All Of The Products That We Gave HuffPicks Shopping Awards To This Year

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars at Amazon

In previous reporting, HuffPost Shopping beauty reporter Tessa Flores noted that while we see a lot of skin care products come and go here at HuffPost, there are a few that make a lasting impression. One of the best examples of this is Embryolisse’s Lait-Crème Concentré face cream, a longtime French pharmacy staple that, according to her, “may just be the beauty world’s not-so-secret weapon.”

It's been recommended by makeup artists and dermatologists to much success, with HuffPost readers scooping it up anytime they get a chance. The world at large seems to be catching on to this French hidden gem, but it's a longtime HuffPost fave.

Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars at Amazon

HuffPost readers love a high-quality skin care product that can replace pricey facial treatments, like this K-beauty serum that one beauty TikToker calls “filler in a bottle.” Its prowess is attributed to an ingredient called PDRN, which is widely used in injectables overseas. It has anti-inflammatory and tissue-repairing capabilities that can improve skin firmness and leave recipients with a telltale glow. It's usually extracted from salmon sperm cells, but Iope's serum has a completely vegan, plant-based formula that is as unique as it is effective.

Additional ingredients like niacinamide, probiotics and caffeine round out this repairing formulation — all ingredients that are beloved by HuffPost editors and readers alike.

The combination of a buzzy new ingredient like PDRN and time-honored stalwarts like the ones we just mentioned joined forced to create the perfect beauty product storm that earns this serum a best-in-show badge. Both Flores and I have covered countless serums in our many years of beauty reporting, but this one covers all our must-have bases.

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Washing your face daily can feel like an arduous task, made moreso when you factor in the labor or having to launder washcloths. As if that weren't annoying enough on its own, dermatologist Joshua Zeichner previously told HuffPost, “Items like washcloths can be a breeding ground for microorganisms if they are left out wet and reused.”

The search for a sanitary solution led former HuffPost Shopping writer Haley Zovickian to the cult-favorite Clean Skin Club towels. Plant-based and disposable, they’re designed to help keep skin germ-free post-wash, so you can apply products with a fresh face, clean conscience and without added microorganisms. At press time, the towels were the #1 bestseller on Amazon for facial cleansing cloths and towelettes, and the #2 bestseller in beauty and personal care.

Endorsed by thousands of happy reviewers and recommended by estheticians, these soft, plush and surprisingly large towels are as good as it gets. Some users even noted that they helped to reduce skin irritation. It's no wonder they've become a staple in myriad HuffPost readers' skin care routines, making them worthy of high praise.

Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars at Amazon

HuffPost readers adore a problem-solving product like Gold Bond's crepe-correcting body lotion. “Crepey” skin is a common, yet tricky, skin issue to treat. Lots of products with big price tags make big promises about the ability to restore elasticity to skin, but few are as time-honored and popular as this lotion. It harnesses the power of antioxidents, omega-3 fatty acides and powerful botanicals to deeply hydrate and smooth, which can help to reduce the look of crepey skin.

Reviewers have long gone wild for this drugstore staple, and it's tried-and-true reputation has earned this hard-working body cream a coveted spot on this list. It's a classic HuffPick — affordable, effective, multi-functional, sneakily luxurious, and widely beloved (it has over 40,000 reviews on Amazon). We wholeheartedly agree with one user who said, "It works better than the expensive stuff."

Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars at Amazon

When multiple HuffPost editors are raving about one product, you know it's going to be pretty magical. Case in point: Londontown's cult-fave nail concealer. It's a game-changer whether you're looking to take a break from gel manicures, want to touch up your polish at home between visits to the salon or simply want a quick and easy way to give your paws a refresh.

Senior reporter Lydia O'Connor first brought this nail polish to the Shopping team's attention, and it very quickly became apparent that it's beloved across the entire newsroom. “I am obsessed with this product,” O’Connor said in previous reporting.

Greta Geiselman, our director of office services, swears by it, saying "I love this brand! For quick manis, I can put on two coats, no top or bottom needed and it dries quickly. Buildable coverage and fun colors."

Editorial director Kristen Aiken proclaimed, “I love this stuff!...I have really weird nails (the whites are jagged because I use my hands too much and have ‘nailbed trauma’) and I’m too rugged to paint my nails because it instantly comes off, but I love the nail concealer because it looks natural but just, better. And it doesn’t show when it starts to chip off.”

Their glowing reviews, combined with our audience's fervor for this nail concealer, has earned it a coveted HuffPick designation. The concealer comes in four different colors that look great on a variety of skin tones: bubble, pink, milky and quartz. Each formula contains optical brighteners to give nails a subtle gleam and hide imperfections and discoloration, along with plant extracts and a nourishing complex.

With over a decade of beauty reporting under my belt, I've tried my fair share of foundations. And while I've long gravitated to the ease of stick foundations, there's one liquid foundation that has blown the rest out of the water: Westman Atelier's Vital Skincare complexion drops. Despite the higher price point, I can't stop buying it — and neither can HuffPost readers.

This liquid foundation has a thin, lightweight and serum-like consistency with light-to-medium buildable coverage that looks just like my own skin, but way better. It blends beautifully and manages to blur breakouts and cover redness and dark circles without looking or feeling heavy. I’ve gotten compliments almost every time I’ve used it from people who think it’s my natural, makeup-free face.

It’s gentle and hydrating, doesn’t clog pores and gives my skin an overall healthy glow. Another reason I am obsessed with it is that while it does have a dewy finish, it doesn’t leave my skin looking slick or oily. It dries down to an almost powdery consistency that leaves my skin velvety smooth and stays put all day long.

But what really makes this foundation one of the greats is that it’s packed with skin-loving serum-style ingredients like squalane, tsubaki oil, ginseng extract and more. These work together to improve the look of skin texture, reduce redness, soothe irritation, hydrate and brighten the complexion. A makeup product that doubles as skin care? You just can't beat that.

Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Lots of products make big promises about solving frustrating skin and hair problems, but few deliver in the way that Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo does. In previous reporting, Dr. Elain F. Kung, a board-certified dermatologist at New York City’s Future Bright Dermatology, called Nizoral “the industry gold standard” of anti-dandruff treatments because it includes a 1% concentration of ketoconazole, an anti-fungal ingredient that’s clinically proven to address dandruff symptoms.

Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars

We've rarely seen an audience response quite like we did when former HuffPost editor Janie Campbell introduced our readers to the Revision Skincare YouthFull lip replenisher. You purchased this nourishing lip product in droves, and upon closer inspection, it's clear why. Campbell made a compelling case for this balm, calling it a "truly stellar and game-changing product."

Formulated with several peptides, vitamins E and C, green tea and shea butter, it's designed to target visible signs of lip aging like puckering, wrinkles, dryness and dullness.

