In my adventures during my college years, traveling has been a very consistent part of my agenda. I have found myself always on the go. When going on an adventure, you must always prepare or you will find the enjoyment of your vacation lost at home with items you accidentally forgot. You should always make a checklist of things you know for sure you need or we will face the sad violins of an unprepared suitcase. I have found inexpensive accessories you should make essential, because buying them on the go may become pricey and leave you empty-handed for your luxurious shopping and tourist splurging:
1. The phone case that holds your card(s).
It makes it convenient to walk around the city for a quick bite or shopping without having to carry a bag. You never want to leave an asset like your credit card just trolling in your wallet, sticking out of your back pocket. Bigger cities are packed with an overabundance of people and you never know when someone's friendly salute will be followed by a pickpocket. So always have your credit card somewhere safe. Having it with your phone can still be risky. But mostly all phones in 2016 have GPS. So if you lose your phone or it gets stolen, you'll most likely be able to locate it.
Amazon.com $16.99-$19.99
2. A portable phone charger for those days that get away from you.
I have had the best luck with ZAGG Power pictured below from Target. These are very handy. Phones are a common necessity with any venture nowadays. Google Maps, phone calls and listening to music are a few of the various activities that drain our phones, especially on a vacation. Zagg Power will save your life in the instances and charge you phone.
Target.com $28-$30
3. Leather backpack small enough for travel, but big enough for day trips (and totally cute).
These are very portable and carry all the items needed for a daily trek. They are just small enough to pack whatever you need, while giving you the luxury of leaving the other stuff at the hotel or place you are staying at.
Amazon.com $24-$40
4. An anti-skimming wallet to protect your personal information and to hold all the necessities.
So this item is also a secure option to store safe and important cards, such as credit cards, a driver's license, etc. The phone card holder only holds a few cards. This is way more secure. You can choose either the card holder or this wallet. The important thing is keeping all your information safe on your vacation.
Amazon.com $12-$20
5. Packing cubes!
I think they are underrated. I have found that vacuum bags may create more space, but they ultimately make your bag heavier and your clothes annoyingly wrinkly. These are airplane travel's best friends. Very reliable for condensing a lot of stuff. Why shrink your vacation, when you can just shrink your bag?
Amazon.com $20-$40
These are just a few inexpensive items that will make your well-prepared vacation well worth the travel. Hope it was helpful, now go out there and explore the world!
