The older I get, the more I value travel and the travel essentials that make it easier!. Traveling the world and making memories is my happy place. As a history teacher, I love seeing the places I teach about and I enjoy bringing this history back to my students. Good quality travel essentials and hacks have become an obsession of mine. Here are some ways to make your travel incredible.
I'm Team Carry On - 100%
I’ve traveled to Europe over 10 times and I am team carry on if at all possible. If you have ever had your luggage not make it to your destination, you understand! I’ve done laundry all over the world. I always say, “these people will never see me again and don’t care what I’m wearing.” Carry-on is the way to go!
My favorite travel accessories
- I will live and die by my favorite samsonite luggage. I have used this set for over 5 years – both checking and carrying on. It’s light weight, has great spinner wheels and is reasonably priced. The cheaper the luggage, the more likely it will crack. This set won’t break the bank.
- External charger – this one will allow me to charge my phone 2.5 times.
- My favorite travel purse. If I’m honest, I’ve purchased over 25 travel purses. This one is my favorite. It’s RFID protected and has a “wet” zippered pouch on the back that I keep my passport in. I’ve used this one over 10 trips now and love it.
- Air Tags – I’ll never travel without them. I have one in my purse and carry on.
This cord organizer. It’s slim and fits in my travel backpack. I pull it out on the plane and it fits easily in the seatback in front of me. Everything I need is in one place.
My favorite Travel Hacks
- Use these contact lens containers for face lotions. They are a game changer! They don’t leak and one set (left and right) will be more than enough product for a week of travel.
- Compression Packing cubes. If you haven’t tried them, please take the plunge. They help you stay organized! When you get to your hotel, just pop out the cube you need and leave the rest in your luggage. The compression part saves you room in your luggage.
- Solid Shampoo – I was skeptical on this at first, but it works really well and saves space for other liquids. Bring an extra baggie to keep it in once you use it.
- Ear plugs – if you have ever stayed in a hotel with noisy neighbors or a hotel above a pub in England, then you know ear plugs can be helpful! I love these because they are comfortable and of great quality.
- Soap sheets for laundry – great for a quick sink wash!
What are your favorite travel hacks/essentials? Comment or head on over to Instagram @activehistory and DM me!
