Haul & Review | Travel Accessories | 2015

[@CassieB64]

'Thank you' (along with hello and goodbye) is on the inside of the front cover Jen. I have the Italian phrasebook as well and it works perfectly well for me

[@WithWonder]

Rebecca Grant Oh my gosh we could not find that!

[@LilyMyLovely]

Agreed. These phrase books always have the most used words in the front cover. Although, if it were me (and it has been, multiple times), I would have learnt hello, please and thank you before I even got on the plane. It only takes a few minutes to learn this before you go and Europeans (who make such an effort to learn English) really appreciate any extra effort you make to acknowledge their language. Otherwise you just come across as a "dumb tourist" and no-one wants that.

[@8889allie]

I love Sonia Gil's travel videos! Honestly, I watch her videos and yours when I'm prepping for a trip. Great advice and you guys get me pumped for the trip.

[@Ematly8]

Absolutely loved this video especially this format: pre and post trip. So many haul videos only concentrate on the pre-trip, then nothing. This video let us see what worked for you and what didn't, which makes it easier to decide what will work for us. You help take the guessing out of the equation. Always look forward to your videos.

[@awgnaw]

Brought a 3 meters long, 3-outlet extension cord to Europe. Came in handy for the three of us (triple sharing room). Nobody wanted to keep reaching behind the heavy nightstand table to plug/unplug their chargers. Brought just one adapter for the extension cord.

[@JessicaCheyenneCrushingonBLUSH]

Jen, I think some great ideas for upcoming videos would be, 1. How/or what to pack for a road trip. (Essentials for traveling by car). 2. How I organize my car on a daily basis 3. How I transition from summer to fall, (decor/meals/hobbies,etc) 4. How to do a date night in 5. Since we don't see daily vlogs anymore, a lot of us are wondering what fun things you're up to daily, so maybe a, "my daily routine video". Just some suggestions that would be fun. Not trying to be rude or hateful. I'd love to see those from you. Thanks Jen!

[@lizzytenison8232]

I agree with you! I love those videos too!!!! 😀

[@mlokrongly09]

Great video ideas!

[@sewgatormomm]

Thank you for this video! As usual, you have saved me time and money by already doing the research and trying out the products. Someone tried to pickpocket my husband in Dublin this April, while we were watching a street performer. What a perfect setup, as it was very crowded (got bumped often) and all eyes were on the performance. The secured zip wallet is a definite buy for me. Doing the before and after was especially helpful. Keep up the great videos!

[@AverageJaneReviews]

Seeing that pumpkin in the background has got me excited for autumn and Christmas

[@AverageJaneReviews]

***** ha ha but NOW you see it ;-)

[@HelenaOops]

Thank you for this lovely review! Great Travel Accessories !I really enjoyed watching this beautiful haul! Have a fab week!

[@MsPaulaNeto]

I'm planning a trip to Europe next month and i'm loving all of your travel videos.

[@mlokrongly09]

People are being so hateful! I enjoy your style (new and old) because you've always been informative yet funny. You have a laid back way of approaching your hyper organized life that is very approachable. People need to calm down. You got these things for your sense of security which is different for everyone. Just because you need it doesn't mean everyone else does and that they should ridicule you for it. Who cares if you look like a "dumb tourist"? You travel how you want because these are your life long memories. Thanks for the different video-- I'll consider these things when I travel abroad!

[@mlokrongly09]

But it is her channel. The content is up to her... If people decide to watch or not is up to them. Jen is just doing what she loves and posting it on the internet to share-- it doesn't seem like it is about views for her. She could be like other channels and be a sellout, but that isn't her style.

[@mlokrongly09]

Commentary is helpful, but being nasty about it just isn't fair. I applaud successful youtubers bc it is a hard business. KZbinrs have to build up a tough shell to be on the internet and that is what is sad. I know how tough the public can be as I'm a makeup artist at Sephora. People can be really mean. There is such thing as constructive criticism instead of outright saying, "this video is horrible". I'm not saying it should be all sunshine and rainbows, but Jen (and everyone else) works so hard on their videos-- bc it is their job-- and it sucks to see people being so irrationally criticizing.

[@mlokrongly09]

You put it it nicely. Most people didn't. All I'm saying is that youtubers do their job and some accept free stuff and cover their videos with ads. It is hard work to do what they do and I see why people use companies for their videos bc they have to make money some how. However, Jen is one of those people who work hard and don't advertise left and right about the free things she has received. It seems like just because she decided to change direction with her videos people are hating on her. This isn't a personal attack. I'm just saying we could all be a little nicer to each other.

