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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

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For Under $100: 3 Travel Accessories for Better Flights

For Under $100: 3 Travel Accessories for Better Flights

Plane tickets are expensive as hell.

Don’t even get me started on upgrading to business or first class.

So, what’s the average traveler to do? Suffer in an ever-shrinking economy seat and try to ignore the chaos around them?

That’s probably a good start. I’d also suggest buying these travel accessories, which have been proven to make long-haul flights more comfortable.

These products will get you through difficult flights of all stripes, letting you de-board the plane feeling relatively refreshed. (Or at least like you weren’t just hit by a car.)

Best of all, you can purchase all items on this list from Amazon without spending more than $100. That’s Black Friday magic in action, baby.

Welcome to the lesser-known world of savvy, cheap travel.

Travel accessories on sale for Black Friday

They’re affordable, they’re highly rated, and they’re going to make your long-haul flight more comfortable.

  • The sleep solution that lets you conk out on any flight: SARISUN Wrap-Around Head Pillow or Turtl Travel Pillow
  • The foot hammock that lets you get comfortable: FEIMINI 2-Pack Foot Rest
  • The spa-level eye mask that I almost want to gate-keep: BeHoomi Lavender Eye Mask

Travel accessories for better flights: comfort, posture, and relaxation

SARISUN Wrap-Around Head Pillow or Turtl Travel Pillow

Sleeping on flights is notoriously awful because of those small, rigid plane seats. Getting comfortable is almost impossible—but not nearly as difficult as maintaining your posture. If you want to get some shut-eye and wake up feeling refreshed, I have two suggestions: a wrap-around head or neck pillow.

The SARISUN Wrap-Around Head Pillow wraps around your headrest and covers your eyes, acting like a dual eye mask and pillow. It’s taken the travel world by storm thanks to a few high-profile reviews from frequent flyers. It’s tried, it’s tested, and it’s here to stay.

That being said, the one drawback of the SARISUN is that it covers your eyes. You need to un-strap yourself to look around. Most importantly, you can’t use my favorite flight product, the BeHoomie Lavender Mask (below).

If you’re hellbent on using an eye mask of your own, then the Turtl Travel Pillow is another great choice. This option wraps around your neck, letting you adjust a rigid panel to keep your neck up-right. It’s been around longer than wrap-around head pillows and is backed by scientific studies. You won’t go wrong with either.

FEIMINI 2-Pack Foot Rest

This footrest functions as a foot hammock, letting you recline, cross your legs, and otherwise get comfortable however you see fit. While it won’t give you any more space to work on a plane, it’ll give you more ways to sink into your seat. On top of that, it’ll help you negotiate a lack of space when the passenger in front of you reclines their seat.

BeHoomi Eye Mask

Let’s start with the drawback here because there’s only one: BeHoomi masks are disposable. But that single use will have a huge impact on your flight, especially if you’re prone to feeling nervous and restless.

The BeHoomi Eye Mask comes in a range of scents, from lavender to jasmine. The scented eye masks have warming features that start once you open the pack and last for around 30 minutes. Not only do you have a spa-caliber eye mask with a calming scent, but that dash of moisture can also help you combat dry cabin air.

Save 20% on All Away Products This Black Friday (Plus, Our Top Picks)

Away’s site-wide Black Friday sale offering 25% off everything is live—but it ends on Cyber Monday (December 2), so it’s time to hurry up and make your purchases.

Why Away, you might be wondering?

As one of the most stylish and famous luggage brands in travel, you’ve likely heard of the company before. They made a splash when they entered the market thanks to features like their removable battery pack, highly functional 360-degree wheels, and high-quality hard shells—from aluminum to polycarbonate.

The only catch is the price tag.

Luggage is one of the last things that travelers will pay good money for. As a long-time traveler and frequent flyer myself, I understand the hesitation.

Forking over hundreds for a suitcase just sounds wrong… especially with so many highly-rated budget options on the table and the fact that airlines can disappear your luggage with impunity.

But with hefty deals site-wide, it’s time to ascend to the next level of travel status.

Thinking about splurging on an Away piece? You might not even need to splurge. Shop around here for deals or stick with my top picks, below.