And while it's not typically like us to recommend such an expensive lip balm, the results speak for themselves. It has a thick, tacky texture that really grips the lips, making it a great overnight treatment. Campbell could see results upon her very first application, and other reviewers agree, including one at Dermstore who said it gives her "a plump lip filler look when left on overnight." Say no more!

Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars at Amazon

If there's one thing that HuffPost readers and editors love, it's French pharmacy skin care products. A313 cream is the highest-strength retinol cream you can get over the counter, with three kinds of retinol that can help stimulate collagen. Its efficacy is renowned, as is the reasonable price point, making it a unique entry in the retinol category.

Reviewers have long noted that it's nearly as potent and effective as prescription-strength Tretinoin, without the negative side effects. In fact, some users who had been using prescription-strength Tretinoin then made the switch to this alternative, say they prefer A313 and have maintained the same results that they had with the prescription-strength formula.

In past reporting, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rebecca Marcus explained that, “[A313] contains minimal ingredients in its vehicle, which is helpful for those who are sensitive to fragrances or other ingredients that are commonly found in OTC retinol products."

Ultimately, what makes A313 distinctive (along with the price) is the thick occlusive texture, which is closer to a balm, and according to reviewers, can be more hydrating compared to other pricier formulations that you might find on the OTC market. The brand claims that the 2% retinol concentration can help unclog pores, minimize fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin texture.

Shopping writer Lourdes Avila Uribe sang the praises of these reusable and biodegradable Swedish dishcloths after a recommendation from her sister for a lower-waste alternative to paper towels in 2022.

“They’re wildly absorbent,” Uribe wrote. “Cleanup that would usually require multiple paper towels is easily mopped up with just a single reusable Swedish dishcloth. They are made from cellulose and cotton, making them soft and gentle for hands and surfaces while wet, but are gritty enough to really scrub and scour a particularly grimly spot when dry.”

She also raved about the long-term cost- and waste-saving benefits, adding, “I’ve used ten compostable dishcloths in the same amount of time I would have used approximately 24 paper towel rolls.”

Since then, thousands of shoppers — including my own parents! — have used and loved these dishcloths to cut down on paper towel usage, and we usually include them in our big sale stories since they became an unexpected bestseller during Prime Day in 2024.

The dishcloths come in tons of colors and work on so many different surfaces, from glass to wood, marble, stainless steel and tile. They can absorb up to 15 times their weight in liquid, and can be used over 100 times before you need to discard them (in the meantime, you can toss them in the washing machine to clean them).

According to previous HuffPost Life coverage, if you're using dryer sheets in the laundry, you may be doing more harm than good.

Dryer sheets are bad for a few reasons, according to laundry experts: Patric Richardson of The Laundry Evangelist told HuffPost that dryer sheets can build up film in your dryer over time, making it less effective, and that the sheets coat your laundry with a chemical solution that doesn't actually make them softer. That chemical coating can also destroy your clothes over time. Plus, think about how many dryer sheets you may go through in a year and the amount of waste it creates.

Instead, Cora Harrington, a lingerie expert and author of “In Intimate Detail: How to Choose, Wear, and Love Lingerie,” mentioned that dryer balls can be a great alternative. “People often find their clothes dry faster with wool balls, and, of course, unlike dryer sheets, they’re reusable and biodegradable,” she said.

We've previously recommended Larque's six-pack of wool dryer balls, but they’re unfortunately sold out at the moment. So instead, we're choosing these wool dryer balls from Handy Laundry, which are basically exactly the same. These aren't a downgrade by any means: They're currently listed as the no. 1 bestseller in the dryer balls category on Amazon and no. 31 in the overall laundry category, and have earned 4.6 stars across more than 85,000 reviews. Uribe also recently wrote about these balls, which come in packs of four, six or 12.

Made with 100% premium New Zealand wool, the balls can replace fabric softener and dryer sheets, cutting down on laundry costs and waste. They can also speed up drying time and reduce static cling as well as wrinkles, because they separate laundry while the dryer is going and keeps your clothes nice and soft. The faster drying time can also help you cut down on energy bills by 25%, according to the brand, from running your machine for longer.

Former BuzzFeed shopping writer Kayla Suazo crowned these 400 thread count Threshold sheets the “best sheets known to man” in 2022, and they’ve been a HuffPost Shopping mainstay ever since. Our readers love high-quality, affordable bedding and responded with strong interest to this rave review, and now every time they’re on sale, we jump to cover them.

Even at full price, however, the sheets are well worth the buy, as attested to by several HuffPosters who have been influenced to buy them in multiples. "I am truly obsessed with my Target sheets. They're cute, soft and withstand the nails of my 100-pound pitbull who I (regrettably) allow in my bed," wellness reporter Jillian Wilson said in our article detailing HuffPosters' favorite Target purchases of 2024. (The sheets were also a 2024 topseller among our readership.) Aiken also said, "I've bought them for myself, my mom has bought them, and I've bought them as housewarming gifts for all my friends.” (An informal Slack poll showed that no less than 14 HuffPosters own these sheets, and that doesn’t count the friends and family members that have purchased them on our advice.)

The sheets are available in 10 solid colors and 28 patterns, in sizes ranging from twin/twin XL to California king. They’re 100% cotton, can fit mattresses up to 18 inches deep, feature top and bottom labels to make making the bed easier and are wrinkle-, pill- and shrink-resistant.

We know you’ve probably heard of this one already, but we couldn’t leave it off our list. We included Dawn Powerwash dish spray in some of our October Prime Day roundups, and were pleasantly surprised to find that it became one of the top three products across all categories in earnings the first day. Now, we bow down to the “holy grail of dish soaps” — which, by the way, can also clean countertops, laundry stains and makeup brushes, among other things. (Oh, and a little life hack for you? This stuff can kill bugs, too, according to reviewers. What can’t it do?)

Our readers aren’t the only ones who love the stuff, however: I can also personally vouch for Powerwash’s ability to cut through grease and grime with virtually no scrubbing.

Shopping writer and avid home cook Griffin Wynne, who compared themselves to Shel Silverstein’s housework-averse heroine Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout, found that Powerwash eliminated the need for scrubbing during a particularly tiresome chore. “I truly spray down my scary pile [of dishes], wait a beat, and then the gross food bits just... fall off,” they wrote in a 2022 editor’s picks roundup.

The spray, which has been called “magical,” “life changing” and “legit sorcery,” has three cleaning boosters and can remove 99% of grease and grime five times faster than other brands. The suds also activate on contact, and the spray functions lets a little go a long way and makes it easy to tackle larger dishes like pots and pans. It’s ridiculously popular — 4.8 stars across over 107,000 ratings is nearly unheard of — and this refill pack comes with four fresh-scented bottles for less than $20.

Natalie Rebuck, principal designer of Re: Design Architects in Brooklyn and Southold, New York, previously recommended the Beckham Hotel Collection pillows to Uribe for a story about hotel-quality bedding, saying, "They are very fluffy and really hold up over the years.”

