Can't find packing gear that suits your needs? Why not create it yourself, Shark Tank–style? OK, most of us don't have the time or expertise for that, but Hudson + Bleecker founder Eram Siddiqui took on the challenge so the rest of us don't have to. Siddiqui always had trouble finding the perfect travel accessories to safely pack all of her things, so she launched her own line that blends fashion with function: attractive garment bags, jewelry cases, toiletry bags and more. Each bag has a waterproof lining so nothing inside or out gets ruined (translation: no more spills that destroy everything in your suitcase), and the exclusive patterned textiles are printed in-house. Hudson + Bleecker's accessories are a splurge (check out the sale section for deals!), but they make for awesome gifts—even if they're presents for yourself. The tips below, though? 100 percent free. And who better than a packing expert to tell us how to pack a suitcase? Below are Siddiqui's packing tips that'll streamline your next getaway like the sleek jet-setter you are. 1. For shoes, follow the rule of three. Real talk if you're overzealous about your footwear, whether it's too many sneakers for your favorite sports or an over-the-door shoe caddy's worth of heels: “Three pairs of shoes is all you need. It's efficient, takes the guesswork out of what to pack and saves a lot of room in your luggage. Pack one pair for a night on the town, one comfortable pair (sandals or ballet flats for women) to give your feet a break, and a pair of sneakers or runners for a run or hike. You can conveniently fit three pairs in our travel shoe bags.” Feel free to match these to your best travel neck pillow. 2. Pre-pack a bag of TSA-friendly toiletries. Collect a stash of 3.4-ounces-or-less toiletries, and ensure it's permanently ready to roll through security. This clear bag is TSA-approved with perfectly-sized bottles and small containers to load your favorite products into. Toiletry bag and TSA-approved bottles, $10 “I always have a toiletry bag pre-packed so that if I need to take off at a moment’s notice, all I need to do is grab a carry-on and pack my clothes and shoes, and I'm ready to go. If you're a frequent traveler, pre-packing your toiletries is a significant time-saver.” 3. Bring a paper copy of your passport. “As a rule, we all know it’s best to keep a copy of your passport at home or with a relative. However, with new laws and travel restrictions domestically, I carry my passport and a copy of my passport at all times, whether it’s a quick domestic flight or a long haul.” 4. Ship the heavy stuff. “We all love to shop and collect keepsakes when we travel. To avoid overpacking and paying exorbitant baggage fees, I ship my new treasures home whenever possible. Now that I am a new mom, I also purchase all of my little one's essentials on Amazon.com and ship them to our final destination. If you're staying in a hotel, it is very easy to coordinate with the hotel concierge to collect your packages upon check-in.” The easiest way to do this? Order on Amazon and have it sent directly to your hotel or short-term rental. 5. Packing cubes. “Trust me, the more organized and compartmentalized your luggage is, the more enjoyable your trip will be. Packing cubes have changed the way I pack and unpack. If you're traveling solo, use a packing cube to separate your apparel from your intimates." Eight-piece packing cube set, $17Shop packing cube sets from $15 now "If you are traveling with children or family, pack one cube per traveler. I use our shoe bags to pack for my little one, as everything fits perfectly in one. This avoids having to dig through a never-ending pile of clothing, and I can literally unpack my bags in less than five minutes.” Need a cube? Siddiqui designed this stylish packing cube set is an affordable solution you'll use for years to come. 6. Designate an "essentials" pocket. “Whenever and wherever, I try to travel with a carry-on only. So the front pocket of my luggage has everything I need to access quickly. A great hack is to pack a small pouch with chapstick, a small hand lotion, eyedrops, ibuprofen, and a small pair of socks, so if you need to refresh, you can grab what you need easily.” 7. Throw in a sweater or wrap (no matter what the weather predicts). Even if you're headed to a tropical paradise in the middle of the summer, play it safe and swaddle yourself. Knit organic cotton sweater wrap, $50Shop knit wraps from $50 now “Airplanes are always cold and so are hotel rooms, so I always pack at least one sweater or blanket scarf. You will inevitably use it during your travels or even when you arrive at your final destination. I like to pack either black or neutral colors as those shades go with almost anything.” BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Whether you're looking to keep your most comfortable travel clothes in perfect shape or tend to pack your bags with business-ready ensembles prone to wrinkling, keeping a travel clothes steamer on hand is a good idea. We tested and reviewed dozens of models, narrowing down the absolute best models to pack in your suitcase. Overall, we loved the Jack & Rose model best because it works with both American and European voltages without worry. Best travel clothes steamers 2025: Best overall: Jack & Rose Travel SteamerBest budget: OGHome Steamer for ClothesBest for domestic travel: Beautural Clothes SteamerBest lightweight: 1,000 Watt Portable Mini Steamer Best overall Jack & Rose Travel Steamer, $64 Jack & Rose Travel Steamer, $64 The easy-to-handle Jack & Rose travel steamer tops our list because it easily handles both 120V and 220V outlets. That means you can use it across the North American continent, Europe and far beyond. It's also lightweight, fun to use and packs nicely in your luggage without worry. It's the best travel clothes steamer overall and actually fun to use. Best budget OGHome Steamer for Clothes, $19 OGHome Travel Steamer, $19 For North American travel, this budget-friendly OGHome clothes steamer is our top choice thanks to its compact design, easy operation and quick heating. In a matter of seconds your clothes are ready to be steamed. The ergonomic handle, simple filling and extra-long nine-foot electric cable all won our hearts. Best for domestic travel Beautural Clothes Steamer, $20 Beautural Travel Steamer for Clothes, $20 Best lightweight 1,000 Watt Portable Mini Steamer, $15 1,000 Watt Portable Mini Steamer, $15 Weighing only 1.2 pounds and measuring just six inches on its longest side, this 1,000 watt steamer offers a comfortable grip during use and convenient portability. It also heats up and is ready to use in just five seconds. "Excellent product to travel with where there is 120 volt electricity," writes one verified Amazon purchaser. "I tried it at home before my trip and so far so good!" BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Packing can be a drag, but it’s much less stressful if you’ve got the proper equipment. From luggage racks to packing cubes, we’ve rounded up our go-to tools for making the experience easier, plus the non-negotiable items (think: a smart lint roller, a sleek electric toothbrush) that live in our suitcases year-round. Now all we need is someone to unpack for us. 1. Packing Cube Set, from $15 (Merchant) Some of us stuff as many items of clothing into our carry-on as possible, even if we have to apply a knee to get it to zip. Others prefer a minimalist approach, and for that well-organized, streamlined experience, packing cubes are key. Shacke’s set of four comes in varying sizes that can be mixed and matched to hold everything you need for a short weekend hop or an extended 10-day stay, and your suitcase will be a Type A’s dream for the duration. (Pro-tip: Consider packing by day rather than by clothing category—i.e., all of Monday's gear goes in one cube, rather than, say, pants in one and socks in another—so you're not opening them all up every time you get dressed.) 2. Portable Luggage Rack, $20 (Merchant) If you’re regularly on the go, packing can be a literal pain, especially if your suitcase is on the floor and you’re constantly bending down to do the job. (And if you’re putting it on your bed to load it up, stop immediately! Those wheels are just as filthy, if not more so, than airport security bins, and we all know how germy those things are.) A sturdy, no-frills luggage rack is a small luxury, but it’s one that’ll make a big difference. And as a bonus, your houseguests will surely appreciate it as well. 3. Bathing Suit Pouches, $5 each (Greg Marino) Americans are reluctant to take paid time off as it is—why squander those hard-earned days by not enjoying them to the full extent? Surely you can squeeze in one last dip in the ocean before you head to the airport—all you need is a place to stash your wet gear. Splash-proof pouches keep damp bathing suits from leaking all over everything else in your pack, and with an array of extremely cute designs to choose from, they're functional and fashionable too. 4. Packable Backpack, from $10 (Courtesy Everlane) Planning on doing some serious souvenir shopping, or just looking for a way to carry everything you need for the day without resorting to a massive tote? When it's folded into its front pocket, Everlane’s packable backpack measures just 9-½ inches by 6-½ inches, so it'll slide right into your carry-on, and it’s emblazoned with a cheery “bon voyage” that'll get your trip started on the right foot. 5. To Wrangle Your Toiletries, $34 (Courtesy Topo Designs) Dopp kits are often a bottomless pit of toiletries and accoutrements, but the version from Topo Designs can help you avoid all that. Its unique triangular shape allows it to sit upright on narrow hotel sinks or shelves, and even though the interior is surprisingly spacious, the brightly colored lining makes it easy to find whatever you need. Whether you’re packing the entire medicine cabinet or traveling light, you'll have plenty of room. 6. Electric Toothbrush Kit, $40 (Courtesy Quip) Once you’ve switched from a standard brush to a water pick or an electric toothbrush, it’s tough to go back. Hardcore dental equipment doesn’t tend to be very portable, but when you’re on the road, Quip’s battery-operated electric model is just the ticket. With soft bristles and a sonic vibration motor, plus a sleek travel cover with a suction strip that adheres to any glossy surface, freeing up precious sink or shelf space, it’ll help you stick to your oral-hygiene regimen. 