TRAVEL PACKING LIST: What I Typically Bring When Traveling

Wat I Typically Pack when Traveling: Be it a Cruise or All-Inclusive Resort or European Trip

I’ve short circuited a hotel room outlet in Bangkok, had numerous sleepless nights in Albergues on my Camino de Santiago walk and learned the hard way that Caribbean sun doesn't care if you "don't usually burn". I have overpacked and underpacked. With time (and too many boarding passes in my apple wallet), I’ve learned exactly which items turn travel from “Where is my charger?” into “I’ve got this.”

Consider this your streamlined carry-on survival list — curated by someone who has learned through mild chaos and tropical humidity. Please see "our travel" portion of this website for further item recommendations that may pertain to a particular location.

TRAVEL LIKE YOU'VE DONE THIS BEFORE: MY ESSENTIALS AFTER YEARS OF AIRPORTS, CRUISES AND ALL-INCLUSIVES

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Best Carry-on Luggage

I chose this Samsonite hard shell carry-on luggage for myself because it offers exceptional durability while walking multiple terminals at world's airports. It features integrated, security-approved locks, truly smooth, multi-directional wheels and lightweight frame and inside organizational pockets. Backed by a reliable warranty, This carry-on remains a superior investment for me and other frequent flyers who value long-lasting performance.

Durable Carry-on Backpack

My Fjallraven Carry-On Pack is made out of heavy-duty textile and it's flexible enough to conform to tight overhead compartments or under the seat space. I love that interior has zippered mesh dividers that eliminate the need for separate packing cubes. It does have an easily accessible laptop compartment, even thought I never bring my laptop. There are many discreet external quick-access pockets to make it easy to keep essential items within reach.

Travel Neck Pillow for Comfort

Ok, I didn't go looking specifically for this Memory Foam Neck Pillow, but I got it as a Christmas Gift and now I cannot travel long haul without it! I can confirm it provides excellent support and is perfect for long flights, and, I suppose, can work on a long road trip. It's easy to store in the baggie it come in, and I sleep better with it on the long flights. It is comfortable and the right size, it's soft and a little firm at the same time.

Travel Face Cream - Moisturize & Refresh

Now this has always been one of my favorite brands, so I decided to look for the travel version of the L'Occitane Face Cream. When I find something I really like, I really stick with it. It's simply effective at moisturizing and I appreciate the pleasant scent. The cream is lightweight, not too thick. Skin feel soft, luxurious, and comfortable after use and it's particularly great for sensitive skin. Yes, it's a little bit pricey, but all solid products are worth the price.

Shea Butter Hand Cream - No More Dry Skin

Another little gem to have in your carry-on is this hand cream. It's effective I love its moisturizing properties, particularly for dry skin and cuticles. Nice texture, leaves hands silky smooth without feeling greasy, and its quick-absorbing and doesn't leave an oily residue. It even lasts me through hand washes and provides long-lasting hydration.

Hydrating Eye Drops

I typically use these drops at home but decided to bring it with me once to continue dry eye relief and now I packing for every trip. Systane Eye Drops even help me see better after I wake up with severely dry eyes. I have multiple bottles to use in my purse, in my travel bag as well as my medicine cabinet.

All-Purpose Salve for Lips & Dry Skin

I have loved and used the Rose Salve Lip Balm for well over 20 years now. I use it regularly at home and it is a must for my trips, pleasant fragrance and soft smooth texture are a plus. Always leaves my lips soft and shimmery. It smells very pleasant and does prevent chopped lips very well. Cold weather and or windy days, I used this all year round. And, it's not just for lips, I've used it for dry spots anywhere. So much better than traditional chapstick and it is long lasting.

Travel Water Flosser - Clean Hygiene

I now this is a very unconventional item to bring in your carry-on and for a long trim, but until I discovered it, I don't know how I really went without it. It's convenient compact size for travel, and as powerful as a countertop model. It's a quality little gadget. It's rechargeable and has a good battery life and reliability show mixed results - while some say it charges well and works fantastically.

Dental Floss - Dental Hygiene

I don't really have to talk about the dental floss, we all know what it does, but this particular Dental Floss was recommended by my dental hygienist and now this is the inly one I use. In my daily life and traveling. It is high quality and effective, it really cleans between the teeth and removes more plaque than regular floss because of its texture that grabs the gunk when flossing.

Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones There Are

Bose brand has been in my life for over 25 years when I bought their speaker. Now I have these Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones, that you know, are a must on a plane. Superior Bose sound quality, noise cancellation, and comfort, and they don't hurt the ears with soft pads pressed against your head.

WHAT I KNOW

Travel doesn’t get easier. You just get smarter. These items aren’t about looking polished — they’re about feeling comfortable, hydrated, and unbothered from takeoff to sunset beach cocktails.

Pack light, care for your body in motion, and glide through your trip like you’ve done this many times (because you have).

CHECK OUT MY PACKING LIST FOR CAMINO DE SANTIAGO

Curated items from my solo walk