[@cathrynweisenhaus5874]

I just moved to the Chicago area, knowing I could maybe run into one day is kinda super exciting :) You have made this move not so scary knowing that there are people as kind and genuine as you in the neighborhood.

[@jorunnragnhild9051]

We moved to the Winnetka area near Chicago several months ago and I can't tell you how friendly they are here. Two of my neighbors are like going out with my very own comedians (I think I spelled that wrong) and many of the women/mothers get together during the week to walk or talk. I would warn you about going into many parts of the city of Chicago though, (4th of July something like 38 killings and getting worse). It seems like the city is falling apart. People don't realize the suburbs aren't like the city at all.

[@beccajanestclair]

I feel the same as you do about the Lonely Planet books, but my husband swore by them before we got married. I have since converted him to the DK guides, as I LOVE those. They're fantastic.

[@26Bluegb]

I'm preparing for a trip to Italy & one of my books is the DK Guide,. It is beautiful,but I'm worried about the weight...& it's so pretty I don't want to cut it up. Did you do any of the neighborhood walks it suggests?

[@beccajanestclair]

Do you have a kindle? They DK guides are available for download. Or maybe scan in the pages you want? I did that with a map book when we were flying carry on only from the UK to Austria last October so we didn't have to bring the whole map book!

[@mailonez1]

I miss your old content. I loved the cleaning and organization videos.

[@greengiant3421]

Hi Jen, I don't comment very often, but I just want to say I love every video that you post! I'm so sorry that ppl are negative. It bothers me, but I truly love your channel!!! Thank you for being such a kind person!!! Hope you have a fabulous week!!! 😊

[@juanitagentry9816]

Hello. I enjpy your videos. :) I was wondering where you got the cute owl magnets. I'm really into owls right now and they are just soooo cute!

[@cateadn9851]

I really love your travel videos! Thanks for posting this video 😊

[@nicoledreibelbeis2192]

This was such a fun video! Love the bag especially!

[@mrsfielder12]

Have you looked into Travelon bags? They have different styles and come with anti-theft features.

[@Westielover2012]

What nail polish are you wearing in the haul portion of this video? It's really beautiful!

[@jocelynsmith9048]

I was going to ask the same question. Thanks

[@WithWonder]

Westielover2012 You know...that was from last October so I have no clue. Sorry I can't be more helpful!

[@kate1356]

It looks like it could be Zoya Yasmeen, Zoya Suri, or Julep Morgan.

[@jocelynsmith9048]

kate1356 Thanks

[@scrapper900]

Great video Jen! Very well put together and informative. TFS!

[@ClaudiaSteichen]

I love Sonia's Travels! One of my favorite channels! ❤️

[@beautygirl1236]

Miss your old instagram. Now its just pictures of the sky or winnie. I liked the hauls, selfies, restaurant foods, drinks, tips, comfort things, etc.:(

[@kathymonk1406]

As always another good video! I just have a quick question, how did you get on with the Pacsafe backpack and do you recommend it? I'm going to Athens later on this year and thought something like this would be great.

[@jackiesandberg122]

I love Lonely Planet guide books I find them very informative and easy to use. I was wearing a cross over bag and was nearly pick pocketed while I was in Paris ,lucky I looked down and realised the young boy had got my bag opened I never even felt him open it. In a way I'm glad it happened made me be extra careful

[@sandynbtx6967]

Late to this conversation. Going to Venice in September, so your videos are really helpful. Were you able to wear the backpack in the museums? I have read that some museums make you check your backpack because they are afraid you will knock something over or scratch an artifact. Any feedback would be appreciated.

[@Trying37]

Very informative thank you. I enjoyed the before and after use of the products.

[@hollywisniewski7576]

The original selfie stick? Lol😜😍😘

[@ellenboful]

I love the new look of your brand. Smart to switch since the Housewife reference is becoming over used. Also, congrats and many blessings on the addition to your family.

[@loveCAR31]

Are you going to do a Lipault carry on review? Thanks.

[@WithWonder]

love.C.a.R Definitely

[@pmmack8617]

Thank you for the travel videos..always useful.

[@deborahconkle6822]

Great info about adapters!

[@SeaMistLights]

I love those earrings! :) You look lovely!

