Latest news with #travelessentials
CNET
2 days ago
- Health
- CNET
I've Traveled Everywhere, and These Things Always Make the Cut
June's here, and that means vacation season is officially in full swing. Whether you're jetting off for a beach getaway, taking a road trip to visit family or heading out on a quick weekend escape, what you pack can make or break your trip. The right gear can keep you comfortable, organized and stress-free -- while forgetting key items can turn a relaxing getaway into a string of overpriced convenience store stops. As someone who travels often, I've had my fair share of packing wins and total disasters. Even though I try to plan meticulously, I've still shown up without socks, chargers or even pajamas more times than I'd like to admit. I've learned the hard way which items I should never skip when getting ready for a trip. If you want to avoid last-minute stress and enjoy your vacation from the moment you leave the house, these essentials are worth adding to your checklist. You might not be likely to forget things like clothes or shoes, but what about less obvious items that'll make your trip smoother and more comfortable? Whether you already have your trip booked for this summer or you're still planning, these are the 13 things you should never forget to pack. For more travel tips, learn about the best way to pack a carry-on and the best time to book flights for the cheapest tickets. 1. Hygiene items and prescriptions On your travels, the last thing you want to forget is any essential hygiene or medical item. While you can easily get more deodorant to stay fresh on your trip, it's much more important to remember medications that will be difficult to replace once you arrive at your destination. This includes contact lenses, birth control, prescription glasses and any medications. For women, most times we can plan a trip around our cycle, but sometimes life happens. It can be very costly and uncomfortable to be on a trip without sanitary items, especially when you need them. So, just make it a habit to pack a few. It's better to have them and not need them than to not have them and need them. Also, don't forget to pack sunscreen when you're traveling in the summer or if you're visiting a particularly sunny or tropical destination. 2. A reusable water bottle Bringing a reusable bottle saves money and keeps you you're spending hours walking through city streets or going on a full-day hike in a national park, you're going to need to hydrate frequently. It's not always easy to access water in certain destinations -- not to mention how brutally hot or humid it can be in certain climates -- so taking a refillable bottle with you is always helpful. Sure, you could purchase water bottles at your destination, but water is often expensive in popular tourist hubs or hotels, and grocery or convenience stores aren't always nearby, especially in rural or woodland areas. Here's a list of some great water bottles. If your destination's tap water isn't drinkable, think about a water bottle with a built-in filter. 3. Portable power banks When traveling, you're likely going to be using your phone more -- pulling up boarding passes, looking up places to go and directions to those places, keeping in touch with friends and family back home and taking hundreds of pictures. All of this drains your battery, and it can be frustrating to interrupt your busy itinerary of sightseeing to charge your phone. Plus, access to power outlets is never guaranteed. That's why it's always good to bring a portable power bank with you. Power banks put the power in your pocket for easy access and usually aren't too expensive. I recommend investing in one that's not only reliable, but can also charge your phone multiple times before needing to be charged itself. 4. Towelettes Wipes let you sanitize your hands and certain "high-touch" bus tours or subway rides can be super fun, they're not always the tidiest of places. During your travels, you're likely going to have to grab "high-touch" objects like remote controls, light switches, telephones, doorknobs, faucet handles, etc. so it's important to keep hygiene in mind to prevent illness. Washing your hands might not always be an immediate option so pack a few towelettes with you. Plus, small wipes should make it through security checkpoints without issue. 5. A quick-dry towel Towels come in handy and you never know when one might save the day. Maybe you spilled on your outfit or got caught in a rainstorm and need to dry off quickly. Or maybe you arrived at your hotel or Airbnb only to find they didn't provide towels. Quick-drying towels are not the most luxurious option, but they're lightweight and easy to stow away while traveling. Most importantly, they dry super fast so you can clean up and pack it in your bag without too much of a wait. 6. Plastic bags If there's one travel necessity I swear by, it's a plastic bag. Need to pack up your muddy shoes? Plastic bag. Want to separate worn dirty clothing from your clean items? Plastic bag. While plastic or trash bags are not the most glamorous travel item, they have a multitude of uses and won't take up much space in your luggage. It's available in four colors: grey, dark grey, blue and