32 Travel Essentials For Your Next Summer Trip

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed collects a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

It's almost time for your long-awaited summer trip, but don't you dare leave without these travel essentials.

BuzzFeed Staff

It fits any phone up to 3.35 inches x 6.69 inches It also keeps out sand, dirt, and rain!

Promising review: "I lost my phone in the ocean over a month ago. A big wave knocked it from my grip and I thought it was lost forever. A diver found it in perfect condition, in 8 feet of water and a foot under the sand. Once it charged up, it was like nothing happened. If that doesn't convince you to buy this, I don't know what will! Highly recommend 👌" —Rachael

"Used it while snorkeling and it worked great for iPhone 13! If you open and close it consistently it may not work as well but for the price, I would buy again for another trip." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 14 colors).

Not only does the backpack open from the inside, but it also has a phone pocket, document pocket, front zippered pocket, and an exterior side pocket. It's also made of nylon, so it's waterproof and has a strap to change it into a shoulder bag.

Former BuzzFeed Shopping writer Britt Ross says: "I recently returned from Italy, and as someone who prefers a small backpack over a purse most of the time, I thought this would be a great purchase, as it would give me some peace of mind as I spent hours wandering around different cities. I'm happy to report that after two weeks of daily use, I'm convinced I'll be bringing it on every trip I take from now on. It's small enough so that it doesn't feel bulky or uncomfortable throughout the day, but has plenty of space for everything you'd need on the go — I fit my wallet, sunscreen, glasses case, hand sanitizer, water bottle, snacks, and even a small umbrella, with room to spare! And the fact that it opens from the back means someone would literally have to pry it off of you to get to your valuables. I bought the medium size in black pebbled faux leather, and it's actually quite cute for the price!"

Promising review: "I bought this backpack to use as a purse while on vacation, and it worked perfectly. The main pouch is protected when you’re walking around because the zipper is protected by your back. There are also two side zippered pockets, one of which kept my phone and the other perfect for sunglasses and a few other items that I wanted to access more easily. I loved that I could wear it as a purse to dinner but use it as a backpack during the day so that my shoulder didn't get tired. I highly recommend this item!" —Allison

Get it from Amazon for $24.29+ (available in two sizes and 14 styles).

Based in Brooklyn, New York, Brevite is a family-owned small business that makes both camera and everyday backpacks that don't sacrifice style for functionality.

Promising reviews: "Everything I've been looking for! I've purchased three or four camera backpacks over the past three years because I couldn't find one that had everything I need. This backpack has it all! So many pockets and so much space! I will definitely be purchasing another one!" —Taliena K.

"AMAZING! I've always complained about how I never seem to have my camera on me when I find myself in a situation with opportunities for incredible photos, but now I'll be able to carry my camera alongside everything I usually carry and always be ready! There's plenty of space inside, I love the color, and I love how it looks like a totally unsuspecting campus-type backpack so I'm not running around with a camera bag slung over my shoulder. Consider this to be my new favorite carry-on bag!!!" —Charles M.

Get it from Brevite for $169.99+ (available in two sizes and nine colors).

The XL hammock is made from parachute material and can fit two people or up to 500 pounds. It comes with two 10-foot-long straps (each with 18 loops) and two locking carabiners so you can adjust the height and slack.

Promising review: "Oh my god! Where to start? Okay so this hammock is like so easy to hang up! Like I hang it up in two minutes. It fits me and my roommate in any position be it sitting down doing homework or laying down talking about life while having it closed to avoid the sun ( that's how much space). It is fresh so it isn't like disgusting laying in your own sweat or anything. It's also so easy to put back in the small and convenient pouch! I love it!!! If I could give it like a million stars I would! If I could also control Virginia's weather and make it nice enough to be in the hammock every day I would do that too." —Ruth Delgado

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two sizes and 15 colors).

See it in action on TikTok here.

Promising review: "This cup holder is perfect! It helps me a lot! Last time I took a plane with a suitcase and a cup of coffee, I dropped and spilled my drink everywhere when it was my turn to check my passport and ticket. It was a nightmare! This time, I bought this cup holder to do me a favor! I don't have to worry about where my cup and phone are! I can free my hands to do other things. I love it so much! Hope you love it too." —Philip

Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in 33 colors/patterns).

