logo
#

Latest news with #TrtlPillow

Amazon Prime Day launches with a smattering of great travel deals
Amazon Prime Day launches with a smattering of great travel deals

News.com.au

time09-07-2025

  • News.com.au

Amazon Prime Day launches with a smattering of great travel deals

Amazon Prime Day has left the starting mark in fine form. For travellers there's bargains to be had for practically every part of the journey, from Samsonite suitcases and mini power banks to travel pillows and eye masks to make the journey fly smoothly. What's good? Glad you asked. Top of our list is the Rolls Royce of travel pillows, the Cabeau Evolution S3. With 8000 positive reviews behind it, this pillow hits the spot with its memory foam walls and compact pack-down and is down to $37.50. Don't walk, run. Classic U-shaped pillow not doing the job? At 31 per cent off (down to $66), now's the perfect time to test out the viral Trtl Pillow. It's compact, lightweight and wraps around your head quite like a scarf to deliver support all flight long. Next, the INIU Power Bank Mini. This pocket rocket has almost 10,000 reviews and has been described as a "compact powerhouse" that's "durable and perfect for travel". At $27.99 (down from $45.99) you won't have to break any banks to buy it, either. If you missed out on their big EOFY sale, Samsonites have also been given a hefty chop. We're talking up to 56 per cent off the Samsonite Lite-Shock Sport Suitcase (now from $278.10) and 51 per cent off the Samsonite Hi-Fi Spinner (now from $185). Need a new suitcase but need it cheaper? You got it. American Tourister bestsellers are also ruling the sales rack with the Light Max Suitcase starting from $116.10 (down from $265) and the Curio 2 now from $134 (was $240) while for your carry-on you can't go past the viral tomtoc 40L Travel Backpack. Built like a duffel but worn like a backpack, it's an organiser's dream and is now $99.99 (down from $139.99). We're big on accessories to make the journey that much smoother and bluetooth transmitters to go wireless on board are a godsend. UGREEN's is down a crazy 35 per cent off (now $27.99), has won over 2000 travellers and "works flawlessly," according to one five-star review. Keeping you charged and connected is the LENCENT Universal Travel Adaptor, which is down to $39.99 (from $49.99). and saving you from overweight baggage fees, the travel inspira luggage scale is a tiny hero that won't set you back more than $12 right now. Over 19k customers love it, calling out its quality, value and ease of us. It's a small investment that's worth it's weight (pardon the pun). For stress-free travel, we love a good bluetooth tracker and according to tech expert Alex Kidman Apple AirTags are "the one to beat". Over Prime Day they're down to $38 a tag or $135 for a four-pack. Better stock up. Android user? Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2's are on sale too, with four-packs costing $85.50 (down from $169). There's loads more for travellers where those came from. But if you need some direction weeding out the best bargains keep scrolling for my picks of the best deals for travellers. This year's Amazon Prime Day sale runs for seven days, ending on July 14 and is available to Prime Members only. If that's not you, you can sign up here for a free 30-day trial to make the most of this sale without footing any subscription fees. Just remember to cancel within the month if it's not for you. Editor's Picks: Top Amazon Prime Day travel deals Best Amazon Prime Day travel accessories deals Best Amazon Prime Day travel tech deals Best Amazon Prime Day luggage and packing deals Best Amazon Prime Day outdoor and adventure deals Best Amazon Prime Day travel fashion and beauty deals What is Amazon Prime Day? Amazon Prime Day is an annual sales event where Amazon Prime Members get exclusive access to big discounts across the site. Categories include luggage, toys, clothing, beauty, kitchenware, phones, homewares, tech and more. Typically you'll see thousands of items go on sale with discounts running well above 50 per cent off. Despite the name, Amazon Prime Day runs for longer than 24-hours with each year's event getting longer. This year's lasts seven days. To snap up these deals, sign into your Prime account and get shopping. If you're not a member, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial here. Following that, membership is $9.99 per month. When is Amazon Prime Day? Amazon Prime Day 2025 runs from 12.01am AEST July 8 until midnight July 14.

The top travel pillows to support your sleep on the road
The top travel pillows to support your sleep on the road

