Solo travelers, digital nomads, and budget-conscious globetrotters know that packing smart can make all the difference. The following ten travel essentials are practical, affordable (mostly under $35 each), and ultra-useful for light, efficient travel. Best of all, each item is available as a cheap travel accessory on eBay – complete with handy suggestions to grab them for your next trip. Let’s dive into the must-haves that will save you money, space, and hassle on the road.

1. Carry-On Travel Backpack (Under $50)

Every budget traveler needs a reliable carry-on backpack. The best travel backpack under $50 combines ample capacity with carry-on convenience. Opt for a soft-sided, lightweight backpack that fits in overhead bins – this avoids airline baggage fees and keeps you mobile. Look for one with multiple compartments (for your laptop, clothes, and gadgets) and comfortable straps for long walks. A flight-approved 40L backpack is ideal: it’s compact yet roomy, and many models even expand or have hideaway straps for versatility.

Why it’s useful: A great travel backpack lets you pack everything you need while remaining hands-free. It’s perfect for navigating airports or wandering new cities without the bulk of a suitcase. Plus, with a budget-friendly pack, you won’t worry if it gets a bit scuffed during your adventures (and your wallet will thank you!

Recommended Product: Hynes Eagle Travel Lite Carry-On Backpack

Why it’s a great pick:
Designed for minimalist and budget-conscious travelers, this soft case carry-on from Hynes Eagle combines style, function, and adaptability. Part of the Travel Lite series, it offers smooth packing with features built to make every leg of your trip lighter and easier.

• Price: $49.99

• Category: Carry-On Travel Backpacks

• Key Features:

  • Carry-On Compliant

  • Adjustable & Padded Backpack Straps

  • Expandable Clothing Compartment

  • Dedicated Laptop & Tablet Sleeves

  • Water Bottle Pocket

  • TSA Approved Design

  • Water-Resistant & Washable Exterior

  • Lightweight Soft Shell for Flexible Packing

  🔗 View on eBay

2. Compression Packing Cubes

Staying organized on the road is crucial. Packing cubes are zippered fabric bags that corral your clothes and gear, and compression-style cubes go a step further by squeezing out excess air. This allows you to pack more in less space – a game-changer for one-bag travelers. For example, compression packing cubes come in multiple sizes to separate shirts, pants, and underwear.

Why it’s useful: These cubes organize your bag into easy sections – no more digging for that one T-shirt at the bottom of your pack. They also prevent wrinkles and keep clean clothes separate from dirty laundry. Using cubes can significantly maximize luggage space by creating dense, neat packages of clothing. In short, packing cubes help you travel carry-on-only with ease, which is a boon for budget travelers avoiding checked-bag fees.

Recommended Product: 5-Piece Compression Packing Cubes Set

Why it’s a great pick:
Save space and stay organized with this lightweight 5-piece compression cube set—perfect for carry-ons, suitcases, or backpacks. Ideal for digital nomads, minimalist packers, and anyone looking to streamline their packing routine.

• Price: $19.49

• Category: Packing & Organization

• Key Features:

  • Compresses clothing volume by up to 60%

  • Lightweight & tear-resistant 210D polyester

  • Water-repellent material for added protection

  • Smooth-glide double zippers

  • See-through mesh panels for easy visibility

  • Keeps clothes wrinkle-free & easy to access

  • Entire set nests inside XL cube for compact storage

  🔗 View on eBay

3. TSA-Approved Toiletry Bottles (Under $10)

Forget buying expensive travel-size toiletries for each trip. Invest in a set of TSA-approved refillable bottles to carry your shampoo, soap, and lotions. TSA rules allow liquids in containers up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) in a clear quart bag, which is exactly what these bottles are designed for. You can find silicone travel bottle sets that include multiple 3-oz (89 ml) squeeze bottles, spray bottles, and even small cream jars.

Why it’s useful: These bottles let you bring your favorite products in carry-on without spills or security issues. They’re refillable and often come with labels and a zip pouch for compliance. Using your own toiletry set is also a huge money-saver – you won’t need to purchase overpriced mini toiletries or waste hotel freebies. As a bonus, you’ll breeze through airport security by adhering to the TSA 3-1-1 rule. It’s a small investment that pays off every time you fly.

Recommended Product: 5-Pack TSA-Approved Travel Bottles (3.4 oz)

Why it’s a great pick:
Perfect for air travel and minimalist packing, this leakproof 5-pack of 3.4 oz bottles makes carrying your favorite toiletries simple, safe, and TSA-compliant.

