Here’s Some Cool Gear for Travel Warriors in 2019

Traveling today whether across the state or around the world can be stressful enough, so finding items that make it easier, more convenient and more comfortable is always a good thing. Here a few items I have found that squarely fit that bill and make traveling better.

1. Classic Pro 42L by Cabin Zero

The Classic Pro42L is a bag for serious travelers who want it all. Its modern design has a laptop compartment, hide-away straps, thick back and strap padding, sternum strap, a bottle/umbrella pocket, waist straps and most important, a wide, stable trolley strap when longer travel requires the addition of a wheelie bag. Cabin Zero comes with an integrated lost and found tag and a 10-year warranty with complimentary upgrade to 25 years. MSRP: $159.99.

2. Stephanie Johnson Cosmetics Case and Tiny Treasure Case by Ricardo Beverly Hills

The designs and fabrics of Ms. Johnson’s beautiful and practical travel accessories made by luggage guru Ricardo Beverly Hills makes me want to be SJ’s BFF. Her Louise Cosmetics Case, shaped as mini trunk case with elegant hardware, is lined with waterproof material, has three elastic pockets, three brush holders and hideaway zippered compartment. There’s plenty of room for   cosmetics for a weekend, or two weeks. MSRP $63.00.

The Steph Tiny Treasure Case, in a host of chic colors with lux velvet interiors, is another favorite. A zippered section for valuables – or a secret Benjamin stash – and a six-section removable insert that can be used for earrings, cuff links, or vitamins makes this case essential. MSRP $30.00

3. BenjiLock Fingerprint Lock by Hampton

If only I had a dollar for every time I forgot the combination to my hand carry’s lock. I “graduated” to one with diagrams until I forgot the diagrams’ order. No traveler was more relieved than I was when the new BenjiLock came out. Featuring built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, chrome-plated hardened steel shackle, five different fingerprint storage and includes micro-USB charging cable. Simply put, I LOVE this product. MSRP: $49.99. Available at select retailers.

4. IonBank 5K Portable Battery by Moshi

This sleek beauty’s aircraft grade aluminum casing has vegan leather accents, hideaway lightening and USB cables for Uber convenient recharging and an extra USB port to simultaneously charge two devices. Fast charging at 2.4 amps, it can charge an I-phone twice with 5,150 MAh and best of all, you can simultaneously recharge the battery and the IonBank thanks to SmartSense™ circuitry. MSRP: $99.99

5. Pocket Socks

These super comfortable, combed cotton, fashion forward, made in the U.S.A. socks have a fantastic secret weapon: a zipper on one sock to hold a couple of credit cards, a key, USB drives and even a lipstick or chapstick. The Passport Security Sock Model is a Repreve polyester made from 85-percent recycled bottles, so while you are comfortably carrying your passport where it won’t get lost or stolen, you can be smug since each pair is made from four plastic bottles that would otherwise pollute the world’s waterways. Several colors, lengths and cool patterns. MSRP starting at $16.95.

6. Litegear Tote by LiteGear Bags

LiteGear’s 3-in-1 Gear Bag is very versatile. Once packed, it can be made more compact by cinching the sides and top and can be carried by the handles, shoulder or backpack straps. Features a roomy interior, organizing pockets, and an RFID protected compartment. Durable, lightweight and made from recycled polyester, it’s multi-functional and usable in-flight, on the beach or if junior is onboard, as a diaper bag. MSRP: $69.95.

7. Expedition Crossbody Bag by Big Skinny

This style of bag is a perennial favorite among die hard travelers. Roomy enough for essentials, yet easily placed in your hand carry when you already have two onboard pieces. Made from lightweight nylon microfiber, it has an internal zippered compartment and key fob with four external compartments for easy phone and passport access. MSRP $55.

8. City 56 Laptop Backpack by Swiss Ruigor

This sleek backpack will store a 15.6-inch laptop in a protected compartment and has a handy USB connector port. With plenty of hidden zippered compartments and pockets, you’ll have room for everything you need and look cool at the same time. $99.95 on sale for $59.99.

Happy travels!

Julie L. Kessler is MoneyInc’s Travel & Luxury Editor and writes travel stories for various major media outlets. She is also an attorney and legal columnist based in Los Angeles and the author of the award-winning book “Fifty-Fifty: The Clarity of Hindsight.” She can be reached at Julie@VagabondLawyer.com