B’s 2018 travel finds for women

I tried out a number of new (to me) travel-related products in 2018. Some were real winners and made my trips easier, while others were just okay and not really worth the hassle. Interestingly enough, none were duds. Below, in no particular order, are my 2018 travel finds for women. Go ahead and try one out if you think it will make your travel life a little easier. I have included links (some of them Amazon affiliate) to those products I have personally ordered and used.

Powdered toothpaste

One of my favorite finds in 2018 was powdered toothpaste. I tried it out as part of an experiment comparing solid versus liquid travel toiletries to see how long they each last. At the end of the experiment, I was a convert. Yes, powdered toothpaste lasts longer than its liquid counterpart. However, there are a lot of other advantages. Since it is not a liquid, you do not have to worry about leaks (or more likely explosions) and or the 3.4 ounce TSA restriction.

Over the past year, I have noticed a rising popularity in powdered toothpaste. When I first started researching it, I could only find it in two stores near me. So I bought it off of Amazon. Now, I see it at a lot more stores. Powdered toothpaste also makes a great DIY project and recipes abound on the internet. I too have made my own and find it quick and easy.

Brushing your teeth with powdered toothpaste is a different experience. I did not find it unpleasant, but it took a little bit to get used to. However, I do really like the taste of the brand I bought and best of all, it has helped with some light staining on my teeth (my dental hygienist even commented on it).

You do not have to convert entirely and use it at home. But you might want to consider it for your next trip.

Allbirds shoes

These shoes have lived up to their hype. They really are super comfortable. They really are easy to clean. But my favorite part is that you don’t have to wear socks with them. Because they are made out of wool, it is like the sock is built in. I bought a cream pair for travel, which just seems crazy. But they held up and when I got home, I threw them in the washing machine. They came out good as new.

To see more, watch my review on YouTube:

Travel foot hammock

A foot hammock is a simple thing, but it can be quite delightful. It might be my favorite try of 2018. If you have ever flown on Turkish Airlines, you know that even the seats way back in economy have little foot rests. That might not seem like a big deal, but on a ten-hour flight, the ability to elevate your legs even a few inches is a welcome relief.

A foot hammock does the same thing. It is lightweight and rolls up, so it doesn’t take up much room. You simply “install” it by hanging it over your tray table. If you position it right, it will work when the tray is both up and down. You can also adjust the length to your preference. Both R and I received one from my mother for Christmas and we both enjoyed it all the way home.

Mini flat iron

My sister-in-law is a former hair stylist and she squealed with delight when she caught a glimpse of my mini flat iron. It really is the most adorable thing. But aside from being cute, it is practical for travel (assuming you need/want to fix your hair). It is small and light, comes in a travel case, has a long cord (useful for reaching weirdly placed outlets) and works in countries with a different voltage. You just need your handy adapter and you are good to go.

Most of the time, I do not bother much with my hair while traveling. But every now and then, I like to spruce up a bit. I do not mind throwing in my tiny flat iron for those every-now-and-then situations. It is also really handy for work travel.

Dual USB plug

Traveling nowadays typically includes a lot more electronics than it used to. There are smartphones, wireless earphones/buds, tablets and readers, laptops, etc. And all those electronics need to be charged. Since I only have one adapter, I was struggling to juggle all the necessary charging for my electronics. Enter a dual USB plug. This plug takes up a touch more room than my single USB plug, but it gives me two charging options at the same time. It is a small change, but it made a big difference, especially the last night of a trip.

Note: I bought a second plug and these are now my go-to at home.

Compression packing cube

Ever since the first trip I took with a compression packing cube, I have been hooked. I bought Grand Trunk’s version on sale on a whim. That turned out to be a great whim. There are a lot of options out there for both packing cubes (which I still use) and compression bags (which I use occasionally). But this two-in-one option has traveled with me on every trip since I got it and I love it. I have not tried other brands, but I would be willing to give them a shot.

If you want to see how it works, check out my review of the Grand Trunk compression pack cube on YouTube.

Essential oil carrier

In 2018, I began experimenting with essential oils while traveling. It has been a hit-or-miss experience so far. But one thing that was a hit was the adorable essential oil carrying case I found on Etsy. The case holds three small bottles and adds a level of protection against breakage. I have only used it on one trip so far, so I have some more experimenting to do.

Essential Oil Holder on Etsy

Trtl travel pillow

The Trtl travel pillow was an okay find. It was not life changing, but it did the job. It’s biggest recommendation is its size/shape. I like my cabeau pillow, but it takes up a lot of room. I don’t mind that so much during the plane ride, but I hate packing it around once I arrive at my destination. The Trtle travel pillow lays almost flat and is quite light. So it just makes it easier to pack.

I did get a little warm on the flight, but I am not sure if the pillow contributed to that or not. I thought I might not like that you have to pick a side to lean against, but that did not end up bothering me at all. My overnighter to Europe was still painful, but it was made less painful by this pillow. If you haven’t invested in a travel pillow yet, the Trtle is a solid option.

Face mist

I saw face mist on a travel vlog and immediately decided to give it a try. Honestly, it felt great…when I remembered to use it. R and I enjoyed several nice spritzes on the flight to Germany. However, on the way home I completely forgot all about it. Now that I think about it, it would have been really useful when I was feeling sleeping and dehydrated. Next time!

I also think it would be great on trips to hot places. A little spritz would provide a little relief, which is better than nothing when one is hot and miserable.

Eye mask

A disposable eye mask was another suggestion I got from a travel vlog. You may feel a little foolish with them on, but they were quite soothing. I’m not sure I arrived in Europe any fresher than usual, but it made for an entertaining 15 minutes…which is always appreciated on a long flight.

Conclusion

I always enjoy trying new products. I especially enjoy trying new travel products that make travel easier or more enjoyable. Try out a couple of my 2018 travel finds for women and let me know what you think.