Travel comes in all shapes and sizes. But packing really shouldn’t. With the exception of destination specific clothing (i.e., beachwear for a resort, hiking gear for a National park etc..), there are items that I won’t leave home without, no matter the length of the journey, the destination or how I travel there. These 15 “must have ” items to bring on vacation will carry me through … a weekend jaunt, a long road trip, a beach resort stay, a European excursion…and more.
The #1 item is (drum roll please!)…
#1 TSA Approved Carry-on Bag with Wheels
This style of suitcase is my go to for any type of trip. It provides enough space for all that you really need and is portable. And yes, for some trips it gives you more space that you may really need. A lot of extra room for a weekend getaway? No problem. Just more room to pack items purchased on vacation! And enough room to carry me for a week or more, with laundry duty in between. Visit the TSA website for more details here:https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all
#2 “Functional” Toiletry Bag
What exactly do I mean by this? It looks like the one I own in the picture to the right. This bag folds up into a compact, square bag but opens up into multiple sections for most of my toiletry needs and has a hook so it can hang from a door, in a bathroom etc..
Remember.. All liquids brought on a plane must be 3.4 oz or less and fit into a one quart zip lock bag. So, you can use this bag for many other items that don’t have TSA restrictions such as deodorant (stick or roll on only), toothbrush, baby powder, Q tips, razor, medications etc… Your liquid items can always be transferred from your zip lock to this bag once you arrive.
Interested in all the non clothing items I suggest taking on a trip? Head over to my post “My Ultimate “Non-Clothing” Packing List For Women” to read more by clicking here: https://followmyyellowbrickroad.com/?page_id=3377
#3 Crossbody Bag and/or Day Pack
For women, investing in a crossbody handbag, one that has a long shoulder strap intended to be worn diagonally across the body, will be invaluable. Find one that is versatile and stylish that will take you from day to night.
The bag should be small enough to not be overwhelming and not too big. Remember: This is NOT a large tote! It should be able to hold necessities such as your wallet (unless you have a money belt around your waist), phone, keys, meds, pen/pad, tissues etc..)
Men can also choose a crossbody bag or a messenger bag. My hubby prefers to use a day pack, a small version of a backpack. It is lightweight and big enough for a few extra small items such as sunscreen, water, snacks etc…
#4 First Aid Kit
Your First Aid Kid doesn’t have to look like the traditional one in the picture to the left. Using a plastic zip lock will suffice.
It’s not what it looks like but what it contains that is important.
Suggested items to include: band aids, anti-itch cream, bacterial ointment, cotton balls, pain relievers and a thermometer at the minimum. Including some medicines such as antacids, anti-diarrhea med and cold med tablets is a good idea. Remember: If traveling on a plane, all liquid items go in your TSA required zip lock bag.
#5 Cell Phone/Charger/Earbuds
Nowadays, these items are a no brainer. But if traveling abroad, make sure your cell phone service is activated for use in the destination to be visited. AND make sure to bring an adaptor to plug in the charger.
# 6 Wipes and Hand Sanitizer
Do I need to say more?
#7 Moisturizer for face and body
This is ONE toiletry that is a MUST.
#8 Comfortable Walking Shoes
I know. You’ve heard this all before. But honestly, what you put on your feet can make or break a vacation. Literally.
#9 All Prescriptions
If you take any kind of prescribed medications, pack these in your carry on in the bottles they came in. You don’t want to be questioned about meds in a clear container.
#10 Prescription Glasses (and a spare pair), Sunglasses and eye glass repair kid
This lady, like many out there, wears glasses all the time so chances of forgetting them is pretty non-existent. But bringing a spare pair on vacation is always advisable.
Packing an inexpensive eyeglass repair kit is also invaluable. These kits are sold in most pharmacies or large superstores. Contained in a small tube, they usually contain, at the minimum, a screwdriver, nosepads, screws, and a lens cloth.
#11 Ear Plugs
I’m a light sleeper so these little plugs are invaluable to me whether I’m home or away.
#12 Slipper Socks
Are your feet always cold? Well, join the club! These socks are great on a plane when you want to take off your shoes and especially at night when I want to sleep.
#13 Your Health Insurance Card
Accidents happen. Sickness happens. Make sure that you have this card with you for any possible medical emergency.
#14 Eye Drops
Perfect eye opener! Whether it’s dry eye on an airplane or waking up to dry eyes in a hotel room, a small bottle of this liquid gold is irreplaceable.
#15 Plastic Bags
These bags do double duty. A larger bag can be used for dirty laundry. Smaller bags can be used for store items collected along the way (shells and rocks, anyone?) or for items that get wet.
And, yes..I went over the 15 items because, lastly, I bring…
#16 Binder/Folder with Printed Documents and Itineraries
I admit I’m old fashioned. I still print out my tickets, vouchers, itinerary etc… Of course, this is still accessible on my phone and laptop. But there is something about having this safety net that makes me feel better.