Asher & Lyric Travel & Family Journalism

28 Top Japan Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

28 Top Japan Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Japan is one of my favorite countries in the world. It has a climate, a culture, and a history all its own, so be prepared for a truly unique and memorable experience.

Most travelers to Japan do a variety of activities and the cultural etiquette is unique, so it’s important to pack smart and avoid taking anything you don’t need!

Below you’ll find what to wear in Japan , what NOT to bring, and FAQs to help you understand the local dos and don’ts. Plus, I have a bonus guide to the custom of gift-giving which may be unfamiliar to new travelers to Japan.

28 Top Japan Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

What to Pack for Japan – 28 Essentials

1. jet lag relief pills.

Don’t let the long flight to Japan and time change weigh you down. Jet lag can put a serious dampener on your trip, so you should try to prevent it if at all possible. This natural jet lag relief (with no drug interactions) will help you prevent it before it happens and can also help treat it after the fact if needed.

jet lag relief

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Universal Power Adapter

You can get away with plugging US-style two-pronged cords into Japanese outlets, but any devices you may bring that require three prongs (such as laptops) won’t work. It’s a good idea to bring a universal adapter to prevent any trouble and then you’ll be able to also use it if you travel to any other countries. This one works in 100+ popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

Universal Power Adapter

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Japan was ranked in the top 5 most cyberattacked nations in the world and stands out as a key target in this particular region, according to a Global Threat Intelligence Report . Hackers regularly compromise personal data in this area through payment fraud, data breaches, and IP theft. I’ve had my credit card number stolen while connected to (what I believed) was a safe connection at my Airbnb. Now, I always travel with a VPN.

A secure network will shield your data and ensure hackers cannot access your passwords and credit card numbers. Another great use of a VPN is that Eastern countries have FAR more online censorship than Western nations. Since you could be blocked from using your favorite websites (like Netflix, YouTube, Facebook, and more) – we strongly recommend a reliable provider like NordVPN . Plans are very affordable and there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee, but I promise you won’t need it.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

You’ll be out and about taking part in activities all day, so you really don’t want to be obligated to return to your accommodations if one of your devices runs out of “juice.” This portable charger holds a couple of charges so you can use it several times before having to plug it back in. It uses standard USB charger cables, and it can be actively charging your phone, camera, or other device even while tucked away in your bag when you’re on-the-go.

Lipstick-Sized Charger

5. Comfortable Slip-on Shoes

Visiting temples, homes, inns, and even restaurants will require you to take off your shoes. Since you’ll find yourself stepping in and out of your shoes a lot in Japan, it’s worth it to bring shoes that don’t require lacing up! A good thing to keep in mind is: if you see “tatami mats” on the floor, that means you should remove your shoes. (FYI, flips-flops are also a “no-no,” and it’s considered rude to go barefoot in someone’s home, so make sure you bring a pair of socks in your bag.) If you are planning to visit bigger cities like Tokyo, you will also want something super comfortable for walking.

Comfortable Slip-on Shoes

6. Travel Insurance for Japan

This one’s a no-brainer. I’ve had too many overseas experiences where I or my friends have had baggage stolen, hotels canceled, or had an unexpected medical emergency that otherwise would have had us paying a fortune in out-of-pocket expenses. Keep in mind that your domestic provider does not cover you overseas (including Medicare and Medicaid). Japan’s hospitals are predominantly private, which could cost a fortune on an already expensive trip, and you never know when you’re going to get sick.

Ultimately, it’s one of the cheapest parts of your trip. You can’t afford to go without it. Faye is our go-to provider because they are revolutionizing the industry! They’ve reimbursed me so quickly during an emergency through their mobile app, at a time when I most needed support. And they made the daunting claims process a piece of cake ! I felt so well taken care of – I’ll use them for life.

Travel Insurance for Japan

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Neck Wallet

It’s a very good idea to keep your ID documents on you when you’re traveling, and it’s also best to keep your money and credit cards stored safely in a place where they can’t be accessed by pickpockets. A passport pouch, a.k.a neck wallet, is brilliant because it can be concealed beneath your clothing, out of sight and away from danger. It also helps you avoid looking like a tourist since it stays hidden until you’re ready to take it off.

neck wallet

8. Hanging Toiletry Bag

This gorgeous toiletry bag makes me feel so fancy when I use it! I ended up choosing this one after a long and exhaustive search for a good toiletry bag. Finding the right balance between affordability, luxury, and utility can be tricky! This leakproof bag is the bee’s knees and will serve you well while traveling by keeping your toiletry items orderly and contained.

It has 4 large pockets on the inside for all toiletry bottles, makeup, lotions, haircare products etc., and 3 smaller zippered compartments on the outside. Leave a corner of your suitcase reserved for all this bag and it’s WAY easier to unpack than tons of little plastic sacks and loose bottles. It’s a sanity saver for small bathrooms or zero storage space.

hanging toiletry bag

9. Luggage Straps

The journey to Japan is long, and baggage handlers have built a reputation for being rough with passengers’ suitcases. They’re even told during training not to “baby the bags,” and fragile stickers are often disregarded. Use these adjustable luggage straps to reinforce your zippers, ensuring your bag doesn’t fly open or throw out all of your belongings. This happened to one of my friends, and trust me – you want to avoid this experience!

These colorful belts are also fantastic for quickly identifying your luggage to save precious time at baggage claim (since every person ties the standard red ribbon on the handle of a basic black bag and people walk off with the wrong case all the time). We love that they’re TSA-approved if you’re selected for a random check, and there’s a built-in contact tag in case your suitcase gets lost.

Luggage Straps

10. Comfortable, Cute Clothing

Japanese culture is more modest than that of the West. Women generally cover their shoulders even in the summer, and a level of propriety is expected when visiting people or spiritual places. A cute, comfortable, and casual dress like this one is perfect to bring. In summer months, it will keep you cool — but won’t show off too much skin.

Comfortable, Cute Clothing

11. Activated Charcoal

Japan’s food scene is incredible, but it’s also full of a lot of uncooked fish. Add that to the stress of travel, and stomach upset is a common problem. Activated charcoal is a very effective and natural way to shorten the duration of food poisoning or traveler’s diarrhea. It works by naturally absorbing toxins in your system so that you can get back to enjoying your travels. I have found it incredibly helpful, and I even use it when I’m not traveling.

Activated Charcoal

12. Stylish Raincoat

A raincoat will definitely be important in Japan, as will a bit of style and class. This raincoat will serve you well, and will keep you feeling and looking good. It’s also not excessively heavy like some trench coats, so don’t worry about adding too much weight to your luggage. Columbia is an adventure brand known for its quality and ability to last.

Stylish Raincoat

13. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Did you know that many Japanese restrooms don’t offer a method for drying your hands? That’s where having a compact towel comes in very handy. This one is compact, super absorbent, and dries 10x faster than cotton, so you don’t have to worry about carrying around a damp cloth in your daybag. It also is useful if you find the towels at your accommodation less than ideal.

travel towel

14. Discounted Tickets on Japan Tours

Whether you want to spend the day at Mount Fiji or Disneyland , Japan has so many cultural and eclectic experiences to enjoy. We use Get Your Guide to book most of our excursions around the world because they offer discounted tickets on the most popular tours.

While in Tokyo, indulge in the local cuisine and use the hop-on-hop-off bus to get around. From peaceful Kyoto , you can explore gorgeous temples and natural landscapes while getting in touch with your spiritual side. One of our favorite experiences was taking part in an authentic tea ceremony .

Discounted Tickets on Japan Tours

See all Japanese attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

15. Packing Cubes

Packing organizers are a game-changer and once you try them, you won’t go back. No more suitcase explosions across the hotel or digging to find a sock’s matching pair. This set will organize your items into different cubes and comes with separate laundry bags to organize your dirty and clean clothes.

packing cubes

16. Deodorant Wipes

Traveling and days out in the sun can make many travelers, including myself, feel sticky, stinky, and unclean. Many bathrooms in Japan have no way to wipe hands or faces, so unless I can take a shower right away, I sometimes have to feel uncomfortably dirty for a while. I’ve found that deodorant wipes are a life-saver in these scenarios. These are smooth and lightly scented, plus they’re good for sensitive skin.

Deodorant Wipes

17. Windproof Travel Umbrella

When it rains, it pours in Japan. Most of the rainy season spans through the summer months, but Okinawa can see rain earlier, so it’s wise to pack a lightweight travel umbrella. This one weighs 1 pound and comes with a convenient carrying case. It can cover two people and is very durable.

Windproof Travel Umbrella

18. Lightweight Daybag

You’ll need to have a bag with you to carry all of your essentials. This lightweight backpack is made for travel and perfect to hold the items you need – camera, phone, water bottle, umbrella, etc. – but small enough to be unobtrusive.

Lightweight Daybag

19. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

We attach luggage locks to our backpacks, sometimes purses, definitely checked suitcases, and even lockers! After having something stolen out of our checked bags on an international flight, we feel you can never be too safe. These locks are 10x harder to crack than 3-digit locks and we bring a couple of sets everywhere we go.

TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

20. Filtered Water Bottle

While the water is clean in Japan, it’s wise to have autonomy over your water supply when drinking from the tap. This Brita bottle purifies water with a built-in filter. It noticeably improves the taste of water and can be put in your backpack pocket (empty) when going through security so you have it for the whole trip.

Filtered Water Bottle

21. Modest Swimsuit

As mentioned, Eastern Asian culture is quite modest and humble. You do not want to trot around in a string bikini or thong, so it’s recommended to wear a full-coverage one-piece bathing suit. You will blend in with the locals better and show a display of respect for their customs.

Modest Swimsuit

22. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

You KNOW you never have enough room in your bags for the flight back because shopping is one of the best ways to take a piece of the vacation home with you. Use this “just in case” duffle bag for all of the surprise purchases you make in Japan. It counts as your personal item for the return flight so you can fill it with chopsticks, yukatas, kimonos, matcha, tea, Samurai swords, or any other local goods your heart desires!

Packable “Just in Case” Bag

23. Warm Pajamas

Many places are without central heating – the traditional architecture and minimalist style are key parts of Japanese culture, and so it’s not surprising that certain “extras” are not widely available. Since it can get cold at night during any season, I recommend bringing a warm pair or two of pajamas so that you can remain comfortable at night.

Warm Pajamas

24. Japanese SIM Phone Card

A SIM card is a brilliant hack for getting around outrageous roaming fees and international charges from your phone company. It slides into where your current SIM card sits, no activation required, and gives you a local Japanese phone number. This one comes with 3GB and a month of coverage, so it’s perfect for short trips abroad. Just make sure your phone is SIM-unlocked before you go!

Japanese SIM Phone Card

25. Mosquito-Repellant Wristbands

Mosquitos are common in Japan, just as prevalent as cockroaches and cicadas! Use these wearable wristbands to repel nasty critters, using citronella and natural essential oils rather than harsh chemicals. While the mosquito-borne Japanese Encephalitis Virus is quite rare, it’s still a possibility, and it’s best to be safe than sorry.

mosquito repellent wristbands

26. Modesty Shawl & Scarf

A cotton scarf can keep you plenty warm but also be spread out to become a thin shawl when you find yourself needing to cover up your shoulders or chest in a more modest place. This is ideal for temples or sacred areas that will require covered shoulders and arms.

Modesty Shawl & Scarf

27. Cooling Towels

Japan can get hot, humid, and muggy! Especially in the summer months when it can reach up to 90 °F (32 °C). These cooling towels are absolutely magical. Simply add water and wring them out. They will stay chilly for up to an hour and just need more water added for continued relief. They make outdoor exploring much more fun and tolerable. You’ll find plenty of uses for them for camping, festivals, and tropical destinations.

Cooling Towels

28. Travel Sheets

You never know where you may end up falling asleep during international travel – at the airport, a plane, a train, an Airbnb, a taxi cab, or a hostel. Even if you’re sleeping in uncomfortable places or with less-than-clean sheets, it’s thoughtful to bring your own sheets and ensure you have a sanitary surface to lay on. I’ve slept in some pretty funky places with these, and it feels much cleaner.

Travel Sheets

Other packing list items for Japan

  • Facial cleansing wipes
  • Motion sickness patches
  • Sterile toothbrush cover
  • Dental floss
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Mini hairbrush or comb
  • Water bottle
  • Nail clippers
  • Contact solution
  • Menstrual cup
  • Loofah glove
  • Solid shampoo
  • First aid kit
  • Headphone splitter
  • Flexible tripod
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Flash drive
  • Memory card
  • Kindle cover
  • Japan power adapter
  • Travel pillow
  • Compression flight socks
  • Stain remover wipes
  • Passport photos
  • Medications and vitamins

What to wear in Japan

Japan clothes wear

We mentioned this above but it’s worth repeating: it’s considered rude to go barefoot inside most places and flip-flops are a no-no, so bring plenty of comfy socks to wear or carry with you!

Sneakers

Fashion in Japan offers quite a broad spectrum of different looks and trends. Cleavage is considered to be ‘revealing’ but legs are widely flaunted without much concern – so show them if you so choose! Dress a bit more conservatively when visiting temples, or when you spend time with local families. Shoulders are also considered to be inappropriate with the older generations, so it’s best not to pack strapless dresses or even tank tops with very thin straps.

Slip-on shoes are crucial since you’ll be taking them off and putting them on repeatedly. For dressing up, bring your kitten heels or a pair of dressy sandals. For the warmer seasons, you’ll do well with a crisp white t-shirt, a statement belt, and a pair of skinny jeans for dinner. In winter, you’d definitely need a thicker parka and a chunky scarf for the northern parts of the country. What should MEN wear in Japan? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Short

Generally-speaking, Japanese men tend to dress more conservatively, so stick with a more muted, modern look. You will still find plenty of Western inspiration wherever you go, so you shouldn’t stand out like a sore thumb. In the bigger cities, you’ll find more fashion-forward attire, but you can’t go wrong with the clean-cut a sophisticated look no matter where you are.

You’ll find that the Japanese way of life is easy to love, and the culture is fascinating. Pack light because you’ll definitely want to shop, but be sure to select a versatile wardrobe that will allow you to switch between exploring, shrine visits, shopping, and semi-formal dinner outings.

Packing for the Seasons in Japan

Spring – march, april, may:.

Mild and pleasant weather plus blossoming trees make this an ideal time to enjoy Japan. They are also what make spring such a popular tourism time, so prepare for crowds. Rains can happen, and you’ll see some fluctuation in the weather so be prepared with good layers that can be easily added and removed.

Japan-spring

SUMMER – June, July, August:

Most places in Japan are hot during the summer, with humidity that makes it worse. Tourism is a little lighter this time of year.

Pack clothes that will keep you cool in the heat, but try to remain respectful and tasteful when possible. Light fabrics, pretty blouses , breezy skirts , and a sun hat will serve you well. Mountainous regions of Japan are less hot and more enjoyable. Temperatures average between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).

FALL – September, October, November:

This is typhoon season, but when there are no storms the weather is generally mild and pleasant, albeit a little unpredictable.

Pack for any weather: comfortable pants and skirts , blouses and sweaters . Bring a rain jacket that can also keep you a little warm – anything that can be used for multiple purposes will save you room in your luggage.

Japan-fall

WINTER – December, January, February:

Winters in Japanese high country areas are snowy and gorgeous. Lower elevations still see some snow, but mainly enjoy crisp and cool days that you’ll still need warm gear for.

Layers, layers, layers! sweaters and a jacket or coat are needed, plus hats and gloves if you feel you’ll need them (most people do). Temperatures average between 25°F to 35°F (-4°C to 2°C).

Gourmet Food: Japanese food…There is so much to say and so much to experience. From delectable sushi platters to richly flavored Soba and Udon Noodles to Tonkatsu and Yakitori. The Japanese take great pride in their cuisine and food culture is something that many social activities revolve around. Also, don’t be afraid to dine alone – it’s actually quite a common practice in Japan!

This is the country that has the most Michelin-awarded cities. There are 304 places to choose from in Tokyo alone, but this doesn’t always mean you have to dress up. It’s best to do your homework so that you don’t show up to a street stall wearing your finest garb. For casual dining, you don’t have to worry much about what you wear, but some establishments will ask you to remove your footwear. Nicer clothing is never bad, though, so air on the well-dressed side if you’re unsure.

Beaches: Japans’s unique structure offers plenty of coastline on either side of the country, and this means fun in the sun! Sunbathing and swimming seasons differ hugely from south to north and it’s said that the best beaches to visit are found in Okinawa (south) but there are other spots that offer some tropical vibes too. Bikinis are a natural choice for women, and as long as they’ll stay on during any of your chosen activities, they’re perfectly acceptable. Bring a cute cover-up for when you come up from the beach. Men tend to wear anything from speedo’s to board-shorts, so it all depends on your taste.

Baseball: Baseball was first introduced to Japan in 1872 and is probably one of the most popular spectator sports in the country. The highest level of professional baseball in Japan is the Nippon Professional Baseball League. The first of each 144 regular season games kicks off in March each year, and a 7-game contest series in October determines the winner of the Nippon Series.

What NOT to bring to Japan

1. don’t pack heavy books or too many books.

Most bookstores carry books in English that you can pick up along the way, or you can bring a  Kindle . Don’t weigh down your pack with too many books (easier said than done, I know)!

2. DON’T BRING spray tan or heavy bronzer

Sun protection and healthy skin are fashionable in Japan. Nothing bad is gonna happen if you lay on the bronzer, but you may get a few funny stares, and you’ll stick out in a crowd.

3. DON’T TAKE too many electronics

Japan is the land of electronics, but even so it’s nice to disconnect. Outside of city centers you’ll find peaceful villages and beautiful nature. Leave any non-essential electronics at home, and try to keep your connectedness to a minimum!

4. DON’T PACK a sleeping bag or camping gear

Unless you plan on doing a lot of backcountry hiking, this isn’t necessary. Hostels are equipped with sheets, and even some of the hiking trails have small guesthouses along the way. These items just add bulk and weight.

5. DON’T TAKE lots of cash

Credit cards are accepted in most major towns, though you’ll still need cash in some places. However, there are plenty of ATM machines to resupply. Carrying loads of cash is a risk not worth taking!

6. DON’T BRING an Asia-wide guidebook

Getting a guidebook that’s not Japan-specific won’t give you the detail and guidance you’re looking for, and you may find yourself frustrated and missing out.

Most commonly, you will be asked to remove your shoes at certain public establishments and the homes of people you visit. Bare feet are not okay in most places, so bring socks! Avoid flip-flops. Most homes and public places have a small vestibule called a ‘genkan’ where shoes are removed and kept. In some cases, slippers are provided.

This rule also applies to most shrines and temples. Dressing appropriately when visiting these religious sites is imperative.

Gift-giving: How to follow Japan’s gift customs

While tipping is generally frowned-upon in Japan, giving gifts to your hosts is common practice. Here are a few things to be aware of:

  • The numbers 4, 9, and 43 can mean bad luck! Don’t give gifts in these numbers.
  • Hand the gift over with both hands (gifts should also be received with both hands).
  • Food (especially sweets), flowers (but not lilies, lotus blossoms or camellias which are associated with funerals), and alcohol are the best kinds of gifts to give.
  • Food or alcohol from your home country is even better (ie. Maple syrup from north-eastern America).
  • If the gift is wrapped, your host will probably not open it right away, this doesn’t mean they aren’t excited, it’s just the custom, and a sign of respect.

FAQs about travel in Japan

1. is the tap water in japan safe to drink.

Is the tap water in Japan safe to drink?

Yes, in most places in Japan the tap water is safe to drink. However, if you’re worried about mercury you can pick up bottled water at one of the many 7/11s, or carry your own  filtered water bottle  to resupply with fresh water when free opportunities to do so are available – the filter should set your mind at ease.

2. How prevalent is English in Japan?

Not very prevalent. In hotels, hostels, and tourist attractions people will speak English, but outside of that, I wouldn’t count on it.

However, people are still very friendly and will try their best to help you even if they don’t understand. This is where a  Japanese phrasebook  comes in handy!

3. Is Japan safe for women and solo travelers?

Yes it is. Thanks to its diverse and accepting culture, tourists don’t tend to have problems in Japan. If anything, you may find that you get a little too much excited attention if you stand out as a tourist! However, standard practices should absolutely be followed. Don’t walk alone at night, don’t carry excess cash, keep your valuables close and to a minimum, and always know where you’re going.

Scammers and pickpockets do exist so do your best to avoid being a tempting target! Carry yourself confidently and show plenty of respect to the locals, and you’ll more than likely avoid any problems. However, make sure you look at  travel warnings  about your destination before booking your trip, just in case!

4. When is the best season to visit Japan?

When is the best season to visit Japan?

September/October are ideal for pleasant weather. You’ll find that April-June months are good for the cherry blossom festival (if you can catch it – it’s evanescent!). Of course, if you’re there for skiing I’d recommend December-March, and the summer months if you want to do some island-hopping.

5. Is it worth getting a Railpass?

Yes! I actually failed to get the rail pass before I went, and was slumming it on overnight buses and local trains to recover the cost.

If you plan on traveling to more than a couple of locations, the rail pass is definitely worth the investment, and much cheaper than buying individual tickets in Japan.

6. Do I need to tip in restaurants in Japan?

There is generally no tipping in Japan. Sometimes a tip may even be refused. Instead, slurping your noodles and making appreciative noises show you’ve enjoyed your meal!

7. Where should I eat in Japan?

try sushi and nigiri in Japan

Everywhere! The food is delicious! Osaka is a foodie paradise and has a lovely market where you can sample interesting cuisine. You’ll find Ramen bars dotting the streets in any city you go to with people standing up to slurp their noodles. Katsu curries, sushi, and soba noodles are also abundant.

Trying an Izakaya (an informal pub-type place which offers small tasting dishes) is a great way to experience local culture. The Japanese are passionate about their food and aim to find fresh ingredients. It’s hard to go wrong with the food!

8. What is the best way to get around Japan?

The train is the easiest way to travel. It’s comfortable and reliable. However, busses are also clean and comfortable, though slower.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

Most countries will get a visa stamped on arrival but check with your embassy’s website to determine what requirements there are for your nationality.

10. How can I watch Sumo in Japan?

I recommend finding the dates of the Sumo tournaments online. To see a sumo match without breaking the bank, arrive at the stadium at 10 am (or earlier) the morning of the match. You will then stand in the most organized rush ticket line you’ve ever seen. Everyone stands quietly and orderly and proceeds in the queue. They’ll then sell all the remaining tickets for the day at around $20 a piece. Just be sure to get there early to avoid disappointment!

P.S. One of the excellent things about sumo matches is that you can bring in your own food and drink!

11. How can I travel on a budget in Japan?

Japan has a reputation for being expensive and, compared to China or SE Asia, it certainly is. But there are many ways budget travelers can enjoy Japan. The people are very hospitable so Couchsurfing can be a lovely experience (though apartments are small so be prepared to sleep on a sleeping mat on the floor). You can also find cheap hostels or business hotels which will have either a small single room with a mattress or a tube with a bed you can sleep in. These hostels and business hotels go for about the same rate as you would find in North America.

