10 Must-Haves for Traveling || p.1

I never realized what a sense of wanderlust I had until I was tied down to jobs and school and other commitments. With summer on the way (and hence, a few different spots to go to), I decided to compile a list of things I always happen to find in my knapsack or adventure bag (or purse, depending on the occasion). Part One will feature must-haves for when you're traveling, and Part Two will feature must-haves for when you arrive on "holiday" (begin letting me know what you always have and I might just add them to my list).  So pull up that chair & enjoy- and if I've forgotten any important articles, then please, let me know below.

#1. Pad & Pen(s). In my knapsack, I always have my carry-all-things journal. I can't help it; I'm a writer to the core of my being, and if I happen to think of something important, hear a thought I'd rather not forget, feel the need to sketch out my love of a song or a scenery I happened to snap a photo of, I'd rather be prepared. Also, please note here and now that if you have one pen, you are not prepared.

#2. A Good Read. In case I'm ever on a trip long enough to become bored with the scenery (which, let's face it, only ever happens on plane rides), it's nice to be prepared with one or two pieces of literature to peak my interest. Currently I'm in the midst of Bridge to Haven by Francine Rivers, and A Woman's Walk with God by Elizabeth George. Copies of Darling Magazine always come along as both handy and inspirational. Generally if I'm halfway through my book or more, I'll take two; but if it's a shorter trip and I can manage it, one book suits me (and my love of traveling light), thank you very much. Or, if you're partial to a kindle or nook... well, there you go.

#3. Earbuds. Or headphones. Whichever you prefer. When some people are being loud (or are just plain impartial to your favorite music), stick those in and you're good to go. I love quiet worship music on a flight. They're also nice (really nice) for a feature when the man next to you is trying to be a little too close for comfort, since they scream "I'm asleep" when you close your eyes.

#4. Chapstick. Lipbalm. Hand Lotion. Chewing Gum. To be packed in a separate little bag (the ones guys will never understand) and used when needed. Take your choice. Enough said, I think.

#5. My Phone. For above mentioned earbuds, for texts or phone calls, to people to assure them you're doing well, for maps when you're feeling lost, for weather to know how to be comfortable, etcetera, etcetera.

#6. Granola Bar. I say granola bar, but I always reach for my apples (pre-cut by yours truly). You can always just use a snack of any kind for whenever you get peckish- otherwise I (speaking for myself) might get a little on the frustrated side. My sister Alexandrea has invented the most amazing salad-in-a-jar you will ever know.

#7. Wallet. Oh, you know. For basically everything that's really truly important- license, money, identification, passport. The works. Keys can also fall under this category if that's alright with everyone.

#8. My Camera. You almost wondered if I'd forgotten this, didn't you? Not quite. Based on where I'm going, my camera comes along. However, if it comes to a certain point where my phone will do quite as well (or have to do), my camera gets stowed in the back of the trunk with my luggage, or carefully packed away in my suitcase. As I said, light traveling is key.

#9. Sweater. Or blanket. Or something to keep you warm. One that you can peel off as needed, and shiver thankfully in otherwise. Socks also fall into this category, if your a socks kind of person or if you're like me and just have naturally icy hands or feet. Oh, and neckpillows. Let's just file this under "things I need to keep me comfortable."

#10. Hand Sanitizer. Even if we ever found out hand sanitizer did nothing for us, I would still feel safer smacking it on my hands after touching anything that qualifies as germy. No, I'm not a weird one because I don't like the scented ones. Yes, I'll probably get sick less than any of the non-sanitizer users. I use it on the regular. Or I reach for my essential oils, which do the same thing without leaving a sickening doctors' office scent. Better to be safe than sorry.