Dear Reader

I’m packing up for 16 days away.. first stop: snowy Montreal, final stop: full-on tropical sunshine.

And as usual, I’m putting every travel essential to the test so you don’t have to.

This week’s email is packed with the good stuff:

• The NEW Carry-on Suitcase I'm Testing
• What I’m bringing from Canada to the Caribbean
• Your FREE Tropical Holiday Packing List - download it, print it, and pack smarter

Let’s start with the suitcase showdown...

I’m heading out with my new hardside suitcase this week: the LOJEL Cubo carry-on. I'll be putting it through the exact same travel tests I used last year on the Monos, Level8, and Amazon Basics bags.

Here’s what I’ll be watching for:​
✔️ How it rolls through snow and slush in Montreal
✔️ Ease of lifting into overhead bins
✔️ Does the zipper system actually hold up?
✔️ Is the inside layout good for tropical packing?
✔️ How it handles tight hotel spaces, taxis, transit, and humidity
✔️ Any dents, dings, or disappointments on arrival/return

I’ll report back soon with my verdict. And yes, I packed everything into just this one case. I also picked up some LOJEL Packing Cubes.

• ➡️Check out the LOJEL Cubo in Golden Ochre​
• ➡️Ordo Compression Packing Cubes​
• ➡️Compare it to the Level8 Carry-On​

I’m going from Montreal snow to Caribbean sunshine, so every item had to earn its spot. I've got a few items I'm excited to share with you.

Firstly, I’m testing a new pair of Vessi waterproof sneakers (with inserts for plantar fasciitis). That's because I’ll be walking a ton this trip, and I'll need serious comfort.

I’ve been breaking them in for weeks already and while this shoe color combo is now sold out, there are plenty of other great options on Vessi's website.

Next, I'm taking a tried and true bathing suit I've been going back to for years. It's the Miraclesuit, and while it's not a "budget" item, the quality and longevity of this suit is absolutely worth the price tag.

I've got some other accessories that I love and recommend below too. This includes fun budget-friendly sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin and prevent heat-stroke.

👟 Shoes:

➡️Vessi Waterproof Shoes - Get 20% off with this link​
➡️Plantar Fasciitis Insoles​

🩱 Bathing Suit:

➡️The most comfortable and supportive bathing suit I've ever tried​

🕶️ Sunglasses:

➡️ Goodr – sporty and secure​
➡️ Blenders – polarized and cute without the price tag​

👒 Straw Sun Hat:

➡️ Wide Brim Straw Sun Hat in Black with Bow​

I’m heading to the Caribbean for 16 days, but I’m still packing light, and this checklist makes it easy.

We booked a self-catering apartment for this trip with laundry facilities, so we’ll be washing clothes every couple of days. That means I can pack smarter, skip the bulk, and still have everything I need for both beach days and adventure days.

If you're planning a 7 to 14-day tropical getaway, this list will work perfectly for you too. It includes all the essentials like clothing, toiletries, electronics, and a few extras I never travel without (like water shoes and a waterproof phone case).

🧳 Grab your copy here: Tropical Holiday Packing List with Recommendations.pdf​

Use it to pack stress-free, avoid overpacking, and make room for souvenirs (because you know you'll find something).

P.S. I’ve got some fresh content coming your way in the new year…

✨ Ever heard of Guadeloupe?

This French-Caribbean island is ranked one of the safest places to visit in the region, and it’s full of surprises - think volcanic peaks, rainforest hikes, and croissants for breakfast.

I’ll be sharing all the details soon, including where to stay, what to eat, and why it's perfect for a family trip.

🎄 Also coming: Montreal’s Christmas Markets

I couldn’t resist squeezing in one more festive stop before flying south.

Montreal may not be in Europe, but it brings serious European vibes - and I’m adding it to my growing library of Christmas market reviews to help you plan both big and local adventures.

More to come in January and February, but for now, happy holidays and happy travels!
—Tanya

P.S. Planning a trip?​ Check out my favorite travel resources below. They’re free for you to use, but I may earn a small commission if you book through them. ✈️ My Favorite Travel Resources​ These are the tools we personally use to travel smarter, save money, and stay connected on the road: 🧳 Travel Money + Bookings 💳 Wise Travel Debit Card – No foreign transaction fees 🚘 Cheap Car Rentals on a Budget – The site we always use 🏨 Best Rate on Airport Transfers – Private + group options 🌍 Stay Connected While Traveling 📱 Download my Favorite eSIM – Easy to set up 🧳 Store your Luggage – Safe, short-term storage 🛡️ SafetyWing Insurance – Affordable family coverage 🎢 Travel Deals + Bonuses 🏰 Get $10 Off Disneyland Packages – Use code TANYA10 💌 The Daily Drop Newsletter – Reward points + travel hacks 🖥️ Want to Start Your Own Blog? 📚 Scale Your Travel Blog – Learn how I make money blogging 💬 Bonus Resources 💬 Join our Caribbean Travel Help Facebook Group – Ask questions, get tips 🎄Join my Christmas Markets in Europe Facebook Group - Advice, inspiration & more 🧭 Browse my Full Resource Page – All the tools I recommend 🌍 Want to Be Featured in an Upcoming Email?​ I’m shining a spotlight on adventurous travelers from our community! Share your recent trip and inspire fellow readers—plus I’ll include a link to your favorite hotel, tour, or tip. ​Click here to fill out the quick questionnaire!​ ​ ​​​​ I'd be honored if you followed me on social media ✨ If you're looking to work with me as a partner for your own travel-related industry, don't hesitate to reach out below! Sponsor Me ​

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