Here at Oprah Daily, we believe that finding the just-right roller carry-on for your trip is second only to scoring a table at that off-the-beaten path restaurant in Madrid. Why? Because travel can take you out of your comfort zone, and the key to feeling like the best version of yourself out in the world—without the benefit of your full wardrobe and makeup collection—is to identify some of the greatest hits across the categories of luggage, clothing, accessories, and gadgets. Which is exactly what we did for our inaugural Travel O-wards.
How We Tested and Selected These Winners
Hot on the heels of our first-ever travel issue, these awards are your ultimate travel companion. As we circled the globe in search of the most unforgettable destinations, we also put mountains of gear to the test—from check-in luggage and carry-ons to travel tech, cozy clothes, packing cubes, pillows, and more. To crown our champions, we vetted for practicality and design in equal measure—clothes that are as comfortable as they are stylish; luggage that’s as high-performance as it is sleek; and tech and travel accessories that are as utilitarian as they are compact. And the winners are…
Sleek, compact, and budget-friendly: That’s how we’d describe this trusty little companion. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway: sturdy on the outside and efficient on the inside with a mesh zipped pocket on one side and compression straps on the other to keep everything in place.
Experts, influencers, and frequent flyers swear by Rimowa because it checks every box. Lightweight? Yup—it’s made from a high-tech polycarbonate shell. Easy to maneuver? The brand’s known for making steering seamless. Streamlined? Without question. The dual-organization interior features a fully zippered compartment, a zipped pocket, and a divider for effortless packing. Yes, it’s a splurge, but it’s also a long-term investment. “I’ve had mine for 15 years, and whether I’m hopping on a train for the weekend or going abroad, it’s my go-to,” says contributing lifestyle editor Holly Carter.
Need to make your tight connection from terminal A to D with a kid in tow? This patented carry-on (complete with 360-degree wheels, a waterproof pocket inside, and TSA locks on the exterior) is brilliantly designed with a seat back and a seatbelt that latches down so it can be easily stowed overhead. With its 220-pound capacity, you can pile everyone’s wheel-less carry-ons through the terminal.
You know the drill. Your carry-on is compact when you depart, but when you head home, you need more space for the souvenirs you couldn’t resist. This dynamo is 1.6 inches deeper when expanded. But our favorite feature is the front compartment. Unzip it, and you’ll find two interior pockets for your laptop and other easy-access essentials, which stay protected thanks to the suitcase’s polycarbonate shell.
If a backpack and a roller bag had a baby, you’d get this winner. The front has a zippered mesh pocket for your passport, phone, and other in-flight essentials like a book and sweater. Inside is a split-case design with two zippered compartments. And of course, we’re into the brand’s signature cheery color palette and sustainability pledge—it’s made from 100% recycled fabric from pre-consumer waste.
It’s got two exterior pockets (a large one in front and a side pouch for your water bottle); a cool-looking soft-sided exterior and recycled polyester lining, and four sophisticated color options. “People stop me all the time to know who makes this bag,” says Oprah Daily creative director Adam Glassman. “Calpak has the chicest colors, so you can easily spot your piece, and it has plenty of pockets for easy access to your phone, passport, keys, and chargers.”
Raise your hand if you live in fear of the flight attendant busting you for a bag that doesn’t fit under the seat at take-off. Made from recycled polyester with a zipped external pocket for the things you want to access during the flight, the Antler is specially designed to slide under the airplane seat.
With an interior zip divider and three zip pockets, this soft-sided road warrior is perfect for business travelers or anyone committed to never, ever checking. On the outside, it has special molded impact-resistant panels on the sides that protect it from wear and tear. We’re impressed by the smart and thoughtful extras, too—like the removable garment bag (great for keeping suits and dresses crisp) and a built-in USB-C charging port, perfect for staying pulled together and powered up on the go.
