Best Black Friday Travel Gear Deals 2023
Best Black Friday Travel Gear Deals 2023

So, you’re looking for Black Friday travel gear deals. Well, you’ve come to the right place! In fact, there’s probably no better place to be. In addition to creating a list of the best deals, we also have full in-depth reviews for almost every product included in this list. That way, you know you’re getting a deal and snagging the right Black Friday backpack, rolling luggage, or sling for your next trip.

You might be wondering what we mean when we say we have full reviews of the gear. We’re glad that you asked! Our review process is simple—testers get their hands on equipment for at least two weeks, sometimes longer, rigorously running it through its paces at Pack Hacker HQ, at home, and abroad. After testing, they compile their experiences and expertise into a review and a video so that you know what you’re in for when you purchase it. That way, you can get the right gear and spend your hard-earned time off and money on traveling, not replacement gear.

Now that you know why you should trust us, let’s dive into the Black Friday travel gear deals!

1. ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet
ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet Review

Whether you’re carrying cash or cards, a trusty wallet is a must if you don’t want to lose either bundle. For that purpose, the ALPAKA ARK Bifold Cash Wallet is certainly built for the job. Featuring 300-denier polyester fabric, it has a smooth canvas texture that feels just right to hold, plus a magnetized closure to help keep it all together. Moreover, the entire wallet feels very structured for its size while not being overly stiff like the brand’s X-Pac-laden wallet offerings. It has ample room for various banknotes without the need to fold them. On the other hand, it only has two card slots, which can handle up to four cards once the fabric breaks in. That said, we wish there were more than just two in case we wanted to carry more cards. Why We Like It

  • We’re digging the magnetized closure. It makes the wallet feel more secure
  • Materials and build quality feel very solid, as expected of an ALPAKA wallet
What You Should Know
  • Some of the card slots need to break in for a better fit
  • Holds a lot, but organization is a bit lacking
See Full Review & Buying Options
2. LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20”
LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On With Laptop Pocket 20” Solo

If you’re going to score a deal on rolling luggage, you might as well score one that’s made with the right stuff. The LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20” has a Makrolon polycarbonate exterior and YKK zippers, both of which are well-regarded names when it comes to luggage material. The former, though a plastic material, is robust and resilient enough to withstand the rigors of being checked (just in case the staff asks you to) while being smooth enough to help keep it looking pristine for longer. The YKK zippers are a bit jangly if you don’t lock them with the built-in TSA-approved lock, but it’s not that big of a deal once you’re in a noise-filled terminal. A unique feature this bag has over other hardside luggage is its secondary pocket. It’s convenient for storing items you might need to access quickly. However, keep in mind that it eats into the main compartment, so the space doesn’t come free.

Why We Like It
  • Durable polycarbonate shell is easy to clean
  • Wide handle doesn’t squeeze your digits
What You Should Know
  • Zippers are jangly if they’re not secured properly
  • Secondary pocket eats into the main compartment once it’s packed
See Full Review & Buying Options
3. SWISSGEAR Sion 6283 Expandable Carry On 21″ Luggage
SWISSGEAR Sion 6283 21

As the SWISSGEAR Sion 6283 Expandable Carry On 21” Luggage’s long name suggests, it has the ability to expand—quite a useful trick in case you’ve loaded up on souvenir shirts by your vacation’s end. Other creature comforts include grab handles that are thick and padded, so they’re actually enticing to use when you’re going up and down a flight of stairs, and secondary compartments for quickly needed accessories. Build quality is rough around the edges, as we’ve found loose threads throughout our testing, though, thankfully, none of them deteriorated in any impactful way.

Why We Like It
  • Grab handles are thick and padded, so they’re relatively comfortable to hold
  • Has secondary compartments so you can easily access quick-grab items
What You Should Know
  • Included TPU bag not entirely waterproof, so damp items may still leak moisture
  • We’ve found loose threads throughout the bag
See Full Review & Buying Options
4. Thule Subterra 34L
Thule Subterra in Spain

Looking for a backpack for both traveling and daily use? The Thule Subterra 34L might just fill the void. Its rolltop may not sound like the most convenient thing to work with, but it has thoughtfully placed side zippers so you can access your gear easily while on the go. It also comes with an included packing cube and if you forgo using it, you’re treated to a spacious yet easily navigable interior that’s lined with bright fabric that nicely contrasts dark-colored accessories.

