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The Best Travel Organizers for Every Type of Trip

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing for a trip requires organization. And there's no better way to keep toiletries, makeup, digital gear, jewelry, and other small travel essentials safe during transit than with the right bag. Whether you're headed on a two-week vacation or a short weekend getaway, durable travel bags, pouches, and cases will always come in handy. We've rounded up a comprehensive list of the best travel organizers for every type of traveler, whether you need a sturdy cosmetic case for makeup products or a smart tech kit for cords and chargers. Below, our tried-and-true travel organizers, from waterproof pouches to essential packing cubes.

Dopp kits for women

Dopp kits for men, makeup bags, packing cubes, jewelry cases, hanging toiletry bags, water-resistant pouches.

Every traveler needs a go-to Dopp kit that will keep small toiletries like contact solution, moisturizer, and sunscreen organized in one place. These roomy and reliable bags also ensure your clothes and other personal items will be protected against any accidental leaks while traveling. The best Dopp kits for women offer enough space for your essentials while still being compact enough to fit in an already-stuffed carry-on or weekender .

Read more : The Best Dopp Kits for Women

There are plenty of great Dopp kits for men on the market—Dagne Dover, Herschel, Rains, and Bagsmart make some of our favorite travel-friendly (and budget-friendly) bags. These options make skincare and grooming products easy to find and easy to pack in your suitcase. No matter where you're headed on your next getaway, a trusty Dopp kit is essential. (Any of these sleek bags would also make a great gift for the travel-loving man in your life, too.)

Read more : The Best Dopp Kits for Men

We've all been there: You're sitting in a small, cramped seat in economy hopelessly searching for your iPhone charger in your under-seat bag. The solution to never-ending bag searching and tangled cords: A smart tech organizer that keeps all of your digital gear neat and tidy. These organizers are a true game changer when it comes packing cords, portable chargers, AirPods, and any other tech essentials you're toting around.

Read more : The Best Travel Tech Organizers

I've ruined a few tote bags by throwing a lipstick or loose powder inside and hoping for the best. You can't always be gentle with your personal item or carry-on while in transit, so a durable cosmetic bag helps protect your makeup products and everything around it. If you want to make getting ready in a hotel bathroom even speedier, opt for a clear cosmetic case or the Lay-n-Go drawstring bag that makes finding all of your products easier than ever.

Read more : The Best Travel Makeup Bags

If you're not already using packing cubes, let this be your sign to start. Our editors swear by packing cubes to keep clothes organized and compressed—meaning you can fit a whole lot more in your suitcase with these. Packing cubes also help you separate clean clothes from dirty ones and help protect special items like dresses and suits from any spilled liquids in your carry-on. Paravel and Calpak make some of our favorite packing cubes, but we also love the more budget-friendly options you can find on Amazon from Bagail and Alameda.

Read more : The Best Packing Cubes

The last thing you need upon arriving to your destination is to find all of your necklaces and bracelets tangled. Or worse, discover that you lost a special (or expensive) piece of jewelry while in transit. A sturdy jewelry case ensures your favorite pieces will be safe and protected from being squashed or broken. And if you're in need of a thoughtful gift , a well-made and sleek jewelry case will be much appreciated.

Toiletries can quickly create a cluttered bathroom counter. The next time you stay at a hotel or Airbnb, consider placing a hanging toiletry bag on the back of the bathroom door. It will help you see all of your products at a glance and limits the need to unpack and repack at the end of your trip. Use these to store anything from skincare and beauty products to jewelry and hair tools .

Sometimes, you need a water-resistant pouch or an extra bag, just in case . Options like the Aloha Collection pouches and Baggu set can hold wet bathing suits, dirty clothes, or sand-filled beach items, making it safe to toss them back in your tote or backpack . These types of bags can also keep your phone and other electronics safe if you're lounging by the pool.

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10 Best Travel TRIP PLANNER APPs To Have in 2024

In a fast-paced world where the stress of work and school is overwhelming, we all need a break to de-stress our minds. Traveling is one good way to take your mind off of stressful things – a breather. And a scheduled vacation gives you something to look forward to.

Whether it’s a local trip alone, a family holiday, or a getaway with your best friends, it just excites you to wish the day would come faster. 

10 Best Trip Planner Apps in 2024

The freeform app.

• TripIt: Travel Planner

Hopper – Flight & Hotel Deals

• Sygic Travel Maps Trip Planner

Roadtrippers: Trip Planner

Tripadvisor, travelspend: track travel expense & trip budget, tripcase – travel organizer app, travel planning apps for your next trip.

The Freeform app is an endless whiteboard that lets users add information from a variety of websites, photos, videos and files.

Because the boards are kept in iCloud, they can be accessed from any device anytime inspiration hits. While you and your travel companions plan your dream trip, the specifics can be shared with several individuals working together on the same whiteboard, making them an ongoing work in progress.

The Freeform app is free to iPhone users on iOS 16.2, iPad users on 16.2, and Mac users on Ventura MacOS Venture 13.1. 

Download the brand-new app here .

Read our full post: Apple Launches New Travel App Freeform – What to Know

Wanderlog Trip Planner App

Wanderlog is your all-in-one destination for planning future trips, sharing travel guides, and blogging past trips.

Its trip planning features are incredibly flexible: you can research destinations and activities, organize reservations by connecting your email, and map out a day itinerary with start/end times. You can also add notes and links all throughout.

Everything is stored offline so you can access your itinerary when traveling abroad. For road trips, it calculates the time and distance between places and exports them to Google Maps (and there are no limits to the number of stops you have on a trip!).

Plus, there’s a fun social component: collaborate with friends on itineraries, write your own travel guide, and blog about past trips. Wanderlog is available on the web and on your smartphone, so you can seamlessly plan while at home and on-the-go.

iOS  /  Android

TripIt: Trip Planner App

If you need any help organizing the dozens of itineraries, TripIt is the app for you. Users simply need to forward your flight, hotel, restaurant, and car rental confirmation emails to [email protected] and the app will create a free master doc for each of your trips. The best thing about this app is that you can get access to your itinerary anywhere, even without an internet connection. 

In addition, the Pro version will find you alternative routes for canceled flights and send out notifications for delayed flights, cancellations, and more from the airlines. 

iOS / Android

Rome2rio is a versatile travel planning app that simplifies the process of finding and booking travel options. It’s a handy tool for travelers seeking to explore various transportation choices between destinations. Rome2rio offers users a comprehensive view of travel options, including flights, trains, buses, ferries, and even driving directions.

Key features of Rome2rio include:

• Route Information: The app provides detailed information on different routes, including estimated travel times, costs, and the number of transfers required.
• Booking Integration: Users can book flights, train tickets, and other transportation options directly through the app, streamlining the booking process.
• Map Integration: Rome2rio integrates with maps, allowing users to visualize their travel routes and explore nearby attractions.
• Multi-Modal Travel: It offers options for combining various modes of transportation, making it easy to plan complex journeys.
• Accurate Pricing: The app provides real-time pricing information, helping users make informed decisions based on their budget.
• Offline Access: Rome2rio offers offline access to previously searched routes, which can be handy when traveling without a data connection.

Hopper is an amazing trip planner app to have on your phone. The app predicts airfares up to 1 year in advance, with 95% accuracy. It analyzes over billions of flight prices and hotels within the day – telling you whether to book your trip now or wait for just a little longer.

Here’s how it works: Key in your destination and a color-coded calendar will display the cheapest and most expensive date to fly. The app will then recommend you to either book the flight now or sit it out and wait for airfare to get cheaper. Also, you can filter predictions to custom-fit your trip – remove long layovers, extra fees, restrictions, and more. 

And if you worry about missing out the cheap flight bookings, don’t be! Hopper will send you a notification when fares have dropped to its lowest point.

SYGIC Travel Maps Trip Planner

Sygic Travel Maps , the new version of Sygic Trip Planner, is the first travel app to display all of the attractions and places a traveler needs to see and visit on a single map.

Sync your trips with the Sygic Travel app and find hidden gems in all cities you visit. The app boast a large database that allows you to find the best hotels, tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, bars, and stores wherever you go.

This mobile app also let you download offline maps and guides, which come in helpful when traveling to remote locations with poor or non-existing Wi-Fi.

It also has a dedicated section to worldwide places of interest for travel business. Get location information for individual cities, countries, continents, or the entire planet.

The app is available in 18 languages.

iOS / Android iOS

Planning on a cross-country road trip ? Roadtrippers is the app for you! Not everyone is fond of waiting long hours at the airport while sitting through your red-eye flight. Hit the road with your friends instead.

Roadtrippers provides everything you need to know on your road trip. Just enter your starting point, destination, and let the app do its work for you! From camping sites to rest stops, outdoor activities, exciting adventures along the way that you didn’t know existed. This app is the perfect buddy for your road trip regardless of your mode of transportation – a sedan, a rental car, or a huge family RV.

Most of us dream of going to places! But planning an amazing trip to places we have not been to is pretty hard as you don’t know where to stay, what to do, places to eat, and adventures to try. We mostly rely on recommendations, most of which are not even right, that we find online. 

TripAdvisor has over millions of travel recommendations on hotels, top dining spots, must-do experiences, and treasured gems to over 8 million destinations at your perusal. It is an all-in-one app that lets you book tables at restaurants and compares low prices on hotels and flights.

You can also follow friends and travel experts for advice that match your interests, watch videos, and read articles. In return, you can share your experiences, reviews, and helpful guides for other users too!

Setting up a budget for your trip is easy, however, sticking to it is hard. TravelSpend will help you with that. It starts with entering your budget and expenses over multiple days so you don’t go overboard. The app helps you in sticking to your budget effectively.

Being in another country is not a problem at all: enter your expenses in any currency and the app will automatically convert it to your home currency.

Track your travel expenses whether going on a solo around-the-world trip or backpacking holiday with your best friends. The app allows you to share your trip with your friends and track your expenses together. Pay debts, split bills, and check your balances – all in the app!

TripCase, a comprehensive travel organizer app, has emerged as a popular choice among travelers seeking a streamlined and efficient way to manage their journey details.

Here’s a breakdown of its key features and functionalities:

Centralized Itinerary Management : TripCase allows users to consolidate all their travel details, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, into a single, easily accessible itinerary.

Real-time Flight Alerts : The app keeps travelers informed with up-to-the-minute notifications on flight statuses, including delays, cancellations, and gate changes.

Itinerary Sharing : TripCase offers a sharing option that enables users to send their travel plans to friends, family, or colleagues.

Travel Directions and Maps : To aid navigation in unfamiliar locations, the app provides directions and maps.

