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If checking a bag in this economy means you’re rich-rich, then only living by what’s in your carry-on means you’re smart-smart, OK?

As a resident writer on the BuzzFeed Shopping team, I can't believe that I get to search the internet to help you find the best, most unique, life-changing products for my job.

I own both a regular Luka and a large Luka, and both are fantastic bags! Not only do they come in such fun colorways, but if you are someone who likes to be meticulously organized when going on a trip, you'll love all of the thoughtfully designed pockets this bad boy has. I would say that a regular Luka is great for a weekend getaway or as a gym bag, and then that the large Luka is more ideal for longer trips. My only nitpicky thing is that for some variations, the zipper is not the same color as the bag, which clearly didn't stop me from getting the bags, but as an aesthetic girlie, it does annoy me. But they have now started to match the zipper to the color of the bag for new colors, which is super exciting! And again, the bag is so amazingly designed that even I still use it despite the clashing zipper.

Promising review: "Great fabric, perfect size, and the perfect color. So many useful pockets and love the hidden compartments for passports, etc." —Jeannie

Get it from Calpak for $98+ (available in three sizes and five core colors; then each size has a varying amount of limited edition colors, and the small size doesn't have a shoe compartment). 

Fellow Buzzfeed Shopping writer, Emma Lord, actually owns this and says: "HELLO, I AM OBSESSED WITH THESE. Despite all the rave reviews, I was definitely skeptical of space-saving bags that didn't require a vacuum, and even as they were actively squishing my clothes into oblivion, I still couldn't quite believe it. I had easily two suitcases worth of clothes I wanted to pack for a three-week trip to London, and I managed to neatly pack the entirety of my wardrobe in one roller carry-on bag. Truly, all I had to do was put my clothes in the bag, push them to the bottom, and then sit on it to get the air out before sealing it up. I had tons of extra bags and made a habit of taking them with me in case other people joining me on trips need them to be able to pack souvenirs on the way home. I'm never taking a long trip without these again — these are worth every damn penny." 

Psst — just note that airlines will still enforce weight limits, so just make sure to still check the weight. And I just so happen to know an amazing scale you can grab, too!

Get a set of eight from Amazon for $17.28. 

Promising review: "Bought these for my wife as she is a chronic overpacker. Highly recommend for the high quality, quantity that you get, and ease of packing. I appreciate the various sizes that can work with all types of luggage. All packing cubes can pack A LOT. She has used them several times, and they really helped her stay organized while fitting lots of outfits in a carry-on suitcase. Super easy to compress, even when I thought they wouldn't because they looked overpacked. The added cords on the zipper made them easy to compress and zip closed. I own other packing cubes that were double the price for 4 compression cubes, and these are much better in almost every regard. I will be purchasing my own set from this brand soon." —MHR

Get a pack of six from Amazon for $31.99+ (available in 28 colors/patterns; also available in a pack of two, four or 14).

Alleyoop is a woman-owned small business that specializes in functional makeup products. 

Promising review: "I love that this product is an all-in-one! It saves me so much space when I travel, and the products are high-quality too. The lightest brow pencil is still a little dark for blondes like me, but the other shades complement me perfectly. I like the lip liner the best; it easily elevates a simple lip look!" —Sam 

Get it from Amazon for $20 (available in three shades).

Promising review: "Love this product! I work out on the go so I’m always in need of water bottle, but I hate carrying a big one around all the time. This bottle is a nice size to use while running/walking (lightweight and easy to carry), it doesn’t leak like most plastic bottles, and it’s easy to roll/fold up and store in a bag after you’re done. Overall great design and functionality. 10/10." —LaMonica

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

Promising review: "Perfect towel for the gym, travel, and more! I have two of these towels, a large one and a small one. I live on a boat, where space is limited, and the fact that these towels fold up incredibly small is my favorite thing! My second favorite thing is how fast they dry when hung up, so that I can store them away without having to wait hours and hours for them to dry in my compartment. I use the small towel at the gym, and it is super absorbent and super lightweight, I usually forget it is on me. Fantastic towel, definitely recommend." —Sam the Man

Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in 16 colors and six sizes). 

But if Cheirosa 62, which is a yummy scent mix of pistachio, vanilla, and salted caramel, is not your thing, there are also three other beloved scent profiles to choose from that range from sweet, floral, or woodsy! 

