7 TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
I’ve been traveling a little more recently which has got me thinking about the things I usually need to have on a long flight or time in an airport. I’ve perfected this list over time, so I hope these prove useful to you on your next trip! As always, feel free to drop by Instagram and let me know if you agree, have things you like to bring that aren’t on this list or just to say hi!
Packing cubes
Packing cubes weren’t really on my radar until I received some as a birthday gift alongside a travel tote, Now that I’ve been using them for a while, I’m not sure how I ever packed without them! I used to think they would take up more space than they were worth, but it seems to make packing more efficient. My suitcase was definitely way more chaotic and messy, and I packed things that I didn’t necessarily need to bring before I used them. It helps me plan my outfits better ahead of time and since they are cubes, they slide into your suitcase really well side by side. Plus, they make me less stressed on the back end of my trip when I get home, because I end up dedicating some of the cubes to dirty clothes. Then I know what is where and which clothes I’m unpacking go back to the dresser or straight to the wash.
entertainment (books, music, back up charger)
Entertainment, especially if you’re flying alone or flying makes you a little anxious, is a must. Even when I’m traveling with friends or Cooper, I like to have books, music, movies and sometimes even my Nintendo Switch to distract me while we’re in the air. It makes the time go faster, and it can make you forget about the fact that you’re sitting in a small plane seat for an extended period of time. If you’re bringing electronics, a back up charger in your carry-on is usually a good idea. This way, it’ll be accessible right from your seat! As a side note, don’t be too hard on yourself if you plan on getting work done on a flight and don’t do as much as you hope. It’s not the most ideal space to feel productive in sometimes!
vitamin c
I have been taking those Emergen-C packets for years, since I would spend so much time on a plane. I’ve become more diligent since the pandemic cause it never hurts to get a little boost of vitamin C. I like to take one the day before I fly or even the day of since I know I’ll be in crowded areas and spaces where a lot of people have been. Emergen-C doesn’t stave off sickness if you’re already sick, but it’s a good boost for your system. It’s more like taking a vitamin in the morning. If you’re into taking Vitamin C, I would recommend taking care of your body before you fly. Get enough rest, hydrate, eat well!
lip moisturizer
I try not to go anywhere without some sort of chapstick or lip balm, but it’s especially important when traveling! Sometimes the stress of traveling or the busyness of the day can make my lips really chapped, so having lip balm on hand is key. This is my favorite lip balm right now, and it was an essential item on the last flight I was on. If I’m going to be on a 5 + hour flight though I’ll usually opt for a lip serum. Plus, if you’re going to and from different climates, your skin might react poorly, so moisturizing in general can be helpful. Which leads me to my next travel essential…
moisturizing sheet face masK
OK, hear me out. I know you might feel a little silly, but masks feel so refreshing and can be a great way to relax if being in the air is a little anxiety inducing for you. On longer flights especially, sheet masks can help you wind down if you’re trying to sleep part of the way. I’ve found a few good options at Sephora and Target that don’t look as terrifying as some other sheet masks. But even if it does look a little silly, prioritize you!
Safe spot for all important cards
Traveling can sometimes mean leaving things behind or forgetting important items, so I have come up with a system to never forget any of my important documents. Whether you need your vaccine card, passport, ID, boarding pass or something else entirely, all of these documents should be kept in one place. Maybe you have a specific wallet you take to travel, and it houses only those things. Whatever you choose, find something that is easy to cart around, fits in most places and can hold these important items. You’ll be glad to have them all in one place when you need to pull one, some or all of them out.
cozy socks
I recommend bringing some cozy socks to switch into for long flights (okay maybe not totally essential, but they feels better than having your feet crammed into shoes for a long time). You can even bring some flexible slippers to put in your carry-on and pull out when it’s time. That being said, I am a huge proponent of always, always, always wearing comfortable shoes on every flight, even if it’s a short one. You’ll definitely be grateful for comfortable shoes when you’re walking across the airport.
A few tips on Packing light
I haven’t checked a bag in a while… and packing light is the reason for that! I don’t like getting to the airport unnecessarily early, so I opt for a small carry-on I can roll and a small duffle on top to keep under the seat in front of me. If you like dresses I always find them a good option to pack because they are usually lighter, and you have your whole outfit right there. Let’s say you are gone for a week and the climate is moderate. You could probably take two pairs of pants, light weight coat for layering if you need (wear on the plane), 4-5 top options, two dresses. Wear a pair of cute neutral sneakers that go with most of your looks on the plane, and then throw in a second option into your suitcase if you want. Pack a couple accessories that go well with each look. For my last trip I took a couple pairs of gold hoops and some rings that went with each outfit. I like to leave my bigger purses at home and bring a small crossbody I can keep all my important stuff in, something that can fit nicely in my duffle, so I still have easy access to it. Then one pair of sunglasses and a hat of some sort is always good for those no-wash hair days.