If you’re planning to travel for the holidays — or just have a globetrotter on your holiday gifting list — now is the time to check out the newest luggage and travel essentials and accessory options. If you haven’t shopped for suitcases and gear in a while, you might be surprised at the technology available; if you have, the end of the year is a great time to pick up a good deal on luggage.
Best New Luggage & Travel Essentials
Here are some of our favorites, whether you’re upgrading your own set or giving the gift of travel this year…
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Luggage With USB Chargers
A built-in way to charge your phone or headphones comes in clutch during long travel days with limited outlets or charging options. And they can be stylish, just take a look at this Samsonite option that comes in a very on-trend ice blue.
If you’d like your luggage to be your charging station, note you can usually take suitcases with built-in chargers as hand luggage or carry-ons, but the battery must be removable. And of course check the specific airline’s policy yourself before heading to the airport!
Soft-Sided Options
Hard-sided or hardshell suitcases may seem more protective, but they can be prone to cracking. They are also not as versatile if you need to fit them in overhead compartments or if you travel in situations where you’re on smaller planes (think safari or wilderness trips where you may not be permitted to bring hard cases on board). However, if you’re reading this you might be out of the backpack phrase of life!
A wheeled duffel might be the best of both worlds in this case — we like this one from United Colors of Benetton, but there are plenty of stylish options that can fit a surprising amount (plus soft-sided luggage is often expandable for those of us who tend to over-pack or over-shop at our destinations).
Front Loading Suitcases
A top-loading model (as opposed to the more common clamshell) can be much easier to deal with in a small hotel room, guest room, or similar set-up. Luggage companies are starting to realize that and more styles are coming out with ease of use in mind, like this CalPak option that comes in fun patent finish.
The Perfect Weekender
If you’re still using an old backpack or gym bag as a weekender, it’s time to upgrade. For instance, something like this Hershel weekender is a durable classic and it has a sleeve to smoothly fit over a rolling bag.
But if you prefer something with pockets that’ll fit a laptop and a longer strap this Samsonite may fit the bill — plus it’s under $100 on sale.
Cosmetics and Jewelry Cases
You (and your jewelry, skincare, haircare, and makeup) deserve better than those free gift-with-purchase pouches. We love an elegant jewelry case like this one from Quince that ensures your favorite pieces won’t get tangled en route to your destination.
For your other products, the CalPak “Everything Cube” is a great all-purpose option.
Or if you need something clear and TSA-approved this makeup bag and makeup brush set from Amazon works well. Pro-tip: get a colorway that contrasts the most with your wardrobe; e.g., if you wear a lot of black choose a light color and vice versa. It’ll stand out in your suitcase!
Luggage Scales
Get ahead of the potential for overweight suitcases with your own luggage scale. They are under $10 on Amazon and can save you plenty in fees — or at least help you be prepared at the check-in counter.
Handy Packing Tips and Tricks
Line your suitcase with bubble wrap for potential souvenirs, also consider bringing an empty poster tube if you think you might pick up wall art or hangings. Throwing in an empty reusable tote bag or two is always a good idea as well — it won’t take up much room and may be super helpful later.
Shop Luggage & Travel Essentials
What kind of luggage do you prefer? Are you a hard-sided or soft-sided luggage person? How about front-loading versus clamshell? Do you like matching sets or just go with whatever’s practical? Are you strictly carry-on only or do you usually (or always) check a bag? Let us know in the comments section or on our Growing Younger Facebook page!
– Jacqueline Zenn
You may also like to read The Top Outerwear Trends for Women Over 50 For Fall/Winter 2024 and Update Your Jewelry for Fall/Winter 2024 for A Fresh New Look.
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