From travel bags to the perfect carry-on bag, having the right travel accessories will make or break a trip. I’ve figured out what small items I need to make flights with kids easier. And once you become a parent, it’s all about having a system to make things easier. Over the years, I’ve traveled to Europe and within the US with my my kids at different stages and ages. And I’ve learned what works (and what doesn’t). I’d rather stay local while my kids are little, so we’ll pause on Europe until naps are no longer a thing. Whether you’re taking a road trip or have a long flight ahead of you, these are the best travel accessories to buy in 2024. 

The Best Travel Gear to Buy in 2024

I recently flew to California with my girls, and it was our smoothest travel experience to date. Sure, they’re getting older, but the travel car seats, iPad games, and my entire travel system really helped make things smooth. I pushed the stroller through the airport and gate-checked it, so the kids were contained. Travel car seats can be such a pain, but I found the perfect one for babies, and one for older kids, too. That made such a difference with this last trip. The one I bought for this last trip is so lightweight and easy to use, and I just put them overhead on the plane. 

Some basic packing tips:

If you’re going to be doing a lot of walking, bring an extra pair of shoes to walk in. I always like to have 2 pairs of sneakers to alternate – it helps my feet from getting too sore. I also always put Apple Airtags in my checked bags, and pack one full extra outfit, pajamas, and anything that’s very essential in my carry-on in case my checked luggage gets lost. Here’s my favorite travel gear. 

Away

Carry-On

I have a Paravel and Away Carry-on, and the Away is the best option. We have the large, medium, and 2 carry-ons. They are sleek, well made, and glide easily.

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Paravel

Large Tote

This is a great travel essential complete with side pockets and it's very light given the size. It's cute, the main compartment holds a lot, and was the perfect personal item when I traveled with my 3 and 5 year olds. The only downside is that it doesn't attach to your suitcase handle like some travel totes, which I do prefer. But it's still a

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Away

Packing Cubes

These are by far the best packing cubes. They're well-made, hold a lot, and seem to be selling out quickly since they're on sale.

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Paravel

Fold-Up Backpack

I used this backpack at the airport and Disneyland – a great option for any overflow after a trip, and folds up pretty compact.

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The Container Store

Zipper Pouches

If you are looking for a waterproof bag for snacks, cords, and other small travel essentials, this is it. I use these in my totes to organize the kids stuff - they are great!

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Apple

Wireless Headphones

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Amazon

Cell Phone Charger

Power banks are great but can be pretty heavy. When it comes to portable chargers, this works really well and is so lightweight, so it's great for keeping you charged up on long travel days. I like that it tells you what % charge is left, too.

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Retractable Charger

The perfect bedside charger, I love that this charges everything, and is retractable, so it stays organized during travel.

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Amazon

Thin Wall Charger

I use this at home but it's perfect for travel. I was able to charge my phone, my kids' iPads, and my Apple Watch.

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Sono

Disinfecting Wipes

I first heard about these when my daughter was in the hospital. They are medical grade and bleach-free, and don't have a strong smell. I use them to wipe down the airplane.

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Tubby Todd

Hand Sanitizer

My favorite kid-friendly sanitizer. I have the lavender and coconut, and both are great!

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Welly

Band-Aids

I take this mini first aid kit everywhere, and there's enough space to add a travel spray bottle of Neosporin.

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Makeup Eraser

Makeup Removing Cloths

I love these smaller sized makeup removing cloths – they are perfect for travel.

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GoToob+

Travel Soap Bottles

The perfect travel containers for body wash and shampoo.

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Truffle

Cosmetic Case

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WayB

Travel Car Seat

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CARES

Airplane Harness

I've confused a flight attendant or two with this thing since they never really see them, but it's amazing. It is recommended that children under 40 lbs use a car seat or this FAA approved harness on a flight. It's easy to install, has adjustable straps that are easy to adjust, it's more comfortable than a car seat, and I love knowing my kids are safe.

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Maxi Cosi

Convertible Car Seat

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Travel items I never use: 

I never travel with an eye mask or neck pillow since I can’t sleep on a plane, and compression socks never seem to work for me. This frees up a lot of luggage space – those pillows are big! I’ve found an oversized scarf is the best travel pillow, and you can wear it, which makes things easier. 

My Favorite Clean Beauty Products

I made the switch to clean beauty years ago and my skin has never looked or felt better. These are the best products I've been using for years.

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