Trip Essentials

My soon-to-be view: the Portland Headlight in Maine. 

image via

Happy first day of summer! In a few short days I will be off  to my first destination of the summer, Maine. I can't wait for the fun, sights, and the food. Especially the food. 

The fact that I haven't made a list of what I'm bringing/ packed yet is very much unlike me, and it looks like I will be packing the day before I leave, which is again, very unlike me. No matter where I go however, there are a few items that always find their way with me, and are truly my essentials. Once I have them packed, the rest should be a breeze, and hopefully I won't over pack/pack a pair of shoes for every outfit...

BAG

The Pliage bags from Longchamp are such a staple for me, and the large travel bag is no different. It has become my go-to bag for toting back souvenirs and purchases on trips, as a carry-on, or a weekend/short trip bag. I am going to be super ambitious and attempt to pack everything I need for my trip in it. Ha, ha, ha.

 DRESS

I have no idea what I am packing clothing-wise, but I know for sure I will be bringing along a a black maxi. I've been living in this one from Old Navy and know it will be perfect for the six-hour car ride and again for a day of sightseeing.

CAMERA & CASE

A camera is a no-brainer, and with scenic views like the one above, I can't wait to take my Rebel on the road with me. I not too long ago purchased the Jill.e camera bag insert and I love it as it fits perfectly into a bigger bag and can hold my camera and two lenses. 

LIP GLOSS

M.A.C.'s Big Kiss is one of my favorite glosses in general, but especially in summer, as it's the perfect shade of coral. I love it for day and night. 

SCARF

I always like to pack a scarf for frigid AC, a chilly night, or to cover up in observance of a religious setting. Since the weather in Maine can be more on the cooler side, and I freeze easily, I am bringing a few of my favorite scarves to throw on when the temperatures drop a bit. 

ELECTRONICS

Even though it's been a minute since I've used it, I now remember why I bought my Kindle and how perfect it is for travel. I can't wait to get into one of my summer reads while on the road. 

Just as essential would be my iPod (yes, I am still loyal to my classic,) with some new downloads and a playlist or two. (Lots of Kaskade, no shocker there, especially his newest single, Atmosphere.)

I have a few posts in my absence (read: posts that I had for this week...), including a guest post that I am SUPER excited about. Until next time!

Packing: Cruise edition

I initially had this post to go up last week when I was away.  But I clean forgot to schedule it. Whoops! 

As always, these are just my opinions. I figured someone may find it helpful!

Laundry Bag

It wasn't until my last cruise did I realize how essential a laundry bag of some sort is. I always unpack and shove my suitcase under the bed, and since the closet space is not expansive, a laundry bag is great to store dirty clothes. And it makes unpacking/laundry when I return home super easy!

Nightlight

I hate how unlike hotel rooms where a little light peeks out from under the door, the staterooms are  pitch black. A nightlight is much easier than turning on all the lights for late night bathroom runs. If you don't want to pack a nightlight, while bright, leaving the light on in the bathroom and closing the door works too.

Wrinkle Spray

Such a life saver, since irons are prohibited. I try to pack materials that don't wrinkle easy, but sometimes it just cant be avoided.  I don't travel anywhere without it. 

Flashlight

After the incidents on Carnival and Princess last year, I will not be without one for any of my trips. 

Detergent packets

These come in SO handy! (Like that one time I ran out of underwear in Italy...) Woolite is my favorite, but most detergent brands have their own travel version. 

Travel Dryer
Last year, I decided to leave my dryer at home.
Big Mistake.
I was always late to dinner, because as soon as I would start to blow dry my hair, it would overheat and shut off. This would then require it to est for about 5 minutes till I could use it again.
 I am absolutely obssed with my new Babyliss travel dryer. I have nicknamed it small and mighty, because it is just that. 

Ipod Speaker/Dock
This isn't an essential, but I can't be without my music when I'm getting ready or relaxing. (If you are on a newer ship (Like Royal Caribbean's Allure or Oasis,) they come standard in each stateroom!)

These next two are more for in port:
Toilet paper & Toilet seat covers

Tis better to be safe than sorry.


For more great cruise tips from a very seasoned cruiser, check out Nicole's travel blog:
Places To Go, The World To See.