[@erinstar82]

Great to did a before and after vid. Lots of people do hauls but then you never know how well things worked out for them - i enjoyed your packing video for the same reason. I would also like to say, it really doesn't bother me that the footage is old. Other than the fact that you have told us that it is old footage, you wouldn't know otherwise. With regard to the phrasebooks / guidebooks / basic phrases. Guidebooks usually have the basic phrases in there somewhere and i agree the phrasebook usually has the most basic phrases right in the front.

[@hockeydiva93]

How did u like the anti theft bag?

[@AsiucciaMakeUp]

By the way,just so you know. I'm italian and Thank you is Grazie. Pronunced with an E at the end. 😊

[@LeahTackles]

This is so helpful!!! I loved this haul /review!

[@sage-blairvega9416]

Just got back from Europe and I'm watching this video and totally relating to it

[@kimberlymichellex]

Love the new Pretty Neat intro!

[@Sherrie561]

Loving your new intro, so happy and upbeat :)

[@tajf8641]

I really miss your target and sephora hauls ect. I know your going in a different direction now but I really miss your old content 😞

[@WithWonder]

AnnMArie FArthing I post them when I have things to show. There will be more hauls in the future, I just only post them when I have fun things to show.

[@fmm269]

Hopefully she will still do these every so often

[@lizzytenison8232]

When you going to post whats in my carry on? I love those videos im traveling to Europe from IL

[@WithWonder]

Lizzy Tenison Soon :)

[@wendysmith6184]

hI there just love your videos. my husband and i both have pacsafe bags and would never travel without them not only do thery do the job there designed to do they look nice

[@LifeAsLeigh]

Thanks for sharing! Heading to Europe soon (with stops in Venice and Lake Como, can't wait..looks stunning from your vlogs!) and I have been on the hunt for a good day bag that could also hold my DSLR, will def check out PacSafe! Thanks!

[@debbieloes5903]

Such a helpful video! Thanks so much.

[@MissAllaCinderella]

Jen, have you heard of Crystal Paine from "MoneySavingMom"? (If not, she has a webpage/blog). She ALWAYS posts tons of children/infant coupons, printables, tips and tricks, and so many different things related to parenting! :)

[@LifeStyleBri]

Omg such a helpful video thanks soooo much loved it Jen

[@chelseabilger4701]

LOVE gearties!!

[@liinduhhh]

do you really start decorating for halloween in july? lol im confused either way i love the fall and start early too if that's what you do :)

[@aalexkazamm]

This is from October of last year from when she went on her trip.

[@liinduhhh]

ohh gotcha!

[@liinduhhh]

I don't mind I really like her

[@Nunya83]

Your skin looks wonderful in this video. Not sure if it was a tan or makeup. But you have a wonderful glow.

[@sage-blairvega9416]

Rick Steves has some great ones

[@pamelaruth6909]

Welcome home!!!!

[@paulineodonoghue8563]

thank u so much....would lv to go to Italy

[@dazzlings]

I carry a lightweight powerstrip.

[@becomingbrooke9339]

Great info! Thanks for sharing.

[@hawoodcock]

This was super helpful, thanks!

[@Triparoundtheworld28]

I love your neckless :)

[@fmm269]

Nice video Jen :)

[@helenamoran4274]

Hi Jen, do you still have and use your P.O box? :)

[@WithWonder]

Helena Moran Yep! You can find the address on my blog if you'd like. I love getting letters & postcards! www.prettyneatliving.com/5701-2/

[@helenamoran4274]

Pretty Neat Living thank you so much, I have a letter for you!! :)

[@fabiolamolinat]

Love all the tips Great

[@beautyplayground]

Awwwh yeah Venice is my hometown

[@My.Curiosities]

"I bought it because I wanted to see it" or you can just look at it in the store and then buy it instead of accumulaing stuff "to see" ? Anyway I'm delightfully surprised to know that there is no pickpockets in the United-States and that you need so much protection for your valuables when you travel in "Europe" (whatever that means; as if European countries were all the same), I should consider moving to stop being robbed every day.

[@arj8383]

I'm guessing your comment was sarcasm. Pickpocketing in the US is virtually nonexistent. In many European capitals that are flooded with tourists, they're flooded with pickpockets as well. It's not just one or two countries, it's many of them. So it would make sense for an American traveler who is not used to that type of theft, and carrying important things with them on vacation, to come prepared.

