My Top Five Travel Essentials

I just looked down at the suitcase I was packing, and an array of outfits lay on the floor when I realized this is the fifth trip since Memorial Day weekend I will be taking. After months of zero travel and navigating a divorce, my soul was longing to get back to adventure. Now, when I say adventure, I mostly mean aesthetic scenery, quiet meals, and antique shopping - but for me, those are all dopamine hits of joy. I am a veteran when it comes to travel. Growing up, my parents were in the military, and I spent years living out of suitcases, packing and unpacking boxes. Needless to say, I’m good at it, and honestly, I love the challenges that come along with travel. I have learned there are a few essentials that, no matter what, I prefer to bring. Here are my top five travel essentials that are non-negotiable.

Good Luggage

No matter what, this is the number one. For planes, I bring a carry-on hard case with 360 wheels. If anything on it breaks, I replace it immediately. For roadtrips, I usually carry this all in one bag that allows me to store shoes, hang up clothes, and turns itself into a duffle bag. I can put 10-15 outfits in it without wrinkling and then hang them up immediately when I arrive. I put them on these hangers so things don’t slip off during transit. Good luggage doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, but it does help to have dedicated bags that you reuse over and over. Both of these are under $60, and I’ve taken them on multiple trips.

Conditioner

No matter where I’m at, there’s never enough. I like my hair to feel soft and shiny - even boutique hotels do not compare to this travel conditioner. I only have to wash my hair twice a week, so a bottle usually will cover both washes. Make sure to bring extra for the family if you travel with others. There’s nothing worse than preparing for yourself only to not have any left for you to use. They will ask, especially men.

A Swimsuit

No matter where you are traveling, or for any duration, bring one. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve wanted a dip in a jacuzzi and forgot a swimsuit. Then, I was in a place where finding one in my size was nearly impossible. They are small and have a dedicated travel one in your suitcase at all times. Even if it’s just a simple black or white one. If you choose a one-piece swimsuit, it can double as a bodysuit. Make sure to put it in your carry-on if you are flying, in case luggage is lost.

Cash

Seems obvious, but when you primarily use credit cards, Venmo, or Apple Pay, it’s easy to forget cold, hard cash. Bring a variety of ones, fives, and a few 20’s. You’ll need them to tip, and it’s good to have a few hundred as backup in case you lose a card or something happens.

Journal

Slow travel has forced me to take more time to remember details along the way. A journal is the perfect place to store your thoughts. It also serves as entertainment on flights, a place to doodle if something is delayed, and if you need directions - it’s great to jot it down. It’s been proven that your memory and identity are tied to journaling. So write down as much as you can. I prefer college rule or smaller with quality binding so it doesn’t ripple pages.

Almost everything else, I’ve found I can easily replace or purchase when I arrive. Curious, which of these are you going to make sure you pack on your next trip? Is there anything you would add to this list? I love hearing from you! For more travel tips, sign up for Sunday Letters, where I share weekly tips on faith, style, and travel.