Over 160,000 5-star ratings on Amazon agree that these are the real deal, making these officially viral. The pillows are also already in the top 10 of the most ordered Amazon products we’ve covered this year, so our readers’ appetite for them is still growing. No wonder, since they’ve been called a “miracle” for back and side sleepers, especially, and are also beloved by hot sleepers.

“I like the firmness,” said editorial director Kristen Aiken of the famous bedding. “They're mid-firm – squishy but not rock-hard, and they're not too heavy/dense.”

You can buy a pack of two in a queen, king or throw size. The pillows are made with a 250 thread count cover and filled with down alternative that has a bounce-back design, so you won’t be stuck with a saggy pillow that can’t keep its shape as you sleep. They’re also machine-washable for easy maintenance, unlike many memory foam pillows.

Back in 2022, HuffPost’s resident food editor and culinary school grad Kristen Aiken recommended the Rada tomato slicer, a serrated knife that’s specifically designed for slicing tomatoes, in an article that spawned thousands of purchases. “Made in the United States, this knife is 8 7/8 inches long, meaning it'll slice through big 'maters with ease,” she wrote.

If you’re not convinced that a knife just for your tomatoes is a necessity, a serrated edge can make a big difference in time spent and messes made, according to Aiken. This is thanks to the serrated knife’s “sharp teeth that saw through the tomato in a back-and-forth motion without the need to apply any weight on it, leaving the inside of the flesh intact,” as opposed to a flat blade, which may squish and explode a tomato into a bigger mess.

The knife is sleek with a dual-serrated blade that makes it suitable for both right- and left-handed cooks. It has a silver handle (handwash only) and a stainless steel blade with a finger guard for protection. Reviewers claim that it’s good for more than tomatoes, too: You can use this bad boy to easily and neatly slice bread, steaks, onions, garlic and even Styrofoam, if you’re planning to find use for it outside of the kitchen.

There’s a lot to like about the Starfrit Rotato Express, an electric potato peeler with a non-slip base. Atlanta-based chef Courtnee Futch told HuffPost in 2022 that she’s a fan of the Rotato, calling it her “favorite unconventional kitchen gadget. I use it for everything, to zest citrus in bulk, peel a bunch of potatoes of course, spiralizing semi-soft veggies, and it makes fruit peeling a breeze!”

Soon after, former HuffPost editor Janie Campbell wrote about her own experience with the Rotato, which she bought for her parents’ house. “Let me tell you, you just don’t know joy until an electric peeler saves you and your siblings from hand-peeling dozens and dozens of pounds of potatoes on a holiday morning,” she wrote. “Now one person just plops a potato at a time on the Rotato, pushes a little button to see its peel come off in a thin, glorious ribbon, then repeats the process. We’ve gone from resisting to helping to arguing over who gets to man the Rotato, and now we’re done peeling so, so much faster.”

The Rotato doesn’t require holding on to the vegetable while it works, making it a great purchase for older people whose hands can’t manually peel for as long, or for those with arthritis. We know our audience loves solutions for mobility issues, so this was a no-brainer to add to our list. Plus, it’s versatile: It can peel potatoes, sure, but apples, cucumbers, zucchinis, onions and so many more fruits and veggies are also compatible with the machine.

Over the past year, we’ve noticed a trend among our audience: They want expert-backed solutions or alternatives to gross problems, from germy washcloths to bacteria-spreading sponges.

That includes yellowing pillows, which can happen when sweat, oil, beauty product residue and more accumulate over time. Allergist Dr. Neeta Ogden told HuffPost in 2023 that pillow protectors “will provide a barrier between you and the allergens that can lurk in pillow fibers over time, including animal dander, mold spores, dust mites and pollen drifting in from outside.”

This advice led us to make a roundup of some of the best ones on the market, and this Utopia Bedding option was far and away the most popular choice among our readers. Sold in packs of two in 20 colors that you can match to your other bedding, the pillowcases are waterproof with a zipper closure to keep out any and all moisture. They’re also bedbug- and dust mite-proof, to add some extra peace of mind.

The jersey fabric is ultra-soft, and can be machine-washed for simple care. The protectors come in so many sizes, from standard to king, as well as options for body pillows, toddler pillows and more.

Experts and HuffPost readers alike are big fans of the Japanese hori hori knife for gardening. First, Kat Aul Cervoni, founder of Staghorn NYC Landscape Design and The Cultivation by Kat and Patrick Farrell, partner at EAS Landscaping LLC in Philadelphia, both named the knife as a must-have gardening tool for a story on lawn maintenance, with Farrell calling it “indispensable when it comes to planting and clearing.”

Then, in a Facebook callout for a different HuffPost story, long-term gardener Sue Mazer, 54, also suggested the knife as an accessible tool to make gardening more comfortable, saying, “Lightly spray mist the mixed soil and use a Japanese [hori-hori] garden knife to make individual holes for the seeds, seedlings or transplants.”

From there, we chose to feature Nisaku’s original hori hori knife in its own story, to strong audience interest. The knife has a near-perfect 4.8 stars across almost 10,000 reviews. Made in Japan, the rust- and scratch-resistant stainless steel blade has a serrated edge on one side and straight edge on the other, with inch markings so you can measure depths when planting seeds. The knife weighs 10 ounces and has an ergonomic wooden handle.

“This is one of those tools that once you get your hands on it, you use it around your garden, and you wonder how I've been gardening for so long without owning it before,” a reviewer wrote. It can come in handy for digging up weeds, cutting grass, loosening dirt, planting seeds and so much more.

Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Beloved since its inception in 1998, Merrell's Jungle Moc has since sold more than 12 million pairs — and quite a few of those have gone to HuffPost editors and readers. It's long been known for being durable, comfortable, supportive and easy to slip on, but these days it's a gorpcore staple that a new generation is obsessing over.

In previous reporting, HuffPost editor Kevin Cortez said that he’s “owned four pairs at once, and with so many colors, it’s tough finding one you won’t vibe with.” Cortez also noted that his Mocs are “probably some of the most comfortable slip-ons I’ve ever worn,” he added that “they feel snug yet super comfy.”

These low-maintenance shoes are ideal for anyone looking for laid back style without compromising on durability — numerous reviews describe pairs owned for multiple years. This hybrid shoe is so long-lasting that one reviewer said they purchased them as “a replacement for my previous pair that I’ve had for 9 years.” Another mentioned that they’re on their “[third] pair of Merrell Mocs [and] this time and both times before they are perfect fits and are a shoe I enjoy wearing for many years.”

These resounding endorsements and the shoe's popularity among the HuffPost audience have earned these versatile shoes a place on the HuffPicks list of must-haves. Get these at Amazon, Zappos, Merrell, REI and more reader-favorite retailers in women’s sizes 5-11 and men’s sizes 7-13.

Trying to parse through unknown brands at Amazon can feel like a losing game, so when we come across a pair that is actually good, we have to spread the word.