Going to markets or cheap restaurants/ramen bars is a great way to save. I found that for around $10 (US) I could get a very tasty meal. Of course, you can also cook your own food and if you stay with a host I’m sure they’ll be happy to share their favorite recipes with you! Even take-away sushi or noodles from the supermarket is as tasty as what you’d find in a lot of Japanese restaurants back home. Slow travel is also a great way to make any trip more affordable.

Boutique Japan

Expert Tips for Your Japan Packing List

As you prepare for your trip, you’ve finally turned your attention to your Japan packing list.

Fortunately, preparing for Japan can be surprisingly easy, but before you travel make sure to keep these essential packing tips in mind! Some of these suggestions are obvious, but others may surprise even experienced travelers.

We’ve also included some of our favorite travel gear, in the hopes that it will make packing a bit more fun and easier for you. After all, packing can be one of the most enjoyable — or dreaded! — aspects of preparing for a big trip.

Here is your 8-step Japan travel checklist:

  • Bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off
  • Pack as lightly as possible
  • Use takuhaibin , Japan’s luggage-forwarding service
  • Bring formal and casual clothes
  • Get Japanese yen: you’ll need it!
  • Handle visas, passports, and travel insurance
  • Don’t forget essential extras: pocket Wi-Fi, hand sanitizer, and more
  • Leave room in your luggage to shop in Japan

Tatami mat room Japan

1. Bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off

No, you don’t need to wear geta .

But unless you enjoy untying and lacing your shoes every few minutes, the best shoes for Japan are ones you can slip on and off easily.

Many places in Japan – including ryokans (traditional inns) , temples , and some izakayas  and restaurants – require you to remove your shoes.

As a rule of thumb, if you see tatami  mats, you’ll need to take off your shoes. In these cases, it’s also considered somewhat impolite to be barefoot, so if needed bring a pair of socks with you.

Read more about Japanese etiquette tips and taboos .

Speaking of socks, make sure yours are hole-free! If needed, stock up on high-quality socks at one of Japan’s ubiquitous sock shops.

Depending on your itinerary, it’s usually also wise to bring comfortable walking shoes. Tokyo  is a surprisingly walkable city, and for places like Kyoto  there’s often no better way to explore than on foot.

top 5 japanese words and phrases traveler with luggage 1140x760

2. Pack as lightly as possible

Packing lightly is a useful skill for travel to any country, but in the case of Japan it is especially worth noting. Navigating Japan is much  easier when you have a small, easily portable bag or suitcase.

Most travelers in Japan rely heavily on Japan’s comprehensive and easy-to-use railway networks , but unfortunately Japanese trains and train stations do not cater especially well to travelers with a lot of luggage.

How do we define “a lot of luggage”? Anything more than a small rolling suitcase (airplane carry-on size) and a backpack or duffel.

Japanese train stations are often quite crowded, and to make matters worse they often don’t have as many elevators or escalators as you might wish. This is true in major cities, and even more so in rural areas.

The shinkansen (bullet train) typically has a small dedicated area for suitcases, but this space must be reserved in advance of travel. On the other hand, the shinkansen’s overhead space is just right for small carry-on sized suitcases.

As for other (non-shinkansen) trains in Japan: while some do have some space overhead for small bags, many have none at all.

For all of these reasons, we recommend traveling either with a small rolling suitcase or backpack, if at all possible.

Not willing or able to pack light?

You’re in luck!

Japan has a wonderful luggage-forwarding service that will make traveling through Japan a breeze, even with loads of luggage.

Read more about luggage forwarding below.

Bullet train passing Mt. Fuji Japan

3. Use takuhaibin , Japan’s incredible luggage-forwarding service

We know not everyone can or wants to pack light.

Fortunately for heavy packers, Japan’s incredible luggage-forwarding system  (known as takuhaibin , or takkyubin ), means you don’t have to.

“ Hands-free travel ” is a fast, reasonable, and very reliable service that allows you to easily and efficiently send suitcases from hotel to hotel, or even to the airport.

While in some instances same-day forwarding is possible for a premium, delivery between most destinations within Japan takes one or two nights.

This means spending a night or two without your main luggage. In cases like this, we usually recommend “skipping” a destination, and traveling for a day or two with just a small overnight duffel or backpack.

Even though some travelers are hesitant to part with their main suitcase, it can certainly be worthwhile — especially when traveling to remote locations.

Not only can traveling in rural Japan be a hassle with a large suitcase (see the section above!), it can also be very freeing to travel lightly while exploring Japan’s countryside.

For example, if you’re going to a ryokan in the countryside , you won’t need much anyway, since you’ll probably spend most of your time in yukata (Japanese-style robes)!

If you’re traveling with another person, consider sharing the delivery service with a traveling partner. This way you can keep one “shared” suitcase (that you forward from hotel to hotel), and a smaller bag to easily carry with you from destination to destination.

Map Japan angle

How to use Japan’s luggage forwarding

Taking advantage of luggage forwarding is easy! The front desk at most hotels and ryokans can make the arrangements for you — just make sure to let them know a day or more in advance. Giving them proper notice ensures they can make the arrangements for you in good time.

The price depends on factors such as luggage size (dimensions and weight) and destination, but you can typically expect to pay around US $15-$30 per suitcase. If your bag exceeds weight limits, you may need to separate your items into multiple bags.

If you’re staying in budget accommodations (or in a private home, for example), you’ll need to make the arrangements yourself.

One option is to do so at a conbini  (convenience store). Or, refer to the informative websites of Yamato Transport  or Luggage-Free Travel , which both specialize in luggage-forwarding services.

While luggage forwarding is a fantastic service – and very reliable, as most Japanese services are  – please make sure to use it at your own risk.

THINKING OF BECOMING A LIGHT PACKER?

Here are a couple of our favorite bags for traveling around Japan:

  • Personally, I like Minaal bags. I have this one from 2016, and have used it for long trips to Japan and elsewhere successfully. Check out their travel gear .
  • Another solid option is the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner 21. You can buy it on Amazon here .
  • A classic, some travelers swear by the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45. See all their bags here .

japan packing list

4. Style & fashion: what to wear

You don’t need to go out and buy a new wardrobe for your trip to Japan. In fact, we recommend the opposite.

If anything, leave space in your luggage so you can go shopping in Japan, where you will find some of the most unique and best-quality fashions in the world.

Tokyo is renowned as a shopper’s paradise (these Tokyo neighborhoods  are a great place to start), but you’ll find great cutting-edge and vintage styles throughout the country, particularly in other cultural centers such as Kyoto and Osaka , and even in smaller towns like Onomichi .

Even though fashion standards in Japan are generally quite high, this doesn’t necessarily  mean you have to dress up.

People in Japan tend to take care when it comes to appearance, but you will find a huge variety of eclectic styles, ranging from chic to very casual. In a sense, it is comparable to what you might find in places like New York, London, or Paris.

If you enjoy dressing casually, you should be fine in almost all situations – from dining out to a trip to the Ghibli Museum . Although, of course if you have a special occasion (for example, a party or special dinner), then you should dress accordingly.

Typically, formal attire is not required, outside of formal or business situations. For example, even at most high-end Japanese restaurants , jackets and ties are not required for men. However, we certainly recommend using your best judgment and dressing respectfully.

Aside from formal western-style restaurants (keep in mind that Japan has incredible French and Italian cuisine!), which may require jackets for men, most high-end restaurants have simple, common-sense dress code regulations: no baseball caps, flip flops, shorts, etc.

As for the weather?

harajuku cat street shibuya tokyo japan large

Packing for the weather: the seasons in Japan

Japan is famous for the beauty of its four very distinct seasons, and it is essential to pack accordingly.

This is a good general overview of month-by-month temperatures in Japan  — and we also recommend our detailed post on the seasons & when to visit Japan  — but because each year varies, the best thing to do is check weather forecasts a couple of weeks before your trip.

If you’re traveling to various parts of Japan, make sure to check the forecast for each place you’ll be visiting, as the weather can vary dramatically between different parts of the country.

As seasons go, spring  and fall  are particularly fickle, so around these times of year we recommend bringing layers. The weather in spring and autumn can vary widely from day to day, with conditions ranging from warm (even hot) and sunny, to wet and bone-chillingly cold .

5. Japanese yen: you’ll need it!

Japan is a very cash-oriented society.

Even though an increasing number of shops and restaurants do accept credit cards, you’ll probably need more cash than you’re used to — especially when traveling in rural areas.

Luckily, Japan is very safe!

To save time on the ground, consider getting some Japanese yen before you arrive. Even if your local bank doesn’t have yen on hand, they can probably order some for you.

But don’t worry if you land in Japan without yen. You can exchange currency at the airport, or withdraw Japanese yen from an ATM in the airport.

It’s worth noting that while some banks in cities can exchange currency, it’s not generally as easy to find currency exchanges in Japan as it is in many other countries.

Read more in our article about cash, credit cards, and ATMs in Japan .

6. Visas, passports, and travel insurance

Citizens of many countries  don’t need a visa for short stays related to tourism, but to be extra safe please make sure you double-check with the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

As for passports, it’s always wise to ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity from your trip end  date, or you may not be able to travel (this applies to many countries).

Similarly, it’s generally good practice to make sure your passport has at least 2-4 blank visa pages. In some cases, this may be strictly required.

We’re also very strong proponents of comprehensive travel insurance . Sad to say, emergencies truly have a way of happening at the most unexpected times, and we’ve seen numerous trips cancelled (or interrupted) by completely unforeseeable circumstances.

mobile phone cell phone iphone boutique japan 1140

7. Essential extras: pocket Wi-Fi, hand sanitizer, and more

Here are a few other things we recommend you add to your Japan packing list:

  • Pocket Wi-Fi device : Even if this doesn’t sound essential to you, we highly recommend renting a pocket Wi-Fi device (i.e., mobile hotspot). Wi-Fi in Japan is not nearly as widespread as most people imagine it will be (read more in our full post on Wi-Fi and mobile in Japan ). Even if you don’t plan to check email or upload photos, being able to use Google and Google Maps while out and about exploring is invaluable! We recommend pre-arranging a pocket Wi-Fi device through PuPuru ( order here ) or Ninja WiFi ( order here ).
  • Handkerchief or small towel & hand sanitizer : As wonderfully clean as Japan is, public restrooms often lack soap and/or hand towels (most Japanese people carry their own handkerchief).
  • Travel adapter : Most of Japan’s electrical outlets are 2-pronged “Type A” (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz), so if you have a device with a 3-pronged or European/UK-style plug, you may need a travel adapter. You can buy one on Amazon here . Many electronic devices (such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) already have transformers, which means you may not need a converter, but make sure to check your items’ voltage requirements. Read here for more about electricity in Japan .
  • For a relaxing flight : Sleep mask ( here’s one from Amazon ) and rosewater mist.
  • Small gifts from home : Small local gifts are wonderful for giving to guides and other people you meet along the way. Tipping is not common in Japan , but thoughtful gifts are always appreciated. Gifts representative of your local region or country are especially loved, e.g., a famous local product or local artisanal product.

smartphone google maps 1140 1140x1140

8. Leave space for some shopping!

Japan is a shopper’s paradise.

Even travelers who typically dislike shopping often end up making unexpected purchases.

Because it may be impossible to resist the level of craftsmanship and incredible variety of unique items — from beautiful crafts to handmade clothing, and futuristic electronics — we always recommend leaving extra space in your luggage.

Even if you don’t plan to shop for yourself, you’ll find innovative and high-quality gifts for friends and family back home.

Sample 7-Day Japan Itinerary Packing List

We believe your Japan itinerary  should be a reflection of your personal sense of adventure and style, and that no two travelers (or trips!) are alike.

Naturally, deciding what to pack for Japan will depend on your itinerary, but we hope this sample packing list gets you started!

  • Small rolling suitcase or Minaal bag (see above)
  • Shirts, pants, undergarments, and socks (make sure they don’t have holes, as you’ll be taking off your shoes a lot)
  • Shoes that slip on and off easily
  • Other clothes (dependent on season)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, etc.)
  • Japanese yen (can also be obtained in Japan)
  • Pasmo transport card (can be obtained in Japan for first-timers)
  • Pocket Wi-Fi (you can order here and pick it up on arrival in Japan)
  • Laptop (and charger)
  • Smartphone (and charger)
  • Adapter if needed
  • Noise-canceling headphones for flight
  • Headphone adapter jack for in-flight entertainment system (just in case)
  • Pen (for customs and immigration cards)
  • Business cards
  • Omiyage (small gifts, i.e., souvenirs from home)

We hope our Japan travel tips help you prepare for your trip!

If you are looking to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan, we have resources that can help. Start by checking out our sample travel itineraries  and learning about our process  of crafting customized trips for travelers seeking unique, authentic experiences.

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Home » Asia » Japan » Packing List

Japan Packing List • 22 Items you NEED (2024)

Maybe it’s the juxtaposition of Japan’s mega-modern tech society and its culturally-rich ancient history that make the “Land of the Rising Sun” so alluring. Or maybe it’s the idyllic landscape that spans from rivers dotted with cherry blossom trees in Kyoto, to majestic snow-topped mountains in the Japan Alps, to gorgeous subtropical islands in Okinawa.

Whatever it is, Japan remains a truly beguiling travel dream destination.

If you are headed to Japan and wondering what to pack, you’ve come to the right place! I travelled Japan extensively and put together this handy guide on what to pack for Japan – covering your essentials with a top-22 needs packing list , tips on what to wear in Japan, an overview of conditions by season and how to pack for each and what NOT to bother packing.

A girl takes selfie whilst hitchhiking in Japan.

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The Ultimate Japan Packing List

Packing for japan checklist: personal gear, the basic stuff to pack for japan, final thoughts on what to pack for japan.

Nomatic 30L Travel Bag

Nomatic Travel Bag

  • Capacity > 30L
  • Price > $299

Nomatic Carry on Pro

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

  • Capacity > 37L
  • Price > $400

GoPro Hero 11

GoPro Hero 11

  • Resolution > 5k

Arc'teryx Beta AR Jacket review

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

  • Price > $600

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Insurance From World Nomads

  • Price > Click For a Quote

So what are the Japan packing essentials, what should you bring to Japan and what to wear in Japan? Read on to find out.

Nomatic Travel Bag

Best Backpack For Japan:  Nomatic Travel Bag

If you’re packing for Japan, then you’re gonna need a bag right? Well for all types of travelers and destinations, our number one recommendation is the  Nomatic Travel Bag .

The Nomatic travel bag covers every detail to make backpacking travel the best experience. Because of its smart design, it manages to provide loads of packing space in a convenient, carry-on size package! Its handy built-in pockets make plenty of room for all the necessities on your what to pack for Japan checklist – you’ll find separate compartments for important items like shoes, water bottle, electronics, underwear and socks. As an added bonus, there’s also an RFID-safe and cord management pocket.

You have a choice between backpack or duffel bag carry, and extra carrying comfort for your back thanks to its innovative strap system and detachable sternum strap. And its black, waterproof material is every bit sleek and modern as it is durable and tough. There is a reason why most Broke Backpacker staff swear by this backpack. 

Nomatic Carry On Pro

Best Suitcase For Japan:  Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro. Traveling light is maybe a good idea when visiting Japan as a space is kind of at a premium!

This suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Nomatic has been an industry leader when it comes to travel gear and that reputation is reflected in the quality build design and functionality of the Carry-On Pro suitcase. 

Check out our  Nomatic Carry-On Pro review  to learn more about this epic suitcase. It will do for you Japan trip and many a trip to come.

go pro hero 9 black

Best Camera For Japan:  GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities.

But… if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black .

It does deliver pro-quality video and gives you a bunch of a different angle options and shooting speeds to work with for photos (including a selfie-mode).

Think of a camera purchase like this as a long term investment that will have you capturing epic shots well beyond your time exploring here.

If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

best travel accessories for japan

Best Sim For Japan – HolaFly eSim

The good news about Japan is that there is extensive 4g and 5g Internet coverage, taxi apps and food delivery apps. The bad news is that your native SIM card will not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around Japanese mobile phone shops queuing to get a plastic sim or you can simply install an eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the package you want, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport.

So, if you’re looking for a SIM card for Japan , eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

PIA VPN

Best VPN For Japan – PIA VPN

In case you don’t know this, a VPN is a Virtual Privacy Network. It is basically a piece of software or programme you run that essentially “hides” your IP address and therefore your computer’s location. 

All travellers should use a VPN as they can be used to access blocked sites in countries that have internet censorship as well as enabling you to stream TV from backhome! Digital Nomads however REALLY need a good VPN as it provides extra protection against fraud, trackers and other dubious cyber-scum bags.

There are a lot of VPN providers out there but we use PIA VPN as they offer a solid level of protection at a very tempting price (if you buy the annual package its a bargain!)

Wandrd Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes For Japan – Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few.

These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value for money.

The weather in Japan does vary a lot depending on season. You do need to do your research as the winters can be snowy and the summers hot so pay close attention to local, up to date, seasonal forcasts.

The Japanese also take fashion very seriously so backpacker chic is NOT recommended. That said, don’t exactly expect to “fit in” as some of the local styles are pretty far out!

Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

Good Shoes – Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

Visitors to Japan have a tendency to underestimate the amount of walking that is part of the day to day experience. Whether you are sightseeing, city slicking, or headed outdoors, expect a lot of walking in your trip. As such, it is wise to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes.

I admit that most shoes that are also good for hiking are not the most attractive pieces of footwear. But they are some of the most comfortable and deliver good ankle support for a long day of walking about town. I mean, your body is already going to be suffering enough from all of that Sake and Karaoke!

Plus, the mountains Japanese countryside offer excellent day hiking opportunities, so packing a pair of hiking shoes gives you the option (and eliminates excuses) to go head for the hills when the city becomes too much.  You could even do Mount Fuji in these.

Check out the  women’s Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero . 

Arcteryx Mens Beta AR Jacket

Good Rain Jacket – Arcteryx Beta AR

Japan can be very wet and a little bit chilly. Bringing a decent jacket is therefore a sound investment when you visit Japan.

There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wing gear for it. Don’t let a bit (of a lot) of rain ruin your trip and make sure you are ready with some top notch rain gear.

This is our pick of the many rain jackets we have tried. It’s reliable & stylish and looks good worn out in the mountains or in city bars.

packable travel medical kit

Travel First Aid Kit

You don’t need to tote around half a pharmacy, but a well-stocked first aid kit should be in all our backpacks. Stuff happens on the road and it’s inconvenient and embarrassing when you can’t manage small situations like a cut finger or hangover migraine.

You can tuck this lifesaver away in a forgotten pocket – and it’ll be there when you need it.

Tip: Add a few bits and pieces to the first aid kit after you purchase it, like extra headache medicine, any personal meds you need (like allergy pills), whatever you take to calm your stomach and a few more plasters.

Travel Insurance From World Nomads

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

best travel accessories for japan

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Kodiak Journal

Planner/Travel Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

Abaco Polarized Sunglasses

Abaco Sunglasses

A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your Japan packing essentials. Our favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Another backpacker/traveler favorite for staying organized is a  hanging toiletry bag . It’s extremely helpful to have all of your accessories neatly gathered in one bag that you can hang for easy accessibility, especially when counter space isn’t plentiful or even available. A well-organized bag is worth having whether you’re tree whilst camping or a hook in the wall – it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

Historically, I have been the guy who has my stuff all over the bathroom, so getting one of these things really changed the toiletry game for me. Plus they are not too expensive either. A no-brainer essential.  No complete Japan packing list should be allowed to exclude a hanging bag!

Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz.

Waterbottle –  Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz.

Packing a reusable water bottle is probably the best thing you can personally do to combat single-use plastic bottle use whilst traveling. There is simply zero need to buy plastic water bottles. Tap water in Japan is safe and delicious. Fill up your bottle each time and carry it with you when you go out in order to avoid buying water throughout your day. 

We love the Hydroflask Vacum Bottle for its quality and because it keeps cold water  cold  for many hours and vice versa for hot beverages. This bottle is the ideal water bottle to get not just for your Japan trip but for daily use. Please don’t be that person buying plastic water bottles. We are all judging you…especially mother earth. 

If you go with the Hydroflask, you’ll probably never need to buy another waterbottle again.

Pacsafe belt

Money Belt – By Pacsafe

Japan travel is typically safe and crime and mis-haps are relatively low. However, shit can and does go wrong everywhere on earth.

Therefore it is always a good idea to use a money belt to hide your cash just in case something does go wrong.

Note that there are lots of cheap money belts on the market that will fall to pieces pretty much immediately. It is well worth spending a few bucks and picking up this one from Pacsafe instead.

Osprey Daylite Plus

A Good Daypack for Hiking –  Osprey Daylite Plus

If you’re planning on taking day trips or going for a hike in Costa Rica , you will need a daypack. They are great for carrying water, hats and gloves and for packing sandwiches for lunch. We love Osprey products and this daypack is our personal pick.

The Osprey Daylite Plus has a mesh-covered panel to keep your back cool and fresh by minimizing contact with the back of the pack itself and allowing air to get between you and the pack.

Check out our   full review of the Osprey Daylite plus  for more details.

On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a trip to Japan:

Girl walking through the wandering Torii gate pathways in Kyoto, Japan.

  • A few pairs of comfortable pants/jeans
  • 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring)
  • A few pairs of socks
  • (Sexy) underwear x 2/3
  • Ladies: a few dresses, pants, outfits, or desired lady apparel for a night on the town. Whatever makes you comfy! 
  • Dudes: A few collard shirts or something half-way decent for a night on the town. Whatever makes you comfy! 
  • Smartphone with a good camera for photos if you are not bringing an actual camera
  • Portable power bank  for charging your phone on the go
  • Phone charger
  • Amazon Kindle  for reading by the pool
  • Copy of your passport just in case
  • Cash (not too much, there are ATM machines everywhere)
  • Packable Towel
  • A travel adapter for Japanese outlets .

best travel accessories for japan

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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You should be super excited about your Japanese adventure now that you’re equipped with all you need to know about what to pack for Japan – and we’re excited for you! If you feel overwhelmed – just breathe – and refer to our 22-needs packing checklist and our tips on what to wear and pack by the season you choose to travel.

Just keep the packing light and culturally appropriate, and you’re set. Add a touch of style wherever possible to fit in and integrate as much as possible into Japan’s rich and unique culture. Take advantage of all the country has to offer by taking time to get to know locals and blending in with their norms. And, surely, be prepared and stay safe for any situation.

And that’s it! The rest is a piece of cake. Now get out there and enjoy it!

best travel accessories for japan

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aaron

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  • Travel Tips

The Ultimate Packing Checklist: 9 Essentials to Bring for Your Japan Trip

best travel accessories for japan

  • Chisa Nishimura

Now that you've built up your travel itinerary, it's time to start packing your suitcase. But do you know what to bring for your Japan trip? While you'll naturally pack essential items like your wallet and passport, other must-haves depend on the destination's weather, culture, and infrastructure. Of course, this means your packing list will change depending on where you're going. Keep reading to discover what items are absolutely necessary for an amazing sightseeing journey to Japan!

