5 Items We Can’t Travel Without

Traveling, whether for work or leisure, is an art form—one that requires the right tools to make the experience smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Over the years, I've gathered a set of go-to essentials that make traveling feel effortless and sustainable. Here are the five travel items I simply can't live without.

1. Dip Shampoo and Conditioner Bars

First on the list are Dip Shampoo and Conditioner Bars. These solid bars have completely revolutionized how I approach packing for trips. If you’re tired of lugging around bulky liquid bottles that count against your carry-on liquid allowance, these bars are a total game-changer. Since they’re solid, they don't count as liquids when going through airport security, making them perfect for your carry-on—a huge win!

What I love most about Dip bars is how long they last. My full-size conditioner bar has been going strong for 7 months, even with frequent travel. Not only are they effective (my hair has never felt healthier), but the sustainability factor is a major plus. Dip uses high-quality ingredients that are gentle on the hair and good for the planet. Plus, they offer sustainable bamboo travel cases, perfect for drainage and keeping your bars from waterlogging.

Dip is a small, independent business focused on sustainability, and supporting them just feels right. When I’m traveling, I never have to worry about shampoo spillage or bulky bottles taking up space in my bag. If you’re looking to try them out, you can grab a 15% discount with the code "AWAYWITHJULIA" on dipalready.com/awaywithjulia.

2. Everlane Renew Transit Bag

Next, let’s talk about the Everlane Renew Transit Bag. This bag is hands down, one of the most practical, stylish, and sustainable travel essentials I’ve ever come across. Made from recycled polyester and recycled water bottles, this bag is the ultimate companion for any journey. It's incredibly spacious, yet compact enough to qualify as a personal item on flights. The best part? I’ve tested it with several airlines—from budget airlines like Spirit, all the way to Delta—and it has passed the personal item check every single time (as long as I don’t stuff it so full that it barely zips, of course).

This bag has room for everything. Whether it's my laptop, snacks, a sweater, extra travel outfit, toiletries, or even my camera gear, the Renew Transit Bag fits it all without ever feeling bulky. It’s the equivalent of a Mary Poppins bag—you just keep pulling things out of it! Plus, its minimalistic design and neutral colors mean it pairs well with any travel outfit.

Another reason I love it is the environmental impact. Everlane's commitment to sustainability is evident in its thoughtful design and use of recycled materials. If you’re looking for a bag that works hard for you and the planet, this is the one. For more details, check out the Renew Weekender on Everlane’s website.

3. Comrad Compression Socks

As a Nurse Practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how long-haul flights can put travelers at risk for blood clots. Prolonged sitting can be a serious issue, especially for those of us who are prone to circulation problems. That’s why Comrad Compression Socks have become an essential item in my travel kit. These socks offer great compression to promote circulation without sacrificing comfort. I wear them on every long flight to ensure my legs feel energized and to reduce the risk of swelling or more serious complications like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

What I love about Comrad socks is that they not only work incredibly well but also come in tons of cute colors and patterns to match any outfit. Whether you're wearing them with sneakers, boots, or dress shoes, there's a style that’ll fit right in. They also offer recycled cotton and merino wool options, which are my personal favorites for their softness and breathability.

And if you’re a first responder or military personnel, you’re in luck—they offer discounts for you. These socks are truly a win for both your health and your wardrobe, so I never travel without a pair.

4. Beis Passport Holder & Luggage Tag Set with Clear Case

When it comes to staying organized and stylish during travel, the Beis Passport Holder & Luggage Tag Set is an absolute must-have. This set has everything you need, and it’s been a longtime favorite of mine.

The clear case is perfect for stowing your carry-on liquids (hello, airport security!) but I also love using it as my clutch for all my important items. I keep my phone charger, wallet, passport, gum, eye patches, lip balm—you name it, in there for when I need something fast out of my carry-on bag. It's also transparent, so you can easily see what's inside—no digging around!

The luggage tag is a true standout too. Stylish and durable, it’s gone all over the world with me and still looks as good as it did on day one. But the real MVP of this set is the passport holder. With multiple slots for credit cards, a driver’s license, and even a hidden pocket for cash, it doubles as a wallet—keeping everything in one sleek place.

And here's the best part: the passport holder comes with a beautiful pen. It may sound like a small thing, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. Whenever the flight attendants hand out immigration forms, I’m always the one with the pen ready to go. It’s such a simple yet elegant detail that makes me feel a little bit “elite” when others are frantically shuffling through their bags mid-turbulence.

5. Owala FreeSip Water Bottle

The Owala FreeSip Water Bottle is, without a doubt, one of my favorite travel companions. This water bottle does it all—keeps my drinks ice-cold for hours, helps me avoid the overpriced bottled water at the airport, and is just as durable as it is convenient. The FreeSip feature is a game-changer, letting me sip directly from the top or use the straw, depending on my preference. This means I can take a quick sip without having to tilt it, making it perfect for when I’m on the go or in the middle of a hectic flight.

One of my favorite things about this bottle is how it allows me to easily refill at airport water stations, saving me from spending $8 on a 16 oz Aquafina at the snack store, in turn saving the planet from yet another plastic water bottle. It's a big win for both my wallet and the environment! The bottle is very easy to clean, and I recommend grabbing some reusable straw cleaners for an even better maintenance experience. The carry loop also makes it super easy to grab on the go, and the design is sleek enough to fit comfortably into any travel bag.

Traveling is all about finding what works best for you, but these five items have made my journeys infinitely easier and more enjoyable. With sustainability and convenience at the heart of each choice, they make me feel more prepared and eco-conscious while on the go.

What are some of your travel essentials? Let me know in the comments!