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Just 43 Products To Pack For Your Next City Getaway

So you can fully prepare for the concrete jungle.

Posted 8 hours ago

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by Elizabeth Lilly BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff

As a Deputy Editorial Director for BuzzFeed’s shopping team, I love to get into the weeds of why a product’s worth the money by deep diving into customer reviews, and product-testing as much as possible.

Hi, I'm Elizabeth and I've lived in New York City for 15 years. (Though here I'm with the iconic Greyfriars Bobby statue in Edinburgh back in September.)

Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed

I love to travel when my time (and budget) allows. I do a mix of trips to tropical islands, small villages, and cities. When it comes to cities, I've been to ones all over the US, in Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Italy, the UK, Greece, Croatia, Iceland, France, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Czech, Hungary...and I feel confident I'm missing a few locales. Suffice it to say, I have the qualifications to give you advice in this story. 

When I'm at home in NYC, I often see tourists struggling to get around the city or who are just improperly dressed. And sometimes I'll even give them directions or tips! People in NYC *are* nice, they've just got places to be and things to do...and you were likely walking hand in hand with your five-person family down the sidewalk in midtown outside of Radio City Music Hall or lollygagging in the door of a subway train when someone told you to "MOVE" because they were trying to get to work and you were in the way. Remember, you're visiting a place where people live, not a theme park. So you're coexisting with people who're living their normal lives, and you should act accordingly. That also means that when you need something, it may not be readily available to you, like a bottle of water or a one-use poncho would be at Universal Studios. 

Ok, now that we've settled that, I've rounded up all kinds of things that'll come in handy, from several anti-theft items to comfortable shoes that won't have your old dogs howling by the time you get back to your hotel after dinner. Read on and happy travels!

1. A stick of Gold Bond Friction Defense will stop chafing caused by sweat before it even starts. It's sooo good and I think is better than any other competitor in the thigh-saving category. If you're in a city, you're going to do a LOT of walking and I use this all the time in NYC before I run out the door. 

Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed

Yes, that is my messy medicine cabinet. I keep this stick front and center in it because if I leave the house with bare legs and don't apply it before, I really regret it. Note that I have the old packaging (the product lasts for about half a year for me, but the formula hasn't changed. 

Promising review: "It’s incredible!!! Chub rub and chafing are always huge issues, especially in dresses, and this solved that problem in one fell swoop. I used this for the first time on a two-week trip to Europe, where the weather was HOT every day, and there was no AC. I got blisters on my legs the one day I didn’t use it, but used it religiously every other day, and it protected/soothed any existing irritation and stopped anything else from happening. It could have been a nightmare, but this product was lifesaving!! I’d recommend keeping it in your purse and reapplying throughout the day as needed. Absolutely worth it, especially for the price!" —Rebecca

Get it from Amazon for $6.26.

2. Or some Megababe Thigh Rescue Gel can quickly dry and leave a dry-touch finish on your thighs so you don't feel like you're slipping and sliding around as you stroll through Temple Bar in hunt of a Guinness so you can learn to split the G like Dua Lipa. 

Amazon

It even has a built-in application so you don't have to wash your hands after application!

Megababe is a woman-owned small biz started by Katie Sturino with tons of personal care products, including the OG Thigh Rescue stick. 

Get it from Amazon for $13.99.

3. A phone-size portable charger with different cord options, because maybe everyone in the fam isn't using the same kind of phone just yet. You'll be using your phone quite a bit, between finding the best route from Cafe Tortoni to Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires (it's great for public transit, too!) and taking lots and LOTS of pics to preserve those memories. And you can't always rely on dropping into a coffee shop to charge your phone. Those outlets are precious commodities!

www.amazon.com, Amazon

There are four cables (three output for charging devices and one input for charging this charger) and three input slots so you can charge up to six devices at once with this.  

Promising review: "Okay, when I travel, I take a lot of videos and many photos, so it doesn’t take me long to run out or be low on my battery. Recently, I traveled to Hawaii and was able to catch so many shots and videos without the fear of having a dead battery! When you’re flying, travelling around the world, or at different conferences, no need to worry about your battery charge! This device has you covered!" —Shannan C.

Get it from Amazon for $20.98 (available in six colors).

