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From Lisbon and Porto to the Algarve and the Azores, these travel essentials are worth the suitcase space.

I'm a seasoned Shopping Editor with more than 10 years of experience covering travel (my favorite), home decor, fashion, and pet products.

Portugal is one of those destinations where your itinerary can go from city walks in Lisbon and Porto to winery visits in the Douro Valley and beach days in the Algarve — all in the same trip. That means the best things you can pack are versatile, lightweight, and comfortable enough to keep up with every train ride, ferry trip, and cobblestone street along the way. Ahead, you’ll find the travel essentials worth making room for, including breathable linen layers, supportive sneakers, universal chargers, anti-chafe shorts, and other items you’ll be very glad you brought.

A pair of Dr. Scholl's sneakers, because the brand is pretty much synonymous with happy, comfortable feet. Reviewers have put these shoes to the test, logging thousands of steps on vacation, and the results? No rubbing, no blisters, and no foot pain — great news for you and the MILES of cobblestone streets you're about to strut!

Promising review: "I bought these for my two-week trip to Portugal, knowing that I would be walking WAY more than I do in my sedentary lifestyle back home. I was really worried that my feet would get fatigued before I did, so I was trying to find a good walking shoe that wasn’t freaking hideous. I am SO glad I bought these shoes. As a matter of fact, I am 1 week into my trip and am so impressed that I stopped to write this review. I actually wore a different pair of shoes today and walked for about 10 minutes before returning to my hotel to put these back on. They are so comfortable and the first pair of shoes that don’t give me shin splints from walking too long. I don’t know what kind of magic is baked into these soles, but I’m obsessed. I’ve averaged about 7 miles a day walking in these puppies, and my feet are not sore one bit. Stop shopping, just buy them, you won’t regret it! (Also, side note that they are super cute and go with all of my outfits!)." —Wolf3351

Get them from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in women's sizes 4–13, including wide sizes, and 31 colors).

An Anker Nano Power Bank with a 10,000-mAh battery, a built-in USB-C cable, and 30-watt fast charging that can boost your iPhone from 0% to 50% in just 30 minutes — a necessity because you will be taking an ungodly number of photos. Plus, the cable also doubles as a wrist strap, so you can charge on the go without juggling a bunch of devices in your one free hand. (I'm assuming the other is holding a pastel de nata.)

Here's what BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly has to say:

"I've owned this charger for more than a year and love the built-in cord. It just simplifies everything! I often throw it into my bag on regular days because sometimes I end up spending the whole day out and about (New York City is just like that) and need a charge without monopolizing an outlet in a coffee shop. It's a little heavier than other portable chargers I've used in the past, but I still adore it over all other chargers I've used. Oh, and the percentage indicator for how much juice it has is incredibly convenient and has probably ruined all other portable chargers for me."

Promising review: "An absolute must-have for anyone looking to eliminate cable clutter while keeping their devices charged at high speeds. The standout feature is the integrated USB-C cable, which is incredibly sturdy and doubles as a convenient carrying handle. With 30W bi-directional fast charging, it can power an iPhone 16 or 15 to 50% in just 30 minutes, and it recharges itself just as quickly. The vibrant smart display provides real-time information on remaining battery percentage and charging time, taking all the guesswork out of your power levels. Compact enough to fit in a small bag or even a pocket, it’s the perfect balance of 10,000-mAh capacity and portability for travel or daily commutes." —Chris

Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in five colors).

A versatile crossbody bag so you can keep all of your essentials — ID, phone, credit card, room key — nice and close, no bulky bag necessary. That said, it offers a deceiving amount of space for popular souvenirs like azulejos (hand-painted ceramic tiles), Portuguese soaps, and cork accessories. 

Promising reviews: "I use this bag every single day! It fits everything, the thick strap keeps it comfortable, and it looks pretty cute with almost every outfit. It was the only bag I took with me on a month-long trip, and it was perfect." —gigi

"Love it! It is the perfect bag, holds a lot of stuff. The style is sleek and appealing to the eye. The fit of the crossbody is comfortable and doesn’t tug on your neck as some others do! I recommend this bag for everyday use!!" —Tinkerbell304

Get it from Baggu (available in 23 colors/designs) or Urban Outfitters (available in 12 colors/designs) for $56. 

A lightweight daypack if your itinerary has you out from dawn ’til dusk, so a crossbody simply won't cut it. This gives you room for two water bottles, a fan, an extra layer, etc. It also has a durable water repellent coating, so quick showers are no biggie. 