Nearby Recommendations : TripCase offers recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and other services close to the traveler’s location.

Document Storage : For added convenience, the app allows users to store essential travel documents digitally, ensuring that important information like passport details, visas, and insurance policies are readily available.

Customizable Notifications : Users can customize their notification preferences, choosing what types of alerts they receive and how they are notified, tailoring the app to suit individual needs and preferences.

iOS / Android 

Hi, great List. I couldn’t travel without my Apps! I have one App you could check out =) Its called ” ATM Fee Saver” and it gives a list with all ATMs and their fees and limit. I found it super helpful and it really helped me to save some money. Best regards, Charlotte

Thank you for your suggestions! Those apps are very useful and various

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Trip Planner AI

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Craft your perfect itinerary with Trip Planner AI. Our advanced algorithms take into account your selected explore-sights, dining, and lodging preferences to create the optimal travel plan tailored just for you.

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Say goodbye to the stress of planning and hello to personalized recommendations, efficient itineraries, and seamless dining experiences.

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Trip Planner AI saves time and stress by aiding travel planning, relieving indecision or uncertainty.

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I love traveling but hate planning. This app quickly organizes trip agendas, reducing decision fatigue.

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Trip Planner AI is your ultimate companion for any travel scenario. Whether it's a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a group expedition, our app tailors every aspect of your journey. Experience the convenience of:

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Utilize AI for optimal travel routes. Our app ensures a seamless journey, calculating the best paths, travel times, and distances for city tours or cross-country road trips.

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Simplify travel planning with our all-in-one platform. Trip Planner AI consolidates hotel and flight details, manages bookings, and imports tips and guides. Organize all trip details in one place.

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The 7 Best Trip Planner Apps for Travelers

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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Crafting a trip itinerary can be both fun and overwhelming. Which places are an absolute must-visit, and which ones can you skip? How much time should you spend at the art museum, and how close is it to that bookstore you want to check out? And how can you keep all your ideas and bookings neatly organized?

The best trip planner apps can help you answer those questions. I’ve found several that will help you discover the right places to go and organize your day-by-day itinerary in one handy place. Download these apps, and you can pitch your endless spreadsheets and Word docs into the recycle bin.

All of the following trip planner apps are free unless otherwise noted.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor ( iOS | Android ) is the granddaddy of trip planner apps. Unlike other apps that feature only major cities, TripAdvisor offers listings of both top attractions and hidden gems in just about every corner of the globe, along with restaurants, hotels, and vacation rentals. You can create customized itineraries by saving the places you’re interested in to the app’s new Trips feature . (Trips can be kept private or shared publicly.)

When you search for a city in the app, you’ll see a feed of other users’ trips, photos, videos, reviews, and articles about that destination, all offering ideas and inspiration. For more trip planning help, you can post your questions in the TripAdvisor forums , where destination experts offer in-depth advice.

Visit a City

Visit a City ( iOS | Android ) helps solve two common trip planning challenges: figuring out how long you need to spend at each place, and maximizing your vacation time by grouping nearby attractions together. When you select a destination, the app offers recommended sightseeing guides based on the number of days you plan to spend. For example, I put in that I was going to Paris, for three days and was given several itinerary options, including Top Attractions, Landmarks for Kids, Parks & Museums, Easy Going, and more. The app automatically puts nearby attractions together and lets you know how far apart they are (for instance, “three minutes by walking”). It also includes the estimated time that you’ll spend at each place.

You can edit the itinerary by changing the day you visit a place, revising the amount of time you spend there, or deleting the attraction altogether. (You’ll almost certainly have to do some editing, as the itineraries don’t include lunch or coffee breaks.) You can also book tours through the app and get general travel information about the destination, such as the best time of year to visit or tips for saving money.

The Best Sites to Book a Last Minute Vacation

CityMaps2Go

CityMaps2Go ( iOS | Android ) offers a handy offline maps that you can customize with personal points of interest. Even better, the app displays your location on the map whether you’re connected to data or Wi-Fi. The app includes thousands of offline maps from just about anywhere on Earth, which means it’s useful for travelers who don’t want to pay international data charges when heading overseas. 

You can create different lists for your trip (for example, separate lists for dining, bars, attractions, etc.), and the locations you add to the list will show up on your map. Info cards for each place include a review score, nearby accommodations, some basic information, and the ability to add notes of your own.

The fun part of trip planning is imagining all the cool places you’ll go. What’s not so fun? Figuring out the logistics of getting there. Fortunately, Rome2rio ( iOS | Android ) can help solve that problem. The app searches just about every mode of transportation—plane, train, subway, bus, ferry, taxi, Uber—to recommend the best way to get from point A to point B.

You can enter either two destinations within a given city or two points farther apart, and the app will display your options, including the time it’ll take to travel and the approximate cost. Note that the listings are for planning purposes only, and you can’t actually book your flights or tickets through the app.

TripIt ( iOS | Android ) is a fixture on “best travel apps” lists, and for good reason. It turns an inbox full of scattered booking confirmations and restaurant reservations into a single master itinerary that you can access offline, sync with your phone’s calendar, and share with loved ones. You simply forward each confirmation email to [email protected] and let the app do the rest.

Upgrade to TripIt Pro ($49/year) for other useful features such as real-time flight alerts, rewards program tracking, and the ability to locate alternate flights if your original plans are disrupted.

Culture Trip

The app arm of Culture Trip ( iOS | Android ) aims to bring travelers a little bit out of the mainstream (tagline: “For curious travelers”) by highlighting unique, off-the-beaten-path options in popular destinations. With recommendations for more than 200 destinations around the world, it’s a great way to bring more local perspective to your trip planning. 

The Culture Trip app uses the publication’s content as a starting point; say, an article on the Top 9 Dessert Spots in Amsterdam. While reading the article, you can save individual places to lists that you create and view their location on maps. You can also explore their curated “Culture Trips”—pre-made itineraries for small group travel bookable within the app.

5 Smartphone Essentials You Should Never Travel Without

TripScout ( iOS ) combines articles and videos from well-known travel publishers and local experts to form what it calls “a personalized, always up-to-date travel guide” for destinations around the world. Every point of interest mentioned in the content is mapped, so you can build a customized itinerary showing your intended destinations on a map.

TripScout can also personalize recommendations based on your travel dates, budget, interests, and even the number of people in your travel group. And like some of the other apps on this list, TripScout works entirely offline, potentially saving you from paying international data fees. The only downside? Android users are left out; TripScout is iOS only.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2019, and has been updated to reflect the most current information. SmarterTravel’s Carl Unger contributed to this story.

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

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16 of the Best Travel Organizers to Turn You Into a Packing Pro

Getaways are fun. packing isn’t—but it can be.

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Raise your hand if packing stresses you out. *Pauses for every single person reading this to lift their arm.* Even if you’re an avid traveler, there’s no denying that the process of deciding what to bring when you're away from home—and how to most efficiently fit it into your luggage —can be a universally daunting process. It seems no matter how big our carry-on is, we're always short of space, making our OOTD planning a real challenge. If you’re a fellow stuffer and crammer looking to change your troubled ways, then a trusty travel organizer may just be what you need.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying?  Sign up for our shopping newsletter  to uncover our favorite finds.

The Best Travel Organizers at a Glance

Best Travel Toiletry Organizer

Dagne dover mila travel organizer.

Best Suitcase Travel Organizer

Bumblebella by jill martin hanging packing cubes.

Best Pill Travel Organizer

Fullicon pill travel organizer.

Best Hanging Travel Organizer

Calpak terra toiletry organizer.

Best Jewelry Travel Organizer

Nordstrom hexagon jewelry case, meet the expert.

Linda Samuels is a New York-based certified coach and professional organizer in chronic disorganization who launched her company, Oh, So Organized! , in 1993. She also serves as the professional organizer advisor for Nest by Revel .

How We Chose the Best Travel Organizers

In addition to keeping an eye out for lightweight picks with good hardware and plenty of extras, we gravitated towards organizers that would best prevent damage to your belongings. This meant choosing ones with water-resistant material (because who wants to open their suitcase to find a soaking mess?). In addition, we researched products that both our readers and shoppers felt strongly about, digging deep into their positive and critical reviews alike to find the cream of the crop. Whether you’re going away for business or vacation, here are some of the best travel organizers that’ll make your transportation efforts a little (or a lot) easier.

35 Travel Essentials, According to Travel Bloggers, Family Travelers and General Adventurers

1. Dagne Dover Mila Travel Organizer

What we like.

• recycled materials
• removable divider
• adjustable compartments
• carrying handles

What We Don't Like

• can be cumbersome to open and close

Dagne Dover

If using all those jet fuel miles has you feeling guilty about your carbon footprint, ease your conscience and help save the planet (sort of) by compensating with the 100 percent Repreve travel organizer that PureWow readers are obsessed with . Made from recycled water bottle plastic, its material manages to repel water to keep your belongings safe. We're also big fans of that interior divider, which features six compartments that can not only be adjusted as needed, but removed entirely, allowing you to fit exactly what you need inside. Oh, and did we mention the toothbrush holders? (Psst: If this one's too large for your tastes, there's also a smaller version , from $50, available.)

• Best for: toiletries

2. BumbleBella by Jill Martin Hanging Packing Cubes

• water-resistant
• compressive
• super sturdy
• multi-purpose
• need to be air-dried

BumbleBella by Jill Martin

We’ve all been there: sitting on our luggage with all our might to make sure the thing actually closes shut. But that was before we got our hands on these BumbleBella by Jill Martin hanging packing cubes. According to the brand, these little babies have 30 percent more compression than their competitors, making it easier to fit your essentials inside your suitcase. What's more, you can link the shelf-like cube bottoms together when the tops are flipped open to create a mini hanging dresser once you arrive to your destination. (Genius, right?) They definitely work: Commerce Director Nicole Briese uses them even when she's not traveling to display her purses. Each set comes with two cubes as well as a mesh skinny garment container for your dirty socks, underwear and the like. Just be sure not to throw the cubes in the dryer, as they could lose their shape.

• Best for: clothes and delicates

3. Fullicon Pill Travel Organizer

• airtight seal
• spacious design
• may not hold as much as it claims

Spilled pills can be a disaster. Luckily, this neat organizer makes sure your prescriptions are one less thing you’ll have to worry about while traveling. Equipped with seven ultra-secure compartments, it's got a rubber ring around the edge to make for an airtight seal, preventing your important medications from getting damp or dusty. According to the company, it can hold between 12 and 14 vitamins or five to seven fish oil pills in each compartment for a total of between 35 to 98 pills, though shoppers say it's a bit smaller than advertised. To be safe, you may want to order the next size up ($12).

