag helped separate our dirty clothes from the rest of our luggage. No matter how long our trip is, we always carry a bag for our dirty laundry.
Miamica Laundry Bag
Miamica Laundry Bag – Miamica travel laundry bag is the perfect laundry bag in my opinion. It folds into itself so it doesn’t take up any room in your bag, folds out to a full-size bag, and is moisture and tear-resistant. Everything you want in a travel laundry bag
Foldable Travel Laundry Bag
Foldable Travel Laundry Bag – Another lightweight bag that folds up so small you hardly know it is there. It is not expensive and is the perfect solution if you are on a budget. It expands to 22 inches and is made of polyester which helps with odors. It’s lightweight yet sturdy and foldable. It is also waterproof so you can store your swimwear or other wet items.
Travel Wallet and Document Organizers
Every traveler needs to keep an eye on their valuables and these RFID organizers are a great safety feature. Having your travel documents at your fingertips can really relieve a lot of stress in life when you are crossing borders.
Pacsafe RFIDsafe Anti-Theft Travel Organizer
Pacsafe RFIDsafe V150 Anti-Theft RFID Blocking Travel Organizer – This travel organizer holds our passports, money, tons of credit cards and travel cards, and driver’s licenses. It also serves as a pen holder and has a clip that serves as a key holder. Plus it has RFID protection and it looks great too. Read more: The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories
BAGSMART Passport Holder
BAGSMART Passport Holder and Document Organizer – A little smaller than the Pacsafe without a couple of the bells and whistles the BAGSMART Passport Holder is a stylish passport wallet and document organizer.
It has RFID protection which is perfect for travelers as well as 6 pocket slots, and a mesh pocket for change. Plus it is big enough to hold your passports and boarding pass.
Check out our guide to The Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags and Accessories for more suggestions and information.
Pill Organizers
One of the best ways to save space and weight is to eliminate all those pill bottles. The best way to do this is to use a pill organizer. Regardless of whether it is pain pills, medication, vitamins, or supplements, one of these will help you keep them organized all in one place. When traveling by carry-on only, it’s important to be as light as possible and every ounce counts.
LeanTravel 7 / 28 Day Pill Case Organizer
LeanTravel 7 Day / 28 Day Travel Premium Pill Case Organizer – This is like the Cadillac of pill organizers. Perfect to take on the plane with you as it doubles as a Passport and travel documents wallet as well. It holds up to 28 days of vitamins and pills and is made from premium-quality polyester. It not only keeps your pills organized it is extremely stylish as well.
Lewis N. Clark Folding Pill Organizer
Lewis N. Clark AM/PM Folding Pill Organizer : If you have pills that you have to take at a certain time of the day then this is the best pill organizer for you. It is lightweight, cost-effective, and has sixteen clear pouches, which can be individually taken out as needed. They are also labeled with red tabs and blue tabs as well as numbers so it is easy to keep track.
Best Makeup Travel Organizers
In order to keep your make-up from spilling on your clothes or getting broken, you should invest in a good make-up organizer. Look for one that is durable and lightweight and has padded dividers and compartments.
It should have a place for your brushes and be at least water-resistant. Check out the best travel cosmetic organizers below.
Relavel Cosmetics Case Organizer
Relavel Cosmetics Case Organizer – This is the best makeup travel organizer on the market. It has a lot of adjustable compartments and can hold just about anything you throw at it. It measures 10.3 x 9 x 3.6, so it is not too big and it is waterproof and shockproof.
If you have an extensive makeup kit or want to use this to do double duty (toiletry storage) the Relavel Cosmetic Case Organizer has you covered.
NiceEbag Travel Makeup Bag
NiceEbag Travel Makeup Bag – Roughly the same size as the Relavel, this travel cosmetic organizer is less expensive. The cosmetic bag is made of oxford cloth and nylon lining. It is waterproof, shockproof, and wear-resistant. The multiple compartments make it not only good for makeup and tools but can be used for men’s shaving supplies and other specialty items. The neutral design is good for anyone’s taste.
Jewelry Organizers for Travel
I don’t wear a lot of expensive jewelry when traveling, but I do like to have different necklaces and bracelets that I have collected. I have ruined many an item during my travels, and that is why I like to now have a proper jewelry organizer.
Becko Jewelry Organizer
Becko Jewelry Organizer – I love this jewelry organizer that protects my belongings while on the go. The design helps to prefect necklaces from intertwining and it has four elastic pouches for different pendants. It holds up to 7 necklaces, 16 earrings, 8 rings, bracelets watches, and even sunglasses. The detachable pocket lets you pack items independently.
And these are the best travel organizers to help you stay organized for your trip. You don’t have to be a neat freak or an A-Type personality to benefit from these items. You can be like us, just sick of opening your bag and seeing chaos.
Eager for more packing tips?
If you enjoyed our list of the best travel organizers, why not check out som of our other travel packing tips to help you get the most out of your next vacation.
