Traveling is all about the destination.
People visit exciting places both close to home or far away see new sites, taste different foods, and experience bits and pieces of other cultures.
But it’s rare that someone would send a postcard from Paris raving about their luggage or singing the praises of a toiletry kit. Yet these travel essentials can help make a great vacation perfect.
The smart traveler knows that an extra ounce of planning and proper outfitting at home makes it easier to relax and unwind while away.
This year’s holiday gifts for the traveler keep this in mind. We found some no-nonsense items that are budget friendly and travel wise.
TSA toiletry set
The frequent flier on your list will love this reusable sack to hold liquids and gels for the trip through security. It’s sturdier than a plastic sandwich bag, and the mesh tote comes with three 3 oz. bottles and a container for pills or earplugs.
The set is $12.50 at REI stores or www.rei.com.
E-reader
Avid readers can take the load off their carry-ons with an e-reader. The slim little e-reader, such as Amazon’s Kindle or the Nook by Barnes &Noble, weighs less than 8 ounces and can hold thousands of titles.
Travelers can even download guidebooks from the library to their e-reader, eliminating the heft and cost of the print versions.
Basic e-readers start about $99. Find out more at www.amazon.com or www.bn.com.
Luggage
With many airlines charging $25 or more to check a bag, air travelers are seeking good carry-on luggage, ones that hold all their items and will fit in airline overhead compartments.
The REI Inside Passage wheeled bag at 22-inches fills the bill. It has pockets and compartments for shoes and toiletries, and larger section for clothes.
This luggage comes with a travel organizer for easy access to tickets, documents and other important materials. REI also stands by their products with a 100-percent guarantee, so if the bag doesn’t suit, it can be returned.
Forget the ubiquitous black suitcase. This one comes in cherry and slate and costs $199 at REI stores or www.rei.com.
Sleep sack
Bedbugs have made a comeback in recent years. They burrow into luggage and clothing and migrate from place to place. Bedbugs aren’t the only reason to be a bit grossed out by sleeping in some motels, hostels and hotels. Studies show that icky bacteria and other germs are spread through duvet covers, comforters and pillows. Travelers will appreciate the Sleep Sac Bed Bug Barrier made by Travelon. It’s available at the Savvy Traveler in Edmonds or www.savvytravelerstore.com for $24.99.
Water bottle
Travelers argue whether it’s worth it to bring a water bottle on a trip, but consider this: Why pay $4 for a bottle of water at the airport? Bring an empty bottle through security and fill it up at a water fountain.
The same concept rings true for day trips. Save money and reduce your carbon footprint with one easy addition to your carry-on.
Edmond’s travel guru Rick Steves sells a stainless steel logo water bottle for $9.95 at the Travel Store in Edmonds or at www.ricksteves.com.
There are many commercial varieties too, including the Klean Kanteen, which retails for about $20 at many local grocery stores.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
