Admittedly, I am a recovering over-packer. But through the years, I have curated an essential set of items I always pack with me. 

1. Nite Ize Cell Phone Tether
2. The Safety First Aid Kit
3. Sleep Mask
4. Apple Air Tag
5. Noise-canceling Headphones/Earbuds

Nite Ize Cell Phone Tether

Best 5 dollars I have ever spent for keeping my cell phone with me during any type of activity while traveling. I love how this tether easily attaches to the cell phone and creates the perfect tether so you aren’t at risk of dropping and losing your phone while on the chair lift at the ski resort. Or, when taking photos of the sunset over the water from the boat, you won’t be at risk of losing your phone to the depths of the ocean. This thing is simple, small, easy to use, cheap, and useful as heck. You’ll never go on vacation without it.

The Safety First Aid Kit

When unexpected things happen on vacation, an excellent First-Aid kit is essential. You won’t be scrambling to find over-the-counter remedies or bandages at your hotel or the airport. You’ll have it all on you in a perfectly packed pouch that fits easily in your carry-on. For cruisers, a well-stocked first-aid kit means possibly avoiding the need to spend exorbitant amounts at the medical clinic on board the ship.

Sleep Mask

You might have to try out several sleep mask styles to find the perfect fit. But when you find what works for you, buy multiples because sleep is important even during vacation. A long flight often calls for a snooze, and a good sleep mask helps to ensure the nap at 30,000 feet is refreshing and not frustrating.

Apple Air Tag

With news of Apple Air Tag now being allowed in airport checked luggage, it’s a game changer for keeping track of your bags no matter where you’re headed. Peace of mind while traveling is priceless. An Apple Air Tag tucked into luggage seems like a helpful and easy addition to your packing routine.

Noise-canceling Headphones/Earbuds

Combined with a good sleep mask, you’ll be all set for getting some much-needed shuteye while en route or trying to fight off jetlag. For introverts, noise-canceling headphones are especially handy for avoiding the chatty passenger next to you. Not that I know anything about that.