1. Heys Hardside Carry On - This is the one item on my list that I don't currently own, but it's at the top of my "want" list, and I've been looking to purchase one for months. Heys is a brand of hard-sided luggage that comes in a variety of unique patterns and designs. I'm currently lusting over both the leopard and peacock print spinners, but the polka dot also has my attention. It would be hard not to spot this luggage, and the all the features make this bag a must-have for leisure or frequent flyers.
2. PacSafe MetroSafe Bag - It seems as if I've gone through a million hand bags and purses throughout my travels-- for awhile I was constantly on the hunt for the "perfect bag", big enough to fit everything I needed for a day trip, including my DSLR camera. This year, I finally found what I consider to be the best all around bag for traveling, and it's got anti-theft features to boot -- preventing pickpockets and thieves from snatching your stuff. I used the PacSafe MetroSafe 200 in Europe this summer ... and I haven't stopped using it since I've returned. Even in areas where you don't need the extra protection, this bag has room for it all, with a design that's perfect when you're on-the-go.
3. Amazon Kindle - iPads are still all the rage, but there's something to be said for Amazon's Kindle. This little unit is the perfect size for traveling when you just want to read a book or a magazine. It's lightweight, portable and cheap. If you don't have one, you should get a new Kindle from Tesco. I have the Kindle Fire and it's one of my best purchases to date -- I take it everywhere!
4. Scarf or Pashmina - It wasn't until recently that I had come to the realization that I needed to pack a scarf, shawl or pashmina on every trip, no matter what the weather. While in Hawaii last year, another travel writer whipped out a light shawl as we were on a boat to another island. While packing, it never occurred to me that the weather might change drastically from the typical hot & sunny forecast you'd expect. These little pieces of fabric fold up easily and can be stored in any suitcase or handbag . Once you start packing one, you will find you use it more often-- from dressing up a plain t-shirt, to using it on chilly flights.
5. Lip Balm & Lotion - I'm bundling these two beauty necessities together because they both serve the same purpose ... to moisturize. Air travel takes a toll on your skin & lips, making them dry and chapped. I always carry TSA sized lotion (the good stuff) and lip balm and apply liberally throughout my flight. It's a small thing that makes a big difference in my comfort level. Plus, I hate it when hotels have crappy body lotion -- at least I always have a backup. My faves are Mini Body Butter from The Body Shop and Burt's Bees Lip Balm.
What are your travel must-haves?
debra
These are all wonderful choices!
HilLesha
It is always nice to have stylish, reliable luggage!
Zipporah Sandler
My Heys luggage got RUINED by the baggage handlers. It's dented and completely mis-shapen now. I agree with the pashmina, it keeps me warm if the plane is too cold, I can toss it on in an Arabic country as a head covering in an Arab country or if I need to shield my hair, and it makes a great accessory, beach cover-up, etc.
Anne - Mommy Has to Work
I would love a Kindle, maybe one day!
Billie
I have a Kindle Fire and I LOVE it.
MomStart (Ashley)
I'm pretty interested in the bag you use... looks pretty cool.
Rachel @ Following In My Shoes
I always packs a scarf too!
Kelly
Thanks for the tip on the scarf. It seems like these days I should have my ipod to entertain the Little if he starts to bring the fuss.
Tricia Nightowlmama
I can agree with you on all 5 of those most certainly
Yolonda@ The Thrifynistas
You have a great travel list here. Kindles are great must-haves!
Courtney
I can't travel without my phone!
Connie Seattle Mom Blogger
Great list - I'd love a hardsider with wheels on all four so I don't have to drag it through the airport.
Emily @FamilyNLifeLV
Those are great items! I will look into your day bag!! I like it a lot!
Stefani
I definitely agree with the Kindle! On the last flights I have taken, my Kindle has came in handy and made the flight go by faster.
April Decheine
Great list! The scarf is something I wear all year long weather it be around my shoulders, neck or on my head.
Lolo
Great list, I love that scarf. I need my iphone!
Jenn @therebelchick
I learned the trick about having a pashmina on hand at all times a few years ago on a cruise. Now I never leave home without it! It not only functions as a stylish accessory, but keeps me warm on flights and in cold restaurants!
Kathleen
That luggage is fierce! I want it bad!
A Time Out for Mommy- Elaina
Pashmina is definitely a must have! I have one is every color!
Leilani
My ultimate travel must-have is my iPhone. I can't go anywhere without it.
Theresa
Awesome list! I can't travel without my iPhone.
Sheri
My smartphone, ear buds and a good travel pillow.
Crystal @ Simply Being Mommy
I love my Heys luggage.
Jenn
I don't know what I did on trips without my ereader!
Penelope (NYC Blogger)
I have to have my makeup and water with me.
Donna
I agree with Penelope. And... a pair of comfy (yet stylish) shoes. 🙂
Liz @ A Nut in a Nutshell
I can't go anywhere without lip balm! I also have to have a sweater or sweatshirt or something. I tend to get quite chilly!
Toni
Great list. I need that suitcase LOL. I always have to have a light jacket when I fly.
Ty @ Mama of 3 Munchkins
What an awesome list!
A Time Out for Mommy- Elaina
Great tips!