BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Read More

Because “I’ll just buy it when I get there” often means spending three times as much.

I'm a seasoned Shopping Editor with more than 10 years of experience covering travel (my favorite), home decor, fashion, and pet products.

Whether you're jetting off to a tropical beach or heading out on a weekend road trip, the right travel gear can make all the difference. Ahead, you'll find 36 warm-weather essentials that'll help you stay cool, protected, organized, and ready for whatever adventures your itinerary has in store.

Promising review: "I used my Wekapo blanket on my vacation to Samana, Dominican Republic. It was very windy, and this blanket really impressed me. It was easy to lay out and put away. The sand came right off, and the sand stakes kept it right in place. I would definitely recommend you buy this for your next vacation." —Nikki

Get it from Amazon for $33.98+ (available in 12 colors and in two smaller sizes).

It also comes with a built-in metal carabiner so you can hook it to anything, too. 

Promising review: "For a small speaker, the JBL Clip 4 delivers excellent sound even at high volume. This speaker is very durable. Mine has survived several drops, including a short dive into a river. It holds its charge well for hours. I have only wonderful things to say about this mighty lil' speaker... except for... it is prone to being stolen!" —Preston Mitchell

Get it from Amazon for $63.94+ (available in 12 colors).

Promising review: "This thing is fantastic. I've stayed away from the beach for four years because it was too long a walk to carry my chair and everything else from the parking lot with my bad back and two bad shoulders. Now, I can put everything in the supplied net and easily roll it through the sand with the big wheels. The chair is comfortable, which was a priority for me." —Keith E. Scherer

Here's what BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly has to say:

"I own this and use it ALL the time. It comes in handy in a variety of situations at home *and* while traveling — especially when you're sitting in a stuffy plane in Miami in July with the doors open, waiting for the pilot to board and take off. I def got some jealous side-eyes from other passengers as I kept myself cool with this."

Promising review: "This great little fan is saving me this summer! I use it when I commute, at my nephews’ swim meets, and whenever the heat is overwhelming. You can use it many times on one charge. Great little fan!" —AMH

Get it from Amazon for $15.29+ (available in three colors).

Depending on your setting, the fan can last four to sixteen hours. Once it needs to be recharged, just connect it to any USB cable.

Promising review: "Used this on my hike up Half Dome. I used it for 6 hours on the 1–2 speed setting, and on the second day, it lasted about two hours on setting 1 before dying. Charged it for 45 minutes, and it lasted the rest of the four-hour hike down. I don’t think I would have been about to hike Half Dome without this. Kept my face and neck cool and didn’t break one sweat on my face." —Hayley

Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in five colors).

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping writer Amber Usher says about it: 

"This was, hands down, my saving grace while traveling in Singapore. I had mine on BLAST (level 6–8), and the battery lasted long enough while I was out and about. Whenever I would return to my hotel room, I would plug it in for a bit and have enough juice to last me once I was outside again. When I first unboxed the fan, my boyfriend said, 'How is that little thing going to keep you cool?' As you can see from the gif, he was able to answer his own question."

Promising review: "Very strong. At first, I was like, yeah, the chill plate only feels super cold for a few seconds, then just cold, but…when I took it off my neck, my neck felt cold for a good amount of time after. It was strange, like it pulled the heat out of me. Very strong fan. I get hot flashes and panic attacks, and this is going to help a lot...also, it’s cute. ☺️" —Rebekah Bluhm

Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in three colors) 

Promising review: "We bought these shoes for our trip to Bali, and they were such a blessing. Walking on the beach with these made life so much easier. The sand doesn't even get into the shoes, and you can actually walk in the water with them. Best money I have ever spent!" —Yulanda

Get them from Amazon for $9.88+ (available in women's sizes 4/5–13.5, men's sizes 3/4–12, and in 44 colors/designs).

Promising review: "I got this for a week-long beach trip, and it did not disappoint. This thing is super easy to put up and has plenty of space for the littles to play in the shade. I didn’t worry even once about the wind snatching this thing up. It was super sturdy with the sandbags filled. 10/10." —Madison H.

