Knitting On The Go: Essential Tools and Accessories for Crafty Travel…. PART TWO
This is not my suite case lol; you will not see me wearing a bikini. 🤣
Let's Talk Tools:
In Part 1 of our "Knitting On The Go" series, we explored how to choose the perfect travel-friendly knitting projects for your adventures. Now, in Part 2, we'll explore the essential tools and accessories that will make knitting on the go even more enjoyable and efficient.
When it comes to our creative adventures, I firmly believe that investing in quality tools is crucial. Cutting corners with these supplies often leads to regret and disappointment. Every time I try to save a few bucks, I end up wishing I had bought the one I really wanted in the first place. In the end, I usually find myself either tossing or donating the initial purchase. Quality tools not only enhance your journey but also make it more enjoyable and hassle-free.
Packable Needles & Hooks for Your Creative Journeys
Like most knitters, I started with straight needles. Why? Well, because that’s what I saw in the movies 🤣 But not too long after knitting for a bit, I quickly realized that interchangeable circular needles were not only more portable but were way more cost-effective. The other bonus is that depending on where you're going with your knitting, like on planes, certain countries have different views of what is acceptable for knitting supplies. I have witnessed a whole knitting project on non-interchangeable knitting needles quickly whisked away from someone going through airport security. The whole project was taken away. 😩 My personal recommendation is to go through airport security with your needles removed and your cable endcaps securely attached. That way, if your needles get taken away, your project is still safe.
Metal vs Wood & Plastic
Now there's a whole science behind the materials used in Needle tips and how that can affect the knitting experience with different types of yarn fibers. But when it comes to knitting on a plane, even if I feel like my metal tips are better suited for the yarn. They're inevitably going to draw attention during security checks, so I usually opt to use plastic or wood needles. Plus, my metal needles are more expensive than the wood or plastic ones, and so if they get taken away, I'm more likely to be very bummed and wish that I used my wood needles.
If you're not going on a flight to your destination, then you have way more flexibility. I always recommend that you bring at least one extra pair of needles and cords in the size or sizes you will need for your projects, just in case something happens. For example, at one point, I broke one of my needle tips during all the hustle and bustle I didn't have my needles stored properly in my project bag, and as my husband was packing up the car, one of the tips got banged up pretty badly and upon knitting with it broke right in half that left me with one needle short and if I didn't bring an extra pair of needle tips that project would either be languishing until I got home or we would be making a trip to a local knitting shop if there happened to be one nearby.
Socks make a great compact project for travel.
Cocoknits Tools: The heart of my knitting routine.
Nail File: Prevents any snags on yarn, ensuring smooth progress.
Lotion Bar: This keeps my hands hydrated, maintaining the perfect feel for handling delicate yarns and ensuring a comfortable knitting session.
Tiny Tools, Big Impact
Yes, it is important to try to find tools that are more compact in size for travel. But most of the time, when it comes to knitting, our tools are already pretty small, so I say take the tools that you love.
It's also important to bring almost double of some of your very important tools on your trip. I usually keep a separate little pouch of extras in case my original pouch happens to get lost, disappears, or is packed up in a bag I can’t get to. Here are the things that I would like to bring one extra.
Your interchangeable needle unlocking/locking key.
Small yarn snips
Tapestry/yarn needle
Silvalume or mini crochet hook (fix-it tool)
Retractable measuring tape
Cable/cord lockers (secures stitches while your needle tips are off)
needle tip protectors
a variety of stitch markers
Wrapping Up: Ensuring a Smooth Knitting Journey
Traveling with your knitting can be a seamless and joyous experience when you're equipped with the right tools. In this post, we've jumped into the essentials—from packable needles and hooks to the tiny tools that make a big impact. Remember, investing in quality tools not only enhances your knitting experience but also ensures you’re prepared for any situation that might arise during your travels.
While straight needles might have been your starting point, interchangeable circular needles offer unparalleled portability and versatility. And when it comes to materials, consider opting for wood or plastic needles when flying to avoid potential security hassles. Always bring an extra pair of needles and cords to safeguard against any unforeseen mishaps. Don’t forget to pack duplicates of your essential tools in a separate pouch to avoid disruptions in your knitting adventure.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
Stay tuned for Part 3 of our "Knitting On The Go" series, where we’ll explore how to organize and pack your knitting projects for travel. We’ll share tips on keeping your projects tidy, portable, and ready for your next adventure.
I’d Love to Hear From You!
Do you have any favorite travel knitting tools or tips? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below or hit reply if you’re reading this via our newsletter. Your insights could help fellow knitters make their journeys even more enjoyable!
