In just a week, I'll be on a plane to Europe, starting an 18-night journey that will include five stops in three countries. And I'm determined to do everything with carry-on luggage only.
You'll be unpacking and repacking at four hotels and one friend's room during your trip, so you want to keep your belongings as organized (and edited) as possible. In my quest to streamline my suitcase, I took a deep dive into Amazon's best-selling travel gear charts to browse the site's most popular organizers and accessories.
We've found seven great products, including a set of compression packing cubes, a small but mighty cosmetics bag, and an ultra-compact hanging toiletry bag. And they're all under $30.
Amazon Best Selling Travel Supplies Under $30
Eneteck 3 Pair Travel Shoe Bag, $13 (10% off)
This travel shoe bag is definitely my favorite find. Fits 3 pairs of shoes in a neat 11.8″ x 8.7″ package. It's about the size of printer paper and only 5.5 inches tall when zipped up.
One reviewer found it “perfectly sized” for two pairs of shoes and sandals, while another shopper called it a “lifesaver” for matching running shoes, hiking boots, and sandals. It has expanded. This is perfect for me since I plan on wearing my bulkiest shoes (chunky loafers) when I travel. I use this to pack ballet flats, heels, and my trusty Adidas Sambas.
Bagail Compression Packing Cubes Set of 4, $17 on Prime.
I know from experience that packing cubes is a game changer. Compression packing cubes?! This is next level and I want to get into it. These ones are designed with a second zipper to pack the cubes into a neat little package. Available in sets of 4, 5, or 6, they come in a variety of colors and patterns, and even come in clear.
Packing Cubes has over 14,500 5-star reviews from shoppers, so you can buy with confidence. The price is currently only $17. One reviewer who bought them said he also got a “more expensive set” to compare and did a “practice pack” and these packing cubes “were the clear winner.”
Another reviewer who traveled abroad with packing cubes wrote: [and] Avoid exposure to dirt and germs. ” But most importantly, thanks to the compression cubes I was able to “put more stuff” in my suitcase.
Purevave Compact Hanging Toiletry Bag, $19 with Prime.
The hanging toiletry bag I have now is great, but it's big. This compact version measures just 10″ x 5″ x 3.5″ when closed and is large enough to hold your essentials. It also features great design details, such as a specially designed central compartment for your toothbrush and toothpaste, and an elastic band to keep liquid items in place.
If you're planning a summer trip, check out Amazon's chart of best-selling travel gear to find products that can streamline your packing process. And keep scrolling to see more of what won my precious carry-on real estate.
Cubetastic Small Travel Makeup Bag
Apple World Traveler Adapter Kit
Repel Portable Travel Umbrella, $29 (17% off)