Travel Gear: Splurge or Save? A Travel Vloggers Top Picks

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  • Опубліковано 21 вер 2024
  • When it comes to travel gear ,there are a lot of products to choose from! It's hard to know when to splurge and when to save. Today I'm sharing my top products that are worth the money and a few that are NOT. Spend your travel budget well!
    #packingtips #jenlefforge
    •Lychii Packing Cube Set → amzn.to/3f1MtZt
    •Lychii Toiletry Bag → amzn.to/3su3miv
    •Away Carry on → www.pjatr.com/...
    •Away Everywhere Bag → www.pntrs.com/...
    •Packable Coat → bit.ly/3oRMD7x
    •Trespass Packable Rain Jacket → amzn.to/3spvXWh
    •Waist pack → amzn.to/3sv4H8Q
    I'm able to keep creating content because of my amazing patrons!
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    Music by Epidemic Sound www.epidemicsou...

КОМЕНТАРІ • 115

  • @renee4495
    @renee4495 Рік тому +63

    Because of trial and error, I ended up with way more packing cubes than I needed. So… I repurposed them, and use them to store seasonal clothing items (sweaters, scarves, mittens, beach attire, beach towel) etc. Keeps all those organized too!

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому +3

      Such a great idea, Renee!

    • @bluewrenbirdie
      @bluewrenbirdie Рік тому +7

      This is what I do with the large ones that always come in the sets, as I don't like that size for actual packing. But they are perfect for storing seasonal items!

    • @SueRosalie
      @SueRosalie Рік тому +1

      I do that too - I keep winter boots and ski jackets in mine

    • @lillianliber1798
      @lillianliber1798 Рік тому +4

      They are good for sheet sets because I can never figure out how to fold fitted sheets. I keep the fitted, top and pillow cases all together with a scented sachet or scented hotel soap to keep them smelling nice.

    • @MKristen702
      @MKristen702 Рік тому +1

      @@lillianliber1798 omg I never thought of that! I absolutely cannot fold a fitted sheet, and I never use the large packing cubes. 🤯

  • @shelaghjackson9577
    @shelaghjackson9577 Рік тому +12

    I learned years ago to split my toiletries and makeup into 2 or 3 small bags.
    That way they will fit into nooks and crannies in your case much easier than trying to pack one big one.

  • @judylee0311
    @judylee0311 4 місяці тому

    I love my packing cubes and have tons. Having said that, we each have our own color which makes it even easier when we unpack at our destination. I also have a black set for dirty cloths to go in to make it easier when we get home. Folding your dirty clothes to go home may seem odd but it does take up less room to do that then just tossing them in a laundry bag. We all know that the black cubes will only be used for that and the ones I have go into the wash with the dirty clothes so that it is clean for the next trip. They only air dry, not sure if they would be dryer friendly or not. I also have a medium and small packing cube I use only for first aid items which sits in the closet until we travel and when we get home we put it back in the closet to wait for our next journey. Every thing is always ready to go. The medium one holds things like asprin, tylenol, sleeping aids, stomach aids, all the items you may need and don't want to have to try and find while in a different country. They are checked for expiry dates every year. The small holds things like polysporn, bandaids (different sizes), sterile qtips, cotton balls, nuskin, tweezers, things we may need quickly to fix a booboo.
    Having many packing cubes can never be bad, you can always find a use for them, but yes, I usually buy inexpensive ones. They still last forever.

  • @debbiemeyer7666
    @debbiemeyer7666 Рік тому +4

    I’ve become a Lugnut during Covid lockdowns and have spent nearly $7,000 on travel gear, purses, and they make the most organized and cute bags I’ve ever found! I came to my senses and sold most of my duplicates on Poshmark as I bought many bags in every color…bad decision as I ran out of storage space! I learned my lesson and still have a lot to sell, all new with tags attached. I do love compression packing cubes and a TSA approved clear 3-1-1 bag that’s larger than a quart sized Ziplock bag and holds everything I need. I’ve switched to tooth tablets, powdered dry shampoo, Lush bar shampoo and conditioner so it saves space in my clear liquids bag. Loved your video!

    • @MKristen702
      @MKristen702 Рік тому +1

      I’m a recent lugnut and I can’t believe how many NWT items are on Poshmark! Now I understand why. I love Lug but I always check Poshmark first before I buy something off the Lug website.

  • @donnac380
    @donnac380 Рік тому +16

    Pretty sure I have a travel gear addiction and need to be in a program...I blame Samantha Brown because I literally can not resist her when she's on HSN! And I totally agree about packing cubes. They are useful, but I feel like we all need to calm down, lol.

