My Amazon Cart is Out of Control: Prime Day Travel Wishlist Confessions


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It's that time again: Amazon Prime Day is here, and my cart is looking like a travel gear store exploded in the best way possible. 🛍️

If you caught my last Prime Day post, you know I shared all the travel essentials we already own and swear by. But THIS time? I'm doing things differently. Consider this my official Amazon wishlist reveal: the upgrades I've been eyeing, the splurges I've been waiting to pull the trigger on, and the "I'll wait for Prime Day" items that have been haunting my saved-for-later tab.

Of course, I'll sprinkle in a few tried-and-true favorites for comparison (because sometimes you just need to know what actually works), but the focus here is on what's NEXT.

We're organizing this by category so you can dive straight into what you need, and then (because I'm nothing if not extra) I'm giving you trip-specific bundle ideas at the end for those of you planning beach escapes, European adventures, or winter wonderland getaways.

Let's get into it, shall we? ⤵️



🧳 Luggage & Bags

This is where I get dangerous. I truly believe you can never have too many bag options. (Brad disagrees, but we can’t all be perfect. 😜)

1. LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack

This is the aesthetic laptop backpack that doesn't sacrifice function for fashion. It fits a 15.6" laptop, has a USB charging port, is water-resistant, and comes in gorgeous colors (I'm eyeing this one right here). The reviews are glowing: people rave about how organized and spacious it is while still looking aesthetic. ✨ Perfect for work trips, digital nomading, or just feeling like you have your life together at the airport.

2. ETRONIK Weekender Bag

This is the TikTok-viral Beis dupe that everyone's obsessed with, and for good reason. Trolley sleeve? Check. Shoe compartment? Check. Multiple pockets? Check. It even comes with a bonus toiletry bag! At a fraction of the price of the original, this lets you get the aesthetic without the $108 price tag and there are OVER 15 COLORS! 😍

3. Away Carry-On

I've been eyeing Away luggage for YEARS. Every time I see one gliding through the airport looking all sleek and put-together, I get a little jealous. The 360° spinner wheels, the built-in compression system, the TSA-approved lock… it's basically the luxury sedan of luggage. If Prime Day gives me even a modest discount, this baby is MINE

4. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On

Okay, if the Away is outside my Prime Day budget (let's be real, it might be), this Samsonite is my practical runner-up. It has incredible reviews, expands for my fellow over-packer friends, and comes in multiple colors (including a very Parks-on-Rec-teal-looking color 👀). Plus, Samsonite is basically the OG of reliable luggage.

5. Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

For those one-bag travel dreams. This pack is LEGENDARY in the travel community. It fits carry-on requirements, has a stowaway harness system, and can basically become your entire luggage situation for a 1-2 week trip. Brad keeps saying he wants to hike more 🥾 so maybe I can be convinced with a new Osprey backpack. 😜

6. GAENMESN Waterproof Tote Bag

This is the Amazon dupe that gives you that Longchamp Le Pliage vibe without the $150+ price tag. 😎 It's made of water-resistant nylon, folds completely flat when not in use, and expands to hold a surprising amount of stuff. The reviews rave about how lightweight yet durable it is, and it comes in a ton of colors. Perfect as a beach tote, shopping bag, or that "I bought too much on vacation" emergency bag. At under $30 (during the Prime Day sale), this is a no-brainer add to cart.

💡 Pro Tip: Pack an empty foldable tote in your carry-on. You’ll thank yourself when your vacation shopping spree “accidentally” happens.

🔌 Tech & Gadgets

Because if your phone dies before you can post that sunset photo, did the trip even happen?

1. Anker 737 Power Bank

This thing is a BEAST. It can charge your iPhone multiple times over (I’m talking 13 times over!!), charges fast, and the digital display shows you exactly how much juice is left. If you're a heavy phone user (hi, it's me, taking 10,000 videos a day), this is the upgrade you need. I just feel like THAT many positive reviews can’t be wrong.

2. Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

I've been holding out on upgrading my AirPods, which, by the way, were hand-me-downs from my mom (thanks, Mom! 👋), but the noise cancellation on these would be a game-changer for flights. Plus, the new USB-C charging case means one less cable to pack. If these drop below $150, I'm clicking "add to cart" so fast.

3. Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker (4-Pack)

We're AirTag loyalists (as you know from my last post), but Tiles are perfect for non-Apple users or as backups. Stick one on your keys, passport holder, camera bag, or basically anything you'd panic about losing.

4. 3-in-1 Foldable Magnetic Wireless Charging Station

THIS is the travel charger of my dreams. It folds completely flat, charges your iPhone, Apple Watch, AND AirPods all at once, and takes up minimal space in your bag. No more packing three separate chargers or fighting over outlets at the hotel. The magnetic connection means your phone stays put while charging, and the foldable design makes it SO easy to pack. If you're addicted to the Apple ecosystem (guilty 🙋‍♀️), this is a total game-changer for travel.

5. Mapambo 2000W Voltage Converter (220V to 110V)

If you've ever been to Europe and realized your hair dryer won't work (or worse, FRIED your hair tool), you need this. This voltage converter handles high-wattage devices like hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners. It also has USB-A and USB-C ports for charging your other devices. Works in 150+ countries, and honestly? It's peace of mind in a compact package. No more air-drying your hair in a foreign country. 🙅‍♀️

6. eLinkSmart Fingerprint Keyless Biometric Padlock

This is one of those things that is totally not a need, but like, something my dad would find VERY cool. (That’s a good thing, btw. My dad is awesome.) No more fumbling with combination codes or keys for your luggage. This rechargeable lock opens with your fingerprint. It's very spy-movie-chic, and I'm here for it. 🫆

🤔 Speaking of tech must-haves...

We’ve been using Airalo eSIMs on every single international trip for easy, crazy-affordable data.

Tap to learn more →

😴 Comfort & Sleep

Personally, I CANNOT fall asleep upright (anywhere), but gosh-darn if I am not going to continue to make myself as comfy as possible in hopes that one day… it happens! 🙏

1. Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

I have the Trtl pillow (shared in my last post), but I've heard this one is even better for back sleepers. And I am one of those sleepers. 🙋‍♀️ It has adjustable straps, memory foam, and a flat back so your head doesn't get pushed forward. The reviews are making me reconsider my entire neck pillow situation.

2. Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow

Side-sleepers REJOICE! This inflatable pillow is weird-looking but genius. You inflate it and basically create a little cushion nest for yourself. A recent review commanded: “stop reading this and buy now.” So for me side-sleeper friends, I need someone to test this out and get back to me ASAP.

3. MZOO Sleep Eye Mask 3D Contoured

I have the silk one from my last post, but this 3D contoured version has over 95k reviews and is highly rated! The cups don't touch your eyelids (so no smudged eye makeup), and it blocks out even more light. Needless to say, I might be interested in giving this a test-drive. Especially if it’s 66%-off for Prime Day! 🤯

4. EverSnug Travel Blanket and Pillow

Ever notice how those airplane blankets are a bit… um, lacking? 😅 This blanket is extra-cozy while still lightweight for your carry-on. PLEASE NOTE: It’s advertised as “blanket and pillow”, but it’s really a blanket OR pillow. It acts as a pillow when packed-up, but is a blanket when you unpack it. Nonetheless, the comfy factor is 10/10!

📦 Organization & Packing

Where Type-A personalities thrive and chaos goes to die.

1. BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes

WE OWN THESE! And I genuinely cannot shut up about them. I featured these in my last post, but they deserve a repeat appearance because they are THAT good. The compression zippers literally give you 60% more space, they keep everything organized, and they make unpacking/repacking between hotels a breeze. Brad has finally seen the light and now asks to borrow mine, which is why I'll be buying him his own set this Prime Day. These are non-negotiable travel essentials. If you don't own packing cubes yet, start here. If you already own basic ones, upgrade to these. Trust me. 👏

2. BAGSMART Travel Toiletry Bag

Speaking of BAGSMART brand… This toiletry bag is basically Mary Poppins' carpet bag but make it organized. Multiple compartments, water-resistant lining, and it hangs so you can see everything at once. No more digging around for your toothbrush at 11 PM.

