If You're An Overpacker, You'll Love These 34 Multitaskers That'll Still Satisfy Your Preparedness Standards
1. A travel brush with a hidden compartment that'll be great for hair elastics, fashion tape, local currency, and all kinds of other little things that don't quite have a place to go in your personal item. ALSO have you tried to use a mini brush to brush your hair? I've broken, like, three of them with my mane. This is also a normal-size brush.
Promising review: "Bought this brush to replace my old travel brush. Love the storage compartment! Didn't realize that it actually CAME with hair ties, clips, and bobby pins (didn't notice these in the description). Such an amazing surprise. And the brush is great! De-tangles and smoothes wonderfully. Even tamed my static-y hair. Love it!" — Crazy cat mama
Get it from Amazon for $19.95 (also available in white).
2. A portable handheld fan for those moments when the breeze takes a break. Oh, and it's also a power bank *and* flashlight. So you'll be sure to find all sorts of other uses for it.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Check out a TikTok of the portable fan in action.
Promising review:"This fan works so well, keeps me cool when I'm on the beach or sitting outside in the sun. The battery life is amazing but it takes a while to charge up." — Amanda Clerk
Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in four colors).
3. A 2-in-1 travel belt you can either hook around your roller bag to keep it together, over your tote you have balanced over your roller bag as you scoot through the airport or over charming cobblestone streets, OR to claim your stake on a resort pool chair/keep your towel in place. So really, it's more like a 4-in-1 depending on your vacation.
Promising review: "Bought this for an upcoming trip. It worked great. Easy to use, store inside small bag's pocket and even when the top bag is a bit bulky and unevenly balanced, it held while walking through numerous airport terminals, train stations, and on city streets, even cobblestone." — Center for Arts
Get it from Amazon for $14.39+ (available in seven colors).
4. Or if you wanna take it to the next level, a belt bag that'll double as a travel belt with a pass-through trolley loop so you can use it to secure your personal item to the top of your roller suitcase. And then when you're out and about at your destination, you can use it as a purse!
Cincha Travel is a small business in California that develops adjustable travel belts made out of vegan leather. The brand donates 100 airline miles for each purchase, which are used to reconnect separated migrant families.
Check out a TikTok of the Cincha belt bag in action. When flying with this, I rec leaving it on as the belt for your suitcase while boarding your flight. On a few flights I've been on this year, I've heard gate agents make people put their belt bags worn around their waist or cross-body into their personal item. So just be mindful of that!
Promising review: "Great little double-duty bag. Highly recommend. I could fit four passports, an iPhone, a slim wallet, and many more things in my new travel bag. A must for your next adventure." — Lindsay
Get it from Cincha Travel for $49.99 (available in four colors/patterns).
5. A travel-friendly blanket-slash-pillow because those tiny plane pillows never do the trick and we can say the same about the blankets. With this, you'll have options. Oh! And it clips onto your backpack or carry-on.
BlueHills is a small biz specializing in travel and home items.
Promising review: "I bought it to use it on my flights since I always like to cover my entire body with blankets. It was compact and lightweight- but perfectly warm for a long flight. No lint came off, even after repeated washes- and it's so soft that I am actually using it on my couch right now!" — Anthony Choi
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in 14 colors).
6. A neck pillow you can stuff with clothing — even a whole outfit — to give you some comfy flexibility and help get around super strict carry-on size restrictions. The listing says you can even pack three days' worth of clothes in it! Which would especially be welcome if your carry-on-only budget doesn't exactly align with your fashionista status.
Check out a TikTok showing how someone used a similar neck pillow to just take that and a personal item onto a RyanAir flight that was charging for hand luggage.
Promising review: "Took it on my trip to Europe. I went carry-on-only and this tube was a true gem! I fit one full outfit in it and it's so valuable when traveling with only carry-on luggage. On the plane I used it as an arm support. It's really helpful on a 10-hour flight. What an excellent idea to take something out of the weighted luggage!!! I was able to fit three T-shirts, two light long-sleeve sweatshirts, and one pair of underwear. I usually like to have a change of clothes with me on the plane, especially on transatlantic flights, so I can change it on the layover, just feels fresher." — Happy Shopper
Get it from Amazon for $36.95.
7. A 2-in-1 straightener and curling iron because you won't leave home without them but detest how much space they take up in your baggage.
Amazon
Promising review:"I took this on the cruise ship, and it was amazing. Exactly what I needed." — Peggy knopp
Get it from Amazon for $49.99.
8. An anti-theft "sock wallet" that'll stash some cash and cards in an unsuspecting spot. Go ahead and ride the Paris Metro with your eyes peeled for folks "bumping" into you, knowing your stuff is stashed and you're about to make it through the Louvre 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).