  • @sues6573
    @sues6573 Рік тому +4

    I've purchased some of my travel splurge items on Poshmark (barely used). So I get quality items at a discount with the added bonus of being a bit more eco friendly. I too have bought way too many packing cubes 😆

  • @kaylaandmarkalan
    @kaylaandmarkalan Рік тому +3

    You hit the nail on the head! People can get so carried away with buying stuff, or they’re on the other end where they buy cheap stuff that breaks. It’s so smart to invest money where it will be worth it!

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому

      Yeah and the thing is the good basic things aren’t showy and they don’t make great instagram photos but boy you don’t want to run out of money and have to buy a cheap suitcase!

  • @claudiamiller7730
    @claudiamiller7730 Рік тому

    Oh, Jen - each of has a “thing” we keep buying, trying to get the best experience. So the compression packing cubes I got for free - 2 sets! - from AARP for updating my membership are just dandy! 💕

  • @moann7234
    @moann7234 Рік тому +1

    Beat toiletries bag is a basic ziploc bag! I tried everything and this works the best!

  • @beccaschlomann7592
    @beccaschlomann7592 Рік тому +8

    I definitely agree with all of these. We travel a lot bc we don’t have family nearby. My kids have been traveling (usually just with me) since they were babies. We used to check bags bc it wasn’t possible (for us, maybe it is for others) to do carry on with babies/toddlers. But now they’re 6 and almost 9, we just did our first carry on only over the summer and we even had formal clothes for a funeral and managed in three carry ons for all four of us. We’re going to Disney in December for a few days and I’m planning on upgrading to at least one away suitcase bc we don’t have great carry ons since that wasn’t how we used to travel.
    I love the e bags packing cubes. One color for each person, so it’s easy to pack/unpack in the hotel, and keep track of everyone’s clothing.

  • @LibbyWithnall
    @LibbyWithnall Рік тому +3

    I bought Eagle Creek packing cubes back in 2010 and am still using and loving them. I like that they are a bit stiffer than the cheaper ones.

  • @flootsmith
    @flootsmith Рік тому +3

    I’ve avoided this video because I was afraid you would show something I wasted $ on, but I actually have those pink Amazon packing cubes 😂 I bought them because they are SMALLER than the typical sets and fit better in an international carry on!

  • @okbookgirl
    @okbookgirl Рік тому +6

    I actually use the cubes to keep me from packing and unpacking multiple times. I have travel panic so when I need to double (triple) check that I actually packed something I can pull 1 cube and not pullout everything. But it is definitely one of those items that can have extreme love/hate feelings for folks.

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому

      No I’m not saying don’t use packing cubes just that you don’t have to spend a lot of money ok then. I love my packing cubes!

  • @hannahelizabeththomas9267
    @hannahelizabeththomas9267 Рік тому +5

    I’m a huge kipling fan so I got lots of things from kipling

    • @maelstrommel
      @maelstrommel Рік тому

      Sierra Trading is an awesome source for discounted Kipling.

  • @jamiefendley257
    @jamiefendley257 Рік тому +1

    A few years ago I purchased the Compass Rose cubes after seeing your recommendation and they are great for the four of us to separate delicates and swim suits. Perfect fit and I’ve silently thanked you for that every trip!

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому

      Can you believe how great those are?? I still use them almost every trip and so cheap! they don't make them anymore sadly. And you're so welcome! I'm glad to be thought of in a good light on your trips LOL

  • @packyourpixiedust
    @packyourpixiedust Рік тому +2

    I am loving these episodes. I'm looking forward to the gift guide plus the travel wardrobe episode. Thanks for providing us with this content.

  • @leilaarcena7134
    @leilaarcena7134 Рік тому +2

    Thanks again Jen, nice items you shared and very good products we all can use in our travels 😊

  • @monicab28
    @monicab28 Рік тому

    I LOVE my packing cubes and never travel without them! They are my #1 travel item.

  • @amandathomas4914
    @amandathomas4914 Рік тому

    I bought one of your cabin bags for my upcoming Disney trip. It just arrived, and I think I love it! Thank you!

  • @journeys_with_jen
    @journeys_with_jen Рік тому +1

    OMG those Rick Steve’s packing cubes! They were my first. I feel like I bought them in the 90’s😂 I still use them. Rain jackets are so very important for travel. Love the packable coat.