Why We Like It
  • It’s a rolltop, but it has side access zippers for convenience
  • Interior has a bright liner that’s easy to navigate, and there are plenty of pockets for organizing gear
What You Should Know
  • Included packing cube fills the entire main compartment
  • Laptop compartment rated for up to 15-inch device, but it’s a tight fit getting one inside
See Full Review & Buying Options
5. Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket
Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket in Oxford, Michigan

Nothing hits quite like the warmth of a nice blanket on a cold day waiting for a delayed flight. The Rumple NanoLoft Travel Blanket is large enough to cover one person’s body and packs down to a very travel-friendly size, so you can easily take it on any trip. Rolling it up takes some effort, but it’s worth it if layering up in multiple hoodies and jackets isn’t your style. Plus, it makes for a handy little mat you can sit on if you’re going on a picnic or a hike.

Why We Like It
  • Packs down to a tumbler-shaped travel-friendly size
  • Provides enough personal coverage and decent warmth during cold flights
What You Should Know
  • Compression takes considerable effort
  • Storage case isn’t attached, so you’ll have to keep track of it
See Full Review & Buying Options
6. Tile Slim Tracker
Tile Slim Tracker Review

Say goodbye to worrying about tracking down lost luggage or a wallet. The Tile Slim is a smart tracker in the shape of a card that’s so small you can practically slip it into pretty much anything you fancy, from luggage tags to wallets. Like most smart trackers, it uses other devices in its surroundings to report its location anonymously, while Bluetooth takes care of the rest when you get within around 350 ft. Once you’re really close, it has a built-in beeper you can ping so you can finally home in on its location. It’s simple, clever, and a life-saver for travelers who find themselves in the worst-case scenario.

Why We Like It
  • Card-shaped design fits in wallets and very tight spaces
  • Works with both iOS and Android devices
What You Should Know
  • Battery is not rechargeable
  • Beeper can get muffled if it’s buried under other gear
See Details & Buying Options
7. Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank
Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank Review

At first glance, the Satechi Quatro Wireless Power Bank looks pretty much like any other wireless power bank. Tall, black, with a bunch of ports for connecting your various devices. But under the hood are two wireless charging spots, one for your Apple Watch and another for Qi-compatible devices, like your iPhone or AirPods. Plug a third device into one of the ports (USB-C and a USB-A port), and you can charge up to three devices simultaneously. Capacity-wise, it’s a bit chunky for a 10,000 mAh power bank, but the wireless charging functionality is worth it if you’re constantly traveling with a bunch of tech items that all need topping up.

Why We Like It
  • It can top up your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods at the same time
  • Still supports 18-watt charging out of its USB-C port for quick charges
What You Should Know
  • Relatively beefy for its 10,000 mAh capacity
  • Entire build quality feels a bit plasticky
See Full Review & Buying Options
8. Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L
Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L Review

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L has a clamshell opening you’d expect of a travel-focused backpack, and that, coupled with its rigid structure, makes packing easy. But it’s the subtler features that make this backpack distinctly “Peak Design,” such as its compression system that doesn’t involve any messy straps and instead relies on a zipper that runs along the bag’s edge. It’s a neatly integrated system that preserves the bag’s very clean aesthetics. That said, keep in mind that it’s the expanded state that’s 30 liters, while the compressed state is 27 liters.

Why We Like It
  • Compression system is neatly integrated using a zipper with no straps involved
  • Rigid structure makes packing easy
What You Should Know
  • It’s 30 liters when expanded
  • We wish the main compartment’s mesh pockets were easier to access
See Full Review & Buying Options
9. tomtoc Wander-T26 Daily Sling 5.5L
tomtoc Wander-T26 Daily Sling 5.5L Review

The tomtoc Wander-T26 Daily Sling 5.5L is what you get when someone wants to get their game on while traveling. Unlike smaller slings we’ve tested, the Wander-T26 has the length and space to accommodate beefy portable consoles such as the Nintendo Switch or the even beefier Valve Steam Deck. But apart from the space, this sling is also well-padded for protection and has plenty of pockets for the various cables, cartridges, and other accessories you may want to bring along.

