Katy's Top 10 Must-Have Products for Traveling on the Go

Katy's Top 10 Must-Have Products for Traveling on the Go

Katy (@thekatydiaries) is a Texas-based avid traveler and photographer who captures beautiful outdoor and architecture shots across the US and in other countries. 

We especially loved her sense of curiosity about the world and admired her beautiful body of work on Instagram that inspires one to get out there and explore. So we decided to contact her for travel tips and essentials, culminating in this list of must-haves.

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Kathryn Hickl
Travel Blogger
  • Venture Pal
    Lightweight Travel Hiking Backpack


    Kathryn Hickl

    This backpack is perfect for any kind of hiking trip. Its overall design is water-resistant and the bag even includes a waterproof pouch inside in case it rains. It can keep all of your camera gear, snacks, and other things you need safe and dry in all weather conditions. 

    Furthermore, it's lightweight, which allows you to carry it on your back for long distances without feeling too fatigued. There is more than enough space for everything you need to carry, and it's very durable, which is important because of the environments you may be hiking in. 

    I would recommend this product to anyone planning a hiking trip or any kind of outdoor excursion.
  • AeroPress
    Portable Coffee Press


    Kathryn Hickl

    If you're not a morning person, you know that coffee is essential on any travel excursion. It helps wake you up in the morning so that you're ready to face the day! The Aeropress is easy to transport around, as it's lightweight, small, and user friendly, which makes it perfect for travel. 

    It makes about one to three cups of coffee, which is just about the perfect amount. This product is set apart from other portable coffee makers by the speed at which it can brew the coffee. In just one or two minutes, you will have your espresso, hot coffee, or cold brew in your hand and ready to drink. 

    You also get to choose how you want your coffee that morning since it can make different brews. The cleanup process is even easier since all you have to do is rinse the Aeropress and pack it up again. This is a must-have product for any traveling coffee addict, like myself.
  • Steve Madden
    Women's Troopa 2.0 Combat Boot


    Kathryn Hickl

    These Steve Madden black combat boots are your new go-to shoe for any trip you go on. Personally, they've traveled with me to multiple places in the United States, as well as China, Europe, Mexico, and Thailand. 

    They are durable enough to handle any hike you go on and comfortable, too. Although there are other color choices, the black boots are the safest choice, as it can match any outfit. These combat boots are also water-resistant, so even in the rain, they are a great shoe choice. 

    Not to mention, they are also very stylish. I would recommend this product to any avid traveler who needs a comfortable, durable, and fashionable shoe.
  • Neutrogena
    Alcohol-Free Facial Toner


    Kathryn Hickl

    This facial toner is the perfect product to pack on an overnight trip. After a day full of walking, hiking, exploring, and sweating, it's always a good idea to have a facial cleanser at night to leave your face feeling clean and refreshed. 

    I've been using Neutrogena facial toner for years now, and I absolutely love it. Because it's oil-free, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic, it doesn't cause any skin irritation or dryness. It's also easy to use - just put a decent amount on a cotton ball and apply it to your face, and enjoy how it leaves your skin feeling refreshed.
  • Neutrogena
    Sport Face Sunscreen


    Kathryn Hickl

    Especially for folks with very sensitive skin, a good face sunscreen is always a necessity anytime you're traveling. And, if you're planning on taking a lot of photos, you could be spending hours at a time in the sun. 

    Neutrogena sunscreen feels light on the skin and it's oil-free so it doesn't leave your skin feeling gross during the day, making it great for on-the-go. It's also water-resistant, so it doesn't come off even if you sweat or get water on your face. Reapply it a few times a day and it'll keep your skin safe and sunburn-free. 

    It also doesn't cause any breakouts, which sets it apart from other face sunscreens I've tried. If you're like me and are prone to sunburn while out in the sun, this product is perfect!
  • Canon
    EOS Rebel T6 DSLR Camera Bundle


    Kathryn Hickl

    A photograph can capture a moment in time, forever reminding you of your favorite moments in life. For those who are just beginning photography, I recommend this camera starter kit because it has everything you need to become a successful photographer. 

    The kit comes with the camera body, two lenses, batteries, SD cards, and much more. It's perfect for anyone who wants to start taking high-quality pictures that capture the magical moments of any trip.

    Since photography is one of my biggest passions, my camera travels with me wherever I go. I love taking pictures of nature, architecture, monuments, just to name a few, but you can take pictures of anything you like with the Canon EOS Rebel.
  • Hydro Flask
    Wide Mouth Water Bottle


    Kathryn Hickl

    Staying hydrated while hiking is so important, and this specific water bottle is one of my personal go-to's. It's insulated, so it keeps water ice-cold even on the hottest of days. If you use it, you'll be able to have a refreshing drink at the end of any long hike. 

    It also comes in different colors, so you can personalize it a bit. This is a great alternative to plastic water bottles, making it relatively eco-friendly. I would definitely recommend this product to any hiker in need of a reliable, reusable water bottle.
  • The Ordinary
    Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%


    Kathryn Hickl

    This is a favorite skincare product of mine and I apply it every morning and night. It regulates sebum as well as minimizes pores. Plus, it leaves your skin feeling clean and hydrated, and helps keep skin clear of any blemishes. 

    It's great for traveling because general travel anxiety can directly affect the skin, causing breakouts. The Ordinary helps to prevent blackheads from appearing. I would recommend this product to any traveler who desires to keep their skin clean and clear while exploring the world.
  • Hoxida
    LED Tactical Rechargeable and Waterproof Flashlight


    Kathryn Hickl

    If you're into photography, you may find yourself hiking at sunset, since that is when the lighting is the best. However, since it can get dark quickly, you may find yourself walking back in the dark. Because of this, carrying a flashlight is essential. 

    This flashlight by Hoxida is great because it's small enough to keep in your backpack without taking up too much space, it's waterproof, and it's super bright. You'll have no trouble seeing the trail in front of you even when it's pitch black. 

    If you're looking for a quality flashlight to bring on any outdoor adventure, this is the one I would suggest.
  • I GO
    Hard Shell Compact First Aid Kit


    Kathryn Hickl

    It's always important to carry a first aid kit when hiking or traveling, just in case. This first aid kit is lightweight and small, perfect to fit in any backpack. It also has the ability to be hung in different places because it comes with an aluminum carabiner. 

    Furthermore, it also comes with 85 different first aid supplies including, bandages, cleansing wipes, gauze pads, tweezers, and much more. I've found that it always has exactly what I need and it just feels better knowing that you have it on hand for any potential emergency.