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Save 30% off spring travel essentials — from portable game controllers to spacious belt bags

Don't forget to add these to your packing list!

Now that the sun is starting to stay out longer (no more 5 p.m. sunsets!), it's safe to say warm weather is on the horizon. With sunshine on your mind, you're probably already preparing for spring break or even your big summer getaway. But don't let busy airports and crowded planes keep you from enjoying the trip you've been looking forward to all winter long. Instead, put your mind at ease with a packing list full of some much-needed essentials.

Shop TODAY contributor Chassie Post and Shop TODAY editorial director Adrianna Brach stopped by Studio 1A to share some must-have spring travel items, from a compact curling iron to one-and-done clothing picks. Keep reading to shop all her favorite items, plus more editor-approved essentials.

Travel essentials seen on TODAY | Seen on 3rd hour of TODAY | Seen on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna | More travel essentials | How we chose | Meet the experts

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TODAY earns a commission on purchases through these links.

Travel essentials seen on TODAY

Chico's Travelers Tie Waist Jumpsuit

For an easy, no-frills, one-and-done outfit to wear when traveling, this jumpsuit from Chico's checks all the boxes. A "wrinkle-free" fabric, according to the brand, it'll keep you comfortable all day.

Available in petite and regular size options and lengths, the brand is truly committed to making your travel days easier, also in part due to its elastic waist and ability to be dressed up or down, depending on your travel style.

Conair Unbound Cordless Auto Curler

This compact hair tool takes only one minute to heat up and provides one full hour of cord-free usage off a single charge. Get long-lasting curls while on-the-go without sacrificing too much space in your dopp kit.

Wild Fable Hayley Slide Sandals

Once the pedicure appointment is set, it's time to pick out what sandals you want to show it off in! This thick-strapped slide from Target is available in two different colors (white and black), plus a wide range of sizes.

The faux leather straps velcro shut, allowing you to adjust it to be comfortable when walking.

Brush Bubble Silicone Makeup Brush Covers

Cover one large brush or a set of littles with these silicone protectors that easily slide on and off your brushes without ruining their shape.

Available in a number of colors, this 2-pack is well-loved by reviewers because of how easy it is to clean.

SteelSeries Stratus+ Wireless Gaming Controller

SteelSeries Nimbus+ Wireless Gaming Controller

Think vacation will tear your favorite gamer away from their video games? Think again. This controller has versions compatible with both Android and Apple devices and allows them to play with ease while on the go.

Both of these controllers last up to 50 hours off of a single charge, ensuring enough game play for their next long flight or road trip.

Plus, TODAY readers can save 30% off of these two controllers and receive free shipping with the code TODAY30, now through 3/6.

Calpak Portable Charger

You'll never believe what this luggage tag doubles as: a phone charger! Compatible with electronics that have a USB charging port, this 2-in-1 travel item ensures you'll never be left with a dead phone at baggage claim again.

Cincha Travel Belt Bag

It's the accessory known around the world: the viral belt bag. Made with recycled nylon (that's well-known for being easy to clean!), this durable bag promises to hold everything you need for day trips, sightseeing and everything in between.

It has two straps: one that allows you to wear it either across your body or at your waist, and another that you can grasp like a clutch. Plus, it has a "passthrough" that slips over your suitcase handle, so you can remain hands-free throughout the airport.

Shop TODAY readers can save 30% with the code TODAY30 now through 3/6.

Cincha Travel Belt

If your bag doesn't include a slip-through sleeve allowing you to slide it over the handle of your suitcase, Cincha has got you covered with this travel belt.

It employs a strap to ensure that your bag stays in place, leaving you hands-free. It even tightens like an airplane seatbelt to secure your bag in place. It's available in a number of different colors and designs, including two lengths depending on the size of your personal item.

Shop TODAY readers can save 30% with the code TODAY30 now through 3/6.

Travel essentials seen on 3rd hour of TODAY

Airplane Window Organizer

Are you team window or aisle seat? (Because let’s be honest, no one willingly chooses the middle seat). If you chose aisle, you might want to rethink your decision thanks to this product that gives you more space in the already-cramped seats.

