Reading Time: 7 minTraveling doesn’t have to mean spending big on gear. In fact, some of the most useful items that make your trip easier, more organized, more comfortable and safer cost less than $25 — and you don't even have to leave home to make the purchase.
Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway, a long-haul flight, or a road trip, these budget-friendly travel finds are worth every penny.
Here are 19 travel essentials under $25 that we swear by when traveling:
If you want to ensure to get some sleep on your flight — whether it's an overnight sleep or just a cat nap, the FACEMOON Weighted Eye Mask is a must-have. With its 3D design and memory foam material, this calming mask blocks out the light around you, providing a more zen experience on board and in the air. There's also a two-pack for just a few bucks more.
This memory foam napfun Neck Pillow wraps around your neck, giving your head and neck the support it needs for quality sleep. But with its adjustable string enclosure, you can also get a perfect fit with it. We tested a bunch of neck pillows earlier this year, and it's now my husband's go-to neck pillow when traveling.
The pillow comes in about 15 different colors with a machine-washable cover. And when using the included travel bag, the pillow condenses to about a third of its size, making it easy for travel.
Keep your legs and feet comfortable on your next flight with the CHARMKING Compression Socks. Compression socks provide blood circulation, which can make flights less stressful on your body. They can also help prevent leg cramping and blood clots, which can happen more frequently at higher altitudes.
Whether you’re looking to block out the hum of a plane's engines or your hotel neighbors are being extra noisy, the silicone Loop Quiet 2 earplugs are a necessity for muting unwanted noise.
Not only do they feature a powerful 24dB of noise reduction, but they're also comfortable to sleep in, and come in customizable fits for all ear sizes. My family swears by these particular earplugs, and the included carrying case ensures we don't lose them during our travels.
This 3-in-1 pocket fan not only keeps you cool on a hot vacation day, but also serves as a flashlight and power bank charger. With its compact size, you can easily store it in your bag or pocket throughout the day.
This leakproof silicone Tocelffe 18-piece Travel Bottle Set ensures that your favorite toiletries — shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, and more — can be brought in your carry-on. This is the set I personally use, and with an included carry case, taking out your liquids during an airport security check is easier than ever. Although, if you're looking for a slightly different option, we put together a list of our favorite leakproof toiletry bottles.
Pack efficiently with the BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes. This set offers three packing cubes to save space in your luggage, along with an underwear bag, a zippered bag (which is perfect for socks), a cosmetic bag, a shoe bag, and a drawstring bag for laundry.
Or, if you're looking to pack as much as possible in your suitcase, the compression version will allow you to save even more space.
Save space in your luggage by keeping all of your cables organized in one compact space. The FYY Travel Cable Organizer Pouch is a large organizer that comes in a variety of colors, and it's made from waterproof and shockproof material. It's also a helpful addition for the travel neat freak.
The BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag is designed with multiple zippered compartments, elastic straps to secure bottles, and a clear, water-resistant layout, keeping your essentials organized and easy to find without digging. And when you reach your destination, the stow-away 360-degree metal hook lets you hang your bag for convenience.
Pack more efficiently with the Grand Fusion Stow-N-Go Portable Hanging Travel Shelves. This three-tiered shelf helps you organize your clothes before your trip, and gives you easy access to everything once you arrive. No need to live out of your suitcase.
Plus, when packed, the shelves compress to save space and make room for more in your luggage.
If you’re traveling internationally, a travel adapter is a necessity, and having one adapter that works in over 200 countries and regions is ideal. With the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter, you can charge up to six devices simultaneously, with access to one USB-C port, four USB-A ports, and one A/C socket. The adapter is incredibly compact, without any extra attachments needed, making it perfect for on the go.
Just loop the riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder onto your luggage handle, and you can easily take extra items with you on the go. It acts as an extra set of hands to hold your coffee or water cup, cell phone, sunglasses, or any other accessories that you need easy access to.
If you've picked the window seat on your next flight, add the BEVLEDGE In-Flight Window Organization Station to get some additional storage space.
Fitting right into the window shade slot, it holds up to two additional beverages, plus your cell phone, eyewear, eye pods, and more. Plus, when not in use, this organizer folds flat, fitting right into your travel bag.
With the pocket-size Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder, you can watch your favorite TV show or movie on the plane — hands-free — by connecting the device to your seatback tray table.
This multi-use holder can also come in handy at home for work calls, taking selfies, or even cooking in your kitchen.
Never pay for overweight luggage again with this Travel Inspira Luggage Scale. This portable scale can weigh a suitcase up to 110 pounds, ensuring you're within the airline's weight restrictions.
A belt bag — or fanny pack — can be exceedingly useful while exploring a new city. On many trips, my spouse carries a backpack, while I keep a belt bag affixed to me.
I'm personally a fan of the ODODOS Mini Belt Bag, as it's incredibly inexpensive yet well made, and comes in a few dozen colors. It provides easy access to my phone, hand sanitizer, money, chapstick, and anything else I need for the day.
Keep your passport, money, cell phone, and any other valuables close by with the Boxiki Travel Hidden Money Belt.
With its flush-to-the-waist design, this belt bag can easily be hidden under your clothes. Plus, the triple-layer RFID blocking material will protect your information from hackers, keeping your personal information safe.
Keep your money and documents safe while traveling with the Zero Grid anti-theft wallet.
This wallet fits nicely in your pocket or around your neck, and with its built-in RFID blocker, it'll prevent thieves from trying to use electronic means to access your personal information. Available in two sizes and a variety of colors.
Having an extra lock ensures your safety in the comfort of your hotel room, and can even buy time in case of an emergency. The HNHMT portable door lock is an inexpensive but effective reinforcement for unreliable hotel locks.
This particular lock also comes with a door alarm — another tool that can help alert a traveler of potential danger.
