What’s in Your Bag?

As a self-proclaimed amateur travel agent, I understand the importance of properly preparing for a trip. Through my adventures in traveling as a student, I’ve realized that there will always be one or two things I regret not packing.

There can be hiccups that interrupt an otherwise-perfect experience no matter how much fun the rest of the trip is. However, with the right tools, you can be prepared to keep days as long and fun as possible. From secret hacks to things you may just forget, these are the travel essentials that Buzz readers and I can’t set sail without.

Tips from Buzz Readers

Some people bring bulky pillows on planes for comfort, but Bellaire’s Rachel Rosenberg brings her favorite Squishmallow with her on trips. “It’s for convenience and comfort; I use it as a pillow.” She uses the compact and comfy stuffed animal throughout her trip, from airplane seats to hotels.

Wine connoisseur Carin Davidson recommends bringing a champagne stopper with you during your travels, just in case there’s a bubbly emergency. Whether to save money on buying new bottles or to preserve a special vintage, it's an item that's both useful and luxurious feeling.

Don’t Forget

Unexpected headaches or pain are unfortunately a global experience, even while on an anticipated tour or under the hot sun. Buying medication abroad isn’t always the cheapest; throwing over-the-counter pain relief meds in your bag takes up little space and can save the day.

Traveling with important cards can be stressful. Bellaire’s Laurie Buchsbaum shared that she photocopies her license and passport before she leaves and keeps the copies in her suitcase, just in case.

The newest teenage obsession, your digital camera might be hiding in the back of a closet, untouched since iPhone cameras improved. However, dedicating a couple inches in your bag to a camera is not only a fun little conversation piece but a great way to get flicks of your vacation that have unique character. Personally, I bring one on every trip. There’s just no beating the gloomy, vintage look your pictures get from them.

More Packing Tips

Even the most seasoned travelers find themselves walking a tightrope of packing too much or not enough. Throughout my travels I’ve had the luxury of multiple bags, but also have found myself confined to one carry on. In either case, efficiency is key. For women, comfortable dresses are the most space-efficient and the most convenient since they take less styling effort every day to look your best.

Limiting shoes is always a good idea. I swear by one pair of walking sneakers, one neutral heel, and one sandal.

Forget necklaces or purses, my favorite accessories while on a trip are fans, fans, and more fans! A handheld and a neck fan is my favorite combination when in a particularly hot climate. Remember, just because you’re used to the Houston heat doesn’t mean you’ll fare the same without Houston-level air conditioning!

The one thing I won't hop on a plane without is a spreadsheet. It may seem like overkill, but having one sheet that has tours, times, restaurants, and even outfits can take away layers of stress from the day-to-day while traveling. I recommend making a column for morning, afternoon, and evening with a place to put plans for each meal. This makes it so easy to see where you need to be in one organized place on your phone.

You can use my template here!

Share in the comment section below – what’s your favorite packing tip or trick?