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For some, checking a bag is simply not an option. Whether you're trying to avoid yet another airline fee or just too impatient for baggage claim, consider packing some travel-friendly minis, opting for a collapsible water bottle, and attaching extra items to the side of your bag with a clip-on strap.
1. A mini Eos Vanilla Cashmere body lotion featuring that dessert-y fragrance that half the internet has fallen in love with. Now you can bring the smell of whipped vanilla, musk, and soft caramel with you without getting hassled by the TSA (except for questions about why you smell so good).
Promising review: "This lotion is great! Smells amazing with a warm vanilla scent that's not overpowering, but lasts for hours, longer than any other lotion I've ever tried. It's a thicker formula, but not greasy. Glides on and makes my skin soft until my next shower and beyond. Highly recommend! I've been gifting this to everyone for birthdays, and I plan to gift more for Christmas!" —Madelaine
Get it from Amazon for $3.99 (also available in another scent).
2. A convertible duffel bag with a garment bag lining so you can carefully pack your nice dress or suit without *shudder* having to fold it. You don't have to lug around a separate garment bag *or* arrive at your next wedding in wrinkly finery — you're welcome!
There's room inside for other items and even a zippered side pouch for your shoes.
Promising review: "I bought this as a solution to my frequent travel for work. I wanted something to store my shirt and ties and also any extra shoes and items. This is perfect! It has some really thought-out pockets, clips, zippers, etc. It's great-looking and the materials seem like it will last a long time. If I were ambitious, I could probably bring my whole wardrobe in this thing, but that might be packing it pretty tight. I like extra room. This thing has plenty of room, though, so you could easily do a weekend with this without much of an issue for space. Highly recommended!" —Al Jur
Get it from Amazon for $36.79+ (available in eight colors).
3. A *foldable* wide-brim hat because aren't you sick of having to buy a new one on every vacation? This lightweight paper straw fedora rolls up neatly, so you can bring it on all your future warm-weather adventures.
Promising review: "Guys. If you’re going on a trip and need a cute hat but don’t want to worry about it getting smashed…look no further. I bought this hat last summer. It’s been as far as The Maldives and all over Europe, and I wear it on the reg in southern California. It’s totally kept its shape, and I’m not shy of shoving it in bags. 10/10 recommend! I’m sitting on a bus in Croatia right now thinking how awesome this hat has been and decided to write a review, as I rely on reviews for my purchases on Amazon. Hope this helps someone!" —Lyra S.
Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in three sizes and 19 colors).
4. A small lint roller so you can pack black clothing without worrying about any cat hair making the trip as well. It's also retractable, meaning it won't stick to anything in your suitcase and prematurely lose its stickiness.
5. A luggage strap to hold extra essentials — like that jacket you really only needed for the first couple of hours of the day. Just clip on the heavy-duty carabiner and suddenly gain an extra hand while traveling. So simple, so reliable, so genius!
Promising review: "I’ve bought several of these for myself and as gifts (I was very gratified when my nephew sent me a pic of his travel pillow strapped to his backpack). You might not always need to use it, but you’ll be glad you clipped it on your bag when you’re burning up, hustling through the airport, and you need to take off your hoodie but have no more hands! Totally worth the very reasonable price." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $8.49+ (available in four colors and in multipacks).
6. A pill organizer complete with medicine labels to ensure you don't mix up your MiraLax and Imodium. (Eek!) It comes with 161 stickers so I'm preettyy sure you'll be covered, but one reviewer listed them all out if you're curious.
It also comes with blank labels for prescription drugs and lesser-known medicines (so indie of you).
Promising review: "This is the perfect little pill case, and the variety of labels was a great touch! There was literally a label for any medicine I could think of! It is very small, so this is great for a short trip." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $3.99+ (available in three sizes and seven colors).
7. A set of Tide sink packs if you're adamant about only bringing a carry-on but also adamant about not wearing dirty socks. Now you can wash your clothes in the hotel sink and avoid wasting valuable vacation time at the laundromat.
Also grab a portable wash bag if your hotel sink is too shallow for the job.
