Sometimes when we are preparing to take a trip, I can spend hours in stores or online shopping for items I think we need to take.
I have gathered some of my favorite travel gadgets and accessories here for you and hope that they can help to save time and get you on your way to your next adventure.
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Travel Accessories
Packing Cubes
I was skeptical at first, but I must admit, I LOVE packing cubes! They make it so easy to keep your suitcase or duffel bag organized. I have several sets in multiple colors.
Baggallini Computer Tote
I carried a really cute backpack for years but recently upgraded to this Baggalllini computer tote bag. I love all the pockets and more organized space options. Everything fits perfectly and is easy to find when I need it. My purse actually fits in this bag also.
Kindle
My Kindle goes everywhere with me when I travel. Check with your local library as ours has a great collection of books that we can download right to our device. Depending on how long of a trip we are on (or how long the flights might be) I’ll download several before we depart.
Compression Socks
I wore compression socks for the first time on a flight from Los Angeles to Australia. It was a 16 hour flight that was full so the opportunity to get up and walk around was not always possible. They did such a good job we now wear them for any flight or car trip over a couple of hours. Some athletes wear them for running…I don’t need them for that.
Clorox Wipes
We’ve been traveling with Clorox wipes long before it was in style. We use them to wipe down the arm rests and tray tables on the plane to the high touch areas (door handles, light switches, telephone hand set, tv remote control) in hotel rooms or cruise ship staterooms.
Beach Accessories
Mask and Fin Snorkel Set
We bought this snorkel set for our trip to Hawaii this year. With covid still around, we preferred to have our own set. It even came with its own carry case which made it easy to travel with.
Reef Safe Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must if you are going to be at the beach or on a boat for any length of time. Some beaches require you to use products that are reef safe. Although I prefer spray on sunscreen my doc advised us to use lotion for better, longer lasting coverage.
Water Shoes
Don’t worry, this is not the only color available, but it’s the one I bought. There are many reasons to wear water shoes, rocky beaches, squishy lake bottoms, very hot sand, boating, and fishing. These water shoes are very light weight, easy to put on and dry quickly.
Ski Accessories
Cold Weather Clothing Rentals
Ski clothing can be expensive. If you are from a warm weather climate, renting ski wear is a great option. You can order online and have it delivered right to your condo or resort. They even include free return shipping, just drop it off at the front desk and head home.
Ski Butlers
Order online and have your ski rental equipment delivered to your condo or resort! No waiting in lines, or trying on ski boots in a crowded store. Steve and his team at Ski Butlers will bring the sizes you request, plus a few extra to ensure a great fit.
International Travel
Money Belt
When you’re traveling overseas or in any large city where there may be crowds of people, a money belt will help protect your credit cards and cash. It should be worn under your clothing, on the front side of your body.
European Plug Adapters
If you are traveling to Europe, you’ll need a few plug adapters. This European travel plug adapter turns one European Type C socket into 2 standard American outlets & 2 USB charging ports.
The Great Outdoors
Trekking Poles
These light weight trekking poles (a.k.a. walking sticks) fold up to easily fit in your suitcase or duffel bag. Depending on the length of the hike, I sometimes only take one with me. If I’m really adventurous and on a challenging hike, I’ll take both of them.
Thermacell Mosquito Repeller
This is one of our favorite camping items. Thermacell has an entire product line of masquito reppellers but this is the one we use. It keeps the bugs away from us while we are eating or just sitting around the fire. The best part is you don’t have to go in at night smelling of bug spray (smelling of the campfire, yes…bug spray, no).
Alaska
Major Marine Tours
Major Marine Tours is located in Seward. They offer wildlife and glacier cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park. They are a great option if you are seeing Alaska via road trip or RV. They are a locally-owned family company that has been in business over 30 years.
Contact us for discounted rates!
Hawaii
Maui – Lei Greeting
A great way to start your trip to Hawaii is a Lei greeting at the airport.
The spirit of Aloha is captured in the beautiful flower lei’s. It’s a great surprise for those you are traveling with.