• Best for: medications, vitamins

4. Calpak Terra Toiletry Organizer

• collapsible
• sustainable
• toothbrush loops
• doesn't fully zip shut
• can spill in suitcase

This foldable, hanging travel organizer is guaranteed to keep your toothpaste, deodorant, razor and more in check. Why? Because it has a large base compartment with elastic bands at the top and sides to keep everything in place when you’re on the move. It also includes a top handle, so you can carry it around with ease. The 100 percent recycled ripstop polyester material is water-resistant and super strong, and the whole thing weighs less than 1 pound, making it ultra-lightweight.

5. Nordstrom Hexagon Jewelry Case

• interior layers to protect against scratching
• elastic anti-tangle pockets
• takes up a decent amount of room in a tote or suitcase
• bottom compartment sticks

Know what's not fun? Detangling seven necklaces before dinner. Thanks to the clever design of this chic jewelry travel organizer, you shouldn't have to. Its hexagonal shape unrolls to reveal five separate compartments: two for sunglasses, one for earrings, one for necklaces and bracelets (complete with five snaps to keep them in place) and one for rings. Each one also has features to fit the jewelry at hand (the earring compartment, for instance, has a small board to affix your studs to). After testing it out, we can confirm that nothing shifts or falls out when it's rolled up, and it's got enough room for nearly our entire jewelry collection. No wonder this baby sold out during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale ! Our only complaints? We have found that it does take up a decent amount of space in your tote or carry-on and the bottom compartment can stick to the one above, requiring a bit of a tug.

• Best for: earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, sunglasses and watches

Best Travel Makeup Organizer

6. paravel see-all vanity travel organizer.

• easy-to-clean
• transparent bottom
• stain-resistant
• customizable

If you need your face to be on fleek no matter where you go, then you better make sure you’re storing your cosmetic products with care. This makeup travel organizer will meet your needs and then some. Its open design means you can fit everything from your setting spray and moisturizer to your favorite foundation inside, and the see-through material means you (and TSA) will be able to quickly and easily take stock of your things. The canvas top can be personalized with your initials for an extra $15 to $65, and it's also spill-proof and stain-resistant in case of a leak. The square shape will fit neatly in your suitcase, too, meaning you won’t have to choose between your shoes and your makeup brushes . And if it doesn't? Try the smaller size here ($75).

• Best for: toiletries, makeup

Best Travel Organizer Bags

7. m-jump travel organizer bags.

• partially waterproof
• reasonably priced
• limsy zippers mesh
• zippers are not waterproof

If you’re going away for more than a week, then you’ll want to give this six-piece set of travel organizer bags a try. Versatile and practical, they'll reportedly hold between seven to ten days worth of just about anything, according to the company, from your cashmere sweaters to your shoes. An added bonus, the breathable mesh cloth will keep your garments fresh and aired out for the duration of your trip.

• Best for: clothes, undergarments, cosmetics, shoes

Best Travel Tech Organizer

8. dagne dover arlo travel organizer.

• water-repellent for protection
• convenient dual-zipper closure
• recycled lining
• hand-wash only
• exterior material can crease and pill over time

If you’ve ever fallen victim to the dreaded tangled cord fiasco while traveling with your phone and laptop, then you won’t regret investing in this little guy. It comes equipped with five handy elastic loops that’ll keep your wires in place, plus several mesh pockets, making everything easily accessible as soon as you unzip. It also comes in a smaller version ($50) if you tend to travel light.

• Best for: charging cables, cords, hard drives, small tablets

Best Travel Passport Organizer

9. béis the passport and luggage tag set.

• hidden magnetic closure for discreteness
• only weighs 1 pound
• pen can make it difficult to close

Picture this: You're next in line for airport security with a line a mile long behind you, frantically digging through your purse to try to find your ID, your passport and your boarding pass, your anxiety growing by the second as your fellow passengers grow impatient behind you. Sound familiar? You need this passport organizer set. The passport holder not only houses your passport, it's got room for your ID, two credit cards and a pen, while the luggage tag will make your bag easily identifiable. As an added bonus, both pieces come inside a clear bag you can use for toiletries and other odds and ends.

• Best for: passport, pens and credit cards

Best Travel Organizer Bag Sets

10. mark & graham block print travel set.

• waterproof toothbrush case
• easy to clean
• heat-protected interior

Mark & Graham

You know how Samuels advised investing in higher-quality products to save yourself from frustration? This is one of those times. Yes, you could find a cotton cosmetics case, hair bag and toothbrush case for far cheaper elsewhere. But you'd be giving up a lot of stellar features that make this set worth its price tag, like the heat-protected interior of the hair tool bag (excellent for the still-hot straightener you need to throw in your bag last minute), the wipeable interior of the cosmetics case (a true life-saver after a spill) and the waterproof-lined toothbrush holder. You can monogram each of the two cases for an extra-personal touch, and the zipper closures have a tassel that make them easier to pull.

• Best for: makeup, hair products, toothbrush

Best Shoe Travel Organizer

11. eneteck shoe bags.

• minimalist cube shape
• can fold flat
• holds three pairs
• trolley sleeve
• weak zippers

Whether you’re bringing sneakers, stilettos or crocs along for the ride, there’s no better way to pack your kicks than with this travel organizer that's designed specifically for your shoes. Its three stacked layers will keep each pair separate, and its water-resistant mesh areas will keep things nice and breathable. We also love that it includes a trolley sleeve, complete with a cell phone pocket, on the back, so you won't have to take up any extra room inside your luggage to use it.

• Best for: sneakers, flip-flops, heels, loafers

Best Travel Pouch

12. calpak compakt pouch set.

• lightweight
• heavy-duty zippers
• hanging loops
• on the thin side
• colors may differ from photos

Store cosmetics, chargers and other small goods to your heart’s content with this set of ripstop nylon organizers in three different sizes. The simple-but-effective craftsmanship includes a heavy-duty zipper that runs along across the top of the cases, and the bright color options will make them easy to identify amongst a sea of packed belongings in your luggage. Reviewers say they're far more spacious than they appear and they're water-resistant, too.

• Best for: makeup, essentials, odds and ends

Most Stylish

13. sophia joy travel organizer.

• super spacious
• wipeable lining
• organizational
• compartments
• may be too big for some

Who said you have to sacrifice order for style while on-the-go? With this chic travel organizer, you can get the best of both worlds. According to Walmart buyers, it holds more than expected between its two large compartments, and the gold hardware with double zippers is well-made, earning this bag a near-perfect rating from its fans. If you're short on packing space, however, you may want to opt for something a bit smaller.

• Best for: makeup, hair products

Best Innovative Travel Organizer

14. cadence travel organizer.

• pre-labeled
• customizable sets
• capacity calculator
• too small for long trips
• original and flex systems not compatible

Love to be ultra-organized? Then feast your eyes on these effortlessly cool capsules by Cadence. These nifty little space-saving tiles connect together via magnets to form the shape of a hexagon. Although the pack of six may be a little on the pricey side, Cadence fans say the worry-free, truly leakproof design make them totally worth the splurge. Raved one buyer: "Maybe the first time ever I could travel with no leaks or spills whatsoever."

You can choose which containers you want in your set, and there's a little capacity calculator to tell you how much of something each one will hold. (A typical capsule, for instance, will fit 13 to 14 uses of moisturizer for about one to two weeks of use.) Pay attention to what set you're ordering if you're looking to stock up, however, as the original set linked here is not compatible with the taller, wider Flex set (from $98).

• Best for: shampoo, conditioner, contact solution, vitamins, pills

Best Packing Cubes Travel Organizer

15. monos compressible travel organizers.

• hard to zip

If you’re the type of person who likes to bring your whole house with you on vacay, this set is for you. It includes four to six separate polyester cubes in varying sizes, and according to the company, each one will maximize the amount of items you'll be able to pack by compressing your items by up to 60 percent. These cubes also offer an air of luxury: One reviewer also noted that the fabric was silky-smooth to the touch, while another raved over the fact that they manage to keep their shape when empty despite still collapsing down for storage.

• Best for: clothes, undergarments, thin shoes

Best Bottle Travel Organizer

16. morfone bottle travel organizer set.

• chic trimmed lining
• transparent center
• oily liquids can leak

There’s no doubt that packing your shampoos, lotions and more can be a nerve-wracking experience. That’s because sometimes, even if you do everything right, a goopy mess can still unfold in your luggage due to bumps and turns while transporting your goods. That’s where this set, specifically designed for liquid-like substances, comes in. With four TSA-approved 3-ounce, wide-mouth bottles, four 3-ounce jars, two spray bottles, two scoopers, a funnel, a cleaning brush, labels and a bag to house it all, you'll have everything you need to fill these silicone receptacles up with your most prized salves, balms and more, plus everything you'll need to clean them out when you've used them all up. The bottles also feature squeeze tops that make them easy to use. Buyers say they do tend to work better with thicker liquids, like shampoos and conditioners, than oily serums, however, which can leak.

• Best for: shampoos, conditioners, soaps and other liquids

What to Look for in a Travel Organizer

Considering that your travel organizer could make or break your trip if your beloved belongings don't arrive to your destination intact, you shouldn't choose one lightly. Below, three things to look out for.

• Size: To guarantee the best outcome, Samuels suggests opting for something that’s not too bulky that doesn’t add a lot of weight.
• Hardware: Another key component to look for when it comes to travel organizers? Hardware. Samuels notes that zippers tend to be more inconsistent with cheaper products, and the last thing you want is a broken one that leaves you unable to access your things on-the-go. As such, she says it's sometimes worth it to spend a little more on a selection with more reliable hardware.
• The extras: Last but not least, with the often inevitable turbulence of planes, trains and automobiles, it's common for packed items to break, spill or be displaced on their journey. Therefore, it's best to keep an eye out for padded options that include straps, buckles, hooks and pockets that can restrain your assets from shifting around. Basically? The more bells and whistles, the better!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of travel organizers.

Travel organizers are ideal for protecting your belongings and neatly displaying them while simultaneously saving you precious storage space. And given the increasingly chaotic nature of traveling (can you say " delays ?"), they can also bring you a much-needed sense of calm during your excursion. “The more organized you can be with your physical belongings, [the more it] will reduce some of the stress that you have with regular travel,” says New-York based professional organizer Linda Samuels of Oh, So Organized! As Samuels points out, getting to your destination and adjusting to a new setting is overwhelming enough as it is, so the last thing you need is a cluttered mess when you finally unzip your luggage. “[If] you have a suitcase or a small bag, and you have things all in a jumble, it's hard to just access what you want,”she tells PureWow. “The more that you can ... create homes within the little home that you're working [with], the easier [things will] be to access."

