It’s been several years since we’ve done a big roundup of the year’s best travel Gear, and suffice it to say it seems like a lot has changed in that time.
As someone who has been writing about ecotourism and responsible travel since the late 1990s, it’s been rewarding to see more and more manufacturers making serious efforts to create sustainable products.
We’re also delighted to see that most (though not all) of our favorite Travel Gear brands seem to have made it through the global pandemic relatively intact.
So if you’re looking for an array of products that can make your travel adventures a bit easier, read on for our guide to the best luggage, backpacks, clothing, and other travel gear 2024 has to offer.
READ MORE: What is Ecotourism? The History & Principles of Responsible Travel
Best New Travel Gear For 2024 Guide
- Rolling Bags
- Travel Shoes
- Backpacks
- Travel Clothing
- Travel Health
- Specialty Bags
- Duffel Bags
- Miscellaneous Travel Gear
READ MORE: The 100 Best Inspirational Travel Quotes to Spark Your Next Adventure
ROLLING BAGS
Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Rolling Bag & Allpa 35L Travel Pack
With their tagline, “Gear For Good,” this sustainable Salt Lake City-based brand makes it clear that their mission is to effect positive global change with their outdoor gear.
Named after one of the tallest active volcanoes in the world, Cotopaxi dedicates at least 1% of their revenue to non-profits that reduce inequality in Latin America through health care, education, and livelihood.
Their new Allpa 38L Roller Bag (also available in 65L) is rolling version of their ever-popular Allpa Travel Pack, with all-terrain wheels, water-resistant polyester, and light-but-strong nylon paneling rugged enough to tackle any adventure.
Noteworthy features include multiple grab handles, a molded EVA back panel, top zip pocket for stashing essential items, and split-case design (which makes for easy interior organization).
We also love the extendable handle, which is compatible with the Allpa 35L Travel Pack, a perfect combo for “Team Carryon Only” travelers like us!
READ MORE: The Best Carryon Luggage for Travel
Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 2-Wheel Convertible & No Matter What Duffle 90L
We’ve been hardcore Eagle Creek devotees for a long time: We still regularly use an Eagle Creek backpack we got back in 2016-2017, and a 4-wheel rolling bag we’ve had for nearly a decade. Their travel gear is really built to last!
So we were shocked in June 2o21, when VF Corporation announced they’d retire the brand due to financial difficulties. And then elated that September, when former VF President Travis Campbell bought Eagle Creek.
The Gear Warrior 2-Wheel Convertible Carry-on is a roller/backpack hybrid whose rugged wheels and durable construction suggest not much has changed. We love the 100% recycled fabrics, heavy duty wheels, zippered extension panel, interior laptop sleeve, zip-away cargo net for bulky items, and interior and exterior compression straps.
Their No Matter What Duffle (named after the brand’s beloved Lifetime Warranty) is another winner that utilizes a “Chasing Zero” philosophy for sustainable design. It’s versatile, stylish, and incredibly durable, made from 100% recycled ripstop fabric that’s designed to resist moisture and abrasion.
READ MORE: 15 Ways to Reduce Waste & Move Towards Waste-Free Living
Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure 80L
Designed for adventurous travelers with an eye on sustainability, the Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure is a massive 80L roller bag that measures 31″H x 15″W x 10½”D and weighs nearly 10 pounds empty.
Given the size, it’s obviously made for longer trips, and made from a water-repellant, 100% recycled 600D CORDURA re/cor fabric (using discarded plastic bottles and packages), with a rugged hardshell-back case.
Our favorite features include co-molded rubber wheels with crush-resistant polycarbonate rims, ergonomically engineered telescoping trolley handle, and a regenerative design approach that includes many repairable/replaceable components.
You’ll also love storage options that include lockable zippers, mesh compartments for organizing the bag’s interior, and a hidden daisy chain for holding essential attachments.
READ MORE: 30 Awesome Plastic-Free Products for Plastic-Free July (& Beyond)
Ricardo Beverly Hills Avalon Softside Carryon
Despite this lifestyle brand’s luxury-sounding name, the Avalon Softside Carry-On from Ricardo Beverly Hills is actually one of the more affordable upright carryons we’ve tested this year.
Measuring 14.5 x 11 x 22.5 inches and weighing 7.6 pounds empty, the Avalon Softside (part of their new Avalon collection) is made from eco-friendly rPET material, which uses recycled plastic waste.
The carryon luggage has loads of storage options, from exterior pockets that offer quick access to travel essentials and a roomy interior compartment with compression straps and large zip-mesh pockets to a large zippered wet pocket.