Promising review: "Lately, I've been wanting to find a signature fragrance versus just smelling clean. I tried several perfumes, including high-end ones, and they just didn't seem to be a good fit with my body chemistry, or the smells just seemed to disappear. About a month ago, several ladies mentioned this brand on a group page, and I decided to give it a shot. I've been testing it for a couple of weeks now, and I am shook! It smells soooo good, and EVERY TIME I wear it (especially if I layer the products in this set), I get complimented. EVERY SINGLE TIME! And my husband, who never notices when I wear fragrances, immediately came up to me, hugged me, buried his nose into my neck, and told me I smelled amazing!" —LvrofAllThingsArt

Get it from Amazon for $34 (available in four scents). 

Promising review: "Game changer for travel! We were gone for two weeks, and I was able to wash all the clothes I had packed! Helped with using only a carry-on for the trip and kept my clothes fresh and clean! So easy to use and smelled nice! Will never travel without them again!" —Kristy

Get three packs from Amazon for $6.97+ (available in two scents and in packs of two or 12).

Promising review: “When these first came out, I was skeptical. Now I'm a believer! Always had one in my desk at work. Now I have one with me whenever I travel. If I've worn something for just a couple of hours for dinner and gotten a few drops of coffee on it, I can't see sending the garment to the hotel laundry. I just use my Tide Pen. Works great on men's ties. At first, it looks like nothing's happening, but keep working it and suddenly, the spot magically disappears! It helps to put a tissue or paper towel behind the area you're cleaning. They take out just about anything and don't leave a ring like my prior spot-cleaning efforts did. The pens are small, so they're not practical for huge stains, but for small mishaps, they're amazing.” —GlamGalLovesStuff

Promising review: "I wasn’t sure what to expect with buying a hat that’s half the price of my usual Wallaroo hats. The hat arrived pretty compressed, and I was worried that it might not regain its shape, but it did! It’s very good quality, comfortable, and looks attractive. I actually like it better than my Wallaroos because it’s a tad smaller and just feels more proportional. I’m going to buy more colors and back-ups. Good hat at a good price." —LPF

Get it from Amazon for $25.99 (available in three sizes and 13 colors). 

Promising reviews: "Don't be fooled by the tiny price or size; this little baby is serious. If you are looking for a small travel option rather than lugging your big straightener and giant curling iron around the world, then I think you'll love this. It performs really well, turning my frizzy, wavy hair into a smooth and sleek style. The curling iron option also creates shiny, silky lasting curls! It's easy to transition between both. I also like the grippy handle and the fact that the curling iron clip is a different color than the straightening bars because that helps me see how I should be maneuvering it around. The voltage goes up to 240m, so you are good using it internationally without a converter (but you will need an adapter just to fit it into various foreign outlets). At this price, definitely give it a try and flaunt your tresses abroad." —Christine

"Took this to Europe. It worked great. The barrel is a bit short, but I have short hair, so it worked. My hair is extremely curly and it worked great. There is only one setting of heat, which is hot." —Barbara Hagy

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in black or white).

Promising reviews: "As a flight attendant, I can't always be sure my hotel has a hair dryer, so I bought this one, and it hasn't disappointed me! It folds up to about the size of a roll of toilet paper, so it doesn't take up much room. It's powerful, too!" —Billy In Orlando, FL USA

"I ordered this for a recent international trip and loved it. For a small dryer, it has a great output and did wonders on my thick, curly hair. It has a dial that allows you to change the voltage and is very compact. A perfect handheld dryer to take with you when the hotel dryer just isn't enough." —TexasAggie

Get it from Amazon for $18.99 (also available in a pack of four).

Promising review: "Perfect for travel. I have one in my carry-on and the second in my computer bag. You can easily coil them up and tuck them into a side pocket. So far, they work very well and seem durable. I love the fact that you have all your bases covered with the USB-C, Lightning, and Apple Watch charger." —Jane

Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in nine colors, three lengths, and in packs of two). 

Promising review: "This has been a game changer for travel. It folds up so small, I have a little drawstring bag I keep mine in along with its charge cable. I have the full apple ecosystem, and this has made traveling a complete breeze. I haven’t noticed any slowness in charging, but I am usually charging end of day at the hotel or Airbnb. The charger itself is very sturdy, and the color is honestly so pretty, I love the blue color. This travels extremely well and has saved me a lot of hassle with all the different cords. Everything stays organized and in its place. It’s even small enough that I pulled it out while waiting to board my plane and had it magsafed to the back of my phone while I used it and had no issues. 10/10 would buy again." —Katherine

Get it from Amazon for $26.55+ (available in six colors). 

Note: This does not come with an Altoids tin.

Bridge Designed is a Pennsylvania-based Etsy shop established in 2024 that specializes in unique personal care accessories. 

