I'm a Travel Writer, and I Have These 8 Amazon Finds to Thank for Easy Packing and Long Flights—From $8

As a travel writer, I get to share my more than 20 years of experience exploring the world, and the products that have made my trips easier. Out of the thousands of travel essentials out there, only some have stood out to me so far this year—and they're all available at Amazon.
I've decided to stop gatekeeping my favorite travel finds from this year that have made packing easier and long flights comfy. That includes everything from a handy portable luggage scale to a supportive neck pillow, and it can all be found at Amazon's travel store for as little as $10.
Best 2025 Travel Essentials at Amazon
Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan
Amazon
This portable mini fan is always with me during the summer (even when I'm not traveling). It's slim and compact enough to slip into a purse, fanny pack, or backpack. When I'm overheating on a train with weak air conditioning, I just unfold it and choose one of the two speeds to quickly cool down.
Travel Inspira Portable Luggage Scale
Amazon
There are few things more anxiety-inducing than getting to the airport and finding out my luggage is overweight, but this mini luggage scale has completely eliminated that issue. It has a digital display screen that'll instantly show how much a suitcase weighs, so I can check before I even get to the airport. And, the packable size means I can take it with me to check my suitcase's weight when it's time to fly home.
Bagail Compression Packing Cubes 4-pack
Amazon
Packing cubes are great for organizing your suitcase, but when you combine that with the magic of compression, you can also save some luggage space. This set of four will condense clothing and keep everything tidy, whether you sort your clothes by article or by outfit. The set has become a shopper favorite, with more than 9,000 purchased in the last month.
Cabeau Travel Neck Pillow
Amazon
Sleeping comfortably on a plane is nearly impossible, which is why investing in a supportive neck pillow is crucial. Cabeau's pillow attaches to your seat to keep you from slouching or dropping your head forward. The front strap also lets you adjust the tightness so you can feel fully supported around your neck and chin.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-on Luggage
Amazon
Travelpro's carry-on is flight attendant-approved—and we can see why. It has four 360-degree spinning wheels that make it easy to move through the airport and other spaces. It also has a spacious interior that's expandable, so overpackers can easily fit an extra outfit or two inside.
Basic Concepts Airplane Foot Hammock
Amazon
As a 5-foot traveler, it's rare that a seat is short enough for my feet to touch the ground, but that's what makes this foot hammock so handy. By attaching it to the seat in front of you, it becomes a foot rest and extra leg support. Plus, the memory foam material makes it extra cozy.
Aphuwj Magnetic Portable Charger
Amazon
This portable charger is worth the investment, because it magnetically attaches to the back of your iPhone, so you can use it without a wire getting in the way. You don't ever have to rely on charging cables to juice up your phone and other devices.
Lisen Airplane Phone Holder
Amazon
This genius phone holder will save you from neck aches. You can attach it to the airplane seat in front of you and watch videos or read ebooks without having to bend your neck for the entire flight.
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