I went to Mexico a while back and it was the first time I traveled to a different country. I don’t travel much, so I had to think long and hard to figure out what to bring. Over packing is my weakness, I feel like I have to bring everything! I was limited to a weekender bag from Everlane. I always try to avoid checking in anything in order to avoid fees or to make sure I don’t lose anything. Here are my 6 things you should always take on vacation!
This article was updated on June 29, 2020.
6 THINGS YOU SHOULD ALWAYS TAKE ON VACATION
This list isn’t limited to just items you can take on your carry-on, but just overall things to take on a vacation!
6. TIDE PENS
You are going to stain yourself. At the wedding, I spilled wine on my linen shirt, but I was able to quickly fix it with a Tide pen. The pens are also under 3.4 ounces, so you can get it through the TSA. Eat and spill at your leisure, you can also help others with the pen.
5. USB CABLE
I am assuming you are going be outside your hotel room 90% of the time, so that means your phone won’t have a chance to charge. With all the photos you’ll be taking, you are going to hit 10% battery in no time. This Universal 3-in-1 Cable is slim enough to be put in your jacket. USB ports are everywhere. You can find them on computers, printers, TVs, stereos, and even airplane seats. As long as you’ve got your Universal USB Cable, you can charge up your device. Works for Android and iPhone.
4. TRAVEL PILLOW
It’s usually impossible to get comfy in an airplane seat. Especially if you are going to be sitting there for 6 hours or more. For 29 years, I made the mistake of not using a travel pillow. I would hope to either get a window seat and pass out or drink enough during the trip and pass out. I got my first travel pillow last year and my life changed forever. How did I not use this all the time? Now when I sit in an airline seat, I don’t hate my life. Buy this neck pillow and finally be live life.
3. DATA PLAN
I know some people who just hope to find a good wifi signal where they go. It is really risky and frustrating when you are lost or need to look something up, but the data is too slow or nonexistent. There are two recommendations I have for this:
International Sim Card – This is great if you have an Unlocked Phone. Depending on how long you will be going to another country, you might want to consider getting a data plan. For example, if you are going to Australia for 2 or more weeks, get yourself a sim card in that country. I used https://www.whistleout.com.au to check out different plans. Snapchat and Google Maps all you want!
You can buy a SIM card that works internationally. Here are some examples:
OneSimCard Universal 3-in-one SIM Card for use in Over 200 Countries
PrePaid Europe (UK THREE) sim card
Use Your Carrier – You can also look into what T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint charge for international data. I use T-Mobile and they charged me $20 for 200 mb of LTE data in Mexico. I used that data in one day, however. But, T-Mobile gives you unlimited 2G data in Mexico. Better than nothing I suppose! AT&T has a similar plan. Research what your carrier has to offer, you might get a better deal if you have an expensive plan.
2. PACK YOUR TOILETRY BAG
I’m a fan on the carry-on. Keep your toiletry bag light and TSA-compliant. The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule makes it easy to remember: liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container and they must be in a 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag.
Don’t forget the following some Toiletry Bag Basics:
Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash
I personally use a travel waterpik.
Hair brush or comb, hair ties, barrettes/bobby pins
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Face wash and/or makeup remover wipes
Moisturizer
Lip balm
Personal hygiene items
Shampoo and conditioner
I would include some extras:
Hair products
1. HDMI CABLE
Hear me out! Obviously, this depends on where you are staying. Most hotels have modern TVs with HDMI inputs or other ways to connect. Connect your laptop or phone (with one of these adaptors) to the TV and watch Netflix or your downloaded movies in that country (provided there is Wi-Fi of course). Play music from your TV as well!
What are your must haves when you travel? I’m no pro, so let me know things you should always take on vacation!
Thanks for reading and y’all stay dandy.
-Diego
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