The Away Black Friday sale ends on Cyber Monday (Dec 3) so make your purchases before you miss out. Remember—this brand rarely does sales, so take your opportunity to save on Away.

Best Away luggage to buy on Black Friday

The Pet Carrier

I’ve learned the hard way how awful a basic pet carrier is. My first choice for the Black Friday Away sale would be their pet carrier. It comes with Sherpa bedding, water-resistant lining, and multiple ways to attach the carrier to seat belts.

The Weekender Bag

All savvy travelers have a weekender bag in their arsenal. I’m obsessed with Away’s thanks to its extra attention to detail, which means you get features like two types of (removable) handles, a trolley sleeve, and a full wrap-around zipper for duffel-style packing.

The Bigger Carry-On

Push the limits of carry-ons with this super-sized (yet overhead-bin-ready) selection. Its interior mesh compartments and compression straps let you fully maximize your packing space on any flight.

The Carry-On Flex

What’s the super-secret advantage you get with Away’s Carry-On Flex? It’s got a hefty ‘unzip the flex’ feature, which means you can amplify your suitcase’s packing space by an extra 2.25 inches. Aside from that, this pick includes all the regular Away Carry-On features.

The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

Sleek, sexy, and normally out of my price range, this is my ultimate Away Black Friday pick. Some of that comes down to aesthetics; aluminum suitcases are gorgeous and iconic. But it also includes lux features like a double-TSA lock and smoother wheels than other Away pieces.

The Trunk

The Trunk is big enough to move you halfway across the world. If you’re not planning on swapping continents anytime soon, know that the Away Trunk has the size, features, and durability for long trips with heavy packing lists.

Black Friday Luggage Picks: Best Luggage & Luggage Accessories for Travelers

From the outside looking in, most suitcases look the same.

They come in similar shapes, similar sizes, and with a comparable number of features. Most often, the difference between a luxury suitcase and a budget option comes down to the materials used in production and the final design—little else.

So how can you tell a pretty good suitcase from a fantastic one that will last you years? You need a blend of recommendations from industry experts, frequent flyers, and diehard travelers.

Want a closer look at the best luggage picks across a range of categories? You’ve got everything you need here—then some. Keep reading to uncover my top luggage picks from this year, along with the metrics I used to make selections. As an added bonus, I’ve also included my favorite luggage accessories.

Get the best luggage picks and luggage accessories while they’re hot. It’s Black Friday savings season!

Best luggage at-a-glance:

  • Top checked luggage: Away The Large
  • Best budget checked luggage: Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside
  • My favorite carry-on suitcase: Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-on
  • Best budget carry-on: Muji Carry-On
  • A near-perfect weekender bag: CALPAK Luka Duffel
  • Best budget option for weekender bag: Baggu Cloud Carry-On
  • Industry’s favorite underseat carry-on: CALPAK Hue Mini Carry-On
  • Best budget underseat carry-on: Rockland Melrose Underseater
  • Top pick for travel backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
  • Best budget travel backpack: Coowoz Large Travel Backpack

Our metrics

  • Durability and quality of materials—even a budget option should last you years
  • Ergonomics—if a suitcase isn’t comfortable to handle, it’s a dud
  • Style and functionality—all those pockets and compartments should translate to a more seamless journey

Best luggage for travelers: carry-ons, checked bags, weekenders, & more

Checked luggage pick: Away The Large

Away

Away is one of the most celebrated brands to enter the luggage industry. I’d say a lot of its hype comes down to its sleek design and innovative features.

When Away luggage first hit the market, that ejectable charging bank was pretty groundbreaking.

Today, you can expect functionality, durability, and style with your Away the Large. Not only is its polycarbonate shell built to last, but Away the Large comes with a lifetime warranty. It doesn’t get any more reliable than that.

Best budget checked luggage: Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside

Amazon

Don’t feel like shelling out hundreds for your first checked piece of luggage? Stick with Amazon Basics. This expandable option is one of the best-selling suitcases on the market, which should tell you that it’ll get the job done.

In fact, despite its rampant popularity and budget price, it’s one of Amazon’s most highly rated products in the marketplace.