This organizer slides into the airplane’s window fixture, holding two beverages, your phone and a pair of sunglasses with ease. Plus, it doesn’t take up much room in your personal item, as it folds up and fits in its own carrying pouch.

Serenity Tray Organizers

Traveling with kids? The mesh pockets on the seat in front of you are much too small to hold everything they need, so opt for this 4-pocket organizer that slides over the tray table and easily holds their favorite stuffed animal, tablet, water bottle, coloring books and more.

When you’re not using it as a catch-all for the flight, it becomes a drawstring pouch to hold everything together. Plus, it’s easy to clean as well — simply throw it in the wash with the rest of your clothes when unpacking.

TODAY readers can save 30% with the code TODAY30, now through 3/6.

Musicozy Bluetooth Sleep Headphones

If the hum of white noise lulls you to sleep, incorporate your nighttime routine into your takeoff routine with this headphones headband that utilizes Bluetooth technology to play music and sounds via your phone or tablet.

This easy-to-use headband has three buttons to power the headband and control the volume, plus it can last 14 hours on a single charge (making it great for longer flights!).

Supergoop! Everyday SPF Faves Kit

Sunscreen is a must-have product year-round, no matter if you live in a state with warm weather or not. This set from Supergoop! includes all of their bestsellers, including some of their lightweight and most-protective picks.

From their sheer Unseen Sunscreen to their tinted Glow Screen (that both offer SPF 40 protection), this kit also includes their glow stick balm and setting spray, all available in TSA-compatible sizes.

Vivaia Slip On Sneakers

These unisex sneakers help minimize stress surrounding the security line. If you (along with the rest of TikTok) are never sure on what the rules are at certain airports, save yourself the hassle of tying and untying your shoes with these slip-ons.

While they do have laces, you only have to tie them once to find your perfect fit, then they’re hands-free every time after that. Coming in either mesh or wool materials, they’re also available in 15 different colors.

Plus, TODAY readers can save 15% off these waterproof shoes with the code TODAY15, valid now through 3/6.

Summersalt The Sidestroke One-Piece Swimsuit

Dubbed the “unicorn of swimsuits,” this one-piece from Summersalt continues to be a go-to for many members of the Shop TODAY team, including editorial director Adrianna Brach, who’s owned hers for over five years.

It’s free of all the features that make swimsuits sometimes a pain, including underwires, padding, clasps and additional straps. Available in a number of colors and patterns (14!) and a wide range of sizes (0-24), it’s also available in a long torso option that includes an extra inch and three quarters onto the body of the swimsuit.

Even better? TODAY readers can save 30% off sitewide with the code TODAY30, now through 3/6.

Summersalt Men’s Swim Short

Once Summersalt perfected their women’s swimsuit, they launched a men’s one too! With mesh lining and a patterned back pocket, these prove to be functional and fun.

Some reviewers note that they run big, so you might want to size down. Available in four different colors and patterns, they even match some of the women’s one-pieces, so you can coordinate on vacation!

TODAY readers can save 30% off sitewide with the code TODAY30, now through 3/6.

Seen on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna

Rollink Flex 360 Carry-On Collapsible Suitcase

As residents of New York City, Shop TODAY editors are always on the hunt for functional products that also fit in their apartments without taking up too much space.

This suitcase is no different than the one you already own, it has a hard shell, 360-degree wheels and a TSA-approved lock — but it also collapses down to only 5 inches.

When it’s expanded, it opens up to reveal 40 liters of space, perfect for three weeks worth of items, according to production associate Audrey Ekman, who traveled internationally with it.

TODAY readers can save 30% off this luggage item, with the code 30TODAYROLL, now through 3/6.

Twelve South AirFly SE

What’s an item that you can use both on a treadmill and an airplane? This Bluetooth transmitter. It allows you to ditch the in-flight headphones and use your own wireless earbuds.

Simply connect it to your headphones, plug it in to the headphone port, then stream music, movies and shows per usual. It can also connect to two sets of headphones simultaneously, making it easy to watch a movie with children or a friend mid-flight.

