Last year, our editors set out to try over 120 products as part of our first-ever Travel Gear Awards.
From suitcases to walking shoes to tech for international trips, we covered over 20 different travel-related categories to find the best of the best for each. We used items in airports, on hikes and runs, on trains and more — testing for quality, value and overall satisfaction.
Whether it’s a one-and-done outfit for the long plane ride ahead or the best coverup to wear to the pool or beach once you reach your destination, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to shop our 52 Shop TODAY Travel Awards winners of 2023, or click the links below to explore by category.
Suitcases and luggage | Swimwear and accessories | Tech and accessories | Camping and hiking | Walking shoes and sandals | Clothing
The best suitcases and travel bags
Regardless of your mode of transportation, you're going to need a bag that can stand up to the occasion. Our picks aren't short on space and are easy to take along for the journey. Whether you need a compact carry-on for a weekend trip or a large roller for an overseas trip, we’ve got you covered.
Samsonite Outline Pro Medium Spinner
Winner: Best splurge suitcase
$167.30
$239.99
Samsonite
$244.79
$480.00
Macy's
Vera Bradley Weekender Travel Bag
Winner: Best splurge carry-on
$70.00
$81.00
Amazon
$67.50
$135.00
Vera Bradley
$89.98
$120.00
QVC
Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set
Winner: Best packing cubes
$35.99
The Container Store
$36.00
Eagle Creek
Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag
Winner: Best overall toiletry bag
$45.00
Zappos
$40.00
Cotopaxi
$33.75
$45.00
Backcountry
The best swimsuits and accessories
Heading to the beach while you're on vacation or just taking a day trip to the lake? We tried cover-ups, bikinis, monokinis and more to determine the best in swimwear, plus the accessories you might need while you're on the water.
The best tech and travel accessories
From outlet extenders for international trips to compression socks for longer journeys, there are plenty of add-ons that can enhance your travel experience. We tried dozens of items to determine which are actually worth the buy.
Phoenix Solar Powered Earbuds
Winner: Best tech for checked bags
$99.00
$149.00
Amazon
$99.99
$149.00
Urbanista
The best camping and hiking gear
Heading to the great outdoors? There's no such thing as being over-prepared. We tried everything from hiking boots to sleeping bags and even a water jug to help you prepare for your next camping trip.
Patagonia Black Hole Cube 6L
Winner: Best gear organizer
$45.00
REI
$30.99
$45.00
Patagonia
$45.00
Backcountry
GSI Outdoors Collapsible Water Cube
Winner: Best water cube
$12.00
$14.95
Amazon
$12.00
REI
$12.95
GSI Outdoors
Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Winner: Best overall hiking shoes
$144.99
Amazon
$144.99
DSW
$145.00
REI
The best walking shoes and sandals
Nothing can ruin your dream vacation like a bad pair of shoes. You'll likely be spending a lot of time on your feet, so our editors walked all over in sandals and sneakers to help you find a pair your feet will love.
Dr. Scholls's Women's Jetset Slip-ons
Winner: Best budget walking shoes
$61.84
Amazon
$60.00
$80.00
Macy's
$42.00
$60.00
Dr. Scholl's
Skechers Men's Slip-ins: Ultra Flex 3.0 (Smooth Step)
Winner: Best overall walking shoes
$90.00
Skechers
$84.99
$90.00
Amazon
$95.00
Nordstrom
Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA Sandal
Winner: Best splurge sandals
$49.95
Nordstrom
$49.96
DSW
$49.95
Birkenstock
The best travel clothing
Whether you'll be spending hours on a train or taking a road trip to your destination, you'll want to do so comfortably. Our editors traveled by plane, car and even hiked the Grand Canyon in a winning pair of joggers to help determine the best clothing to travel in.
Aerie OFFLINE By Aerie Real Me Double Crossover Flare Legging
Winner: Best overall travel pants
$38.97
$64.95
Aerie
Outdoor Voices Women's RecTrek Pant
Winner: Best weather resistant pant
$98.00
Outdoor Voices
$98.00
Nordstrom
Old Navy Tie-Back Tiered Midi Cami Swing Dress
Winner: Best budget one-and-done outfit
$19.97
$39.99
Old Navy
Outdoor Voices Volley Dress
Winner: Best splurge one-and-don outfit
$108.00
Outdoor Voices
$81.00
$108.00
Nordstrom
