(Part 2) Best travel accessories according to redditors
We found 628 Reddit comments discussing the best travel accessories. We ranked the 385 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the products ranked 21-40. You can also go back to the previous section.
A lot depends on the style you're looking for. I'll also say that security in a bag is a myth. There are things to discourage certain behavior, but ultimately a bag should never be seen as a secure container. (after all it can always be cut)
What I chose.
I traveled for about a month in Europe staying in hostels. Even though it was only a month I could have traveled for about a year (adding only a tablet) with the bag/things I brought.
Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack - $150 (Discontinued)
[Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
I love this bag but it might not be the single best option for you. It's low profile, turns into a duffle bag (more about that later) and although it doesn't look like a school backpack, it doesn't standout like this either.
The reason I love that it turns into a duffle bag is because theres a semi hidden velcro pocket in the bottom where the cover rolls into. This is a great place to sew or velcro a small zippered wallet or bag to store extra money or valuables. It's not secure as much as its hidden. This won't help you if they steal the whole bag, but it will help you if they just ransack the place and steal from the open compartments.
Other Options
There are a ton of other options. I suggest watching the VagaBrothers Video - How to Choose the BEST Travel BACKPACK | Pros & Cons Minimalist Backpack Review and Travel Tips: Packing Hacks, Tips & Essentials
The F Stop bags look great, but are pretty pricy. Depending on what lenses you're bringing (18-55mm kit lens VS 70-200mm VR f2.8) it may or may not be worth it for size and configurability. I personally bought a Sony a6000 and left my big DSLR at home. That was actually a really good choice for the type of trip I did, but if I was going for a year (like you are) I understand needing the big camera. You might want to get camera/lens inserts like this (but not necessarily that one, I just clicked on the first one I saw on amazon) to store and protect those other lenses.
Hope that helps.
The following is copy and pasted from an email I sent to family friends traveling abroad. It gives links and ideas for things that help when traveling minimally.
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Security:
Since I was traveling alone, and in hostels, security was a slightly bigger deal for me. I carried my passport on my person or locked in my hostel (many had lockers or metal lock boxes).
At all times I had a photo copy of my passport and everything in my wallet, some local currency, and a print out of all the embassies in the area. (Attached to this email.) I printed this double sided and had multiple copies with me.
I told my mom, "At any time I want to be able to have everything stolen, but still have a way back home.” My credit card will do cash transfers internationally and also includes a continuous travel insurance package.
I would highly suggest making three copies of your passport and all credit cards and other ID you are taking. One lives on your person when your passport is stored elsewhere (hotel, for example), one lives in your luggage (preferably hidden/tucked away), and one stays with a trusted friend or family member that will be in the States for the duration of your trip. If anything happens they will be able to assist with proving your identity to the State Department, thus speeding the process along. I suggest keeping some cash tucked in your passport (along with that embassy list), your copy of the passport in the luggage, and then the copy of the passport and embassy list in your wallet. At this point you have three possibilities of things to grab to prove your identity/pay for a cab/tell you where to go.
While this may seem a little overboard, I find it doesn't take that long to set up and helps greatly should anything bad happen. Also consider registering with the State Department. This helps them track Americans abroad should anything happen, and also gives you alerts, should anything happen. https://step.state.gov/step/
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Tech Tips
I also used a service called Line2 to give me a US phone number to call from and receive calls to while I was away. I have T-Mobile that gives me included unlimited international data. As long as I had a 4g signal, I also had a phone I could make and receive calls on. Google Voice and Skype would also do this. Do be aware of how much international data costs. Wifi is easy to find, but I suggest using a VPN on your phone or laptop for any web surfing. And even with the VPN I would not suggest logging into any financial (bank, etc) while abroad unless you are on a trusted wifi network (aka, friends).
For maps you can download parts of Google Maps by searching the city and clicking “Download." This should work on Android and iOS versions of Google Maps.