Promising reviews: "Perfect small bag for my trip to Europe. Fit all my essentials without being too heavy." —Staci

"Great backpack for traveling! I bought this color and size to use as a carry-on personal item when flying, and it did not disappoint! It gave me so much leg room on the plane, I was amazed! It can fit a midsize water bottle in the main compartment, different snacks, and the bungee cord is so helpful for hats or an extra jacket that you don't want to wear anymore when the day gets hotter." —The North Face Reviewer

Get it from The North Face for $41+ (originally $65+; available in five styles/sizes and six colors).

A Pashmina scarf ready to be fashioned into a blanket or pillow when flying; a wrap when you're cold; a shield from the sun (it offers UPF 50+ protection!); or a modest shawl when visiting cultural sites. (Maybe a trip to Capela dos Ossos — the Chapel of Bones — is on your itinerary?)

Promising review: "I absolutely love this wrap!! It is the perfect weight and size for travel. It didn't leave my side on an 11-day backpacking trip through Europe and was used as a scarf, blanket, towel, and wrap throughout. Fashionable enough to dress up a basic travel day outfit, warm enough to keep away a chill on a cooler night, and light enough to pack away small into a bag or tie around a purse strap. I can't say enough great things! I am buying these as gifts for everyone I know who travels." —Jenn

Get it from Amazon for $42+ (available in two fabrics and various colors).

A universal travel adapter — point blank period! It offers one regular outlet, two USB outlets, and two USB-C outlets, so you can charge all of your electronics at once. Let's be real, you're lost at home without access to Google Maps, nvm in a foreign country. 

Promising reviews: "I went to Portugal and Ireland, and this little guy worked perfectly, and even though it's a small brick, it's lightweight, and since the prongs slide in, I could store it just about anywhere. Well worth the cost." —Kris

"I've tried a lot of these travel chargers, and a problem I've had is they often sag from the outlet and disconnect. This design locks into place and is rock solid. Charges well, too. Highly recommended." —Turner

A knit midi dress that's both relaxed and stylish, so you can transition it from a day of sightseeing to a sit-down dinner. If you're visiting Portugal's famous beach region — the Algarve — which stretches 100 miles along the coast, it also makes for a great cover-up. 

Promising review: "This dress is one of those simple staples that just works. The fit is really comfortable without feeling tight or restrictive, and the fabric is soft with a lightweight feel that makes it comfortable for all-day wear. It drapes nicely and gives that easy, put-together look without needing much styling.

What I really like is how versatile it is. You can dress it up a bit or keep it casual, and it still feels appropriate in many settings. It is comfortable enough to wear for long periods without feeling bulky or stiff, which makes it one of those reliable pieces you end up reaching for often." —Marie Phillips 

Get it from Amazon for $30.85+ (available in sizes S–XXL and in 13 colors)

A compact eight-compartment pill organizer with room for all of your vitamins and prescriptions. This sure beats a baggie full of loose pills!

Promising review: "Flight attendant–approved! These pill containers are simply amazing! The latch and seal on them are very secure due to their rubber gasket around the inside. I put my daily medications in each of the six smaller compartments on one side and then use the larger two containers for vitamins and supplements. I keep this in my tote bag for work, and I am not concerned at all about it opening. I can’t tell you how many times some of the other pill boxes I used have opened up, tossing prescription medications into the smallest corners of my bag. Well-designed and well-executed!" —Christina S.

Get it from Amazon for $5.97+ (available in five colors).

A trusty stick of Megababe's Thigh Rescue (a TSA-friendly pick!), because whether your itinerary involves a hike in Arrábida Natural Park (just south of Lisbon), a romp around the fairytale fortresses and castles of Sintra, or surf lessons in Nazaré, enjoying yourself in a pair of shorts or a skirt shouldn't result in a days-long angry red rash. 

Megababe is a woman-owned small business from entrepreneur, body acceptance advocate, and influencer Katie Sturino. 

Promising review: "I'm a bigger girl with thick thighs who has always had chub rub issues. I decided to try this stuff for a recent trip to Europe. It held up for hours of walking in 90+ degree weather. I had zero chub rub issues. I'd definitely recommend giving it a try!" —Rachel Beaver

Or a pair of ultra-stretchy, sheer, and cooling Thigh Society shorts you can slip on under skirts, dresses, and anything else you'd usually chafe in. These babies don't roll, ride up, or give you dreaded swamp bum — they're basically just like a second skin. 

