I’ve talked about packing in previous posts* and how to edit and fit everything in a carry on, but while on a trip earlier this month, I thought about some of the essential items that are sometimes overlooked. These little things allow me to feel well prepared and assure comfortable travel.
I always downsize my bag, usually to a nylon cross-body, and all of its contents. That means I take a small card holder as my wallet and consolidate to only the absolutely needed credit cards, i.d., and cash. For me, it makes a huge difference carrying a lightweight bag when running around all day.
I’ve recently updated my phone/iPad chargers to this sleek design from Native Union. It takes up less space and has dual USB ports so two items can charge at the same time. A phone charger for the car is absolutely essential and I always travel with one. There is nothing worse than watching your battery dwindle down when you need your phone the most for maps and directions. I keep everything together in a pouch so I can locate them quickly and easily.
I’ve mentioned before how I like face oil for rehydrating on flights, but it also comes in handy post flight and throughout the trip. I’ll add a few drops to the lotion provided by the hotel for extra moisturizing, use it to smooth cuticles and tame flyaways. I love my ClarityRX 100% Squalane oil for this.
I recently bought a new camera with wi-fi, but it’s not completely reliable for transferring photos. I decided to try an SD Card Reader for the phone, and now can’t imagine traveling without it. Every night, I would transfer my camera photos to my iPhone, which then sync to the cloud. Genius.
On this particular road trip staying at inns, my slipper loafers were immensely handy. Either walking downstairs for a nice dinner or casual breakfast, I loved being able to slip something on other than my boots or sneakers that I’d have on all day. If shopping for a pair, I’d look for a simple style that is soft, packs flat and works equally well with jeans, pants or a dress, like these navy velvet loafers from Vince.
*My previous posts on packing can be read here:
PACKING A CARRY ON FOR A WEEK IN COLD WEATHER
I CAN’T BELIEVE HOW MUCH I FIT IN A CARRY ON
MY IN-FLIGHT TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Valerie Eisenberg
Thanks Karima. We’re soon leaving on an overseas trip w long flights, car trips from city to city, lots of photography & well considered packing. You have some helpful ideas & gadgets here. Xo V
Karima
How fun! I can’t wait to see your pics. I hope you’ll consider to go carry on…it makes moving around from city to city so much easier. Bon voyage!!