- The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)
- Packing for Europe – Tips That Will Make Your Travel Life Easier
- Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
- The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
- The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories
- Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
Are there any travel organizers that you would add to the list? If so, leave them in the comments so we can try them out too!
Disclosure: There are some affiliate links in the post above, but these are all products we highly recommend. We won’t put anything on this page that we haven’t verified and/or personally used
Travel Planning Resources
Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.
Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.
Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.
Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO .
Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:
- Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
- Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.
Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.
Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.
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About The Planet D
Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.
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19 thoughts on “The Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing”
Clothing sack is must. I never considered keeping it with me while voyaging. A debt of gratitude is in order for adding perhaps the main thing in my knapsack ?
Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge with us, we are always lost when we start a trip and it is appreciated to find these explanations written for people with little knowledge of the subject. I said, thank you very much and continue teaching us so many things with such good content
That’s great I think without that packing cubes traveling is such a headache if travelers want full enjoyment than they have to organize all things not only residence, food, and vehicle along with a good packing organizer is also a stress-free trip really useful article for all travelers
I am obsessed with organization for the home, so these ideas for organized packing bring me joy. I am a big fan of the packing cubes.
An excellent article that is full of tips for effective organizing. One that I have used consistently is a pouch for passport and other documents. Money was kept in a neck pouch and I learned the hard way never to have keys in a pocket or purse. Have never used the packing pouches for clothing, but will test them out on or before my next trip. Not sure, though, that anything can help with the chaotic atmosphere encountered at some TSA checkpoints . Mercy!
Laundry bag is must. I never thought of keeping it with me while travelling. Thanks for adding one of the most important thing in my backpack 🙂
We follow the same tips but always manage to forget our laundry bag! So thanks for the reminder, putting it next to our cubes now 🙂
Ah yes, I hate it when we forget the laundry bag. Packing cubes work well too.
gostei muito do Saco De Toileiro é muito bem dividido e prático.
We’re firmly in the “we love packing cubes” camp. Having everything organized makes it so much easier to unpack and repack, and to quickly find things.
They’re great aren’t they? We used to use zip lock bags but once we discovered packing cubes, we can’t go back.
I like the packing cubes, very useful accessory and would personally recommend them.
Love this article since I have a difficult time to pack all my things when I travel abroad.
Amazing Article great information thanks for sharing us
This is a great list of suggestions. I have some of these and really enjoy my toiletry bag. I never leave home without it. The packing cubes is new to me though. I always used a large plastic bag to store my dirty clothes in. I like the packing cubes idea as a great substitute for my plastic bag. It sounds so much better. Instead of the travel organizer that you suggested here, I use one that hangs around my neck and can be tucked into your top shirt or blouse. This prevents pickpockets and theft and it is easily obtained when needed. Thanks for some great suggestions.
Thank you very much for this useful information about packing.
Thank you for the infromation and guidelines about packing 🙂
Good idea , I always have problem ‘how to pack a suitcase’ and I forget a half of my things .
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Must-have travel organizers for your next excursion, including Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winners
Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to grab your carry-on and luggage tag and get ready to hit the road. Although packing for a vacation can often be stressful, organizers are a great way to maximize your suitcase space and fit all your necessary travel accessories inside without struggling to close it shut.
From travel-friendly jewelry cases to packing cube sets, we found organizers to help make packing a breeze, including a few of our Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winners for 2024. Gone are the days of stressing about preparing for a long-awaited vacation!
What makes a good travel organizer? | Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winners | Travel organizers for apparel | Travel organizers for accessories | How we chose | Meet the experts | Has your product been featured?
2024 Travel Gear Awards winners
What makes a good travel organizer?
When it comes to finding the right travel organizer, it is important to consider the accessibility and material of the product. "A good travel organizer must be easy to access and easy to repack to truly be a benefit rather than an inconvenience during the trip," says Jonathan Alder, a luxury travel advisor.
Travel blogger Ali Garland says that packing cubes are a great way to help organize your luggage so you can find things while you’re traveling. “They can also be great for separating dirty clothes from clean clothes, and if you’re sharing a suitcase with a partner, using different colored packing cubes makes it easy to tell whose stuff is whose,” suggests Garland.
"Most of our clients are only spending a few days in each destination before moving on to a new region, so being able to quickly put things in and take things out while still keeping everything organized is a huge advantage and the ultimate goal," explains Alder. When it comes to materials for packing cubes, Alder recommends see-through plastic for visibility or durable nylon.
Garland recommends travel organizers that are made of thin and lightweight materials that are high quality. "You don’t want poorly made thin material that will rip," she says.
Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winners
Bagsmart bonchemin the space saver toiletry bag.
Bonchemin The Space Saver Toiletry Bag
Winner: Best budget toiletry bag. Take 30% off by using the code TODAY at checkout on the brand's site, now through April 22.