Vancouver Sun

time25-06-2025

  • Vancouver Sun

The top travel pillows to support your sleep on the road

Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Whether you're stuck in the dreaded middle seat on a never-ending plane ride or crammed into the back of a bus, finding a comfortable enough position to catch some quality Z's on the go feels about as promising as winning the lottery. But fear not, weary traveller, for there is a knight in fluffy armour ready to save the day: the almighty travel pillow. Let's be honest, no one is expecting to get their best night's sleep while travelling — but your pillow doesn't have to be to blame. Gone are the days when the U-shaped pillow you got complimentary with your flight was the only option. Now, there's a pillow shape, material and configuration for every type of snoozer. Plan your next getaway with Travel Time, featuring travel deals, destinations and gear. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Travel Time will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. While you can find these magical neck supporters at every airport bookstore and major rest stop known to humanity, many simply don't make the cut when it comes to comfort. If your upcoming vacation involves an excruciatingly long flight or an epic road trip , equip yourself for sleep success with our seven picks for the most remarkable travel pillows you can snag online for every preference. Best memory-foam option: Ostrich Go Neck Pillow Best for side-sleepers: Trtl Pillow Best for versatility: Huzi Infinity Pillow Best 2-in-1 budget-friendly option: Samsonite 2-in-1 Magic Travel Pillow Best inflatable option: Sunany Inflatable Travel Pillow Best for window seats: J-Pillow Travel Pillow Best camp pillow: Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow One of the greatest enemies of sleeping well on the go is the dreaded mid-nap head slump, which is exactly what inspired the Go Neck Pillow's unique design. Like traditional U-shaped pillows, this hugs your neck, b ut unlike its counterparts, this pillow takes support to a whole new level. By offering 360-degree support, every angle of your neck and head is cradled with care. Thanks to its front Velcro enclosure, it stays in position and when not in use, it easily folds down to 60 per cent of its size and fits into the included drawstring storage bag. While the Go Neck Pillow comes with a higher price tag, its luxurious feel and convenience make it worth the investment for frequent travellers. Benefits: Sleeve is machine-washable, comes with a storage bag Material: Rayon and memory foam Price: $89 Where to buy: Amazon The ultimate ally for the side sleepers among us, Turtl's proprietary fleece-covered rigid frame gives your neck all the support it needs. Like a stylish neck brace, this pick is great for those prone to neck kinks and is the preferred pillow by nine out of ten participants in a study they conducted. And hot sleepers, fret not! While the original Trtl acts like a cozy, warm scarf, they just launched Trtl Pillow Cool constructed from mesh and cooling Tencel fabric. Whichever model you choose, we love that Trtl doesn't require any inflating, squeezing, stuffing, or wrestling into a puny carrying case. It proudly packs flat, taking up no more space than your wallet and is ready for action when you need it. Benefits: Available in four colours, also comes in a cooling version Material: Fleece Price: $80 Where to buy: Amazon | Trtl This versatile infinity oval of support allows you to wrap and twist the pillow into the shape that suits your snuggle best. We appreciate that it's machine-washable, super-soft and breathable, and not only offers neck support but can be used as a lumbar pillow, desk pillow, chin pillow or noise-canceling pillow. Many also recommend it for travelling with kids, and the fact that it comes in four cute colours doesn't hurt either! The only downside is the bulkiness it will add to your bag. Benefits: Versatile for all kinds of sleeping positions, available in ten colours Material: Bamboo shell, polyester fill Price: $64 Where to buy: Infinity Pillow | Amazon The shape-shifting Samsonite Magic Travel Pillow makes our list because it effortlessly transforms from a cozy U-shape to a convenient square-shaped pillow in a matter of seconds — and comes in at a pleasantly affordable price tag. If you want both a regular pillow for car or camp sleeping, but a neck pillow while flying, you can't beat this micro-bead-filled marvel which is just the right amount of squishy. Benefits: 2-in-1 design, comes in two colours Material: Polyvinyl chloride Price: $35 Where to buy: Amazon | Samsonite For those who take more of a forward-slouch position when slumbering, this inflatable pillow will turn your lap, tray or desk into nap central. Hugging the flat side against you makes for the perfect position upright if riding on a train, and flipped the other way, you can sink your head right in a la a massage table with it resting on a tray table on a plane. As a bonus, there are arm holes on the sides that allow for air ventilation and a nifty private nook to read or edit your phone pics in. Benefits: Inflatable Material: Polyvinyl chloride Price: $20 Where to buy: Amazon This wonderfully comfy choice is a window-seat superhero in a car or airplane. Wedged up against a hard surface with the trunk under your chin, the plush J-Pillow keeps your head upright and in place while you move with an adjustable wrap around your neck. It comes with a durable clip for attaching to your bag or carry-on and is a nice compact size. Benefits: Great for window seats Material: Polyester and foam Price: $63 Where to buy: Amazon Designed to pack small and deliver big comfort when you're home away from home, the Therm-a-Rest compressible pillow is our luxury pick while camping and road-tripping. Surprisingly ultralight, it packs up to a little larger than a typical water bottle (14 x 5 x 6 compressed) and fluffs out to a generous 14 x 18 x 4-inch pillow. It has a perfect fill level to satisfy all, and the brushed fabric feels like heaven on the face. Plus, it's safe for the washing machine so you can freshen it up between campfires or plane rides. Benefits: Comes in two sizes Material: Brushed polyester cover and urethane fill Price: $69 Where to buy: Amazon Shopping Essentials is a category written by research-obsessed shopping experts. Explore product reviews, recommendations and launches — plus behind-the-scenes info on your favourite brands and hidden gems — learn more here or sign up for our newsletter .