Thigh Society is a woman-founded, size-inclusive small business founded by Marnie Consky.

I bought two pairs of these a few years back — in black and nude — and I simply love them. Chub rub has always been a part of my life and until now, I didn't have a great way of preventing it. I've tried various sports shorts and slathering my thighs in deodorant, but those methods just weren't cutting it. These shorts are unbelievably lightweight and breathable, superrrrrr stretchy (but not in a way that bags out after extended wear), and they do. not. roll. or. fall. down. I wear them under all of my skirts and dresses (because I also have an irrational fear that everything I wear is see-through when the sun hits it), and I will definitely be buying more!

Promising review: "It’s not an exaggeration to say these shorts are life-changing. I’m a chubby living in hot, steamy Florida. Chub rub is inevitable when wearing skirts and dresses. I’ve tried a number of lady boxers and petit pants. They all either rolled up, down, or one leg rode up. They were also hot and non-breathable. These shorts are perfection. No more chub rub, no more swamp a$$! I’m in love. I wish there were more color choices!" —Rachel

Get a pair from Thigh Society for $39 (available in women's sizes XS/S–5X/6X, in six lengths, and 11 colors). 

An I Dew Care "Tap Secret" mattifying powder shampoo that eliminates grease at your roots and keeps your scalp nice and happy with antioxidant-rich black ginseng and nourishing biotin. With this, you can skip a wash day and opt for more time out and about. 

The powder-based dry shampoo works just like spray formulas — apply to the area you're looking to refresh and then shake out excess powder with your fingertips or a brush. 

Promising review: "After searching far and wide, this is the only dry shampoo that I will ever use! I’ve tried countless brands and spent so much money searching for the perfect dry shampoo. This one has the least harmful ingredients and the most noticeable results! I apply it to my roots and brush through right before going to bed. In the morning, my hair doesn’t look oily at all! By the third day, there is a noticeable texture from the product, but that personally helps me style my hair to stay in a cute, messy bun. This is the only dry shampoo I will ever recommend!" —Brenda Spinache

Get it from Amazon for $13.59 (available in three styles).

A vintage-inspired reversible bathing suit you can get away with wearing several times on the same trip, thanks to its innovative design. FYI: Reviewers recommend that if you're between sizes, size up!

Promising review: "This suit is so pretty! I was nervous that, for the price, it would be poor quality, but it looks just like the photos. The material is nice and thick, and I love that it’s padded. I’m between a small and medium, so I sized up based on other reviews." —Morgan Meldrum

Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in women's sizes 2–14 and eight styles). 

Some anti-pickpocketing clips that secure your zippers so no one can undo them without catching your attention first. Most cities in Portugal pose a lower risk for pickpocketing than places like Barcelona or Paris, but these (plus some normal urban awareness) can give you added peace of mind. 

Promising review: "Perfect for international travel! Easy to use and protected against theft/pickpockets. Used it on my recent trip to Europe!" —Rachel Bristol

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $12.99 (available in four color combos). 

A lightweight sweater, as evenings can get cool — especially if you're staying in Porto or elsewhere along the coast. This boatneck pullover features a relaxed fit and a loose knit that will keep you comfortable, but won't have you overheating. 

Promising review: "Picked this up to wear over shoulders or on a chilly summer night. Perfect red, love the easy, laid back fit for summer. Looks amazing with shorts for casual or with white denim and dressier sandals for a casual dinner out! Thanks, MW! The other colors are beautiful, and the rich chocolate will be my next purchase!" —AML94

Get it from Madewell for $98 (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL and in five colors).

Some breathable 100% linen wide-leg pants, because they're an easy go-to, whether you're spending time in a relaxed coastal town like Cascais, or experiencing a sunset along the windswept cliffs of Sagres — also known as Europe’s “edge.” I particularly love these as they're super affordable and offer functional pockets. 

Promising review: "I am very happy with these pants. The fabric quality and craftsmanship are good (I'm a seamstress, so I know), and the price was wonderful. I washed them, hung them up to dry, and didn't really need to press them. I've been ordering washable linen pants from another source for years, and these Quince pants were nearly half of what I have been paying." —Carol L.

Get them from Quince for $42 (available in women's sizes XS–XL, inseams 26, 28, and 30, and in 11 colors/designs).

Some trusty Birkenstock Arizona sandals that are so good, they've gone practically unchanged since they first started popping up on people's feet in 1973. Mine have been around the world with me, and I guarantee yours will quickly become your go-to plus one!! 