- Hanging hook
- Great quality
- Lots of pockets
- May seem small
Award: Best budget toiletry bag | Quality: 4/5 | Value : 5/5 | Satisfaction: 5/5 | Overall score: 4.6/5
It's no wonder this stylish toiletry bag is a Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winner due to its affordable price and stylish exterior. This travel bag features a hanging hook, double zipper compartment and easily accessible pockets. It also comes in 11 vibrant hues and has over 45,000 verified five-star ratings on Amazon. Our shopping editors rated this packing essential a 4.6 overall based on value, quality and overall satisfaction.
Plus, Shop TODAY readers can save 30% off by using the code TODAY at checkout on the brand’s site, now through April 22.
Gonex Extensible Packing Cubes
Extensible Packing Cubes (4-Piece Set)
Winner: Best packing cubes
- Zips easily
- Lightweight
- Mixed reviews on compression
Award: Best packing cubes | Quality: 3/5 | Value 4/5 | Satisfaction: 4/5 | Overall score: 3.6/5
These expandable luggage organizers are made of rip-stop nylon and are designed to make packing for a trip a less daunting task. Available in 18 colorways, these packing cubes feature double zippers and a quick-grab handle to easily pull from your suitcase upon arrival.
"These work so well. I love that I can be so organized. They also created a lot of room in my suitcase. Great value for the money!" raved one verified five-star reviewer on Amazon .
Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag
Winner: Best overall toiletry bag
Award: Best overall toiletry bag | Quality: 5/5 | Value : 4.8/5 | Satisfaction: 5/5 | Overall score: 4.9/5
This colorful bag was a Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awardssit winner in 2023 and now again in 2024 for best overall toiletry bag.
“It holds everything-from full sized face washes to jewelry, hair products and more. It has three main zippered compartments, that include little pouches and compartments within, truly maximizing the space,” says editorial assistant Sierra Hoeger. “Plus, it’s durable and the recycled nylon fabric is easy to clean with a Clorox wipe, should anything spill,” she says.
Mark & Graham Small Travel Jewelry Case
Small Travel Jewelry Case
Winner: Best jewelry organizer
- Mirror addition
- Good for delicate jewelry
- Multiple compartments
- Not good for chunky rings
Award: Best jewelry organizer | Quality: 5/5 | Value : 3/5 | | Satisfaction: 4/5 | Overall score: 4/5
If you enjoy being bedazzled in jewelry from head-to toe while on vacation, this Mark & Graham organizer is for you. Choose from over 30 stylish shades to safely store your valuables, including Kelly green, piped orchid, blazing yellow and many more. You can even personalize this case with your initials for a small added fee, so you'll never lose your grandma's pearl necklace again.
Travel organizers for apparel
Bagail packing cubes.
Packing Cubes (Set of 8)
- Great for sorting clothes
- Zippers may be hard to open
Colorways: 15 | Size: Set of eight | Material: Nylon
This elegant set of eight packing cubes is Amazon’s bestseller in travel packing with over 22,500 verified five-star ratings. All of your swimsuits and beach towels will stay immaculate as these packing cubes are designed to protect from wrinkles, odors and stains. Verified customers speak to the product’s ability to hold a plethora of items, even rain boots!
Shacke Pak Packing Cubes
Packing Cubes (Set of 5)
- May be flimsy
Colorways: 13 | Size: Set of five | Material: Nylon
This five-piece packing cube set is an Amazon’s Choice for traveling packing organizer for good reason — for starters, it has a near-perfect average and 18,500+ verified five-star ratings. Each size bag in this set was tested, designed and selected to create the perfect packing cube kit for up to a two-week vacation, according to the brand. This useful set also includes a laundry bag to successfully separate your clean clothes from the dirty ones.
One verified customer said, “I’ve heard about these products, but didn’t think I’d ever use them. What was I thinking? I used all of these for a recent trip, Zippers work well, cubes are sturdy with a carry strap. Big improvement over my usual packing job. I would recommend these.”
Bagail Compression Packing Cubes
Compression Packing Cubes (Set of 4)
- May not be air tight
Colorways: 33 | Size: Set of four
Are you known to have a lot of baggage? These bestselling compression packing cubes with 14,000 verified five-star ratings are exactly what you need for your next vacation. The smooth, soft nylon fabric will protect your clothes from wrinkles and stains, even if you’re traveling all the way across the world.
One wanderlust-filled Amazon shopper raved, “I bought these for a trip to Greece. It was amazing how much I could fit into each one. It really helped separate my clothes so I didn’t have to unpack my entire suitcase each time. It was nice to have them zipped up when TSA opened my bag too. It seems like I was definitely able to get more clothes in that I would have been able to without them, and I liked how tidy it was.”