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

1. Japan Is a Cash-Based Society, So Bring Some Cash!

Barring convenience stores and large commercial facilities, stores and restaurants in Japan typically do not accept any other form of payment except for cash, so it is essential that you carry some when travelling in the country. It might seem risky in your home country to carry lots of cash with you, but rest assured that Japan is a rather safe country to travel in.

Places that do accept credit card payments will normally only accept JCB, Visa, and Mastercard, but recently more places are starting to accept other kinds of credit cards, as well as other forms of electronic payment such as PayPay and LINE Pay.

If you need to withdraw Japanese yen from your overseas bank account while in Japan, use the ATM at a post office or Seven-Eleven. You can also exchange 12 different currencies into Japanese yen using Smart Exchange, a currency exchange machine that's installed in approximately 400 locations all across Japan. All of these spots are registered in Google Maps, so it is easy to find out where your nearest one is.

▼ Japan Post Bank English: https://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en/ias/en_ias_index.html

▼ Japan Post Bank ATM Finder English: https://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en/ias/en_ias_app.html

▼ Seven-Eleven ATM English: https://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html

▼ Smart Exchange English: https://smartexchange.jp/

2. Japan Rail Pass Is a Must-Have If You Plan to Travel All Around Japan

The Japan Rail Pass is an extremely useful item that allows international tourists to explore as much of Japan as they want at a set price. It is offered by the country's biggest railway company Japan Rail (JR), which has train lines all the way from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south, as well as shinkansen (bullet train) lines, buses, and even ferries.

To attain this pass, you have to meet one of the following conditions:

・If you are a foreign national , you must show proof that you are entering Japan as a "temporary visitor" for short-term sightseeing purposes. ・If you are a Japanese national living overseas , you must show your Japanese passport and proof that you have lived overseas for 10 consecutive years or more. This proof needs to come from the Japanese embassy in the foreign country where you live.

Here's how much it costs:

・7-Day Pass: Adults 29,110 yen / Children (6-11 years old) 14,550 yen ・14-Day Pass: Adults 46,390 yen / Children (6-11 years old) 23,190 yen ・21-Day Pass: Adults 59,350 yen / Children (6-11 years old) 29,670 yen

For more information on the JR Pass, check out our guide and the official website below.

▼ JAPAN RAIL PASS (JR Pass) Japanese: http://japanrailpass.net/index.html English: http://japanrailpass.net/en/index.html

3. Consider Purchasing or Renting a Portable Wi-Fi Router or SIM Card

There are many public places in Japan that offer free Wi-Fi, including train stations, airports, convenience stores, fast food chains, and cafes. However, Japan is still lagging behind other countries when it comes to this, leading to complaints about how inconvenient it is.

For this reason, we recommend tourists purchase portable Wi-Fi routers or SIM cards. With either of these options, you are limited by how much data you decide to purchase, so there is no worry about the possibility of overspending on data roaming. You'll still be able to enjoy using the Internet whenever you want, without having the option limited to whether free Wi-Fi is available or not!

All this said, upcoming events like the 2019 Rugby World Cup, 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and Osaka's Expo 2025 are pushing Japan to make great strides towards improving its free Wi-Fi infrastructure so that it can accommodate the expected growth in foreign tourists over the next few years.

Companies are also releasing new services to help the country cope with the influx of tourists. One such example is Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi, a smartphone app that helps you easily discover and connect to free Wi-Fi spots all across Japan. It is free and available in 16 different languages, including English and Chinese, so why not test out just how useful it is by installing it for your next Japan trip?

▼ Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi Japanese: http://www.ntt-bp.net/jcfw/ja.html English: http://www.ntt-bp.net/jcfw/en.html

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

4. Stay Connected by Always Carrying a Portable Charger or Two

You'll almost definitely need to use your phone often when travelling in order to look up information, figure out how to get somewhere, and so on. However, even in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, there aren't that many places where you can charge your devices. Look over your travel plans one more time and make sure to carry a portable power bank (or two) if you plan to be out for the whole day!

5. Avoid Ruining Your Electronics by Bringing Along the Right Power Adapter

Voltages can differ depending on the country, so you absolutely can't forget to bring a power adapter to power your mobile phones, portable chargers, and other electronics! Specifically, make sure you get the A type adapter, which is set at 100V and has two straight prongs. If you happen to forget to bring an adapter, you might be able to find one at a local electronics store, but it can be a hassle when you're not used to shopping in a foreign country.

6. Bad Weather Won't Ruin Your Plans as Long as You Carry a Travel Umbrella

Japan's unique geographic location means that it has a rainy season (June to July, depending on the region) and a typhoon season (July to October), resulting in a yearly average precipitation level of 1,718mm. This is two times the world average of 880mm! The rain can get especially bad during typhoon season, with torrential rainstorms and unexpected pours. This is where having a travel umbrella can come in really handy!

Forget your umbrella? Japanese umbrellas have incredible function and design, so they are often purchased by foreign tourists for their own use or as a souvenir. You can find them sold everywhere, from your nearest convenience store to large shops like Tokyu Hands.

7. Let Your Smartphone Save the Day with These Useful Apps

Don't let your travel plans get ruined by bad weather or a natural disaster! Since Japan is a country that often gets torrential rains, typhoons, and other bad disasters, you'll want to arrive with smartphone apps installed for all kinds of situations. Pick up "Weather Japan" for weather info and "Safety Tips" for alerts on natural disasters. They both support multiple languages, including English!

▼ Weather Forecast App "Weather Japan" http://weatherjapan.guide/

▼ Natural Disaster Info App "Safety Tips" Japanese: https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/news08_000277.html English: http://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/en/index.html

8. The Surprisingly Useful Handkerchief/Towel

Japanese washrooms come equipped with soap, but there are plenty of places that don't offer paper towels, so you should make sure to bring a handkerchief or towel with you. You'll also need it when you wash your hands at the temizuya (Shinto ablution pavilion) of shrines and temples to cleanse your body before making a prayer. Most tourist spots will sell handkerchiefs in unique local designs, so why not purchase one as a souvenir as well?

9. Last but Not Least, Let's Talk About Clothes!

There's a lot to think about when it comes to clothing choices for your Japan trip.

For starters, most regions of Japan have four distinct seasons. That might sound easy to prepare for, but thanks to the archipalego stretching a long distance from north to south, there can be a 20-30°C (68-86°F) temperature gap between regions, as they fall under different climate groups. For example, Hokkaido in the northernmost corner of Japan is known for its subarctic climate, while Okinawa to the very south is a part of the subtropics. This means that in the winter, Hokkaido can reach below freezing point, while regions like Okinawa only ever get down to a breezy spring temperature of 15°C (59°F)!

On top of all this, daytime and nighttime temperatures can wildly vary during the spring and summer seasons in Japan. To accommodate for this, you will want to bring something with long sleeves such as a flannel shirt, cardigan, or jacket. As for the summer, bring along a thin shawl or cardigan to help you make it through the cold of the air conditioning in places like department stores and train carriages. Finally, when it comes to winter in Japan, you should not forget to bring along a coat, muffler, mittens, and knitted cap if you are travelling anywhere apart from Okinawa, as oftentimes it will stay near or under 0°C (32°F) for several days in a row.

While you can certainly show up to Japan without having prepared anything in advance, you'll run into far fewer problems just by bringing the items mentioned above. We hope you found this short guide useful and that you'll have a wonderful time sightseeing around Japan!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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What to Really Pack for Japan: The Complete Travel Checklist

Are you planning a trip to Japan?

You will see many general advice online on what to pack for Japan travel, from overstuffed high fashion wardrobe to minimalist capsule wardrobe. But the packing list for travelers visiting Japan is unique. At most basic level, two (2) things will dictate what you will pack for your trip: 1) Where in Japan you are traveling and 2) The weather you’d expect during your stay. Once this is determined, it will make packing lighter and much more manageable.

Travelers in Japan should expect rain at any time of the year, except when they visit Hokkaido. For detailed weather forecasts and earthquake information, go to Japan Meteorological Agency’s website at https://www.jma.go.jp/en/yoho/

What Should You Wear And Not Wear In Japan?

By now, you should be aware of the Japanese culture and traditions. A good traveler prefers not to look like a tourist in Japan and instead try to blend in. That is, at least as much as a foreigner can in a nearly homogeneous society. Leave your flip flops at home as they are considered very unstylish and underdressed by Japanese people unless you are going to the beach. However, in a somewhat weird contradiction, Crocs or foam clogs are considered perfectly acceptable.

Dressing inappropriately in public won’t work with Japanese people. In fact, Japan has strict dress code for many occasions. For women, avoid wearing spaghetti straps or blouses, or shirts with a plunging neckline. Avoid showing your shoulders when visiting temples or shrines. For men, wear a blazer or jacket when going to a restaurant or nightclub, especially if you plan to go to a fine dining restaurant or an upscale sushi bar. Some may tell you it’s okay since you are a foreign tourist, but Japanese people will respect you more if you abide if you dress appropriately. Avoid wearing all black. It’s strongly associated with funerals.

How To Pack Light in Japan

We all want to pack light when we travel so that our luggage doesn’t weigh us down as much as possible. Packing light also makes unpacking easier at the end of our journey.

Below are some tips to save space and weight in your luggage:

  • Leave your chunky or heavyweight sweaters and scarves at home. Cashmere sweaters and pashmina scarves are wonderful alternatives. They’re incredibly thin and lightweight for the level of warmth they offer.
  • For flexibility, pack a pair of black travel pants made of cotton and elastane fabric. They’re lightweight and dry out faster compared to jeans.
  • When packing your clothes, use the roll-out and put them in packing cubes like these ones to keep them compact and organized allowing for more luggage space.
  • When traveling between transitional seasons, pack a versatile jacket called 3-in-1 such as an interchangeable waterproof jacket with a removable liner that’s usually a fleece.
  • Only pack two pairs of shoes, dress shoes and your most comfortable walking shoes.

How To Travel Hands-Free in Japan

Most hotels in Japan have a check-in time of 3-4 p.m. If it’s an Airbnb or budget accommodation, they will often not allow you to store your bags. So you have three options to avoid walking around with all your luggage:

  • Luggage forwarding service . If you can’t pack light and have several pieces of luggage, you’re in luck. You can have your luggage delivered from the airport to your hotel, the same-day. Every airport in Japan has a luggage forwarding service or TA-Q-BIN, as the Japanese call it. Just look for the red sign, “Hand-Free Travel,” as they are the ones that will deliver the same day. Make sure the luggage being forwarded doesn’t have the items you need for traveling. The cost varies between ¥1,000-¥3,000 per bag, depending on the size and weight.
  • Coin lockers . Coin lockers are everywhere in Japan but can always be found at train stations. They come in small (¥300), medium (¥400), and large size (¥500-¥800), though the per-day prices may vary.
  • Luggage storage service . Another option is to   leave your luggage at the Voyagin Office in Shibuya. There’s no size restriction. Their prices may change, and if it’s during the off-season, it can drop to ¥500 per day, so make sure to check the  current price here .

Top 5 Essentials For Your Japan Packing List

There are specific instances that are somewhat unique to Japan that you’ll undoubtedly encounter. Above all, pack light and bring the most comfortable pair of slip-on walking shoes. You’ll understand more later as we progress, so let’s take a closer look.

  • The right luggage.  A backpack or a duffel is the best luggage for travel in Japan. You can easily carry it up and down the stairs and at train and bus stations. Backpacks are preferred because you are going to encounter a lot of stairs in Japan. But if you need wheels to save your back, it’s best to get a wheeled backpack. Japanese trains and buses don’t have much space for large pieces of luggage, so if you have a backpack, please take it off when boarding and place it between your feet or on the overhead storage rack. An enormous suitcase will also take up a lot of precious space in your hotel rooms, which are small compared to western hotels. So pack light! Only take one piece of check-in luggage and a carry-on for your items. We have a guide to help you pick the best bags for you  here .
  • A pair of comfortable shoes . When traveling in Japan, you’re going to walk a lot! Take your most comfortable pair of casual shoes for sightseeing, preferably with memory foam. They are beneficial in relieving pain and soreness. If you are traveling during the spring and summer seasons, take a waterproof pair. Many places in Japan also require you to take your shoes off, such as  genkans  (the entrance of a home),  izakayas  (Japanese bars), restaurants, ryokan  (traditional Japanese inns), and temples. Slip-on shoes or simple-laced shoes will serve you well in these situations, so make sure your socks don’t have holes in them. Our favorite slip-on shoes are from the Skechers Go Walk series . Many tourists who traveled to Japan swore by the Skechers brand as well. If you plan to go to a fine dining restaurant or a business occasion, take your dress shoes.
  • A portable hotspot device or data SIM card . We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have a reliable internet connection while traveling in Japan. If you haven’t reserved a portable hotspot device, book it here . If you’re traveling solo and short-term, it’s cheaper to get a data SIM card.
  • Cash . Despite being a very high-tech nation and being the host country of the 2020/21 Summer Olympics, Japan still relies heavily on cash for many transactions. Quick tip: Withdrawing cash from ATMs in Japan gives you a better rate than exchanging your currency for Japanese yen. After getting your luggage and getting through customs, make sure to pull out money inside the airport. You can withdraw cash from Japan Post ATM (JP Bank) and inside convenience stores such as 7-11, Lawson, Family Mart, or Ministop.
  • A prepaid IC card . Buying a reloadable prepaid IC card will make your travel in Japan so much easier and convenient. The primary purpose of IC cards is to avoid getting tickets from a ticket machine every time you ride a train. So you can simply swipe and go. You can use it to pay for buses and taxis and even some vending machines and convenience stores. You can purchase either a PASMO (by Tokyo Metro) or Suica IC card from any central train station. The initial cost is ¥1,000 (¥500 for card creation fee and the remaining ¥500 is ready for use). The ¥500 will be refunded if you return the card to the station office.

Japan Document Checklist

Due to the ever-changing circumstances and frequent travel updates for Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions , please follow the most recent directions from the Japanese Embassy in your country.

  • A valid passport and visa . Check your passport if it’s valid for at least 6-months and has a couple of blank pages. You should check with the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website  if your nationality requires a Japan visa.
  • Travel insurance . COVID-19 has created a new normal for travelers, and in many countries, they make travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage mandatory. Before the pandemic, my US friends have used and recommended  RoamRight . But in these changing times, it’s best to speak with your local travel agent to see which travel insurance provides COVID-19 coverage.
  • Flight tickets . If you’re planning on showing your flight tickets through your mobile, make sure you have downloaded a copy on your phone.
  • Hotel or Airbnb reservations . If you’re riding a taxi, it’s good to have your hotel’s address in Japanese. It’s also important to remember the nearest train station to your hotel so you’ll know where to go upon landing. Lastly, depending on where you’re coming from, having a hotel reservation could make your immigration time a bit smoother.
  • Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) . If you are traveling extensively in Japan for 7, 14, or 21 days, consider buying a JR Pass online. You can only buy the JR Pass outside Japan and through an authorized online distributor. To activate and use it, you need to exchange your email voucher at a JR office at the airport or main train stations. To learn more about JR Pass and whether it’s for you or not,  click here .
  • Airport to hotel transfer reservation . If you don’t have the JR Pass, book your transfer from the airport to your hotel. Not only will it save you time and money, but it’ll make your arrival easy and hassle-free. It’s more comfortable and convenient to take a shuttle transfer from the airport rather than train based on our experience. These shuttles will drop you off directly at your hotel or a train station near your hotel.
  • Debit cards and credit cards . To save money, bring a credit card that doesn’t have foreign transaction fees. And a debit card that reimburses international ATM fees. Make sure to contact your bank about your travel plans to avoid disruptions with your card.
  • Passport and credit card photocopies . In case of emergencies like losing your passport or credit cards, it’s good to have copies of your passports and credit cards in your email or on your phone. All you have to do is take a picture of your passport’s bio page and your credit card’s front and back photos using your phone. Do this for your entire family traveling as well.
  • Confirmation tickets in Japan . If you book tours or activities, make sure to save the confirmation email on your phone or have it printed out if required by the travel agency. In Tokyo, we highly recommend booking a Mt. Fuji day tour, local food tours, tickets to Ghibli Museum, or Grand Sumo Tournament. If you’re visiting Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, it’s essential to book your tickets online as they sell out quickly at the gate.
  • International Drivers Permit . If you plan to rent  a car  or  go-karting , you need an International Drivers Permit or a Japanese driver’s license to drive in Japan.

Gadgets and Electronics

  • Electronics . Tablets, mobiles, laptops, cameras, etc., do not check these in. Get a carry-on bag that is big enough for your electronics but still within your airline’s requirement. Check out a list of international  flight-approved carry-on bags here  or consider an underseat luggage.
  • e-Reader . Carrying books will only increase the weight of your luggage. An e-Reader such as a Kindle would allow you to read your favorite books. That’s if you find the time too!
  • Power plug adapter . Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs and sockets, just like in the U.S. and Canada. If you’re not from North America, get a universal power adapter, preferably with Type A & B sockets, we recommend  this one .

Personal Care and Toiletries

  • Vitamins and supplements . If you have one.
  • Jet lag remedies . These jet lag relief pills are beneficial if you’re coming from a different time zone.
  • Prescription medications . Some common prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs in the United States are illegal in Japan. Notable decongestants such as Sudafed and stimulants such as Adderall are illegal. It does not matter if you have a valid U.S. prescription for a medicine/drug illegal in Japan: if you bring it with you, you risk arrest and detention by the Japanese authorities. For more information, ​ click here ​.
  • Toiletries . I’ll leave this up to you since each individual varies. If you have a preferred choice of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, etc., it is best to bring it with you. It is not likely that you would find the same brand in Japan. It may also be challenging to find similar products because the ingredients are in Japanese. For liquids, pack them into squeezable TSA-approved leak-proof travel containers like  this one .

Long-Haul Flight Essentials

  • Packable travel pillow . Check out this  best-selling packable travel pillow here .
  • Noise-canceling headphones or earphones . For added comfort, you can get a pair of noise-canceling headphones  like this .
  • Lip balm . I find the travel-sized petroleum jelly works best than Chapsticks.
  • Effective hand sanitizers . Bring a travel size one.

Optional Items But Recommended

  • Coin purse . You can easily find these in 100 yen stores in Japan, but if you already have one, bring it with you as you will get a lot of coin change.
  • Power bank . Your mobile phones are going to be running throughout the day because of continuous connectivity. Power banks are expensive in Japan and only provide a small mAh capacity, so get it from your home country. Our favorite power bank is this  one . You may also consider the  newer model  with an enormous mAh capacity.
  • Collapsible water bottle . Tap water in Japan is safe to drink, and you can find drinking fountains pretty much everywhere. Taking them with you is not only good for the environment, but you will save you a ton of money during your sightseeing journey in Japan. Collapsible water bottles are affordable in Walmart and Amazon.
  • A spare packable bag . To avoid buying additional luggage while in Japan, which can be expensive, make sure to pack a spare bag. Souvenirs, Japanese instant noodles, milk tea, weird Kit Kat favors, and  chuhai  — if you fall in love with Japan’s flavors or culture, you will need extra storage space! To view our recommended duffle bags, click here .

What Not To Bring To Japan

  • Meat products, plants, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Firearms and pocket knives.
  • Illegal drugs and narcotics. For more information,  click here .
  • Umbrella. These are very cheap to get in convenience stores in Japan.

RELATED READ :

  • The Best 10-Day Japan Itinerary For A First-Timer
  • Best Time To Visit Japan

4 thoughts on “What to Really Pack for Japan: The Complete Travel Checklist”

How can a get a copy of the pdf printable packing list shown at the top of this article? 🙂 <3

I would also recommend Oyraa app! Used it a lot to call interpreters to get help when making inquiries to non English-speaking administrations, which can be quite life-saving, in addition to being cost-effective. Hope this may help!

I recommend water bottle too! Preferably, the one that’s packable and with filtration to improve taste. I got mine from an outdoor store. We saved a lot of money in Japan!!

Hey, you’re right! It saved us a lot of money too. I’ll go ahead and update this checklist!

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What to Bring to Japan: The Ultimate Packing Checklist

Not sure what to bring to Japan? Read this packing checklist for useful advice, style tips and outfit suggestions for what to wear on your Japan vacation. 

What to Bring to Japan Packing List

What to Wear in Japan

Click the icon next to each image to shop directly on the retailer page or browse via the links below. I’ve also linked more affordable options throughout the post. Cuban attire is casual, comfortable and classic.

1. Sneakers | 2. Anya Hindmarch Crossbody Bag | 3. Chloe Sunglasses | 4. Vintage Polaroid Camera | 5. Sweatshirt | 6. Tassle Sweater  (more options here ) | 7. James Perse T-Shirt | 8. Cashmere sweater | 9. Pink Silk Wrap Trench Coat | 10. Kate Spade Wallet | 11. Silk Crepe Shorts | 12. Scarf leather belt  (cheap options here ) | 13. Asymmetric Leather Skirt  (cheaper options here ) | 14. Levi’s Jeans | 15. Kindle | 16. Camera Bag | 17. Felt Grey Hat  (affordable options here ) | 18. Embroidered Leather Backpack

Japan Packing List

Planning a Japan vacation ? Here are some things you should pack for your trip!

What to Pack for Japan: Clothes

Fun day trips in japan, 3. suitcase & accessories.

If you’re visiting Japan for two weeks or less, I recommend bringing a rolling suitcase, just because I find it more comfortable to push luggage rather than carry on my back. I’ve reviewed all my favorite carry on luggage brands in this previous post here  and am currently using my Delsey large suitcase .

Packing Cubes | I like to group clothing by color or function and pack each group of items snugly in their own packing cube. These are a lifesaver for keeping your suitcase organized in your hotel room and are my number 1 secret to maximizing space in just a carry on suitcase. I typically reserve one packing cube for all my worn clothes to separate the dirty stuff from my fresh clothes!

Amazon has their own inexpensive 4 piece packing cube set and several travel blogger friends swear by this set from eBags .

Toiletry Bottles |  Optional, but I currently like these for shampoo and conditioner . If I know I’m staying in nice hotels, I don’t always bring shampoo but I always want my conditioner. I also pack extra ziplock bags to keep toiletries and wet clothes safely contained.

Sunscreen |  Japan makes some really amazing beauty products and their sunscreen is the best in the world. Don’t feel like you need to bring any toiletries – you can shop till you drop in Japan! Look out for Biore in drugstores – they make my favorite sunscreen.

4. Camera & Electronics

I brought my DSLR and gear to Japan, but if you find yourself missing anything chances are Akihabara (the electronics district) in Tokyo will have it. After all, most camera manufacturers are Japanese!

Camera |  I bring a professional DSLR camera and a couple lenses to shoot all the photos you see on this blog. I also bring my spare battery, battery charger and extra SD cards. To keep everything organized, I use a memory card case and a travel accessories case so the wires, chargers and small things don’t get lost.

For underwater photos, I use a GoPro, backdoor floatie and dome. For video, I use a stabilizer and my iphone, along with an external battery. You can find all my gear here .

