
Roll on
Samsonite makes some of the best suitcases on the market and these two new carry-ons are winners — one hard, and the other, soft-sided. Both are backed by the company’s famous 10-year-warranty, come with two built-in TSA compatible locks, USB port and battery pocket and directional spinner wheels. Outline-pro, the hard side, $375. D’Lite Underseater soft side is small enough to fit under the seat in many planes. $350
Photo:
Compress it
This set of six Tripped compressible packing cubes makes magic of maximizing packing space. After packing items in the zippered compartment, a second zipper compresses the entire cube down. Rolling clothes into these cubes is a game changer and will keep you organized even at your destination. $65
Photo:
Just in case
Never be caught in the rain again. At 16.5 cm long, Smati’s mini umbrella fits in your hand, pocket or purse so you are always prepared. Available in 16 laugh-at-the-rain colours. Polyester with fibreglass frame. Meticulously made in France. $27.90
Photo:
Sock it to him (or her)
It’s the indispensable accessory for anyone planning a long flight. Charmking compression socks offer just the right amount of compression to prevent swollen feet or for anyone concerned about developing blood clots. Eight pairs for $27.99
Photo:
Got your back
We love this Nordace Sienna 19L backpack for its spacious compartment with padded laptop sleeve, its anti-theft pocket on the back side, adjustable ergonomic shoulder strap and USB charging port. Functional yet stylish in nine colours. $135
Photo:
Find my bag
Apple Air Tag makes locating lost luggage easier than ever. Slip the small, toonie-sized disk into a suitcase and it’s on the radar in the Find My app. Tracks anywhere in the world, as long as it is in proximity to another Apple device. Not compatible with Android. $39
Photo:
Bon voyage journal
There’s something satisfying about capturing travel experiences the old-fashioned way, with pen and paper. Rifle Paper’s soft cover, spiral notebook is the perfectly sized journal to record global adventures. 150 pages waiting to save special holiday memories. $23.95
Photo:
Card safe
Secrid’s Miniwallet with RFID blocking technology protects six most important cards, with room for others. Yet it’s small enough to slide into a pocket or purse. Flick the little tab and cards slide up for easy access. Comes in various colours, a great product made in Holland. $100
Photo:
Santa may be able to set off on an around-the-world trip with nothing more than a few carrots for the reindeer and Rudolph’s glowing nose for guidance, but our travels are a little more complex. Below, we’ve shopped the market in search of great ideas for the travellers in your life, whether they are frequent fliers, off on a global adventure or taking a short trip after a long pause.
Before you check out our gallery, below are a few extra items you may want to consider:
Plug in
Someone travelling overseas? Send them off with a good power adapter. Epicka Universal has five USB ports and with maximum power output of 5.6 amps it can charge more devices at higher speeds than most. They will thank you for it in many countries. ⊲$32
Read Also

Ground rules for farm family communications
Establishing meeting ground rules can help your family find ways to communicate that work for your farm. Here are some…
Tech needs
Staying connected when you travel is a given these days. Bellroy’s Tech Kit Compact is the solution to keep cores, cables and accessories organized when you are on the go. Think of it as a toiletry bag for electronics that opens out flat for easy access. ⊲ $69
Play time
People have enjoyed playing cribbage since the early 17th century. Travel and storage are simple with Bradley’s Deluxe Cribbage set. Two decks of cards and the metal pegs fit neatly inside an attractive wooden case. Family fun for four to six players, ages eight and up. ⊲$49.99