Traveling today, whether across the state or around the world, can be quite stressful. So it's always good to find things that make it easier, more practical and more comfortable. Here are a few things I found that fit that bill perfectly and make the trip better.
1. Cabin Zero Classic Pro 42L
The Classic Pro42L is a bag for serious travelers who want it all. Its modern design includes a laptop compartment, retractable straps, thick back padding and straps, chest strap, bottle / umbrella pocket, waist straps and most importantly a wide strap and stable for the trolley when a long trip requires the addition of a trolley bag. Cabin Zero comes with a built-in lost and found tag and a 10 year warranty with a free upgrade up to 25 years. MSRP: $ 159,99. www.CabinZero.com
2. Ricardo Beverly Hills Stephanie Johnson Cosmetic Case and Tiny Treasure Case
The designs and fabrics of Ms. Johnson's beautiful and practical travel accessories, made by luggage guru Ricardo Beverly Hills, make me want to make SJ's BFF. Its Louise Cosmetics case, shaped like a mini case with elegant hardware, is lined with waterproof material, three elastic pockets, three brush holders and a concealed zipper compartment. There is plenty of room for cosmetics for a weekend or two weeks. MSRP of $ 63,00. www.ricardobeverlyhills.com
The Steph Tiny Treasure box set, in a multitude of chic colors with lux velvet interiors, is another favorite. A zippered section for valuables - or Benjamin's secret stash - and a removable six-section insert that can be used for earrings, cufflinks or vitamins make this case essential. MSRP $ 30,00. www.ricardobeverlyhills.com
3. Hampton BenjiLock Fingerprint Lock
If only I had a dollar for every time I forgot the combination of my lock in my hand. I switched to one of the diagrams until I forgot the order of the diagrams. No traveler was more relieved than I was when the new BenjiLock came out. Includes built-in lithium-ion battery, chrome-plated hardened steel shackle, five different fingerprint memories, and micro-USB charging cable. Simply put, I absolutely love this product. MSRP: $ 49,99. Available at select retailers and at www.BuyHampton.com
4. Moshi IonBank 5K Portable Battery
The aircraft-grade aluminum casing of this sleek beauty features vegetal leather accents, hidden lights, and USB cables for convenient charging from Uber, plus an additional USB port for simultaneously charging two devices. Fast charging at 2,4 amps, it can charge an I-phone twice with 5mAh. Best of all, you can charge the battery and the IonBank simultaneously with the SmartSense ™ circuit. MSRP: $ 150. www.moshi.com
5. Socks
These super comfy, trendy combed cotton socks made in the USA have a fantastic secret weapon: a zipper on a sock to hold two credit cards, a key, USB sticks and even a lipstick or a stick. The Passeport Security Sock is a Repreve polyester made from 85% recycled bottles. So even if you comfortably carry your passport where it will not be lost or stolen, you can be satisfied because each pair is made up of four plastic bottles otherwise polluting the waterways of the world. Several cool colors, lengths and patterns. MSRP starting at $ 16,95. www.pocketsocks.com
6. Litegear Tote by LiteGear Bags
The LiteGear 3 in 1 Carry Bag is very versatile. When packed, it can be made more compact by squeezing the sides and top and can be worn by the handles, shoulder straps or backpack. Features a spacious interior, storage pockets and an RFID protected compartment. Durable, lightweight and made from recycled polyester, it is multifunctional and can be used in flight, on the beach or on board, as a diaper bag. MSRP: $ 69,95. www.litegearbags.com
7. Big Skinny Expedition Shoulder Bag
This style of bag is a perennial favorite among picky travelers. Quite spacious for the essentials, but easily placed in your hand when you already have two pieces on board. Made from lightweight nylon microfiber, it features an internal zippered compartment and key fob with four external compartments for easy phone and passport access. MSRP $ 55. www.BigSkinny.net
8. Swiss Ruigor City 56 Laptop Backpack
This stylish backpack will store a 15,6 inch laptop in a protected compartment and has a convenient USB connection port. With its many concealed zippered compartments and pockets, you'll have space for everything you need and look cool at the same time. $ 99,95 on sale for $ 59,99. www.suissruigor.com
Bon voyage!
Julie L. Kessler is the Travel & Luxury writer for MoneyInc and writes travel reports for various major media outlets. She is also a Los Angeles-based lawyer and legal columnist and author of the award-winning book "Fifty-Fifty: Clarity from the Background." She can be reached at Julie@VagabondLawyer.com.
