17 Travel Essentials for Your Holiday Trip

17 Travel Essentials for Your Holiday Trip

By: Kate Kimberlin 

The holidays always seem to be synonymous with travel. Whether that be going home for the holidays, or even away with family and friends, airports always fill towards the end of the year. Here are 17 essentials for seamless holiday travel, whether you are in need of an upgrade or searching for the perfect gift for the wanderlust filled loved one. 

1. A good suitcase, of course…

Away luggage has gotten extremely popular over the years, for good reason. They come in three sizes, a variety of colors, and the option to have a built-in portable charger. 

2. …Or a spacious duffle bag 

The viral brand Baboon to the Moon has invaded TikTok feeds everywhere. They have four sizes in a variety of colors, and also sell many brightly colored accessories.   

3. A convenient toiletry bag

California boutique brand ban.do released a travel line in 2019 and has since expanded to include a variety of travel necessities. The dopp kit in the collection is perfect to store in either a carry-on or suitcase, complete with adorable patterns to match every personality.  

4. Protection for any valued items 

For anyone that loves clothes, shoes, and travel, dust bags are essential for keeping items safe and pristine. CALPAK carries several packs of them in fun colors to spice up the item. 

5. Maxim storage for overpackers  

Overpacking is sometimes inevitable, but the innovation of packing cubes is a great way to combat this. And while Vera Bradley is a bit of a throwback brand, their packing cubes are wonderful and can last through several washes.

6. Minis of your favorite hair care and makeup…

While having the comfort of daily hair and makeup products is possible on trips, it is not always convenient. The holiday season is a great time to find minis of your favorite products for travel, but Jones Road and Wow haircare are two brands that value their minis year round. 

7. …And hair tools to match

Hotels commonly have hair dryers as an amenity, but they often just do not cut it. Dry Bar has championed the idea of having access to perfect hair, including while traveling. Their interchangeable iron and foldable hair dryer fit perfectly in a checked bag. 

8. A sturdy carry on 

Canadian actress Shay Mitchell has begun to make travel must-have lists recently with her brand Béis. The brand is extensive, and has many options in terms of suitcases, backpacks, and carry-ons, with some even featuring an overweight detector. 

9. Noise canceling headphones 

Travel can be extremely stressful, especially during the holidays. An essential for surviving the noise that comes with travel is a solid pair of noise canceling headphones. Sony has been at the top of the market, with reviewers claiming that the new line is the most bang for your buck. 

10. A cord organizer

In the age of technology, traveling with devices means always carrying too many chargers to keep track of. Etsy has no shortage of cord organizers that can even be customized with monograms. 

11. Something for the planner

The British e-commerce company Papier has nailed stationary to a tee. Their travel journal is excellent for planners, with travel wishlists, planning guides, and reflections all inside. Not to mention, the covers come in many adorable, and often customizable designs.  

12. A space for jewelry 

The William Sonoma-owned brand Mark and Graham arguably has the most convenient jewelry organizer on the market. With the brand being known for customizable gifts, the case comes in many colors, and can be customized with a monogram. 

13. Tote bags on the go 

While tote bags are a new accessory staple, they may not always be suitable for travel. BAGGU has solved this problem with their many packable options.

14. For the always prepared 

For the ones who have a serious vitamin regime, or just get the occasional migraine while traveling, the Cadence travel capsules are a genius way to travel with any kind of medicine. They are small, magnetic, and hold just enough without needing to lug around noisy bottles. 

15. Boots made for walking (and TSA)

Despite the controversy, the Birkenstock Boston Clogs are comfortable, easy to take on and off, and are deemed by podiatrists to be a worthy investment.  

 16. A warm (and packable) jacket  

California yoga brand ALO has wonderful basics in terms of yoga and workout wear, but also wonderful layers. Their hoodie is stylish, warm, and comes in many colors.  

17. An organized travel wallet

Get the wanderer in your life a travel wallet that can hold everything they need when they get up to the TSA line. The FJÄLLRÄVEN KÅNKEN travel wallet is all encompassing, but both Away and Mark and Graham have a variety of options to adjust for any needs. 

No matter what holiday travel looks for you, these essentials are great ways to make it just a little bit easier. Remember, the best essential for any type of travel is patience and kindness. 

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