Travel Accessories

I’m trying to mentally prepare myself for Christmas with the in-laws in Boston. Not that it’s painful per se, it’s just different. You’d think I’d be used to it given all the time I spent in NYC dancing my toes off but no, I still feel out of place in New England. We haven’t spent Christmas there in two years since Charlie was deployed in Afghanistan last year.

I’m Texan born & raised and looooove southern hospitality. It seems, especially in Boston,  manners are a different style altogether. I march in with my big hair, eyelashes for days, colorful clothes, and wide array of lipstick color palettes and stick out like a full moon. It’s like Barbie meeting Wednesday Adams. That’s okay though,  I wouldn’t trade any of those! Must’ve been just right for my Bostonian gent is what I always say! Anywho.. I’m already fretting about the upcoming craze and hysteria of holiday travel. The stress levels, unpredictable weather patterns, and crazed flight schedules seem to make people the worst versions of themselves to be around in an airport, although usually somewhat entertaining to watch. Luckily this year Charlie and I aren’t flying out super early (which means I won’t be as cranky!) and the traffic won’t be near as terrible going to the airport. Put a large coffee in my hand and I’ll be right as rain.

I’ve put together some of my absolute must-haves when I travel. I’m curious, do you do anything differently? What can you not live without while traveling? What are your tips for the crowds and stress?My husband can never sleep on planes, ever (and if he does he is one of those knee-jerk sleep reaction people, does it have any other name?). He’s literally knocked over my drink before or severely elbowed me in the boob.. poor guy (poor me!).  Me on the other hand… snoring before take off, and I don’t take any meds for it either. I’m just as bad riding in the car, so don’t count on me for intriguing conversation to pass the time, sorry not sorry. Love my nap time, hence the sleep mask. When I used to live in Utah I worked nights only. I’d fly home to Dallas for a visit after my shift was done and pass out almost instantly. Comes in handy when your row compadres want the window shade up!

I always pack at least one if not a few pairs of sunglasses (hoarder) and some noise cancelling headphones. I’m all for meeting new people and such, but sometimes you really just don’t feel like hamming it up with the person sitting next to you for hours. I feel like slipping on your headphones is a subtle yet polite way of saying bugger off or thanks but okay byeee.

I don’t know about you but I’m ALWAYS cold on airplanes.. like shaking freezing. Even in the warmer months I’ll take a jacket on board. This shawl is super soft and cozy! A good pair of sneaks is always the comfiest option when trekking through massive airport terminals. Airplanes seem to relentlessly dry out my lips and skin. I LOVE the smell of rose lip balm, it’s rather calming. I also stay hydrated when traveling but particularly if I’m flying. I didn’t include it in the collage but it’s important to add hand sanitizer to your purse or carry on (I like Purell). Do you REALIZE how many cooties live in airplanes? I’m probably the least germaphobic health care professional but airplanes win at grossing me out. If people wouldn’t look at me like a diseased individual, I’d totally wear a mask on the plane in winter months (cold/flu season). The recycled air just grosses me out. So… wash your hands A LOT, use hand sanitizer and try to avoid touching your face. That’s generally how people get sick, by touching a contaminated surface and spreading it to their face. Stay hydrated and boost up on your vitamin C (I like Emergen-C!).

Talking about all these cooties leads me to my skincare regimen during travels. I always feel grimy after flying and typically shower once I get to my destination. I also pack a face mask or two to help keep my skin happy and breakout free. I’m really into sheet masks lately, they’re easy to pack and toss! (Sephora has tons to choose from!)

I’m an absolute sucker for adorable luggage and travel accessories. I need this Kate Spade passport holder… so dang cute. Also, did you see this luggage from Macy’s? So chic and elegant, also comes in white.

Hair care – I used to pack terribly. Now, I take this foldable travel dryer from DryBar, because hotel blow dryers are TERRIBLE and always smell like burnt hair. I also stock up in their many travel-sized hair care products, especially dry shampoo and triple sec spray.. I’d be so lost (and frizzy) without them.

Finally, I’m in love with this little instant Fujifilm camera (found this one at Target). It’s perfect for capturing all the little special moments. (this is on my christmas list!)

FYI I’m always a window seat person. I like to sleep on the window. What do you prefer? Charlie seems to always sit next to another dude who takes up the entire armrest. He never says anything because he’s polite whereas I would be in total battle of the bo’s. And we almost always see someone clipping their nails (and leaving the trimmings) on the plane, ew! I also didn’t mention I never travel without my Kindle Fire (it’s $39.99 right now on Amazon!). When I’m not drooling, I’m awake reading. Do you have any book recommendations?

What are your travel funnies?