Ask A Detroit Expert: 5 Must-Have Travel Items

By Raquel Parks
@MetroDivaPages

Traveling in style is the only way to go when planning for a vacation. Between the flight and the destination, there is plenty to remember. With all the excitement to get away, it can be easy to forget the preparation that goes into traveling. Making a list is the best way to prep for a long flight and a relaxing vacation. Check out these five basic travel items.

Crossbody or Tote Bag

A stylish tote can be a fashionista's best friend when traveling because it's large enough carry all the items that are needed during a getaway. It can also double as a carry-on. A crossbody bag is another great choice because it's small, hangs securely to the body and can still store all important items. Consider both options for a trip, especially if it's going to be over 3 days.

Stylish Causal Wear

Make simple yet fashionable choices when packing for vacation. The attire should allow leisure and be effortlessly fashionable. For example: Consider packing a romper with a fun print, a Maxi or sundress, and a few tops to pair with shorts and capris.

If the vacation includes an elegant night out, then it's okay to include one or two cocktail dresses with heels. But avoid going overboard with packing too many clothes.

Overpacking can cause additional expenses at the airport and be difficult  to pull around the airport. A lighter luggage is easy and  allows plenty of room for souvenirs from the trip..

Comfortable Shoes

Any great getaway will include plenty of sightseeing and walking in the airport. Bring a comfy yet stylish pair of sneakers and flats to ensure comfort. Consider bringing a variety of 2 or 3 pairs of comfortable shoes to provide versatility for outfits.

Compartmentalize Beauty Products

Beauty products are essential to a fashionista's daily ritual to looking fabulous. However, they must be condensed to travel-size proportions for a trip.  No one wants to deal with the a dreaded, accidental-spill in their luggage.

The best way to take beauty products on the go, is to purchase miniature travel bottles to store them in.  To keep everything neat and mess-free, place all the travel-size beauty products in a large makeup bag or pouch to slip into the luggage.

Emergency "Fix-it" Kit

Sometimes, even with all the preparation, things just happen. A favorite dress can get ripped or a few buttons could get detached from a shirt.  No matter what the situation is, it can quickly become a distraction from a fun vacation. To eliminate the fuss, purchase a travel sewing kit from any local fabric store.

A travel kit is small enough to fit in a purse or the pocket of a luggage. It comes with all the necessary items to repair clothing in a pinch. A traveling kit typically includes a pair of plastic scissors, needle threads, buttons, tape, safety pins (ideal for immediate fixes) and spools of threads. Grab one before heading out of town or even create one at home. It could be a life saver on a trip.

These are just a few helpful items to keep in mind when planning for an upcoming vacation. Ultimately, try not to overthink outfit choices and stray from packing everything you own into your luggage. Keep it simple, stylish, and most of have all fun!

Raquel is a Michigan native with a Bachelors in Journalism from the University of Michigan. She loves fashion and writing about life's everyday stories. She has written for various local publications that include Dearborn Press & Guide and Detroit Fashion Pages. Raquel also writes for her own local events blog, Metro Diva Pages.