Don't get us wrong, we love Cleveland, we do. But every so often, we get an itch to explore beyond the Cuyahoga County borders; to see new places, meet new people, and taste new foods. We say, indulge that itch. Go travel. Just make sure to pack a few things in that suitcase of yours to remind you of home while you're away.
The "Cleveland" Tee
We Clevelanders wear our pride on our sleeves and we mean that literally. Pack your favorite hometown tee from GV Art and Design, Fresh Brewed Tees, or any of our city's other fine local apparel shops. Find this style at gvartwork.myshopify.com for $25.
The Koozie
Wherever we go, Clevelanders are always ready for a cold one (or two, or three). These custom koozies from CLE Clothing Co. will have you sippin' in style no matter how far from home you go. Find them for $3 on cleclothingco.com.
The Passport Case
Designed with the traveler in mind, this leatherbound passport case from Wright and Rede is both fashionable and practical. Equipped with a notepad and an extra pocket for those loose luggage tags or miscellaneous papers that always accumulate when you travel, this accessory will keep you organized before and after takeoff. Find it for $57 at wrightandrede.com.
The Jacket
We're no strangers to cold weather and know damn well that 60° and partly cloudy can turn into 35° and sleeting just between bus stops. Be prepared with a lightweight, water-repellent jacket, like this one from northeast Ohio-based Appalachian Outfitters for $58.
The Kicks
Browns cornerback Joe Haden knows a thing or two about shoes, which is why he recently opened up a boutique in downtown Cleveland to outfit locals with killer kicks. Snag a pair of these Air Jordan Ones from The Restock for $185.
The Bling
Traveling with jewelry is complicated at best, which is why we recommending bringing just one or two items that can be worn with everything. We love this silver flags necklace from On the Lookout ($55, onthelookout.bigcartel.com) and the mixed metal circle bangle from Allie M. Designs ($35, etsy.com/shop/AllieMJewelry), which can be worn day or night.
The Book
No trip is complete without some reading material from Cleveland's favorite used bookstore, Loganberry Books. Pick up a pre-loved guidebook, endearing dog-eared and coffee stained pages included, for your travel destination at 13015 Larchmere Blvd.
The Shades
We're not ones to shell out for fancy shades, which is why we always hit up the Avalon Exchange in Lakewood or Coventry before road tripping. Peruse their collection of vintage and designer rims, which start at just $10.
The Extra Bag
How many times have you arrived at your destination only to realize the only bag you brought with you is a big honking suitcase? Toss one of these Blair Ritchey cotton canvas totes into your carry-on, and you'll have a ready-made beach bag, grocery bag, or oversized purse at your disposal. Find it for $38 on b\lairritchey.com.
