Time for a little iBestTravel show and tell. Travel provides an opportunity to escape everyday routines, creating strong connections with the few items we take along. Beloved items like hats, water bottles, and luggage become constant companions on our journeys.
AnneMarie McCarthy | Senior Editor, Content Strategy
Stojo Collapsible Cup
My Stojo collapsible cup has been a summer staple, not just for coffee. The large 12-ounce version is perfect for refills at bars during music festivals. The lid and straw keep my drinks secure while I enjoy myself, reducing plastic waste. Pocket Cup 12 oz, $15; stojo.com.
Alexander Howard | Lead Editor, Homepage
Bose QuietComfort 25s
After enduring a long flight near an unhappy child, I invested in noise-canceling headphones. The result? Airplane bliss as distracting noise vanished. While the bluetooth QC 35s were tempting, the wired PCR 25s didn’t compromise my space in economy seats, and the price was unbeatable. Bose QuietComfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones, $177; amazon.com.
Alicia Johnson | Digital Editor
REI Bucket Hat
From Panamanian rainforests to serene Tennessee canoe rides, my REI army-green bucket hat travels everywhere with me. This versatile accessory easily fits into any bag and has shielded me from sun, rain, and bad hair days. Similar hats, rei.com.
Jack Palfrey | Digital Editor
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes have developed a loyal following among travelers. I proudly belong to this group. During my year in Asia, these vibrant blue organizational wonders simplified living out of a backpack. I categorized items into sections: clean clothes, dirty clothes, tech (laptop), and essential documents (passports, visas, etc.), making it easy to find what I needed quickly. G4Free packing cubes, $25; amazon.com.
Mike Nelson | Director of Growth
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Backpack
This backpack is a game-changer for my travels. It has replaced my carry-on and fits perfectly in overhead compartments. With easy access to my laptop and exceptional quality, it’s my top travel companion. Allpa 35L Travel Pack, $200; cotopaxi.com.
Amanda McCadams | Social Media Editor
Lifestraw Water Bottle
I’m a fan of my collapsible Lifestraw water filter/bottle, a great way to reduce single-use plastic. I can hydrate from any source while conserving space in my carry-on. Lifestraw Flex with Collapsible Squeeze Bottle, $35; lifestraw.com.
Sarah Stocking | Digital Editor
Tablet/E-reader
The Kindle Paperwhite is my go-to travel necessity. It allows me to read comfortably at night and on flights, eliminating the hassle of carrying heavy books. Moreover, it facilitates my quest for local book recommendations, enabling easy access to new reads wherever I go! Kindle Paperwhite, from $130; amazon.com.
Meghan O’Dea | Digital Editor
Paddywax Candles
As a traveler who enjoys a cozy atmosphere, I bring along Paddywax travel-sized candle tins, especially my favorite Tobacco + Patchouli scent, to maintain a sense of home between destinations. Apothecary candles, from $5; paddywax.com.
Daniel Fahey | Content Sources Manager
Doc Martens
My war-wound red Dr. Martens are as essential as my passport. They are more than just shoes; they are incredibly durable and versatile for various terrains. Whether in Wales, Switzerland, or Portugal, they always perform reliably. Their hidden capacity for carrying a small bottle of scotch is a bonus! from $140; amazon.com.
Rebekah Markowitz | Project Manager, Creative Services
Portable Power Strip
I never travel without a portable power strip equipped with both plug and USB slots. Many accommodations have limited outlets, making it challenging to charge multiple electronic devices. With my portable power strip, I can effortlessly recharge all my gadgets while I sleep, removing that hassle from my travels. Similar power strips, anker.com.