Dagne Dover Rae Roll-Top Dry Bag
Rae Roll-Top Dry Bag
- Dries quickly
- Thin material
Colorways: Four | Dimensions: 5.25” x 1” — 11” H (depending on how much you roll it) | Material: Waterproof nylon
How many times have you gone swimming while on vacation and had zero space to store your dripping wet bikini? Struggle no more as this Dagne Dover roll-top dry bag is ideal for post-swim storage and protecting your bathing suits. This 100 percent vegan bag includes a wipeable waterproof interior and plastic clip to ensure that moisture doesn’t drip onto your clean gear.
“This is a lifesaver when going to the beach or pool. It’s spacious enough to put a couple of wet suits away and keep them separate in your beach bag,” said one verified buyer.
Stow-N-Go Luggage Organizer
Luggage and Travel Organizer
- Not super roomy
Colorways: Six | Dimensions: 11.8” x 11.8” x 25.2” | Material: Polyester
Whether you’re hanging 10 at the beach or lounging by the pool over spring break, this luggage and travel organizer is sure to come in handy. We know you’ll want your vacation to start the moment you land at the airport and this sweet set will save you time unpacking — all you need to do is hang it in your closet to instantly access all your wardrobe essentials.
“You know those products that make you go, “Wow, why didn’t I think of that?” Well, this is one of them,” one Shop TODAY writer said about this clever organizer . “Thanks to the three-tiered shelving system, I never have to spend time unpacking or, more importantly, touching dirty hotel drawers or closets. As soon as I undo the Stow-N-Go’s buckles, it expands, leaving my neatly stacked clothing wrinkle-free and easy to access.”
Eagle Creek PACK-IT™ Isolate Compression Cube Set
PACK-IT™ Isolate Compression Cube Set
- Nice compression
- Multiple sizes
- Small in size
Colorways: Four | Size: S/M set | Materials: Polyester ripstop
Garland is a fan of Eagle Creek's packing cubes which are designed for travelers that want to travel light, according to the brand. Available in four hues and rated a 4.7 overall average, this durable set of packing cubes contains two different sizes to safely store all your vacation essentials.
Away The Insider Packing Cubes
The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 6)
- Water-resistant
Colorways: One | Size: Set of six | Material: Nylon
This set of six packing cubes is sure to blow you Away! Made from water-resistant nylon, these chic travel organizers are designed with a mesh panel so you can easily spot your favorite cover-up without having to rummage through your entire suitcase. “Love them!!! Makes finding items so much easier,” said one happy customer.
Calpak Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set
5-Piece Packing Cube Set
Colorways: 19 | Size: Set of five | Material: Polyester
Packing was just made easy with this five-piece-set that includes a water-resistant envelope pouch. Designed to fit nicely in your luggage and keep all your toiletries and more in order. “Got the five piece set in black. In comparison to previous sets I’ve owned, these are much more supportive and sleek. In addition, although they appear thin, they can store a lot more than you’d think. Would recommend!” exclaimed one customer.
Travel organizers for accessories
Cheopz travel watch case.
Travel Watch Case Single Storage Box
- Very sturdy
- Keeps watch protected
- May be smaller than expected
Colorways: One | Material: Nylon
An Amazon’s Choice for watch travel cases, this round, hard shell box is the ideal solution to protect your precious timepiece while traveling. The high-quality zipper will help keep this case securely closed and features a soft plush velvet interior lining to protect against unwanted scratches.
Bagsmart Jewelry Organizer
Jewelry Organizer Case
- Keeps jewelry organized
- Could use spot for bracelets
Colorways: Eight | Dimensions: 9.8’’ x 6.1’’ x 1.9’’ | Material: Polyester
Keep all your bedazzled goods extra shiny while traveling with this soft polyester organizer. This Amazon’s Choice product includes five compartments and two-way zipper closure for keeping your valuables safely stored.
One five-star reviewer raved, “I love this case. It’s soft, meaning it collapses down to hold the jewelry but not take a lot of space in my luggage. It holds enough jewelry for a daily change for a week or more. Everything stays in place, no tangles of chains or things going missing.”
Don't forget to use code TODAY at checkout on the brand's site for 30% off, now through April 22.
Port and Polish Pill Box
- Soft matte finish
Colorways: Five | Specifications: 5.5” x 2.5” x 0.75” | Material: Plastic
You may be on vacation time, but you’ll no doubt be able to keep your days straight with this Port and Polish pill box. Not only does this pill organizer include seven compartments for easy cleaning, but they are also certified plastic-neutral.
Away The Shoe Cube
The Shoe Cubes (Large) in Black
- Good quality material
- Can be bulky in suitcase
Colorways: Three | Size: 8.66” x 5.1” x 13.8” | Material: Nylon
If the shoe fits! Made from sturdy and flexible water-resistant nylon, this shoe cube from Away features a collapsible divider for separating your sneakers, sandals and high heels for various vacation activities. “I have 3 of these in the primary colors. They protect your shoes, look great and fit nicely in the Away suitcases that I own. Along with the packing cubes these are a necessity,” said one satisfied customer.
