8 Editor-approved Travel Essentials from Walmart

My mom worked for an airline while I was growing up, so to say I’m a seasoned traveler would be an understatement. Now, living in a different state from both my and my husband’s families, my title as a frequent flier is even more solidified, especially during the holidays. Between Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, I recently traveled to three different states, each with vastly different climates, within just a matter of weeks. I’m proud to say I packed like a pro. 

After consecutive trips to Wisconsin, Colorado, and Florida, I know which travel accessories are must-haves and which ones can be left in 2024. Ahead of your next trip, ditch that uncomfortable travel pillow, frustrating toiletry bottles, and clunky duffle bag and opt for some of my essentials that actually work instead. Below, I rounded up my secrets to efficient packing and comfortable travel, including compression packing cubes, spacious backpacks, and more starting at $6.

8 Editor-Loved Travel Essentials 

Ditch: Large Tote Bags 

Use This Instead: Bagsmart Travel Laptop Backpack

I’m a huge proponent of hands-free travel, so you won’t catch me with a heavy tote bag or even a crossbody duffle that makes it hard to walk through an airport (you never know when you have to rush for a connection). That’s why I rely on a comfortable, spacious backpack that can fit all of my essentials. This option from Bagsmart can fit a 15-inch laptop, iPad, Kindle, magazines, and more in the sleeve compartment. Plus, it has multiple interior pockets that will keep your wallet, chargers, and more travel essentials organized while on the flight. 

Ditch: Sheet Masks 

Use This Instead: Zeiss Dry Eye Relief Heated Compress

While some products are meant to make travel more efficient, others find their way into my carry-on bag simply because they add a little luxury to the experience. Some people might opt for a sheet mask in order to show up to their destination looking well-rested and refreshed, but I’ve found that these heated compress eye masks are more effective, less messy, and pull double-duty by also helping me get some sleep during a flight. 

Ditch: Checked Luggage 

Use This Instead: Bagsmart Compression Packing Cubes

I know that checking a bag is sometimes unavoidable, but I try to use a carry-on suitcase whenever possible to decrease the chance of lost bags, extra costs, and time spent at baggage claim. In order to get everything to fit, I rely on compression packing cubes like this set to keep everything organized and fit as much as possible in my bag. This set also comes with a shoe bag that has two compartments and can double as a laundry bag for dirty clothes during your trip.

There are more products I rely on to ensure an easy and comfortable travel experience. Keep scrolling to shop more must-haves from Walmart.   

No Boundaries Crossbody Hobo Bag

Apple AirTag Four-Pack

Cambivo Compression Socks

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