Promising review: "These inserts are so handy!! I decorated a small Altoids tin out of boredom and have been using it as a pill tin ever since. I just had pills rolling around until I found these little inserts! Colors are fun, and now my handbag doesn’t rattle." —Janet Park

Get it from Bridge Designed on Etsy for $5 (available in nine styles and seven colors). 

Promising review: "I purchased this because I saw them all over TikTok. As someone with chronic illness, I honestly carry around like 10 different pill bottles for 'just in case' situations. This little pill box is a great size. I love that it’s magnetic, and each little compartment fits a good amount of pills. It won’t fit a ton of Tums if that’s what you’re looking for, but the amount of space this has saved in my bag is amazing!" —Jasmin Salas

Get it from Amazon for $5.69+ (available in 12 colors, two sizes and in packs of two). 

Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business established in 2016 that specializes in hats combining fashion and function to protect against all types of weather.

Promising review: "I never carry an umbrella 'cause they’re too bulky, so when I saw the Hairbrella, I was so excited. It keeps my hair dry and my curls nicely quaffed, rather than me looking like I stuck my fingers in a light socket. I’m telling everyone I know about it; it’s an amazing alternative to those wide-brimmed hats or a briefcase, LOL! Truly it’s never going to leave my side from now on! I definitely recommend it." —Gina C.

Get it from Amazon for $39+ (available in eight colors) or Hairbrella for $24+ (available in two sizes and 10 colors).

Get it from Rifle Paper Co. for $50 (available in four prints).

It also comes with a handy-dandy travel case, too!

Promising review: "The perfect razor for traveling! Easy to use and very practical, totally recommend it; the razors might be a little expensive, but at least you don't have to change the whole razor every time." —Maria Claudia

Alleyoop is a woman-owned small business that specializes in functional makeup products. 

Promising review: "I absolutely love this portable razor! It’s so convenient, especially when you forget to shave and need a quick touch-up. The kit comes with two razor heads, a spray bottle, and a shaving bar to help keep your skin smooth. It's TSA-approved, so you can even bring it on airplanes without worry! Plus, you can purchase replacement razor heads and the shaving bar when needed." —Life As Cerena

Get it from Amazon for $20 (refill packs are also available).

Psst — check out all of Alleyoop's other travel-friendly products for more clever options! 

Promising review: "I have left the house on numerous occasions and needed a hair tie and could never find one. I could dig through my purse, diaper bags, and car, and there was never a hair tie lying around. I have had to refill this hair-tie holder on about five occasions because of how many times I've taken hair ties off for myself and the friends who need one. Great invention." —Samantha

Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in three colors). 

Promising review: "These are the only makeup remover wipes I use. I have tried others that are more expensive, but have always returned to these wipes. My eyes are sensitive, so I love how they glide smoothly over my eyelids without pulling. If these are on sale, I stock up!" —Mary

Get a pack of 20 from Ulta for $8.99 (also available in packs of seven, 25, and 50).

Just FYI — reviewers say the pumps struggle with thicker consistencies. 

Promising review: "These make travel so easy and cute. First, it’s the perfect amount for what’s allowed on flights. No questions were asked, and I got through security with no problems. I bought two and had my shampoo and conditioner in one, and face wash and sunscreen in the other. I will admit that you can’t use a very thick soap in them, though. My shampoo, conditioner, and sunscreen pump out fine, but my face wash was too thick to use the pump." —Amazon Customer

Get a set of two from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in three colors). 

Promising review: "Hate dragging out the old hotel iron and board, so I just spray my wrinkled clothes with this, and viola! Takes the wrinkles out, and off I go — no wrestling while putting the iron and board away. I even have a small travel iron or use my hair styling irons if I want a better finish, but this usually does the job nicely." —Audie 

EverSnug is a small business that creates travel pillows + blankets. Check it out on TikTok. 

Promising review: "I recently purchased this blanket for a 13-hour international flight, and I couldn't be happier with my choice! This blanket is not only ultra-soft and fluffy, but it also kept me warm throughout the entire journey. The micro-plush fabric is heavenly to the touch, making it perfect for snuggling up during long hours of travel. One of the standout features is its versatility; I used it as both a blanket and a pillow, thanks to the clever design of the carrying case. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack in my luggage or clip onto my backpack with the included carabiner. Plus, the hand luggage sleeve is a game changer for attaching it to my suitcase. Now, I even keep it in my car for those chilly mornings! If you're looking for a travel companion that combines comfort and functionality, this blanket is definitely worth it. Highly recommend!" —Nipollo

Get it from Amazon for $29.95 (available in six colors).

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Plus, finds from Amazon, Target, and 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 have been edited for length and/or clarity.