• Price: $8.50

• Category: Travel Toiletry Bottles

• Key Features:

  • TSA-Approved 3.4 oz Capacity

  • Leakproof disc-top cap prevents spills

  • Durable clear plastic construction

  • Easy one-finger open & close mechanism

  • Includes waterproof labels for quick ID

  • Great for shampoo, lotion, sunscreen, and more

  • Compact and carry-on friendly

  🔗 View on eBay

4. Collapsible Water Bottle for Travel

Staying hydrated is a must, but buying bottled water constantly can drain your travel fund. Enter the collapsible water bottle for travel – a lightweight, foldable bottle that you can fill up as needed. When it’s empty, you can roll or flatten it to save space.

Why it’s useful: You’ll save money and reduce plastic waste by refilling at water fountains or your hostel instead of buying water. A collapsible bottle is feather-light and fits in a pocket or is clipped to your bag when not full. Hydration is key during long travel days, and this bottle ensures you always have water handy without the bulk of a regular bottle. For budget travelers, that’s a win-win for your bag’s weight and your wallet.

Recommended Product: Collapsible BPA-Free Water Bottle (20 oz)

Why it’s a great pick:
This lightweight, foldable water bottle is perfect for travel, outdoor adventures, and daily commutes. Roll it up to save space, and unroll it when it’s time to hydrate—without the plastic waste.

• Price: $14.39

• Category: Reusable Water Bottles

• Key Features:

  • Made from 100% food-grade, BPA-free silicone

  • Leakproof, rotatable cap for mess-free storage

  • Collapsible and rollable for easy packing

  • Ultra-lightweight at just 0.23 lbs

  • 20 oz capacity with hand ring for easy carry

  • Endures -50℃ to 200℃—hot or cold use

  • Fits in pockets, daypacks, and carry-ons

  • Ideal for air travel, hiking, school, or office

  🔗 View on eBay

5. Universal Travel Adapter with USB Ports

If you’re traveling abroad, a universal travel adapter is a must-have to charge your devices in different countries. These compact adapters convert plug shapes and often handle 100–240V input, so your electronics stay safe. A good adapter covers the common plug types (US, UK, EU, AU, etc.) in 150+ countries. Many also include USB-A or USB-C ports for charging phones and tablets directly.

Why it’s useful: Rather than carrying multiple country-specific chargers, one adapter does it all – a huge space and money saver for multi-country trips. It ensures you can power your phone, laptop, camera, or e-reader anywhere you go. Modern versions even have fast-charging USB ports, meaning you can charge several gadgets at once. For digital nomads in particular, this means you’ll never be left powerless, no matter where you’re working from.

Recommended Product: Insignia All-in-One Travel Adapter with 2 USB Ports

Why it’s a great pick:
Power your devices in over 150 countries with this compact all-in-one travel adapter from Insignia. Featuring two built-in USB ports, it’s ideal for travelers who need to charge multiple gadgets on the go—without packing extra bricks.

• Price: $12.50

• Category: Universal Travel Adapters

• Key Features:

  • Compatible with outlets in UK, EU, AU, CN, and North America

  • 2 integrated USB ports for charging phones, tablets, or cameras

  • All-in-one compact design reduces packing clutter

  • Great for solo travelers, digital nomads, and business trips

  • No need for multiple bulky converters

  • Supports dual charging from one outlet

  🔗 View on eBay

6. Portable Charger (Power Bank)

There are few things more frustrating (or potentially unsafe) than a dead phone while you’re out exploring. A portable charger keeps your phone and other electronics juiced up on the go. You can find quality power banks with 10,000 mAh capacity for under $30 that can charge most smartphones 2–3 times. Look for slim designs that slip into your pocket and support both USB and USB-C output for versatility.

Why it’s useful: For solo travelers relying on phones for maps, translations, and keeping in touch, a power bank is essential for peace of mind. After a day of heavy phone use (navigation, photos, etc.), you can recharge on a train or in a café without hunting for outlets. It’s also a lifesaver for long flights or bus rides. Knowing you can recharge on the go with a power bank provides huge peace of mind, especially when a dead phone could leave you lost or unable to call for help. In short, a portable charger is cheap travel insurance for your devices.

