It’s been a while since I’ve done a travel gear list for travelers. Since I’m preparing for several trips in 2019, I’ve been on full research mode for travel accessories that would help me make the most of my travels.
So I’ve compiled and updated my Go-To list of items that have served me well or that I plan to buy:
(Part One of Two)
PACKING EFFICIENCY
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Compass Rose Packing Cube by Travel Fashion Girl
When my friend Alex of Travel Fashion Girl first announced that she’s launching her own line of travel accessories starting with the Compass Rose Packing Cubes (Amazon, $34.99), I pre-ordered them immediately! This gal is obsessed with minimal and efficient packing without sacrificing style. She literally weighs clothing items and would not hesitate leaving a cute top behind if it tips the scale! She adapts a no-nonsense approach to carry-on only travel packing.
I love that they’re not just packing cubes. They’re an organizational packing system to help you travel carryon only. There are four packing cubes in each set. Each set has two grey and two red packing cubes and each cube features a number from one to four allowing you to maximize organization. You can use the 4 numbers and 2 colors to organize using 1 of 6 unique packing strategies:
- Use one packing cube number per family member
- Assign daily outfit per number per day
- Color code for mixed weather trips (grey/cold, red/hot)
- Use numbers to differentiate clothes for each activity type
- Pack for two destination by color coding
- Separate tops, bottoms, dresses, etc by number
Aside from the amazing quality, Travel Fashion Girl provides video tutorials on how to best use these cubes. I’ve been using them all year while following her fantastic packing guides, and I know I’ll be packing well for my 2019 trips.
2. Osprey Farpoint 55 Backpack
I’ve been traveling with wheeled luggage but decided to try the backpack route this year. After a lot of research by reading reviews and asking fellow travelers, I chose the Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack (Amazon, $159.73 for Jasper Red).
The factors that led me to go with the Farpoint were fit and comfort, capacity and organizational features.
As a physical therapist, I appreciated the suspension system and the well-padded shoulder straps, backing and hip belt. The Farpoint 55 is comprised of two separate backpacks: a 40L backpack and a 15L detachable daypack. The main 40L pack is front-loading, which works well with my Compass Rose travel cubes, and has lockable zippers.
3. Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Backpack
As happy as I am with my Osprey Farpoint 55, I admit I’m a little jealous of Glen’s recent buy: a Cotopaxi Allpa 28L (Amazon, $170). I love Cotopaxi as a company and my Luzon Del Dia 18L Daypack. But when I saw Glen’s new pack, I immediately made plans to use it on our of out trips to pack my travel gear. It opens up like a suitcase in the middle and has zippered compartments, which is great for organization. I really dig the look of the TPU-coated polyester fabric. I’ll be on the lookout for a sale and add the bigger 35L version to the pack arsenal.
TRANSIT COMFORT
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Travelrest Inflatable travel pillow
Glen and I have purchased and tried several travel pillows including the TRTL. We haven’t found one that we absolutely love. They’re either too bulky, not supportive enough, doesn’t accommodate wearing headphones or earbuds, or is just downright weird (I’m looking at you, Ostrich Pillow).
I understand that there will probably no way I can be comfortable in an Economy Seat on a 12 hour flight. But until I find something better (or upgraded to Business/First Class), I will always return to the Travelrest Inflatable Travel Pillow (Amazon, $23.95)
I have learned not to overly inflate the pillow to keep from bouncing my head off a super-firm surface. It has been extremely durable, serving me for over 6 years now.
2. Linner NC80 Active Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones
I wasn’t too eager to get noise-canceling headphones until a few trips ago when Glen lent me his pair. It really made a difference in shutting out a chatty guy trying to impress his seatmate in the row infront of me. Right now, we’re using the Linner NC80 Active Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones (Amazon, $97.99), which is a great middle of the road option.
3. Bucky 40 Blinks eye mask
I lost my favorite Brookstone eye mask this year, so I’m looking forward to getting a new one. I have the Bucky 40 Blinks eye mask (Amazon, $9.99). It has generally favorable reviews, so for the price, I’m going with this one. I may even spring for a few extra dollars for one with fancier colors or print.
Part Two (to be continued):
TRAVEL TOILETRIES
FUNCTIONAL FASHION
TECH GEAR
Some or all of the products/services listed above have affiliate links. This means that I may get a commission for a sale made. There is no extra cost to you. And I would not list any product/service that I do not believe in or wouldn’t buy. Prices quoted are accurate as time of posting.
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