Oprah’s Favorite Things 2019: The Best Picks for Travelers

Calpak’s new soft-sided luggage feels like a breath of fresh air in an airport (and world) filled with hard-shell rollies. But the shiny, metallic exterior doesn’t just look cool; it’s also light, scratch-resistant, and more flexible than polycarbonate (meaning go ahead, pack that extra jumpsuit). The matching duffel bag has already sold out on Amazon—oh, the power of Oprah!—but don’t worry. It’s still up for grabs over on Calpak’s website.

Save frequent fliers precious packing space with this three-in-one travel blanket. They can cuddle up in it when the cabin gets chilly, throw it over their shoulders for a chic wrap, or use it as a pillow when they need to catch some z’s. Not only is it way softer than those scratchy, germy airline throws, but it also rolls up into a compact drawstring pouch.

Whether you’re cramped up in a car for hours or pounding the pavement in a new city, traveling really does a number on your body. Ease the pain with this hemp-infused trio from Footnanny. The cream, scrub, and salve work together to relieve not only tired feet but also achy backs, stiff necks, and sore arms. It’s like having a complete spa treatment at your fingertips. 

You’d never guess this sleek leather gadget was a wireless charger. Simply place your cell phone or AirPods on the base, and you’ll get a full charge in half the time. Because it can handle two devices at once, it’s especially great for business travelers or jetsetting couples. Minimalists will appreciate the black, gray, and cream colors, while the dusty rose or baby blue might appeal to Gen Zers.

Even if you—or your recipient—already have a million reusable water bottles, this BPA-free stainless steel bottle is worth making room for. A leak-proof lid ensures it won’t spill in your bag, while double-walled vacuum insulation keeps hot beverages hot and cold drinks cold. If the fun rainbow and heart patterns don’t put a smile on your face, this will: All proceeds go toward helping girls in rural Zimbabwe get an education. 

This vegan leather cosmetics/jewelry accessory will keep even the most disorganized traveler in check. Pack makeup or toiletries in the top zipper pocket and jewelry in the bottom section. You’ll know exactly where everything is when you unpack (no lost earrings or tangled necklaces), and it’ll make getting ready in a new place that much easier. You can even throw the whole thing in the hotel room safe. 

For on-the-go touch-ups and emergency manicures, you can do no better than this pretty collection of nontoxic polishes. And we do mean nontoxic. All of MiniLuxe’s products are free of not just the Big Three chemicals (formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate [DBP]), but eight potentially dangerous or irritating ingredients. With six colors curated by Oprah herself, the set includes a rich range of neutrals and one holiday-appropriate red, all packaged in tiny bottles that won’t weigh down a toiletry bag. 

Unlike the neon fanny packs of the 80s, these vegan leather smartphone pouches blend in while still allowing you to explore hands-free. Like a wallet but better, they fit only the essentials (phone, credit cards, room key) and have a detachable strap that you can wear across your body or over your shoulder. 

This pretty tea set is perfect for wanderlusters and homebodies alike. Packaged in a giftable yellow box, it comes with six turmeric blends, all sourced directly from gardens in India. While turmeric alone has been shown to have myriad health benefits (it’s believed to boost immunity, fight eczema, help hangovers and high cholesterol, among other perks), the teas also pack in other nourishing ingredients like moringa, saffron, and ashwagandha. 

You might be able to get away with that ratty T-shirt at home, but when you’re traveling, you’ll want your sleepwear a little more sophisticated. These soft bamboo pajamas are modest enough to wear around travel buddies or room service but comfortable and breathable enough to actually fall asleep in. Slipping into them on overnight flights will make you feel like you’re in first class.

Light, waterproof, and with a 16-hour battery life, this little speaker is a great traveling companion. Use it to blast your favorite playlist on the beach, pump you up as you get ready in your hotel room, or beat jet lag with a sleep-inducing podcast. While they do come in gray and black, the bright colors really make them worthy of a stocking. If your recipient is an audiophile, put two under the tree for stereo sound anywhere.

Baggu’s packable nylon totes come in handy on every kind of trip, whether you’re market-hopping across Barcelona or running to the grocery store after work. We’re suckers for the fun patterns (Moon and Wild Rabbit have our hearts) and at around $10 bucks a pop, they’re cheap enough to gift everybody on your list.

Even the dreaded middle seat will be no match for travelers clad in Alala’s supremely soft sweats. If you or your giftee is super-serious about the athleisure look, there’s a matching sweater-knit top in a cool slouchy cut.