Portable Charger |  Definitely a must! I currently use an iPhone 6S Plus and this Anker portable charger  keeps my phone fully charged at all times. The charger is small and sleek enough to fully charge an iPhone twice. Anker  has great customer service – I once bought a product off Amazon that ended up dying and they quickly sent me a replacement free of charge, so I highly recommend them!

Electric Converter |  If you are abroad, you’ll need a universal adapter and converter . Also pick up a travel sized power strip so you can charge your laptop, phone and everything in one go.

Read more:   The Best Japan Itinerary

And that’s it! Am I missing anything?

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Planning a Trip to Japan – Travel Checklist

Flights | From New York City, there are several airlines offering nonstop flights to Tokyo. Flights weren't cheap, but booking in advance helps. Browse fares for your dates here .

See | We spent two weeks traveling around Japan since it was our first time. We purchased the Japan Rail Pass since our itinerary visited multiple cities.

Purchasing the Japan Rail Pass ended up saving us quite a bit! The pass is expensive and has to be ordered in advance, so I go more depth into the pros and cons in my Japan itinerary post . 

Accommodation | Japan has tons of options – from inexpensive hostels to capsule pods to luxury 5 star hotels. We even stayed in a Buddhist temple, which was the highlight of our trip. Japan is very expensive, so book all your accommodation in advance to save. Check here for current hotel deals .

If you have a group of people or want more affordable housing browse Airbnb . It's especially great if you want the flexibility to cook! 

Insurance | Lastly, be sure to visit Japan with travel insurance . Whether your flight is delayed, you get injured and need to be hospitalized, or your phone gets stolen, travel insurance will help when you need it most! Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Japan Travel Guides

The Best Japan Itineraries for First Time Visitors

A 2 Week Japan Itinerary (Make the Most of a JR Pass)

How to Get Around Japan with the Shinkansen & Japan Rail Pass

What to Pack for Japan : The Ultimate Checklist

Eating in Japan

Where to Eat in Tokyo : 12 Restaurant Recommendations from a Local

Sushi for Breakfast, Really? Sushi Daiwa at Tsukiji

Delicious Bakery Treats  Mont Thabor  &  The Park Hyatt

Is Japan Vegetarian Friendly?  Here's What You Can Expect  &  Eat More Greens

Dessert Among Diamonds  Mikimoto Lounge

How Good is  Japanese Tonkatsu

Tokyo Travel Guides

Hotel Review  Mornings at the Park Hyatt Tokyo

Tokyo Sights:  Visiting the Imperial East Gardens

Tokyo's Most Famous Temple:  Asakusa and Senso-Ji

That Time I Got Naked with Strangers...  My Japanese Bathhouse Experience

Tsukiji Fish Market Pt 1  Is the Tuna Auction Worth Visiting?

Tsukiji Fish Market Pt 2 (You Woke Up Late)  The Other Stalls

Kyoto Travel Guides

A Visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto (Memoirs of a Geisha!)

What Does It Mean to Donate a Torii Gate

Sanjusangendo Temple and the 1,000 Statues of Kannon

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That time i went to a japanese …, 7 of the best laptop bags for men, the 12 best denim jackets – chic & affordable, tsukiji fish market – the other stalls.

What brand are the sneakers ? Can’t click on the link!

  • Pingback: The Best Japan Itineraries to Make the Most of Your Rising Suns

Thanks for the tips. I adore the look of that vintage camera. I’m going to Japan in April and already planning my packing list!

Ah, have so much fun! I loved Japan and am dying to re-visit!

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What To Pack On A Trip To Japan

Published: December 6, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Retha Reeve

  • Arts & Culture
  • Plan Your Trip
  • Travel Tips

what-to-pack-on-a-trip-to-japan

Introduction

Planning a trip to Japan can be an exciting and enriching experience. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant city life or immersing yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage, it’s essential to pack wisely for your journey to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

When packing for Japan, it’s important to consider various factors such as the weather, local customs, and the activities you plan on doing. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with a checklist of essential items to pack for your trip to Japan, ranging from clothing and footwear to toiletries, electronics, and travel accessories.

Japan experiences distinct seasons, so it’s crucial to pack clothing suitable for the weather during your visit. The country can be hot and humid in the summer, with temperatures soaring above 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Lightweight and breathable clothing, such as cotton shirts and shorts, are recommended for this season. On the other hand, winters in Japan can be cold, especially in northern regions, so make sure to pack warm layers, including long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a heavy coat.

When it comes to footwear, comfortable shoes are essential as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Opt for sturdy and well-cushioned shoes that can handle various terrain. Additionally, pack a pair of lightweight and slip-on shoes for visits to traditional Japanese homes and temples, where you’ll need to remove your shoes before entering.

Another important consideration is your toiletry bag. While most hotels provide basic toiletries, it’s a good idea to bring your favorite personal care items, such as shampoo, conditioner, and skincare products. Keep in mind that the voltage in Japan is 100V, so if you have electronic devices like hair dryers or curling irons, check if they’re compatible or consider purchasing a travel adapter.

When packing clothing for your trip to Japan, it’s important to consider the season and the activities you plan on doing. Here are some essential items to include in your suitcase:

  • Lightweight and breathable shirts for the summer months. Opt for natural fabrics like cotton to stay cool in the humid weather.
  • A few pairs of shorts or skirts for hot days and casual outings.
  • Long-sleeved shirts or blouses for cooler days or for visits to temples and more formal attractions.
  • A lightweight jacket or cardigan for layering in case of cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings.
  • A comfortable pair of jeans or pants for everyday wear.
  • A versatile dress or two for dressier occasions or nights out in the city.
  • Undergarments and socks for the duration of your trip.

Regardless of the season, it’s also a good idea to pack a waterproof or compact travel umbrella to prepare for unexpected rain showers. Japan is known for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring, so if you’re visiting during this time, consider packing some lightweight layers to stay warm during early mornings and late evenings when temperatures can still be cool.

Keep in mind that Japan has a reputation for being a fashion-forward country, so if you want to blend in with the locals, you may want to consider packing some trendier pieces of clothing. However, comfort should always be a priority, so make sure to pack items that you feel good wearing for long periods.

Lastly, remember to pack appropriate swimwear if you plan on visiting the coastal regions or enjoying hot springs and onsen baths. Some accommodations provide yukatas (lightweight robes) for guests to wear, particularly in traditional ryokans, so you may not need to pack a bathrobe.

Choosing the right footwear is crucial when traveling to Japan, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Here are some key footwear items to consider packing:

  • A comfortable pair of walking shoes or sneakers is essential. Look for shoes with good arch support and cushioning to keep your feet comfortable throughout the day.
  • If you plan on doing any hiking or walking on uneven terrain, consider packing a pair of hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes.
  • For visits to traditional Japanese homes, temples, and shrines, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. Pack a pair of lightweight and slip-on shoes, such as sandals or ballet flats, that are easy to take on and off.
  • Depending on the season, you may also want to pack a pair of waterproof shoes or rain boots to keep your feet dry during rainy days.
  • If you plan on visiting traditional onsens (hot springs), some establishments may provide slippers for guests to wear. However, it’s a good idea to bring a pair of flip-flops or shower shoes for added hygiene.

Regardless of the footwear you choose to pack, make sure to break them in before your trip to avoid any discomfort or blisters. Additionally, if you require specialized footwear for medical reasons, be sure to bring those along as well.

Keep in mind that Japan has a strong shoe culture, and in many places, you’ll be expected to remove your shoes before entering certain establishments. It’s important to have footwear that is easy to take off and put on to adhere to these customs.

Remember, comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the city streets, visiting museums and attractions, and walking through the beautiful parks and gardens of Japan.

When it comes to toiletries, it’s always a good idea to bring your favorite personal care items from home. Although most hotels in Japan provide basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and soap, you may prefer to have your preferred brands and products. Here are some essential toiletries to pack for your trip to Japan:

  • Shampoo and conditioner: Bring travel-sized bottles of your favorite shampoo and conditioner, especially if you have specific hair care needs.
  • Body wash or soap: Pack a small container of body wash or your preferred bar soap for daily showers.
  • Skincare products: If you have a skincare routine, make sure to pack your cleanser, moisturizer, and any other products you use regularly.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste: Don’t forget to bring your toothbrush and toothpaste for maintaining good oral hygiene.
  • Deodorant: While deodorant is available in Japan, the selection may be limited, so bring your preferred brand if you have specific preferences.
  • Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by packing a bottle of sunscreen, especially if you’re visiting during the summer or planning outdoor activities.
  • Makeup: If you wear makeup, pack your essentials like foundation, mascara, and lipstick.
  • Contact lenses and solution: If you wear contact lenses, ensure you have enough supply and bring your contact lens solution.
  • Personal hygiene items: Don’t forget items like a razor, feminine hygiene products, and any other personal care items you may need.

It’s worth noting that the voltage in Japan is 100V, so if you have electronic devices like hair dryers or curling irons, check if they’re compatible or consider purchasing a travel adapter. Many hotels also provide hair dryers, so you may not need to bring your own.

While you can find most toiletries in Japan, having your preferred products and brands will give you peace of mind and ensure you have everything you need during your trip.

Electronics

When traveling to Japan, it’s important to bring along essential electronics to stay connected, capture memories, and navigate your way around the country. Here are some key electronic items to pack for your trip:

  • Smartphone: A smartphone is a must-have for staying connected, accessing maps, translation apps, and other useful travel apps.
  • Portable charger: Keep your devices powered up throughout the day by packing a portable charger or power bank.
  • Adapter and converter: Japan uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets, so make sure to bring the necessary adapters to charge your devices. Additionally, if your devices are not compatible with Japan’s voltage (100V), consider bringing a voltage converter.
  • Camera: Japan is a photographer’s paradise with its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant city scenes. Bring a digital camera or a high-quality smartphone with a good camera to capture unforgettable moments.
  • E-book reader or tablet: If you enjoy reading, consider bringing an e-book reader or a tablet to have a selection of books or entertainment options readily available.
  • Headphones: Whether you prefer over-ear headphones or compact earbuds, having a good pair of headphones will enhance your travel experience, allowing you to enjoy music, podcasts, or immersive audio guides.
  • Laptop or tablet: If you need to work or stay connected during your trip, consider bringing a lightweight laptop or tablet for convenience.
  • Travel adapters: In Japan, the power outlets have two flat parallel pins, so make sure to pack the necessary travel adapters to ensure your devices can be charged.
  • Memory cards and USB drives: If you plan on taking lots of photos or videos, be sure to pack extra memory cards or a USB drive to store your files.

It’s important to note that free Wi-Fi can be limited in some areas in Japan, especially in rural locations. To stay connected, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device, which you can pick up at the airport or have delivered to your accommodation.

Remember to pack your electronics securely, along with their chargers and accessories, in a well-padded case or bag to protect them during your journey.

Travel Documents

When planning a trip to Japan, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary travel documents in order. Here are some essential documents to pack for your trip:

  • Passport: Your passport is the most important document when traveling internationally. Make sure that it is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Japan.
  • Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Japan. Check the requirements well in advance and apply for a visa if necessary.
  • Flight tickets: Print or have digital copies of your flight tickets, including both the inbound and outbound flights.
  • Hotel reservations: Keep a copy of your hotel reservations or have them readily available digitally to show to immigration authorities if required.
  • Travel insurance: It’s highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Travel itinerary: Have a copy of your detailed travel itinerary, including transportation details, accommodation addresses, and any pre-booked activities or tours.
  • International driving permit: If you plan on renting a car and driving in Japan, an international driving permit (IDP) may be required. Check if your home country requires an IDP and obtain one if necessary.
  • Credit cards and cash: Carry your credit cards for easy transactions, and have some Japanese yen in cash for smaller establishments that may not accept cards.
  • Emergency contact information: Write down or save the contact information of your embassy or consulate in Japan, as well as any emergency contact numbers for your travel insurance provider.

It’s a good idea to make copies of all your important travel documents and keep them separate from the originals. You can also store digital copies in a secure cloud storage or email them to yourself for easy access in case of any emergencies or loss.

Remember to keep your travel documents safe and easily accessible throughout your trip, as you may need to present them at various checkpoints, accommodations, or when engaging in certain activities.

Money and Currency

When traveling to Japan, it’s important to plan your finances and ensure you have the appropriate currency for your trip. Here are some tips on managing your money and currency during your time in Japan:

  • Japanese Yen (JPY): The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen. It’s recommended to have some local currency on hand for small purchases, street markets, and places that may not accept credit cards.
  • ATMs: ATMs can be found throughout Japan, especially at convenience stores, post offices, and banks. Look for ATMs that accept international cards (look for the “International” or “Visa/Plus” signs) and withdraw cash as needed.
  • Credit and debit cards: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments in Japan, especially in major cities and tourist areas. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops, street vendors, and local transportation.
  • Currency exchange: If you need to exchange foreign currency for Japanese Yen, it’s best to do so at official currency exchange offices or banks. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels, as they often have higher exchange rates and fees.
  • Traveler’s checks: Traveler’s checks are becoming less commonly used in Japan, and it may be challenging to find places that accept them. It’s recommended to rely on a combination of cash and cards for your financial needs.
  • Budgeting: Japan can be a bit expensive, especially in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. It’s a good idea to create a daily budget for food, transportation, attractions, and souvenirs to ensure you have enough funds for your trip.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, and it may even be considered rude. Most service charges are already included in the bill, so there’s no need to leave additional gratuity.

Before your trip, inform your bank or credit card company of your travel plans to prevent any issues with your cards being blocked for suspicious activity. Additionally, consider using a travel credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees to save on currency conversion costs.

Lastly, it’s recommended to carry a small wallet or coin purse to keep your coins organized, as they can quickly accumulate in Japan due to the frequent use of coins for small purchases and transportation.

By planning ahead and managing your money wisely, you’ll have a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your trip to Japan.

Medications

When traveling to Japan, it’s important to be prepared and carry any necessary medications or medical supplies for the duration of your trip. Here are some tips on managing your medications while in Japan:

  • Prescription medications: If you take prescription medications, make sure to bring enough supply to last throughout your trip. It’s also a good idea to pack them in your carry-on bag, along with the prescription or a doctor’s note in case of any inquiries or emergencies.
  • Over-the-counter medications: Consider packing a small travel kit with over-the-counter medications for common ailments like headaches, allergies, stomach upsets, and cold and flu symptoms. It may be challenging to find specific brands or medications in Japan, so having them on hand can be helpful.
  • Medical documentation: It’s advisable to carry a summary of your medical conditions, allergies, and emergency contact information in case of a medical emergency. This information can be crucial for healthcare professionals in Japan to provide appropriate treatment.
  • Health insurance: Check with your health insurance provider to ensure you have coverage in Japan. If not, consider purchasing travel insurance that includes medical coverage to ensure you’re protected in case of any unexpected health issues.
  • Pharmacies: Pharmacies in Japan are readily available, and pharmacists can provide assistance and recommend appropriate over-the-counter medications. However, it’s worth noting that some medications may have different brand names or variations in Japan, so it’s best to have a list of active ingredients or the generic names of the medications you require.
  • Allergies and dietary restrictions: If you have any known allergies or dietary restrictions, make sure to inform your travel companions and carry any necessary medication or food alternatives to ensure your safety and well-being.

It’s also a good idea to research the local customs and regulations regarding medications before your trip. Some medications that are legal in your home country may be restricted in Japan, so it’s important to check the guidelines or consult with the Japanese embassy or consulate if needed.

Remember to follow proper storage and disposal methods for your medications during your trip. Keep them in a cool, dry place, and carry them in their original packaging to avoid any confusion or issues at customs.

By being proactive and prepared with your medications, you can have a worry-free journey and enjoy your time exploring the wonders of Japan.

Travel Accessories

When packing for your trip to Japan, don’t forget to include some essential travel accessories that will enhance your comfort and convenience. Here are some accessories to consider including in your suitcase:

  • Travel adapter: As mentioned earlier, Japan uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets, so make sure to pack a travel adapter to charge your electronic devices.
  • Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially when exploring a new destination. Carry a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day to reduce waste and stay hydrated.
  • Neck pillow and blanket: If you’re traveling long distances or taking overnight transportation, a neck pillow and blanket can provide comfort and help you get some rest.
  • Universal sink stopper: Some accommodations may not have sink stoppers, so having a universal sink stopper can be handy for washing clothes or personal items in the sink.
  • Travel towel: A compact and quick-drying travel towel is useful for beach visits, hot springs, or if your accommodation doesn’t provide towels.
  • Money belt or secure travel pouch: Keep your important documents, cash, and credit cards safe by using a money belt or a secure travel pouch worn discreetly under your clothing.
  • Portable Wi-Fi device: To stay connected while exploring Japan, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device that will provide you with reliable internet access throughout your trip.
  • Travel lock: Keep your belongings secure by using a travel lock on your suitcases or backpacks. Look for locks that are TSA-approved for ease during security checks.
  • Travel-sized laundry detergent: If you plan on doing laundry during your trip, carrying a small bag of travel-sized laundry detergent will come in handy.
  • Travel-sized toiletry bottles: To comply with airline regulations and save space, transfer your preferred shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other toiletries into travel-sized bottles.

Of course, the specific travel accessories you pack may vary depending on your personal preferences and the nature of your trip. Consider what will enhance your comfort, convenience, and peace of mind while exploring Japan.

Remember to pack these accessories strategically within your luggage to optimize space and weight distribution. Having the right travel accessories can make a significant difference in ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey in Japan.

Snacks and Beverages

When traveling to Japan, it’s always a good idea to have some snacks and beverages on hand, especially for long journeys, sightseeing excursions, or to satisfy those hunger pangs between meals. Here are some suggestions for snacks and beverages to pack for your trip:

  • Granola bars or energy bars: These compact and nutritious snacks are perfect for a quick boost of energy while exploring Japan’s attractions.
  • Dried fruits and nuts: Portable and packed with nutrients, dried fruits and nuts make for a healthy and satisfying snack option.
  • Instant noodles or cup noodles: If you’re on a budget or want to try some local flavors, consider packing a few packets of instant noodles or cup noodles for a quick and easy meal.
  • Rice crackers or senbei: These traditional Japanese snacks come in various flavors and are a great option for munching on the go.
  • Chocolate or candy: Indulge your sweet tooth with a selection of your favorite chocolates or candies to satisfy cravings during your trip.
  • Tea bags or instant coffee: If you’re a tea or coffee lover, pack some of your preferred tea bags or instant coffee sachets for a familiar and comforting drink.
  • Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring Japan by carrying a reusable water bottle and filling it up at water stations or public taps.
  • Portable water filter or purifier: If you’re planning on visiting rural areas or hiking, having a portable water filter or purifier can be useful to ensure access to safe drinking water.
  • Local snacks: Don’t miss the opportunity to try some unique Japanese snacks that may not be easily available outside the country. Pick up some regional specialties as you travel to get a taste of the local flavors.

While Japan offers a wide range of delicious and convenient food options, having some snacks and beverages of your own can come in handy, especially when you’re in remote areas or during long trips where food options may be limited.

Keep in mind that Japan has strict regulations regarding bringing fresh produce or certain food items into the country. Be sure to check and adhere to any restrictions to avoid any issues at customs.

Enjoy exploring Japan’s culinary delights while having some tasty snacks and beverages on hand to keep you fueled and refreshed throughout your trip.

Miscellaneous Items

Aside from the essentials, there are a few miscellaneous items that can come in handy during your trip to Japan. These items may enhance your overall travel experience and provide solutions to unexpected situations. Here are some miscellaneous items to consider packing:

  • Travel guidebook or maps: While you can access information digitally, having a physical travel guidebook or maps can be helpful for quick reference and exploring areas without internet access.
  • Phrasebook or translation app: Although English is spoken in some tourist areas, having a phrasebook or translation app can be invaluable for communicating with locals and navigating daily situations.
  • Reusable shopping bag: Japan is known for its eco-friendly practices, and carrying a reusable shopping bag can help reduce plastic waste and make it easier to carry souvenirs or groceries.
  • Ziplock bags: These lightweight and versatile bags can be handy for storing snacks, organizing small items, keeping electronics dry, or storing liquids to prevent leaks.
  • Travel-sized sewing kit: A compact sewing kit can save the day if you encounter a wardrobe malfunction or need to make a quick repair to your clothing.
  • Hand sanitizer or wet wipes: Keep your hands clean and fresh while on the go by carrying hand sanitizer or wet wipes, especially when access to soap and water may be limited.
  • Earplugs and sleep mask: If you’re a light sleeper or staying in accommodation with thin walls, earplugs and a sleep mask can help ensure a restful night’s sleep.
  • Travel umbrella or rain poncho: Japan’s weather can be unpredictable, so having a compact travel umbrella or a rain poncho will keep you dry during unexpected showers.
  • Extra plastic bags: Having a few extra plastic bags can be useful for storing wet clothes, keeping dirty shoes separate from clean items, or organizing souvenirs.
  • Swiss Army knife or multi-tool: A compact multi-tool can be handy for various situations, from opening bottles and cutting fruits to small repairs or adjustments.

These miscellaneous items may seem small, but they can make a difference in your overall travel experience. Remember to pack them strategically in your luggage for easy access when needed.

While it’s essential to be prepared, try not to overpack and consider the weight and space restrictions of your luggage. Make sure to prioritize the items that will be most useful to you based on your specific travel plans and preferences.

With these miscellaneous items in your bag, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any situation and make the most of your journey in Japan.

Packing for a trip to Japan requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, including the weather, activities, and cultural customs. By packing the right clothing, footwear, toiletries, and electronics, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your journey. Remember to bring essential travel documents, manage your money and currency wisely, and carry any necessary medications. Including travel accessories, snacks, and miscellaneous items will add convenience and enhance your overall travel experience.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Kyoto, or venturing to the scenic countryside of Japan, being prepared with the right items will help make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

While this guide provides a comprehensive list of items to pack, it’s important to adjust accordingly based on your specific needs and preferences. Keep in mind the cultural norms and customs of Japan, such as removing shoes in certain establishments and respecting local traditions.

Lastly, don’t forget to leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs and mementos that you may want to bring back home. Pay attention to weight restrictions and make sure to pack efficiently to avoid any additional charges or hassle during your journey.

With the right packing list and a sense of adventure, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable trip to Japan. Enjoy the rich culture, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality that await you in the Land of the Rising Sun.

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The best travel accessories to pack on every trip

By Madison Flager

Image may contain Clothing Apparel Human Person Bag Handbag Accessories Accessory Hat and Sun Hat

Packing lists will vary based on where you're going and how long you're travelling for, but the best travel accessories can improve every trip. From tech gadgets to keep your electronics powered up and luggage accessories that ensure you're not hit with an overweight baggage charge, having the right gear means a smoother journey, every time. Below, we've rounded up 27 essential items to pack inside your carry-on bag , weekender , or checked luggage . Consider these the travel gear staples to bring on your next trip – and all your future holidays after that.