I know Birkenstocks are expensive, but they really do last forever (mine average three years with near-CONSTANT wear), and once they're broken in, they're so dang comfortable. I've worn them everywhere — including up and down the hills of Positano, at the beach in Jamaica, through old towns in Montenegro, etc., etc. — and they haven't done me wrong. Living in NYC, they're also what I wear 90% of the time come spring and summer, so they've got miles and miles on them.

Get them from Birkenstock (available in women's 4/4.5–12/12.5 standard and wide and in three metallic colors. See all Arizona styles here) or DSW (available in women's sizes 5/5.5–11/11.5 and in five colors) for $117.96. 

Some La Roche-Posay SPF 50, because — say it with me! — sunscreen is essential! While the temperature will, of course, depend on the season and exact location of your visit, walking-heavy sightseeing days mean long sun exposure without realizing it, so you can totally burn. 

I am very picky when it comes to sunscreen, as my skin can get super oily, super fast. I also HATE the smell of coconut, so I'm not a fan of anything that has that typical sunblock smell. This formula is really lightweight, absorbs super fast, doesn't leave me shiny, and offers SPF 50 — aka much better protection than a lot of alternatives I've tried.

Promising review: "I have tried a million face sunscreens, and this one is the most lightweight one I can find. I hate feeling sunscreen on my face and can’t stand feeling sticky, and I know if it makes me sticky, I won’t wear it every day. This one is a very thin consistency and really melts into your skin, leaves a minimal white cast, and I find myself reaching for it every day. I also have very sensitive skin and rosacea, and this doesn’t sting my face like some others do. Love!!" —Savanna Ouellette

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in an original formula and four tinted shades).

A BPA-free collapsible water bottle that's completely shatterproof and malleable, so it takes up next to no room in your bag! I know carrying a water bottle can seem annoying, but when you're clocking 20,000+ steps per day, you'll be happy to have some H20 on hand. 

Promising review: "Absolutely love this! Bought for travel as a committed carry-on only, backpack always person. Weight matters; no leaks matter. There is NO bad taste from the bottle materials, which was my biggest concern. There was an out-gassing smell that dissipated quickly. Dishwasher safe and no leaks even after the dishwasher. I’ve now traveled through many airports with this twice and will be buying them for my kids for travel in Europe. This is such a travel upgrade from my daily use metal bottle for many reasons: it fits much easier in the seat back pocket on the plane, rolling it up for stashing when empty, doesn’t scare anyone when I drop it accidentally, and it has less weight in my bag, meaning less pressure on my shoulders. It stands up well even when empty. Excellent product. You won’t regret it." —TN Mom

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in six colors and packs of two).

Some hydrocolloid blister bandages, if you have sensitive little feet, and even the most comfortable shoes can leave you hurting. These waterproof pads provide extra cushioning for comfort and hydrocolloid, which can help damaged skin heal up to two times faster than if left untreated. 

Promising review: "These are maybe the best bandages I've ever used on my blisters. They are discreet and stay on your feet forever! I had the two largest blisters I've ever had on my heels from new shoes, ordered these and put them on and was able to do intense workouts the next day and didn't feel a thing. Will be buying these for each purse I own!!" —Renee

Get them from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in styles for toes, heels, and spots, or in a combination pack).  

A 2-in-1 nausea relief inhaler that can help with motion sickness, morning sickness, queasiness, and migraines — a no-brainer to keep on hand given how tiny it is. This is a non-medicated, non-drowsy solution meant to provide immediate relief when sniffed or applied to the tip of your nose. 

Check out a TikTok of the nausea relief inhaler in action. PS: Allclair is a small biz!

Promising review: "Took this on my first cruise. Anytime that I started to feel woozy, I’d reach for it. I’m sure the required act of deep breathing helped a lot — and breathing in the fragrance of the essential oil is very calming and effective. Worked for me! Wonderful!" —Willy&Lilly

Get a pack of two from Amazon for $12.99 (also available in a pack of four). 

A loose linen-blend button-down, because dressing in layers is the way to go, no matter what part of the country your trip takes you to. 

Promising review: "Love this for layering when the weather starts to warm up. It's that perfect linen — sort of like a natural linen look (light tan color). Lightweight enough and yet keeps you warm on a cold plane! Would love to have it in every color." —anonymous

Get it from Old Navy for $22.49+ (originally $44.99; available in women's sizes XS–4X regular, tall, and petite and in 10 colors/styles).