With this clever duffle-garment bag hybrid, you and your clothes will arrive unruffled. Unzip the duffle and you have a full-length garment bag that keeps suits and dresses wrinkle-free. Fold it back into duffle form, and you have four interior pockets and plenty of packing space. It also has pockets in front and back and—huzzah!— a zippered shoe bag.
It looks like a backpack, but inside, you’ll find a suitcase set up with zippered mesh compartments to keep everything in order. You can carry it comfortably as a backpack, shoulder bag, or suitcase thanks to sturdy straps on the back, top, and side. External pockets–one on the front and one on the bottom–are ideal for a laptop and dusty shoes.
This is the latest, greatest iteration of the adventure carry-all that’s been around since the mid-90s. “I had heard so much about the Black Hole. When finally I tried it, I understood why—it’s perfection,” says Glassman. ”It holds a lot of stuff whether you roll your clothes or neatly fold and stack.” It’s made from super-durable, weather-resistant, 100% recycled fabric and has a padded base for extra protection from rough terrain. Removable shoulder straps convert it into a backpack with ease
With a sleek, minimalist design made for carry-on only business travels, the Tortuga wears like a backpack but opens in the front like a suitcase, fitting a week’s worth of clothes and accessories, plus a laptop. The hip belt helps take the weight off your shoulders while supporting your lower back, whether you’re navigating the airport or heading straight to a meeting.
“This is the case I reach for when I’m going on long-haul trips and need every inch of space I can get,” says market director Rae Ann Herman. The lightweight, durable shell splits into two perfect compartments— one for your clothes, and one with a compression pad for bulkier items like shoes, coats, and toiletries. “The straps inside keep everything in place, even after a rough tumble onto the baggage claim belt,” Herman adds. “And the wheels are so smooth. Gliding through the airport is a dream.”
For those of us who are starved for storage at home, this large spinner, which collapses down to 6” thick when empty, is the answer to our prayers. Constructed from durable polycarbonate, the hard shell is scratch-, water-, and impact-resistant and has a spacious 100-liter capacity yet stashes under your bed or in the corner of a closet like a garment bag.
“As a chronic overpacker, I always get nervous when approaching the check-in counter. Luckily, this roller has a built-in weight indicator on the handle. I simply pick it up, and it goes from clear to red if I’ve exceeded 50 pounds,” says Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas. We also appreciate thoughtful features like the bag strap that secures items that don’t have a trolley sleeve. And if you tend to pick up one too many souvenirs, it’s expandable up to 2 inches on top of the impressive 112 liters of interior storage space.
Who said your luggage can’t be fun and functional? This case comes in vibrant, glossy hues and has red wheels that nod to the founder’s love of skateboarding and glide like buttah (you can order extra wheel sets in other bright colors, too). The two interior compartments are made from recycled poly satin and feature mesh and laptop sleeves for easy, intuitive organization.
From a classic American travel brand comes an expandable spinner that is perfect for long trips. The additional inch of space, cross straps, zippered pockets, and padded tri-fold suiter ensure that there’s room even for those extra shoes you can’t resist throwing in at the last minute. Hartmann lovers are loyal to the brand, and for good reason: The bespoke designs, like this herringbone pattern, are tasteful and timeless.
Osprey’s wheeled duffle gets the job done on even the most rugged adventures. It’s made from recycled high-tenacity nylon, and its 90L capacity and water-resistant fabric are ideal for active trips that require lots of gear. Added bonus: The oversized wheels and six additional lash points ensure secure transport on a roof rack or pack animal, so you can travel seamlessly from beach vacation to base camp and beyond.
Strong, lightweight, practical—and virtually indestructible. You can’t go wrong with a Victorinox suitcase. This sleek roller comes from the brand’s Crosslight collection, so it’s extra light and, perhaps most impressive, made from recycled PET bottles. The included Pack Light Organizer makes for easy organization, and the integrated expansion system gives you 1.2 inches of additional space when you need it.
