The Ultimate 2025 Travel Toolkit: 15 Must-Have Essentials for Jetsetters

Watching my 2024 highlight reel gives me jet lag. In typical fashion for travel writers, I have spent the past 12 months getting my passport stamped in 22 different nations across five continents. While it may not have been a record-breaking year, I’m happy to announce that I am using the same gear this December as I started with in January. Indeed, many of my essential travel items have been to all seven continents and have garnered compliments from fellow travelers. So, what do I pack? A novice might say: “It depends on the journey.” However, after a decade as a professional travel writer, I have assembled quite a collection of adaptable products that I utilize daily, whether my adventures take me to Paris or Peru.

My first trip next year may not be very glamorous; I will be heading to Colorado for a colonoscopy. But immediately afterward, I’ll be traveling on Air Tahiti Nui to Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea, an overwater resort in French Polynesia where breakfast can even be delivered by canoe. Despite the stark contrast between the two trips, I’ll be packing many of the same items — that’s just typical for travel experts. The encouraging news? You can pack like a professional as well. Below, discover 15 travel accessories and equipment that I utilized in 2024 and am eager to take with me in 2025. 

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

“Pillow, passport, wallet, keys.” You can tell you’re passionate about your travel pillow when it’s the first item you verify before departing for the airport. In contrast to the flimsy, overpriced pillows commonly found in airport shops, this best-seller, boasting nearly 4,700 five-star reviews, is constructed from dual-density memory foam that genuinely supports my head. The chin strap and headrest attachments ensure that the pillow remains securely in place, providing significant advantages. This neck pillow is not only ideal for flights but was also my companion last spring while discovering New Zealand via KiwiRail’s scenic railway. 

Tweezerman Mini Slant Travel Tweezers

During a stay in August at the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, I found myself spending an excessive amount of time in front of the luxurious magnifying mirror situated in the bathroom. The issue was not the mirror but rather dull tweezers from the dollar store. The first item I purchased upon returning home were these popular Tweezerman tweezers (over 3,000 units sold in the past month). Their slanted tips ensure that even the most obstinate hairs are easily removed, and I appreciate the fact that they come in a travel-friendly size. They even include a protective case. Almost 80 percent of their reviews on Amazon consist of perfect five stars, with “small but powerful” appearing to be the general opinion among consumers. 

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Until two years ago, I would purchase an adapter at every destination I traveled to or borrow one from the establishments I stayed in. Investing in this universal adapter — compatible with over 200 countries — has saved me considerable money and enhanced my independence as a traveler. Featuring three USB-C and two USB-A ports, it allows simultaneous high-speed charging for up to six devices. It’s so practical that I even utilize it at home when I’m not traveling. Although it does not convert voltage, it possesses built-in safety features designed to prevent overheating. Furthermore, despite being a new item, it has become incredibly popular with over 9,000 units sold last month on Amazon. One reviewer noted they would “give it six stars” if possible, stating, “After embarking on a global journey with this, I’m convinced that this is the best adapter available.”

Anker Prime Power Bank

Last January, my 20,000 wAh Anker power bank was essential when I found myself on an island in the Philippines facing frequent power interruptions. This summer, I upgraded to Anker’s more advanced version, which is 60 percent more compact than most 65wAh portable chargers and can also function as a wall charger. I appreciate the ability to plug it into an outlet at the airport, where it charges itself while also powering up to two devices. Unlike earlier models, it features an LCD display that indicates battery status and power output. “This earns my recommendation for the finest compact travel power bank globally,” a customer remarked, labeling it “state-of-the-art technology.” Even being a new model, it’s rapidly selling out of Amazon warehouses: over 5,000 units were sold in the previous month.

