The smallest details can make your travel experience easier! Here are 6 items that have made my travel pro tip list!
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1. Plug adapter (if necessary)
Many places overseas require a plug adapter because the outlets are different shapes. I like this Adapter for Europe because it also has USB ports. I found that my phone charged very slowly over USB so I was glad I also had my high-speed charger block. Certain electronics may also require a voltage converter. Most modern appliances are worldwide voltage, but if you plan on taking a blender or mixer, (or more probably, an older curling iron or blow dryer), you may also need a voltage converter. Here is a good article by a reputable maker of adapters and converters that is helpful to understand the difference. You can find different styles of voltage converters here on Amazon.
2. Packable travel backpack
A small packable backpack is great for walking around cities or hiking. I use mine a ton at home as well. While they can’t carry a lot due to their lack of structure, you can carry some light items and and leave your hands free when you buy a bottle or 2 of wine (this has been well-tested!) I’ve had mine for 7 years and it’s no longer available, but this Samsonite backpack looks similar.
3. Reusable plastic bags
If you have a place with a kitchen and are going to be doing some cooking, you likely won’t have anything to wrap up unused food. These Reusable Bags are also good for packing wet clothes or keeping an open chocolate bar from messing up your backpack! (Soap box moment: please, please, use these at home as well and stop using disposable plastic anything!!)
4. Laundry detergent sheets
I always pack half of what I need for a 10+ day trip and either find a drop-off laundromat, or do my own laundry. Using these Travel Laundry Sheets means you won’t waste valuable space in your liquids bag.
5. Reef safe sunscreen
Don’t forget that you’ll need sunscreen just walking around cities–or anywhere for that matter! Please use reef-safe sunscreen even when you aren’t near a reef or even in the water. Reef safe means it’s a completely mineral based product, which is better for you and for the environment. I have been EltaMD UV Physical Tinted sunscreen for my face for 15 years and it’s a must-have every single day for me. I like the tinted because it doesn’t have a white cast and also acts as a make-up primer. I use Sun Bum Mineral on my body. Not all the Sun Bum products are reef safe, so make sure it’s a mineral product.
6. Small crossbody bag
Having your carry-on and backpack counts as your two items on the plane! I have been on flights where people with a crossbody or a belt bag were stopped and made to consolidate down to two bags. So make sure your purse can fit into your backpack. I’ve been trying to embrace the belt bag trend but I haven’t found one I really like, so I continue to use crossbody bags. I have used this Small Crossbody on several trips and I really like it. It has an external pocket for your phone and can fit your cards, glasses, passport, etc. If my idea of small is too tiny for you, click here to search for others on Amazon!
What other miscellaneous things have you found that you take on every trip? Drop your pro tips in the comments below!
You are an amazing writer!
Love that you are living life the way you want❣️
Oh, thank you- the writing is so fun!