black. Pamela Vachon/CNET 7. A packable backpack I consistently pack too much in my carry-on luggage. I want to bring my cameras, hat, sunglasses, a change of clothes and some toiletries just in case my checked back is lost. But all of these items quickly add up to leave very little room in my backpack. And usually, I don't want to take them all with me as I tool around the destination I'm visiting. I suggest taking another smaller, preferably foldable backpack that you can use as you tour. This will keep you from having to pack and repack your carry-on bag. Plus, you can use it to carry the souvenirs you pick up. 8. Bottle protectors I come back from almost every trip I take with a bottle of wine or specialty beer as a souvenir. I love bringing a special bottle of beer, liquor or wine home to share with friends and family as I tell them about my adventures. But before that can happen, the bottle has to actually make it through the trip home. And that means you'll need to bring a form of protection. Many people swear by the wine-bottle-in-the-sock method or will swaddle the glass bottles with their clothes, but I prefer to pack an actual protective bottle bag. I recommend a protective bottle bag with padding and a zipper top that will help protect your clothing. 9. Dryer sheets Stinky shoes? Just use a dryer sheet. Alina Bradford/CNET For me, this is a no-brainer. When you're walking miles and miles through various train or bus stations, airports and cities, you're going to work up quite the sweat. And your shoes will likely pay the price. Bring several dryer sheets with you to help mask the smell of your shoes. Upon returning to the hotel or Airbnb at the end of your day, simply place a dryer sheet in each shoe to help aerate them. 10. A universal plug adapter A travel adapter is a must-have. Ceptics/Amazon You probably already know this. I'm going to remind you anyway: If you're traveling abroad, you need a plug adapter. Outlets in the US are a different size from outlets overseas, which means if you intend to use electronic devices in a different country, you'll need an adapter. You could try to buy one at your destination, but they can be expensive and hard to find. It's best to pack one with you before you go to save time and money. 11. A travel router OK, this might seem like overkill, but a travel router has saved me on more than one occasion. Internet connection is not always reliable when traveling or in certain rural areas, and establishing a wired connection is almost always going to be more dependable than wireless (especially in hotels). I feel much safer traveling knowing I have a stable connection to call in case of an emergency, keep up with the group I'm traveling with or connect with loved ones back home. Here's some more good news: Travel routers are usually small, affordable and easy to pack. You can buy one for anywhere between $20 and $100, and they're usually not much larger than a wall adapter. 12. A packable down or rain jacket No matter if you're heading to a tropical destination or hitting the streets of a European city, it's always wise to bring an extra down or rain jacket (or umbrella if you have the space). Even if you check the forecast religiously, you could still get caught in a freak rainstorm or have a chillier night than expected. One of the best options that won't weigh down your suitcase is bringing a packable down or rain jacket that can easily fold up. Trust me, it's better to be safe than sorry. 13. A method to document memories I'm quite the shutterbug. I love documenting my trips with photos and videos, and sharing those with my friends and family. I also like to be able to look back and reminisce on my many adventures, the people I met along the way and the core memories made. To do so, I need a way to document them. Most people probably just use their iPhone, but if you're like me, you quickly run out of storage with the thousands of photos taken every year and need another option. I prefer shooting on a film camera, but since one scan from the airport security CT scanner could destroy your unprocessed film, I've found another camera that has quickly become a travel essential. My go-to camera is the Camp Snap digital camera. It's lightweight, rechargeable and screen-free yet still provides the vintage film look I like so much. It's also compact enough to fit in any checked or carry-on bag, making it the ideal vacation camera to capture all of your important moments. No matter what method or camera you select, always make sure you have something that can help you remember your meaningful journeys. Final thoughts Traveling can be a life-altering experience that creates memories that last a lifetime. But before you can experience all the magic of the cities around the world, you have to pack. And packing the right way can make all the difference by reducing stress and saving you money in the long run. While everyone might have a different idea of what items are essential for traveling, the 13 recommendations above are what I have found to be the most useful during my own trips. If you're planning a vacation and are stressed about preparing, we have plenty of resources to help. Get ready for your next trip with these hacks and tips.
The Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Lidl is selling a £6 foldable backpack that's perfect for Ryanair flights this summer
LIDL is launching a £6 foldable backpack in stores that's ideal for Ryanair flights this summer. Shoppers can snap up the travel essential from Thursday (June 5) in their local Lidl store. The 20litre capacity bag comes with a three-year warranty and unfolded measures H42.5 × W28 × D17cm. When not in use, it folds into its own pocket so you can pack it away into your hold luggage with no fuss - ideal for flights. The rucksack, which can hold 15kg maximum weight, also comes with padded adjustable shoulder straps. Of course, as is the case with all "Middle of Lidl" items, the foldable rucksack won't be around for long so you'll have to be quick if you want one. You also won't be able to order it online and will have to head down to your nearest Lidl store. You can find your nearest branch by using the retailer's store finder tool - The tool brings up your closest branch and also it's opening hours. Always remember to shop around when buying something like this though as you might find the same product or similar for less elsewhere. Websites like Trolley, Price Spy and Price Runner all let you compare prices on thousands of items. You can also use the Google Shopping/Product tab to quickly scan the internet and see how much retailers are selling products for. Items to always buy at Lidl We had a quick look to see if any other major retailers are selling a 20litre foldable rucksack for less than £6, but couldn't find any. Decathlon has one for £13 while Mountain Warehouse is selling one for £9. If the foldable rucksack doesn't take your fancy, Lidl has a host of other products in its Middle aisles at the minute. Shoppers can pick up fans to tackle the heat from £30, indoor and outdoor plants from £2 and bedding from £3.50. The retailer is also selling a shark arch water slide for £15 as well. How to save money at Lidl Lidl reduces items at the start of the day, and the best deals can be found between 7am and 8am, when most stores open. Shoppers can often find cooked meats, salmon fillets and breads reduced by 30% or more. Not only does Lidl have its own range of reasonably priced alcohol, it also has its own knock-offs of branded favourites – so say cheers to its bargain booze. Everyone knows about the "Middle of Lidl" – it's here where you'll find a load of random stuff you didn't realise you needed, at decent prices. But if you are hoping to avoid spending more than you planned, you can check what will be in the "Middle of Lidl" on the supermarket's website in advance. The Middle of Lidl is refreshed every Thursday and Sunday. Shoppers can also keep tabs on what's appearing in the "Pick of the Week" section on the Lidl website. The discounts happen every Thursday and are usually on fruit, vegetables, and meat. How to bag a bargain SUN Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to find a cut-price item and bag a bargain… Sign up to loyalty schemes of the brands that you regularly shop with. Big names regularly offer discounts or special lower prices for members, among other perks. Sales are when you can pick up a real steal. Retailers usually have periodic promotions that tie into payday at the end of the month or Bank Holiday weekends, so keep a lookout and shop when these deals are on. Sign up to mailing lists and you'll also be first to know of special offers. It can be worth following retailers on social media too. When buying online, always do a search for money off codes or vouchers that you can use and are just two sites that round up promotions by retailer. Scanner apps are useful to have on your phone. app has a scanner that you can use to compare prices on branded items when out shopping. Bargain hunters can also use B&M's scanner in the app to find discounts in-store before staff have marked them out. And always check if you can get cashback before paying which in effect means you'll get some of your money back or a discount on the item.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
6 Costco Items To Buy for Your Carry-On Luggage
There's a fine line to tread when shopping for items to go in your carry-on luggage at Costco. While shoppers won't be able to find travel-size items for sale at $1 prices, certain bulk buys and slightly more expensive items are worth spending the money on to keep using after travel has wrapped. Find Out: Learn More: GOBankingRates reviewed the Costco website for carry-on must-haves and carefully avoided including any out-of-stock items on this roundup. Keep reading to find out which seven Costco items should be in your carry-on luggage. Price: $79.99 If you're planning to check luggage in addition to bringing along a carry-on and don't already own Apple AirTags, now's a good time to make the investment. Apple AirTags help keep track of checked luggage and find any lost items. All you need to do is attach them to your checked items and you'll be