Béis The Hanging Jewelry Case
The Hanging Jewelry Case
- May be too large
Colorways: One | Material: Polyurethane, nylon, micro-suede
This super trendy organizer from Beis will keep your necklaces, bracelets, rings and more in pristine condition while you travel. Lined with a peach skin microfiber, this resourceful case includes six small zip pockets, three necklace holders, an elasticized pocket, two medium zip pockets and a large zip pocket. It’s also embossed with the Beis logo and includes a built-in hanger for easy storage and access when on the road.
One verified buyer said, “I love this case! It can store A LOT without getting bulky and failing to close up. When hanging everything is visible and easily accessible. I’m buying them for all the jewelry loving travelers in my life!!”
Frequently Asked Questions
"The best materials would either be a strong nylon or a clear plastic, so you can easily see what is in each cube or section without having to take everything out," Alder says.
According to Alder, travel organizers are definitely worth it when trying to pack as much as possible in a smaller suitcase. "For the person that wants everything in its place, packing organizers can be a lifesaver. However, they’re the best fit for the right trip and the right suitcase," says Alder.
How we chose the best travel organizers
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best travel organizers by including the recommendations and advice directly from travel experts. We also filtered our searches for top-rated products and read through hundreds of verified shopper reviews.
Additionally, we sorted through hundreds of new launches, editor recommendations, trending products flooding our social media pages and tried and true products to curate a list of must-have travel items worth reviewing for our Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards.
Meet the experts
- Jonathan Alder is a luxury travel advisor who is the CEO and founder of Jonathan’s Travels .
- Ali Garland is a travel blogger living in Berlin, Germany, and runs Travel Made Simple and Berlin Travel Tips .
Has your product been featured?
Shop TODAY is editorially independent and our team of editors and writers work hard to pick the best products to share with our readers and viewers. We may license our logo to brands or products that have been featured on Shop TODAY. Click here if you’re interested in licensing your inclusion in Shop TODAY content or to learn more from our licensing partner, Wrights Media.
Allie Wise is an associate editor for Shop TODAY.
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Amazon Basics Lightweight Packing Cubes for Travel, Packing Organizers, 4-Piece Set With Double Zipper Pulls and Mesh Top Panel, 100% Durable Polyester
Product details
About this item.
- Packing organizer cube in Small (4-pack, Black) for all types of travel needs
- Mesh top panel for easily identifying contents; won't damage fabrics
- Durable construction with double zipper pulls and finished interior seams
- Available in multiple sizes and styles for versatile convenience; webbing handle on each cube for easy carrying
- Machine washable
- Product Dimensions: 11 x 6.75 x 3 inches (LxWxH)
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PRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)
Global Recycled Standard (GRS) verifies the percentage of recycled content and tracks it from the source to the final product.
OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 requires textiles-based products to be tested against a list of 1,000+ chemicals, to limit those which may be harmful to human health. Certification focus: #ProductSafety and #ChemicalsUsed.
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Amazon Basics Polyester Cube Durability Zipper Storage Bag
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- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : No
- Product Dimensions : 12.01 x 9.02 x 2.2 inches; 9.52 ounces
- Item model number : ZH1509006
- Date First Available : January 1, 2016
- Manufacturer : Amazon
- ASIN : B014VBGMX2
- #8 in Travel Packing Organizers
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The 6 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
We love space-saving packing cubes for long and short trips, and these are the best out there.
In This Article
- Our Top Picks
- Others We Liked
Our Testing Process
- Tips for Buying
You May Also Want
- Why Trust T+L
Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
Packing cubes are hands down one of the best travel hacks out there. Whether you’re a meticulous list-maker or planning procrastinator, investing in a set of packing cubes is a game changer for staying organized and saving space without having to put in too much effort.
At Travel + Leisure , we take our travel hacks seriously so we put 29 sets of regular and compression packing cubes to the test both in our New York City lab and out during real travels to find the best ones on the market. We understand that everyone has unique preferences so we also found picks for travelers embarking on long trips, outdoor adventurers, and minimalist packers looking for one just a few cubes to do the trick.
Best Overall
Veken packing cubes with laundry and shoe bag.
This durable set includes four packing cubes, a shoe bag, and a laundry bag.
These have to be hand-washed and air-dried.
If you’re traveling internationally or taking an extended vacation, consider picking up a set of these Veken packing cubes from Amazon. The four packing cubes are thoughtfully designed with a clear strip on the top so travelers can easily see what they packed, and there are small graphics printed onto each cube recommending what type of clothing item could be stored inside. This set also includes a shoe bag and a laundry bag so you can keep your items separated and organized. We like that there are several different sizes so you don't have small items moving around in a cube that's too big or trying to cram a larger sweatshirt into something too small.
We think these nylon and polyester packing cubes are made to last with a thick fabric exterior and sturdy zippers and stitchwork. After six months of use, there is no sign of wear and the zippers are holding up well. Although we found the cubes to be slightly heavier than others we tested so keep that in mind if you’re an overpacker or striving to stay under the standard 50-pound limit for checked luggage.
