If you know me, you know I love to travel. Discovering new places, eating new food, experiencing new cultures – these things excite me. I am so blessed that I get to travel for my job. To explore the world and call it work, how wonderful is that?

After a bit of a hiatus, we are finally able to travel again. I admit I was a bit rusty when things started opening back up. I beginning to get back in the swing of things. Each trip I learn something new, and I am forever looking for hacks and tips to help smooth the way. I wanted to share some of the things that make traveling easier for me. Here’s my list of 10 things to never travel without.

1.  Water bottle – Hydration is important, especially on planes. Whether I am taking a one-hour commuter hop or a 10-hour overseas flight, I make sure I have plenty of water. You can fill up at most airports. I use a Chilly Bottle. It can keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours. It saves money and keeps plastic out of the landfill. Just remember to empty your bottle before security.

2. Compression packing cubes – I’ve been a long-time fan of packing cubes. They keep my clothes organized and my bag neat. I discovered compression cubes a couple of years ago and I have not looked back. Once you’ve packed the cube (don’t over-pack it!), it has a second zipper that makes the cube even smaller by squeezing all the air out. It makes packing so much easier and economizes space. You can even use them to keep your things organized once you get to your destination. I usually pack an empty one as well to help with repacking for the trip home. I’ve been using a set from Bento and a set similar to this Cipway brand.

3. Snacks – Even if you are taking a short flight, it’s not a bad idea to have a granola bar (or whatever you are craving these days) handy to tide you over in case hunger strikes. Delays are very common nowadays and being hangry can make for a very long travel day. Trust me, no one wants that.

4. Dry bag/extra bag/laundry bag – If you have the room, bring all three of these things. But if you can only pick one, I’d take the dry bag. I just started traveling with one of these and it’s been a game changer. You can put anything that’s wet or damp in them and the rest of your luggage will remain dry. If you’ve ever had to pack a wet swimsuit, you know how that can get your entire suitcase wet. It can also double as a laundry bag. They come in cute designs that won’t get lost in your bag. I usually use a zippered pouch for a laundry bag, but you can use your extra compression packing cube to double as a laundry bag as well. I also like to have a small tote or shopping bag available since many places have a plastic bag ban now. They can easily tuck into a purse or daypack.

5. Gear tie – I love using Nite Ize Gear Ties for all of my cords. They help keep things organized and the bright colors make it easy to find what you are looking for. They come in several sizes.

6. DIY Amenity Bag – I recently started traveling with a zippered pouch with a carabiner hook that I put everything I will need on the plane. When I get to my seat, I pull it out of my personal item and place it in the seat back pocket. This was a lifesaver when I unexpectedly got an exit row seat and couldn’t put anything under the seat in front of me. I was able to keep my little amenity bag in the pocket in front of me. I keep a charging cord, ear plugs, tissues, antibacterial wipes, and mints in there. I also place the next four items in this bag to keep them handy during the flight.

7. Battery pack – a must-have to keep your phone or tablet charged during a long flight. While most planes have a power source now, there is no guarantee that it will be working. I recommend getting one that can hold at least two charges on it. Don’t forget to fully charge it before you leave for the airport!

8. Headphones – I keep a pair of wireless headphones so I can listen to podcasts that I have downloaded to my phone. I also keep a pair of wired headphones to plug into the entertainment center on long-haul flights. Some airlines are charging for them now and the quality usually isn’t good.

9. Eye mask – This is a must to help you sleep on a plane, especially on long-haul flights. I started using this one from Lighttimetunnel recently and have been pleased. It has speakers built in so I can listen to my sleep podcast or white noise and block out the light. It also has a hollowed-out space, so you don’t smoosh your eyelashes.

10. Moisturizer/mister/lip balm – Again, if you have room for all three, bring them all. Planes dry you out. You need to stay hydrated inside and out. I like a good moisturizer that can double as a lotion or use a lotion stick. A mister can give your skin the drink it needs and give you a little boost as well. I’ve been using this Rose Water one lately. I also like to keep my lips nourished throughout the flight. Bert’s Bees is my go-to, but I like anything that is paraben free.

I automatically pack these things when going on any trip. I don’t even have to think about it. They make travel much easier. And we could all do with a little ease in our lives. Have you discovered something you just can’t travel without? Did I miss something that should be on the list? I would love to hear from you. Let me know in the comments what you have found that makes travel easier for you.

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This post was inspired by the word, “ten.” Please click on the links below to read other posts with the theme of Ten written by some fellow hope*writers.

10 Things I Learned While Waiting On God by Sharla Hallett

https://sharlahallett.com/10-things-i-learned-while-waiting-on-god/

10 Ways to Spend a Rainy Day With Kids At Home by Amy Cobb

https://www.tayloredintent.com/blog/10-ways-to-spend-a-rainy-day-with-kids-at-home

The Ten Lepers - A Lesson in Thankfulness by Lisa Granger

https://lisamarcelina.net/the-ten-lepers---a-lesson-in-thankfulness/

10 Ways to Turn Things Around by Ashley Olivine

https://www.ashleyolivine.com/how-to-turn-things-around/

When Emotional or Mental Pain Is a 10 by Dianne Vielhuber

https://simplewordsoffaith.com/2022/09/01/when-emotional-or-mental-pain-is-a-10/