The Best Neck Pillows For Travel That Provide Support And Comfort
The Best Neck Pillows For Travel That Provide Support And Comfort

Forbes

time24-03-2025

  • Forbes

The Best Neck Pillows For Travel That Provide Support And Comfort

The best neck pillows for travel support your head and neck to ensure you can sleep comfortably on any journey, since limited space and lack of proper pillows on planes and trains can leave you feeling sore and achy. After extensive research, the Ostrich Go Luxury Travel Pillow is our top recommendation thanks to its adjustable design and comfortable memory foam filling. We also recommend the Trtl Travel Pillow if you're seated in a window or aisle seat and will be favoring one side of your neck. The best neck pillows for travel support your head and neck to ensure you can sleep comfortably. When selecting a neck pillow, choose an option with firm support. 'The right pillow will keep your neck in a spine-neutral position when you fall asleep in the upright or seated position," says Dr. Mara Vucich, D.O., a physiatrist at the Maryland Spine Center in Baltimore, Maryland. 'Otherwise, your head and neck may end up in an awkward position, which can put unwanted stress on your neck and spine.' Comfort is still key, so make sure that the pillow you choose allows for movement without being restrictive. Ahead, the best neck pillows for travel in 2025. Amazon Weight: 0.5 pounds | Cover material: Oeko-Tex Viscose and elastomer | Fill material: Memory foam | Care: Sleeve is machine washable Pros: Cons: This well-made and comfortable neck pillow has a supportive memory foam core that promotes proper alignment regardless of your position (it offers support whether you sleep with your head back, to one side or straight in the middle). A velcro closure secures it so that you can adjust the fit, and the outer shell is machine washable for easy care. The pillow itself feels soft and keeps your head elevated. Plus, it compresses to 60% of its original size and fits into the included travel bag when not being used. What the reviews say: 'I'm one of those people that can never sleep on a plane, no matter how long the flight is,' writes one reviewer. 'I've tried many types of pillows, and nothing helped. I had a 12-hour flight coming up and decided to give this one a try. It was the best decision ever. I slept for several hours and felt much more rested.' Amazon Weight: 0.28 pounds | Cover material: Fleece | Fill material: Foam, plastic | Care: Outer wrap is machine washable Pros: Cons: If you want something to support your head and neck while in a window or aisle seat, we recommend the Trtl Travel Pillow. It resembles a padded neck brace or wrap, and it's covered in ultra-soft fleece that feels comforting against the skin. The internal support system keeps your neck, chin and jaw in place, although the internal brace only sits on one side. Similar to our top pick, this has a velcro closure so you can adjust the fit based on your preferences. What our editors say: Emmy Favilla, managing editor at Forbes Vetted, swears by the Trtl Pillow and has been using it exclusively for years on domestic and long-haul flights. 'I've found it's ideal no matter which seat I'm in,' she says. Since switching from more traditional neck pillows to the Trtl, 'I don't wind up feeling any residual neck or shoulder pain whatsoever after dozing off on a long flight. Plus, getting a personalized fit is easy because you can adjust it to your liking. It may sort of look like you're wearing a neck brace, but it works, and I'm standing by it forever.' Pluto Weight: Not listed | Cover material: Alcantara and WPS mesh blend; Spandura | Fill material: Foam, recycled fill | Care: Cover is machine washable Pros: Cons: If you have trouble sleeping while traveling due to light and noise, the Pluto Pod solves those problems thanks to the built-in hood and eye mask. The hood and eyemask portion are fully adjustable, and the neck portion of the design offers 360-degree support. When you're not using the Pluto Pod, it rolls down into a small, traditional-looking pillow that wraps onto your luggage handle or can be stashed inside your suitcase. It's a bit larger than other options on our list (it measures 31 by 15 inches when open), but the unique features help you feel like you're resting in a quiet, private space rather than a crowded airplane. What our editors say: Lindsey Vickers, a former mattress and sleep editor at Forbes Vetted, recommends the Pluto Pod for travel. It addressed her travel and nap concerns, from an unsupported neck to a bobbing chin to excessive light. Amazon Weight: 0.7 pounds | Cover material: Microsuede | Fill material: Memory foam | Care: Cover is machine washable Pros: Cons: Although this pick has a traditional 'U' shape, higher sides provide extra support and gentle contouring for the head and jaw area. The 360-degree support is ideal for all types of sleepers, and the addition of seat straps prevents you from tipping forward or slouching while you sleep. Other helpful features include an adjustable clasp, washable cover and convenient carry bag. What the reviews say: 'This is a real winner. I travel a lot and take long trips, and this [pillow] allows me to sleep for a long period of time because my head isn't flopping around,' says one reviewer. 