able to see these items in the Find My app. Each set includes four individual AirTags — enough for your own checked luggage or to help track the checked luggage of family members. And in the event you're asked to check your carry-on because there isn't enough overhead compartment space, you can enjoy peace of mind in knowing where your carry-on is by adding an AirTag to it. Also See: Check Out: Price: $319.99 At nearly $320 a pair, Bose QuietComfort SC noise-canceling headphones are the most expensive item on this roundup but many travelers would argue they're among the most essential travel purchases. Whether you're on a short or long flight, these headphones help cancel out the noise of other passengers around you so you can read, work or sleep in peace and quiet. Each pair has a battery life that lasts up to 24 hours and includes a soft case for storage. Discover More: Price: $32.99 Give yourself on-the-go immune support and an energy boost as you travel by tucking a few Emergen-C packets into your carry-on. The bulk set at Costco has 120 packets inside for $32.99 in individual packaging. Slide a handful of packets into your carry-on and save on space that a bottle of gummy supplements might take up. As an added bonus, every box includes delicious flavors like super orange, raspberry and tangerine. Price: $29.99 Travelers that experience swelling in their feet and ankles during long flights know all about the importance of investing in compression socks. Costco has a few compression sock offerings available to shop including the Skineez brand which includes a two-pack of ultra soft socks designed to soothe tired and achy legs and feet. Costco members spend only about $15 per pair. Price: $11.99 Buy overpriced granola bars at an airport store or grab a bulk box of Quaker granola bars and add a few into your carry-on? Savvy travelers know to pick up the 60-count box of Quaker granola bars at Costco and pack some bars for their flight to save money. Every box includes 30 chocolate chip and 30 peanut butter granola bars, leaving you with plenty to snack on and enjoy once the trip is over. See More: Price: $21.99 A pack or two of gum from the Extra mint variety pack should be in your carry-on. Not only does chewing gum help with ear popping during flights, but it helps keep breath minty fresh as you arrive at your destination. Just don't wait to buy your gum at the airport. Shop the 18-count pack at Costco and tuck a few gum packages into your carry-on while saving the rest for later to help save on space. Editor's note: Prices and availability are accurate as of May 30, 2025, and are subject to change. More From GOBankingRates Surprising Items People Are Stocking Up On Before Tariff Pains Hit: Is It Smart? Clever Ways To Save Money That Actually Work in 2025 This article originally appeared on 6 Costco Items To Buy for Your Carry-On Luggage
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Travel + Leisure
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Travel + Leisure
I Review Clothes for a Living, and These Are the Only 12 Amazon Basics You Need for Summer Trips—From $10
Looking stylish on all your summer trips—without overpacking—starts with well-chosen essentials. A strong summer capsule wardrobe doesn't require dozens of options, but a handful of versatile pieces like basic tank tops and flowy maxi skirts. Think lightweight layers and go-anywhere staples that make getting dressed on vacation (and at home) feel effortless. With the right basics, your suitcase stays light, and your outfits stay on point. I pulled together 12 Amazon basics that are easy to mix, match, and layer no matter where you're headed. The Anrabess Maxi Dress, for example, works just as well with the Rihero Leather Sandals and a sun hat for the beach as it does with New Balance sneakers and the Araz&Cloz Cropped Cardigan for a walking tour—or dressed up with heels for dinner. From wide-leg pants to comfy lounge sets, these are the only summer wardrobe staples you'll need. Prices start at just $10. Best tank top: Anrabess Tank Top, $10 (originally $15) Anrabess Tank Top, $10 (originally $15) Best vacation dress: Anrabess Maxi Dress, $36 (originally $43) Anrabess Maxi Dress, $36 (originally $43) Best travel pants: Chartou Drawstring Wide-leg Palazzo Pants, $31 Chartou Drawstring Wide-leg Palazzo Pants, $31 Comfiest sandals: Rihero Leather Sandals, $29 (originally $34) Rihero Leather Sandals, $29 (originally $34) Perfect walking shoes: New Balance 515 V3 Sneakers, $75 New Balance 515 V3 Sneakers, $75 Amazon's choice: Nenona Sweater Lounge Set, $40 Nenona Sweater Lounge Set, $40 Best summer blouse: Automet Linen Sleeveless Button-down Top, $23 Automet Linen Sleeveless Button-down Top, $23 Comfiest shorts: Nimin Tailored High-rise Shorts, $25 Nimin Tailored High-rise Shorts, $25 Best travel bag: Sumrains Woven Crossbody Bag, $40 Sumrains Woven Crossbody Bag, $40 Best lightweight layer: Arach&Cloz Cropped Cardigan, $30 Arach&Cloz Cropped Cardigan, $30 Best travel