With its scratch- and water-resistant matte finish, multiple pockets, and integrated TSA lock, this piece nails the trifecta of functional, lightweight, and stylish. We also love the look and feel of the padded handles and coated zippers.
You won’t get more bang for your buck than with this all-inclusive set. It has five pieces: two carry-ons (20 inches and 24 inches), a large suitcase (28 inches), a makeup case, and a handbag—all for just under $160. Lightweight, durable, and easy to roll, it’s a set the whole family can get in on.
If you want your luggage to stand out from all the black suitcases at baggage claim, look no further. This winner comes in 22 eye-catching shades, from bold chartreuse to cobalt blue to chic rose gold. It’s also lightweight, glides effortlessly on multi-directional wheels, and has an ergonomic aluminum handle for easy maneuvering. And at under $180, you can’t beat the price.
There are two clear camps when it comes to luggage: Those who swear by the durability of hard-shell suitcases and those who prefer the roominess of soft bags. This set, made from a durable water-resistant fabric, is for the softies. It includes a carry-on (21 inches) and a checked bag size (25 inches), both of which expand up to two inches and have strong ergonomic zippers, so when you hit max capacity, they’re a cinch to close.
This spinner trio is made from a super lightweight polycarbonate to give you maximum packing capacity without tipping the scale over 50 pounds. Each piece is expandable, so you can stuff in all kinds of extras and souvenirs. They’re also scratch-resistant so they’ll come off the bag carousel unscathed, and have prominent TSA-approved locks on top to help deter theft.
Hyper-utilitarian without looking dorky, the trim Aer sling offers a smart, hands-free design for travel minimalists. “A sling is my preferred bag style when I’m out and about, even on the weekends,” says associate market editor Justine Anthony. “This easily holds all my essentials, and I love details like the quick grab handle and the secure back pocket for my ID. But my favorite thing is the dual-access front pocket—I don’t have to struggle to find my keys!”
This soft nylon duffle from Caraa, which can contort to fit in any cabin space, is not only the most stashable of personal items but also the most stylish, as shown here in the army green. We love the unique silhouette and elevated leather-trim detailing as much as its secret trolley sleeve. The pliable, roomy interior is balanced by lots of pockets and compartments to keep everything in place. Bonus: when not in use, it easily rolls up in your suitcase, serving as an extra carrier for souvenirs as needed.
Of all the backpacks we’ve tested over the years, this polished style from Troubador reigns supreme for its balance of looks, comfort, and functionality. Luxe leather accents elevate the ergonomic design, highly practical tech compartments, and trolley sleeves. “Admittedly, I’m not a backpack person, but I do make an exception for this one, especially when I need to carry my laptop and all my little bits and bobs,” says Anthony. “The feel is incredible, and I like that the design is sleek but not over the top.”
Crafted from gorgeous Italian leather with thoughtfully designed compartments, the Cuyana crossbody is an elevated workhorse that will take you from the plane to dinner while keeping your travel essentials organized and secure. “When traveling, you don’t want to worry about keeping tabs on your passport, wallet, phone, and keys,” says fashion editor Sara Klausing. “Cuyana’s shoulder bag can be worn in multiple ways, all close to the body.”
From the puncture-, abrasion-, and water-resistant nylon shell to the heavy-duty hardware, this 100% waterproof bag ensures your stuff will weather any storm–quite literally. “Yeti never disappoints,” says Herman. “The best thing about it is the waterproof zippers. Whether I need to simply store things on the beach or I get caught in the rain, I have peace of mind that no water will leak through.”
Baggallini’s anti-theft crossbody bag is made from a lightweight, cut-resistant material; features an RFID-protected passport pocket; and (our favorite part) has locking zippers. Because you can’t put a price on total peace of mind.
