10 Essential Items to Pack on a Trip
Ever go somewhere and catch yourself saying, “man, I wish I had this”? Lately, I feel like that’s been me every trip. I make lists, pack, triple-check my pack job, and somehow always fail to remember the ONE thing I ABSOLUTELY needed.
Okay, that might be a bit dramatic, but after experiencing this nagging feeling this time and time again, I finally decided to compile all those “wish-I-had’s” into a list: the top ten essential items to pack on a trip. Whether it’s a weekend getaway with your significant other, a girls trip, a week-long vacation or even a longer-term trip, here are ten items I believe are essential to have (in no particular order).
Headphones
Call me a millennial, but headphones are essential to any kind of trip. You may have a long trek and want to listen to a podcast or a book, need to take a call hands-free, need to take a nap on a long car ride… the list goes on. Having headphones is a secret lifesaver on a trip.
I love my Apple AirPods - they’re worth the hype!
Pashmina
The weather has a mind of its own. We all know that. And don’t even get me started on airplanes - why is it either so muggy or so cold?!
Given the unpredictability of the weather and your surroundings, I’ve found that having a pashmina on hand is useful for many reasons. Use a pashmina as an extra layer, a scarf to differentiate an outfit, or as a blanket on the plane or in the car.
Phone charger
This is a no brainer, I know! But, even the quickest of trips (a quick run to the grocery store, to your friend’s house, etc) can turn into longer trips than anticipated. There is nothing worse than having that panic attack of potentially not having your phone for communication and arguably, most importantly, to take pictures (pics or it didn’t happen, amirite?). Make sure you look into and buy any adapters necessary if you travel to a different country prior to the trip, too, though most hotels and resorts have outlets that are built in now.
Chapstick
Pretty simple. Chapstick is life. My absolute favorite chapstick is Burt’s Bee’s cucumber mint. It’s almost like a lip gloss, and it is still wicked hydrating.
Refillable water bottle
Staying hydrated is very important - especially when traveling. Depending on where you travel to and where you stay, you can usually find a spot to fill up your water bottle with filtered water (or tap water, if you are a daredevil). I don’t go anywhere without my Yeti tumbler!
Slippers
Slippers make you feel at home, wherever you’re going. It’s also nice to be able to just slip something on in a pinch.
Small cross-body bag
A small bag is CLUTCH when traveling (see what I did there). If you don’t want to lug a big bag around town, or want to just have your essentials on you (money, cards, makeup, etc), make sure to pack a smaller bag within your travel bag or tote.
Comfy (but cute) flats
Walking around a new city for the day? Going sightseeing? Not really sure what the plan is for the day? Equip yourself with some comfy. but cute, flats. I personally am obsessed with Rothy’s, both my flats and my sneakers. They’re wicked comfortable, cute, and can go with both a dressed-down outfit or a casual chic outfit. I know they’re a bit pricey, but they’re worth the investment for sure! I could do a whole separate blog post about the reasons why I love Rothy’s…
Face wash & moisturizer
With every new activity and experience you’re embarking on during your trip, many are outside of your normal routine, which will throw your skin for a loop. Make sure to bring face wash & moisturizer - they’re great to end your day, or to freshen up midday. You won’t regret going the extra mile to make sure you have these!
Sunglasses
You may not think you’ll need ‘em on some trips, but once you get to wherever you’re going, you’ll wish you had ‘em. Trust me.
Okay, I think that covers it! If you use this as a packing list for your next trip, let me know how this worked for you in the comments. Or, if I’m missing anything obvious (excluding money, transportation essentials and basic clothing, of course) let me know!
Safe travels, friends.