Travel MVPs: Must-haves under $50

July 19, 2025

By Kim Komando

Traveling doesn’t have to feel like an episode of Survivor crossed with a rom-com gone wrong, and you don’t need to drop a fortune to travel like a pro. 

Whether you’re hopping on a plane, hitting the open road or planning a weekend getaway, the right gear makes all the difference. Think of this as your custom packing list so you can focus on the fun. 

And yes, all items are under $50.

🧳 Compression packing cubes – $40 (20% off, six-set)

Keep your suitcase from turning into a disaster zone. Sort clothes by outfit, day or family member. You’ll never dig around for socks again.

🔋 Anker 20W USB-C fast charger – $19 (two-pack)

These little bricks juice up your phone three times faster than a regular charger. Lifesaver when your battery’s hanging by a thread.

🎧 Airplane wireless adapter – $35 (13% off)

Plug this into the plane’s headphone jack and use your earbuds or Bluetooth headphones. Genius.

📱 Phone holder mount – $10 (27% off)

Clamps right onto your tray table and doubles as a selfie stick. Pop in your phone, sit back and stream your way through turbulence.

💤 Memory foam neck pillow – $24 (20% off)

Snooze like you’re in first class, even if you’re squished in the dreaded middle seat. Comes with an eye mask, earplugs and a travel bag.

💧 Collapsible water bottle – $19 (5% off)

Fill it at the airport water station, then roll it up when you’re done. It stands when full and folds flat when empty. Amazing.

🧴 Toiletry bottle set – $9 (10% off, 16-pack)

They go through TSA without a hitch. Leak-proof and packed in a compact bag, leaving room when somehow you packed more than you left with.

💍 Jewelry organizer bag – $16 (20% off)

No more tangled necklaces or rogue earrings floating in your bag. This zip-up case keeps everything secure and sorted, even after TSA takes a peek.

🧦 Compression socks – $20 (20% off, six pairs)

Long flight ahead? These help prevent your legs from swelling and cramping up at 35,000 feet. Bonus: They’re comfy and cute.

📍 Apple AirTag – $23 (21% off)

Clip one to your luggage, backpack or even your dog (I do). That little location ping? The sound of peace of mind.

🤖 Tile Bluetooth tracker – $25

Team Android? Tile’s got your back … and your keys, wallet, suitcase or anything you can’t afford to lose.

💡 Pro tip: Grab these before your next trip and thank me later. They’re not just “nice to haves,” they’re sanity-savers. BTW: This list is just your first stop. My full travel shop is loaded with even more finds I use and recommend.

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