  • @gailcostantini2894
    @gailcostantini2894 Рік тому +3

    Before packing cubes I used ziploc bags. They work and are reusable. Admittedly I bought packing cubes from amazon in cute pattern and love them but will still use ziplocs

    • @Peggybk
      @Peggybk Рік тому

      I’ve used, and still have, those “vacuum” sealed clear plastic bags that compress everything inside. I’m not planning on buying packing cubes. I’m also packing plenty of different sized ziplocks.

  • @lynnbrady4193
    @lynnbrady4193 Рік тому +3

    As a chronic bargain hunter, I’ve found great deals on high end luggage on EBay. You talk about splurges - don’t forget SHOES. The wrong shoes can wreck a trip.

  • @dawnturpin
    @dawnturpin Рік тому +1

    Ohh, a Garanimals video coming! Looking forward to that one

  • @jennyvanburen8496
    @jennyvanburen8496 Рік тому +2

    When you do your travel clothes video, can you provide suggestions for a 2 week trip to Europe in a backpack? I would love that! But I always enjoy your travel tips. Super helpful!

  • @Frank-in-PalmSprings
    @Frank-in-PalmSprings Рік тому +2

    Jen: Adorable!! I checked out those packing cubes and they had them with pink flamingos & pineapple pattern.... I ordered right away AND they had the matching hanging toiletry bag! SCORE! I'm leaving on a 21-day cruise on Saturday and these will come in handy. 🙂 As always, you're the best!

  • @annaburch3200
    @annaburch3200 Рік тому +2

    I'm still using the Eagle Creek packing cubes I bought on sale 20 years ago, before Amazon sold them. I've bought all sorts of brands, like you. I love them and I have SOOOO many for all three of us. Yeah, I have a small problem, but I use the small packing cubes in my everyday backpacks, too. If I could organize my entire life in packing cubes, I would. 😆

  • @sarairvine9622
    @sarairvine9622 Рік тому +3

    I lucked into an Amazon toiletry bag that is precisely the depth of the zipper side of my Away bag. Another splurge for my travels is footwear - vacation is no fun if my feet hurt!

  • @laureng4024
    @laureng4024 Рік тому +2

    A huge trip to Asia?! How exciting! You made such a great point about not using "showy brands" to travel with. I want high quality basic handbags for travel. Also, that print for the amazon purchased bags is really cute!

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому +3

      Yeah, I might have bought everything they carry in that print because I am like that. Rather like a 3 year old with dinosaurs when I find something I like LOL

    • @LibraryAngel
      @LibraryAngel Рік тому +2

      I’m the same way - Vera Bradley or Disney - and every bag within also has to match the patterns (Flutterby and Modern Medley)

  • @denisefazio6708
    @denisefazio6708 4 місяці тому

    I'm excited, I have that coat!!!!

  • @meganquiah2547
    @meganquiah2547 Рік тому +1

    Great points. I got the cheap travel cubes too and they work great.

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому

      It's really one of those items that most companies do well - there are a few that are super cheap and honestly are almost disposable but for the most part they're hard to screw up LOL

  • @bretaskinner3143
    @bretaskinner3143 Рік тому

    Packing cubes, yup have lots in various sizes. There was a travel store in Boulder CO which had their own line, and I bought some. When they went out of business, a friend and I loaded up with even more. Love to see your travel wardrobe ideas, esp. shoes which are waterproof/resistant and take custom orthotics.

  • @angelafowler2413
    @angelafowler2413 Рік тому

    Always good content, I know I’ve said this before LOL, you need an outro or something that gives slow people like me time to like the video . I watch on my tv and it always drops away before I can get to the like button!!

  • @chrysvest4746
    @chrysvest4746 Рік тому

    “Travel Garanimals “ 😂Love it!🤣

  • @donnabaardsen5372
    @donnabaardsen5372 Рік тому

    Spot on, Jen, about product worries. In my younger years, expensive name brands were my thing. Also, my ex-husband would buy me very expensive jewelry. None of these things was worth the worry. Just before landing on a long haul flight, after freshening up in the bathroom, ALL of my jewelry was forgotten there. I was in the terminal when I remembered! Ran full speed back to the plane. If not for a very honest crew, these very expensive pieces, including my wedding & diamond ring set, would've been gone for good. Lesson learned. Be classy, comfortable, minus the worry and hassle.

  • @laura-leeoconnor6298
    @laura-leeoconnor6298 Рік тому

    Great video. Great advice! I agree with the spend splurge items. Loved the reference to Garanimals! I’m obviously of a similar vintage 😁

  • @ginafriebel2568
    @ginafriebel2568 Рік тому +1

    What a great video!! I am getting great Christmas gift ideas. Thanks so much.

