There is nothing like the threat of additional fees at the airline check-in counter—or a few stringent TSA rules—to make a girl rethink her packing strategies. So we’re spilling all about the finds that keep us put together (and sane!) while we’re globetrotting.
1. Beauty Necessities: When it comes to packing beauty products, we’ve come a long way. We used to rummage through the pharmacy aisles, leaving the fate of our skin to the only travel-sized goods we could find. Now we opt for chic, all-in-one packs instead. This collection of all-natural products from JR Watkins Apothecary includes lotions, lip balm, hand and cuticle salves and even a foot and leg refresher—all packed neatly inside a storage pouch. At less than 3 ounces each, you can slip this set into your carry-on bag for a rejuvenating retreat from the friendly skies (and all that dry, recycled air). JR Watkins All-Natural Head to Toe Kit, JR Watkins Apothecary, $13.99, target.com.
2. Passport Case: We’ve momentarily lost our passports many a time in the cluttered abyss otherwise known as our travel tote. And we can’t even count the close calls we’ve had with spills (sodas, liquid beauty products, you name it) that threatened our most important of travel documents. This bright blue case will keep your passport safe, clean and easy to spot once you toss it into a bag. Passport Case in black, Lewis N. Clark, $10.99, organize.com.
3. Gauzy Scarf: Call us germaphobes, but we’re not fans of communal airline blankets. However, we’re also not so keen on lugging our own blankies aboard. Our solution: a chic scarf that pulls double duty. Find one that is long enough to keep you warm, but lightweight enough to drape around your neck once you reach your warm-weather destination. We love the zigzag print of this Girl on the Go Scarf, which adds a nice shot of movement and whimsy to any piece in your suitcase. Girl on the Go Scarf in blue, ModCloth, $17.99, modcloth.com.
4. Emergency Provisions: Vacations are a breeding ground for snafus. Cuts, blisters, sunburns, stains and wardrobe malfunctions are simple enough to treat at home, but when you’re on the road—well, that’s a different story. Enter On the Go Kits, which include everything from sewing needs, bandages, hairbands, towelettes infused with sunblock and stain treaters, pain reliever and more. These kits are a school nurse, hairdresser, seamstress and EMT all rolled into one. On the Go Kits, Urban Aid, $4.99 each, containerstore.com.
5. Cell Phone Saver: When we’re out taking in the sites (and enjoying late, late nights), we tend to forget about charging our cell phones. That’s why this instant cell phone charger will be our constant companion on all future trips. This battery-powered device can immediately bring a cell phone back from the land of the dead—no outlet required. In fact, after a mere 30 seconds of charging, your phone will have enough juice to place a call. Energi-To-Go Battery Operated Cell Phone Charger, Energizer, $18.49, shop.com.
6. Chic Carry-On: We’re suckers for multi-functional bags, especially ones as sleek at this convertible flight tote. This bag not only has interior pockets for your laptop, cell phone and MP3 player, it also boasts the top-zip closure you’ll need to keep your precious cargo from spilling and shifting during flight. Bonus: Once you’ve unpacked, the bag easily folds and snaps into a purse that is half its original size. Ibiza Convertible Flight Tote, Hayden Harnett, $200, piperlime.com.
7. A Good Read: “The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country In The World” is a departure from Lonely Planet’s typical, info-packed guides. This inspiring book provides gorgeous images and quick-hit details on all of the countries in the world. (Yes, each and every one of them.) From music recommendations to where to eat and what to do, Lonely Planet has covered it all. The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country In The World, Lonely Planet, $21, lonelyplanet.com.
8. Luggage Tags: Want to ensure that your bag will stand apart from the parade of look-alikes on the carousel? These bright tags are easy to spot. With a wide array of area codes to choose from, they also serve as a cute nod to your hometown (and a comforting reminder of where your heart is during extended stays). Area Code Luggage Tag Collection, pb travel, $11.99, target.com.
