The 51 Ultimate Travel Gifts, Handpicked by Expert Travelers
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While a first-class ticket to a dream destination is every traveler’s wish, a thoughtful gift can make their journey just as enjoyable—especially if they're flying economy. We've curated a list of 51 travel essentials recommended by our editors and contributors. This includes our tried-and-true favorites as well as exciting new products from top brands.
This holiday season, our thoughts are with the communities still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. If you prefer to make a positive impact, consider donating to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund or the Always Asheville fund, both of which provide aid to those in need and support local recovery efforts.
Tech Gadgets & Travel Accessories
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1. Purist 10-Oz. Maker Mug
A reusable coffee mug paired with a bag of locally sourced beans is the perfect eco-friendly gift for travelers. While it resembles a stainless steel bottle, the Purist Maker Mug features a nonporous glass lining, allowing you to easily switch between beverages like coffee, water, or even wine without any lingering smells. The 10-ounce version comes with a leakproof, spill-resistant top designed for sipping from any angle. Purist also offers basic screw-top caps with carrying loops and flip-top lids for those who prefer a more versatile bottle for both hot and cold drinks.
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2. The Nori Press Travel Steam Iron
Hotel irons can be hit or miss, and ironing boards are never convenient. This travel steam press, named one of Oprah's Favorite Things in 2022, weighs just 1.4 pounds and measures only 14 inches long, making it easy to pack. And yes, it steams, too!
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3. Twelve South AirFly Pro
The Twelve South AirFly Pro allows you to use wireless headphones for in-seat entertainment on airplanes. This handy Bluetooth transmitter plugs into the seat’s headphone jack and sends audio to up to two pairs of wireless headphones. It’s also great as an AUX adapter for rental cars. With a 25-hour battery life, it’s about the size of a matchbox.
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4. Trtl Travel Pillow
At first glance, the Trtl Travel Pillow may seem odd, but once you use it, all doubts disappear. This ergonomically designed pillow prevents your head from bobbing while you sleep. Former Dinogo editor Rosalie Tinelli shared in her review: 'It feels a bit strange at first and kind of looks like a neck brace, but who cares about looks when you’re getting restful sleep on a plane and waking up with no neck pain?'”
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5. Yeti Rambler Straw Mug
Drinking from a plastic bottle while driving is not only inconvenient but also dangerous, as you have to take your hands off the wheel to open the cap. Yeti's Rambler Straw Mug is designed to fit in any car cup holder and comes with a reusable straw lid, so you can easily take a sip without removing both hands from the wheel. Available in 25-ounce, 35-ounce, and extra-large 42-ounce sizes, along with a range of colors, it’s perfect for everything from water to iced coffee.
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6. Cincha Travel Belt Bag
This dual-purpose travel belt bag serves as a sling for carrying small essentials like passports and keys, or as a secure attachment for personal items on your suitcase handle. Simply slip the elastic loop over your carry-on handle and snap the buckle around your bag to keep it in place while you navigate the airport. The adjustable strap extends up to 49 inches. For every belt sold, Cincha donates 100 airline miles to Miles4Migrants to help reunite migrant and refugee families.
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7. SleepPhones Bluetooth Sleep Headphones
Getting restful sleep on an airplane is a challenge—especially if you're trying to wear both a neck pillow and bulky over-ear headphones. Enter sleep headphones: a soft fleece headband with ultra-thin built-in speakers, designed for comfortable sleeping with your head resting flat on a pillow. While many brands offer similar wireless designs, SleepPhones are known for their superior comfort and quality, though they do come at a premium.
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8. Therabody Theragun Mini
After a red-eye flight, your neck and shoulders may feel tight and sore. This compact massage gun, weighing just one pound, is small enough to fit in a purse or backpack but powerful enough to relieve those knotted muscles.
Packing essentials
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9. Thule Compression Packing Cubes
Once you discover the convenience of packing cubes, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without them. Thule’s Compression Packing Cubes are a standout, crafted from Bluesign-approved ripstop nylon that’s water-resistant, highly durable, and eco-friendly. The set features double YKK zippers, allowing you to zip the cube shut and then compress it further to remove excess air and reduce bulk.
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10. Baggu Go Pouch Set
The Baggu Go Pouch Set comes with three versatile pouches, perfect for keeping your belongings organized. The small pouch is ideal for keys, Airpods, and lip balm, while the medium one serves as a great toiletry bag. The large pouch is roomy enough to use as a packing cube for clothes. Baggu frequently releases new patterns, with current options including moon phases, constellations, Hello Kitty & Friends, gingham, and Snoopy in a puffer coat.
