Travel Resources, Gear and Essentials
I have travelled the globe to over 35 countries, and counting.
Sometimes I travel solo, other times with a friend or my husband, but more often than not (especially recently) with my family, which includes two daughters.
Below are some of the travel products and resources that I use and recommend to anyone.
Travel Gear I Use
Here are some of the things that I almost never travel without, or that have helped me immensely with travel
1. Pacsafe anti-theft backpack
I use this high-quality black Anti-theft backpack by Pacsafe – I like it for the following reasons:
- It’s 25 L, so it’s big enough for a laptop and perfect as a carry-on piece of luggage
- It’s made from recycled plastic
- You can hook the zippers so that they can’t be easily unzipped (but you can leave them unhooked too.)
It’s also a gender-neutral backpack, so either me or my husband can use it.
It’s ergonomically designed and comfortable to wear. I’ve worn it on several long-haul flights, and it’s always held up.
2. Aesop Departure (or Arrival) Kit
Aesop is a high-end Australian skincare line that uses naturally sourced, vegan and cruelty-free ingredients.
I was given this as a gift from my brother, and I bring it every time I board a plane.
The Aesop ‘departure’ kit contains a rinse-free hand-wash, toothpaste, hydration masque, facial mist, lip balm and mouthwash.
It’s handy to have this set on the go, and the scents are natural and not over-powering (I say this as someone who dislikes artificial-smelling scents.)
3. KÜHL pants
I’m always in search of pants that are comfortable but durable. And finally, I found them. KÜHL pants, made in Germany, are just as comfy as they are good quality.
While the leggings I buy end up ripping eventually, KÜHL pants actually last.
They’re ideal for working out (so great for hiking) but comfortable enough to wear on a long-haul flight too. Check out Kühl products here
4. Lululemon leggings
I was never intending to buy a pair – but then one day in Dublin I was forced to, because the (cheaper version) of my leggings ripped.
The pair of Lululemon leggings I bought was 3x the price of what I usually paid for leggings – but now that I’ve worn them, I don’t want to wear any other leggings again.
So, I highly recommend Lululemon leggings. They’re more comfortable, but also more durable than other leggings.
4. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes have two different benefits:
- They make your suitcase more organized, allowing you to keep items separate from eachother
- You can buy compressible packing cubes which shrink the size of your stuff, which gives you more room!
I was never intending to buy packing cubes, but was lucky to be gifted them from my mom. Since then, I wouldn’t travel without them.
5. List of accommodations with Kids Clubs
For those of you who are parents, you know how beneficial it can be to have some downtime while travelling.
Going on vacations, even luxury ones, can be exhausting. And sometimes there are activities that you can only really enjoy as adults (scuba diving, rock climbing, wine tours.)
I love travelling with my kids, but I’m not opposed to a break here and there. That’s why I started researching vacations with childcare options.
Grab my FREE Master List of hotels and resorts around the world that have kids clubs. There are 90+ hotels on the list, in 6 different continents.
6. Trusted Housesitters
Live as a local while caring for pets anywhere in the world. Travel on a budget by saving big on accommodation; as you house-sit for homeowners worldwide.
*Many of the house sit opportunities are for adults only, but some of them accept families too!
Create your Trusted Housesitter account here
7. Language learning
italki allows you to practice languages with native speakers. Over 100 languages are offered, with tutors all over the world.
If you’ve always been interested in learning another language, read my post to get an idea of how long it may take you.
I speak 5 languages at a fluent level, and several others at a basic level. I credit some of this success to taking lessons on italki.
Use this code to get $10 off after you book your first lesson on italki with a tutor.
Travel Tips & Resources
Can You Bring Fruit on a Plane?
Our Nightmare Experience with Air Canada
Pros and Cons of Booking Disney with a Travel Agent