Promising review: "Game changer for travel! We were gone for two weeks, and I was able to wash all the clothes I had packed! Helped with using only a carry-on for the trip and kept my clothes fresh and clean! So easy to use and smelled nice! Will never travel without them again!" —Kristy
Get three packs from Amazon for $6.85+ (available in two scents, two sizes, and four pack sizes).
8. A set of packing cubes that will bring peace and order to your messy luggage. They provide space for enough clothing to last a 14-day vacation!
Each set comes with different packing cubes, bags, and a laundry bag to accommodate different items. Shacke is a small business that sells travel solutions.
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
Get them from Amazon for $21.99+ (available in 14 colors and two pack sizes).
9. A three-pack of Tide To-Go pens because accidents happen and sometimes they happen when you have zero access to a washing machine. They're tiny and easy to pack in almost any bag, so you can attack stains before they decide to stick around permanently.
Promising review: “When these first came out, I was skeptical. Now I'm a believer! Always had one in my desk at work. Now I have one with me whenever I travel. If I've worn something for just a couple of hours for dinner and gotten a few drops of coffee on it, I can't see sending the garment to the hotel laundry. I just use my Tide Pen. Works great on men's ties. At first, it looks like nothing's happening, but keep working it and suddenly, the spot magically disappears! It helps to put a tissue or paper towel behind the area you're cleaning. They take out just about anything and don't leave a ring like my prior spot-cleaning efforts did. The pens are small, so they're not practical for huge stains, but for small mishaps, they're amazing.” —GlamGalLovesStuff
Get a three-pack from Amazon for $7.88.
10. A set of bendy small containers perfect for face creams, pills, or any other small items. They're easy to clean at the end of your trip, so you can use them over and over.
11. Orrr travel bottles with built-in pumps for an elevated showering experience. They come in a grippy travel case to keep them secure. Your fancy shampoo and conditioner deserve nothing less.
Reviewers say the pumps struggle with thicker consistencies.
Promising review: "These make travel so easy and cute. First, it’s the perfect amount for what’s allowed on flights. No questions were asked, and I got through security with no problems. I bought two and had my shampoo and conditioner in one and face wash and sunscreen in the other. I will admit that you can’t use a very thick soap in them, though. My shampoo, conditioner, and sunscreen pump out fine, but my face wash was too thick to use the pump." —Amazon Customer
Get a set of two from Amazon for $7.99 (available in three colors).
12. A hair tie keychain that fits up to three elastics and takes up exactly zero bag space because you can clip it anywhere. Bon voyage, annoying indents on your wrists!
Promising review: "I have left the house on numerous occasions and needed a hair tie and could never find one. I could dig through my purse, diaper bags, and car, and there was never a hair tie lying around. I have had to refill this hair-tie holder on about five occasions because of how many times I've taken hair ties off for myself and the friends who need one. Great invention." —Samantha
Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in three colors).
13. A viral "Soft" perfume in a convenient rollerball style so you can still smell good, even if your carry-on bag doesn't have room for an entire fragrance bottle. Reviewers compare this $10 scent to caramel, lemon cupcakes, warm vanilla scones, and cotton candy.
Promising review: "Like so many, I found this scent on TikTok. I was a bit skeptical at first but finally got around to trying it. First off, this scent smells amazing! Almost every time I've worn it, I receive compliments. It has a sweet smell, almost like warm cake or sugar cookies with a hint of lemon. With such an affordable price, I would definitely recommend this to anyone curious about trying it." —Chrissy
Get it from Amazon for $4.08.
14. A 2-in-1 hair tool capable of both curling *and* straightening so you only have to bring one device on your next trip. AND it's dual-voltage so you can bring it abroad. Great hair knows no borders.
Promising reviews: "Don't be fooled by the tiny price or size; this little baby is serious. If you are looking for a small travel option rather than lugging your big straightener and giant curling iron around the world, then I think you'll love this. It performs really well, turning my frizzy, wavy hair into a smooth and sleek style. The curling iron option also creates shiny, silky lasting curls! It's easy to transition between both. I also like the grippy handle and the fact that the curling iron clip is a different color than the straightening bars because that helps me see how I should be maneuvering it around. The voltage goes up to 240m, so you are good using it internationally without a converter (but you will need an adapter just to fit it into various foreign outlets). At this price, definitely give it a try and flaunt your tresses abroad." —Christine
"Took this to Europe. It worked great. The barrel is a bit short, but I have short hair, so it worked. My hair is extremely curly and it worked great. There is only one setting of heat, which is hot." —Barbara
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in two colors).
