BIG GIRL TIME

As someone who has made traveling a major priority this year and last year, I’ve purchased my fair share of travel gadgets, accessories, and “must-have” items. Some of them quickly became staples that I now refuse to travel without.

After traveling throughout 2025 and 2026 and recently returning from Italy, I thought it would be fun to share a few products that genuinely made my trips easier, more comfortable, and a little less stressful. These aren’t sponsored recommendations, just items that actually earned a permanent place in my suitcase.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Neck Pillow

If there is one travel purchase that completely changed my flying experience, it’s this neck pillow.

I’ve tried the cheap airport neck pillows before, and they always left me with a sore neck and frustration. The Cabeau Evolution S3 is different because it provides actual support instead of simply existing around your neck. The memory foam is comfortable, and the seat attachment straps help keep your head from constantly falling forward while you sleep.

As someone who likes the aisle seat, this pillow was a lifesaver during long flights. In fact, I loved it so much that I bought one for my dad too.

Travel Phone Holder

I purchased a travel phone holder before my Italy trip, and it quickly became my favorite travel gadget. Whether I was watching a movie on the plane, scrolling through social media, or catching up on videos during a layover, it was incredibly nice not having to hold my phone for hours at a time.

The best part was avoiding that awkward neck strain from constantly looking down. It attaches easily and allows you to position your phone exactly where you want it.

Hydrocolloid Blister Bandages

This may not be the most glamorous item on the list, but it might be one of the most important.

When I traveled to Rome, I spent entire days walking through the city. Between St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and countless side streets, my feet were putting in serious work.

Not only did they stay in place all day, but they also prevented small hot spots from turning into painful blisters. Once applied, I barely noticed they were there.

Uncomfortable feet can ruin an otherwise amazing day of sightseeing, so these have officially become a travel essential for me.

Handheld Stitch Gun

This is probably the most random item on the list, but hear me out.

I purchased a handheld stitch gun for quick clothing adjustments and emergency fixes while traveling. While it’s definitely not a necessity, it ended up being incredibly useful to have on hand.

Whether you need to secure a loose area of clothing, make a temporary adjustment, or fix a minor wardrobe issue before heading out, it can save the day in a matter of seconds.

It’s inexpensive, lightweight, and one of those things you’re grateful to have when you suddenly need it.

Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips

Before a vacation, I always like to do a little extra self-care, and whitening my teeth has become part of that routine.

I tried the Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips before traveling, and I was pleasantly surprised by the results. They’re easy to use, travel-friendly, and helped brighten my smile before countless vacation photos.

Final Thoughts

One thing I’ve learned about travel is that the best purchases aren’t always the most expensive ones. Sometimes it’s the small, practical items that end up making the biggest difference.

For me, these products helped make long flights more comfortable, prevented painful blisters, simplified travel days, and made it easier to enjoy the experience without worrying about minor inconveniences.

As I continue traveling, I’m sure this list will keep growing. But for now, these are the products that have officially earned a permanent spot in my suitcase.

And if you’re planning a trip soon, I hope at least one of them helps make your travels a little smoother. TTYL!