I’ve been a frequent traveler for the past 10 years and have worked as a writer or editor in the field for much of that time. I’ve embarked on hundreds of business and personal trips — since 2020 alone, I’ve flown over 400,000 miles in the sky. As a result, I’ve tested countless pieces of travel gear.
Everything from travel backpacks to portable chargers plays a part in what I bring so I can work efficiently and travel comfortably. To help you travel better, I’ll take you through the things I absolutely cannot travel without.
Carl Friedrik The Carry-On X Andrew Kunesh/CNN Underscored If I need to travel somewhere with two laptops, I’ll use this carry-on from Carl Friedrik. It has a document and laptop pouch on the front of the suitcase, giving you easy access to your tech at the airport. I think it looks great too, with an understated yet very classy design. Read our review $645 at Carl Friedrik
Harber London Tech Dopp Kit Andrew Kunesh/CNN Underscored Staying organized is key when you’re traveling — and this includes your cables and other gadgets. There are plenty of great dopp kits out there, but this one from Harber London is my favorite since it’s made from durable genuine leather. $158 at Harber London
Herschel Raynor Passport Holder Andrew Kunesh/CNN Underscored I’ve had a Herschel passport holder for years and have never had any issues with it. I’m a dual citizen and was drawn to this passport holder because it has a second pocket that can hold my European passport and vaccine card. $40 at Herschel
Listerine Cool Mint Breath Strips, 3-Pack Andrew Kunesh/CNN Underscored Listerine breath strips never leave my backpack — especially if I’m going to a conference, meeting or work event. No one wants to talk to someone with stinky breath. Keep these with you and you’re fresh no matter where you are in the world. $7 $6 at Amazon
47 Brand Chicago Cubs Baseball Hat Andrew Kunesh/CNN Underscored I like baseball caps and, since I grew up in the Chicagoland area, I love the Chicago Cubs. So, I always keep this hat in my backpack. I like the retro look and it’s made for some interesting chats with Chicagoans I’ve met on the road. $40 $28 at Amazon
Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored Money chose as the best travel credit cards currently available.
Our travel editor’s 15 essentials to pack in his backpack
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