Although the COVID-19 pandemic has probably put a halt on your travel plans for the foreseeable future, why not use your time in isolation to start planning your next adventure? With a list of places to go and attractions to see, you’re (almost!) ready to start jet-setting once again. But before you do, keep these travel essentials at the top of your packing list.
Packing cubes
These organizing pouches are essential for any experienced traveler. Whether you’re on a long backpacking tour of Europe or a quick weekend vacay, packing cubes make it so much easier to quickly access things you’ll need throughout the trip without rummaging through your carefully packed items.
On their own, packing cubes are a great organizational tool, but if you’re strategic about it, you can take your packing expertise to the next level. Here are a few of our favorite packing cube hacks:
- Roll clothes rather than fold them—this will make it easier to see your options and it’s less bulky.
- Color-code your cubes—use colorful packing cubes and take note of what’s in each bag (i.e. makeup is in the fuchsia cube, intimates are in mustard yellow, and bathing suits are in grey).
- If you have a spare cube, use it in your carry-on—it’s much easier to access your charging cords, tech, or snacks when it’s all in one place.
Sleep-aids, sunglasses, instant coffee
These three items may seem like an unlikely bunch, but they have one commonality that can make or break your travel plans: jet lag.
Jet lag happens when you’re traveling through at least two or three time zones to get to your destination. The consequences of jet lag could result in some uncomfortable symptoms that can have a negative impact on your trip and even your physical health. In addition to grogginess, symptoms can include mood changes, stomach issues, and disturbed sleep.
To curb jet lag, just use these tips:
- Arrive to your destination early if you can, this will give you some wiggle room to adjust to the local time.
- Try to live life according to your new time zone—sleep when it’s nighttime, be active during the day. If you’re having trouble snoozing, invest in some CBD gummies with melatonin.
- According to the Mayo Clinic, regulating bright light exposure is another way that travelers can avoid the effects of jet lag. They recommend wearing sunglasses and avoiding bright light in the morning and getting more sunlight in the late afternoon during the first few days of your trip.
- If you need a little pep in your step on early sight-seeing mornings, bring along some instant coffee packs for an instant boost while you’re on-the-go.
Versatile clothing
When you’re rushing to pack your bags for an upcoming trip, it’s easy to toss everything into your luggage without a second thought, only to realize you didn’t even wear many of the items you lugged on the plane. By planning ahead, you can be more conscientious about what items you really need.
Regardless of time crunches though, it’s most important to pack versatile clothes that you can repurpose throughout your holiday.
Here are a few must-haves on our list:
- Neutral sweater
- Basic or graphic tees (both can be dressed up or down)
- Jeans
- Jumpsuit
- Sneakers
Mini first aid kit
This easy to forget item always seems to come in handy! These mini first aid kits are adorable and contain all the basics like:
- Fabric bandages
- Miniature scissors, nail clippers, and tweezers
- Disinfectant gel
And with COVID-19 being an ongoing threat for the foreseeable future, don’t forget to bring some hand sanitizer and cleaning wipes!
Prescriptions
Before you set off for your next Instagram-worthy adventure, be sure that you have any daily and emergency medications packed in your bag, as well as health insurance information.
Tech essentials
There’s nothing worse than a dead phone on a long plane ride. Noise-cancelling headphones, a charging bank, and an e-reader are all key items for long travel days. And don’t forget to bring an adapter if you’re traveling abroad!
Did we miss anything? Help your fellow wander lusters flesh out their packing list by sharing your travel must-haves in the comments below!