When I’m traveling, I try to live by the motto that almost anything can be bought at your destination. My husband, on the other hand, is a literal pack rat because he feels he “might need” just about everything he owns. To each their own.

There are some things I never travel without though. Of course, I can’t leave the house without important documents, money, medication, and a toothbrush, but here are some things I always pack when setting off on an adventure.

1. Brita Water Bottle

I am a water fiend and if there’s one thing I hate doing, it’s paying for water. But I’m also a water snob and even if Google says a country or city has drinkable water, it might not taste good. The Brita water bottle has a small filter in it and though I don’t know how effective it is, it certainly gives me peace of mind. And even if you don’t want a Brita bottle, a refillable water bottle of some sort is a MUST.

2. Sleep Mask & Melatonin

This is one thing that I wish I didn’t need, but at home, I’m a sleep diva. I have my memory foam mattress and pillow, silk pillowcase, sleepytime tea yada yada yada. I have trouble falling asleep in new places, so popping a melatonin and sliding on my sleep mask helps me get a little more beauty rest to attack the next day’s adventures.

3. Kindle or E-reader

I love to read a good book and while I love the weight of a hard copy and the pages between my fingers, it’s not practical to lug several books around while traveling. I’m a carry-on only kind of girl so every inch counts and my Kindle Fire holds unlimited books for long plane rides, relaxing by the beach, and killing time in line for attractions.

4. Travel Tissues

This one is more destination specific, but has saved my butt on multiple occasions. Many bathroom stalls across Europe and Central America are less attended to than I’m used to, especially free public restrooms (of which there are few). There’s nothing worse than looking over and seeing an empty toilet paper roll, so I started bringing the travel-sized tissue packs just in case.

5. Snacks

I generally live by the phrase “I can buy it when we get there”, but snacks are the exception to the rule. Every time I attempt to save space and buy snacks at our destination, something goes awry -- the grocery store is far away or the snacks are weird. And I am a big snacker. Take away my Clif bars and mixed nuts and I’ll be hangry, fast. It saves everyone a lot of frustration for me to just bring my snacks from home.

6. Shower Shoes or Flip Flops

No matter where the destination or time of year, I always pack a pair of flip flops or sandals that can get wet. They come in handy when you’ve got sandy feet, you’re just stepping onto the hotel balcony, or the hostel shower looks a little questionable. These have saved my life many a time.

7. Chapstick

Maybe this is just a me thing, but I cannot go anywhere without a chapstick, traveling included. Being on planes, trains, and buses tends to dry out my lips SO fast and the sensation drives me crazy! I always bring an extra stick or two, in case I lose one.

8. Tote bag & belt bag

I am nothing if not a trend follower and when the Lululemon belt bags became popular, it changed the travel game for me. Having my phone, sunglasses, money, and chapstick all at my fingertips (and pickpocket proof) makes everything so much smoother.

And when I’m on the go all day sightseeing, I always bring along my big ol’ water bottle and my camera. A tote bag helps keep my hands free and provides a place for souvenirs I pick up along the way.

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