B y E l i sa Va nd e rg r i f f
It seems like no matter how many times I pack for trips, I always feel like I’m going to forget something! Shirts? Check. Toothbrush? Check. Passport? Check. But what about the things you wouldn’t normally think of packing? Here’s a list of 14 things that might have been left off of your original checklist, but that you should totally pack:
14 U N US UA L T H I N GS TO PAC K
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1. P O W E R S T R I P You never know how many outlets will be available where you’re staying, so packing your own power strips ensures you’ll be able to charge your phone, camera, laptop, other camera, etc.
2 . N OT E B O O K Notebooks are so versatile and therefore an essential item to pack! Before you leave write down all the information you’ll need to know addresses of places you’re staying, flight and train times, names and numbers of contacts, etc. - journal and take notes about your experiences sketch some of the interesting sights around you. When I travel I rely on my Moleskine and use the little pocket in the back to store tickets, stickers, business cards, or information I’ve printed out.
5 . F O L DA B L E B AG When your suitcases, carry-ons, purses, and backpacks are all packed full, an extra foldable bag can take care of any other carrying needs. I’ve taken my foldable backpack from Love Bags on day trips, to the grocery store, and used it as a purse/ backpack in-between. Baggu also has some adorable foldable tote bags and backpacks.
6. POWER CONVERTER
A common pillow case can be transformed into an incredible multifunctional tool when traveling. Pack an extra one to hold dirty clothes use it as a towel when a real towel is nowhere to be found - stuff it with a blanket or clothes when an extra pillow is needed - or just use it to cover questionable looking pillows.
I know for me, different countries using different plugs isn’t something I typically think about in my everyday life. But when you sit down to charge your phone after a long day of traveling, it’s nice to actually be able to plug it in. A power converter pack like the Conair Travel Smart Converter Set that includes multiple adapters compatible in hundreds of countries is a great investment. Use the converter for appliances that use more power, like laptops and hair dryers, while the small adapters fit perfectly on plugs that have built in power converters, like iPhone chargers.
4 . P O R TA B L E C H A R G E R
7. E M P T Y B OT T L E
3 . P I L LO W C AS E
It’s shocking how quickly your phone battery can run out, even when you don’t even have service! A portable charger can change your entire travel experience and save you from getting into unfortunate situations due to a dead phone. Sometimes when I rely on my phone for directions, I will even walk around with the portable charger in my backpack, a long cord plugged in, and my phone in my hand.
What if I told you that you can bring whatever sized water bottle you want onto a plane? That’s right, bigger that the regulation 3.4oz - it just has to be empty! Once you pass through airport security you can fill up your water bottle and stay hydrated on the plane and throughout your travels. Bringing your own reusable bottle also helps eliminate lots of unnecessary plastic bottle use - yay earth!
