Did you pay to check your luggage last year? If so, the airlines owe you a box of bonbons and an upgrade because in 2010 they made a record $3.4 billion from baggage fees! Unbelievable.
Now more than ever, air travel is not just about packing light but packing smart. With the right carry-on bag, gadgets, and toiletries, it is possible to fit all of your essentials in a carry-on. Here are a few fun and functional items that will keep your hard-earned money in your wallet and away from the greedy airlines!
Lug Life Shuttle Bus Weekender Wheelie Bag
$139.99 at eBags
A cute and functional bag can make all the difference between travel bliss and a world of stress. Available in nine colors, this carry-on has tons of pockets, including a separate compartment for your shoes.
MBeze Natural Deoderettes
$10
Who knew deodorant could be so chic? Don't let the pretty packaging fool you - MBeze Natural Deoderettes keep you smelling fresh as you're dashing through the terminal to make your flight. Available in 10 scents, including fragrance-free, MBeze are made with all natural and organic ingredients. Other travel-friendly goodies in the MBeze line include Dabber Dust Natural Underarm Powder ($6), and Roll On Perfume. I've been enjoying my samples of these great products.
Dermalogica Solar Defense Wipes SPF 15
$22
No matter where you travel, sunscreen is a must. Dermalogica's pre-moistened sunscreen wipes can be used on your face and body for easy, no mess protection from the sun's rays.
Travelite Luggage Scale with LED Flashlight
$24.85
Ok, let's face it - sometimes, no matter how hard we fight it, bags have to be checked. Ugh. This clever little scale helps you avoid excess baggage fees by giving you the exact weight of your luggage and can weigh bags up to 100 lbs. The built-in flashlight is a great feature. I actually won this scale from the blog Apples & Rubies - thanks - looking forward to using it on my next trip!
SweetRiot 100% Dark Cacao Nibs Dunked in 50% Dark Chocolate
$19.99 for a Three Pack
Don't argue with me, dark chocolate is a must. Feeling stressed on the road? Nibble on these satisfying little drops of goodness to rev up your endorphins. Packaged in a reusable tin, SweetRiot candies are all-natural and sourced from Latin America. Each piece only has 1-2 calories - just 140 calories per tin!