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.
MaryJean Loveless says
These are awesome tips for traveling hoping to be taking a trip in the new year! Something I cannot leave home without when we go traveling is forsure my phone and charger I know that’s a lame answer but it honestly has everything thing .. a camera, calculator, games, and of course how I connect with my friends and family <3
Heather Howard says
In past years I was all about bringing my camera everywhere. Capturing as many family memories as possible. Then a friend said that I should stop taking time to take photos and be more present in the moment. So I did. But, after losing my oldest brother and now having parents with memory problems, capturing photos has become even more important. I have to say having a camera is my most important travel item.
Kim G. says
I can’t leave home without my phone and my Tupperware water bottle.
Teresa Moore says
I can’t leave home without hair clips or pony tail holders as well as mascara!
Tina W says
A corkscrew! The best part of traveling to training for work was picking up a bottle of wine, sitting in the hotel room and doing all the beauty tasks you put off (pedicure, brow plucking, etc) while enjoying a nice glass of wine.
Travelbuds says
I can’t leave home without my phone in case my 2 teenagers need me.
MD Kennedy says
I’d never leave home without my cell phone – of course!
Lee-Ann Sleegers says
The one thing I don’t leave home without is my keys. My daughter has locked me out one too many times, but accident.
Mary says
I’d never leave home without my iPhone! Ever.
Cassandra C says
I have a few! lip balm, wipes and lotion.
Tomara says
I won’t leave home without my headphones, I need my music.
Julie F says
When flying I always have my travel blanket, neck pillow and Kobo!
Zahra Premji says
Hand cream – it is so dry here. I need to re-apply after I wash my hands.
Penny northmore says
Have to have my lip balm!!
Debbie Bashford says
My humongous wallet everything I own is in there lol