50+ Must-Have Travel Essentials for 2026, According to Vogue Editors

With your PTO in the calendar and your dream hotel officially booked, the only thing left to do before you jet off is to tackle your packing list. Assembling these travel essentials can be a daunting task steeped in airline baggage restriction frustration-but we’re here to reclaim the narrative. You don’t need complicated lists and a million specialty items to prepare for your next trip. Rather, the key is investing in a handful of hard-working staples that’ll see you through long-haul flights overseas and weekend jaunts from the city alike. It starts with the basics: a durable checked bag from one of the very best luggage brands , and a nimble carry-on roller . Vogue Editors’ Must-Have Travel Essentials: From there, the shopping list gets a little more specific. Are you partial to shorter trips (or are you simply a seasoned pro at minimalist packing)? If so, invest in something compact, like a weekender duffel or a travel backpack that features multiple compartments for organization with comfortable handles or adjustable straps. If, on the other hand, the words “traveling light” have never entered your vocabulary, opt for smart travel accessories that’ll help corral the chaos of your suitcase. ( Toiletry bags and packing cubes are your friend.) This is also the time to take stock of some less-obvious travel items designed to ease the in-flight experience. Think beyond chargers-a soft eye mask, packable blanket, and neck pillow are all critical to making a red-eye just a little more bearable, particularly when they come in smooth silk, plush cashmere, and padded memory foam. If you’re traveling with a furry friend , a stable but stylish-looking pet carrier is a must; if you’re traveling next to someone’s furry friend, you may be happy you picked up a set of noise-canceling headphones now. Our packing list also includes the handbag essentials and airport outfit staples you need for an elevated travel experience. Keep scrolling to shop Vogue’s edit of the best essential items for travel, from luggage to in-flight accessories to a comfy outfit that requires minimal effort to pull together. The Checked Suitcase When it comes to travel essentials for a longer trip, a roomy checked bag is a must. Brands like Rimowa, Tumi, Away, and Carl Friedrik all offer well-designed options in medium and large sizes. Look for something crafted in sleek aluminum or durable polycarbonate with an interior compression system for luggage that’ll see you through years of travel to come. The Carry-On Suitcase Tight layovers and sneaky checked bag fees mean one thing: it pays be to a carry-on-only traveler . Compact rolling suitcases with telescopic handles and spinner wheels make gliding through TSA all the easier; bonus points if you choose one with expanding capabilities, like these from Béis and Antler. The Weekender Bag Be it an oversized tote or a designer duffel , this size is ideal for quick one- or two-night trips. (Plus, because the softer fabric makes these bags easily packable, you can always stash...

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