Travel MVPs: Must-haves under $50

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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