When former HuffPost Shopping writer Kristen Adaway stumbled upon a pair of sneakers from a brand named Lamincoa, she promptly declared them the perfect walking shoes — and throngs of HuffPost readers concurred.

“The insole is made of comfortable memory foam that even after multiple wears — I’m talking every day for hours at a time — still holds up and doesn’t make my feet feel like I’m walking directly on concrete,” wrote Adaway in a previous story. “They’re incredibly lightweight, which may turn you off when you first pick them up, but trust me when I say this will work in your favor if you have larger (size 10) feet like I do and are on your feet all day.”

These sneakers have all the features we look for in a HuffPick shoe. They're incredibly lightweight, made with a breathable mesh knit fabric, a comfortable memory foam insole and featuring a sturdy, non-slip sole. Best of all, they have an easy, slip-on design. One reviewer even said that they're more comfortable than more expensive tennis shoes.

Get these in women’s sizes 5.5-10.

This Brooks Ghost sneaker is known for its signature cushioning, which provides firm support and a midsole that evenly absorbs the impact of your foot, no matter how it lands. In previous reporting, HuffPost Shopping editor Emily Ruane noted that her mom and her daughters’ nanny — both active older women in their 60s — rely on the exact same pair of Ghost running shoes to stay light on their feet while they garden, run after kids (and grandkids) and do a whole lot of walking.

Her mother has undergone bunion surgery and has hammer toes, and likes that the shoes are available in wide widths to accommodate her custom orthotics. She finds the toe box to be roomy and well-constructed enough to comfortably accommodate her feet. (She’s actually on her second pair; the first lasted her almost four years before she needed to replace them a little under a year ago.) Ruane's children's nanny logs thousands of steps a day, and she told her that, “[t]hese shoes are the best.” And HuffPost readers (and reviewers) tend to agree.

These resounding endorsements and more made these Brooks sneakers an easy choice for HuffPicks. They're a dreamy sneaker that feels stylish and on trend, but doesn't sacrifice comfort.

Get these for men and women at retailers like Amazon, DSW, Zappos and Brooks’ website.

Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars at Amazon

HuffPost readers are absolutely besotted with Oofos' entire range of incredibly supportive shoes. We've gotten podiatrist recommendations for the clog, while the recovery sandal is one of HuffPost's best-selling shoes. We almost couldn't decide which pair of shoes deserved the HuffPicks seal of approval because there are so many Oofos hits to choose from, but ultimately we couldn't ignore the Ooahh slide’s comfort and widespread popularity among editors, podiatrists and readers.

Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, a podiatrist at U.S. Foot & Ankle Specialists, previously recommended opting for these biomechanically engineered slides from Oofos. Dr. Howard E. Friedman, a podiatrist certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, likes them, too, and they've even been approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association.

The slides are a great alternative to flatter, less supportive options while still keeping true to a cool poolside silhouette. They are made with cushy, shock-absorbing materials that promise to be moisture-and odor-resistant. The plush insoles conform to your arches and help to reduce. stress on the rest of the body.

These are unisex shoes that come in women's sizes 5-16 and men's sizes 3-14 in a range of colors.

Flats are notoriously unsupportive, but these Vivaia flats are as elegant as they are shockingly comfy. When they first came on my radar, I dismissed them as another overly-orthopedic option that sacrificed style for comfort, but I'm pleased to report I was incredibly wrong.

Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, these truly lightweight flats have a square toe, a V-cut upper silhouette and soft, flexible and subtly ribbed fabric made from recycled plastic bottles.The square toe feels edgy without being too aggressive, and the V-shape adds some unexpected visual interest. Best of all, the springy insole and sturdy rubber outer sole make them great for long walks or days spent on your feet. HuffPost readers love them as well — they sell like hotcakes anytime they're featured in our stories. They're highly coveted in our catalog of comfy shoes articles.

There are a few shoe brands out there that have similar designs and fabrics, but the Vivaia shoes look much more elegant than their counterparts while still providing ample comfort. They really nail the aesthetic in a way that competitors haven’t. As if that weren't enough, they are washable, which is ideal for dealing with city grime. All of these qualities more than earns these lovely shoes a HuffPicks stamp of approval.

Clogs are always in style with HuffPost readers, and there's nothing like the classic Dansko Professional clog for both work and play. Nurses, food service workers, hairstylists, people with foot pain, podiatrists and even HuffPost editors all swear by these hardworking shoes. They've more than earned a HuffPicks award.

Dr. Saylee Tulpule, a podiatrist in Washington, D.C. and Maryland, recommends a clog like these with a closed back for additional support as you're moving. In previous reporting, Jacquelyn Coles Bielich, a registered nurse and clinical specialist at Medtronic, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania said this style is the only thing she'll wear on her 12-hour shifts.

Shopping managing editor Emily Ruane frequently rocks this classic style of Danskos at the HuffPost office, saying they're ideal for walking, commuting and riding her bike all over New York. She's worn them through multiple pregnancies, rain storms and more formal events where high heels were just not going to happen.

“They're the kind of shoe that I never think about when I have them on,” she said. “When I am wearing them, my feel feel simultaneously completely supported and like I'm wearing nothing. I also like wearing them in inclement weather because they have the slightest platform, which can help when navigating subway puddles and the like.” She dresses them up, down and thinks they're great for errands, weekends or fun days with kids. Get these at retailers like Amazon, DSW, Zappos and on the Dansko website in women’s sizes 4/4.5-12.5/13 and three widths or men’s sizes 4.5/5-9.5/10 and three widths.

The Worishofer 251 sandal’s comfort is indisputable. Reviewers mention that it’s great for people with foot issues like bunions, hammer toes, and arthritis. I love them because they have a chic retro look, just the right amount of granny vibes and give me a bit of extra height without sacrificing comfort. I've been wearing this particular style since they had a resurgence in the mid-aughts, and I'm thrilled to see them back on the likes of young starlets like Lily-Rose Depp, along with our readers, who can't get enough of them either.

The shoes have a soft cork sole that cradles your foot and gives you just the right amount of arch support and bounce, while the rubber outer sole keeps you steady on your feet. The footbed is lined with breathable soft leather, and the leather upper has a shiny adjustable buckle to help with fit and cute perforations that add a ton of visual interest. It's more than earned its title as one of the best in the comfy-cute game. Get these in women’s sizes 5-12.

Over the past few years, Hoka's plush, "cloudlike" cushioned shoes have earned a spot in the conversations about the best brand for comfortable walking shoes. The Clifton 9 have are my personal favorites, but they aren’t the only shoes worth buying from the brand. HuffPost Shopping writer Erica Kam is a fan of the Solimar, which tends to fly under the radar and happens to be the cheapest Hoka sneakers available.

Technically designed for running and training, Kam and other reviewers prefer them for everyday wear and long walks. In previous reporting, Kam noted that they don't scream “exercise shoe” or look out of place when paired with a dress or office-appropriate outfit. Reviewers pointed out that it's a great option for those with plantar fasciitis.

