The days of travel accessories being purely utilitarian – grey compression socks, black neck pillows, beige money belts – are over. A new generation of designers has turned the travel accessories category into some of the most desirable objects in personal style.
The New Neck Pillow
Trtl and Cabeau have transformed the neck pillow from embarrassing airport purchase to genuinely well-designed product. Trtl's soft-wrap design has a cult following for a reason: it actually keeps your neck supported without looking like a neck brace. Cashmere covers are available for those who've decided not to compromise on anything.
Luggage That Turns Heads
Away's hardshell suitcases redefined what a carry-on could look like. In 2026, Globe-Trotter's heritage tweed and leather cases, Rimowa's classic grooved aluminium, and Paravel's recycled-plastic range are all moving in slightly different directions – heritage, industrial, and sustainable – while looking exceptional in the process.
The Travel Wallet
A slim, multi-compartment wallet in vegetable-tanned leather holds your passport, boarding passes, and foreign currency without the bulk of a standard travel organiser. Bellroy and Fjallraven make particularly beautiful versions. The patina these develop over years of travel is part of the appeal.
Sunglasses Worth Packing
Acetate frames from Cubitts, Oliver Peoples, or Persol travel better than cheap pairs and look infinitely better in holiday photographs. A hard case is non-negotiable. Polarised lenses earn their premium on bright coastal or snowy destinations.
The Right Bag
A canvas tote that compresses to nothing but unfolds to hold a day's worth of essentials. A leather crossbody that sits flat against the body in crowds. A backpack with a dedicated laptop sleeve and lockable zips. The right bag solves problems before they happen, and a beautiful bag makes solving them a pleasure.