Pack Like a Pro: 8 Travel Essentials To Keep You Totally Organized
Packing for a trip can feel like a chaotic game of Tetris — especially when you're trying to fit everything neatly while keeping essentials accessible. After years of trips ranging from long weekends in Asheville to two weeks in Scotland, I've finally landed on a system that works. These are the eight products I personally travel with on every single trip — the ones that have survived the Isle of Skye in the rain, navigated Mexican customs, and made it through more airport security lines than I can count. Pack like a pro with these 8 travel essentials that will keep you organized on your next adventure.
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Clear Liquids Bags
I've been using this exact combo for years and it's earned a permanent spot in my carry-on. The smaller bag is 3-1-1 compliant and — I promise this is not an exaggeration — fits significantly more than a standard ziplock. It's become one of those things I don't realize I rely on until I forget it. The larger bag handles full-sized items in checked luggage and doubles as a beach bag catch-all for sunscreens and SPFs. A small upgrade that makes a real difference at security.
Compression Packing Cubes
These changed how I pack entirely. I used to be a "stuff everything in and sit on the suitcase" person — compression cubes converted me. I sort by category (tops, bottoms, workout gear) and the compression zipper genuinely lets me fit more without the chaos. I've used these on everything from a two-night Asheville trip to two weeks in Baja and they hold up well. Worth every penny
Electronics Organizer
If you have ever spent ten minutes at the bottom of your bag fishing for a charging cable while your phone dies at 2% in an airport, this is for you. I keep my chargers, adapters, earbuds and a portable battery all in one place and can pull the whole thing out at security without thinking about it. I take this on every single trip — domestic weekend or international — without exception.
Passport Holder
My passport, boarding passes, ID, some local currency and a couple of cards all live here from the moment I leave the house until I'm back home. The Airtag slot is the feature that sold me — I have one in here and one in my checked bag, and the peace of mind is genuinely worth it. I've had this one for two years across trips to Scotland, Mexico and all over the US and it still looks brand new.
Gravel Dopp Kit
Designed with multiple compartments (including a removable TSA-compliant liquid pouch), this compact, water-resistant kit keeps your toiletries neat, separated, and easy to access.
Travel-Size Refillable Bottles
I decant everything — shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash — into these before every trip. They're leakproof (I've tested this more times than I'd like, usually at the bottom of a packed bag), TSA-compliant, and the silicone construction means they're easy to squeeze and hold up over time. Better for the environment than single-use travel sizes and better for your wallet too.
Laundry Bag
This one sounds boring until you've opened your suitcase at home and had to figure out which clothes are clean. The STNKY bag locks away odors — genuinely useful after a week of hiking or a long travel day — and the whole thing goes straight into the wash when I get home. Lightweight, folds flat, takes up almost no space. One of those purchases I didn't know I needed.
Airtags
Non-negotiable. I have one in every checked bag and one in my passport holder. After hearing enough horror stories about lost luggage — and experiencing a close call myself — I'm not traveling without these. Being able to track your bag in real time when it doesn't show up at baggage claim is worth every dollar of the $80 for a four-pack. If you only buy one thing on this list, make it these.
Take the Guesswork Out of Packing
If you want a head start before your next trip, I've built a free customizable packing list template in Google Sheets that I use with my travel planning clients. It covers clothing, toiletries, tech, documents and travel day essentials — fully editable so you can tailor it to your destination, trip length and travel style. No more last-minute scrambles or arriving somewhere without your adapter.
Hi, I’m Jess
I’m here to help you plan epic adventures. If you’re looking for authentic travel guides that mix luxe lodging and incredible dining with out of this world hikes and adventures, you’re in the right place.