Get it from Amazon for $89.95+ (available in three sizes and four colors).

Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! 

Psst — you might recognize the brand because it's behind the TikTok-famous "glass skin" staple, Mixsoon Bean Essence Serum! 

Check out a TikTok of the Mixsoon sunscreen in action. 

Promising review: "I’ve been looking for a physical sunscreen with minimal ingredients, and this one really impressed me. It’s affordable and actually protects my skin. I don’t think I’ll ever switch!" —Lisbet Fonseca Moreira

Get it from Amazon for $18 (available in two formulations). 

Check out a TikTok of the Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar in action. 

Promising review: "NO WHITE CAST! I've been looking for a stick sunscreen and this was just exactly what was needed!! I'm a medium-toned Black woman and looking for something without a white cast is always a challenge. I have applied it on my bare skin and there isn't a white cast at all! It's a 'soft matte' finish, for sure, and looks like natural skin. Like you're not wearing anything at all." —Martina

Get it from Amazon for $14 (also available in a pack of two).

Promising reviews: "Wish I had found this sooner! Works great, and so far, the cheapest option I have found for powder sunscreen. Love that my face isn’t greasy anymore from normal sunscreen!" —Michelle

"I have fine hair, so anytime I’m in the sun, I get burnt on my scalp. Regular sunscreen makes my hair super oily and gross, and I cannot stand wearing hats. I'm so glad I found this. You do have to apply it more often, and also, it doesn’t work if it gets wet. Love this stuff, it's such a lifesaver." —james

BTW, Shakalo is a small business based in San Diego.

Promising review: "We recently moved to a beach area, and we are constantly there. This item has changed our entire lives! It lasts decently long (depending on how much you use it), it smells super good (not at all like baby powder), and it's super effective. It has saved me from vacuuming my car at least 1–2 times a week. And I even use it on my dog's paws and bellies to make sure they're taken care of too. I will definitely be buying the refill & another baggie to have exclusively in the car." —Gabbs Uresti

Promising review: "Perfect hat for Disney World! I wore it every day for 2 weeks and it held up beautifully! It also helped drastically in the Florida heat! Kept me shaded and was very lightweight, so that my head didn’t feel all sweaty like normal hats. Highly recommend!!" —DS Hensen

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in women's sizes M–XL and in eight colors).

Promising review: "I purchased this based on other positive reviews. We just got back from vacation and it worked great! It has a strong magnet and was easy to use. I attached the clip to my beach bag and attached my hat whenever I wasn’t wearing it. I highly recommend this product. I’m thinking of purchasing one for a gift." —travel girl

Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two colors).

Here's what my colleague Heather Braga has to say:

"As a parent myself, I can confirm this gadget is fantastic. During the summer, I'd keep one in my diaper bag to ensure my son was protected from the sun at any given moment. He loved being 'painted,' and I loved knowing applying sunscreen wasn't going to be a fight."

Promising review: "My children are fair-skinned and extremely easy to burn. Wearing sunscreen is not optional, but they still fight me every time. Using this product was so fast and easy, they didn't even complain!!" —Jeshleigh

Get it from Amazon for $15.98 (available in 12 colors and in two-packs).

Promising review: "Bought it for an overseas trip, and it worked great. We used it both in a hotel room when the room safe was out of order and on the beach. I look forward to using it on outings this summer, and I think it will be a very useful addition to my travel staples. I packed in my luggage full of toiletries and sunscreen, so it didn't feel like it took up a ton of space and I could carry it in my purse/tote without it feeling too bulky. That said, you can fit a lot into it." —laurel

Get it from Amazon for $39.95+ (available in four colors). 

The Ring Thing comes from BringThings, Inc., a woman-owned company dedicated to making "stylish, functional products." They donate a portion of each sale to anti-human trafficking non-profits.

Promising review: "I take my wedding ring off at night when I go to bed. When I’m at home, I put it in a ring dish. But whenever I am traveling, I’m always afraid that I might forget it or it might get knocked onto the floor, and I won’t be able to find it. So this works perfectly for me. Since it has a clip on it, I attach it inside my bathroom bag, and the problem is solved. My rings are safe and secure and won’t be forgotten." —CG

Get it from Amazon for $19.95 (available in nine colors).

