Let me start by saying that I always travel with a backpack. For the most part when I go places, I try to pack as light as I can, but I keep my backpack updated and packed at all times. This allows me to get ready for last minute trips with minimal stress.

So what’s in there? I’m glad you asked. Since they’ve changed the TSA flight regulations, I have learned that quart sized clear storage bags are my friend, and quite frankly, they do help to keep everything organized. Since I travel to all different types of places, with all different types of amenities, I’ve learned to bring things I find necessary and not to just assume that my accommodations will provide them. I transfer my preferred brands into travel bottles and refill them when I get home so I’m ready to go at a moment’s notice.

General Hygiene: First and foremost, I pack shampoo and conditioner. Now I know some people will say that most hotels provide those for their guests, but I don’t always stay in hotels and because my hair is long, I prefer to have my own that I know works with my hair type. Secondly, I bring a good lotion. I find that especially when I fly on a commercial flight, my skin gets dry. Additionally, when I spend days trekking through new territory, I’m not as conscious of my water consumption which wreaks havoc on my skin. The lotions provided by most of the hotels I’ve stayed at have been water based and more for scent rather than moisture which defeats the purpose. In that same clear bag I throw my other liquids/gel items, perfume, liquid bandage, etc… and I try to keep that on top for easy access when going through airport security.

Medical supplies: I try to be prepared for most annoyances. I keep a small bottle of Ibuprofen, several band-aids in different shapes and sizes, antiseptic or alcohol wipes, gauze, and first aid tape. There are several places to buy kits, but I just put mine together in a bag. The only thing missing in this bag is the liquid bandage which I mentioned above. In my opinion, the liquid bandage is essential because it is so useful. Not only does it seal a small cut (especially in places where band-aids won’t stay), but can be used to prevent chafing from something like a sandal strap or help to seal blisters. On several vacations it has been my life saver. Now I’m not a medical professional (far from it), nor do I want to provide medical advice- I’m merely telling you what works for me here. When I go to Europe, I pack a few other items, but I’ll go into those in a future post.

Electronics: I keep a bag of everything I need to charge my electronics in the U.S.- I’m specifying this because I have a few things I add for European travel that I pack separately because of the difference in electrical current and plugs in other countries. For U.S. travel I have a charging cord for my phone and e-reader and a charging block that has 4 USB ports. I bought these items specifically for travel and they live in my backpack. I have separate ones that I use in my every day life. **For European travel I have a travel adapter/power converter. This is essential because many American electronics run on only 110/120 volts – in order to not fry them, you’ll need something to power down the much higher current used in most other counties. Most converters come with a bevy of plugs for the wall socket and several spots for you to charge your electronics on the one converter. Mine has about 3 regular 3-prong sockets and 4 USB ports.

Hair accessories: I always keep some items I can use to put hair up like a clip and pony tail holder. I’ve been caught in some heat waves and I’ve found that with long hair- these items are invaluable. I have two brushes- one to really get knots out and another for styling. Again- I purchased these specifically for travel and I have separate ones at home. There’s nothing worse than getting somewhere and realizing that you forgot something as simple as a brush then have to take time out of sightseeing to go find a store and buy one. I also have a travel dual voltage straightening iron for my hair. It’s not great, but it works well enough- even in Europe. And lastly, a travel hair dryer. This item comes in and out of the backpack depending on where I’m going. Here’s where I will say that most hotels, B&Bs, etc… do provide a perfectly functional one so if I have the time to check on whether one is available, I will remove it right before I travel. Many of you are probably thinking that I don’t NEED the straightener or hair dryer- and you’re probably right in cases where I’d be roughing it in a sense, but my weirdly wavy pseudo frizzy hair would say otherwise, I think.

Miscellaneous: These items come in and out depending on the trip. For European travel, I always pack a change of clothes. Suitcases get delayed and lost (it’s happened to me more than once) and even with travel insurance, you’ll want at least a change of clothes when you arrive at your destination. Furthermore, I pack a jacket, sweater, or sweatshirt even when I’m traveling in the summer and my location is supposed to be warm. I’ve been on flights where it’s been really cold and if you read travel articles often, you’ll understand why I prefer not to use the airline blankets.

I’ve literally had my backpack since I was 18 years old (without mentioning my age, that was a long time ago) –it has gone everywhere with me and has lots of pockets and such so I can organize my items. It’s even been a point of contention with my other half when we travel because it’s ugly and he hates it. However, for me it is functional and I prefer functionality to beauty when I travel. Sadly though, it does not have a trolley sleeve (this is the sleeve that helps secure the backpack on top of a carry-on or checked wheeled bag that slides over the luggage handle). I’ve tried everything to secure my current backpack to my luggage, but nothing is full-proof like the trolley sleeve. In recent years, with more layovers, connecting flights and my penchant for always bringing a carry-on if I can, I’ve decided that I needed a backpack that has this feature so I just purchased one that I will be trying out next weekend. I hope it will serve me as well as this one did. Wish me luck!