15. Or a foldable hair dryer so you can have your most essential hair tool nearby without sacrificing your entire carry-on. Reviewers say this dual-voltage gadget works just as well as the full-size version.
Promising reviews: "As a flight attendant, I can't always be sure my hotel has a hair dryer, so I bought this one, and it hasn't disappointed me! It folds up to about the size of a roll of toilet paper, so it doesn't take up much room. It's powerful, too!" —Billy H.
"I ordered this for a recent international trip and loved it. For a small dryer, it has a great output and did wonders on my thick, curly hair. It has a dial that allows you to change the voltage and is very compact. A perfect handheld dryer to take with you when the hotel dryer just isn't enough." —TexasAggie
Get it from Amazon for $15.99.
16. A teeny-tiny umbrella that will take up so little room in your bag, you'll be like, "Why not?" It won't stand up to a monsoon, but you can count on it for unexpected drizzle or harsh sunlight. (UPF 50, baby!)
It comes with a zippered hard case for easy stowing.
Promising review: "I purchased this for a theme park trip to Florida to keep the sun and rain off me. Over the course of the trip, I used it for both, and it worked well. It is compact with a nice carrying case. The handle could be a bit sturdier. Would definitely repurchase." —Clark2774
Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in 15 colors and double packs).
17. A bunch of Sriracha packets to help make the bland airplane food taste sliiiiightly more edible without having to bring a whole bottle on board (not that TSA would let you 😒).
Promising review: "I travel extensively and often desire to spice up the food along the way. Carrying a bottle of hot sauce is precarious, so I welcomed these individual packets, which are TSA compliant and easily packed." —Randy Becker
Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for $12.99 (also available in a pack of 200).
18. A mini bottle of Garnier SkinActive micellar cleansing water, which has a place in an astounding amount of medicine cabinets (the full-size version has 56,000+ positive ratings on Amazon!) because it gently (but effectively!) removes dirt, excess oil, and even waterproof makeup without drying out your skin. You don't even need to rinse with water — just apply and wipe off.
Promising review: "I really like this cleansing water. It’s very gentle on the eyes and face. I specifically use it on my eyes, and it’s the only makeup remover that works well for me and doesn’t cause irritation. It is an all-in-one cleanser and makeup remover, and it also soothes the skin." —Christine
Get it from Amazon for $3.82.
19. A mini monstera-shaped Wet Brush that's famously gentle on even super knotty hair. You won't be-leaf it when it glides through your plane-tousled locks like butter!
Promising review: "I don't know what I did without a Wet Brush. At first I was worried, I saw a lot of bad reviews for the larger Wet Brush but glad I still went for the mini! I love this little brush so much! It really does work on my hair, I can feel the difference while combing it wet or dry. The bristles are soft and move with each comb while untangling at the same time. I love the small compact size of it and the green leaf design. 🍃✨💚 So cute! My hair is to my lower back in length, medium thickness. I wear it straight or wavy. I would definitely recommend this product!" —EmiLove
Get it from Amazon for $4.25+ (available in four colors).
20. A Cosrx travel kit complete with a four-step skincare routine (cleanser, essence, eye cream, and moisturizer) you can just toss in your duffel without a second thought. No more getting to the hotel and realizing in horror that you forget your cleanser.
If you're unfamiliar with Cosrx's game, they make AMAZING skincare products at great prices. Their snail mucin serum is a personal fave. Even if you're not traveling soon, this set is great for trying the brand out.
Promising review: "I got this set for the first time to see what all of the hype was about snail mucin, and it lived up to it. I use this at night, and I love how refreshed and moisturized my skin looks when I wake up." —PuzzleRunner
Get it from Amazon for $17.50.
21. A travel-size Bounce wrinkle release spray to freshen up clothing after it spent a few hours jammed in your suitcase. The 3-in-1 formula straightens out wrinkles, deodorizes, and removes static with just a few spritzes. More than a hotel iron could do, thank you.
