Having someone accidentally walk off with your suitcase is a nightmare for any traveler. But given that so many luggage brands adhere to the same generic patterns and colors, it’s understandable why another traveler might confuse your bag for one of theirs. 

The best way to avoid this problem is by traveling with a bag that’s unmistakably unique in its appearance. For that, I’d recommend ROAM — the world’s first fully customizable premium suitcase brand, according to the company. I used ROAM to design a one-of-a-kind bag that not only looks stylish but also has vibrant, colorful features so I never lose sight of it at baggage claim.

Why ROAM?

Until now, fliers have resorted to unreliable DIY solutions in an attempt to make their luggage stand out. This includes tying a colorful ribbon onto the handle, wrapping a bright scarf around the suitcase, or covering the luggage in stickers. But all of these methods are flawed in various ways. A ribbon or scarf can get caught on something and come undone, and a TSA agent may have to remove your accouterment to inspect inside. Also, using stickers can damage the bag

Instead of going the DIY route, you can avoid these potential problems by purchasing a suitcase that’s designed to stand out. With ROAM, nothing will fall off or come untied. You’re buying customized luggage and peace of mind.

What Is ROAM?

With TSA-approved locks, lightweight polycarbonate shells, and smooth-glide wheels, ROAM-brand suitcases are well-equipped for any airport adventure. As an added bonus, each bag is hand-assembled in the state of Georgia, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and reducing unnecessary supply chain emissions. But what truly makes ROAM luggage so special is the customizability. With millions of potential color combinations to choose from, the odds of another traveler mistaking your unique bag for theirs are slim to none.

You read that right — millions of possible combinations. Between the style of bag and all the colors to select from, ROAM allows you to create a dream suitcase from scratch, and they’ll design it to your exact specifications. Picture a red, blue, and yellow bag designed to include the colors of your family crest, or a green and white suitcase that pays homage to your old college colors. Whatever combo you want, ROAM can likely produce it.

The more unique you make your own design, the less you have to worry about a stranger inadvertently wandering off with your suitcase. If you do see someone grab it, then you’ll immediately realize there’s been a mistake and can confidently approach them to ask for it back. 

Also, if you’re anything like me, you’re bound to feel a little loopy after a long flight, and you may even unwittingly reach for the wrong bag yourself. Whatever the case might be, a customized ROAM suitcase can help cut down on those instances of mistaken identity.

A Plethora of Customizable Options

At ROAM, you can choose between check-in or carry-on, as well as an expandable option that adds as much as 34% more space. But the real fun comes with picking colors for the shell, zipper, and trim. This is where your personality can really shine.

First select the color for the front and back — you can even switch it up and do two different colors to make your suitcase truly distinctive. Next, choose from one of 12 colors for the zipper, wheels, binding, and handles. And for a final touch, every suitcase comes with a complimentary monogram. Just imagine a suitcase with a red and black shell, orange zipper, and pink trim; you can bet there won’t be another one like it on the same baggage carousel.

My Customization Experience

By sheer coincidence, I found out about ROAM at a time when I was in desperate need of new luggage. However, I’m a bit of a nervous flier, and I couldn’t shake the worry that a generic suitcase would end up getting misplaced at baggage claim. ROAM seemed like the perfect remedy to this concern, and so I got to work customizing my dream suitcase.

After selecting the “Check-In” style, I pressed the “Customize” button and got to work. I decided to keep the shell simple, while going for a bolder, colorful trim to give it a pop. After selecting “slate gloss” for the front and back shells, I went with a bright sky blue for the zipper — a stark contrast from the silver and black zippers you always see. Next, I selected an eye-catching orange for the wheels, binding, and handles, creating, what I would consider, a playful contrast. Also, I’m always orange when playing my favorite board game, Settlers of Catan, so this choice was a bit of an homage to that. The resulting design was unlike anything I’d seen when luggage shopping before. 

Is It Worth It? (Spoiler: Yes)

While accidentally swiping the wrong bag is a rare occurrence, it does happen from time to time. In those cases, a lost suitcase can completely derail a long-awaited vacation, and replacing its contents can be a costly and time-consuming process. But while we’ve been talking a lot about the security benefits of a ROAM suitcase, there’s another thing worth noting — these bags are just plain cool.