TODAY readers can save 25% off this editor-loved and award-winning product at Twelve South's website with the code TODAY25.

Flpsde Water Bottle with Snack Storage

It’s no secret that we love multitasking products, especially ones that will appease hungry children. This water bottle fits up to 20 ounces of a beverage, plus seven ounces of their favorite snack. It’s also insulated to keep liquids in it hot or cold for hours on end.

The Sleepy Tie

Extend the life of your blowout while getting your beauty rest thanks to this scrunchie that does the work overnight! Available in small, medium and large sizes depending on the length and thickness of your hair, this Shop TODAY writer-recommended product is essentially the 2024 version of sleeping in your curlers.

Not only is it easy to use, but due to their hair color-like shades, you can wear it on your flight without receiving weird looks, preserving your blowout while traveling.

Studs Flatback Earrings

With a new ear piercing studio at 30 Rock, now is the perfect time to invest in STUDS earrings. Their flatback line is ideal for traveling-as you don’t have to worry about messing with or losing the traditional backs, plus they’re more comfortable to wear.

Some of them are available in a “reversible” design, with the flat back also incorporating a fun shape. The name “STUDS” is a nod to their business design: you purchase one earring at a time, to mix and match your “earscape.”

TODAY readers can save 20% off the entire site — barring accessories, collab styles and shipping charges — with the code TODAY20, now through 3/6.

More travel essentials

Makeup Eraser 7-Day Set

These reusable makeup remover pads can be used throughout the entire duration of your trip, and easily cleaned with the rest of your clothes when you return.

All you need is to add water to remove a days’ worth of mascara, foundation and more. Not only will your home planet thank you, but your wallet as well, as one wipe lasts 3,600 washes according to the brand.

Kenra Professional Simply Add Water Shampoo


Ami Desai, lifestyle, fashion and beauty expert loves this innovative shampoo as a beauty travel hack because it's packaged as a powder-based formula that you pour into your hand, add water and lather into your hair, just as you would with a normal shampoo. According to the brand, you'll get three times more product than most liquid shampoos. And Desai says you won't have to worry about TSA guidelines or spills in your luggage.

Kenra Professional Simply Add Water Conditioner


The brand also offers a conditioner counterpart to help keep your locks looking soft and shiny throughout your vacation.

Foxybae Mini Rose Gold Travel Kit


Hair tools can be bulky and take up a lot of space in your suitcases. That's why Desai likes this mini travel kit, which comes with a bag, small flat iron, curling iron and hair dryer — all of which you get for under $80. According to the brand, the tools have dual voltage so you can use them internationally.

Aloisia Beauty Deep Hydration Aloe Gel Mist


Desai says she keeps this cooling aloe mist with her whenever she travels. She especially likes it for sunburns since the misting nozzle is mess-free and you don't have to touch painful and sensitive skin while applying. According to the brand, it contains soothing witch hazel and green tea to help calm the skin. Desai also says that since it contains hydrating ingredients, you can even use it as a primer or setting spray.

Lazy Day All-In-One Moisture Pads


While you might want to keep up with your 10-step skin care routine while on vacation, that's not usually realistic. Desai says that when she's traveling, she likes something quick and easy and leans on these three-in-one moisture pads after cleansing. According to the brand, they're formulated to act as a toner while offering hydration.

Beis The Cosmetics Case


To keep organized, Desai likes this cosmetic case since it allows her to see everything at once and has tons of storage for her makeup essentials and brushes. According to the brand, it's made of faux leather so you can easily wipe it clean and it comes with a removable standing mirror so can apply your makeup on-the-go.

Modoker Convertible Garment Bag


This multifunctional garment bag is perfect for men's suits or lengthy dresses. The two-in-one functionally allows you to hang your outfit like a normal garment bag then zip it up into a duffle bag for the rest of your traveling essentials, from toiletries bags to clothing. According to the brand, it meets most airplane carry-on requirements, making traveling easier than ever.