  • @thediztasticfamily
    @thediztasticfamily Рік тому

    I’ve been debating the highly popular LuLuLemon belt bag…you’ve saved me money and shown something MUCH more useful!!! 🎉🎉🎉

  • @ElizabethH1231
    @ElizabethH1231 Рік тому +1

    Great video Jen! I am taking some serious notes and will probably order several of the items you suggested. Your approach is very similar to mine and I truly appreciate your recommendations. Thanks!

  • @nicolef9456
    @nicolef9456 Рік тому +2

    I actually use that toiletry bag as my back of the seat on the airplane bag. I hang it up with wipes, snacks, pills, headphones charger etc. I put my SIM cards in there too.

  • @annah5786
    @annah5786 Рік тому +1

    Great video with some helpful tips. Really intrigued that your Trespass jacket came up in a splurge category, in the UK they're a really budget brand, good to know that you've had a good experience with a cheap brand jacket. I love the look of that toilet bag. Ps I love your jumper too!

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому +1

      Yes, it's not an expensive brand but it's certainly more than a poncho (that's what I was comparing it to price wise, I should have clarified that)

    • @annah5786
      @annah5786 Рік тому

      @@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge so much better than a poncho! 😊

  • @katfran492
    @katfran492 Рік тому +1

    I’m a fan of my TravelPro Maxlite carry-on, eagle creek compression packing cubes & my ever faithful eBags packing cubes. I used my carry-on for a month in Italy & it held up really well. Planes, trains, buses, boats, stairs, streets & bridges. 👍

  • @bronzefox9035
    @bronzefox9035 Рік тому

    I have found the mesh/canvas packing cubes are sturdier than the satin feeling ones. The satin feeling ones tend to pull apart at the seams. I did not throw them away. I used my sewing machine and did a zig zag stitch.

  • @kelleymarsh6490
    @kelleymarsh6490 Рік тому

    Love these tips! I love my Away suitcase! Worth every penny!

  • @destiny40stl
    @destiny40stl Рік тому

    My packing cubes are the larger size dollar tree $1.25 storage bags.

  • @kristenhansen1175
    @kristenhansen1175 Рік тому +2

    I was hoping you would make a gift guide video and I got so excited to hear that one is in your plans! Thanks for another great video. I always get so tempted to buy the expensive items but it’s great to hear someone say “no, don’t spend the money!“ 😂

  • @Lifeandtimeswithcyndi
    @Lifeandtimeswithcyndi Рік тому +1

    I’ve had the same packing cubes I got from ikea years ago and I think I paid a total of 20.00 for the set!! Wish they still made them as a matter of fact since I’ve given them as gifts before. 😢

  • @gaillittle1700
    @gaillittle1700 Рік тому

    I use Vera Bradley for travel. She makes the best travel gear, especially her travel accessories are AMAZING! She has so much to keep you organized when you travel.

  • @sarahe5400
    @sarahe5400 Рік тому

    Great tips! I’m still using an old set of packing cubes from IKEA forever ago & a set from ebags that have been great. I do need a new toiletry bag though, so maybe I’ll check that one out!

  • @VirginiaOkie
    @VirginiaOkie Рік тому +2

    Too late for me. I did the same thing and purchased all the cute packing cubes. I still love them all, but rarely use them all. BUT I JUST CAN’T PART WITH THEM...

  • @paddyanne2024
    @paddyanne2024 Рік тому

    I would love to use Away luggage, but the smallest rolling carryon is still too big for Air Canada measurements! (despite Away saying they are compliant). I am hoping Away will make a smaller bag that from wheels to handle, fits Air Canada specifications. They are lovely and I would love to own one!

  • @amanda7638
    @amanda7638 Рік тому

    Can’t wait for the travel gift guide!!!

  • @MKristen702
    @MKristen702 Рік тому

    I’m obsessed with all things Vera Bradley for travel. All my luggage is VB, all my little toiletry bags and miscellaneous accessory holders are VB, my backpack is VB. I have a few travel pieces from Lug which I also like, but I feel guilty “cheating” on Vera.😂

  • @michelleelliott3411
    @michelleelliott3411 Рік тому

    Hello. I really enjoy watching your videos and have learned a lot from your advice on travel tips. My husband and I are taking our first cruise and land tour to Alaska and was wondering what tips you had for packing for a 10-12 day trip in only a carry on and personal item bag such as a backpack or weekender bag. We may end up having to pack a larger checked bag for the extra clothes and/or shoes for my husband and I. Any and all tips would be most appreciated.

