This week, my husband and I escaped to beautiful Northern Idaho for a much-needed week away. We spent our days swimming, hiking, exploring, and simply slowing down together. It had been a long time since we'd taken a full week to unplug, and it was exactly what our hearts needed.

As I've gotten older, I've realized that what I pack can make or break an adventure. Now that I'm in my mid-40s, I'm always searching for pieces that are comfortable, practical, flattering, and easy to pack. Finding items that can keep up with everything from hiking trails to lakeside dinners isn't always easy.

This trip reminded me of a few favorites that I reached for again and again. If you're like me and appreciate comfortable, versatile finds that make traveling a little easier, I thought I'd share some of the things I loved in hopes they'll help you on your next adventure.

Hiking Shorts: I bought two pairs, and I am so glad. They were the perfect length, comfortable waist band, with a pocket for my phone. One day I put them on over my bathing suit, and they dried really fast.

Tank Top: I have been looking for better alternatives with workout clothing. I came across this website, and these bamboo tank tops are like BUTTER, so soft, so flattering. I have the gray tree one and this black one. They are loose, but not too loose to do yoga in, perfect for hiking and biking.

Water shoes: I bought these shoes a few years ago, and I love them. Perfect for biking, then walking around the water. I wore these kayaking earlier this year, and I loved them.

Bikini. Ok, this suit is my new favorite. I love that it is wire-free, and it is great quality. It stays put while swimming. I like the rise on the bottom with the ties on the sides, made them comfortable. I put shorts on over them, and they fit perfectly.

Sunglasses: I have another pair of Goodr sunglasses, but I don't bring them on vacation because they are not that cute. But then I found these at Target! Not only are they so comfortable, but they don't slide off. The best glasses for adventuring

Sunscreen, Hands down the best sunscreen. I use the 30 for every day and the 50 for when I am out all day.