9. Anti-chafing Thigh Society shorts with a pocket that'll be extra sneaky when you're wearing it as a base layer — though it is opaque enough for you to wear when you sweet-talked your pals into ziplining at an eco-adventure park.
Thigh Society
They're made of sweat-wicking material that won't roll up and that pocket? It has a flat seam so it won't show through your slip dress you're climbing up Lisbon's hills in to dinner.
Promising review: "The ease and convenience of a cargo bike short with the comfort of your favorite undies. I immediately bought a secnd pair in black. It will not be the last." — Kate Courer
Get them from Thigh Society for $40 (available in sizes XS/S–5XL/6XL, eight colors, and three inseams).
10. A super lightweight day pack perf for adventures but will also be sturdy enough to serve as your personal item. And then when your trip's over, it folds into itself in a compact pouch for easy storage.
I bought this backpack back in 2019 for a June trip to the Greek isles. I used it for a couple of beach excursions, and then mostly forgot about it! Fast forward to March 2025 when I was packing for a week-long trip to Boquete, Panama, that includes LOTS of outdoorsy excursions. I flew Copa Airlines both ways, which has stricter luggage sizing restrictions than most U.S. airlines, and I, therefore, was scratching my head about what to use for a personal item because my go-to Beis backpack was too big. I remembered I had this and knew it would be perfect for keeping my hands free on hikes (like this one to Caldera Hot Springs) and it would be NBD if it got wet. It worked like a dream. It fit under plane seats easy-peasy, and fit a SHOCKING amount of stuff. So much stuff that when TSA pulled me aside to go through my bags, the agent seemed like she was dealing with Mary Poppins' bag. (Psst, in this pic I'm wearing this tank and shorts set I pack for basically every vacation now and my friend Katie is wearing this romper.)
Get it from Amazon for $14.32+ (available in two sizes and 10 colors).
11. Merrell hiking sneakers that are cute enough to wear on the plane (instead of giving up precious suitcase space to hiking boots), but will keep you steady on your feet as you mosey up to the top of a volcano before sunrise.
I did just that for my week-long trip to Panama and these shoes helped me haul through sprawling airport terminals in Panama City on a layover, stay steady on my way (in the dark) to the top of a volcano to see the sun rise, and on all kinds of terrain on hikes. But they manage to feel light as air and super comfy while wearing, which is especially great because I had basically no break-in period before this trip. And they look cute, to boot! Unfortunately (for you), they're sold out of the pink I have on Amazon now. But there are lots of other cute colors!
Get them from Amazon for $79.95+ (available in women's sizes 5–11 and six colors).
12. A set of towel clips you'll be grateful you packed once the wind kicks up as you're 20 feet away tossing a football with your pals. (And you can use it to hang up your wet swimsuit after.)
Check out a TikTok of the towel clips in action.
Promising review: "I purchased these for a family of eight going on a cruise and they loved them! So easy to use, just put your towel on the beach chair and clip down with these. They said they were especially awesome on windy days when others towels were blowing away if they were not sitting on the chair. The family was able to go to lunch or take a walk and not worry that their towels had been blown away and someone had then snagged their seats. Very inexpensive and functional clips." — TypeA
Get a set of 16 from Amazon for $9.99.
13. 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.
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 $89.99+ (available in four colors).
14. Kahi Wrinkle Bounce Hydrating Multi-Balm, a TikTok-famous Korean beauty product combines several products into one skincare step — especially great if you get suuuuper dry on flights. Reviewers use it on their face, lips, eyes, and neck to help reduce fine lines and make you look all ~glowy~ thanks to ingredients salmon complex and collagen.
Check out a TikTok of the wrinkle balm in action.
Promising review: "Okay! So I was skeptical at first, but honestly this stick is life-changing!!! In a matter of minutes, my skin felt hydrated and plumped. After an hour, still hydrated. No greasy after feeling, very light, and you can feel your skin hydrated and absorbing. I love the fact that you can use it on your eyes, lips, and wrinkles!! Game changer for me, will def try the others!" — Kristy
"This stuff makes my face feel so soft and has a nice scent. I use it every day and will buy it again when I run out!" — Cyndy1
Get it from Amazon for $21.95+ (available in six styles).
15. 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
LOKI STASHED is a small biz specializing in these scrunchies. See them in action on TikTok here!
Promising review: "I use these every time I travel. Perfect for holding a key or some rolled-up bills for emergencies. Comfortable and reliable." — Poke-me-in-the-coconut
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $13.99 (available in seven color combinations).
16. A pair of Mack's Earplugs that'll seal out noise on a plane, in a hotel room, or wherever else you need to get some sleep.
