Travel Essentials: 12 Items I Always Pack

Wearing sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun. And at 30,000 ft, the sun’s UV rays are even stronger. I use this EltaMD Sunscreen on a daily basis—both on the ground and in the air. This dermatologist-recommended sunscreen goes on smoothly—no chalky residue—and blends seamlessly under makeup. My sensitive-skin husband even loves it!

Spending lots of time in the air always dries out my skin, no matter how much I drink water and moisturize in-flight. To combat dry skin, I pack one of these ultra hydrating face masks use once I reach my destination. It always revives my skin from a day of travel!

Another must-pack item, the Laneige Lip Mask is also one that I use on a daily basis. The best-selling lip mask leaves my lips soft and hydrated after a long flight and while I’m exploring new destinations. I’ve tested loads of lip balms and the Laneige Lip Mask always comes out on top for me. 

Coming from someone who has lived out of a suitcase for weeks on end, packing cubes are a game changer. Think of them like drawers for your luggage. Organize your suitcase with this set of packing cubes and you’ll never be searching through your bag for an article of clothing again! 

I always pack my skincare in my carry-on because I hate the thought of not being able to do my skincare routine if my checked bag is delayed. This clear toiletry organizer is appropriately sized for carrying on and makes it super easy to double check that you’ve packed all the essentials! 

If you’re one of those travelers who can wear one pair of shoes for an entire trip consider me impressed. I am not. I always end up packing an extra two or three pairs of shoes for various occasions. This travel shoe bag holds up to three pairs of shoes and is the perfect organizer and protector for both your shoes and luggage. 

Whether you’re running through the airport or exploring the streets of a new city, comfortable walking shoes are a must on any trip. These APL TechLoom Sneakers are my favorite. They’re super comfortable, light-weight, and the white pairs with everything. The best part? You can toss them in the wash when you get home! 

Flying can take its toll on a body and I personally hate feeling puffy and swollen after a long-haul flight. I started wearing compression socks while flying and noticed a drastic difference in swelling. Compression socks are now a must-pack for me for any flight longer than four hours! 

Cordless headphones are a must when traveling. No one wants to be tangled up in cords while rummaging through your suitcase. Apple AirPods Pro seamlessly connect to your iPhone with noise cancelling capabilities. And if you like to watch in the inflight entertainment, get the AirFly Pro so you can connect your AirPods to the plane’s entertainment system. The AirFly Pro allows you to connect two sets of AirPods to one entertainment screen—perfect for watching a movie with your travel partner. 

You never know when your checked bag is going to miss your flight. Put an Apple AirTag in your luggage and you’ll always know where your bag is—even when the airline doesn’t. 

Whether it’s a flight delay or any other form of mayhem, you never know when your travel day is going to be unexpectedly dragged out. The last thing you want is a phone on 1% as you’re trying to navigate back to your hotel. This portable charger gives your phone the extra life it needs to get you safely to your destination.

If you’re traveling internationally, you’re going to need a converter for your electronics. This international power adapter works in the EU, UK, AUS, and USA. Plus, it features multiple USB ports so you can charge several devices at one time.