Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
Packing for a trip can be stressful, from clothes to electronics and making sure you fit everything into the luggage restrictions – it can sometimes feel impossible.
There are certain items that I’ve found helpful to keep me organised, save space in my case and make travelling so much easier.
Additional accessories like a sleep mask, decent neck travel pillow and good quality earplugs make sure you’re comfortable during flights, and don’t take up too much space.
While other handy products like a passport holder, portable charger and travel cup can easily slip into your luggage and make a huge difference to your travel experience.
Read on below as I unpack the Daily Mail’s tried and tested packing essentials…
Travel essentials: Quick list
How we test
When testing travel and luggage items, we put them through the scenarios that would crop up on a typical holiday such as running around the airport, getting a flight or train.
They’re evaluated based on how useful they prove to be, how well they work while travelling and other factors including comfort, style, how easily they pack in a case and durability, depending on the item.
For example, with travel adapters or power banks, we try them out when on the go, in our hotel room, and see how efficiently they charges our devices and how they pack away.
We then collate and compare how well each product performs so you can choose the best products for your travels.
The best travel essentials to pack in 2026
Mixx Flight Earplugs were compact and easy to put in my hand luggage for the flight
MIXX Flight Earplugs
What we love
-
SizeEasy to carry around and pop into your hand luggage
What could be better
-
NoiseThey don’t block out all of the background noise so might not be suitable for someone looking for absolute silence
Review
By Alesia Fiddler
Compact and easy to pop into my bag, these earplugs are no fuss and handy to carry around during my travels.
They come in three sizes so you don’t have to worry about them not fitting correctly.
I tested them out on a flight from Paris to London and found they were great for muffling out some of the background plane noise, but didn’t completely cut it all out. This worked well for me though others might be looking for a little stronger.
I tried out the small packing bag and fit a thick jacket and a cardigan, but there was easily space for more clothes
The material on the bag feels thick and strong, and the zip is sturdy
Jaspacks Vacuum Travel Packing Bag
Product Specs
- MaterialPolyester and TPU
- Size30cm x 12cm x 25cm
What we love
-
Space savingReduces the size of clothes
-
Good qaulityThe bag feels thick and durable, and the zip is very strong
What could be better
-
PowerI felt the pump would be better if it was slightly more powerful
Review
By Alesia Fiddler
I’ve always been sceptical if packing cubes could actually help organise my case and save space.
With Jaspacks bags I can see they are handy to take on holiday.
I tried out the small packing bag and managed to fit a thick jacket and a cardigan, but there was easily space for more clothes.
The chargeable pump was easy to use, the only small issue I found is I felt it lacked some power.
It did manage to shrink down the cube a decent amount and the bag would definitely help to save space in a case.
The material feels thick and strong, and the zip is sturdy.
Overall, it’s a handy item and does reduce bulky clothes like jackets and warm cardigans which is definitely useful for a winter getaway.
The Sunblock by Lush feels light, and can be slight into smaller chunks to take along with you
The Sunblock by Lush
Product Specs
- Weight100 g
- Spf30
What we love
-
SizeSmall and light, it won’t take up much room in your bag
-
ProtectionIt offers ‘Solid SPF 30 protection’ according to Lush
Review
By Alesia Fiddler
Though I haven’t been able to put this to the test properly due to it being too cold at the moment, I could see this becoming a travel essential for my warmer trips and intend to use it as soon as I’m in a sunny destination.
It feels light, and can be broken into smaller chunks to take along with you.
The block also smells pleasant, meaning you can feel fresh while also being protected from harmful rays.
The promise of 30 SPF is impressive for a shower block, and means you could save space in your bag by not taking as much sun cream with you.
Decathlon Sports Bag
Product Specs
- Weight261 g
- Capacity20L
- Dimensions40cm x 23cm x 20cm
What we love
-
PriceUnder £10
-
SizeAble to fit everything I need for a weekend away
What could be better
-
Shoulder strapCan be uncomfortable at times
Review
By Alesia Fiddler
Super lightweight, foldable to a small pouch and easy to carry by hand or over the shoulder, you can’t ask for much more from an under-seat bag.
The price, at under £10, is impressive and difficult to beat.
It has a handy side pocket that I like to use for essentials like passports, boarding passes and my phone as it’s easy to access.
I’ve managed to pack everything I need for a weekend away inside the bag before, so the size certainly doesn’t disappoint either.
The only downside is the shoulder strap doesn’t always feel comfortable when the bag is fully loaded as it has no padding, but I can’t really complain when it’s only £5.99.
The QDOS PowerCube has two sockets, meaning you can charge multiple devices simultaneously
QDOS PowerCube TRIO 45W Power Adapter
What we love
-
SocketsWith two sockets you can charge two devices at the same time
-
Charging speedI managed to quickly charge two my phone and earphones
What could be better
-
USB-CIt is only suitable for USB-C compatible devices, so those with older tech might not be able to use it
Review
Reviewed by Genie Harrison
With a USB-C lead included, this 45w QDOS adaptor is ideal for any trip to popular European holiday destinations like France or Spain.
There are two sockets, meaning you can charge multiple devices simultaneously. My phone got up to 80 per cent in under two hours with my Airpods charging at the same time.
Those with older devices may wish to look elsewhere though, as this adaptor only supports USB-C connections, rather than standard USB.
The Hi Silk Mulberry Silk Eye Mask is made from 19 momme grade 6A Mulberry silk with a soft padding within
Hi Silk Mulberry Silk Eye Mask
Product Specs
- Material19 momme grade 6A Mulberry silk
- Adjustable strapYes
- Machine washableYes
What we love
-
ComfortableThe cushioning and high-quality silk made this eye mask extremely comfortable
-
DesignThe velcro strap and wraparound design meant it blocked out all light
What could be better
-
PriceA lot for an eye mask
Review
Tested by Marti Stelling
This is an eye mask I won’t stop talking about, and I think it would make an excellent present – even for the fussiest of people.
The attention to detail with this product did not go unnoticed. It arrived in a beautiful box with information on the product and brand, which is family-run.
The eye mask is made from 19 momme grade 6A Mulberry silk with a soft padding within, which means that it is less dense and therefore lighter than regular silk.
This proves a weightless and therefore more comfortable feel when you are wearing it at night. Grade 6A means that it is the highest quality silk with both ‘6’ and ‘A’ being the highest on their respective scales. It is extremely comfortable with cushioning and an adjustable velcro strap.
The eye mask comes in 11 colours and offers complete blackout due to the wraparound design.
Thin, stylish and easy to use, the passport holder by Stackers will probably accompany me on every future trip
Stackers Wave Family Passport Holder
Product Specs
- MaterialFaux leather and canvas
- Size12.3cm x 2cm x 25cm
What we love
-
DesignIt looks stylish and is thin so easily slides in and out of my bag when needed.
Review
By Alesia Fiddler
Thin, stylish and easy to use, the passport holder by Stackers will probably accompany me on every future trip.
For just a short journey from London to Dublin, it helped to keep passports, boarding passes and tickets in check.
It has plenty of handy compartments that also allow you to easily see what’s inside, and zips securely to keep everything safe.
I find I often accumulate various tickets and pieces of paper with important information during my airport travels, and this definitely helped me to feel organised.
This three-in-one wash bag allows you to store everything in one place, while still being organised
Hanging wash bags are a new concept to me, but I feel like my packing has been revolutionised ever since
Victoria Green Emma 3 in 1 Hanging Wash Bag
Product Specs
- MaterialPU vegan leather
- DimensionsH 20 x W 25.5 x D 8.5 cm
- Waterproof?Yes
What we love
-
FunctionalLots of compartments and can be used three different ways
What could be better
-
PirceExpensive if not on offer
Review
Reviewed by Marti Stelling
Hanging wash bags are a new concept to me, but I feel like my packing has been revolutionised ever since.
When I go away (even for short trips), I normally have multiple wash bags with shower items, makeup and accessories.
This three-in-one wash bag allows you to store everything in one place, while still being organised.
One of the features I love most about this bag is the fact that two of the compartments can be removed by poppers and used as separate wash bags. This means you can carry everything as one wash bag while travelling and separate them when you get to your hotel room.
You could even use one of the separate clear bags for liquids at airport security.
There is a surprisingly deep zipped section and pockets beneath the compartments, allowing maximum storage. This section could be useful for medication.
The see-through hanging design means you can hang it on a hook and clearly see everything inside.
At almost £40, this wash bag is definitely an investment.
This would make a great gift for a frequent traveller who (like me) likes to pack all their worldly goods when they go away.
There are lots of colour options to choose from, including designs for men, and you can personalise the bag with initials, which is a lovely touch for gifting.