skirt: Skritmory Satin Maxi Skirt, $34 A white tank is the holy grail of travel basics. It's what you reach for when you need something that works with everything, and this one from Amazon is flattering, soft, and ultra-versatile. Throw it on with linen pants and sandals for a relaxed sightseeing look; pair it with mom jeans and a cardigan for a museum morning; or layer it under a zip-up hoodie for your travel day outfit. At just $10, you'll wish you bought more than one of the 24 colors offered. If you're packing light, you'll want a black maxi dress that can go from casual café mornings to candlelit dinners. This one checks all the boxes: flattering square neckline, breezy skirt, and—yes—pockets. Wear it with sneakers and a denim jacket for exploring a new city; swap in espadrilles and chunky earrings for date night; or toss it on over your bikini and pair with a straw tote for a beach-to-brunch moment. A good pair of linen-blend pants is the travel gift that keeps on giving. This breezy pair is made with 40 percent linen and features a flattering drawstring waist for a custom fit. Pull them on over your swimsuit with a wide-brimmed hat and flip-flops for beach days, or style them with a cropped tank and platform sandals for rooftop drinks. Their wide-leg cut gives off that effortlessly cool, I-am-in-Italy energy. Packing just one pair of sandals? These are the ones. They're stylish enough to wear with a maxi dress to dinner, minimal enough to throw on with a cover-up for the pool, and comfy enough to stroll around all day. They also take up almost no room in a suitcase and somehow go with any outfit. This cropped cardigan is a layering hero. Ideal for unexpectedly chilly planes or over-air-conditioned restaurants, it also holds its own as an outfit finisher. Button it up and wear it as a top with wide-leg pants and toss it over a strappy maxi dress on breezy evenings. Or, pair it with matching neutrals to build a monochrome outfit. When it comes to summer travel, you need sneakers that won't ruin your outfit—or feet. Enter the New Balance 515 V3 Sneakers. These are lightweight, supportive, and have a neutral enough look to work with everything from leggings and an oversized sweatshirt at the airport to a dress and denim jacket while wandering through cobblestone streets. One traveler swore by them on a trip to Europe, saying 'we walked miles every day and I never got a blister.' Meet your new airport-to-coffee-run uniform: a soft sweater set with a sleeveless top and high-rise shorts that strikes the balance between cozy and pulled-together. Wear it with chunky sneakers and a belt bag for the plane, then swap in strappy sandals for brunch. Break up the set entirely by pairing the top with linen trousers or the shorts with a button-down for lounging by the pool. (I've got my eye on the yellow set.) This understated vest is the epitome of quiet luxury and one of the most versatile pieces you can pack. Between the breathable linen-blend fabric and elevated silhouette, it's just as at home with trousers and heels for a business-casual dinner as it is with denim shorts and slides for a day of exploring. Or, go full Euro summer by pairing it with a silky maxi skirt and gold accessories. If you want to feel effortlessly elegant, even while living out of a suitcase, this satin maxi skirt is sure to be your go-to. Style it in a low-key way with a white tee and sneakers, or with a cropped tank and strappy sandals for rooftop cocktails. Go bold with a matching satin top and gold hoops. It's one of those pieces that feels elevated with zero fuss—and works just as well in spring and fall. Tailored shorts are the summer version of power dressing. These are structured but soft; flattering, but unfussy. Tuck in a black tee, and add a belt with some slides for an effortlessly elevated outfit. Or, wear them with a button-down and sneakers for a more polished travel day 'fit. A reviewer even compared the fabric to Vuori's villa shorts, which are nearly double the price. You only need one great bag for travel, and this one delivers. The handwoven texture gives it a beachy, vacation-ready feel, while the compact size and multiple compartments will keep things organized. Wear it as a crossbody while airport-hopping; bring it along on a walking tour; or dress it up with a maxi dress and espadrilles for a nice dinner. It's neutral, functional, and stylish—the travel trifecta. Socks rarely get the spotlight they deserve, but these make a low-key accessory, leveling up any travel look. They add a sporty twist to chunky sneakers and biker shorts; give off a polished vibe with loafers and tailored shorts; and even pair surprisingly well with ballet flats. Fresh-looking white socks always make an outfit look more intentional. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
4 days ago
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
15 Amazon Travel Essentials You Shouldn't Visit Europe Without This Summer, Starting at $3