Baleaf Women’s Fleece-lined Leggings

As I pen this, I’m currently on a Hurtigruten Arctic expedition. Most leggings are inadequate in Norway’s frigid climate. However, these highly-rated bottoms — boasting nearly 24,000 five-star reviews and over 20,000 sold in just the last month — are passing every challenge. Thanks to the plush fleece lining, these water-repellent leggings are warm enough that I can wear them without experiencing the chill of the wind. They’re also airy and light, allowing me to layer them beneath my preferred four-season hiking trousers, and they feature two side pockets spacious enough to accommodate an iPhone and even a set of gloves. “They were our essential pants for our holiday getaway in the UK and Ireland,” commented one buyer who found them both warm and cozy.

Venture Pal 35L Ultralight Lightweight Packable Foldable Travel Pack

My water-repellant Venture Pal embarked on its first journey over two years back on a traditional dhow boat in Mozambique. Last May, it served as my excursion bag while exploring Croatia. It folds into its own front pocket, so if I don’t find myself needing to shop or want to remove a layer of clothing, I can simply keep it tucked away in my purse. The cushioned shoulder straps and chest strap are thoughtful enhancements that many packable backpacks lack. I also value the two-way zippers and accessible side pockets (ideal for holding a water bottle or umbrella). It comes in nine shades and has garnered close to 13,000 five-star ratings. One enthusiastic review titled “Best thing since ever!” states: “I originally purchased this a year and a half ago for my journey to Israel, it is so light, feels like nothing, and it accommodates everything, everything. I now use this as my carry-on.”

Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack

I’m not parting ways with my adored Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag. Nonetheless, I have explored options with my new Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack. For one, I’m a massive admirer of the vibrant color selections. This 1.5-liter bag is my go-to when I need something ultra-compact for sightseeing. It is ingeniously crafted to fold into one of its pockets, making it convenient to stow in your carry-on. It features a main compartment equipped with double zippers, a mesh organizer containing a clip for keys, and a concealed zippered back pocket. Composed of 100% recycled nylon, it is also waterproof. “Adorably stylish and remarkably durable,” summed up one pleased customer on Amazon. “I carry it with me everywhere!”

Nemo Double Haul 55 L Convertible Duffel and Tote

I acquired this multifunctional bag — it serves as a water-resistant duffle, tote, and backpack all-in-one — for a recent excursion to Tanzania.
“`Singita Explore, the secluded safari camp where I was lodging, can only be reached by small aircraft. I required a soft-sided suitcase that could adapt to fit in the aircraft’s cargo hold. Although it is incredibly capacious (holding 55 liters), I managed to carry it on both domestic and international flights. When not utilized, it compresses into a handy carrying case that can also function as a packing cube. Yet the most remarkable aspect of this bag is that, similar to all Nemo merchandise, it includes a lifetime guarantee. “This bag serves numerous purposes,” remarked one REI customer who employs it as a weekend getaway bag, among various uses. “I can’t fathom how I managed without it.”

Hibag 12 Compression Bags for Travel

These top-selling compression bags were genuine space savers (and figurative lifesavers) this past summer when I arranged one bag for an extensive European adventure: I visited Portugal’s new WOW museums, attended the Olympics in France, experienced Riverside Luxury Cruises’ 10-day Rhine River journey, and spent a week in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Presently, I’m utilizing one in Norway to organize my bulky Fjallraven Expedition Down Jacket and my Canada Goose puffer vest. Without this bag, those two items alone would fill my entire suitcase. I appreciate the double-zipper feature and the range of sizes available. One fellow enthusiast, an Amazon customer who traveled with just a carry-on during a week-long European expedition, stated, “I could pack 3 pairs of pants, 1 skirt, 6 tops, 1 sweater, 2 bras, 7 pairs of underwear, 7 socks, and 2 belts all in my suitcase thanks to these bags.”

Furtalk Sun Hat

When I reach Nicole Kidman’s age and someone inquires about my secret to flawless skin, I’ll share a montage of myself wearing this hat around the globe. Most recently, I donned it on an MSC Mediterranean Cruise where I required the UPF 80+ sun shielding it provides. The integrated sweatband kept me comfortable while exploring Santorini, and the removable chin strap ensured this hat remained secure even during our tumultuous boat excursion around Capri. Did I mention it’s also fashionable and easy to pack in a carry-on? A customer on Amazon — where this hat boasts more than 4,600 five-star ratings — mentioned that “the hat maintained its shape and looked fantastic,” after bringing it on two trips where it also spent some time in the pool (and dried swiftly).

