After months of no travel, being able to travel again is such a thrill. To get more excited, grab a few must haves for your next getaway from yourself or the woman in your life. As a former flight attendant and current travel writer, here’s my must haves to be comforable and prepared for whatever weather the skies might throw at me.
Best Gifts for Women Who Travel
Packable Rain Jacket
In a rainbow array of colors, this jacket packs into a pocket. Stash it in a tote or backpack for on-the-go ease.
Read More
Packable Sun Hat
I’ve owned this hat in a variety of colors for nearly 10 years. In addtion to be foldable for packing, it’s made of cotton and can be washed.
Read More
Packable Daypack
Don’t know what I did without a packable day pack. It’s folded up in my luggage and I used it as a travel purse once I get to my destination since my regular backpack it packed with must-haves when I travel along with my laptop.
Read More
A Good Book
The iPhone Photography Book by Scott Kelby
Everyone wants to take better photos and an iPhone can take some amazing photos if you know how to use all of its best features. The iPhone Photography Book by Scott Kelby is a photography course packed into a pocket-sized format.
Start with basic photography skills, one concept per page with a photo example. Build on the concepts to learn how to use natural lighting, framing and composition tricks to get professional results with your iPhone, not matter the model.
Larger cameras can be intimidating though your iPhone isn’t. The iPhone Photography Book covers editing with built-in iPhone tools along with other apps. Learn how to organize your photos and accessories you can use with your iPhone. Even multi-generational iPhone users will find this book helpful and take their photos to the next level.
Read More
25 of the best National Park Books
Best Books by Women about Women
For Your Flight
Inflatable Foot Rest
According my friend and frequent flyer, Melissa, her hips and lower back hurt when flying for more than three hours. To alleviate the issue, she uses a foot rest. This one is easy to inflate she never feels like she’s going to pass out after blowing it up. As a Mom bonus, it can turn an airplane seat into a baby/toddler sleeping area.
Read More
Inflatable Rectangular Pillow
I use these for lower back issues when flying and to put under my elbow on the armrest for long flights. As a bonus they are inexpensive and I can share with the kids who don’t want to pack their own pillow.
Read More
Neck Scarf
I use a neck scarf to stay warm and cozy since I always sit in the window seat. As a bonus this one offers a hidden pocket for my phone so I can listen to audio books or music.
Read More
Compression Socks
If you are flying more than few hours, compression socks will save your ankles. And don’t think you are too fit or too young, I got crazy swollen ankles for my flight to Paris at 29. Disclaimer, I was pregnant at the time but not showing.
Put on the socks for your first flight of the day. Take a look the Nabee Socks designed by nurses. No one will know they are compression socks.
Read More
In My Backpack
I don’t carry a travel purse since it’s a personal item when you fly. I use a backpack and pack it up until it’s hard to zip up. Here’s my must haves for my carryon.
Travel Wallet
One of my kids gave this wallet to me, in my favorite color. I love it for its style and functionality. It’s inexpensive and sold in lots of colors.
Read More
Extra luggage lock
I use it to lock up my backpack since I carry my laptop, an expensive camera along with my passport. If I have to leave it on a tour bus, I lock it.
Read More
Carabiner
I can’t loose my keys on a trip. So I have put carabiner on my keychain and secure my keys to the inside of my backpack. I also put another carabiner to attach things to the backpack.
Power Bank
You can’t count on having power at your airplane seat. And your flight will drain your battery when listening to music or a book. So I carry two power banks fully charged for every trip. Remember this can’t be in your checked luggage. I’ve owned one for years.
Read More
In Your Luggage
A Good Piece of Luggage
A good piece of luggage is a must for a travelers. Though I want a balance of good value and function.
As a former flight attendant, I know luggage and I’m not easy to impress. After years of using Ricardo Luggage, I still recommend it to my friends and family. It offers durability, style and functionality for most travelers at an excellent price point. Check out my full review.
Read More
Packing Cubes
Another must for every trip, packing cubes keep my luggage tidy. Especially for the smaller items, like socks and underwear. I used these for several years with great results.
Read More
Shoe Bags
I hate to put dirty shoes into my luggage. So I use shoe bags. Another must for women who travel.
Read More
Toiletry Bag
A nice functional toiletry bag keeps every thing in its place. And keeps the shampoo from leaking on your clothes.
Read More
Amenity Kit
As a former flight attendant, I’ve flown first and business class on many occasions. And sure those amenity kits are nice but you can make one for your next flight. Or put one together for your traveling friend. Here’s my must haves to first-class out that economy seat.
- Wipes—Facial, Regular and Bleach
- Tissues
- Refillable water bottle
- Hand sanitizer
- Hand lotion
- Pain Reliever
- Sleep Aid
- Eye drops
- Ear plugs
- Eye patch
- Tea Bags
- Mints
- Deodorant
- Travel toothbrush and paste
- Mouthwash
- Hair brush or comb
- Hair tie
- Lip balm/gloss
- Mascara
- Concealer
- Blush
- All over face powder
- 3 ounce atomizer with water
- Dry shampoo
Men
- Disposable razor + shaving cream
Contact Lens Wearer
- Eye solution + container + Eyeglasses
More shopping and packing lists?
Camping Gear List
Beach Packing List for Moms
Middle East Packing List
Japan Packing List
Exchange Student Packing List
Gifts for Grandparents
Gifts for Tech Loving Kids Who Travel
Disclosure
Consideration for brands mentioned and this post contains affiliate links.
