THE FORKBOUND TRAVEL EDIT
Updated: 3 days ago
A great trip starts before you board the plane. Over the years, we've learned that packing smarter makes traveling easier, but it also makes it much more enjoyable.
From long-haul flight essentials to clever little finds that make hotel living easier, these are the travel companions we'd happily make room for in our luggage.
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01. The Bags We Love
TUMI 19 Degree Expandable Carry-On
A well-designed carry-on is worth the investment. We love a suitcase that's durable, easy to maneuver, yet able to hold everything we need. Our Tumi suitcases have endured the test and have lasted uncountable airplane rides.
Longchamp Le Pliage Original Large Tote
Chic, lightweight and surprisingly spacious. This is our favorite carry all bag. It works just as well at the airport as it does wandering through a European city. It not only zips up so your things don't fall out but it also folds down easily when you're not using it, making it an easy choice to pack into tight spaces.
25L Travel Backpack
For the days when a tote just won't cut it, this versatile backpack offers room for extra layers, camera gear, snacks and all the little things you collect throughout the day. Great for flights, train travel and exploring.
02. Tech & Travel Essentials
European Travel Plug Adapter — 2 Pack
Multiple outlets and USB ports make it easy to charge phones, cameras and other devices without fighting over the hotel room's limited outlets. This is a plug adapter, not a voltage converter, so always check device compatibility. But these are the adapters we love and use regularly.
VEGER Portable Charger — 10,000mAh
Between navigation, restaurant searches, taking photos and filming videos, our phones work overtime when we travel. A compact portable charger with built-in cables keeps everything powered without carrying a tangled collection of cords. Keep power banks in your carry-on, not checked luggage. We keep multiple of these on hand!
Apple AirTag — 4 Pack
A little peace of mind goes a long way. We tuck these into checked suitcases, backpacks and other important bags so we can locate them through Apple's Find My app. Especially useful when flights involve connections.
Crossbody Phone Lanyard
This hands-free travel essential is perfect for sightseeing, taking photos and navigating busy airports without constantly digging through your bag. An adjustable strap keeps your phone accessible and makes it harder to accidentally leave behind.
03. In-Flight Comfort
TRAVELREST All-in-One Travel Pillow
Long-haul flights are a lot more enjoyable when you can actually get comfortable. This inflatable travel pillow offers neck and upper-body support without taking up valuable luggage space when packed away.
Soft Cashmere-Blend Travel Wrap
One of those pieces that earns its place in your suitcase, it can be used as a blanket on chilly flights, a wrap for dinner or an extra layer while exploring. Comfortable, versatile and effortlessly polished.
LEVSOX Compression Socks — 20–30 mmHg
Long flights and extended travel days can leave your legs feeling tired and swollen. Graduated compression socks may help improve circulation and reduce swelling. Since 20–30 mmHg is a firmer compression level, make sure it's appropriate for you.
04. Toiletries & Hotel Living
HOTOR Hanging Toiletry Bag
Hotel bathroom counter space can be limited, especially in Europe. A hanging organizer keeps skincare, makeup and toiletries accessible, neatly separated, and off the counter. It's a small upgrade that makes getting ready so much easier.
3 oz Refillable Silicone Travel Bottles — 4 Pack
Skip packing full-size bottles and bring only what you need. These squeezable, refillable containers are ideal for shampoo, conditioner, lotion and other essentials. Their 3 oz capacity fits within TSA's standard carry-on liquids limit.
FURIDEN Lite Dual-Voltage Travel Curling Iron
Compact styling tools are a game changer when you're trying to pack light. This mini tool combines curling and straightening capabilities, and its dual-voltage design makes it useful for international travel with the appropriate plug adapter.
Tru Earth In Wash Fabric Softener Sheets
Fresh Linen, 80 Strips, up to 160 Loads, alternative to liquid fabric softener, for all washing machines & water temperatures, helps reduce static
05. The Perfect Shoe
Tanya Heath Interchangeable Heels
Suitcase space is precious, especially when you’re packing shoes. Tanya Heath Paris makes one pair go further with interchangeable heels you can swap from low to high for dinner out. It’s a clever way to change your look without packing another pair. Shop through our link to find your shoes and the heels to go with them. Use promo code ForkBoundFoodies to receive a 20% discount when 3 items (ie. one pair of shoes and 2 pair of heels) are purchased.
Note: Shoes run small. We recommend sizing up.
06. A Few More Things
These are the extras we'd include to round out the guide. We've left them without shopping links so you can choose your favorite finds.
Compression Packing Cubes - Keep clothing organized by category or outfit, and make unpacking at each hotel a breeze. Particularly helpful for multi-destination trips.
Portable White Noise Machine - A lifesaver when your charming boutique hotel happens to sit above a lively piazza. Small, rechargeable, and great for sleeping in unfamiliar places.
Travel Jewelry Organizer - Keep necklaces untangled, earrings paired, and your favorite accessories safely tucked away rather than scattered around the bottom of your bag.
Foldable Laundry Bag - Separate worn clothing from clean pieces, especially when you're moving between hotels. Look for one that folds into its own little pouch.
Contoured Sleep Mask & Earplugs - Sometimes the difference between arriving exhausted and arriving ready to explore is a few uninterrupted hours of sleep.
Compact Travel Umbrella - Small enough to keep in your day bag and useful when the forecast changes unexpectedly. A rainy afternoon shouldn't derail your plans.
Slim Passport & Document Organizer - Keep passports, boarding information, and important documents together. We also recommend storing digital backup copies securely.
Foldable Extra Tote - Because you never know when a market, boutique or irresistible little shop will require additional carrying space.
06. Our Carry-On Checklist
❑ Passport, ID & travel documents
❑ Phone, charging cable & power bank
❑ Wallet & essential medications
❑ AirTags placed in luggage
❑ Headphones, sleep mask & earplugs
❑ Travel pillow & cashmere wrap
❑ Compression socks
❑ One change of clothes
❑ Toiletry essentials in liquids bag
❑ Snacks & something to read
❑ Camera, batteries & memory cards
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