It’s a question I get all the time: What’s the one thing you won’t travel without?
One thing. Pft. I’m a chronic over-packer. When I travel I have a list of “must haves”. From a road trip, to a journey up north, a weekend at a fabulous hotel or a week away with family, I NEED lots of things. But as I pack for a week away in the stunning Turks and Caicos I realized it’s the perfect time to examine “What’s in my bag?” Here are a few of my favourite must-haves when traveling.
First a tip: Start with a great carry on bag, one that really works well for you. A mid-size tote is great but my fave way to travel is a small roller bag with a large purse I can stack on top. With these two items a girl anywhere. This Samsonite Spinner Underseater with USB is the perfect Carry-On size and you can rest assured it will fit in most overhead compartments. Also, notice the 4 way roller wheels. Essential when running through an airport. (not that I’ve ever done that) Sigh.
Once you’ve picked your bag, it’s time to pack. Most of these items can all be found on amazon.ca – my favourite place to do shopping in my PJ’s!
1. A tiny first aid kit – You can buy one “pre made” and then top it up. I add in things like a copy of my prescriptions, Gravol, Advil, Peppermint Oil, and bandages including Blister Band-aids. Those things are the best!
2. A jewelry organizer. I’ve tried everything to keep my necklaces from tangling and rings from getting lost. So far, my best trick is to invest in a small but functional jewelry organizer It’s simply the easiest way to keep all those rings and things from tangling or breaking. This one is super cute.
3. An Otterbox or similar for my iPhone. Nothing will spoil your mood faster than a broken cell phone.
4. Headphones – Simply because when you fly, you will want, no need, headphones. My favourite brand for comfort and sound right now are Beats in-ear headphones.
5. A Portable Charger – This is a new one to me, the Zendure A3 portable charger is compact and can fully charge the iPhone 7.4 times, oh, and it’s cute too!
6. Hydrating lip balm and Hand Cream – Travel of any kind is dehydrating and hard on the skin. I’m always sure to pack some hand cream, just a tiny one. One of my favourites is AVEDA hand relief. Not only is it moisturizing, but it has a very mild smell so won’t offend anyone sitting near you on the plane.
7. Pashmina or Blanket Scarf- Great to keep you warm on flights, or depending on your material choice if can double up as a sarong or even blanket on the beach.
Other things you’ll find in my bag? A lip gloss, lysol wipes (yes I’m that girl, gum, a protein bar, and of course my passport, wallet and all things ID.
And not on Amazon but should always ALWAYS be in your carry on – your bathing suit. No one wants the stress of replacing that little number should your suitcase ever go missing.
Feeling inspired to pack up and take a trip! I hope so because one lucky reader of How To Survive Life In The Suburbs has a chance to WIN a $100 VISA gift card to do some shopping of their own. To win simply tell me, what’s one item you won’t leave home without? I need to know – you know- incase I need to pack more things.
Then use the rafflecopter form provided below to earn those extra entries.
This giveaway is open to Canadians only, excluding Quebec, and to all those who have reached the age of majority in their Province. Closes November 1st, 2019. This giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram.
Amanda Masters says
Thermometer
I actually forgot it on our last vacation and looked everywhere and never could get my hands on one. I’ll never forget it again
Lily says
Hand sanitizer is a definite must have.
Diessa Breault says
If I am traveling, I will not leave my house without packing my curling wand and hair straightner. My hair is naturally a frizzy mess so these items help me look pretty and sleek. Hehehe
l p says
iPod. thanks
Vivian Dionne says
I usually have hand sanitizer with me at all times.
Toby says
Comfy walking shoes…love to explore!
Patricia says
I never leave the house without hand sanitizer and hair ties. Thanks for the chance!
Virginia R says
For me I pack lots of snacks. I have so many allergies it’s hard to find food at fast food places.
daniela sborlini says
i never leave without a good paid off creditcard in case of emergency and dont forget to call them to know youll be travelling!
Wendy Jensen says
That’s a tough question. I think my hair brush but my phone is about equally needed.
joy says
usually I am the one saying – I wish I had… in my bag and I never have it — hand cream, nail clippers, lip balm, tissues, pen and pad, a book — all things I should have and don’t seem to have when I need them!
cristina irimie says
I always have hygiene products, wet tissues and deodorant.
MARIANGELA CORTESE says
i usually pack downy sheets. i like how it makes everything in my bag smell and the double duty is that it helps with static hair
Shirley says
I always bring my sunglasses when I go on a vacation
Michelle W says
I always have lip balm with me!