It has now been above 60 degrees for two days in a row in Georgia, and the sunshine is giving me the travel itch something fierce. My fair skin has never ingratiated me to tropical vacations, but the advent of warm weather is making me wish that I were laying in a beach chair right now.
Perhaps spring makes you want to do something different – go hiking in Colorado or maybe (if you’re lucky) shop for your summer wardrobe in New York City. Wherever you want to go, we’ve got some bright and cheery travel essentials that don’t skimp on functionality to get you to your destination of choice.
1. Ray-Ban Cat Sunglasses: I don’t care who you are or where you’re going, you need a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses. Even if you already have a pair, you need another pair. I have four pairs, and I need another pair. You can start easy with a pair of regular black Wayfarers or silver Aviators if you want, but if you’re feeling a bit more advanced, this translucent purple-to-clear cat-eye take on the traditional Wayfarer is a witty choice for warm weather. ShopBop, $135.
2. Graphic Image Passport Wallet: I have a tremendous amount of travel-document anxiety, and I find myself constantly checking my pockets and bags to make sure I have everything I need in order to board a flight or get into my hotel room. My ID, boarding pass, itinerary and hotel key cards are always scattered among my various pieces of luggage, and a brightly colored passport holder with plenty of pockets would provide a place for all of my out-of-town papers to hide while still being easy to spot in the black hole that is my travel bag. Even if you’re not leaving the country, something like this is a must-have. Saks, $61.
3. Le Sportsac Reverie Large Weekender: Speaking of travel bags, a sunny pattern in durable synthetic like nylon is the way to go if you’re looking for an option that won’t show wear or weigh you down. Even with in-flight shifting, I can’t imagine that I’d have any problem finding my carry-on if it was covered in this fun print. ShopBop, $108.
4. Tumi Lightweight International Carry-On: Ok, I know that chartreuse is not a functional color. I’m sure it’ll show dirt eventually. I get that. But it’s so bright and modern that I can’t motivate myself to care in the slightest, and it will certainly stand out on the dreary, black-Samsonite-laden luggage carousel at your eventual destination. Just be careful that another passenger doesn’t get jealous of your awesome suitcase and grab it while you’re not looking. TUMI, $495.
