Whether you're jetting off to a European city, road-tripping up the coast, or escaping to a quiet cabin in the woods, summer travel is all about freedom and adventure. But the right gear can make or break your trip. That’s why we’ve rounded up a curated selection of small-brand travel essentials designed to make your journey smoother, comfier, and a lot more enjoyable. From game-changing snacks and organization hacks to high-performance wireless plans and compact beauty tools, this guide has everything you didn’t know you needed, but definitely do.
Fonus Borderless Global Wireless Service
Say goodbye to SIM swaps and roaming fees this summer. Fonus is the world’s first truly global wireless carrier offering unlimited calls, texts and texts in over 100 countries with no contracts, no surprise charges and plans starting at just $19.99/month. Plus, you can keep your own phone number and easily manage your subscription through their dedicated app.
Whether your summer plans involve backpacking through Europe or island-hopping in the Caribbean, Fonus keeps you seamlessly connected with an eSIM or traditional SIM card. With instant activation, you can land, explore and post without missing a beat.
Perfect for digital nomads, honeymooners and luxury travelers alike, Fonus is the ultimate travel essential for those who want to make the most of their summer travel plans without stress or roaming fees.
Trtl Travel Pillow
This scarf-style neck pillow mimics a supportive neck brace, designed to prevent head bobbing and relieve strain during travel. Lightweight and hypoallergenic, it’s compact enough to clip to your bag and comfy enough for hours of sleep on flights or bus rides .
Unlike bulky U-shaped pillows, Trtl wraps snugly around your neck, offering stable support while maintaining a natural sleep posture. Machine-washable and available in various colors, it’s a practical upgrade for serious travelers.
The Hermit Calamari Jerky
Snack smarter on the go with The Hermit’s Calamari Jerky — high-protein snack made from wild-caught American seafood. No added sugar or artificial ingredients, just savory, gourmet spices in three chef-crafted flavors. Perfect for beach bags, road trips, or anywhere you need a travel-friendly 28 grams of protein, with 12g of naturally collagen (for skin and joints) and 488mg of omega-3s (to support brain and heart health).
Shop: Thehermit.com and follow on tiktok: @thehermitsquid
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
Relax anywhere with this durable, easy-to-set-up hammock. Lightweight (about 24 oz) and available in single or double options, it packs small and includes strong tree straps.
GearLab reviewers praised its comfort and value for impromptu lounging. Whether hanging between palm trees or forest pines, it’s a cozy spot for daydreaming, reading, or drifting to sleep outdoors.
Beis Light‑Up Travel Mirror
Stay selfie-ready anywhere with this ultra-slim, rechargeable travel mirror. Named Travel + Leisure’s Best Overall lighted mirror, it offers adjustable LED lighting, a sleek compact design, and a long battery life—all housed in a stylish black case.
Weighing less than a pound and no bulkier than a paperback, it fits comfortably in your carry-on or purse. With its sleek style and stellar function, it's ideal for on-the-fly touch-ups—whether you're camping under the stars or headed to a sunset dinner.
Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Packing Cubes
Organize your suitcase with recycled-fabric packing cubes that feature mesh lids for quick visibility. These durable organizers save space, keep clothes wrinkle-free, and make unpacking simple .
Perfect for longer trips or shared luggage, they help you stay clutter-free and maximize carry-on capacity. Eco-conscious, practical, and reliable for any travel scenario.
KEUTEK 26,800 mAh Solar Power Bank
Never be stranded without power. This rugged, IP66 dustproof and splashproof power bank offers fast charging and can recharge via solar when outlets aren’t around.
With enough capacity for multiple device charges and robust design, it’s essential for remote adventures, beach days, or road trips—dependable energy wherever you roam. Shop: Keutek.com
ALOHA Plant-Based Protein Bars
Meet your new go-to travel snack. ALOHA’s bars are organic, non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free, with 14 g of plant-based protein, 10 g of fiber, and only 2–4 g added sugar per bar. Available in flavors like Blueberry, Maple Sea Salt, and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, they're easy to pack and enjoyable at any time of day.
Crafted from whole-food ingredients, these bars provide clean, sustained energy without artificial additives. They’re perfect for fueling up during flights, hikes, or busy summers-on-the-go, making wellness portable and delicious.
