It’s been an interesting week in the land of travel as the now viral Netflix documentary “Train Wreck: Poop Cruise” has been the talk of the town. If you have watched it (or plan to), be sure to follow that viewing with a listen to this month’s episode of Whine & Wine, where we interview an involuntary participant on that disaster of a western Caribbean cruise.
On the other side of the Caribbean, the big story this week was the miraculous rescue of a child and her father after they both went overboard from the Disney Dream. The “how it happened” is still percolating but, whatever the cause, DCL’s sprint to action saved two lives. As a travel agent, the dreaded man-overboard story almost guarantees a note from a friend that reads, “See, that’s exactly why I would never cruise.” I used to respond with reason why falling overboard is nearly impossible. Now, my response ends at, “After what??”
After you climb a 53” railing? After you have so much to drink that you opt to take a quick dip? After you enter an area very much marked off limits?
People do not simply fall off cruise ships, full stop. There is always something (usually stupid) that sends someone overboard. Still, a note to those who are convinced it could happen to them: We appreciate your choice not to cruise.
And now onto the fun!!
Amazon Prime Days start tomorrow so I thought today would be the perfect day to visit those must-haves that travelers should immediately add to their carts! Even if you don’t travel often, these are great items to have tucked away for the day when you do. Most of these items are meant to offer comfort on journeys that can quickly become uncomfortable, whether a road trip, flight, or train ride.
Inflatable Seat Cushion: Put me in a seat for more than an hour and my butt falls asleep, gets sore, or both. Whether on a road trip or in an airplane seat, the first thing that gets uncomfortable is my butt which then transfers up my back and down my legs. You know that feeling? When you first stand after a long sit and feel like a newborn deer testing out its new body?
Travel Mask/Pillow: There is nothing worse than arriving at one’s destination exhausted and feeling completely devoid of a functioning brain. The reality is, when traveling long distances, there is never a great way to sleep. The goal is to make that awful sleep just a little better. Actual or neck pillows are great for the trip but then you’ve got to lug them around for your entire adventure. This combo keeps your head in a very nice, quiet cocoon (ie…no flopping around) and takes up essentially zero space in your carry-on.
Inflatable Pillow: If you must have a neck pillow, get this one. It packs down to nothing, and it’s not embarrassing at all to blow up when a total stranger is sitting next to you.
Compression Socks: There’s been a big push over the last decade to keep that blood flowing when sitting still for hours at a time. It’s not always convenient to do laps around a plane or to stop for a stroll on a road trip. Compression socks help push your blood from the bottom up, reducing kankles and the chance of blood clots. And, also, these are cute because that’s what matters.
Compression Ankle Socks: Of course, if you’re like me and cannot stand socks that go all the way up to your knees, get this. I can’t help it if my calves are claustrophobic.
Packable Cardigan: A great, neutral cardigan is a lifesaver when traveling as it eliminates the need to pack a variety of long sleeve items. It can serve to dress up an outfit, stay warm, and create a put-together look even when you are very much not put-together at all. This also packs down to about nothing meaning you can easily shove it into your purse or backpack when out and about.
Travel First Aid Kit: I am notorious for bringing along a whole pharmacy when traveling. This is great when going somewhere in which there are no stores but…where even is that anymore? A travel first aid kit should have the very basics–just enough to buy some time until you can get to a store, pharmacy, or the shipboard infirmary.
Deep Blue Rub Samples: Sore feet, sore legs, headaches…these can all bring a great vacation to a grinding halt. I have traveled with tubes of Ben Gay only to find my entire suitcase smelling menthol-fresh despite no breaches of the tube. I have traveled with BioFreeze roll-on, also a great option. A friend pointed out these Deep Blue sample packs and I was sold. These are essential on days that require miles on your feet – wipe some of your soles before bedtime and you’ll be a new person come morning. And, yes, a tad to the temples is great for knocking out a headache.
3-in-1 Collapsible Charging Station: This is only relevant for Apple product users. Android friends, you’re on your own. This charging station collapses down, making it easy to pack and offering a one-cord experience for your hotels. The days of carrying sixteen different chargers can quietly be put behind you.
Portable Charger: Did I just say you could go with one charger? I meant two. There is nothing worse than being out exploring and realizing that your phone is down to 10%. In today’s world, we use our phones as our cameras, which means vacation battery life is a different animal than everyday battery life. A portable charger is essential!
Collapsible European Plug Adaptor: This is a great option for those traveling abroad and a great option for those who might someday travel abroad. Buy one now and stash it away because, one day, you might have a last minute panic about using your favorite hair straightener in Europe and then, eureka!, you’ll remember that you’ve got this adaptor stashed away. Be your own hero.
Portable Fan: Menopause, anyone? Lifesaver. Plus, I really just don’t like “stagnant” air. Plus, don’t we all need some sort of white noise to sleep? There are so many great reasons to buy this fan. It also collapses beautifully, so it won’t take up much real estate in your suitcase. I promise, you’ll never leave home without it.
Convertible Sling: A great bag is essential for travel. I used to grab whatever was cutest in my purse closet but then struggle to fit all needed things into my cute bag while traipsing through parks or the rainforest or museums. This bag is both cute and versatile. You can easily personalize it, if needed, with a quick stop to the craft store’s iron-on aisle. Plus, it’s incredibly affordable so, yes, you can grab multiple colors.
Water Bottle Sling: For those who prefer to travel lighter, this water bottle sling is ideal. There is room for a large water bottle, which reduces the chances of saying “Anyone see my water bottle?” before backtracking to find it. It also has a small front pocket that offers room for your phone, wallet, or earbuds.
Brita Water Bottle: Speaking of water bottles…did you know that the BEST way to save money while on vacation is by bringing your own refillable water bottle? This is especially true if your bougie children insist on filtered hydration. I’m serious–head to any theme park and hydrating properly can quickly run into the hundreds per day for a family. This water bottle is a total money saver and it has its own filter so…multiple problems solved.
Airtags: I’ve recently joined the “Airtags in the Suitcase” club. I keep them in my travel bin but to remove their batteries when not in use. And, yes, I have a bin for all my travel goods. You should, too. Back to the Airtags. I just had clients on an Italy tour that included flights, trains, boats, and taxis. One of their pieces of luggage opted for a different flight from Dulles but they were able to track it throughout their first days. This allowed them to enjoy touring without feeling like they had to sit at the hotel waiting for the suitcase to show.
JetBag: For my wine drinkers, you’re welcome. Another great way to save vacation money is to bring along your favorite bottle of wine. There is a risk, of course, that you’ll arrive with a suitcase full of wine-soaked clothes, but that risk is all but eliminated with these JetBags. Pro-tip: Cruise Lines typically allow you to bring two bottles of wine per cabin. Guess how mine gets there?
Shout Wipes & Laundry Sheets: I mean, honestly, we should all be carrying Shout Wipes in our purses and cars and backpacks. These are a miracle when your dinner fork gets away from you. When traveling, most spills happen on the very first day because…why wouldn’t they? With these, you can clean up any messes rather than explaining for the rest of your trip why it looks like you’re lactating.
Happy Shopping and Happy Traveling!
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