logo
28 Must-Have Travel Products Available On Prime

28 Must-Have Travel Products Available On Prime

Buzz Feed20-07-2025
A window seat BevLedge to avoid chugging your cup of ginger ale (no ice) in the name of closing your tray table. This room-saver holds both bevvies and accessories (like sleep masks and headphones) to maximize that economy window seat.
An Airplane Pocket tray cover to avoid dipping your hand into the abyss that is a seatback pocket. This conveniently slides over an airplane tray to hold everything from passports and chargers to laptops and paperbacks. It also prevents that panic of "did I leave my passport behind?" that I personally feel every single time I step off an airplane.
A Bluetooth adapter, because we all know that in-flight complimentary headphones are all but useless. This clever device lets you listen to new movies (*watches Harry Potter for the 90th time*) from the comfort of your own headphones.
Promising review: "Got this for my trip. Works perfectly on the listed aircraft. Paired up with my Bose QC earbuds on the first attempt. Lasted for a 15- and then 6-hour flight without recharging. If I were to lose this, I would buy it again without hesitation. A product that actually works as advertised. Would buy again." —TomPrice: $34.99 (available in four colors)
A portable stand to transform your tray table into a personal movie theatre. Download some movies onto your phone or tablet, prop 'em on this thing, and BAM! Just break out some snacks, and the discomfort of traveling will be completely forgotten.
Promising review: "This was one of the many products I bought for our international flight that my husband said I didn't need… well, during our 17-hour flight (the second flight out of six), he took my phone holder after his arms got tired binge-watching his show. Then I got to gloat in his face that I made a smart purchase! I'm taking this phone holder on every vacation we have! I love that you can also swivel the angle of the phone to adjust if the seat in front of you is reclined or not." —chrissy yoshidaPrice: $12.29
A foot hammock so you can truly ~kick your feet up~ and relax, promoting circulation and helping you feel less cramped in your tiny seat. (We'll get booked on business class one day. I promise.)
Promising review: "I was on a LONG international flight and this was a lifesaver. There was plenty of room for my feet, and having it allowed me to adjust my leg position often. It was easy to pack and carry, taking up virtually no space in my bag." —Gilles R. ChiassonPrice: $14.99 (also available in multipacks)
A plush blanket and pillow combo that's not a pain to pack thanks to a compact case with a trolley sleeve that slips over suitcase handle with ease.
Promising review: "Took this on an 11-hour international flight. It's lightweight to carry but warm enough for a plane. So glad I had this with me. It's also very easy to pack up." —Samuel HoultPrice: $29.95 (available in six colors)
Wireless sleep headphones because there's nothing worse than resting your head on your hand and lodging your earbuds all the way back into your eardrums. This seamless headband is both painless and plays white noise or your favorite music.
A memory foam seat cushion with an ergonomic design and gel layer that prevents bad posture and provides ultimate support. If your tush tends to hurt after a mere three seconds of sitting, this will take your long flight from "this is taking forever" to "wow, these last 13 hours breezed by."
Promising review: "From the instant I sat on this, I knew this was the correct purchase for relief. Two days after I received my cushion, we flew from Ontario, California, to Dallas, and then to London. I can honestly say that I would not have been able to make those flights due to my discomfort. I used it on each excursion we made in the 14 days of travel." —Bob B. Price: $36.76+ (available in three colors)
A foot rest especially adored by families traveling with little ones — this inflatable foot rest allows you to make the most of that extra floor space.
Promising review: "We had the bulkhead bassinet seats for our flight to Europe. This footrest was amazing! My husband and I were able to completely sprawl out and sleep. If you're on the fence, I'd say just buy it. The footrest takes pressure not just off your feet but off your hips, so after the long-haul flight, we both felt rested and fresh. We won't be traveling long haul without them!" —Jennifer PearsonPrice: $24.99
An inflatable wedge pillow you can slip on over your hands for deep sleep that feels genuinely restful (no small feat amidst turbulence). Prop open your tray table, rest your hands, then rest your head. *falls asleep immediately*
A luggage strap for folks who avoid bringing a slew of necessities (neck pillows, light jackets, the wide-brim hat you specifically bought for a sunny trip but never pack, etc.) for the sake of easy transport.
Disposable silicone earplugs because ear pain during air travel is REAL, and babies have every reason to cry because of it. Just saying.
Promising review: "A friend told me about these when I ruptured my eardrum a few days before I had to fly. I was expecting immense pain from my not-nearly-healed ear during takeoff and landing, but with these, I didn't feel the slightest additional discomfort." —Kathleen M.Price: $17.40
A carry-on friendly portable espresso maker, if the coffee carts at the hotel chains your corporation approves budget for are a far cry from the caffeine you want to drink in the morning. This ensures a delicious cup of joe, always.