Reviewers recommend that if you're between sizes, size up!

Promising review: "This suit is so pretty! I was nervous that, for the price, it would be poor quality, but it looks just like the photos. The material is nice and thick, and I love that it’s padded. I’m between a small and medium, so I sized up based on other reviews." —Morgan Meldrum

Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes 2–14 and eight styles). 

Check out a TikTok of the Case-Mate beach bag in action.

Promising review: "I’ve been wanting a sturdy and cute beach bag that was not mesh and or a basic tote. This is it! It comes with a dry bag for a phone. The handles are thick. The iridescent color looks so cool in the sun, and it’s the perfect size. I fit two towels, a sunscreen bag, two changes of clothes, a speaker, goggles, and snacks. With extra room too. I love the new silver-black color, but this purple was on sale, so I went for it. Matches perfectly with my black swimsuit." —Daniela G

Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in 10 designs).

Check out a TikTok of the anti-blister balm in action! PS: It comes from small biz BodyGlide. 

Promising review: "This foot balm is wonderful!! I have had foot problems for as long as I can remember. I often get blisters on my feet, and nothing I tried helped. This product does exactly what I hoped it would. I can walk long distances or stand for hours without pain or blisters. Don't hesitate to give it a try if you have problems with your feet." —Mee

Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (also available in packs of two).

Promising review: "I was so super skeptical about this product. I am not a frequent user of this brand either. I read some good reviews, so I went ahead and bought it ahead of a family cruise. I am so glad I did. I burnt my own shoulders and forehead on day one. When I made it back to my room, I could feel the pain setting in. I immediately applied this. Within a few hours, I could feel relief. I did apply it several times over the course of my vacation. I would recommend this product to anyone, and I will keep it in stock. Better than aloe gel." —Laura

Promising reviews: "Have this skort in a few different colors. Love it! Thin, comfortable, and true to size. The shorts underneath have pockets, which is great. They have so many colors to choose from, I will definitely be ordering more." —Sam

"This skirt is incredibly comfortable! The fabric is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for any physical activity. The built-in shorts provide extra coverage and support, ensuring I can move freely without any worries. The built-in shorts are a game changer. They stay in place and prevent any chafing, which is a huge plus during intense workouts. The addition of pockets is fantastic — they are spacious enough to hold essentials like my phone, keys, or even a small wallet. It’s so convenient not having to carry a bag! This skirt is perfect for a wide range of activities. I’ve worn it for running, yoga, tennis, and even just running errands. It transitions seamlessly from workout wear to casual wear, making it a versatile addition to my wardrobe." —Jackie

Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and in 32 colors/prints).

Promising review: "I used this wet bag when I vacationed in Asia, island hopping for eight days. It carried all my stuff inside and kept it all dry! I love the color too! Although they sell wet bags in the country, I am the only one with that color! Very much recommended!" —Ridgerunner from Asco

Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in six sizes and 10 colors).

Promising review: "Took these on a trip to Bali and they worked great while ATVing through the mud and rivers. Would recommend." —Amari H.

Get a pack of two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 18 color combinations).

Check out a TikTok of the nausea relief inhaler in action. PS: Allclair is a small biz!

Promising review: "Took this on my first cruise. Anytime that I started to feel woozy, I’d reach for it. I’m sure the required act of deep breathing helped a lot — and breathing in the fragrance of the essential oil is very calming and effective. Worked for me! Wonderful!" —Willy&Lilly

Get a pack of two from Amazon for $12.99 (also available in a pack of four). 

Reviewers say they've also had success using it for chemotherapy, menopause, and pregnancy-induced nausea.

Here's what BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly has to say:

"I bought these more than a year ago, before I went on my first-ever cruise, but didn't need to use them. They've been kicking around the front pocket of my go-to travel backpack since, so I had them handy when I recently went on a driving-heavy (we're talking 1,600+ miles over five days) trip with my parents. My mom suffers from vertigo, and it was really hitting her once we set out on the road. I remembered I had these, and she switched to the back seat and wore them the whole trip because they made such a big difference! Now, did it make driving up the side of the Colorado National Monument's Rim Rock Drive with 23 miles of switchbacks and soaring heights less scary? Eh. Idk. But it made it less woozy! (The drive is absolutely worth it, btw.)"