Recommended Product: VEME Slim Power Bank (5,000–20,000mAh)

Why it’s a great pick:
Stay powered up on the road with this ultra-slim portable power bank from VEME. Available in 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000mAh capacities, it's perfect for budget travelers who rely on their devices throughout the day.

• Price Range: $11.99 – $17.99

• Category: Portable Chargers / Power Banks

• Key Features:

  • Multiple capacity options: 5k, 10k, or 20k mAh

  • Fast charging with dual USB & USB-C ports

  • 10,000mAh charges a phone ~3x; 20,000mAh ~6x

  • Lightweight and travel-friendly slim design

  • Smart chip technology & UL-certified battery

  • Built-in short-circuit & overcharge protection

  • Universal compatibility with most devices

  • Includes charging cable and user manual

  🔗 View on eBay

7. Quick-Dry Travel Towel (Microfiber)

Packing a regular towel is impractical – they’re bulky, slow-drying, and can get funky. Instead, get a microfiber travel towel. These towels are ultra-light, super absorbent, and dry much faster than cotton. Many hostels don’t provide towels (or charge a rental fee), so having your own saves money and guarantees cleanliness.

Why it’s useful: A travel towel is multi-purpose: use it for showering, as a beach or picnic towel, or even as a makeshift blanket or sarong. It packs down tiny and won’t stay wet in your bag (microfiber dries in hours, not days). For hostel hoppers, this is a must – many hostels won’t supply a towel, or will rent one for a fee, so bringing a quick-dry towel saves you money and hassle. Even outside of hostels, it’s handy at a sudden rain shower or for an impromptu swim. When every ounce and inch of luggage counts, a featherweight towel that does the job of a regular towel is a no-brainer.

Recommended Product: Rainleaf Large Microfiber Travel Towel

Why it’s a great pick:
This ultra-light, quick-dry microfiber towel is built for adventure—perfect for travelers, gym-goers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Soft, compact, and sand-resistant, it’s your go-to travel towel for any destination.

• Price Range: $9.99 – $12.99

• Category: Travel Towels / Quick-Dry Gear

• Key Features:

  • Fast-drying with built-in snap loop for easy hang-dry

  • Lightweight & ultra-compact—perfect for carry-on travel

  • Skin-friendly with a suede-soft feel

  • Includes breathable carry bag with ventilation holes

  • Features zippered corner pocket for small items

  • Machine washable, sand-resistant & durable

  • Ideal for beach, gym, camping, yoga, or backpacking

  🔗 View on eBay

8. Inflatable Travel Pillow (with Eye Mask & Ear Plugs)

Sleep can be hard to come by on red-eye flights or overnight buses. A travel neck pillow can make a huge difference in comfort, but bulky memory-foam pillows are hard to carry. The solution? An inflatable travel pillow. Inflatable pillows pack down to pocket-size when deflated. Despite their compact form, they provide plenty of neck support when blown up. Some models even have ergonomic designs to prevent head bobbing.

Why it’s useful: Getting decent rest while in transit means you arrive at your destination ready to explore (instead of needing an immediate nap!). An inflatable pillow lets you sleep more comfortably sitting up, preventing the dreaded neck kink. For the best budget-friendly sleep kit, pair your pillow with a cheap eye mask and foam earplugs (often included as a set). Blocking out light and noise is key in hostels and airplanes alike. All together, these lightweight items ensure you can catch some Z’s anywhere – a perk for solo travelers on long journeys. And when you’re done, deflate the pillow and tuck it away without taking up space.

Recommended Product: Livativ Inflatable Travel Neck Pillow with Hand Pump

Why it’s a great pick:
Say goodbye to stiff necks and restless naps with this fully adjustable inflatable travel pillow. Designed for air travel, bus rides, and road trips, it offers personalized support for the head, neck, and chin, without overheating or bulk.

• Price: $8.49

• Category: Travel Neck Pillows / Sleep Comfort

• Key Features:

  • Inflates with built-in hand pump for perfect support

  • Fully adjustable to match your sleep posture

  • Soft, cool-touch fabric prevents sweating

  • Weighs only 6.4 oz—ultralight for travel

  • Reduces head bobbing, neck strain, and stiffness

  • Compact & includes a carry/storage pouch

  • Suitable for both adults and kids

  🔗 View on eBay

9. RFID-Blocking Money Belt (Hidden Wallet)

Security is paramount for peace of mind, especially when traveling alone or in unfamiliar places. A hidden money belt is a slim pouch you wear under your clothes to secure passports, cash, and cards. Modern money belts often feature RFID-blocking linings to prevent electronic theft of your card data. These typically have multiple zippered pockets and an adjustable elastic belt to fit comfortably against your waist.