The Details: 6 bags included | 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 (shoe bag), and 20 x 14 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, and polyester
- PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
- PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao
Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes
The set includes four cubes and a laundry bag.
The mesh tops aren’t waterproof or resistant.
Whether you’re traveling with family or heading on a solo trip , these Shacke packing cubes are a steal of a deal. The set includes extra-large, large, medium, and small packing cubes, as well as a laundry bag for dirty clothes. Designed for up to 14 days of traveling, we found that the cubes lived up to their promise of providing plenty of space for a variety of types of clothing like pants, toiletries, shirts, and jackets. The cubes easily fit in the carry-on suitcase we used and with the various sizes, you can customize how many cubes you want to pack depending on the type of suitcase you have.
While the cubes likely won’t prevent water from seeping through due to the mesh tops, you can easily see what you packed inside so you won’t have to unpack everything to find a piece of clothing. During our tests, we felt the durable nylon material and zippers would hold up well with prolonged use, and you can't beat the price for the full set either.
The Details: 5 bags included | 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), and 20.5 x 15.75 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon
Best Sustainable
Peak design packing cubes.
Peak Design uses 100 percent recycled materials to make the cubes.
The easy access zippers were finicky to use.
San Francisco-based Peak Design is known for its slew of sustainable outdoor gear made with carbon neutral and recycled materials, including expandable packing cubes. We tried the small- and medium-sized cubes and found them to be spacious, well-built, and resistant to water after splashing a bit on the exterior. After regularly using the cubes for six months, we loved the capacity of the medium cube and found the smaller option to be good for packing undergarments or even toiletries. We especially love that the cubes are made from 100 percent recycled nylon that is solution-dyed to prevent excessive water use following the brand’s carbon-neutral footprint and each bag expands to fit even more items.
The cubes can compress down to a height of 3.1 inches, but we discovered they function best as an expandable packing cube that can increase in size, rather than a compression cube that is designed to heavily consolidate clothes. Additionally, the cubes feature an “easy access” zipper so travelers can reach inside the bag without opening the whole thing, but we think this feature is unnecessary to use due to the zipper getting snagged.
The Details: 1 bag included | Various sizes | Ripstop nylon
Best Personalized
Paravel packing cube quad.
The cubes can be monogrammed with up to three letters for an additional $25.
The large cube is so big it takes up most of the space of a carry-on bag.
Indulge your love for matching with this set of personalized packing cubes from Paravel. Although it costs an extra $25, you can get up to three letters embroidered onto the set of four packing cubes with 11 color options. If you're shopping for a stylish, functional personalized travel gift , this is a wonderful option. The set comes with one large, one medium, and two small-sized packing cubes that can hold an impressive amount of clothing and still fit in most carry-on bags. These cubes are great for any type of traveler, but especially for those looking for water-resistant cubes for checked bags that will be handled outside in different weather conditions. After six months of use, we found that these cubes provide exceptional organization with room to pack bulkier items in the larger bags and toiletries or undergarments between the two smaller cubes.
As a bonus, these cubes won't take up much space in between trips. They're easy to store and stack right inside one another. The size variety is also convenient for different types of trips and we love having the option to use one, two, three, or all four bags in a checked bag if needed.
The Details: 4 bags included | 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches (large), 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches (medium), and 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches (small) | Nylon
Calpak Packing Cubes 5-piece Set
There are 14 designs to choose from including groovy blue, retro sunset, and cheetah prints.
The set might be better suited for frequent fliers.
If you travel often and are looking to invest in a splurge-worthy set of packing cubes, you can’t go wrong with these from Calpak. We love the unique design options with 14 colors and patterns to choose from including classics like solid pink and gold marble, or limited-edition prints like a wavy retro sunset and groovy blue picks. The set includes one large, one medium, and two small cubes, as well as a water-resistant envelope for cosmetics.
After six months of using these packing cubes during international trips, we found that all the bags were spacious enough to fit a variety of clothing options for organized and efficient packing. We love the diversity of sizes to hold things like undergarments as well as shoes if needed. We also love the option to bring a folded large cube to keep dirty clothes separate. The polyester material feels well-made and built to last, and the zippers zipped without any issues which helps justify the higher price point for this set. And, if you’re traveling with your family, we think the set would be great for separating and organizing clothing for several travelers thanks to the removable identification tags where you can write what clothing went into each cube.
The Details: 5 bags included | 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large), 15 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small), and 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope) | Polyester
Best Compression
Bagsmart compression packing cubes.
We were able to fit 10 days worth of travel and only used four out of the five cubes.
Pattern options are limited.
Available in five different sizes, these compression packing cubes from Bagsmart are ideal for compressing your essentials while traveling with limited space. We used these cubes for 10 days worth of travel and were able to pack away five dresses, five tops, two skirts, a pair of shorts, multiple swimsuits, a jumpsuit, a jean jacket, a sweater, and several pairs of underwear and bras. The cubes were so good at compressing our items that we only needed to use four out of the five to pack away our things.