Promising review: "I don’t understand how these work, but they seriously do. These are a duplicate pair I got for a friend after using mine on a bus tour on vacation because I get car sick. They worked incredibly well, even though I was skeptical. Now, my friend uses them on a train commute to and from work. Loaned some to a different friend for a boat ride, and they didn’t get seasick for the first time in their life. Follow the instructions for placement and how/when to press. Seriously magic." —Steph

Check out a TikTok of the drink holder in action. 

Promising review: "I bought this to use on a cruise. I had such an easy time carrying my drinks around. So many people asked where I purchased it from." —Jasmine

Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in six colors). 

Promising review: "We LOVE this thing. We vacationed in Egypt for scuba diving in June. After the diving part, we toured many places in Cairo and the surrounding areas, mostly on foot. Yes, it was freaking HOT. Being used to a humid climate, the well-intentioned 'yeah, but it's a DRY heat' didn't lessen the discomfort we felt. This was a lifesaver. It will always be in my travel pack, and I can use it for gardening and any other activity outside during the summer. I highly recommend!" —Native Texan

Promising review: "Stop looking for other nipple covers. I can't tell you how many nipple covers I've wasted money on for them to be terrible. These actually stick, are seamless, and are easy to clean!" —CK

Get them from Amazon for $26.50 (available in five shades and three sizes). 

Promising review: "Absolutely love it!! Use it daily at the beach as well as on top of a large paddleboard. Easy to inflate and easy to put away. Compact for storage and transportation. A must-have!!" —Christopher H.

Get it from Amazon for $39.98+ (available in 20 colors and patterns).

Promising review: "This dress is one of those simple staples that just works. The fit is really comfortable without feeling tight or restrictive, and the fabric is soft with a lightweight feel that makes it comfortable for all-day wear. It drapes nicely and gives that easy, put-together look without needing much styling. What I really like is how versatile it is. You can dress it up a bit or keep it casual, and it still feels appropriate in many settings. It is comfortable enough to wear for long periods without feeling bulky or stiff, which makes it one of those reliable pieces you end up reaching for often." —Marie Phillips 

Get it from Amazon for $41.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 13 colors)

Promising review: "These sunglasses are great quality!! They are very trendy and fit comfortably on my face. Great price and color!" —Maddie

Get them from Amazon for $15.99 (available in six colors).

Megababe is a woman-owned small business from entrepreneur, body acceptance advocate, and influencer Katie Sturino. 

Promising review: "I'm a bigger girl with thick thighs who has always had chub rub issues. I decided to try this stuff for a recent trip to Europe. It held up for hours of walking in 90+ degree weather. I had zero chub rub issues. I'd definitely recommend giving it a try!" —Rachel Beaver

Thigh Society is a woman-founded, size-inclusive small business founded by Marnie Consky.

I bought two pairs of these a few years back — in black and nude — and I simply love them. Chub rub has always been a part of my life and until now, I didn't have a great way of preventing it. I've tried various sports shorts and slathering my thighs in deodorant, but those methods just weren't cutting it. These shorts are unbelievably lightweight and breathable, superrrrrr stretchy (but not in a way that bags out after extended wear), and they do. not. roll. or. fall. down. I wear them under all of my skirts and dresses (because I also have an irrational fear that everything I wear is see-through when the sun hits it), and I will definitely be buying more!

Promising review: "It’s not an exaggeration to say these shorts are life-changing. I’m a chubby living in hot, steamy Florida. Chub rub is inevitable when wearing skirts and dresses. I’ve tried a number of lady boxers and petit pants. They all either rolled up, down, or one leg rode up. They were also hot and non-breathable. These shorts are perfection. No more chub rub, no more swamp a$$! I’m in love. I wish there were more color choices!" —Rachel

Get a pair from Thigh Society for $39 (available in women's sizes XS/S–5X/6X, in six lengths, and 11 colors). 

