How often do you get to your travel destination and realize you have forgotten something vital, like a hairbrush or a phone charger? Sure, you can run out and buy the thing wherever you are, but I have found a foolproof way to make sure I am prepared for any spur-of-the-moment overnight. I keep a set of certain essentials in my suitcase, always ready to go.
1. A fully stocked toiletry bag. I keep one of everything in here that I use regularly: toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, shower cap, shampoo, conditioner, lotions, cleansers, razor, tweezers, deodorant, etc. I make sure all liquids are in airplane-appropriate containers in case I have it in my carry on bag. Packing cubes make it easy to keep track of everything.
2. A teensy first aid kit and a teensy sewing kit. Probably the first of these came into my life from some very nicely stocked hotel room. But they do come in handy.
3. A raincoat that folds into a tiny packet and/or a travel umbrella. I have one of these RainCaper coats, and love it.
4. A bathing suit and cover up (which might double as a robe or pajamas for your trip). Before this, I can't tell you how many times I have realized that I'd been booked into a hotel with a pool or hot tub and I didn't have the appropriate swimwear. wanted to climb in the
5. A multitool, Swiss Army Knife, or corkscrew and/or bottle opener (put this in checked luggage if you are flying). I learned this lesson on my honeymoon--we were waiting in the hot sun, waiting for the rental agent to come to open our condo, and my new spouse wanted a beer to cool down. Of course, we had no opener!
6. A dirty clothes bag. Could be just a plastic shopping bag, but my Miamica Dirty Laundry bag stays in my suitcase and doesn't get lost.
7. A plastic shopping bag. Folded neatly in the bottom of your suitcase, it won't take up room, but can be used for trash, wet bathing suits, shoes, or a ton of other things.
8. Electronic accessories: charging cords, earbuds. It gets expensive buying these on the fly in airports or gas stations. Watch for sales and then stick them in your suitcase. Then you can leave your good cords at home and not worry about leaving them behind in some random outlet when you are in a hurry.
9. As needed: Spare pantyhose or socks, hair accessories and feminine hygiene products. Travel flat iron, hair dryer.
10. Workout clothes.
Vaccinated or COVID-clear, you are now ready to take off for your next adventure. Have fun!
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