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Travel essentials—whether you have diamond platinum airline status or occasionally get away—are the key to a successful in-transit experience. First, the obvious necessities, like suitcases from the best luggage brands to start, be it a large checked style or carry-on roller. Our favorites are crafted from sleek aluminum or durable polycarbonate and feature double-spinner wheels, interior compression boards, and scuff-resistant finishes. For shorter trips, it’s all about weekender duffles, travel backpacks, or a roomy tote—ideally, ones made from sturdy yet lightweight canvas, leather, and nylon and built with comfortable handles and adjustable shoulder straps.
Vogue Editors’ Must-Have Travel Essentials:
- The Checked Suitcase: Rimowa Essential Check-In luggage, $1,150
- The Convenient Carry-On: Away The Bigger Carry-On, $295
- The Roomy Overnighter: Paravel weekender, $295
- The New Parent Backpack: Lululemon backpack, $198
- The Chic Makeup Bag: Cuyana leather travel case set, $168
- The Jewelry Organizer: Mejuri travel case, $78
- The Passport Holder: Smythson Mara croc-effect leather passport cover, $190
- The Travel Pillow: Slip Frequent Flyer 4-piece travel set, $150
- The Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max, $539
- The Non-Drying Sanitizer: Aesop hand wash, $10
- The Hydrating Hand Cream: Chanel Le Lift la crème main, $70
- The Nourishing Lip Mask: Kiehl’s Buttermask lip treatment, $28
Then, there are the smaller travel accessories, like a jewelry case, toiletry bags, and packing cubes to streamline what’s inside. Your call whether or not to Marie Kondo your clothes, toss it all in, or abide by the rolling method—when it comes to packing style and tips, to each their own. Of course, what’s on the outside of your luggage counts as much as the interior—who can resist lovely travel aesthetics like minimalist lines in neutral tones and pastels, vintage-inspired leather detailing, or a fun terrazzo print? And let’s not forget even smaller necessities, like a beautifully-made luggage tag and passport holder for securing and protecting your most valuable information. Don’t forget—these all make great travel gifts.
Going beyond luggage and the functional accouterment are the comfort extras like travel pillows, blankets, and eye masks to make the journey far more enjoyable. There’s nothing like luxurious cashmere, plush faux fur, or supportive memory foam to make an in-transit nap infinitely more sound.
Speaking of sound, noise-canceling headphones are another key player in a joyful journey—investing in a good pair will make any sojourn less arduous, not to mention comfier for your eardrums. And pet parents—you haven’t been forgotten. A stable but attractive-looking carrier or car seat for fur babies is as crucial as your suitcase. If not for your personal taste’s sake, for their comfort and safety.
Keep scrolling to shop Vogue’s edit of the best essential travel items, from luggage to in-flight accessories.
Checked Suitcase
Whether you’re packing for a long trip or a chronic over-packer, a large checked suitcase is your savior—Rimoma, Tumi, Monos, and Bric’s make some of the best.
Carry-On Suitcase
The carry-on suitcase is your ultimate journey essential for light travels and short trips alike. Opt for slightly larger options from brands like Away for a little extra room that’ll pass at security. What’s more, luxury versions you’d dare not check are worth the investment in this luggage size.
Weekender Bag
As it’s said, the clue’s in the name—a weekend bag, oversize tote, or duffle is a must-have for quick, one or two-night trips. Paravel has a great under-$300 pick, while Métier and The Row have timeless styles you’ll enjoy for years (and trips!) to come.
Travel Backpack
The travel backpack is another roomy bag option for shorter stays. The best feature multiple compartments to keep your belongings organized, including a separate section for shoe storage—so clutch. New parents will also love Lululemon’s thoughtful design, which includes pockets for a host of essentials—think snacks, wipes, and diapers—plus (especially clutch!) a changing mat.
Cosmetics Case
Toiletries are the bane of many travelers’ existences, but with an excellent cosmetic case in tow, it’s undoubtedly less of a pain point. Fingers crossed for no spills.
Travel Jewelry Case
Avoid tangled necklaces and misplaced earrings in transit with a travel jewelry case specifically sectioned for baubles.
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are, indeed, a lifestyle—if that’s your travel vibe, look to these sets for easy separation. (Psst: Those who love a monogram will appreciate Paravel’s set, which can be customized with up to three initials.)
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Luggage Tag
Don’t overlook this small travel accessory—a durable travel tag crafted from leather will ensure your luggage always finds its way to you. We hate to say it, but the possibility of a lost or delayed bag is real.
Passport Holder
Your passport is a very important document. Keep it protected and easier to find in your travel bag with a stylish cover—bonus points for a custom monogram.
Eye Mask
Let’s face it; a genuinely restful nap in transit is virtually impossible without a comfortable eye mask. The coziest are crafted from cushioned cotton, cashmere, washable silk, or lined with velvet—trust us, it’s worth the extra spend.
Travel Pillow
A travel pillow can be cumbersome to carry. But if you’re willing, a good one makes travel infinitely more comfortable, from silk-covered memory foam—Slip’s is an editor favorite—to hypoallergenic down and compressible ergonomic designs.
Travel Sets
Is there anything worse than being trapped on a bus, plane, or train that feels like an icebox? Plan ahead with a so-warm and, of course, stylish travel blanket made of cashmere, organic cotton, or faux fur. Pro tip: opt for one with a case to minimize the space it takes up in your luggage when not in use.
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Comfort isn’t solely about pillows and masks—sound is a hugely significant component, especially if you’re trying to work or relax in transit. Never journey with a pair of noise-canceling headphones again, and prepare for your trip by downloading a selection of podcasts, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and music.
Pet Carriers
Pet parents know how difficult it can be to find stylish and safe travel carriers and car seats. Labels like Max Bone, Wild One, and Diggs have become go-to’s for sleek and minimal designs, but equally stylish is Hill House Home’s whimsical tote with interior safety clips and the perfect head-peeking cutout.
Silk Pillowcase
If you’re a silk pillowcase die-hard, chances are you won’t travel without one. Secure a travel-specific style or two to keep in your luggage—even better if it comes with a coordinating eye mask.
Handbag Essentials
Your suitcase is zipped up, your seat is confirmed, your travel outfit is laid out—all that’s left now is for you to pack your handbag. As for what to absolutely include, other than your passport and ID, of course? Sanitizer and hand cream is a great place to start. We love Aesop’s rinse-free gel, best paired with Chanel’s hand cream and Kiehl’s lip mask to prevent hands and lips from losing too much moisture due to dry cabin air. A nail file is never a bad idea to have around either—manicures and zippers just don't get along. Then, to keep hair tidy, we love a big claw clip, plus a travel-friendly set of brushes and combs.
