Happy Thursday! It’s the last Thursday of the month so I am linking up with Holly and Patty to answer 10 fun seasonal questions. I love thinking about my answers and seeing everyone else’s answers, too!

In January, we talked about beating the winter blues.

This month we are talking about warm weather destinations and winter travel tips. We aren’t going anywhere warm this winter for the first time in a few years. I am missing that warm sunshine, but some years are just like that. Luckily, we’ve had some pretty warm and sunny days to keep me going.

1. Favorite warm weather destinations

I think I will love any warm weather destination I visit, but my current favorites are:

ARUBA!! Oh, I loved Aruba! I loved every single thing about it.

Siesta Key is absolutely gorgeous! I’ve been a few times and would love to go back!

Fort Myers Beach was so lovely last winter. Unfortunately, it got hit pretty hard this fall, but it was wonderful!

I love a warm beach and a fun and fruity drink!

2. Packing cubes: yes or no?

Yes, absolutely yes! Every single time I travel I use packing cubes. They help keep a suitcase or duffel bag so organized. I actually have two sets which is great for size variety. Jeff, Jack, and Luke also have their own set and use them for every single trip. We are a packing cube loving family!

3. Favorite carryon?

I usually bring my Barrington St. Anne zippered tote as a carryon. It can get a little heavy, but it holds everything. I love the zippered one because it holds everything in. It is the perfect size to plop on top of my rolling suitcase when we are walking through the airport.

I also do everything in my power to carry on my luggage. It saves a bit of time in the airport and I never have to worry about things getting lost.

4. Essential items in your suitcase?

All the baggies! I put liquids in baggies, of course, but it is also nice to have a few extras when I’m on a trip. You never know what might need to be contained for the way home. I also bring an additional tote bag with me in case I need some more storage for the return trip.

I always have my kindle in my carryon. I never travel anywhere without it! WiFi can be a little tricky on my kindle so I make sure I have at least 5 books downloaded so I can read whatever I want on the beach.

Jeff is great about remembering to pack a speaker.

5. Excursions? Yes or no?

Sure! We did a fun snorkeling booze cruise in Aruba. When we travel domestically, I tend to plan a few of excursions. I always make sure to keep a few days for the beach or pool. After all, we are relaxing on vacation!

6. Most random item you always pack

I always bring my planner. I rarely use it, but I always have it with me. You never know when a planning emergency might arise. I always bring original Sudafed with me if I’m flying. I take it an hour before takeoff and landing to help dry out my ears and make the flight more comfortable. I absolutely always bring a bathrobe with me, even if I am just spending one night. I also bring a deck of cards with me. It’s fun to play cards with friends and it keeps the kids entertained when we have to wait for a while.

7. Do you use a travel agent?

I don’t usually use a travel agent. We fly Southwest often and use their website to book our own flights. When we go to a resort abroad, we usually book through the website. I’ve gotten great deals on our resorts and good credits for excursions. I am not against using a travel agent and we used one for our honeymoon to the Canary Islands and Barcelona. We also used one for our Disney World trip.

8. Favorite sunscreen

I love the smell of the Pure pineapple sunscreen. It’s tricky to find but I always look for it. When I can’t find that, I use Hawaiian Tropic spray. it also smells divine.

9. Favorite flip flops or sandals

I love Reef sandals. I wear the rubber bottom, thin fabric strap sandals to the beach and pool. I love my leather sandals for casual comfort when we are going out to lunch or dinner or walking around.

10. Favorite swimsuit

I keep going back to my Title Nine bikinis. They are cute and have just the right coverage for me. I also have a Vineyard Vines suit and an Athleta suit that I wear quite frequently. I have a one piece that I like, but I am more comfortable in a bikini.

Alright, now I wish I was headed on a warm weather getaway! Oh well, spring and summer will be here soon enough! Are you going anywhere warm this winter? If so, have a blast! Have a great day full of sunshine and books!