4. A compact travel umbrella with a case so you don't get caught in a downpour or rushing to buy a last-minute umbrella. It folds up really small but has a 40-inch arc and a 35.4-inch diameter, so enough to cover you while you scurry about. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I was traveling to Germany in February and wanted a small umbrella for the trip. This umbrella was in a sturdy case and easily packable. I was very pleased with the quality and usability of this umbrella." —Terri A. Hannan

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in a range of colors and multipacks). 

5. A *foldable* wide-brim hat for helping you keep the sun off of your face, make your outfits look even cuter, and easily fit in your carry-on without crushing it. And if you visit a site that asks you to take off your hat, you can easily fold it up and put it in your bag. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Guys. If you’re going on a trip and need a cute hat but don’t want to worry about it getting smashed…look no further. I bought this hat last summer. It’s been as far as The Maldives, all over Europe, and I wear it on the reg in southern California. It’s totally kept its shape, and I’m not shy of shoving it in bags. 10/10 recommend! I’m sitting on a bus in Croatia right now thinking how awesome this hat has been and decided to write a review, as I rely on reviews for my purchases on Amazon. Hope this helps someone!" —Lyra S.

Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in 12 color combos). 

6. A set of Fomin antibacterial paper soap sheets for those moments when you duck into a charming hole-in-the-wall Italian place's bathroom and realize they're REALLY hole-in-the-walling on the bathroom front because you can't find any soap. These pocket-size packs come in tea tree oil, sweet orange, and refreshing lavender scents. And they lather SUPER well with a little bit of water, according to reviewers. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Fomin is a small business that specializes in travel soaps and wipes. 

Promising review: "Best thing ever. I work outdoors and I use this for my job. Doesn’t require lots of water either, but gets the job done. I actually bought it for my fishing trip and can’t wait to see how well it does." —Amazon Customer

Get a three-pack from Amazon for $9.99 (available in single-scent packs, unscented, and larger packs). 

7. A flat RFID-blocking fanny pack can work underneath your clothes or as just a regular waist bag. Let's make it harder for the pick-pockets because we all can't be walking around with an electric wallet like some Americans did during the Paris Olympics....

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Discreet yet spacious. I purchased this for a recent trip. I was able to fit my phone, passport, credit cards, and cash in it easily and it wasn’t bulky or obvious under my clothing. It was comfortable to wear for extended periods of time." —KailensMom

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 23 styles and two sizes). 

8. Or an RFID-blocking anti-theft neck wallet so you'll more easily navigate your cruise-ship excursion to the top of the Acropolis (a must while you're in Athens!) and want to keep all your important stuff where you can see it and access it. Pickpockets exist, and you've gotta be aware of 'em, but let's focus on taking in the sights. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I carried this pouch during a three-week cruise through Greece and Turkey. It was extremely comfortable, lightweight, and handy, allowing easy access to important papers and money. Love it!" —JC

Get it from Amazon for $11.92+ (available in six colors).

9. OR, a PocketCor belt will *instantly* add five pockets to your ensemble without advertising it to pickpockets or whomever else is lurking on your travel IGs four years from now. It has one zippered compartment and four elastic compartments. AND is moisture-wicking and quick dry, meaning it'll be there for ya' when you insist upon hoofing it around as much during your 36-hour layover in London. 

Alina Sol

Alina Sol is a woman-owned small biz established in 2021 that specializes in storage accessories for travel and running. 

Promising review: "I purchased for travel. It was easy to put my money, phone, and passport in the pockets at the airport! I wore it over a dress while shopping/doing lunch in Italy and put my money, phone, and hotel key in the pockets. I felt secure and comfortable with it the whole day! I'd like more colors!" —Kristina

Get it from Alina Sol for $58 (available in women's sizes XXS–L and 3XL–4XL and men's sizes XS–S and L). 

10. A portable handheld fan for those moments when the breeze takes a break. Oh, and it's also a power bank *and* flashlight. I ALWAYS have mine on me during the day-to-day in NYC and never regret making room for it in a coat pocket or my bag. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Check out a TikTok of the portable fan in action. 

I own this and use it ALL the time. It comes in handy in a variety of situations at home *and* while traveling — especially when you're sitting in a stuffy plane in Miami in July with the doors open, waiting for the pilot to board and take off. I def got some jealous side-eyes from other passengers as I kept myself cool with this. 

