June was a big month for the NBC Select team: We launched our first Travel Awards series, which was the result of testing more than 120 suitcases, duffels and accessories over the course of eight weeks this spring. Our team traveled to Japan, Europe, Maine and more trying products from major brands in the travel space, including Patagonia, July, Dagne Dover, Thule and Bagsmart, to name a few.
That’s why in our picks below, where we share our favorite products we tried from last month, you’ll notice a plethora of extra helpful travel finds. We also included standout items from other shopping categories, such as body washes, pet treats and pillows. Some are items we directly purchased, while others are courtesy gifts from brands.
SKIP AHEAD Travel | Home + Kitchen | Beauty + Wellness | Clothing + Accessories | Fitness + Leisure | Pet | Tech
Our favorite travel finds
Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag
As someone who has been a victim of pickpockets in the past, I’m now super cautious about keeping my items close and under strict surveillance while I’m traveling. During my two-week trip to Italy this month, I took this Uniqlo shoulder bag, and it has been one of the best travel purchases I’ve ever made — the strap is comfortable, it’s a great size and, most importantly, its crossbody style stays close and secure to my body at all times. The strap also doesn’t have a buckle, so I don’t run the risk of pickpockets unclipping it. Plus, unlike other travel backpacks I’ve used, it’s actually stylish and looks cute in pictures. The only downside is that the white color gets dirty very quickly, so it’s probably best to get a darker color if you’re prone to stains. – Mili Godio, updates editor
Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 (20L)
Peak Design makes one of our favorite travel backpacks, but this everyday bag is much more appropriate for my daily commute. The brand sent me one to try out, and I’ve been surprised at how much I like it over my previous daily backpack. It can easily carry my laptop, keys, wallet, headphones, earbuds, lunch, water bottle, hat, sunglasses and more, with plenty of room to spare.
My favorite feature is that you can access the main interior from the top flap or zippers on the left and right sides. I can slide the backpack from my back to my torso, unzip a side, and grab my over-ear headphones, all while speed-walking through NYC. It has so many useful little interior pockets, most of which have magnet-closures instead of zippers. The main compartment has removable dividers that help me better organize my stuff. It’s a little pricey, but I’ve loved using it over the past three weeks. — Harry Rabinowitz, reporter
Reporter
July Compression Packing Shelf
I’m a compression packing cubes girl through and through. As a chronic overpacker, l find they let me pack more clothes than I probably need and I can never tell what cube has what without pulling everything out.
I’ve never seen or heard of packing shelves, so I was skeptical but curious about trying some out from July. It didn’t look like it would fit as many clothes as I typically squeeze into a packing cube, or have the same level of compression that I’m used to. However, I was able to pack more than seven outfits on its three shelves and organize them so that each shelf had two days’ worth of clothes. Once I unpacked my bags, I would unzip the shelves and hang them up in the closet using their hooks. Doing this made traveling so much easier since I wasn’t unpacking and repacking everything, and I was able to stay organized with my clothes. — Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag
The Baggu Crescent bag isn’t just great for the beach, for me it’s been my go-to bag to take everywhere. As a college student and intern, I’ve been searching for something to carry all my essentials like my laptop, books, notebooks, etc. when traveling on campus or through New York and this Baggu crossbody has been the best. I’ve tried tote bags and backpacks, but nothing can hold as much and feel as comfortable on my shoulders and back like the Baggu. Plus, nothing looks as good, either.
Its size was the biggest draw for me, but an added bonus has been the nylon lining which has resisted spills and kept all my items safe from rain. I also like the wide adjustable strap that doesn’t dig into my shoulder and allows me to easily redistribute my weight when I’m traveling. – Jeffrey Kelly, intern
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner
When I saw that this hardshell carry-on suitcase also charged electronics, I immediately had to say “yes” when the brand offered to send me a model to try out. I loved how easy it was to set up the charging portion of my suitcase; it recently came in handy when I forgot to bring a power adapter on my trip to France. Aside from its charging feature, I could easily pack a week’s worth of clothes and more if I fully expanded it (which I did after plenty of shopping.) I was surprised at how much it could hold, while also still fitting in the overhead bins. It’s one of the most convenient and durable carry-ons that I have in my current suitcase rotation. — Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Acupressure Wristband
Motion sickness hits me hard when I’m in the car and on a boat; no matter what I do, I always feel that horrible nauseous feeling a few minutes into any trip. When I went abroad this summer, I went on a wine tour that involved getting in a van and going up and down some steep hills. I had started reporting on a motion sickness story before my trip, and experts I spoke to recommended wristbands that put pressure on a certain point on your wrist. So, I bought some to see if they actually worked — and they definitely did. I was skeptical at first, but after using them several times in both cars and on boats, they actually prevented my motion sickness from setting in. They come with a storage case, so I don’t have to worry about losing them while I’m moving from one place to another. These little bands will definitely be a staple on all my future trips. – Mili Godio, updates editor
Our favorite home + kitchen finds
Skyview Light
As a chronic “snooze” button presser, who has no less than four blaring iPhone alarms set each day, I’m always looking for ways I can optimize my sleep routine. I’ll try anything to make waking up a less painful experience. I’m not a morning person by nature, so when this new-to-me brand, Skyview, offered to send me its light to try, I quickly said “yes, please.” It’s marketed as a more effective version of a circadian or sunrise lamp and while I can’t speak to its science, I can say waking up to its light cues was incredibly refreshing. I’ve definitely felt calmer in the morning and aesthetically speaking, I love to look at it.