While it won’t survive a safari in the outback, it’ll definitely handle years of standard air travel.

Carry-on pick: Briggs & Riley Essential Carry-on

Amazon

How and why would someone pay so much for a carry-on, you might be asking? The devil is in the details for Briggs & Riley.

This brand uses top-quality materials and has a well-thought-out design. So, while it might not look much different from other carry-ons, there’s a palpable distinction.

First, you can use every square inch of a Briggs & Riley carry-on. Second, it’s wheels and handle are highly ergonomic, letting you zip around an airport. Lastly, it comes with a lifetime warranty like Away products, meaning you shouldn’t feel shy about the price tag.

Best budget carry-on: Muji Carry-On

Muji

Muji is a Japanese stationery brand that somehow made a nearly unbeatable carry-on. I’ve been using mine for years without a single hiccup. The hard shell is durable and scratch-resistant, even though I’m not a gentle handler.

There’s also a lock so that the suitcase doesn’t roll away on an incline.

The only drawback (I’m trying desperately to be objective) is its size. This carry-on is a little bit smaller than other carry-ons.

Weekender bag pick: CALPAK Luka Duffel

CALPAK

Similar to Away, CALPAK has taken the luggage industry by storm. Once again, it offers a similar range of benefits as Away: its designs are sleek, its materials are top-notch, and they’re made to last.

I think CALPAK is especially great for mini, weekender trips. (Below, I also recommend the CALPAK Hue Mini Carry-On as an underseat suitcase.)

In terms of a weekender bag, this lovely and simple duffel option gives you an insane amount of space—this thing basically opens up like a clown car, letting you pack shoes, tablets, toiletries, electronics, and more into special compartments. There’s even a separate slot for your shoes.

Best budget option for weekender bag: Baggu Cloud Carry-On

Baggu

My Muji pick might have surprised you—and I’ve got another shocker in the works. Baggu is a global brand that specializes in barely-there totes made from recycled plastic. It also offers a great carry-on that’s perfect for weekend trips.

The magic here is that you can use the Baggu Cloud Carry-On for anything—whether trips to the mall or last-minute sleepovers. It doesn’t look like luggage, so you can use it well beyond the bounds of the airport.

But it also comes with a suitcase sleeve, so you can attach it to a rolling carry-on if you ever need a backup piece of luggage.

Best underseat carry-on: CALPAK Hue Mini Carry-On

CALPAK

Underseat carry-ons are becoming more popular because they fit on just about any plane—no more worrying about finding space in the overhead bins. CALPAK should be your first stop for all things mini-luggage.

Its hard-shell underseat carry-on is tiny but mighty if you like to go on short getaways and can’t stand the idea of lugging around a backpack.

It’s got mesh dividers and interior pockets for easier packing. It even has a TSA-approved lock in case you need to check it.

Best budget underseat carry-on: Rockland Melrose Underseater

Amazon

This soft-shell carry-on isn’t the prettiest piece of luggage I’ve ever seen, but it’s one of the most robust and reliable underseat options on the market.

It’s also highly affordable—which makes the Rockland Melrose a great starter piece for anyone who wants to sample the art of minimalist packing.

Best travel backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Amazon

Nailing a great travel backpack is a much higher charge than creating a functional rolling suitcase. What you get from Cotopaxi is a highly ergonomic and streamlined backpack that’s made to distribute weight evenly with a specialized harness system.

In short: You can pack this thing to the brim and it won’t break your back.

The Cotopaxi also stands out for its blend of rugged and urban features. For example, it’s nylon lining protects your belongings from rain and dirt, but the laptop and tablet sleeves make it a solid choice for digital nomads and similar professionals.

Best budget travel backpack: Coowoz Large Travel Backpack

Amazon

Coowoz is deceptively cheap for the number of features that come with it. It has a shoe compartment for clean packing; cable channels so you can charge your devices from an internal battery pack; an anti-theft zipper pocket; and a horizontal compartment for easy packing.

At such a low price, it almost sounds too good to be true. But reviews back this budget travel backpack, raving about its durability, the large amount of space, and how comfortable it is to carry.