GoPro Hero13 Black Waterproof Action Camera

Last spring, I had the opportunity to swim with wild dolphins in Kaikoura, New Zealand. Although I utilized the GoPro Hero 12 that day, I have since upgraded to the new Hero 13. Also waterproof, it is GoPro’s first camera featuring “Burst Slo-Mo,” and its advanced enduro battery allows for up to 2.5 hours of uninterrupted recording. It’s already achieved fourth position on Amazon’s list of Best Sellers in Sports & Action Video Cameras and is so in demand that over 3,000 units were sold within the last month alone. “It’s worth the additional expense to acquire an authentic action camera,” asserted one customer. “I’ve purchased some generic and less expensive action cameras in the past and have consistently encountered problems.”

Yeti Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler

My road trips and camping excursions in 2024 resembled Yeti advertisements. I’m enamored with Yeti products, particularly this highly-regarded cooler equipped with wheels. Before acquiring this Yeti cooler, I would need to enlist a friend to assist in transporting/lifting my cooler or risk straining my back attempting it solo. The Yeti Roadie 48 accommodates up to 54 pounds of ice, and 76 cans or 15 bottles of wine (don’t inquire how I know). Indeed, it comes at a cost, but it boasts a functional periscope handle, puncture-proof wheels, and slip-resistant feet which proved useful during our boat trip at Flathead Lake. Additionally, it provides the best ice retention in the industry. One customer noted it surpasses mere travel — they utilized it when their home refrigerator failed. The ice lasted an entire week inside.

Women’s Vuori Performance Joggers

My partner grew weary of seeing me in these joggers (I wear them daily), until I gifted him a pair of the men’s version. Now, he enjoys matching with me, particularly when we arrive at our hotel room after a long travel day. These joggers are crafted from Vuori’s aptly titled DreamKnit fabric, which is so soft and cozy that you can easily nap in these bottoms. They are also moisture-wicking, slightly elastic, and overall designed for movement, hence the “performance” in their title. Moreover, they include pockets and endure multiple seasons (which is fantastic given their cost). “I’ve owned them for two years and they hardly appear worn,” remarked one shopper at REI, where they hold an impressive 4.7-star average rating from over 500 assessments.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35 Travel Pack

Among all my travel belongings, I likely receive the most praise for my Cotopaxi Allpa. This top-tier backpack (Travel + Leisure editors have declared it the best overall carry-on backpack after assessing 90 variations) has been a reliable companion on all seven continents. Unlike many other backpacks, it opens like a suitcase, eliminating the need to rummage for what I need. It also boasts built-in organization, allowing me to travel without packing cubes. The resilient outer zippers include anti-theft loops, and although this bag is water-resistant, it is accompanied by a rain cover. I possess an older model (I received my first one in 2021, and I’m still utilizing it), while this updated version includes a detachable waist belt. “The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack has entirely transformed my travel experience,” reviewed one Amazon customer who commended the reinforced handles that allow it to be carried like a duffel bag, too.

Lucky Brand Women’s Basel Ankle Bootie

I’ve had these popular (with over 8,100 five-star ratings) Lucky ankle booties for at least three years. Despite the 1.5-inch heel, I’ve never encountered issues walking in them without rolling my ankles, even when traversing cobblestone streets in Amsterdam or during wine tastings in South Africa. I’m a big admirer of the side zipper — for both practicality and aesthetics — and the cushioned footbed is certainly noticeable. “I wore this boot while on vacation and did A LOT of walking (between 7 to 10 miles daily),” shared one customer at Amazon. “They were so comfortable that I ended up wearing them every single day of my 14-day trip.”

Enjoy a fantastic bargain? Subscribe to our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll deliver our favorite travel items to you each week.