A travel drink caddy if wheeling across terminals with your carry-on and (as the airlines dub it) your personal item (aka your purse) has led to several an airport Starbucks drink being spilled. This props iced coffee and water bottles upright so you can pull out your boarding pass with ease.
Promising review: "This is an amazing travel accessory! When you are trying to juggle your hot beverage with a water bottle, your phone, and a boarding pass, this is a handy, easily stashable uni-tasker to have. Fits perfectly on my carry-on bag and larger rolling bags as well." —PiratePrice: $14.99+ (available in 11 colors)
Anti-nausea ginger gum perfect for pregnancy morning sickness *or* long plane trips and train rides. Avoiding having to ask your seatmate to move so you can run to the bathroom is as easy as one, two, chew.
"I originally bought this gum for a getaway that I knew included a road trip because I get carsick on long drives and didn't want to become a miserable little gnat as a result. Let me tell you, this gum saved not only me but also almost everyone on my trip. Whenever someone started feeling nauseated, they just popped a piece of gum in their mouth and felt relief within minutes. The ginger taste is light, but it's still effective. It's actually really yummy! I can't imagine how many times we would've had to pull over so someone could get some fresh air or even throw up during our almost five-hour drive had I not brought this gum along." —former BuzzFeeder Jasmin SuknananPrice: $7.99
An anti-theft belt currently moonlighting as a fashion accessory to help hold up your mid-rise jeans when, in fact, it functions as a secret purse. This is actually equipped with a "secret" wallet for storing valuables whilst walking through a new city.
Promising review: "I purchased this for a trip to Cuba, where I needed to carry all of the money I needed for that week in cash. Although I am not typically worried/normally cautious when traveling, the idea of carrying that much cash on me made me nervous. Traditional money belts/fanny packs just didn't seem like a fit for me. I was worried they would become uncomfortable in the hot sun. This security belt was perfect. It allowed us to carry most of their money for the trip hidden within the belt, and carry in my purse the money I needed for that day. It also worked like a breeze with no issues getting through security. I'm not sure how much I'll use this in the future, but it was perfect for our needs for a trip to Cuba." —fendiPrice: $15.99
A contoured sleep mask, because — and gird your loins here — plane naps CAN be good. This helps alleviate pressure and prevents any light from ruining your snooze, plus the seamless elastic means it won't snag your hair in the process.
Promising review: "I've tried many sleep masks, but this is the only one I like. The foam around the eye sockets is soft and covered with soft material that forms a seal around my eye sockets. This makes it very comfortable and shields out any light, even if I want to take a nap during the day! I have been able to regulate my sleep better because I put it on when I want to sleep, and I am not awakened by light until I want to be. I usually stay up until at least midnight and wake up the minute the sun comes out, but I've been able to sleep many hours more than usual. This is THE ONLY mask I give as a gift, and the recipients tell me they have gotten the same response — longer sleep in the morning. Excellent buy!" —FanceyfootworkPrice: $21.99 (available in four colors)
A travel tray perfect for any accompanying kiddos. This collapsible accessory is equipped with a detachable cup holder, iPad viewing stand for Cocomelon marathons, side storage pockets for toys and other knick-knacks, plus a dry erase drawing surface base.
Promising review: "The perfect addition to our road trip! We were constantly battling with dropped snacks, toys, etc. My kiddo loved the compartments to hold everything, and the dry erase board was such a bonus! I love how well the removable pieces cling on, it's not your typical Velcro, much stronger and doesn't seem like it will wear down over time." —ARose Price: $28.99
A digital luggage scale — all I can say is that it's worth the $10 if you're prone to overpacking and have, on more than one occasion, been forced to pay an additional $100 luggage fee.
Promising review: "This luggage scale is so handy and is great for weighing your luggage. I was a little concerned before I got it because I wasn't sure how accurate it would be. When I used it when I went on vacation, it was dead on to what the airport said, so I highly recommend this. Plus, it's easy to pack in your bags." —Teresa DanielsPrice: $10.99
Luggage tags available in a bunch of vibrant, distinguishable colors that make spotting your suitcase at baggage claim into a no-fuss breeze.
Promising review: "Bought these for a trip across the country (I went through five airports) and these made it easy to identify my suitcase at baggage claim. Happy with the quality for money spent!" —AnnMarie JohnstonPrice: $9.99 (available in 19 colors)
A large travel wallet because there is NOTHING WORSE than losing a connecting boarding pass while on a plane. Is it underneath your seat? In the carry-on you stored in the overhead compartment? Did you drop it en route to the plane? I don't know, I'm tired, just get this and save yourself the potential headache.