Best luggage accessories for travelers

Once you’ve found your perfect suitcase and have fulfilled your travel needs, treat yourself to a little luggage accessory. These are the products I’ve found most useful as a frequent traveler. Once again, most are on-sale for Black Friday – don’t miss out.

  • Knog Scout Smart Travel Tag If the Apple Air Tag doesn’t work for you, this is a fantastic alternative. Just attach it to your suitcase so you can track that bad boy in case you get on separate planes.
  • Explore Land Luggage Protector I’ve used luggage protectors when borrowing suitcases from friends—but you might find you prefer them to avoid scratching your precious new war pony.
  • Untethered Luggage Straps There are three reasons you might need luggage straps. First, to combat your chronic overpacking. Second, to get one last use out of a suitcase with failing zippers. Third, to protect and identify your luggage.
  • Vitscan Bamboo Air Purifying Bags I like to keep things nice and fresh in my suitcase without filling it with a weird smell; these charcoal bags do the trick perfectly.
  • Etekcity Portable Scale Once again, chronic overpackers will find this useful. Portable scales let you weigh your luggage before you head to the airport so you can avoid overweight fees.
  • Riemot Luggage Drink Caddy This handy little caddy will help you keep your hands free while sprinting around the airport or leisurely meandering toward your gate.

On Sale for Black Friday: Best Products for Comfortable Flights

Airports are hectic, plane seats are ever-shrinking, and flights are being delayed and canceled at higher rates than ever before.

The bad news? There’s no end to strained air travel in sight.

The good news? There are dozens of high-quality products that will revolutionize your experience flying at 35,000 feet in the air.

While I can’t promise that your plane seat will expand in size or that the passengers around you won’t snore, spill, or chat at all the wrong times, I can guarantee that the must-have products listed below will make even the worst flights more bearable.

In fact, those who have a few of the best products for comfortable flights in their carry-on can turn a good experience into a great one. A relaxing one, too, dare I say.

Whether you want to get a full night’s sleep on a red-eye, log off after a stressful layover, or simply board the plane with less stress, I recommend keeping these items on your shopping list.

Or, if you’re ready to do a bit of Black Friday shopping, purchase these products now. Most are on sale for Black Friday.

Quick look at the best products for comfortable flights

  • Cute and functional compression socks in any style: LEVSOX Compression Socks
  • Foot hammocks for your little piggies: Basic Concepts Foot Hammock or FEIMINI 2-Pack Foot Rest
  • A calming, warm eye mask that isn’t like others: BeHoomi Lavender Eye Mask
  • The end-all of comfortable sleeping apparatuses: SARISUN Wrap-Around Head Pillow
  • A close second in terms of end-all comfortable sleeping apparatuses: Turtl travel pillow
  • Bluetooth transmitter for in-flight entertainment: Twelve South Bluetooth Connector
  • Bluetooth-ready and noise-cancelling headphones: Bose QuietComfort

What we looked at/metrics

  • Airport appropriateness—these products are small and security-friendly
  • Functionality—we only recommend items that will transform your trip
  • User ratings—if other travelers love it, we’re interested

Best products for comfortable flights: reviews

LEVSOX Compression Socks

Available on Amazon

Compression socks reduce swelling, prevent blood clots, and improve circulation on flights. I also think they’re comfortable as hell.

Whether or not you’re worried about blood flow, these socks are handy to have in your back pocket. I use them when my feet get cold—but what I love about the LEVOX compression socks is their versatility. Thanks to their cute design, you won’t feel weird wearing them in your day-to-day.

Time to get addicted to compression socks.

Basic Concepts Foot Hammock or FEIMINI 2-Pack Foot Rest

FEIMINI 2-Pack Footrests (Available on Amazon)

While we’re on the topic of feet, let’s cover your second option for all-around comfort on long flights: the humble foot hammock. A foot hammock is a handy little device that you can hang from the seat in front of you, and then slide your feet into.

It lets you keep your feet elevated, crossed, pretzeled—whatever. Like compression socks, these are great for those who need better circulation on flights.