The Solimar features a well-balanced midsole with just the right amount of give while still being firm. They have a fair amount of shock absorption while boasting a sleeker and more lightweight silhouette than other Hokas. These unexpectedly versatile sneakers are exactly the kind of shoe you'd expect to be a HuffPick, and we're pleased to have them on the list.

Get these at Hoka and Zappos in men’s sizes 7-14 and two widths and women’s sizes 5-11 and two widths.

Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

Over the years, we've asked podiatrists for their insights on many different shoe styles. Inserts can make a big difference in overall comfort and foot health, as well as reduce pain and discomfort for people with various foot conditions. They're not just for those of us who like to sacrifice comfort over style.

These Pure Stride inserts are great for people with common foot ailments like heel spurs and plantar fasciitis along with individuals simply looking for more comfort. According to podiatrist Dr. Gary Evans, these inserts are made with high-quality materials and can address a range of foot issues, making them a versatile option. After we covered these insoles in a roundup, our audience picked these up in droves, in step with the hordes of reviewers who say they're ideal for flat feet and are “life changing.”

You can get these in men’s sizes 3/3.5-14/15 and women’s sizes 5/5.5-14/14.5.

Over time, our readers – and their shopping habits – have helped us to understand that foot pain is a major concern for a lot of people, especially when it comes to the common foot condition plantar fasciitis. In an exhaustive effort to find all the possible ways to alleviate this ubiquitous problem and promote foot health, we discovered this podiatrist-endorsed medical tool, deemed capable of recreating many stretching exercises one would possibly find themselves doing in their physical therapist's office.

First introduced to us in 2023 by podiatrist and president of the American College of Foot and Ankle Pediatrics, Louis J. DeCaro, the Medi-Dyne ProStretch works by helping people to stretch the posterior column which runs from the hamstring down to the calf, to the Achilles and through the bottom of the foot to connect to the plantar fascia. According to DeCaro, this is one of the best things you can do to treat and prevent foot pain, especially when performed prior to most physical activities.

Recently, HuffPost reported on a pretty mind-blowing study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology that suggested improved cardiac function in participants who committed to Nordic walking, which involves walking sticks or trekking poles. Compared to normal walking, the addition of poles or sticks forces the walker to engage the upper body muscles, as well as the lower body, for more well-rounded movement.

Our research, however, wouldn't have been complete without finding the best trekking poles available — and our efforts led us to the TrailBuddy hiking sticks, which are the highest-rated pair of trekking poles on Amazon. According to an overwhelming majority, these collapsible and well-constructed accessories can make walking easier and safer. (Some reviewers even reported improved posture.)

Made from aircraft-grade aluminum and weighing less than 10 ounces each, the TrailBuddy poles are height-adjustable up to 54 inches to accommodate most statures and disassemble compactly. The set comes with three sets of different tip attachments, so no matter if you’re using these poles to walk on rocky terrain, muddy trails, or just your neighborhood sidewalk, these walking sticks have got you covered. “Best purchase of the year” and “much better than a cane” are just some of the words of endorsement that we pulled from over 62,000 Amazon reviews.

Earlier this year, one humble little foot care story revealed an undeniable truth: readers care massively about toenail fungus and, it would appear, they also struggle to get rid of it. Based on the rate at which readers (and Amazon customers) snatched this stuff up, we've been led to believe that Foot Cure's nail treatment is the antidote for the most stubborn cases of fungus and is thus undoubtedly worthy of a HuffPicks award.

Promising to address not only fungus, but also nail psoriasis and overall nail damage, Foot Cure is a naturally powered solution that many have found successfully restores thickened, discolored and flaking nail beds and has provided hope when “I didn’t believe there was for decades,” according to one reviewer.

When we asked board-certified dermatologist Dr. Angela Brimhall why the formula could possibly be so effective, she explained that it contains 25% undecylenic acid, “a compound that has antifungal properties that disrupt the cell membranes of fungi, inhibiting their growth and reproduction.”

The treatment is also enhanced with oregano oil and tea tree oil, a combination that Brimhall said creates a synergistic effect that can enhance treatment efficacy, thanks to their antimicrobial, antifungal and antiseptic properties.

Whatever the magic therein, Foot Cure seems to have turned devout skeptics into true believers and given hope that even those with the most tarnished toes can eventually become sandal-worthy, according to reviewers.

While modern innovation can produce some seriously impressive technical products like the previously mentioned TENS unit, it sometimes takes a low-fi product like the Thera Cane to remind us that simpler is sometimes better.

Board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physician, Ai Mukai first turned us on to this uniquely shaped manual tool in 2021 when she called it her “go-to” recommendation for “trigger point and muscle-based pain.” It was then suggested again in 2023 by Monica Frydach, a Wisconsin-based physical therapist, who described it as a “convenient tool for working out tension and muscle knots that sit in hard-to-reach places of the shoulders and upper back.”

Then, finally, earlier this year, a spokesperson for the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Theresa Marko, referred to herself as “a big proponent” of the Thera Cane, with its ergonomic design dating back to 1988 and durable fiberglass construction. We love it because it was made with chronic pain sufferers in mind to provide a near-endless array of massages that you can perform on yourself. Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating on Amazon, it has six strategically placed treatment nodules to help target various pressure points on the body, like along the back, base of the neck and anywhere else that you may have knots and muscle soreness. And if you don't know where to begin, the Thera Cane comes with a 12-page instruction manual that's almost like having your very own physical therapist at home.

With each passing allergy season, major wildfire, and the latest EPA report on pollution, concern for air quality has and will continue to be a major factor in our health and wellness reporting. Based on former in-depth conversations with associate professor of otolaryngology at Stanford University Zara M. Patel and a respiratory therapist and member of the American Association for Respiratory Care Joyce Baker, air purifiers (and most importantly, the right air purifier) are one of the greatest defenses we have against poor indoor air quality, which “can be two to five times more polluted than outdoors because of the lack of fresh air, circulation and ventilation,” according to Baker (who cited an assessment from the Environmental Protection Agency).

The decision to award BlueAir's blissfully quiet and top-performing 411i Max air purifier a HuffPick was the result of combined guidance from Baker and Patel and our very own personal experience.

“[The] BlueAir 411 is remarkable because it just works — as soon as it’s on, you can feel the difference in the air, leaving air crisper and fresher," former HuffPost shopping writer Haley Zovickian previously said. It should be worth mentioning that, like myself, Zovickian lives in smog-filled Los Angeles, a city that was recently ravaged by one of the worst wildfires in recent history.

“I no longer sneeze and itch from dust, pollen and who knows what, and my close friends with cat allergies are able to comfortably relax in my cat hair-filled room as long as the air purifier is on,” Zovickian said.

Aside from its sleek Scandinavian-inspired design, Zovickian points to BlueAir's excellent filtration system that uses a dual HEPA filter, a washable fabric pre-filter and an active carbon filter to trap both large and tiny airborne particles like bacteria, viruses, dust, potentially harmful chemicals, and those responsible for odor.

