Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
PACKING & TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
37
items If it's on this list, we've put it to the test. As full-time international nomads travelling on a budget, we look for things that earn their place through practicality, durability, performance, style and value — not just because they're popular. Thes...
Sections
2
PACKING & GEAR STORAGE
TRAVEL HEALTH & HYGIENE
PACKING & GEAR STORAGE
The stuff that helps us pack smarter and make the most of limited space. From bags and organisers to storage solutions and everyday travel gear, these are the things that help keep life on the road a little more manageable.
The LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On has been a lifesaver for our constant travel. It’s tough, lightweight, and handles everything we throw at it — planes, trains, boats, and our van life van. The hard shell keeps our gear safe from bumps and scratches, while t...
LEVEL8 Grace 20" Expandable Carry-On Luggage
The VOCUS Electronics Organizer has completely simplified how we travel with all our gear, and we have A LOT. From chargers to cables, adapters, and small tech, everything has its place and is easy to grab on the go. The compartments are sturdy and w...
VOCUS Electronics Travel Cable Organizer Bag
This BAFASO Large Bag is actually for makeup. . . BUT, we use it as a photography bag since it fits all of our individual parts and pieces that come with drones, action cameras, selfie stick attachments, tripod attachments, etc. It's been a game-changer for keeping our photography gear organized on ...
BAFASO Large Makeup Bag with 2 Pouches (used as a photography bag)
The ULTAC Wet Bag is a travel essential for us. We use it as a clean surface to stand on when we step out of our shower shoes. Lightweight, durable, and leak-proof, it keeps wet gear contained and the rest of our bags dry. Whether at a beach, pool, o...
ULTAC Wet Dry Bag for Swimsuit, Travel
The Relavel Toiletry Bag has been a surprisingly handy travel companion. We have two…. why it's not just for toiletries, it can be used for keeping small photography accessories, chargers, and cables organized. The hanging design makes it easy to acc...
Relavel Travel Hanging Toiletry Bag for Men & Women
These small zip seal bags are one of those simple things that make organization while traveling, so much easier. We use them to store tiny camera parts, SD cards, screws, small tools and other small essentials that would otherwise get lost in the shu... iPhone adapters, corded ear phones, sleep ear plugs, allen keys, vitamins, medication, tri-pod screws, paperclips, safety pins, rubber bands, sd card adapters. See larger 3 x 5 bags for larger items such as charging cords (so we know what they go to)...
2x3 Inch Resealable Clear Zipper Bags
These 3" x 5" zip seal bags are the perfect size for organizing small travel and photography gear. We use them inside our larger organization bags to keep cords, adapters, different size batteries, charging cords so we can identify what kit they go t...
iMailer 100 Count 3x5 Reclosable Zip Bags
Julian uses the Bocasal Wallet Case The leather feels sturdy and premium, yet it’s slim enough to slide easily into a pocket or pack. The card slots and RFID protection mean we can carry the essentials without a bulky wallet, and the kickstand makes hands-free video calls or content ed...
Bocasal iPhone 15 Pro Max Leather Wallet Case
Jess uses the Antsturdy 2-in-1 Wallet Case It protects my iPhone 14 Pro Max while keeping travel light and simple. I like the zippered pouch for currency. The magnetic design lets us detach the wallet when we don’t need it, and the MagSafe compatibility makes charging effortless in the van or on the plane. ...
Antsturdy 2-in-1 Detachable Wallet Case iPhone 14 Pro Max
Julian uses the Case Logic PLS-15 Laptop Sleeve for the Dell 16" laptop. It's a no-fuss, tough little workhorse — perfect for protecting our 15–16" laptop that is in and out of the roller bag at airports, in the van storage compartment and often time...
Case Logic PLS-15 15.4-16 Inch Laptop Sleeve
The REDCAMP Foldable Duffle Bag is a travel lifesaver for us. Its available in 85L, 120L, and 140L, it’s huge enough to pack gear for weeks on the move, yet folds down when not in use. We bought the 120L bag and it holds quite a bit which is huge for us since we tend to pack heavy on the outbound flight, packing vitamins, and favorite food items that sometimes aren't available in the countries we “slowmad” through. Then we roll it back up and pu...
