Travel = I’m trying to collect more experiences and destinations rather than “stuff” this year and so I’m making a list of places to visit and things I want to see. Just this morning, I am flying out with Hilton Sandestin for a few days of much-needed rest and relaxation, tours of their incredible resort + local destinations and then a fun day at the 30A Songwriter’s Festival = solo work time, yes please! So today I thought I would share my current travel essentials with y’all.
suitcase set | packing cubes | studded sandals [just $16] | sunglasses | tote-ally bag [use NATASHA10 for 10% off] | jewelry case | gold beaded earrings | headbands | beaded clutch | winflo sneakers | continental hat
With that, I am trying to learn how to pack better… more efficient use of all my necessities, more helpful items to have on hand to make travel easier and of course those beloved packing cubes that help me stay organized when assembling everything into my suitcase. Spolier alert–yes, I ALWAYS check a bag. Minimalism was never my thing and I’m not going to start now = a girl needs options when it comes to travel OOTD.
So, here are my top 10 things you need with you when you travel… even for a long weekend getaway, I promise you they make travel far more enjoyable!
ONE | the perfect suitcase set
I’ve had this under $200 hardcase three piece luggage set for almost a year now and I’ve been SUPER impressed with how well its held up… from Cabo to cruises to Italy, Antigua and more, it’s served me well and I can’t say enough great things about this brand of luggage. Hands down a must-have and I highly recommend grabbing a coloful set so they stand out at baggage claim!
TWO | makeup organizer
I stumbled upon this beauty last year right before our first big trip of 2019 and it’s gone everywhere with me. I love a hard case for my makeup and this one features adjustable dividers based on the items you use and/or personal preferences. There is a compartment for your makeup brushes, which makes it all the more convenient and for just $20, you can’t go wrong!!
THREE | travel wallet/passport holder
Not only do I love the ease of use from a travel wallet, but I love that it can keep my passport, tickets, baggage receipts, etc all in one location. That’s a must, especially when you’re traveling internationally and I scooped up this one before Italy and it was a great purchase. Under $35 and a great gift to give the world traveler, too.
FOUR | a portable steamer
Oddly enough, I use this travel steamer way more than the full size one we have at home. Super convenient, lightweight and a great alterantive to ironing [seriously who does that anymore?!?!], this is my favorite little travel companion I never leave home without. All you need is water and an outlet and 2 minutes later, you’re good to get all your clothes looking good. I also snagged one for the hubs since he is constantly traveling for work!
FIVE | packing cubes
I never leave home without them. And I love this set so much every person in my household has their very own set. For just $15, everything you need to bring with you has a home and can neatly be unpacked into your hotel room or stay in the suitcase. Depends on where I am traveling, but I usually pack them by category: 1 for dresses, 1 for pajamas/undies/bras, 1 for workout wear, etc. I use a few of the larger sizes more frequently, so I ordered two sets to have on hand for long trips.
SIX | silicone curling/flat iron holder
Gamechanger alert, I assure you of that. I grabbed this curling/flat iron holder a few weeks ago and LOVE it. Basically, it helps me keep my curling iron turned on until I throw it in the suitcase without having to worry about the heat. Easy to pack because it folds flat and a steal for $6 via Amazon Prime!
SEVEN | the hanging toiletry bag
Another way to keep all those serums, masks, facial oils and beauty buys organized when you’re on the go, this hanging toiletry bag is a STEAL for a mere $16. The hook makes it easy to hang on the bathroom door and I separate my items easily into the zippered compartments [teeth, face, body, hair, etc].
EIGHT | travel jewelry organizer
I found this Amazon winner right before our fall beach trip and instantly fell in love with it–not sure how I survived without it!! At $18, you can keep all your beautiful baubles organized for each outfit and occasion. The zipper ensures everything stays put and I love that there are plenty of pockets for rings + earrings + bracelets + necklaces, too.
NINE | a proper portable charger
I’ve had to rely on airport + airplane outlets WAY too many times to count so this external charger was an absolute NECESSITY. It’s gone with me on every single trip since I purchased it and it never fails me… it gives me 5 full charges, is lightweight and easy to take with you on-the-go. My hubby is notorious for forgetting to charge his phone, so this would be a good little giftable for the guys who travel a lot!
TEN | a cute + personalized travel tote
Thanks to my friend Beth via Seersucker + Saddles, I stumbled upon Shop Bagging Rights last month and instantly fell in love with their personalized totes. Such a great gift idea to yourself or someone special, they come with compartments to make the most of your carryall, and I love the colorful canvas options paired with leather straps. Total win and just $150, which makes it a fraction of the price of its competition. And you can use my code NATASHA10 to take 10% off your order!
Honorable Mentions
What are your travel essentials? Let me know in a comment below!
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