Handbag Essentials for Travel

Nothing has made me happier than the fact that I have been able to travel again. I just made it home from a family trip to Scottsdale and have a few planned for later this year. One big thing I’ve learned over the years is spending a little time getting organized before traveling can really help cut down on travel stress! Something that really helps, especially when traveling by plane, is to have your essentials within reach at all times. Thru my experience traveling, I’ve learned what items are best to have in your handbag or carry on so you are prepared. That’s why today’s post is dedicated to my handbag essentials for travel.

Handbag Essentials for Travel

Sometimes I carry on all of my luggage when I fly. My favorite carry on suitcase is Away’s Bigger Carry On. I’ll then carry a tote or bag like this as my personal item and make sure my purse will fit in there. When I check my big suitcase, I’ll just carry on a tote and my purse. But either way, it is important to have certain things with me at all times. Some stuff is important to be able to get to quickly, other items are important because having them in your purse means they are less likely to get lost.

Portable Charger

My absolute must for travel is a portable charger. There is nothing worse than your phone dying. And it only seems to happen at the absolute worst of times. Although you’ll also want to pack your regular charger, a portable charge is even better because you don’t have to have an outlet. Devices can be charged on the plane at a seat or really anywhere! Not having to be next to an outlet is great! My favorite charger is this one. It has the cords built in and is so sleek while it holds a lot of charge.

Medications

This is pretty self-explanatory but keep any prescriptions or important medications in your handbag. Even if they aren’t needed during the flight, it is important to have them in your handbag in case your checked luggage gets lost. If you are flying internationally keep your prescription items in their original packaging.

Slim Wallet

When traveling I like to pair down things in my wallet and just bring the essentials. By limiting to just a few credit cards and a couple other things, there isn’t too much bulk. So I also switch to a smaller wallet. it doesn’t take up as much room and it is easy to switch around to other bags or purses. If you are traveling abroad its nice to have a slim wallet that also can carry your passport or other travel documents.

Skincare

While I shared in this post that I have a full plane skincare routine, I know that isn’t for everyone. At a minimum keep a good moisturizer in your bag and some lip balm. Airplane air is so dry and even a short flight can wreck your skin. This moisturizer and this mask work great because they not only work on your face but can be used on your face or other areas too.

Important Travel Documents

Most things are now done electronically, but I think it is important to have a few hard copies of documents. Make a copy of your IDs, credit cards and passport and keep them safely in your purse. This way if you lose them you’ll have the information you need. If the destination is somewhere remote or somewhere where there could be wifi or service issues, have a hard copy of any important confirmation numbers or information you need. I promise it will relieve some stress to be a little bit prepared.

Passport

This may seem like another obvious one but I still want to mention it! Keep your passport with you at all times. This is super important to have with you and not tucked away or in a checked bag.

Headphones

While traveling can be really exciting there is always some downtime or waiting involved. Headphones are a lifesaver one of the travel essentials. They can help provide entertainment while you watch something on your phone or listen to music. They are also helpful if you are trying to get some sleep. If you are on a noisy plane or train, play some soft background music in your headphones and it will drown out the noise!

Nice Jewelry

While I don’t typically like to travel with my nice jewelry, sometimes I do. When I make sure that I keep it with me and don’t ever check in it a bag. The easiest way to travel with nice jewelry is to keep it in a small velvet jewelry bag. It won’t take up much room in your carry on bag or purse.

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