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11. Ries Original Essential Travel Bottle
Reduce plastic waste by ditching single-use toiletry bottles. Instead, use refillable travel-size containers like the 1.7-ounce or 3.4-ounce bottles from Ries, a Black woman–owned brand. Dinogo’s former newsletter editor Maliah West recommends their Mini Duo Starter Set ($30), which includes two 1.7-ounce bottles with a secure locking system for a spill-proof experience.
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12. Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case
Constructed from two recycled water bottles per bag and featuring vegan leather details, Paravel’s spacious vanity case keeps all your toiletries organized and visible with its transparent side panels. A smaller version is also available for $60, and the four color options coordinate perfectly with Paravel’s Cabana tote and luggage, making it easy to create a stylish, cohesive travel set.
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13. Dagne Dover Frankie Jewelry Case
Know someone who’s always wrestling with a tangled mess of necklaces? The Frankie Jewelry Case by Dagne Dover makes a thoughtful gift that addresses this very issue. Available in two sizes and seven colors, including a custom-painted hibiscus design perfect for beach trips, it has ample space for necklaces, rings, earrings, watches, and more.
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14. Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Multi-Shoe Cube
The best way to stop your loved ones from packing their dirty shoes with clean clothes is to gift them a dedicated shoe bag. This packing cube from Eagle Creek is made of durable recycled polyester and is roomy enough to hold several pairs of sandals, sneakers, or even boots up to men’s size 13.
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15. Itzy Ritzy Travel Happens Reusable Sealed Wet Bag
Dinogo’s executive editor Billie Cohen swears by this reusable wet bag, which she ‘borrowed’ at a white elephant gift exchange. Made of cotton outside and BPA-free plastic inside, it’s waterproof, easy to clean, and versatile. Use it to store toiletries, wet clothes, snacks, or even tech gear when it rains. Available in a variety of cute patterns, it features a snap-on strap for hanging on towel bars or beach chairs. Simply toss it in the wash when dirty and air dry.
Travel bags and luggage
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16. Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Convertible Bag
The fanny pack has made a comeback with a modern twist, incorporating sleek design and high-tech materials, says Dinogo contributor Courtney Holden. The Waverley 2 features a versatile two-part adjustable strap, allowing it to transform from a belt bag to a cross-body bag, wristlet, or shoulder bag. It’s available in two sizes—8 inches x 5.6 inches and 8.3 inches x 5.9 inches—and includes an interior zip pocket for important items, a slip pocket for quick-access essentials, and an exterior card slot for things like a hotel key. Choose from textured Saffiano leather, luxurious Napa leather, or a tough, scratch-resistant vegan leather made from nopal cactus.
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17. North End Bag Company Virginia Beach Tote
The best beach bags do more than just carry sunscreen—they also transition seamlessly to air travel for warm getaways. Handcrafted just blocks from the Virginia Beach oceanfront, the Virginia Beach Tote from North End Bag Company is a perfect example. With a sturdy, water-resistant waxed canvas exterior and leather straps, it offers a rugged yet polished look that works from the sand to the runway. The exterior slip pockets can stash flip-flops or snacks, while the interior compartments are perfect for sunglasses, tech gear, or beach essentials.
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18. Paravel Fold-Up Bag
The Paravel Fold-Up Bag is an ultra-lightweight duffel that folds into a small pouch, making it ideal for travelers with limited space. Perfect for any impromptu shopping sprees or unexpected souvenirs, it’s the ultimate go-to weekend bag for Dinogo’s editor at large, Laura Dannen Redman. She refers to it as the 'Trojan horse of weekend bags' due to its surprising capacity—able to hold two pairs of shoes, two toiletry bags, and three days' worth of winter clothes. Bonus: it's made from 22 recycled plastic water bottles, making it an eco-friendly option for every trip.
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19. Peak Design Everyday Totepack
This 20-liter bag is as versatile as it gets. Whether you're toting it for your daily commute or transforming it into a backpack for a hike, it has you covered. Made with a recycled nylon canvas outer shell, it’s waterproof, so you can safely carry your laptop, tablet, or camera gear. Choose from an all-black version or one with ivory and brown leather accents, offering a more stylish alternative to your typical laptop backpack.
