Travel gear for protection…
UZI tactical pen
My UZI tactical pen
When it comes to travel gear, this pen comes in handy. Aside from being a fully functional writing instrument, the UZI tactical pen is also a perfectly inconspicuous self-defense weapon. I have managed to walk through airport security with mine on several occasions, but you may want to consider packing one in your checked luggage just in case. They are relatively inexpensive – in the $20 range depending on the model. But it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. There are multiple models, including one with a DNA catcher on the end. I chose the glass-breaker model.
Emergency poncho
The emergency poncho takes up very little space, but can be indispensable travel gear when you get caught in that unexpected downpour. Who cares if you kind of look like a walking trash bag if in the end you aren’t soaked…or worse? Maybe you weren’t up for entering the wet t-shirt contest that day. And gentlemen, imagine your new red Tommy Hilfiger shirt bleeding onto your khakis…and the pink underwear you’ll now own!
Steripen
A steripen UV water purifier makes water safe for drinking when you are unsure of the source. This can come in handy when you are exploring off the beaten path and have run out your own supply of water. It’s worth considering versus the possible alternatives. They don’t call it Montezuma’s Revenge for no reason! So if you decide to explore the Congo…put a couple in your travel gear bag.
Polarizing sunglasses
A pair of polarizing sunglasses is a must.to protect those peepers! Once you try on a pair, you’ll never settle for anything less. They cut the glare on everything so your eyes don’t strain as much. Ever wish you could remove the glare on the window of that car to actually see the driver that just ticked you off? Done! Plus it’s neat to be able to see what’s lurking in the water beneath the surface…and that blue sky…WOW!
Travel gear for organization…
A Baggalinni
Kat and her Baggalini in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
The Baggalinni everywhere bag is my favorite travel purse, and it comes in multiple colors. Perfectly adjustable and sturdy, this cross-body bag keeps everything secure and easily accessible. My favorite feature is the back outer pocket that unzips at the bottom so you can slide it over the handle of your rolling luggage.
RFID blocker
RFID is short for radio-frequency identification. Credit cards are all moving toward chip technology these days, and any newer passport is armed with RFID. So basically, your wallet is turning into a thief’s heaven. Anyone with an electronic reader can now get your information, and they don’t even have to be in the line-of-sight. You can have your credit card in your pocket or in your purse, and they can still get the information. Same thing goes with your passport. An RFID blocking travel document holder organizes your passport, credit cards, IDs, plane tickets, etc. all in one place, while keeping your personal information safe from electronic transmission.
SCOTTeVEST Chloe Glow Hoodie
Chloe Glow jacket front
Chloe Glow jacket back
The SCOTTeVEST Chloe Glow hoodie is one of my favorites for cooler weather. You can load up the 15 pockets with everything imaginable. I especially like the ear bud channels. They keep your wires from getting tangled or caught up, and the clear touch phone pocket means you can work the screen with the phone still inside. All of the zippers are really sturdy, and the zipper pulls are easy to grab – even with gloved hands. As an added bonus, it has a glasses chamois attached inside the glasses pocket. You never need to hunt for a tissue on the run when your glasses get an unwanted fingerprint or dust on them.
It has a nice fit, and when all the pockets are in use the jacket is still evenly weighted. If you plan to use all of the pockets a lot, you might want to consider buying one size larger to give you added mobility. The real beauty of this jacket for frequent travelers? Negotiating airport security just got easier! Just take off your Chloe Glow and send it through the scanner. No muss, no fuss. Just don’t forget to take the ear buds out of your ears before you do!
Pockets!
The Chloe Glow is great for everyday use, and especially helpful when you don’t want to keep track of a purse. Another detail – the cuffs can be unfolded to keep your hands warm, and there is a hole for your thumb to hold the sleeve in place. I haven’t tried my jackets on a run around the park yet, but SCOTTeVEST claims the Chloe Glow is moisture-wicking.
ear bud channels and mesh phone pocket
They offer several color choices: red, turquoise blue, white, and black. SCOTTeVEST has a complete clothing line of very innovative items to add to your travel gear. I also like their baseball cap. Best of all…you can now also find SCOTTeVEST products on Amazon.