While we all love traveling to new places and visiting friends and family, there is nothing worse (in our mind at least) than the actual traveling part. Whether you’re in a car, bus, train, or plane, here are some essentials that will help make your trip just a little better.
1. A Carry-on Friendly Bag
Sometimes you have to take your backpack with you and sometimes you get to avoid lugging that bulky thing around and knocking people as you pass them (just us?). If you can avoid it great, if not just make your backpack as efficient as possible. If it’s a long trip, try to keep things you know you’ll want like headphones, book, or iPad close to the top and easy to access. As a general rule of thumb, if you don’t need something on the plane/car/train ride try to pack it elsewhere.
2. Book/Kindle/iPad
Make sure to keep your entertainment system of choice small. Laptops become a hassle and take up space. If you can survive without it, which we bet you can, then leave it at home. Whatever your electronics, make sure they are fully charged and the wifi is turned off to save battery! Books don’t need batteries. Books: 1 Technology: 0.
3. Comfortable Cute Clothes
Looking like a slob never makes anyone feel better, especially in public. We’re not suggesting you wear a ball gown but traveling “gross” just leaves you feeling grosser. Jeans with some stretch in them and a loose top will leave you comfortable and looking cute! To stay as comfortable as possible, make sure to dress in layers in case the temp changes suddenly. Also keep your shoes practical and easy to get in and out of for airport security. Get inspired by what some celebs have been wearing!
4. WATER
You know that feeling when your head hurts and you’re really thirsty? That is called DEHYDRATION! Our brains are made up of 70% water and our bodies 60%. That’s a whole lot of water and it needs to be replenished constantly! Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle with you everywhere so you can stay happy and hydrated.
5. Snacks
Fast food attracts us because it’s easy and, if you’re dehydrated, your body will want whatever it can get that might have some water in it, even that double bacon cheeseburger. To avoid these binges pack some healthy snacks for your trip. Apples and to go JIF packs make a great airport snack, or some homemade granola can help keep the munchies at bay in the car. If you can’t bring your own try to pick the healthier options wherever you go.
6. Lotion & Lip balm
Keys to keeping skin hydrated other than drinking plenty of water is making sure you have a travel size of your favorite lotion and lip balm to apply.
7. Toiletries
If you’ve got plans that start right as you arrive, pack a few items to help you freshen up. Think about things like eyeliner, concealer, blotting sheets (my personal favorite), deodorant, face wipes, body spray or perfume. You may not get to shower but you will feel a little better.
8. iPod, Headphones, and Good Music
If you’re driving, add an auxiliary cord to that list if your car has a jack for it. If not, find a way to plug in your iPod and make sure you have a playlist that will leave you hands free and focused on driving. If you’re a passenger and whoever is driving prefers sports radio (my mother), then make sure you have headphones and a solid amount of music to sustain your nap…I mean car ride.
9. Comfy Things
If you’re traveling in the car, nab your pillow and a great blanket to snuggle up with. If you’re on a plane/train/bus bring a travel pillow. Hey, they may look silly but your neck will thank you after multiple hours traveling.
10. Back up Battery
This isn’t essential but a fun bonus! Especially since they come in such CUTE patterns, they’ll keep your electronics going, even in hour 15.
We hope these help alleviate some of your travel stress and that you have safe travels over break!!