Top 10 Travel Items

Packing for a getaway, whether it’s a week in a coastal village or a month of slow travel, is an art form. Over time, I’ve refined my kit to focus on items that serve multiple purposes, protect the environment, and make those long transit days a little more comfortable.

Here are the top ten items that always earn a spot in my suitcase.

1. The Heavy-Duty Dry Bag

Whether you are hopping on a water taxi or spending a day on a catamaran, a dry bag is non-negotiable. It keeps your phone, camera, and spare clothes bone-dry even if there’s a sudden tropical downpour or a splash over the bow. Plus, at the end of the day, it’s the perfect place to stash a wet swimsuit so it doesn't soak everything else in your main bag.

2. A Versatile Turkish Towel

The Turkish towel (or Peshtemal) is the ultimate multitasker. Unlike bulky terry cloth, these are lightweight and dry incredibly fast. I use mine as a traditional towel, but it quickly transforms into a stylish sarong for a beachside lunch, a picnic blanket, or even a makeshift headrest and blanket on the plane.

3. Those Cute Little Silicone Travel Bottles

A “must-have” for bringing every liquid item from mouthwash to shampoo. TIP: My number 9 item is a jumbo-size bottle - pump that into several of these travel bottles so each person traveling can have their own.

4. Wireless Waterproof Speaker

Music sets the mood for any vacation. A waterproof Bluetooth speaker is essential for beach days or relaxing on a patio without worrying about a little sand or a rogue wave. Look for one with a clip so you can attach it to your bag and take your soundtrack anywhere.

5. High-Quality Earbuds

While the speaker is for the group, earbuds are for the "me time." They are vital for listening to podcasts during transit or watching a movie without disturbing your seatmate. Noise-canceling versions are especially helpful for blocking out engine hum and finding your zen in crowded terminals. I like these because the cases double as cell phone stands.

6. Reef-Safe Sunscreen (Lips & Body)

Protecting your skin shouldn't come at the cost of the ocean. Reef-safe formulas avoid harsh chemicals like oxybenzone that damage coral ecosystems. Don’t forget a dedicated SPF stick for your lips; they are often the first to burn when you're out on the water all day. Bonus Item: Since I live by a reef, I recommend that tourists visiting here bring a reef "rash guard" shirt that also has sun protection.

7. An Insulated Large Drink Tumbler

Staying hydrated is the golden rule of travel. A high-quality insulated tumbler keeps water ice-cold for hours, even in the midday heat. It’s also a great way to reduce single-use plastic waste while you're out exploring. TIP: Beware of insulated bottles with aluminum liners, usually cheap knock-off brands. They do not insulate for the long haul, make your beverage taste weird, and many say they are potentially not good for your health.

8. A Multi-Pocket Accessory Bag

To carry that tumbler (and everything else), you need a bag designed for organization. A dedicated carrier with multiple pockets allows you to keep your water, phone, money, keys, and sunscreen all in one place. It’s much more convenient than digging through a deep backpack every time you need a sip of water.

9. Picaridin Insect Repellent

If you want to skip the "DEET smell" and the greasy film, Picaridin is the way to go. It’s highly effective against mosquitoes and sandflies but feels much lighter on the skin. I recommend decanting it into individual travel-sized bottles (my # 3 favorite item) so every member of your group has their own to keep in their pocket or purse. I live year-round in the humid tropics, so trust me on this type and brand; we have tried them all.

10. Polarized Sunglasses

When you're near the water, the glare can be intense. Polarized lenses are a game-changer because they cut through that reflection, allowing you to see the vibrant colors of the ocean (and the tropical fish!) much more clearly. They reduce eye strain significantly, making those bright, sunny days much more enjoyable.
I can't say enough about the Maui Jim brand. Their styles flatter most people's face shape, they are durable, based in the USA, and will repair or replace your glasses if anything should go wrong with them.