After 14+ countries and too many suitcases, I've got strong opinions about what's worth the precious luggage space. Not the Instagram-perfect crap that travel influencers push, but the real MVPs that have saved me from disasters across four continents. These are the things I've panic-bought in foreign pharmacies, stolen from friends, and finally invested in after one too many "well that was completely preventable" moments.

Discover 17 game-changing travel essentials. From smart gadgets to packing hacks, learn how to travel lighter, smarter, and more authentically with our expert guide

Learn how to travel with carry-on luggage to just about anywhere.