When packing for Europe in the summer, most travelers immediately think of portable fans, travel adapters, and breezy linen clothes. Although these items should definitely have a spot in your suitcase, packing some easily forgotten—but just as necessary—travel essentials will make your trip even more enjoyable. Last August, I visited Milan, and temperatures reached as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit. As it turned out, many of the game-changing items were last-minute, unexpected essentials I packed in my bag, such as a thin summer shawl that provided coverage for visiting religious sites without weighing me down. You might have sudden rainstorms that call for a packable umbrella or drastic temperature changes that'll have you reaching for a lightweight cardigan. Here are 15 travel essentials that help me navigate European summer trips, plus items I'm planning to pack for my next getaway. Picking the right comfortable sandals for a European summer city break is crucial because nothing kills the vibe faster than aching feet halfway through a stroll. After trying to conquer Milan in jelly sandals (a mistake I'll never repeat), a friend suggested this supportive pair from Cushionaire. Other customers agree, saying they've got proper arch support, real cushioning, and enough breathability for hot summer days. Bonus: they actually look cute! Keep in mind that, according to customers, they might run small, so consider ordering up a half size. A cardigan for the summer? It may sound ridiculous, but trust me, this lightweight layer can be a total lifesaver. An early morning flight out of London—even during the summer—means traveling in the cold. And, believe it or not, Europe does have air conditioning, which can be quite an intense shift when moving between the outdoors into coach buses or stores. As someone who is very sensitive to AC, the cardigan I grabbed just before leaving for my flight amidst a heatwave became my most cherished item. Europe's weather is known to flip fast; one minute it's sunny, the next the breeze is too chilly. I was happy to have an optional top layer and will definitely be packing it for future summer trips. An umbrella might just become your best travel buddy when exploring Europe. For example, I live in London, where we have short summers and sudden rain showers, meaning you'll be glad to have an umbrella with you at all times that's compact enough to fit into a small bag. I learned an umbrella can also be useful when it's sunny; I saw people using umbrellas to block the sun's harsh rays when out and about during a trip to Seoul, South Korea. I'm using this hack when exploring Europe this summer, too. You know what comes in surprisingly handy at those charming old European markets? An old-school coin purse or a classic wallet. Although the world has embraced contactless payments, some markets still use cash. Having a coin purse while traveling means you're not fumbling with loose change. Plus, you'll likely need to pay a small fee to use public restrooms in Europe, especially at train stations—so this way, you'll have your coins ready! This Travelambo leather coin purse with its snap top closure has been praised by travelers for keeping money secure and easily accessible, so you can quickly fish out the exact change needed. Crossbody bags are a travel essential, keeping your phone, cash, cards, passport, and SPF right at your fingertips without having to dig through a bulky backpack or tote bag. In busy cities or markets, it also adds a layer of security with a zipper closure. Wear it across your chest and keep an eye on your stuff, which is perfect in places where pickpocketing can, unfortunately, be an issue. This Rungion crossbody bag is very similar to the one I typically bring on my trips to European cities in the summer. 'I just got back from a UK trip. This bag was invaluable to me during the airplane, terminal, shopping, and sightseeing on my trip,' one customer wrote. 'It is so easy to organize and keep everything safe. It is absolutely the BEST thing I bought for my traveling.' This lightweight bag is also washable, so it'll be easy to keep clean and looking like new. Bear with me here—if your hotel offers a continental breakfast, it's not a bad idea to take a few pieces of fruit or some cookies with you for a quick snack later in the day. A collapsible Tupperware container is perfect for this; it keeps things from getting squashed in your bag while you're out and about. Just make sure not to pack anything perishable, and stick to items that can handle a few hours without refrigeration, like apples, crackers, or sealed pastries. Collapsible Tupperware like this will take up even less room in your bag when not in use. I've always carried hand sanitizer bottles (even before COVID-19), but when I travel, especially on holiday, I try to limit how many liquids I pack to save space. That's where hand sanitizer wipes come in handy. They're so convenient, and they do more than just sanitize your hands: wipe down