I have two brands listed above. Basic Concepts has a solid product that’s been around for a while, but it looks like FEIMINI’s footrests have hit the ground running, earning the badge of Amazon’s Choice.

Pro tip: Don’t want to tote a foot hammock with you? You can also finagle a scarf into a foot hammock so long as you’re not too worried about wear and tear. Just tie that bad boy in a loop and arrange it just like you would one of the footrests above.

BeHoomi Scented Eye Mask

Available on Amazon

At their most basic, eye masks let you disconnect from a bright flight. But I like to pick products that are multi-functional.

In this case, BeHoomi’s eye mask comes with tons of scented options. That means you’ll be treated to a little fragrance therapy while relaxing.

But that’s not all. These disposable eye masks come with steam capability, literally giving you a spa-like treatment while strapped into your seat. Despite the warm, scented experience, there’s no added equipment or complicated instructions

Open, apply, and forget you’re on a plane.

SARISUN Wrap-Around Head Pillow

Available on Amazon

It’s not cute, okay? But the SARISUN wrap-around head pillow is one of the most highly rated sleeping solutions for planes.

It works similarly to the foot hammocks; you strap the product into place on your headrest, then wrap the soft, comfortable fabric over your eyes to hold your head in place by securing it to the other side.

Just keep in mind that this product will only work on flights with adjustable headrests. Given those are usually on long-haul flights, I don’t see the issue. You probably wouldn’t bust this head pillow out on a short, domestic flight anyway.

Turtl Travel Pillow

Available on Amazon

This sleeping solution is slightly cuter, in case you’re shopping based on aesthetics. Rather than wrap around your head, this product wraps around your neck similar to a scarf.

However, there’s a rigid support inside that lets you rest while preventing your neck from straining.

While I would prefer the SARISUN for its overall stability, the Turtl Travel Pillow is great for anyone who would prefer to use their own eye mask… like the BeHoomi, listed above. 

Twelve South Bluetooth Connector

Available on Amazon

Tired of those busted, disposable headphones that planes hand out for their entertainment centers?

With this handy little gadget, you can easily hook up any of your Bluetooth-powered headphones for more comfortable listening. The Twelve South Bluetooth Connector also works for any device that has a headphone jack, so I imagine you’ll find this useful in a few other places. 

Bose QuietComfort

Available on Amazon

Since we’re on the topic of headphones, I’m also putting forth my absolute favorite: Bose Quiet Comfort. Though you’ll pay a pretty penny for these headphones, they’re lightweight, easy to pack, and come from a trusted brand that offers a great warranty.

I also love the fact that these come with industry-leading noise-cancellation features, meaning you can also tune the world out when travel becomes hectic.

The United States of Turkey Trots: Oldest, Longest, Weirdest Trots & More

Imagine running—and not for your life.

I hear it’s popular, especially around the holidays. While places like New York City and Boston are famous for their marathons, the United States is also home to another and far more distinct type of event: the Turkey Trot.

While some live in fear of marrying into a Turkey Trot family (one that wakes up at the crack of dawn on Thanksgiving not to bake turkey but to lace up their running shoes), others look forward to the invigorating marathon.

In fact, it’s a generational tradition for thousands of families.

And while the name might sound novel and new, trots have been around for well over a century. The first was launched in Buffalo, New York back in 1986. Dozens of others followed shortly thereafter and have since celebrated their centennials.

But which Turkey Trots come out head? In reality, they come in all shapes and sizes. Here’s where you can find some of the most memorable events in the United States.

Oldest in the US: Buffalo Annual YMCA Turkey Trot

The Buffalo Turkey Trot is an 8K (almost five miles) marathon that runs on Thanksgiving Day in Buffalo. As mentioned up top, this is the oldest of the bunch. It was first run in 1896, which also makes it the world’s oldest consecutively won footrace.

Not too shabby, Buffalo—especially considering this event continues to attract around 14,000 runners each year.

Longest event: 100-Mile Milwaukee-to-Chicago Turkey Trot

Didn’t believe me when I said trots come in all shapes and sizes? This popular Turkey Trot stumbled onto the scene in 2013 as a joke between two friends.

Determined to launch their own event, they headed north… getting into a few hilarious jams on the way. Since then, it’s become a beloved tradition for adventurous spirits. The trot also donates its proceeds to the ALS Foundation after one of its original founding members was diagnosed only one year after the inaugural run. (I guess Turkey Trots can also make you tear up.)

Keep in mind that this is a mini-marathon event that usually includes around 20 runners. If you want to run with this crew, join their Facebook page.

Biggest marathon: Turkey Trot Chicago

With upwards of 40,000 participants and only around 40 years of experience under its belt, Chicago’s annual event is one of the youngest and yet the largest in the country.

In fact, according to Great Runs, most other trots top out at around 20,000 participants. I had no idea Chicago was such an athletic city.  

Prettiest setting: Dana Point CA Turkey Trot

Who doesn’t dream of exploring some of Orange County’s most scenic roads and beaches? And what better way to do that than getting fit on Thanksgiving?

Welcome to the Dana Point CA Turkey Trot, which offers 5K and 10K options for participants. Those who join get a first-class tour of the area, too.

Most hardcore competition: Detroit Turkey Trot

Most trots are organized to benefit local charities, giving runners the chance to benchmark their finishes while supporting the community. Others, by contrast, take a more varied approach…

That’s the case with the historical Detroit Turkey Trot. Participants can choose between a handful of routes—from the family-friendly Mashed Potato Mile to combination events that combine running and walking. 

Most relaxed event: Myrtle Beach

Like the Dana Point CA Turkey Trot, this selection takes you along the coast to some truly scenic areas. In fact, it’s a popular choice for families that often visit Myrtle Beach during summer.

In other words, even if only one family member is planning on trotting, the rest will still have plenty to do in charming Myrtle Beach in the meantime. 

Most fun trot: Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot

Most of the trots mentioned here offer kids’ events. Some take those kid-friendly offerings into new territory, including the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot.

You can walk and/or run in various races, from the 5K to a virtual trot. There’s also a Diaper Dash for kids and tons of family fun that includes a dog trot, stroller-trot, and activities like cornhole.

Coolest event: New Orleans

Just about everything is cooler in NOLA—including its Turkey Trot offerings. Launched back in 1907, it’s also one of the first trots in the US… and it’s actually called the Turkey Day Race by locals.

What makes this marathon cool is its route through the city, which transports you into the past in historic districts, giving you a peep into City Park, French Quarter architecture, and much more.

9 Must-Have Road Trip Products—Including Black Friday Discounts

Dreaming of driving off into the sunset?

Americans are some of the world’s most active drivers—and why wouldn’t we be? From Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway to Glacier National Park, stunning and picturesque drives crisscross the country.

Whether heading from coast to coast on a wild, romantic adventure or simply driving interstate for a holiday, road trips signal big fun.

But those who buckle up with all the right preparations and road trip products in place will get more out of their journey.

They can take advantage of those little roadside surprises, stay more comfortable during long travel days, and rest easy knowing they’re prepared for just about any crisis.

And what’s the best way to prepare for a perfect road trip? Having the most handy road trip products on the market.

While companies launch and sell new items to drivers year in and year out, I’m hyper-focused on high-quality brands that offer unique solutions.

Looking for a list of road trip products that will double the fun while minimizing messes, delays, and more? Start here.

*Tis the season for massive Black Friday sales! All road trip products marked with an asterisk* are on sale for Black Friday and potentially up until Travel Tuesday. Take advantage while you can.

Quick look at our must-have road trip products

  • A multi-purpose emergency kit: *LIANXIN Emergency Roadside Kit
  • A perfect shade solution for sunny drives: PEMOtech Window Shade
  • A single place for all your drinks: *Seven Sparta Car Cupholder
  • A seamless driving buddy: Qifutan Car Phone Mount
  • A multi-functional charging port: *CociVivre Car Charger Port
  • Your back’s best friend: *Qutool Lumbar Support Pillow
  • The end-all solution for back-seat silence: *Fangcor Car Headrest Mount
  • A more functional way to store coats: *Amooca Car Seat Headrest Hooks
  • A storage solution for in-car activities: High Road Carhop Organizer

What we looked at/metrics

  • Public opinion—we select favorites only
  • Size and shape—our road trip products should fit in just about any car
  • Quality of construction and materials—no cheap duds

Review for must-have road trip products

*LIANXIN Emergency Roadside Kit

Amazon

Nobody wants to get stuck on the roadside—but if it happens, you’ll be happy to have the LIANXIN Emergency Roadside Kit with you. This large pack comes with absolutely everything a stranded driver could need.