Intead of traveling with boxes, you buy shoe bags like these
Oh they have. And won't she look classy pulling her cash out at the register.
http://www.amazon.com/Bra-Stash-Personal-Security-Wallet/dp/B000BQW8AS
I just noticed the link included "B000B". Ha.
Eagle Creek Pack-It Quick Trip. It's a little bulky, but as you can see, I keep practically all of my loose stuff in it.
My bag is a 49L Eagle Creek Load Hauler. Yes, bigger than average for this sub. Hence the relatively bulky toiletry kit.
It’s a steering wheel lock.
For appointments, I recommend getting a slashproof bag with locking cable. Once you've received the cash, test it for counterfeits. Then put it (and other valuables) in the bag, and lock the bag to the plumbing under the bathroom sink.
For traveling between locations, use a money belt or a stash bra. I recommend keeping a decoy wallet with some cash and expired cards in it, so that if you are mugged, you can give them your decoy, while keeping the rest of your cash safe.
For storing cash at home, I'd make one or more "pipesafes" with some black iron pipe. Wrap and band the cash, then put it in a fire resistant bag. Then put it in the pipe, and plug the pipe with a pair of "test plugs". You can see what I mean at this instructable for making a survival cache with PVC pipe.
I recommend using black iron pipe instead of PVC because it provides some fire resistance, but you can use PVC pipe instead. You can find black iron pipe at hardware stores, and "test plugs" can be ordered online or purchased through plumbing supply stores.
Split up your money among several "pipesafes" in different locations around your apartment. That way, if you're ever robbed, the thieves may find some of your money, but they probably won't find all of your money. The best places to hide your pipesafes will vary from location to location, so you'll want to size them to fit in your preferred hiding spaces.
Be sure to write down your pipesafe locations somewhere! You will forget where they are!
I recommend storing them as a note in bitwarden, then give your bitwarden account info to a trusted friend or relative. That way, if you die or get sick/injured, your loved ones can find them and access your funds.
Why not a safe, you might ask? A safe can also work. However, thieves know to look for safes. If the safe is portable, they can just tear it out of the wall and walk out with it.
If the safe is heavy enough to prevent easy transport, then it will be a pain the butt for you to move as well. Most sex workers are young, and move or travel frequently. Pipesafes can be moved relatively easily. Plus, you could leave them behind if need be, as they're not that expensive to make.
How much cash should you keep on hand? That will vary depending on your circumstances and risk tolerance.
Personally, I would first build up a cash emergency fund of about $5 K for unexpected expenses, like car repair, "get out of dodge money" (stalker, legal action), medical bills, etc. Top up this fund as you make payouts from it.
Next, I would pre-pay a $5 K retainer with criminal defense attorney who has successfully defended a number of sex work cases. If you're ever in legal trouble, the cops may freeze your assets, making it difficult to hire someone to defend you. Prostitution / solicitation cases cost between $5 - $25 K to defend, so pre-paying at least enough to get started is a good idea.
Eventually, however, you'll probably want to deposit much of your cash in a bank account. If you ever want to purchase a house or car, having an established history of regular cashflow will be necessary. A bank account also makes it much easier to interface with the rest of the financial system.
However, any funds you deposit will become known to the IRS. So you should expect to pay taxes on those funds. You'll need to set aside around 30% of those funds for tax payments.
As an anti-money laundering and anti-tax avoidance measure, banks are required to report cash deposits / withdrawals (called a Cash Transaction Report for CTR) greater than $10000 to the government. Most banks have systems that send these reports automatically, electronically, along with your tax information.
Bank staff can optionally flag and any cash transaction as "suspicious", known as a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR). For example, they might flag a deposit as "suspicious" if they think it was artificially structured to avoid the reporting requirement. (For example, making four deposits of $2499 in a 24 hour period might cause them to make a SAR.)
Due to previous government crackdowns on politically unpopular groups (gun dealers, payday loan vendors, sex workers), banks and other financial institutions are particularly skittish about providing services to sex workers.