Check them out on TikTok here.
BuzzFeed editor Emma Lord swears by these and raves:"The moldable silicone of Mack's Earplugs contours easily to the shape of your ear to block out noise much more effectively than other foam or plastic varieties, and the noise reduction is so good that if I pair them with a white noise machine (or just like a white noise loop on Spotify) I genuinely don't hear noises from outside my room.
I've also *loved* these for traveling — if you put these babies in on a plane not only does it help reduce some of the YIKES factor when the plane takes off (it's loud!!), but it cancels out the murmuring noises of passengers on the flight and makes it easier to get some shuteye."
Promising review: "I've been purchasing Mack's earplugs for about eight years now as they help me sleep so much better at night (and are also super helpful on long plane trips). They're the best ones on the market and much larger with more comfort and coverage than ones in my local stores and pharmacies. Mack's are getting harder to find so I'm writing this in the hope that they stay in business." — Amazon Customer
Get 12 pairs from Amazon for $12.99.
17. 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. Oh, and the tiny compartments are also great for holding onto small pieces of jewelry!
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 $8.97.
18. A universal travel adapter so you always have a way to juice up your devices or use your US-friendly plugged item in a different outlet. You can plug up to five devices in this at a time...and it covers 160 countries! So no need to pack several adapters for your next luxurious trip that includes four countries.
www.amazon.com
But remember that this is not a voltage converter!
Promising review:"I just came back from a three-week trip to Europe. The travel adapter works like a charm. So glad I have it to use with all my travels outside North America!" — Merlina
Get it from Amazon for $19.95 (available in two colors).
19. A set of cooling patches can work some soothing magic for a variety of uses including (perhaps most importantly), sunburn. But it'll also help with itchiness from bug bites and poison ivy. And! They're TSA friendly. So you can probably leave your aloe vera gel at home.
Promising review:"Used these on a sunburn on my back, and they were very soothing. Also provided padding when leaning back in my seat. I stuck one on my shoulder also to keep my seatbelt from rubbing the sunburn there. I bought them to use on the back of my kids' necks to help prevent heat exhaustion on a very hot day outside but ended up just using them for burn relief." — Joanna
"These saved us on our vacation with our little that is sensitive to sun!" — felicia faith
Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $14.99.
20. A soft faux-leather tote will be the perfect personal item on the plane so you don't even have to pack it in your carry-on! And it would be useful as a day bag (of course keep your valuables zipped up concealed and tucked away inside) with plenty of room for your souvenirs.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Bought this bag last minute for a uniform compliance as a flight attendant, and it's sturdy and a great bag. For the material and the price, it's a great purchase. I've had it over four months." — Amber
Get it from Amazon for $14.29+ (available in a variety of colors and two sizes).
21. Or a waterproof, sandproof beach bag in a cute pattern that could double as a personal item on your flight to that all-inclusive tropical resort you've been looking forward to for the past six months.
Promising review: "Love this bag. It says sand resistant; however, I didn't expect much for the price. I was pleasantly surprised! Not only is it sand resistant, it has lots of pockets, and it's large enough to carry large beach towels, three cans of sunscreen, room for snacks, and it is an adorable print! Love it so much and am glad I took a chance on this one. I give 5 stars across the board!!" — CBoz
Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in 15 patterns).
22. A set of Sea Bands with a little nub that targets the acupressure point on your wrists meant to help reduce nausea. This'll be great in case anyone gets motion sick in the car or on a boat ride — especially if your upcoming vacation entails sleeping on a cruise ship and riding in the back of an excursion bus while the ship is at port.
23. An E.l.f. multistick so you can add color in all sorts of ways on your eyelids, lips, and cheekbones without weighing down your toiletry bag with another liquid.
Promising review:"I love that this blush stick has a slight shimmer to it. I am still learning how to apply it properly, but I like that it adds color quickly and with little fuss! It is a lovely tone. I am normally darker, but have been indoors a lot, so I will update with a summer photo to see if this color still suits my skin in the summertime. Even if not, it works well with my winter skin and lasts all day!" — Paprika
Get it from Amazon for $4+ (available in seven colors).
24. A versatile lightweight shawl to wrap up in on the plane then at night when it gets a bit chillier but it doesn't quite call for a jacket. Plus, let's be honest, this looks a little more elegant than your go-to denim jacket. It can also help cover your shoulders at cultural or religious sites that require it!
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Absolutely love this shawl! The color is a true red and will work beautifully for several outfits. I bought it specifically for travel... easy to pack in carryon bag and warmth without weight." — bojangles
"Wore on a trip to Morocco. Lightweight and versatile. Wear it as a traditional scarf, draped over front, or as a head scarf. Good quality and color pigment." — Micki R. Leesch
Get it from Amazon for $11.89+ (available in 38 colors).