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20. Matador Freefly16 Packable Backpack
Matador’s Freefly16 Packable Backpack is built for wet conditions (it’s water-resistant, not waterproof) and weighs under half a pound. Despite its lightweight, it comes with a hip strap for improved weight distribution, dual water bottle pockets, and an external compartment for quick access to essentials. When not in use, it folds neatly into its own compact stuff sack, making it easy to stow in your luggage for hiking or urban adventures. Jessie Beck, Dinogo’s associate director of SEO, product & video, says, “I’ve taken it on a dozen trips, and it’s proven durable and practical.”
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21. Leatherology Harwood Weekender
The Harwood Weekender from AAPI-owned Leatherology is perfect for anyone seeking a stylish overnight bag. Crafted from durable leather, this small duffel boasts an array of pockets, magnetic closures, and three monogramming styles to personalize it. Its trolley sleeve makes it easy to slide onto your carry-on for seamless travel.
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22. Lojel Cubo Small Carry-On Suitcase
Luggage preferences are a heated topic among travel editors, with many swearing by either hard-shell or soft-side suitcases. However, Lojel's Cubo Small carry-on blends the best of both worlds. It offers the sleek durability of a hard case and the packing convenience of a soft-side bag, thanks to its innovative top-opening design. This model, which comes in international carry-on size (20.9” x 14” x 9.8”), also features a laptop sleeve and rolls smoothly with eight wheels. Available in various colors and priced competitively with similar luggage, it’s an ideal option for hassle-free travel. (Read our full review.)
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23. Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag
The popular Dinogo-approved Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack has now been updated with wheels. Like its predecessor, this carry-on-sized bag fits in overhead compartments and boasts ample zippered pockets for accessories, clothes, and shoes. Equipped with durable wheels, it’s built to handle cobblestone streets and rough terrain effortlessly.
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24. July Personalized Luggage
July, a luggage brand from Australia, lets you fully personalize their hard-shell suitcases with a range of fonts, colors, and even emojis to make your bag uniquely yours. They also offer gift cards for those who prefer letting their recipients choose their preferred design. Luggage choices include the sleek Carry On Light ($245) and the more robust Carry On Pro Trunk ($495), which features a glazed polycarbonate finish and secure one-click latch locks.
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25. Roverlund Out-of-Office Pet Carrier
This rugged yet fashionable soft-sided pet carrier serves multiple purposes. It can double as a car seat for road trips and is also approved for air travel. Upon arrival, the shoulder strap transforms into a leash, and the carrier can be used as a portable pet bed. Available in two sizes, the small version is suitable for pets up to 15 pounds, while the large version is ideal for animals up to 25 pounds.
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26. Brouk & Co. Capri 2-N-1 Garment Bag
This smart duffel bag includes a hidden garment bag. To pack, start by placing suits or dresses in the garment bag section, then add shoes to the side pockets. Once that’s zipped up, pack the remaining items in the main compartment.
Travel toiletries and skincare
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27. BL+ Eye Cream
This luxurious eye cream, part of Blue Lagoon’s exclusive skincare range, is infused with microalgae and silica harvested from the geothermal waters of Iceland’s famed blue lagoons. The 15 mL jar may be on the pricier side, but a little goes a long way, making it a perfect gift. There’s also a smaller 5 mL version for $60 if you’d like to sample it first. Pair it with the BL+ face cream to create a thoughtful skincare gift set.
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28. Kinfield Golden Hour Bug Repellent
Kinfield Golden Hour offers a DEET-free solution that actually keeps bugs away. With a natural blend of citronella, lemongrass, and cloves, this repellent will have you smelling fresh while staying bite-free. The TSA-approved, 3-ounce spray bottle makes it a travel essential.
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29. Wonder Valley Little Wonders Kit
Wonder Valley uses locally grown California olives to create its skincare essentials. This four-piece kit includes travel-sized versions of its oil cleanser, face oil, Wonder serum, and Hinoki body oil, all packaged in TSA-approved sizes.
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30. Soft Services Buffing Bar
Elevate your soap routine with these buffing bars from Brooklyn-based Soft Services. Designed to exfoliate and refresh, these bars are packed with ultra-fine sanding crystals that help you shake off the travel fatigue. They also smell divine, with the Debaser scent—a collaboration with D.S. & Durga—offering a unique blend of fig and tonka.
Travel clothes and shoes
31. Gobi Oversized Cashmere Scarf
Cashmere makes for a luxurious gift, and Gobi’s 100% Mongolian cashmere accessories are a prime example. Their unisex oversized scarf doubles as a cozy travel blanket for flights and a stylish wrap upon arrival. Available in a range of colors from soft pastels and neutrals to plaid patterns, it’s perfect for any traveler looking for both warmth and style.
