I, like most Aussies, are flocking to Europe to bask in the sun and escape the cold weather we’re currently experiencing across the country.
In the lead up to my trip, there’s been a few things on my wishlist, but as our itinerary grows in size, I’m resistant to spend cash in the lead up.
Over recent months I have noticed a growing number of people flocking to an online retailer to purchase all kinds of handy tech and travel essentials.
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Temu (pronounced Teh-moo) is already number five on the list of Australia’s leading online retail brands — surpassing Everyday Rewards, Flybuys, Coles Group and even Bunnings Warehouse, and it’s a go-to for hundreds of shoppers.
So like any shopping-pro, I decided to take matters into my own hands, and place an order for everything on my list — and it was no surprise that I could find all items, for half the price of other popular brands and stores at Temu.
While Temu’s website is extemely populated (there are quite literally hundreds of thousands of products to scroll through) I found it surprisingly easy to use.
Thanks to the categories tab, I filtered ‘luggage and travel gear’ and was greeted by tons of suggestions, from luggage scales to toiletry bags.
Note that it’s also incredibly simple to find ‘most repurchased’ and ‘#1’ items — a great start starting point if you’re feeling overwhelmed with choice.
Prices are unbeatable, often more affordable than other retailers and fairly quick delivery (they offer a $5 credit if your order arrives later than expected).
Since I was buying travel items that would be used infrequently, I was happy to forgo expensive, high-quality options and settle for handy gadgets with friendly price tags.
Here are 7 of my favourite travel buys for my upcoming trip.
1. Wireless Sleep Headphones, $7.25
It’s no secret that wireless headphones are an essential for travelling, but the latest version taking social media by storm is a soft headband that can be connected to any bluetooth device.
Great for listening to podcasts or music when you’re lying down, it’s designed like a 2-in-1 eye mask and headphone. While I’ve successfully taken a nap while wearing it, I’m keen to see how it handles the loud background noises on a plane.
2. Passport Holder, $6.12
Ever envied a fellow traveller with a stylish passport holder that not only protects but holds extra items like boarding passes? Me too.
I treated myself to a cute green colour with a floral print. Nothing fancy, but it does the job and helps to easily separate my passport from my partner’s.
3. Cable Organiser, $4.39
4. Phone Holder Mount, $4.55
Every time I step onto the plane I envy those who can sit and watch an episode on their phones — minus any neck strain.
The trick? A handy phone holder that clips onto the collapisable tray table in front of you, and now I’ve finally got my hands on one for under $5, a bargain!
5. Luggage Tag, $4.38
I deem luggage tags as a VIP travel item — and if you have ever picked up the wrong case on the carousel then I’m sure you will agree.
My old luggage tags have seen better days, and when I saw this customisable version, I knew the fun colours and printed initials would jazz up my luggage.
6. Travel Pillow, $12.32
It seems travel pillows are all the rage, but not as we traditionally know them. Gone are the typical U-shapes, there are now plenty of wrap-around styles that are proving to be “comfier” among shoppers.
This wallet-friendly pillow from Temu is made from memory foam and comes in a protective case. Here’s hoping it will guarantee a few extra zzz’s on the plane.
7. Travel Laundry Bag, was $4.85 now $2.93
When you’re on the move, the key to efficient and organised packing is laundry bags, to keep everything separate and clean.
Large in size and made from a waterproof material, this laundry bag pleasantly surprised me with its quality and could easily come in handy for post-dips and wet swimmers.
