Q: What are some of your top travel essentials to take on summer vacation?
Amy Marsh answers
A: Summer is in full swing, which means many of us are gearing up for travel. Besides essential clothing and toiletries, there are some things you should never leave home without — whether you’re planning a relaxing week at the beach or an active, sightseeing adventure. Here are a few of my carry-on must-haves for any vacation.
Sunglasses. More than a mere fashion statement, sunglasses are important for shielding your eyes from the sun’s harsh rays. They also keep you from constantly squinting, which causes eyestrain and headaches, not to mention wrinkles!
Sunscreen. Even when you’re not on vacation, sunscreen should be a part of your daily routine. But it’s especially important if you’ll be outdoors””at a pool, amusement park or exploring a city””for long stretches of time. The last thing you want to deal with on vacation is a stinging, painful suburn. So slather on a high SPF sunscreen before you leave your hotel room and reapply often throughout the day (especially if you’re swimming!).
Reading material. From delayed flights to traffic to lulls in activity, there are plenty of moments on vacation when a book or magazine will come in handy. Before you leave town, gather up a few good reads and stick them in your carry-on bag.
Snacks. Because it can be hard to find healthy food options on the road, be sure to pack a few healthy snacks in your suitcase. Energy bars, dried fruit, nuts and trail mix are all good options. You might also consider electrolyte tabs that can be dropped into a water bottle to make a quick, hydrating drink when needed.
Moisturizer. Travel can take a toll a real toll on skin, especially when the weather is hot or when you’re sitting on a cold, dry airplane. If you’ve been exposed to harsh conditions, apply moisturizer after washing your face and hands to help re-hydrate.