Our editors rely on this L.L. Bean classic because its durability and design stand the test of time. “I started using it as a carry-on, but now I use it every day of the year and never leave home without it,” says Glassman. “It’s made from the sturdiest fabric that’s easy to clean, and it always looks good! It also folds up easily, so it’s great to bring on a trip for all of the goodies you collect along the way. I also love giving it as a gift, especially with a monogram.”
This body-conscious 360-degree money belt looks like the top band of your yoga pants but has enough 8-inch pocketed capacity to keep your most prized possessions– your phone, money, and passport–near. The nylon fabric is stretchy enough to wear over your clothing yet silky enough to strap directly on your skin.
A bit of an overpacker? More can be more if you have these compression-style cubes on your side. One of them has an internal divider so you can put your can separate clean clothes from dirties. And the 100% ocean recycled fabric is treated with an antimicrobial agent, to prevent worn garments from getting smelly.
This collapsable hanging shelf system is like bringing your closet on the road with you: Start by packing the cube compartment at the bottom so that the weight expands the open shelves when you hang the unit up. Fill the shelves with more items, compress it into a compact shape, and put it in your suitcase. Once you arrive, you can hang your shelves in the closet and see everything you brought at a glance. “It’s the most ingenious idea, whether you’re someone who is organized or you crave organization—brilliant!” says Glassman.
Packing cubes keep your suitcase, and therefore you, organized. This set comes with four, so you can separate clothing, undergarments, socks, makeup—you name it—and not have to dig through a jumble of items. They’re made from a washable, stain-proof nylon and have see-through mesh tops and handles, so you can grab and go with ease.
It’s the ultimate space saver: When you load this organizer up and zip it closed to squeeze out excess air, it compresses into a more compact shape. Another nice detail: The double-coated tarpaulin fabric (made from 100% recycled polyester) is weatherproof and easy to wipe clean, which makes it ideal for a camping trip or other outdoor adventures.
Stow your most cherished pieces into this bright, flat-top case. Crafted from full-grain leather, it has a plush interior with a removable, microfiber suede tray fitted with five compartments for rings, necklaces, bracelets and a watch. The detachable earring panel stores up to four pairs, while a cinched elastic pouch protects more precious trinkets.
No more rummaging around the black hole that is your makeup bag, thanks to this free-standing organizer. Tricked out with wall pockets, mesh pouches, adjustable dividers, and elastic loops, it has a place for all your beauty essentials. But the best feature of all, says Herman, is that the sides fold down. “Everything is visible, so it’s easy to prop it on the counter, find my lipstick, and fold it back up when I’m ready to leave,” Herman says.
“Call me high-maintenance, but I always travel with my hair tools,” says Rivas. “This case makes packing them so much easier to access.” Heat resistant to up to 380 degrees for those of us who primp up to the last minute, this organizer stashes full-size irons and brushes and folds into a compact case you can throw in your luggage or carry-on.
This customizable system lets you decant and label all your lotions, potions, and pills into vessels of various sizes and colors. The set packs flat into a clear plastic dopp kit, which doubles as a tray when open. Bonus: The containers all have magnets, which allows them to snap together vertically when bathroom surface areas are scarce.
If you’re new to the AM-PM pill routine, a colorful case makes it easy to stay on schedule. From the color pairings to the engraving on top and inside the cubbies, this set is entirely customizable. There’s even an extra compartment for those one-off pills you might need on the road (think Advil or Lactaid). “The sliding mechanism is smooth and secure so I never worry about spillage in my bag,” says Herman, and the two sides connect via magnets, so you separate them if you like.
With its four color coded zip pockets, this sleek accessory is less a wallet, more an intuitive organizer. “I use one pocket for currency, one for my passport, one for receipts I gather along the way, and one for essentials,” says Glassman. It even has RFID-blocking technology (RFID stands for radio-frequency identification) to protect you from digital theft.
If your whole clan is traveling abroad, it’s best to keep everyone’s documents in one place—especially if you’re the one in charge. This leather holder has spots for four passports (but it’ll fit up to eight), card slots, and pockets inside and on the back. It zips completely closed, and even has a handle on top.
