Over the years, I’ve become an expert packer and my travel essentials are clearly defined. When I travel, whether for work or for fun, I have found that it’s important to have a few key items that either help you maintain your routine or bring you the comforts of home. By keeping a few normalized items, you can switch in and out of travel mode with ease. So you’ll find that some of these items are functional, and some of them are creature comforts. What are your travel essentials? Comment below!
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Sleep Mask
One of my travel essentials that I absolutely cannot be without is my sleep mask. I use one similar to this one at home, and on the road, I actually use a United sleep mask that I got in an amenity kit when I flew business class in the past (RIP status). Everyone has different preferences, but for me, it’s essential that the sleep mask isn’t too tight or too heavy. For this reason, I like the versions that have an adjustable band and a silky fabric. It absolutely doesn’t need to be expensive or fancy, and this will save your life when you’re jet-lagged or in a new place.
Skincare
I cannot travel without the bare minimum of skin care. For me, this means a serum, a moisturizer, a face oil (Vitamin C usually), and a sunscreen. I switch up my skincare all the time, but there are a few essentials that I constantly return to:
- Innisfree Green Tea Serum – I’ve been using this serum or a version of it for years. The green tea is soothing to the skin and it’s a great base.
- Keenoniks Wonder Remedy Moisturizer – I discovered this moisturizer in a tiny Milanese skincare store (the best in Milan) and it quickly became a repeat favorite. It also travels well because it’s not bulky.
- Vitamin C Serum – Right now, I’m using Botik vitamin C serum, but I change up my Vitamin C serum all the time. This is a staple product for me because I have a reddish skin tone and Vitamin C smooths and reduces red skin.
- Sunscreen – Even if you’re not traveling to a warm place, sunscreen is essential, especially on airplanes where you’re closer to the sun. This one is Innisfree, but I’m always trying different sunscreens as well.
Away Bigger Carry On
I’ve used many suitcases over the years and none have served me better than my Away bigger carry-on. I love that it’s TSA regulation carry-on size and it fits everything I need for up to a week of travel. I got this suitcase in 2020 and never looked back. I will say that while the suitcase has been great, the add-on feature of the portable charger isn’t for everyone. I now rarely keep it in my suitcase and I’ve had to replace it twice. That said, Away’s customer service is excellent, and they’ve always been accommodating to any issues.
Packing Cubes
I started using packing cubes over five years ago and never looked back. I am absolutely obsessed with the ones I have, and unfortunately, the company has now gone out of business (Flight 001). The reason I love them is because they are double-sided with one side for clean clothes and one side for dirty clothes. This makes my packing so easy. I found a similar version – Taskin – that have great reviews. It’s mind-blowing to me that few companies have done the two-sided packing cubes. Such a simple, but genius concept.
Aeropress
Bringing an Aeropress with me everywhere I go is a newer habit that I picked up from my husband. My husband is a coffee connoisseur. He only buys high-quality coffee, and we rarely drink coffee outside the house (unless we are visiting a specialty coffee shop). So, especially when traveling to places where we know the coffee won’t meet our standards, we have started traveling with an Aeropress. This tiny, packable coffee gadget is so easy to use and all you really need is good coffee grounds and hot water. I highly recommend it for good coffee on the go.
Workout Gear
As I’ve gotten older, staying in my workout routine has become more and more essential. My husband is a runner, and can work out anywhere. I’m not so into running, so I’ve always looked for studio options where I’m staying. However, when that’s not possible, I often workout in my hotel room or airbnb. The two essentials for this are the Jade foldable yoga mat and Bala bangles. With these two items, I can take my workout anywhere!
Kindle Paperwhite
I am an absolutely avid reader, so this is one of my travel essentials. If you see me on a plane, on my couch, on a beach, or anywhere really, chances are I have my kindle in my hands or in my bag. This is truly something I can’t live without. If you are worried about using a kindle versus real books, I recommend you still try it. I’ve gotten both my mom and husband hooked on kindle and they both used to prefer physical books. Just don’t be like me and leave your kindle on a plane (twice).