  • A trusted tote
  • A travel wash bag
  • Packing cubes
  • Jewellery case
  • Reusable travel bottles
  • Hydrating skincare products
  • A portable charger
  • A power adapter
  • A luggage scale
  • A way to find your luggage
  • An e-reader
  • A portable fan
  • A portable steamer
  • An eye mask
  • A neck pillow
  • A shawl or blanket
  • Hand sanitiser and wipes
  • A reusable water bottle
  • Snack containers
  • A passport holder
  • A back-up travel bag
  • An umbrella

1. A trusted tote

A tote bag is the ideal personal item. It's roomy enough to store all your odds and ends, and everything you'd want with you during a flight, and is usually pretty pliable, meaning you can squeeze it under the seat without taking up all of your foot room. Look for one with comfortable shoulder straps, should you overload it with snacks. A trolley sleeve is a nice feature, too, so you can slide it over your suitcase while cruising through the airport.

best travel accessories for japan

2. A travel wash bag

A travel wash bag is key to staying organised — and avoiding spills in your luggage. We like these options from Away and Bagsmart for their water-resistant materials and ample space for your toothbrush and toothpaste, razor, soaps, and more. A hanging bag, like those below, also allows you to keep items tidy and off the bathroom counter.

best travel accessories for japan

3. Packing cubes

Don't underestimate the power of a good packing cube . Articles director Lale Arikoglu has waxed poetic about her love of Paravel's packing cubes (other editors are fans of Away's set ), which come in a range of sizes to store everything from bathing suits and socks to T-shirts.

best packing cubes

4. Jewellery case

A rule to live by: never check your valuables, especially jewellery. Keep necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings safe and neatly organised inside a jewellery case. We like Monica Vinader's for smaller accessories; if you're packing sunglasses and watches, you'll want something slightly bigger, like this Smythson option.

best travel accessories for japan

5. Reusable travel bottles

Rather than buy plastic travel-sized toiletries , get yourself a set of leakproof travel bottles that allow you to bring your at-home favourites on the go. They're great for storing toiletries and beauty products, and tubs can also be used to keep small items like jewellery or vitamins.

best travel accessories for japan

6. Hydrating skincare products

Even if you're not the type of person with a multi-step in-flight skincare routine , a few basics can go a long way in keeping your skin happy and healthy after a long day of travel. Since hand sanitiser remains a travel essential, a hand balm to apply once or twice a day is equally important to keep them moisturised. Aesop's smells incredible, and will last for several trips to come — a little bit of the thick, creamy balm goes a long way. Don't forget a hydrating lip balm, either.

best travel accessories for japan

7. A portable charger

There's nothing like a dead battery to slow down a trip. Keep all your accessories charged up with a power bank — Anker is our favourite, but iWalk's mini charger is a great option if you're short on space.

best travel accessories for japan

8. A power adapter

For international travel, a power adapter is a must to make sure you can get devices charged up in the airport and your hotel room. Apple's World Travel Adapter Kit comes with seven AC plugs with prongs that fit into different electrical outlets around the world, and each one is labelled with the regions they are compatible with. (As for compatibility, it works with Apple USB-C power adapters; MagSafe and MagSafe 2 power adapters; 10W, 12W, 30 and 35W USB ports; and portable power adapters.) We also recommend this Bluetooth converter , which lets you use your regular cordless earbuds to watch a movie in flight.

best travel accessories for japan

9. Headphones

Whether the plan is to listen to music, watch a movie, or just drown out noisy neighbours, most of us won't board a plane without headphones. Make sure you have your go-to on hand, plus a pair of corded earbuds (if you don't have one of these Bluetooth adapters ).

best travel accessories for japan

10. A luggage scale

Give yourself some added peace of mind with a digital luggage scale; it’ll let you know how much damage your souvenirs did before arriving at the check-in counter on the way home.

best travel accessories for japan

11. A way to find your luggage

Speaking of luggage, the Tile Pro and Apple AirTags can help locate lost bags (or wallets, or keys, depending on what you attach it to). In fact, a luggage tracker is one of the items contributor Harrison Pierce wishes he had when he began travelling full-time .

best travel accessories for japan

12. An e-reader

Even travellers with a library full of books at home have to admit it: E-readers are an essential travel accessory for bookworms . They are so much lighter than even one paperback book, and let you bring as many options as you want along for the ride.

best travel accessories for japan

13. A portable fan

If you're headed somewhere warm, or just tend to run hot, do yourself a favour and pack a portable fan. Whether you choose a handheld option or one you can wrap around your neck, it'll give you the breeze you need whether you're in the back of a crowded bus or van, standing in line at Disneyland, or kicking back in a beach chair .

best travel accessories for japan

14. A portable steamer

If you're travelling to a wedding or heading out on a business trip, you may want to bring a portable steamer along to make sure your formalwear looks its best after you take it out of your suitcase. Traveller contributor Erinne Magee put nine travel steamers to the test to find out which ones are the best options for travellers — below are two of her favourites.

best travel accessories for japan

15. A tech kit

All of those tech items mean you're going to have plenty of charging cubes and cables to keep track of. Save space in your backpack — and save yourself the headache of digging through your bag — by keeping everything wrapped up in a tech kit like the ones below.

best travel accessories for japan

16. An eye mask

For a comfortable journey at 30,000 feet — especially one where you hope to get some shut-eye —an eye mask is crucial. For more help sleeping, try the Bluetooth sleep headband recommended by US contributor Iona Brannon, which lets you listen to music or white noise without anything in or around your ears; in a pinch it can even double as an eye mask, she says.

best travel accessories for japan

17. A neck pillow

Another comfort essential: a travel pillow . It can take some time to find the style you like best, and your pick might vary depending on whether you're in-flight or in a car. Two we like: The classic memory foam wraparound neck pillow, which can be tightened or loosened per your preference, and the innovative fleecy neck wrap recommended by commerce writer Charley Ward .

best travel accessories for japan

18. Cosy socks

We love a good pair of compression socks to fight that pins-and-needles feeling that comes from sitting still for too long, be it on a long-haul flight  or a road trip . For those who prefer a cosier option, we recommend socks from Barefoot Dreams .

Ostrich Pillow, Compression Socks

19. Earplugs

When you need some peace and quiet, swap your noise-cancelling headphones in for earplugs. This set comes with multiple sizes, so you can find the right fit, and share with any family members you're travelling with.

best travel accessories for japan

20. A shawl or blanket

For those who run cold, an oversized scarf will get plenty of use in transit, and can even double as a blanket. Opt for a quality material you can pack for years to come, like cashmere.

best travel accessories for japan

21. Hand sanitiser and wipes

As for general wellness, hand sanitiser is a must — buy a set and drop one in all your most-used totes and sling bags so you're never without. Some biodegradable wipes are nice to have on hand too, especially if you're travelling with little ones .

best travel accessories for japan

22. A reusable water bottle

Rounding out our collection of the best travel accessories are some odds and ends, like a good reusable water bottle, so you can stop buying overpriced bottles at the airport (and be kinder to the environment).

best travel accessories for japan

23. Snack containers

If overpriced airport snacks aren't your jam, come prepared by filling reusable Stasher bags with popcorn, crackers, fruit, or whatever else you'd like in-flight before you leave your house. A reusable utensil set is another nice-to-have travel accessory that'll allow you to turn down the plastic cutlery you might be handed in the airport or elsewhere on the road. The spoon and chopsticks are particularly TSA-friendly (while utensils are technically allowed through security , it's at the discretion of the agent if they'll let plastic knives or forks).

best travel accessories for japan

24. A passport holder

Also handy: a high-quality passport holder (bonus points if it has space to hold your credit cards) to keep your most important document protected. Aspinal's can be personalised with your initials for an added £20.

best travel accessories for japan

25. A back-up travel bag

For trips where you plan to shop, something lightweight, like Paravel's Fold-Up Bag or Baggu's Cloud Bag , is a smart addition to your packing list. Stuff it with souvenirs on your way home, or use it for overnight or weekend trips within a longer holiday.

best travel accessories for japan

26. A travel umbrella

Depending on your destination, a travel-size umbrella might be worth the space in your luggage. And if you're driving, tossing one in the backseat is a no-brainer. Contributor Claire Volkman tested out around a dozen options on our US sister site to determine which are the sturdiest and most compact. Shop two of her favourites, both available in the UK, below.

best travel accessories for japan

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I Just Spent 2 Weeks in Japan, and These 5 Items Made Packing a Breeze

Caitlin Burnett

Regardless of how often I travel, I always find packing particularly stressful. I'm someone who likes to dress according to my mood, which is nearly impossible to predict 14 days into the future and in another country. Suffice it to say, I was feeling the stress when I set out to pack for a two-week trip to Japan in the middle of winter, during which I would be skiing and exploring the cities. Trying to narrow down my packing list to fit everything into one suitcase was quite the undertaking, but I returned feeling pretty proud of my choices.

What I've come to realize about packing is that as long as I have the basics of my outfits covered, everything else can be more flexible depending on how I feel in the moment. For this trip specifically, that meant a great coat, comfortable footwear, and warm accessories . Since returning from said trip, I can confirm there were five items I packed that completely streamlined the rest of the outfit planning and packing. These five items acted as the backbone of my Japan wardrobe, allowing me to build most of my outfits around them. Below, I'm sharing the best travel packing tips I learned by highlighting the five items that carried me during this trip.

1. LEATHER TRENCH

When I say my coat was my outfit for 95% of the trip, I'm not exaggerating. Japan is quite chilly this time of year, so my favorite leather trench coat was wrapped around my body the entire time, making my outfit underneath almost irrelevant. If you're headed on a winter trip, choose your coat wisely, as it's going to do the heavy lifting in the outfit department. I packed the below Nour Hammour coat, and it was my hero piece of the trip.

This one helped with both the physical act of packing and the trip itself. My large tote bag allowed me to bring extra stuff on the plane and then acted as my daytime bag while roaming around Japan to house all of my essentials and purchases throughout the day. I brought a small evening bag in addition to the tote, and it was the perfect bag combination.

3. STRAIGHT-LEG JEANS

Jeans are a no-brainer on a trip, and to me, a straight-leg silhouette is the most versatile. They can be paired with any shoe style and get better the more you wear them. If you can believe it, I only brought one pair of jeans with me to Japan and would actually recommend it.

4. SNEAKERS

People warned me to bring comfortable shoes, and they were not kidding. I was walking over 20k steps a day in Japan, so sneakers were my best friend. I brought other shoes with me, but to be honest, they rarely left my suitcase. My sneakers were the real MVPs of the trip, and while I personally chose my favorite pair of New Balances, any comfortable sneakers will suffice.

5. COZY ACCESSORIES

Since I was in Japan during the peak of winter, cozy accessories were absolutely essential. Plush scarves, leather gloves, and hats of all forms ensured I would be warm and comfortable while roaming around all day, no matter what the weather threw at us. Knowing my outfits would mostly consist of my coat and these accessories took the stress out of outfit planning.

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best travel accessories for japan

Don't Leave Home Without the Best Travel Accessories

best travel accessories for japan

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Packing for a trip gets infinitely less stressful when you’ve got a trusted arsenal of travel accessories. In fact, you may even look forward to putting your travel accessory kit back after a trip, knowing that it will be there waiting in all of its organized glory when you embark on your next journey. Finding the perfect travel accessories is another story—but we’re here to help. 

Part of a successful vacation is feeling comfortable, no matter where you may find yourself. That can be hard when you have limited space for the essentials, let alone the items that will make you feel right at home, no matter which hotel room you find yourself in. Luckily, the travel-sized accessory market is enormous. So big that even beginning to look for some permanent fixtures for your accessory kit is an arduous task. So, go into these recommendations knowing that our goal is to set you up with a foolproof set of items that will really come in handy.

From the best travel blanket and the most comfortable pillow to noise-canceling headphones and a chic passport wallet, we touched on every essential you could reach for.

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best travel pillow, trtl travel pillow.

Easy to pack

Lightweight

Machine washable

Wearing it takes some getting used to

Not great for tall people

The Trtl Travel Pillow is a frequent traveler favorite for a reason. This travel pillow is applauded for its excellent design, but putting it on does take some getting used to. Unlike other travel pillows, you can’t slip it around your neck and go. A Velcro patch allows you to wear this more like a scarf, with the plastic inner structure keeping your neck and chin propped up. While our tester dealt with some confusion trying out the travel pillow for the first time—for example, it was unclear that the pillow is only meant for the left side of your face—she was impressed by the comfort. The fleece cover is machine-washable, something our tester loved, and the entire thing weighs mere ounces.

Best Charger

Anker store powercore 10000 pd redux.

Sleek design

Quick charging power

Single USB charging port

This charger from Anker may be small, but it packs a lot of power. You’ll get more than one charge out of this device for some of your tech. More specifically, it’ll charge an iPhone XS and Galaxy S10 twice and an iPad mini 5 once. The overall design is much sleeker than some competitors, with a matte black finish and a simple LED indicator light to tell you when your device is fully charged. For smaller devices, the charger uses something called trickle-charging mode. This delivers smaller bursts of power for smaller devices without damage.

Best Blanket

Travelrest travel blanket.

Inexpensive

Full coverage

Cozy, plush material

A bit bulky

If there’s one thing that could make a long, frigid flight a little cozier, it’s a blanket that doubles as a full-body sweater. The Wrap 4-in-1 Travel Blanket from Travelrest also acts as a pillow when stuffed into its travel case, lumbar support, or use its carrying case as an additional space for storing travel essentials. The best part is that it’s easy to wear as a full-body blanket—you won’t have to wiggle in and out of it or disturb your seatmates in the process.

Best Umbrella

Repel windproof travel umbrella.

Small footprint

Small coverage area

If there’s one thing that will set apart a travel umbrella from the rest, it’s whether or not it’s windproof. This is a feature you didn’t know you needed until you really need it. This travel umbrella from Repel is not only small enough to toss into any carry-on bag, but it’s coated in Teflon and designed with resin-reinforced fiberglass ribs to keep the structure sound through the strongest of gusts. Our tester found that this umbrella withstood strong winds and dried quickly, and the thoughtful design makes it easy to open and close.

Best Hand Sanitizer

Dr. bronner's organic hand sanitizer spray.

Great scent

Made with organic ingredients

Smell is too strong for some

If the sharp smell of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is something you can’t stand in an open-air environment, chances are you’ll be kicking yourself for spraying it mid-flight. That’s where this delightfully scented hand sanitizer from Dr. Bronner’s comes into play. The lavender spray goes a long way and comes in packs of two or six bottles. In fact, it smells so good it could double as an air freshener. Plus, it ditches the harsh chemicals that dry out your hands while still maintaining the power to kill as many germs as the more industrial hand sanitizers.

Best Passport Wallet

Leatherology deluxe passport cover.

Courtesy of Leatherology

Personalization options

17 color options

Full grain leather

Not a lot of space in pockets

Leatherology makes high-quality, affordably priced leather goods, and their passport covers do not disappoint. This case has two pockets, one of which is for your passport, and four credit card slots. While there are plenty of pockets, some reviewers note they are a bit small, making removing and replacing cards difficult. There are 17 colors to choose from, including options with RFID-blocking or premium leather, which cost a bit extra. The 11 standard colors cost $70, and all use soft, full-grain leather, and the passport wallet can be customized with debossing or handpainted leather for an additional fee.

Best Compression Socks

Physix gear sport compression socks.

Bold design

Compression socks can be tricky: Find a pair that’s too tight, and you’ll keep yourself up the entire flight. But wear a too loose pair, and you’ll miss out on all of the benefits (less swelling, sore muscle relief, and better blood circulation). These compression socks from Physix Gear Sport use a stretchy yet durable Lycra fabric that hugs your leg. Because they’re so breathable, you won’t be trapped with a claustrophobic feeling mid-flight. Our tester noted that the socks reduced swelling even after a short wear without leaving marks. Though, like many compression socks, they can be a bit difficult to get on.

Best Tote Bag

Baggu cloud bag.

Limited color options

There are countless situations in which you would be thanking yourself for tossing a tote bag into your suitcase. That tote bag should be Baggu’s Cloud Bag, which looks fantastic and would pass as an everyday bag and is highly durable, thanks to recycled heavyweight nylon. You can fit an entire change of clothing, a laptop, all your travel accessories, and more (probably) inside it. Plus, it packs down into its own travel pouch and comes in four different colors.

Best Packing Cubes

Calpak packing cubes 5-piece set.

Great storage space

Great color options

Material could be more durable

Packing cubes are what separate the seasoned traveler from the newbies. Investing in a solid set can help you add multiple outfits' worth of space back into your luggage. This five-piece packing cube set from Calpak comes in 12 colors and prints. Each set includes a 17-inch cube, a 15-inch cube, two 12-inch cubes, and a 13-inch cube. For those who value organization above all, there's also a spot where you can drop in a hand-written organizing label.

Best Toiletry Bag

Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag.

Double handle for easy carrying

Design isn’t the most sleek

There are all kinds of toiletry bags but find one that hangs, and you’ll be thanking yourself for years of vacations to come. This bag from Bagsmart can be easily hung from a shower or a bathroom hook, meaning you don’t have to overload the sink space with all your toiletries. Available in five colors, each bag has five units for storage: two zippered pouch units and two larger storage units with zippered pouches and slots for smaller items. The primary units are designed to keep bottles upright.

Best Noise-Canceling Headphones

Bose quietcomfort 35 ii headphones.

Different noise cancelation levels

Great design

Long battery life

These Bose headphones have three levels of noise cancellation power built into them. You can choose if you want to completely tune out, eavesdrop on the conversation behind you, or hold (at least part of a conversation) while still wearing them. They’re easily packed thanks to a compact travel case and can run for 20 hours off a single charge.

What to Look for When Buying Travel Accessories

Before filling your travel accessory wishlist, think about the luggage you commonly use. If you’re a carry-on bag traveler, you will inevitably have less space to work with. Do you often check a bag when you fly? Buy some packing cubes and make even more space for your travel essentials.

Stress Triggers

Before making your list of necessary travel essentials, ask yourself: What stresses me most about traveling? What do I miss the most when I’m on the road? Let this gut check lead the way for your shopping list. If the fear of oversleeping is a big stressor, for example, then a reliable travel alarm clock could be essential. Just remember: Packing too many things can be just as stressful as not packing enough.

Some travel essentials will be an investment, like noise-canceling headphones, and others, like a TSA-approved lock, won’t be. Make sure and prioritize the items you’ll get the most use of, and weigh your shopping list accordingly.

Accessories vary between travelers, but comfort will be a priority on long-haul flights. A good pair of noise-canceling headphones, compression socks, and a travel pillow or blanket will go a long way.

Good travel accessories depend on your trip, but generally, a power bank, luggage lock, hand sanitizer, and travel pillow are good for every vacation.

If you expect to use an accessory during a flight (like a blanket, headphones, or neck pillow), put it in your item underneath the seat for easy access. Accessories like power banks, compression socks, or hand sanitizer are also best kept in a carry-on.

Erika Owen is a frequent traveler with her own dependable stable of travel essentials (noise-canceling headphones, a travel pillow, a tech charger, hand sanitizer, and two tote bags). More than six hours of research went into this story, particularly around suggesting a range of travel essentials that will prove to be the most useful while traveling. She also has reviewed the Trtl Pillow and Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks on this list.

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best travel accessories items to pack

This is a list of useful travel accessories to make your life easier when you are on the road. How many have you got already?

Let me start by saying I’ve seen many articles about “must-have” travel accessories out there that made me laugh out loud. These list-of-things-you-must-have-but-actually-you-dont-need-at-all include everything from wine bags and tampon flash drives – to luxury camping hammocks (WTF).

This list is for the everyday traveler, with actually useful stuff.

I’ve already addressed some of them on resources page and on my online shop . Now I’ll be more detailed. The travel accessories below are supposed to save you either space, time and/or money and make perfect Christmas or birthday gifts.

best travel accessories items backpacker

🧳 Best travel accessories to keep you organized

1 document organizer.

Let’s start with THE most important thing you carry on a trip. Nope, it’s not your laptop nor your mobile. It’s your documentation, especially your passport . Keep your documents tidy and safe is a must.

If you’ve no idea what to get, a basic Amazon organizer does the job.

best travel accessories rfid travel organizer documents

Amazon Basics RFID Travel Organizer

Compact, secure and with lots of space for all documents and cards.

2 Packing Cubes

I’m a mess at packing. Once I arrive at my destination, my luggage quickly becomes chaotic piles of clothing. Not to mention finding specific items is almost impossible.

That’s why I’m not exaggerating when I say this was one of my best travel purchases EVER. These little helpers makes any packing – and unpacking too – much more tidy and neat. A must for any modern traveler.

best travel accessories for japan

Set of 6 Packing Cubes

Say goodbye to messy packing. 3 different sizes to pack your clothes.

3 Travel Bottles

Oh, the enjoyable security lines in airports where everyone is forced to show off their guts and keep liquids to ridiculously tiny amounts. This is where travel bottles can be of huge help and save some money.

Note: The standard in airports worldwide is for containers in carry-on bags to not surpass the 100mL / 3.4 oz of liquid each.

best travel accessories for japan

Oursunshine Squeezable Travel Bottles

Pretty much any container with the right capacity will do, but squeezable ones like this set have extra points for functionality.

4 Digital Organizer

Don’t you find it astonishing the amount of SD Cards, cables, plugs, adaptors and accessories we need to pack nowadays? Usually, one of the pockets in my backpack is exclusively dedicated to these “accessories of accessories”, but it soon can become a huge mess.

Unfortunately this potential mess won’t be over soon in 2019. An electronics’ organizer helps keeping everything neat and organized. Look for an waterproof one like this to add extra protection.

5 Duffel Bag

I only use trolleys or conventional luggage in short urban getaways. In most destinations, carrying a backpack or duffel bag is more comfortable, convenient and efficient than a luggage.

On my article about backpacking in Asia , I have a whole section about the important features to look for in backpacks .

For my trip to Japan , I recently bought this The North Face’s duffel bag . You can use it both as a handbag and as a backpack which makes it super versatile.

best travel accessories for japan

The North Face Base Camp Duffel-Medium

My most recent purchase for smaller trips. Absolutely love the build quality and material of this thing. It doesn’t come cheap, but it doubles as backpack and is durable and comfortable on your back. Several sizes too.

6 Day Backpack

best travel accessories items backpack backpacker

Whether you’re going urban or rural, to a beach or to a mountain, a backpack is essential to carry the usual vacation stuff throughout your day.

Make sure you go for an unassuming (and basic?) backpack on the outside, but functional on the inside. This one is a good example . This way you can keep your stuff organized without drawing attention to precious stuff like laptops or DSLR cameras.

Amazon travel items accessories geeky explorer

Geeky Explorer Travel Shop

My travel shop on Amazon with all you need for a smart and hassle-free travel.

📱 Essential Gadgets

7 international travel adapter.

Depending on where your destination is, this can be essential. A good adapter will provide you with all the possible outlets worldwide, ensuring you always stay charged abroad.

best travel accessories for japan

Universal Travel Adapter

Essential for a modern traveler. What I love about this particular adapter is that comes with 4 USB ports, so you can potentially charge 5 devices at the same time. Works in 150+ countries.