It’s a nice idea to have a pouch that’s ready to weather any storm that comes your way. Crafted from the brand’s signature high-tech coated, waterproof Element fabric, this one is designed to keep everything inside—even your tech—dry and safe. A water-tight zipper provides a fully sealed closure, offering total protection and peace of mind.
Think of this wallet as your personal filing cabinet, with labeled slots for your cash, boarding pass, tickets, passport, and a handy “Other” section. And you can count on the grosgrain leather to go the distance. “I’ve been using Smythson organizers and agendas for years,” says Carter. “They’re an investment, but they’re so well made, sleek, and make me feel really pulled together.”
This minimal adjustable elastic belt will secure even the floppiest bag to your luggage. Just slip it over the handle, buckle your bag in, and get rolling, hands-free. “Cincha solved that age-old problem of your tote falling off your wheelie bag as you trek through the airport,” says Glassman. “It’s like a seat belt for your bag to make life safer and easier. Such a simple, smart solution that I wish I thought of myself!”
Yes, it looks like oversized bubble wrap, but those air cells (which you easily inflate by blowing into the valve) help distribute pressure to help support your back, bum, and tailbone. “People think I am crazy when I travel with this, and then I offer them the opportunity to sit on it—everyone loves it,” says Glassman. Take it on flights, car trips, train rides—any lengthy journey. “It instantly upgrades your seat to first-class comfort and also works nicely as a back rest.”
To neck pillow or not to neck pillow? That’s the pre-flight question, because toting one can be a pain, and wearing one around your neck in the airport isn’t cute. Enter the ingenious Pixie Mood Inflatable Pillo. “It easily inflates once you get settled in your seat and quickly deflates once you land and can be packed back up into its case,” says Glassman. “And it’s comfortable no matter what your neck size.”
It’s an airplane fact that we try to forget: That tray table and seat pocket in front of you has seen better, cleaner days. Create a tidy space with this antimicrobial in-flight organizer. Slip it over the tray table to add much needed storage for your laptop, phone, water bottle, and glasses. When you land, slide it off and cinch it into a drawstring bag for your stuff.
If you know you won’t be able to resist loading up on ceramics and textiles for everyone in your life during your next trip, don’t leave home without this versatile bag. Emptied, the super lightweight but sturdy Bybba’s patent-pending bag packs almost perfectly flat. It’s light as a feather, offers double strap optionality, a top zipper for added security, as well as stylish hardware detailing. Best of all, when it comes time to board, this ever-expandable bag offers enough capacity for consolidation of your personal and carry-on item two-bag-minimum following your airport shopping spree.
We love this multi-tasker, which doubles as a blanket on a frigid flight and a chic evening wrap thrown over a strappy dress. “These days, you are lucky if an airline gives you a blanket,” says Glassman. “I have been using my Bleusalt wrap for years now. It’s a scarf, it’s a blanket, it’s a shawl–and the fabric is so soft and cozy. This is my personal security blanket, and it’s machine washable.”
Compression socks are well known to improve blood flow and reduce foot fatigue–especially on longhaul flights. The Sockwell brand is an Oprah Daily fave. “I wore them for 14 hours straight on a flight to Japan, and they didn’t bother me at all,” says executive editor Paulie Dibner. “I was thrilled to land without swollen ankles and hit the ground running.” Even on extra long journeys, feet feel fresh thanks to a proprietary Merino wool blend that regulates temperature and controls odor.
If you’re heading somewhere sunny, a protective and stylish hat is essential. Our editors have long trusted Helen Kaminski for beautifully crafted headwear that shields skin from harmful rays. “The Villa 9 is a medium-brim raffia cloche that looks fabulous on everyone,” says Klausing. “It also rolls up for easy packing. I love the luxurious materials and details, like the hand-crocheted construction and tie finish. And somehow, it gets better with wear.”
