Ultimate Summer Travel Essentials: From Pillows to Packing Cubes

This article originally appeared on Newsbreak.

Summer is right around the corner, and it is time to get outside and soak up the sun. The weather is great, the kids are out of school, and it’s the perfect time to seek adventure and make memories.

The key to a successful trip begins before you pack your suitcases in the car. These travel essentials will help you have a great vacation.

Note: This author received samples for this article.

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Bedgear’s Storm Performance travel pillow is a must-have for travelers. The carrying case easily slides onto the handle of your luggage, making moving it through the airport a breeze. Not only does it prevent a buildup of heat, it feels cool to the touch. You won’t believe how much better sleep you will get with this pillow.

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Traveling and summer weather can both take a toll on your skin. Rehydrate and refresh your skin with the Hydrator in Chief by Pietro Simone. His blend of antioxidant and hydration components work together to replace and maintain a proper level of hydration while botanical extracts work to improve the surface of your skin. Pack the Hydrator in Chief on your next trip; your skin will thank you.

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It can be easy to overlook self-care when you’re traveling and on the go. Zion Health has products with natural fragrances that allow you to pamper yourself after a day of fun and adventure. The Bergamot Rose Clay Bar Soap and Bath Bomb will both leave your skin feeling (and smelling) amazing, while the White Rose Lotion helps rehydrate skin after spending time in the sun.

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Packing for a trip becomes much easier when you have the Nomatic Travel Pack. Perfect for short trips, it can be used as a backpack or briefcase. It’s made from water-resistant materials, has pockets for water bottles and RFID storage. Out of packing space? The pack can expand by 50%, so there’s room for last-minute additions.  

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Vacations can be ruined by sleepless nights leading to groggy days. “Do Not Disturb” sleep supplements by Life Happns can help you get restful sleep while traveling. The capsules help muscles relax, reduce stress, and help reduce the effects of caffeine on your sleep. Do Not Disturb helps you relax after a busy day, allowing you to get a restorative night’s rest and play hard the next day.  

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The Duracell 2000 Lumen Tri-Power Lantern is a powerhouse and should always accompany you when you travel. Since it uses three different power sources (solar, batteries, and a charger), you will never have to worry about losing your light source. It doubles as a power bank allowing you to charge your phone or tablet when there isn’t an electrical outlet in sight.

Quantum Energy Square

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Half snack and half energy bar, these delicious squares of chocolatey goodness have the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. These plant-based bars are made with organic green coffee beans and whole foods. The caffeine is absorbed slowly, so you won’t experience the jitters and crashes normally associated with energy drinks. The individually wrapped bars are easy to pack for travel and can help relieve the symptoms of jet lag.

I tried the Quantum Energy Squares out for myself. They were tasty, easy to eat on the go, and most importantly, gave me a much-needed energy boost to get me through a day of traveling.

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Anyone who has ever tried to apply sunscreen to their child will love the Sunny Stik. Despite our best efforts, most of us get more sunblock on ourselves than the children. The Sunny Stik will change all of that. It’s super easy: squeeze sunscreen onto the foam tip and then swipe to apply quickly and (most importantly) evenly.

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COR Surf Packing Cubes offer compression to save space in your suitcase; you can also save money at the airport by using a carry-on instead of checked luggage. The cubes are three-and-a-half inches thick when unzipped; when compressed and zipped up, they are just 2 inches thick. You can choose from beautiful designs in small, medium, or large packing cubes. The four-pack includes all three plus a rectangular packing cube.

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The LectroFan Micro 2 Portable Bluetooth Sleep Sound Machine will help you relax and fall asleep quickly after a day of non-stop fun and memory-making. Drift off while enjoying the sound of ocean waves, white noise, or several other options. Connect your Bluetooth to play your favorite songs or connect to your phone to place a call. You will wonder how you ever traveled with this versatile product.

Must-Have Summer Travel Items

This article originally appeared on Newsbreak.

Get your vacation off on the right foot by getting your hands on these wonderful travel products. All the items below easily fit into a carry-on bag, which just happens to be on the list as well.

Please note: this author received samples to use for this article.

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Getting good sleep is essential when you’re traveling. Nobody wants to be sluggish while they’re trying to enjoy their vacation. Saatva has the perfect solution: silk eye masks. The masks are made with pure Mulberry silk, which helps keep your skin smooth and hydrated. The weighted eye mask reaches from your forehead to your cheekbones and is a bit larger than the non-weighted option (which is still oversized). Both come in Sand and Slate; you can’t make a bad choice.

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Packing for a trip isn’t the most enjoyable activity. Make it easier by getting “minis” from FACTORFIVE. They have anti-aging cream, nourishing silk, regenerative serum, and eye cream. The cap twists up, so you don’t have to worry about them accidentally opening and making a mess. Best of all, their small size makes them perfect for weekend trips.

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Illness can ruin a vacation; be sure to protect yourself by using Power Mist hand sanitizers. Not only do they decrease your odds of getting sick, but they come in a variety of scents. Rainwater is my favorite; it smells amazing. They are TSA-approved, so be sure and toss one in your carry-on suitcase.

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Grabbing a shower is a great way to relax after a day of fun activities. Using Herbal Zen shower steamers is a great to take a shower. You can pick from essential oil-packed blends like SleepyTime, Cold Kicker, Morning Energy. and several others. They are individually wrapped, so it’s simple to throw them in your carry-on bag.