A travel-size Downy wrinkle release spray, because if you're being honest with yourself, you're 1. Never going to travel with a steamer and 2. You're *certainly* never going to iron said clothes even if your hotel provides one. 

Promising review: "Bought this for a vacation, but decided to test this out first. It works pretty well. I gave the shirt a few sprays and stretched it out on both sides. This will come in handy for cruises or hotels that lack irons in your room/cabin." —TV Delgado

Get a pack of two from Amazon for $8.99.

A waterproof travel tech organizer so your various cables and adapters don't get lost in the void that is the bottom of your backpack and form one massive knot. 

Promising review: "Excellent for travel! Nice to have a go-to individual pouch, especially for the cords. Husband travels for business, and this is a must, so if he's in an airport or hotel, he can locate them easily and they don’t get mixed with others." —Brent Webb

Get it from Amazon for $7.85+ (available in three sizes and 23 colors). 

Some go-to sunnies to protect your peepers when you're out and about all day. They look pretty similar to styles from Ray-Ban, but because of the price, you won't cry if they accidentally get left behind in an Airbnb. 

Promising review: "These sunglasses are great quality!! They are very trendy and fit comfortably on my face. Great price and color!" —Maddie

Get them from Amazon for $15.99 (available in six colors).

A travel umbrella so you don't get soaked while wandering around a city you've never been in because Google Maps has no idea where that restaurant you made a reservation at is... Rainfall in Portugal varies significantly from north to south (with the former being wetter and the latter being drier), but in general the wet season goes from October to March, so it's smart to keep a small umbrella on hand. 

Promising review: "Literally fits in your hand and perfect for travel and on the go. Took it to Europe in my backpack and carried it around with me in my fanny pack every day because of the weather we experienced in England and abroad. So convenient and lightweight to carry. Got hit with a few rain showers and felt like an Eagle Scout always prepared for any weather with the mini umbrella!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $6.29+ (available in 11 colors/designs). 

Tide sink packets — a must if you'll be away from home for a while and might need to hand-wash some items while you're gone. Yes, lots of hotels offer laundry service, but that cost can add up, and you likely don't want to waste an afternoon at a laundromat (known locally as a lavandaria) when you could be out exploring. 

Promising reviews: "Great product. Used it to wash some clothes while traveling for a week and a half. Did a great job and allowed me to pack less. Will be purchasing again for a two-week trip coming up." —April M.

"Some in our party were forced to check their carry-on bags due to a lack of space on the plane. Our connecting flight then got canceled, and we ended up on a different plane…some of the bags didn’t make it, and these Tide sink packs SAVED US! We were able to keep a rotation of things clean while we waited for our bags. I was ASTONISHED at how much sweat and grime came out of my clothes after a long, hot day of travel! Won’t travel without them ever again." —Kristin St. Martin

Get a three-pack from Amazon for $6.13 (available in four pack sizes).

Some sanitizing wet wipes so you can clean your hands before indulging in some delish Portuguese dishes — maybe bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, or alheira de mirandela (smoked sausage), before a plate of pastéis de nata — a fan-favorite egg custard tart. 

Promising review: "I carry these with me when I travel. These are especially useful at gas station pumps and when using public restrooms that may not seem the cleanest. These are ideal for a quick face or hand clean up, and the softness and strength are as expected." —Simply Mary Music

Get three 30-packs from Amazon for $9.99.

An ultra-light, quick-dry towel to keep on standby for days at the beach. Even if your vibe is more picnic-on-the-beach than catch-a-pro-level-barrel-wave, it'll come in handy. The microfiber towel folds down to fit in the palm of your hand, and it comes with a stuff sack so you can safely stow it away. 

Promising review: "It does surprisingly soak up a lot of water and dries out very quickly too. I took this on a backpacking trip to SE Asia, and it's doing the job! My favorite part is that sand doesn't stick to it easily." —Ani S.

Get it from Amazon for $12.95+ (available in three sizes and colors).

A set of packing cubes if — despite your best efforts — you're prone to packing everything but the kitchen sink. 

Promising review: "I was skeptical about packing cubes, but when I decided to take a two-week trip using only a carry-on, I found that these really helped me stay organized and fit everything into my suitcase. I liked them so much that I bought a second set." —K.A. Mills

Get an eight-piece set from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in 22 colors).

* If You And The Kids Are Going To Take A Long Car Ride, These 27 Finds Will Keep Them Busy In The Backseat

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* Products That’ll Make You Feel Like A Smarter Traveler, Because They’re Just Really Good

Plus, travel shoes and finds from Walmart.

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.