It changes colors throughout the day — it goes from a twilight to a calming blue to a warm amber to a deep red to signal to your body what it should do (ie: wake up, focus, wind down) throughout the day. I found the deep red before bed to be especially calming. I programmed my desired sleep and awake times in its app, which alerts the lamp when to turn on/off each day. The app is a bit finicky, in my experience. I had a little trouble adjusting my schedule for what time I’d like to wake up and go to sleep, but overall I’ve had a really positive experience using it. It’s also much sleeker than a lot of other similar lights on the market. — Lindsay Schneider, commerce editor
Bnrendles Silky Cnh Pillow with Ear Hole
After getting a helix piercing, I was fully prepared to not sleep on my side for months. But the nurse who pierced my ear at Rowan told me about the solution I never knew I needed: a piercing pillow. I bought one immediately. It’s donut-shaped, so I put my ear in the opening, which ensures that nothing presses against my earrings while I’m sleeping. It’s seriously a godsend for side-sleepers with piercings. I use it every night and place it on top of a standard pillow since it’s pretty small. I also travel with it since I now can’t imagine sleeping without it. I wish I knew about it years ago when I started getting cartilage piercings — I would have been so much more comfortable at night, and I think it would have helped my other piercings heal faster. — Zoe Malin, associate updates editor
Hexclad Hexmill Tabletop Salt & Pepper Grinder Set
I was recently introduced to Hexclad appliances and instantly fell in love with all of their sleek kitchen items. I bought this salt and pepper grinder that comes with its own stand so I can move it from my counter to my table or deck easily without making a mess. The best part is watching it in action. The bladeless grinder has 10 different coarseness settings, so I can easily change and tailor it to the needs of what I’m cooking. It doesn’t take up a lot of counter space and is easy to clean. It’s so good that I even got a set for my grandfather as a Father’s Day present. — Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Our favorite beauty + wellness finds
Vellum Street Fat Marshmallow Tallow Bar Soap
I bought this bar soap a couple of months ago while on a solo trip because I wanted to see what all of the tallow soap hype was about. I like this brand in particular because they’re really transparent about their soap-making process and have a great breakdown about the benefits of tallow on their website. (It works by penetrating your skin barrier to moisturize, heal and protect your skin, according to the brand.) I’ve been using this on my face and can’t believe how soft the low lather feels on my skin and after I rinse it off, that taut, tight feeling bar soap typically leaves behind is barely there. It’s also lasting longer than other options I’ve tried. — Nikki Brown, SEO editor
Ilia In Full Micro-Tip Eyebrow Pencil
I’m a natural redhead, so my eyebrows are, naturally, very fair. Hence why I’m a big fan of eyebrow pencils to give them some color and definition. This one does the trick — and then some. You can pick your color based on your hair color (Auburn works best for me) and the micro-fine tip lets me make natural-looking strokes along my eyebrow hairs. It’s a very buildable formula that stays on all day. — Kelsey Fredricks, production coordinator
Wonderskin Wonder Blading Lip Stain
Aside from using lip balms and lip masks, I love adding a pop of color to my lips to make them look a little less “dead.” I often find that no matter how much product I use, it fades almost immediately. After seeing this stain on TikTok, I was curious to see if it’s as long-lasting as people say it is. Spoiler alert: it is. It comes out blue on initial application and then once I wiped it off with a wet paper towel or cloth, it left a pink color on my lips that lasted for hours. All I have to do is top it off with gloss or chapstick. If I want a bolder look, I’ll leave it on for a few extra minutes (I usually leave it on for two minutes) or add an additional layer of the lip stain. — Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Zima Dental Pod
I’ve religiously worn my retainer for years, and always cleaned it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. But the toothbrush’s bristles can create little scratches in the retainer’s plastic material, which dirt can get inside. Using an ultrasonic cleaner, like this one from Zima, which the brand sent me to try, is a better option, in my experience. The little device uses water and high-frequency waves to scrub grime off my retainer, and it works so well it literally makes the retainer sparkle. It’s about the size of a coffee mug and it’s easy to store when I’m not using it since the power cord detaches. Since using it, I’ve recommended it to everyone I know who wears dental appliances. — Zoe Malin, associate updates editor
Good Time Magnetic Bar Holder