7. Magical Lint Roller, $18 As much as we love our pets and miss them while we’re away, we really don’t need our apparel to serve as a reminder of the furry friends we’ve left behind. This clever lint roller from Flint is less than six inches long when closed, but it extends and retracts as needed and takes up next to no room while it’s at it. Refills are cinch, and it comes in so many colors and designs, you’re bound to find one that matches your luggage. 8. Rag Bean Socks, from $5 (Courtesy L.L. Bean) Even in the sunniest of climes, hotel air conditioning can be excessive. Your favorite well-worn slippers should probably remain where no one else can judge—or see—them, but a pair of cushy, cozy socks will keep your feet from freezing, no matter how low your travel companion likes to set the thermostat. This super-soft cotton-ragg set from L.L. Bean won’t itch or stretch; they're also quick drying and moisture-wicking, and they won’t occupy much real estate in your suitcase either. 9. Portable Garment Steamer, $20 Who wants to waste precious time and energy struggling with an unfamiliar iron? A portable steamer is a no-fuss way to eliminate wrinkles—and it’s much more effective than hanging your clothes in the bathroom while you shower and hoping that does the trick. (...what, like you haven't tried it?) This compact number from URPOWER weighs less than two pounds and measures just over eight inches tall, produces steam in a matter of minutes, and comes with a heat-resistant glove and a pouch to stash it in. BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Whether you're heading to New York City for a game-changing weekend of Aladdin on Broadway or making your way to an idyllic cabin in the woods, investing in the best travel crib is essential for traveling with little ones. We tried, tested and reviewed the bestselling travel cribs on the market to help you narrow down the most convenient and well-designed portable cribs on the market. Best travel cribs 2025: Best overall: Guava Lotus Travel CribBest budget: Pamo Babe Travel CribBest rated: Dream On Me Nest PlayardBest for toddlers: Newton Travel Crib Best overall: Guava Lotus Travel Crib, $229 Guava Lotus Travel Crib The Guava Lotus Travel Crib tops our list because it has been tested and certified to meet GreenGuard Gold standard. It is one of the only portable play yards to do so, and promises no PVC, lead, formaldehyde, mercury, arsenic, phthalates or other dangerous chemicals in its construction. The design is just as thoughtful. You'll love the 3-D Z-Fold Technology that allows it to fold compact enough to carry through airports and it can easily be worn as a backpack. This design weighs only 15 pounds and can be set up in just 15 seconds (a wonder, we tell you)! Pros GreenGuard Gold certified to be toxin-free and safe for babyFolds up quickly and compactlyCan be worn as a backpackOnly 15 pounds Cons Slightly more expensive than other models on the market, but worth the price Where to buy it: Amazon, Guava US Best budget: Pamo Babe Travel Crib, $99Pamo Baby Travel Crib The sides of this clever playard are made from a soft and airy mesh that allows babies to breathe with ease. We love the added visibility and airflow. Nurse, cuddle or engage with your cutiepie through the side zipper door. We found it was easy to clean, incredibly affordable compared to other models on the market, and simple to pop into a trunk. Compact folding also makes it a great choice for leaving in Grandma's closet for long weekends at her house.ProsBudget-friendly price well below $100Weighs only 12 poundsEasy to carry thanks to including carrying bagSimple foldingIdeal for babies 0 through 24 months (they say up to 36 months, but we found most two year olds are about the size limit for this model)ConsNot GreenGuard Gold-certifiedHas a minor odor that wears off after a few days of being exposed to airWhere to buy it: Amazon, Walmart Best rated: Dream On Me Nest Playard, $70Dream On Me Portable Playard If you're looking for an affordable, no-frills baby sleep solution, this Dream On Me portable playard is easily one of the best travel cribs on the market. At an affordable $70 (sometimes less when it goes on sale), it's a must-have you'll be thankful you invested in. It packs neatly and quickly, has ample surface area for babies of most stages and sleep styles and features mesh fabric sides that make visibility a breeze.ProsTop-rated with thousands of positive customer reviewsExtremely affordableMesh fabric sides that make it one of the most clever travel productsConsNo carrying caseA bit bulkyWhere to buy it: Amazon Best for toddlers: Newton Travel Crib, $299Newton Baby Travel Crib The Newton Baby travel crib is designed with the same patented Wovenaire breathe-thru material used in the brand's bestselling crib mattress, promising great airflow for your baby. This advaned technology reduces the risk of suffocation and overheating—and that's a win. This pack and play travel crib offers an extra-large sleep surface (a whopping 51” x 34.5”) and folds compactly for easy transport. With an included travel bag and easy disassembly for quick setup, it’s perfect for families on the go, whether at home or away. Oh, and it's GreenGuard Gold-certified.ProsLargest floor space of any model we reviewed, making it ideal for toddlersEasy assembly and openingCan be fully dismantled for cleaning (and it's not complicated)Breathable mesh wallsNon-toxic materials and GreenGuard Gold-certifiedIncluding carrying case that features a double zipper in case you want to use a TSA-approved lockConsPricey compared to other options on our list, but worth the investment if you like good design and plan to use it for several yearsWeighs 17 pounds (slightly heavier than the Guava model)Where to buy it: Amazon, Newton Baby BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