surfaces, clean off sticky fingers, or tackle any grime you pick up while exploring. Unlike liquid sanitizer, wipes won't leak in your bag, which means no surprise goo on your stuff. A common European dress code rule that continues to catch tourists off guard during the summertime is the requirement to cover shoulders when visiting religious sites. During a walking tour of Milan last summer, which included the breathtaking Duomo, several women in my group were told they would be unable to enter because their shoulders were exposed. According to the dress code for the Duomo, both men and women must ensure their shoulders and knees are covered, meaning tank tops and shorts or skirts above the knee are not permitted. The only solution at the time for the people on my tour was to buy a paper-like poncho that they would dispose of later on. However, packing a thin summer shawl like this $11 one at Amazon will save you money in the long run since you'll actually use it again. And it's thin enough to tuck into your bag when your tour is over. Perfect for soaking up excess oil and shine without smudging your makeup or leaving any residue behind, blotting sheets are an easy, lightweight essential that'll fit easily in any bag or pocket. Whether you're heading into a museum, grabbing a photo in front of a landmark, or sitting down at a café, a quick blot can have you looking fresh and feeling less sticky in seconds. With so many European cities basking in strong sun and very little shade, a cap helps protect your scalp and face from the sun. Unlike a wide-brimmed hat, it's compact, easy to throw in your bag, and doesn't take up much space when you're not wearing it. It's also a great option if you're sensitive to air conditioning, like on trains, planes, or in overly cooled museums, since it gives your head a bit of cover without making you overheat. Sometimes a European city break means sticking to a small budget and finding ways to stretch your budget to see as many cities or enjoy as many excursions as possible. This could mean opting for hostels or budget hotels with thin walls. Whether it's street noise from the late-night nearby party scene, hallway chatter, or your hostel bunkmate rustling around at 2 a.m., a good pair of noise-canceling earplugs can save your sleep and your sanity. Loop earplugs are praised for their effectiveness at blocking out sound and their reusability. They also have adjustable sizes to get the perfect fit, and they come in a convenient travel case. I made the rookie mistake of choosing the cute sandals over the comfortable ones, and my feet paid the painful price. If you're anything like me on holiday, you'll be doing a ton of walking, often on cobbled streets and uneven sidewalks that look beautiful but aren't exactly foot-friendly. It's all part of the charm of exploring historic European cities, but trust me, your feet will feel it, especially if you packed the wrong shoes. These hydrocolloid bandages help speed the healing process along for scrapes, cuts, and blisters, and they take up very little space in your bag. When you need one, you'll be ridiculously glad you brought them, as I will be from now on. Pocket-sized tissues might not seem like a big deal, but they're surprisingly handy on a summer trip through Europe. Between the heat, humidity, and all the walking, you're going to sweat, especially when you're hopping between cities or squeezing onto a packed metro train. I keep tissues in my pocket or bag to blot my face, dab away melting makeup, or just freshen up on the go throughout the day. Toss a pack in your bag and you'll thank yourself later. Disposable cameras have a retro feel, which is why I love packing them for rustic cities. I recently bought this Fujifilm disposable camera because it lets me snap pictures without having to be glued to my phone. In iconic, historic cities with sunlit piazzas and vintage markets, I like that film cameras help capture the character of the city. With disposable cameras, you never know what the picture looks like until it's developed, a process which feels a bit like wandering the streets of an old European town, where every turn can lead to an unexpected little gem. For those of us who like to wear makeup, this tinted moisturizer is lightweight and adds a dewy (but not sweaty-looking) finish to the skin, all while providing sun protection thanks to its SPF 30 formula. The regular-sized bottle is under 3.4 ounces and should be able to fit in your carry-on allowance. My skin easily dries out when traveling, and I wanted something that doesn't feel cakey or heavy, especially with lots of walking and hopping on and off polluted metro systems and buses. This moisturizer claims to improve the skin's hydration retention, soften the appearance of fine lines, and strengthen the skin barrier, which are all important features when dealing with sweat, the hot sun, and polluted city air that can do even more damage to our skin. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