The wallet has a passport pocket, a boarding pass compartment, three credit card slots, an ID slot, a slim card pouch, slim pockets, a ticket slot, a cellphone pouch, a coin zippered pocket, a key holder, and a pen holder.Promising review: "I absolutely love this wallet. I needed a new travel wallet, and this holds everything I need all in one place, and it still closes nicely and stays flat! I can fit my boarding pass, passport, ID, credit cards, money, checked baggage tickets, receipts, and more in it, yet it doesn't bulk up or look like an overstuffed mess. It's just amazing. The description says it only holds US money, but I just used the boarding pass flap to hold all my Japanese yen (¥), which are larger. I didn't use the zippered pocket for coins as I much prefer a separate coin purse for that sort of thing. I definitely recommend it to anyone who travels a lot!" —Anthony LuuPrice: $11.99 (available in 39 colors)
Silicone travel bottles because — regardless of whether you're staying in a 10-person hostel or a 5-star resort — complimentary shampoo is almost exclusively trash. These bottles come with pre-printed labels that allow you to bring your favorite hair and body products along for the trip.
And it comes with a handy, clear zipper pouch!Promising review: "Just took a trip to the Dominican Republic and used carry-on luggage only throughout the entire trip, never once was questioned about the size. The bag they are in seems thin, but it worked great to put bottles back in, as well as some smaller items fit in the bag too, like lip gloss, mascara, and such. The holes are big enough to get your product into the bottles without any complications. My fiancé and I had plenty of shampoo, conditioner, sunblock, and lotion for seven days. Highly recommend these bottles, they are perfect for carry-ons!!" —Stephanie MillerPrice: $11.99+ (for a set of three; available in a variety of sizes)
Compression socks to help keep your feet from swelling up. TLDR: These can help prevent leg soreness, cramping, *and* use a moisture-wicking fabric.
Read more about compression socks and long flights at Cleveland Clinic. Promising review: "I've been wearing compression socks to work for years and loved them, but these are the first pairs of compression socks I've tried for running. I had been having some leg cramping on my long runs, so I decided to try them and will never go back to short athletic socks again. I love the lack of fatigue I get from the pressure of these socks and the decrease in post-run pain. I will be wearing these when I cross the finish line at my first marathon this October!" —jamerz82Price: $6.95+ (available in sizes S–XXL and in 11 colors)
Neoprene handle wraps available in fluorescent colors you can hypothetically spot from space. Or at the very least, you can spot them from baggage claim.
Promising review: "These are great! It was very easy to spot my bag at the baggage claim thanks to these handle covers and the coordinating luggage tags. I also appreciated that the comfortable handle made it easier to schlep my bag in and out of the car!" —RiverSongPrice: $9.99 (available in 11 colors)
BPA-free covers if you've gotten into the habit of flinging your toothbrush into your foundation-covered makeup bag and calling it a day. When you think about it: ew. This tiny doodad keeps grime off the bristles that are intended to disinfect your mouth.
Promising review: "Fits my double brush electronic toothbrush perfectly. Cleans easily. A perfect accessory for the health and cleanliness of the toothbrush. Great idea; and I like the way they look." —a l brock Price: $12.99
Packing cubes capable of helping you fit your entire 👏 friggin' 👏 wardrobe 👏 inside your carry-on. Plus, they keeps everything lookin' niiiiice and neat.
Promising review: "I am officially sold on packing cubes!! These things are amazing! I can believe I've been packing without them my whole life. The mesh lining allows you to peek inside, and I was able to pack all my clothes, shoes, and toiletries for a 10-day trip to Europe (full contents listed below). I packed them as I normally would first, and then packed them in the packing cubes. There was SO much more room in my luggage after packing everything in the cubes! Items I fit in the cubes and bag include two jackets, one jean vest, four pants/capris, two pairs of shorts, one romper, four dresses, one maxi skirt, seven tank tops, four shirts, three camisoles, three pajama sets, 15 undies, six pairs of socks, and four pairs of shoes. But why are you still reading?? Go buy these cubes!" —Tiffany Price: $22.99 (available in eight colors)
A TSA-approved transparent organizer so you don't have to fish around your suitcase for liquids (and then stuff them in a clear baggy) when going through airport security. Flying is nerve-wracking enough. Let's not be panicking about whether or not our favorite moisturizer will be unjustly confiscated.
Promising review: "I am a flight attendant, and this case is perfect for all my international flights that require going through security. Plus, I love the handle. It makes it easy to pull out of my suitcase!" —Krissti Price: $12.86 (available in nine colors)
Cable ties because tangled charging cords and headphones are the second most frustrating thing on the planet. (Forgetting said charging cords and headphones at home is #1.)
These cable ties are also great for when you're NOT traveling!Promising review: "I used the different colors to help sort and organize the cords we were bringing on our trip, and I love that you can leave them on and just wrap them back up when you are ready!" —Shelby S. Price: $6.99 (for a pack of 20)
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Ditch Your Phone And Try These Affordable Cameras For Your Next Trip
Ditch Your Phone And Try These Affordable Cameras For Your Next Trip

