25 Must-Have Travel Essentials If You’re Skipping The Checked Bags

I am sure you may be saying the same thing that I am saying when you travel these days, “those airlines already got enough of my money paying hefty baggage fees, so these products will help me make sure I don’t give them another cent.” Is that how you feel? Well, I can’t blame you. So, today, we are going to run through some of the MUST HAVE travel essentials that you can fit in your carry-on without worrying about the added fees. Are you ready? Let’s dive in.

Packing Cubes (8-piece set)Okay, listen— these packing cubes?

Total game-changer. If you’re like me and hate digging through a bag to find that one shirt or pair of socks, you need these in your life. They help you keep everything organized and neatly compressed so you can fit a lot more in your carry-on without feeling like you’re wrestling with your luggage. I’ve been using them for a while now, and I honestly don’t know how I survived without them. They even come with a shoe bag and a laundry bag, which I love because I always pack way too many clothes.

Why I recommend it: They make packing so much more organized, and the best part? No need to check your bag!

Price: About $14.99 for an 8-piece set. Buy it Here!

 

Compression Packing CubesNow, if you’re looking to really maximize space, check out these compression cubes. They’re like packing cubes but with a little extra magic. You can zip them up, then use a second zipper to squish everything down—seriously, it’s like a vacuum seal for your clothes. I used them on my trip to Japan, and I was able to pack everything I needed into just a carry-on!

Why I recommend it: They really help you save room without wrinkling your clothes too much.

Price: $21.99 for a 4-piece set. Buy it Here!

Roll-up Storage BagsFor bulkier items like sweaters, jackets, or even a beach towel, these roll-up storage bags are a lifesaver. You just pack them in, zip them up, and then roll everything to squeeze out all the air. It’s like magic, honestly. I packed a giant coat in one on my last winter trip, and it fit into my carry-on perfectly.

Why I recommend it: If you need to stuff some extra clothes in your bag but don’t want to check it, these are perfect.

Price: $25.99 for an 8-pack. Buy it Here!

3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless ChargerLet me tell you about this charger—if you’re someone who always finds themselves juggling multiple devices (like I do), this is a must-have. It charges your phone, smartwatch, and AirPods all at once, without all the mess of cords. Plus, it folds up really compact, so it’s perfect for travel. I take it with me everywhere, and it’s saved me more than once when my devices are running low on battery.

Why I recommend it: It’s compact, efficient, and keeps all your devices charged in one spot.

Price: $23.93. Buy it Here!

Nomad Lane Duffel BagOkay, this duffel bag has become my go-to travel buddy. It’s small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, but surprisingly spacious. You can stuff in a pair of shoes, a set of clothes, and a few toiletries, no problem. I love it because it keeps everything organized, and it has a bunch of separate compartments for things like your phone, wallet, or passport.

Why I recommend it: It’s sleek, durable, and fits as a personal item on most flights, so you don’t have to worry about overhead bin space.

Price: Around $180. Buy it Here!

Refillable Travel Perfume AtomizerNow, this one is for the fragrance lovers. If you like having your signature scent while traveling but don’t want to bring a bulky bottle of perfume, this little atomizer is perfect. You just refill it from your perfume bottle at home, and it’ll fit right in your carry-on without any issues. I’ve been using mine for months, and it works like a charm.

Why I recommend it: It’s sleek, easy to refill, and won’t leak all over your bag.

Price: Around $11.99 Buy it Here!

Cadence Containers (Reusable)If you’re tired of the plastic, throwaway travel bottles, you need to try these. These reusable containers are eco-friendly and magnetic, so you can snap them together and store them in any order you want. They fit all your toiletries—shampoo, conditioner, body wash, you name it—and are perfect for carry-ons. I love them because they’re leak-proof, and you can customize the labels too!

Why I recommend it: They’re great for minimizing waste while still packing your favorite products.

Price: About $103 for a full set. Buy it Here!

Lightweight Jewelry Organizer (8 pcs)For those of us who travel with jewelry (even if it’s just a couple of rings or a necklace), this organizer is such a game-changer. It’s soft, foldable, and keeps your jewelry from getting tangled or damaged. I used to throw everything in a little pouch, and half the time, my necklaces would get knotted. Now everything stays neat and safe.

Why I recommend it: It’s a perfect, compact way to keep your jewelry organized without worrying about damage.

Price: Around $23.99. Buy it Here!

EverSnug Blanket PillowThis one is a must for long flights or layovers. It’s exactly what it sounds like—a cozy blanket that folds up to turn into a pillow. It’s super soft and compact, and it’s a lifesaver when you’re trying to get some rest on a chilly plane or in an airport. I always pack it in my carry-on, and it’s been so handy.

Why I recommend it: It’s two-in-one, and it’s so much more comfortable than the usual airplane blanket.

Price: $29.95. Buy it Here!

Bagsmart TSA-Approved Clear Organizer Bag (3 pcs)You know how airports always ask for your liquids to be in a clear bag? Well, this organizer makes that process a whole lot easier. It’s sturdy, leak-proof, and fits all your necessary liquids (shampoo, lotion, toothpaste, etc.) perfectly. I love that it’s more durable than the flimsy bags the airport provides, and it makes security checks a breeze.

Why I recommend it: It’s durable, TSA-approved, and keeps all your toiletries in one spot.

Price: $11.05. Buy it Here!

Portable Travel Coffee MugIf you’re like me and need coffee to survive, you need a good travel mug. I love this one because it’s insulated, keeps your coffee hot for hours, and doesn’t spill. I’ve used it in airports, on trains, and even hiking. It’s a total lifesaver when you need a caffeine boost.

Why I recommend it: It keeps your coffee hot (or cold) for hours and is spill-proof, so no mess in your bag.