These BPA-free bottles feature a leakproof design so you won't have to worry about messy spills while traveling. You get four bottles, four jars, and two spray bottles. It also comes with two scoopers to use with the jars, a funnel for transferring liquids, a clear travel bag, a set of labels, and a cleaning brush.

Promising review: "This little set is perfect for your travel toiletries. Instead of paying $3 for those little travel bottles, you can fill your favorite products in these. The taller tubes are silicone and easy to fill. For the circular containers, I used the little scooper to fill. I didn't use the spray bottles this trip, but I did use everything else, and I'm happy to say nothing leaked. Easy to clean after use as well." —Nicole

Get it from Amazon for $16.95.

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.

BuzzFeed Shopping editor Abby Kass is a fan: "I recently got a set of four of these, and, wow, I love them so much. I used them on a six-day trip recently, and they were perfect. I customized the label so I knew which one was my shampoo vs. conditioner and did a general label for any other things I wanted to bring along. They do hold a surprising amount. According to the brand, they hold approximately one to two weeks of skincare products, more than two weeks' worth of serum, two to three days' worth of haircare, and more than 15 tablets (for medicine and such). And while two to three days worth of haircare might not seem like enough, I found it held more than that for me, but I also don't wash my hair every single day. They were small enough to slip right into my toiletries bag and go through TSA with no problem. The container was easy to open in the shower (even with wet hands), and I had no leakage from them (like I did from my face wash bottle that will not be making the trip with me next time. SMH). These are an incredibly useful tool anyone who travels will want in their luggage."

Get a set of six from Cadence for $76 (originally $84; available in eight colors and many customizable labels).

Promising review: "I have ZERO complaints!!! My sister got married outdoors and I decided I needed a fan as I sweat a lot. Suffice to say I LOVE IT! I was cool the entire time in the sun, it has a handle and is not too big which makes it easy to tag along anywhere and everywhere. You won't regret this purchase." —DIONNE HOOK

Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in five colors).

You can connect up to two pairs of earbuds at a time and you'll get 16+ hours of battery life that'll help you survive those extremely long flights! It also comes with a USB-C charging cable, travel pouch, keychain holder, quick-start guide, and a manual.

See one TikTok user using it in tandem with their AirPod Pros here.

Promising review: "Just returned from a European vacation and this little device worked like a charm! The sound cancellation worked really well on that horribly long 14-hour flight and I could hear the movie perfectly. Just buy it, it's a must have (until airlines convert their stuff to Bluetooth, don't hold your breath)." —Just a Muggle Mom

Get it from Amazon for $54.99 (also available in two other styles and two colors).

See it in action on TikTok here.

Promising review: "I bought this nifty gadget about six months ago for a multi-leg, ultra-long-haul trip and it more than held up the entire duration. I was able to finagle it to fit the tray tables on different planes, and like others, I find the height just nice when clamped onto a stowed tray table. It also works on my roller carry-on handle during layovers. However, I find myself using it a lot outside of travel too! Work-wise, I've clamped it onto my office desk shelving to hold my phone at eye level beside my computer. At home, I simply clamped it to a deck of cards and it turns into a versatile stand that I can place on any flat surface. Heck, I've been using it to hold my phone comfortably at eye level while watching videos in bed. It's extremely well-built, and I find myself fidgeting with it all the time. Thus far it still feels solid and I don't anticipate breaking it any time soon. Even if it does break, I'll be happy to buy another one or two of it!" —Earendil

Get it from Amazon for $10.97 (available in three colors and as a two-pack).

Mister Crafter is a small business that creates handmade, personalizable travel products, wallets, and accessories made from 100% top-quality genuine cowhide leather.

Promising review: "Absolutely beautiful! The custom lettering came out perfectly, and it can easily hold two battery packs and all the cords we could ever need for traveling with cellphones, iPads, and our Switch. So pleased with the craftsmanship! Wonderful purchase <3." —Sarah Kavaljian

Get it from Mister Crafter on Etsy for $39.80+ (originally $56.86; available in two sizes and two colors, personalization also available).

