I've been an avid traveller for 6+ years now and have tried and tested a variety of gear in an attempt to simplify my travels. Preparing well for your trip will help you ensure that you really enjoy of your trip and are free from carrying too much around, or not having what you need! This curated list of backpacking essentials covers everything you need for an unforgettable experience travelling light.
After 25 years living in the Bellingham area, here is where I would take you if you came to visit. If you want sunshine and dry weather, aim for July and August. May and September are usually warm-ish and somewhat dry. June can be a mixed bag. The rest of the year is the quintessential gray, wet, cool weather we are known for.
Here are some things we have found make our travel days smoother. It doesn't matter if you're setting out for long term travel or taking a family vacation....this gear will help get you there!
My family and I frequently travel on standby so these are my favorite items that help get us through the long hours on a plane and at the airport. I’ll be adding to this list regularly as we have a lot more trips coming up so please follow for updates! NOTE: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, including Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I lived in Germany for 2 years as an Army brat. There is so much to experience there. I was so glad I was able to have all the experiences I did! One day I want to go again and take my husband.
Thinking of Visiting Hawaii in January? It’s a wonderful time on the islands! Hawaii in January is a dreamy escape post-holidays, and one of my favorite times to visit. I’ve visited the islands more times than I can count (including in January), and I created this guide to help you skip the guesswork and know exactly what to expect about visiting Hawaii during at the start of the year.
Having recently relocated to the area, this list will be home to all of the places in the surrounding area, all the way out to and including Minneapolis, that I have personally experienced and fallen in love with!
I visited Madrid, and these are all the places I loved and also others I'm looking forward to visiting when I go back. I hope it's useful to all the fellow travelers out there! 💃
This is your ultimate guide to blending historical geekery with some serious pampering in Des Moines, Iowa. We'll uncover spots where you can dive deep into the past and then float away on a cloud of relaxation. Because let’s face it, even history buffs need a massage and a sauna session every now and then!
London has an iconic and instantly recognisable skyline. From catching sunsets to watching the city come alive at night, there's no better way to experience London than to be perched high above it all (preferably with a bubble tea in hand!) I've included a mix of indoor and outdoor views that have the wow factor.
As we’ve began to travel more I’m realizing how important quality products are to keeping us safe and making our trips more enjoyable. Don’t skip on these tried and true favorites.
Hiking is a national pastime in South Korea, where there are mountainous landscapes throughout the peninsula and right outside major cities, such as Seoul. Check out this list to find out everything you need to know to plan a memorable hiking adventure here.
Family Friendly things to do in the suburbs of Chicagoland. There are so many options here, especially in the comfortable months of Spring through Fall. Don't miss out!
Venture out to some of these great places. Whether it be a day trip, weekend stay or longer. See the top attractions Atlanta has to offer and make it fun for you and the whole family. Don’t forget that you could get a city pass to make your trip more affordable for your family and see multiple attractions for a lower price
I recently went on a trip to Milan with my boyfriend for a few days, and safe to say we will be returning! During our time we did some excellent activities and we found some gorgeous food sports and I had to share with you all! All the food options ranging from high end to more affordable options, and covering meal time options and snacks :) if you're coming to milan, these are my top reccomendations to make your trip 10/10
I’ve always been someone who likes being a little prepared for everyday life, especially when it comes to driving. Over time, I’ve noticed how small things in your car can make a big difference when you actually need them, even if they don’t seem important at first.
This is just a collection of practical car essentials I’ve come across along the way. Nothing complicated or overdone, just useful items that can help with common situations and make driving feel a bit more smooth and less stressful.
Sharing it in case it helps someone else feel a little more prepared too.
Essential Travel Baseball Packing List
Whether you're a seasoned baseball parent or heading to your first travel tournament, this list has you covered. From game-day gear to off-field essentials, it includes everything your player (and you!) need to stay prepared, comfortable, and focused all weekend long. Avoid last-minute scrambles and make sure nothing gets left behind—this list is your go-to resource for organized, stress-free packing.
when my dad and i were traveling across the country, i also had my two little dogs with me. it definitely was more difficult to navigate, but i wanted to have a list ready so if you also want to make the voyage, you can be even more prepared then i was!
If you’ve ever wondered what actually goes inside a Disney park bag, here’s a real look at mine. After helping hundreds of families plan their vacations, these are the simple things I personally keep in my bag during long Disney park days to stay cool, comfortable, and prepared for whatever the day brings. Because when you’re prepared, you spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the magic.