Other noteworthy features of this affordable bag include impressively quiet 360º wheels, a built-in TSA-recognized combo lock, expandable packing capacity, and more!
READ MORE: 10 Green Products For a More Eco-Friendly Home
5.11 Mission Ready 3.0 90L Wheeled Duffel
Based in Irvine CA and catering primarily to military, law enforcement, and public safety workers, 5.11 Tactical specializes in “making purpose-built gear for those who demand more of themselves, for the greater good.”
Their Mission Ready 3.0 90L Wheeled Duffel is aptly-named: Made with water-resistant 1050D nylon, 1680D ballistic nylon, and wheels that can handle up to 150 lbs, this luggage is rugged and ready for just about any mission you care to tackle.
Measuring 13″H x 28.75″L x 15.875″D, this behemoth of a bag includes three zippered external pockets, a large main compartment, and removable internal fiberglass rods that allow for the bag to stand on end.
It also offers compression molded side panels, impact-resistant bottom base panels, lockable zippers, and compression straps to protect your gear from all angles.
READ MORE: How to Get to Antarctica Without Crossing the Drake Passage
TRAVEL SHOES
Vasque Re:Connect Lightweight Hiking Shoes & St. Elias Hiking Boots
If you’re looking for hiking boots for your travel adventures, we consider Vasque to be one of the most durable and reliable brands on the market. Re:Connect is their new line of lightweight hiking shoes.
The Men’s RE:CONNECT HERE features a breathable, 100% recycled polyester mesh upper, an Xlite lug outsole for exceptional traction, a form-fitting tongue, and a heel fit collar system that improves foot support.
Their Women’s RE:CONNECT NOW shoe is also lightweight and easy to slip on, with a wider heel and forefoot design that helps to improve comfort and stability.
In terms of hiking boots for backpacking, the St. Elias is one of the 60-year-old brand’s most popular models. It’s been redesigned for 2024, adding loads of new features to the premium full-grain leather design.
Noteworthy additions include recycled elements (collar, tongue, laces, toe box and heel), a high-energy return EVA midsole (also made with 20% recycled content), a Vibram® Megagrip outsole, and improved comfort in the footbed (which uses a 20% bio-content polyurethane).
READ MORE: The 30 Best Hiking, Running & Walking Shoes for Men
Peluva Men’s Napa Dress Hybrid & Women’s Desert Boot
I’ve never been a fan of the Vibram FiveFinger-style shoes. To be honest, I don’t even like flip-flops, because there’s something about having things between my toes that just rubs me the wrong way.
That being said, for people who do like the “barefoot toe shoes” feel, the relatively new Peluva brand (founded in 2021 by the father/son team of Mark and Kyle Sisson) offers some of the most stylish designs we’ve seen.
Made with full-grain Napa leather, their Men’s Napa Dress Hybrid mixes the benefits of minimalist footwear with the refined style of a luxury sneaker. Features include Zero Drop, 12 mm stack height, and a Peluva 500 Series midsole, all designed to improve flexibility, strength, and stability.
Their Women’s Desert Boot is a unique suede hybrid of a classic desert boot with the mobility of a minimalist sneaker, making it a stylish option for travel. With its Zero Drop, 9 mm stack height, and Peluva’s 300 Series midsole, it’s designed to promote ideal posture and spine alignment.
READ MORE: The 30+ Best Women’s Hiking, Running & Walking Shoes
Oboz Men’s Cottonwood Mid B-Dry Rockfall
Inspired by the mountains near Bozeman, Montana, Oboz (a portmanteau of “outside” and “Bozeman”) is a footwear brand designed to be comfortable and durable enough for any outdoor adventure you want to tackle.
Their new Cottonwood Collection is the most responsibly sourced hiking shoes they’ve ever made, with 100% recycled elements including the upper, lining, a bio-EVA midsole, and a PFAS-Free DWR finish.
Made from responsibly raised leather, the Mid B-Dry Rockfall’s best features include their proprietary O Fit insole, breathable and waterproof B-DRY lining, and a Trail Tread rubber sole for superior slip-resistance.
We also love the fact that the manufacturer plants one tree for every pair of Oboz shoes they sell!
READ MORE: The 20 Best Vegan Boots for Women & Men
BACKPACKS
Coalatree Compass Backpack
Starting out as a self-sustaining organic farm in Colorado, Coalatree specializes in eco-minded gear and apparel for outdoor adventurers, balancing style and function in equal measure.