Why We Like It
  • Fits a Nintendo Switch or even a Steam Deck
  • Reassuringly feels solid and structured for storing expensive electronics
What You Should Know
  • Relatively large, especially on smaller frames, since it’s 5.5 liters in capacity
  • Its swivel buckles audibly squeak when they move around
See Full Review & Buying Options
10. Tropicfeel Hive Backpack
Tropicfeel Hive Backpack Back

The Tropicfeel Hive Backpack is made with fairly durable materials, such as water-resistant recycled polyester, YKK zippers, Duraflex hardware, and aluminum buckles. Despite its simplistic and casual looks, it’s not that out of place if you take it outdoors. Its clamshell design is optimal for packing a lot of clothing when you travel, while its harness system has all the creature comforts you’d want on a big backpack. Load lifters, a sternum strap, a hip belt—they’re all here to complement the comfy shoulder straps. The Hive is also compatible with Tropicfeel’s various FidLock-attached accessories, including a toiletry bag and tech pouch.

Why We Like It
  • Compatible with a variety of Tropicfeel accessories
  • Comfortable harness system that’s not too cumbersome for a travel backpack
What You Should Know
  • Add-ons are additional purchases
  • Frontside laptop compartment isn’t super well padded
See Full Review & Buying Options
11. Tropicfeel Monsoon Sneakers
Tropicfeel Monsoon Sneakers Review

The Tropicfeel Monsoon Sneakers are some of the lightest shoes we’ve tested, making them well-suited for travel. First, they’re easy to slip in and out of, and walking feels featherlight as well. Second, they’re easy to compress and pack into your bag in case you want to use them as spare footwear. Last, its easy-draining design lets water egress just as easily as it seeps in. In other words, if you’re the type to wade into streams while exploring the outdoors, then these shoes do the trick. Mind you, since this is a very breathable design, air flows freely through the shoe on hot and cool days, and you’ll really feel that in cold weather.

Why We Like It
  • Drains easily if you decide to wade into the water on an adventure
  • Very breathable, which is helpful during hot days
What You Should Know
  • We’ve lost one of the Sprint Laces’ knots during testing
  • You can really feel the breeze on cold days
See Full Review & Buying Options
12. Vessi Stormburst High Top
Vessi Stormburst High Top

The Vessi Stormburst High Top can be your go-to running shoes for rainy days. It combines the waterproof ethos of Vessi footwear with the high-top design that’s more akin to boots rather than everyday sneakers. This gives you a lot of coverage and fewer chances for water to rain down on your ankles. Of course, since this pair is designed to be waterproof, they can get a bit warm on hot days, so we like to wear them during cooler and wetter weather.

Why We Like It
  • Waterproof, so going through puddles isn’t a problem
  • Laces don’t impact waterproof performance
What You Should Know
  • Not the most breathable upper
  • Large size can be hard to pack in a travel bag
See Details & Buying Options
13. Away Featherlight Crossbody
Away Featherlight Crossbody Review

There are plenty of reasons to like Away’s gear, but chief among them is aesthetics. Case in point, the Away Featherlight Crossbody looks like a delicate fortune cookie pastry on your shoulder. Though it may seem all show and no go, it’s surprisingly functional, too. For starters, its seamlessly integrated shoulder strap has a built-in pocket for everyday carry items such as transit cards and earphones. Meanwhile, its roomy main compartment is surprisingly easy to pack despite what the baggy-looking structure might suggest, thanks in part to its wide floor and partly to its crescent-shaped opening that’s very wide and easy to spread, increasing visibility.

Why We Like It
  • We’re really digging the strap’s built-in pocket; it’s a convenient spot for storing cards
  • Roomy and easy to pack despite its baggy looks
What You Should Know
  • Stains rather easily, especially on lighter colorways
  • Lacks a key leash, so you may have to dig around for your keys
See Full Review & Buying Options
14. Harber London Magnetic Envelope Sleeve For MacBook
Harber London Magnetic Envelope Sleeve For MacBook Review

Those who use an Apple MacBook likely appreciate a sleek and classy industrial design. How would you improve that? One answer would be a leather case like the harbor London Magnetic Envelop Sleeve. The front is leather while the back is just a bare wool felt material that cushions your laptop nicely. This minimalism nets you a very slim case with a magnetized flap that’s very satisfying to open and close and a classy facade that feels right at home in any coffee shop.

