Travel & Leisure

The best buy-it-for-life travel accessories are made to last, using tough materials and smart, repairable designs. Look for stainless steel razors, solid brass locks, and leather wallets with responsibly sourced hides. Luggage built for endurance often comes with lifetime guarantees and repair services too. Reusables like silicone travel bottles or cutlery sets help cut waste and save money over time. Some suitcases are drop-tested within an inch of their lives and still carry on. For our top choices, check out our research process page.

To care for long-lasting luggage or travel gear, give it a gentle clean after each trip. Hard-shell cases like a quick wipe-down with mild detergent, while fabric ones respond well to a soft brush or hoover. Avoid cramming too much in - it’s a fast track to broken zips. Store bags upright, dry, and out of direct sunlight. Makers often offer repairs or replacement parts, especially if there’s a lifetime guarantee. For more upkeep tips, head over to our Product Care & Repair hub.

Yes, you can take razors or tweezers in your hand luggage - but it depends on the razor type. Tweezers and disposable or cartridge razors usually pass without fuss. Safety razors with removable blades? Those blades need to go in the hold. Electric models are fine, but always check your airline’s current rules. A buy-it-for-life safety razor's a cracking choice for sustainability - just tuck blades in your checked bag.

Cabin luggage size limits vary, but 55 x 40 x 20 cm is the usual maximum. Always check your airline’s small print, especially with budget carriers - they can be sticklers or sneak in extra fees. Choose carry-on luggage that’s compact and built to last, with solid wheels and weight under 10kg. Many top cabin bags are made with these rules in mind and come with 10-year or lifetime warranties for peace of mind mid-flight.

Yes, most hair straighteners are allowed in hand luggage, including corded and cordless ones with built-in batteries. But gas-powered models often aren’t, so check the label before packing. Different airlines have different rules, so it’s wise to double-check before you fly. For regular travellers, a dual-voltage straightener that can take a bashing is worth its weight in gold - just let it cool before popping it in your bag.

To reset or unlock a stuck luggage lock, start with the default code (usually 000) and gently rotate the dials while applying pressure. For a full reset, most brands have a little button to press with a pen as you turn the numbers. Don’t force it - especially with lifetime-guaranteed luggage - or you may risk more harm than help. Many brands share reset tips online and some provide free replacement parts. If all else fails, a locksmith can often sort it without wrecking your bag.

The best way to pack a luggage bag efficiently is to roll your clothes, not fold them - saves space and cuts down on creases. Use packing cubes to stay organised and balance heavier items near the wheels. Shoes double nicely as storage for socks or chargers. Always stash liquids in a sealed pouch unless you fancy a shampoo explosion. Reusable bags are better than disposable ones for the planet (and your packing game). For more helpful tips, see our blog on 5 travelling pitfalls and how to combat them.