Day 05: What Do You Bring With You When You Travel?

Should I go literal with this? Naturally the first thing I thought was an “open mind.” Which is absolutely necessary. Then I thought patience – which, again, makes every trip and the travel process itself much less stressful. But for once, I’ll think inside the box. So, no matter where I’m going, I always use a carry-on! Everything I take with me must fit in my carry-on.  I refuse to check a bag.  I can’t remember the last time I checked a bag – even before these ridiculous fees (and I don’t even have to pay for checked bags because of my airline credit cards).  In fact, I have to make sure that I leave enough room in my carry-on for purchases, or my purse, or my laptop.  Whether the trip is for three days or three weeks, I always bring my same little red Atlantic carryon. Waiting around at baggage claim and letting the airlines lose my luggage is something I outgrew around the same time I got my driver’s license.  And remember that whole patience thing? Yeah I just tried to avoid situations which may need it .

Winter is no match for the Mediterranean - gotta be prepared!

Oh and two things that are always in my carry-on – a pair of leggings and a swimsuit.  A pair of leggings because they pack light and can go with just about anything! And a swimsuit because I LOVE water and want to go to the closest beach, pool, hot tub whatever when I’m on vacation.  I’ve been to many an impromptu pool party – even in winter. Even in Canada… I can remember packing like three swimsuits for a weekend trip once. I know I’m extra. I’ve gone on trips when I didn’t have enough outfits but you better believe I had a swimsuit! Or three!

So what about you? What’s something that you always bring with you when you travel?