I always try to make traveling as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Here are some items I wouldn't want to leave home without.
1. Bose Noise Canceling Headphones - $198 - Although these are a bit pricey, they are totally worth it; I hated flying until I discovered these headphones. They reduce the engine noise and any chatting or crying babies around you, so you can comfortably watch movies, listen to music, or drown out the surrounding noise to catch up on sleep. They now offer a wireless option ($329) that would help keep you from getting tangled when you’re traveling.
For a more affordable ($25), compact option, I'd recommend the Anker wireless headphones. Although, these aren't noise canceling, they fit snug which ends up blocking out a lot of noise.
2. Bucky Gusto Blow up Pillow - $25 - I've tried a couple travel pillows, but this one is by far the best one for several reasons. It folds up and tucks into a built-in pocket when it's not in use and has a soft cover that’s removable and machine washable. The pillow also includes an adjustable cord that prevents your head from bobbing like a doll.. and most importantly, it inflates so easily and you can adjust firmness with the touch of a button.
3. Bedtime Bliss Sleep Mask - $13 - I haven’t tried this exact mask, but one similar; this is the highest rated on Amazon. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, just make sure it has eye cut outs, so it's not pushing on your eyes while you’re trying to rest.
4. Universal Power Converter - $7 - I recommend packing two of these for every international trip. Unless you want to, like me, find yourself playing Charades with a sweet Italian woman in the middle of Tuscany who interprets that you need a phone charger. Lucky for me, the charger only cost 8 euros versus the 38 euros I thought she had said. Never again.
5. Packing cubes - $20 - These are a total game changer for your suitcase! I reserve the larger bag for folded tops and the medium bag for rolled pants. The smaller bag is perfect for socks and undergarments, and the smallest is perfect for cords and miscellaneous items. Just be sure to check the dimensions of your suitcase before purchasing.
6. TSA Approved Lock - $8 - For me, a lock isn't only for bags while at the airport. It keeps your luggage secure while you are moving around from location to location and anytime you leave them unattended at B&B's, hostels, etc.
7. Fuji x100s - (Discontinued) - Fuji x100F ($1,200) is the latest. My favorite travel camera. It's small, includes all manual controls, and the quality speaks for itself. I'm a photographer, but I don't like being weighed down with heavy cameras and lenses when traveling for fun. It also looks like an old film camera, so no one will want to take it - ha!
8. Backpack - $25-60 - I prefer to travel with a cute backpack instead of a purse for a few reasons. I like to be hands-free to take photos; there’s nothing worse than a bag that doesn't want to stay on your shoulder or that puts too much weight on one side. I also like to be able to store purchases in my backpack and not be a bag lady. Lastly, I don't have to worry about it being snatched off my shoulder. Obviously, don't keep valuables in the pockets that can be easily accessed by others. Leave the good leather at home and find something that can easily be cleaned.
Here are some of my favorite vegan leather options from Amazon. Click photos to purchase.
9. Ziplock bags - Don't leave home without them. Pack your underwear, bras and bathing suits in them and press the air out. Saves so much space! They are useful for keeping track of receipts and any necessary paper items you accumulate while traveling.
Better yet, find something reuseable and eco-friendly like these silicone bags.
10. Collapsible water bottle - Having a foldable bottle will allow you to save space and pack light. There are many bottles on the market, I'd suggest finding one BPA free, foldable, and with a clip, so it can easily be attached to your bag.
** Note, these are not my photos. **
