Essential Travel Products

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We have categorized our Essential Travel Products in multiple areas; Essential Reminders, Health and Beauty, Top Suitcases and Packing gear, Electronics, Clothing, Don't Forget These and Recommended Cruise Excursion Essentials.

 

Essential Reminders

Cash and Credit Cards: It is great to have cash on hand for tips and other odds and ends. Sometimes in foreign countries you can get a better deal with cash.

Sharp objects and liquids: Ensure you do not bring any items that are prohibited from flying or cruising.

Driver's license, Travel insurance, and Foreign currency: If you don't have travel insurance, we can quote that for you. Don't forget to check with your bank at least a month in advance if you have a need for foreign currency.

Cruise documents: Print your boarding documents in case you have poor Wi-Fi or phone service at the cruise terminal

Visas: Research visa requirements for each country you'll visit, especially with ETIAS starting in Europe.

Travel documents: Passport or Original stamped birth certificate: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your travel ends. Married ladies, if traveling with a birth certificate you must bring an official marriage certificate showing proof of name change.

Passport Holder Travel Pouch:  (paid link)

This water resistant RFID blocking pouch is great for carrying around and protecting your essentials. It will carry your passport, documents, phone, cash credit cards and more. You can wear it around your neck, crossbody, over the shoulder or even concealed under your garment. It also comes in multiply colors.

 

 

 

 

Health and Beauty

Prescription medications: Pack prescription medications, vitamins, or supplements in a day bag or carry-on. Research the requirements necessary for each country or cruise line you will be visiting. Not all prescriptions are allowed. Especially medical marijuana or any Schedule 1 drugs.

Nishel Travel Toiletry Bag (paid link)

This travel toiletry bag is portable in size, provides 4 separate compartments and comes in 2 sizes. My daughter used this on her recent honeymoon and loved it! Great organizer.

 

 

 

Hairdryer: the cruise line will provide this, but sometimes you want your own. The cruise lines recommend 1500 watts or less. We will give you a couple of options

Dreame Pocket Hair Dryer: (paid link)

Compact 1000 watt 300 million Negative Ions High Speed Ultra lightweight, low noise for home and travel with case and curling nozzle.

 

 

 

 

LKV Hair Dryer: (paid link)

1500 watt 200 million Negative Ions High Speed, Low noise with nozzle for home and travel.

 

 

 

 

Face Wash: This La Roche-Posay Face (paid link)

La Roche-Posay comes highly recommended and is suitable for all types of skin, face and hands. It removes excess oils while maintaining your skin's pH levels.

 

 

 

 

 

Travel Toiletry Bag: This Nishel Travel Toiletry Bag (paid link)

 

 

 

 

 

Travel motion sickness wristband: (paid link)

These are great if you are going on a cruise or to a theme park and worried about motion sickness. They work through pressure points in the wrist.

 

 

 

 

First-aid kit:  We want to give you a couple of options here as well. When it comes to health care, this is not an area where you want to buy the cheapest thing. The main difference is if you want a kit to cover lots of options or just the basics. I am also giving you a option for the essential triple antibiotic ointment that we all need to carry around.

299 Piece First Aid Only First Aid Kit: (paid link)

What we love about this is its flat size, quantity and quality. This kit is thin, but a little bigger, but still manageable for travel.

 

 

 

 

100 Piece water resistant First Aid Kit: (paid link)

What we love about this is its small hard shell travel case. It comes with the essentials needed for a quick fix.

 

 

 

 

Triple antibiotic ointment: (paid link)

This ointment is great for cuts, scrapes and burns or even just dry skin. It comes as a pack of four 1 ounce tubes.

 

 

 

 

 

Sunscreen: We look at this 4 ways. The face, body, after and the OH-NO. One is not more important than the other, it is just that you might use different products for different needs.

The first way is to protect your face.

 

This Clear Face Sunscreen (paid link)

SPF 46 is oil free  with Zinc Oxide. My wife has used this product for years in daily life and travel and it is the #1 Dermatologist recommended sunscreen brand.

 

 

 

 

Sun Bum Facial Sunscreen SpraySun Bum Facial Sunscreen Spray (paid link)

Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Mist - Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen Spray with Vitamin E - Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Made without Octinoxate & Oxybenzone) - Travel Friendly - 3.4 oz.

 

 

The second way is to protect your body with this Body Sunscreen (paid link)

It comes as a twin pack from a very reliable Neutrogena company. It is a SPF 45 fragrance free, dry to the touch, water resistant and non-greasy lotion, perfect for for cruising or beach days.

 

 

 

 

The third way is to protect body after a sun day with this After Sun Moisturizer (paid link)

It is brought to you form Hawaiian Tropic. People come prepared with sunscreen but forget to take care of their body after a day in the sun. This product contains aloe, which is great for the body.