As if that weren't enough, it's also made of 100% recycled polyester!

Promising review: "I bought this bag to bring on my month-long trip to Europe this summer. It served as a carry-on and as an addition to my medium-sized suitcase. First of all, the quality of the materials is excellent, very sturdy, and perfect for those hectic travel days. Also, it fits great in a plane or train overhead compartment. In addition, the pass-through is a godsend; it ensured that my bag stayed in place when put on top of my suitcase and as both bags were lugged around those small cobblestone streets. Finally, the bag is super spacious; I couldn't believe the amount of things that I could fit in it, and the compartments allowed for great organization of those items. What more can I say, a great travel companion that I will be using for years to come and that I would highly recommend to anyone who is in the market for one. Thanks, Everlane!" —Sara Anne

Get it from Everlane for $95 (available in four colors and with or without a label).

Reviewers recommend ordering one size up for a more comfortable fit.

BuzzFeed Shopping senior writer Emma Lord says: "TBH, this crossed my radar because of Stephanie Buttermore, a popular YouTuber who shares stories of her gym routines on Instagram — but I've had a few friends who do yoga, lifting, and lower-impact activities swear by these both for workouts and for just chilling in."

Promising reviews: "Yes, I bought this because I saw it on TikTok, and yes, this is as great as I thought it would be!! Suuuper comfortable and now my to-go bra! I bought three right off the bat after reading other great reviews. I have worn all of them alone while working out and as a bra for every day." —Sarah S

"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 women's sizes S–XXL and 20 colors).

It's super easy to use! Simply soak it in cold water, wring it out, and drape it around your neck. If it gets warm, all you have to do is rinse and repeat.

Promising review: "I live in far, south Texas and love to work outside. It's crazy hot down here and I wouldn't be nearly as comfortable without this wet cooling towel. I cut them in two lengthwise so that it's more comfortable around my neck. I actually give these as gifts to my neighbors so that they can enjoy the comfort and relief the towels bring. Easily wash in the washer and line dry. Great product at a great price." —Dennis Sundermeyer

Get it from Amazon for $13.97.

Promising review: "I saw these all over TikTok and since I'm going on a road trip across the states, I thought why not? We all know those rest stops that run out of soap so you either use hand sanitizer (if you're lucky) or wet your hands with just water to trick your conscience into thinking you didn't just leave a dirty bathroom without washing your hands. The sheets are super thin but when you wet them, they create so much lather. I probably stared at my hands in disbelief for a good solid 10 seconds. They definitely feel clean and the smell is a light floral type. I definitely recommend these to have with you regardless what you are doing that day. Plus, these little guys are super tiny and can go into the tiniest purses or even your pockets in your jeans." —Cookie Monster

Get 450 sheets from Amazon for $12.99 (available in three colors and multi-packs).

The travel belt is adjustable to 45 inches so it will fit most bags.

See it in action on TikTok here.

Cincha Travel is a Cali-based small biz started by a BIPOC couple that makes these adjustable straps from vegan leather. The brand also donates 100 airline miles for each purchase, which are used to reconnect separated migrant families.

Promising review: "My backpack was safe and secure with my Cincha belt! Loved that I was able to clip and unclip easily while going through security and while boarding and exiting the plane. I would definitely consider this a nice gift for anyone who enjoys travel!" —Michelle

Get it from Cincha Travel for $39.99 (available in 15 colors/designs; can be monogrammed for an additional $20).

See them in action on TikTok here.

Promising review: "I bought these to take on a cruise since there are never enough hangers in the cabin for our clothes. These are very lightweight and come in a nice drawstring bag. Despite being lightweight, they are very sturdy — strong enough to hold my husband's suit coat without any problem. You can extend them to larger for adult clothes or leave them smaller for tank tops/lingerie!" —Gail

Get a 12-pack from Amazon for $13.99.

Promising review: "These are so cute. I get compliments on them all the time and people are always shocked to hear they are an Amazon steal under $20! They give a great amount of protection without being too dark. Will definitely order again in the future" —Katie Davis

Get it from Amazon for $13.59 (available in 10 colors).