Get it from Amazon for $14.39+ (available in three colors). 

11. A Baggallini anti-theft travel backpack to make it harder for anyone who gets some (illegal) ideas while you're marveling at [insert picturesque view]. I'm of the opinion that you don't ALWAYS need a backpack for a city outing, but this would especially come in handy if you're doing a day trip via train somewhere! Yep, you *can* and should hop from Vienna to Budapest for the day quite easily on the train. I have!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

It has RFID-blocking technology; is made of slash-resistant, Securtex anti-theft fabric; and locking zippers that blend in with the backpack's design. 

Promising review: "This has great security features. The compartment that holds cards has a locking zipper and sits securely against your back. Two side pockets for water bottle, umbrella, etc. Very roomy and lightweight. I used it this weekend at a tulip festival in Washington. It lightly rained the whole time I was outdoors, and nothing in my bag got wet. It wiped dry easily. A great daypack for adventures!" —pixie

Get it from Amazon for $109.99+ (available in 10 colors). 

12. A compact eight-compartment pill organizer so you'll have space for all the stuff you take from all the delicious food that sometimes makes you feel bad on your travels. Go ahead and sign up for that Hanoi street food tour (I did this Vespa one and loved it). It's totally worth it!!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "My husband and I travel a lot and take a number of prescription drugs. It was always a hassle accessing our medication when needed, so I purchased this organizer to make things easier. I used a label maker and labeled each little compartment and it has performed wonderfully. I highly recommend this organizer to anyone who travels and needs medications throughout the day." —Jacqueline

Get a three-pack from Amazon for $5.97.

13. A waist bag with a ton of storage room inside that has a long enough strap to wear crossbody *or* comfortably fit over outerwear so you can use your arms to help you balance while teetering toward a glacier. If you plan on wearing it across your chest, attach your waist buckles together with a zip-tie to prevent it from getting unclipped from your back. 

Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com

I wear a size L/XL in clothing and sometimes waist bags just don't work out so well for me. With this one, I can confirm that it fit around my waist comfortably without outerwear, across my chest without outerwear, *and* over a thick coat and several layers. The pockets inside are so handy and I even had room to spare throughout my Iceland trip (which was a combo of bopping around Reykjavík and outdoorsy excursions). This was the only purse I brought for the whole trip and it performed its job flawlessly. Just make sure that you zip the zipper ALL the way because the zipper goes down pretty far on the sides for easier access to contents. Having my hands free was wildly convenient for a number of reasons, including crawling around inside of an ice cave and putting out my hands for some extra balance while walking on sheets of ice along cliffs. Oh, and it comes in so so SO many colors. And in case it looks familiar, TikTokers compare it to the Lulu waist bag. 

Get it from Amazon for $11.98+ (available in 37 styles). 

14. At least one outfit that covers your shoulders and knees, like this *very popular* off-the-shoulder jumpsuit. This'll especially come in handy if you find yourself in Rome trying to see The Vatican AND St. Valentine's Skull in Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin in the same day. (Highly rec both, even if you're not religious! Oh, and rewatch A Roman Holiday before going to the Basilica.) 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Purchased this jumpsuit for a cruise. It is amazingly comfortable and fits perfectly. Normally I need to hem or alter the length, but this was perfect due to the type of bottom. It could be dressed up with jewelry and a large belt. I liked the black one so much I ordered the same one in a maroon." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes S–3X and 32 colors/patterns). 

15. Or an airy nap dress I own and have worn on several city vacations because it's pretty enough for a nice restaurant, basically feels like a comfy nightgown, has PLENTY of room for overindulging, and will cover your shoulders and knees for religious sites. I wear it all the time in NYC too and some very stylish Upper East Side ladies have stopped me on the street to tell me how much they love this Amazon dress!

Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed

I know, I look SO elegant and not at all like I've been running on ~three hours of sleep a night for going on a week at this point of my vacation, right?! I packed it for Italy knowing that I'd be going in lots of churches and religious sites that require having your shoulders and knees covered, and I pulled it off with this by merely slipping the sleeves up higher (as seen on the right when visiting the church with The Mouth of Truth from A Roman Holiday...turns out I'm NOT a liar after all). But I owned this dress months before I touched down in Rome and have been racking up compliments from strangers on the streets of NYC thanks to this frock. ("Thanks! It's from Amazon!') It washes well, is super lightweight, and very easy to wear with a regular bra. The only thing it *doesn't* have is pockets. But I'll make an exception for this comfy beaut.

