One of the most common things I get asked when it comes to plus size travel is what are the essential items I always pack without fail. Whilst my list is constantly growing, I wanted to start sharing some of the products I can’t travel without.
Whether it’s making my journey more comfortable or helping me beat the heat, here are my plus size travel essentials:
Packing Cubes
When I first discovered packing cubes I couldn’t believe I had gone all these years without them. Designed to make packing much easier, these individual cubes can help save a lot of space in your case. As plus size travellers it’s no secret all of our clothes take up more space in our case than we’d like, and packing cubes are a great way to combat that. With a range of styles of sizes available, these should be at the top of your list of things to buy. For extra space, you may want to consider a compression cube.
Travel Pillow
Although a travel pillow should be essential for all travellers, it’s a great way to make what could be an incredibly uncomfortable flight that little more bearable. To save space, these collapsible pillows are AMAZING.
Seatbelt Extender
Although you can ask for a seatbelt extender when you get onto the plane, a lot of people find this hard to do for personal reasons. I completely understand and often feel the same, which is why I take my own seatbelt extender with me. For just £8, this compact safety-tested seat belt can help that tight gap feel much bigger.
Note: in some cases, flight attendants may ask to see if your extender fits their industry standards.
Water Bottle
Again, this is something everyone should be packing. As you only get a limited amount of water per glass on a flight, taking your own water bottle to fill once you get through security could help keep you hydrated throughout your flight. Depending on how long your flight is, you may want to consider this 2l bottle.
Knee Support
If like me, you struggle to sit in one place for a long time, you may want to consider taking knee support with you on your flight. As you won’t have a lot of opportunities to get up and walk around, support for your knee could help prevent any injuries before you land in your amazing destination! If you’re unsure, make sure you’re checking whether or not you need to wear one with your doctor.
Travel Fan
Oh my gosh, my travel life has changed so much now that I have a portable fan in my backpack. Usually, I find the warm weather in some countries unbearable, so having my own portable fan to carry around me is an absolute lifesaver. My current fan of choice is this one. With three settings and a function that allows you to go hands-free, you really can’t go wrong for £11!
Small Microfibre Towel
We all know that travelling in hot countries means you’re likely to get sweaty, so having a small microfibre towel in your bag will definitely come in handy. These are fast-drying, really easy to clean and super helpful when it comes to those days when you can’t stop sweating.
Cooling Mist
Again, to help combat the heat, you will definitely want to pack a cooling mist with you. With both checked and cabin luggage friendly sizes available, you can take it with you where ever you go. The only advice I have is that it isn’t ALWAYS makeup friendly, but in hot countries, I always go for a minimal look anyway.
Anti-Chafe Shorts
THESE ARE MY ABSOLUTE ESSENTIAL ITEM ON ANY TRIP. Whether it’s hot or cold, I will wear anti-chafe shorts to prevent my legs from rubbing. I’ve spent A LOT of time and money testing a lot of the brands that are out there and there are only a few that I have found that doesn’t cause any chafing at all. The best? These beauties from Chafree.
Deep Freeze and Anti Inflammatories
If you’re anything like me, walking around all day will make your ankles swell. Whilst you can’t stop the pain completely, you can use things like Deep Freeze and anti-inflammatories to numb it slightly.
A Sturdy Backpack
Although I would LOVE to be able to put fashion first, when I’m travelling I love to carry a backpack with me rather than a handbag. Not only is it easier to carry, but it’s much easier on my back – especially when I’m carrying around a full bottle of water, my camera and all of my other essentials.
I recently bought this AMAZING bag from Amazon which if you ask me, is still a little bit fashionable too 😉
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Another essential for travelling is comfortable walking shoes. Whilst 90% of the time I wear my Vans because I know I can walk around in them all day, sometimes I need an extra bit of support. Usually, I find shoes with a memory foam base work best.
Lightweight Breathable Clothing
Finally, lightweight breathable clothing is essential, especially in a hot country. For years I would cover up because I wasn’t confident to wear what I wanted, but now, I put comfort first. Whether it’s a loose and floaty dress or a wide-fitting jumpsuit – I try to pick comfort over fashion when I travel!
What are your plus size travel essentials?
