Packing correctly is a science. Under-packing or over-packing can both lead to an unpleasant trip. What you want is to be able to find that sweet spot where everything is just right and you have all that you need. So, to make packing less of a headache and more of a fun activity, we have put together a list of travel essentials. These essentials are meant to make every part of your trip better. From going through security at the airport, while in the air, and while exploring your destination, these essentials will come in handy. This list will go over some staples like the travel pillows, blankets, and whatnot, but we will also highlight some unique items that will make your trip a little bit less stressful. Here is a list of travel essentials.
- Collapsible/Reusable water bottle.
- Travel Towel.
- Travel Pillow.
- Travel Wallet.
- Travel Packing Cubes.
- Travel Laundry bags.
- Travel Toiletry Bag.
- Fanny pack.
- Portable Charger.
- Universal Travel Adapter.
- Noise-canceling headphones.
- A proper Carry-on bag.
- Travel luggage locks.
- Flashlight/Headlamp.
- Camera.
- First aid kit.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Sunscreen.
- Protective face mask.
- Lip Balm.
- Blanket.
- A scarf with hidden pockets.
- Compression bags.
- A menstrual cup.
- Luggage tracker.
- A multi-tool.
COLLAPSIBLE/REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
Most people typically travel in the summer, a time of the year when the sun is out a lot. A water bottle will keep you hydrated while you explore. Even better, a collapsible water bottle will take up less space in your bag when you travel.
TRAVEL TOWEL
You need a towel that takes up a little space in your bag and dries pretty quickly. We recommend a microfiber towel. Leave your chunky towels at home.
TRAVEL PILLOW
This is an item you will only need on the plane, so, going for an inflatable travel pillow will be your best bet.
TRAVEL WALLET
Compared to your regular wallet, travel wallets have more compartments for your cards (hotel key cards, ID cards) and extra cash. They help you stay organized throughout your trip.
TRAVEL PACKING CUBES
If for some reason, you don’t want to use a compression bag, packing cubes are a solid alternative. They will help keep your clothes protected and organized.
TRAVEL LAUNDRY BAGS
The last thing you want is your dirty clothes mixing up with your clean clothes. The laundry bag keeps the dirty clothes separate from the other clothes. It also keeps the smell away.
TRAVEL TOILETRY BAG
A waterproof toiletry bag is the way to go. It will prevent any of your toiletries from leaking out into your other stuff.
FANNY PACK
Granted, these make look ‘old skool’, but they help keep your valuables close by while freeing up your hands to do other stuff like take that great photo.
PORTABLE CHARGER
This is a must must-have, yes two musts. Not all airlines provide USB slots for charging your devices. The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination with a low battery after binging an entire season of Bridgerton on the plane. Also, if you are traveling to a remote location where electricity is in short supply, your portable charger can literally be a lifesaver.
UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER
Wall outlets are different around the world. Best to stay prepared should in case you come across a strange wall outlet.
NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONES
This helps you tune out the noise, especially on the plane or when in transit. A Bluetooth option will let you move around more freely, but you will have to worry about charging it. So, that’s why we recommend wired headphones.
A CARRY-ON BAG
Ensure to get a quality carry-on bag. One that is rugged and durable.
TRAVEL LUGGAGE LOCKS
These will give you a little more peace of mind on your trips. Just be sure to go with one that is TSA approved.
FLASHLIGHT
This can come in handy especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
CAMERA
The camera on your smartphone is good enough. However, if you want to get more detailed photos, a dedicated camera is key.
FIRST AID KIT
This is a must-have for hikers, climbers, campers, and anyone who loves the outdoors. Hopefully, you won’t have to use it during your trip. Stay safe.
HAND SANITIZER
This is pretty much a given in a post-pandemic world. Go for an eco-friendly option.
SUNSCREEN
For those that like traveling during the summer months, never leave home without your sunscreen. There is nothing fun about getting sunburned on your holiday.
PROTECTIVE FACE MASK
This is another essential item in today’s world. Go for the one you can wear for a long period.
BLANKET
A pocket-size blanket is fine. Depending on your itinerary, an extra blanket can come in handy.
A SCARF WITH HIDDEN POCKETS
This is a great way to keep your valuable close by but hidden in plain sight. Pretty cool piece of clothing.
COMPRESSION BAGS
Compression bags rock! They can help reduce the space your clothes take up by up to 50%! That is a very significant space-saving. Try them out, you will love them.
MENSTRUAL CUP
This is a must for women. They are especially useful because you can leave them in for up to 12 hours. This is helpful if you are on a long flight or road trip.
LUGGAGE TRACKER
Hopefully, you won’t need them. However, they can be a life-saver in the event that your bag goes missing.
A MULTI-TOOL
This is a nice-to-have. Again, go for one that is TSA compliant.
There you have it guys, that is our list of travel essentials. Next time you are planning a trip, you can always refer back to this post. Hope you found the items on the list helpful? So, what do you think about the items on the list? Did we miss something? Feel free to share in the comments below. Cheers!