'I also have no neck pain, which I have had with my other [travel pillow]. It folds up nicely and fits in its case far better than my others. You can't go wrong with this.' Another confirms, 'The sides are high and supportive enough that I woke with zero neck pain and [experienced] zero head bobs while sleeping.' Amazon Weight: 12.7 ounces | Cover material: Polyester | Fill material: Memory foam, plastic | Care: Cover is machine washable Pros: Cons: If you run hot, the Cabeau Evolution Cool Pillow has mesh side vents that let hot air escape, and the moisture-wicking material keeps you cool throughout your journey. The dual memory foam fill material offers firm support, and the design has a flat back, so you're not pushed too far forward in your seat. The raised sides hug your jawline, and the front clasp is adjustable. While customers say it does an excellent job of preventing overheating (especially on long flights), it's not as compact and portable as other choices. What the reviews say: 'This pillow is well-built, comfortable and keeps your neck cool. It's the best neck pillow I've ever used,' says one customer. 'I can wear noise-canceling headphones with this without issue, and the ventilation really works.' Another user says it's 'very sturdy, well-built and provides great comfort when traveling. The vents on the sides prevent overheating and sweat.' The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of in-depth roundups on travel products, including the best travel accessories, best travel blankets and more. We began researching the best neck pillows for travel based on the recommendations of our seasoned Forbes Vetted team and Vucich's expert insight. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the best neck pillows for travel. Here's what to look for. The most important consideration when looking for a neck pillow for travel is support level. Whether you're sleeping in an upright position or on your side, maintaining a spine-neutral position helps alleviate aches and pains—and prevents you from waking up feeling tired and sore. Look for a firm pillow that can elevate your head and neck, as something too soft won't help you maintain proper alignment. Also, consider how you usually sleep, as this can impact the type of support you need. For instance, the Trtl Travel Pillow only supports one side of your neck at a time, so it's better suited for airplane travel if you're in an aisle or window seat. If you tend to toss, turn, or reposition frequently while you sleep, opt for the Ostrich Go Luxury Travel Pillow (which provides support from all angles), the Pluto Pod or the Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow. Airplanes can be hot and stuffy, so look for a neck pillow with a breathable cover that's easy to care for. Many options have a cotton, polyester or viscose cover that's machine washable and won't cause you to overheat. Memory foam is a common fill material thanks to its long-lasting support, pressure relief and ability to promote proper spine alignment. Most pillows have a 'U' shape that wraps around the neck and keeps your head upright. This shape also prevents the head from bobbing around, which can lead to wakefulness. Other options might resemble a neck brace or include extra features like a hood to block out the light while sleeping. Consider how you prefer to sleep and read through customer reviews to better understand how this shape feels after continued use. Your neck pillow will travel through the airport, on the airplane and to your new destination, so choose something that doesn't take up too much space. Many pillows, like the Ostrich Go Luxury Travel Pillow, come with a travel case, while others may have a hook or clip that allows it to hang from the side of your bag. Most airlines don't count neck pillows as a carry-on item, but it's a good idea to double-check ahead of time and find one that packs down to be on the safe side. After extensive research, our team rated the Ostrich Go Luxury Travel Pillow as the best neck pillow for travel. It offers travelers 360 degrees of support, regardless of how they sleep, and the memory foam fill is soft and comfortable. It also comes with an included travel bag so you can easily store it when it's not in use. Memory foam offers excellent support and pressure relief, so it's a great material for a travel neck pillow. The Ostrich Go Luxury Travel Pillow and Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow both have memory foam filling wrapped in a fabric cover that's machine washable. All the picks in this guide have a breathable cover that's easy to care for. Yes, neck pillows are helpful if you plan to nap or sleep while on a plane. According to our expert, it keeps your neck in a spine-neutral position when you fall asleep upright or seated, preventing unwanted stress on your neck and spine. If you travel frequently, investing in a good neck pillow can help you rest easier and make air travel more comfortable.