8 Multi USB Charger

If the previous item has not enough 5 USB ports, invest in a multi-USB port. Let’s be honest, it’s the 21st century – who hasn’t faced the true first-world problem of not having enough power outlets to charge all the devices? Some hotel rooms are scarce in outlets and simply can’t deal with all the charging needs of a modern day traveler.

With the USB port type on the rise across gadgets, this problem will just become more frequent. A multi-USB hub charger can be the solution, particularly if you’re traveling in a group.

Tip: to future-proof this purchase, look for USB 3.0 ports, like this one:

best travel accessories usb wall charger

6-Port USB Wall Charger

Conveniently charge all your devices at once with this compact USB hub. One of the 6 ports is equipped with a fast USB charging technology (up to 4X faster than standard chargers).

9 Mobile WiFi Hotspot

Since I’m always traveling with a lot of gadgets or within a group, getting all the devices connected is a HUGE first world problem. A mobile router unlocked to all networks is a game changer: reliable, easy to use, and a potential huge money-saver.

An important thing to look at is the list of frequencies the device supports. Mobile operators in each country use different ones and their SIM card will only work in that range of frequencies. My previous hotspot didn’t work with ANY operator when I traveled to the US!

best travel accessories huawei mobile hotspot

HUAWEI 4G LTE Mobile WiFi Router

Put any SIM card in the world inside and it will share the data across all your devices via WiFi (up to 10!). The battery lasts 12 hours of working. Can’t recommend it enough!

10 Power Bank

Even though we are planning to send men to colonize Mars, for some reason manufacturers still refuse to launch phones, cameras and other devices with batteries lasting for days. Result: everyone needs extra juice when on the road.

Invest in a compact and potent device. Everything below 10,000mAh is pretty much not worth it – remember they tend to lose capacity over time. Here’s a list of power banks to get you started.

what to pack southeast asia power bank

Portable Charger Anker PowerCore 26800mAh

With a 26,800 mAh capacity, this power bank is guaranteed to give you battery to charge your devices for days.

🤖 Best travel accessories to keep you healthy

11 hand sanitizer gel.

You may not realize, but you touch all kinds of stuff when you’re traveling. Most food poisoning cases are caused by dirty hands rather than the food itself, which makes me feel a bit uneasy! Since I knew this, I started traveling with a gel like this .

This is the first layer of protection you have for viruses and bacteria. Now that the world is facing a pandemic, keeping your hands clean is a must.

what to pack southeast asia hand sanitizer gel

Fresh Monster Hand Sanitizer

Unscented 70% Ethyl Alcohol hand sanitizer. Comes in a pack of 3 travel-sized bottles.

12 Mosquito Repellent

It’s no exaggeration to say a good mosquito repellent is one of the best things any traveler should invest, especially if you’re going to tropical countries. I mean it CAN SAVE LIVES. Tip: pick one with high DEET content, like this one below.

best travel accessories mosquito repellent

Ben’s 100% DEET Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent

Offers 10+ hours of protection and contains 100% DEET, recommended for protection against mosquitos, ticks, and biting insects. This was a lifesaver in Thailand’s islands !

13 Melatonin

Melatonin regulates the sleep and your day cycle. Its levels basically determine when your body is ready for sleep. When you travel, this balance can be very quickly disrupted.

When you’re switching continents, this can be great to quickly adjust to a different timezone and minimize jet lag. Kids or perhaps even grown ups – why not? – have the gummy bear version which I’m a bit obsessed about.

best travel accessories melatonin tablets

Natrol Melatonin

This 100% plant-based supplement can help you to achieve a good night’s sleep, no matter where you are.

📸 Photo & Video

14 digital camera.

Smartphone cameras are getting incredibly powerful year after year and have the advantage of being lighter and more user-friendly. One day they will be able to fully replace a digital camera.

That day hasn’t come yet. DSLR and mirrorless cameras are still superior in some aspects, such as optical zoom. If you are into photography and want to take top-notch pictures, you should consider investing in an extra camera.

Now of course there are cameras (and lenses) for all budgets, but for traveling size does matter so aim to buy something compact and light. I had my old Nikon Coolpix p610 for years because of its 60x optical zoom, but the new version is even more powerful: 83x optical zoom! .

what to pack southeast asia nikon coolpix p900

Nikon COOLPIX p900 Digital Camera

With a fantastic 83x zoom, this camera is great for close-ups, something your smartphone simply can’t do.

best travel accessories for japan

Sony Alpha a6000 Camera

Smaller than most DSLRs, taking staggering 24MP photos and very intuitive to use with WiFi and NFC connectivity, this is a great camera for beginners.

15 GoPro Camera

I once thought a GoPro was only for snowboarders or crazy people who jump out of buildings.

I got to say I’ve been amazed by the versatility and creative potential of this little action camera. Since it’s so compact and easy to function, you can also create cool-looking videos of more standard vacations (no more shaky videos!).

Anyway here are my favorite uses of a GoPro camera so far:

  • Dynamic activities – whether you’re surfing, skiing or zip-lining , there’s nothing better than a GoPro to capture the moment. Underwater videos also look DOPE.
  • Big attractions – monuments like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or the Burj Khalifa in Dubai are impossible to fit the frame of a single photo/video. Until you use a GoPro.
  • Memory videos – if the hundreds of photos you take on your trip remain on a folder in your computer they’re just worthless. And if you decide to show them to family and friends you’re just killing them of boredom. A short dynamic video made of GoPro clips is fun, engaging and enjoyable.

best travel accessories for japan

GoPro Hero 9 Black

GoPro improved the video stabilization and the voice control and you can still take 12MP photos and film 4K HD videos. It’s now also completely waterproof (up to 10 meters).

🔒 Best travel accessories to keep you safe

16 money belt.

best travel accessories items money belt

Keeping your belongings safe is a major concern whenever you’re going to less safe places. Personally, it was useful in the craziness of Naples and specially in Rio de Janeiro, where safety is the #1 concern .

The thing is: any big city nowadays suffer from pickpocketing and bag-snatching issues at some level. A money belt is an inexpensive way to keep your pocket money and even some documents invisible at all times.

17 Padlocks

It’s often overlooked and one of those things you don’t realize it’s useful until you need it. Depending on where you’re heading, a padlock can be tricky to find. It’s a simple way to add an extra layer of safety whenever you are away from your stuff.

I especially recommend packing one if you tend to stay in hostels or need to ditch your luggage between check-out and your flight back home.

18 Security Camera

items travel accessories nest security camera

Nowadays there are plenty of options for affordable home security cameras that send you email or phone notifications whenever there’s movement detected.

The most popular is Nest with a range of outdoor and indoor solutions. Extra peace of mind and allows you to take quick action if unwelcome visitors decide to show up.

💆‍♂️ Best travel accessories to keep you comfy

19 microfiber towel.

Some of the accommodation places I’ve stayed in don’t provide bathing towels. When they did, they charged for them as a first-necessity item they are.

A simple microfiber towel like this one does the job, does not occupy much volume and dries super quickly. Plus, it can double as a little blanket! Particularly useful if you’re traveling Asia .

best travel accessories for japan

Rainleaf Microfiber Towel

In spite of its tiny size, it absorbs water effectively and dries fast afterwards. Super handy while you’re traveling.

20 Compression Socks

Not only compression socks keep your feet warm, they also improve your blood circulation and make your legs feel less tired after much sitting or standing. It’s not the most stylish of accessories but they can make all the difference in that long-haul flight.

21 Water Purifier Bottle

A water purifier bottle is an obvious asset to have in third-world countries where tap water is not drinkable.

But even in countries where tap water is drinkable , having an extra purifying bottle is useful. Apart from avoiding always have to shop for plastic water bottles, it’s much more environmentally conscious. I predict this travel item will become more and more of a thing amongst travelers in 2022.

what to pack southeast asia water bottle

GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle

This bottle makes clean drinking water in only 15 seconds from any fresh water source. Oh and removes chemicals and 99.999% of most viruses, bacteria (including E.Coli) and cysts in the process.

22 Travel Pillow

The first time I flew to Thailand I arrived drousy, sleepy, and with severe neck pain after my long-haul flight. Definitely not my most glamorous moment.

If you’re taking a flight longer then 4 hours, strongly consider something to support your neck while you rest. It can really make a difference for your posture and energy when you get to the new place.

best travel accessories travel pillow

TravelRest Travel Pillow

This pillow has a superior design which doesn’t force your neck to come forward like in other pillows. Plus, it’s compressible which means you can carry it lightly throughout your trip.

23 Ear Plugs

A set of ear plugs can be useful for that loud hostel, when you want to escape the world for a few moments at a crowded airport, or, my favorite use case, for flights. It’s hard to rest up when there’s people talking, flight attendants passing by, and children crying all the time. Let’s not talk about the time I felt like murdering a crying child during my 4-hour flight to Cape Verde .

Additionally, these ear plugs below are designed to deal with in-flight ear pressure due to the changes in altitude.

best travel accessories ear plugs

Mack’s Ear Plugs

Regulates air pressure due to altitude changes in your ears, while it keeps noise levels down. A must if you want to relax on your flight.

🤖 Best travel accessories to keep you entertained

24 noise cancelling headphones.

A GOOD pair of headphones is an investment few regret to make. It can help you focus and in the context of a trip, improve your travel experience. If you’re seeking a pair, go for the noise-cancelling headphones, extremely useful in loud environments like a plane or a train.

Some of my favorite brands right now are BOSE and Beats.

best travel accessories bose noise cancelling headphones

BOSE Noise-Cancelling Headphones

These over-ear phones are some of the best in the market right now. 3 levels of noise cancellation, seamless Bluetooth pairing, and even with built-in Alexa assistant.

best travel accessories beats noise cancelling headphones

Beats Studio3 Noise Canceling Headphones

Premium listening experience, adaptive noise cancelling, and up to 22 hours of battery life. You can’t go wrong with Beats.

25 Headphone Jack Splitter

Even though the tendency is Bluetooth phones, sadly shared-Bluetooth isn’t a (mainstream) feature yet. How to make two or more people listen to the same music, podcast, or movie in the good’n’old audio jack?

A jack splitter basically shares the sounds between 2 (or more) headphone sets, so you can watch that movie with your SO or friend sitting next to you. It can also be useful to share audioguides of attractions and museums.

best travel accessories items ipad tablet

Tablets are getting thinner and lighter which makes them a great alternative to packing a bulky laptop. It’s perfect to watch movies, plan your daily itinerary or even sketch/draw landscapes you don’t get to see every day. Not to mention take advantage of some cool and useful travel apps . Just please don’t use it to take photos, that just looks silly.

Make no mistake: an iPad is not for everyone. If you’re looking to disconnect on your travels, you should look into taking the least amount of gadgets possible.

On the other hand, if you’re doing a longer trip but still don’t want to take your laptop, an iPad can be very useful. From my experience, they blow out the competition in reliability and CPU power.

Which iPad to get?

The iPad Pro might be too much (in both size and specs) for the standard traveler but you can’t go wrong with either the iPad Air  or its smaller brother, the iPad mini 4 .

what to pack southeast asia ipad

Apple iPad Air with WiFi 64 GB

Your computer away from home! The 10.9″ liquid Retina display is guaranteed to give you many hours of entertainment on the road.

27 Amazon Kindle

If you are into reading, a Kindle is a great option to bring lots of books with you without occupying much space.

I recently got into the habit of reading books during my travels which is great to 1) pass time on trains and planes 2) learn new perspectives on the country’s culture.

best travel accessories for japan

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

The Paperwhite version is waterproof and has a 300 dpi glare-free display allowing you to read on the beach and in bed at night. Plus, a single battery lasts weeks!

Extra: For the ones left behind

As important as the items to bring with you, are the things that can you save a lot of trouble back at home.

First of all, don’t forget the members of the family left behind! Pet feeders are great for cats, rabbits and hamsters when you’re away for a short period of time.

Don’t neglect plants too. A plant waterer can avoid you getting back home to a dry foliage show.

My travel shop on Amazon with all you need for a smart and hassle-free travel. Visit now >>

More useful travel tips

  • My List of Online Resources For A Smart Travel
  • How To Find Secret Hotel Rooms
  • My Favorite Travel Tips Ever
  • How To Travel Without Money
  • What to Pack to Backpack Through Asia

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My travel tips valid anywhere

  • 🏨 To find the best deals and book your stay with free cancellation, I recommend Booking.com (from my experience, often cheaper than Airbnb)
  • 🚗 Always compare car rental prices before you book anything (and if possible use local rental shops!)
  • ☑️ Travel insurance is a must these days – don’t overlook it! I recommend Allianz or Safety Wing if you’re always on the go
  • 💰 Use Revolut to save in exchange rates and payments abroad; it’s a game-changer!
  • ⚙️ Amazon has the largest offer in travel gear, clothing, and accessories – check out my Travel Store !
  • ✈️ Are you dealing with a delayed or cancelled flight? Airhelp may help you get a compensation for it!
What are the best travel accessories for you? What can’t you travel without? Share your favorites so I can add them to the list!

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Whether you’re crammed in economy class or on a long drive, these gadgets and accessories will make the time pass quickly.

best travel accessories

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or you save up for one trip every few years, chances are you already know that what you pack impacts your comfort, your enjoyment, and, perhaps most important, your stress levels both while traveling and when you’ve actually settled in at your new destination. That’s why it’s critical to pack useful, helpful travel accessories. Take the wrong ones, and you may find yourself carrying extra weight for gear you never end up using.

As a full-time travel writer, I enjoy the wonderful perk of being able to travel quite a bit. While chasing down stories, I’ve stayed in five-star suites in the Maldives and slept on the top bunk of a 15-hour budget sleeper train in Vietnam . So I’ve experienced quite a variety of travel conditions while using what’s likely hundreds of travel accessories in the process.

Over time, I’ve been able to narrow down my must-have travel accessories to include a perfect blend of ones that are useful, easy to carry, and multifunctional. For example, a packable mini- backpack can serve as a lightweight bag for day hikes or as an extra carry-on if you buy too much abroad.

These are the 23 best travel accessories I recommend to all my friends planning their next weekend or bucket-list getaways.

Best Travel Accessories

  • Best In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Adapter: Twelve South AirFly Pro
  • Best Travel Footrest: Airplane Footrest
  • Best Cord Organizer for Small Items: Bellroy Classic Pouch
  • Best Containers for Toiletries: Cadence Weekender Bundle
  • Best Blanket for Cold Flights: Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket
The Expert: I’m a freelance travel writer and editor who usually focuses on adventure travel. That’s led me to take some pretty lengthy flight patterns (most recently, 54 hours of travel on the way to Rwanda) and fairly remote road trips (through central Alaska). But traveling frequently doesn't mean anything goes. Like everyone else, I have my personal annoyances while traveling: I get cold easily, I’m sensitive to noise when sleeping in new places, and I always need to be able to work on-the-go. What all of that means is that my experience with travel accessories isn’t just about finding those that make flights more comfortable, but also those that improve my productivity, help me enjoy myself in new destinations, and make packing as painless as possible. I think I've used just about every type of travel product out there, and truly feel the ones I have selected are the best of the best.

What to Consider When Buying Travel Accessories

The best travel accessories eliminate the inconveniences and annoyances of life on-the-go. For me, this includes headphones that drown out engine noise (or crying babies), containers that allow me to bring my favorite soap and shampoo on flights, and anything that makes long trips more comfortable. Consider what you value most and look for accessories in that space.

No matter what you’re in the market for, don’t overlook size, especially for liquids. The TSA limits your liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) per container and prefers them all packed into one quart-size bag. As for luggage, make sure any travel bags you intend to carry on are no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and checked bags no heavier than 50 pounds. Even if you aren’t checking a suitcase, you’ll have an easier, more comfortable experience with less to lug around. Most of the accessories below are relatively lightweight, but they’ll add a few pounds combined.

Finally, a word on price. Some travelers don’t want to spend too much money on items they might accidentally leave in a seat-back pocket, whereas other people tend to take better care of things that cost more. I generally recommend ruling out the very cheapest items in most categories, lest you find your shampoo bottle started leaking mid-flight.

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How We Selected These Travel Accessories

orvis packable jacket

In addition to my own experiences using these products as a travel writer and gear tester, I weighed consumer reviews, investigated market research, and did a thorough evaluation of each product's price, features, and overall value. If you’re looking for stuff to make your next trip easier and more comfortable, start with these recommendations.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

AirFly Pro

Given how small and lightweight this Bluetooth adapter is, I make sure to pack it for every flight where I expect to watch a movie. The adapter plugs into airplane screens and pairs via Bluetooth so you can use your preferred noise-canceling earphones with the in-flight entertainment.

It has excellent battery life, but the connection does suffer from some lag. I’ve noticed a very slight audio delay in older planes—and you may need a two-prong adapter on older entertainment systems.

If you plan to use the AirFly only for sending audio to your headphones, you can get by with the less-expensive AirFly Classic, which has slightly better battery life. But if you want to use Bluetooth to send audio to the AirFly (for example, to play audio from your phone in a car without built-in Bluetooth), you’ll need the Pro.

Sekoess Airplane Footrest

Airplane Footrest

My foot hammock is probably the nerdiest travel accessory I own, but it's a lifesaver—or should I say leg saver. The adjustable-length hammock attaches to your airplane seat's tray table and eases pressure on your low back, knees, and glutes.

I'm much less stiff after flights when I use the foot hammock and have never noticed it bothering the person in the seat in front of me, even while making adjustments. You can also buy versions with more rigid footrests, though I find the more flexible, hammock-style footrest is easier to stuff into a carry-on.

Bellroy Classic Pouch

Classic Pouch

Whether it’s a road trip or an international flight, I always use a small, simple zippered case for my tech gear so I don’t have to fish around for it in the bottom of my bag.

Cord organizers have become trendy lately, but some have so many straps and pockets that I still have to search for the exact item I need. Instead, I just use a small case like the Bellroy Classic Pouch. Since I have a separate case for my computer charger and cord, this one has enough space for most of my other small items, including the AirFly and Bose earbuds in this roundup. It has a few basic organizational pockets and zips wide enough so you can find what you need in a hurry.

Oh, and if you want a case to fit your computer charger as well as all your other travel accessories, never fear: There’s a larger option. The Bellroy Tech Kit is deeper and longer, with a clamshell-style opening, so it can hold slightly larger accessories like computer charger cubes or a GoPro camera.

Cadence Weekender Bundle

Weekender Bundle

Carry-on-only travelers are familiar with packing small amounts of their favorite toiletries, but mini squeeze bottles make it challenging to use gels and creams that get stuck to the bottoms.

Fortunately, you can alleviate that issue with Cadence’s magnetic honeycomb-style capsules, which stick together and take up little space. These convenient containers are made from ocean plastic cleaned from beaches, and you can customize the tile labels and colors of each capsule. I recommend the six-pack for carrying both hair and skincare products, but you could connect three times that number if you so desire.

Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

NanoLoft Puffy Blanket

I carry a packable insulated blanket on almost every trip, even to tropical destinations. Aside from being useful as a plane blanket, it comes in handy in hotels where the A/C is definitely working or when there’s only a sheet on the bed.

I like the Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy Blanket since the fill is light and compressible. It’s on the smaller side at roughly 4.5-feet by 3-feet, but it’s worth the trade-off for the packability (less than 4-inches wide when packed.) I usually carry it in one of the bottle pockets on the side of my carry-on backpack.

Because it’s not a full-size blanket, the NanoLoft is best as a lap blanket on cold flights or car rides, and works well as a pillow when packed. For more coverage, consider the full-size NanoLoft (6- by 14-inches packed, $179+). I recommend getting a tiny stuff sack or compression packing cube to make it into a more manageable carry-on size.

Osprey Ultralight Stuff Pack

Ultralight Stuff Pack

The Osprey Ultralight Stuff Sack is proof that the best travel accessories don’t have to be high-tech or overly complex—just useful. This is a water-resistant, packable backpack with mesh straps, a side pocket, and one small internal pocket. That’s it.

Because it’s so simple, it folds down incredibly small to about 5- by 5- by 3-inches. I often wear it when sightseeing around a city when I don’t want to carry a purse or shoulder bag.

But even if I don’t have a plan for using it, I toss it in my luggage every time. It can come in handy when you’re packing in a hurry and can’t fit everything as neatly into your bag as you did the first time, or if you’re road tripping and want to pull over and walk to a quirky roadside attraction. Most of my other ultra-packable bags are totes, but I prefer the security of a zippable backpack.

Cabeau S3 Evolution

S3 Evolution

These pillows are phenomenal, and reviewers say they're the only way they can ever get some sleep when crammed into a middle seat.

An adjustable headrest strap keeps the pillow upright and in place, and the comfortable foam never seems to lose its shape. Though most people wear the Evolution around their neck as intended, it works well as a traditional pillow, especially considering the gap in the middle leaves room for bulky over-ear headphones.

Alongza Portable Charger

Portable Charger

I take thousands of vacation photos per trip, and often, the only camera I’m carrying is the one in my cell phone. To avoid running out of battery before getting back to my hotel room, I carry the ridiculously small Alongza charger.

It holds about two phone charges, and it won’t power bigger devices like laptops. But because it’s roughly the size of a credit card (though a smidge thicker), it’s easy to carry and is able to charge my phone while walking around.

I find most power banks too big to fit in my pocket, but this is probably the tiniest one I’ve ever used. I also like the built-in UBC-C and Lightning connectors so I can leave my cords at the hotel.

HiBar Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Maintain Shampoo and Conditioner Set

If carrying a 3-ounces of shampoo won’t get you through a whole trip, consider using a solid shampoo and conditioner bar that won’t raise any eyebrows going through the TSA checkpoint.

There are five different sets for different hair types, each safe to use for color-treated hair. Be sure to toss them into a plastic bag if you’re planning to pack them before they’re dry.

I have very thin, fine hair, and find the HiBar Volumizie set works just as well as the far more expensive salon set I use in my home shower.

Bose QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

QuietComfort Noise Canceling Earbuds

I love my over-the-ear headphones, but on long flights, they can start to feel a bit sore on my ears. I took a risk on the Bose QuietComfort headphones, since at nearly $300 they’re even more expensive than Apple AirPods. But I’m glad I bought them.

They provide a level of noise-cancellation I never thought would be possible from an in-ear headphone, and the case can fully charge the headphones three times before it needs to be plugged in again—enough to get you through even the longest of trans-Atlantic flights and chatty seatmates.

The only real minus is the size, as they don’t sit as closely to your head as the popular Apple AirPods. But the sound quality more than makes up for it.

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Bottle

At this point, it’s a given to carry a reusable water bottle, but I’ve started bringing my own coffee mug too, especially since I like my coffee piping hot. In many countries, coffee is served in a teacup and not guzzled like I’m used to, and having my own mug is a great way to fill my coffee once at the hotel without bothering the staff to bring more and more.

