I like to read all the must-haves, travel essentials, top tips, do’s and don’ts related to making travel life easier. I believe that everyone out there when planning a vacation would love to have all these travel tips in one convenient place, right at their fingertips.
When I travel to the tropics, among the many items I carry in my suitcase are 10 of my favorite must-haves. Considering that the weight limit for carryon luggage is approximately 20 pounds, what I choose to carry is very important. The selections must meet my three standard packing requirements: be lightweight, be compact and be trendy.
So here goes. I must have:
-
- Sneakers
that are durable, lightweight, and made from materials which keep my feet cool and fit comfortably. They are perfect for walking distances, gives adequate support for rough terrain, are stylishly designed and colorful too.
- A Hat
with a wide brim which provides the right amount of shade on a sunny day. This trendy head gear protects my face and the exposed portion of skin on the back of my neck.
- Clothing such as silks and linens are perfect to wear to keep cool day or night. A Beach
and Linen Dress
are an integral part of my wardrobe that does not require much manipulation.
- Believe it or not, in the tropics the Umbrella
has a dual purpose. It provides shade from the sun’s rays and protects from the driving rain. This necessary item fits in small spaces and is a daily staple in my handbag. Whether the day’s forecast predicts rain or sunshine, I will certainly be prepared for either occasion.
- A Water Bottle
for my daily exercise routine. I may also use it to carry a cold beverage such as freshly squeezed lemon in chilled water or a drink of hot cocoa as I view the sunrise or watch the sunset on the horizon.
- Besides making me look cool at the beach, Sunglasses
help to protect my eyes from the sun’s glare as I relax on the sand while watching the tide’s ebb and flow near the water’s edge.
- A decent Shawl
to wrap around my shoulders to keep me warm in the cool evening breezes. Also, I may use it to accessorize my dress for a more semi-formal look at dinner time.
- Lightweight carry-all Tote Bags
are handy items to take to the beach, supermarket and almost everywhere I go. I can fold and tuck them neatly into a clutch purse when not in use.
- You wouldn’t be in the tropics if you didn’t encounter mosquitoes and sandflies or as the locals call them no-see-ums. I use Bug Guard
towelettes to wipe the exposed areas of my skin for protection against these pesky insects. The repellent properties saves me from much unnecessary itch and pain, not to mention ugly skin discolorations.
- A Portable Power Bank
that will keep all my electronic devices fully charged. It helps to keep me connected when I am unable to access ordinary charging outlets.
- Sneakers
that are durable, lightweight, and made from materials which keep my feet cool and fit comfortably. They are perfect for walking distances, gives adequate support for rough terrain, are stylishly designed and colorful too.
with a wide brim which provides the right amount of shade on a sunny day. This trendy head gear protects my face and the exposed portion of skin on the back of my neck.
and 
are an integral part of my wardrobe that does not require much manipulation.
has a dual purpose. It provides shade from the sun’s rays and protects from the driving rain. This necessary item fits in small spaces and is a daily staple in my handbag. Whether the day’s forecast predicts rain or sunshine, I will certainly be prepared for either occasion.
for my daily exercise routine. I may also use it to carry a cold beverage such as freshly squeezed lemon in chilled water or a drink of hot cocoa as I view the sunrise or watch the sunset on the horizon.
help to protect my eyes from the sun’s glare as I relax on the sand while watching the tide’s ebb and flow near the water’s edge.
to wrap around my shoulders to keep me warm in the cool evening breezes. Also, I may use it to accessorize my dress for a more semi-formal look at dinner time.
are handy items to take to the beach, supermarket and almost everywhere I go. I can fold and tuck them neatly into a clutch purse when not in use.
towelettes to wipe the exposed areas of my skin for protection against these pesky insects. The repellent properties saves me from much unnecessary itch and pain, not to mention ugly skin discolorations.
that will keep all my electronic devices fully charged. It helps to keep me connected when I am unable to access ordinary charging outlets.The mentioned 10 items are not the only items in my suitcase, but without them I would be miserable. Obviously, other items like my binoculars, camera, cosmetics, laptop, etc., are very important to me too. By following my three packing requirements whenever I travel, I have always managed to carry what’s needed and never had to use any of my spending money on items I would have otherwise left at home.
Travel Itineraries 
That’s a good list, especially the power bank. So essential for me. Another thing I like to bring is a bathing suit. I always regret it if I leave this behind. Even when I go somewhere cold, the hotel may have a great pool.
The one that I really like from your list is an umbrella. That’s something I often forget. Do you ever have any problems bringing that on a plane?
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If you forget the swimsuit a pair of shorts and T-Shirt is the next best thing. Never had a problem packing an umbrella.
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