Promising review: "This is the cutest little travel razor kit! Flamingo is a great brand and well-known. The razor is small and fits in the little travel case. There's also room for a second razor refill. It comes with the Flamingo shave gel, which is the best shave gel I have found." —Sherri P

Promising review: "I threw these in my bag last minute for a trip to a resort in Cancun, and we absolutely loved them! They take up no room, and I easily fit two pillows in my carry-on bag to have for the beach. Made the beach chairs so much more relaxing by being able to be comfortable. They blew up so easily. It just took four big breaths for each pillow. Loved that I could either use the straps or sand to hold them in place. I also liked the idea of traveling with them in my carry-on in case we had a delayed flight, and I had enough time for an airport nap. I'll be bringing these on all future vacations." —Nikki Miller

Get it from Amazon for $36.95+ (available in 15 colors).

Promising review: "I chose the GoPro 13 camera for several reasons. It will stay cool in the sun on the windsurfing beach or snorkeling reef. The camera has more power and features that allow me to record my experiences in the sky, on the land, and in the water, day and night. Recording in slow motion or time lapse is easy, and in conjunction with the Quick app, you can create an awesome video." —George Davis

Get it from Amazon for $419 (available in a handful of bundles). 

Promising review: "I collect cool or different unique decks of cards, and I saw these, and I just had to at least buy them and see, I mean, really. Let me just say they are by far the most unique deck I have so far. They are completely waterproof, and you can play away with them in the pool, hot tub, or even that bath if you want. Pretty cool and a must- for summer vacation." —Beks

The pouch comes in two different sizes. The medium fits iPhone minis 10–15, 11–15 Pro, and the Galaxy22, while the large fits iPhone Plus/+/Max/11 and Galaxy Plus/Ultra. 

Promising review: "Works like a charm. Put your phone in the case and leave it in your car on a hot day, and it works great. Large size fits my phone, and its charging case. A little pricey but a good product." —AllyBe

Get it from Amazon for $39.97+ (available in two sizes and four styles). 

Promising reviews: "I saw this on YouTube and immediately wanted to try it. I have curly hair, which I love, but sometimes I just want to put it in a ponytail and go on with my day. This is a time-saver for all those little hairs that tend to stick up or refuse to stay in place. I’m not a fan of hairspray, and this even smells nice. I believe it’s a light coconut smell. Overall, you are satisfied, and you don’t need to use it much. I took it with me on vacation, and it saved me time in the evening from having to deal with bad hair days." —Blanca Perez

Get it from Amazon for $7.99 (also available in multipacks). 

Promising review: "Absolutely love this! Bought for travel as a committed carry-on only, backpack always person. Weight matters; no leaks matter. There is NO bad taste from the bottle materials, which was my biggest concern. There was an out-gassing smell that dissipated quickly. Dishwasher safe and no leaks even after the dishwasher. I’ve now traveled through many airports with this twice and will be buying them for my kids for travel in Europe. This is such a travel upgrade from my daily use metal bottle for many reasons: it fits much easier in the seat back pocket on the plane, rolling it up for stashing when empty, doesn’t scare anyone when I drop it accidentally, and it has less weight in my bag, meaning less pressure on my shoulders. It stands up well even when empty. Excellent product. You won’t regret it." —TN Mom

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in six colors and packs of two).

Promising review: "Absolutely love these bands. Whether on a cruise ship or relaxing on a beach, they keep your towel in place regardless of the wind. I also like that they are lightweight and small, so easy to travel/fly with, and no worries about them breaking. I now make them a go-to gift idea for family and friends!" —Always Needing Retail Therapy!

Get a four-pack from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in four colors).

* Handy Travel Products That Reviewers Say They Pack For Every Trip

* Travel Products That’ll Have You Even *More* Excited For Your Upcoming Vacation

* Reviewers Who Are *Also* Flight Attendants Swear By These 27 Travel Products

* Forget Kids, These 23 Items Will Keep *You* Entertained On An Airplane

* Whether You're Flying, Driving, Or Taking A Train, You'll Want One Of These 49 Items For Your Next Trip

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.