Indispensable Travel Items

I pack very light with only a backpack so I can avoid the possibility of having to check a bag. Even with a carry-on, there’s the possibility of airline staff requiring the bag to be checked. I’m very careful with what I pack so I that I can always bring a personal item only; I’ve even traveled to Scandinavia in December using just a backpack. This system is beneficial in case I have to walk around with my luggage. The peace-of-mind of traveling light is something I just can’t travel without.

I only recommend items I have not only tried, but love and use consistently. I do not promote items I don’t believe in.

Cotopaxi Backpack

My ride or die travel backpack. I will never go back to other backpacks or luggage. This backpack qualifies as a personal item with most airlines (check your airline’s requirements) and it opens up as if it were a suitcase. It has many pockets that are perfect for utilizing every inch of the bag. These bags are usually over $150 but used ones can be found on eBay.


Rakuten Kobo eReader (Clara)

One item I just adore and want to highlight is my Rakuten Kobo eReader. My version is the Clara and though these eReaders can be an investment, they are well worth it if you can afford it. They’re super packable and have a feature where I can look up the definition of a word I don’t understand, which I really like. It then stores all the words I’ve looked up so that I can review them later. I love using it whenever I have down time on a trip. I even added a fabric hook on the back so I can hold it easily.

Link to Kobo store for US readers: Link

Readers from Brazil, please utilize the Kobo link below to access the Kobo Brazil site.

Collapsible Water Bottle

This is so useful; I use the Hydrapak brand. It collapses and hooks on the outside of my backpack and I use it whenever needed. In places where travelers should avoid tap water, this water bottle is essential in case I find drinkable water while I’m out and about.

Collapsible Neck Pillow

This is not valued enough. I don’t typically use it when I travel abroad but it has saved me for the times that I have bought too many souvenirs or need to hastily pack. There was a moment in Mexico where I had to pack quickly for a flight in the morning and I stuffed a lot of my clothes into the neck pillow and was able to make my flight in time.

Collapsible Duffel Bag

This is perfect for packing souvenirs and then using it as a carry-on on the way back from a trip. I’ll be visiting Turkiye and Italy this fall and will absolutely utilize it.

Sea to Summit Packable Backpack & Stuff Sack

This Sea to Summit backpack is a perfect, lightweight bag to have for grocery shopping abroad. I don’t always want to go out to eat when traveling and sometimes there is down time to cook at the place we are staying it. It’s usually more useful when staying in an Airbnb verses a hotel or resort but I always bring it regardless.

I love this stuff sack by Sea to Summit. It’s perfect for storing almost anything. I found it particularly useful when we had to run quickly to make a flight and I needed to throw my dirty laundry somewhere while keeping it away from the rest of my items.

Bob and Brad Small Massage Machine

I’m in my early thirties but after a painful flight from Europe, I realized I needed a small massage machine to accompany me because I was very sore. My travel style is that of a relentless explorer; I get up at 4-6 am to start exploring so this item is essential for me feeling refreshed and getting the soreness out.

Packable Hip Pack

I use this almost every day, whether I’m abroad or not. This bag is perfect for exploring and day trips. I love how lightweight it is and how much I can pack into it. If it’s empty it, it’s gets very flat when I fold it. It’s also collapsible and fits into a little bag that is stored in the pocket. This is especially useful when I’m using my Cotopaxi backpack as a personal item and I want to sneak another personal item in. I can either hide it under a hoodie (depending on how full it is) or I can often slip it into one of the pockets of my Cotopaxi backpack. Some airlines (looking at you Frontier) are very strict about personal items and carry-on luggage so I try to get by anyway I can.

Andalou Naturals Brightening Moisturizers

I’m addicted to these moisturizers in the best way; I started using them around 2016 while working at Whole Foods. An issue I have with makeup and skincare from health food stores is that it often isn’t effective. I have a background in Cosmetology and I’m licensed in the state of Colorado so I have some insight into these matters. Andalou is my ride-or-die for a lot of products, especially their moisturizers. To see a full list of my favorite Andalou products, navigate here.

I use the Probiotic + C Renewal Cream (day) and Brightening Purple Carrot + C Luminous Night Cream (night) cream. I love that they massage into my face instead of sit on top of it. The day cream is not cakey at all and I’m able to apply serums under it and makeup over it. The night cream is my favorite though; my face is dewy and glowing the next morning, every time. So yes, I love to travel with these items - I need them with me at all times. They’re a thicker texture and not leaky so they work in a lot of mini travel containers. If you’re worried and want a container that’s more waterproof, opt for contact lens containers. Best of all, Andalou is certified Cruelty Free and 100% vegetarian. To check out these products on the Andalou Naturals site, scroll down.

Melin Packable Hat

I love taking this Melin hat abroad and also wearing it at home in the states. Melin is a high-quality brand and I genuinely love the style and comfort of this hat. It packs pretty small (roughly the size of my hand and I have small hands) so it’s perfect to travel with. It may not be needed in Scandinavia in the winter but I usually bring it when my destination has at least a moderate amount of sun.