Thule’s Subterra 2 Powershuttle has countless spots to tuck away anything from charging cables, headphones, small gadgets and even your passport
Thule Subterra 2 Powershuttle
Product Specs
- Weight100 g
- MaterialBluesign approved 800D nylon/polyester
- Size11.5 x 4.5 x 21.5 cm
What we love
-
SizeIt is the perfect size to easily tuck into most bags.
-
OrganisationThe handy compartments are very helpful for holding items.
Review
At first I was slightly sceptical if this small pouch would be any use at all, I assumed it might just take up space in my bag and not not be helpful.
But I couldn’t be more wrong.
Thule’s Subterra 2 Powershuttle has countless spots to tuck away anything from charging cables, headphones, small gadgets and even your passport.
This is something I can definitely see myself using on future trips, especially as I often lose charging cables when travelling.
It’s compact and sleek, meaning it can easily slip into your backpack without any hassle.
This handy device is small and fits neatly inside a pouch that easily packs away in a case or carry-on
Twelve South Two-in-one Qi2 Travel Charger
Product Specs
- Weight106 g
- PowerUSB-C and 36W USB-C power supply
What we love
-
SizeSmall and sleek – it will easily fit in your luggage
Review
By Alesia Fiddler
This handy device is small and fits neatly inside a pouch that easily packs away in a case or carry-on.
The charger folds into one circular piece, and opens out to fuel both your iPhone and watch at the same time, saving space and avoiding the need to pack additional pieces of charging tech.
What’s more, the travel charger fits the QDOS PowerCube adapter too.
Ostrichpillow Go Neck
Product Specs
- Weight350 g
- Fill materialBASF® Memory foam core
What we love
-
DesignThe pillows have an innovative, ergonomic design
-
WeightThe Ostrichpillow is lightweight and sleek
-
PracticalThe cover is machine washable
What could be better
-
PriceThis was right at the top of our price range
Review
By Genie Harrison
This came out as the most expensive of the bunch we tested – but for good reason. As well as being comfortable sitting around one’s neck, the Ostrich pillow also provided great support – even for those of a more giraffe-like persuasion.
The 360-degree design means the wearer can adjust as necessary, with the lightweight memory foam tying the whole experience together. You can also remove and machine wash the pillow cover after a flight’s use.
Tested over the course of an 11-hour flight from London to Cape Town (and back again!), the Ostrich pillow was a welcome companion to what could have been an arduous overnight flight.
While slightly bulky and heavy, this is probably the best portable charger the Mail’s Genie Harrison has ever used
Anker High-Power Multi-Device Charging
Product Specs
- Weight594,21 g
- Battery capacity25,000mAh
- Dimensions15.7cm x 5.4cm x 4.9cm
What we love
-
PowerfulPermits multiple charges over the course of several days
-
SpeedyCan recharge a laptop to full power in less than 90 minutes
Review
Reviewed by Genie Harrison
While slightly bulky and heavy, this is probably the best portable charger I’ve ever used.
You can charge multiple devices at a time with the two in-device cables (one of which is extendable), and the power source permits multiple charges over the course of several days, meaning that for short haul trips, you wouldn’t even need to take an adaptor.
The device is also powerful enough to recharge a laptop to full power in under 90 minutes.
Why trust us
Our team of travel writers and editors have been testing products and writing reviews for many years, covering a wide range of products. With a focus on travel equipment, such as suitcases, we provide expertise on what travellers need on their journeys.
Our reviews are honest, impartial and based on real-world testing. We take into consideration all budgets and lifestyles when reviewing products to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed buying decision.
FAQs
What should I avoid packing?
Large bottles of toiletry items like shower gel and shampoo should definitely be avoided.
They add extra weight and take up space that could be used for other essential items.
Bulky headphones can also take up unnecessary space in your bag and can easily be swapped out for smaller earphones.
How can I maximise space in my case?
Travellers often use several techniques such as rolling up clothes, using vacuum packing bags like Jaspacks, and cutting down overall on the belongings they bring along.
How can I stay organised during my journey?
Handy items like a Stacker’s passport holder can help keep important documents all in one place. For your cables and charges, Thule’s Subterra 2 Powershuttle might be useful.
It’s important to try and keep everything in one, easily accessible spot – you wouldn’t want to separate your boarding pass from your passport, for example!