Their 15L Compass Backpack is practical as a day-to-day bag or a daypack on the trail. It’s made from water-resistant, bluesign certified, 52% recycled polyester and 48% nylon, with a chic urban style.
Travelers will love security features such as slash-proof fabric, a TSA-approved zipper lock, a secure hidden pocket, and a quick-access pocket for essential items (phone, passport, etc).
Interior organization options include an internal pocket, tech/accessory cord zipper pocket, stylus and pen holders, a padded 12″ tablet sleeve, and a padded 20″ laptop sleeve.
READ MORE: The 30 Best Hiking Backpacks & Daypacks
Lo & Sons Hanover Supreme
One of the first direct-to-consumer e-commerce backpack brands, Lo & Sons was founded in 2010 by retired PhD Helen Lo and her two sons, Jan and Derek.
If you’re looking for a minimalist backpack that maximizes space (and sustainability), their Hanover Supreme offers a sleek style and loads of internal organization options.
Made with an eco-friendly waxed poly, the bag is lightweight (just over 2 lbs), with memory foam-padded adjustable shoulder straps and a suitcase handle sleeve perfect for travel.
Other cool features include a 16″ laptop compartment, a 3D front pocket with an interior zippered pocket, a suitcase handle sleeve, a removable organizational insert, and 2 interior water bottle pockets.
READ MORE: The 40 Best Backpacks for Travelers
Remote Equipment Charlie 25 Pack & Org Kit
Remote Equipment is a new-to-us brand that combines functional design and indestructible construction to create gear that is “purpose-built for supporting active lives.”
Their lightweight (2.19 lbs), waterproof Charlie 25 is an everyday backpack that’s also great for travel, using 100% recycled ECOPAK fabrics to give it superior durability.
Features include a dual-access design, removable top pocket, padded 15″ laptop sleeve, ergonomic shoulder straps, removable waist & sternum straps, hidden pockets for interior organization, and much more.
The Charlie 25 is designed to work with Remote Equipment’s ORG KITS, a pair of 5-liter pouches that offer modular organization options and can be enclosed inside or lashed to the outside of the bag.
READ MORE: The 35 Best Daypacks for Travel
Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L
Tortuga has long been one of the most beloved backpack brands in the travel blogging community, and their Travel Backpack Pro 40L is a great example of their legacy of quality.
Weighing 4.5 lbs empty and measuring 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches, this multi award-winning bag packs like a suitcase and carries like a backpack, offering the maximum size most airline carryon rules will allow.
With its breathable foam back panel, foam-padded shoulder straps, load lifters, removable padded hip belt, and sternum strap, it’s a remarkably comfortable carry for its size.
You’ll also love the waterproof sailcloth, water resistant zippers, 4 external pockets (including one for organization), padded laptop and tablet sleeves, spacious main compartment, and other cool features.
READ MORE: How to Start a Travel Blog (& Build a Successful Business)
TRAVEL CLOTHING
Cor Surf Huakai Travel Jacket & Mountain and Isles Stormking Waterproof Rain Jacket
We’ve been traveling carry-on only for more than 15 years now, so we are very particular about what we pack. But no matter where we go, we always take a waterproof jacket along in case of bad weather.
The Huakai Travel Jacket from Cor Surf is lightweight and extremely comfortable, with a water resistant microstretch fabric and a soft nylon lining that keeps you warm even when the weather turns cool.
Noteworthy features include several hidden pockets for valuables, two inside chest pockets, and a large exterior chest pocket with a water resistant zipper.
The Stormking Rain Jacket from Mountain & Isles is super lightweight and breathable, with a seam-sealed design that protects you from wind and moisture. Each one is made from 10 plastic bottles, and they plant two trees for every jacket sold!
READ MORE: The Best Fair Trade Clothing & Ethical Clothing Brands
Perci Vest
SCOTTeVEST revolutionized the travel clothing market more than 20 years ago with their “pocket science,“ creating vests and jackets with crazy storage options and other unique features.
But with an average price point of $200-$350, the brand is clearly targeted to an affluent audience.
The Perci Vest Comes in at a significantly lower price point (currently $99), offering an ingeniously designed travel jacket that also functions like a “go bag.”
This vest has a ton of pockets, and for an extra $60 they’ll fill them with all sorts of essential survival gear. a whistle, first aid box, hand sanitizer, water, purification tablets, headlamp, duct tape, masks, and more, all ready and waiting for any emergency. Use code “EARLY5” to save 5% off your order!