Buzz Feed

time6 hours ago

  • Buzz Feed

Ditch Your Phone And Try These Affordable Cameras For Your Next Trip

While it's tempting to rely on your smartphone for every vacation photo, there's a case for leaving it in your bag and enjoying the beach unplugged. Beyond the obvious distraction, using your phone for pictures keeps you tethered to notifications and drains your battery fast. Affordable digital cameras offer a refreshing alternative, letting you capture memories without all of the distractions that come with using your phone. Whether you want instant prints, a spontaneous option for adventures, or a kid-friendly device, there are plenty of budget-friendly cameras at Target that don't compromise on fun. Here are some of the best affordable cameras to pack on your next trip that'll spark even more creativity. An under-$100 4K digital camera With a 16x digital zoom and a 48-megapixel sensor, this digital camera offers everything you need to take casual snapshots – in a pleasantly affordable package. One reviewer who called it a 'great starter cam' claimed it was 'WAY above average for the price.' There's an easy-to-control selfie mode, and the camera comes with one 32-gig microSD it from Target for $89.99 (originally $139.99). Instax Mini Evo instant film camera (that also stores digital copies of your photos) This stylish hybrid instant camera feels like a vintage treasure, with tactile dials for choosing from 10 filters and 10 lens effects — creating 100 unique looks without needing an app or menu system. A handy 3-inch screen lets you preview shots before printing, saving you from wasted film and sparking even more creativity. It also stores digital copies of prints internally or on a microSD. The coolest part? It lets you print from your phone over Bluetooth, which makes it so easy to use from literally anywhere in the it from Target for $216.99. A slightly more splurgeworthy Kodak Described by the brand as a 'bridge' camera – a compromise between a pricey, multi-lens prosumer option and an ultra-simple point-and-shoot like some of the other cameras in this roundup – this 'astro' zoom Kodak Pixpro has a 25x megapixel zoom, a more generous lens angle and a 3-inch LCD display screen in the it from Target for $169.99. Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 camera The Instax Mini 12 brings instant-print joy with no fuss — just twist the Fujinon lens to power on and engage 'close‑up' mode. Featuring automatic exposure and flash control, it delivers bright, well-balanced shots that print in seconds. You can sip a cocktail on the beach and print out your photo without even getting up. A built-in selfie mirror comes in handy. There's five beautiful pastel colors to choose from which lean into the playful aspect for the camera. Plus, its AA battery power means easy swapping anywhere you travel – no chargers it from Target for $86.99 (available in six colors). A 2-pack of kid-friendly cameras If you're traveling with kids, this is a wonderful way to spark a love for seeing the world through a different lens (literally). This adorable set of digital cameras – complete with bright silicone dinosaur and unicorn skins – is built for little explorers aged 3-8, letting them snap photos, record 1080-pixel HD video, and even play simple puzzle games. Whichever option fits your travel style, you'll come home with meaningful memories and, yes, plenty of great photos. So put the phone away, take one of these cameras along for the trip, and see how much more in the moment your vacation can them from Target for $51.99 (originally $99.99).