REDCAMP 85L/120L/140L Foldable Duffle Bag with Wheels, Large Travel Duffel Bag
We hate to think of anything going sideways, but we are people that plan ahead, including the unthinkable. The Fireproof Document File Organizer Bag is a must-have for keeping important gear and documents safe while on the move. Rated for 5200°F, it’...
Fireproof Document File Organizer Bag 5200°F
These Waterproof Travel Drawstring Shoe Bags are a small but essential part of our packing routine. They keep shoes separated from clothes, backpacks, or camera gear, and the clear design makes it easy to spot what’s inside. Waterproof and durable, t...
COIDEA Waterproof Travel Drawstring Shoe Bags
Wait, these really work! These do not require a vacuum or a silly device that doesn't work. These compression bags are a game-changer for getting more in our suitcase or bag. I feel like I'm cheating! More is better when going on a long trip. Perfect...
18 Travel Compression Vacuum Packing Bags
The TravelWise Packing Cube System is a total game-changer for staying organized on the move. Whether we’re bouncing between flights, campsites, or van life stops, these cubes keep everything in its place—no more rummaging for that one missing shirt....
TravelWise Durable 5 Piece Packing Cube Set
TRAVEL HEALTH & HYGIENE
Looking after ourselves while we're on the move. From personal hygiene and healthcare essentials to things that help us stay comfortable, clean and prepared wherever we're travelling.
Burt’s Bees Lip Balm is a simple essential for keeping lips soft and nourished every day. Made with natural ingredients like beeswax and moisturizing oils, it glides on smoothly and helps protect lips from dryness and cracking. Small, sturdy, and eas...
Burt's Bees Lip Balm
What a relief when we detergent sheets came out! This makes airport security less stressful and illiminates last minute shopping in a foreign city. Who wants to buy a big bottle of detergent, just to leave it behind. The Tru Earth Compact Dry Laundry...
Tru Earth Compact Dry Laundry Detergent Sheets - 64 Loads
The Schmidt’s Charcoal & Magnesium Deodorant is one of those rare natural products that actually works — even when we’re hiking, sweating, running between terminals or living out of our van in hot weather. The charcoal helps absorb moisture and n...
Charcoal & Magnesium - Deodorant Stick
Don't laugh, everyone does it. Everyone needs a little trim from time to time. The KEMEI Mini Clippers pack a surprising punch for their size. We love how little space they take up in our toiletry kit. Inside the box, you’ll find the cordless mini tr...
KEMEI Mini Cordless Hair Clippers Trimmer
Lets face it, being in different countries with different cooking styles, we need to keep our gut health a priority. An angry digestive system can really muck up a travel itinerary. The Physician's CHOICE Advanced Gut Health Bundle is our go-to for k...
Physician's CHOICE Advanced Gut Health Bundle
The Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 has become a travel essential for us. Its hands-free stick design makes quick application easy, even on the move, and it’s small enough to slip into a backpack, purse, or beach bag. SPF 50 keeps us ...
Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
The JUNP Electrolytes Powder has become a must-have for staying hydrated on the move. With zero sugar, zero carbs, and zero calories, it’s a clean way to replenish electrolytes lost during hiking, workouts, or long travel days. Each serving packs pot...
JUNP Electrolytes Powder No Sugar No Carbs ...
We do not like deet products and have struggled to find a deet free product that would work for Florida no-see-ums, mosquitos in Central America and midges in Scotland. FINALLY! . . . we found a product! Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Balm is a...
Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Repellent Balm
The Handcraft Blends Organic Jojoba Oil is one of those versatile staples we always pack. Cold-pressed, 100% pure, and hexane-free, it’s gentle on skin and hair while providing deep hydration. We use it for everything from moisturizing dry hands afte...