READ MORE: The 10 Hiking Essentials Packing List
Royal Robbins Mobile Waterproof Trench & Snowcap Lined Flannel
One of our favorite travel clothing brands, Royal Robbins is named after its founder, who was one of the pioneers of the “clean climbing“ ethos of the 1960s.
More than 55 years later, the beloved brand remains focused on sustainability as a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition and the Fair Labor Association.
Mary adores her stylish Mobile Waterproof Trench, which boasts a fun (and breathable) yellow plaid Polyester canvas that keeps out rain, snow, and wind. It also has cozy zippered pockets, an internal pocket, and a tie at the waist to ensure a flattering fit.
I’m a big fan of Royal Robbins’ new Snowcap Lined Flannel, which pairs a gorgeous classic plaid with sustainably sourced preferred cotton that balances stretch and softness. The recycled fleece is super warm, and also one of the most comfortable shirts I’ve ever worn.
READ MORE: The Best Travel Clothes For Women & Men
Minus33 Merino Wool Micro Weight Women’s Boy Shorts & Men’s Boxers
Truth be told, I’ve never been a big fan of wool clothing.
I understand all of the benefits it has as a fabric, from anti-microbial odor resistance to moisture wicking properties. But still, it’s not my favorite, and you won’t find a single wool sweater in my closet.
So the idea of testing Merino wool underwear didn’t really appeal to me at all. Fortunately, Mary proved to be the voice of reason, and now these “Woolverino“ styles from Minus33 converted me into a believer.
Made with 84% Merino wool, 12% nylon and 4% spandex, they are unbelievably soft and totally comfortable. And with their temperature regulating abilities, they may be my new favorite underwear for travel!
READ MORE: 57 Simple Sustainable Travel Tips
TRAVEL HEALTH
DNA Vibe – Jazz Band Live
Getting older brings its fair share of aches and pains, especially for those of us in the 50+ age group who stubbornly refuse to slow down during our travel adventures.
The new Jazz Band Live from DNA Vibe is a handy portable device that offers “Regenerative Light Therapy” in 4 modes (red light therapy, near-infrared light therapy, magnetic signals, and micro-vibrations) that help to reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
Its design was computer-optimized to work pretty much anywhere on your body that needs relief from aches and pains– your neck, your back, head, shoulders, knees, and ‘bows– with a 100% money back guarantee!
We love that it offers 3 different power options, from a standard wall adapter and an optional car adapter (sold separately) to a cordless power pack (also sold separately) that allows for charging on the go.
READ MORE: The 50 Best Hiking Quotes Inspire Your Adventures
Eargasm Aviation Earplugs & Aquaplugs
We’ve long been hardcore enthusiasts of earplugs for travel, not just for noise reduction and helping to reduce pain from pressure changes, but for sleeping as well.
The reusable Eargasm Aviation Earplugs are a huge step up from the earplugs you get at your local drugstore, offering a perfect fit, high quality hypoallergenic silicone, and noise reduction up to 20dBs.
We love that they’re transparent and inconspicuous, designed to fit a wide range of ear sizes, and come in a compact aluminum case (which can easily attach to your keychain) with a waterproof seal.
Eargasm’s Aquaplugs may be more of a niche travel product. But if you’re into water sports such as snorkeling, Scuba diving, or surfing, they’re great for keeping water out while still allowing you to hear.
They come with 4 different ear tip sizes in every package, a waterproof aluminum case for portability, and are washable and reusable, so they’ll last for ages.
READ MORE: How to Choose a Responsible Scuba Diving Operator
Sharkbanz Pod- Wearable Shark Deterrent
Speaking of niche products, the average traveler won’t have much need for Sharkbanz’ patented magnetic technology, which repels sharks by overwhelming their electroreceptors in highly unpleasant fashion.
But for avid beachgoers, snorkelers, Scuba divers, and surfers, it’s an easy way to ensure you don’t fall victim to shark attacks (which, truth be told, are VERY rare).
Their new Sharkbanz Pod is even more affordable and lightweight (just 2 oz) than their popular shark-repellant band. You can strap it to a leash cuff, stash it in your swimsuit or wetsuit key pocket, and no batteries or charging is required.
We love the sleek, minimalist design, and the ease of use for an innovative product line that has won awards for innovation from outlets like Forbes and Popular Science.
READ MORE: The Best Beach Gear for Your Summer Vacation
SPECIALITY BAGS
Deuter Jaypack 34+ Camera Backpack
I’ve been a professional photographer since 1995, freelancing for outlets such as National Geographic and Rolling Stone. So it’s with some experience that I say that a good camera backpack can be hard to find!