Where are the best places to buy travel organizers?

While Amazon will be your best bet if you’re planning a last-minute getaway, sites dedicated to travel, such as Calpak and Béis , have a large selection of dependable products that’ll whip your packing game into shape.

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Our 27 Favorite Travel Organizers: Never Leave Home Without These!

5 Reasons Why Travel Organizers Rock

Packing 101: When going on a trip, gathering the things you need and putting them directly in your suitcase is a big no-no. You need functional packing accessories that will help you achieve peace of mind when traveling - knowing that all your essentials are kept perfectly safe in your suitcase. So, if you’re not yet totally convinced as to why you need travel organizers, these reasons might change your mind entirely:

1. Makes anyone a packing PRO. #YesYou

Travel organizers may come in various shapes, sizes, and colors BUT they mainly do one thing - that is, keep you organized (duh). You can use these heaven-sent travel packing accessories for organizing everything. From your documents, keys, toys, and other small loose items to undies, socks, shirts, dresses, bedding, and more! Yes, even if you're an organizing newbie, you can still pack like a total champ with these goodies.

2. Pack MORE than you think.

Never leave any important item behind just because it won't fit in the suitcase. If that's usually the case when you pack, you just need a little help with organizing your things. Travel organizers will allow you to fit more into your bag. They usually compress your things together and you can make use of the empty gap spaces in the luggage for other things. #overpackerproblems

3. No worries about safety!

Other than keeping you organized for your trips, travel organizers also protect the items inside your bag. Properly storing dirty, sharp, leaking, or other potentially damaging objects in your suitcase will help reduce the risk of stained or broken items.

4. Organized on the go? Yes please.

Love road trips? Well, not to worry, our favorite travel organizers will keep your essentials perfectly organized even if you're on the move. Whether you're going on a long car ride or going on an RV camping trip, these items will be your new travel buddies!

5. No travel, no problem!

The best travel organizers are those that are super versatile. If you can use them to organize at home (when you're not traveling), then that means you've hit the jackpot! More uses = more ROI for you, right?? Exhibit A: Our Medium Cube as a pregnancy clothes storage bag ((;

@ezpacking Pregnancy clothes 👉🏻👉🏻to the storage 🤩😄 #ezpacking #packing #organize #preppy #preppyaesthetic #packwithme #packingtips #satisfying #satisfyingvideo ♬ original sound - EzPacking

Cute Organizers You Definitely Need for Your Trip

Do you remember your life before these cute travel accessories came into your life? Well, if you haven’t used them yet, you probably wouldn’t know what it’s like. And that’s exactly why we’re making this list of top travel packing organizers available to you. Make sure to try out some of them for your next trip if you haven’t already.

1. Chic & Clear Packing Cubes

Packing cubes, without a doubt, are the lead stars of the travel organizer world!  Just look at those beautiful cubes of goodness 🤩

So what makes EzPacking cubes a clear winner? Let us count the reasons why: the see-through, transparent design, the structured exterior, fun colors to choose from, different sizes / sets to try out... and a LOT more! Trust us when we say that these packing cubes are definitely game changers. Living out of your suitcase when traveling? You can use these cubes as traveling drawers and stay organized all throughout your trip!

2. Quart Size Bag (TSA Friendly!)

It's clear, it's quart size, it's handy for TSA inspection... Yup, it's our TSA-friendly toiletry bag ! Now tell us, why would you opt for a flimsy ziplock when you can go for this sturdy pouch instead?? Plus, it fits up to 10 travel-size toiletries and has durable zippers for extra assurance that your liquids won't spill out into your other items.  

Pro Tip: Bring along some suction cup hooks in your toiletry bag for hanging things. Bathrooms usually have a lot of mirrors but not enough hooks to hang things. Also, use a small funnel when transferring liquids from full-size bottles to travel size containers to avoid spills.

3. Cadence Capsule Jars

These Cadence 'capsule' style containers are a pretty alternative to your regular 3 oz bottles. You know us, we're all about aesthetic but functional products! Each magnetic capsule can fit up to 0.56 ounces of creams, liquids or gels. You can mix and match different capsules to build your own functional toiletry stash. Then pack them into your very own Quart Size Bag (which fits up to 12 capsules total).

4. "Oh-So-Pretty" Makeup Bag

**Thanks to Livi for this gorgeous photo!

Organize your travel makeup must haves in this fab makeup pouch!  Things that make you feel pretty deserve to be organized in a beautiful pouch as well, agree?? Aside from the handy clear design, this cosmetic bag is super easy to clean - just use a wet wipe or clean cloth to remove any stains or leaks. 

5. Packable Tote

Is it a tote bag? Is it a backpack? It's actually both! The Notabag is a 2-in-1 convertible bag that can be folded into a hand-sized pouch. Choose from lots of fun colors such as Olive, Cornflower, Mustard and more! Super convenient for when you love going shopping when traveling. Plus, it's actually cute and stylish (for a tote bag).

6. Bright Folder Envelope

Whenever you’re traveling, it's important to have digital and printed copies of all your important files. Use a cute (ideally bright / printed) envelope for safekeeping! Make sure it's waterproof and has a snap closure (or zipper) so you won't lose all your important information.

7. Wires and Cable Pouch

Don't let your cables get tangled up! This beautiful organizer pouch from Native Union is a classy way to keep your cords neat and tidy. It has different compartments and elastic loops so you can organize all your tech stuff. It could easily fit all your essentials and more!

8. Waterproof Phone Pouch

Gotta take those perfectly shot photos for the 'gram? Well, this waterproof phone pouch from Case Mate is for YOU. Perfect for beach trips, kayaking, fishing, sailing, and more! It has a clear-front window so you can still check your messages, emails, social media, etc. even on the go. Plus, a handy lanyard for hanging the phone around your neck.

9. Travel Shoe Bag

Keep the dirty soles of your shoes away from your clean clothes by using a travel shoe bag, like this one . This shoe pouch is very useful especially if you don't have the luxury of time to wash or touch them up before your trip. Aside from keeping your essentials free from your shoes’ dust and dirt, this bag can be easily washed so you can reuse it anytime.

10. Dry Bag

If your adventures involve a lot of water, investing in a durable dry bag is a MUST. This foldable dry bag from Savvy Outdoors is currently our fave! It meets all our criteria for a dry bag: compact, lightweight, waterproof (of course!), and comes in cute colors (like lavender). 

11. Collapsible Travel Cup

Coffee? Tea? Or this Stojo Collapsible Cup ? Whether you love drinking coffee on the go or think water is key, this collapsible cup will be your new travel buddy. It's available in different sizes such as 8, 12, and 16 ounces. When you're done, simply collapse the cup and stow away in your travel bag. 

12. Collapsible Travel Bowl 

Of course you need snacks on snacks! Store your nibbles in this Stojo Collapsible Bowl (get a color that matches with your collapsible cup) and snacking on the go will be super easy. The best part is that you can use your collapsible bowl to store leftovers at home too! #versatility

13. RFID Travel Wallet

Trade your regular wallet with this 'travel' compatible wallet instead! It's compact, lightweight and really cute too. It has 5 credit card slots, 1 ID window and 2 bill compartments. Since it's RFID blocking, you don't need to worry about your card info being stolen while you're out and about.

Pro Tip:  Do a little wallet cleaning before leaving for your trip! Remove any unnecessary trash, receipts, old cards, etc. from your wallet to lighten your load and free up some space.

14. Fanny Pack

Yes, fanny packs are back and just perfect for travel! It's the ideal in-between if you just don't want to carry a huge backpack or a tote bag. This one from Herschel is a definite fave! It can fit your everyday essentials such as keys, small wallet, phone, earphones and sunglasses. It's convertible too so you can wear it as a belt bag or a crossbody bag.

15. Jewelry Organizer

A woman is never without her accessories. Great thing there’s an organizer for all your blings and trinkets! This travel jewelry case  is an angel for organizing your rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and more! It has zippers and pockets to keep your jewelry items separate and avoid entangling with the others. You can easily pack this jewelry organizer in your carry-on luggage or personal items bag for safekeeping.

Pro Tip: Leave your expensive jewelry at home!  You can wear a cheap silicone wedding ring instead of your wedding ring when you’re traveling. Then bring your staple earrings and necklace, and pack the rest of your lesser-priced jewelry in its own organizer.

16. Travel Scarf with Hidden Pocket

If you’re traveling to a place with common cases of theft and/or pickpocketing, using travel organizers with hidden pockets will be very useful. There’s this infinity scarf with hidden pocket . It will enable you to travel and navigate hands-free. You can keep your cash, cards, passport, and other essential personal items safe. It’s a great and subtle way to secure your belongings at the airport or while in transit.

17. Weekender Bag

Weekend trips call for stylish duffel bags! This Lo and Sons Cataline Deluxe is our best bet for a chic yet spacious weekender bag. You can choose between two materials: recycled polyester or eco-friendly canvas. It has a bottom pocket and a messenger strap for extra comfort while carrying. And did we mention it looks super trendy too? #gottahaveit

18. Backpack

A backpack is a traveler’s best friend; no matter what kind of trip it is, you can always make use of a backpack. It can be used for all types of trips - short term or long term - as it perfectly keeps your essentials neatly organized, especially when you use clear packing cubes like travel drawers. If you want to know the best backpacks for packing cubes, we’ve got a complete list right here .

19. Travel Laundry Bag

@ezpacking Look how much this laundry bag can fit! 💙 #ezpacking #packingtips #packingtips #packinghacks #tsaapproved #momhacks #travel #traveltips #preppy #preppyaesthetic #travelpacking #carryon #fyp #fypage #fypp ♬ Made You Look - Meghan Trainor

Separate your dirty clothes from the clean ones by using a travel laundry bag . Having a designated bag for your dirty clothes will definitely save you a lot of headache. When not in use, you can always use this bag as a storage for your shoes, stuffed toys, and other larger travel items.

20. In-Flight Organizer

Grab your flight essentials and organize them using this Tray / Seatback Organizer ! It's definitely a long flight must have. The different pockets make storing your flight necessities very easy. No need to bend over to get items inside your stowaway bag or use the built-in seat pocket. 

