Having the right travel accessories can significantly enhance your travel experience, keep you organized, and make your journey more comfortable. Let’s face it: planes, trains, and rental cars can be breeding grounds for germs, and no one wants to get sick at the start of their vacation. That’s why packing germ-fighting travel essentials is a must for every traveler. Whether you're flying, road-tripping, or taking the train, staying healthy should be a top priority. Through trial and error, we’ve curated a list of must-have germaphobe travel accessories to help you stay clean and sanitized during every trip.
Here are our tried-and-tested sanitizing essentials for a worry-free adventure.
Obviously. Prior to sitting on any flight or train, we wipe down all the seats, seat belts, and trays like crazy people. And then we sanitize our hands like a surgeon going into the ER. But we have these sanitizing products in all flavors and strengths; from hippie-dippie, organic, lemon-scented pumps to industrial-strength, burn-your-nose-hairs, Clorox towels, there is a wipe or squirt for every occasion.
Like wipes but for air. This one is especially great for rental cars. A few sprays in your compact rental car with a wipe down like the above will be all you need to rid the vehicle of trip-ending germs.
There really is nothing worse than walking barefoot in a hotel or rental. If I didn't clean the floor myself, it's not clean. Am I right? And your socks deserve better, so do yourself a favor and buy some lightweight, washable slippers that you leave at the front door. So when you come in, you ditch your shoes covered in 80 AD Roman Colosseum dust, and you slip on some comfy separation between you and that dirty water mopped floor.
In sketchy water countries, this is a must. Being able to fill an ice tray with bottled water and make a diarrhea-free cocktail is more than piece of mind, it's just smart. And no one likes warm water when you're trekking through the Monteverde Cloud Forest in Costa Rica, so be sure to look for trays that build ice cubes that can easily fit into a standard mouth size opening water bottle. We prefer the silicone tray. It bends and flexes without losing its shape, making it easy to shove into any crevice in your luggage.
The last time I forgot travel tissues was the first time I considered using my shirt. Walking to the airplane bathroom to grab whatever paper product is available is a germaphobe nightmare. So do yourself a favor and buy a lifetime supply of Kleenex tissues for travel. Not only practical for the nose, but for other things such as a dispensary for your child's old gum or lollipop stick.
This is a game changer. You just slip it on and voila! You now have a brand-new tray table; a clean surface on which to eat and work. No more having to worry about the family of 14 before you and their leftover Hawaiian punch-soaked Cheerios at the bottom of the pocket. It comes with built-in pouches to store your personal items so they are protected.
A compact first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and adhesive tape can be useful in emergencies. And non-emergencies for hang-over inducing headaches or the occasional razor cut.
These are like breath strips for your laundry, dehydrated laundry soap. Not only do you avoid liquid ounce requirements imposed by travel authorities, but they take up no space in your luggage. Wash your clothes on the go, in a sink or a proper washing machine. These are especially convenient if you're traveling for an extended period so you don't have to check 5 bags.
We rely on reusable water bottles in our daily lives. They not only save money and help to reduce plastic waste, it ensures you know where your water is coming from and who's used it. Not to mention, necessary for traveling in countries with suspect water. Fill it with bottled water and you can even brush your teeth with it. We opt for bottles that are compact and lightweight, easily fitting into carry-on bags and backpacks. A bottle with a secure and reliable lid or cap will prevent leaks and spills. Also, look for a high-quality bottle (we prefer Hydro Flask) that can withstand the rigors of travel.
Cocktail Making Kit
And finally, we all have different ways to relax, to retreat from the stresses of travel. Ours happens to be having a cocktail. This set will be your best friend, whether on the plane or in your hotel room, you don't have to suffer the taste of well-alcohol. Spruce up that Jack Daniels with an Old Fashioned mix. In all fairness, it's convenient to have at home too!
**Bonus Accessories!
A toiletry bag is a basic travel essential (and FAA mandated). The best type of toiletry bag will be designed with a leak-proof or water-resistant material. This will help to contain spills and prevent your other belongings from getting damaged in case you have a leaky bottle or tube. They are ideal for keeping your personal care items neatly organized in one place, making it easier to find what you need. Having a dedicated toiletry bag is also clutch when going through airport security or other travel checkpoints as you can present them for inspection and store them back in your carry-on bag.
Reusable travel toiletry bottles offer several benefits that make them a practical and eco-friendly choice for germaphobe travelers. While reusable travel bottles may have a higher upfront cost, you can fill them with your preferred products. Meaning you can use your favorite shampoo, conditioner, lotion, or other products during your trip and not rely on sketchy hotel concoctions. Many reusable travel bottles are designed with leak-proof caps or lids, minimizing the risk of spills and messes in your luggage.
Some Extras:
Travel Pillow
Travel Blanket
Conclusion:
The best travel essentials and germaphobe accessories depend on your specific needs and destination. To ensure a smooth, healthy, and stress-free journey, create a detailed travel checklist before you go. For more tips on staying organized and healthy during your adventures, explore our blog for expert travel advice and product recommendations.
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