Vacation time is booked and the hotel is reserved; all that’s left is to pack your suitcase before taking off. However, gathering these travel essentials can be tedious, especially with airline baggage restrictions. The trick to traveling light? Invest in a few basics that will accompany you on both long international flights and weekend getaways .
Let’s start with the essentials: a durable carry-on suitcase from a reputable brand and an easy-to-roll carry-on suitcase with wheels. From there, the list becomes more specific. Are you going on a short trip (or are you simply a minimalist when it comes to luggage)? If so, invest in a compact bag, such as a weekend tote bag or a travel backpack with multiple compartments for optimal organization, and comfortable handles or adjustable straps. On the other hand, if “traveling light” isn’t in your vocabulary, opt for clever travel accessories that will help you organize your suitcase. Hint: toiletry bags will come in very handy.
Now is also the time to invest in less frequently considered travel items designed to make your flight more comfortable: noise-canceling headphones or a sleep mask can become essential for making a night flight a little more bearable, especially if they’re made of silk or cashmere. Our list also includes handbag essentials and outfits for a truly comfortable journey.
Checked baggage
For a long trip, a spacious checked suitcase is essential. Brands like Rimowa and Horizn offer well-designed models in medium and large sizes. Opt for stylish models made of aluminum or durable polycarbonate, equipped with an internal compression system—luggage that will accompany you on many journeys .
Cabin suitcases
Short layovers and hidden fees for checked baggage clearly indicate one thing: traveling with just carry-on luggage is more economical and avoids the often frustrating waits after flights and the anxiety of losing your suitcase. Compact rolling suitcases with a telescopic handle and multidirectional wheels greatly facilitate passing through security checkpoints.
Weekend bags
Whether it’s a large shopping bag, a designer travel bag, or a stylish tote, this size is ideal for short one- or two-night trips. Plus, thanks to their soft fabric, these bags pack easily, and you can always slip one into your checked luggage as carry-on if you bring back too many souvenirs. LL Bean offers their weekend bags in durable canvas, while Polo Ralph Lauren ‘s suede model is a worthwhile investment.
Travel backpacks
The best backpacks combine aesthetics and functionality: clean lines are paired with multiple compartments for chargers, water bottles, and even shoes . Add laptop and rolling suitcase compartments, as well as adjustable shoulder straps, and these backpacks become true travel essentials.
Horizn Studios – SoFo Backpack Travel
Vanities and toiletry bags
Travel-sized toiletries are often a traveler’s nightmare. Fortunately, these pouches will allow you to neatly store your miniature lotions and creams.
Victoria Beckham – Vanity Leather Shoulder Bag
Luggage tags
It’s a small but indispensable travel accessory , the usefulness of which you only realize when your luggage is lost or left at another airport.
Bottega Veneta – Getaway Tag Holder