See it in action on TikTok here.

Promising review: "This organizer is even better quality than expected. It's really sturdy and solid. Great craftsmanship. It's super cool looking. Definitely looks more expensive than what you pay. The material where the glasses are held is extremely soft like suede, so this should prevent scratches and protect them while transporting. I really like that it has a way of keeping the glasses in place. I noticed other similar items don't have this feature, which is why I chose this above the others." —Namiko Minakata

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in two sizes and four colors ).

Check out a TikTok of the anti-blister balm in action!

Promising reviews: "Saw this product on a TikTok review and thought to give it a go. I definitely say it causes new shoes to be less painful however if you apply a lot it can be a little transferable on shoes. Overall though I think this product is definitely worth it and it does make a difference with new shoe wear!" —Mich Elle

"This is a MUST if you're breaking in new flats. Helps prevent blisters. So easy and simple, yet effective." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $9.

Promising reviews: "This was a TikTok buy, and it was worth it. Highly recommend it. It does the work. Long lasting and not sticky at all." —EBATL

"Roll it on like deodorant and enjoy your sweaty hot day of running or walking around Florida or whatever it is you are doing. I used this for my long runs and for traveling to the South and it keeps me happy. My kids also find it works great for them. Quality product." —M. Garrett

Get it from Amazon for $11+ (available in two sizes and as a two-pack).

Promising review: "This swimsuit is sexy, comfortable, and affordable. Love it. Would give it 10 stars. Bought it in red and olive." —Holly

Get it from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–XL and 23 colors; OR check out is a super cute plus-size option).

Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black woman-owned business established in 2016 with products that are cruelty-free and formulated without parabens or other harmful chemicals (psst — they also have sunscreen for kids!).

Promising review: "I love the fact that there is no white film. I use it in conjunction with my usual face moisturizer. I noticed my skin looks brighter and smoother after using it throughout the day. I have very oily skin, and I sweat heavily during the summer, so I was worried about breakouts, and, surprisingly, no acne. I recommend giving this a try." —Elle Kay

Get it from Target for $15.99 or from Black Girl Sunscreen for $18.99.

This gentle but nourishing formula is free of parabens, phthalates, and petrolatum.

Promising reviews: "Upon planning our vacation to the beach, I ordered sunscreen, suntan lotion, and sunburn relief from Amazon and packed them in our beach bag. Day two of our vacation on a cloudy day on the beach in Florida, my husband got sunburned on his feet, legs, and chest. He started putting sunburn relief on his skin the same day he got burned and we are on day four and he never peeled, was not in pain, and his sunburn is now tan. This lotion truly works & will be a staple now in our home." —ymucnxigv

"This is my favorite lotion of all time. If you get a sunburn, this stuff is awesome. It soothes the pain and prevents peeling and helps keep your tan. I also use it just for moisturizing after the shower and even for razor burn. It's essentially just coconut oil aloe and some other essential oils so you can even use it on your face." —Jason R.

Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

See them in action on TikTok here!

Promising reviews: "I bought this because of someone on TikTok who had purchased this. Extremely convenient and cute! They’re very soft, and I’ve been using mine to hold cash and lip balm. I wish there were more colors!" —Michaela

"I bought these since I was going on a long vacation by myself. I rolled my money and was able to fit it inside the scrunchie. It's soft, very stretchy and fits my wrist! I didn't have any issues with the zipper. I wore it on my wrist all the time and put money/lip balm inside it. It worked great during my vacation. This would be perfect to stash some things inside!" —Jessica Sandoval

Get a pack of three from Amazon for $12.99 (available in three color combinations).

Check out a TikTok of the Vimhue running hats in action.

Vimhue is an Arizona-based, woman-owned small business that specializes in uniquely engineered running hats.

Promising review: "Love this hat so much! I already ordered another one in a different color for myself and one for a friend! I live in Texas near the Gulf and it's summer — really humid and really hot. I walk 3–4 miles outside most days and I’d been wishing for a hat that allowed for a high ponytail so I could keep my hair off my neck to not get as hot/sweaty. Decided to Google it and found this and was thrilled! The X straps are easy to adjust and it fits great and is breathable. And it's super cute!" —mlp06h

Get it from Vimhue on Etsy for $29 (available in 25 colors and many other styles).

