Travel Essentials

If there's one thing I've learned from traveling for work, it’s that space in your suitcase and backpack is like gold. Every inch counts, and I’m what you would call an “Organized Overpacker.” Whether I'm flying cross-country or driving a few hours to the beach, I rely on a few key travel essentials that make packing (and unpacking) a breeze. Here's a peek into my tried-and-true must-haves that help me travel like a pro:

My Away ‘Bigger Carry-On Flex’ Suitcase

I can’t talk about travel essentials without mentioning my favorite suitcase: the Away Bigger Carry-On Flex in Cloud Gray. Not only does it have a durable, sleek design, but it also has that extra flexibility for those times when you need just a little more room. The best part? It fits perfectly in the overhead bin but expands to give me extra space if I happen to pick up a few souvenirs along the way. Plus, it’s lightweight and has 360-degree spinner wheels, making it a dream to navigate through airports or busy streets.

Packing Cubes: Organization Heaven

Packing cubes have been a game-changer for me. These little gems allow me to compartmentalize everything in my suitcase—from clothes and shoes to toiletries and accessories. Not only do they help maximize space, but they also keep everything organized. Gone are the days of rummaging through a suitcase for that one shirt buried at the bottom. I can pack smarter, knowing exactly where everything is. I love using different-sized cubes for various categories, and I even keep a spare for dirty laundry on the way home. Total lifesaver.

Compression Backpack: My New Obsession

Recently, I stumbled upon my newest obsession: the compression backpack. This beauty is perfect for anyone who's ever struggled to pack efficiently or found themselves needing more room mid-trip. With built-in compression technology, it allows me to squish down bulky items like my pillow that would normally take up valuable space. It also doubles as a sleek carry-on, making it the ultimate travel companion when you're on the go and need versatility.

Multi-Use ToiletrY BAG

Space is always at a premium when traveling, so I love packing multi-use products that do double (or triple) duty. Think of moisturizers with SPF, shampoo-conditioner combos, and all-in-one body wash. These not only cut down on space but also make it easy to stick to your routine while on the road.

Pill Organizer: Stay on Track

Keeping track of supplements and medications can be a challenge on the road, which is why I never travel without my trusty pill organizer. It helps me keep all of my supplements separate, no matter where I am. It makes grabbing pills or supplements simple and stress-free while traveling.

NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES

No travel essentials list would be complete without a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. Whether it’s tuning out loud chatter on a plane or focusing during some downtime at a hotel, these are a must for keeping my mind at ease while traveling. They’ve been a game-changer on long flights and make all the difference when I need some quiet time.

COMFY TRAVEL CLOTHING

For long flights, comfort is key, so I always wear a comfortable outfit that’s both cute and practical. I typically go for soft, stretchy fabrics that coordinate. I’ve found a bunch of new favorites (including this one) on Amazon. Layering is essential for staying comfortable in varying temperatures, and I always make sure to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off for security checks.

MINI LIT MIRROR

I never travel without my Mini LED Mirror. It’s compact and portable, but still gives me the perfect lighting for touch-ups, skincare, or makeup on the go. The LED lights ensure I always have bright, even lighting no matter where I am, making it a must-have for my travel beauty routine.

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

Staying hydrated is non-negotiable, so I always pack a reusable water bottle. I love finding ones that collapse or fold up when not in use, which helps save space in my bag. Plus, it's eco-friendly!

MULTI-PORT WALL CHARGER

I always travel with a multi-port wall charger that has USB, USB-C, and a standard plug. This little gadget saves me from carrying multiple chargers and lets me power up all my devices at once, whether it’s my phone, tablet, or laptop. It’s compact and perfect for hotel rooms where outlets are limited, keeping everything powered and ready to go.

SLEEP MASK

A good sleep mask is a must for catching quality rest during travel. Whether I'm on a long flight or staying in a hotel with less-than-ideal blackout curtains, my sleep mask ensures I can create a dark, restful environment wherever I am. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and helps me adjust to different time zones more easily.

MAKE-UP BRUSH POUCH

I always bring along a makeup brush pouch to keep my brushes clean and organized while traveling. It’s compact yet spacious enough to hold all my essential brushes, ensuring they stay protected and ready for use. Plus, it helps me avoid the hassle of digging through my bag for loose brushes.

JENNY COPLIN