There are some really special beaches near Charleston! ⛱️ My husband and I, and then my family, have been discovering them for over 30 years - and I’m happy to share all we’ve learned and keep finding with you! These are the differences between the fantastic beaches Charleston has to offer!
Season 5 of Sweet Magnolias on Netflix is to come out early next year! Ever wanted to wander the roads of Serenity with you gal pals like Maddie Townsend, Covington, GA is where the cast films. Visiting Covington downtown will give you the small southern town feeling. Added bonus if you’re a Vampire diaries fan, the same town is LOADED with film spots and fan centered shops.
I have been to Cape Town several times and visited some amazing places in surrounding areas as well mainly in Stellenbosch. The Western Cape is famous for its winery’s and scenic views and beaches. There is plenty of things to do that a 1 week vacation is not enough to soak in all the fun and beauty.
Sometimes it can be hard to figure out where to go as a family if you find yourself in the Fort Wayne area, but these are things that are definitely worth being on your itinerary! Most of them free or low cost with only a few exceptions! There are also more options, but I've only listed things that I've personally experienced so that I can give an honest recommendation :)
Southern Indiana, located halfway between Louisville, KY and Indianapolis, IN right off Interstate 65 in the heart of Seymour, Indiana. It's the original small town, and home to John Mellencamp! This small town has charm, friendly family environments, and many hidden places to have family fun! Several of the surrounding small towns have their own attractions, but safe, family fun is always close by!
Dylan and I spent two weeks exploring Cuenca back in November, and one thing we wish we would've done is take more day trips! There's so much to see around the area, so I've compiled a list of some of the coolest places to visit. Here they are…
These essentials will make your journey smoother, more comfortable, and spiritually focused. From travel must-haves to items that bring peace of mind, this guide helps you prepare with ease.
A collection of essentials, lifesavers, and “wish we’d packed it” items from our seven-night Alaska cruise with four kids under 5. These are the things that kept us prepared, happy, and sane—and we’ll definitely be taking them along for our next Caribbean adventure!
Instead of adding more clutter to your loved ones’ homes this holiday season, try gifting experiences instead! It doesn’t have to be expensive, either - offering to do them a favor like babysitting only costs you some time and energy.
Everything listed here I have either tried myself, or I’ve read through lots of reviews to make sure it’s top-notch!
If you're planning a trip to Moab, Utah with your furry friend, this list will be your perfect guide. From cozy cafés to sprawling parks, these recommendations will ensure both you and your dog have a fabulous time. Enjoy the warm ambiance of local coffee shops, entertain yourselves with live performances, and relax amidst the beautiful landscapes—all while keeping your furry companion by your side.
You might not have heard of this tiny Caribbean island sitting close to St. Eustatius, but it is a great place for hikers. Belonging to the Netherlands, Saba is essentially one big dormant volcano, laced with trails, including up to the aptly named Mount Scenery, the island's highest point. Saba is also known for its medical school for international students.
I lived and worked in Auckland in my early 20s, and these spots were my ride or dies 💅 From comfort eats to cute cafes and go-to restaurants, this list is full of places that made that particular chapter of life feel a little more magical (and a lot more caffeinated). If you’re new to the city or just vibing through the city, these recs are for you! 🪩🍒💋
berlin was a TIME and though I was only there for a short period of it, heres a list of all the restuarants, shops, sights, and much more that I tried to do
I was born and raised in the Hudson Valley, but recently moved back here from the city. I love finding all the places to hang out, meet people, eat, drink and be merry in my new little town
These are my go-to essentials that keep every mile comfortable, organized, and fun. From snacks and tech must-haves to comfort items and smart storage, these picks make hitting the road smoother and more enjoyable. Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a cross-country adventure, I never travel without these trusted favorites!
I’ve lived in Napa for the last few years years, and am always on the hunt for the best Napa wineries to visit. This list of recs has something for everyone, whether you’re a wine conosseiur or it's your first time in Napa. Hope you enjoy my recs and leave a comment if you’ve visited any of these & let me know what you think!
I spent the most magical 5 days in Oahu and stayed at Disney’s Aulani Resort! This list has everything we did including where we stayed, the best eats, and the most breathtaking adventures. Perfect for anyone planning a dreamy Hawaiian getaway.
Nantucket is one of the most iconic places in New England and one of my favorite places to visit! You can't go wrong walking around anywhere but here are my fave spots on island right off the ferry! 🌊
This list is full of ways that mature women can enjoy and be prepared for festival season. (Even if you just having a festival at home) Our checklist is slightly different…😌
I'd like to preface by saying this comes from the minds of clean freaks & the comfort-obsessed who had developed certain habits since COVID 🤣 but I swear they make sense lol!
