Whether with friends, family, or a special someone, traveling well can be one of life’s most satisfying endeavors. But what does it mean to travel well, exactly? I don’t think it means staying in the most expensive hotels and booking first-class flights around the globe, though some might say so.

I think traveling well is being prepared to make the most of a trip and not being surprised when things don’t go as expected (because they never do). When planning for an important trip, for business or leisure, the old Mel Brooks quote always pops into my head: Hope for the best but prepare for the worst. That might be a first step in traveling well. Here are five other tried-and-true tools to keep you out of the weeds.

Travel Pro Platinum Elite Spinner Suitcase

The Super Class Traveler

Made For: Flight Attendants

Why you should buy it: It glides over hotel lobby carpeting better than any other roller-case.

The Osprey Fairview 55 Travel Pack

The Fearless Adventurer’s Choice

Made For: Men and Tall Women

Why you should buy it: All the serious travel junkies I know swear by this 55-liter Osprey travel pack. It’s designed for big treks — like backpacking through Europe or hiking up the Mexican pyramids. But it’s equally as useful when long layovers or delays are expected. Just lugging around luggage in an airport can be exhausting. Let this pack take the weight off your shoulders.

TuffTag Luggage Labels

Best Gear Tag By Far

Made For: Daily Flyers

Why you should buy it: A great luggage tag should be easy to read, durable, and discreet. This TuffTag meets all those criteria and more. Just slip a business card into the slot and these puppies will keep your information where it belongs: hard-wired to your valuables.

Eagle Creek Travel Cubes

Best In-Pack Organizer

Made For: Stowing Cosmetics and Other Miscellany

Why you should buy it: We’ve all been there. TSA opens your bag for a quick security screen and the thing bursts open like a sliced shopping bag on Black Friday. Use these guys to keep your travel items neat, orderly, and contained.

Incase Nylon Accessory Organizer

A Gadget Guru’s Best Friend

Made For: Gadget Kings

Why you should buy it: This neat little zip pouch is a perfect receptacle for your extra phones and cables while you fly.

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Mom. Wife. Interior Designer. Resting position is in motion. Aspiring writer and world traveler.

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