14 Unusual Things to Pack
It seems like no matter how many times I pack for trips I always feel like I'm going to forget something! Shirts? Check. Toothbrush? Check. Passport? Check. But what about the things you wouldn't normally think of packing?
Here's a list of 14 things that might have been left off of your original checklist, but that you should totally pack:
1. POWER STRIP
You never know how many outlets will be available where you're staying, so packing your own power strips ensures you'll be able to charge your phone, camera, laptop, other camera, etc.
2. NOTEBOOK
Notebooks are so versatile and therefore an essential item to pack! Before you leave write down all the information you'll need to know - addresses of places you're staying, flight and train times, names and numbers of contacts, etc. - journal and take notes about your experiences - sketch some of the interesting sights around you. When I travel I rely on my Moleskine and use the little pocket in the back to store tickets, stickers, business cards, or information I've printed out.
3. PILLOW CASE
A common pillow case can be transformed into an incredible multi-functional tool when travelling. Pack an extra one to hold dirty clothes - use it as a towel when a real towel is nowhere to be found - stuff it with a blanket or clothes when an extra pillow is needed - or just use it to cover questionable looking pillows.
4. PORTABLE CHARGER
It's shocking how quickly your phone battery can run out, even when you don't have service! A portable charger can change your entire travel experience and save you from getting into unfortunate situations due to a dead phone. Sometimes when I rely on my phone for directions I will even walk around with the portable charger in my backpack, a long cord plugged in, and my phone in my hand.
5. FOLDABLE BAG
When your suitcases, carry-ons, purses, and backpacks are all packed full, an extra foldable bag can take care of any other carrying needs. I've taken my foldable backpack from Love Bags on day trips, to the grocery store, and used it as a purse/heavy-duty backpack in-between. Baggu also has some adorable foldable tote bags and backpacks.
6. POWER CONVERTER
I know for me, different countries using different plugs isn't something I typically think about in my everyday life. But when you sit down to charge your phone after a long day of traveling, it's nice to actually be able to plug it in. A power converter pack like the Conair Travel Smart Converter Set that includes multiple adapters compatible in hundreds of countries is a great investment. Use the converter for appliances that use more power, like laptops and hair dryers, while the small adapters fit perfectly on plugs that have built in power converters, like iPhone chargers.
7. EMPTY BOTTLE
What if I told you that you can bring whatever sized water bottle you want onto a plane? That's right, bigger that the regulation 3.4oz - it just has to be empty! Once you pass through airport security you can fill up your water bottle and stay hydrated on the plane and throughout your travels. Bringing your own reusable bottle also helps eliminate lots of unnecessary plastic bottle use - yay earth!
8. PACKABLE COAT
Packing for cold or rainy weather can be treacherous because of how much precious packing space coats take up but thankfully, packable coats have changed the game! You can squish a winter coat down to the size of your fist. The best news is, you don't have to sacrifice style for space - check out these adorable patterned waterproof packaway jackets from Joules and these packable down jackets from Lands End.
9. MEDICINE BAG
No matter where I go, my mom always manages to slip a bag filled with various vitamins and medications into my bags. I always thought it was a little bit of a waste of space until I had terrible allergies in Italy and caught the flu in England... Finding the medication you need can be incredibly complicated in a different country and being sick is the worst, so always be prepared for anything - even if it feels a bit silly.
10. PRINTOUTS OF ALL YOUR INFORMATION
In a digital world, printing out information almost seems counter-intuitive. But having paper copies of tickets, reservation information, addresses, and personal identification can be a life saver in sticky situations. Keep multiple copies - in your luggage and on your person.
11. MAKEUP WIPES
Using a makeup wipe after a long day of traveling can help you feel more refreshed and clean (even if you're not). To save space, buy a small pack of makeup wipes like this Nutrogena travel pack and cut them into quarters - they do the trick, take up less space, and last longer!
12. SLEEP AID
Getting enough sleep while traveling is one of the most important yet most challenging accomplishments. Invest in some TylenolPM or ZzzQuil to make sleeping on planes, in noisy hostels, or in foreign beds a little bit easier.
13. BAR OF SOAP
I always travel with Dr. Bronner's Lavender Bar Soap - according to their website it can be used to wash your face, body, hands and hair, for bathing, shaving, brushing your teeth, rinsing fruit, aromatherapy, washing dishes by hand, doing laundry, mopping floors, all-purpose cleaning, washing windows, scrubbing toilets, washing dogs, controlling dust mites, and killing ants and aphids. It's organic, vegan, can be found at most drug stores, and doesn't take up precious carry-on liquids bag space.
14. SOMETHING TO READ
Books are a great forms of travel entertainment that don't require wifi or electricity. While packing a book to read on the way is important, one of my favorite hobbies is checking out local bookstores while I'm traveling. You always have a new story to bring along with you and that book will always be tied to the memory or your travels.