If You're Determined To Do More Traveling This Year, These 34 Handy Products Will Help You Feel Like A Seasoned Jet-Setter
If You're Determined To Do More Traveling This Year, These 34 Handy Products Will Help You Feel Like A Seasoned Jet-Setter

Buzz Feed

time12-03-2025

  • Buzz Feed

If You're Determined To Do More Traveling This Year, These 34 Handy Products Will Help You Feel Like A Seasoned Jet-Setter

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Shopping · Tools to help you pack lighter, fly more comfortably, and gain some sweet, sweet peace of mind. 1. An airplane seat back organizer to slip over the tray table and really make this little slice of Airbus feel like home. The machine-washable surface provides a clean space for working and eating while adding some much-needed pockets for easy access to the snacks, drinks, and activities you've prepared to make it through this long-haul flight. Promising review: "Very useful, especially when traveling with kids. Provided easy access and storage to things like water bottles, hand sanitizer, snacks, wipes, and headphones. I didn't have to access my carry-on." — JJ Check out BuzzFeed writer Emma Lord 's Airplane Pockets review for more deets! Get it from Amazon for $29.99. 2. A waterproof pouch because you don't want to leave your phone behind on those wet 'n' wild vacation adventures (and miss those photos?!). You might as well skip the low-grade "What if it gets wet?" panic and give yourself peace of mind that your tech is protected. It fits any phone up to 100mm x 170mm (or about 3.9 inches x 6.7 inches). And you can totally use the touchscreen through the case — including the camera! People take incredible photos with it. Promising review:"The swim-up bar was our group's meeting point every day while on vacation in Costa Rica. I had no worries about misplacing my phone or damaging it in the pool. I caught lots of candid shots because I didn't have to fumble with getting it out of a dry bag. I had my phone around my neck and shot through the plastic!" — Diane Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 14 styles). 3. A Trtl neck pillow for actually supporting your neck while you try to catch some mid-flight Z's. It's way less bulky than traditional travel pillows and will keep you from head bobbing onto your neighbor's shoulder. Promising review: "I am a terrible flyer who recently took the red-eye from Dubai to Chicago (15 hours). The Trtl Pillow was a mini lifesaver! I was able to comfortably rest my head on the support and felt warm enough to actually doze off....a rare accomplishment for this skittish flyer. The Velcro works wonderfully with regard to adjustment, and I liked wrapping the fabric around my mouth and nose. Sort of felt if I did look like a ninja in a neck brace! Overall, this product has changed the way that I fly, and I am so thankful for this invention and the opportunity to support a small company with big ideas." — Get it from Amazon for $64.99 (available in four colors). 4. Or a neck pillow you can stuff with clothing if it's your life's mission to never pay extra baggage fees. This downright magical hack clips to your luggage and can hold 2–3 days' worth of clothing, so all those chunky knits can come out of the carry-on and cushion your head during your snooze in the skies. 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: "I travel a lot and try to use Spirit, which, as we know, charges extra fees. I put three days' worth of clothes in this and had room to spare. Freed up space in my computer bag for bulky items. One thing: it is definitely larger than a typical neck pillow. I attach it to my computer bag, and nobody has said anything." — david Get it from Amazon for $49.95. 5. A set of portable soap sheets so you and the fam can always guarantee access to cleansing hand soap, even in the most — How do I say this nicely? — ~neglected~ public restrooms. Promising review:"Love this product. It provides great suds, as any handful of soap would. This is excellent for travel, especially in public bathrooms that don't always guarantee soap. Discreet and great for places where you might not want to touch the dispenser. A lot comes in one container. Gave some packets away to my family." — Kerry-Ann Archibald1 Get a three-pack (150 sheets total) from Amazon for $7.59 (available in larger multipacks). 6. A hands-free luggage drink caddy that'll finally make it possible to handle your luggage, pull up your boarding pass, *and* transport your iced coffee at the same time. 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." — Pirate Get it from Amazon for $13.74+ (available in 24 styles). 7. An all-in-one universal wall adapter to avoid showing up in a new country with no way to charge your phone — no matter where you go — since several chargers for that multi-country expedition are valuable space we can't afford to lose. Promising review:"Probably the best $13 I've spent on anything. If you travel a lot, especially internationally, this is a must-have because you have every kind of adapter on one plug and don't have to worry about constantly buying a certain adapter every time you travel to a different country. This has it all." — Abby Graumann Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (available in four colors). 8. Plus, a braided 4-in-1 fast charging cord because why pack four chargers when you can pack one super long and sturdy cable that can handle all your destination charging needs? Promising review:" My husband and I have different phones with different charging ports. This was great for our international travel and limiting the number of cords we needed to carry. Was useful during travel for charging both devices and for charging other family members' devices as well. Quick charging as well." — veronicawhite Get it from Amazon for $13.99. 9. Or a foldable 3-in-1 wireless charger for forgetful packers who always seem to leave behind at least one vital charging cord. With this all-in-one dock, you'll always have what you need to power your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. Promising review: "I bought this for myself and have also given it as a gift three times. It's one of those little things that makes your life that much better when you're traveling. It works perfectly, and my devices connect to it super easily and charge quickly. It packs up so nice and small and is 100% worth the money." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in eight colors). 10. A pair of lace-up loafers with over 10,000 5-star ratings if you're in desperate need of a comfy shoe you can easily slip on and off at airport security. Reviewers say they are remarkably lightweight and super flexible — sort of like if a slipper and a sneaker got together and had a best-of-both-worlds baby. Promising review:" I bought these for my trip to Italy and Greece this year, and I don't regret it! They were very flexible when packing them inside my suitcase and didn't take up too much room. The support is something to be desired, but I was still comfortable using them while walking all over Rome and Athens! I got home and washed them and they were great and looked like new! I'm hoping to get another pair soon!" — Mae Get them from Amazon for $33+ (available in women's sizes 5–12 and 36 styles). 11. A pack of Wi-Fi-connected outlets that'll make virtually any electronic device in your home "smart" so you can control the lights from your phone and trick any nosy onlookers into thinking you're home when you're actually halfway across the world. Promising review:"I love this product! Purchased four and then bought four more, plus an outdoor version for porch lights. I have every light labeled by location. Set each unit to turn on and off at appropriate times. We recently took a vacation and felt secure knowing our lights were on a preset pattern. Took only a few minutes to install to our 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. The iPhone app allows me to change the on/off settings anywhere." — R. Ellis Get a four-pack from Amazon for $21.99. 12. A smart garage hub and sensor so you'll never have to second-guess whether or not you closed the garage door before leaving. With this, you can control the door from your phone, give access to friends and family when you're away, and even get real-time door activity notifications for unparalleled peace of mind. This works with the free myQ app for iPhone or Android to help you get connected with your very own smart garage. You can also give access to friends or family, create a close schedule, and receive real-time notifications about garage door activity. Promising review:"I am recommending this to anyone who wants to get a separate remote for outside the garage. This is safer and more secure than hanging a remote. I like that I can access my garage from almost anywhere. I can open the garage while I am shopping or on vacation. I do not need to worry about someone knowing the code and opening my door. Also, I like that I can link it to my Ring cameras to be more vigilant. This is a great buy." — robert vazquez Get it from Amazon for $29.98. 13. A pack of space-saving compression bags to significantly compress your clothes by sucking out all the air — no vacuum required! These are designed for travel, so all you have to do is fill up a bag and roll it out to release air through the built-in valves. BuzzFeed Shopping editor Emma Lord has had major success with these: "HELLO, I AM OBSESSED WITH THESE. Despite all the rave reviews, I was definitely skeptical of space-saving bags that didn't require a vacuum, and even as they were actively squishing my clothes into oblivion, I still couldn't quite believe it. I had easily two suitcases worth of clothes I wanted to pack for a three-week trip to London, and I managed to neatly pack the entirety of my wardrobe in one roller carry-on bag. Truly, all I had to do was put my clothes in the bag, push them to the bottom, and then sit on it to get the air out before sealing it up. I had tons of extra bags and made a habit of taking them with me in case other people joining me on trips needed them to be able to pack souvenirs on the way home. I'm never taking a long trip without these again — these are worth every damn penny." Get a set of eight from Amazon for $15.98. 14. A pack of disposable potty seat covers because public bathrooms are usually kinda gross, but these disposable covers make the experience a little less so with long sides that'll help your kids avoid all direct contact with germy toilet seats. Promising review: ' I bought this for our vacation, and so glad I did. I have a 5-year-old and loved having these when we stopped at rest areas. The front hangs down so that as she's sitting, her legs are not touching the toilet. Not only was it perfect for her but for my whole family. Definitely will be purchasing more packs." — Juanina Mccollum Get the pack of 24 from Amazon for $9.99. 15. A pair of compression socks for anyone whose feet, ankles, or legs tend to swell up on long flights. These cozy socks can help prevent that, and double as another thermal layer (planes be cold). Read more about compression socks and swelling on long flights at Cleveland Clinic. Promising review:" After wearing these socks for over 24 hours straight for travel on an overseas flight, I had absolutely no swelling at all in my feet or ankles. I was worried about the potential for blood clots being on an airplane for a long time. So, I am glad I made the investment in these socks. Very comfortable. Washed them out by hand and hung them to dry. They were ready to wear the next day. I will definitely continue to wear these and recommend them." — islandgirl Check out our Physix Gear compression socks review. Get it from Amazon for $14.24+ (available in unisex sizes S–XXL and in 13 colors). 16. A digital luggage scale if you're tired of sweating it out at the baggage check counter, hoping to avoid paying pesky overage fees. This scale is super accurate so you can be confident in your under-50-pound pack-job. You can also switch between pound and kilogram measurements. Promising review:" Works great, a must-have when flying. Very accurate scale. Easy to read with the light on it. It's a must if you have a wife like mine who loves to shop for clothes and fill up her suitcase along with mine, or if you want to stay under that 40 pounds and avoid paying the extra for overweight baggage fees. Easy to use, very accurate, well-made, and a nice design. Very pleased. Saved me money." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in four colors). 