Being that I am in a bar soap phase, I immediately said “yes” when Good Time offered to send me this bar holder to try. It’s such a simple but highly effective tool that prevents my soap bars from having the slimy gunk that accumulates when you leave it on a flat surface. It comes with three bar buttons that look like soda caps — I just press them into one side of the bar and then it automatically attaches to the holder. It’s one of those small, affordable luxuries that makes showering more fun. I’ve been trying a couple of Good Time’s soaps too, which smell amazing. The exfoliating bar is a little too harsh for my skin but I love the shave bar and have been using it consistently. — Nikki Brown, SEO editor
Future Society Solar Canopy Bodycare Bundle
I come from a family addicted to perfumes and scented products. Just a small amount of this body wash and lotion keeps my skin smelling like a floral and fruity concoction for a few hours. (The scent initially goes on as strong as perfume, but tones down after the first half hour.) Scented skin care products don’t always work on my sensitive skin, but lately, I’ve been dabbling with applying this bundle on areas not super prone to sensitivity or eczema flare-ups. — Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Our favorite clothing + accessory finds
Uniqlo Ultra Stretch Airism Shorts
These are the most comfortable shorts I’ve ever put on my body. They’re flowy, stretchy and soft and will be my go-to for lounging and running errands this summer. Since I chafe, I don’t know if I’ll wear them while running or doing hardcore HIIT workouts yet, but they’re a great option for stretching and light workouts like Pilates. — Kelsey Fredricks, production coordinator
Aetrex Sydney Quarter Strap Espadrille Wedge
I have wide, large feet (I wear a 9.5 wide or 10 in sneakers), so I always have trouble finding shoes that fit right and are comfortable but still look cute. That’s especially true when it comes to heels or wedges. These Aetrex shoes (which the brand sent to me to try) haven’t bothered my feet at all, even when walking around in the city or on the boardwalk for an extended period of time. They have memory foam and a special orthotic system that’s meant to relieve foot pain, according to the brand. I can feel the cushioning and arch support as I’m walking.
Because of the width of my feet, I’ve gotten used to not being able to wear strappy sandals since my feet will usually stick out in weird places. These wedges come with an adjustable front strap, so I can make them fit around my feet the way they should. – Rosalie Sparaco, senior social media editor
Senior Social Media Editor
Rowan CZ 11mm Hypoallergenic Hoops
I am such a fan of hoop earrings and finally bought this pair after eyeing them for months. They’re available in silver and gold and have crystal studs along the front for a simple yet elegant accent. They’re also hypoallergenic, according to the brand, so I’m able to wear them 24/7 without irritating my sensitive skin. — Kelsey Fredricks, production coordinator
Our favorite fitness + leisure finds
“100 Boyfriends” by Brontez Purnell
Nothing has made riding the subway more enjoyable than this book. While usually I stick to poetry collections, I couldn’t put down “100 Boyfriends,” which is a collection of short stories that focuses on the fictional relationships of various queer men. Brontez Purnell’s deadpan wit was refreshing and added texture to the most harrowing and heart wrenching moments in the book. The book featured well rounded and flawed characters that, no matter how I felt about them, I never wanted to stop reading. — Jeffrey Kelly, intern
Head Ti. Conquest Pre-Strung 27in. Blue Tennis Racquet
I became obsessed with tennis after watching “Break Point” (a Netflix docuseries) on a recent flight to Japan. I played tennis years ago, I admittedly wasn’t very good but I decided to give it another try. A few weeks ago, I started practicing on a wall about three times a week with friends. However, after a few days of playing, I knew I needed a better racquet. My shots were out of control; simple forearm shots lacked control and my backhand was abysmal. I bought my first racquet about three years ago on a whim but this time I was searching for a proper beginner option, which led me to the Head Ti Conquest. This racquet gives me much better control compared to my old one, it has a larger sweet spot and it has better balance so I can get a sense of rhythm while practicing and working on different shots. — Jordan Bowman, editor
Our favorite pet finds
Badlands Ranch Superfood Bites
One thing my 8-year-old pit bull loves to do is spend her days running and sunbathing in my backyard. With the warm weather fully in swing, it’s been hard to bring her back inside. With the right treats, however, she comes running to the door. My dog’s a picky eater with a sensitive stomach, so I’m usually nervous to introduce new dog food or treats to her. Since these only have one ingredient: freeze-dried wild salmon, I took the risk — and luckily it paid off. She’s been loving them, listening more and I haven’t noticed any stomach problems since introducing them into her routine. — Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Tick Mitt Tick Remover for People and Pets
I rescued my puppy back in October, and keeping him happy and healthy has been top of mind ever since. Together, we love exploring the outdoors and have spent countless hours at the park and on long walks. However, growing up with Lyme Disease in my family and the stress of keeping us both safe from tick-borne illness affects how freely we can enjoy our time outside.
