The 18 Best Travel Products That Came Across T+L Editors’ Desks This Month, From $21

As a travel writer, I’m given the opportunity to try an influx of groundbreaking products each month, many of which have become staples in my packing routine. But while I love the items that I’m already stocked with, I still always have my eye out for new gear that will take my adventures to the next level. I knew I wasn’t alone in that, which got me curious about what other Travel + Leisure writers and editors have been loving lately — and their recommendations did not disappoint.

Whether you’re searching for comfortable clothing to wear during car rides, hikes, and sightseeing days, or the best noise-canceling headphones for actually getting some rest during longhaul flights, I’ve rounded up my T+L colleagues 18 favorite travel essentials that they’ve tried this month. Comfort, packability, and durability are all keys to success in any good travel product, and it’s safe to say that we’ve found some of the best. 

Teva 90s Hurricane XLT2 Revive Sandals

“I’m a sucker for a cute pair of sandals, but after incurring one too many blisters over the years, I’ve become incredibly picky with what actually becomes a mainstay in my wardrobe. Thankfully, I was met with nothing of the sort when I wore these sandals during a four-day trip to New Mexico, and from a sopping-wet white water rafting adventure to a lengthy day in the airport, these sandals carried me through rigorous activity and leisurely days with ease. I can’t get enough of the vintage 90s pattern which is part of the brand’s revival collection, and the supportive rubber footbeds provide enough traction to keep me from slipping on anything from the slick airport floor to the edge of a raft.” – Merrell Readman, Senior Commerce Writer 

Cotopaxi Sumaco Long-sleeve Shirt

“Just so you know, I might be one of Cotopaxi’s biggest fans. I wear the brand’s vivid colorblocked fleece on repeat during the fall and winter and you won’t catch me without its convenient fanny pack on daily walks with my dog. I’ve tested my fair share of everything from dresses to jackets to carry-on backpacks from the brand, but I recently received this snap-front shirt, and Cotopaxi knocked it out of the park, again. It’s made of a lightweight, quick-dry fabric with built-in UPF 50+ protection and also features mesh venting at the back to keep you cool and comfy in the summer heat, making it perfect for hiking, boating, beach days, and more. It can double as a shirt or thin layer and easily stuffs into the chest pocket to then be stuffed into my daypack. I’ve been wearing it non-stop in 90-degree weather in Florida and haven’t felt hot at all, and I have gotten so many compliments on the sangria and orchid bloom colorway. I’m looking forward to taking it with me to Europe for hiking this year!” – Susan Brickell, Director of T+L News & Deals Commerce

Beis Sportsling

“I borrowed this crossbody bag from my sister for the BottleRock music festival in Napa Valley last weekend, and it made a great concert buddy. The handy compartments helped me organize my cards, cash, sunglasses, lip balm, and sunscreen, and the front pocket kept my phone accessible for snapping photos and videos of my favorite bands. There’s even a pouch that pulls out to hold a water bottle — I’m crediting that feature with keeping me hydrated!” –Taysha Murtaugh, VP, Commerce

Iris&Romeo Weekend Skin SPF 50

“I received a bunch of Iris&Romeo goodies (including the brand’s newly dropped Lash Up Mascara, which is amazing), and this little SPF won me over with its skin-enhancing formula; it’s packed with vitamin C and niacinamide to leave the skin looking dewy and bright, and the mineral sunscreen is tinted to even out your skin tone so you don’t really need foundation. I love the compact packaging; it fits in any toiletry bag, purse, or beach bag.” – Emily Belfiore, Senior Commerce Editor

Ray-Ban Meta Skyler

“These smart glasses look just like regular Ray-bans… except for that tiny camera in the corner. Beyond taking photos and videos to easily share with friends back home, I love that you can also hear directions (or listen to music) discreetly no matter where you are. My favorite update is the new AI enhancement that lets you do everything from identify landmarks for your own personal tour to read — and even translate! — any text you may see.” – Morgan Ashley Parker, Associate Editorial Director

Timbuk2 Black Division Laptop Backpack Deluxe

“Despite the fact that I’ve traditionally been a tote bag > backpack type of girl, I’ve really been enjoying this Timbuk2 backpack this month. I bring it with me for quick overnight trips or when I travel into the office for luggage testing. In terms of organization, it’s hard to beat. There’s a slim zipper compartment specifically for my laptop, as well as a main zipper compartment for the rest of my gear. The outside pocket also has a hidden zipper which gives me peace of mind while I’m on the go. Even when packed to capacity, the weight of this backpack is evenly distributed and therefore doesn’t put tons of stress on my back. Did I mention it’s waterproof? Chef’s kiss! I really like this for work trips because I can separate my clothing and toiletries from my electronics. There’s also ample padding along the back and shoulder straps, which adds comfort when I’m lugging this thing from the car to the train and into the office.” – Jasmine Grant, Senior Commerce Editor

Seniq Trailmix Shorts

“My hunt for the perfect pair of sweat-proof shorts has come up short time and time again — until now. After wearing these Seniq shorts while hiking in the stifling New Mexico heat, I was stunned (and thrilled) to find that nary a patch of sweat was to be found, even when I knew for certain that it should have been showing. But on top of their sweatproof-ness, the adjustable waistband and flowy design also proved to be major selling points. Since they’re a slightly longer length than I usually reach for, I didn’t struggle with any chafing, plus, I could loosen them accordingly after indulging in a post-hike ice cream, which resulted in the bloated consequences of my lactose intolerance.” – Merrell Readman, Senior Commerce Writer 

