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Going light is rule number one when it comes to packing, and that means taking only the essentials. Whether it’s strong but easy-to-carry luggage that’ll protect your valuables from the toils of travel or a camera that can put your shots over the top, the best travel gear can seriously upgrade your next vacation. Check out our 2015 Best of Travel gear picks the next time you’re making a packing list. Everything here is lightweight, state-of-the-art, and made to withstand the toughest obstacles that might come your way on the road.

Best Luggage

Pelican ProGear Elite (From $475)
If you’ve ever watched suitcases get flung into a plane, you’ll understand the appeal of . Each piece is fully waterproof and can support the better part of a ton without crumpling. Baggage handlers, do your worst.

Best Camera for Sticky Situations

GoPro Hero4 Black ($500)
When you don’t want to risk wrecking your phone or DSLR, ��to shoot top-shelf stills and video.

Best Portable Party Starter

Fugoo Sport ($200)��
Sand and mud don’t play nice with electronics. Enter the . It’s water- and drop-proof, and the battery lasts up to 40 hours on a charge.

Best Jacket��

Patagonia Alpine Houdini ($199)
This keeps you dry in the nastiest squalls and squishes down to the size of a deck of cards. Bonus: The two-tone styling won’t be out of place wherever you take shelter.

Best Camera for Making Your Photo a Work of Art��

Sony Alpha 7 II ($1,700)
DSLRs are bulky, and cellphone images don’t always print well. The ��photos print great, and the full-frame, 24-megapixel shooter is only about half as heavy as a DSLR.

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More of �����ԹϺ���’s 2015 Best of Travel:

Destinations: 30 Incredible Trips to Take in 2015
Guides: 5 Travel Guides You Need to Know
Coming Soon: The Best of Travel Runner-Ups