Must-Haves for Summer Vacay
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There are some things I just can’t live without when traveling. My travel essentials vary a little depending on the destination & duration of my trip, but mostly go with me everywhere. Lately, I’ve been taking stock of the things I need to add, replace, or upgrade. A colorful passport holder, new luggage tags, and a fun cosmetic bag are just a few examples of things I am looking to swap out with my solid black mainstays to infuse a little summer fun.
Carry-On Spinner
Luggage can be quite an investment, but luggage handlers are very indiscriminate when it comes to what gets thrown around and crushed. Hence, if you are going to get fancy with your luggage, the safest purchases are on pieces that are always with you: your carry-ons. My favorite spinners are from Travelpro and Monos, and I love the range of colors. ✈️🌎
Silicone Phone Harness
I just recently bought several of these silicone harnesses for my entire household. Whether you are walking across a hanging bridge in a cloud forest, leaning over the side of a boat, or just want to a little added security from dropping your phone, these lanyards can provide some peace-of-mind. I bought the Koala 2.0 Super-Grip, but there are other similar brands available from Amazon. These also make a great gift for any adventure traveler. 🧗🏻 🪂 🎢
Travel Wallet
I have a designated wallet that I use only for travel. When I’m not traveling, it stores left over international currency, membership cards, metro transport cards, etc. Built-in RFID liners are a must for security. I also look for a wallet with a zipper pocket for coins since these are more commonly used abroad. A travel wallet is such a fun, easy thing to switch out when a new color mood strikes:)
Large Tote
I am in love with neoprene totes and beach bags! This scuba-like material is so durable and lightweight. Perfect for soggy beach towels and messy adventures because you can literally hose it off. The bright, summery colors are a very welcome departure from my standard black. 👙 😎 🐚
Accessories
Everyone’s favorite splurge: fashion accessories. I’m into cat eye sunglasses, blingy sandals, colorful twillies I can braid into my hair, body jewelry…ok, maybe these aren’t “essentials,” but they sure are a great addition to your summer travel wardrobe.
All the Right Goo
Don’t forget to pack your arsenal of sun protection, insect repellant, and other first aid essentials. Sunscreen in no joke. So, pitch the leftover tube from last year and purchase a fresh product. A reef-safe mineral sunscreen is ideal, especially if you will be in the ocean. I try to avoid chemical screens because they are often hormone disruptors and who knows what they do to the poor fish.
Universal Travel Adapter
Even if you aren’t traveling with a bunch of electronics, you will at the very least need to charge your phone. Don’t assume your hotels will have USB outlets – a lot of them don’t. A Universal Travel Adapter will not only ensure voltage to your devices is the right electrical charge, but the USB ports will minimize the need to bring your other block adapters.
Apple Air Tags
My favorite new essential is the Apple Air Tag. These little buttons slip into your wallet, backpack, luggage, or on a keychain so you never lose track of anything ever again. If you’ve ever lived through a lost baggage nightmare, meet your new best friend. There are all kinds of cute little “holders” for these guys ranging from bag charms to carabiners. More options available online from Apple.
Bags Inside of Bags
Y’all know what I mean by this, right? Inside of my ginormous tote, there are always several smaller bags, i.e., a cosmetics bag, a pencil pouch, a jewelry case (love this one), a wet bag, etc. These little guys are easy to switch out depending on where you are going and what you are doing. Instead of having to re-organize my stuff every time I switch totes, I just pull the smaller bags I need. Everything stays organized and easy to find.
In-Flight Must-Haves
Most frequent fliers already have this category nailed down. But, if you are a prepping for your first long-haul flight, allow me to share a couple recommendations. First, a neck donut-pillow thing can be really, really helpful. It is a skosh inconvenient to carry it around with you for your entire trip, but I would not fly over an ocean without one. Other things that have helped me to stay comfortable for the journey include cozy compression socks, ear buds and charging cables (so I can stay connected to in-flight entertainment), and a light wrap and/or scarf (because I’m always cold in airports and on planes).
There you have it! Now I just need to decide on where I want to go this summer. There will for sure be a few long weekend get-aways. Fingers crossed at least one of our bigger trips comes together. I hope this helps you get ready for yours!
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