'I'm a fashion influencer. Here are the 7 items I can’t travel without.'

I’ve always wished that I could be a “less is more” kind of person. But ever since I can recall I have been a chronic over-packer. Blame it on Carrie Bradshaw. It wasn’t until last year when I started travelling again in the last few years that I began to change my habits. I realised that if I had forgotten anything so incredibly vital I could simply just do without, or purchase when in my destination. 

And want to know something even more wild? I have even travelled domestically with just carry-on luggage. Something in a million years I never thought I would be able to do. I don’t think I am quite ready to go international, but there really is something so freeing about travelling light. 

With that being said, here is a line-up of my top 7 travel essentials that I can't holiday anywhere without:

Nere Stori Suitcase

Image: Strand/Mamamia.

Starting off with the basics that we all need – a trustworthy and reliable carry-on. My go-to brand for luggage has to be Strand. Not only do their designs serve function, but they are great quality and awesome value for money (which in this economy is an extreme slay). Bonus points as well because Strand's luggage and bags are all so aesthetically pleasing.

This Nere Stori Suitcase ticks all the boxes. Apart from it being cute AF and coming in a heap of fun colours, it is also super functional. It's got those essential spinner wheels, which makes sprinting to your flight or train a whole lot easier. It has an expander – so if you're prone to some shopping while you are away like me – it’s got you covered (literally). Not to mention it has a chic built-in TSA combination lock. No more having to worry about losing those padlock keys. Yay!

Marikai Flapover Crossbody Bag

Image: Strand/Mamamia.

Without fail whenever I am travelling – both flying as well as exploring on foot in a new place – I always wear a crossbody bag. I find it to be particularly helpful to have a crossbody so my important goodies are close to me at all times. The Marikai Flapover Crossbody Bag from Strand is such a good pick. Available in black, oat and lilac, this baby may be small but it serves a big purpose. It is the perfect size to fit everything you need when on the go – from your wallet, hand sanitiser, face mask, lip gloss, travel documents and of course your phone. It also has a magnetic closure which makes it feel secure while you're on the move.

iPad 

I’m an ‘iPad over laptop’ girlie through and through. Anyone who listens to me will know that I am utterly obsessed with my tablet – one of my favourite all-time purchases. It is perf for travelling because you can store whatever you need on it. Whether it be your entire travel itinerary, countless novels or your journal – pop it right on! You can even download Google maps in advance so even if I am in the middle of nowhere with no internet connection I can find my way back. I also love the fact that I can download my Netflix shows and play catch up on the plane. Feels like it shaves so much time off flying! Plus, it fits inside your flight's seat pocket.

One piece swimmers 

Image: Supplied.

Now that we are done with flying, let's talk about land (actually, water) essentials. As a bigger busted gal, I’ve come to know very well that function is queen. True story, a few years ago I was on a holiday in Cairns and my bikini top swam away from me after a big wave. This is why I now opt for a one piece swimmer while on vacay – I find it’s way less stressful, and I can concentrate on enjoying my time much more without swimming in fear. I lived in this '90s-vibe Snorkelbear piece when I was in Vietnam last month. It was that supportive and comfy.

Sunscreen mist 

Inside my trusty crossbody bag, you will always find an SPF mist. It's vital any place you visit (rain/hail/shine etc), but especially when travelling to summer destinations, it makes it so convenient to touch up my sun protection throughout the day without mess. Mists are lightweight, and can be applied both under or over makeup. 

Cargo pants

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I for one am certainly not mad about cargo pants making a huge comeback. They are versatile and can be dressed up or down, suitable for an array of holiday vacation activities – making them a vital player in your travel clothing line-up. 

When I was in Vietnam recently I styled my cargo pants with a corset, bolero sleeves and sneakers for an evening look. When it came to exploring in the daytime, I would opt to style them with a baby tee or racer tank top. I also rate that they have so many pockets, so I really feel like I am channeling my inner Kim Possible – who is someone you totally should channel when travelling (I mean she is an intelligent boss B too).

Disposable camera

Image: Supplied.

There is something about film cameras that just hits differently than iPhone pictures. Maybe it’s because you can’t fixate on creating the perfect picture and assess each outtake, so instead you only have one opportunity to capture that moment. Any disposable flash camera is perfect to take with you (I use Kodak), and love the film effect it gives each photo. Definitely a fun item to consider on your next travels! 

Shop Strand's collection of bags and reliable travel luggage online or in-store. 

Feature Image: Supplied/Strand/Apple/Ultra Violette/The Iconic/Instagram/@carbsmakeitokay