We’re all committed to single-use plastic—until we run out of room in our carry-on for our water bottles. Enter Que, which expands to a full-size bottle and collapses into nearly half its size. We love that it is lightweight, leak-proof, and made from a BPA-free, food-grade silicone. “People love to carry water bottles these days, similarly to babies and emotional support bottles, truth be told,” says Glassman. “Que created this collapsible version years ago, and it’s still one of the best I have ever encountered. It’s perfect for traveling, whether by plane, train, or car.”
This lightweight, super-absorbent, and quick-drying travel towel frees you up to swim, take a yoga class, or set up a spontaneous picnic in the park. “We’re one of those families that loves an impromptu beach stop on vacation, so we always have these on hand,” says Herman. Plus, I love how fun and bright the prints and patterns are!”
We know, it’s Murphy’s Law: If you pack the umbrella, it won’t rain, but if you don’t it definitely will. We say better safe than soaked, and the Shed Rain mini folds to a tiny 6.5 inches and comes with a lifetime warranty. “This brilliant little umbrella has saved me,” says Klausing.
This reusable stainless steel straw is the travel must-have you didn’t know you needed. It filters drinking water, and removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics. “My family does a lot of outdoor adventure travel, and we always keep these with us,” says Herman. “They’re discreet and easy to pack, and we can sip on our water (or drinks with ice) without worry.”
You’ll never miss a gate-change announcement again! Designed for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, these AirPods are game-changing for people who struggle to hear in noisy environments or need a bit of extra volume in general. First, you take a five-minute hearing test or upload an existing audiogram and unlock your customized sound experience, then the buds amplify and adjust sounds based on your results.
“Who knew a charger this small and thin could be so powerful and useful?” says Glassman. The size of a credit card, it gives you that extra boost you need until you return to your hotel room. The slim silhouette hides two cables and comes in nine cool colors. “It tucks away easily, even in thin men’s wallets, and gives you enough juice to get you through the day,” Glassman adds. Keep one in your tote and even one in your pocket so you never find yourself at zero percent.
Why wait for the flight attendant to pass out those useless plug-in headphones when you can go Bluetooth? “This little bit of brilliance will instantly connect your wireless headphones to any in-flight entertainment system or headphone jack,” says Glassman. “It’s so small that I just keep it in my carry-on all the time!” And if you and your boo want to enjoy a movie night in the sky, no problem. It connects a second headset, too.
“Don’t assume a hotel room will have a steam iron—and even if there is one, oftentimes it leaks or stains your clothes,” says Glassman. “That’s the main reason the Nori Press was selected as a Favorite Thing: It’s lightweight, slim, and works like a professional steam iron.” The two aluminum plates allow you to press both sides of a piece in one fell swoop. It has all the features of a traditional iron—multiple heat settings and a steam option—but smoothes creases and kinks without an ironing board and packs flat.
Capture your adventures in HD with this pocket-size gimbal. It snaps pictures and videos in portrait and landscape mode, and offers modes like time-lapse and slow-motion for maximum creative flexibility. Even low-light footage is crystal clear, thanks to a powerful sensor and built-in stabilization. “Even when I’m walking quickly, the images and video quality are so smooth and clear,” says Rivas, who takes hers on hikes. “And the touchscreen is easy to use, so I can adjust settings on the move.”
“I’m sensitive to sound, especially while traveling, so I love that these mute the outside world the moment I put them on,” says Anthony. You can choose from two modes: Adaptive noise-cancelling mode delivers immersive sound; auto-ambient sound mode balances music and external sound so you’re aware of your surroundings. They also stay charged for up to 30 hours and feel comfortable even after hours of wear. “I especially like that they fold down super small,” Anthony says.
Safeguard your luggage (and your inner serenity) with this all-in-one contact card, luggage tracker, and alarm that mounts right on your suitcase’s grab handle. The alarm can be activated from the app to deter theft, and it works on Apple’s Find My network. It’s also super-durable and runs on a rechargeable battery that lasts up to four months.