25. A travel scarf with hidden storage in it that'll keep your hands free for taking pics without having to stick your phone, wallet, and keys in your back pocket.
Amazon
Waypoint Goods is a small biz that specializes in travel accessories.
Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE my travel scarf. This piece is perfect for every occasion. Whether I am traveling on a plane or a road trip, at work, or trying to dress up an outfit to go out, it is perfect and functional. My phone, credit cards and keys fit seamlessly in the pocket without changing the look or fit of my scarf. At times I have put all of that plus a boarding pass and passport in the pocket!!" — Caroline
Get it from Amazon for $49.95 (available in three styles).
26. A Hackwith Design House shirt you can wear in 6(!!!) different ways...which takes "travel capsule wardrobe" to a whole new level without feeling like you're repeating. (Though, there is *no* shame in repeating.)
Hackwith Design House is a woman-owned small business. Their sustainable designs are made to order and sewn in their Minnesota studio. Their sizes run from XS–4X. On Mondays, they also release limited-edition designs so you can be one of only 25 people to own a piece!
My colleague Chelsea Stuart owns this and loves it. Here's what she has to say:
"All credit for its discovery goes to TikToker @jennifer.bianca who I happened to stumble across on my FYP. It checks all my boxes: black, comfortable, versatile, and durable. My initial worry was that I wouldn't feel secure in it (I have a 38DDD chest and most wrap tops/dresses I've tried haven't stayed where they're supposed to), but I haven't had an issue with this! I've worn it tied in the front giving me a square neck (like the middle picture) and tied in the back giving me a V-neck up front (just like the photo on the right) — both were super comfortable and I didn't have to adjust myself at all. As someone whose weight fluctuates, I also appreciate that this piece can handle pounds gained and lost. The fabric is medium weight so I'll be wearing it season to season and there's just enough elasticity in the arms that if you roll up your sleeves, they won't fall back down. All that is to say trust that I will be buying additional colors!"
Get it from Hackwith Design House for $145 (available in women's sizes XS–4X and in four colors).
27. A two-piece tank top and shorts set with drawstring shorts that'll pair nicely with other tops in your suitcase and a just-special-enough ruffled crop top in airy fabric that'd look cute with a pair of jeans. Last summer, I wore this walking around Cagliari, Sardinia, and down ~700 stairs to a cave (and then promptly back up) so I can attest it makes for excellent photo ops *and* is airy enough for such activities.
Yes, that is ME wearing this set on the way back up from said cave. Since returning from that trip, I've worn it many times both while traveling and at home in NYC, including to a sweltering Yankees baseball game, a long (also sweltering) weekend in Lisbon, as a coverup on a Caribbean cruise, and just recently to Boquete, Panama!
Promising review: "I got so many compliments when wearing this set on vacation in Hawaii! The top is very comfortable and cropped at just the right length. The shorts were a little see-through, but for the price they were very comfortable." — Courtney Smith
Get it from Amazon for $34.98 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 13 colors/patterns).
28. A chic tank and wide-leg pants set can make you look like a fancy jet setter who goes to these places like The White Lotus all the time, instead of your childhood pal-turned-celeb friend inviting you and footing the bill. This is another great mix-and-match airy option!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Bought this outfit for my Caribbean cruise. Loved it! Cute and comfy. Received several compliments." — Karen
Get it from Amazon for $45.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 26 colors).
29. Or a rechargeable magnetic phone charger/hand warmer set that'll magnetize together or split up so you can keep the warm concentrated in one spot or split in two.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Check out a TikTok of the hand warmer/phone charger in action.
It has four warmth settings, so you can pick one that's perfect for the conditions, too!
My colleague Emma Lord has and loves these:
"I have been using these for two winters now, and once it hits November, I simply never leave the house without them. They heat up instantly, and unlike bulkier hand warmers, slide easily and subtly into any of my jacket pockets. They fit neatly in the palm of my hand, and the warmth radiates and genuinely makes a difference in regulating my entire body (I am a big, BIG baby about the cold). The heat settings are super easy to change, they recharge efficiently within an hour, and I always feel like a handy little wizard when I can pull them out in a pinch if a friend's phone is dying and they need some extra charge to keep it alive. I cannot recommend this enough!"
Get it from Amazon for $27.98+ (available in 11 colors).
30. Alleyoop's Pen Pal so you're not lugging around a packed bag full of makeup as this one lil pen has an eyeliner, brow liner, lip liner, and a highlighter all in one. Just toss it into your fanny pack so that you can have a quick touch while onboard the plane.