Rollink Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase


Since suitcases can take up a lot of storage space, "Looking Fly on a Dime" author Patrice J. Williams loves this genius collapsible option. According to the brand, it can fold flat and will only lay about two inches high. Williams says this makes it easy to store under the bed, in closets or inside other suitcases. Not only that, but it also is sturdy enough to hold all of your essentials for a weekend getaway or big shopping trip.

TaihuaXin Luggage Cup Holder


If you find yourself constantly juggling your luggage, coffee and water bottles through the airport, Williams likes this useful luggage cup holder. You can slip the adjustable sleeves over your luggage handle or wear it as a crossbody, which Williams says makes it a great option for hiking, too. And that's not all, there's even a zippered pouch to store your IDs and credit cards.

Bagail Compression Packing Cubes


Whether you're team packing cubes or not, Williams says compression cubes will help you pack even more items than usual, which is great news if you're a chronic over-packer. Coming in a set of four, these cubes feature an additional zipper to help allow the bag to lay flatter, but Williams notes you'll want to fill each cube only two-thirds of the way. She also mentions these cubes are a great travel hack to help keep your suitcase organized, especially if you're sharing a suitcase.

CHI Handheld Garment Steamer


If you're looking to quickly de-wrinkle your clothing while traveling, Williams likes this compact steamer by CHI as a quicker and easier option than the hotel iron. According to the brand, it will heat up in about 35 seconds and it only weighs about one pound, so it won't take up much of that extra needed weight.

Portable Mini Refillable Perfume Atomizer Bottle


Celebrity and bridal makeup artist Ashlee Glazer doesn't waste an ounce of her favorite fragrance when she travels with these portable perfume bottles that keep her perfume safe, portable and TSA-approved. Since the container is made of high-quality aluminum and durable glass, you can take a broken perfume bottle off your worry list.

Rechargeable Travel Makeup Vanity Mirror


A reliable mirror is a necessity to create your sun-kissed vacation glow. However, Glazer says most bathrooms aren't designed with beauty in mind. This affordable travel makeup mirror has 72 LED lights that can glow in white, warm and cool settings. Now you can do your makeup anywhere and everywhere.

Apple AirTag (Pack of 4)


As more people travel this summer, lost baggage is on the rise. Keep track of your luggage with Apple's AirTags. After syncing the AirTag with your Find My map, place it in your bag so you can keep track of your luggage as it travels from point A to point B. Glazer loves putting it in her makeup bag!

Unidapt Universal Travel Adapter


Whether you have a lot of devices to charge or need to convert to a foreign outlet, this universal travel adapter will satisfy your charging needs while fitting in thr palm of your hands, according to Glazer. In addition to including five USB ports, the adapter can charge devices in countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, Italy and Spain, the brand shares.

Travelon Bag Bungee


If you have trouble balancing your carry-ons while rushing through the airport, you can use this hassle-free travel hack. This bag bungee is adjustable and easily fits between your suitcase handle for a secure fit, allowing you to easily roll your luggage around.

Stojo Collapsible Water Bottle


Lifestyle and travel expert Bahar Takhtechian says you won't get in trouble with the TSA by bringing your own reusable water bottle. You can also save on plastic and money by refilling at any airport water fountain. When full and expanded, this bottle fits up to 20 ounces of water and collapses down to under four inches when emptied, making it easy to throw in your carry-on.

John's Crazy Socks Compression Knee High Socks


Compression socks are a must-have for long-haul flights. According to the brand, these knee-high socks increase blood flow, prevent swelling and reduce the risk of blood clotting. Living up to the brand's name, you can choose from classic black or a fun, crazy print.

Twelve South AirFly Duo


If you travel with wireless headphones, this Shop TODAY-approved portable wireless transmitter connects to the plane's TV and allows you to watch the in-flight entertainment. It also works as a headphone splitter, so you and your travel buddy can connect and enjoy together.

So-Mine Commuter Essential Bag


Keep all of your personal items in one place with this commuter bag. Featuring six open pockets, it is slim enough to attach to your airplane seat and holds your phone, tablet, chargers and more!

How we chose

The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.

As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Learn more about Shop TODAY.

Meet the experts