Travel Essentials

You will more than likely purchase some small Travel Essentials such as your toothbrush, deodorant and other items prior to leaving on your trip.  Solid items should not be an issue and can be purchased ahead of time while liquids or items considered as liquids such as toothpaste can be an issue in your carry on bag.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with our Homeland Security / Transportation Security Administration (TSA) page to understand what is acceptable in carry on bags.

You will more than likely arrive at the airport early.  After you have passed through security, you should have plenty of time before your flight departs. If there are still items you require, you could shop around at the airport stores for the items you need such as liquids that you were unable to bring through security.  Expect to pay more for items at the airport, so you may want to wait until you have reached your destination.  The downside is that when you reach your destination, you have to go shopping.  You could find a department store or pharmacy and shopping at stores in a country where you do not speak the language can also be an adventure in itself; but it's all part of the fun.  Don't mistake an aching muscle cream such as Icy-Hot for toothpaste!

When shopping abroad, purchase items in small amounts to be used during your travels and not with the intent of returning home with them.

Purchasing travel sized items

Some good locations to shop where they often have an area dedicated to travel sized items include:

  • Target
  • Wal-Mart
  • Bed, Bath & Beyond

Carry on container

For liquids, you are allowed a single Quart Sized Clear Zipper Bag.

Non-liquid items such as a toothbrush, floss, etc. do not need to go into this bag.  Make sure items that are considered to be liquids such as toothpaste are placed in the bag.

There is no need to purchase a special bag for this, just use a typical disposable plastic sandwich bag in the 1 Quart size.

What to purchase

We define Travel Essentials as items you use every day for general health and necessity.  These items include things like the following but a more complete list can be found on our Packing Checklist page.

Toothbrush Toothpaste Dental Floss Shampoo Conditioner Lotion
Disposable Razors Shave Cream Aftershave Deodorant Brush/Comb Reading Glasses
Prescription Glasses Travel Soap Chap Stick Contact Solution Q-Tips Medicines
Sunscreen Kleenex Bug Repellant Vitamins Allergy Medicine Eye Drops

Examples of Travel Essentials

Look for items that are small, lightweight, packable and could possibly be discarded if need be.  Try to only bring what you will use.  Unused items take up space and add weight to your pack.  Below we have listed a few items to give you some ideas of what to look for.

Travel Toothbrush
  • On The Go Folding Feature, medium bristle brushes (2 pack)
  • TRAVEL DESIGN: You will receive 2 firm toothbrushes easily fits your pocket, purse, office desk drawer, travel toothbrush kit, and toiletries bag
  • DENTIST RECOMMENDED: This foldable toothbrush has been clinically recommended for its effective cleaning, plaque removal, and gentle gum protection
  • EASILY FOLDABLE: Regular-sized brush that instantly folds into travel-size toothbrush in one-flip action. Must-have in your travel toothbrush case
  • KEEPS IT CLEAN: No need for a loose cover it folds in its self
  • DURABLE: Firm Grip handle, Superior to other flimsy travel toothbrushes in the market. Made of sturdy, durable, and BPA-free plastic
     

Silicone Travel Bottles
Silicone Travel Bottles are a great way to bring along liquids that you are unable to find in a convenient travel size.  We have used similar bottles and found them to work great for many different liquids and gels.
  • 3 oz. Size
  • Food Grade BPA Free Silicone
  • Leak Proof
  • Soft, squeezable silicone
  • Large screw top opening for easy refill and cleaning

We found the best deals at Amazon, but also found these bottles at Bed Bath & Beyond, although slightly pricier.

Register at BB&B and you should periodically receive a coupon for 20% off a single item purchased.

Additional Notes

  • Fill bottles only 80-90% to ensure caps seal properly
  • Silicone bottles may not work for the following: Oils, Alcohols, Hydrogen Peroxide, Caustic, Corrosive or Flammable products

Bergman Kelly Travel Soap
  • FOR TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY Perfect for Airbnb®, hotel motel guests, bed and breakfasts, truck stops, travel, gym, kid's bathroom, summer camp, camping
  • REDUCED WASTE 0.5 OUNCE BAR: Full luxury at less cost, with less waste. Individually wrapped for freshness and hygiene.
  • ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Attractive recyclable packaging, Paraben free high quality soap, not tested on animals.
  • LIGHT WHITE TEA SCENT to delight your senses, pleasant and fresh. Feel clean and refreshed.