Things I Never Travel Without

As the time approaches for me to pack my pack and hit the road again (or at least the tarmac), I figured it would be a good thing to throw down some travel-related posts. (Still holding out hope I'll be some sort of a travel writer in the future I guess...)

Now, after many years of trial and error and success, I consider myself an experienced traveler, that has a pretty good grip on how to most-effectively travel. But I can still remember the times when I was just getting started, and had no idea what I was doing or how to approach a trip.

For example, when I went to the UK for winter break six years ago, I took with me a carry-on sized suitcase that was full to the brim and overweight. Now, for a two-week trip in a place that's seeing snowfall, that might not be so bad. But unfortunately, I didn't stop there. I had this must-sit-on-it-to-shut-it carry-on, plus a large suitcase. Also quite suitable for a very, very long trip, but incredibly unnecessary for the one I was going on. We're talking the kind you can fit a couple toddlers in. Not that I've ever done that...

I took at least three different heavy coats along, so I wouldn't always have to wear the same one (uh, gross, same outfit every day???), and an excess of everything else as well. How long was the trip? Two weeks. Yeah. I literally cringe when I think about how over-packed I was and how foolish we must have looked lugging our massive suitcases in through the hostel doorway. Not to mention how much in extra baggage fees I had to pay because, well, RyanAir. And my idiocy. Mostly my idiocy. Or ignorance, if I want to be kind with myself.

But not anymore - no way!

That year abroad, I learned how to travel with just a backpack for a weekend, a week, and then soon, two or more. Figuring out it's ok to wear the same exact thing four days in a row as long as you change your panties (and socks) was revolutionary, and something I'm forever grateful to believe in. Since that time, I have gone on three month-long travels with no more than 10-15 kilos (22-33lbs), and sorted out how to do it with even less. (I've gotta say though, being such an oil and daily devotional freak does not help the pack-light cause. Gosh!)

On Wednesday, I'll be taking off for 1-2 weeks (still no return flight), and am planning on traveling with nothing more than my daypack and utility belt. I'll be posting closer to that day (AKA like tonight when I've actually started/finished the packing process) so you can see how I manage it. Something I, too, eagerly await seeing. Hehe.

However, while I have "mastered" the art of packing light for long trips, there are a few things I never, ever budge on. I'm sure for every traveler it varies, but I'm about to share with you the five things I absolutely, under no circumstance whatsoever other than forgetfulness, do not go on a trip without. Other than clothes and a toothbrush, these are the few things I won't leave behind when I go out of town. It doesn’t matter if I’m just going somewhere for a night or a weekend, a couple weeks or packing up for months, these items are not going to be left behind:

1. Tea Tree Oil. This stuff is magic, and has so many uses! I use it like you would rubbing alcohol or any other disinfectant, and also as a spot treatment for pimples. Earring caused an ear infection? Tea tree oil. Got a cut? Tea tree oil. Painful zit? Tea tree oil. There are many other things you can do with it, but these are my main uses, and I've never regretting having it with me. (Tip: buy it online for a more reasonable price. And don't forget to make sure it's carry-on ounces!)

2. Nail clippers. Before I started climbing, it was a nail file, now, nail clippers. Without fail, I seem to always have something go haywire with a fingernail or two whilst traveling. Constantly shoving things in my backpack, using my hands for, well, most things, this and that, here and there, you never know. But one thing I do know: the times I have accidentally forgotten clippers or a file, I have regretted it and ended up with my fingers in my mouth to do the job.

3. Sharpies. Because: you never know when you’re going to have to hitchhike.

4. A journal (and something to write with). I’m a writer, having something to write in is an absolute must. Plus, it’s one the main place I converse with God. (Tip: bring more than one pen/pencil. You just never know, and it's no fun to be in the middle of a writing flow in the middle of a forest or park and run out of ink.)

5. Yoga mat. Life is yoga, yoga is life. And so it goes, that if my body is headed somewhere, my yoga mat is, too. Spontaneous flows are my favorite, and it's light enough and easy enough to carry that I never have wished it wasn't with me.

So there they are, the five things I don't ever go anywhere without!

I've gotta say though, now that I enjoy climbing, I often bring my climbing gear (harness, chalk bag, shoes, belay tool) with me, too. I'm still undecided on whether it will be joining me in Nicaragua and Costa Rica the next couple weeks, but I'm leaning towards no on this flash-trip. AKA 1-2 week vacation to the normal working population. It has become like my yoga mat to me, an extra limb I can't leave behind, but I think my intention for this quickie is a little different. Plus, I don't want too much dangling off the outside of my pack on this adventure. We'll see what happens!

What are a few of the things you never go anywhere without? Have you got some go-to's? I'd love to hear what you guys have to say! Let's get engaged! {{ Comment Box Below }}

Sending joyful thoughts and gratitude to you all on this overcast Friday!

Hope you have a fantastic weekend!

Blessings, Love, Light & Wonder

-Allie-Sun <3