You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who’s proud about the same old black, blue, or gray suitcase that everyone owns. But you’re far more likely to fall in love with a ROAM bag, as they truly reflect your personality and are worth bragging about.

Buying a ROAM suitcase is almost like buying an insurance policy — plus you get some really cool luggage to boot. If you want to try out ROAM for yourself, click below to customize your own bag.

There’s a fine line between being a minimalist adventurer and being just plain unprepared. A few thoughtfully chosen portable gadgets can seriously upgrade your experience, whether you’re road-tripping in a van or heading out for a day hike. The best part? Plenty of portable gear comes in handy at home, too. Mini cooler? Ideal for van trips, even better for ice-cold beach beers. Fun-sized espresso machine? Essential for campsite caffeine, and a no-brainer for lazy park picnics. Instead of splashing out on a flashy kit that’ll just gather dust, invest in clever devices that’ll genuinely improve your adventures, whether you’re a day-tripper, an into-the-wild camper, or somewhere in between.

_{Prices are accurate as of August 23, 2025. Subject to change.}

PlayHot Portable Handheld Turbo Fan

When you need quick relief from the sweaty summer heat, this simple fan is the solution. Portable fans have come a long way since those plasticky, weak windmill affairs of the past. This high-tech gadget is like the Bluetooth speaker to your transistor radio. The battery lasts for 12 hours on the gentle setting, while the supercharged high setting gives you a three-hour blast, great for stuffy amusement park queues or sweltering garden parties. It even folds into a desk fan, so you can set it up in the home office, too.

WACACO Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine

Need a caffeine kick before you’re fit for human interaction? I get it. That’s why I don’t go anywhere without the WACACO Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine. This small but mighty machine brews a rich, crema-topped espresso that puts hotel sachets to shame and keeps gas station sludge off the table. You just need your favorite ground beans and freshly boiled water (cue the camping stove or portable kettle), and you’ve got barista-level coffee wherever you are. It’s even got a built-in cup, keeping the process blissfully mess-free.

JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth Speaker

Lounging in the upper echelons of Bluetooth speakers, the JBL Flip 5 has all you need to give your life that romanticized movie soundtrack we all yearn for. Simply connect your device, choose a tune to match the moment, and let the top-quality sound immerse you in the music. Waterproof, 12 hours of playtime, and small enough to stash in your backpack, the JBL Flip 5 is the ultimate plus one to any adventure.

Alpicool C9PT Portable Car Freezer

For a day out and about, a regular cooler is likely all you need, but for long road trips and multi-day adventures, you don’t need to deal with tepid soda or ice refills. With the Alpicool C9PT riding shotgun, your on-the-road drinks stay ice-cold and refreshing, no actual ice needed. It fits eight 18-ounce water bottles or 12 cans, and you can even keep a Popsicle or two on hand, because the temperature can be set from 4 degrees to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Max mode chills contents quickly, while eco mode keeps the energy draw low without sacrificing coolness. It runs on 12V power, meaning it plugs straight into your car’s power outlet — a win for road trippers, van lifers, and backseat snackers alike.

OHOVIV Portable Power Bank

These days, power banks are as intrinsic to everyday life as your phone and wallet. This one is a beast, delivering over 10 full charges for your iPhone 15, taking just 30 minutes to charge to 55%. It’s a fabulous multitasker, able to juice up six devices at once thanks to the multiple ports and built-in cables. Complete with top-tier safety features, including temperature control technology to reduce the risk of overheating, plus a stylish LED display, it offers reliability, efficiency, and sleek aesthetics in one package.

Char-Broil Portable Propane Gas Grill

Leave that disposable BBQ at the checkout, and make a smarter (and more eco-friendly) investment with the Char-Broil Portable Propane Gas Grill. This fiery little number runs on a one-pound liquid propane tank (not included) and heats up fast, so you can have sizzling grilled delights ready to munch before the first stomach rumble. An on-the-go essential for beach days, campsite cookouts, and park-life picnics, you’ll never have to suffer half-cooked hot dogs again. Dreading the post-banquet cleanup? This grill’s ideal for the lazy BBQ extraordinaire who has no time for scrubbing. Just pop out the porcelain-coated grate and give it a speedy wipe down, so it’s ready for next time. With space for eight burgers, six steaks, or 12 bratwursts, nobody’s going hungry, either.

