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.
Nerlande says
My phone and charger
Gloria says
I never leave home without my house keys because I want to get back in!
Maritess S says
I cannot leave the house without my phone.
Teresa Mannella says
Never, ever leave home without Lysol and baby wipes!! First thing I do is wipe down the airplane armrest and tray. Yes I’m that girl.
Lester C says
can’t leave without my wallet
Joni says
I wouldn`t leave home without phone and charger.
Kim Tanti says
I do not like to leave home with out my phone. I have a 17yr. old daughter now driving and a 96yr. old mother. I never use the phone to make calls and it is just basic. I want it in case of emergencies.
Jennifer P. says
The one item I would never leave home without is sunscreen. I’m always so glad I bring my own on all our trips, because sometimes the ones I want are not available (whether it be a specific brand or a higher SPF), or the prices are extremely outrageous. For example, last year we travelled to Greece, and while we thought the prices were quite cheap on almost everything, the sunscreen was 30 Euros a bottle on average!! I was soooo glad we had brought our own!
Glogirl says
I won’t leave home without my hand sanitizer! So important to prevent picking up germs while traveling.
Tooth Fairy says
Well I’m a Tooth Fairy so the answer is my toothbrush!
Sometimes a new spare in case somebody else forgets theirs?
Elaine G says
I won’t leave home without my e-reader.
KittyPride says
I always take a new book with me when I travel, makes long flights bearable.
Erin N says
I definitely would not leave my home without my cell phone, wallet (with ID, cards, cash) but that is pretty standard. I can’t leave home without multiple books to read, too!
Diane T says
Can’t leave the house without my phone!
kristen visser says
Besides my phone and wallet, i will not leave my house without my shades