Price: Around $59.99. Buy it Here!

Bagail Packing Cubes with Laundry BagThese packing cubes with a laundry bag are perfect for keeping your clothes organized, and when you’re done with your dirty clothes, you just throw them in the laundry bag. No more digging through your bag for clean clothes or shoving everything into a random corner of your suitcase. Trust me, you’ll love this for both short and long trips.

Why I recommend it: They help keep your clean clothes organized and give you a spot for laundry as well.

Price: $19.99 for a 6-piece set. Buy it Here!

Microfiber Travel TowelThis towel is one of the best things I’ve packed for trips where I don’t want to bring bulky beach towels or hotel towels. It’s super absorbent, dries quickly, and folds up so small that it’s perfect for carry-ons. I’ve used it for everything from beach trips to camping.

Why I recommend it: It’s lightweight, dries fast, and packs down small without sacrificing comfort.

Price: $14.99. Buy it Here!

Travel Pillow with Memory FoamIf you want to sleep like a baby during long flights or car rides, this travel pillow is a must. It’s memory foam, so it molds to your neck for extra support. I always have trouble sleeping on planes, but this pillow makes a huge difference in comfort.

Why I recommend it: It’s soft, supportive, and helps you get some good rest on the go.

Price: $24.99. Buy it Here!

Travelon Anti-theft BackpackI love this backpack for travel because it’s designed to be extra secure. It has hidden zippers and compartments that make it harder for pickpockets to get into. Plus, it has plenty of room for my laptop, wallet, and other essentials. I use it on trips where I know I’ll be walking through crowded areas.

Why I recommend it: It keeps your valuables safe without sacrificing style.

Price: $49.99. Buy it Here!

Hydaway Collapsible Water BottleWhen you’re traveling, staying hydrated is key, but I hate carrying around bulky water bottles. This collapsible one is perfect because it flattens down when you’re not using it and expands when you need it. It’s lightweight, durable, and great for hikes or long days at the airport.

Why I recommend it: It’s compact, eco-friendly, and perfect for avoiding disposable plastic bottles.

Price: $29.65. Buy it Here!

Epicka Universal Travel AdapterNo matter where you go, you’ll need a good travel adapter. This one works in over 150 countries, so you don’t have to worry about packing a different one for each destination. It also has USB ports, so you can charge multiple devices at once, which is great when you’re traveling with family or friends.

Why I recommend it: It’s the only adapter you’ll need, no matter where you go.

Price: Around $23.89. Buy it Here!

Noise Canceling Headphone with pouchThese headphones are a must for long flights, trains, or buses. They block out the noise so you can sleep, read, or watch movies without distractions. They also fold up really compact, so they fit in your carry-on easily.

Why I recommend it: Great for tuning out background noise on planes or in busy terminals.

Price: $79.95. Buy it Here!

Portable Luggage Scale (2 pack)I’ve saved myself from expensive overweight luggage fees so many times with this portable luggage scale. You just clip it onto your bag and lift it up to check the weight. It’s small and easy to pack, but it can save you a ton of hassle at the airport.

Why I recommend it: It’s lightweight and can help you avoid costly baggage fees.

Price: Around $11.99. Buy it Here!

Travel Laundry Detergent SheetsThese laundry detergent sheets are so convenient for travel. They’re super compact, and you just toss one in the wash with your clothes. No need to buy bulky liquid detergent or powder—these little sheets are all you need.

Why I recommend it: It makes doing laundry on the road way easier.

Price: $9.99 for a pack. Buy it Here!

Lanyard Waterproof Phone Case ( 2 pack)For beach trips, rain, or any outdoor activities, this waterproof phone case is essential. I’ve used mine on boat tours and rainy hikes, and it’s kept my phone completely safe from water damage. It’s not bulky either, so it fits in your pocket easily.

Why I recommend it: It’s great for keeping your phone safe in any wet conditions.

Price: $11.99. Buy it Here!

Inflatable Foot Rest PillowI never thought I’d need one of these until I used it on a 12-hour flight. It inflates to give your legs and feet a little extra support, and it makes sleeping so much easier. It packs up small, so it’s easy to take along. I recommend it for long flights or road trips.

Why I recommend it: It makes long flights or car rides so much more comfortable.

Price: $21.99. Buy it Here!

Mini First Aid KitYou never know when a small cut or headache might happen, so having a first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes is always a good idea. This one is small enough to fit in your bag but has everything you’ll need for minor injuries.

Why I recommend it: It’s compact, convenient, and can save you in a pinch.

Price: Around $15.99. Buy it Here!

Silk Sleep MaskIf you’re someone who struggles to sleep in planes or noisy hotel rooms, this silk sleep mask is a must. It’s soft, blocks out light, and feels so comfortable on your skin. I use it whenever I need to nap on the go.

Why I recommend it: It’s light, comfortable, and perfect for blocking out light in any environment.

Price: $15.99. Buy it Here!

Travel Journal and Planner PackageI love keeping a travel journal when I go on trips, and this one is perfect because it’s compact and has enough space to jot down notes, memories, and little mementos like ticket stubs. Plus, it’s a great way to reflect on your travels when you get back home. And of course, it is always good to have a travel planner.

Why I recommend it: It’s a lovely way to capture memories of your trips and you get two for one; both a planner and journal in the package.

Price: Around $19.99. Buy it Here!

There you go—25 travel essentials I think you’ll absolutely love! If you are a carry-on newbie or you are a seasoned packer, then you realized that the struggle is real, but you got this! Trust me, these will make your next trip so much easier, more organized, and enjoyable. Let me know which ones you end up loving! Please subscribe to our Youtube Channel, True Travel Treasures!

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