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32. Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown Poncho
This versatile insulated poncho serves as both a quick-change cover-up for cool beach days and a cozy wearable blanket for campsite lounging. Filled with Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified down, it’s made from a stretch fabric that moves with you. Available in two unisex sizes (S/M and L/XL) and three distinct color options: black, sandstorm camo, and ‘blurple’ zigzag. A kangaroo pouch at the front includes a secure zippered pocket for your essentials.
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33. Hotel Saint Vincent Marbled Silk Robe
It's hard to resist the allure of Hotel Saint Vincent’s marbled silk robes, which are now available for purchase online through Liz Lambert’s Far West Collective. Originally designed for guests at the New Orleans hotel, these unisex robes are machine-washable and come in three stunning colorways: Gris Gris (olive), Earth Sisters (pink), and Rain Song (blue). One size fits most.
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34. Calzuro Classic Clog with Holes
Katherine LaGrave, Dinogo’s deputy editor and self-proclaimed clog enthusiast, describes her passion for clogs as multi-seasonal. She owns several pairs: ones for gardening, indoors, and ‘nice’ clogs for more formal settings. But it wasn’t until she discovered the Calzuro Classic Clogs that she found the perfect summer pair. These Italian-made, slim plastic clogs feature a 1.5-inch heel and a durable design ideal for medical professionals. Katherine first spotted them on a woman at the dog park and was immediately taken by their practicality and colorful options, including sky-blue, hot pink, and bright yellow. The clogs are easily washable—whether in the dishwasher, washing machine, or with a simple hose-down—and perfect for beach days or casual outings.
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35. Chaco Ramble Puff Clogs
For those swapping the beach for the mountains this winter, we’ve got the perfect clogs for you. Chaco’s fleece-lined clogs are like little sleeping bags for your feet, offering warmth and dryness no matter the weather. Ideal for early morning hikes, cozy campfire moments, and hassle-free airport walks, these clogs make winter adventures much more comfortable.
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36. Sh*t That I Knit Rutherford Beanie
Sh*t That I Knit is a woman-owned business that supports over 400 female artisans in Lima, Peru, paying them fair wages to hand-knit their cozy, sporty winter beanies. Made from 100% Peruvian merino wool, these hats come in nine colors and feature a removable faux-fur pom-pom for extra flair.
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37. Sabah Shoes
These effortlessly stylish, lace-free travel shoes are handmade in Gaziantep, Turkey. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying drinks at happy hour, they’re a versatile choice. Crafted from leather, they come in a wide array of colors and are ideal for breezing through airport security. With a rubber sole for durability and traction, these slip-ons offer a roomy yet chic fit. The men’s version is designed for wider feet, while the shoes also come in children’s sizes. The earthy tones and bold patterns make them perfect for any outfit and look great in photos.
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38. Glerups Slipper Boots
Handcrafted in Denmark, these unisex slipper boots are made with 100% natural wool felt and feature grippy rubber soles. Available in eight uniquely named colors, such as North Sea (light green) and Forest (deep green), Glerups are the perfect travel companion for those moments when comfort is paramount—whether you're enduring a red-eye flight or enjoying après-ski by the fire.
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39. Bombas Compression Socks
While not the most glamorous gift, compression socks are a must-have for any traveler looking to boost circulation and ease muscle discomfort on long flights. Bombas' compression socks stand out for their comfortable 15–20 mmHg compression, seamless toe design, and extra cushioning that extends all the way to the toe. Plus, with every pair you buy, Bombas donates a pair to a person in need. Since 2013, they've given away over 100 million clothing items to support communities in need.
Outdoor adventure gear
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40. Rumpl NanoLoft Flame Blanket
Dinogo's top pick for a packable blanket has now been upgraded to a fire-resistant version, perfect for your next campfire without worrying about stray sparks. The NanoLoft Flame Blanket from Rumpl is filled with 100% post-consumer recycled insulation that mimics down for added warmth and comfort. It’s also machine washable for easy care. Plus, Rumpl teamed up with the Japanese outdoor brand Snow Peak to create a limited-edition Takibi blanket, inspired by the Japanese word for 'bonfire'.
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41. VSSL Java Coffee Grinder
The VSSL Java coffee grinder is a durable addition to your camping kit, offering top-tier performance without taking up much space. At only six inches tall and 14 ounces, it’s a lightweight powerhouse. With stainless steel burrs and 50 grind settings, you can adjust it to fit any brewing method. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s built to last and grinds 20 grams of coffee at once, enough for one strong, satisfying cup of coffee.
