Four Things That Make Traveling So Much Easier

As a 20-year-old college student studying abroad in Prague, I learned quickly that traveling well meant traveling efficiently. I could only carry about a backpack’s worth of items, which meant that everything I took with me—clothes, toiletries, and comforts for the road—had to serve a dual purpose. 

While it’s been many years since that era of my life, those lessons haven’t left my routine. In fact, I’ve long embraced things that help me travel light, without excluding comfort and style. These are my four favorite items that have made traveling much easier, from weekend trips to extended getaways.

CALPAK Travel Mini Carry-On Luggage

A hard-shell mini luggage with a dark green case and black wheels. One photo shows it closed, the other shows it opened.

Photo courtesy of CALPAK

At first glance, it may seem like this carry-on luggage could only fit, like, a t-shirt and a shoe. But if you’re heading away for a weekend, this hard-shell roller bag has enough space for three days of clothes and cosmetics—I swear. One side is deep enough for every outfit, while the other side’s zipper compartments can keep accessories organized. I recently took this with me on a trip to San Francisco, and was able to bring along two thick sweaters without a hitch.

Travel Makeup Brush Holder

Photo courtesy of Amazon

Most of us are very accustomed to packing bite-sized toiletries for a trip, but I never quite knew what to do with my makeup brushes other than just throwing them in a bag with the rest of my stuff. This silicon holder separates these tools from the bunch, keeping them clean for when they’re needed. Don’t need ‘em? You can still use this to keep pieces like a contacts case or a small bottle of perfume safe on the go.

Covelin Large Canvas Shoulder Bag

A terracotta-colored canvas shoulder bag with a white square label in the corner that says, "living, traveling, share."

Photo courtesy of Amazon

I think it’s always a good idea to have a tote bag on hand for whatever a vacation throws your way, whether that’s time at the pool, a stop at a farmers market, or a souvenir that you have to lug home separately. I like that this canvas bag lays flat on the bottom of my carry-on bag when not in use, and has a zip top for when it is. Plus, it comes in different colors. 

Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle

Photo courtesy of Amazon

When was the last time you drank out of a water fountain? And if you really had to, would you? To keep from getting dehydrated in airports or during day trips—forcing you to make some tough decisions—store this collapsible water bottle in your bag. I’ve had this one for years, and it’s come in handy on everything from international flights and road trips to theme parks and walking tours.

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