5 Travel-friendly summer crafts
My messy “craft suitcase” from a recent trip - I wish I’d staged this photo!
Ah, summertime. Maybe it’s the weather, maybe it’s that the “summer break” mentality never really fades away (no matter how long it’s been since school was in session), maybe it’s weddings and music festivals and family reunions - oh my!
Whatever the reason, summer seems to be a season of travel, near and far. But that doesn’t mean you have to stop crafting!
Among friends, I’m known for bringing the “craft suitcase” so we can get creative and make art wherever we may be. But if you don’t want to spring for that extra bag, don’t worry — I’ve got you covered.
Here is a short list of some of my favorite crafts that pack up small, pass TSA guidelines, and are sure to spark joy on your next trip. (And if you don’t know how to do any of these, but want to, make sure you subscribe to the Spacecraft newsletter and reach out to plan a craft party for you and your friends!)
Crafts that travel just as well as your tiny little shampoo:
Embroidery: Embroidery is one of my favorite crafts to bring with me on the go. It’s the perfect “something to do with your hands” activity for road trips, train rides, plane rides, and more. The embroidery floss itself takes up very little suitcase space, and the hoops pack flat. There are some TSA guidelines to be aware of if you’re planning to fly with scissors (“must be less than 4 inches from the pivot point”) and needles, but as long as you meet the requirements you’ll be on your way to a stitchin good time. If you need some extra inspiration, our instructor Melissa’s blog has got you covered.
Knitting/Crochet: I know what you’re thinking, and yes, those balls of yarn can be bulky. But let’s be real: are you really going to need more than one on your trip? I love to make a little progress on knitting/crochet projects while I’m on the road, and even if you can’t finish, it’s always satisfying to get through a ball. Again, TSA has some guidelines to follow for knitting needles - but otherwise you should be ready to roll.
Tie dye: Who doesn’t love tie dye? This one is a real crowd pleaser, and I love setting it up as a group activity at bachelorette parties, music festivals, family reunions, or any other gathering with friends and family. The worst kept secret about tie dye is it’s nearly impossible to do badly — though the delayed gratification can be a challenge. We like these kits for travel, and don’t forget whatever clothing you want to dye - just make sure it’s made of all natural fiber, like cotton, rayon or linen. Groovy, baby!
Sketchbook/Journal: Even if you don’t have a regular journaling habit, bringing a sketchbook or journal with you while traveling can be a great way to carve out a few quiet minutes each day. I like to bring some nice pens and colored pencils so I can be ready if inspiration strikes (and who doesn’t love a colorful postcard?). And you know how when you get home from a trip it can feel like you were never even gone? A study shows that drawing things can help commit them to memory — so bring your sketchbook and keep those vacation moments with you a little longer.
Lastly, and I say this with love and a little too much experience: leave the loose glitter at home.
Happy travels, and keep the creativity flowing all summer long!