So, if you suddenly start making a lot of cash deposits, the bank will likely ask you the source of your funds. If you don't have a good answer, they may close your account. So, be sure to have a plausible story for the source of the cash before you start making significant deposits.
Brokerages, currency exchanges, precious metals dealers and other financial institutions have similar Know Your Customer / Anti-Money Laundering regulations.
At Amazon ($8.95, 3 colors), and at Eagle Creek ($8.95, 5 colors).
For individual items I use an older gen of this:
Salter Stainless Steel Electronic Scale (7-Pound) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JNXRBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_jO-9wbBGJBZ5Z
For larger items and full pack weight I use:
Camry 110 Lbs Luggage Scale with Temperature Sensor and Tare Function Without Backlight Gift For Traveler, Silver, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8SXGKA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_JP-9wbEER3NWN
God only knows why the luggage scale is also a thermometer....
Unless you're looking for tight precision on your scale, I think any kitchen scale will work.
Like others in this thread, I used to leave a stack of clean folded shirts and a couple pairs of chinos in my locker at work. I would replenish it with the occasional car ride for laundry day and I also used one of these in my pannier to transport ironed shirts and slacks.
You could get one of those PacSafe mesh bag covers - made out of metal cable and lockable to a piece of furniture - and put your bag with the gear inside and lock it to the bed or something.
https://www.amazon.com/Pacsafe-120L-Backpack-Protector-Steel/dp/B004WN9XAO
I would just say to get a rain shell for your current backpack. https://www.amazon.com/Mountainsmith-Backpack-Rain-Cover/dp/B001A47T3G
No zippered backpack will really be waterproof because zippers allow water through. A cover like that one has fixed it for me
I would also suggest getting some packing cubes. I got some on amazon and they are great (and were on sale at the time) So that way you can actually fit enough stuff in the single bag. I usually use the interior pockets for underware and socks, then 2x different sized packing cubes. One for tshirts, pajamas, and polos then another for my pants, the jeans are so thick they need a bag on their own. Then a little see through box for toiletries for TSA.
Edit: Here they are.
Yes! I use packing cubes and a shirt folder which helps save space and is much easier for packing and unpacking!
cubes and folder
I meant to say vitamix not vitamin - but just to add, for traveling, I think those travel sweatshirts look awesome (with all the pockets) but I don’t actually know if they are any good - my two favorite real travel purchases are a phone case with a strap and a travel safe. Two things that I think any traveler will hugely appreciate.
The strap is awesome bc I can hand my phone to a stranger (for directions etc) with no risk of them running away. I can also walk freely down a crowded street without worrying that someone will grab it. PLUS I can hold it out over a high ledge to take a photo.
The safe is awesome bc I can fit my laptop in it and know that it hasn’t been tampered with. Most hotel crimes are crimes of opportunity. Lock things up in your own safe attached to a water pipe and it’s VERY unlikely a staff member will walk away with your things.
Here’s are links:
Pacsafe Travelsafe 12L GII Portable Safe, Charcoal https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E8BK6KQ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_s1reAbDEWNP60
iPhone 7 Case Clear TPU, ACO-UINT Ultra Slim Reinforced Frame Crystal Clear Shock-Ab... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXWEPR9/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_F0reAbC2V0X9E
Luggage Locks: To keep your bags locked up tightly.
Bike Locks: To fasten your bag to your person. Either with caribiners or wrist/ankle cuffs.
Diamond brokers use handcuffs. You could do the same to be extra secure.
What kind of folder are you using?
Eagle Creek makes a Pack-It folder that's about the size of a laptop and does a really good job.
If you want something a little bigger, the hanging garment insert from Away Luggage works great and you can keep things on hangers.
