These first turned my head a decade ago when I was living in and traveling out of Japan. So many people there used ‘em. I like that it’s a fashion accessory for your luggage, and that they give you a little extra visual help at baggage claim. These are TSA approved, too, so airport security can get in and out.

Up the chances of finding your lost bags with this luggage lock. The catch: whoever finds it must be smart and kind and call the toll-free number printed on the lock. Also, it’s TSA approved, which means airport security has a universal key to get in and out of your bag without having to break in.

A seriously loud alarm for such a tiny little gadget. That’s money well spent on peace of mind.

A $110 flashlight, you say? Well, this would be a heavy-dutytactical flashlight made from aircraft-grade aluminum. It’s what police use. It helps you light things or defend yourself camping, backpacking, on road trips, whatever. You can even take classes that teach you how to use it in self defense. This one’s just 3.5 inches long.

You know what’s not fun? Having a pervy Italian dude steal your cash and camera, then wasting one afternoon of an otherwise lovely trip answering police-report questions in a language you can’t read.

You know what I wish I would have had? This rugged, roomy bag made of fabric woven with stainless steel wire with a slashproof, cable-reinforced carrying strap and a tamper-free lockable zipper, which you can also secure to a table leg or other handy anchor. And another week or two in Italy.

Great for speedboats or swim-up bars. Petite and watertight, so your cell phone, i.d. and such stay close and dry.

Money. Belt.

Zaps the viruses, bacteria and protozoa responsible for everything from diarrhea to salmonella to typhoid—just press a button, then stir in up to a liter of water while the UV light does its thing. Little (6.1 inches), light (under 4 ounces) and fast (takes 90 seconds, max). Easy to use anywhere, on water from a developing country well, a back-country stream or even a sketchy city tap.

* Solar charging case sold separately.