Vancouver in September is a wonderful but weird time. It's still a bit too warm, but we know the rain and dark days are coming soon. It's time to soak in the last sun of summer but be ready to change quick into the spirit of fall… Here is the ultimate collection of things that will help you get through these autumnal months!
Heading to the Last Frontier? 🌲🗻 This is the ultimate packing list for your Alaskan adventure! From clothing essentials to must-have gear, ensure you're fully prepared for the rugged beauty and unpredictable weather of Alaska. Get ready to explore with confidence!
Bozeman is the western mountain town that’s got it all. Two world-class ski resorts within an hour. Hundreds of miles of trails and even more untouched backcountry. Views too incredible to be real. But this mountain town is anything but sleepy. Stroll along Bozeman’s downtown Main Street to find a foodie’s paradise, concerts and local events every week. Matched with places to stay for every taste, you’ll find an unforgettable experience here in Bozeman.
If there’s one thing you should take away from this post, it’s that you should probably, at some point in your lifetime, spend much more than 48 hours in Champagne, but given that its capital city of Reims is only a 40 minute train from Paris, getting away for the weekend is extraordinarily easy. From great restaurants and museums to quite literally thousands of wine producers all within a few kilometers, you’d be remiss not to spend some time in Champagne on your next trip to France. Read on to discover my itinerary to plan your own visit.
A mix of cozy cafés, scenic drives, and must-visit coffee shops in and around Jackson, Wyoming. Perfect for solo travelers looking to soak in the vibes of the area while enjoying some me-time.
Exploring George Town in Penang is a dream come true for photographers. Every corner offers something unique and picturesque. This list is all about the best spots where your camera will go crazy capturing the beauty, culture, and history. Get ready to snap away in this vibrant city full of stunning hotels and iconic statues and monuments.
These are my favorite travel sites for booking flights, hotels, car rentals, tours, excursions, cruises and more. As I am an avid traveler, I have used these sites and highly recommend them. You can compare to get the best travel deals. This list contains affiliate links where I may earn commissions with purchases through the links at no extra cost to buyers.
Hocking Hills is a hidden gem in Ohio. It's a bucket list worthy destination if you love the outdoors. It's located Southeast of Columbus and offers everything you could possibly want for a remote stay including unique getaways, spa experiences, adventurous hiking trails, and of course, unforgettable waterfalls.
we go to Branson at least 2 to 3 times a year. These are some of our favorite things to do. If you haven't gone, Branson is such a fun place for the entire family.
When traveling, it’s always a good idea to have a bag of items for “just in case” purposes and to make those long, boring hours go by a bit faster. Here are some things I always keep on me while traveling :)
RV Full-Time Living Favorites
Since moving into our RV in January 2026 to live full-time, we have been finding out what works for us and what we need to change.
As a Colorado native, these are some of my favorite things and places that Colorado has to offer! You will love these places (and if you don't... I am sorry).
A selection of hotels in the English Lake District, with a note of sightseeing treats nearby. Locations loved by holidaymakers and tourists. I have carefully selected these hotels based on factors such as location and customer reviews. I have walked around, driven around and been driven around the Lake District many times; it is a beautiful area. There is also a list section about travel options.
The Finger Lakes region of central New York is one of the best destinations for wine, waterfalls, and absolutely beautiful small town charm. This is one of my favorite road trip destinations!
These are my go-to car products that keep my car tidy, safe and minimizes stress while on the road. This list includes anything from organizers that stop the clutter to safety must-haves I won't drive without, each item has made my car feel more out-together and worry free. If you spend a lot of time driving like I do, you'll definitely want these little lifesavers on hand.
Visiting Boston? Here’s the situation 👆 These are my go-to recommendations for hotels, things to do, places to eat. I’ve had the best time living here! Leave a comment for me if you have any questions or want an ultra-specific recommendation ☺️
As Summer draws to a close, I start thinking about Fall and Football games. Baylor's Homecoming weekend was a great time to bond with my daughter and experience Texas Football. The 2025 Homecoming game is on November 1st against UCF. I'll share my favorite outfits to wear to the parade and homecoming game, where to stay (make sure you book early), things to do in Waco besides the game and places to eat and drink in Waco. By the way, don't forget to stay after the game for the 5th quarter show by the Baylor Band!!! Sic Em Bears!!!