Cheap Travel Must-haves

You don't have to spend a lot to ensure a memorable trip

Author Photo of Wayne Bean By: Wayne Bean / Twitter @BeanWayne
Contributing Writer
Published: 8/24/11 | Updated: 10/17/17

Laying out the paperwork with a calculator to evaluate some budget possibilities.

Laying out the paperwork with a calculator to evaluate some budget possibilities. |Image provided by Pexels

Are you heading to a tropical destination for a few days of rest and relaxation? A vacation is just what anyone needs once in a while to get away from the busyness of everyday life. And of course, there are several things that you need to bring with you besides your hottest swimwear to ensure that you have a fun and comfortable trip. Fortunately, you don't have to spend a fortune on these items, so here are some travel must-haves to get before jetting to that gorgeous destination.

If you're headed to the beach for a weekend of fun in the sun, the first thing that you should pack is sunblock. You have to protect your skin from the harsh rays of the sun, and doing so doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. Look for an Amazon.com Promotion Code and purchase one with an SPF 15 or higher for maximum protection.

Another thing you should get for your trip is a set of clear product bottles to contain your must-bring creams and lotions. Airport security these days are stricter than ever, so it's crucial to transfer your toiletry into smaller bottles. These containers aren't expensive either - a set can cost less than $10, and you'll be able to use them again the next time you travel.

Need to bring makeup? Leave your bag of tricks at home and opt for an all-in-one makeup kit in a compact case. Not only will this make packing more manageable, but bringing minimal makeup will also give you the chance to beautify in a small amount of time and will allow you to enjoy your getaway more. Getting a travel palette is also quite inexpensive, with some products costing as little as $10.

When packing, especially for a long flight, don't forget to bring some food as well! Opt for nutritious and healthy snacks like a pack of peanuts, trail mix or granola bars to give you a boost of energy that will make you feel refreshed the moment the plane lands. These snacks are safe bets for the trip because they're not only nutritious but also inexpensive and easy to eat. You can even share them with the person sitting next to you to start up a conversation!

Wayne Bean, Contributing Writer

Wayne is a personal finance expert and former financial planner. He contributes knowledge gleaned from his time at AMB and a lifetime of frugal living. Not much of a Twitter user.