31 Travel Items That'll Make You Organized And Comfy
31 Travel Items That'll Make You Organized And Comfy

Buzz Feed

time21 hours ago

  • Buzz Feed

31 Travel Items That'll Make You Organized And Comfy

A *mini* Kindle that's super lightweight, the same size as your bag of chips, and somehow fits your entire reading list in one sleek little gadget. With a glare-free screen that reads like real paper (even under blazing sun) and a battery that lasts up to six weeks, it's perfect for beach days, long flights, train rides, or pretending to read while people-watching in Paris. No Wi-Fi? No problem, you can download books before takeoff and get lost in them at 30,000 feet. An airplane seat back organizer so you can place your snacks, drinks, magazines, headphones, and tablet into a convenient spot. (Yes, it can fit all of that!) Switching from streaming to reading has never been easier because digging around your filled-to-the-brim carry-on is simply a hassle. You'll stay entertained your entire flight *and* super organized. Plus, a drink holder to create some extra space around you while you're cramped in economy and have barely any room for your *crisp* ginger ale. This will be a window seat's BFF because this can hold your bevvie, phone, glasses, headphones, and more. A universal travel adapter that covers you in Europe, Asia, and Australia, making it possible to jump from continent to continent and needing only this adapter. This can juice up to four devices at once and let you leave some of your charging blocks behind — just don't forget the cords! A set of silicone "EarPlanes" because the sometimes painful ear popping that happens when you take off or land is the last thing you want to deal with. And if you're going across the sea, there will definitely be some altitude changes, so these can come in handy. A 4-in-1 makeup brush set so you can apply your foundation, powder, eyeshadow, and concealer all using the same brush, meaning you won't have to pack your entire arsenal of beauty tools. This double-ended multitasker has soft bristles and even comes with a travel case so it won't get gross at the bottom of your bag. Whether you're touching up in the airport bathroom or doing a full face in the back of a cab, this brush has your back (and cheeks, and lids, and under eyes). An eight-compartment pill organizer to fit any and all of your pill needs in one lightweight container — meaning that you don't have to stuff six different bottles for one trip into your bag (and possibly get flagged by TSA). An AirFly Pro wireless transmitter for anyone with Bluetooth headphones who wants to comfortably watch the free movies during their longgg flights (so, everyone). Now you can marathon-watch every blockbuster film you missed in the theaters wearing your fave comfy or noise-canceling headphones! A 2-in-1 straightener and curling iron that works as both a curler and a straightener, forgoing the need to cram in two bulky items when there's no space left in your bag — with this, you get both! Reviewers swear by it for international travel because of the dual-voltage feature. No need to worry that you'll blow up your outlet overseas! A convenient luggage strap so you won't be overwhelmed with the amount of stuff you have to carry — just attach it to the handle of your bag to have a free hand. Now your arm won't get all sore from lugging around another thing *and* your bag will hang securely as you stroll through the airport! A travel wallet aka the ultra-organized best friend your travel bag didn't know it needed. It's slim, lightweight, and folds out like a magic trick to reveal dedicated slots for your passport, boarding pass, credits cards, SIM cards, and even a pen (because custom forms still exist). And yes, it blocks RFID signals, so no one's scanning your info while you're trying to buy airport snacks in peace. An electronics organizer that's much better than just throwing them all in your personal item and calling it a day (which is me, I fear). You can neatly organize all of your cords *and* slip in any other small travel or tech gadgets into the zip-up pocket. A bendy travel pillow because your current U-shaped one can't bend into any shape you want. The cover is super soft and can even be washed if it gets gross — which is very possible after eating the included meals. Or an ergonomic Trtl travel pillow — the unique design gives you the support you're looking for while sleeping upright without the hassle of packing or carrying around a big neck pillow. It's slimmer and more compact, which is perfect if you've already over-stuffed your personal item! A collapsible silicone water bottle so you can avoid purchasing the ridiculously priced water bottles at the airport Hudson News. Just pack this into your personal item (empty, of course) and fill it up once you're through security! A luggage-mounted cup caddy if your morning Starbies is a must as you travel, but you want your hands free as you walk to your gate. It can hold your Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso, pink cake pop, water bottle, phone, or anything else that's keeping your hand occupied. An adorable Gillette Venus travel razor, your new go-to on trips because it's light and easy to store — *and* it does the same thing as your full-sized razor anyways. You'll have baby-smooth skin in no time. A hands-free (rotating!) phone mount if your plane is ~old-school~ and you assumed all planes in 2025 had TVs these days... Newsflash: they don't. 