I'm a Travel Writer and Visited 12 Countries This Year-Here, the Best Products I Flew With in 2025, From $7

"If I'm going to be agonizing over a travel-related decision, it's not going to be packing-related. As a full-time travel writer and gear reviewer of more than a decade, I've tested hundreds of products in real-world settings and simulations to identify the top performers. Once a product makes the cut, it comes with me on every trip with me, whether I'm cruising the Mediterranean or trekking to Machu Picchu."

"This past year was a relatively slow travel year for me since I had to plan my wedding. Still, I managed to touch down in 12 different countries, including Thailand, where we "Thai-ed" the knot. Below are the 15 products that proved themselves again and again-all from Amazon. From under-$10 cable ties that keep my cords organized to splurge-worthy luggage you'll have for years, these are the pieces I pack on every single trip, no matter the destination or itinerary."

"I simply grabbed this bag, which folds down into its exterior pocket, out of my carry-on (which I stored in an airport locker). Presto! I had 18 liters of space to store everything I'd need to explore downtown for the day. I love that the side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas have bungee cords so you can tighten them accordingly. The double zippers, breathable mesh strap padding, and weatherproof ripstop fabric are other premium features I haven't found on cheaper packable backpacks."

A decade of real-world and simulated testing identified top-performing travel gear that earns consistent use across varied trips. Fifteen Amazon-available items form a core packing list, ranging from under-$10 cable ties to long-lasting, splurge-worthy luggage. An ultralight Mystery Ranch In & Out packable backpack folds into its exterior pocket, provides 18 liters of capacity, features bungee-adjustable side pockets, double zippers, breathable mesh strap padding, and weatherproof ripstop fabric. An Anker laptop power bank kept phone, watch, and GoPro charged during extended outings and can charge up to four devices, including laptops, simultaneously.

Read at Travel + Leisure