Alleyoop is a woman-owned small business creating "beauty efficiency" products. Many are compact and/or have several functions!
My former BuzzFeed shopping colleague Jasmin Sandal has this and loves it. She says: "I didn't realize I'd ever use a makeup product in my 20s that had the ability to transport me back to something I used in sixth grade, but here we are; and here I am using a multitool pen... for my face. I gotta say, I love the concept of the Pen Pal from Alleyoop! After using all of the functions (eyeliner, highlighter, lip liner, eyebrow pencil) and as someone who LOVES makeup but was applying as little as humanly possible during lockdown, I think it's a great tool for anyone looking to streamline their routine. It's ideal to use for touch-ups come the end of the work day, or a subtle, minimalist way to apply makeup in the a.m. The brow pencil is particularly soft and pigmented, and filled in my eyebrows quickly. I just adore the ease of application of each product, and appreciate the universal, does-it-all-for-you concept. Plus, it saves me so much room in my already overflowing makeup bag!"
Get it from Amazon for $20 (available in three shades).
32. A 4-in-1 makeup brush set that takes up the size of one makeup brush so you don't have to use up half of your personal item's space just for your beauty routine. (Tbh, I need these.)
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "The bristles are soft and it applies the product very well. Love that it has a case which is perfect for traveling. Now I don't have to travel with 10+ brushes." — Yashira
Get it from Amazon for $15.99.
33. Satin pillowcases that I own and love! I'm a hot sleeper at home and tend to blow out my hair, then wash only twice a week. So these make a big difference in keeping my skin and hair moisturized over cotton pillowcases. I also pack them for trips AND use them as dust bags in my suitcase for purses. They take up a very small amount of room.
Amazon
Promising review:"I travel for work and having this case has helped so much with my hair and it's great quality, I have washed it so many times and yet it's durable and comfy." — Maritza Cruz
Get two from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in four sizes and 22 colors).
34. Some Seastar neoprene slingback sandals that are *actually* water and boat shoes, though they look like regular espadrilles and you can wear them as such! These babies have TRACTION on them but are still comfy and won't rub. I own them and have worn them in the sea and on rocky beaches of France, Croatia, and Italy without slipping and hurting myself. Most recently, I used them to scramble over a bunch of rocks in Panama (as seen below).
Sea Star Beachwear, Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed
These shoes are super comfy with stretchy neoprene and QUITE stretchy straps that'll keep 'em on your feet over hikes and balancing on wet rocks at the beach. These were one of three pairs of shoes that I packed for my recent Panama trip I've mentioned in this story several times. They clean up super easily and I know they're going to last me a long time.
Promising review:"I loved my first pair so much that I bought two more pairs! I have always loved classic espadrilles but can't wear them in rainy weather. These you can wear no matter what. And they are soooo comfortable! That makes them perfect for traveling — especially as they are lightweight — but I want to wear them all the time so bought more. They look great with skirts, pants, jeans or beachwear. The stretchy fabric and stretchy sling back heel make for comfort no matter how much feet may swell in hot weather. I just love these and am thinking about a fourth pair!" — Merlyn Greenwood
Get them from Amazon for $99.95+ (available in sizes 6–12 and two colors) or from Sea Star Beachwear for $125 (available in sizes 6–12 and eight colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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Travel + Leisure
6 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
Did You Know? You Can Bring Water Through TSA—but You'll Need the Right Bottle
Staying properly hydrated in the summer can already be difficult, but the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)'s strict rules surrounding liquids can make it even harder to keep your thirst quenched while traveling. Bottled water at the airport can cost a pretty penny, and since all carry-on liquids must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule—that is, every one person only gets one bag containing liquids, and those liquids must be in bottles of 3.4 ounces or less—sneaking in a fresh bottle of Evian is clearly out of the question. However, we've recently discovered a genius way to get around this rule and get water through airport security: And it's so simple, you might be angry you didn't think of it sooner. You can sneak H2O through security by just freezing it. That's right—you can bring in a full bottle of water through TSA, so long as it's frozen solid. 'Frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening,' a U.S. TSA spokesperson previously shared with CNN. Keep scrolling for eight reusable water bottles you can safely use to get frozen water through TSA, plus our tips on how to get frozen water through TSA hassle-free. Ahead, you'll find squishy, foldable silicone bottles, durable, brand-name plastic bottles, and even water bottles that perform double-duty as facial misters—all starting at $13 at Amazon. You should only freeze water in food-grade, BPA-free plastic or silicone reusable water bottles, and you should aim to fill them only two-thirds of the way full with water before freezing, to prevent the bottle from breaking. This is because when water freezes, it expands. If you fill your water bottle to the top, it will have no room to expand and may crack or damage even the most durable, flexible plastic water bottles. We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but we strongly don't recommend freezing your beloved Stanley insulated bottle (sorry!). Metal, insulated, and glass water bottles can become deformed or even shatter due to the frozen water expanding inside, regardless of how full it is, which is why many popular brands like Owala and Camelbak warn against freezing their insulated, glass, or steel bottles. Unfortunately, if your water thaws before you make it through TSA, you'll likely be asked to dump it out. For this security checkpoint hack to work, the water in your water bottle must be fully frozen into a solid state. 'If frozen liquid items are partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must meet 3-1-1 liquids requirements,' that aforementioned TSA spokesperson shared with CNN. Considering most water bottles far exceed the 3.4-ounce liquid cutoff, you'll probably have to say 'sayonara' to your not-so-frozen carry-on water. Now that you know how to master this packing hack, it's time to find the perfect water bottle for your next trip. Keep scrolling to explore the top-rated options at Amazon that will make great travel companions this summer. This freezer-friendly Tupperware water bottle was specifically designed to be frozen and reused time and time again. It features a leak-proof flip-top spout, ergonomic ridges for comfortable holding, and a max-fill line that tells you where to stop filling it with water to allow it to expand when frozen. Once you've arrived at your destination, you can use this O2cool water bottle as a personal mister for an instant cool down. This genius BPA-free reusable water bottle has a misting mechanism next to its pull-top spout that, when squeezed, delivers a cooling mist—a welcome reprieve from hot, sweltering summer afternoons. Nalgene is best known for its wide variety of colorful, plastic water bottles, and this Tritan option has the same streamlined design that Nalgene fans know and love. It comes in a wide variety of fun color combinations, so you'll never confuse your bottle with someone else's, and it's made from a BPA-free, 50 percent recycled plastic material. Need some extra motivation to drink water? This Sahara Sailor water bottle is the one for you. The exterior is lined with timed markings and motivational phrases like 'keep chugging' and 'don't give up' that can help you meet your daily water goals. Yeti loyalists, rejoice: The renowned cooler and insulated water bottle brand also has a plastic, freezeable option. Available in four sizes and 14 color options, this bottle has a simple design featuring a leak-proof, screw-top lid. Over 36,000 Amazon shoppers have given this 32-ounce reusable water bottle a perfect five-star rating for functionality, durability, and convenience. Available in nine vibrant colors and equipped with a flip-top chug lid and printed measurements on the side, this bottle makes it easy to stay hydrated from takeoff to touchdown. Once you're done drinking from this squishy silicone water bottle, you can flatten it, roll it up, and throw it in your bag for later use. This reusable 12-ounce bottle can fit in your pocket, and Amazon reviewers say it's the perfect lightweight solution for day hikes, music festivals, and even ski trips come winter. This packable, food-grade silicone water bottle from Taketoday has a detachable straw, a leak-proof locking cap, and can be neatly rolled up to take up less space in your carry-on, hiking pack, or crossbody bag, making it a great companion for every leg of your trip. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
10 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
I've Explored Every Corner of California by Car—These Are the Items I Never Road Trip Without, From $17
Some of my most memorable travel adventures have happened not in the air, but on the road. Whenever I had the chance, I'd set out along California's Pacific Coast Highway, with Santa Barbara as my first stop. From there, I'd wind through Carmel-by-the-Sea and along Mendocino's rugged coastline, always wishing for more time in each place. As one road trip turned into a dozen, I quickly learned that packing well was key—whether it was choosing the right pair of pants for long hours in the driver's seat or remembering essentials like a first-aid kit, water bottle, and chapstick. These days, most of my road trips revolve around vineyard stays. Over time, I've learned to pack smart—comfy boots for walking vineyard terrain, a stain remover pen, and a sturdy tote for the bottles I inevitably bring home. Those essentials have served me well on road trip adventures throughout California, from breezy beach towns to the towering sequoias and cliff-hugging spruce trees of its unforgettable national parks. If you're ready to get behind the wheel for your own West Coast getaway, read on for my top road trip essentials, from beach-ready sandals to moisture-wicking shirts that protect against desert heat. For longer road trips that call for outfit changes, tech gear, and must-have accessories, a compact carry-on makes all the difference. The Monos Carry-On Pro is my go-to thanks to its