Travel Must Haves You Can't Forget!
Over the years I have compiled a growing list of items that I can't travel without. Use these game changers for your next trip and see why they are a must.
1. Packing Cubes!
I have had friends recommend these to me before but, I always ignored them because I didn't want to spend the money. One day I found a cheap pair online so, I decided to try them out and O MY GOSH! They are life changing! say goodbye to digging through a suitcase to find one shirt. Everything is organized and easy to get to. They also compress everything together so your clothes take up less space!
2. Wisp Disposable Tooth Brushes!
These are always in my bag when I do backpacking trips. I carry these in my daypack or purse and when I feel especially gross from walking around all day I grab one and brush my teeth. They are small, lightweight, and all they need is water. I also always keep one on me for long flights so I can brush my teeth on the plane.
3. External batteries!
you might not think this is important but when traveling you use your phone a lot! I use mine for pictures, Translating apps, maps or directions, calling hotels or hostels, and much more. On my first trip to London, my phone died during the middle of the day. I either had to take time out of my day to find a place to charge it or I just had to suck it up and go without it.
I decided to suck it up and leave it dead. Later that night when I was heading back to my hostel I realized the address to my hostel was on my phone along with my map and I had no idea how to get back! Moral of the story plan on your battery running out and bring an external one. ( And always have addresses to your accommodations written down on paper and with you at all times!) Another reason to bring external batteries is that depending on where you are staying you may not be able to charge your devices at night. I have stayed at many hostels that had only 4 plugs in a room with 12 or more girls so not everyone got to charge their devices that night.
4. Fip Flops!
It doesn't matter where you go or what the session it is, flip flops is a must! This is especially true when staying in hostels. Some hostels are like five-star hotels but others can be a little scary. Some hostels resemble a locker room type of showering system and they are not always the cleanest. I always make sure to have a pair of flip flops to shower in. I also use mine just to walk around the hostel or hotel at night if the floor is gross. I usually get some cheap $1 store ones and then throw them away before I come home.
5. Downy Wrinkle Releaser (Travel Size)!
This stuff is a game changer when you're living out of a suitcase. It gets rid of wrinkles, eliminates odors and gets rid of Static. I never leave on a big trip without it! it's super easy and helps my clothes look and smell great (even if they desperately need to be washed). you can find the travel size in most travel sections at any big store. I get mine from target and it's only $1.50!
I will also take a small travel size spray bottle with water in it to use with the wrinkle release. I'll first spray the item with the water then with the wrinkle release. It's not necessary but it makes the wrinkle release last longer. I also use it for spraying my hair when I have terrible bed head but I don't have time to shower.
6. Travel Size Shoe Deodorizer!
Your shoes will stink! During most trips, you will do a lot of walking and it takes a tole on your shoes. Not only do they get dirty and beat up they start to smell bad! Please take this with you for the sake of you and anyone you are traveling with. If you don't want to buy some you can always fill a travel size bottle with baking soda and it will do the same thing. I like to use one part gold bond body powder with one part baking soda.
7. A Mirror!
When staying with a group of friends in a hotel or in a hostel mirror space can be valuable. I started bringing a small mirror with me on my trips and it changed my life. Instead of heading to a crowded hostel bathroom I just sit in bed and get ready. No more fighting anyone for counter space or mirror space. It's also great if all the plugs in the bathroom are being used because you're not limited to only the bathroom mirror. I found one at wall mart that has suction cups on the back and a light in the front! It has worked great and
I highly recommend it. If you're on a budget you can always head to the dolor store to find one.
8.First aid kit!
It does not have to be a huge kit but you need to have something. My first aid kit is something I always use. Even if I don't end up using it others in my group will end up using it. I just use a little plastic bag and it as always worked just fine. What you put in your kit is up to you. If you get headaches a lot be prepared for that. If you get motion sickness be prepared for that. If you have allergies be prepared for that. See the pattern?
It's also good to keep in mind where you are going. If you do get sick will you be able to find medicine or do you need to bring it with you? Is the food or water going to affect you in unpleasant ways? Do your research before and be prepared!
Other things you might want to consider...
A pen ( I always forget this one but I always need it)
Photo copies of travel documents and IDs
Headphhones
Tide to go stick
Sunscreen
Mini lint roller
Umbrella / Rain jacket
Earplugs
Nail clippers
Hand sanitizer
Wet wipes
Bug repellent
Travel towel
Hope this helped you out! Let me know what your travel must haves are below. I'd love to hear from you!
Safe travels, Megan
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