🥲 You can *still* enjoy the comfort of looking up-right at a screen by mounting this onto the tray table. You'll have a comfortable viewing experience without having to prop your phone up yourself (and straining your neck in the process)! A packing list pad so you can avoid running behind schedule as you try to remember that thing you know you're missing — but you can't *quite* put your finger on it. This full, extensive list helps you double-check that you have everything and can help avoid any CVS or Walgreens runs once you land! A super spacious Beis backpack for your overflow of clothes that didn't quite make the cut for your suitcase — now they'll go in your carry-on! It has a padded sleeve for your backpack, a trolly pass-through, and lots of compartments so you can feel extra organized. Plus, it can be fully opened like a suitcase, so packing and finding your things is much easier! A universal travel harness seat to make any chair with sturdy back support into a high chair for ages six months and up. Now, you won't have to hope and pray that the restaurant, Airbnb, or Hotel has one on standby for you. A 3-in-1 foldable wireless charging pad that'll not only fold up compactly into your carry-on but also replace two of your three clunky chargers since it can juice up your iPhone, AirPods, and smartwatch all at the same time. A pack of LeakLocks Toiletry Skins to make your suitcase doesn't end up smothered in shampoo and conditioner. These genius little sleeves stretch right over your bottles to catch leaks before they can ruin your clothes, shoes, or your will to travel. And yes, they really can fit standard-size bottles! A digital luggage scale that'll squash *any* anxiety that your bag is too heavy. Now you don't have to worry about forking over more money (for that big overweight bag fee) or ripping open your suitcase in front of everyone — with this, you can avoid both! A travel-friendly blanket-slash-pillow because it covers all of your sleeping needs in one little compact square. After you wake up from your nap, turn that comfy pillow into a blanket so you stay warm for the rest of your flight. Because it can get FREEZING! A combination 3D eye mask/travel pillow that'll be the reason why your neck doesn't hate you after a long flight. It doesn't just support your head, but it also hugs it into place with a genius head strap that clips to your seat's headrest. Now you won't have any more dramatic head bobs or chin-to-chest droops. Plus, the built-in eye mask means you won't be rudely awakened when the cabin lights are turned on! Or a contoured sleep mask so if the person at the window *insists* on keeping their shade open, you won't really care because these are like black-out shades for your eyes. They're comfortable, adjustable, and better than your average sleep mask because you can actually blink in them. Can someone say game changer!? A Pashmina scarf with UPF 50+ sun protection! It's lightweight, breathable, and big enough to use as a plane blanket, but chic enough to rock straight to dinner after landing. You can drape it over your shoulders, bundle it up as a scarf, or wrap it around you as catch some shut-eye on the flight. A travel jewelry case if you want your necklaces untangled, rings secure, and earrings neatly organized. With this, you don't have to worry about your fave pieces vanishing into the bottom of your bag. And the Ring Thing, a waterproof, airtight, and floatable jewelry case that'll keep your engagement ring (or other expensive finger bling) safe. So whether you're hitting the beach, hiking, or playing pickleball, your rings can stay scratch-free and exactly where you left them. It also comes with silicone spacers to protect the rings from clinking together *and* clips onto your carry-on or keychain for easy access. A Tushbaby carrier, so instead of strapping your baby to your back like a backpack full of bricks, this carrier lets your little one perch comfortably on a memory foam hip seat to help you stay pain-free. You can use it for front-facing, hip-holding, face-to-face snuggles, or even feeding support when your baby decides it's snack time in the middle of gate B43.

