When it comes to travel, we’ve learned that our favorite items can vary depending on the mode of transportation. As a family, we prioritize convenience, comfort, and anything that keeps the kids happy (and us sane). But The DINK (Dual Income, No Kids) focus on relaxation, ease, and items that help us truly unwind.

In this post, we’re sharing our top travel favorites for both styles; from family essentials we never leave home without to the DINK must-haves that turn any trip into a peaceful escape.

The Same

No matter how or where we’re traveling, there are a few items that consistently earn a spot in our bags. These aren’t just random gadgets; we’re talking about the tried-and-true favorites that make every trip smoother, more comfortable, and a little more enjoyable. From Adventure to quick weekend escapes, beach days to long-haul flights, here are 8 travel items we both love; one for each type of trip or need.

• Top Overall Must-Have – Apple AirPods : Whether we’re on a plane, hiking a trail, or just trying to tune out chaos in the backseat, AirPods are always within reach. They’re compact, reliable, and make everything, from music to travel directions, so much easier.
• Outdoor Adventure/Camping – K2 Inflatable Kayak : It might be a big item, but this inflatable kayak is totally worth the space. It packs down surprisingly small, is easy to inflate, and gives us access to lakes, bays, and rivers without the hassle of hauling a hard-shell kayak.
• Jetset Beach Weekend Pick – Snorkel: Snorkel rentals can cost $40 or more per day, and let’s be honest, rentals aren’t always the cleanest. Bringing our own gear saves money, fits easily in a carry-on, and means we’re always ready to dive in.
• Beach Day Favorite – Bogg Bag: This tote is practically indestructible and holds everything, towels, snacks, toys, and sunscreen, without tipping over or soaking through. It’s become our go-to for every beach trip.
• Road Trip MVP – Behind the seat organizer: Long drives are way easier when everything has a place. This keeps snacks, tablets, water bottles, and random kid treasures neatly stored and within reach, so we’re not constantly digging around the car.
• In-Flight Comfort Item – ipads: With so many airlines ditching seatback screens, iPads are essential. We load them with movies, shows, games, and books ahead of time, making flights (and even airport delays) much more bearable for everyone.
• Pack Like a Pro – Packing Cubes: Once we started using packing cubes, we never went back. They keep everything organized, help maximize space, and make unpacking at the hotel a breeze. It’s like having a drawer in your suitcase.

The Dinks

1. Top Overall Must-Have – Yeti: Whether it’s hot coffee for sunrise flights or ice-cold “water” at the beach, our YETI keeps drinks the perfect temperature for hours. It’s durable, leakproof, and goes everywhere with us.
2. Outdoor Adventure/Camping – Flashlight: You don’t realize how clutch a good flashlight is until you’re camping or navigating a dark beach path. Compact and reliable, it’s one of those things we never forget to pack.
3. Jetset Beach Weekend Pick – Simple Water Float: This lightweight, packable float is perfect for quick beach getaways. It takes up barely any space in a suitcase but adds major relaxation points once we hit the water.
4. Beach Day Favorite – Lounge Chairs: Yes, they’re a little bulky but totally worth it. Having these comfy chairs means we relax on the beach all day long.
5. Pack Like a Pro – Toiletry Bag: Game-changer. Just hang it on the towel rod and everything, from toothbrushes to makeup, is neatly organized and easy to access. No more digging around in a messy ziplock or cosmetics pouch.

The Family

1. Top Overall Must-Have – Camelbak Water Bottle: Hydration is key, whether we’re hiking, flying, or hitting the beach. We love CamelBak bottles because they’re durable, easy to carry, and the bite-valve makes sipping spill-free and effortless.
2. Outdoor Adenture/Camping – Inflateable Stand-up Paddle Boards: They pack down but deliver big adventure once inflated. We’ve used them on lakes, bays, and calm ocean waters, perfect for both exploring and relaxing on the water.
3. Jetset Beach Weekend Pick – Sand toys: They may seem simple, but a small mesh bag of sand toys goes a long way on a beach weekend—especially with kids in tow. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and guarantee hours of fun building castles, digging holes, or just keeping little hands busy while you relax.
4. Beach Day Favorite – Boogie Boards: Fun for all ages and an easy way to spend hours riding waves. Our kids never get tired of them, and let’s be honest, we don’t either.
5. Road Trip MVP – Bikes which we transport with this bike rack: Bringing our bikes transforms road trips. From coastal rides to park trails, it’s freedom on two wheels and the rack makes loading, unloading, and traveling a breeze.
6. In-Flight Comfort Item – Noise Canceling ear buds: Essential for tuning out plane noise, crying babies, or just zoning into your playlist or podcast. They help turn any flight into a more peaceful experience.
7. Pack Like a Pro – Electronics Organizer Travel Case: No more tangled cords or lost adapters. This little organizer keeps chargers, earbuds, and tech accessories neat, visible, and easy to grab on the go.