In trying to find nontoxic ways to protect him from ticks, I discovered Tick Mitt, a convenient and painless way to remove ticks from us both. Tick Mitt’s a Velcro-like fabric mitt you can swipe on clothes, skin or fur to remove ticks. Once I’ve wiped us both down, I throw the mitt into the included bag and toss it into the dryer, which kills ticks effectively and safely, according to the brand.
The mitt comes in four colors — I personally opted for the pink and can’t recommend it enough. It’s given me immeasurable peace of mind when taking daily walks with my dog. — Emma Satin, NBC Page
Paul Mitchell Pet Soothing Oatmeal Conditioning Spray
I mainly rely on shampoo and conditioner to leave my pit bull’s coat nice and soft because being a short-haired dog, it can sometimes feel dry and brittle. She also has a white, gray brindle that can look dull, too. After being sent this spray from Paul Mitchell and using it twice a week, my dog’s hair feels less dry and looks shinier. It functions like a leave-in conditioner; all I do is spray it all over once my dog’s hair once it’s dry post-shower. It’s helped her sensitive skin stay soft — I could now spend hours petting her. — Bianca Alvarez, associate reporter
Catenary Bloom Cat Scratcher
My biggest complaint about cat toys, scratchers and trees has always been how ugly they are. Catenary’s cat scratchers, however, are an exception. Their organic shape, neutral color palette and squiggly pattern make them look like a piece of home decor or art, so they blend into my apartment instead of sticking out. The cardboard scratchers lay flat on the ground, and my cats love digging their nails into them, sitting on top of them and rolling all over them while playing. The brand sent me a set of three to try, so I put one in my bedroom, one in my living room and one in my entryway. Catenary also sent me its Elevated Halo bowl, which is by far the nicest food and water bowl my cats have ever used. — Zoe Malin, associate updates editor
Our favorite tech finds
Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera with 40mm Lens
I wouldn’t call myself a photographer — I am too new to the hobby, and still have a ways to go with many of the artistic elements. One thing that continues to confuse me on many modern cameras are all the unlabeled buttons and command wheels, which is why I wanted to try out this camera from Nikon. It has a vintage-inspired design reminiscent of film cameras, with labeled dials for things like ISO and shutter speed.
I’ve been using it for the past two months after the brand loaned one for me to try. Using it has been some of the most fun I’ve had with a camera all year. It takes detailed shots, has an incredibly accurate autofocus system and makes a satisfying noise with every shot. The buttons and dials have made me much more comfortable using manual mode, something I’ve been intimidated by using other cameras. — Harry Rabinowitz, reporter
Windex Electronic Wipes
I used to think that cleaning my electronics and tech gear wasn’t super important, until I noticed how much of a difference it makes. While it’s subtle, the effect these electronic wipes give to my laptop, phone, desktop and other screens is so rewarding. I don’t have to look at smudges, fingerprints and debris on my phone screen, which can be distracting, not to mention unsightly. I use these wipes all the time to clean my gadgets and it doesn’t damage them in any way or leave any residue. — Cory Fernandez, commerce editor
Netgear WiFi 6 Range Extender (EAX12)
I live in New York City. Naturally, my apartment is not very large. Despite that fact, my Wi-Fi does not really reach into my bedroom — it’s spotty at best, nonexistent at worst. After trying and failing to connect a smart home device in my bedroom, I decided to cave and finally buy a range extender.
I chose this one because my main Wi-Fi router is from Netgear; I wanted a mesh system that plugs flush into a wall outlet — no big box or antennas. After about a 15-minute setup, it connected, and I now have decently fast Wi-Fi in every part of my bedroom. Problem solved. — Harry Rabinowitz, reporter
Why trust NBC Select?
Bianca Alvarez is an associate reporter covering skin care, hair care and gift guides, including recent stories on the best shampoo bars and the best SPF lip balms. For this story, our staff shared their favorite finds from the past month.
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