We were especially impressed with how well-constructed and durable the cubes are. We packed them to the point of bursting, and the zipper never snagged and we were never once concerned about anything ripping. Our clothing also didn’t wrinkle as much thanks to how tightly they were compressed.
The Details : 5 bags included | 15 x 10.5 x 6 inches (large), 13 x 9 x 5 (medium), 13 x 5 x 5 (small), 21.5 x 12 inches (shoe bag) | Polyster
- PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp
Other Packing Cubes We Liked
There were several sets of packing cubes we highlighted below that almost made our list of best packing cubes, but they fell short during testing due some minor flaws we noticed.
Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes : This set of compression packing cubes is great for budget-friendly travelers but our top pick is also a compression set that had a better overall performance in testing.
Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : The set of three cubes is made with thick polyester that still feels lightweight, but besides that, there weren’t any standout features compared to our other top performers.
Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes were spacious and water-resistant, but for $59, we expected a higher performance to match the price for three standard packing cubes.
Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
We evaluated 29 sets of both compression and regular packing cubes in our New York City lab and based our testing on traits like capacity, design, quality, and value. First, we unpackaged the sets of packing cubes and examined the quality of the bags by twisting and pulling them to check the stitchwork and using the zippers to see if they snagged or glided smoothly. After packing the cubes with a variety of clothing items like pants, jackets, undergarments, and shirts, we placed the cubes in a carry-on suitcase to see how well they fit in a piece of luggage. Our top contenders for capacity and design provided plenty of space for a range of clothing items with useful and thoughtful features that made packing easier and more organized.
For compression-specific packing cubes, we paid close attention to how much space the packing cube saved once we zipped the compression zippers. For all cubes, we splashed a bit of water on the exterior and felt the inside to see if any of the packed contents were damp. After testing each set of cubes in our lab, we sent them home to be tested during real travels around the world for six months. We regularly collected insights on durability, functionality, and overall quality during this period to ensure each cube continued to impress.
Tips for Buying Packing Cubes
Compare compression versus regular packing cubes.
Compression packing cubes are designed to condense clothing by using the compression zipper to pack down the clothes in order to save space in a suitcase. Regular packing cubes are mainly for organizing clothes efficiently rather than consolidating clothing to make more room in a piece of luggage. Compression packing cubes can usually be expanded or compressed which gives travelers the best of both worlds.
Look for sets that include multiple sizes
One of the best parts about packing cubes is staying organized on the go with little effort. To help you keep like items together, consider buying a set of multiple packing cubes with different sizes. That way, you can know without opening the case what cube holds your pants, your shirts, your undergarments, and more. The various size options also let you mix and match the cubes to fit whatever luggage you're bringing from weekender duffles to large checked bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flexible fabrics like nylon or polyester are best for packing cubes as they'll allow you to pack the most items. These materials also tend to be water-resistant, keeping your items extra safe throughout your travels.
When it comes to saving space, experts say you can fold your clothes or roll them — it ultimately doesn’t matter. The most important thing is maximizing your space, and packing cubes are great for doing just that. Besides saving space, packing cubes can help you stay organized before and during your trip making them a must-have travel organizer .
For travelers who usually use checked luggage, consider purchasing a set with five or six cubes included so you can maximize space in each suitcase. And, if you’re a carry-on-only type of traveler, one or two packing cubes in small or medium sizes could be better suited for your needs, and you won’t have to worry about storing a large set either. Backpackers or campers should consider getting just one or two compression or regular cubes that can fit in a backpack or weekender bag for lighter packing .
Depending on the size of your packing cubes and luggage, the bags can be placed in either compartment of a suitcase or duffel bag . As always, you'll want to do your best to evenly distribute the heavy packing cubes so the bag doesn't become top or bottom-heavy. Ideally, the rectangle shape of your cubes should make it easy to take up every inch of space in a suitcase.
When it comes to organizing and maximizing precious luggage real estate, you're going to need more than just compression packing cubes. Whether you're traveling internationally or domestically via airplane, train, bus, or car, these simple solutions will have you packing like a pro on your next adventure.
Bounce Rapid Touch-up 3 in 1 Wrinkle Releaser Clothing Spray : This TSA-approved, multi-use product smooths, resolves static, and adds a clean, fresh scent all in a few spritzes.
Electrolux Garment Steamer : This travel steamer boasts a large water tank, an 8-foot-long cord, multiple steam settings, and only weighs one pound.
Mossio Shoe Bag : This compact bag is waterproof, fits multiple pairs of shoes, and can be used to store other items like toiletries and dirty laundry.
