The evolution of travel accessories is nothing short of miraculous. Few of us care to remember what air travel was like before rolling luggage was invented. Accompanying the revolution in luggage design is the vast improvement in travel accessories.
For serious travel, handy tote bags come in high on the list of must-have accessories. First, tote bags make great and lightweight carry-on luggage. Everyone needs a place to stash a water bottle, snacks, tissues, reading material and the ubiquitous cell phone. Tote bags even come in handy for day trips and side excursions when most luggage is left behind.
Cosmetic cases, toiletry kits and shaving kits have been around forever, but newer models have thick plastic linings that guard against leakage. Some come with plastic containers into which you can decant mouthwash, shampoo, sunscreen and other critical liquids, with matching toothbrush cases, of course.
Travel kits are designed to transport useful items. Sewing and first aid kits, miniature tool kits, manicure sets and makeup sets keep items organized. You can bring compact travel alarms, travel irons or steamers, hair dryers and voltage converter kits for using your electric appliances in foreign countries. Not many toolkits have a good corkscrew, so pick up a travel version and tuck it into your shaving kit or tote bag . . . but don''t pack it in your carry-on.
Keeping your valuables secure is of growing importance when traveling overseas. Money belts and fanny packs are standard travel accessories now. Few women put their passports in their handbags any more.
You can also invest in devices that provide added security for your hotel room or train compartment. Nylon ropes and doorstoppers prevent break-ins and let you sleep better.
If you want to be prepared for anything, you might also consider a miniature flashlight and a can of pepper spray, but check regulations before you pack anything that might be used as a weapon and don''t pack such items in your carry-on tote bags.
Be sure to include travel accessories designed for comfort in flight (and on trains, buses and automobiles), such as an inflatable neck cushion, eyeshades, earplugs and head rests.
Now if they could just figure out how to package extra leg room.