 

 

 

 

The fourth way is to soothe a sunburn with this Seven Minerals Aloe Vera Gel (paid link)

It is great. This is for the OH-NO day that you get a little too much sun. People use it for regular skin maintenance, burn relief and assistance in healing. Some people even say they use it for their hair.

 

 

 

 

 

Others

Shampoo, conditioner, body wash. The cruise line will provide these, but sometimes you want your own. Face wash is not provided, you will want to bring your own.

Deodorant, Toothbrush and toothpaste

Hairbrush or Comb

Makeup and feminine products

Razor and shaving cream

Hand sanitizer and Lotion

Couple with Luggage getting ready to start vacation

Top Suitcases, Backpacks & Packing Gear

Travel Luggage: Having a good piece of luggage is essential. The last thing you want to happen is for your luggage to break down and you have to go out and buy a new piece when you aren't expecting it and not having many choices. We believe in your luggage having the following features; Lightweight, Expandable Storage, a HARDSHELL and SPINNER WHEELS, this makes life so much easier for you. We will look at it 3 ways: a good quality piece of luggage, a Backpack/Carry-On and the other maybe saving some money, but still quality pieces.

Samsonite Carry-on Luggage: (paid link)

Samsonite is a name that most people will recognize and trust. This is a Samsonite Freeform 21 inch Expandable Hardshell Carry-On with Spinner Wheels. It also comes in 24 inch and 28 inch options. Along with many color choices.

 

 

 

 

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Garment Luggage Bag: (paid link)

SPINNER WHEELS. This bag is wonderful when traveling with garments that need to be hung up. Easy storage under the bed.

 

 

 

 

Amazon Basics Carry-on Luggage: (paid link)

This is a best seller. This is a Amazon Basics Carry on 21 inch Expandable Hardshell Carry-On with Spinner Wheels. You can also order this as a 2 or 3 piece set and multiple color options.

 

 

 

 

Matein Rolling Backpack:  (paid link)

17 inch or 18 inch water resistant Wheeled Backpack/Carry-On. What we like the access to tuck away the handle along with the straps, along with being able to be carried as a backpack or rolled as a Carry-on. We would recommend the 17 inch due to it being easier to count on be able to be placed in the carry-on check box.

 

 

 

8 Set of Packing Cubes for Luggage: (paid link)

The BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes are a smart and efficient way to organize your luggage for any trip. With multiple colors and sizes designed to fit neatly in your suitcase, these lightweight and durable cubes help keep your clothes, accessories, and travel essentials tidy and easy to find—making packing and unpacking faster and stress-free.

 

 

 

Vacuum Bags for Travel: (paid link)

Packing bags for luggage and suitcase, space saver for clothes with rechargeable space saver. Purchase from 9-18 Bags Multiple Size Travel Packs.

 

 

 

 

Compression Bags for Travel: (paid link)

Amazon Basics Roll-up Travel Zipper Storage Bags. Vacuum packing space savers bags for cruise and general travel. 12 count, 65 small and 6 medium.

 

 

 

 

Travel Luggage Tags: These are important to trace your bags in case they get lost. We are providing 3 options here.

One as a Leather Luggage Tag: (paid link)

These are nice to have on your bag all the time, showing your home/personal info. Go with the traditional black or change it up with a color that will stand out and make it easier to find.

 

 

 

 

The other is Plastic Luggage Tags/Lanyards: (paid link)

These tags are great for cruise travel.  You can place your personal cabin room info from the cruise line in the tag. This comes with 4 luggage tags and 2 card holding lanyards. I love the idea of combining this in 1 purchase. We would recommend getting 2 of the 4 packs, have some extras and plastic can crack.

 

 

 

Another option is to buy a 12 pack of Cruise Luggage Tags: (paid link)

The option above is a nice option as a combo, but my wife says she wants to pick out her own lanyard.

 

 

 

 

Don't forget your Neoprene Luggage Handle Wrap: (paid link)

These wraps are great for identification and easy on the hands while gripping. They also come in multiply colors.

 

 

 

 

Travel Luggage Digital Scale: The Travel Inspira Luggage Scale (paid link)

This comes with a capacity of 110 pounds with battery included. How many times have you wondered if your suitcase is over the weight limit placed by the airline. My daughter recently experienced this in her travels and wished she would have had a scale like this. It is crazy the fees the airlines charge for overweight luggage.

 

 

 

Travel Luggage Drink/Phone Holder: The Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder (paid link)

 

This is a nice travel option. While some would say it is not essential, my wife really loves it and get comments on it all the time while we travel. It straps around the luggage handle by Velcro allowing it to be very versatile to different handles. It also has a back pocket perfect for your phone.