21. Travel Passport Holder

Keep your passport handy and protected with this beautiful Passport Cover . We love the elegant design and it comes in chic colors like this caramel brown! It's very sturdy and will last a lifetime of your trips. ((:

22. Large Cosmetic Bag for Checked Luggage

Packing toiletries in your checked bag? Our Large Toiletry Bag has got your back! This beauty can fit up to 20 full size cosmetics or toiletries. The clear exterior and clamshell design means you can use it as a bathroom caddy. Choose from gorgeous colors such as blush or silver and get packing already!

23. Socks and Undies Organizer

@ezpacking 🧦🧦🧦 #ezpacking #packing #organize #preppy #grwm #smallbusiness #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #fypdongggggggg #viral #packingorders #viralvideo ♬ save your tears sped up - hollyﾒ𝟶

Don’t just pack your undies together with your clothes, designate a separate storage for your delicate items. You can always roll your undies and store them in a Small Cube for safekeeping. But if you want one that has pockets and dividers, you can find this portable underwear storage bag to your liking. It’s got many pockets you can use to organize your underwear, socks, bras, and more!

24. Laptop Sleeve

If you’re bringing your laptop along with you on your trip, the best way to store it is by having a protective laptop case. You can hold onto it while you’re navigating the airport or perhaps while in transit, or you can store it in your backpack for safekeeping.

Pro Tip: Remember, don’t pack your laptop in your checked in luggage. Airport porters may not handle your luggage gently and might break whatever electronics or gadgets you have packed in there.

25. Snack Pack

@ezpacking i need snacks wherever i go ✌🏻🤭🤪 #ezpacking #packing #food #snacks #organize #travel #traveltiktok #preppy #grwm #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #fypdongggggggg #viral #trending 💗@India Simmons ♬ original sound - EzPacking

This Extra Small Cube makes a great snack pack for your long-haul flight! You can pack chips, fruits, biscuits, nuts, granola bars, and other snack favorites in this clear cube. Pack some sweet treats as well if you’re traveling with kids.

26. Wrist Lanyard for Keys

If you're tired of keeping bulky and jingly keys in your pocket, you don't need to get rid of them; you just need something to organize them. Key organizers range from simple ones to fancy and flashy ones. These organizers hold your keys together in a streamlined case so you can save space and quickly access them when needed. You can attach it on your belt loops or the inside pocket of your bag so your keys won't get easily lost or stolen.

27. Circle Pouch Set for Loose Items

For organizing your travel size loose items like ear plugs, candies/chewing gum, coins, nuts, earrings, or other stuff you find lying around, we recommend our cute Circle Pouches .  Each set comes with 2 different sizes which you can use to organize all kinds of small items! 

Now that you know what the best travel organizers are, we hope that you’ll try them out for your next trip. Although you could travel without these organizers, using them will make you realize there’s a better and more efficient way of packing things, and your life will never be the same! We can’t even imagine what traveling was like before using these travel packing accessories!

Do you know someone who can use these travel organizers? They make perfect gifts, too, you know. *wink wink*

Happy travels!

P.S. Want more travel tips? Check out our post on The Best Travel Tips: 100 Ways to Travel Smart(er)!

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The Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

There are a lot of travel organizers on the market today and we have tried most of them. Below we have listed the best travel organizers for everything from electronics and jewelry to toiletries and clothes.

After traveling to 120 countries and living out of a suitcase for 15 years we have learned that the  key to smart packing  lies in staying organized. Using the right travel organizers can take a lot of stress out of your trip giving you the freedom to move with ease and find anything in a snap.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Luggage Organizers

If you are not using travel organizer bags in your travel luggage then you are missing out. Packing cubes simplify the process of organizing and help you keep your sanity when you are looking through your entire suitcase for a piece of clothing .

Packing Cubes are always on top of our travel essentials list for travel packing organizers. They are guaranteed to keep your clothes in order and you’ll soon discover that this one affordable piece is the best travel organizer to add to your travel gear.

Recommended Packing Cubes

If there is one thing you need in your luggage it is a set of these slim cubes. They’re simply the best travel organizers out there.

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cubes

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set – With plenty of color options, you can mix and match bags to separate clothing and gear. This set of three comes in small, medium, and large. These are perfect if you are trying to downsize your luggage to carry-on only as you can stuff your clothes into them without worrying about the zipper breaking.

They are made of nylon fabric and have heavy-duty zippers with an easy grab handle so they slip in and out of your bag easily. You’ll find that when talking to an expert traveler, they will have packing cubes at the top of our organization lists.

Amazon Basics Packing Cubes

Amazon Basics Packing Cubes – If you travel with a backpack you may want to consider Amazon Basics packing cubes. They are a bit more economical than the ones above but are still good quality. These highly rated packing cubes have a mesh top panel that gives easy identification of contents and ventilation. Plus the soft mesh won’t damage your delicate fabrics. We usually get them in medium, but you can get them in other sizes as well.

CipWay Compression Cubes

Cipway Compression Cubes – If you find that you need to pack a lot in your luggage, compression cubes are a great way to make more space to help you easily pack more into your suitcase. Compression cubes squeeze down clothes into a smaller space. You can then pack away those bulkier items in the bottom of our suitcase and get them out at your convenience.

Its reinforced zippers with double stitching make this compression packing cube set extremely durable.

Travel Organizers for Toiletries

We have tried to find the best toiletry organizer over the years that is not too heavy, is durable, waterproof, and can fit everything we need into it. After trying a few different ones these are the toiletry bags that we recommend.

Pack-It Wallaby Toiletry Bag

The Pack-It Wallaby Toiletry Bag – It is hard to find one toiletry bag for 2 people but this one works. It is good quality, it has a removable clear pouch for the TSA security check, a stowable hook to hang on doors and different pockets for different items such as toothpaste, and medication. If you forget to pack a mirror, no worries, there is a shatterproof mirror in this pouch.

Bago Hanging Toiletry Kit for Men and Women

Although a little smaller than the one above, this toiletry travel organizer is laid out well for both men and women to easily fit all your travel accessories. It is made of durable  Rip-Stop Honeycomb  waterproof fabric, has lots of compartments, and has two easy-access side pockets.

Silicon Travel Bottle Set

This Travel Bottle Set is perfect for organizing our liquids and gels. The TSA-approved travel containers are leakproof and fit easily into your toiletry bags. They are refillable for 2oz or 3 oz liquids including shampoos, lotions, and sprays.

Travel Organizer Bags for Shoes

Shoes are a pain to pack. They are big, heavy, and often dirty. These are the reasons we started using shoe bags. It keeps shoes together for easy organization and stops them from getting other things in your bag all dirty.

YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags

YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags Set of 4 – We recommend the YAMIU Travel Shoe Bags because they are the most versatile. They are big enough for men’s shoes up to size 14, they are waterproof and really durable. They are also lightweight which is very important in today’s travel world. These travel shoe bags fit 1 pair of shoes each so if you are looking for a separate shoe bag for each shoe you might want to consider the ones below.

PCS Travel Shoe Bags

PCS Travel Shoe Bags – These are more of your basic shoe bags. They are made of 100% cotton and close via a drawstring. They are big enough for large footwear and are very durable. They also allow you to space out your shoes when organizing up your suitcase. These are perfect for dress shoes or women’s heels.

Underwear Organizers

If you want to keep your underwear and bras organized and in shape then an underwear organizer is something you will want to consider. Sure, you could throw it all in a packing cube, but this tends to destroy bras and we all know a good bra is not cheap.

Multi-Functional Underwear Travel Organizer

VPang Fashion Portable Multi-Functional Travel Organizer -This underwear and bra organizer is set up perfectly to carry 3 to 5 bras, and 4-6 panties. The bras fit in the bottom and keep their shape while the panties slide into pockets under the top. This is a little on the small side so make sure your bras will fit before buying.

Freegrace Underwear Bag

Freegrace Travel Organizer Underwear Bag – This is the larger of the two underwear organizers and could actually be used as your toiletry bag as well. It has 2 compartments and numerous pockets so you will never run out of space. Built of high-quality materials it is also quite durable.

Packing Pouches

A packing pouch is similar to a packing cube but it is usually smaller and we use them to organize by grouping our small items together, extra toiletries, hair products, camera accessories, and more.  These packing pouches  are one of our favorite travel accessories.

Travel Organizers Electronics

One of the most frustrating things about keeping our luggage organized is having a mess of plugs and charging cords for all of our electronics. There is nothing worse than reaching into a ziplock bag full of tangled cords and charging cables trying to find the right one.

To avoid that hassle make sure to pick up one of these best travel cord organizers for a tangle-free experience.

BAGSMART Electronics Organizer

BAGSMART Electronic Organizer Travel – This is the top-rated electronics organizer on the market and you can see why. It is economical, well laid out, durable and the perfect size for traveling. What I like about its multiple elastic loops for all our cords and cables and it has a holder for SD cards as well. They have thought of everything.

BUBM Double Layer Electronic Accessories Organizer

BUBM Double Layer Electronic Accessories Organizer – This organization case has two layers. The top layer has 9 elastic loops and 8 mesh pockets and the bottom layer has 2 large mesh pockets. Plus there is a Neoprene soft sleeve pouch for your iPad. The BUBM case has enough room for all your electronic needs and is perfect for digital nomads. The build quality is great and waterproof. You can’t go wrong with any of these choices to organize those unruly cables.

Best Travel Laundry Bags

We used to throw our dirty laundry in a plastic bag and hope for the best but we soon found that a breathable mesh or waterproof bag helped separate our dirty clothes from the rest of our luggage. No matter how long our trip is, we always carry a bag for our dirty laundry.

Miamica Laundry Bag

Miamica Laundry Bag – Miamica travel laundry bag is the perfect laundry bag in my opinion. It folds into itself so it doesn’t take up any room in your bag, folds out to a full-size bag, and is moisture and tear-resistant. Everything you want in a travel laundry bag

Foldable Travel Laundry Bag

  Foldable Travel Laundry Bag – Another lightweight bag that folds up so small you hardly know it is there. It is not expensive and is the perfect solution if you are on a budget. It expands to 22 inches and is made of polyester which helps with odors. It’s lightweight yet sturdy and foldable. It is also waterproof so you can store your swimwear or other wet items.

Travel Wallet and Document Organizers

Every traveler needs to keep an eye on their valuables and these RFID organizers are a great safety feature. Having your travel documents at your fingertips can really relieve a lot of stress in life when you are crossing borders.