Get it from Amazon for $26.39 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).

16. Some anti-pickpocketing clips that'll easily attach two zippers and make it extra difficult to quickly zip open your favorite regular bag in case you don't want to buy a whole new bag that's anti-theft for your Chicago trip. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I got these right before a 10-day European trip where we walked 4–7 miles a day, in crowded cities. I used two of them on my purse, to connect one to the strap link and one to the zipper link. (like travel purses do it) Once I zipped my purse, I could then connect these two clips to secure the zipper so it stayed zipped in crowds and the metro. It was a whole lot cheaper and easier than buying a new purse, just for travel. One of our party had their phone pickpocketed, because their purse was not secure.... but mine was! 👍" —A. M. Montgomery

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $12.99 (available in four color combos). 

17. And an anti-theft crossbody bag if you prefer that over a waist bag and you don't have a zip-up bag that you can hack with the anti-pickpocketing clips for that Nashville bach on your schedule. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I brought this crossbody with me on my Europe trip, and I’m so glad I did! I got the smaller size, and it held everything I needed without feeling bulky. The safety features really gave me peace of mind while exploring crowded places. Truly such a great value — worth every penny!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $35.39+ (available in 12 colors).

18. AnI Dew Care "Tap Secret" mattifying powder shampoo to tackle greasy roots without the aerosol or benzene formula. This'll be easy to do a quick touchup when you're resting at the hotel in between afternoon tours and dinner. City traveling can be super sweaty! But you don't have to wash your hair every day on your trip. 

Amazon

Promising review: "I was looking for a dry shampoo that would be easy to use on the go for a trip I was taking. I had no issues taking this through TSA and it was so easy to use on the go. You literally just pat the poof on your scalp and then rub the powder in. I do have black hair so dry shampoo is usually very visible in my hair, but I didn't have any harder time than usual rubbing this powder in. It did a really good job of soaking up all the oil and giving my hair volume. I'm not a fan of the price for the amount that you get, but it is lasting longer than I thought it would. I would definitely recommend and will purchase again." —Teresa

Get it from Amazon for $17.60+ (available in three colors/styles). 

19. A clinical-strength antiperspirant if you're visiting somewhere warm and you're a sweater. It has 12% aluminum chloride, which blocks sweat for up to 72(!!) dry hours. Or just wear deo with aluminum in it. Everyone can tell when you're not, and if you're in a packed city, you don't wanna be the smelly tourist. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Just got inside from 80-degree weather. I CANNOT believe I have no sweat marks. To be dramatic, this is life-changing. To be modest, this is life-changing. Haha. I was always so embarrassed going anywhere! No matter the weather I was always dripping sweat from under my arms. I was always so self-conscious, leaving parties early, known as the sweater! No more! I’m seriously so excited about this." —Liz

Get it from Amazon for $5.67.

20. Self-heating soothing foot masks made with Epsom salts, lavender, and peppermint to help quiet your old dogs after a long day on your feet, running, or even milling about on cobblestone streets in not-so-supportive shoes on vacation. 

Emma Lord / BuzzFeed

Check out aTikTok of the foot masks in action. 

BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says: "I'm a long-ish distance runner and these were certainly an interesting experience for my feet! You slide them on and after a few minutes feel a tingling, mildly burning (in a good way) sensation. It doesn't quite numb your feet, but it relaxes them. I kept them on for 30 minutes and then toweled my feet off, and the tingling sensation slowly faded over the next 30 minutes. After that my feet felt very refreshed and relaxed at a time of day when they're usually aching from all the miles I put in. The whole thing was a mess-free, easy process, and I will definitely keep them on hand for longer run days!"

Promising review: "Very soothing. My husband and l used these on our European vacation, and they definitely felt good on our feet!" —KS2018

Get a set of three pairs from Amazon for $11.97. 

21. A 4-in-1 travel adapter that'll work for a wide range of countries because you shouldn't have to google which adapters you need before every international trip. There are better things to do, like talking yourself into packing that one dress you've only worn once but MIGHT wear on this vacation.  

Amazon

Promising review: "As an international flight attendant, I am in different countries weekly. While the all-in-one adapters, in theory, are great, they often are too big/heavy to stay in the socket securely — you are much better off with one like this. It is sturdy in the socket, even with an electric cord (my hair curler) and my phone and iPad all plugged in. Very satisfied!" —Susan H.

Get it from Amazon for $17.99.

22. A portable door lock to attach to any regular old door for your hotel, vacation rental, room in a guest house, or, well, just any door. It's super easy to install and won't damage the door. It'll be a comfort for solo travelers, especially. Maybe you can also tell your uncle about it who's never been to a big city and only sees them on cable news. 

www.amazon.com, Amazon

Just make sure that if you pack in your carryon, it's easily accessible because I've had TSA pull me aside a few times to see what it is. 

Promising review: "My best guy friend bought this for me and I love it. I’m a flight attendant and am in hotels 4–5 nights a week. Sometimes the “locks” just don’t feel sturdy enough. This device gives me an extra layer of security and allows me to sleep at night. I keep it in my flight bag." —Emilia Duren

Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (also available in packs of two and four).

23. A weighted sleep mask that'll help block out any random light that you aren't used to. Listen, a Times Square hotel may be conveniently located, but it's not going to be quiet or dark!  

Amazon

Promising review: "I am a flight attendant and have a wacky work schedule. I frequently have to sleep during the day. These are SO comfortable and cool as well. I have ordered and tried out at least 10 eye-masks off of Amazon and have found these to be the best. They are SO comfortable and do not have velcro on the straps, for which I am thankful, because I usually sleep on my back and am sensitive to the thickness of eyemasks which have the Velcro straps." —SW

Get one from Amazon for $14.99. 

24. Plus a portable blackout curtainto suction onto where your staying's window to give you some deep DEEP darkness you need for sleeping. Nothing's ever going to feel like home, but maybe with these you can get your hotel room as dark as it is at home!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "My kids need the room to be pretty dark to sleep. I didn’t have much faith in this, but needed to try something. These are AMAZING!! Absolutely worth every penny. Instantly darker and help keep the room at a comfortable temperature." —Julie T

Get it from Amazon for $21.59+ (available in five designs).

25. And a portable white-noise machine because you booked a spot in THE best neighborhood for nightlife — which was all well and good until the night you went to bed early to catch the (cheap) first flight out. (Ahem, Trastevere.)

Amazon

Promising review: "I purchased this for my trip to Europe as I sleep with white noise every night. The rohm scores extra points for volume control, and it can get quite loud. It’s also lightweight and chargers easily with a USB." —Jessie W.

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in two styles and also in two-pack or travel set).

26. Some cute London Fog rain booties you CAN wear on a plane, but will also be easier to pack in a suitcase than knee-high wellies. Sometimes you're just gonna be in a place where you need rain boots! The reviewer below wore these bad boys allllll over DC. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I brought these to DC for a wet weekend of sightseeing. Though tennis shoes would be the best option for the amount of walking we did, these were suitably comfortable and kept my feet dry for all 7+ miles we walked that day. (Not to mention how absolutely adorable they are!) No blisters, no regrets!" —RT

Get them from Amazon for $39.95 (available in sizes 6–11 and 16 styles).

27. A pack of toilet seat covers will create a (colorful) barrier between your toddler's curious hands and public toilet seats in case that's of concern. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Got these for a family cross-country road trip. Glad we did! Worked great for the kids at questionable stops. It says not to flush them. We had to once because of a kid with stomach pains and that was our only option…. Yea. Otherwise, avoid flushing. But they worked as advertised. Well, except the tape part, we didn’t realize until after our trip that they could stick to the seat, so apparently they work well even without doing that part." —AmazonFrequentFlyer

Get a pack of 24 covers from Amazon for $8.99.

28. An anti-theft "sock wallet"to stash some cash and cards in an unsuspecting spot. Go ahead and stroll around Venice with your eyes peeled for folks "bumping" into you, knowing your stuff is stashed and you're about to make it to the Doge's Palace in record time. Also! The socks are lightly cushioned and made of blister-preventive material. 