The purifier featured here is offers a slight upgrade from Zovickian's preferred model with its Wifi capability, which makes it easier to keep track of air quality and trends over time using the accompanying app, plus do things like schedule run times remotely and use voice commands. It also comes in three sizes, depending on the square footage of the space.

At the beginning of this year, Zovickian brought a practical woe to the forefront: What is the best way to keep, store, and travel with important medication? Her solution came in the form of this 4.4-star rated pocket-friendly pill organizer that HuffPost readers purchased for their own purses and travel bags en masse.

“These convenient, nondescript Meacolia portable pill organizers have absolved me of [the] worry and panic [of forgetting medication], and frankly, I don’t go anywhere without them anymore,” she said, describing the containers as sturdy, lightweight, and secure.

Each of the three pill holders in this set sports eight roomy compartments for you to sort and store your meds to take them on the road with you, freeing you from having to choose between packing bulky pill bottles or, worse, opting to leave them at home. Made from a food-grade BPA-free plastic, they're lined with silicone on the inside to prevent dust and moisture from reaching their compartments, which reviewers also love for packing hair ties, earbuds, jewelry, bandages and more.

In 2022, we asked the question: “What are the items that physical therapists always keep at home?” Resistance bands were one of the suggested items that would later recur in at least four separate stories and become one of the most versatile tools in the HuffPost wellness arsenal. And when we say versatile, we mean everything from reducing pain to improving mobility to even increasing bone density as we age.

Physical therapist Chris DeRosa once told HuffPost that resistance bands are most often used for leg, knee and back injuries, but they can also be used for general exercise, stretching, and strength training. As a recreational ballet dancer, I also use them to help build specific muscles in my feet and ankles and prevent injury.

“[My] number one choice is usually resistance bands with handles,” DeRose explained to HuffPost, and suggested this five-pack of bands specifically. “They are cost-effective and come in varied resistance so people can use lighter or stronger bands if they feel the exercises [are] too easy or too hard."

In addition to these band's durable features, such as double-knit construction, 100% latex hoses and stainless steel connector pieces, the set comes with a detailed training guide that can help you perform every possible exercise and assist anyone new to resistance band training.

The under-desk walking pad first came on the HuffPost scene when deputy Life director and resident wellness expert Lindsay Holmes wrote about how this clever and compact fitness appliance changed her sedentary work style — especially when combined with a FlexiSpot standing desk. Since then, the Walking Pad has been immortalized as a reader-favorite item and now the recipient of a HuffPicks award.

“The slim Walking Pad folds in half and comes with wheels, making storage a breeze. (I keep it under my desk when I’m not using it.) It comes with a remote control, and you can also connect it to via app,” Holmes previously said. “It goes up to about 3.7 miles per hour and has two modes: automatic, which allows you to control how fast the belt goes using your feet and your own walking speed, or manual, through which you can set your walking speed using the remote.”

Holmes attributed improved physical and mental health to the Walking Pad, and tons of readers have followed in her footsteps (literally) by also investing in this home office upgrade. (If the device’s $350 price tag is beyond your budget, we’d suggest the more affordable Yagud walking pad that’s also popular with HuffPost readers. The main feature difference is that it doesn’t fold like the Walking Pad.)

When it comes to addressing general pain, whether it be of the arthritic, menstrual, or back variety, a TENS unit is possibly one of the most HuffPost mentioned products from experts like physical therapists. It's a device that's been so widely suggested that you'll find it featured at least five different times across our pain-related and wellness coverage dating back to 2022.

Dr. Nita Landry, board-certified physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, was one of the first experts to describe why and how these non-invasive, drug-free aids work.

“TENS (which stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) involves attaching electrodes to painful areas on your [body]. The electrodes deliver small electrical currents to the body, which you’ll feel as a tingling, vibrating, or muscle-twitching sensation,” Landry said. “We believe that the device works by altering the body’s ability to receive and perceive pain signals.”

This particular unit, which we included in almost all of our relevant reporting, is decorated with over 82,000 5-star reviews on Amazon and an astounding number of lengthy reviews that attest to its ability to "eliminate pain completely," as several Amazon reviewers put it. Another said that after dealing with debilitating lower back pain and spasms for two weeks, using this TENS unit was the first time that the pain had "totally stopped."

It features five therapy modes of custom stimulation and reusable attachments that adhere to just about anywhere, from wrists to aid with carpal tunnel to stiff necks to tennis elbows and more. Plus, at the relatively affordable cost of $40, it's nearly impossible to deny this tool a coveted HuffPick.

You may be thinking: "Did I just read that correctly? A pillow for sex and acid reflux?" Let us explain. A strategically designed wedge pillow called The Liberator has been a regular fixture in the world of sexual aids for its ability to enhance a near-endless array of intimate positions with much more comfort and stability (and presumably for longer periods of time). However, according to gastroenterologist Dr. Kristle Lynch, who previously spoke with HuffPost, these wedge-style pillows can also prevent conditions like acid reflux by “[keeping] the esophagus and stomach at a more upright angle and letting gravity assist with forward movement of stomach contents when one is asleep."

Our HuffPicks award goes to one of the most popular wedge pillows on Amazon (it's got over 16,570 5-star ratings). This elevated sleeping pillow is made from a high-density foam core and a plush memory foam top layer to provide the ideal amount of support. It features a removable jacquard pillow case for easy cleaning and is available in a variety of height and width options, as well as styles like a pregnancy support pillow and a headboard wedge pillow.

"This is a quality-made product," one reviewer on Amazon wrote. "It is just firm enough, while still providing comfort. "The price is reasonable and these are very nice to have on hand for someone who snores, has acid reflux issues and especially when congested during sickness."

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Fire? Pfft – how primitive. The future is now and we light our candles with electricity. Suprus' windproof electric lighter is a genius invention that saves users from relying on butane, disposable BICs and matchstick after matchstick, instead replacing it with an easy-to-use plasma coil. That plasma is strong enough to light wicks, grills and more, and when it's out of juice, you can just recharge it via USB-C.

Senior staff writer Lourdes Avila Uribe (who owns and ardently endorses the device) explains how it works: “All you do is slide open the safety lock and press a button that ignites a spark. The lighter has an auto-stop safety function that stops the spark after seven seconds, and can swiftly be re-ignited by pushing down on the switch once more. As a worrier, I appreciate that it has an intuitive, thoughtful design that emphasizes safety.”

With a slightly astonishing 46,000+ ratings on Amazon, this device is clearly an upgrade for thousands of customers. Reviewers love that it “works regardless of the elements and wind” and that it “lights candles like a pro.”

Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars at Amazon

It's rare to find a tech device that's so useful yet so affordable, but Kasa Smart's mini smart plugs are exactly that. A favorite of former HuffPost senior editor Janie Campbell and a frequent bestseller amongst HuffPost readers, these small adapters turn your everyday outlet into an automated smart one with a simple plug in and WiFi connection. They're so useful that Campbell bought 10 (!!!).

