Here are ten travel essentials you didn’t think of – and these will come in handy no matter where you are going or what stage of life!
We want ease. We want comfort. And yes—we still want style and adventure!
I’ve traveled all over the globe (Thailand, Spain, England, France, Canada, and my beloved Mexico). I’ve experienced everything from humid jungles to chilly cobblestone cities. Through trial, error, and a few wobbly ankles (kidding, but not really), I’ve created a list of cozy, comfy essentials I never leave home without.
These items are perfect for international travel, weekend getaways, or even simple staycations. These are in addition to the standard essentials. I guess oyu could call these luxury essentials! Here is my shopping list.
Compression bags for luggage
If you only take one thing from this list, let it be this. Compression bags are a game-changer, especially for international travel. They help you pack light and stay organized. I use one for each category—tops, dresses, undergarments, etc.—and then weigh each one to know how heavy my suitcase will be. Bonus: you’ll know exactly how much room you’ll have left for souvenirs!
Portable handheld fan
If you’re headed to a warm-weather destination, this is your best friend. I recently upgraded to a newer model that has a built-in flashlight and a long battery life. It’s compact, safe to touch, and you can set it upright on a table or hold it in your hand while exploring.
HOKA sneakers for walking
Okay, I know oyu are thinking – “Duh, Kathy. Of course I know to bring sneakers!” But these are not just any kind of sneakers. I call these my “cloud shoes.” As someone who describes herself as a healthy honey (wink), I used to end my travel days with aching feet. Ever since I switched to HOKA sneakers, I’ve never had that issue again. Skip the fashion sandals—trust me—go for comfort and support. Your feet will thank you.
Shower sandals
While traveling throughout Europe, I noticed hotel bathrooms often had very slick floors. A slip in the shower can ruin a trip fast. I pack lightweight, non-slip shower sandals that don’t take up much space and offer solid grip. They also have non-slip socks if you prefer.
Crossbody phone holder
Traveling to a busy city? Be on alert. Thieves can easily swipe phones right out of your hand while you’re snapping pics. Seriously, I saw it happen! Use a crossbody phone strap or necklace-style holder that keeps my phone close and secure, so I can explore hands-free and worry-free.
Liquid I.V.
Let’s be honest—we don’t always hydrate like we should while traveling. I carry sugar-free Liquid I.V. hydration packets and drink one each day. They’ve helped me avoid those awful nighttime leg cramps after long flights or hot days on the go.
Anti-chafing shorts for dresses
Dresses are cute and breezy, but can cause discomfort on warm days. I always pack lightweight bike shorts or undergarments to wear underneath. They keep things dry, smooth, and comfortable—while still letting me look stylish and feel confident.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics
Choose pieces you can roll up, mix and match, and layer. Think linen, cotton, or moisture-wicking blends that breathe and pack down easily. You’ll save space, stay cool, and still look pulled together.
A folder for keeping journaling keepsakes + documents
If you’re a memory-keeper like me, bring a small folder to collect ephemera—ticket stubs, receipts, luggage tags, etc. These tiny mementos become amazing material for travel journals or scrapbooks once you’re home.
Boom Boom Sticks
That’s my list of tried-and-true travel essentials. I hope it helps you feel empowered and excited for your next adventure—whether it’s across the globe or just down the road.
If I missed something, please let me know in the comments so we can all travel smarter, happier, and more stylishly!
RELATED:
