I travel quite a bit both for work and for fun (although I love my work so all travel is fun, right?). Over the years, I’ve discovered several must-have travel items that keep me comfortable, organized, and ready for whatever comes my way. Whenever I share these items on Instagram they are really popular so I decided to create this blog post to give everything a more permanent location for easy reference.

Here are my favorite travel items, all of which have earned a permanent spot in my suitcase!

must-have travel items (for the plane)

1. Travel Pillow. A pillow is essential for long flights. I prefer this ‘trtl travel pillow’ over the traditional u-shaped pillow because it takes up much less space in my carryon bag. It wraps snuggly around your neck but has a firm insert on one side to support your head. It looks a little silly, but you’ll be sleeping so soundly you won’t notice.
2. Battery pack. This is the item I get the most rave reviews from people who have taken my recommendation. I use this all the time, not just for travel. I love that it includes all required cords (including the wall plug) so all you need is this! Bonus- it fits in my belt bag too.
3. Seat Organizer. This is for the more seasoned traveler and a more recent addition to my carry on bag. Years ago I read an article about how filthy the seatback pockets on an airplane are and ever since I’ve been hesitant to put anything in there. This organizer slides over the tray table, providing a clean space to store your items and lots of useful pockets so you can comfortably store what you need. It folds up nice and tiny when not in use!
4. Airfly Bluetooth Connect. This little device allows you to use wireless headphones for the seatback screens. Plug it into the audio jack and it pairs to your AirPods or other wireless headphones.
   
   

must-have travel items (for the hotel)

1. Extension Cord. This Anker extension cord lives in my suitcase full-time so I never forget it on a trip. I use it every time I travel. In hotels or Airbnbs is always seems the outlet is in the wrong spot, or not working or there’s simply not enough of them. This extension cord ensures I can share all my devices, with all the right connections, in any room.
2. Noise Machine. I bought this after staying in a noisy hotel for a week where it was hard to sleep through the night (and I’m usually a deep sleeper). Now I’m always prepared with this tiny noise machine. It’s come in handy with my kids many times too.
3. Cord Organizer. A few years ago I got a little cord organizer case and decided to load it with the extra cords, of all kinds, that were sitting around the house. It’s fully stocked and never leaves my suitcase so I always have it when I leave. It saves so much time when I’m packing for a trip that I don’t have to give a thought to chargers. It was a game changer. Highly recommend!

my favorite luggage

While we’re on the subject of travel, this post seems like the right place to share my favorite travel backpack and my carryon roller bag.

I love the Nordace Siena Smart Backpack. A few years ago I was on the hunt for a better backpack to use on trips and this one checked all my boxes- fits my MacBook, holds a water bottle on the side, has a slip to sit securely on my roller bag, and holds quite a bit!

The carry-on roller bag I’ve used for years is the “The Carry-On” from Away. I love the built in battery pack, that it came with international converters so I’m always prepared, and the space saving compression system.

The biggest time-saver is keeping all of my must-have travel items stored in my travel backpack or suitcase all the time. I never unpack them. That way when it’s time to pack for my next trip, I’m already halfway there!

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