Handcraft Blends Organic Jojoba Oil 4oz
One less thing that you need to cram into your quart size bag if traveling light. The Chew Brush Smile Toothpaste Tablets have made brushing on the go so much easier for us. Peppermint-flavored and convenient, they eliminate the need for messy tubes,...
Chew Brush Smile Toothpaste Tablets 120 Peppermint
Because we often travel with just a rollerbag and backpack we try to eliminate liquids as much as possible. Liquid body wash is out of the question if we are going on a long trip. The Compact Leakproof Travel Soap Case is a small but essential part o...
Travel Soap Case, Leak Proof Silicone Box
Again, another item that doesn't need to fill up the quart size bag if you are traveling light with a roller bag or backpack. The Viori Hidden Waterfall Shampoo Bar has quickly become a travel favorite for us. Handcrafted and sulfate-free, it’s gentl...
Hidden Waterfall™ Shampoo Bar for Growth | Sweet-Musk Scent
I'm not sure why this soap is advertised as a men's soap. The fragrance is very pleasant; not overly masculine. We love it. It's the Viking Revolution Sandalwood Soap. Packed with coconut, shea, and almond oils, it nourishes skin while the sandalwood scent feels earthy and grounding after a long day outdoors. The cold-pressed bars lather nicely and rinse clean, leaving skin soft without feeling stripped. Compact an...
Viking Revolution Sandalwood Natural Soap for Men
HANDS DOWN THE BEST PRODUCT SINCE SLICED BREAD! These All-in-One Shampoo Bars are a travel lifesaver. My quart sizes bag for airport security is virtually empty these days. This soap is gentle enough for hair, body, face, and even beard, they simplif...
SAPHUS All-in-One Shampoo Bars for Hair & Body
The Almooni Natural Loofah Exfoliating Body Scrubber is a must-pack for life on the road or off the grid. They dry quickly, no mold. Made from natural loofah fibers, it gently buffs away dry skin, leaving you smooth and refreshed after long days hiki...
Almooni Natural Loofah Exfoliating Body Scrubber
The Almooni Natural Loofah Exfoliating Scrubber is made from natural Egyptian loofah and is perfect for daily use. Small in profile but durable, it holds up well over time and works for the entire body, gently exfoliating and cleansing skin. Eco-frie...
Almooni Natural Loofah Exfoliating Body Scrubber
While hiking in Costa Rica, I just about fell out. I was using a different product, but it just didn't work. I researched a product called Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier. It was a game changer for us and we take it everywhere - when working, playin...
Liquid I.V.
The Tweezerman Mini Nail Rescue Kit is a compact, all-in-one solution for keeping nails tidy anywhere. It comes with a precision nail clipper, file, cuticle pusher, and mini scissors — all stainless steel, durable, and easy to use. Perfect for travel...
Mini Nail Rescue Kit
Dr. Frederick’s Original Better Blister Bandages are a must-have for long hikes, camping trips, or any adventure that puts miles on your feet. The hydrocolloid design cushions and protects blisters while allowing them to heal faster, reducing pain an...
Dr. Frederick's Original Better Blister Bandages -- 12 Ct Variety Pack
When your traveling, the last thing you need is feet problems. We personally don't spend money on pedicures, we take care of our own feet. After long hikes, rugged trails, or days on the water, it quickly buffs away rough skin and calluses, leaving feet comfortable and ready for boots or sandals. With multiple speed settings and durable rollers, it handles tough spots without overdoing ...
Electric Rechargeable Portable Foot Callus Remover
Dr. Bronner’s Organic Magic Balm is our go-to for dry skin, scrapes, or rough patches after a day in the elements. Made with organic oils and natural ingredients, it soothes, nourishes, and protects without feeling greasy. We use it on hands, elbows,...
Unscented - Organic Magic Balm
When we spent a month in Central America, we traveled with just a carry-on backpack and a small personal bag. We quickly learned the value of solid toiletry items—but body lotion was always a challenge and surprisingly expensive. Often, we’d land and...
Solid Honey & Almond Travel Lotion