  • @marmeone
    @marmeone Рік тому

    Hi Jen'
    Just subscribed to your channel. I love it. You speak very clearly! Was wondering if if could do a video on how to access your funds during travel without having so many service fees! Since travelers checks are no longer available, we are kind of stumped about that problem. I do see videos of other travelers that take huge amounts of cash with them, but we don't feel comfortable doing that. Thank you fir any assistance or suggestions you could offer.
    P.S. If you have done a video on that topic, could you link it for. Thank you so much.

  • @joannewilliams41
    @joannewilliams41 Рік тому

    Big big fan - love your vlogs 🥰🥰xx

  • @malloryconnor4550
    @malloryconnor4550 Рік тому

    Great video. Love the practicality. Christmas I am doing my first flight with my 5 year old twins. Any advice for the solo mama?

  • @jenocean824
    @jenocean824 Рік тому

    Great video and tips!

  • @hannahelizabeththomas9267
    @hannahelizabeththomas9267 Рік тому

    My favourite brand is kipling

  • @majorhollingshead5906
    @majorhollingshead5906 Рік тому

    I totally agree. ❤️😘

  • @kiltedluxury
    @kiltedluxury Рік тому +1

    LOL I really wish I could understand the appeal of Stony Clover. Just me, just my opinion, but none of it seems worth the price :P I would rather save my money and buy Coach stuff! LOL These are great tips, as always - travel related videos like this are some of my favorites!! Thanks!

  • @jackieb7547
    @jackieb7547 Рік тому

    Travel Garanimals!! LOVE IT! Can I buy a travel bundle already packed in cubes? Asking for travelers everywhere!!

  • @danieloneil1101
    @danieloneil1101 11 місяців тому

    Hi Jen! Are you primarily using the Away Everywhere Bag or the Away travel backpack as your personal item? You seemed very excited about the backpack a couple of years ago.

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  11 місяців тому

      I have three bags in rotation right now and I mostly use either the everywhere backpack or the Tumi backpack - Scott stole one of my Everywhere backpacks and that’s all he’s using now 😂

    • @danieloneil1101
      @danieloneil1101 11 місяців тому

      @@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge Thanks for your quick response! I’m thinking of getting an Away backpack. I love my Everywhere Bag, but it can be a pain to carry when it’s not sitting on top of my suitcase.

  • @thisminimallife
    @thisminimallife Рік тому

    This is a great video

  • @packyourpixiedust
    @packyourpixiedust Рік тому

    Asia?!?! Exciting!

  • @Dashzap
    @Dashzap Рік тому +1

    that is a huge toiletry bag

  • @abigailgerlach5443
    @abigailgerlach5443 Рік тому

    Rule of travel: Expecting someone to be there to carry your bags/or trying to find a trolley is a sure way to be disappointed. If you can't pick it up, don't take it!

  • @atldawn2
    @atldawn2 Рік тому

    Is there a travel pillow for on a plane that you recommend?

  • @emalymick
    @emalymick Рік тому

    Hey Jen! How are you liking your Stony Clover mini backpack as a park bag? I'm going to WDW in w couple weeks and am still debating bringing it with me.

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому +1

      YES I do love that backpack and I have used it many times in the parks now! Great choice! (just be aware it's child sized so I have to wear the straps fully extended)

    • @emalymick
      @emalymick Рік тому

      @@JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge YES, I am a small person and also have to wear them fully extended. I don't mind how compact this makes it, but it's definitely an important thing to note. 😅

  • @holly6113
    @holly6113 Рік тому

    How/where do I find the links you keep referring to? I’m watching on an iPad.

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому

      There's a little V just below the video. If you click on that the description box will show up. If you're still having trouble, google "how to open youtube description box on ipad".

    • @kimberlyleet7929
      @kimberlyleet7929 Рік тому

      On my iPad I look at the title of the video. Then there is a really short bit saying what the video is about and then it says …more. If you click on …more it opens what they all call “the description box below”

  • @lizwright8613
    @lizwright8613 Рік тому

    Next channel giveaway: packing cubes (lightly used.)

  • @Maimitti
    @Maimitti Рік тому

    we would rather see the articles than your beautfiul face !

    • @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge
      @JoyfulLivingwithJenLefforge  Рік тому

      If you go to the websites of the products, you'll find detailed pictures and FAR BETTER pictures and details than I could possibly do here in my home studio. That's why I've conveniently provided the links below.