For Harry Potter fans, the Wizarding World is as close as Orlando
For Harry Potter fans, the Wizarding World is as close as Orlando

USA Today

time4 days ago

  • USA Today

For Harry Potter fans, the Wizarding World is as close as Orlando

I never got that letter from Hogwarts – or Ilvermorny, the wizarding school in the United States. But I still get to visit the Wizarding World whenever I go to Orlando. Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort all bring the magic of Harry Potter to life, but only the Florida resort expands the Wizarding World beyond Hogsmeade and Hogwarts. Here's what Harry Potter fans can expect at Universal Orlando and how much time and money it takes to visit. Which Universal park is Harry Potter in? All three of Universal Orlando's theme parks have their own corner of the Wizarding World. Universal Islands of Adventure is home to Hogsmeade. Universal Studios Florida invites guests into Diagon Alley. Universal Epic Universe transports guests to both the Ministry of Magic in Harry Potter's time and 1920s wizarding Paris. Universal also calls its Volcano Bay water park a theme park, but it's not a traditional theme park and has no Harry Potter presence. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade This was the first Wizarding World of Harry Potter across Universal's resorts, and it remains a fan favorite. Fans will immediately recognize places like Honeydukes and the Three Broomsticks in the snow-capped wizarding village, where Hogwarts Castle looms in the distance. Honeydukes sells all sorts of sweets like Chocolate Frogs and Fizzing Whizzbees, while the Three Broomsticks serves up British comfort food like Shepherd's Pie and wizarding drinks like Pumpkin Juice and Butterbeer. Peering in the shop windows, guests will spot Hermione's gown from the Yule Ball and magical sights that engage when guests cast spells with interactive wands. (Additional wand experiences are available in the other parks.) The most popular attraction here is Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motobike Adventure, a coaster whose vehicles resemble the motorcycle Sirius Black gave Hagrid, with a sidecar. Younger or more timid guests, like my youngest, may prefer Flight of the Hippogriff, a family coaster alongside Hagrid's hut with terrific views of the park. Can you go into Hogwarts at Universal Orlando? Yes. Hogwarts Castle houses Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which hurls guests through the castle's grounds and into the path of a dragon, acromantula (giant spiders like Aragog) and dementors. Guests prone to motion sickness may want to avoid this ride, but fans should still walk through the queue filled with familiar scenes from the books and films, like Professor Dumbledore's office, walls of talking portraits, the Sorting Hat and the Mirror of Erised. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Despite its name, there's more to this corner of the Wizarding World than Diagon Alley. Outside, guests can visit King's Cross Station, where they can catch the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9¾ to Hogsmeade, if they have park-to-park tickets. Guests can also see the Knight Bus, and if they stand outside Sirius Black's family home at the right time, they can spot faithful house elf Kreacher. Passing through the brick entrance to Diagon Alley feels like stepping into the films, where Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, the Leaky Cauldron, Gringotts Wizarding Bank and more await. Gringotts is topped with a dragon that breathes fire at regular intervals, as weather permits. Inside the bank, guests can ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, the main ride besides the Hogwarts Express. Don't leave without wandering through Knockturn Alley, one of the coolest places in the park, in every sense of the word. Many guests also like to cool off with treats from Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour, which serves Butterbeer soft-serve and hard-pack flavors, including Clotted Cream and Sticky Toffee Pudding. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Unlike Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, most of this world is set in 1920s Paris during the time of the 'Fantastic Beasts' films. The wizarding neighborhood of Place Cachée feels both familiar and foreign with full-scale Haussmann-style buildings. Easter eggs include the statue that came to life in the 'Fantastic Beasts' films and myriad magical creatures adorning places like Café L'air De La Sirène, the only place to find Bieraubeurre (Butterbeer) crepes. There are two major attractions here: the live Le Cirque Arcanus show and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, the most popular ride at Epic Universe and a jaw-dropping recreation of the Ministry itself. From nifflers to demiguises: These magical creatures make Epic Universe's Wizarding World Which Universal Orlando Park is better for Harry Potter? Better is subjective. My favorite is probably still Diagon Alley, because it's where Harry Potter first stepped into the Wizarding World after finding out he was a wizard, and Universal's version stays true to the films. However, my daughters both favor Hogsmeade, and the Ministry of Magic is dazzling in its own right. How much does it cost to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando? Ticket prices vary by date and park at Universal Orlando. For Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, single-park tickets start at $119 for guests ages 10 and over but do not include access to the Hogwarts Express. Park-to-park tickets for those same parks start at $174. Universal Epic Universe tickets start at $139 a day. Fans will want to budget extra for dining and possibly souvenirs. Tip: Breakfast is the best deal at Three Broomsticks and the Leaky Cauldron; it includes a choice of drink, such as Butterbeer. Also, not everyone needs to buy an interactive wand. Friends or family can take turns using one, then reuse it on future trips. How long does it take to do 'Harry Potter World' Orlando? Guests should plan for at least two days to explore all three Wizarding World areas across Universal Orlando, but they'll need longer to fully experience the larger resort, which includes many other themed areas featuring beloved franchises like Jurassic World, Minions, Nintendo and How to Train Your Dragon.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store