Why We Like It
  • Leather front feels very premium, while the wool felt protectively cocoons your device
  • Magnetized flap is satisfying to open and close
What You Should Know
  • Lacks a handle for an otherwise comfortable carrying experience
  • Wool felt might feel itchy if it brushes against your skin
See Full Review & Buying Options
15. Gravel Pouch (3-1-1 TSA Compliant Bag)
Gravel Pouch (3-1-1 TSA Compliant Bag) Review

Using a resealable bag to store toiletries and complying with the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule on liquids is unavoidable. As such, the logical next step for seasoned travelers is a bespoke pouch for such needs, like the Gravel Pouch. Designed to be TSA-compliant, it has a translucent design that’s more presentable and hides stains in case your toiletries leak (pressurized cabins tend to mess with them). It even has an adjustable wrist strap in case you want to make it your go-to toiletry bag for trips to the restroom on layovers.

Why We Like It
  • More durable than a plastic resealable bag
  • Has an adjustable loop you can use to hang the pouch off a hook or towel rack
What You Should Know
  • It’s not a completely clear case, so you can’t 100% make out what’s inside
  • No organization whatsoever since it’s a very simple pouch
See Full Review & Buying Options
16. Ombraz Viale
Ombraz Viale Sunglasses Review

Sunglasses that ditch the arms in favor of a more swimming goggles-style band may seem strange, but don’t knock them ‘till you try them. The Ombraz Viale and its nylon cord wraps around the head very comfortably, even for those of us who have long hair. Plus, it fits very securely since the band is firmly wrapping it onto your head instead of just sitting there like a normal pair of eyewear. For the style-conscious, you’ll be pleased to know that the Viale comes in a variety of colorways, so if you’re willing to try something new, you have plenty to choose from.

Why We Like It
  • No risk of broken sunglasses arms since this one uses a band
  • Surprisingly comfortable to wear
What You Should Know
  • Takes some getting used to the band
  • Not the quickest sunglasses to put on and take off
See Full Review & Buying Options
17. Ekster Finder Card (Apple FindMy)
Ekster Finder Card (Apple FindMy) Review

The Ekster Finder Card joins a multitude of smart trackers that are directly compatible with Apple’s Find My Network. Through this network, you can easily pair and track the Finder Card like you would an AirTag. It doesn’t support Precision Finding like the AirTag, but it is rechargeable and can fit inside a wallet comfortably since it’s shaped like a credit card. Just be careful not to bend it too much, as the somewhat plasticky construction isn’t exactly the most reassuringly beefy build quality we’ve tested.

Why We Like It
  • Pings very loudly so you can find it easily
  • Card shape is easy to fit just about anywhere
What You Should Know
  • Charges via a bespoke pogo pin cable
  • Feels plasticky compared to other wallet smart trackers
See Full Review & Buying Options
18. Monti Shasta 23L Cooler
Monti Shasta 23L Cooler

Pull up wearing the Monti Shasta 23L Cooler filled with three six-packs and a bottle of wine will make you the life of the party. This packable bag fits in a small pouch and unfolds into a 23-liter rolltop backpack with a fairly comprehensive harness system, complete with a sternum strap and mesh-covered shoulder straps. Inside, you can fit up to 23 cans of beverages or 5 bottles of wine, though you’ll have to leave some room for ice whichever way you fill it. Drinks are kept cool for up to 55 hours, though we usually play it safe, clean it out, and refresh everything after a day of use.

Why We Like It
  • It’s packable, so you can stuff it away once all the drinks are gone
  • The harness system is relatively well-appointed and isn’t an afterthought
What You Should Know
  • Drying it out is a must before you pack it away
  • Comfort is largely dependent on how well you pack the bulky drinks inside
See Details & Buying Options

So there you have it: some of the best Black Friday travel gear deals, from backpacks to toiletry bottles. Hopefully, you’ve loaded your cart, saved some cash, and are ready for your next trip. Enjoy the ride!

November 24, 2023

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