sleek, dent-resistant polycarbonate shell and built-in front compartment—perfect for keeping essentials like my laptop within reach. It's especially convenient when hopping from hotel to hotel, without the hassle of lugging around a bulky duffel. A cooler is a must for road snacks and drinks, and Calpak's lightweight soft-sided cooler is a great fit. Expandable side buckles make it easy to access items, and there are multiple exterior pockets to store smaller items, like my favorite nutritional snacks when hunger strikes on the road. Road trips require easy, hands-free phone access for everything from directions to voice-activated stops. The VanMass Car Phone Mount keeps your phone securely in place with a strong adhesive base, a sturdy vent clip, and a lower back release button for added stability. It's one of those small upgrades that make a big difference. $55 at Amazon $55 at Away Travel I've often learned the hard way how important it is to have a small bag nearby when you're on the road. The Away Toiletry Bag is ideal for short trips and comes equipped with an exterior zip pocket for easy access to items and multiple interior compartments to keep toiletries well-organized. $40 at Amazon $40 at Another road trip must-have? A reusable water bottle. This 26-ounce Yeti Rambler is leakproof, vacuum-insulated, and features a chug spout lid for easy sipping as you drive. It's no secret that I love a good outfit to wear for my treasured pastime: drinking wine. My favorite retailer for dresses, Revolve, currently has a whole page dedicated to winery tour looks. There are so many great styles for different body types, but the Callahan Mira Dress is my top pick because it's black—an ideal color to help mask any burgundy spills. A Chelsea boot is my go-to shoe for vineyard visits—comfortable, easy to slip on, and built with a durable sole for all-day wear. While my favorite Toms boot style is no longer available, this pair from Athlefit is a solid alternative to complement my winery outfits. The perks of a wine road trip mean you can bring your favorite bottles home without having to worry about checking a bag at the airport. Vin Fresco's Wine Tote Bag features a leather exterior that's stain-resistant with padded straps to carry it as a backpack. With two compartments to hold wine bottles, I'll be eagerly toting Cardinale Winery's newly released 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon and Intrada Sauvignon Blanc to pour in the cute stainless-steel tumblers that the bag comes with. On warmer vineyard days, a pair of polished shorts or a comfy skort is my go-to. Spanx's Stretch Twill Shorts offer gentle compression and a super-soft fabric for all-day comfort. Plus, with seven mostly neutral colors to choose from, they're a versatile choice for multiple stops along your route. The Gap Cotton Gauze Easy Barrel Pants live up to their namesake, with a flowing fit made from 100 percent breathable cotton and an elasticized waist that will serve me well during my long-anticipated Napa dinner at Chef Rogelio Garcia's farm-to-table phenom, Auro. A lightweight, versatile swimsuit cover-up is a California road trip must-have. My favorite crochet piece is no longer available, but this open-knit cover-up maxi dress from Quince is the kind of day-to-night piece you'll pack for every coastal escape. Plus, it'll pair perfectly with my favorite cheeky Triangl Vinca bathing suit. Don't leave home without a comfortable way to lounge in the sand. The Bo Toys Beach Mat Lounge Chair comes with a convenient zippered tote and is made from a durable polyester, with an adjustable reclining backrest for ultimate relaxation. Of course, you'll need a stylish bag to store all your sandy beach essentials. The Aerie Jumbo Crochet Bag is my go-to, but this structured woven shoulder bag at Amazon is under $25 and perfect for transitioning to an upscale beachfront dinner. $400 $280 at When evening arrives, dinner is always at Caruso's, a Miramar Beach restaurant with ocean views and a glamorous interior that will make you want to throw on your favorite, casually chic dress. The Andrea Iyamah Essi Maxi Dress fits the bill as it's made from breathable cotton, with lovely features like double-rope detailing along the neckline and a low back closure. It's always a good idea to pack a pair of stylish and comfortable sandals for any beach road trip. I recommend Franco Sarto's Britt Slide Sandal, which is accented with geometric cutouts and comes with an adjustable buckle. They pair well with casual and dressier looks and can even withstand a sandy beach walk. $35 at Amazon $35 at The sun is no joke in California's desertscapes, so you'll want to be prepared. I've been traveling to Palm Springs since I was little, and two non-negotiable items to always pack to beat the heat are a good pair of sunglasses and a breathable bucket hat. Knockaround's Songbirds West End Sunglasses are lightweight and feature polarized amber lenses and full UV 400 protection you'll appreciate. Get even more protection with the wide-brimmed Shinchic Bucket Hat, made from a nylon material that provides necessary UPF 50+ sun protection and comfortable breathability. When it comes to desert-ready fashion, breathable fabrics will be your best friend. It's no secret that linen is having a moment, and the lightweight comfort it provides is perfect for humid desert days. The Quince Linen Sleeveless Swing Dress is lightweight, breathable, and durable. It can be easily worn while window-shopping down Palm Canyon Drive or dressed