When it comes to traveling abroad, safety should always be your top priority. Packing the right essentials is key to a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some must-have items to consider for long flights, as well as other important factors to keep in mind when selecting travel gear with safety in mind. Let's go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
1. Reliable Luggage
- Checked-in baggage: Longer Trips and Traveling with Children
When it comes to checked-in baggage, we always opt for our trusted Samsonite. After a previous airport mishap, we've learned the importance of investing in high-quality luggage that can endure the wear and tear of travel. Not only does this save us money in the long run, but it also provides peace of mind and security for our belongings during our trips. Since we recently became parents, we never underestimate the value of sturdy and durable luggage for hassle-free travel.
Our Timberland Hardside Luggage is currently unavailable on Amazon. However, you can check out the Samsonite 20-inch carry-on luggage as an alternative.
- Hand-Carry Luggage: Traveling Light for Solo and Couples Adventures
When my partner and I traveled to Europe for two weeks, we opted for a lighter load to make our journey more manageable. This way, transferring from train rides in France to Italy and moving between four different cities was a breeze. We found that our Timberland bag was the perfect size for our hand-carry luggage.
I used to believe that big brands were just paying for their names. However, I had a change of heart following an unfortunate incident at the airport. Read more: Everyone's Travel Nightmare: What To Do If Airline Damaged My Luggage
Minimalist RFID Wallet: The name is Bond. Vaga Bond.
2. RFID Protected Wallet
We believe that safety is essential when it comes to travel gear. That's why we've invested in RFID protection wallets to ensure that our ID and credit card information remains secure. With RFID protection, you can rest easy knowing that your personal information is safe from prying eyes. Whether you're a secret agent or simply someone who appreciates practicality, a minimalist wallet is an excellent option that combines style and security.
Travel Planner: The Essential Travel Planner for Every Adventurer
3. Travel Planner
If you're planning a trip, this all-in-one travel planner is a must-have. It's designed to cater to every type of traveler, making it simple to stay organized and efficient throughout the trip-planning process. This planner includes a packing list to ensure you never forget a single item, a section to document things to do before the trip, a travel research area, and best of all, a Gratitude Journal to keep as a memory diary at the end of your journey.
Bid farewell to leaving things behind at home and embrace a sense of confidence as you prepare for your upcoming adventures.
Another option: Blank-Lined Travel-themed notebooks
Keep track of your travel itinerary, flight schedules, bus timings, accommodation and anything you need to remember for your trip with a travel notebook. With its blank, wide-ruled paper, you are free to write and record your experiences, travel notes, and anything else that comes to mind. Let your creativity flow on your next adventure!
4. Universal Travel Adapter
This is a must-have for international travelers. It's always useful to have a Universal Travel Adapter in case you need it. This adapter is compatible with different types of plugs and gadgets across 150+ countries, including US, UK, EU, and China outlets. With 4 Smart USB Ports (2×2.4A/2×2.1A) at 3500mA, it's the perfect device to keep your gadgets charged while you're on the move. Unfortunately, this brand is no longer available; another alternative is this Universal Travel Adapter.
5. Portable charger
Don't let a dead phone battery leave you stranded without a way to call for help. Always carry an Anker Portable Charger to ensure you stay connected, no matter where you are. This portable charger is one of the most compact and lightweight 10,000mAh power banks available. This has been a staple item for all of our travels, hikes, and camping trips. Not to mention, Anker is a trusted brand when it comes to portable chargers.
6. Travel Comfort Essentials: Neck Pillow, Eye Mask, and Earphones
Get a good night's sleep on long flights with these essentials - a neck pillow and eye mask. It's the perfect way to regulate your sleep schedule according to the new time zone, particularly if you arrive in the morning. Unfortunately, airlines often don't provide earphones anymore, leaving you to watch a screen with subtitles. To avoid unnecessary expenses or settling for airline-provided earphones, bring your own pair.
7. Sunglasses
Don't forget to pack your sunglasses! Not only are they a stylish accessory, but they also double as an eye mask for short flights or when you need to catch some sleep on the go. I'm also a fan of Sports Sunglasses as it's flexible for running and when traveling.
8. Reusable Water Bottle
Long or short flights can be dehydrating, but staying hydrated is crucial to avoid dry skin. I always make sure to bring my favorite reusable water bottle to keep myself hydrated.
We loved our Nalgene bottles as it's made from 50% recycled plastic waste, are leak-proof, easy to clean, and can contain both hot and cold beverages. They are free of BPA, BPS, and phthalates. I also packed it with a Reusable Silicone Straw and a Splash Guard for those turbulent flights.
To ensure that our water bottles are clean during our travels, I bring a bottle brush and a small amount of detergent liquid (less than 100 ml for carry-on luggage) to wash them in the hotel. Although it can be a hassle, it's worth it in the end. As a family, we make an effort to be sustainable and economical by purchasing a few gallons of water to refill our bottles in the hotel.
9. First Aid Kit
When accidents or injuries happen, it's important to be prepared. I always make sure we have a fully stocked First Aid kit with essentials such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. For added safety, I also include a Flashlights and whistle for each of our bags. You never know when you may need them, but having them on hand can provide peace of mind.
10. Cash is King!
When traveling abroad, it's always a good idea to bring cash with you. However, try to avoid exchanging it at the airport as they often offer lower rates. Having cash on hand can be incredibly useful if you encounter any issues with card machines. You never know when you might need it!
