Today is a travel post because…. YAYYY!!! I headed to the airport at 5AM to get on my flight to Las Vegas! I'm so excited to get there, not only because I get to see Ryan and some sure-to-be killer Twiddle shows, but also because Taraleigh and I have been working so hard to pull the event with Twiddle and Zappos together. It's so rewarding just to be involved in this project, so I can't wait to see all of that hard work pay off. Since traveling to the west coast always takes a lot out of me I made sure to 1) book my flight to arrive the day before the big show and 2) pack all of my essentials in my carry-on. You never know what can happen on a layover or once you arrive at your destination!
1. Backpack
Source: Forever21 ($25)
In my opinion, the most practical bag to travel with is a backpack. Not only are there are a ton of cute backpacks out there right now, but they can be paired with basically any outfit so it's not a waste to include it on your packing list. I opted for this faux leather chain-strap backpack from Forever21. Unfortunately, it's sold out now but here are some other cute options in a couple different price ranges.
2. Sleep Mask
Source: Sephora ($35)
Sleep masks are a must for any long trip. Honestly, I feel like they are a must always. I sleep with one almost every night to ensure I get a full sleep without any distractions from lights and electronics (Ryan will lay in bed on his phone for hours!). I've been in the market for a new one for a while and I did a ton of research on all of the new sleep masks available. You might think I'm crazy but check out some of the masks I posted below - they range from regular plush masks (see the Saks Fifth Avenue masks below) to charcoal or copper-infused. If you're going to invest in a sleep mask I highly recommend spending the extra bucks and investing in something that won't just block the light! I personally really want to splurge and get the Iluminage Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask (above) - so many of my friends swear by it. It is a little on the high end pricing-wise so I included some cheaper options. The Binchotan Charcoal Eye Mask from Morihata is supposed to relieve tension, fatigue, and pressure around the eyes and sinuses. The Beauty Boosting Eye Mask from Me Glow contains copper ions that support the skin's natural-self renewal process while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Why not beautify yourself while you sleep!? #BeautyRest
3. Headphones
Source: Apple | Beats by Dr. Dre ($219.98)
I don't know what it is about in-ear headphones but they totally freak me out and the experience is always the opposite of enjoyable for me. I got a pair of Beats Solo 2 Bluetooth Wireless headphones for Christmas and am so grateful. They definitely make long travel days fly by since I can listen to all of my favorite songs to pass the time (and get excited for whatever show I am hopefully traveling for!).
4. Laptop
Since I started my online business in 2013 it became so important for me to travel with my laptop. Not only can I watch movies or get work done on the plane, but I can also upload my photos to keep you guys up to date on the tour life! There have been MANY times I have been delayed in an airport and am so grateful I have it with me. Plus - the Macbook Air is so tiny that it doesn't even feel like I have it with me!
5. Camera
One of the reasons why I started Tour Wife Tour Life was because I wanted to share my travel photos and life as the wife of a touring musician with all of you. Normally I would have my camera in my carry-on with me when I travel so I can get those high quality shots, but this tour I let Ryan borrow it to take some photos and videos on the road. Let's hope he actually used it! In case you're wondering what I use when I'm not snapping pictures on my iPhone, my go-to camera is the Nikon d750 (we got it for each other for Christmas) with a 50mm lens.
6. Layer for Chilly Flights
Source: Forever21 ($37.90)
I'm pretty much always cold, so when I'm traveling on an airplane I always make sure to bring an extra layer. Since I will only be out west for the weekend and have a super small suitcase my layer is this cute distressed denim jacket I just bought from Forever21. Usually I would bring a hoodie or something more cozy but I figure I won't need one where I am going (YAY FOR WARM WEATHER!).
OTHER ITEMS YOU MIGHT WANT TO PACK:
Phone Charger - obviously can't live without that one!
Sunglasses - Ryan got me these cute sunglasses at the Fairfax Flea Market during my trip out to California in November.
Healthy Snacks - avoid spending extra money at the airport when your flight doesn't offer a meal (which is so rare these days anyway!).
Face Wipes - a great way to feel refreshed after a long flight
Lip Balm - don't let that stale airplane air chap your lips up! I swear by my EOS Fresh Grapefruit Lip Balm and take it everywhere with me.
What are your must-haves for a long trip? Let me know if there's anything I'm missing!
xoxo. Alexandra
