Packing Essentials for your next trip 🧳


Happy Tuesday!

I've been packing for my next trip, so I thought it would be the perfect time to answer a question I get a lot: what do you pack that you actually use on all your trips.

Here are a few things I bring on almost every trip. They make my life a lot easier when I'm on the road.

  • Dry bag: Perfect for beach days, boat tours, kayaking, and protecting your electronics if you get caught in the rain.
  • Microfiber towel: Lightweight, dries quickly, and doesn't take up much space. Great for hostels, beaches, and unexpected swims.
  • Sandals: I always bring a pair for the beach, hotel pools, hostel showers, and just giving my feet a break after walking all day.
  • Portable fan: One of my favorite purchases for hot destinations. It's been a lifesaver on buses, trains, and even in hot hotel rooms.
  • Kindle: I read a lot on travel days, and it's much easier than carrying multiple books.
  • GoPro: I use it for snorkeling, waterfalls, rainy days, and anywhere I don't want to risk my phone.
  • Waterproof phone case: Whether you're at the beach, on a boat tour, or snorkeling, it's nice knowing your phone is protected. I also like that I can still take photos and videos without worrying about getting it wet.
  • Portable charger: I never leave for the day without one. Between Google Maps, taking photos, and translating things, my phone battery doesn't last all day.
  • Medications: I always pack Dramamine, ibuprofen, Imodium, allergy medicine, and a few Band-Aids. I'd rather have them than spend time trying to find a pharmacy in another country.
  • Travel locks: I always pack at least one for hostel lockers and sometimes another for my backpack during long bus or train rides.

These aren't the only things I pack, but they're some of the items I end up using on almost every trip.

I hope this helps you pack for your next trip and add some essentials to your bag that you may not have had before.

As always, you can reply to this email if you want to chat!

Have a great week :)

Sarah

P.S. If you missed last week's newsletter, my Patreon is live! And I have a promo running! Use code WELCOME by August 31 to get 50% off your first month. If you join the premium tier by the end of August, you'll also receive my September postcard from my travels.


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Travel Resources

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