Hi everyone!
I’ve been traveling a bit this past month and wanted to share with you guys products that make my life so much easier! My boyfriend and I don’t like to check bags when we travel, so we’ve had to learn how to pack in a lot to maximize the amount of space in our carry-on. The products below have made traveling so so easy and stress free. This list is in no way complete, just products that I found to be the most helpful when traveling.
Travel Gear
Osprey Backpack– A backpack is really the best choice when it comes to choosing a carry-on personal item. When you’re traveling, you don’t know how much walking you’re going to be doing, and if you’re running late, you may find yourself running across the airport to make your flight. Now imagine running while holding onto a duffel or a large tote that’s digging into your shoulder (yes this has happened to me, and was my nightmare). This Osprey backpack is specifically made for females, so it hugs your spine and fits the torso so nothing is going to be digging into your body. Backpack straps are cushioned, and the entire thing is so lightweight and flexible. I also have the Osprey Daylite for shorter trips.
Eagle Creek Packing Cubes– I discovered packing cubes a couple years ago and it has completely changed the way I pack for my trips. There’s a lot of different brands out there, but in my opinion, Eagle Creek is the best. The quality is really good and these packing cubes are built the last. If you’re just starting out, the starter set is great, it includes a garment holder, and two different sized cubes to give you some variety. I love using the Clean/Dirty Cube to store all my dirty clothes. One side is mesh so if you have swimwear that needs to dry off, you can keep it on that side. The other side is completely sealed to mask odor. Finally the Compression Cubes are worth a look too. I was able to flatten down a leather jacket and a wool scarf into an inch thick cube.
TSA Approved Toiletry Bag– Guys, invest in your toiletry bags. When you’re in line at the airport going through security, the last thing you want is for your toiletry bag to be “too big” or to have products spilling out everywhere. This is TSA approved so anything you can fit in there under 3.4 fluid ounces is good to go. This bag is convenient, easy to grab, and really good material. I’m telling you, this thing is indestructible. I bought mine years ago, and it’s been on countless international trips with me.
Clothing
Adidas Ultraboost Sneakers– I honestly couldn’t recommend any other walking shoe for traveling. Sleek, understated, and comfortable, these are my go-to shoes for entire day excursions. I’ve walked all day in these and my feet feel completely fine at the end of the day, no soreness, no blisters, no muscle aches, nothing. They are a little pricey but definitely worth the investment. I have 4 pairs and plan to add to my collection again soon.
An ultra-light down jacket– Weather can be unpredictable. When traveling I like to have a warm jacket I can carry everywhere with me that’s light and doesn’t take off a lot of space. This one from Uniqlo can compress down into the size of a water bottle. This jacket runs true to size, but I would recommend sizing up if you plan on using this for colder destinations so that you can layer.
Tech
An external battery– This one is pretty self-explanatory. Nothing is worse than being stranded in a foreign country with no idea of how to get back to your hotel because you phone died. I have this one from Anker, and it has saved me on multiple occasions. This one only holds 1-2 charges depending on what phone type you have.
Headphones– This is specifically for the plane ride. I try to get as much sleep as I can on the flights to try and beat the jet lag, and these pretty much block everything out from crying babies to announcements to chatty neighbors. Not only that, these are comfortable on the ear and are very easy to wear.
Miscellaneous
A pill organizer– It’s important to bring proper medications with you, especially when you travel internationally. This pill organizer helps decrease the amount of space used in your luggage and also keeps everything organized. I like this one because the little compartments come in different sizes, so you can customize to your own needs. I personally like to bring ibuprofen, motion-sickness medications, antihistamines, etc, just in case. Depending on where you are at the moment, you may not have access to a pharmacy or a store.
Travel Locks– These are a must. I often have to have the hotel hold my luggage for me because my arrival and departure times often don’t line up with my check-in and check-out times, so may sure to slip these babies on before turning your luggage over. I’ve stayed at hotels where they simply keep the luggage to the side of the concierge desk, not in a locked room or anywhere secure, so these locks can provide you with some extra security.
Eye drops– Being on a 10+ hour flight can really dry out your eyes, so I like to have these on hand to provide my eyes with some relief. I wear contacts, so I use the solution specifically for contact wearers, and this is something I use daily when traveling. Not only that, taking part in active excursions (snorkeling, hiking, diving, etc) can cause strain on the eyes as well.
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