Top Five Must Have Travel Items
These items not only make your travel days easier, but adventuring more enjoyable!
The number one question I get from my clients when it comes to travel is what should they pack? And while the answer depends on a number of things such as your destination, time of year, etc., these five items are my travel staples. You will never catch me without them, and I can’t stress enough how they make traveling easier and more enjoyable!
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes will be your new best friend!! Compression packing cubes allow travelers to fit more items in their luggage all while keeping them neat and unwrinkled.
I recommend using packing cubes and grouping the following items together:
Pants + Bottoms
Dresses + Tops
Makeup
Toiletries
Traveling with multiple people out of the same suitcase? Packing cubes will help you keep everything organized and make grabbing certain items easier when on the go. I really love my Gonex Compression Packing Cubes!
These puppies are THE best. The zipper is super strong and the material stretches. Keith and I both have a set each, and I use these for everything in my luggage! Even my skin care bottles, shampoo, all of it- they are brilliant. It's so much easier than a rollup makeup bag which is always SUPER bulky. This allows everything to lay flat and if you are worried about spills, you can wrap the compression container in a plastic bag. Honestly, I have never had a problem with spills. It's brilliant.
Ear Plugs
Depending on where you live you are used to hearing certain noises when relaxing or going to sleep for the night. When traveling, suburban dwellers can find the ambient noises of the city hard to adjust to. Enter, ear plugs! Not only will these help quiet things down they will allow you to get better sleep to be ready for adventures.
Taking an overnight international flight? Ear plugs can help block out other passengers on the flight and allow you to rest before you reach your destination!
Loop Earplugs are where it’s at! I love these so much I have two pairs; a noise-cancelling set and a set for concerts which allow me to listen to music all while protecting my ears. The best part? These amazing earplugs are less than $20.00!
Voltage Converter + USB Surge Protector
From your cell phone to your laptop, taking electronics internationally is a must for all travelers. Depending on your destination you’ll need to make sure your chargers are compatible with the countries sockets!
Voltage converters are a little bulky, but shouldn’t be overlooked. These are vital, especially if you decide to pack your own hair dryer, straightener, or curling iron. A USB Surge Protector allows you to charge multiple electronics at the same time safely and efficiently.
Use the guide below to figure out which type of outlet adapter you will need for your travels!
SublimeWare Travel Adapters are the perfect fit no matter where your travels take you! They offer multi USB ports and TYPE C ports so you can charge multiple items at once. It's brilliant.
I would NOT plug a hair dryer into this. US hairdryers are awful when using abroad- they are just TOO strong with the voltage. I have blown out 2 different hairdryers and voltage adapters from trying this. I have learned- don't bring your US hair dryer to Europe. They usually provide them in Hotels and AirBnBs anyway!
Digestive Pills
I know natural habits can sometimes be taboo, but it’s time for an honest conversation. Travel means being exposed to new types of food and eating outside of your typical diet. Clients who travel to Italy for example will be eating the best pasta of your life! But, if you’re not used to eating carbs on a consistent level, you might need a little extra help to keep things flowing.
Digestive pills are all natural remedies to help give you the extra push you might need without making you feel ill. Any kind of over-the-counter medication you take on a daily basis, or might need along the way, is best to be purchased and packed before you leave.
I really love the Zenwise Digestive Enzymes when traveling. This is great to eat after a giant meal. I recommend drinking a lot of water with it- the more your intestines are hydrated the smoother everything will be...if you catch my drift!
Compression Socks
Let me tell you a little story. In my younger days I took a direct flight from Honolulu to Sydney. I had a bladder of steel and in return didn't get up once on our 13 hour flight to Australia! I took my shoes off at the beginning of the flight to get comfy before diving into the movie selection. When we landed, I attempted to put on my shoes and friends...it was scary. I have never seen my feet, ankles, or calves so swollen!
I didn't listen to the advice about getting up and walking around NOR did I think about compression socks. Thank goodness 17 year old me learned my lesson- compression socks are the best for any sort of travel day. They don't leave my backpack and take up hardly any space.
My favorite compressions socks are from Physix Gear Sport. You cannot go wrong with any of their socks, and this low budget, stylish item will provide so much relief when traveling!
Ready for your next adventure? Let’s chat! Email rachael@forthestory.vacations today!