Promising review: "Hate dragging out the old hotel iron and board, so I just spray my wrinkled clothes with this, and viola! Takes the wrinkles out, and off I go — no wrestling while putting the iron and board away. I even have a small travel iron or use my hair styling irons if I want a better finish, but this usually does the job nicely." —Audie
Get it from Amazon for $6.05.
22. A school-inspired 4-in-1 makeup pen with everything you need — eyeliner, highlighter, lip liner, and eyebrow filler — so you can free up some space in your bag.
This thing has all the benefits of four makeup items and all the fun of those four-color clicky pens. Click to your heart's content and travel with a lighter load. Alleyoop is a woman-owned small business that specializes in functional makeup products.
Promising review: "I bought this to help make my travel makeup bag not so bulky. I really like how smooth every product is. The colors were nice and pigmented. I probably wouldn't use this on a daily basis, but when I travel, it'll be really nice and compact in my suitcase!" —Kara E.
Get it from Amazon for $20 or Alleyoop for $20 (available in three colorways).
23. A Hackwith Design House shirt you can wear *five* different ways (or more if you get creative), depending on how you tie it. Get five styles for the suitcase space of one — genius!
Hackwith Design House is a woman-owned small business that creates made-to-order apparel. This shirt can be worn as a V-neck, off-the-shoulder, boatneck, V-back, and even open as a jacket. And the color is simple, which means it can be paired well with many different bottoms.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Chelsea Stuart says: "I have this shirt and I *love* it. 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 three colors).
24. A teeny-tiny razor for travelers who like to shave on the move. The kit comes with an extra five-blade razor and a travel case.
Promising review: "The perfect razor for traveling! Easy to use and very practical, totally recommend it; the razors might be a little expensive, but at least you don't have to change the whole razor every time." —Maria Claudia
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
25. Stasher scrunchies with hidden pockets so you can keep tiny valuable literally at arm's length while you cruise through security or shuffle through the subway. Everyone is gonna be so impressed when you pull out a lip balm from your ponytail.
26. A collapsible silicone water bottle that rolls up in a tiny package, making it perfect for when you want to stay hydrated but still save some space in your bag when the water runs out. It'll sure beat shelling for pricey water bottles at the airport — they've taken enough money from you already.
BuzzFeed Editor Elizabeth Lilly loves this bottle and has this to say:
"I bought this water bottle before a 2.5-week trip to Vietnam (where you don't drink tap water) and Malaysia (where you do). I didn't want to bring one of my ride-or-die S'well bottles because it would take up extra room in my bag when I wouldn't be able to use it during the majority of the trip. This handy silicone bottle did just the trick! It's very easy to roll up and *stays* rolled up thanks to the just-stretchy-enough loop. Said loop was also very handy while walking through airports and just around sightseeing. The bottle is easy to clean and doesn't make my water taste weird. I'm now using it as my daily water bottle and feel confident it'll serve me well for a long time. Plus! With a collapsible water bottle, it's easier to remember if you left water in it before you go through security."
Promising review: "Overall, I really like this bottle! The color is nice, and you can see through it. The lid is secure, with no leaking. I like the compact size that it folds up into. The material seems durable and thick. This is perfect for camping or hiking. It's annoying to take a big stainless steel cup when being active. The clip seems to work great." —Andrea
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $8.98+ (available in three sizes and 10 colors).
27. A sports and yoga tank with a built-in padded bra because two-in-one pieces are essential when you're trying to maximize suitcase space. Bonus: Reviewers compare the buttery soft fabric to Lululemon.
Reviewers recommend ordering one size up for a more comfortable fit.
Promising review: "It’s very comfortable for working out and traveling, too! It looks great on. I’m a small in tops, but I ordered a medium, and it fits perfectly fine. It’s super comfortable, not super fitted, but just about right." —Kevin Shah
Get it from Amazon for $21.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 25 colors or see a similar tank in plus sizes).
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BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.
Rebecca O'Connell is a BuzzFeed Shopping editor with over 10 years of experience finding and vetting new products, having personally tested hundreds of products, sifted through tens of thousands of consumer reviews, and met with countless brands to expand her breadth of recommendations.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.