Pacsafe RFIDsafe Anti-Theft Travel Organizer

Pacsafe RFIDsafe V150 Anti-Theft RFID Blocking Travel Organizer – This travel organizer holds our passports, money, tons of credit cards and travel cards, and driver’s licenses. It also serves as a pen holder and has a clip that serves as a key holder. Plus it has  RFID protection  and it looks great too. Read more: The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories

BAGSMART Passport Holder

BAGSMART Passport Holder and Document Organizer – A little smaller than the Pacsafe without a couple of the bells and whistles the BAGSMART Passport Holder is a stylish passport wallet and document organizer.

It has RFID protection which is perfect for travelers as well as 6 pocket slots, and a mesh pocket for change. Plus it is big enough to hold your passports and boarding pass.

Check out our guide to  The Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags and Accessories  for more suggestions and information.

Pill Organizers

One of the best ways to save space and weight is to eliminate all those pill bottles. The best way to do this is to use a pill organizer. Regardless of whether it is pain pills, medication, vitamins, or supplements, one of these will help you keep them organized all in one place. When traveling by carry-on only, it’s important to be as light as possible and every ounce counts.

LeanTravel 7 / 28 Day Pill Case Organizer

LeanTravel 7 Day / 28 Day Travel Premium Pill Case Organizer   – This is like the Cadillac of pill organizers. Perfect to take on the plane with you as it doubles as a Passport and travel documents wallet as well. It holds up to 28 days of vitamins and pills and is made from premium-quality polyester. It not only keeps your pills organized it is extremely stylish as well.

Lewis N. Clark Folding Pill Organizer

Lewis N. Clark AM/PM Folding Pill Organizer : If you have pills that you have to take at a certain time of the day then this is the best pill organizer for you.  It is lightweight, cost-effective, and has sixteen clear pouches, which can be individually taken out as needed. They are also labeled with red tabs and blue tabs as well as numbers so it is easy to keep track.

Best Makeup Travel Organizers

In order to keep your make-up from spilling on your clothes or getting broken, you should invest in a good make-up organizer. Look for one that is durable and lightweight and has padded dividers and compartments.

It should have a place for your brushes and be at least water-resistant. Check out the best travel cosmetic organizers below.

Relavel Cosmetics Case Organizer

Relavel Cosmetics Case Organizer – This is the best makeup travel organizer on the market. It has a lot of adjustable compartments and can hold just about anything you throw at it. It measures 10.3 x 9 x 3.6, so it is not too big and it is waterproof and shockproof.

If you have an extensive makeup kit or want to use this to do double duty (toiletry storage) the Relavel Cosmetic Case Organizer has you covered.

NiceEbag Travel Makeup Bag

NiceEbag Travel Makeup Bag – Roughly the same size as the Relavel, this travel cosmetic organizer is less expensive. The cosmetic bag is made of oxford cloth and nylon lining. It is waterproof, shockproof, and wear-resistant. The multiple compartments make it not only good for makeup and tools but can be used for men’s shaving supplies and other specialty items. The neutral design is good for anyone’s taste.

Jewelry Organizers for Travel

I don’t wear a lot of expensive jewelry when traveling, but I do like to have different necklaces and bracelets that I have collected. I have ruined many an item during my travels, and that is why I like to now have a proper jewelry organizer.

Becko Jewelry Organizer

Becko Jewelry Organizer – I love this jewelry organizer that protects my belongings while on the go. The design helps to prefect necklaces from intertwining and it has four elastic pouches for different pendants. It holds up to 7 necklaces, 16 earrings, 8 rings, bracelets watches, and even sunglasses. The detachable pocket lets you pack items independently.

And these are the best travel organizers to help you stay organized for your trip. You don’t have to be a neat freak or an A-Type personality to benefit from these items. You can be like us, just sick of opening your bag and seeing chaos.

Eager for more packing tips?

If you enjoyed our list of the best travel organizers, why not check out som of our other travel packing tips to help you get the most out of your next vacation.

• The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)
• Packing for Europe – Tips That Will Make Your Travel Life Easier
• Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
• The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
• The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories
• Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?

Are there any travel organizers that you would add to the list? If so, leave them in the comments so we can try them out too!

Disclosure: There are some affiliate links in the post above, but these are all products we highly recommend. We won’t put anything on this page that we haven’t verified and/or personally used

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19 thoughts on “The Best Travel Organizers for Smarter Packing”

Clothing sack is must. I never considered keeping it with me while voyaging. A debt of gratitude is in order for adding perhaps the main thing in my knapsack ?

Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge with us, we are always lost when we start a trip and it is appreciated to find these explanations written for people with little knowledge of the subject. I said, thank you very much and continue teaching us so many things with such good content

That’s great I think without that packing cubes traveling is such a headache if travelers want full enjoyment than they have to organize all things not only residence, food, and vehicle along with a good packing organizer is also a stress-free trip really useful article for all travelers

I am obsessed with organization for the home, so these ideas for organized packing bring me joy. I am a big fan of the packing cubes.

An excellent article that is full of tips for effective organizing. One that I have used consistently is a pouch for passport and other documents. Money was kept in a neck pouch and I learned the hard way never to have keys in a pocket or purse. Have never used the packing pouches for clothing, but will test them out on or before my next trip. Not sure, though, that anything can help with the chaotic atmosphere encountered at some TSA checkpoints . Mercy!

Laundry bag is must. I never thought of keeping it with me while travelling. Thanks for adding one of the most important thing in my backpack 🙂

We follow the same tips but always manage to forget our laundry bag! So thanks for the reminder, putting it next to our cubes now 🙂

Ah yes, I hate it when we forget the laundry bag. Packing cubes work well too.

gostei muito do Saco De Toileiro é muito bem dividido e prático.

We’re firmly in the “we love packing cubes” camp. Having everything organized makes it so much easier to unpack and repack, and to quickly find things.

They’re great aren’t they? We used to use zip lock bags but once we discovered packing cubes, we can’t go back.

I like the packing cubes, very useful accessory and would personally recommend them.

Love this article since I have a difficult time to pack all my things when I travel abroad.

Amazing Article great information thanks for sharing us

This is a great list of suggestions. I have some of these and really enjoy my toiletry bag. I never leave home without it. The packing cubes is new to me though. I always used a large plastic bag to store my dirty clothes in. I like the packing cubes idea as a great substitute for my plastic bag. It sounds so much better. Instead of the travel organizer that you suggested here, I use one that hangs around my neck and can be tucked into your top shirt or blouse. This prevents pickpockets and theft and it is easily obtained when needed. Thanks for some great suggestions.

Thank you very much for this useful information about packing.

Thank you for the infromation and guidelines about packing 🙂

Good idea , I always have problem ‘how to pack a suitcase’ and I forget a half of my things .

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The 7 Best Packing Cubes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love space-saving packing cubes for long and short trips, and these are the best out there.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Look for sets that include multiple sizes

Frequently asked questions.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Packing cubes are hands down one of the best travel hacks out there. Whether you’re a meticulous list-maker or planning procrastinator, investing in a set of packing cubes is a game changer for staying organized and saving space without having to put in too much effort. 

At Travel + Leisure , we take our travel hacks seriously so we put 23 sets of regular and compression packing cubes to the test both in our New York City lab and out during real travels to find the best ones on the market. We understand that everyone has unique preferences so we also found picks for travelers embarking on long trips, outdoor adventurers, and minimalist packers looking for one just a few cubes to do the trick.

Best Overall

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

The lightweight cubes easily compress clothing down to save space in a suitcase. 

They repel some water but are not waterproof. 

We love the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes thanks to their impressive space-saving ability. During six months of tests, we found these cubes to be monumentally helpful when it comes to consolidating and organizing clothing items between the different-sized cubes. The compression cubes help you get more items packed than a regular version of a packing cube and the sturdy zippers make compressing the packed cubes easy, leading us to believe that these cubes will last over time with the durable zippers and stitchwork. 

Although the nylon material isn’t waterproof, we splashed a little water on the outside and found that the material repels some water (but the clothing should remain dry with the extra protection of a suitcase, too). Plus, the handles on the top of each cube make it easy to grab the bags for packing and unpacking, and we love that the set includes an extra-large, large, medium, and small bag for variety.

The Details: 3 or 4 bags included | 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra large), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), and 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small) | Ripstop nylon

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Shacke Pak 5 Set Packing Cubes

 Amazon

• Design 4 /5
• Quality 4 /5

The set includes four cubes and a laundry bag. 

The mesh tops aren’t waterproof or resistant.

Whether you’re traveling with family or heading on a solo trip , these Shacke packing cubes are a steal of a deal. The set includes extra-large, large, medium, and small packing cubes, as well as a laundry bag for dirty clothes. Designed for up to 14 days of traveling, we found that the cubes lived up to their promise of providing plenty of space for a variety of types of clothing like pants, toiletries, shirts, and jackets. The cubes easily fit in the carry-on suitcase we used and with the various sizes, you can customize how many cubes you want to pack depending on the type of suitcase you have. 

While the cubes likely won’t prevent water from seeping through due to the mesh tops, you can easily see what you packed inside so you won’t have to unpack everything to find a piece of clothing. During our tests, we felt the durable nylon material and zippers would hold up well with prolonged use, and you can't beat the price for the full set either. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), and 20.5 x 15.75 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon

Best for Long Trips

Veken packing cubes with laundry and shoe bag.

The set includes four packing cubes, a shoe bag, and a laundry bag. 

These have to be hand-washed and air-dried. 

If you’re traveling internationally or taking an extended vacation, consider picking up a set of these Veken packing cubes from Amazon. The four packing cubes are thoughtfully designed with a clear strip on the top so travelers can easily see what they packed, and there are small graphics printed onto each cube recommending what type of clothing item could be stored inside. This set also includes a shoe bag and a laundry bag so you can keep your items separated and organized. We like that there are several different sizes so you don't have small items moving around in a cube that's too big or trying to cram a larger sweatshirt into something too small.

We think these nylon and polyester packing cubes are made to last with a thick fabric exterior and sturdy zippers and stitchwork. After six months of use, there is no sign of wear and the zippers are holding up well. Although we found the cubes to be slightly heavier than others we tested so keep that in mind if you’re an overpacker or striving to stay under the standard 50-pound limit for checked luggage. 

The Details: 6 bags included | 17.5 x 12.15 x 4 (extra large), 13.75 x 12.75 x 4 inches (large), 3.75 x 9.75 x 4 inches (medium), 11 x 6.75 x 4 inches (small), 16.96 x 9.06 x 4.72 (shoe bag), and 20 x 14 inches (laundry bag) | Nylon, ethylene vinyl acetate, and polyester 

Best for Camping

Rei co-op expandable packing cube set.

The tent-like material is lightweight and has a rugged look.

The mesh top doesn’t feel as durable as we hoped and these bags lose their shape when fully packed.