Oh and in terms of gear that you might find it hard to get out of country, I recommend these two
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Z2AKO3G/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
Very well made, ideal for carrying passport & credit/atm cards.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pacsafe-Travelsafe-12L-Portable-Safe/dp/B00E8BK6KQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1520802922&sr=8-4&keywords=pacsafe
Basically a portable safe, it's not going to stop anyone who's pre-mediated and determined to steal your stuff but 99.999% of theft from rooms while traveling is opportunistic (the maid has a poke around in your stuff). Personally locking my laptop + passport + cash in that makes me feel a lot happier when I'm out and about.
I use this:
https://www.amazon.com/Pacsafe-Travelsafe-12L-Portable-Safe/dp/B00E8BK6KQ
Two sizes available. You lock it to a bed post, or something else immovable in the room. Nothing is 100% safe but I think it works pretty well as a deterrent. Most crimes are a crime of opportunity, I feel like this is a pretty decent deterrent. It packs nicely in your luggage and has a sturdy lock. I usually use the lock on my suitcase outbound and then put it on the travel safe in the room.
It took me forever to find a backpack that was "professionally appropriate" for my type of work. I finally got this one from Solo about 6-7 years ago when I had an enormous laptop ("lapserver" as we called it) and it's been excellent. (It still looks brand new after several hundred thousand miles of weekly travel.) It has pockets in all the right places and a nice minimal aesthetic. To keep it organized even further (cables, dongles, etc.) and help me rapidly switch to different bags, I use Eagle Creek Pack-It Sacs.
Stupid....stupid.....stupid.....(Trump)
Everyone in this situation needs to get one of those passport thingies and wear their documents at all times.
https://www.amazon.com/Lewis-N-Clark-RFID-Blocking-Anti-Theft/dp/B0082C62BO/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1492578304&sr=8-9&keywords=passport+holder
Don't leave home without it on your person.
COUGH!
What is your budget? When you say traveling, do you mean international travel or more local weekend trips?
If he travels internationally, a fancy passport holder or some luggage tags are nice. You can also get him some packing cubes. Eagle Creek has nice ones and once you pack with them, it's hard to do without them. They sell them at Big 5 as well. Also, an overnight toiletry bag can be handy.
http://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Travel-Pack--Starter/dp/B00F9S84D8/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1450722787&sr=1-2&nodeID=15744041&keywords=eagle+creek+packing+cubes
Love this neck stash for passport, cash, and other little things. I wear it over the shoulder under my shirt and tuck it into my pants or shorts on the side of my hip so that it's not visible.
http://www.amazon.com/Lewis-N-Clark-Luggage-Stash/dp/B0082C62BO/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1417764340&sr=1-2&keywords=lewis+and+clark+passport
https://www.amazon.com/Earthwise-Storage-Drawstring-Washable-Protecting/dp/B0771XGTTJ/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=shoe+dust+bag&qid=1556502461&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Something like these but cheaper
My GR1 is one of the best pieces of gear I own, flawless for my needs. Here's a comment I left a month or so back with a few pouches/organization stuff I use inside my GR1. I plan to do a video of my setup, been perfecting it over the years and some may find it useful. Here's the list of stuff I use inside my bag:
Toiletry kit (I love the mesh top and little handle) - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F9S8DK2/
This is what I keep my portable battery and charging cables in -
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014PM4AL8
I use several of these amazing Kifaru pullouts (the large mesh for my rain coat, the ultralight small for my vape and extra cartridges, the 500d small for my "possibles kit", and I keep a xlarge ultralight tucked in the little inside pocket for wet clothes or shoes to go in) - https://store.kifaru.net/500d-pullouts-p185.aspx
Ultralight pullout here - https://store.kifaru.net/ultralight-pullouts-p22.aspx
I use a Tactical Tailor Fight Light Admin Pouch in the upper molle area for my pens/notebook/sunscreen/hand sanitizer/small screwdriver..etc - https://www.tacticaltailor.com/fightlightadminpouchenhanced.aspx
This is what I use for my first aid kit (perfect size imo)- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZWEIQE
And I use one of these amazing quick clips from Alldayruckoff to clip gloves and a small fire kit and my keys if I need to clip them inside - https://alldayruckoff.com/store/gear/hk-quick-clip/
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078RF5VMV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 is correct. I purchased the small which are.
