RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GEAR

Recommended Travel Gear lists abound on the internet, but are they for real? Some are clickbait, some are top ten lists written without much expertise or thought. I have been traveling professionally around the globe for a long time and I’d like to think that I have it down to a science. If you’re looking for the best recommended travel gear, either for a travel gift or for yourself, here you’re going to find what is actually in my bag. For reals. No joke.

This is a list for quick reference, as a companion to my blog and YouTube packing videos, with links to take you directly to the things I use. Most of these items have been written about at some point on this blog, but always ask if you’d like more information. A reminder: I only suggest things that I truly like and use, none of my suggestions are paid, but I do work for Rick Steves, just so you know and I do get a small commission if you purchase using these links (thanks for supporting my work this way).

Bags

These are my actual bags that I use. For other options, including a great rolling bag, see ricksteves.com.

Main Backpack- Tom Bihn TriStar

Day Bag- Tom Bihn Small Cafe Bag

Extra Bag- Lewis n Clark Electrolight Duffle

Packing Cubes- Eagle Creek Specter

Shoe Cube- Lewis N Clark Packing Cube

Stuff Sacks- Lewis N Clark Tote Bag

Outerwear

I’ve done some exhaustive research on jackets and found some great solutions. More on that hunt HERE.

Winter- Arcteryx Nuri (Best Coat EVER)

Spring/Fall- Eddie Bauer Microtherm Down Jacket

Summer- Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Packable Jacket

Vest- 32 Degrees Packable Down Vest

Clothes

Clothes are very subjective! Below are some of my classic favorite items, basics that will work for almost anyone.

Top-Eileen Fisher Silk Knit Top (Anything Eileen Fisher is a winner)

Pants- Eileen Fisher Silk Slouchy Pants

Cardigan- Eddie Bauer Verstrex Wrap

Sweater- Lark and Roe Cashmere Pullover in Black

Leggings- Felina Black Leggings

Skirt- Jubilee Flowy Knee Length Skirt

Scarf- Cashmere Travel Scarf

Tank Top- Banana Republic Essential Tank

Dress- Eddie Bauer Aster Crossover Dress

Underthings

A truly subjective item for recommended travel gear, but these are solid picks. Costco often carries great socks and undies.

Moneybelt- Rick Steves Moneybelt

Socks- Kirkland Signature Merino Wool Socks

Compression Socks- Sockwell Graduated Compression socks

Undies- OnGossamer Bikini

Bras- Running Girl Sports Bra

Bathing suit- Freya Bikini

Pajamas- Fisher’s Finery Silk Chemise

Shoes

My shoe choices change frequently, but these are the most reliable which I’ve used for several years. For more, see my recommended travel gear shoe spreadsheet.

Walking Shoe- Propet Travelwalker

Flip Flop- Teva Mandalyn Mush Wedges

Spring/Fall Slip-On- Propet Travelfit

Summer Slip On- Skechers Sweet Pea

Sandal- Skechers Reggae Slim