3. Tripped Tech Bag Organizer

Something about having 17 cords in various pockets all over my carry-on just doesn’t sit right with me. After finally seeing the light, I got myself a tech organizer and have never looked back. Although after finding this one by Tripped, I miiiiight need to upgrade my old organizer.

4. Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

If the BAGSMART cubes are too spendy, these Gonex ones are the budget alternative with great reviews. They compress down significantly, and for the price, you can't beat them. Don’t be surprised if you get these from me for Christmas.

5. pack all Plus-Sized Shoe Bag

A dedicated shoe bag? Say less. This is perfect for gym trips, weekend getaways, or just keeping your dirty shoes away from your clean clothes. The organization nerd in me is THRIVING.

💄 Personal Care & Wellness

1. LARQ PureVis Water Bottle

THIS WAS ON MY WISHLIST FROM MY LAST POST! And it's still there, haunting me. Self-cleaning water bottle with UV-C purification? I could fill it up anywhere and not worry? This feels like something future-me would be SO grateful I bought. Or so grateful that BRAD bought... for me... for Christmas. 🤓

2. Aquasonic Vibe Series Ultra-Whitening Toothbrush

I OWN THIS! A travel-friendly electric toothbrush with a case. Not the sexiest purchase, but dental hygiene is important, people! Plus, the charge lasts foreverrrrrrr (I brought it fully-charged on our 12 day adventure in Italy), so one less cord to take up space in your luggage.

3. Cadence Capsules

These leak-proof containers are TSA-approved, magnetic (so they stick together!), and come with customizable labels. They're like the Container Store had a baby with Apple. Very aesthetic. Very organized. Very me. Not only are they on sale for Prime Day, but there’s also a coupon! WINNING!

4. Kebnor Handheld Travel Steamer

This is the one from my last post after the iron incident with Brad's Lululemon shorts. Heats up in 15 seconds and gets wrinkles out like magic. Never forget your steamer after the Great Iron Incident of 2024.

5. Cleo+Coco Extra Strength Deodorant Balm

I OWN THIS! If you haven’t heard the news: I’ve entered my crunchy-girl era. I’ve been tossing out plastic containers, ditching anything with “natural flavor”, swearing-off synthetic fragrance, and poor Brad is just along for the ride. VERY recently swapped to cleaner deodorant and tried literally 3 different brands before landing on Cleo+Coco. Needless to say, the Grapefruit & Bergamot has won my heart… so I may even have to try their 2-in-1 Dry Shampoo next!

🏖️ Trip-Specific Bundles

Okay, so you've browsed the categories, but maybe you're planning a specific type of trip and want the TL;DR version. Here are my curated bundles pulling from everything above:

Beach Escape Bundle

Perfect for: Tropical vacations, resort stays, anywhere with sand and sunshine

City Hopping Bundle

Perfect for: Multi-city European trips, urban exploration, lots of walking

Theme Park Adventure Bundle

Perfect for: Disney, Universal, Six Flags… anywhere you're standing in line all day

National Park Getaway Bundle

Perfect for: Hiking, camping, outdoor adventures, nature photography

Business/Work Trip Bundle

Perfect for: Conferences, work travel, digital nomads, bleisure trips

Winter Wonderland Bundle

Perfect for: Ski trips, Christmas markets, cold-weather destinations, Northern Europe

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Bottom Line

Listen, I know my wishlist is aggressive. Do I NEED all of these things? Absolutely not. Will I probably buy at least half of them during Prime Day and convince myself it's an "investment in future travel"? Absolutely yes. 😅

The beauty of Prime Day is that you can finally pull the trigger on those items you've been eyeing without the buyer's remorse. (Or at least with LESS buyer's remorse.) And as points and miles travelers, we're all about maximizing value, whether that's with credit card points or Prime Day discounts.

Deals disappear fast, so if something catches your eye, don't sleep on it. Happy shopping, and may your cart be full and your credit card rewards be plentiful! 🎉

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

HEADS UP: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love and use ourselves. Thanks for supporting Parks on Rec! 🫶
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