[@ArtJourneyUK]

***** I can't speak for Matilda, but yes, my comment from 8 months ago was indeed sarcasm. My mum was pickpocketed in NYC, my friend also when she was working over in California. This type of crime is *everwhere*, it's not just isolated to Europe. Of course if you never leave your local 'bubble', you'll be less exposed to any type of criminal activity. Staying safe is about protecting yourself *wherever you are*, not standing out by looking overly touristy. I live in London and, to me, it's perfectly safe... But if I was to stand with a $5000 camera around my neck, and a wallet full of currency sticking out my back pocket, I make myself a target to opportunists. RFID crime has been around since the cards appeared (FreedomPay, one of the first RFID payment gateways, was founded in Philadelphia in 2000). Since 2008 we've been warned about RFID Crime's prevalence... Not just in Europe, worldwide. Stay Safe!

[@arj8383]

ArtJourneyUK While pickpocketing can happen almost anywhere, it is a much more rare occurrence in the US. It's been on a steady decline in the states for decades. Here's an article about it: www.slate.com/articles/arts/culturebox/2011/02/the_lost_art_of_pickpocketing.html I agree that one should be aware and safe anywhere they go, but the reality is some cities are more vulnerable to certain crime than others. You are far, far more likely to come across pickpockets in Barcelona than in Houston.

[@briannatans5379]

Just don't say ciao! and bella the way you did in the video! You'll freak them out with the high pitch! lol

[@Okie_Stitches]

What does your husband do for a living?

[@55sedf]

SunflowersMakeMeHappy I think he is a trader. Investor, whatever.

[@Okie_Stitches]

Thanks willow lake and 55sedf

[@MiSzxCHRiSTY]

Born and raised in the city and I still don't know which direction the avenues and streets go... lmao

[@alishataylor5926]

Winnie?

[@combativerage6397]

How long did you plan for your trip to Italy?

[@WithWonder]

Combative Rage We booked it about 5 months before we left.

[@533134]

Why didn't you guys learn the simple phrases via Google before you left?

[@discodaddy532]

Is all your content now going to be OLD stuff like this? This is horrible. KZbinrs that "rebrand" are usually changed for the better. I can't even with the instagram and other boring photos. I have been here since the beginning. You let the "haters", as you call them, get the best of you. This "I'm defensive" content is bad, really bad.

[@Mimi.Cherie]

caleb bailey her new contents are just boring and people actually compliment her on them. She's getting less viewers and quiet a few dislike on her videos now. I'm one of the old subscribers, I'm only still here because I'm still hoping she will reverse pack to her old self....

[@sewgatormomm]

caleb bailey There is nothing "old" about this! I love watching travel videos from several years back to glean helpful information. It was very nice to have the before and after as well.

[@55sedf]

Jen, I replied to one of your commenters question about Don's profession. But a funny thing is my son has a golf shirt with a Donald Ross label. Isn't that funny? As much as Don loves golf , I don't think that is his label?:)

[@aldenallen28]

Great Video! You are so Amazing

[@labrown8971]

**unnecessary

[@LilyMyLovely]

Pickpockets & thieves are just as prevalent in America (if not more so in New York etc) and, indeed, any area where tourists congregate. You sound xenophobic and are giving Europe a bad name implying you only need anti-theft precautions when traveling in Europe. :|

[@Akvarelli]

LilyMyLovely I agree! I'm European and I got very offended. I have traveled to many countries in Europe and never have been pickpocketed or felt scared in any way. You should just as well use that anti theft bag in Chigaco - you're as likely to be robbed in there as in Europe.

[@erinstar82]

Maiju E +lilymylovely I am Australian, i have heard numerous stories of friends and family (also Australian and many who have travelled extensivly) being pickpocketed in Europe but none in America.

[@ZoeoOreo]

Every time someone I know goes to Europe (I'm an American) they always come back with stories about how either someone pick pocketed them or how they attempted to do so.

[@sewgatormomm]

LilyMyLovely Yes, pickpockets are everywhere, but it's a whole lot scarier to think of losing your valuables in a foreign country. When you spend so much money and plan a trip, you want to take every reasonable precaution. These precautions are listed in every travel book, site, show, etc. It's just common sense.

[@LilyMyLovely]

It's probably because American's never try to blend in, they walk around looking like tourists with flashy camera's, fanny packs etc. They make themselves a target. I've travelled extensively around Europe, backpacked in India, trekked the Rainforest and never been pick-pocketed anywhere. However, two friends (one young one older) were both robbed in America (one in New York, one in LA). My mum was told to "never walk anywhere" in America (American's drive even if it's just one block) otherwise you'd get robbed. And the hotel we stayed in LA told us not to go out after 7pm and sent a chauffeur after us when we went out at 6:30 pm.

[@labrown8971]

Lots of un-nessasary items....yikes