As someone who has traveled a LOT, my packing process just gets better and better each time. (Always room for improvement!) That’s why I’ve come up with this simple list of my essential go-to items that I like to bring on all my trips. Makes my packing, and my life, a lot easier! For all these items listed, and more, check out my Amazon storefront – “2023 Travel Essentials” list.

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1. Water Bottle

This is number 1 on all fronts – I genuinely carry a water bottle with me everywhere haha. I think one of my biggest fears is being out of my home and getting thirsty, and NOT having a water bottle nearby. Got to stay hydrated when you travel!! 

I love the YETI brand – the bottle itself is definitely on the heavy side, but it keeps my drinks cold for hours. It is so worth it, especially when it is a hot day and you’re walking 20k steps a day and all you want is cold water. I actually have the 18 oz Bottle, not the 26 oz, but I wish I had a larger size. They also make 36 oz bottles – I have linked both in my storefront.

2. Eco-Friendly Protein Shaker

For all my gym dedicated baddies out there – this one’s for you. And is also my personal favorite – not only do I bring it on all of my trips, I also use it at home every day after the gym. It is dishwasher-safe, BPA-free and a super cute mint green color. 

3. Catchall / Jewelry Valet Tray

My mom just got me this for Christmas, and it is actually so nice. It is super easy to pack, since it unbuttons to lay flat in your suitcase. And then, when you’re at your hotel or Airbnb, you can put all of your small belongings there so you don’t lose anything! I use it for my necklace, earrings, keys, credit cards, and other little random things.

4. Satin Hair Ties

I love these hair ties! Especially because, even though I know you’re not supposed to tie your hair up on the plane, I always do. And the silky / satin hair ties keep my hair nice and looking the same even after I put it up for a while. These are apparently good for sleeping as well, although I have not tried that personally.

5. Compression Socks

I know a lot of people opt for the taller socks, but I purchased these low cut, ankle compression socks and really like them. They help to improve your blood flow and circulation, which helps to prevent cramping, fatigue and swelling. This is really nice, especially on longer, international flights where you might be sitting down for hours on end. I used to notice sometimes my feet and lower legs would fall asleep on the plane, and that hasn’t happened since I started wearing these!

6. A Good Book

I love to read on planes. It gives my eyes a nice break from the screens, and keeps my mind active. “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Timothy Ferriss is the last book I read and honestly it changed my life. Haha sorry for the dramatics, but really – you would not be reading this right now if I had not read this book. I highly recommend it to anyone, and especially anyone working in the corporate world or who may be questioning their purpose in life. I have linked some other of my recent favorite books if you’ve already read this one, or it isn’t particularly speaking to you.

7. Blistex

At this point in my life, I have tried SO many lip balms, chapsticks, etc and always come back to Blistex. I’ve found that a lot of other options leave my lips feeling more dry and dehydrated?? Seems like a marketing scam – I bet they just want you to buy more! Jokes aside though, I have one of these in every room in my apartment, in every purse or bag I own, and in my car, just so I am always well equipped. This is essential for flying – planes are so dehydrating, make sure you stock up!

8. Plane Audio / Wireless Headphone Adapter

I was so excited when I stumbled upon this! Basically, it plugs into the plane audio jack (who has headphones that actually work anymore?!), and then connects to your Bluetooth audio device. So those movies you always want to watch on the plane, but have to ask the flight attendant for a cheap pair of disposable headphones? This fixes that problem. I honestly used to just watch movies with no sound plus subtitles haha. And the best part of these is that you can connect 2 different Bluetooth devices so you and your friend, partner, travel buddy, or plane neighbor can watch together!

Let me know what your essential travel items are in the comments below! And be sure to follow me on Instagram for more travel content!

💙mariss