Holiday Travel Essentials You'll Need This Year

Traveling home or abroad for the holidays? Take these little game-changers along for a bon voyage!

There are a few things that go in my bag whether it's a short trip or long. However, during the holiday season, many of us will be boarding planes, trains and taking more lengthy excursions. I always like to be as comfortable and as safe as possible so here are my picks for the specific challenges of holiday travel:

• A Travel Pillow - Some people pack their own pillow for longer overnight stays or even for use on the plane if it is an extended flight. Whatever the case, one of the best pillows I've found has memory foam and pure silk cases. Sleep 'n Glow is similar to my Tempur-Pedic pillow but offers more support and spinal alignment due to the deep contours. The fitted silk pillowcases make this pillow an overnight beauty treatment for skin and hair.  Something we all could use to combat that jet lag once we make our destination!

Sleep 'n Glow Pillow and Silk Pillowcase

• Comfortable, breathable undies - Sitting for long periods of time in transit can really wreak havoc on your bottom. Even more so, you'll want panties that travel well and dry quickly after washing. These Hipsters by JUMPER Premium Threads are highly ventilated, wicking and made of 60% ProModal and 35% peppermint leaf fiber. Both are natural plant fibers with the peppermint being very anti-microbial. These offer four-way stretch and an incredible fit. Each pair comes with its own travel pouch to pop in your carry on luggage!
  
  

  

  Peppermint Tech Hipsters
  
  

• Foldable Natural Fiber Toothbrush - My Sonicare toothbrush came with a travel case but I really don't want to risk losing or breaking it on the road. A better option is this folding toothbrush by Doctor Plotka. The bristles are natural, gentle and anti-microbial all at the same time. So much lighter than an electric toothbrush too. 

Developed by a dentist, Doctor Plotka's Travel Toothbrush

• Lavender Hand Cream - This organic lavender hand cream is the perfect size, (1 fl oz) to fit inside your cabin bag or purse. Lavender is naturally calming and has the added benefit of being antimicrobial as well as boosting the immune system. This one by Garner's Garden is very rich, made with sunflower and shea butter as well as pure essential oils. 

  

  Garner's Garden assorted essential oil hand creams
  
  

• Body Wash & Body Lotion - You can always take along a cosmetic counter or travel-sized sample of your favorite product but this set by Eau Des Minimes of Lagorce France takes it to another level. This botanical recipe dates back to 1862 and is based on Eaux de cologne that was prepared in the convents at that time. Both are well within the TSA's 4-ounce liquid limitations but are enough for a week-long trip or more. A little goes a long way! 

Clockwise: Hipster's Women's Bikini Briefs by Jumper Threads, Doctor Plotka's Travel Toothbrush, Garner's Garden Lavender Essential Oil Handcream, Le Couvent des Minimes Botanical Shower Gel, and Body Cream, Molton Brown Travel Accessories Kit with a sewing kit, shower cap, and shoe polisher.