I have traveled to over twenty countries (and counting) for pleasure; if you include my work trips, it’s been over thirty. I continuously find things I need to bring with me to various countries, as some may lack the luxuries I was used to. So, here are a few things that you’ll probably need while traveling. This is not a complete list. I repeat, THIS IS NOT A COMPLETE LIST.

As a flight attendant, I believe in staying ready…I’ll assume you know the rest of the quote. But, being prepared is kind of my thing. The destination does alter the list but only slightly. I’m going to begin with all the essentials, then I’ll fan out to destination or activity specific items. You can find these items pinned on my Pinterest (I’m Just Trippin or search my name Janai716). My official disclaimer AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES. Ok, that’s it for all caps. Additionally, I will provide bonus information at the end of the post. Now, to the list. 

Essentials:

Toiletries- Soap, a loofah of some sort (interesting fact: some European hotels do not provide washcloths), toothbrush and toothpaste, mouthwash, face cleanser and moisturizer, makeup remover wipes, deodorant, lotion, makeup, razor, and floss sticks. Word of advice carry these floss sticks everywhere! If you are a foodie like me, you’ll eat everything but what’s not cute is taking vacation pictures with unidentifiable food in your teeth.

Additional Items:

Small medical kit: Bandaids, alcohol pads, Tylenol, or ibuprofen (whichever you’re most comfortable with), a mending kit, an outlet adapter (this is an absolute must if you want to charge your device, i.e., your phone…how else are you supposed to read my blog? 😉), and scissors (no longer than four inches or this may land you on a very different traveling list).

While out and about- Sunglasses, baby wipes (some countries do not allow you to flush toilet paper and provide horrible toilet paper), sanitizer, hand wipes (you can use the baby wipes too), insect repellent (with deet if you plan on doing any hiking or nature trails of any sort…they come in wipe form so you don’t have to worry about the spray), sunscreen (even if you are going somewhere cold), aloe vera gel, Cash, fake wallet (for pick-pockets or the occasional thief…I have never been through this but I’ve heard the stories), a portable charger, and a water bottle (collapsible, if possible).

The Plane Ride/In Your Carry-On:

Before we go any further, let’s talk about baggage! This is strictly need-to-know information. I wouldn’t want your adventure to end before it gets started, so here’s the real on the real. Your carry-on must be of specific measurements when traveling domestically (within the United States). The measurements are 22″ x 14″ x 9“. These measurements differ from international travel, which are 21.5″ x 15.5″ x 9″. And just in case you were wondering, these measurements include the (closed) handles and wheel. However, checked luggage has the same requirements for both domestic and international travel. Your bag must not weigh more than 50 lbs (23 kg), or it will be considered overweight, and that comes with a pretty hefty fee.

No back to our regularly scheduled program…

Poo-pourri, Tide-to-go stain remover pen, headphones (for personal devices and plane televisions…most carriers provide a headset for their inflight-entertainment, some cost), charging cords for your devices, a neck pillow and blanket, compression socks (your feet and legs will thank you), chewing gum (your ears will thank you…also gummy bears work the same and are helpful when traveling with little ones), and a good book or puzzle book.

I know this list is extensive, but most leisure trips are taken out of the country, and you’d be surprised at some of the norms in other places. If you follow this list, you will not go without!

Bonus information: 

Bring a small Vick’s vapor rub for those unkind smells around you. In some places, especially customs, I found that not many believe in personal space or deodorant! Just as a friendly reminder, make sure all your carry-on liquids do not exceed 3.4 ounces…they will take them from you at security. Also, some countries require the toiletries that you bring in your carry to be placed in a clear bag. You are more than welcome to carry whatever sized liquids in your checked baggage. I was going to leave this out but I feel it best just to cover the bases, so please remember your passport, license, phone, wallet, keys, and any medication you may need. Below are links to some of my favorite and/or recommended travel items.

Stay tuned for my next post, it will be the official first destination post!

Let’s Shop Amazon:

I hope you find that these items make traveling so much easier.

Love Life,

Janai