Outdoor enthusiasts should consider REI Co-op’s lightweight packing cubes for upcoming camping trips. The set of two comes with large and medium packing cubes that remain at the standard three-inch height or they can be expanded another three inches to double the capacity. After six months of regularly using the packing cubes, we found that all seams and zippers held up extremely well, even after packing heavy winter clothing.

In testing, the tent-like nylon proved to be water-resistant as advertised, however, the top of the cubes are made of a breathable mesh that doesn’t repel water and felt a little less sturdy than the nylon portion. Though the mesh top isn’t ideal for waterproofness, we like how easy it is to see what we packed through the little mesh holes. Plus, the lightweight materials are ideal for campers or backpackers looking to stay organized without sacrificing weight. 

The Details: 2 bags included | 14.5 x 10.5 x 3 inches (large) and 12 x 8 x 3 inches (medium) | Ripstop nylon and polyester

Best Sustainable

Peak design packing cubes.

Peak Design

Peak Design uses 100 percent recycled materials to make the cubes.

The easy access zippers were finicky to use.

San Francisco-based Peak Design is known for its slew of sustainable outdoor gear made with carbon neutral and recycled materials, including expandable packing cubes. We tried the small- and medium-sized cubes and found them to be spacious, well-built, and resistant to water after splashing a bit on the exterior. After regularly using the cubes for six months, we loved the capacity of the medium cube and found the smaller option to be good for packing undergarments or even toiletries. We especially love that the cubes are made from 100 percent recycled nylon that is solution-dyed to prevent excessive water use following the brand’s carbon-neutral footprint and each bag expands to fit even more items.

The cubes can compress down to a height of 3.1 inches, but we discovered they function best as an expandable packing cube that can increase in size, rather than a compression cube that is designed to heavily consolidate clothes. Additionally, the cubes feature an “easy access” zipper so travelers can reach inside the bag without opening the whole thing, but we think this feature is unnecessary to use due to the zipper getting snagged. 

The Details: 1 bag included | Various sizes | Ripstop nylon

Best Personalized

Paravel packing cube quad.

• Design 4.5 /5

The cubes can be monogrammed with up to three letters for an additional $25. 

The large cube is so big it takes up most of the space of a carry-on bag.

Indulge your love for matching with this set of personalized packing cubes from Paravel. Although it costs an extra $25, you can get up to three letters embroidered onto the set of four packing cubes with 11 color options. If you're shopping for a stylish, functional personalized travel gift , this is a wonderful option. The set comes with one large, one medium, and two small-sized packing cubes that can hold an impressive amount of clothing and still fit in most carry-on bags. These cubes are great for any type of traveler, but especially for those looking for water-resistant cubes for checked bags that will be handled outside in different weather conditions. After six months of use, we found that these cubes provide exceptional organization with room to pack bulkier items in the larger bags and toiletries or undergarments between the two smaller cubes.

As a bonus, these cubes won't take up much space in between trips. They're easy to store and stack right inside one another. The size variety is also convenient for different types of trips and we love having the option to use one, two, three, or all four bags in a checked bag if needed.

The Details: 4 bags included | 18 x 3.75 x 12 inches (large), 12.75 x 3.75 x 10 inches (medium), and 8.2 x. 3.75 x 6.25 inches (small) | Nylon

Calpak Packing Cubes 5-piece Set

There are 14 designs to choose from including groovy blue, retro sunset, and cheetah prints. 

The set might be better suited for frequent fliers.

If you travel often and are looking to invest in a splurge-worthy set of packing cubes, you can’t go wrong with these from Calpak. We love the unique design options with 14 colors and patterns to choose from including classics like solid pink and gold marble, or limited-edition prints like a wavy retro sunset and groovy blue picks. The set includes one large, one medium, and two small cubes, as well as a water-resistant envelope for cosmetics.

After six months of using these packing cubes during international trips, we found that all the bags were spacious enough to fit a variety of clothing options for organized and efficient packing. We love the diversity of sizes to hold things like undergarments as well as shoes if needed. We also love the option to bring a folded large cube to keep dirty clothes separate. The polyester material feels well-made and built to last, and the zippers zipped without any issues which helps justify the higher price point for this set. And, if you’re traveling with your family, we think the set would be great for separating and organizing clothing for several travelers thanks to the removable identification tags where you can write what clothing went into each cube. 

The Details: 5 bags included | 17 x 12 x 3 inches (large), 15 x 11 x 3 inches (medium), 12 x 8.8 x 3 inches (small), and 13 x 10 x 1.5 inches (envelope) | Polyester

Other Packing Cubes We Liked

There were several sets of packing cubes we highlighted below that almost made our list of best packing cubes, but they fell short during testing due some minor flaws we noticed. 

Well Traveled Compression Packing Cubes : This set of compression packing cubes is great for budget-friendly travelers but our top pick is also a compression set that had a better overall performance in testing. 

Lean Travel Premium Compression Packing Cubes : The set of three cubes is made with thick polyester that still feels lightweight, but besides that, there weren’t any standout features compared to our other top performers. 

Briggs & Riley Packing Cubes : These cubes were spacious and water-resistant, but for $59, we expected a higher performance to match the price for three standard packing cubes.

We evaluated 23 sets of both compression and regular packing cubes in our New York City lab and based our testing on traits like capacity, design, quality, and value. First, we unpackaged the sets of packing cubes and examined the quality of the bags by twisting and pulling them to check the stitchwork and using the zippers to see if they snagged or glided smoothly. After packing the cubes with a variety of clothing items like pants, jackets, undergarments, and shirts, we placed the cubes in a carry-on suitcase to see how well they fit in a piece of luggage. Our top contenders for capacity and design provided plenty of space for a range of clothing items with useful and thoughtful features that made packing easier and more organized.

For compression-specific packing cubes, we paid close attention to how much space the packing cube saved once we zipped the compression zippers. For all cubes, we splashed a bit of water on the exterior and felt the inside to see if any of the packed contents were damp. After testing each set of cubes in our lab, we sent them home to be tested during real travels around the world for six months. We regularly collected insights on durability, functionality, and overall quality during this period to ensure each cube continued to impress.

Tips for Buying Packing Cubes

Compare compression versus regular packing cubes.

Compression packing cubes are designed to condense clothing by using the compression zipper to pack down the clothes in order to save space in a suitcase. Regular packing cubes are mainly for organizing clothes efficiently rather than consolidating clothing to make more room in a piece of luggage. Compression packing cubes can usually be expanded or compressed which gives travelers the best of both worlds.

One of the best parts about packing cubes is staying organized on the go with little effort. To help you keep like items together, consider buying a set of multiple packing cubes with different sizes. That way, you can know without opening the case what cube holds your pants, your shirts, your undergarments, and more. The various size options also let you mix and match the cubes to fit whatever luggage you're bringing from weekender duffles to large checked bags.

Flexible fabrics like nylon or polyester are best for packing cubes as they'll allow you to pack the most items. These materials also tend to be water-resistant, keeping your items extra safe throughout your travels.

When it comes to saving space, experts say you can fold your clothes or roll them — it ultimately doesn’t matter. The most important thing is maximizing your space, and packing cubes are great for doing just that. Besides saving space, packing cubes can help you stay organized before and during your trip making them a must-have travel organizer .

For travelers who usually use checked luggage, consider purchasing a set with five or six cubes included so you can maximize space in each suitcase. And, if you’re a carry-on-only type of traveler, one or two packing cubes in small or medium sizes could be better suited for your needs, and you won’t have to worry about storing a large set either. Backpackers or campers should consider getting just one or two compression or regular cubes that can fit in a backpack or weekender bag for lighter packing .

Depending on the size of your packing cubes and luggage, the bags can be placed in either compartment of a suitcase or duffel bag. As always, you'll want to do your best to evenly distribute the heavy packing cubes so the bag doesn't become top or bottom-heavy. Ideally, the rectangle shape of your cubes should make it easy to take up every inch of space in a suitcase.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure , covering all of the best travel products from luggage to footwear. A recently converted compression packing cube user, Anna didn't know what she was missing out on until investing in multiple sets of packing cubes. She put together this list of the best packing cubes based on the results from the packing cube test we conducted in our New York City lab.

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EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

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If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

Alya and Campbell

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Moscow Throws Putin Fanboy Scott Ritter Under the Bus

The former U.N. weapons inspector turned sex offender says he was pulled off a plane heading to Russia.

Allison Quinn

News Editor

David McNew/Getty Images

Former U.N. weapons inspector turned sex offender Scott Ritter has made a name for himself parroting Kremlin propaganda about the war against Ukraine.

But if he was hoping Moscow would back him up after he says he was barred from traveling to Russia because Washington is “afraid” of him appearing at a St. Petersburg economic forum, he was apparently sadly mistaken.

While Ritter and his supporters—including Russian media—have played up the notion that his passport was seized because he has the U.S. administration shaking in their boots, the Kremlin did not share in this hysteria.

Asked about the scandal Tuesday, Vladimir Putin ’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov played down Ritter’s claims. He told reporters the “details” about the situation were not clear and that there was nothing unusual about a former intelligence officer facing certain travel restrictions.

“This is practiced in almost all countries in relation to former intelligence officers,” he said.

He added, however, that if Ritter truly was thrown off the flight to stop him speaking in Russia then it was part of a “frenzied campaign to prevent U.S. citizens from establishing at least some contacts with Russia.”

Ritter famously visited Chechnya in January and delivered a pep talk in broken Russian to thousands of troops who’ve been waging war in Ukraine, so he’s already had plenty of “contacts” apparently even with Russian leaders sanctioned by the West.

The State Department has declined to comment on the “status” of Ritter’s passport. Ritter, who was convicted in an underage online sex sting in 2011, told Kremlin-controlled media on Monday that he was pulled off a flight on his way to the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, where he was slated to speak.

“They took my passport. When asked why, they said ‘orders of the State Department,’” he told RT, later claiming that the real “purpose” of the move was to deprive Russia of his presence.

“They stuck it to the Russians,” he claimed.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday that there’s nothing Moscow can do to help Ritter.

“He’s not a Russian citizen,” he said.

Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast  here .

READ THIS LIST

Is it safe to travel to France? The latest advice

T he French government has raised its terror alert to the highest possible level, “emergency”, following the terror attack in Moscow that left more than 135 people dead.

French prime minister Gabriel Attal said the decision was taken “in light of the Islamic State’s claiming responsibility for the [Moscow] attack and the threats weighing on our country”.

France’s terror threat system has three levels. The highest level is announced if there is a terrorist attack in France or overseas, or if an attack on French soil is considered to be imminent.

