While the holiday travel season last year was less than merry and bright (again) after the breakout of the Omicron variant, many people are still holding out for better times—and more travel—in 2022.
More than a third (34%) of travelers have larger travel budgets now compared to 2020, according to Expedia’s Traveler Value Index, in large part because of the worldwide pause in travel spurred by the pandemic. And more than half (54%) of Expedia’s survey respondents said they plan to spend more on trips than they did prior to the pandemic.
If travel is about to make a comeback (again), then it’s time to start packing. Here are some of the newest must-have travel essentials to consider bringing along.
AYR “The Robe” Overcoat
This coat from AYR (All Year Round) lives up to its name, because at first glance (or first try-on), it does feel more like a robe than a coat. But the 100% Italian camel hair coat has impeccable construction and structure, and it’s very lightweight, making it the ideal coat to throw in your suitcase without taking much room for any events that might require a slightly higher dress code than casual. SRP: $595
Boie Flat Body Scrubber
This is quite possibly the best body-cleaning tool ever made at this price point. The Flat Body Scrubber is made from a durable antimicrobial material, with silicone-like, hypoallergenic bristles that both exfoliates and cleans your skin without being abrasive. (There is a smaller scrubber for the face, which would be great to use for a deep cleanse after wearing a face mask all day long.) And the scrubber is paper-light and nearly paper-thin—and dries quickly—making it easy to toss back in your toiletries bag. SRP: $10
eMed Abbott BinaxNOW At-Home COVID-19 Test
Finding an affordable at-home test that is approved by the CDC for travel purposes is challenging right now. eMed currently offers the only CDC-approved at-home test that can be used ahead of inbound U.S. flights for those traveling internationally. The process is simple, and a certified guide will help you through the test. The whole process shouldn’t take more than 15 to 30 minutes, and you can get a certificate printed out for airline confirmation. SRP: $150 for a pack of six tests. (Check with your insurance provider about reimbursement. eMed provides an automatic itemized receipt via email that can be used for reimbursement purposes from health insurance providers or health coverage plans.)
Everlane Perform 24/7 Legging
Available in sizes XXS through 3XL, Everlane’s latest variation on its performance leggings are made with entirely new fabric that is 69% recycled nylon and 31% spandex. While they’ll definitely keep you warm, they still feel incredibly lightweight without feeling clingy or sweaty. SRP: $68
Flanon Disposable Face Masks
After your passport, the one item you cannot leave home without when traveling these days is a face mask. And now that the CDC has upgraded its guidance to recommend that everyone wears medical-grade face masks (many international carriers were already doing this since last year), it’s time to stock up on multi-layered, filtered masks. (Think N95, KN95, KN94, etc.) SRP: $54 for a box of 50.
Girlfriend Collective Relaxed Fit Packable Puffer
In 2021 alone, sustainable clothing label Girlfriend Collective says it recycled more than 15.7 million water bottles into its clothes, saving 14.5 million pounds of CO2 from the atmosphere and conserving 31 million gallons of water. Some of the brand’s most popular products made from the reused plastic are its recycled puff coats. And one of the newest options available is the Relaxed Fit Packable Puffer, which easily packs into a built-in bag in the inner pocket—ideal for throwing in your suitcase for transitioning between climates while traveling. SRP: $158
Grey State Willow Cardigan
Also for a more polished but casual vibe, Grey State makes layering easy and comfortable with soft fabrics. The Willow Cardi (made from a blend of 70% viscose, 25% cotton, and 5% spandex) is ultra-cozy, wrinkle-free, and perfect for toting along when going out or while traveling. SRP: $138
Kiki Plant-Based Milk Cartons
Touted to be the first plant-based milk developed especially for kids, the flavor and size factor of Kiki Milk cartons are appealing to customers of all ages. Available in original and chocolate flavors, Kiki Milk is made with whole food ingredients and nutrient-dense superfoods that are omega-rich and provide plant-based calcium and protein. And the brand says it selects organic ingredients that have a lower carbon footprint, partnering with farmers who grow with sustainable and regenerative farming practices. SRP: $35 for a carton of 12 eight-ounce cartons.
Koral Fay Jacket
Koral creative director Ilana Kugel frequently travels the world sourcing sustainable and technical fabrics to design fashion-forward pieces that feel luxurious, look effortless, and last through infinite wears and washings. And the brand’s latest line is full of pieces that can take you from a tropical ocean resort or cozy mountain lodge. SRP: $340
Kristin Ess Travel Size Dry Shampoo
In what might be the holy grail of hair care products, dry shampoo really is the game changer for your daily routine that everyone says it is. Kristin Ess makes luxury hair styling products, tools, and accessories at much more affordable prices, starting with the travel size version of its very effective dry shampoo, which will soak up the oil without visible white residue left behind. SRP: $5
Solely Organic Whole Fruit Gummies
Snacks are always essential—perhaps never more so than when traveling. These gummies are a convenient and healthier alternative to sugar-coated gumdrops. Made from whole organic fruit with a touch of vitamin C, there are no preservatives, gelatins, sugars, or other surprise ingredients. Solely gummies come in three flavors: mango, mango and orange, and mango and guava. SRP: $8 for a box of five pouches
Tata Harper Restorative Eye Crème
Air travel is very dehydrating, between the main cabin, the pressurized air, and just the strexss of it all. Yes, you should stay hydrated on the inside with plenty of water, but don’t forget to stay hydrated on the outside—especially with some eye cream that you can easily dab above that mandatory face mask. SRP: $130
Soo’AE Food Story Sheet Masks
For extra hydration upon arrival or perhaps after a long day (or night out), go for the full facial sheet mask. Soo’AE, one of South Korea’s most popular and accessible beauty brands, released a line of vegan-certified, biodegradable sheet masks. Made with 95% natural formula ingredients, the masks are available in pineapple, avocado, kiwi, pomegranate, blueberry, and banana—each targeting a different purpose for your skin, from achieving a better glow to toning to nourishment. SRP: $3 per sheet mask
Terez Black Ponte Overalls
In an industry-best demonstration of body inclusivity, all of Terez’s products are available in sizes ranging from XXS to 3X for women, and 4 to 12 for girls. One of the brand’s bestselling styles is an oldie but a goodie: overalls. Making overalls cool again, the one-piece is structured but soft, with an elastic waistband, made from a stretchy blend of rayon, nylon, and spandex. SRP: $170