“Pack of 3 drawstring dust bag, small measurement: 12 1/2 x 15 3/4 inches”. If you tighten the headstrap knob, it is a perfect fit.
Will do. I ordered https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B078RQYLD6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Oops, yeah I totally forgot to take and upload some pics. I'll see if I can get some uploaded soon.
My thoughts so far: I'm very happy. I think the mini is the perfect size for how I pack (minimally and light). It's actually larger than I thought it would be even though I did check the measurements.
The canvas is really nice. Strong and clearly will be able to take a beating. The zippers run smooth and without any catches. Love the leather handles. Sturdy and smooth, soft leather.
The one downside is probably the strap. It's not bad at all, but when the bag is packed fully, I can see it messing with my shoulder if I have to haul it for prolonged times. I might look at buying the leather strap they sell as an upgrade.
I took the bag on a weekend trip and I had plenty of room to spare. A bit too much, actually. I could probably go for an even smaller version of this bag as a weekender. The mini to me will be a fine week long trip bag.
To give an example of what I packed (I use Eagle Creek packing cubes. this set: Eagle Creek Travel Gear Pack-It Cube Set and this set of "pack-it sacs" Eagle Creek Travel Gear Pack-It Sac Set), here's a list (I'm borrowing size references from one of the amazon reviews):
On the way down the clothes in there were:
Coming back I was wearing the shorts, so the jeans I had been wearing on the way down were packed instead.
All of that fit with enough room in the bag to still be able to collapse the top part of the bag down. It had a good 5" or so to spare as clearance still.
The other thing I will mention is that the good and bad of the canvas is that the bag has no shape on its own. Until you stuff it with your gear, the bag is going to flop in on itself. This is bad if you do not have the bag packed enough to give it some shape. This is great if you plan on packing this bag into a bigger bag on a trip. It folds down smaller than a pair of jeans.
Hope that helps!
I'll try and get pics up soon.
Compression bags are my best friend when needing to pack bulky cold weather gear. These are great: these For smaller items I like these cubes: these cubes
https://www.amazon.com/Nude-Pocket-Travel-Safe-Wallet/dp/B000BQW8AS
Oh, you want a locking cable? What about this?
http://www.amazon.com/Lewis-Clark-Hidden-Travel-Wallet/dp/B003IMV380
I found it for $2 on clearance at a local sports store
As others have said, you don't have to show it, I got a cheap passport/ID neck carry thing to keep it with me that I've used on two trips now. Something like this If you're coming fro the US, the Japanese Yen paper bills are a bit larger than US dollars, and don't fit easily in to a regular wallet, this was a bit more convenient for carrying the money & passport with.
I just carry a little cable travel lock like this that I put through a spoke in the front and rear. I also use my handle bars as a stake point for my tent. Nothing extreme to would prevent a motivated theft, but probably enough deterrent for scenarios where the thief isn't willing to hurt somebody to steal something.
Personally, I just go with a hidden wallet like this one that I throw on my belt loop. Then I can just use it with any pair of pants I already own.
My Eagle Creek Quick Trip is holding up very well. I've never been a fan of leather and similarly fancy dopp kits - when I inevitably spill half a bottle of shampoo in it, I like to be able to machine wash it.
Packing Cubes to keep pants in one cube, shirts in another, undies in another, and so on. Trust me, this will save so much space, and it will keep your suitcase organized! If you don't want to buy packing cubes, use ziploc bags, will work the same way. Also, roll your pants instead of folding. Lastly, have an amazing time!
The Capitals are the best hockey team in the world
how about a luggage scale?
I use alameda compression cubes that are very similar to the eagle creek compression cubes. So far they are great and they are cheaper.
That Zappos item you linked is for dress shirts / shirts and will fit in the GR2 and is not actually the same as the garment folder that is linked by Curri.