up for dining alfresco at Le Vallauris. Also key for any desert road trip is a breathable tee. I've learned over the years that not all tops are created equal, and Goldie Tees' Signature tees and tanks continue to prove they're a cut above the rest. Made from 100 percent Peruvian pima cotton, the tank has a light, silky texture that feels like a cool hug on a hot day. A versatile athletic dress is a must for a desert visit. This smocked, flowy option from Aerie is lightweight, fast-drying, buttery-soft, and incredibly breathable. Even better? This detail-packed dress also has built-in shorts, pockets, and adjustable straps to make 100-degree days a little more comfortable. Teeming with national parks from its interior valleys to its golden coast, any outdoor enthusiast will be more than pleased with a road trip to some of California's best hiking spots. To keep your foundation strong on any trail, it's important to invest in a pair of supportive shoes. The Nortiv 8 Waterproof Hiking Boots have a durable midsole and mesh tongue that promotes ventilation. For sun protection and moisture-wicking material, REI's Sahara Shade Hoodie never fails, no matter how far or high you choose to roam. The super-soft and stretchy material offers UPF 50+ sun protection, and a three-panel hood has an internal drawstring to keep your neck well-protected. Pair the breathable shirt with REI's Trail Made Shorts, made with a water-repellent stretch nylon with six pockets to store all your small essentials. As temperatures along the coast and interior can often fluctuate, a good outdoor waterproof jacket is also clutch. Muji's Water Repellent Hoodie is made from organic cotton and has a rounded silhouette that can be changed by tightening the hem and cuffs. Its versatile fit makes it a good choice for hiking, biking, or any other outdoor activity. Last but not least, it's always a good idea to have a fully charged phone for any outdoor adventure, particularly if you're hiking for hours or get lost. The iWalk Portable Phone Charger is about the size of a lipstick case and comes with a built-in USB-C port. The battery bank can charge a phone from 0 to 50 percent in just 30 minutes for a quick boost on the trail. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
11 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
I'm a Travel Writer, and I Swapped Denim Shorts for Flowy Pants Years Ago—Shop My Top 7 Picks Under $50 at Amazon
I haven't been a fan of denim shorts for several years now. They never fit right, they're always riding up, and they're not ideal for sitting on a plane for hours. Flowy pants, on the other hand, are often made of lightweight materials like linen and cotton and offer cooling properties that are comfy to travel in. Amazon's fashion store is a goldmine for lightweight travel pants that'll add a breezy touch to your vacation outfits. So instead of sweating it out in tight, heavy denim, you can stay cool even in the hottest climates. Check out the best breathable and stretchy flowy pants at Amazon—prices start at $20. Reviewers are highly impressed with these wide-leg pants, so it's no wonder they've landed at number one on the best-sellers list. The smocked, stretchy waistband is the epitome of comfort and, one traveler described the pants as 'comfort and style had a baby and that baby grew up, traveled to Bali, [and] got a tan and chill confidence.' We couldn't ignore the fact that more than 3,000 of these linen-blend pants have been purchased this month. The design gives off an easy, relaxed style thanks to the wide-leg fit, and they're made from cotton and linen to create the perfect blend of lightness and breathability. One Amazon shopper confirmed their effortless style and wrote that they 'look like you are on vacation in Santorini or the Greek Isles,' even if you're just at your local beach. According to reviews, these white linen pants are light and airy, but the best detail is the crochet detailing along the legs that gives them an extra bit of oomph. One shopper, who wore them on a long road trip, said they're 'perfect for travel' and wrinkle-free. The simple design of these pants makes them ultra versatile to wear with swimsuits (as a cover-up) or flowy blouses and sandals. One shopper wore them while in Hawaii and loved the pants so much they wore them every day instead of any other bottoms they packed. These culottes are perfect for giving the spotlight to your sandals. They show off just some of your legs, so you can enjoy summer breezes while you settle in at a resort or explore outdoor markets with friends. The top of the pants has a tailored look, plus pockets and pleats for a polished look. You can pair them with a simple white T-shirt or an elegant floral blouse when you have a night on the town. There are wide-leg pants, and then there are these palazzo capris. They're so flowy and open, they almost look like a skirt, but you won't have to worry about them flying up from a gust of wind. The gingham pattern will add an elevated touch to your vacation clothes, and you can go from touring museums and wineries straight to dinner without having to change. Amazon Essentials' lightweight pants have a casual, relaxed look that'll give you some extra coverage from the sun while you walk around a new city (unlike shorts). The striped options have a preppy vibe that looks stylish and polished. One shopper commended the light material that helped them 'survive the heat and humidity' of Miami in June. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