Altra Women’s Via Olympus 2 Sneaker

“I’m not a runner, but I’ve been wearing these bouncy, cloud-like sneakers for a month on my daily outings and walks with my dog. They have plush footbeds and foam midsoles that give them their stacked height, similar to other models on the market like from Hoka, but with a roomy and wider toe box so that your toes can naturally and comfortably spread out (it doesn’t look noticeable wide or weird, trust me). These supportive sneakers have been comfortable out of the box and I haven’t gotten a single blister. My feet don’t feel fatigued, even after miles, but rather energized thanks to how they make me feel like I’m bouncing off the sidewalk. The colorways are fun and make my more neutral athleisure outfits really pop.” – Susan Brickell, Director of T+L News & Deals Commerce

Soleil One Piece Swimsuit

“This one piece is so fun whether you’re a poolside lounger or prefer to dive right into the water. The suit offers UPF 50+ protection and comes in various fun colors so you can pick the perfect style for you. The straps are adjustable, as well, and the material is pill- and chlorine-resistant for durability. And, while it’s a one piece, it still features a cheeky backside and high waistline as a fun accent.” – Taylor Fox, Commerce Editor

Anthropologie x L Space Patterson Cutout Dress

“I was bitten by the tennis-core bug after watching Challengers, so naturally, my summer wardrobe is now all tennis dresses like this one from the L Space x Anthropologie collaboration. The fabric is smooth, soft, and stretchy. Plus, I actually played tennis in the dress, so it’s more than just a fashionable piece of athletic clothing.” – Anna Popp, Associate Commerce Editor

Away Packing Cubes

“I’m such an overpacker that I used to think that nothing could help me, but then I was given a set of the Away Packing Cubes and that mindset quickly changed. These packing all stars ensure that everything I need for a trip fits in my suitcase, and even give me the opportunity to organize them based on category or when I’ll need them, etc. Compared to other variations, I feel that these are more durable and easier to use.” – Emily Belfiore, Senior Commerce Editor

Ephedra Trail Skort

“When I’m hiking in the heat, I prefer shorts over pants, but this trail skort is my go-to this season. It provides the freedom of movement of shorts without leading to any chafing or discomfort no matter how hot it is. I love the functional pockets and adjustable skirt as well, so I can tailor the skort to my comfort.” – Taylor Fox, Commerce Editor

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack

“I always wanted one of these Fjallraven Kanken backpacks in middle school, just so I could learn what the hype was about. After fulfilling my 12-year-old dreams of getting the light pink shade, I can confidently say this is the perfect packable travel backpack. It packs flat in a suitcase and can fit more than enough items for day trips to the beach or sightseeing.” – Anna Popp, Associate Commerce Editor

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones 

“I can’t believe there was ever a time when headphones weren’t noise-canceling. These Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones live up to their name with their dynamic noise-canceling capabilities; you can either block everything out or switch to Aware mode so you can still hear what’s going on around you (which is great when you’re on a flight or on the move). They’re also incredibly comfortable and don’t leave my ears feeling squished.” – Emily Belfiore, Senior Commerce Editor

Everlane Tencel Wide-Leg Pants

“Since I added these pants to my closet earlier this month, I’ve worn them at just about every chance I’ve gotten. From concerts to a 12 hour day of traveling, these Everlane pants instantly became a go-to — and they’re even lightweight enough to wear in the summer. The breathable Tencel fabric is relatively wrinkle-proof, plus, the elastic waistband never digs into my skin, making it perfect for enjoying a meal without stealthily unbuttoning my pants at the table (yes, I’ve done it before). I’d be remiss not to add that they look impeccable with the accompanying oversized button-down, but I’ve also taken to pairing them with a tank top and platform sandals for a night out on the town.” – Merrell Readman, Senior Commerce Writer

July Everyday Garment Tote

“I received this minimalist cotton tote from July as a gift, and it is the most luxurious garment bag I’ve ever owned. I can hang multiple dresses, bottoms, and tops inside, as well as pack shoes and my toiletries in the two inner pouches and jewelry and delicates in the interior zip pocket. I love that it zips shut to ensure my belongings are safe and secure, and that it has a pass-through luggage sleeve that easily fits over the handle of my rolling carry-on suitcase for seamless travel. I have the black version, which doesn’t show dirt or wear (but it’s washable, so no harm, no foul), and have been able to use it on some overnights and short weekend trips, but I know I’ll be putting it through a major test in flying across the country this September with it for my sister’s wedding, as well as using it as my luggage for a safari trip I have planned in Africa in the winter, as the planes have very strict cargo and baggage rules. ” – Susan Brickell, Director of T+L News & Deals Commerce

Cozy Earth Rib-Knit Short Sleeve Lounge Top

“If you ever have the opportunity to try something from Cozy Earth, don’t let it pass you by. If I had, then I would have never experienced the sheer bliss of the brand’s Rib-Knit Short Sleeve Lounge Top, which has become my go-to shirt for travel days. It’s incredibly soft, perfectly loose, and somehow elegant with its clean ribbed lines. Excuse me while I add more colors to my cart…” – Emily Belfiore, Senior Commerce Editor

La Roche-Posay Duo Dual Action Acne Spot Treatment Cream

“I recently discovered on TikTok that this spot treatment works like magic on breakouts, so now I make sure to pack it on any trip. Its compact size makes it incredibly convenient to carry, ensuring I’m prepared for any unexpected blemishes while I’m away from my usual multiple-step skincare routine. Plus, it’s currently on sale!” – Rosie Marder, Writer, T+L News & Deals Commerce

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.