Yahoo turned to a seasoned travel expert to share her top packing tips, covering everything from backpacks to beauty essentials and smart travel must-haves. With winter fast approaching, you may be itching to get away. If you’ve ever struggled with packing, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. We reached out to Sakkara Barnwell, a veteran flight attendant who’s explored 14 countries across four continents, to reveal the game-changing items she swears by for any trip.
Whether you’re heading to Florida for the holidays, a tropical island for some relaxation, or embarking on a European adventure, Barnwell’s expert picks are bound to help you travel smarter. And the best part? Prices start at just $7! Read on for her top essentials that will transform your travel experience.
- The Perfect Personal Bag for Flights
Finding the right personal bag for your carry-on can be tricky with strict size limits. Barnwell recommends a versatile bag that offers thoughtful organization: “It has a proper laptop storage area, space for a portable charger, and plenty of pockets!” With a bag that keeps everything in place, you can pack efficiently and travel stress-free.
- Packing Cubes for Effortless Organization
Once you’ve sorted your bag, use packing cubes to maximize space and stay organized. Barnwell loves how these cubes consolidate clothes and keep everything compact. “No more Ziplocs for me!” she says. Plus, they make unpacking a breeze.
- Moisturize on the Go
Dehydration on planes is inevitable, leaving your skin dry and ashy. Barnwell swears by Palmer’s lotion, which keeps her hands soft and smooth despite the dry cabin air. For convenience, decant a small amount into a 3-oz. travel-friendly bottle to keep your skin hydrated during long flights.
- Stay Charged with a Portable Power Bank
We’ve all experienced the frustration of a dead phone on the go. Barnwell recommends a reliable charger that can power up your devices multiple times. This portable charger fits perfectly in your carry-on and can even charge two phones at once, so you and your travel buddy are always powered up.
- Pillow That Doubles as Extra Luggage
Space is often limited, but Barnwell has found a clever way to make extra room. This hollow pillow can be filled with soft clothes, giving you an extra storage option that doubles as a pillow. Plus, it helps you avoid extra baggage fees.
- Cozy Slipper Socks for Comfort and Cleanliness
For long flights, comfy slipper socks with waterproof rubber bottoms are a must. They keep your feet warm while protecting them from airport and airplane floors. “Easily tucked away in a carry-on,” says Barnwell, these socks are practical and cozy.
- Affordable Earbuds for Entertainment
Barnwell also suggests packing a pair of affordable earbuds for music, podcasts, or meditations during your flight. These waterproof and sweatproof earbuds offer 10 hours of battery life and are perfect for long journeys or waiting at the airport.
- Universal Adapter for International Travel
If you’re traveling abroad, a universal adapter is essential. Barnwell never leaves home without one, as it fits over 150 types of plugs. It ensures you can safely charge your devices without worrying about fry-outs in foreign countries.
- Silk Pillowcase for Smooth Hair and Skin
The secret to maintaining healthy skin and hair while traveling? Silk. Barnwell loves a silk pillowcase that prevents dryness and keeps her curls fresh. It’s a small investment that goes a long way in keeping your skin moisturized and your hair smooth during travel.
- Versatile Pashmina for Multiple Uses
A pashmina is a travel gem, says Barnwell. “It’s large enough to be a mini blanket on a cold flight, a shawl in conservative countries, a scarf on chilly nights, and even a sarong on the beach.” This versatile piece will quickly become one of your favorite travel companions.
- Packable Waterproof Jacket
If you’re unsure about the weather at your destination, Barnwell suggests a packable waterproof jacket that’s lightweight and easy to store. You’ll be ready for any rainy day without wasting valuable luggage space. If it gets wet, just stash it in a waterproof bag to keep everything else dry.
These smart packing tips and travel essentials are sure to make your journey more comfortable, organized, and stress-free. Whether you’re preparing for a business trip, a family vacation, or a relaxing getaway, these clever picks from a seasoned traveler will have you feeling like a pro. And with some of these items starting at just $7, they’re affordable and practical, too! Happy travels!
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