Top Travel Gear Dinogo Editors Purchased and Loved in 2023

Given our travel habits, Dinogo’s editors and contributors are always seeking gear that enhances our comfort, convenience, and style while on the road. In 2023, we tested hundreds of travel gear items. In the spirit of sharing, here are some of our favorite finds that made our travels better this year. From accessories under $25 that elevate road trips and long flights to higher-end totes and cross-body bags designed for longevity, we hope you enjoy these travel essentials as much as we do.

Filson Rugged Twill Zippered Tote Bag

My perfect personal item has to meet several criteria: it should accommodate a 13-inch MacBook Air, include a side pocket for easy access to my water bottle, feature a zip-top for security, and be stylish enough for daily use. After thorough research, I chose the Rugged Zippered Twill Tote Bag from Filson, a Seattle-based brand. Measuring 15 x 7 x 14 inches, it fits neatly under airplane seats while providing ample space for my laptop, water bottle, travel pillow, a book, chargers, essential toiletries, and a large scarf. The twill fabric is incredibly durable yet lightweight, and its light wax coating protects my belongings from unexpected rain. I can tell this bag will last for years. The only drawback is the lack of a way to attach it securely to my carry-on, but the Cincha Travel Belt solves that. I simply slip the elastic loop over my carry-on handle and snap the buckle around my Filson for a secure airport experience. —Lyndsey Matthews, senior commerce editor

Rimowa Personal Aluminum Cross-Body Bag

A few months after purchasing a Rimowa suitcase, I decided to fully embrace the brand with one of its smallest offerings: the Personal Cross-Body Bag. As someone who often battles with overstuffed pockets—juggling an iPhone 14 Pro Max, a wallet, a pack of Dentyne Ice, AirPods, a USB cord, and occasionally a passport—this compact unisex bag seemed like a perfect fit for my needs.

The aluminum exterior and the case’s detailing reflect the style of Rimowa’s Original suitcase collection, making it a perfect travel companion for my checked bag while also serving as a robust standalone mini case. Its dimensions are comparable to that of a paperback book, and it snaps open to reveal a leather-lined interior featuring two open compartments, a zipped pocket, and three credit card slots—ample space for all my essential items (and more).

Available in 'Arctic Blue,' silver, or black, the case can be carried by hand or worn as a cross-body bag thanks to an adjustable and removable Italian leather or webbed nylon strap that attaches to two side D-rings. (Rimowa also offers additional colors of the webbed nylon straps for $220.) I typically use the case as a cross-body bag for travel and work, while my close friends often borrow it without the strap as a chic clutch for nights out. Although I find the price similar to my suitcase quite steep, my friends remind me it’s comparable to their investments in designer handbags. —Paul Rubio, points and loyalty special correspondent

Airplane Footrest

It may not be glamorous, fancy, or stylish, but this small travel accessory feels like a game-changer for more comfortable flights. At 4’11”, even when my feet are flat on the floor (which isn’t always the case), the seat digs into my thighs and makes my legs numb. Along with wearing compression socks, I now bring this little footrest contraption on long flights. It features a big looped strap with a wide, thick, hard-plastic rectangle covered in memory foam at the bottom. The strap hangs over the tray table (whether it’s open or closed), allowing me to rest my feet on the memory foam. The hard plastic keeps the footrest from collapsing under my weight, and I can easily adjust the strap length to find the most comfortable height for my feet. A stranger in a middle seat earlier this year introduced me to this footrest—she swore by it. I never caught her name, but I owe her a debt of gratitude. So do my legs. —Billie Cohen, executive editor

Allbirds Wool Runner 2 Sneakers

Some products are so heavily promoted online, through podcasts, and Instagram ads that I often resist buying them. This year, however, I finally caved and got a pair of Allbirds sneakers, and they truly live up to the hype: the Merino wool keeps my feet surprisingly warm in winter, the cushioned soles provide excellent support for city exploration, and they are indeed as water-resistant as claimed. I opted for an all-black design; while they aren’t formal, they are understated enough to wear to a wine bar or a nice restaurant without drawing attention. Having watched enough seasons of Project Runway, I appreciate the versatility of a little black dress that transitions from day to night, and these sneakers are the equivalent in stealthy style. —Nicholas DeRenzo, contributing editor

The Pluto Pod Travel Pillow

As someone who struggles to fall asleep even in a regular bed, I can count the times I've successfully dozed off on a plane on one hand. I’ve tried nearly every kind of travel pillow available, from those with hidden neck support to ergonomic memory foam designs that aim to stabilize your head like a neck brace. Finally, I found one that passed the ultimate test: during a recent flight from Taiwan to the United States, I managed to get a solid eight hours of sleep with the Pluto Pod while seated in the middle (yes, the middle) seat.

Like other travel pillows, the Pluto Pod features a snug, wraparound neck design. However, what makes it unique is its soft, blackout hood with an integrated eye mask. While this helmet-like appearance might attract curious glances from fellow travelers, it’s a minor inconvenience for the benefit of blocking out those harsh overhead lights. (I find it works best when combined with a traditional eye mask, as I’m particularly sensitive to light.)

As an added perk, the Pluto Pod conveniently folds into itself, making it travel-friendly. Just roll up the hood, tuck in the neck portion's arms, and snap it onto your luggage handle. When it gets dirty, you can easily disassemble the Pluto Pod and toss the outer fabric into the washing machine on a cold cycle. —Mae Hamilton, associate editor

Yeti Rambler 12-Oz. Colster Can Cooler

During long, hot family road trips in California, where a steady supply of snacks and drinks keeps everyone content, my Yeti can insulator is a must-have. It fits snugly around the most common can sizes, whether you're enjoying LaCroix, Coke, or Spindrift, and it slides effortlessly into the car's cup holder. It keeps beverages cold for what feels like ages, looks fantastic, withstands numerous drops, and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Plus, it features a handy screw-on ring to hold the can securely in place. It’s a crucial companion for the beach, hot tubs, and boats, too. Mine is navy, but they also offer some exciting limited-edition colors like Cosmic Lilac, Camp Green, and Rescue Red. —Tim Chester, deputy editor

Purist 10-Oz. Maker Mug

I’ve often encountered the problem of persistent odors from previous drinks while using travel mugs, especially when switching between coffee, tea, water—and yes, even wine—while on the go. Earlier this year, I decided to try the Purist Maker Mug, which resembles other stainless steel bottles but features an ultra-thin nonporous glass lining that effectively rinses away even the strongest scents. This 10-ounce version comes with a leakproof scope top that allows sipping from any side, eliminating concerns about spills. —L.M.