Travel Neccessities
I’ve spent a LOT of time flying from the US to Europe, and let’s just say I’ve learned a thing or two (sometimes the hard way) to make your life easier. I’ve included my most favorite suggestions, from what to take on the plane to what to have handy once you’ve landed. When possible I have added links to items I like to use. (Just to let you know, if you purchase through these links I will earn a small commission is you order through my link).
GOOD Footwear
Especially in Europe, you’ll likely spend a lot of time walking, exploring charming streets, and visiting iconic landmarks. So you’ll want shoes that provide support for your feet throughout the day. Start with comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. The add a second pair of shoes appropriate for the season.
Supportive Walking Shoe: https://a.co/d/0hMARwFu
Seasonal shoes:
Dansko sandle: https://a.co/d/0drAanER
Keen sandle: https://a.co/d/0eLSjjJf
Teva boot: https://a.co/d/8dadyrs
COMPRESSION SOCKS
There's nothing like getting off a plane with swollen feet. If you haven’t heard of compression socks before, your life is about to be changed! Essentially, compression socks help reduce swelling, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and blood clotting risk during long flights. This makes them high up on my list of flight essentials!
Wanderlust Travel Compression Socks: https://a.co/d/06iw3G8V
Secure Purse/Wallet
My worst fear is being pickpocketed or having my information stolen. A good day bag or wallet is a must-have on any trip. Choose one with anti-theft protection, RFID security, and locking zippers to keep your belongings safe. For men, a wallet that can handle odd sized bills.
Women's Classic Messenger Bag: https://a.co/d/00qYNFoJ
Women's Classic Waist Bag:
Men’s RFID Blocking, Slim Bifold Wallet: https://a.co/d/0gZvUasU
Men’s RFID Blocking, Money Belt:
PORTABLE CHARGER
Who hasn't been out and about when all of the sudden that dreaded red battery symbol pops up? Keep your devices powered up on the go with a portable charger. This ensures you can capture every memorable moment and stay connected throughout your travels. I use one by Nimble. It’s compact, long-lasting, charges my phone in no time, and recharges itself in even faster.
Nimble Charger:
https://www.gonimble.com/collections/portable-battery-chargers/products/champ-lite-portable-charger
Travel Adapter/Converter
When it comes plugging into outlets in foreign countries, let’s just say (wink, wink) that I've never blown a hotel circuit. It’s important to have the correct power adapter or voltage converter. The two are different t. Power adapters allow you to hook into different styles of plug-ins and generally will handle low voltage electronics. However, if you are taking item that draws a lot of electricity like a curling iron, hair dryer, shaver, e-toothbrush, I suggest you select a voltage converter.
eSIM
eSIMs are virtual SIM cards you can download to compatible phones. These let you connect to a local phone network abroad, often paying a lower price than roaming through your mobile carrier at home.
Airalo solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards). Just download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries and be connected as soon as you land.
ESIM:
Useful Items to pack
Some items you just can’t live without, they make or break a trip. Other items are useful and make traveling much more enjoyable. Here are a few useful items I’ve discovered through the years. After a while, you might find these items move to your necessary list. Many of these are well on their way to making it onto my necessities list.
packing cubes
This has been a game-changer for me! I used to dig around my suitcase to find what I wanted. Once I started using packing cubes…Oh My Gosh! This has been the best invention ever! Quick tips: 1) get a variety of sizes; 2) look for fully opening, sturdy zippers; 3) make sure they have a clear mesh front for easy recognition, and 4) if possible, get compression zippers or straps.
Compression Packing Cubes: https://a.co/d/08wLkpM0
noise-canceling items
I’m one who is sensitive to the loud engine noise of an airplane. They can be physically exhausting. To combat this, my husband and I wear noise canceling headphones and earbuds. He likes the headphone style while I prefer the earbuds. Both are Bluetooth compatible so I can listen to an audio book, music or a movie that has been downloaded.
Noise Cancelling Earbuds: https://a.co/d/0fWjs9uD
Noise Cancelling Headphones: https://a.co/d/0ccNPXcj
eye mask & ear plugs
People make fun of me, but I like it dark and quiet when I sleep. To combat city noise and light, I always carry an eye mask and earplugs. There are lots of options out there. This is where I find it’s truly a personal preference. I like a silky, lightweight eye mask that doesn’t give me a headache in the morning. I also like memory foam ear plugs that adjust to my ear canal.
Natural Silk Sleep Mask: https://a.co/d/0c02HZ7g
Disposable Foam Earplugs: https://a.co/d/03ArmOga
CREATURE COMFORTS
Sometimes it's the small things that make traveling easier.
Airplane pocket and tray protector
Have you ever wondered what's been in the airplane seatback pockets? Well, let me tell you, you don't want to know. Using this travel pocket system you can have peace of mind with this organizer and tray protector.
Airplane Pocket and Tray Protector:
Phone Lanyard/Cable
Maybe you've heard about someone catching you off-guard while you're on your phone and swipes it right out of your hand. A phone tether won't guarantee it's safety, but will make it more likely your phone stays safe with you. It's easy to install on both iPhones and androids. I've found it also reassuring that I won't accidentally drop it off a bridge or tower.
Phone Cable:
Pill organizer
This pill organizer was something I never knew I needed until I tried it one time. Now it's a little peace of mind that I always travel with. What I love about this item is that it comes with preprinted labels to make identification easy peezy.
Pill Organizer with Labels:
Foldable Water Cup
It's really important to drink a lot of water when traveling, but I don't always like to lug around a water bottle with me, Especially in cities like Paris, Rome, Florence and more, the water is free and free flowing. With this super collapsible and compact cup I can pop it into my bag and pull it out whenever I pass by one of the many drinking fountains.
Collapsible Water Cup:
Glasses/Contact Case
My daughter usually wears contacts, but on long flights she has to take them out and use her glasses. What more can a person want than to have everything in one place. This handy glasses/contact case keeps everything together, where it should be.
Glasses/Contact Case Combo:
20L Foldable Backpack
You never know when you are going to want to go hiking or out for the day! Even if you use a backpack for your carry-on bag, you don't want to have to empty its contents every time you go out. Or, sometimes you just want to go to the park and don't want to carry your purse or heavier bag. This lightweight, foldable backpack can help you be ready for any occasion.
Lightweight foldable backpack:
Large Scarf
Planes can get cold. That air blowing down on you is a real problem. I purchased a pashmina years ago while traveling and have loved my purchase. It's so versatile. I have used it as a blanket, pillow, shawl, and even a sheik scarf. It's a real comfort I've come to depend upon. If you can't wait to purchase your own in your favorite city, then this one might just suit you.
Lightweight pashmina:
Neck Pillow
I don't have one of these but my family enjoys the comfort of a nice neck pillow. This one is made from cooling memory foam and molds to your unique sleeping position. Plus, it rolls up into a convenient pouch.
Neck Pillow:
Travel Umbrella
If you are not a tried and true Oregonian then you may want to pack an umbrella for those "soft" days on your trip. This umbrella features an auto open close feature and has a vented windproof double canopy.
Travel Umbrella: