We never travel without these essentials
After spending the last decade updating our travel essentials, these are the items that are workhorses, affordable and go the distance. We own all these items, and for the most part (depending on destination), we use these every time we travel.
We get lots of questions about our gear—especially camera gear, and we’re happy to share what we use.
Carry-On Luggage
In 2023, we decided it was time for the investment. After struggling with our old luggage and their worn-out rollers that was more of a struggle than a convenience, we purchased two of these beauties. Perfect carry-on for international travel, it expands easily. Free monogram. Built in USB port. 4 dual spinning wheels. It only took one trip to validate the expense.
Tumi puts certain colors (mine is pink) on sale at the end of a season at outlet stores. At nearly 50% off, it was a great investment.
After three years of use, she’s as durable as the day we purchased both.
TUMI - Voyageur Oxford Compact Carry-On
An amazing roller that actually rolls. Tried many inexpensive brands and when I finally tossed them out a window in frustration, I knew I needed something that would last and not make me crazy. Great organization, nylon, lightweight, and slides over my large luggage handles. They have updated the style for their 2025 offerings; I have the older version and love it.
Luggage Tags: Travel Anniversary Gift, Personalized Baggage Tag, Custom Leather Tag
These go on every bag. From camera bags to totes, Bramble and Beene personalizes each tag. Great quality at great price.
The Catalina by Lo & Son
Canvas. Lightweight and affordable. Available in many sizes. Bottom pocket to store shoes. Best of all, you can pack this power horse in your luggage for all those extra souvenirs. Also, fits over suitcase handles. And, surprisingly washes well.
MZ Wallace Small/Large Tote
An easy-carry addition to your carry-on items, the MZ Wallace is made of nylon, lightweight water-resistant and comes with a cross-body strap. Plus three pouches for organization. I have the large one. The only thing to know, it’s not structured, so not suitable for laptops if you want to use the trolley sleeve to slip bag over luggage.
Personal Items
Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Compression Cube Set with Tube Cube, White/Strobe
It never ceases to amaze me how much I can stuff into these cubes. I pack two with essentials and put a third in my suitcase for additional items I might gather during the trip.
Travel Jars Cosmetic Containers, Perfect Compact Sample Size Silicone Travel Container
The flat jars are more convenient than the tubes; although, the tubes are great for shampoo and such. For makeup, these are the ticket! They come in multiple sizes, perfect for a short or long trip.
Wireless Earbuds with LED display
Noise cancelling soft earbuds coming in at $19.99 that have replaced my Apple ones.
iWalk Small Portable Charger
Fits the iPhone 15/16, pocket size and convenient hands-free charging.
Flat Magnetic Wireless Charger
Space saver, wireless charger. Pad for phone or ear pods and a pop-up for watch.
Self-Heating Eye Compresses
Discovered in 2025 and a constant companion at home and on the road. Relieves dry eye. Soothes and comforts. No microwave required. Individual packaged.
Photography Gear
Peak Design Black Slide Camera Strap SL-BK-
What a game changer with camera straps! Quick adjustable, lightweight, tightly anchored to DSLR. They also have one for small lightweight cameras. With the hardware, it makes changing straps between camera bodies easy.
Think Tank Photo Airport International V3.0 Carry On (Black)
Padded case that carries 2 DSLRs, multiple lens, meets requirement for international and domestic carry-on. A must-have for lots of gear. Great organization as well. The link is to the updated version of the V3.0.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Mirrorless Camera with 14-42mm II R Lens (Silver)
Lightweight, affordable option to our Canon 5d Mark iii, works like a DSLR. Best features, 81 focusing points and built-in wi-fi. Great camera for travel, and it’s always in our carry-on bag. A variety of lenses are available.
SD TF Card Reader,USB to Lightning Adapter,4 in 1 Lightning Cable to USB Camera Adapter
This gadget allows you to read files from your camera to your phone. Easy social media posting.
Travel Guides + Inspirational Travel Reads
Rough Guides to Sicily
The Rough Guide to Sicily is jam-packed with practical and honest advice about the best things to see and do. From climbing Mount Etna, scuba diving off Ustica and exploring Greek and Roman relics, to sinking into mud baths on Vulcano and eating your way around Palermo, there's no end of choice - we'll help you make up your mind, and recommend the best beaches to hit while you do so.
Rick Steves Spain 2019
Walk the Camino de Santiago, run with the bulls in Pamplona, or relax on Barcelona's beaches: experience Spain with Rick Steves!
The Longest Way Home: One Man's Quest for the Courage to Settle Down
Andrew McCarthy's road to discovery. A must-read.
Walking with Sam by Andrew McCarthy (2023)
Walking and document he and his son’s walk along the Camino de Santiago in Spain/France.
Writing and Fun Do-Dads
Personalized Leather Journal -- Firebrand Custom Refillable Notebook Journal - Customized for you in Portland, Oregon
I document each journey in this beautiful leather masterpiece. Look for a 50% sale. It happens. Everything from Portland Leather is sturdy and will last through your travels.
Travelers Collective
All my travels are being documented on my clip. When I need inspiration, all I do is look here.