 

Electronics

Portable Fans:

I love traveling with a portable fan. If you are like me, you have to have air circulation. Cruise ships do not have overhead fans. And nowadays most hotels do not either. It is also nice to have around the house in case the power goes out. If you are using for a cruise, do some research, some cruise lines are banning electric fans. This is also battery operated, which gives it an advantage.

Treva 10 inch Portable Desk Battery Fan: (paid link)

I love this fan for its semi/compact size, USB charging port and battery backup. If you are like me, you have to have air circulation. Cruise ships do not have overhead fans. And nowadays most hotels do not either. It is also nice to have around the house in case the power goes out. If you are using for a cruise, do some research, some cruise lines are banning electric fans. This is also battery operated, which gives it an advantage.

 

 

Venty Portable Battery Fan: (paid link)

Whether you're cruising the Caribbean or checking into a weekend hotel getaway, the Venty Portable Fan is a game-changing travel essential. Cruise cabins can feel stuffy, and hotel A/C isn't always reliable—but this compact, rechargeable fan delivers powerful airflow wherever you need it. It's whisper-quiet, easy to pack, and doubles as a white noise machine to help you sleep better on the go. Grab the Venty fan and keep your travel cool and comfortable—no matter where you stay.

 

 

Universal Travel Adapter/Chargers/Cords:

You have to be careful with bringing additional outlets and travel adapters. The cruise lines will not approve all of them. NO power strips. Here are a couple to review.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter: (paid link)

International Power Adapter. Three different plugs in one. 4 USB and 1 USB C. Multiple countries approved.

 

 

 

 

Universal Travel Adapter: (paid link)

International travel adapter with USB C, USB and AC. Compact and lightweight accepts plugs from more than 150 countries like USA, UK, EU.

 

 

 

 

Apple AirTags (paid link)

 

4 pack or Single. Keep track of and find your items alongside friends and devices in the Find My app. Key finder and locator for your wallet, luggage, backpack, and more. Share an AirTag with up to 5 people, so items that everyone uses can be tracked by friends and family.

 

 

Tile by Life360 Mate Bluetooth Tracker (paid link)

 

Keys Finder and Item Locator for Keys, Bags and More. Phone Finder. Both iOS and Android Compatible. 2-Pack (Black/White). 1 ,2 and 4 pack options. iOS and Android compatible.

 

 

iWALK USB-C Portable Charger (paid link)

Mini 22.5w 5500mAh wireless Power bank. Auto Shut-Off, Fast Charging, LED Indicator Lights, Lightweight Design, Short Circuit Protection. Digital display tracks the 4800mAh capacity. 20W Fast Charging: Power up your iPhone 15 from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes, ensuring fast recharge experience. New SenseForce Charging System.

 

 

 

iWALK USB-C 5000 mAh 20W with kickstand (paid link)

(Recommended) iWALK Portable Charger with kickstand. Digital Display, Fast Charging, Lightweight, Over Charging Protection, Pocket Size. 20W PD USB-C Power Bank, 5000mAh Battery Pack Compatible with iPhone 15 Plus,15 Pro,15 Pro Max, Samsung Android.

 

 

 

 

Mini Portable Charger: (paid link)

This 2-Pack 5000mAh Power Bank Mini Portable Charger is compact and utilizes a USB C input and output. Works for iPhone and Android. We love the fact that you have no cords, it just plugs right into the bottom of your phone. It also has a LED display showing your remaining charge life.

 

 

 

 

 

Anker USB-C  and USB-A 33W 2 Port Charger (paid link)

Anker USB C Charger Block, 33W 2 Port Compact Charger with Foldable Plug for iPhone 16/15, Galaxy, and More (Cable Not Included, White). Simultaneous Dual-Port Charging: Our innovative 2-in-1 design incorporates both a USB-C and a USB-A port.

 

 

 

 

3 Outlet USB A/C Wall Charger, (paid link)

Anker USB C Charger(Nano II 65W). The Only Charger You Need: Say goodbye to your old chargers. Anker 735 Charger (Nano II 65W) has the power you need to fast charge your phone, tablet, and USB-C notebook from a single charger.

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Super Fast Charger (paid link)

Super Fast Charger, 25 W USB-C 2 Pack Wall Charger Fast Charging Block, 10FT Quick USBC Cable for Samsung Galaxy S25. 3.0 Technology. Since it is USB-C, it can also be used for newer iPhones.

