If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you know that I have been on planes more than I have been at home as of late. At one point, I was home for less than 24 hours before I was off again. And, while exploring new cities is exciting and fun, jet-setting isn’t as glamorous as it may seem. Especially, when you like to travel light (let’s be honest, checking a bag is a pain in the ass). Over time, I have developed an essential packing list with items that I simply do not travel without. After all, if it cannot fit in my backpack, it isn’t going. And, even if it does fit, I still have to leave room for all of the little knick knacks I’ll want to buy. Here are my travel essentials – the items I simply do not travel without:

Mandalyn’s Top Six Travel Essentials:

 

A supportive pair of shoes

Whether it’s sandal or boot weather, it’s imperative to wear a good pair of shoes. I realized when I moved to Europe that all of the tiny-heeled little pumps and non-supportive flip flops I had just weren’t going to cut it. Thus, my mission for a great pair of walking shoes (and sandals) commenced.

For walking shoes, I finally discovered Geox’s Nebula trainers (my favorite pair), which are stylish, provide breathability from the bottom, and are slip-ons (but you’d never know)! My only regret is that I didn’t own these sooner.

The sandals I swear by are the Sabrina sandal by Naot. I was able to wear them straight out of the box for immediate travel. Not only do I wear them when I’m traveling, but they are also my go to for everyday wear.

Moisturizing lip balm

Airplane air can be extremely dry, so I can’t stress the importance of carrying a good lip balm. After trying lip balm after lip balm, I finally found a keeper: Aquaphor Lip Repair. I like this lip balm because it is extremely moisturizing without feeling greasy. It also doesn’t contain any fragrances or ingredients that make my lips tingle and it lasts for so long! I have been unsuccessful at finding this product in Europe, but luckily there is Amazon. I also just realized Aquaphor also makes one with SPF 30.

An essential carry-all

I’m a woman of many bags. If you ask my husband, he will agree. Since I don’t check any bags, fitting everything in cabin with me is essential. In Europe, you don’t get a carry-on bag AND a personal item. You only get one. Thus, my “personal item” aka purse, must also fit into my backpack.

After much trial and error, I’ve found the Le Pliage Tote in large is the best bag for the job. It’s water resistant and folds up into a tiny little sac that easily fits into the front pouch of my backpack, so it takes up minimal space. I remove my wallet (and all other items) and store them separately. Once I get to my destination, it’s easy for me to pop them out and go!

A quality backpack that meets airline standards and still fits all my essentials

When I pulled out my “roller backpack” I think Jordan may have snickered a little. However, this High Sierra bag fits it all AND I don’t have to carry it on my back if I don’t want to. Don’t worry – you can’t even tell it rolls when you have it on!

Sanitizer wipes

I carry a small liquid bottle as well, but I can’t stress the importance of the wipes. The first thing I do once I find my seat on the plane is bust them out and wipe down everything: the service tray, arm rest, window shade, tv (if there is one). The last thing I want to do is get sick!

Rain protection

Even smaller than carrying an umbrella is folding up the Columbia Arcadia II Rain Jacket. For less than $35, you can’t beat it. I make sure to carry it with me where ever I go. It folds up so small I don’t have to worry about it taking up much room. I have needed this jacket much more than I originally thought. Now I won’t leave home without it!

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Note: I was not compensated for this post in any way, shape, or form. These are just the items I love!

Images via: Geox, Nordstrom, Amazon, Nordstrom, Amazon, Columbia