The stroller is supposed to accommodate kids from 6 months up to 55 pounds (approx. 4-years-old).

See it in action on TikTok here.

Promising review: "This stroller is great! So cool looking, too. I constantly have moms coming up to me asking where I got this! So easy to fold, so light, and barely takes any space in my trunk. We took it on a flight, and the flight attendants recognized the stroller and told me that I can just wheel the baby on and put the stroller in the overhead bin. I wish I had gotten this stroller with my oldest, but I was being cheap. This stroller is so worth the money. I regret not getting it sooner! But at least my youngest can enjoy it." —Nai Len

Get it from Amazon for $199.95+ (available in three styles and two colors).

Promising reviews: "I saw this on a TikTok video and checked on Amazon and ordered it. My toy poodle loves it and drank out of it with no hesitation. With the heat wave we are having in California right now, I want to be sure she is well hydrated. Before I leave the house I fill the holder with ice and water, and I am set. Easy to clean and no spilled water in the car. Easy to throw in my purse and have it when we are out walking around." —Amazon Customer

"This water bottle is truly a godsend! I cannot imagine using any other travel water bottle for my pups! It is slim, fits perfectly in a bottle slot in my travel bag; it is lightweight and has a loop to put around my wrist when I walk with my pups. It is extremely convenient on car rides, when my pup is thirsty and needs a quick pick-me-up! I especially love the fact that it sucks the water back in, so that I am not wasting unused water." —LV4NMLS

Get it from Amazon for $17.98 (available in three colors and two sizes).

Promising review: "Great water bottle for travel. It is durable, compact when not in use, and versatile. One of the main reasons I like this collapsible bottle over others is the sliding band on it. It allows you to hold it firmly without squeezing the bottle and squirting the contents out of the top and all over the place. I bought mine, and a friend liked it so much that she bought one." —Vivian

Get it from Amazon for $34.95 (available in eight colors).

Promising review: "You need this! I am a magnet for bites of all kinds and carry topical and medicines with me at all times – so I figured this would be a good product to see if it really works. It arrived Monday, and Tuesday morning I woke up with a bug bite on my arm. I used this little tool (3 x per the instructions) and documented with photos. Immediately after using, it stopped itching! And less than 24 hours later the bump/bite gone! There is a very faint red mark from using the thing but a small price to pay IMO. Bottom line: it's awesome. I’m carrying it with me everywhere!" —Rebecca

Get it from Amazon for $9.90+ (available in three colors and three pack sizes).

Alleyoop is a woman-owned small biz that is focused on redefining beauty efficiency. Many of their products are compact and have multiple uses!

Promising review: "I found out about this razor on TikTok, and I’m officially obsessed! I’ve been using it for the last week, so here's my honest opinion. It's perfect for missed spots or touch-ups, your gym bag, vacations, and I can see this being great for camping trips. The razor is not meant for full shaves or to replace your regular shower shaving routine, it's very obviously for when you just need a quick touch-up here or there.

I love that it has everything you need for a close shave — the refillable water spray bottle, a shea butter moisturizing bar that doubles as a pre-shave lotion and an after-shave moisturizer, and two three-blade razors. The product is super compact for everything that it holds. If you’re considering buying this to replace your regular shower razor — don't. But if you’re looking for a smart, convenient solution for a quick shave or touch-up, or something more convenient to travel with, then this is your new go-to travel razor!! I think everyone should have one of these in their car, purse, gym bag, travel bag, etc. Honestly can't go wrong with it, it's a 10/10 for me!!" —Helen Mantilla

Get it from Amazon for $14 (available in dusty pink or navy).

Promising review: "This cooler backpack is absolutely perfect. I plan on bringing it to the beach every time we go. It's actually very comfortable on my shoulders. No leaks and it keeps our beverages and snacks nice and cool! Would 100% recommend." —Anjel

Get it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in seven colors).

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.