Shopping for travel gear can feel a little overwhelming. There’s always a new gadget promising to change your life or a flashy suitcase claiming to be “carry-on revolutionized.” But when it comes down to it, what most of us really need is gear that works, lasts, and doesn’t take a chunk out of our travel fund.
This Black Friday, we’re skipping past the obvious stuff (no, you probably don’t need a $500 smart suitcase with built-in USB ports that’ll break in two trips). Instead, we’ve rounded up five genuinely useful pieces of travel gear that are worth scooping up now—because not only are they deeply discounted, they’re the kind of items that’ll earn their keep on every trip, from weekend road getaways to long-haul flights.
1. Napfun Neck Pillow – $13.86 (From $22)
Because waking up with a crick in your neck should never be part of your itinerary.
A good neck pillow isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity if you’ve ever tried sleeping in an upright position, especially in the middle seat of a red-eye flight. I’ve personally tested more travel pillows than I care to admit (including those giant U-shaped monstrosities), but the Napfun Memory Foam Pillow is one of the rare few that actually works—without eating up your entire backpack.
Why it's worth the buy:
- It's made with 100% memory foam, which means it molds to your neck instead of forcing you into a fixed shape.
- It compresses down small and comes with a carrying bag, making it ultra-packable.
- The ergonomic support feels like it’s gently holding your neck in place instead of pushing it forward (a major win if you’ve got a history of travel-induced tension headaches).
What makes this deal even sweeter? It’s not one of those budget models that flattens after a couple of uses. Reviewers praise its durability, and mine’s survived 10+ trips without losing shape. For under $15, it’s a smart add-on that makes every form of transport more bearable—planes, trains, and yes, even those “stylish” long-distance bus rides.
2. Gorilla Grip Adjustable Luggage Straps (2-Pack) – $9.99 (From $14)
An overlooked essential that saves more time and frustration than you’d think.
You know that feeling when your luggage bursts open just as it hits the baggage carousel? Or when your overstuffed weekender bag pops halfway during a TSA shuffle? These adjustable luggage straps are the travel sidekick you didn’t know you needed.
Sure, they’re not glamorous—but hear me out. I’ve used these on everything from hiking packs to roller bags, and they’ve saved me from more than one travel-day disaster.
Why they’re a smart snag:
- They’re fully adjustable and can fit most bag sizes—from carry-ons to large checked luggage.
- Made with heavy-duty nylon and reinforced buckles, they can take serious tension without snapping (unlike those flimsy budget straps that fray in one season).
- If you're traveling with multiple suitcases, they also make a great makeshift “luggage leash” for stacking bags together.
The Gorilla Grip straps are the kind of gear you throw in your bag thinking, maybe I’ll need these—and then they end up saving your trip when your zipper gives out on day two of your journey through Thailand. They're also a budget-friendly way to keep everything secure and easily identifiable on the carousel (pro tip: choose a bold color).
3. Bose QuietComfort Headphones – $169.99 (From $349.00)
Silence truly is golden, especially at 30,000 feet.
Let’s pause for a second and appreciate how transformative a solid pair of noise-canceling headphones can be while traveling. Crying babies, engine roar, in-flight announcements every 10 minutes—it can all become background noise (literally) with Bose QuietComfort headphones.
I’ve used these on long flights, in noisy hostels, and even during layovers where I needed to tune out and get work done. They may look sleek, but they pack a serious punch when it comes to functionality.
Why they’re a standout deal:
- Industry-leading noise cancellation that actually works (no weird humming or ear pressure).
- 24-hour battery life means you’re covered for long-haul flights and layovers.
- Plush ear cushions and a lightweight design make them comfortable enough for hours of wear.
According to a 2023 Statista report, 52% of U.S. travelers prioritize noise-canceling headphones in their packing list for international flights. That’s more than power banks or neck pillows.
While the upfront cost may seem steep compared to basic earbuds, the long-term payoff is massive. And let’s be honest—once you’ve used true noise-canceling headphones, it’s hard to go back. Your ears (and your sanity) will thank you.
4. Travel Inspira Luggage Scale – $9.99 (From $11.49)
Because no one wants to be “that person” re-packing at the airport check-in counter.
Overpacking happens to the best of us—especially when your return trip involves a few spontaneous souvenirs. This compact luggage scale is a game-changer if you’ve ever nervously shuffled through airport check-in, wondering whether your bag is flirting with the 50-pound limit.
What makes it great:
- Accurate digital readings in multiple units (lbs, kg, g, oz), so you’re good whether you're flying domestic or abroad.
- Lightweight and compact—toss it in a side pocket and forget about it until you need it.
- Includes a temperature sensor, which sounds extra but comes in handy for trips with sensitive gear.
I used to be skeptical about bringing a scale on trips, but this one is worth its weight—pun intended. It’s saved me last-minute repacking chaos more than once. And while $1.50 in savings may not seem huge, the peace of mind you get from knowing your suitcase won’t earn you a surprise overweight fee? Priceless.
5. Jack ＆ Rose Travel Steamer – $65.99 (From $82)
Wrinkle-free clothes without hunting down a hotel iron? Yes, please.
There’s something about unpacking a freshly folded wardrobe, only to find everything looks like it’s been crumpled in a paper bag. This travel steamer has been a quiet hero in my suitcase, especially for weddings, work trips, and those times when you just want to look pulled together without fighting with a hotel iron from 1998.
Why it’s worth packing:
- Heats up in just 25 seconds and can be used at any angle (no more awkward wrist tilts).
- Compact but powerful—enough steam output to smooth out stubborn fabric like linen or cotton.
- Comes with multiple nozzles and attachments, so you’re not limited to just clothes (great for freshening up curtains or upholstery in an Airbnb).
How to Shop Smart on Black Friday (Even for Travel Gear)
Before you get click-happy on every deal, here are a few quick sanity-saving tips to keep in mind when shopping for travel gear this Black Friday:
- Think longevity over trendiness. Will this item still be useful six months from now? If yes, it’s likely worth the price.
- Skip the “it might be useful someday” buys. Focus on gear that solves a known problem or fills a clear need in your travel setup.
- Check return policies and warranties. Especially for electronics—make sure you’re not locked into a final sale.
- Avoid panic buying. That countdown timer may be aggressive, but most deals return in waves. If you’re unsure, take 10 minutes, breathe, and reassess.
The Bottom Line: Invest Once, Use All Year
Travel gear doesn’t have to be fussy, expensive, or “techy” to be worth the buy. The best pieces are the ones you pack without thinking—because they just work. And with smart Black Friday discounts like these, you don’t need to splurge to level up your travel setup.
From the neck pillow that’ll save your spine on overnight flights to a steamer that keeps you crisp and camera-ready, these five items have earned a permanent spot in my packing routine—and I’m betting they’ll earn one in yours too.
Prices and availability are accurate at the time of publishing but may change without notice. Be sure to check the product page for the most up-to-date pricing and deals.
