Five Must-Haves Travel Items

Packing for a trip can be both exciting and dreadful in the same breath. To truly enjoy packing, you must be a planner or be so doggone elated about your trip that you just can’t wait to pack. Over the years, I've learned what matters and what doesn't. I'm pretty keen on being a light packer and only want to bringing what's needed. Shocking, I know. It was learned behavior after trial and error. I used to be the girl that would have such a heavy bag that when the flight rep weighted my luggage I would get nervous. In my defense, I was coming home from college... so ya know, not just a week's vacation. Here are five of my must have travel items.

Nail Clipper

This is by far my must have item. I don't know if it's just because I'm always annoyed by my hang nails or what but a nail clipper comes in handy when you are thousands of miles away from home. I use nail clippers to cut things. I surprise myself how useful and necessary it is to have something to cut. Whether you want to clip that tag of that new dress or need to open a difficult wrapper, a nail clipper is surprisingly handy.

Scarf

Scarfs make me feel like I'm on vacation. No matter if it's the middle of the summer or an icy cold of winter, a scarf is a travel must have. Why you ask? Well, on chilly nights, a scarf keeps you warm. If you are enter a church overseas, it's encouraged to cover your bare shoulders, hello scarf. And it can add a pop of color to your outfit. Bonus! I'm not a scarf girl at home but I'm a scarf girl on vacay.

Fabric

I know what you are thinking, fabric girl? You already said a scarf, what's the difference? This isn't something I bring with me per say. I place a colorful scarf on my luggage, so it can stand out. It's cheaper than purchasing a new bright set of luggage. Although new luggage is definitely on my wish list.. My current luggage is purple so the pink scarf I wrap on the handle really helps me find it at baggage claim. Thank me later.

Water Bottle

I have yet learned why I can't bring a bottle of water through TSA. I feel like TSA just wants me to pay for overpriced water bottles. NO! I always pack an empty water bottle with me. No matter if it's plastic (insert store brand) bottle or a fancy one, I'm carrying it. Carry this on your walks so you don't have to purchase a bottle. I personally hate paying for water so I'm quite passionate about bringing a water bottle. Staying hydrated is also a healthy way to travel and frankly live well. Bottles up!

An extra bag

An extra small to medium bag comes in handy during your packing and while you’re on vacation. You can even use a trash bag. No judgement. Here's how I use it. You can place your shoes in this bag to keep the bottoms from touching your clean clothes. You can place your underwear and undergarments in this bag after you have worn them. You can also use this bag to carry your items throughout your travels.

A few other helpful tips I love to do during or after travel are:

• Wear socks on your travel days. No one wants to walk barefoot across TSA.
• I use discreet items to place important items. such as a pill bottle for extra cash, bobby pins and jewelry.
• I always order ginger ale during my flights. I mention this in my Inaugural post
• Like most people, I clean my place before heading out of town so it's nice and clean when I come home.
• When I make it back, I place a fabric softener in my luggage to keep it fresh.

​What are your travel must-haves?