Don't leave home without these Travel "Must-Have's"

As summer winds down, many are us are seizing these final sunny weeks to enjoy last-minute trips with friends and family.  With comfort, relaxation, and organization in mind, we're sharing several of our favorite travel essentials that we won't leave home without. These seven products make our trips more comfortable, relaxing and help keep us organized along the way. 

Cozy, must-have's:

1.  Cashmere Poncho

A lightweight wrap, such as this versatile Cashmere poncho from Dolma, is the perfect travel companion.  It keeps you warm and cozy on planes and trains, and doubles as an evening wrap for outdoor adventures upon arrival at your destination. Pro tip:  Select a neutral color that will go with a variety of outfits.

2.  Eye Mask

This soft, pure silk sleep mask From Urban Spa is the first item to go in our carry-ons.  Filled with soothing lavender to calm the senses, this sleep mask blocks light (especially great on planes) while providing gentle acupressure to ensure peaceful rest.  Pro Tip: put on some noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds before dozing off.  

Organization must-have's:

3.  Backpack

We're backpack converts.  After using a single strap tote bag for years, we've found that a backpack is actually much more practical for travel.  The Finchley Nylon Backpack from ORI London is as stylish as it is practical.  With an easy-to-access outside zippered pocket, secure inside pocket, laptop sleeve and room for a small purse, in-flight essentials and water bottle, this backpack allows you to keep your valuables close while freeing up your hands.  Pro tip: Select a fun color that is more visible so you don't risk leaving it behind. 

4.  Travel Wallet

This colorful, slim travel wallet from Joy Susan is perfect for keeping your credit cards and ID cards organized.  Just bring what you need and stash extra change or currency in the zippered section.  Pro tip:  Select a bright color that makes it easy to locate in your purse or carryon.  

5.  Tech Organizer

With so many cords, plugs and chargers needed to power our electronics, this tech organizer from Travelon is an essential travel tool.  It keeps all of your electronic accessories in one place... it's  small, flexible and the mesh lining makes it easy to locate what you need when you need it.  Pro tip: wrap cords with a small velcro strap to reduce tangling. 

TLC must have's:

6.  Scented Candle

It's the little things -- like the familiar scent of a favorite candle -- that make you feel 'at home'  home when traveling. We always bring along a small candle, such as our Saltaire travel tin from Mersea, to freshen stuffy hotel rooms or simply bring a sense of familiarity to new places.  Pro tip: Always, always check with your hotel to make sure lighting a candle is ok... and always extinguish candles before getting into bed! 

7.  Soothing Hand Lotion

Ohhh... how traveling dehydrates us!  In addition to drinking lots of water, a small, 'travel-sized' soothing hand lotion is a must-have for long flights. We love this amazing scented Aloe Hand Cream from Pre d'Provence, with scents of fresh air, aloe and cucumber.  Continue to apply regularly throughout your flight to ensure you hands feel soft and hydrated when you arrive.  Pro tip: Pack an empty water bottle in your carry on to re-fill before your flight but after you get through security. 

These seven favorties have become our trusted travel companions, ensuring that we stay cozy, relaxed, and organized on every journey. Consider adding these essential items to your packing list for your next trip.