“Turning every outlet in your home into one you can control by app or voice assistant opens up a world of possibilities,” Campbell previously wrote. “I have houseplants under grow lights in darker corners of my home, and can turn those on and off even if I’m halfway around the world. I can put them on a schedule when I travel, but still turn that schedule off if someone needs to stay in my apartment. […] Beyond automation and energy savings, I also use one so that I can turn a lamp on without having to strain to reach behind my couch to find its switch. For hard-to-reach outlets or behind-furniture outlets, they are an absolute game-changer. I can think of a thousand more uses.”

Reviewers agree, with many saying these are absolute game-changers for home automation, and it's so easy, you won't have to hover over an instruction manual to set it up. “I used the Kasa app to initially establish connectivity to the devices and then to setup an automation between the two,” says one user. “No home automation is required.”

Once that connection is established, you can link it with Alexa or Google Home for voice commands, plus you can set each individual plug on its own schedule. It's also nifty for those moments you'd like to set the ambiance before you arrive home (switching the lights, prepping a coffee maker, etc.), or even for safety reasons, like forgetting to turn off a home appliance before heading out the door.

See for yourself why these are so beloved and grab one for yourself (but we highly suggest getting a four-pack).

Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Yes, it's possible to clean your home without chemicals, scrubbing or even hunching over the bathtub to save yourself from back pain. Enter the Steamify's pressurized steam cleaner, which flips the script on cleaning with just water and heat. It tackles dirt, soap scum, grime and bacteria, saving you time and money just by steaming it all away. Whether it’s your floors, sinks or showers, steam reaches into all the nooks and crannies with no harsh chemicals needed.

This compact powerhouse comes with a 12-piece accessory set and a 9.8-foot cord, making it a cinch to clean everything from countertops to tile (and even your grills and appliances). Just fill it with up to 350 milliliters of water, turn it on, and in three to five minutes, you’re ready to go with 230-degree pressurized steam. The included brush helps with stubborn messes, and the window squeegee and nozzle reach even the tightest of spots. You can even use it to steam wrinkles out of clothing!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Everybody knows it’s best to use proprietary Apple products to charge their Apple devices (or so says the company) when maintaining optimal battery life. While that doesn’t stop some HuffPost readers from resorting to off-brand options — and hey, there are some decent ones — it’s widely accepted that Apple still makes the best of the best.

The official Apple MagSafe charger is a little gadget with a 1-meter-long cord that wirelessly charges those pocketable Apple devices (with the exception of the AirPods 4) just by setting it on its dock. Several reviewers say the Apple MagSafe charger provides fast wireless charging and its magnetic backing ensures that Apple products snap into alignment when docked.

It’s not bulky, either; this is just a 1-meter cord that can plug into your MacBook or a USB-C port and a small charging hub fit for iPhone 12 up to the latest iPhone 16 and any Apple AirPods with charging cases, excluding the AirPods 4. The MagSafe Charger charges up to 15W when paired with a 20W power adapter.

Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Sorry to tell you, but your bed is gross.

The average mattress “can have thousands of dust mites that produce millions of droppings,” Dr. Manal Mohammed, a medical microbiologist and senior lecturer at London’s University of Westminster, previously told HuffPost. These mites feed on your dead skin cells, sweat, food crumbs and sweat. Terrifying bugs aside, mattresses are also prone to mold and fungi due to their ability to hold moisture and warmth.

Disgusting, yeah, but don’t burn your mattress yet. Clean it the right way. Mohammed says one way to combat your germy bedtime woes is to clean your bed with a mattress-designated vacuum cleaner with a UV light. These handheld devices glide over the surface, vibrating to loosen dirt, sucking up time particles and trapping them in a HEPA filter.

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Rechargeable, hands-free reading lights are among the most popular HuffPost reader buys during the gift-giving seasons, and — please, excuse the pun — it's not hard to see why. These things are useful. This particular one from Glocusent lets you read, work or craft with completely free hands. It's also bendy, so you concentrate that light directly on a specific page or task so you can view it clearly, even in the dark. This has been a huge winner with HuffPoster readers since we first covered it back in 2023.

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars at Target

Whether you're a never-check-a-bag traveler or like to make the most of your carry on, few things will get your father than Target's Open Story 35-liter travel backpack. The bag has taken off with HuffPost readers since we initially covered it, likely because as the reviews say it “[w]ears like a backpack, stores like a suitcase!”

Available in five colors, it's packed with great features like interior mesh compartments, a full zipper opening, padded shoulder straps, a trolley sleeve, and a spot for your 17-inch laptop and work needs. It gives you ample space for toiletries, some clothes and other travel needs without being too bulky or sporty. Users say the size is “perfect for avoiding carry-on fees for air travel,” and even a “must-buy” if you fly Spirit or Frontier, or simply don’t want to check a bag.

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Portable power stations have taken off in the last few years — and for good reason. Unlike traditional generators that demand oil and gas, give off noxious fumes and can be super loud and cumbersome, these sleek machines are silent, electric and easy to pack in a car or keep in the basement.

While there are many on the market, the Jackery Explorer 1000 is an editor and reader fave at HuffPost for its large output capacity and compact shape. Reviewers love it for keeping a mini fridge running during hurricane season and charging tablets and phones during camping. It boasts eight outlets: three AC, two USB-As (one with quick charge), two USB-C ports with PD and a car outlet.

I have a slightly different model, the Jackery 1500, and it‘s truly my greatest asset and the gift that keeps on giving. (The 1000 comes at an excellent price point and still offers plenty of power.) You'll be happy to have it if the power goes out or if you just want to blend up frozen margaritas on the beach.

Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars at Amazon

When former shopping writer Haley Zovickian first wrote about the Owala FreeSip, she bravely said it was coming for the viral 40-ounce Stanley — and she was right. “The first feature that sets the Owala apart from the rest? Its innovative FreeSip spout, a ‘genius’ dual drinking spout that acts as both a straw and a regular thermos-style opening,” Zovickian wrote. “You can either sip from an internal straw or tip the bottle to swig its contents without having to make any adjustments,” former HuffPost shopping editor Janie Campbell said.

It’s hard to overstate the vessel’s popularity. It’s racked up an impressive 73,000+ reviews at Amazon, over 15,000 at Target and 22,000+ at Walmart. (We could keep going, because you can also shop the bottle at Dick’s, Urban Outfitters and Owala’s direct site, but you get the picture.) On Amazon, we counted over 2,000 reviews that used the word “best” and over 1,000 that cited “favorite.” HuffPost executive editor Kate Palmer is among the bottle’s many fans: “I have a few and love them like no other bottle I've owned. I also love that the name comes from the fact that you look like a koala when you are drinking,” she added, referencing a convincing (but unconfirmed) online theory about Owala’s branding. “They just sip differently,” commented security director Greta Geiselman. Shopping editor Kevin Cortez has tried over 20 water bottles is “one of four I’ve kept over the years.”