Why it’s useful: This isn’t your dad’s bulky fanny pack – a hidden money belt is virtually invisible yet keeps your most important items safe from pickpockets. Travel experts say money belts are one of the safest places to keep cash and IDs, particularly in places known for pickpocketing. By wearing your passport and emergency money under your shirt, you drastically reduce the risk of theft. The RFID blocking feature is a bonus that protects your credit cards from being skimmed. While you might access it only occasionally (e.g., to retrieve some cash), the peace of mind it provides is priceless. For budget travelers, avoiding theft is part of avoiding extra costs – and this stealthy wallet helps do just that.

Recommended Product: RYACO RFID-Blocking Hidden Travel Money Belt

Why it’s a great pick:
Stay secure while you travel with this ultra-light, RFID-blocking money belt from RYACO. Designed for both men and women, it offers discreet storage for your essentials—passport, cash, cards, and even your phone—all under your clothing.

• Price: $19.21

• Category: Travel Security / Money Belts

• Key Features:

  • 100% RFID shielding fabric for anti-theft protection

  • Holds passport, boarding pass, cash, cards & phone

  • Slim, breathable mesh back with sweat-resistant padding

  • Extra-long adjustable strap fits 29"–48" waist sizes

  • Lightweight polyester tarpaulin build for comfort and durability

  • Three zippered compartments plus headphone port

  • Soft, low-profile design fits flat under clothing

  • Great gift for frequent travelers or solo adventurers

  🔗 View on eBay

10. TSA-Approved Travel Padlock

Finally, don’t overlook a simple travel padlock. Whether you’re locking up a hostel locker or securing your backpack zippers, a small lock is an essential deterrent to opportunistic theft. A TSA-approved combination lock is ideal – you can set your own code and TSA agents can open it for luggage inspections without cutting it. Even if you’re not checking bags, a padlock comes in handy for lockers on trains or at accommodations. Budget travelers often stay in hostels, and most hostels provide lockers but expect you to bring your own padlock.

Why it’s useful: This little gadget protects your valuables for just a few dollars. Use it to lock your bag zippers together when you leave it in a shared dorm, or to secure a daypack closed in crowded areas. In hostels, you can lock up your stuff anytime you’re away or even sleeping (slide your backpack in a locker and lock it). The TSA approval is great if you do check a bag – it won’t be destroyed by airport security. Overall, a padlock is a cheap, lightweight safeguard that no traveler should leave home without.

Recommended Product: Fosmon TSA-Approved 4-Digit Combination Luggage Lock

Why it’s a great pick:
Secure your luggage with confidence using this TSA-compliant lock, designed to withstand travel abuse while allowing authorized inspections without damage. It’s reliable, durable, and ideal for hostels, lockers, and beyond.

• Price Range: $9.99

• Category: Travel Locks / TSA-Approved Gear

• Key Features:

  • TSA-approved for airport inspection without damage

  • 4-digit combination with hundreds of resettable codes

  • Sturdy zinc alloy body and hardened steel shackle

  • Lightweight, compact, and travel-tested

  • Perfect for luggage, lockers, gym bags, and gear cases

  • Recognized Travel Sentry symbol for global compatibility

  • Backed by a limited lifetime warranty

  🔗 View on eBay

Conclusion: Packing these 10 essentials will set you up for success on your solo or budget trip. You’ll travel lighter, safer, and smarter – all without breaking the bank. Each item recommended is not only affordable but also practical and space-saving. By gearing up with these must-haves, you’re saving money upfront and avoiding costly inconveniences on the road.

About the Author
Hi, I’m Jason—an avid traveler with a passion for discovering new places, cultures, and perspectives. Born and raised in the United States, I now call the Philippines home as I continue to explore the world, one destination at a time. My travel journey has taken me across vibrant cities and serene landscapes in places like Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Okinawa, Canada, and Mexico (to name a few). Through this blog, I share real-world travel insights, budget tips, and stories to help you explore smarter and deeper—no matter where your passport takes you.

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10 Must-Have Travel Essentials for Budget Travelers

Discover 10 affordable travel essentials every budget traveler and digital nomad needs. Smart, space-saving gear for light, efficient, and secure travel.