Amazon

Flippysox is a small business that specializes in antitheft sock designs. 

Promising review: "I had to travel across the country to attend a convention. These were a lightweight, well-fitting sock, and the pocket was big enough for my driver's license, a bank card, and folded cash. Much more comfy than sliding money in the top of my sock. I kept showing it off to my buddies. Definitely recommend." —MommaT

Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (available in dozens of styles). 

29. A tiny 3-in-1 portable charger so you don't have to do math to figure out how long you need to charge each item (aka, iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch) with the one measly outlet in your hotel room. After all, you've gotta send videos back to the family group chat of Shibuya Scramble Crossing! 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These are fabulous for travel — they charge three devices from just one USB port, especially [helpful] when frequenting hotel rooms. The first one is now permanently stationed bedside to help clean up the clutter, and this will go into my briefcase for future excursions. Compact, and effective!" —see2xu

Get it from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in four colors). 

30. A travel pouch that attaches to your bra so you can safeguard your cards and money if you're REALLY worried about pickpocketing and won't need to access your stuff in public, basically all afternoon. 

Amazon, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "So love this product, I hardly notice that I was wearing this the whole time during my trip in Paris especially — when we taking the metro." —grace

Get it from Amazon for $18.95.

31. A classic London Fog trench you can buy now and then basically wear foreverrrr. If you don't already have a trench coat, you'll get all the hype once you start wearing it out and about. It's perfect for dressing in layers and it's light enough of a layer where you can tie it around your waist at a museum if you don't wanna pay for coat check. 

www.amazon.com, Amazon

I was able to thrift one and wear it alllll the time both on vacation and at home. 

Promising review: "This trench coat is well constructed and very high quality. It looks great over formal attire but can also elevate a casual look. It has a slightly loose fit, as expected with this style, but can be cinched with the belt. It’s lightweight, making it ideal for spring or fall. Just enough to cut the chill and keep you dry in the rain, but not overly warm. This is my second LF trench, the first had a plaid flannel lining which — while very soft and pretty — always made me sweat. This one is perfect!!" —Ash

Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in sizes XS–3X and two colors).

32. An Apple AirTag for each bag to give you peace of mind even if you're driving to your destination and are just leaving your luggage at the hotel before check-in time! It's also handy to swap AirTags with your pal so you can find each other in case you get lost!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Storytime: After traveling summer 2022 carry-on only, and being a person who tries to carry on whenever possible, I finally bought a couple of Apple AirTags during 2022 Black Friday sales. And I am SO grateful I did. My normal carry-on bag was too big to fit the Lufthansa luggage requirements (and BOY, do they check that!), so I had to check my bags for a December 2022 trip to Vienna and back from Prague (with a layover in Frankfurt). My bag didn't make it onto the plane in Frankfurt, and once I landed in Newark, New Jersey, I pulled up the app on my phone and saw that yes, my backpack AirTag was indeed with me, but my suitcase AirTag was still in Germany. (The screen grab is from an Amazon review, but you get the gist.) The AirTag also helped me track FedEx's delivery of the suitcase to my parents' house, where I was spending the holidays immediately after my Europe trip ended. I was even able to see it on a highway less than an hour's drive from my parents' house. TL;DR: I think AirTags are very much a worthwhile investment if you travel a few times a year. And I'm not the only one who thinks so.

Promising review: "I bought a pair of these AirTags for a trip to France, and I’m so glad I did! First of all, the setup is super easy. I had zero problems, and both were done in, like, five minutes. I put one in my purse and one in my suitcase. On the way back home, the airline lost my luggage. Checked the Find My Friends app where the AirTag is tracked, and I could see that it never left the Charles de Gaulle airport. I felt more assurance being able to track my bag through the app as it made its way across the world back to me. 10/10 would recommend!" —Lindsay Kirby

Get it from Amazon for $24 (also available in a four-pack for $59.99).

33. A set of storage scrunchies for helping you stash your lip balm, cash, keys, and more while you're out and about. After all, you don't want to spend precious vacation time on making your hair look like you got a $$$ blowout. 

www.amazon.com

See them in action on TikTok!

