Fourth of July weekend is so close you can almost taste the hamburgers and hot dogs you plan to consume over the three-day stretch. The only real downside to it is traveling to your destination. Jam-packed plane, train, and bus terminals are, unfortunately, par for the course. Even if you’re driving a car, the four-hour drive to the shore — in gridlock traffic — isn’t much better.
There are ways to make your journey a bit more bearable though. Below, we rounded up 16 essentials to help you keep you cool, calm, and collected for ever travel scenario.
1. Noise-canceling headphones will tune out the wailing toddler a few aisles down.
Sony Noise Canceling Headphones, $37.95, available at Amazon.
2. These foldable slippers leave plenty of space in your carry-on luggage, and they'll make long train rides or flights extra comfy.
BUILT Fold and Go Travel Slippers, $18.05, available at Amazon.
3. The summer heat can make you dehydrated and groggy. Drink lots of water — if you're flying, you can fill up your water bottle after finishing with TSA security.
S'well White Out Medium Stainless Steel Bottle, $38, available at East Dane.
4. It may be 90 degrees outside, but the AC will be blasting inside.
Banana Republic True Indigo Terry Sweatshirt, $49.99, available at Banana Republic.
5. It'll probably be a few hours before you can shower; face wipes will keep you feeling fresh until then.
Burt's Bees Sensitive Facial Cleansing Towelettes with Cotton Extract, $4.31, available at Amazon.
6. Space is limited to whatever you're willing to hold on your lap or stow under your feet. Remember to pack wisely and compactly — it starts with a weekender that's up to the task.
Herschel Supply Co. Novel Holdall, $235.59, available at ASOS.
7. Seriously, whoever dreamed up this perfect-fit, J-shaped neck pillow is a genius.
J Pillow Travel Pillow, $34.95, available at Amazon.
8. Have you noticed how airplanes are always chilly? Even if you're typically warm-blooded, stow away a pair of socks in your carry-on luggage, just in case.
Pair of Thieves Buck Hunter Socks, $5.08, available at Target.
9. Your go-to tracks stopping mid-flight or bus ride is a no bueno.
Jackery Bar Premium iPhone Charger External Battery Portable Charger, $24.99, available at Amazon.
10. This car charger's dual USB port lets you charge your smartphone and tablet at the same time.
JETech Car Charger, $6.99, available at Amazon.
11. Khaki joggers are just as comfy as sweatpants, but they don't give off the appearance you just rolled out of bed.
Topman Twill Jogger Pants, $39.99, available at Nordstrom.
12. If your ideal travel companion is a good read, meet your new compact and convenient bus buddy.
Kindle with Glare-Free Touchscreen Display, $79, available at Amazon.
13. Power nap your way to your long weekend destination with a lightweight, contoured sleep mask that rides just above the eyes for a pressure and smudge-free snooze.
FLIGHT 001 Molded Eye Mask, $18, available at Nordstrom.
14. Comfy travel shoes — check!
Converse Chuck Taylor Low in Optical, $50, available at Need Supply.
15. Don't get hangry.
Nature's Bakery Whole Wheat Fig Bars, $11.10, available at Amazon.
16. This fleece blanket is compact enough to carry onto your flight — the ones the airline provides are never big enough.
Cocoon CoolMax Blanket, $37.94, available at Amazon.
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