Featured Image Credit: AscentXmedia/ iStock

Whether you’re taking a quick weekend trip or planning a longer vacation, opting for a smaller bag is a must for streamlining your travel experience. You might think that limits you to packing only the essentials, but there are a ton of clever packing devices to save space without lugging around a large suitcase. Optimizing your packing with space savers also helps keep you organized. On your next trip, not only will you be able to pack more, but you’ll find your things quickly too.  

_{Prices are accurate as of December 4, 2024. Subject to change.}

Packing Cubes

To bring more clothes and save space, you should absolutely travel with packing cubes. It’s still best to fold and roll up your clothes inside, but compression cubes reduce the space between clothing so you’re able to pack more. The smallest bags are best for socks and underwear, while the largest can be used for bulky jackets. This packing cube set also includes a laundry bag for your dirty clothes. 

Compression Bags

If you want an alternative to packing cubes, compression bags remove all the extra air and space between your clothes. Some compression bags require the use of a vacuum, but these are meant specifically for travel. After you put your clothes in and zip the bags up, just roll to push out all the extra air. The other benefit of using plastic compression bags is that they keep your clothes sealed away from dirt and water. 

Stuffable Neck Pillow

Neck pillows are excellent for long car, train, or plane journeys. This particular one unzips so it can be stuffed with rolled-up clothes — that means less clothing needs a spot in your bag whether you need to free up space for something else or make the airline weight requirements Without being stuffed with clothes, the neck pillow flattens out for easy storing. 

Collapsible Water Bottle

Whether you’re on a hiking trip or exploring a new city, hydration is a necessity, but some of our favorite water bottles take up valuable bag real estate. A collapsible or foldable bottle is an excellent addition to your travel pack. While on your way to your destination, the empty bottle is rolled up and small. Then just fill it whenever you need.    

Camping Towels

Camping towels come in handy for trips into the wilderness, but also for regular hotel stays too, where you might prefer using your own towels over mystery ones. These microfiber towels also air dry quickly so they won’t stay heavy and wet when you pack them up again. Just fold them back into their little pouch, and go.

Foldable Tote Bag

You might need a separate purse once you get to your destination, but don’t want to haul multiple bags there in the first place. Use this foldable tote bag instead, allowing you to travel with just a backpack or a carry-on. When you’re ready, it easily unfolds into a purse so you can carry the daily necessities and leave your large bag behind.

Travel Toiletry Containers

When flying with a carry-on, the TSA requires your liquid containers to be less than 3.4 ounces. Instead of buying multiple small versions of the toiletries you already own, getting refillable toiletry bottles is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Even if you’re checking a bag, or traveling by train or car, travel-sized containers are much easier to pack than your full-size toiletries. 

Toiletry Bag

Now that you have travel-sized containers, pack them into a toiletry bag so you can easily grab and go. Most travel toiletry bags have a hook so you can hang them up in the bathroom where you’re staying. Some travelers prefer to save space by skipping the bag and putting their toiletries between cubes and clothes, but the bag is useful for protecting your cargo should any of your toiletries burst open.

Travel Pill Organizer

When you need to travel with medication, vitamins, and supplements, pill bottles take up unnecessary space. Instead, figure out the amount of pills you need and put them into a small pill organizer with labels. You’ll have everything you need for a healthy trip without the bulk. 

Cable Organizer

When taking your technology on the go, you want to access your chargers without digging to the bottom of your carefully arranged bag — enter the cable organizer. Using one also ensures that cables won’t get tangled up in each other and stuck in crevices. It fits an extra charging bank and earbuds too.

Featured Image Credit: Timur Weber/ Pexels

Traveling well is a fine art, and choosing the best travel essentials means the difference between travel master and total disaster. As a die-hard digital nomad with 29 countries under my belt, I’m your go-to girl when it comes to packing wisdom. I’ve suffered the trials and errors of curating the perfect pro-level travel kit, so you don’t have to. Ditch packing things “just in case” — yep, I’m looking at that stack of books you’re eyeing up; just get yourself an e-reader and be done with it. But this isn’t about what not to bring. Let’s get into the ultimate trip essentials to elevate your journey. Whether you’re flying, driving, or train-hopping, you should high-tail these picks to the apex of your packing list pronto.

