8 Money-Saving Travel Items To Buy Now Before Tariffs Kick In
Written by
Laura Beck
Edited by
Amen Oyiboke
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
If you’re (literally) gearing up for any trips in the near future, you might want to stock up on essentials now. Why? Well, Trump’s tariffs could affect the cost of your travel necessities.
With new tariffs hitting imports from virtually everywhere, the cost of travel essentials is about to get steeper.
Here are eight money-saving travel items to buy now before tariffs kick in.
Electronics and Chargers
If there’s one category to prioritize, it’s electronics. Those noise-canceling headphones you’ve been eyeing? That universal adapter collecting dust in your Amazon cart? Time to pull the trigger. Electronics like iPhones and TVs are among the products that will become more expensive due to tariffs on imports from China, Taiwan, and South Korea. Even basic items like power banks and portable chargers will probably face price increases since most come from countries facing new import taxes.
Luggage and Travel Bags
Quality luggage often comes from China and Vietnam, countries facing reciprocal tariffs of 34% and 46%, respectively. If your current suitcase has seen better days or you’ve been thinking about upgrading to a hardshell carry-on, now’s the time. The same goes for backpacks, weekender bags, and packing cubes — anything that makes organizing for travel easier.
Travel Clothing
Here’s something that might surprise you: that technical travel shirt or those quick-dry hiking pants you love? They’re about to get pricier. Most clothing and shoes sold in U.S. stores are manufactured outside the U.S., with China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh among the biggest exporters.
Whether it’s moisture-wicking socks, packable down jackets, or that perfect pair of walking shoes, buying now could save you money later.
Camera Equipment and Memory Cards
Travel photographers, take note: camera gear is likely to get pricier. While the big-ticket items like camera bodies might already be on your radar, don’t forget about accessories. Memory cards, batteries, protective cases, and tripods all typically come from countries facing new tariffs.
The Small Stuff That Adds Up
Those little travel conveniences you don’t think too hard about but always come in handy? Well, it’s time to look into buying those, too. Think travel-size toiletry containers, compact umbrellas, and international outlet adapters. While each item might not cost much individually, replacing your entire travel kit later could deliver some serious sticker shock.
Comfort Items for Long Flights
If you’re a frequent flyer, consider re-upping your in-flight essentials now. Travel pillows, compression socks, eye masks, and even those handy airplane seat covers typically come from overseas. While not the most glamorous purchases, we all know that having these comfort items can make or break a long-haul flight.
More From GOBankingRates
