Having been to several countries, and definitely on many planes, i have a few essentials which i pack every time i go overseas. Normally I'd bring a backpack overseas as it is convenient and can carry a fair bit, however there are times when I'll bring a smaller cross-body bag. Here are a few must pack items. 

1. Sportsgirl black and white purse  

I've never been a wallet carrier, and I've never found a wallet i truly like. Generally I'd carry a smaller purse on a day to day basis, but for travel i like to take a larger purse. This is mainly because foreign currency tends to be larger than Australian notes. This purse doesn't draw too much attention,yet is still stylish. 

2. Samsung Galaxy SII

My phone is essential when travelling overseas . I use it for communicating with my parents and anyone else on the trip and to take photos. I don't take my laptop with me overseas ,so often i'll use my phone and the occasional free wifi to scout for interesting places to eat and visit. 

3. Apple Ipod 3rd Generation 

Seeing as i don't bring my laptop with me when i travel, i'll take my ipod. Loaded with lots of music, videos, pictures and sometimes even books to read. If the flight i'm taking doesn't offer in flight entertainment, i'll listen to the music on my ipod for a majority of the flight. 

4. Canon IXUS 

When I'm not carrying my DSLR I'll carry this small point and shoot camera, I'll also use this to shoot videos. Having a small camera allows me to always capture special moments without the use of my DSLR.

5. Sunglasses 
Sunglasses are a must when going overseas for me, especially seeing as I go to humid and hot countries frequently. Sunglasses not only protect your eyes but can act as an accessory as well.

6. Glasses and Case
Most of you wouldn't know but I'm actually long-sighted, which means that i can't see things close to me. As i like to read on trips i take me glasses and glasses case with me everywhere. Often I've found that if i don't wear them i get awful headaches.

7. Lip Balm and Cream 
To me this is one of the most important things to pack. Both my lips and skin get extremely dry very quickly. So, to remedy that i always carry a small lotion and lip balm. Remember that they both must be under 100ML if you want to bring it on the aeroplane with you.

8. Skin Care Kit 
This is actually a sample i got when i was in Hong Kong and I've been waiting to use it ever since. Like i mentioned you're only allowed to bring small bottles of liquid/fluid onto the plane- under 100ML, so i can't bring in my cleansers. But, these samples allow me to still look fresh without bending the rules. Wash your face a couple of hours before you land, if you're on a overnight flight do this during breakfast as everyone will be eating!

9. Hand Sanitiser or Wipes 
It's important to keep hygienic when overseas so bringing hand sanitiser is a must. Use it when you're about to eat or after you've touched something nasty. It's also a good idea to wipe down your aeroplane  seat as it can have bacteria from the previous person.

10. Tissues 
I've found that not carrying tissues can lead to disaster, especially overseas. In some countries toilet paper isn't supplied so it's always a good idea to carry tissues with you. If you're travelling to a cold country keep hygienic by using tissues!

11. A good read
Travelling and be gruesome and sometimes you just want to relax, carrying a book allows me to relax during commutes and in my hotel room. Currently I'm reading Hope by Tim Costello, to World Vision Australia CEO.

Hopefully this post was useful for you and you got through that tedious list! Both Carmen and I will be away in Japan so we'll be sure to update you on our travels there! As the holiday season is coming around, stay safe and healthy everyone!

Love,
May xo