Promising review: "BUY IT! You won't regret it. Honestly, this is the coolest thing I’ve bought on Amazon. I hate purses, so being able to stash my money, lip gloss, and my car key in my scrunchie is a GAME CHANGER! 10/10 would recommend. Also, the elastic is super strong, so no droopy ponytails, even with all my little items inside!" —Aubree T

"These are brilliant. Very nice quality!! I will buy them again and again!!" —Rebekah

Get a pack of three from Amazon for $12.99 (available in six color combinations).

34. A Bandolier phone case with a heart-shaped wallet, pouch, and mirror that'll keep your phone RIGHT where you want it and know it is. Also, it just looks cool. 

Bandolier

Get it from Bandolier for $288 (available in several phone sizes and also in similar but smaller set in red or black). 

35. An anti-theft backpack because yes you should always be aware of possible pickpockets, but the main compartment's zipper facing your back will help you focus a bit more on La Sagrada Familia instead of if your wallet is still in your bag. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Not only does the backpack open from the inside, but it also has a phone pocket, document pocket, front zippered pocket, and an exterior side pocket. It's also made of nylon, so it's waterproof and has a strap to change it into a shoulder bag.

Promising review: "This backpack lasted an entire trip through several airports and layovers, and all across our trip through Europe. It was amazing. Because the main zipper sat against my back, I never worried about getting my items stolen. But I also had the luxury of having the two front zippers that were also surprisingly spacious to hold nonprecious items such as water bottles or cheap sunglasses, etc. This backpack is also extremely durable. It was the perfect day pack to gather knickknacks and souvenirs for friends and family and hold whatever I shoved in it!" —H Bradshaw

Get it from Amazon for $31.49+ (available in two sizes and five colors).

36. A waterproof rain jacket with a hood worth carrying with you instead of a rain poncho. I'm gonna hold your hand when I tell you that wearing a rain poncho in a city seems like a good idea but it's awful because you're bumping up against people in your wet plastic and leaving a wet path with you everywhere. NO ONE wants to sit on a wet subway seat after you plopped yourself there in your soaking wet poncho. Pack this and an umbrella. Please.  

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I got this a little bigger to go over my sweatshirt and it was perfect. It is super lightweight and kept me dry. It also helped lock in some extra warmth so that was a bonus. It's the perfect little rain jacket for the price." —Amie Linsday

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and 11 colors).

37. Or a waterproof Columbia rain jacket if you're willing to spend a little more on a rain jacket you'll use during your regular life too. It has a detachable hood, adjustable cuffs, and two zippered pockets. Oh, and a little pocket that you can pack it down into and silp into your day bag. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Absolutely love this jacket! The teal color I personally bought is beautiful and goes with much more than I thought. Love how the neck comes up a bit higher for extra coverage in the rain. And the hood can be rolled up and stowed away so it can be used more as windbreaker also. Provides excellent coverage in the rain. Cannot go wrong with the quality of Columbia!" —Momof3wifeof1:)

Get it from Amazon for $58.99+ (available in sizes XS—3X and in 52 colors).

38. A SPF 50 Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar for a K-beauty sun fix you can safely throw in your bag and then reapply on the go. It has a slightly curved bar for easier application (like in the GIF!) and matte effect, and won't leave a white cast in its wake. You can get sunburned in the city!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Check out a TikTok of the Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar in action. 

Promising review: "NO WHITE CAST! I've been looking for a stick sunscreen and this was just exactly what was needed!! I'm a medium-toned Black woman and looking for something without a white cast is always a challenge. I have applied it on my bare skin and there isn't a white cast at all! It's a 'soft matte' finish, for sure, and looks like natural skin. Like you're not wearing anything at all." —Martina

Get it from Amazon for $17.02. 

39. And a *solid* Neutrogena SPF 50 sunscreen that'll really stick to your skin on your tropical (or just plain sweaty) vacation. Oh, and because it's a solid, it's carry-on–friendly! I used this in VERY humid Kuala Lumpur where I was more or less sweating the whole time I was there. And I didn't get sunburned!