 

 

 

 

6 Ft Anker USB-C Charging Cord (paid link)

Anker USB C to USB C Cable, Type-C 60W Fast Charging Cable (6FT, 2Pack) for Android, iPhone 16 Series, iPad mini 6 and More (Silver). Anker is a top brand and when dealing with charging cords it is good to go with one you can trust. This is also a data transfer charging cord. 

 

 

 

 

10 Ft Right Angle USB C Charger Cord (paid link)

AINOPE USB C to USB C Cable 60W 2-Pack 10ft Nylon Braided USB C to USB C Cable Type C Charger Fast Charging Right Angle USBC Cable Charger Cord for iPhone 16 Pro Max 15 Plus Samsung S24 S23 iPad Pro Grey. The right angle is important for comfort and convenience. 

 

 

 

 

Bluetooth Speaker: This JBL Flip 5 Bluetooth Speaker (paid link)

This comes with a Protective Travel Case. The sound JBL can produce out of a relatively small speaker is awesome. It comes with 12 hours of playtime and is waterproof. Great for the day at the beach or just hanging out with friends. We have this speaker and love that is is loud enough, but not annoying to your neighbors. Be careful with the speaker, some cruise lines and hotels have restrictions.

 

 

 

Headphones/Earbuds: I appreciate these TOZO Hybrid wireless Earbuds (paid Link)

The way they fit in my ear. The Active Noise Cancelling (ACN) is the best. Digital Display case.

 

 

 

 

Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder Mount (paid link)

 

2 Pack or Single. Hands-free Convenience: Keep your phone within reach and in sight, whether you're on a plane, at your desk, or working out at the gym. Dual joints with 360-degree rotation allow for the best viewing angle, whether you prefer vertical or horizontal orientation.

 

 

 

Understand the upcoming weather for your trip and how many days you will be gone. Plan accordingly.

Clothing

Undergarments, shirts, pants, shorts and socks

Jacket or cardigan in case the weather gets cooler

Lightweight clothing for warm weather

Dinner, Walking and pool deck shoes

Swimsuits and hats

Sleepwear

 

Don't Forget These 

Travel Journal

Sunglasses, Prescription eyeglasses or contacts

Waterproof bags for sightseeing or beach day

Reusable water bottle:

Owala FreeSip Water Bottle: (paid link)

If you don't already have one of these, this bottle is a nice choice. It is a multi-color option 24 oz stainless steel BPA-Free bottle with a straw with a FreeSip spout and push button lid to lock. The bottle comes in many colors.

 

 

 

Wall Magnet hooks: These are one of our favorite travel essentials. They can be used with hotel or cruise travel. Most people don't realize cruise ship walls are metal. These are great to hang your hat or lanyard on the metal hotel or cruise ship cabin walls. It is nice to have options, you can get them as different strength capabilities. Make sure you get them with the hook and not a hole design. You can even use them around the house at home.

Light, Medium and Heavy duty options: Wall Magnet (paid link) This company provides several options for hanging strength. These are a must for travel.

 

 

 

 

 

Neck Pillow: The Napfun Travel Pillow (paid link)

is great for travel and comes with a case. Ideal for use on a airplane or long car trips. Having a neck pillow to support your head and chin during travel allows for less neck pain and therefore a more pleasant travel time period and the days after. It comes in many color options.

 

 

 

Travel Blanket: The EverSnug Travel Blanket (paid link)

comes with a travel case that can act as a pillow. I also love that the case has a sleeve that you attach to your luggage handle. It measures 65 inches in length and 40 inches wide. It comes in many color options. I think buying 2 of these and having one as a pillow and the other as a blanket is a great idea. This will also allow you to share it with a friend or family member.

 

 

 

Chair Towel clips/bands: We will look at these 3 different ways.

Towel Bands: Towel Bands (paid link)

6 pack. We like the idea of bands over clips. They secure around your chair making it very difficult for your towel to be blown off your chair. Some people might find it harder to use vs the clips. They also take up very little space in your luggage.

 

 

 

Fun Towel Clips: This 8 pack of Beach Chair Towel Clips (paid link)

come as an assortment; 2 Pink Flamingo, 2 Fish, 2 Sandel and 2 Parrots. People love the fun aspect of having these clips. Kids will love them.

 

 

 

 

Basic Towel Clips: This 8 pack  of Beach Towel Clips (paid link)

These serve the same purpose as the Fun Towel Clips but save a little money. The 8 pack comes with 4 different colors, 2 each. What I do like about these is that there are no exposed coils.

 

 

 

 

We hope you find our travel tips, product recommendations, and planning resources helpful as you prepare for your next adventure. At Cruises Plus Travel, we truly value your trust and support. Thank you for choosing us as your travel planning partner—we wish you safe journeys and unforgettable experiences on all your future travels!

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