“Even if I look up the adapter I need, I ultimately end up with the incorrect one,” says Glassman. “But this set makes it easy, and it’s so well-designed that it fits neatly in your luggage.” The PlugBug is slim, lightweight, and comes with six adapters, so you can charge around the world. It also features four USB-C charging ports and is compatible with Apple’s Find My. You can choose from either 50W (perfect for small space and daily wall charging) or 120W (great for a family or larger devices).
It sounds so simple, but finding a t-shirt that’s just right for travel can be surprisingly tricky. Combining ultra-light, wrinkle-free materials with flattering designs, Anatomie is the Holy Grail of travel tees. “Anatomie makes great essentials that are so comfortable!” says Herman. “And they roll up small, and don’t wrinkle. They can be dressed up or down, and the mesh panel is a fun detail.”
If you’re always the one asking the flight attendant for an extra blanket, you’re going to want this plush yet lightweight hooded cardi. Like a wearable hug, this super soft snuggler will keep you warm without irritating your skin–and might just be the key to a good night’s sleep on an overnight flight.
Comfortable, flattering, and wrinkle-free (in that order), are table stakes for any travel pants worth their weight. The Alissa blows the competition out of the water with its super stylish design, which will take you from the plane to dinner. “Favorite Daughter’s stylish solution is made from a thick, soft ponte knit fabric that shapes while maintaining a sleek look,” says Klausing. “I usually like wide-leg cuts, but this kick flare silhouette is better for traveling because you don’t have to worry about the extra fabric dragging or getting caught.”
You may know Untuckit for men’s button-downs, but we swear by the brand’s women’s shirts. Each wrinkle-resistant, stretchy cotton style is crisp yet breathable, and they get better with each wash and wear. “I love the premium quality and flattering designs,” says Klausing. “Whether I’m boarding an international flight or diving straight into my itinerary upon arrival, I feel polished in a striped button-down.”
Oprah-approved, this tried-and-true Spanx set is the gold standard of matching travel looks. The AirEssentials fabric feels like a cloud, drapes beautifully, and looks polished even after an overnight flight. We love the machine washable high-quality fabric and soothing limited-edition hues.
Kizik’s Prague step in sneakers have a patented design that allows you to slide them on without bending over. And while they might look like your average sneaker, each pair features an ergonomic insole for premium arch support and a padded heel for a secure fit. “I love a slip-on, and these feel like comfy clouds that make getting through airport security a breeze,” says Anthony. “I always wear mine when I’m out and about exploring a new city or when I know I’ll be on my feet for hours. They’re stylish, supportive, and a must-have for long journeys.”
“It doesn’t get more classic than a pair of Italian suede drivers,” says Klausing. “Easy to slip on and off, these handcrafted moccasins wear like a house slipper but look very to-the-manor-born.” From wear-anywhere neutrals to brights just begging for a European vacation, there are nearly a dozen gorgeous hues to choose from.
Here at Oprah Daily, the classic Swedish clog is our transit shoe of choice (Gayle has a pair in pretty much any color). “These Seavees trekkers offer tons of support while lending a casual, cool vibe,” says Klausing. “Not only are they comfortable right out of the box, but they actually get better with wear. Plus, the water-resistant suede and Vibram outsole keep you protected wherever your travels take you.”
It doesn’t get cuter (and more convenient) than this adorable 12-inch hair tool. “I think making hair tools into a mini size for travel is genius,” says Rivas. “This one is compact and lightweight, and I love the versatility you get thanks to the interchangeable heads.” You can give yourself a sleeker look with the straightening brush or go for bouncy waves with the curling iron.
