1. Lightweight Backpack

No stylish leather duffels with gold hardware here...this is all about practicality. Nothing beats a lightweight backpack that can fit all your stuff without killing your back and shoulders. I like ones with a chest and hip strap to distribute the weight. The one I'm sporting below by Quechua is super light because it doesn't have any internal wire structure or skeleton, and while it's large enough to accommodate enough clothes for a week, it still fits in most overhead compartments.

2. Travel Bidet

I think there are three types of people when it comes to bidets, portable or otherwise: those that think they're a necessity, those that think they're a luxury, and those that are not sure what they are for in the first place. I'm part of the necessity camp. Since we have been on the road for the last two years, I miss the bidets we had installed on our toilets at home, but this portable one works like a charm.

*For a bottom that's always so fresh and so clean.*

3. Transformer/Adapter

Before you buy a new hair dryer or electric shaver for that upcoming trip, look for a handy travel adapter instead. A versatile model like the one shown below worked really well for us because it was compatible with all our gadgets and we were able to use it around the world, from Egypt to South Africa to Spain. Built-in plugs with different prongs slide in and out, eliminating the need for multiple adapters.

*My 120W hair straightener isn't gonna power itself (well not abroad, at least).*

4. Lightweight Crossbody

I bought an awesome Timbuk2 crossbody a few years ago and it basically works for everything. It's versatile enough to be the only bag/purse I need when I travel. It fits a wallet, passports, phone, camera, water bottle, puppy (I wish). A bag made of nylon or other lightweight material (vs. leather, for example) and with minimal hardware (mine closes with velcro) is much easier on the shoulders.

*Pro tip: get a bag that's neutral so that your man can carry it too!*

5. Hats

This one is a no brainer, especially since we spend a lot of time outdoors. Anyone who knows us knows we have A LOT of hats, and they definitely come in handy whether we're walking around the city or hiking (or dealing with a bad hair day).

*Cowboy hats provide extra sun protection plus a bit of authority.*

6. Anti-histamine / Decongestant

It's not unusual to feel under the weather when travelling, whether it's catching a cold from germs circulating on a flight or fighting allergies due to pollution or pollen. It goes without saying that it could be hard to find the right medication in a remote location, but I was also surprised at how difficult it was to get certain things in cities when travelling outside of the United States. For example, in Cairo and Barcelona, it was impossible to find a non-drowsy decongestant. I've since learned to pack my Sudafed and Benadryl. No more sneezies!

7. Walking Shoes

I'm not gonna lie- I love shoes. But when you travel often, and live a more nomadic life, packing light is essential and that means bringing practical shoes. So I've left behind my wooden platform wedges, my cute-but-stiff blue patent sandals with the map print, my ultra cool but not ultra comfortable olive combat boots, and the list goes on and on. Now it's comfy walking shoes all the way. With tons of athleisure footwear on the market, it's easier than ever to find stylish options without the blisters.

*Comfortable shoes are essential for an impromptu street dance.*

8. Eye Mask

When travelling to a different time zone, I often find that it gets light out earlier than I'm used to and an eye mask is a simple and effective solution for dealing with not wanting to watch the sun rise. Ed and I like to sleep in total darkness, and while we may have room darkening shades and blinds at home, when we're travelling the curtain situation is unpredictable. An eye mask is also great on flights, whether you're trying to sleep or just need to close your eyes and relax.

*My bro rocking a sweet eye mask for some serious in flight snoozing.*

9. Waterproof Jacket

A lightweight down (or down alternative) jacket or waterproof rain jacket is one of the most useful things to pack if you're going somewhere cold or possibly rainy. When we were planning a trip to Norway, we wanted to have a warm outer layer, but also wanted to pack light. These his and hers Jack Wolfskin jackets couldn't have been more perfect. They were super warm, water resistant, wind proof and compacted to the size of a soda can in our luggage. Planning a tropical vacation instead of an arctic one? Go for a lightweight rain jacket instead. You won't need the warmth, but it will be really handy for those afternoon rain storms. If you're like me and don't like to carry an umbrella, then I would suggest a truly water proof jacket rather than one which is just water resistant.

10. Headphones

Screaming kids on an overnight flight? A guy on the train who needs to broadcast his phone conversation for everyone? Headphones have sometimes made the difference for us between punching something (or someone) and being able to zone out.