It’s got the necessary technical items like jumper cables, a full tool kit, emergency reflectors, and safety hammers. But it also has those little extras you want like a poncho, traction rope, and even a safety blanket.

PEMOtech Window Shade

Amazon

These window shades are some of my favorite road trip products because of their added features. Unlike most standard window shades, you get three top-tier benefits from the PEMOtech Window Shade.

First and foremost, its window shades don’t absorb heat, meaning you won’t be hotboxing your car while trying to defend yourself from the sun. Second, they fit on almost every type of window—it’s basically a large pillow-like shade that fits over your door. Third, that means any tiny fingers won’t be able to rip it out of place.

*Seven Sparta Car Cupholder

Amazon

Whether you’re using a Stanley Cup, a standard coffee mug, or a 7-11 Big Gulp, the Seven Sparta Car Cupholder is a one-size-fits-all solution. This is one of those deceptively fantastic road trip products because I imagine American cup sizes will continue to evolve with new trends.

Speaking of Stanley Cups, I highly recommend you check out the Aerolight Transit Bottle. It’s lighter than their other models and perfect for traveling. Plus, it’s on sale for Black Friday.

Qifutan Car Phone Mount

Amazon

I imagine the vast majority of drivers already have a preferred phone mount in their car—but in the even you’re renting (either domestic or abroad), I suggest this car phone mount.

The Qifutan Car Phone Mount is versatile and durable, offering a handful of ways for you to set up smartphone-based navigation. That’s particularly important if you’re not sure what size vehicle you’ll be renting.

*CociVivre Car Charger Port

Amazon

Charing ports aren’t hard to come by—so why list the CociVivre Car Charger Port as one of my favorite road trip products of the year? It’s got a few sexy features that make it highly functional and discreet.

First, its cables are retractable, letting you pull them out when you need them and retract them when you don’t. No more rolling up cables and shoving them into consoles. The charger also adjusts in different directions, which is helpful for those with smaller cars.

Lastly, it has four types of charging capabilities: 2.4A lightning cable, 2.4A USB, Type-C 3A, and PD 3A.

Qutool Lumbar Support Pillow

Amazon

Lumbar support comes in all shapes and sizes. You should consider the Qutool Lumbar Support Pillow for two primary reasons

One, it’ll mold to your back giving you personalized and unprecedented support. Second, you can adjust the pillow to support either your upper or lower back. As an added bonus, you can also use this bad boy for driving, working, or even gaming.

*Fangcor Car Headrest Mount

Amazon

Want to install an entertainment center in your backseat for your passengers? If you have a tablet, all you need is this Fangcor Car Headrest Mount.

It’s designed to fit around the headrest of the front seat(s), letting you slot in a tablet for those sitting in the back. It’s designed to fit almost all tablets on the market—but it also comes with a year-long warranty just in case anything goes wrong.

*Amooca Car Seat Headrest Hooks

Amazon

Want to free up space in your car—especially when winter hits and you’re lugging around a massive coat? The Amooca Car Seat Headrest Hooks turn your back seat into a closet.

Whether you want to hang up heavy coats, school bags, shopping bags, or just about anything else, these tiny hooks will see you through. For anyone embarking on a cross-country road trip, this product will free up space as your car gets messier and messier.

High Road Carhop Organizer

Amazon

Do you need a mini-cooler for your road trip? What about a storage bin with multiple compartments and pockets? Are you looking for solutions that come with built-in seatbelts?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, the High Road Carhop Organizer was made for you.

It’s marketed toward kids and busy families but, once again, I think it’s ideal for anyone going on a long road trip. With every mile, the mess just seems to build and build.

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