The locking, leakproof lid makes it great for taking on the go, and the brand's promise to keep your drink cold for up to 24 hours makes it a great option for long travel days. The Owalas come in a ton of great color combos, with neutral and vibrant options in four sizes.

Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars at Target

Senior shopping writer and certified jet setter Lourdes Avila Uribe swears by this hardside spinner carry-on from none other than Targét boutique, and claims it rivals the look and durability of much pricier brands, Uribe wrote, “Not only am I able to stuff a lot of clothing and personal items into this carry-on, but I find that it looks, glides and functions nearly identically to my partner’s far more expensive carry-on, which is from the internet-famous luggage brand Away.” It also has over 100 reviews at Target’s website, where customer K_Slade claimed to have logged over 10,000 miles with the bag. “I’ve lived out of this suitcase for nearly two months now, and it has lasted and still going strong,” they wrote. “Comfortably fits a weeks worth with toiletries and shoes. Great for the money!”

Measuring 21.75 inches by 14.25 inches by 9.75 inches, with two inches of expansion, you can use it as a carry-on for most major airlines. With a generous internal zipper compartment and an open section equipped with cross straps for securing the contents, you'll have room for everything you need. Enjoy the retractable handle, eight wheels, top and side handles and water-resistant hard exterior that comes in six colors.

Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars at Amazon

Senior shopping writer Tessa Flores has dealt with severe car sickness nearly her entire life – until recently. In 2022, she grabbed a pair of these funny-looking motion sickness glasses that promised to relieve the nausea that plagues many folks while traveling in cars, boats or airplanes.

“In the name of science (and at the risk of my stomach), I wore the glasses sitting in the backseat of the car, while reading, as my partner drove around,” Flores wrote in previous coverage. “Normally, and especially under these circumstances, it would take less than a few minutes for the nausea and headaches to hit. But this time, my symptoms never came.” (Be sure to check out our Instagram reel to see Flores test-drive the spetacles – literally – in real time.)

Uribe, who is also prone to motion-sickness, was influenced by Flores to purchase the glasses as well. “I've had them for years now and literally do not leave the city without them,” she said. “They saved me driving around Australia and also in Mexico City – and that traffic kills me.”

In an effort to understand why the glasses were so effective, Flores spoke to Dr. Neil Bhattacharyya, board-certified otolaryngologist and professor of otolaryngology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School, who said they likely work by creating an “artificial horizon” for your eyes with the moving liquid in the rings. “The brain depends on sensory input from many organ systems, such as the eyes and inner ear, to tell if the body is in motion and where it’s positioned in space,” Bhattacharyya said. “When you get into a car that’s moving, your organ systems are still sensing the motion around you, but the body itself is stable, causing the integration of those messages to get disrupted.”

While he didn't personally endorse the glasses, he explained they may help you find stability (and therefore less puking) on the go.

Rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars at Amazon

When HuffPost editorial director Kristen Aiken saw her elegant, older neighbor strolling “cool as a cucumber” in the blazing midsummer sun under an umbrella, she had questions. Luckily for us, her neighbor had answers – she was using a cooling UV umbrella, which boasts a specially designed cover that protects against UV rays (though it can be used in the rain too) and promises to keep you noticeably cooler under its shade.

When we wrote about this inventive sun protection device, it became a clear reader favorite, thanks to its easy one-button open feature, an anti-glare underside and double-canopy design with a mesh insert for extra ventilation. Weighing just under a pound and collapsing to 11 inches, it’s easy to take on the go as added sun protection.

Reviewers love it for travel: “Took it on a trip to a very hot, humid country,” wrote Msparks on Amazon. “Was the envy of others in the group who hadn't thought of it.” Reviewer Travel Junkie, who brought the umbrella to India for a monthlong voyage, “used it daily” and found it “[seemed] to lower outside temp by 10-15 degrees, so not only protected but also lot cooler.“

Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars at Amazon

In the universe of HuffPost shopping, this LifeStraw personal water purifier would be its own planet. It's a compact, handheld tool about as long as a fork that turns nearly any water safe for drinking.

Survivalist Ky Furneaux first recommended it to HuffPost, saying that anyone venturing outside should keep one handy as a precaution. “It’s light and doesn’t take up much room so it isn’t a huge inconvenience for something that may save your life,” she said, adding that “just knowing that water purification is taken care of takes a load off your mind and allows you to fully focus on other needs.”

“It can remove microplastics, bacteria, parasites and more (including E. coli, salmonella and giardia) from just about any water source," Uribe wrote in our previous coverage. "One single filter has a long lifespan, providing about 1,000 gallons of clean and safe drinking water — making it well worth the price tag.”

While this is an easy “yes” for hikers and campers navigating water sources in the great outdoors, Uribe notes it can be a smart purchase for travelers and city slickers alike. "Even if you’re not big on the great outdoors, there’s no denying that there’s enough global instability to make one a bit nervous — and the existence of natural disasters alone is a good enough reason to have one in an emergency kit," she said. Over 120,000 Amazon reviewers have helped the product earn a rare 4.8-star rating,

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars at Amazon

You never want to think about car accidents, but that shouldn't stop you from being prepared. A recommendation from mechanic Philip Campione of Philadelphia’s AC Auto Repairs that became a fan favorite with HuffPost readers, this compact glass breaker and seatbelt cutter is a small tool that has the potential to make a big impact in a dangerous situation.

This dual-headed safety hammer has a pointed spike with a protective cap, a flat-head hammer and a sharp blade to cut seatbelts. It has a 4.7-star rating and over 200 5-star reviews. “I love the security of having these in my cars,” wrote Rachel C, echoing the sentiment of many. Jenn Riley wrote that they “[b]ought one for all my kids to have in their car.” Add this one to your arsenal of road-trip essentials before you hit the highway.

Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars at Monos

“I have many life skills, but packing light isn’t one of them,” wrote Flores. That’s why we listened carefully when she called her Monos suitcase a “splurge that's worth every penny” – who better to evaluate the effectiveness and ease of a pricey suitcase than a chronic over-packer? “To any other future travelers out there who are in the market for new luggage,” she proclaimed, “I couldn’t endorse it more.”

For Flores, this suitcase beats the rest because of its slightly oversized, double-sided wheels that are easy to roll, covered in thick, durable rubber and can glide even on gravel. “Another decision-confirming factor was how thoughtfully designed the Monos suitcase is. Separating the generous interior is a two-page divider featuring dual layers of organization pockets — a welcome difference from most suitcases I’ve seen, which typically have only a single panel of pockets,” she wrote. “One of these layers also offers an extra dose compression in addition to the typical X-strap you find in suitcases. This means I’m able to pack more clothes and more shoes compared to my old bag, while also staying significantly more organized. The bag even comes with two different-sized shoe sleeves!”