5 Reader Must-Haves: January 2026
Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!
January’s bestsellers are in! From cozy favorites to chic travel-ready pieces, these are the items that captured our readers’ attention last month.
Our readers stayed cozy and chic throughout January, snapping up stylish wardrobe staples, from cozy sweaters to versatile pants and boots. But with spring just around the corner, they’ve also been eyeing fresh picks to welcome the warmer weather.
Here’s a look at what TFG readers loved most this January.
Top 5 Reader Must Haves
Blondo Danika Waterproof Ankle Boots
A longtime TFG favorite for comfortable yet stylish footwear, the Blondo Danika Boots are this month’s standout must-have. Featuring a waterproof leather upper, these boots will keep your feet dry no matter the forecast, while the rugged lug sole delivers reliable traction on slick sidewalks and cobblestone streets.
The easy pull-on design makes them effortless to wear, and the sleek, versatile silhouette pairs with everything from jeans to dresses. Whether you’re sightseeing, heading off on a weekend getaway, or navigating rainy city streets, these boots are a go-to for unpredictable weather and all-day comfort.
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince
Quince Organic Comfort Stretch Chore Jacket
The kind of layer you’ll reach for again and again, the Quince Comfort Stretch Chore Jacket transitions effortlessly from airport terminals to Parisian streets and even the rolling hills of Ireland. It offers just the right amount of structure while still moving comfortably with you as we shift from winter into spring.
Endlessly versatile, this jacket pairs just as well with jeans and sneakers as it does with dresses or shorts, instantly elevating any outfit with minimal effort. Available in a range of timeless shades, it’s an easy pick for both travel days and everyday wear.
Shop Sizes: XS-XL: Unbound Merino
Unbound Merino Travel Dress
After one TFGer raved about how amazing the Unbound Merino Travel Dress is, the community quickly jumped on board, and it’s easy to see why. A go-to fabric for year-round travel, this dress is breathable, temperature-regulating, and naturally odor-resistant, a game-changer for minimalist or carry-on-only travel.
Endlessly versatile, it can be styled with a blouse or tee layered underneath, topped with a jacket or blazer, or dressed up with accessories like a belt, necklace, or scarf. Classic and simple in the best way, this is a timeless piece you’ll reach for season after season.
Shop Sizes: Regular XS-XL | Petite XS-XL | Tall S-XL | Plus 1X-3X: Lands End
Lands’ End Cashmere Cardigan Sweater
Cashmere continues to have a major moment with the TFG community, and last month the Lands End Cashmere Cardigan stole the show. Ultra-soft, cozy, and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for layering over thermals and under a coat on chilly winter city breaks, or throwing on for early-morning airport runs.
Available in a wide range of neutral colors, it’s easy to find the perfect hue to elevate any seasonal travel wardrobe.
Shop Sizes: XXS-XL Regular | XXS-L Petite | XS-XL Tall : Athleta
Athleta Venice Straight Leg Pants
The much-loved Athleta Venice Wide Leg Pants now come in a new straight-leg silhouette (a welcome upgrade for those who prefer not to battle wide-leg pants in airport bathrooms!!). This updated cut offers a slimmer sleeker look while maintaining everything travelers already love about the original.
Made from Athleta’s incredible performance fabric, these pants are quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and offer UPF 40+ protection, making them as practical as they are flattering. Comfortable enough for long flights yet polished enough for city exploring or dinner out, they’re the kind of travel staple you’ll reach for again and again.
Honorable Mentions
While they didn’t quite make the top five, these standout items definitely deserve a shoutout, too.
Shop: Nordstrom Rack | QVC | DSW
KEEN Versacore Hiking Shoe
A few weeks ago, I shared how comfortable my brand new Keen sneakers were straight out of the box for my recent trip to Finland. I wore them throughout my first couple of days in Helsinki, including 18,000 steps during a layover in 2°C weather in Dublin. Paired with my Bombas merino wool compression socks, my feet stayed warm and comfortable the entire time.
By the end of the trip, I was so tired of wearing my boots that slipping back into my sneakers felt like absolute heaven. And it seems I’m not the only one impressed, with TFG readers snapping them up too!
Shop: Nordstrom | Macy’s | Baggallini
Baggallini Carryall Expandable Packable Weekender Tote Bag
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or need a flexible option for the journey home, the Baggallini Carryall Packable Tote is lightweight, compact, and easy to stash in your luggage. With multiple pockets and an expandable design, it offers impressive storage space without weighing you down.
A built-in trolley sleeve lets it slide easily over your suitcase handle for hands-free navigation through busy terminals. Practical yet polished, this tote adds a smart, stylish edge to your packing strategy.
Shop Sizes: 24-33: Quince
Quince Bella Stretch Relaxed Straight Jeans
Quince’s high-rise jeans are travel-friendly favorites, made from soft stretch denim that smooths, supports, and keeps its shape all day (or on a long flight!). The relaxed straight leg adds a laid-back, effortless vibe, making them easy to style with everything from ankle boots to sneakers or flats.
Perfect for exploring European streets, city weekends, or casual travel days, these jeans are as versatile as they are comfortable. Available in four inseams, 26, 28, 30, and 32, for a tailored fit that travels well.
Shop: Beis
Beis The Light Up Travel Mirror
After one TFGer raved about the Beis Travel Mirror, the community quickly jumped on board, and it’s easy to see why! With three adjustable light settings to create the perfect glow it ensures you’re never caught doing makeup in bad lighting again.
Bright, sleek, and ultra-packable, the lightweight design slips easily into your carry-on or tote for effortless on-the-go touch-ups, while the rechargeable battery means no scrambling for spare cords mid-trip.
What new items did you discover in January? Feel free to share your finds with us! And If you enjoyed reading about the latest and greatest travel products from the TFG community, check out our Reader Must Haves posts published every month! You can view the items featured in previous months here.
LIKE THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!
We hope you liked this post on the top 5 reader favorites for January 2026. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