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Strength x Beauty has travel kits designed specifically to protect your hair during summer travel. The products are just the right size for packing in your luggage; all kits are contained in a waterproof travel bag. Formulated for a variety of hair types, you are sure to find your perfect fit. “Try me” sizes are also available at a special price.

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Regardless of where you travel, you are going to want to take pictures and videos of your destination to relive later. Sometimes to get the perfect shot, you have to lean and twist around. The Snap 4 Luxe phone grip reduces the odds that you will drop your phone while taking pictures. It also functions as a phone stand to make viewing easier while traveling.

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The “ULTI” bag will make traveling more comfortable. No other bag features a built-in pad just perfect for extended layovers and long flights. The bag checks all the boxes: beautifully styled, keeps everything organized and close at hand, and even has a pocket designed for a water bottle. You will wonder how you ever traveled without it.

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Juvea’s travel-size pillow will be your best friend on long car rides or flights. It provides much-needed support for your head and neck. The pillow has an open-cell structure so air moves through easily making it feels cooler in the warmer months and warmer in the winter. Best of all, the pillows are organic, cruelty-free, vegan, and made in America.

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Parents of small children will love using this versatile monitoring device while driving. The wireless camera system allows you to see what your child is doing while still looking at the road ahead. You can snap pictures and record videos to save special moments. It is easy to remove from the car, so you can use it inside your house or while visiting the homes of family and friends.

Fourteen Instagram-Worthy Hawaiian Beaches

Sun, Sand, And Selfies: This Is The Definitive List Of Hawaii’s Most Instagrammable Beaches

Sunset over Hawaiian Beach. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

This story originated from Hawaiian Wedding Photography.

Do you want to be surrounded by crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and warm, tropical climates while relaxing on your vacation? If so, Hawaii should be at the top of your list.

Kris Labang, the owner of Hawaii Wedding Photography, discusses Instagram’s most popular Hawaiian beaches, and why you should choose them for your vacation or wedding. 

RankNumber of HashtagsBeach NameIsland
1218,430Lanikai BeachO’ahu
2206,995Hanauma BayO’ahu
3161,448Kailua BeachO’ahu
484,422Hanalei BayKaua’i
576,845Ka’anapali BeachMaui
653,822Po’ipu BeachKaua’i
734,642Hapuna BeachBig Island
830,307Makena BeachMaui
921,727Ko Olina BeachO’ahu
1020,040Tunnels Beach Kaua’i
1117,236Ho’okipa BeachMaui
1216,421‘Anini BeachKaua’i
1310,308Punalu’u BeachBig Island
147,131Kawela BayO’ahu 

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai has been described as the most beautiful beach on O’ahu. It’s only forty-five minutes from Honolulu, and ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. Kris says, ‘In fact, it’s so beautiful that superstar Rihanna often comes here on vacation, staying at the Paul Mitchell Estate.’

If you get married here, Kris suggests spreading some rose petals on the beach beforehand. However, parking is limited, and the local amenities are sparse. Also, you’ll need to purchase a beach permit for your wedding beforehand.

Aerial view of Lanikai Beach. Photo via Shutterstock.

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay was shaped by volcanic forces millions of years ago, but it’s now a peaceful marine sanctuary. If you arrive between December and April, you may catch a glimpse of humpback whales in the bay, which is a center for conservation and a goldmine for keen photographers.

Kris advises, ‘Wedding planners should encourage attendees to watch the sunrise before – or perhaps during – the festivities. There are also plenty of scenic walks where you could take pictures as a newly married couple!’ 

Hanauma Beach. Photo: Shutterstock

Kailua Beach

Barack Obama grew up in Honolulu but rented a beach house here during his presidency. Superstar couple Beyonce and Jay-Z also own a local private estate here.

Some great places to get married include the Male’ana Gardens and Ko’olau Ballrooms and Conference Center. There are a wealth of venues to choose from around Kailua Beach, which shows just how great this destination is for weddings. 

Kailua Beach. Photo via Shutterstock

Hanalei Bay

Kris says, ‘People who love food, mai tais, and live music will enjoy the Tahiti Nui restaurant and bar. If you watched the movie ‘The Descendants’ you’ll have seen George Clooney in this very bar!’ 

At Hanalei Bay, vacationers and wedding visitors can explore and swim, or join the kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders, and boaters. Put safety first, however, and only venture out when the waters are calm. 

Kris says, ‘Dwayne Johnson and Lauren Hashian got married in Hawaii, and so did Miles Teller and Keleigh Sperry. Whether you follow suit or simply come for a vacation, you’ll understand why Instagrammers so love these beaches.’

Hanalei Bay. Photo: Shutterstock

ENDS

About Hawaii Wedding Photography

With over 20 years of experience shooting weddings in Hawaii, Kris knows how to get that perfect shot every time for his clients. Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, Kris captures the couple’s most special moments on the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.

Kris Labang is the company owner of Hawaii Wedding Photography. 

The Methodology

Several travel websites (including The Lonely Planet) were consulted to find notable beaches in Hawaii. They were then searched for on Instagram to find the hashtags associated with each beach. Their number of hashtags was recorded and then ranked in a table for easy reference.