Some are too small, some are too big (and heavy), some offer only rudimentary attempts at interior organization, and many of them are just prohibitively expensive.
The Jaypack 34L is definitely a bit on the spendy side, but earns its price tag with an innovative design that includes a flexi spring steel frame, stabilizer straps, and a water-resistant, TPU-reinforced stable base.
We love its storage options, such as a lockable front compartment (with double-padded laptop sleeve) and multiple pockets for lenses and accessories. We also like that it’s free of PFAs and uses bluesign certified fabrics.
READ MORE: 10 Simple Wildlife Photography Tips to Improve Your Photos
IceMule Urbano Soft Cooler
I’m currently writing these reviews while sitting on the dock at the marina where we keep our boats tied up.
As hardcore lake lovers, portable coolers are essential to our day-to-day lives, making it easy to transport our food and drinks back and forth. IceMule has been one of our go-to brands for years.
Their new Urbano 30L is an excellent soft-sided backpack cooler with a stylish metropolitan design. It can easily hold 20 drinks and ice, with up to 48 hours of ice retention and 4 pockets for storage.
The adjustable padded shoulder straps make for a very comfortable carry, and we appreciate the fact that it’s lightweight, airtight, and leak-proof.
READ MORE: The Best Beach Gear & Lake Gear for Summer
WanderFull HydroHobo
Looking for a stylish travel purse that can hold all of your essential items, and then some?
Measuring 13″ x 11.5″ x 5″, the HydroHobo Bags from WanderFull are large enough to hold your hairbrush, glasses, snacks, and more, AND they have an interior holder for a water bottle or portable coffee cup.
The large, waterproof, neoprene interior sleeve fits bottles and cups up to 5 inches in diameter, allowing you to keep hydration close at hand. It also has an outer pocket with magnetic closure for essential items.
Style-wise, you can wear it as a crossbody (with or without the gunmetal chain attached), over the shoulder with the short strap, or over the shoulder using the chain as a strap. It’s a great bay;ance of fashion and function!
READ MORE: How to Save Water: 15 Water Conservation Tips
DUFFLE BAGS
Backcountry All Around 60L Duffel
Reputable sources suggest the name of the duffel bag comes from the town of Duffel in Flanders, Belgium, where the thick cloth used to make the bag originated in the 17th century.
Duffel bags were popularized by the US military, but their design has certainly come a long way in the last 250 years.
Backcountry’s All Around 60L Duffel Is big enough to accommodate all sorts of travel gear, made with durable weather-resistant material, and a padded base.
It’s got removable backpack straps for hands-free carrying, two mesh lid pockets, plus an endcap dry bag for wet clothes/shoes and compression straps to hold everything in place.
READ MORE: 10 Great Travel Expeditions for Your World Travel Bucket List
Deuter Aviant Duffle Pro 60
For a stylish and expansive duffel option, check out the Aviant Duffel Pro 60 from Deuter.
Weighing in at 2.87 lbs and measuring 30 x 66 x 32”, this big bag is perfect for anyone who enjoys combining travel and adventure (or outdoor sports).
The eco-friendly bag is both bluesign® and Green Button certified, made from a PFAS-free polyester fabric that’s 100 waterproof and tear and abrasion resistant. Like all Deuter bags, it’s guaranteed for life!
Noteworthy features include stowable shoulder straps that can convert to a carry handle, two outer side pockets, an inner compartment for stashing valuables, and a fixed point on the main compartment for a zip lock.
READ MORE: The 10 Best Foodie Travel Destinations for Nature Lovers
Forclaz 80-120 L Duffel Bag
Forclaz 500 Extend 80-120 L Duffel Bag | Decathlon
The largest of all the duffel bags we’ve tested this year (and maybe ever) is the Forclaz 500 Extend 80-120 L Duffel Bag from Decathlon.
Weighing 3.8 lbs empty and measuring 29.5” x 17.1” x 15.7” without the Extend system, this behemoth of a bag can grow from 80 to 120 liters through a system of sections.
Designed with the same sort of comfortable carry system you typically associate with mountain backpacks (including padded shoulder straps), the water-repellant bag features a reinforced seam for added durability.
In terms of storage, it also includes 3 zipped pockets and a storage bag for organizing your gear, as well as a lockable main zip to keep the bag secure.
READ MORE: 20 Reasons to Travel to Antarctica Now (Before It Changes)