Sure, you can fill empty canisters with your at-home hair products, but this convenient kit is easier. It has everything everybody needs— shampoo, conditioner, a leave-in, and a heat protectant—for good hair days every day you’re away. “I love that it’s a full routine packaged in travel-friendly bottles and works great on all hair types,” says Rivas.
“I’m a huge Josie Maran fan, so slipping this into my suitcase is a no brainer,” says beauty director Kate Sandoval Box. “Plus, a nice hotel bathtub offers the perfect chance to treat tired limbs and exposed skin.” Apply the luxe sugar-based scrub all over your body, rinse and towel-dry, then layer on the whipped body butter; both come in a delicious vanilla scent. You can apply the mini argan oil to any dry spots on your body, face, hair, or nails.
This solid fragrance in a sleek metal compact with a sliding lid is barely bigger than a quarter. “It fits in any pocket and won’t break or leak,” says Sandoval Box. “Plus, the scents are lovely, but subtle. They’ll keep you happy without overwhelming other travelers.” To apply, swirl a fingertip in the balm and then dab on pulse points, like wrists, neck, and inner elbows.
What good is packing makeup if you don’t have the tools to give you that perfect finish? This travel set looks and feels high-quality, but is only $26, and includes a foundation brush, powder brush, and eyeshadow brushes. “It’s so nice not having to think about packing brushes because I just throw this kit in my suitcase and am confident I have everything I need,” Rivas says.
If you haven’t yet fallen in love with True Botanical’s thoughtful, nourishing, and effective skincare, this kit is your gateway. Small glass jars contain everything you need for AM and PM: a cleansing balm that removes makeup, a serum to fend off free radicals, a radiance oil, a phyto-retinol night cream, and a lip balm. “Most travel sets feel pretty basic to me, but this is cream of the crop,” Sandoval Box says.
This light-up mirror does its primary duty like a pro, but it can also charge your phone. Designed like a classic clamshell, it has bright natural light and two mirrors, one with for a full face view and the other with 3X magnification for more precise details.
This pillow gets a lot of attention for its quirky design, but it does effectively block out light and unwanted distractions. It’s soft to the touch (imagine your most beloved t-shirt) and is filled with pillowy micro-beads. The cocoon-like headpiece has a centre hole to breathe through and two upper holes that give your hands a place to rest when you’re leaning on a tray table. Sure, it might earn you a few stares, but the cozy, comfy, distraction-free sleep you’ll get is worth it.
The ballet sneaker trend made popular by celebs like Bella Hadid and Charli XCX is coming in hot. The satin upper on this pair hugs feet for a bare-skin feel, while the durable, anti-slip rubber sole ensures a strong grip. “There’s seriously no break-in time with these,” says Anthony. “They’re comfortable right out of the box and elevate a simple jeans and a t-shirt look. Added bonus: They’re extremely flexible, so they’re easy to throw in your bag as a backup shoe.
“Nothing dries my skin out more than a plane ride, which is why I put one of these collagen-infused masks on soon after I board to keep my complexion plump and hydrated,” Rivas says. For guaranteed glass skin, you’ll want to leave it on for at least three hours or until it becomes translucent—a sign your skin soaked up all its hydrating goodness.
Produced by Rae Ann Herman, Justine Anthony, Holly Carter, Adam Glassman, Kate Sandoval Box, Genesis Rivas, and Sara Klausing.
Photo Credits: Chris Craymer. Getty Images: Alex Bramwell, Laura A. Watt, Onne Van Der Wal, Jacobs Stock Photography Ltd, Anyaberkut, Chris Hackett, Carol Yepes, Jose A. Bernat Bacete, Artur Debat, VitalyEdush, Shaunl, Westend61, Dani, Oonal, FluxFactory, Richard Drury, VichienPatchmai, Patchareeporn Sakoolchai, Twenty47studio, Willard, Thomas Barwick, Pongnathee Kluaythong, Travel8k, Everste. Adobe Stock Images: Neirfy, Frank Peters, Dmitrii, Jiovani, Vladislav.
