When traveling, it can be difficult to know what to pack. What is needed, versus what is going to take up unnecessary space in your suitcase? 

Here are my top 5 items that I bring on every trip, no matter the destination: 

1. Portable Charger: When traveling, you are likely going to be out and about most of the day, and taking lots of pictures and videos on your phone. You almost might be using your phone to navigate, which can drain the battery quickly. A portable charger will let you charge your phone while you are away from your accommodation, and most will charge your phone 2-3 times before it needs to be recharged itself. Buy my top pick for portable charges here.  
2. Earplugs & Sleep Mask: Sleeping while traveling can be challenging. Whether you struggle sleeping in new places, hear late-night noises from the street outside your accommodation, or get woken up early by the sun - a bad night's sleep can put a damper on your trip. A set of good earplugs and an eye mask works wonders. Buy my top picks for earplugs and an sleep mask. 
3. Reusable Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle is a must for any trip. Stay hydrated throughout the day while helping reduce waste. Buy my top pick for reusable water bottle here. 
4. Universal Travel Adapter: Electrical outlets vary by country, but you can purchase one universal adapter that will work anywhere. That way you can use it no matter where you travel! Buy my top pick for universal travel adapters here.  
5. Packing Cubes: Packing cubes help your suitcase stay organized and reduce space. Once you get a set of packing cubes, you'll never look back. I also recommend buying compression packing cubes, which can compress your clothing down more and saves even more space. Buy my top pick for compression packing cubes here. 

These 5 items will help you travel better (and more comfortably) - and most importantly, they will last a long time!

Packing light for a two-week vacation may seem impossible, but with the right strategy, you can travel with just a carry-on. Here's how:

1. Plan Your Outfits: Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Stick to a color palette to make it easier.
2. Pack Multi-Purpose Items: Bring clothing that serves more than one purpose, like a scarf that can double as a blanket or a dress that can be dressed up or down.
3. Roll Your Clothes: Rolling not only saves space but also helps reduce wrinkles.
4. Use Packing Cubes: These help organize your suitcase and compress your clothes.
5. Limit Shoes: Bring just two or three pairs that are comfortable and versatile.

With these tips, you'll breeze through airports and have everything you need for a fantastic vacation.

If beachy destinations are not your thing (I'm with you, honestly), there are plenty of beautiful places you can visit. To be fair, some of these destinations have beaches, but they're cold beaches. 

My top recommendations are: 

• Scotland (United Kingdom): With an average daily temperature of 59-63 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, this beautiful country is perfect if you prefer chilly temperatures. Rain is common year-round, but that simply adds to the coziness of your visit. (The same applies to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland - all of which are part of the UK).  
• Ireland: While in a similar region to the UK, the Republic of Ireland is a separate country. The climate and temperatures are very similar - with cooler temperatures and rain being common year round. 
• Banff, Canada: Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world, hands down. And its lush landscapes are partly due to its cooler temperatures. Plus, it has some of the best skiing and snowboarding slopes in the world.  
• Iceland: The land of fire and ice - emphasis on the 'ice'. A visit in the winter can come with an opportunity to see the stunning Northern Lights, and a visit in summer comes with the midnight sun (almost 24 hours of daylight). Even with all that daylight, the average temperatures in summer in the 50s and 60s (Fahrenheit). 24 hours of exploring without sweating in the heat? Yes, please.
• San Juan Islands (Washington state, USA): With average temperatures in the 60s and low-70s in the summer, the San Juan Islands are a great place to visit if you want to escape the summer heat. They also have a European vibe, without needing to take a long international flight or a passport to visit (if you live in the US). 

Want customized help planning your trip to any of these destinations? Fill out the Travel Questionnaire and I'd love to help you!