Essentials

Over our journeys, we’ve discovered a handful of items that have become indispensable companions, making our trips smoother, more comfortable, and just plain better. This is where we’ll share those tried-and-true finds – from handy gadgets to practical gear – that we genuinely recommend based on our own experiences. 

Consider this your peek into our travel toolkit, filled with the stuff that helps us make the most of every adventure.

Close-up image of various credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
A Fond Farewell to My Favorite Credit Card: The Chase Sapphire Reserve
For the last nine years, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has been my go-to credit card. It was the card that lived at the front of my wallet, the one I reached for on every dining, travel, and everyday purchases. For almost a decade, it was a constant companion that unlocked some...
WaterproofSneakers
Our Go-To Waterproof Travel Sneakers
Travel is all about embracing the unexpected, but some surprises are less welcome than others. Take, for instance, the time we took a day trip to Ronda, Spain, back in 2018. We thought we were prepared with raincoats and an umbrella, but the heavens truly opened that day. I’m...
ContactSolution_TravelSize
How much contact solution do I need?
For those of us who wear contact lenses, packing for a trip always comes with a unique little puzzle: how much contact solution do I need to pack? This seemingly simple question often leads to a delightful dance between TSA regulations, personal hygiene habits, and the ever-present...