17. A portable door lock so you can up the security at any hotel or Airbnb with one low-tech addition that installs in seconds and is designed to fit just about any door you'd encounter. Note: This can get flagged while going through security, so you may want to put it in an easily accessible place in your checked bag to be safe. Promising review:"I bought this to use in an Airbnb in an unfamiliar residential area. The lock system was easy to use, worked perfectly, and allowed my family to enjoy our vacation without worrying about security. It's a simple product that works!" — G. Mills Get it from Amazon for $14.99. 18. A refillable travel perfume atomizer that's a quick and easy way to transport your favorite scents so you don't have to spend your whole vacay not smelling like your best self. Using the atomizer is easy: Simply unscrew the cap to your perfume bottle, place the perfume nozzle into the hole at the bottom of the atomizer, and pump the perfume inside. Promising review:"This product is great for smaller bags or for going on vacation. It works well and hasn't leaked. I've had these for about a year now and would still get more. They look exactly like the photos and work well. Would get again." — Angelena Get a pack of four from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in six color combos). 19. An in-flight foot hammock to make kicking back in the flight cabin a whole lot easier. It easily mounts onto the seat tray, and not only ups that economy seat comfort, but can also reduce in-flight foot swelling. Promising review:"This is so comfortable that I had to submit a review as I'm currently using it for the first time on this flight. I saw a woman use it for our Georgia to Washington flight a month ago. It seemed comfortable, so I decided to buy one for myself. I'm 5'2", for any who are curious. My husband said he didn't need it. But I had him try it, and he didn't want to give it back. We didn't even have to adjust the length from how I had it set. He is 5'10". Buy it. You'll enjoy your flight more if you fly economy like we do." — Kenia Figueroa Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in packs of two and four). 20. A pair of affordable wireless Bluetooth earbuds because everything is better — long flights, hotel hot tubs, you name it — when you're not tethered to your tech by a cord or fretting over water damage. Thankfully, these buds are waterproof, come with a handy travel/charging case, and connect to your devices in one easy step. Promising review: "The earbuds are everything I had hoped they would be. I like the fit in my ear, and that is important for achieving the sound I want. I like the fact that they are waterproof and can use them on vacation without worrying about damaging them." — C S Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in five colors). 21. Plus, an AirFly Pro wireless transmitter so you (and a buddy) can actually use said Bluetooth earbuds to watch those free in-flight movies. BuzzFeed editor Chelsea Stuart used it on a European trip — check out her Twelve South AirFly Pro review. Promising review:"Worked beautifully on a recent eight-hour flight from New York City to Frankfurt! Really easy to pair with my Bose noise-canceling earbuds and charges quickly. The sound quality was excellent. I'm so excited about this product that I'm going to buy one for each of my family members!" — emily p murray Get it from Amazon for $54.99 (available in black and white and two other styles). 22. A pair of reusable waterproof shoe covers for smart weather prep that doesn't involve packing your absurdly heavy galoshes. These easily fold down tiny enough to stash in a purse, so you can keep your tootsies dry even when a storm rolls in out of nowhere. Check the handy sizing chart on the product listing so you can find your ideal fit! Promising reviews: "Exactly as described. The size was exactly right for my shoe size. Perfect for a trip, as they take up very little space in a suitcase and work quite well to keep the rain out and puddles away from shoes." — Caroljean Get a pair from Amazon for $15.89 (available in unisex sizes S–4XL and five styles). 23. A heavy-duty bag strap if you'd rather not be stuck wearing (or holding) everyone's jackets while navigating the airport. This simple little add-on attaches to luggage, purses, or backpacks to free your hands of those travel essentials that are just too bulky for your bags. Amazon Promising review:"I bought two straps to use for my trip. It was so worth it! It held my family's light jackets and kids' travel neck pillows. We also used it to hold our water bottles on our hikes. I wish I knew about these sooner!" — Lisa H Get it from Amazon for $8.49+ (available in six colors). 24. A moisturizing saline gel so you can put an end to the frequent nosebleeds and restore some desperately needed moisture to your dry irritated nasal biome. If you use a CPAP machine or get dried out on long-haul flights, I'd add this to cart STAT. Promising review: "I love this stuff! It's very gentle but effective and helps prevent nose bleeds and irritation from dry nose. I use it before every flight to prevent drying out from the gross recirculated cabin air, which is notoriously dry air to begin with." — RLM Get it from Amazon for $3.62. 25. A spacious travel backpack that pushes the spatial limits of what you thought a personal item could carry, making it the perfect companion for all the outfits you couldn't cram in the carry-on. Reviewers say it meets even Spirit and JetBlue 's personal item rules and fits under airplane seats! Promising review:"This is a perfect size backpack for traveling on a plane as your personal item, especially to international destinations. You could fit rolled-up clothes in here for another week, and it has a very handy shoe bag and tons of places for your electronics. This will be an excellent addition to my carry-on suitcase. Best purchase all year. I consider myself an expert on travel bags. I have way too many. It's smaller than it looks but so roomy." — AP Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in three sizes and 22 colors). 26. A waterproof hanging toiletry bag with enough space to pack up your entire 14-step self-care routine in the most space-efficient way possible. Plus, it's equipped with a rotating hook so you can hang it on the back of a door or in the shower for convenient access. Promising review:"Seriously?! Do you see how much this holds?! Full shampoo bottles, face washes, hair brush... everything I could need or want to bring FITS IN THIS ONE BAG! And it's so cute! It also feels great quality — all the hardware came with protective wraps to keep from scratching, and the zippers feel very hardy. The hook at the top is also VERY WELL-SECURED to the bag, it's double stitched to the top panel and almost feels like seatbelt material. And I love the extra pockets and netting inside. I would absolutely recommend this!" — mahea_c Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in two sizes and five colors). 