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42. AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press
For exceptional espresso or cold brew while camping, all you need is the AeroPress Go, finely ground coffee, and hot water. For cold brew, just stir the grounds in cold water for a full minute before pressing. Weighing only 11.5 ounces, this travel-friendly press includes a holder for 20 paper micro-filters, making it the ideal portable coffee companion.
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43. Cascade Mountain Tech Expedition Trail Series Kit
Ideal for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike, these lightweight snowshoes strike the perfect balance of flexibility, durability, and weight. As Dinogo contributor Bailey Berg puts it, they are 'in the Goldilocks zone'—responsive enough for smooth navigation, tough enough to withstand years of use, and light enough to prevent early fatigue. The kit also includes twist-lock poles and a breathable carry bag that keeps your snowshoes dry, even after a wet adventure.
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44. Maven B.3 Binoculars
These B.3 Binoculars deliver exceptional clarity, perfect for spotting wildlife—whether it’s a bird on a hike or a lion in the savannah. They’re an affordable option for newcomers to binoculars, offering remarkable value at a price far below Maven’s premium models that can reach up to $1,700. As Dinogo contributor Bailey Berg notes, they’re compact, lightweight, and rugged enough to endure travel bumps, water splashes, and general wear and tear. Plus, Maven backs them with a lifetime warranty.
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45. Opinel Nomad Cooking Kit
Opinel, a family-run French brand established in 1890, is renowned for its craftsmanship. While I love their kitchen knives at home, their portable Nomad cooking kit is a travel essential. This set includes a knife, bottle opener, peeler, mini cutting board, and a cleaning cloth that doubles as a carrying pouch—perfect for picnics and outdoor meals. Say goodbye to plastic!
Travel gifts for kids (and their parents)
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46. Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiets Active Noise Canceling Headphones
While it's tempting to buy inexpensive headphones for kids on the go, these PuroQuiets headphones are designed with safety in mind. They limit volume to 85 decibels—the maximum safe level recommended by the World Health Organization and other experts. Certified sensory-inclusive, these headphones are ideal for children with sensory sensitivities, ensuring both comfort and protection for little ears.
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47. State Bags Kane Kids Mini Travel Backpack
This mini backpack from State Bags is designed for younger travelers, featuring padded straps for added comfort and a convenient sleeve to slip it over the handle of a carry-on suitcase. With a fun, bright dinosaur print, it's the perfect size for kids ages 2 to 4, while the larger Kane Kids Backpack suits children aged 4 to 8.
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48. Little Sun Original Solar Lamp
Created by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, the Little Sun Original is a portable, flower-shaped solar lamp that doubles as a wearable flashlight or a soft nightlight. The company behind it, Little Sun, uses sales proceeds to support clean energy access in off-grid areas, having distributed over 1.6 million products to communities in places like South Sudan, Rwanda, Nepal, and Ukraine.
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49. JetKids by Stokke
The JetKids by Stokke ride-on suitcase is designed to help children move quickly through the airport. Dinogo’s deputy news editor, Michelle Baran, found that her kids loved riding this suitcase so much during their trip to Europe that she ended up checking the stroller. Once on the plane, the top of the suitcase folds out to transform an economy seat into a comfortable lie-flat bed, complete with a mattress. Inside, there’s enough room for essentials like an iPad, headphones, coloring books, a small plush toy, and a blanket. For extra storage, you can attach an additional backpack for items like sweatshirts and toys.
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50. WAYB Pico Portable Car Seat
For parents tired of lugging heavy car seats through airports, the eight-pound WAYB Pico Portable Car Seat is a game changer. It folds into a compact 11.6 x 14.5 x 18.9-inch size—about the same as a medium-sized camping backpack—making it light and easy to carry. For even more convenience, you can purchase a $95 backpack carrier to store it in. Dinogo’s Michelle Baran says, 'As someone who has traveled solo with kids and struggled to carry a full-sized car seat, this is a life-saver.'
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51. No Reception Club 'The Sidekick' Fanny Pack
When you don't need to bring the entire diaper bag, No Reception Club’s three-liter Sidekick fanny pack is a perfect choice. It holds up to six diapers, plus ointment and hand sanitizer, and even includes a built-in changing pad. The back pocket is designed to hold baby wipes, and its magnetic flap closure makes it easy to open and close with one hand. Dinogo contributor Courtney Holden loves the ease of the magnetic closure, saying, 'It’s a breeze to swipe and wipe.'
This article was first published in 2022 and was updated on October 29, 2024, to feature new items.
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1
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2
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3
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4
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5
Evaluation :
5/5