What you linked: https://www.amazon.com/Eagle-Creek-Pack--Garment-Folder/dp/B00F9S81KY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466710767&sr=8-1&keywords=eagle+creek+garment
You can also buy hidden pouches that attach to your bra like this (not an endorsement, just an example). I haven't personally tried it but I'm curious.
You could look into a product like this if you're super worried: https://www.amazon.com/Pacsafe-120L-Backpack-Protector-Steel/dp/B004WN9XAO
Here you go: Packing Cubes Compression Set for Carryon Travel- Luggage Organizer Bags https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078RQYLD6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_IQiQAbQH2QCMK
This is what the product looked like: https://www.amazon.com/Pacsafe-120L-Backpack-Protector-Steel/dp/B004WN9XAO
I use Eagle Creek Pack It Quick Trip Toiletry Organizer, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S8YTM/ It packs well for travel and has a mesh side where I can store a damp brush. This is big enough to carry a puck in a ~5oz container, bottle of aftershave, bottle of cologne, brush, razor in case, alum block, toothbrush, nail clippers, comb, and a small jar of pomade.
For protecting the DE, I have this Parker Safety Razor's Felt Lined Genuine Leather Double Edge Safety Razor Protective/Travel Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001O8NCI4/ which I highly recommend. It fits a Fat Boy and other similarly sized DE's.
For storing blades, I use two Altoids minis tins. One for new blades, the other for used. I have a blade bank that I keep at home to properly dispose of the blades.
The only thing I haven't quite solved is a bowl for lathering. I don't like the face lather as it screws up my face making it red. So I either make it on my hand, of find a glass, mug, or bowl at my hotel. I'd love to hear ideas to travel with a bowl.
I've yet to fly with this setup. I plan to just throw a disposable in there and empty the DE and Altoids tins. Then pray that I can find a pharmacy that sells DE blades at my destination.
Good luck and safe travels!
I have been thinking about getting one of these. I used to have a pack that had one built in and it was pretty awesome.
My husband was actually the main traveler before we met. He had never heard of them either and actually said they were unnecessary when I ordered some. Now he steals mine.. Lol.
Here is the set I have and they look brand new after almost 4 years of travel (and sharing them with my husband!). I really enjoy them!
This one is pretty accurate for whole rifles. I just hook the strap around the trigger guard. The food scale I used in the pictures is great for measuring individual parts in grams or ounces.
Like this:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stoplock-134-59-Steering-Wheel-Original/dp/B002NPLYGE
This one is by a brand I recognize. The small looks like it would probably work.
This one is better cause hi-viz
When shopping make sure to see if the pictures look like it'll work with your backpack. On the hi-viz one the picture reviews are good. Usually you need a little lip on the top of your pack to have the large stretchy edge hook onto. It'll make sense when you see the pics.
I’ve been using the eagle creek pack-it sac for a couple years.
Eagle Creek Travel Gear Luggage Pack-it Sac Set, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S8RL2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_a-g1Cb0SRAC5Z
I’ve been using probably the smallest one? It’s borderline too small. Like when its got other things in there getting a full size toothbrush requires the proper angle. Not a lot of organization unfortunately, but definitely keeps one from overpacking.
It's not $5, but it's close. I honestly wouldn't want to go any cheaper than these bags, as I don't want my shit falling apart in my main bag.
Eagle creek bags: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S8DK2
They make them in different sizes which is nice. That one is the quarter cube.
Be hyper-vigilant regarding your personal possessions. Don't hang your purse / backpack over the back of your chair when eating in a restaurant. Carry a cheapo wallet (front trouser pocket, never a rear pocket) with only enough cash in it to get you through the day -- and maybe a credit card (if you think you'll need it that day), but nothing else. Keep all your spare cash, passport, credit and debit cards, etc., in a hidden travel wallet, like this one that you loop your belt through and then tuck down inside your trousers, or this one that loops around your neck and rests inside your shirt and against your chest.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stoplock-134-59-Steering-Wheel-Original/dp/B002NPLYGE