People always ask me what is on my list of things to pack for my trips. Obviously it varies, depending on the destination, but there are things that I always take with me. Here are my travel essentials and must haves no matter where the destination or the length of time. You can click on any of the images or titles to see options available on online.
Travel Essentials for any trip
Reusable water bottle
I always take a reusable water bottle with me no matter where I go – to work, the dentist, the airport… it is always with me!
With TSA regulations not allowing you to bring in water to your gate and airport prices being so insanely expensive, a water bottle that I can fill up is a no brainer. If you travel with an empty bottle you can fill it up at one of the restaurants in the gate.
It also comes in handy when traveling and is more environmentally friendly than than buying disposable water bottles.
Battery Pack charger
There is nothing worse than being on the go and having your phone die. The more pictures and videos you take, the faster your battery drains so having a back up means you’ll never miss taking that amazing sunset photo.
I love this Lumina one because it is small, durable, and well made!
Travel Wallet/organizer
If you haven’t used one before, you are missing out! Trust me when I say that it is a travel game changer. Being able to have everything you need in one location will keep your organized and make sure you don’t loose anything.
The hubbub of airports and customs has nothing on you and your travel wallet!
Portable Lint Roller
This little guy is small and compact so you won’t even notice it is in your bag. But you will be happy it is when you need it!
If you are like me and wear a lot of black, it will quickly become your life saver.
Portable bluetooth speaker
These speakers are perfect! Small but mighty they bring music to your picnics, boat trips, and while you are getting ready in the hotel.
If you do a lot of things near the water or live in a tropical climate, consider a waterproof option.
Sunglasses
Maybe it is because I grew up in Florida among the sunshine and palm trees, but sunglasses are a MUST.
An awesome pair of fashion sunnies like these will keep your eyes protected from the sun and still keep you looking fresh! And since they don’t cost an arm and a leg, you can get a new pair when the tides change.
Beach Throw Towel
I am a huge fan of all the beach throw towels that are really popular right now because they are so versatile. I keep one in the Jeep to use as a blanket when it is chilly out or if we go for a hop in the river.
If you opt for a rectangular one you can even use it as a scarf!
Backpack
Even if I don’t take it as my carry on, I always pack a backpack or packlike bag to use on my travels. With a pack you can carry snacks, a water bottle, any camera gear, and whatever else you might need.
Bonus? If you buy too much stuff on your trip you, you have it as a back up piece of luggage.
Head Phones
Headphones are a must! If you have plans to sit on a plane or ride on a train, you should pack a pair. Any pair will do too, it really comes down to preference.
As an iPhone user, I have never been a fan of the the little white ones. They hurt my ears so I finally gave in a got a pair of Beats. I am a huge fan and have a panic attack anytime I misplace them.
FOREO LUNA play plus: Portable Facial Cleansing Brush
Another tiny but mighty item I can not live without! The Foreo Luna Play facial cleansing brush is pocket size but delivers! With silicone for a hygienic clean and vibrations to bust dirty and grime, I take it everywhere I go!
Hand sanitizer
When you can’t wash your hands, hand sanitizer to the rescue! I absolutely love this Dr. Bronner’s lavender organic hand sanitizer because it smells good and doesn’t dry out my hands as much as other brands.
Memory Foam Neck Travel Pillow with Hoodie
Don’t let this little guy fool you! He is a travel MUST. With this memory foam pillow you can fall asleep more comfortably on trains, buses, even standing up if you have to! The best part? The hoodie means that light won’t be an issue so there is no need to curse the sunshine!
Power Adapter
Travel adapters have always been a must pack item. This one though gives an old favorite a face lift with USB ports for easy cellphone charging.
Reusable Bags
Reusable grocery bags are perfect to take on a trip. From actual grocery shopping to using them for dirty clothes, these guys are the best sidekick for your trip. They come in super cute patterns and are environment friendly, so its a win-win!
Yes To Coconut 2-in-1 Scrub & Cleanser Stick
I am a big fan of solids! They are TSA approved, usually take up less space than clunky bottles, and are easy to use. Bonus points if it is a 2-in-1 like this Yes To Coconut scrub and cleanser stick.
LUSH, Milk, and a variety of other companies offer solid products that are worth checking out too!
Thigh Rub and Blister Stopper
As president of the Thick Thigh Club, chafing and blisters are not something you want to deal with on your vacation. Glide is a must for me no matter where I go! After discovering it at an outfitters when looking for camping gear, I can’t believe that I lived without it for so many years!
Heading to Coachella? Pack it! Going camping? Bring it with you! No matter where you go, make sure you don’t leave it at home!
Tide Travel Sink Washing Packs
Traveling for long periods of time? Doing laundry is on the road is one of the biggest pains if you aren’t prepared for it. I’ve used bathtubs, bidets, sinks, and buckets to do my laundry while traveling. Nothing makes it easier than these handy dandy little laundy packets made for sinks!
First Aid Kit
Since we do a lot of hiking and adventuring, I always make sure to pack a simple first aid kit. They are perfect for small cuts and scrapes, blisters, and nicks.
Reef Safe Sunscreen
Even though I am President of the Thick Thigh Club, I also moonlight as a Pale Princess. Sun screen is my friend and even if I’m not going to a tropical oasis, I always pack sunscreen. One of my worst sunburns was on a cloudy day in Bogota. Knowing that my sunscreen is reef safe means I don’t have to worry about killing the fishies and the coral reefs!