27. A travel-friendly anti-theft shoulder bag because now you can focus less on guarding your belongings and more on snapping the perfect photo. This roomy crossbody is made from slash-proof material with an RFID-blocking card and passport slots and has plenty of pockets for organizing all the bits and bobbles you need for optimal sightseeing. Promising review:"Bought this for a recent vacay and loved it so much it's now my everyday purse. It has a great number of pockets that are all secured with anti-theft locks. It wasn't difficult for me to unlock and get what I needed while shopping, and I didn't have to worry while walking through crowds of people. There's even a little purse flashlight that was attached to the inside! I love it." — D. Smith Get it from Amazon for $46+ (available in eight colors and prints). 28. Some Tide sink packets packed with the perfect amount of detergent for washing those salty bathing suits and dirty undies so you can avoid overstuffing your suitcase even on multi-week excursions. Tide Each pack comes with three packets, and they're tiny enough to easily slide into the side of any toiletry bag, Promising review:"I have taken these packets on travels throughout the world. They are small and fit in my bag. They are good for a wash in a sink or wash bag... Glad to have them. They don't leak either." — Barbara Jefferson Get nine packs from Amazon for $7.46. 29. Some reusable bottle bags so when traveling with that host gift bottle of wine, you won't spend the whole trip fretting over broken glass and stains. This padded bag is designed with an absorbent lining, so even if the bottle breaks, the spill will stay self-contained. Amazon JetBag is a small business specializing in bags designed to protect your wine and your stuff. Promising review:"Love my jet bags. We can travel with a bottle of wine without having to worry that the bottle might break and ruin things in the suitcase. Love having a bottle of wine when we arrive at our destination!" — Kathy Karst Get a set of three from Amazon for $13.99 (available in four styles). 30. A freezable snack box with built-in cooling technology that you can load up with snacks to fuel your adventures, knowing they'll stay cool and fresh all day long. Vacation time is too short to spend any of it hunting down snacks just to avoid hangry meltdowns. Promising review:" This will carry four frozen breastmilk bags and keep them frozen for six to eight hours, which is perfect for domestic airport travel or small outings. I like to bring a few extra bags with me on trips for a night out or if it will be hard to nurse somewhere. Awesome product and less bulky than other cooler bags." — Joshua Get it from Amazon for $17.99 (available in 15 colors and prints). 31. A teensy white noise machine to ensure you get a good night's sleep with 20 nonlooping soundscapes that'll help drown out everything from big city beeps to small town creaks. Promising review:" We bought this specifically for when we're traveling after a few nights at some noisy hotels. It's got great options for sound, volume, and timers. The only drawback we've found is that our charging cord sometimes wiggles out due to the vibrations if we have it on a hard surface. Doesn't happen a lot, but it can happen." — Tony Oldani Get it from Amazon for $29.99. 32. A cute portable USB-C charger for supplying your phone with the juice it needs so you never have to skip a photo op because of a nearly dead battery. Here's a similar model for iPhones with Lightning ports, too! Promising review: "I have used several different brands of battery backup chargers! This is by far the best one I have ever used. It charges your phone so much faster than other brands I have tried! Definitely very pleased with this purchase!! I have now purchased two of them!! Both work great!!" — Kari Walters Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in five colors). 33. A set of refillable TSA-friendly toiletry containers if you're sick of spending a small fortune on name-brand travel-sized products and just want to make your own. You won't have to worry about leaking, and the entire set fits in the provided clear zip pouch. Promising review:"I purchased one for myself and had a really good experience traveling with them. Nothing leaked, not even the witch hazel. I was really impressed and bought two more for my daughters and took them on our family vacation. We love these travel kits." — M Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three styles). 34. Or a set of Cadence containers with custom removable labels and wide openings so traveling with TSA-compliant versions of your entire self-care routine is a breeze. And, yes, they're totally leakproof, airtight, and supremely space-efficient since they magnetize together. This "daily routine" set includes four flex medium and three flex small Capsules. BTW you can also get sets with labeled tiles for hair care and skincare! Cadence is an AAPI woman-owned small business that was founded by Steph Hon with the goal of eliminating single-use travel-sized plastics. The containers are made from recycled ocean-bound plastic. Promising review: "I am a chronic over-packer with a tendency to jam-pack my toiletries bag with anything and everything I mistakenly THINK I need to bring on a trip with me. Not only does this reel me in to bring what I actually need in compact, beautiful containers, but these vessels also stay together with the greatest ease and keep my essential products ready to go for my next trip. No more buying wasteful travel-size cosmetics. The best part is they seal so well and just live in my travel bag, so I know all my creams and soaps are ready to go for my next getaway. Thanks, Cadence, for helping me keep it all together!" — Amazon Customer Get the daily routine set from Amazon for $138 (available in five colors and other sets). The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.

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