Must-have multipurpose travel gear that allows you to pack less

Packing light not only saves you money on luggage, it also means you have less possessions to worry about. There are plenty of unexpected packing hacks to help you decide what not to pack, but if you want to think outside the box, consider these multipurpose items for some 2-in-1 space saving:

1. SCOTTeVEST ($135). This 14-pocket vest doubles as luggage and allows you to store everything from your smartphone to a water bottle to your credit cards, with no need to pay annoying airline luggage fees. The company also offers an entire line of various pocket-lined clothing items from shorts to hoodies, which means you'll either stay organized on the road, or have more than a dozen places to search for your missing keys.

2. LUSH Godiva Solid Shampoo ($11.95). This solid shampoo bar doesn't deduct from your carry-on liquid allowance. Moreover, it a shampoo-conditioner hybrid that features nut oils and shea butters for moisturizing — definitely a large step up from Pert Plus.

3. Stance ($24.95). Kenu's Stance is one of the quirkiest business travel accessories out there. The palm-sized tripod not only helps you take more professional Instagram photos and enjoy a hands-free Netflix experience, but also features a convenient bottle opener, great for enjoying the latest hotel booze perks.

4. Bluesmart ($349). One of the latest trends in luggage is the connected carry-on, and Bluemsart is definitely ahead of the game. This suitcase charges electronics through two USB ports that can be used simultaneously, keeps belongings safe with GPS tracking and weighs itself with a built-in scale so you won't get ripped off at the airport check-in counter. A compatible app records details like airports and destinations visited and miles covered.

5. TowelTopper ($16). This slender decorative band from Urban Undercover has many uses, like turning your bath towel into a robe and your beach towel into a cover up, as well as securing a towel onto a beach chair to keep it from sliding. It's great for the female business traveler who needs to do her hair and makeup — hands-free — before a meeting. Plus it'll make you look—well, actually, sort of ridiculous.

Jessica Festa is the founder on the solo and offbeat travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and the online responsible tourism and culture magazine, Epicure & Culture. She's constantly searching for local experiences beyond the guidebook. You can follow her travels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.