I’ve recently been using the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Mug. It keeps coffee hot, but most important, it has a tight seal. I can buy coffee in the airport, put the mug in my carry-on, and pull it out mid-flight without worrying that it leaked in the bag I have shoved under my seat.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

WH-1000XM4 Over-Ear Headphones

When it comes to audio, two big names still reign supreme, at least in my book: Sony and Bose. Bose makes my favorite in-ear headphones, but Sony’s WH-1000XM4 is far and away the best over-the-ear option. The battery life is impressive at 30 or more hours per charge, and the charging is quick—20 minutes powers about 8 hours of listening.

The noise canceling is fabulous, as I’ve learned when trying to talk to someone wearing them, and they fold into a flat case. That said, they’re still a bit on the bulky side, stored or worn, but if you’re planning to carry over-the-ear headphones, their size probably isn’t your top priority.

JBL Clip 4 Speaker

Clip 4 Speaker

I work remotely and set my own schedule, which means I’m often working for a few hours here and there in hotel rooms on vacation. I also love to listen to podcasts when I’m getting ready in the morning, so I always make sure to pack a small Bluetooth speaker.

The JBL Clip 4 has better sound than expected for its size, including strong bass. The built-in clip makes it easy to hang on a shower rod or suitcase handle, and because it’s waterproof, it’s ideal for use around pools, beaches, hot tubs, and whatever other amenities you may avail yourself to on vacation.

The negative: it uses a lithium ion battery, which means you have to take it in your carry-on, not in your checked bags.

Panasonic Lumix G7 4K Camera

Lumix G7 4K Camera

I’m constantly amazed by the quality of photos you can get from an iPhone, but when it comes to shooting in suboptimal conditions (or trying to show depth and scale in landscapes), you’ll probably want a more advanced camera.

The Lumix G7 is a ridiculously good camera with a surprisingly low price, especially considering it’s mirrorless, which makes it lighter and smaller than non-mirrorless options. It shoots photos and videos in 4K, has Wi-Fi so you can send your photos straight to your phone or computer, and has multiple auto settings for beginners, including one specifically for night-sky photography.

It’s packed with features and is the number one camera I recommend to all travelers who want to take better travel photos without spending more serious money on a camera, even if you don’t have any actual interest in using its more professional features.

Peak Design Packing Cube

Packing Cube

I’ve become a big fan of Peak Design. The brand's packing cubes are the its first item I ever tried. They have strong zippers that don’t seem to get caught in the fabric while compressing as much as other cubes, and you can fit far more than you’d expect into each one.

I prefer the small size, as it’s easier to stack in a suitcase and fits better in a backpack or shoulder bag. These packing cubes are also light and thin, so you can throw an empty one in your bag (as I found especially useful in Patagonia) just in case you end up buying an extra sweater during your travels.

Pro packing tip: Don't pack small clothing items like underwear, socks, and swimsuits in the cubes. Instead, shove them into negative space around the cubes to maximize all available luggage areas.

Thule Subterra Carry-on Roller

Subterra Carry-on Roller

Hard-sided carry-on spinners have become all the rage in the last few years, and while I do love my July bag, I’ve found two drawbacks to hard-sided bags: the second set of wheels eats into the luggage space and there’s no ability to stuff them into an overhead bin or car if they don’t quite fit.

Fortunately, I’ve had the Thule Subterra for a while now and it’s become my most-used bag. That’s thanks to a built-in compression panel with pocket; a small front pocket for passports, keys, and sunglasses; and durable back wheels that seem to have no problem crashing over curbs and steps.

I’ve also come to appreciate its slightly smaller size. While some travelers may balk at the idea of not maximizing their carry-on capacity, I find that it's actually easier for travel, especially when I see my fellow travelers’ larger bags getting forcibly gate checked on smaller planes.

Baseus Blade

Blade

I’ve used plenty of backup chargers while traveling (who hasn’t?), but the Blade from Baseus is the one I rely on most. That’s partially because I have a computer with a USB-C charging port, and the Blade is optimized for quick charging of USB-C computers.

I can charge my MacBook Pro from 0- to 100-percent with about a 20-percent charge left on the Blade (which is enough to almost fully charge my iPhone).

Other features I appreciate are its slim design (so I can travel with it in my laptop pocket), a display that shows you both how much battery is left and how much time until the Blade is fully charged, and the fact that it takes only about 1.5 hours to fully charge it.

If I use the entire capacity on a flight, as long as I have at least a 1.5-hour layover, I can be back up and running on the next flight.

Ombraz Armless Sunglasses

Armless Sunglasses

I've broken more than a few pairs of sunglasses by shoving them into the pocket of an overstuffed bag or sitting on them at dinner if I put them in my back pocket after a day of sightseeing. That's why when traveling, I nearly always carry Ombraz sunglasses. If I bring a fancier pair, it stays in a hard case in my luggage.

The smartly designed Ombraz shades have a soft adjustable cord in place of arms, so they’re nearly impossible to break or bend. They slide into a flat padded case and come in five unisex styles. You can also buy side shields (ideal for reflective surroundings, like snow or water) and have your prescription added.

The only downside is that you’ll need both hands to put them on, but to me, it’s worth it. I’ve had the classic pair for about three years, and they haven’t showed much wear or abrasion—but there’s a lifetime guarantee on the cord and frame if they ever do.

CM Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

Pack of Two Mini Pouch Case Bag

I almost always have my laptop with me when I travel, and since the chunky MacBook charging cube and long cord are too bulky to store with the rest of my small cords, I used to just toss them into my bag. But then I found these tiny travel pouches sized for a computer power adapter.

I can easily fit my computer power adapter and cord in one pouch, and now, I don’t have to pull everything out of my bag to untangle the laptop cord, or use tweezers to remove dirt from the bottom of my backpack that got stuck in the charging port.

The pouches in this set are as simple and lightweight as can be, which is why I like them. They’re also useful for other small items such as GoPros, flash drives, memory cards, and camera batteries.

Originally from the East Coast, Suzie Dundas is a Lake Tahoe-based freelance writer and editor who now splits her time between enjoying the outdoors and writing about them—she's the senior outdoor editor at Matador Network and a regular adventure and travel contributor at TripSavvy.com . She has written feature stories for publications like Outside Magazine , SkyLife Magazine , Playboy , Frommers, INSIDER, and more, and contributes couples travel and honeymoon content for TheKnot.com . Suzie co-authored Lonely Planet Sustainable Travel Guide and is the author of 2021's "Hiking Lake Tahoe." She has undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland and an M.A. in media and political communication from George Washington University. Follow her on Instagram at @HikeUpYourSkirt or find more of her work at suziedundas.com . 

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42 best Amazon travel accessories for your next trip, according to experts

These top-rated Amazon travel accessories are designed to keep you comfortable and organized on all your adventures.

There are many benefits to traveling, whether it’s seeing beautiful sites, learning about new cultures or spending time with friends and family. However, traveling isn’t always smooth sailing. Airport delays, lost luggage , jet lag or language barriers can add layers of stress that make you never want to leave home again.

At NBC Select, we’ve rounded up some of the best travel accessories that can help ease your stress and give you peace of mind before your next trip.

SKIP AHEAD Best tech travel accessories | Best travel storage and organizers | Best travel accessories for comfort | Best travel beauty and wellness accessories | How to choose the best travel products

Selected. Our top picks

Apple Airtag 4-Pack

select Whether you’re going away for a week or a weekend, there’s a highly-rated bag on Amazon for you.

How we picked the best amazon travel accessories.

We spoke to travel experts, who have collectively explored more than 200 countries via various transportation modes, and asked them what products are most important to have on hand. When packing, our experts recommend keeping the following in mind:

  • Size and weight . Size matters since most airlines allow only one carry-on and a personal item, says travel coach Sarah Rose De Vore . Our experts recommended choosing products that offer the most value at minimal weight and size.
  • Comfort . Lack of sleep and discomfort can lead to fatigue long after you deboard, says travel wellness expert Edyta Satchell. To combat these issues, she recommends packing things that help block out light and noise or offer support so you can sleep and sit more comfortably.
  • Organization . Easy access to your belongings is essential. Our experts recommend bags and organizers with pockets.
  • Health . “You can’t be ignorant of the negative impact travel has on your health,” says Satchell. For example, limited movement on the plane can cause muscle, circulation and joint problems, not drinking enough water can result in dehydration and lack of sleep can cause fatigue, she adds. Satchell recommends packing items that keep you hydrated, such as sheet masks, serums and pre-filled reusable water bottles. She also suggests packing items for comfort, such as neck pillows and compression socks, as well as quality light-filtering eye masks to get proper rest.

Best Amazon travel products to shop in 2024

We rounded up a variety of products no traveler should leave home without, along with some accessories that Select staffers love. We’ve also included some highly rated travel products that align with expert guidance.

Best travel tech accessories

Apple airtag 4 pack.

Apple Airtag 4-Pack

Apple Airtag 4-Pack

4.8-star average rating from 97,633 reviews on Amazon

Lost luggage can be a nightmare. The Apple AirTag can help you find and/or keep track of your items by syncing it with your smart devices. If your tagged items (like luggage or skis) go missing, you can set your AirTag into “lost mode,” which will automatically notify you when it’s detected back in your network.

Twelve South AirFly Bluetooth for AirPods

Twelve South AirFly Bluetooth Wireless Transmitter/Receiver

Twelve South AirFly Bluetooth Wireless Transmitter/Receiver

Imagine this scenario: you sit down in your seat and get comfortable. You whip out your AirPods to listen to the in-flight entertainment to only realize you've made a mistake. Your AirPods can't connect. That's where the Twelve South AirFly becomes a boredom-saver. You plug this into the screen's audio jack and then connect via Bluetooth.

Hicober 3-in-1 Charging Station

Travel 3-in-1 Charging Station

4.5-star average rating from 5,366 reviews on Amazon

This 3-in-1 wireless charger for MagSafe Apple devices is foldable and just 4.5 ounces, so you can just throw it in your bag or purse when traveling. It takes less than three hours to fully charge and also works as a phone stand that you can angle horizontally or vertically for FaceTime calls or movies on the go.

Anker PowerCore Slim 10000

Anker 523 PowerCore Portable Charger

Anker 523 PowerCore Portable Charger

4.5-star average rating from 97,082 reviews on Amazon

Select staffers Shari Uyehara and Harry Rabinowitz both love Anker portable power banks for their versatility and charging capacity. At 7.5 ounces, the PowerCore Slim 10000 is the company’s slimmest version yet, making it perfect for travel.

Perilogics Universal In-Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Perilogics Universal in-Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

4.5-star average rating from 15,838 reviews on Amazon

This phone holder clips onto your plane’s tray table so you can go hands-free while watching movies, sports or any other media you’ve downloaded. It has a 360-degree rotation to offer different viewing angles (including vertically and horizontally), plus it’s compatible with multiple phone sizes, according to the brand.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

4.7-star average rating from 12,630 reviews on Amazon

Another favorite of Rabinowitz is this Epicka Universal Travel Adapter . According to the brand, it works in more than 150 countries and has four USB ports, one USB-C slot and a socket to charge six devices simultaneously at high speed. It’s also compatible with all USB devices. Keep in mind that this is not a voltage converter and that your devices must have dual or variable-voltage capabilities to use it.

Doboli Silicone AirPods Case

Doboli Silicone AirPods Case

4.6-star average rating from 69,740 reviews on Amazon

This silicone case, which comes in a two pack, provides protection for your AirPods while on the go. It has an LED light to indicate when it’s charging, and each case comes with a carabiner so you can clip your devices to a backpack or carry-on with ease. They’re available in an assortment of colors, including earthy, pastel and neon hues.

Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

4.7-star average rating from 70,241 reviews on Amazon

These foldable wireless Bluetooth headphones have up to 40 hours of battery life and are compatible with iOS and Android devices. According to Beats, five minutes of charging gives you three hours of playback. They are adjustable, with cushioned ear cups for added comfort. The Beats Solo3 comes in four colors, including black, rose gold, silver and red.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (8GB)

Kindle Paperwhite (8 GB)

Kindle Paperwhite (8 GB)

4.7-star average rating from 46,686 reviews on Amazon

Depending on your luggage, carrying a ton of books may not be ideal. If you like to read while on the go, this Kindle Paperwhite will give you access to lots of books without weighing you down. It is one of the best e-readers thanks to its glare-free screen that makes reading in the park or at the beach easy. You can also pair this device with Bluetooth earbuds and listen to audiobooks with an Audible subscription . The battery lasts up to 10 weeks on a single charge too, according to the brand.

Sure Lock Travel Luggage Locks

Sure Lock Travel Luggage Locks

4.7-star rating from 12,256 reviews on Amazon

These TSA compatible travel locks are durable, easy to carry and work with nearly every type of luggage, according to the brand. It’s good for those staying in shared accommodations, like hostels, or anyone in need of extra luggage security. NBC Page Hannah Fuechtman uses them while backpacking and staying at hostels around Europe, and she highly recommends these for the peace of mind they bring.

Anker Soundcore 2  

Anker Soundcore 2

Anker Soundcore 2

4.6-star average rating from 114,115 reviews on Amazon

Bring music wherever your travels take you with one of the best bluetooth speakers . Select updates editor Mili Godio enjoys its portability and sound quality. “I’ve brought it to outdoor picnics and parties, and the music is always audible and crisp even when there’s other competing noises,” she says. It’s built to boost low-end frequencies (bass) and deliver little to no distortion at all volumes and it is also water-resistant, according to the brand. This speaker has physical touch controls up top to help you play/pause your music.

Best travel storage and organizers

Travelwise luggage packing cubes.

TravelWise Luggage Packing Cubes

TravelWise Luggage Packing Cubes

4.7-star average rating from 10,190 reviews on Amazon

This five-piece travel organizer includes one small, two medium and two large packing cubes to compartmentalize items and streamline your packing. Each cube is made of nylon and has two-way zippers for fast opening and closing so you can easily unpack when you arrive at your destination, according to the brand.

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

4.8-star average rating from 50,529 reviews on Amazon

I love my Bagsmart travel bag because it securely holds all my toiletries in one place. When I get to my hotel, I just hang it on the bathroom door hook, which keeps the countertop open and free for other items. This bag has four separate compartments with elastic straps that hold my bottles upright, and transparent sides so I can easily see all my contents. It’s also well padded and protects everything inside when I’m on the go.

Fyy Electronics Organizer

Fyy Electronics Organizer

4.5-star average rating from 18,700 reviews on Amazon

This compact organizer has two layers of storage space to hold all your devices and chargers in one place. At just 3.2 ounces, the waterproof case is compact and lightweight,giving you easy access to cords, cables and more.

Stasher Bags

Stasher Bags

4.7-star average rating from 2,384 reviews on Amazon

Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says these reusable silicone Stasher Bags are her “go-to eco-friendly storage product.” “I have food allergies, so I always pack snacks to take with me on flights in these reusable bags. They’re also great for organizing toiletries. I’m obsessed with the small ones for packing pills, vitamins and medications.” These come in over 20 colors and are microwave-, freezer- and dishwasher-safe.

Gemice Travel Bottles

Gemice Travel Bottles

4.5-star average rating from 11,609 reviews on Amazon

These leakproof travel bottles are TSA-approved and designed to hold 3 ounces of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion and more for your carry-on. They are also made of BPA-free food-grade silicone so they are safe for other liquids like sauce, salad dressing and even baby food, as detailed on the brand’s website. Sold as a four-pack with a choice of colors, each bottle has a no-drip valve and wide opening for easy filling, according to the brand.

Kayzon Travel Perfume Containers

Kayzon Travel Perfume Containers

4.3-star average rating from 6,411 reviews on Amazon

Many perfumes and colognes come in bottles too big for a carry-on luggage, but with these travel perfume containers you’re able to bring your favorite scent on the go. The bottles are made from a leak-proof aluminum, according to the brand, and are easy to fill and refill.

Waterfly Crossbody Bag

Waterfly Crossbody Bag

4.5-star average rating from 37,915 reviews on Amazon

Susan Henkel, founder of Ola Travel & Tours , always carries a sling bag when traveling. “I don’t like a heavy bag,” she says. “I like to be nimble and not have anything heavy on my shoulder or neck.” According to Henkel, her ideal bag must have a padded strap, lots of pockets, fit close to her body and withstand rain. She recommended this nylon crossbody from Waterfly, which comes in 17 colors and has an adjustable, reversible shoulder strap, loads of pockets (including two mesh side pockets) and a hidden earphone hole.

Travelambo Luggage Tag

Travelambo Luggage Tag

4.7-star average rating from 11,072 reviews on Amazon

Luggage tags make it easy to spot your suitcase coming off the bag carousel and also help ensure that it makes its way back to you if it gets lost. These eco-friendly faux leather tags come in a set of two and have a double-sided printing card and privacy flap, as well as an adjustable stainless-steel buckle. They are available in 32 bold colors, including Rose Red, Light Blue, Hot Orange and Blooming Green.

Seyfocnia Weekender Bag

Seyfocnia Weekender Bag

4.6-star average rating from 4,463 reviews on Amazon

This weekender bag has a zippered pocket on the front and back and a slot so you can slide it onto any suitcase’s pop-up handle. It weighs 3.3 pounds and is made of polyurethane leather with a nylon interior. It also has a padded adjustable shoulder strap and a shoe compartment to keep your dirty shoes or clothes separate from the main compartment. It comes in nine color combinations, including some canvas options.

Vorspack Toiletry Bag

Vorspack Toiletry Bag

4.7-star average rating from 8,320 reviews on Amazon

This men’s Dopp kit measures 10 by 5 by 5.5 inches and is made of canvas with a polyurethane leather bottom. Its main compartment is roomy enough to fit a facial cleanser, electric shaver, travel shampoo and other toiletries, according to the brand, and it has four additional mesh pockets on the inside, and one outside zipper pocket.

Best travel accessories for comfort

Eversnug travel blanket.

Eversnug Travel Blanket

4.7-star average rating from over 5,741 reviews on Amazon

At 65 inches long and 40 inches wide, this microfleece blanket has a carrying case that also doubles as a pillow, along with a sleeve at the back so you can slip it into your suitcase’s pop-up handle, according to the brand. You can also attach it directly to your carry-on with the included carabiner. It comes in six colors, including gray, teal, burgundy and black.

Bcozzy Neck Pillow

Bcozzy Neck Pillow

4.2-star average rating from 28,114 reviews on Amazon

This ergonomic neck pillow provides double support with its overlapping arms that you can adjust several ways, according to the brand: If you’re a side sleeper, you can fold the pillow in half, place it on your shoulder and lean your head to the side; if sleeping upright, the double arms can hold your chin up for extra support. The shell is made of a mix of microsuede and microfleece and is filled with a down alternative, as detailed on the brand’s website. It comes in several colors, including navy, leopard and black.

Lky Digital Sleep Mask

Lky Digital Sleep Mask

4.5-star average rating from 59,586 reviews on Amazon

When Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg travels, she always brings a structured sleep mask — like this Lky Digital option — to block out light. Designed with 3D-contouring and comfort in mind, this mask lets you blink freely without adding pressure to your eyes, according to the brand. It’s washable, made of a breathable soft foam and has an adjustable strap to accommodate different head sizes too, as detailed on the brand’s website. It comes in a pack of three with multiple color options.

Sunany Inflatable Foot Rest

Sunany Inflatable Foot Rest

4.3-star average rating from 4,354 reviews on Amazon

Airplane foot rests can help relieve pressure on your lower back and increase blood circulation, says Satchell. “There is limited space on the plane, which means [you can have] muscle and joint problems because we sit for hours without moving.” This inflatable foot rest adjusts to three different heights and weighs 12.8 ounces, making it easy to carry. When compressed, it’s 7 inches by 4.2 inches and fits into a drawstring bag.

02Cool Portable Battery-Powered Fan

O2Cool Portable Battery-Powered Fan

O2Cool Portable Battery-Powered Fan

4.4-star average rating from 21,598 reviews

Select editor Christina Colizza always brings this travel fan with her on warm-weather trips. “It’s compact and has an easy-to-use foldable design that sits flat in your suitcase. It only has two speeds, but they’re mighty,” she says. “This little powerhouse got me through an Airbnb stay in Portugal during a heatwave and wildfires and my friend’s woodsy Maine wedding where I slept in a cabin with no electricity or running water.” This fan is five inches tall, has a built-in handle and comes in four colors.

Silky Toes Foldable Travel Flats

Silky Toes Foldable Travel Flats

4.2-star average rating from 16,107 reviews on Amazon

“Foldable travel flats are a must,” says Ginsberg. These are made of polyurethane leather with a rubber sole and come in 36 colors with its own drawstring bag so you can easily stash them in your purse. “No one wants sore, blistered feet,” says Henkel.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Sleep Pillow

Cabeau Evolution S3 Sleep Pillow

4.3-star average rating from 7,073 reviews on Amazon

Colizza swears by this memory foam travel pillow that attaches to the plane’s headrest to prevent slouching. “I owned several cheap travel pillows before finding this option from Cabeau. As someone who is 5’10, I’ll take all the help I can in getting to sleep while flying, and this pillow has made a huge difference. Plus, it compresses down into a small pouch, which makes it convenient enough to schlep around airports.”

SmartTravel Inflatable Lumbar Travel Pillow

SmartTravel Inflatable Lumbar Travel Pillow

4.2-star average rating from 1,186 reviews on Amazon

Ginsberg also brings along a lumbar pillow, especially on long flights, for added back support. This self-inflating pillow is made of memory foam so it fits your body’s curve and reduces pressure along the spine, according to the brand. You can store it in its own bag and use it as a neck pillow too.

Fintie Passport Holder

Fintie Passport Holder

4.6-star average rating from 6,426 reviews on Amazon

When traveling internationally, you have to carry multiple important documents like a passport, visa, proof of vaccination and more. Keep them all together and safe with this passport holder, a product Fuechtman can’t leave for a trip without. Not only is there a slot for your passport, but there’s also room for cards, cash, boarding passes and more. It also comes in 24 colors and patterns like purple , sage green , orange , floral and more.

Best travel beauty and wellness accessories

Wwdoll kn95 face masks.

Wwdoll KN95 Face Masks

4.5-star average rating from 73,022 reviews on Amazon

These are registered with the FDA and come highly recommended by experts in our guide to the best KN95 masks . They have an adjustable nose bridge and are available in nine colors. “I love that they come in multipacks so I can stash a ton in my bag,” says Malin. According to the company, these five-ply masks filter out 95% of particles and have 25 per pack.

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Straw Lid

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Straw Lid

4.8-star average rating from 29,131 reviews on Amazon

Satchell recommends bringing along a reusable water bottle to fight off dehydration. Listed in our guide to the best water bottles of 2023 , the Hydro Flask comes in four sizes — 20 ounces, 32 ounces, 40 ounces and 64 ounces — and is made with a double-walled vacuum insulation, which keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours, and hot drinks warm for up to 12 hours, according to the brand. It comes in 16 colors and has a flexible strap that makes it easy to carry too.