France was already on high alert for potential terrorist attacks, with the Paris Olympics and Paralympics due to take place in the capital this summer.

The updated terror alert comes just days before the UK Easter school holidays, when thousands of British holidaymakers will travel across the Channel for a getaway.

What is the Foreign Office advice for France?

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) France advice, which was last updated on February 20, reads: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

“Methods of attack have included knife attacks, shootings, bombings and vehicle attacks. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local French authorities,” the FCDO adds.

The FCDO lists shopping centres, entertainment establishments, cultural events, public transport and places of worship as settings where “indiscriminate” terrorism attacks could take place.

Check the France FCDO page for the latest advice.

What happened in the Moscow terror attack?

On Friday, terrorists carried out an attack at the Crocus City Hall on the outskirts of Moscow, killing at least 137 and injuring 140.

Four men, all of whom are citizens of Tajikistan, have been formally charged with committing a group terrorist attack. The attack has been claimed by the Afghanistan-based Islamic State Khorasan Province (IS-K) group.

On March 7, the United States warned its citizens in Russia that extremists had “imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow” and specifically mentioned concert venues. It advised Americans to avoid large gatherings.

What should I do if I get caught up in a terrorist attack?

Britain’s counter-terrorism police gives advice on what to do in the event of an emergency . This includes to run to a place of safety: “This is better than trying to surrender or negotiate.” To hide: “It is better to hide than confront. Barricade yourself in, turn your phone to silent and use only when it is safe to do so.” And to tell: “Make sure you know the local emergency numbers in the country you are travelling to. For all EU countries call 112.”

Have there been recent terrorist attacks in France?

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in France over the past decade. In January 2015, eight cartoonists, two guests and two police officers were murdered at the offices of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo . The gunmen identified as belonging to al-Qaeda.

In November that year, in the deadliest terrorist attack in French history, 131 people were killed and 413 were injured in a series of shooting and grenade attacks at the Bataclan music venue, near the Stade de France and at several restaurants and bars across Paris. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks.

In July 2016, 86 people were killed and 434 injured in Nice after a 19-tonne cargo truck was driven into crowds during Bastille Day celebrations on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Again Islamic State claimed responsibility.

What if I want to cancel my trip to France?

If you have booked a package holiday to France and want to cancel your trip for any reason, contact your tour operator and they might offer flexibility with alternative dates. 

But bear in mind that, because the Foreign Office has not issued any advice against travel to France, there is no guarantee that you will receive a refund, nor will you be able to claim money back with your travel insurance company.

If you have booked flights and accommodation independently, and wish to cancel your holiday, contact your travel providers as soon as possible to see if you can rearrange your plans. Note, however, that given the circumstances, it is unlikely you will receive a full refund.

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: French instructors in Ukraine would be 'legitimate target', Lavrov says on visit to West Africa

Sergei Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, is on a tour in West Africa as part of a diplomatic push by the isolated Kremlin to forge new ties around the world. Meanwhile, an upcoming summit on Ukraine will reportedly aim to create a pathway for Russian officials to join future talks.

Wednesday 5 June 2024 19:00, UK

• Lavrov: French military instructors in Ukraine would be 'legitimate target'
• Ivor Bennett: Why is Lavrov in Africa?
• Ukraine peace summit 'opens door to limited talks with Russia'
• Remote-control stretchers on trial in Ukraine
• Big picture:  Everything you need to know about the war right now
• Mapped: The territorial situation on the frontline today
• Your questions answered: Are there any signs of an underground resistance in Russia?
• Live reporting by Guy Birchall

We're pausing our coverage for today but we will be back tomorrow with more updates.

Here is a rundown of the key developments today:

• Ukraine has used American weapons to strike inside Russia, according to an unnamed Western source;
• Joe Biden will hold talks with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Normandy this week during his visit celebrating the 80th anniversary of D-Day;
• Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has been visiting countries in Africa as part of an ongoing diplomatic offensive from the Kremlin;
• A former British defence attache has warned Russia's disinformation campaigns are "only going to get worse" as EU parliament elections and the Olympics approach.

You can scroll back through the blog to read all our updates from today.

A 26-year-old man of dual Ukrainian-Russian nationality has been arrested in possession of explosives after some of them detonated in a hotel room north of Paris.

The man was treated by fire-fighters after he "suffered significant burns following an explosion," on Monday, according to a source. 

A source at the French anti-terror prosecutor's office said they had taken charge of the case and opened an investigation on suspicion of a terrorist conspiracy. 

A subsequent search of his room led to the discovery of products and materials intended for the manufacture of explosive devices, the source added. 

France's domestic spy agency DGSI is handling the investigation, Reuters reports. 

Ukraine has used American weapons to strike inside Russia in recent days, according to a Western official.

The weapons were used under recently approved guidance from Joe Biden, allowing US arms to be used to strike inside Russia in defence of Kharkiv, Ukraine's second city.

The official spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity.

Mr Biden's directive allows for US-supplied weapons to be used to strike Russian forces that are attacking or preparing to attack.

It does not change US policy that directs Ukraine not to use American-provided tactical or long-range missiles and other munitions to make offensive strikes inside Russia, US officials said.

Ukrainian officials had stepped up calls on the US to allow Kyiv's forces to defend themselves against attacks originating from Russian territory.

Kharkiv is 12 miles from the Russian border and has recently come under intensified Russian attack.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Qatar for talks with the state's emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The Ukrainian president said on X that he planned to discuss Qatar's participation in a process of returning Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, as well as bilateral economic and security issues.

In March, Ukraine and Russia exchanged six children via Qatari mediation.

Earlier this week, Mr Zelenskyy made a surprise trip to the Philippines to thank the country for agreeing to participate in the upcoming peace summit being held in Switzerland.

A Russian-American man has been sentenced by a St Petersburg court to three-and-a-half years in prison on charges of "rehabilitating Nazism". 

Yuri Malev was arrested in December over social media posts in which he was alleged to have denigrated the Saint George's ribbon, a Russian military symbol of valour. 

One post reportedly contained "obscene language" and another other showed a picture of a corpse wearing the ribbon, captioned: "How to wear the Saint George's ribbon correctly". 

The court in St Petersburg said this showed disrespect for society and insulted the memory of the Great Patriotic War (the Russian name for the Second World War). 

Malev admitted guilt, according to the court. 

He was a graduate of the law faculty of St Petersburg University and had lived in the United States since 1991, according to independent Russian language media.

Baza, a Telegram channel with links to Russian authorities, said Malev was a resident of Brooklyn, New York. 

He reportedly entered Russia by bus from Estonia two weeks before he was arrested. 

Moscow routinely refers to the government in Kyiv as a "Nazi regime", despite Volodymyr Zelenskyy being Jewish.

Ukraine has been allowed to shoot down Moscow's planes over Russian territory with American weapons since the war broke out, the White House has clarified.

Ukraine "can shoot down Russian aeroplanes that pose an impending threat", national security spokesman John Kirby said. 

"And they have. They have since the beginning of the war."

The clarification was given due to confusion over Washington’s recent decision to relax rules on US-supplied weapons striking military targets on Russian soil.

Joe Biden gave authorisation for the strikes on a limited basis to help Kyiv defend itself against Kremlin forces advances towards Kharkiv.

Mr Kirby said he could not confirm reports that Ukraine had used US-supplied weapons on Russian territory for the first time.

He told reporters: "We're just not in a position on a day-to-day basis of knowing exactly what the Ukrainians are firing at what.

"It's certainly at a tactical level. So, I can't confirm that. I can tell you that they understand the guidance that they've been given."

By Ivor Bennett, Moscow correspondent 

Sergei Lavrov's trip to Africa is part of an ongoing diplomatic offensive by the Kremlin, running in parallel to its conflict in Ukraine.

Isolated from the West, Russia is trying to forge new ties and has found fertile ground in Africa.

There have been several coups in recent years that have ushered in anti-Western military juntas.

US troops were kicked out of Niger, for example, while the French had to leave Burkina Faso.

In both cases, Moscow was quick to move in as the new security guarantors, and their efforts clearly don't stop there.

This is the veteran foreign minister Lavrov's ninth visit to the continent since Russia invaded Ukraine.

Kenya, Burundi and South Africa were among his stops last year; this week it's Guinea, Congo and Burkina Faso.

In return for military support, Russia gains an ally - they may not support the war, but they won't criticise it either.

The Kremlin portrays this as the formation of a new world order, free from Western imperialism and hegemony.

But others say Russia are the neo-colonialists, painting this as a blatant attempt to expand their sphere of influence.

Ukraine's first deputy foreign minister has held talks with his Chinese counterpart in an effort to increase cooperation between the two countries, the Ukrainian ministry said. 

Ukraine's Andriy Sybiha also told Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong that he hoped China would participate in a Ukraine-led peace summit later in June. 

Mr Sybiha added that it could be "a good opportunity to make a practical contribution to achieving a just and lasting peace", the Ukrainian foreign ministry said.

A report earlier today (see 7.40am post) said that June's peace summit opened doors to "limited talks with Russia" - despite Russian officials not being invited.

Earlier we brought you news that Ukraine said it had shot down 22 of the 27 Shahed-type drones launched by Russia overnight (see 8.04am post). 

Now photographs have emerged of the aftermath of one of the strikes. 

Firefighters work to put out the massive blaze in the Poltava region.

As Russia opens a new front on Ukraine's northeastern border, the war has entered an important phase.

Readers have been sending in their questions to our senior correspondents and military experts for their take on the changing battlefield environment.

Today, Trevor Prew asks:

Are there any signs of an underground Russian resistance operating inside Russia, or can Russians openly criticize Putin, as long as they don't protest on the streets or mention the war.

Russia correspondent Ivor Bennett says:

In a word, no.

There wasn't much opposition to speak of in Russia even before the war, but now there's nothing left whatsoever.

All of Putin's political opponents are either exiled, jailed or dead, as are those with any connections to Alexei Navalny.

Those who dare to speak out are silenced.

At one end, are the long-time critics and opposition activists, like Vladimir Kara-Murza, the dual Russian-British national opposition who is serving a 25-year prison sentence for treason.

But at the other end are ordinary Russians, like the former schoolteacher Nikita Tushkanov sentenced to 5.5 years for comments he made online about Putin.

The crackdown on dissent seemingly knows no bounds and it's created a climate in which those who oppose the war are terrified to speak out.

They do exist - as evidenced by the huge turnout for Navalny's funeral. But that was a unique moment and is unlikely to be repeated anytime soon.

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