My new neighbors really like each other. You know, like that. You can hear their, um, liking through the walls in three the rooms in my apartment. They are nothing if not enthusiastic. So, the other night when it became clear that I wasn’t going to actually fall asleep while they were going at it, I went into my closet and dug out my travel kit. Come to me, ear plugs!

Anyway, it got me thinking that I should probably share the contents of that kit. From Scotland to Italy, that kit helped me travel (and sleep!) comfortably in all kinds of situations. In fact, along with the necessary toiletries, I don’t leave home without it.

The obvious:

Ear plugs. The budget traveler’s best friend. Hostel dorms are full of all kinds of sounds at night - snoring, coughing, talking, cell phones. Most traveler’s are very respectful, but even so, you’ll want these. I use ‘em on airplanes and trains, too. Or for sleepovers.

Face mask. Keeps the light out, duh. Because it’s not always conveniently night time when you need to catch a few z’s. Also good for sending the signal that you are not interested in the in-flight “meal” (seriously, remember when they used to feed you?) and want to be left alone. Ooh, and if you fly Jet Blue on the red-eye, they give you one for free!

The not-so-obvious:

Mini flashlight. Mine’s an itty-bitty LCD light from Target.
Band-aids & mole skin. Travel sometimes means lots of walking in uncomfortable shoes.
Handi-wipes. Shout wipes. Travel is unpredictable and messy.
Extra hair elastic. A couple of cough drops. Mini-roll of Rolaids.
Packet of Immodium caplets. Packet of Advil. Packet of Tylenol PM.

I know it sounds like a buncha stuff, but mine all fits in a six inch zipper pouch that I toss in my purse. Easy peasy.

Do you have anything you can’t leave home without?

Wednesday, April 9, 2008 | advice