Steamline Luggage The Palm Cosmetics Set : The small, medium, and large pouches are made with fabric derived from recycled water bottles. Between the three pouches, you can fit a variety of travel essentials like phone chargers, makeup, an eReader, and more.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure , covering all of the best travel products from luggage to footwear. A recently converted compression packing cube user, Anna didn't know what she was missing out on until investing in multiple sets of packing cubes. She put together this list of the best packing cubes based on the results from the packing cube test we conducted in our New York City lab.
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IMAGES
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Our Top 7 Picks for the Best Travel Organizers: Best Overall: eBags Packing Cubes. Best for Backpackers: Osprey Packing Cube. Best for Documents: Zoppen Passport Wallet. Best for Laundry: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag. Best for Electronics: BUBM Electronics Organizer. Best for Toiletries: Eagle Creek Packing Organizer.
Best Budget Bevegekos Tech Organizer Travel Case. PHOTO: Amazon. $10 at Amazon. Why We Love It. You get twice the usual storage area with this organizer's two-layer, double-clamshell design.
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Lily & Drew Travel Jewelry Organizer. For a travel case that's a little bit larger, this Lily & Drew product may be the best jewelry travel organizer for you. Measuring 9.6″ x 7″ x 2″, it has a ring bar, six necklace loops, and 28 earring holes. It even has a removable velvet pouch which separates the jewelry on the left from the ...
The best Dopp kits for women offer enough space for your essentials while still being compact enough to fit in an already-stuffed carry-on or weekender. Everlane The Renew Transit Catch-All case ...
RFIDsafe Travel OrganizationPacsafe Gadget Pouch. MSRP: $119.95. Dimensions: 5.9″ x 10.6″ x 3.5″. In the digital age, travelers have more small objects to corral than ever before. Plus, many items like passports and credit cards use RFID technology to simplify identification and payment.
Take a look at our pick of the top eight travel organizers for a variety of occasions and types of travellers: #1 Best Organised Backpack - Tropicfeel Shell Backpack. #2 Best Clothes Organiser - Nomatic Packing Cubes. #3 Best Electronics Organiser - WANDRD Tech Pouch. #4 Digital Nomad Organiser- Nomad Organisers From Harber London.
The accessory cubes cost extra, though. $300 from REI. $300 from Best Buy. $300 from Huckberry. We spent six months testing 22 bags, and in the end we chose two as our top picks for travelers ...
The Best Travel Organizers for Shoes, Jewelry, Tech, and More — Tested and Reviewed. Best Waterproof Nite Ize Runoff Waterproof Travel Pouch with TRU Zip. PHOTO: Amazon. $30 $24 at Amazon.
Pacsafe RFIDsafe Anti-Theft Travel Organizer. Pacsafe RFIDsafe V150 Anti-Theft RFID Blocking Travel Organizer - This travel organizer holds our passports, money, tons of credit cards and travel cards, and driver's licenses. It also serves as a pen holder and has a clip that serves as a key holder. Plus it has RFID protection and it looks ...
Best Travel Organizer for Jewelry Mindspace Travel Jewelry Organizer Case. There are many options for jewelry travel organizers—including huge ones that require their armed guards. This medium-sized organizer strikes a good balance by offering enough space for a range of jewelry items without taking up half a suitcase. It's available in ...
Award: Best packing cubes | Quality: 3/5 | Value 4/5 | Satisfaction: 4/5 | Overall score: 3.6/5. These expandable luggage organizers are made of rip-stop nylon and are designed to make packing for ...
Of course you need snacks on snacks! Store your nibbles in this Stojo Collapsible Bowl (get a color that matches with your collapsible cup) and snacking on the go will be super easy. The best part is that you can use your collapsible bowl to store leftovers at home too! #versatility. 13. RFID Travel Wallet.
Our Top Picks. Best Overall: BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook at Amazon $23. Jump to Review. Best for Toiletries: Away The Hanging Toiletry Bag at Away Travel $75. Jump to Review ...
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Table Of Contents. 1. Go stargazing at the Tomsk Planetarium. 2. Browse through absorbing exhibits at the Tomsk History Museum and check out the observation deck. 3. Visit the interactive Monument to Happiness. 4. Soak in the breathtaking panoramic view of the city from the top of the Voskresenskaya Mountain.
Telephone area code: 3822. Average daily Tomsk January temperature: 14°C / 7°F. Average daily Tomsk July temperature: - 25°C / 77°F. One of the true treasures within the Siberia area of the Russian Federation, the city of Tomsk is overflowing with tourist appeal and also boasts an especially rich history, dating back some 400 years.
Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure, covering all of the best travel products from luggage to footwear. A recently converted compression packing cube user, Anna didn't ...
Good Travel Hostel, Tomsk: See traveller reviews, 21 candid photos, and great deals for Good Travel Hostel, ranked #30 of 51 Speciality lodging in Tomsk and rated 5 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
7. Museum of History of Tomsk. 102. History Museums. By DanielB011. This is also included an interesting presentation of how the coins of the area developed and changed. Inside the museum... 8. Uncle Kolya, Monunment to a State Traffic Inspector.