I know summer is almost over (we won’t talk about that), but there are travel opportunities yet to be had. When you’re preparing for a vacation it helps to have all the right tools. It’s even better when you love your tools, and can use them for more than just travel!
From packing to relaxing, this hand-picked list of travel must-haves is sure to simplify and enhance your experience. Happy sewing, and then safe travels!
Packing Cubes
I love my packing cubes. I have them in different colors to sort outfits and separate clean clothes from dirty. They also help me fit more into my bag because of the straight and even shape. Maybe it will help you tell your kids where to find their socks when it’s past time to go…you know the drill.
Mesh Garment Bag
I always pack a few mesh wash bags when I’m going to be gone for a few days. It’s helpful for keeping dirty socks and small things together. Then when I get home I can just throw the whole bag into the wash!
See-Through Pouch
No need to use sandwich bags for your toiletries. Make these see-through dumpling zipper pouches instead. They can stay zipped up through security, and stay organized and clean throughout your trip.
Lightweight Infinity Scarf
An infinity scarf is a perfect travel companion. It’s a stylish multitasker; ideal for cool evenings, protection from the sun, and chilly airplane cabins.
Cross Body Bag
Keep your important and sensitive information close to your body and accessible. This cross body bag is a popular style, but it’s also a safe way to travel.
Passport Pouch
If you don’t love the cross body bag style, sew this passport pouch instead. There are three interior pockets in 3 sizes – perfect for just what you need!
Luggage Tags
It’s a good idea to have something on your luggage that is unique so you don’t get your bags mixed up with someone else. These DIY luggage tags are perfect identifiers!
Cosmetic Pouch
This cutedouble-sided pouchis king of multi-taskers! I use mine for cosmetics, first aid, essential oils, and more. I’m sure you’ll find many uses as well.
Ellie Travel Case
If you can’t live without it, the Ellie Travel Case will hold it. It would make a great gift for someone moving out on their own!
Easy Travel Toothbrush Roll
You need a hand towel and a ribbon to make this toothbrush roll bag. You can make this very easily, and coordinate colors for different people.
Travel Jewelry Case
This free jewelry case pattern will keep your jewelry orderly and easy to find.
Gorgeous Garment Bag
You might find that this garment bag will be your favorite piece of luggage! This tutorial includes easy sewing tips that I use in my other free bag patterns. You’ll love the clever features that make this a must-have. Give it a look!
Carry-On Size Quilted Duffle Bag
The boxy duffle bag fits perfectly under the seat of an airplane. It’s not only the perfect size duffle (19″x8″x8″), it’s stylish! You can even sew a whole matching set of bags if the mood (and the time) strikes you.
Beach Tote Bag
This great big beach bag with pockets all over is excellent for many things. Roll it up into your luggage and take it shopping, or put all your shoes inside and throw it in the trunk. I am sure you’ll love sewing it as much as you’ll love using it! Use my free appliques or machine embroidery to make it unique to you.
Ipanema Beach Bag Pattern
This Gorgeous and Unique Ipanema bag is the perfect size for your necessities. It’s easy to carry and doesn’t take much space in your suitcase when it’s empty.
Pocket Tissue Pack Cover
Here’s an easy sewing tutorial for a cute pocket tissue cover. You can stuff it with microfiber to keep your glasses clear, or hook it on your bag for goodbye tears. Either way it comes in handy to have a tissue for all the little things.
Curling or Flat Iron Travel Case
Sew a cute and useful pouch to hold your curling iron or flat iron. This free sewing pattern includes heat-resistant batting so you can style and go without having to let it cool down.
Donut-Shaped Travel Pillow
Pick a soft fabric to make a travel pillow. They are useful in the car, on planes, or even relaxing at home.
DIY Kids Travel Games
I’m sure there are devices a-plenty to occupy the traveling masses, but it’s nice to have some tactile games to break into the brain every once in a while. Alice & Lois have this tutorial. They use ready-made drawstring bags, but I have simple drawstring bag tutorials that you can use if you want to make the entire project by hand!
Fish Shaped Beach Bags
These fish-shaped drawstring bags use mesh at the bottom so you don’t have to bring the sand or dirt home with you. If you’ve never sewn with mesh before, there are some tips on this tutorial.
Pool Chair Cover with Pockets
Make a pool chair cover with a pillow and pockets! If you’re taking a towel anyway, consider adding pockets and a pillow. This keeps your chair clean and your things off the ground.
Beach Towel Backpack
Pockets for you, straps for the kids! I love it when everyone can carry their own belongings. As a bonus, the Beach Towel Backpack can hold other things, too.
Kids Travel Pillow
Speaking of their own belongings, this pattern is for a cute travel pillow. It includes a strap so the whole thing can slide over a suitcase handle, and a pocket for convenient (and necessary) things.
Drawstring Backpack
A lightweight drawstring backpack is ideal for day trips. I usually have one or two in the car at all times for impromptu sight-seeing stops.
Custom Sleep Mask
Do you find it hard to sleep in new spaces? Rest easier with asleep mask. Pick a soft fabric for ultimate comfort.
Swimsuit Cover-Up
This free pattern is easy and adorable! I love a good cover-up.
Diaper Change and Playtime Mat
If you know a new mommy, or don’t already have one yourself, make an easy Diaper Changing Mat. This one has storage included for diapers, wipes, and an extra outfit.
Sunglasses Case
This sunglass case is a beginner-level sewing project. The snap ensures nothing will fall out!
Sunglasses Case – Machine Embroidery
This beautiful sunglasses case pattern comes together in no time. It’s an in-the-hoop design that’s fully customizable! Keep your glasses clean and easy to find in any bag.
New Camp Chair Bag
My experience is that the bag is the first thing to go on my camping chair! Give your chairs a little more life with this free tutorial from Blue Susan Makes!
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