Amazon

I first bought this for a weeklong Croatian vacation in 2021 years ago when I did carry-on, and as long as you are *thoroughly* reapplying, this stuff stays on pretty well. On a beach club afternoon, I did haphazardly reapply and missed a strip on one arm, but I tend to do that with spray-on or lotion sunscreen, too. Since then, I've packed this for any trip I've been on, including a two-day Disneyland trip where I toted this around in my bag and shared with friends. I sometimes carry it with me in my purse on my everyday adventures because I know it's so easy to apply. Also worth mentioning...I am about the palest lady you've ever seen and swear by daily application of sunscreen. But when on a beach trip, I'm constantly swimming in the water and sweating. So yeah, this stuff works. 

And if you're a bit hesitant about jumping on the solid sunscreen bandwagon, you can pack a stick of this, knowing you have enough sun protection to get you through to finding some spray-on or lotion SPF at your destination. 

Get it from Amazon for $9.88.

40. A pair of Thigh Society ~cooling~ shortsthat'll save your inner thighs while you trek just about anywhere. Plus, they're super thin so they won't make you overheat layered under a skirt or dress. 

Thigh Society

Promising review: "These are perfect for under dresses, even in the hot, humid summer. The pocket is perfect to slip my phone in so I can be hands free. Great quality! I have two pairs, one black and one beige." —Amanda Martinez

Get them from Thigh Society for $39+ (available in women's sizes XS–2XL, three lengths, and in 11 colors). 

41. Cat-eye sunnies can help you maintain your air of mystery and keep the sun out of your used-to-the-indoors eyes. I bought these a few years ago after finding them for a story and they've outlived all sorts of wear and tear, including city vacations and even boat days when I wore them *in* the water!

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I love these sunglasses so much!!!! All the sunglasses I buy are $400+ but I came across these and loved the style and shape! I was not disappointed! They’re so chic and so light and great quality! Get them. I got a pack of two and love them both!" —Sandra

Get them from Amazon for $13.99 (available in 10 colors and two-packs).

42. Braided Plaka sandals if you're doing a beach/city combo vacation, or you just need to be able to wiggle your toes in the middle of the summer heat. The braided straps are soft and adjustable without giving you blisters. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

FYI, these are best suited for narrow to medium-sized feet. 

Promising reviews: "I literally got compliments on them everywhere we went, and they were so comfortable I could wear them all day walking miles and miles through the streets of New Orleans, and my feet didn't hurt (and that's a small miracle given I have arthritis). They are surprisingly durable, and the woven fabric tops are incredibly soft and comfy. Even when my feet swelled due to the heat and humidity in New Orleans, these were still pretty darn comfy as compared to other shoes I brought along on the trip." —UrbanUtah

"These sandals are like cotton candy clouds for your feet. Basically the Rolls-Royce of sandals." —A. Alphonse

Get them from Amazon for $34.95 (available in sizes 5–11 and 22 colors).

43. Reebok Club C Sneakers that won't scream "I'm a tourist wearing comfy shoes!" in most locales. Heck, I've even seen people in Milan (who obviously weren't tourists) wearing sneakers like this! 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

My colleague Chelsea Stuart (who travels a ton!) swears by these: "I have three pairs of these babies because they're just so comfortable straight out of the box. You don't have to worry about blisters, and they don't look out of place with dresses and skirts. They're also simple enough to slip on and off when going through the airport so they check all of my travel boxes!"

Promising review: "Love these shoes! I saw them in store at UO, but they didn't have my size. Obviously, I turned to Amazon because what doesn’t this site sell, and lo and behold, y’all had it. I try to pair these with almost every outfit because they’re so comfy and stylish! Recently went to Philly, where I had to walk everywhere because we didn't rent a car, and these were the only pair of shoes I brought (I travel light). These didn’t cramp up my feet at all as I walked over seven hours daily over the course of five days. Definitely recommend! But one thing hurts my heart...the creasing at the front of the shoe that comes with loving these shoes so much.😢" —Alli J

Get them from Amazon for $52.64+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in various colors/patterns).

Still need to grab a few more things before your next trip? Let us help:

* If You And The Kids Are Going To Take A Long Car Ride, These 27 Finds Will Keep Them Busy In The Backseat

* Pieces That’ll Turn Your Vacation Into A Fashion Show

* Travel Light With These 43 Carry-On Packing Tips

* Products That’ll Make You Feel Like A Smarter Traveler, Because They’re Just Really Good

Plus, travel shoes and finds from Walmart.

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Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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