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm

4.7-star average rating from 18,493 reviews on Amazon

Ginsberg loves this lip balm from Select-reader favorite brand Laneige for sealing in moisture on her lips when she flies. “The shape is streamlined and less messy [for travel], but feels and works as amazing as the Laneige sleep mask ,” she says.

Amika Perk Up Talc-free Dry Shampoo

Amika Perk Up Talc-free Dry Shampoo

4.5-star average rating from 15,756 reviews on Amazon

Dry shampoo can provide an instant pick-me-up after a long flight. This talc-free one from Amika absorbs oil and refreshes hair with natural rice starch, leaving no white residue, according to the brand. Its main ingredient is a superfruit that contains the fatty-acid omega 7, which promotes elasticity and provides superior hydration, according to Amika.

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

4.7-star average rating from 15,451 reviews on Amazon

“The air on the plane will literally suck you dry,” says Satchell. This intense hydrating cream comes recommended by dermatologists in our guide to the best face moisturizers for dry skin . It works for all ages and skin types and you can use it on both your face and body, according to Cetaphil.

Yougai Manicure Set

Yougai Manicure Set

4.4-star average rating from  39,365 reviews on Amazon

This manicure kit weighs around 9 ounces and contains 18 tools including nail clippers, eyebrow tweezers and scissors, a blackhead acne remover, a callus remover and a cuticle trimmer. Each item is made of professional-grade stainless steel, according to the brand, and the case is made of polyurethane leather that zippers shut.

Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks

4.5-star average rating from 83,662 reviews on Amazon

According to podiatrist Dr. Khurram Khan , if you don’t get up and walk around every 60 to 90 minutes, fluid can start to build up in your legs. Since that’s not always possible on a plane, our experts recommend trying compression socks . These Physix Gear socks promote circulation by gently applying pressure to your legs, feet and ankles, according to the brand. They are made from nylon and spandex and come in S/M and L-XXL sizes.

Bala Bangles

Bala Bangles

4.5-star average rating from 1,274 reviews on Amazon

Malin says she always brings her Bala Bangles with her to do mini workouts in her hotel room. These wearable weights strap around your wrist or ankles with Velcro and are designed to add extra weight to any workout, according to the brand. They come in eight different colors, and you can opt for a set of 1-lb or 2-lb weights. Bala also uploads videos of fitness routines on its website.

Patchology Hydrate Sheet Masks

Patchology Hydrate Sheet Masks

4.7-star average rating from 297 reviews on Amazon

Satchell also recommends applying a facial sheet mask to hydrate on the plane. This one from Patchology was recommended in our guide to dermatologist-approved skin-care routines and includes moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5. It’s designed to nourish and replenish dry or dehydrated skin after just 5 minutes, according to Patchology.

Sony LinkBuds S

Sony LinkBuds S

4.2-star average rating from 3,738 reviews on Amazon

Listen to your podcasts and music in peace -- these noise-canceling earbuds, a Select Giftable Tech Award winner, amplify just what you want to hear, according to Sony. Touch control pause, play, skip tracks, control volume, activate your voice assistant and answer phone calls, and the earbuds have up to six hours of battery life (20 hours with the charging case), says the brand. They’re also water-resistant enough to handle sweat and splashes and they come with ear tips in multiple sizes for a snug fit.

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

Loop Quiet

4.1-star average rating from 74,184 reviews on Amazon

Traveling to a noisy city? Not sure if your hotel room will have paper thin walls? These silicone, washable earbuds are a Select Wellness Award winner and reduce noise by 27 decibels to help you sleep, focus and protect your ears. They come with different sized ear tips to fit your ears and a carrying case for travel.

L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

4.6-star average rating from 7,463 reviews on Amazon

Hand cream is something Fuechtman always has in her carry-on bag, and highly recommends this one from L’Occitane. It comes in a 30ml tube, making it TSA friendly, and is also made with shea butter, which keeps the hands smooth and soft, according to the brand.

How to shop for the best travel products and pack for your next trip

Satchell recommends swapping large containers for reusable TSA-approved ones if using a carry-on bag. She also suggests carrying ginger gummies in case of nausea. Here are some other important things to remember when shopping for the best travel products, according to our experts.

  • Choose your suitcase wisely. To avoid extra fees and overweight charges from overpacking, choose a bag that actually suits the length of your trip.
  • Create a packing list. If you travel often, make a general list of things you need so you don’t have to recreate it every time, says De Vore. Then you can make a few adjustments tailored to each trip.
  • Make your personal item count. Opting for a good-sized bag, like a backpack, for your personal item is a great way to carry additional essentials like spare clothes, shoes or travel-size toiletries, according to De Vore.
  • Put your valuables in your carry-on. If there is something you wouldn’t want missing or ruined, De Vore says to put it in your carry-on bag. Our experts also recommend taking photos of your suitcase and belongings before checking them into the airline.
  • Make a photocopy of your passport or ID and keep it in your suitcase. If your wallet or purse goes missing, you’ll need to show proof of identity. Be sure to have copies someplace other than where your original documents are stored.

Meet our experts

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

  • Sarah Rose De Vore is the founder of The Travel Coach Network and has traveled to more than 84 countries. She was recently named one of 2023’s Most Influential Women in Travel by TravelPulse.
  • Susan Henkel has traveled to over 40 countries and is the founder of Ola Travel and Tours , specializing in group travel for women over 50.
  • Edyta Satchell is a corporate wellness expert and the founder and CEO of Satchelle Global and Finelle.com, a travel wellness platform for women.

Why trust Select?

Barbara Booth has written a number of guides on bestselling and highly rated products you can buy on Amazon that simplify your life, including bestselling kitchen gadgets and car accessories . For this piece, Barbara interviewed three experts and researched dozens of top-rated travel products on Amazon. We also included some Select staff favorites, along with those that are highly recommended by our experts.

CORRECTION (March 29, 2023, 11:05a.m. ET): An earlier version of this article misstated that Leah Ginsberg has used the Lky Digital Sleep Mask . She has not, but has used a similar style to the one included.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Barbara Booth is a former CNBC reporter whose work spans a wide range of business and social topics, including work/life issues, international business and personal finance. In addition to CNBC, her work has been seen in USA Today, Huffington Post, Yahoo Finance, HerMoney, and for various television news programs including the Nightly Business Report.

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I’ve Been to All 7 Continents, and These 15 Genius Amazon Finds Changed the Way I Travel

And they start at just $8.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Experts say it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert in something. By that metric, I’m definitely an expert in travel. In fact, in the last 10 months alone I’ve been to all seven continents (some even thrice). Of course, I can’t take sole credit for the success of all these trips, because behind every great travel writer is an arsenal of amazing products . They’re our tools of the trade, and I’m always happy to share the gear I love with other travelers because I, too, have relied on reviews of others, especially when I’m shopping sight unseen. 

While I love to support local businesses, I’m also a big fan of Amazon because of its reviews and rating system. I get the bulk of my travel gear there, and so far, I have no regrets (the free returns help). The only problem is that there are literally tens of thousands of products to choose from. So, to save you time and money, I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite finds. From a top-rated water-resistant backpack that packs into its own pocket to a doctor-recommended dual density memory foam travel pillow , here are 15 of my Amazon go-tos for travel starting at just $8. 

Cabeau Evolution S3 Airplane Travel Neck Pillow 

With seven continents under my belt, you could say I’m a frequent flier — so I know how to get comfortable on planes. I’ve recently started flying United’s new nonstop flight from Atlanta to Cape Town, and this dual-density memory foam pillow with nearly 5,000 five-star ratings is a lifesaver on the 14-hour flight. Even stars like Lizzo have been spotted using it. 

Unlike neck pillows I’ve had in the past, the Cabeau Evolution S3 has straps, so I can secure it to my seat’s headrest. There’s also a chin strap, so the pillow stays around my neck and doesn’t slide to one side. I also love the washable cover and how it packs down to be about half its size.

Venture Pal Backpack

When it comes to sightseeing, never underestimate the power of a comfortable, packable daypack. I don’t go anywhere these days without my Venture Pal Backpack , even if it’s just stashed in my purse. That’s right. This 40L backpack folds up into its own pocket, taking up about as much space as a CD (remember those?). 

The lightweight bag comes in 13 colors and patterns, and has nearly 23,000 perfect five-star ratings left by travelers like me who appreciate the fact it’s made of a water-resistant, tear-resistant nylon. Despite being super lightweight, the bottom is reinforced, and inside, there’s a separate pocket for wet or dirty gear. I also love the water bottle holders on the sides and the secure external pockets that allow for easy access. Plus, you can score it for up to 21 percent off right now at Amazon.

GoPro Hero11 

This waterproof camera will be the first thing I pack for an upcoming trip to Hawaii. While it’s not an entry-level camera, it’s intuitive to use (I’m not great with technology), and it’s packed with features that make it best in class. In addition to amazing image quality — 91 percent higher resolution than 4K — it has an Emmy award-winning stabilization that helps even my shakiest videos turn out clear.  Plus, the GoPro Hero11 has nearly 1,000 perfect five-star ratings, securing its spot as a must-buy ahead of your next trip.

12-Pack Space-saver Bags

Of all the travel packing hacks I’ve learned over the years, space-saver bags have to be my favorite. They allow me to pack all of my favorite clothes in half the space, freeing up my suitcase, so I can shop on my trips and bring souvenirs back. This 12-pack , which has more than 37,000 five-star ratings, is great because it comes with five different sizes of bags and a hand pump that I use to suck the air out when I don’t have a Dyson vacuum at my disposal. Of course, the travel size bags roll up, so you can just compress them that way, too. 

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Amazon’s best-selling luggage scale (it has nearly — wait for it — 52,000 five-star ratings), the Etekcity Luggage Scale is a lifesaver if you’re prone to overpacking like me or you just like having peace of mind knowing you won’t get to the airport and have to pay a hefty overweight baggage fee. One shopper who took theirs on a two-week international trip called it a “godsend” while another wrote that it “takes the guesswork out of packing.” 

I travel a lot in Europe, which is on the metric system, so I love that it can show weight in kilograms, too. I’m also a big fan of how compact it is. Despite the fact that it can weigh up to 110 pounds, or 50 kilograms, it takes up less space than a banana!

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage 

Because it comes with a lifetime worry-free warranty, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage is one of my favorite pieces to recommend to other travelers. It’s easy to wheel around, thanks to a precision glide system, and it can expand by two inches if you need more space. It also features a TSA-approved lock, interior accessory pockets, and high-quality zippers. (I hate when a suitcase is still in great shape, but the zipper breaks.) Currently, it has more than 3,300 perfect five-star ratings and is available in six colors and several sizes. The 19-inch carry-on is 15 percent off right now!

Klean Kanteen Water Bottle

Of all the water bottles I own (and I have at least 20,) my most well-traveled bottle is this 20-ounce Klean Kanteen . Its stainless steel design is not only sleek, but it’s also durable. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve dropped this bottle, and it has yet to dent or show signs of wear and tear. And thanks to its climate Lock double-wall vacuum insulation, it keeps drinks cold for up to 63 hours and hot drinks hot for up to 24 hours. 

Darn Tough Merino Wool Socks

I first discovered Darn Tough’s Merino Wool Socks while on a trip to Vermont, where they’re made. I love that these all-season, high-quality socks come with a lifetime guarantee; I’ve had mine for years, and I’ve yet to wear out the heel or get holes in the toe. That said, if it happens, Darn Tough will replace them, for free. They’re so warm I recently wore them on a trip to Antarctica. At the same time, they’re breathable and ultra moisture-wicking, two properties I appreciate when hiking in hot and humid climates like Southeast Asia. Currently, they’re available in four colors and sizes small through XXL, and they have nearly 7,000 five-star ratings and a very impressive 4.8-star average rating.

Olukai Ohana Flip-Flops

Comfy shoes are an absolutely essential travel staple. I used to buy a new pair of flip-flops every year, but then I discovered these best-selling, ones that last multiple seasons. In fact, I’ve worn my OluKai Ohana Flip-Flops in more than 50 countries over the course of five years, and they’re still going strong. They’re available in 30 colors and of the 6,300 Amazon shoppers who left reviews, the majority gave these flip-flops a perfect five-star rating. I love that they’re water-resistant and have a cushioned footbed. I even wore them on a hike in Costa Rica where there were several creek crossings! But the best part? They don’t make a flip or flop sound.  

Columbia Freezer III Dress

If I was a cartoon character and I could only wear one look for the rest of my life, it would definitely be this travel-friendly dress I get compliments on wherever I go. Not only is it cute — hence the kind words from total strangers — but it’s also rated UPF30. And not only does it block harmful UVA and UVB rays, but the aptly-named Columbia Freezer III Dress boasts “advanced cooling technology.” I don’t know the exact science behind the fabric. All I know is I feel cooler wearing it than I would feel wearing nothing at all. The fabric is also moisture-wicking, so even if I do break a sweat, I know it will dry fast.

Viori Shampoo Bar

I will forever feel indebted to whoever invented shampoo bars. Because they can’t leak and they’re TSA-friendly, they’re convenient to travel with, and of course they’re also more sustainable since they don’t come in plastic bottles. I love the Viori Shampoo Bar, which has more than 7,400 five-star ratings, because it’s all natural (no sulfates, just essential oils), and it’s designed for all types of hair, so I can share it with my travel partners. Plus, five percent of profits go back to the Red Yao communities from which the company sources the rice for their products. 

I can attest that this shampoo also lasts a long time, and Amazon shoppers agree. “I used this bar when traveling for a month overseas,” wrote one Amazon shopper . “The bar lasted me my whole trip and afterward — a total of about 45 days as I wash my hair every three days.” 

4-in-1 TSA-approved Travel Dispenser 

Although I’m a fan of shampoo bars, I do travel with liquids and lotions, which is why I’m obsessed with this four-in-one, TSA-approved Travel Dispenser . It holds four different liquids in 1.4-ounce refillable containers that come with labels, so I always know what I’m using. To dispense the product, all I have to do is rotate the top to the container I want and then use the pump. When not in use, there’s a lid that locks. In fact, I’ve traveled with these dispensers for nearly two years on dozens of trips, and I’ve never once experienced a leak!

Yeti Hopper Flip 8 Portable Soft Cooler 

Yeti is the Apple of coolers. Yes, its coolers are expensive, but as someone who tests camping gear for a living, I can say they’re 100 percent worth it. For stateside road trips, I love the Yeti Hopper Flip 8 because it’s just big enough to hold all the drinks and snacks I need until my next fill-up at the gas station. I also love it for paddle-boarding, because it’s waterproof and floats! 

The Hopper 8 comes in eight colors and has more than 1,600 five-star ratings. “It keeps everything cold and the ice doesn't melt for days, even in 100-degree [Fahrenheit] weather,” wrote one satisfied Amazon shopper . 

Fjallraven Pocket Crossbody Bag

If you’re not a fan of fanny packs, but you still want a small, easy-to-access bag for travel essentials, I can’t recommend the Fjallraven Pocket Crossbody Bag enough. I never leave home without mine —it’s been to all seven continents — and I love how the size is perfect for fitting just what I need and nothing more. Right now, it’s holding my iPhone 12, my wallet, my passport, my lip balm, and my keys. 

This crossbody is also durable, something other Amazon shoppers have found too. “I took it all over the place and it was in the dirt and on rocks,” wrote one shopper who got their bag for a trip to Iceland, who said it “held up like a champ.” It’s currently available in nine colors and has a 4.7-star average rating.

Facetory Sun Bae Aloe Vera Soothing Sheet Mask

In the last year, I’ve had the pleasure of surfing in South Africa, Portugal, and Australia. Still, my face pays a price for being in the sun so much. That’s why I stock up on these 15-minute facials packed with natural anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, and jojoba seed oil. They’re also incredibly hydrating, which comes in handy on long-haul flights or when I’m traveling to places with low humidity. The Facetory Sun Bae Aloe Vera Soothing Sheet Mask has more than 3,500 perfect five-star ratings, and there are 14 different masks to choose from depending on your skin’s needs. 

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  4. JAPAN BOOK OFF 2023

  5. Packing in Japan

  6. Best Travel Accessories From Amazon 🤩🔥 #hindi #viral #travel #trending #shorts

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  1. What to Pack for Japan: A Complete Checklist

    L.L. Bean Meridian Hooded Raincoat. L.L. Bean. View On Nordstrom $127 View On L.L.Bean $169. It can rain in all of Japan's regions, especially during the monsoon season in June and July, so you ...

  2. 27 Top Japan Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

    9. Activated Charcoal. Japan's food scene is incredible, but it's also full of a lot of uncooked fish. Add that to the stress of travel, and stomach upset is a common problem. Activated charcoal is a very effective and natural way to shorten the duration of food poisoning or traveler's diarrhea.

  3. Expert Tips for Your Japan Packing List

    7. Essential extras: pocket Wi-Fi, hand sanitizer, and more. Here are a few other things we recommend you add to your Japan packing list: Pocket Wi-Fi device: Even if this doesn't sound essential to you, we highly recommend renting a pocket Wi-Fi device (i.e., mobile hotspot).

  4. What to Pack for Japan? 19 Things You Haven't Thought Of

    This guide to what to pack for Japan will cover…. What to pack for Japan: Travel essentials. Japan Rail Pass. Suica Card. Visa & Visit Japan Web Service. Passport Wallet. Printouts of pre-booked activities. Wifi device or SIM card. Packing cubes.

  5. Japan Packing List (22 CRUCIAL Items for 2024)

    On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a trip to Japan: Photo: @audyscala. A few pairs of comfortable pants/jeans. 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring) A few pairs of socks. (Sexy) underwear x 2/3.

  6. The Ultimate Packing Checklist: 9 Essentials to Bring for Your Japan

    1. Japan Is a Cash-Based Society, So Bring Some Cash! Barring convenience stores and large commercial facilities, stores and restaurants in Japan typically do not accept any other form of payment except for cash, so it is essential that you carry some when travelling in the country. It might seem risky in your home country to carry lots of cash ...

  7. What to Pack for Japan: The Ultimate Japan Packing List

    The Anker Powercore 10000 is small, light, and compact with 10000mAh of juice to power up all your portable devices via USB. 4G Pocket WiFi: Stay connected wherever you go with this portable 4G WiFi Router for Japan. Headphones: For plane rides, nothing beats a pair of noise-cancelling headphones.

  8. What to Really Pack for Japan: The Complete Travel Checklist

    But the packing list for travelers visiting Japan is unique. At most basic level, two (2) things will dictate what you will pack for your trip: 1) Where in Japan you are traveling and 2) The weather you'd expect during your stay. Once this is determined, it will make packing lighter and much more manageable.

  9. What to Pack for Japan and Tokyo

    1. Japan Travel Bag. When selecting your travel bag for your trips to Japan, a good general principle when considering your travel bag for Japan and Tokyo is to pack as light as you can manage. This is also a valid strategy for a business trip to Japan. A common question is what size luggage to bring to Japan.

  10. What to Bring to Japan: The Ultimate Packing Checklist

    3. Suitcase & Accessories. If you're visiting Japan for two weeks or less, I recommend bringing a rolling suitcase, just because I find it more comfortable to push luggage rather than carry on my back. I've reviewed all my favorite carry on luggage brands in this previous post here and am currently using my Delsey large suitcase.. Packing Cubes | I like to group clothing by color or ...

  11. What To Pack On A Trip To Japan

    Having the right travel accessories can make a significant difference in ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey in Japan. Snacks and Beverages When traveling to Japan, it's always a good idea to have some snacks and beverages on hand, especially for long journeys, sightseeing excursions, or to satisfy those hunger pangs between meals.

  12. What to Wear in Japan? The ULTIMATE Japan Packing List

    Travel Adapter - Find a good adapter to keep your electronics charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land. Purchase one here. Book an Experience - See all the best experiences and tours in Japan here. Get a Japan Rail Pass (Buy Here) - They make traveling around Japan much easier and cheaper.

  13. 27 best travel accessories to pack on every trip

    Cheeky Panda Bamboo Hand Wipes. £1.99 £0.99 at Amazon. 22. A reusable water bottle. Rounding out our collection of the best travel accessories are some odds and ends, like a good reusable water bottle, so you can stop buying overpriced bottles at the airport (and be kinder to the environment).

  14. The Best Travel Accessories for Your Next Trip, Tested and Reviewed

    Liquisnugs Premium Leak-proof Silicone Travel Bottles. These TSA-approved bottles are incredibly easy to fill. The set includes two 89-milliliter and two 60-milliliter bottles so, if you want four ...

  15. The Best Travel Packing Tips

    These five items acted as the backbone of my Japan wardrobe, allowing me to build most of my outfits around them. Below, I'm sharing the best travel packing tips I learned by highlighting the five items that carried me during this trip. 1. LEATHER TRENCH

  16. Amazon.com: Japan Travel Accessories

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  17. The Best Travel Accessories to Pack on Every Trip

    2. A travel toiletry bag. A Dopp kit is key to staying organized—and avoiding spills in your luggage. We like these options from Calpak and Dagne Dover for their water-resistant materials and ...

  18. The 11 Best Travel Accessories

    There are 17 colors to choose from, including options with RFID-blocking or premium leather, which cost a bit extra. The 11 standard colors cost $70, and all use soft, full-grain leather, and the passport wallet can be customized with debossing or handpainted leather for an additional fee. The 7 Best Passport Holders of 2024, Tested and Reviewed.

  19. 27 Best Travel Accessories To Save Space, Time And Money

    10 Power Bank. Even though we are planning to send men to colonize Mars, for some reason manufacturers still refuse to launch phones, cameras and other devices with batteries lasting for days. Result: everyone needs extra juice when on the road. Invest in a compact and potent device.

  20. The 15 Best Travel Accessories for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

    Our T+L team sorted through over 300 products we've personally tested to find the best travel accessories for men. ... Japan Paris Travel Guides A-Z View All World's Best World's Best. Best Hotels

  21. Best Travel Accessories 2023

    Best Travel Accessories. Best In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Adapter: Twelve South AirFly Pro. Best Travel Footrest: Airplane Footrest. Best Cord Organizer for Small Items: Bellroy Classic Pouch. Best ...

  22. The 16 Most Unique Travel Accessories of 2024

    Japan Paris Travel Guides A-Z View All World's Best World's Best. Best Hotels ... The 15 Best Travel Accessories for Men of 2024, Tested and Reviewed . The 12 Best Phone Purses of 2024.

  23. 42 best Amazon travel accessories for your next trip

    These top-rated Amazon travel accessories are designed to keep you comfortable and organized on all your adventures. eyesfoto / Getty Images March 28, 2023, 8:56 PM UTC / Updated March 5, 2024, 11 ...

  24. The Best Travel Clothes and Accessories for Women of 2024

    The pants are on the tighter side fit-wise, so you may want to size up for maximum comfort on long flights, and we also found them to be a bit prone to wrinkles. They do have UPF 50+ sun ...

  25. Best Amazon Travel Gear for Globetrotters From $8

    One travel writer shares the best travel essentials they've ever found at Amazon, from carry-on luggage to a travel backpack to a high-tech GoPro 11. Buy this handy travel gear from top brands ...