Travel Gear That I Really Love

Are you a thoughtful and methodical packer or someone that waits until the last minute to throw some of your favorite things in a suitcase and hope you don’t forget anything? I’m more of the latter though I’ve streamlined my process a bit so I don’t wind up forgetting important things as often!

The most important thing for making packing and traveling easier is to have the right gear. For years I used a gallon ziplock bag to pack my liquid or aerosol toiletries and inevitably the end would tear or something would poke through the bag and I would need to replace it for the next trip. I received a Truffle large pouch in a media package for a different brand and was so impressed with quality, size, and function that I immediately transferred all my travel items into it. I’ve since also added a smaller pouch and a clarity clutch into the mix so I have the right size for my needs.

The Truffle bags are certainly at a higher price point than most travel bags, there is no denying that, and I’ve seen a few other brands that have similar options if you want to find something at a lower cost.

Sonia Kashuk (my go-to brand for makeup brushes!) makes a few smaller sized clear pouches. I have one and it’s worked very well for my needs. I wish there was a large option in the mix!

Mark and Graham has a beautiful clear pouch with a monogram option. This is on the higher end of the cost spectrum and would also make for a really nice gift!

This looks like a great set at a very low price point! It would be nice to have a variety of sizes like this set offers. And if you prefer cases, these look really sturdy and roomy.

When I’m packing, I like to organize my “routine”. So all my morning products go in one bag, and my evening essentials go in another. A toothbrush and toothpaste would go in a “general” bag. My hair products all stick together as well in their own bag. I also have a travel bag that I never unpack and replace empty items as necessary. I keep extra contact lenses, solution, cases, medicine, q-tips, and other must-have hygiene and personal products in it. It stays fully packed in my travel bag stash so I can just toss it in my suitcase when I’m packing.

As far as suitcases go, I can’t even tell you how close I’ve been to buying the Away suitcase. It looks great and my mom and sister speak very highly of theirs! I wanted to try a lower priced option and I have been very happy with my Swissgear 19 inch Carry On. The reviews gave me pause, but I thought I’d give it a shot anyway. It’s been on a handful of trips with me and I haven’t had a single problem. It’s actually quite roomy for a hard-sided suitcase and I love the divided section and all the mesh pouches inside.

Mark and Graham makes a highly reviewed suitcase that you can catch on sale! If I needed to replace my larger suitcase, I’d be inclined to try this one just for the sake of comparing it to what I’ve seen or tried myself!

More than anything, staying organized while packing, for any length of travel, is key to making sure you have everything you need. The clear bags and suitcase with dividers helps me a lot and it may help you as well!

P.S. We recently traveled to Disney World, you can read about that trip here!