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EXPLORE FURTHER: As a woman travelling alone, the budget-friendly travel gadget under £20 is an essential item for every lady.
When easyJet invited me to Basel, Switzerland, for the live finale of the
Eurovision
Song Contest, I couldn’t believe how fortunate I was.
As someone who loves watching Eurovision and hosts numerous Eurovision parties, I was thrilled with anticipation.
However, the anxiety about what to pack began to overwhelm me, particularly since I’m limited to carrying just a carry-on bag—and I would be leaving for my destination.
Gatwick
Directly from work to the airport.
As the deputy travel editor for MailOnline, my job frequently involves traveling across the globe – and I do so quite regularly.
list of must-haves I pack for each journey
.
However, sunny Basel – with temperatures between 18-20 degrees this weekend – called for some summery outfits.
For Eurovision, sequins are definitely required – but what other items should I pack in my suitcase?
From
multiple
space-saving gadgets
Those versatile dual-purpose items, along with the backpack I use nearly daily, here’s what I packed for my trip to Basel…
This travel bottle set has completely transformed my experience of flying with just carry-on luggage.
The transparent case compliant with TSA regulations includes 17 different-sized containers for transferring all your skincare products like lotions and potions via an included funnel.
It includes a brush for cleaning, along with waterproof sticker labels to ensure you don’t confuse your shampoo with your moisturizer!
£9.99
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OGIO RISE Backpack
I ensure I carry a backpack during holidays just in case there are any action-packed day trips.
This OGIO bag is just the right size and features numerous compartments, with stretchy pockets on the sides ideal for holding your water bottle and umbrella (you never know when you might need them!). It also includes a discreet zipper pocket upfront for keeping essential items safe.
It includes a dedicated area for your laptop, along with ample room to accommodate an extra set of clothing and footwear.
£89
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I have typically been someone who packs numerous individual containers and pouches inside my luggage—a jewelry case, a makeup bag, a toiletry kit, among others.
However, this clever 2-in-one bag from STACKERS has solved everything.
It accommodates all of my cosmetics and comes with an attached jewelry compartment at the base — this helps keep all my necklaces organized and prevents them from getting tangled.
Additionally, it comes with a mirror as well!
£55
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Originally purchased this blackout eye mask for a long-distance trip, but now I find myself using it nightly at bedtime as it significantly improved my quality of sleep.
Created to avoid putting pressure on your eyes, this 3D sleep mask is ideal for individuals with sensitive eyes or those who have lash extensions.
Crafted with top-quality memory foam and lightweight, breathable fabric, this provides exceptional comfort along with excellent light insulation.
£9.99
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A travel adapter is essential when traveling overseas, and I ensure it’s always packed by leaving it in my suitcase so I don’t forget.
It accommodates outlets worldwide and features three USB ports along with a slot for USB-C cables, enabling simultaneous charging of up to five distinct devices.
£11.99
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£27.99
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For years, I remained highly doubtful about TRTL pillows due to images of people appearing somewhat comical while using them during flights.
However, I have officially become a believer—they are incredibly comfortable, and along with my eye mask, I can now get some shut-eye on flights without needing a window seat.
£45.99
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I carry a water bottle with me everywhere I go because it allows me to avoid constantly requesting small cups of water from the cabin crew during flights.
This particular model by YETI ensures my drink stays icy cold throughout the entire day, particularly when I start off by adding some ice cubes at home.
£30
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The most disappointing aspect of short-haul flights is the absence of screens, making it tiresome to have to keep your phone handy for watching an entire film.
Thankfully, this phone stand – which works with all phones – can mount onto luggage handles or tray tables with a clamp.
It also easily rotates 360 degrees, so I use it to make hands-free video calls too when I’m waiting for my flight in the airport.
£9.99
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I always make sure to bring my GHDs whenever I leave home—I even got an extra set at my parents’ place now!
Although they might be expensive, they are truly worthwhile, and they barely occupy any space in your suitcase.
£289
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Another skincare item I cannot go out without is the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish, and I always keep a miniature version handy.
travel skincare staple.
For ten years, I have been utilizing it both to remove my makeup at night and to invigorate my skin in the mornings, and I am completely devoted to it.
I’ve got the 200ml bottle at home, yet this starter kit costs just £8 – ideal for fitting into my carry-on bag.
£8
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