_{Prices are accurate as of January 23, 2025. Subject to change.}

Apple AirTag

Every (Apple-inclined) traveler needs a set of AirTags. Fact. After my passport, these are item number two on my packing list. AirTags allow you to track the location of, well, pretty much anything. I pop one in my luggage (no more separation anxiety at the bag drop), one in my purse, and one on my car keys — for keys, you’ll need to add a case. Set-up is super simple: connect to the Find My app to keep a close eye on the whereabouts of your precious possessions. 

NapFun Neck Pillow

The most unsung of all travel heroes? The humble neck pillow. Pre-pillow days, I’d emerge from a flight or bus ride with a cricked neck — a big fat F for fail, and a shaky start to my trip. The NapFun pillow is simple and well-made without a bunch of poor-quality accessories thrown in to bump up the price. With 360-degree support, plush memory foam, and an adjustable lock, you’ll find the sweet spot for your in-flight snooze before you can say “prepare for take-off.” Plus you can remove the cover for a good wash when it starts to smell a little, um, well-traveled. I love that it comes with a cute pack-away bag, too. Bye-bye bulk, hello convenience.

Hiluckey Solar Power Bank

My boyfriend gifted me this solar-powered power bank when I set off on the Camino de Santiago, and it’s been on my travel checklist ever since. It juices up your iPhone’s battery to 50% in just 30 minutes, and with a triple-port design (two USB-C and one USB-A), you can have a few devices resurrecting from digital death simultaneously. Expect six or seven full charges for your phone or three for your tablet. The pièce de résistance? The solar panels. When your power bank’s battery dips into the danger zone, just leave it in direct sunlight for an au-natural recharge. It errs on the heavy-duty side, but those extra grams mean a more robust gadget.

Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist Toner

Stuffy airports and overpowering car AC take their toll on your skin while traveling and it’s not pretty. But on the bright side, the Dermalogica Antioxidant Hydramist Toner has your back, allowing you to spritz some vitality and hydration back into your skin. Packed with rose, pea, and clove extract, this formula collabs with Mother Nature to plump and firm your skin whenever you need a pick-me-up. Those public restroom mirrors needn’t be such a scary place, after all.

e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi-Stick

The Monochromatic Multi-Stick by e.l.f. is no less than miraculous for adding a flush of color to your skin after a long travel stint. It’s super creamy and blendable, while the added shea butter and vitamin E make for fresh-faced radiance. Use it on your lips, cheeks, or eyes for an instant glow-up, whether you’re mid-flight or on the highway. And the icing on the cake? It’s solid, so it won’t eat into your cabin-bag liquid allowance.

Boogie Antibacterial Hand Wipes

This one’s about as essential as it gets. Stay hygienic on your travels with a pack of Boogie hand wipes. These come in handy mini-packs of 20, so you’ll barely notice them tucked in your bag. They’re antibacterial and totally safe for your skin — plus, you can give your seat, tray, armrests, or steering wheel a squeaky-clean wipe-down, too. Peace of mind for germaphobes? Check.

Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs

A small accessory with mighty impact, the Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs create a silent buffer between you and unavoidable travel commotion. Whether you’re drowning out your road trip buddy’s questionable radio choices or the whirrs and burrs of an airplane engine, these earplugs are made for the job. They come with different ear tip sizes, so you can find the perfect fit, too.

Alaska Bear Silk Eye Mask

Catching the red-eye needn’t result in actual red eyes. Well, not with your new secret weapon: the Alaska Bear Organic Silk Eye Mask. As paramount to your travel comfort as your neck pillow and earplugs, this sumptuous eye mask ensures you can drift into sound sleep oblivious to any clamor around you. Designed with 100% Mulberry silk, this light-blocking eye mask infuses a little luxury (and a lot of peace) into your travels without a hefty price tag.

Kindle Paperwhite

If you haven’t yet switched to an e-reader, the Paperwhite is about to become your favorite travel companion. Sure, the smell of a new book is great, but so is not breaking your back carrying an entire library in your bag. There are several Kindle models currently available, but the Paperwhite is the best. You’ll get 10 weeks of battery life, a glare-free display, and 16 gigabytes of storage for all your favorite titles. So, you can have your library, after all.

Feature Image Credit: Pixel-Shot/ Shutterstock