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Traveling solo is one of the most rewarding and liberating ways to explore the world, but it also means relying on yourself to stay organized and prepared from takeoff to landing. The best carry-on essentials can make or break a trip.
Whether it's a pair of smart glasses with hands-free navigation to help you find your way through a new city, an anti-theft sling for sightseeing or a compact motion sensor that adds extra peace of mind in your hotel room, the right travel accessories can help you feel more confident and prepared wherever your travels take you.
As someone who covers shopping and travel for outlets like Coveteur, Martha Stewart Weddings and Harper’s Bazaar, I've tested countless travel products over the years and learned that the best carry-on essentials are the ones that solve everyday travel challenges without taking up much space. From organizational must-haves and versatile travel accessories to wellness staples that help keep your routine on track, these are the items I'd recommend packing before your next solo adventure.
Related: The 10 Best Carry-On Finds on Amazon to Upgrade Your Next Trip
HYDRO 7 Smart Glasses
If you're traveling somewhere new on your own, these smart glasses can make getting around feel a little less intimidating. They offer real-time translation, hands-free navigation and built-in AI assistance, so you can navigate unfamiliar streets, translate conversations and explore with more confidence—all while keeping your eyes up and aware of your surroundings.
Lands' End Travel Wet Bags
These reusable wet bags are one of those simple travel accessories you'll end up using repeatedly. They're perfect for storing a damp swimsuit after the beach, keeping toiletries separate from your clothes and/or organizing loose items inside a larger tote or carry-on.
Related: 8 Carry-On Finds That'll Make You Swear You’re in Premium Economy
Zestt Organics The Dreamsoft Travel Scarf
A soft travel scarf is a must for every travel adventure. Use it as a lightweight blanket on chilly flights, wrap it around your shoulders on cooler evenings or roll it up to use as a pillow while you're in transit. It's incredibly soft, doesn't take up much room and works with just about any travel outfit.
Vee Collective Porter Recycled Nylon Vanity Case
Staying organized is even more important when you're traveling solo, and this roomy (and chic) vanity case makes it easy to keep everything in one place. It has plenty of space for skincare, makeup and toiletries, while the lightweight recycled nylon design won't add unnecessary bulk to your suitcase.
Baggallini Securtex Anti-Theft Daytripper Sling
When you're sightseeing all day, the last thing you want is to worry about getting robbed somehow. This anti-theft sling features locking zippers, slash-resistant materials and RFID-blocking technology to help keep your essentials secure, while the lightweight crossbody design is comfortable enough to wear from morning until night.
Related: 8 Carry-On Essentials That Look Expensive But Start at $20
Kini SafeAlert Wi-Fi Tamper Alert Device
If you're traveling solo, a little extra peace of mind can go a long way. This compact motion sensor can be placed on your hotel safe, luggage or other valuables and sends an alert to your phone if something has been moved while you're away. It takes just a few seconds to set up, requires no installation and has a rechargeable battery that lasts for over a year on a single charge.
CENTELLIAN 24 Madeca Derma Shield Vital Dewy Sunscreen
Whether you're spending the day sightseeing or relaxing by the beach, sunscreen is one thing you never want to skip. This lightweight Korean skincare formula provides broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection while leaving skin hydrated with a healthy, dewy finish. It layers beautifully under makeup, doesn't feel heavy in warm weather and is easy to reapply throughout the day.
FIRST DAY 3-in-1 Probiotic Gummies
Travel has a way of throwing your routine off, whether it's long flights, rich meals or simply being out of your normal schedule. These probiotic gummies help support healthy digestion, ease occasional bloating and stomach discomfort, making them a very useful addition to any upcoming trip.