Here are a Few Extras We Bring:
Reef Repair Sunscreen: Environmental-Friendly Sunscreen
11. Sunscreen
Don't forget to bring Sunscreen. Shield your skin from the sun's harmful rays while on the go. Remember to be environmentally conscious, by selecting an eco-friendly sunscreen that safely protects both you and nature. Remember, sunscreen is considered a liquid, so if you plan on bringing it in your carry-on, ensure that the amount does not exceed 100 ml.
For the face: Thinkdaily Tinted Sunscreen
I love Thinkdaily Tinted Sunscreen for my daily sun protection. It seamlessly matches my skin tone without leaving any white residue. This convenient travel stick is ideal for quick touch-ups on the move. It glides on smoothly, absorbs fast, and remains water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.
12. Tinted Lip Balm
I also pack my go-to Sunbum Lip Balm to prevent my lips from cracking due to dry cabin air. It's tinted, so it gives me a glow and has SPF 15 to protect my lips.
Ever since discovering this lip balm, I've stopped purchasing lipstick, which I never really liked. This lip balm is affordable and provides a rich color tint that gives the appearance of wearing lipstick. Moreover, it includes SPF for sun protection and keeps my lips moisturized, all without leaving any white marks on the edges. Additionally, it is Hawaii Act 104 Reef Compliant, making it safe for use while swimming in the ocean.
13. Camera
We have a Canon EOS Rebel T6 Camera, which is perfect for beginners learning how to take great photos. The camera's small size and simple interface make it easy to use compared to other models. Lately, we have been using our iPhone more frequently since it's lighter in weight and is capable of taking high-quality pictures.
14. Travel Pill Organizer
This is the ultimate travel hack for women out there. Not only does it provide ample space for your medicine, but it can also accommodate safely some of your favorite pieces of jewelry. Trust me, no one would know. This colorful Travel Pill Organizer is out of stock on Amazon, here's an alternative, the Minimalist Colored Pill Organizer.
I'm not one to wear a lot of makeup – my friends often remark that I look the same with or without it. But I do have my favorites, namely my trusty eyeliner and tinted lip balm, which I never leave the house without. As for traveling, I like to keep it simple and avoid bringing any liquid items that may spill and ruin important documents. Read more about that here: Minimalist Travel Make-up Essentials
What's Inside My Minimalist Make-up Bag:
Natracare Feminine Pads are compostable and the packaging is biodegradable and crafted from plant starch, and the pad wrapper is also made from paper. This product is truly amazing! I have never come across a feminine product that is fully compostable. It is gentle, non-irritating, and feels good. They also offer feminine liners that are soft, stay in place, and are compostable as well.
17. Travel Size Deodorant
Eco Roots Deodorant Cream is a perfect size for traveling and fits inside your hand-carry bag, it's amazing how a small product can make such a difference. No white residue means no marks or stains on clothes. It's effective for odor control, keeps me smelling fresh, and most importantly it didn’t give me any rashes. Just a pea-sized amount is needed for each application.
18. Laundry Detergent Sheets
When we travel, we usually bring along a few Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets. The best part is no mess, no measuring, and no worries about spills or leftover liquid, unlike traditional detergents.
19. Reusable Ziplock Bags
We used Reusable Ziplock Bags for snacks, especially at the airport and even more when traveling with a toddler. Preparing in advance may take some time, but it ultimately allows us to allocate more of our trip budget towards experiences rather than airport expenses. I also used it for organizing different items in our luggage, keeping things neat and easily accessible. Reusable ziplock bags are designed to be leak-proof, making them ideal for storing toiletries, and giving us peace of mind.
20. Reusable Straws
One million people said, "It's just one straw!"
I make sure to pack Reusable Straws in all our hiking and travel bags, and I always carry them in my purse. No more guilt over non-recyclable straws ending up in landfills. It's time to take a stand! I feel empowered knowing that I can encourage my partner and baby to use reusable straws whenever we go out.
A watch is a crucial travel accessory, but it's best to steer clear of fancy ones on your trips. Opt for something simple, lightweight, functional, and durable. This watch has shown its resilience; my husband has worn it hiking, at work, enduring bumps and falls, yet it still looks brand new. It's handy to have for keeping track of time abroad without constantly checking your phone.
Samsonite locks for peace of mind!
22. Locks
We never leave our luggage exposed; we always use locks on our checked bags, especially on the front part. You never know if someone might try to tamper with them or take our beloved slippers! Ahahaa. We also make sure that our backpacks are locked when we leave them in the hotel.
23. Tripod
This Tripod is excellent for both phones and DSLRs. It includes a travel bag and a remote to simplify photo-taking. Typically, we don't carry a tripod while traveling due to its bulkiness and space consumption in our luggage. However, for road trips or when necessary, this becomes our preferred choice.
24. Travel Backpack
I have never been too picky about bags, but this Travel Backpack has truly impressed me. It's my favorite so far, a backpack suitable for both men and women, business or leisure, with a unique sports car shape design. It’s sleek and waterproof, has a USB Charging Port and is equipped with a YKK zipper, one of the most reliable zippers in the bag industry. I use a MacBook as my travel laptop, and it fits perfectly in this backpack. Even my husband's humungous 15-inch laptop fits well, as the Backpack can accommodate a 17.3-inch notebook.
25. Jackets
I love down jackets for their lightweight, water-repellent, and packable nature. This jacket has been a cozy companion, especially when layered with thermal wear in winter. It's ideal for temperatures ranging from 5°C to -5°C. Additionally, it comes with two zippered pockets for securely storing your phone or snacks. What I appreciate most is its compact design, allowing you to fold it like a burrito and tuck it into your bag effortlessly.
Visit our Amazon Storefront for more recommendations on must-have travel items for your trips. Enjoy memorable vacations without breaking the bank.
Have fun and be safe ^__^
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