If you've already found the best travel neck pillow and picked out your most comfortable travel clothes, you'll want to make sure you have TSA-approved luggage locks on hand. That's because luggage theft and personal item damage is all too common, and you don't want your essentials to end up in a lost-and-found. What are TSA-approved luggage locks? TSA luggage locks are travel locks approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that allow airport security agents to open (and inspect) your luggage without damaging the lock. These useful locks have a special universal master keyhole, which TSA officers can use with their own master key to unlock (and then hopefully relock) your bag during screening. Best TSA-Approved Luggage Locks of 2025 How TSA locks work: Keyed or Combination Lock: Secures luggage with a key or a combination code, just like a standard padlock.TSA Override Feature: TSA officers have a master key that opens the lock if they need to inspect your bag.Red Diamond Logo: TSA-approved locks typically have a red diamond logo, proving they can be opened by security without being cut off. The best TSA-approved luggage locks of 2025: Best overall: Forge TSA Cable LocksBest budget: Puroma TSA Luggage LocksBest customer ratings: Master Lock TSA Padlock Best overall: Forge TSA Cable Locks, $5 each Forge TSA luggage locks, $5 each These top-rated Forge TSA-approved luggage locks are designed to be the toughest luggage locks around. Alloy lock bodies, tightly braided and sheathed steel cables and hardened steel cable lock ends promise to stand up to rough-and-tumble travel. We love that the brand offers a replacement guarantee—if you can find a way to break or damage these, they'll replace them. Best budget: Puroma TSA Luggage Locks, $4 Puroma TSA Luggage Locks, $4 At just about $4 each, these Puroma locks are a brilliant, budget-friendly way to secure your luggage when you're on the go. They're very similar to our top overall pick with the main difference being the lock materials. Instead of a steel cable, this model uses a slightly softer zinc material (making it cheaper, but still sturdy). When paired with our fave luggage straps, your bag reaches a new level of security. Best customer ratings: Master Lock TSA Padlock, $9 Master Lock TSA Padlock, $9 With over 20,000 glowing customer ratings, the Master Lock TSA Padlock is easily a fan favorite. This TSA-approved luggage lock enables screeners with the ability to inspect and relock luggage without damaging lock, and it works nicely for carryons, checked luggage and backpacks alike. We love the relatively lightweight frame that won't add much in weight or bulk to your bag. The lock mechanism is also a cinch to figure out and set. "This thing is pretty epic and intuitive if you ask me," writes verified purchaser, Jessie West. "I can lock pretty much any double-zipped item fast with this!" BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

If you've ever wondered how celebrities are seemingly always on the go—somehow with perfect hair—it's because they've got the best tips and tricks. And they're in the best hands, of course. By the way, if you love this, be sure to check out our guide to the most comfortable travel clothes that keep you looking like the chic jetsetter you are. Celebrity hairstylist, Mia Santiago, is the longtime hairstylist of big names including Mariska Hargitay, Martha Stewart and so many others. Must-haves she takes on the road for celeb clients: "I love travel-sized miracles like the VersaSphere Pro-Air 6-in-1 Multi-Styler," she says, adding that it's perfect to use with versatile products like, "Tokyo Labs Perfect Clean Dry Shampoo." And, no matter how elegant your hotel or Airbnb may be, Santiago insists her celebrity clientele travels with a genuine silk pillowcase. "Just slip it over your hotel pillow and you'll wake up with sleek, smooth and shiny hair, for daytime, silk scarves that work magic for frizz." Mia Santiago styling Mariska Hargitay How to make your style last when traveling "Get a scalp spa treatment before your trip to extend your blowout and keep it fresh longer," shares Santiago, who shows off plenty of behind-the-scenes glimpses on her personal Instagram page. She also suggests that those with longer hair, "Sleep in heatless curlers at night to give hair more bounce without extra heat." Unite Texturiza, Amazon"When your blowout starts to lose volume, flip your head upside down and spray with texturizing spray. I like Texturiza from Unite. Then, gently shake it out. This gravity-defying move lifts the roots and revives volume, making it look like you’ve just walked out of the salon again!"BudgetTravel may earn a small commission on purchases made through this article, though every product is independently vetted by editors. Prices are accurate at time of publishing.