Photo Courtesy of - Michael Mazengarb
For many of us, packing for a trip can either be an easy, stress-free task or it can be a long, drawn-out process that makes you question whether you even want to go at all. If it’s the latter, it’s usually due to trying to pack too much into too small of a space.
However, some of the smallest investments can reap the greatest rewards—and that’s especially true for travel accessories. Here are E-Z Rent-A-Car’s top picks for compact travel essentials that are tiny enough to leave room for other items you may have otherwise had to leave behind.
1. Keychain-sized Multitool – This is an especially tiny, yet useful tool to bring on trips that involve a lot of outdoor activity. Many multitools feature things like miniature pliers, screwdrivers, scissors, Phillips screwdrivers, bottle openers and more—and some are even small enough for attaching to keychains.
2. Plastic Sandwich Bags – Whether you’re headed to the beach, the woods or the theme parks, there’s always a chance of getting expensive electronics wet while in your pocket or bag. Prepare for a surprise tide, an unexpected rain shower or a sudden water ride splash by having your gadgets safely secured in plastic bags.
3. Rubber Bands – Not only are rubber bands a great makeshift alternative for hair ties, food and bag sealers, and more, they’re also great for keeping your wallet or loose cards/money safe. If you’re vacation involves being in highly populated areas or even outdoors, having a few rubber bands around your valuables could prevent lost (or stolen) valuables from escaping your pockets.
4. Compact First-Aid Kit – An essential accessory for any type of vacation, compact first-aid kits usually feature things like adhesive fabric bandages of assorted sizes, gel hydrogel bandages for blisters or burns, alcohol swabs, cleansing towelettes, antibiotic ointment and safety pins. Some offer other convenient items like miniature scissors, latex gloves, an ice pack, and more—all in one compact travel kit.
5. Sleep Kit – Regardless of whether you’re traveling by car, plane or train, having a sleep kit can be a lifesaver while traveling. A sleep kit can consist of a few items, such as a pair of ear plugs, some light-blocking eyeshades and a small travel pillow, which all help get you some rest when you’re surrounded by too much light, an abundance of noise or uncomfortable seating.
6. Battery Pack/Solar Charger – For days when you’re not going to have the time or the resources available for charging your cellphone or other devices, a battery pack or solar charger can be a great alternative. Many of these chargers offer days worth of electric charge and are ideal for packing, weighing around 10 ounces each. And though solar chargers may be a bit more pricey, they can be great for extended periods of time that you’re away from an electrical outlet.
7. Miniature Umbrella – Yet another tool for helping keep valuables dry while you’re out and about, including electronics, clothes, hair, bags and more. Additionally, if you’re outdoors and it’s sunny, an umbrella can prevent overexposure to the sun for the majority of your body, as opposed to a hat that only covers your head and leaves your limbs exposed.
While traveling, there are many essential accessories that are ideal for a variety of vacations, but often take up a lot of space. So be sure that these easily storable items are on your list for a convenient and stress-free getaway, so you have room to pack even more for your trip.
Learn more about our other helpful travel resources online, including special discounts, travel-related blog posts, E-Z Rent-A-Car coupons and more.
Photo Courtesy of - DLG Images
