Travel isn’t something I do constantly, but when I do, I want it to be as easy and comfortable as possible. I’ve learned over time that a few small changes, what I pack and how I prep, can make a big difference on long travel days. These are my go-to travel essentials plus a handful of simple tips that genuinely make travel easier, whether I’m flying or driving.
My Go-To Travel Essentials
The Carry-On Bag I Always Use
I usually travel with the CalPak Luka Duffel, which works just as well for weekend trips as it does for longer ones. I like that it slides over my suitcase handle and has multiple compartments, so everything stays organized and easy to grab—no digging through one giant pocket mid-flight.
Comfort Essentials for Long Travel Days
Long travel days are so much easier when you’re comfortable from the start.
- SPANX AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants and Half-Zip are my travel uniform (I reviewed and compared them to two other brands in this post). Comfortable enough to sit for hours but still polished enough that I don’t feel sloppy.
- Bose QuietComfort Headphones make a huge difference on the plane and in the airport. I also use them for solo gym trips and long walks.
- I like to take early flights, and this Sleep Eye Mask blocks light without pressing on your eyes, allowing me to nap on the plane or on long car rides.
Hydration & Skin Care Must-Haves
Flying is incredibly dehydrating, and I’ve learned that staying ahead of it makes a noticeable difference.
- LMNT Zero Sugar Electrolytes are my favorite electrolyte hydrator. I mix this with water before takeoff so I’m sipping throughout the flight.
- Owala FreeSip TWIST Stainless Steel Water Bottle is easy to carry and refill.
- Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches are great for flights (put them on under your eye mask) or at your destination after you land.
Packing and Organization Tools
These are the items I rely on to stay organized while traveling.
- Compression Packing Cubes zip down to remove excess air, which helps save space and keeps everything organized.
- This Travel Makeup Bag has an angled shape that makes better use of space, and it holds far more than you’d expect.
- The individual pouches in this Travel Jewelry Case keep everything organized and tangle-free.
- I’ve tried so many toiletry containers. These hold up to their leak-proof promise and they’re affordable.
- Whether or not your’re a chronic overpacker, a Digital Luggage Scale avoids surprise overweight bag fees at the airport.
- A 3-in-1 Charger for phone, watch, and earbuds means fewer cords to keep track of.
Simple Tips That Make Travel Easier
These are the tips that have made the biggest difference for me.
Always pack a backup outfit in your carry-on
My luggage has been lost before, and I learned the hard way that it’s worth being prepared. I always keep a change of clothes, or at least underwear and socks, a tee, and basic toiletries in my carry-on. Even if your bag arrives the next day, this alone makes travel far less stressful.
I also recommend putting an AirTag in your suitcase. If your luggage gets lost, you’ll be able to see exactly where it is instead of waiting for updates from the airline. When the airline lost my mom’s bag, they told her they didn’t know where it was—but she was able to show them its location, which helped them track it down much faster.
Bring a refillable water bottle and hydrate early
A refillable bottle saves money and reduces plastic waste. I usually mix a hydration packet before takeoff so I’m sipping throughout the flight, which helps with energy levels and dry skin.
Wear slippers on long flights
For very long flights, I pack IKEA slippers. They’re under $5, easy to toss in your bag, keep your feet comfortable, and protect them from the not-so-clean airplane floor.
Stretch before you sit for hours
Whether I’m driving or flying, I like to do a quick yoga or stretching session before heading out. Even ten minutes makes a noticeable difference when you’ll be sitting for several hours afterward.
Rehydrate your skin after landing
Once I arrive, I like to do a hydrating sheet mask followed by an eye mask. It’s a simple reset that helps me feel refreshed instead of rundown.
I’ve linked everything here that I personally use and reach for again and again. And if there’s something you never travel without, I’d love to know!
Thank you for reading!
Shop the post:
Other posts you might like:
How I Styled This Travel Friendly Outfit 3 Ways
Do you have a friend who would also enjoy this post?
Just use any of the buttons below to share it! And if you aren’t already a newsletter subscriber, make sure you sign up here for exclusive content, sneak peeks, giveaways, and insider tips that you won’t find on the blog. Plus, join me on Instagram for daily style inspiration!
Share with a friend or pin and save!
Linking up with:
Between Naps on the Porch | I do de Claire | Walking in Memphis in High Heels & The Fashion Canvas | My Slices of Life | The Style Splash | Curated by Jennifer | Mummabstylish | Shelbee On the Edge | Nancy’s Fashion Style | Momfessionals | Marsha in the Middle
Leave a Reply