After over a decade traveling internationally these are the 14 travel essentials I never leave home without. I have used and tested every item on the list, I hope it helps!
When it comes to traveling, packing less is usually the way to go. But instead of focusing on packing light, why not pack right?
There are a lot of great travel essentials you can pack that could boost your trip. It will not only ensure you’ve got everything you need, but that you’ve got some emergency items that could come in handy on your travels.
My Personal 14 Travel Essentials
1. Backpack
Out of all of the travel essentials, this is the one you should spend the most time searching for.
The type of luggage you take on your travels can make a big difference to your comfort on your trip. Nobody wants to drag a bulky suitcase or hold it around! The good news is that luggage manufacturers are making the lightest luggage yet, which is not only good news for your arms and back, but it can also free up some of your luggage allowance – every kg counts!
I have been using the Osprey 40L Backpack for 10+ years with no complaints. You can read why I think it’s the best female travel backpacking bag here.
2. Slim laptop
While a laptop isn’t necessarily a travel essential, it can come in handy, especially for longer trips. Not only can it keep you occupied during travel or on those days when you just want to relax, but it can be handy for making arrangements, keeping in touch with family, and more.
Wi-Fi is readily available in most countries, especially in tourist spots, meaning you won’t have to sit around in an internet cafe to use the internet.
A slim, lightweight laptop is ideal for traveling, taking up minimal space in your luggage. If you’re embracing some solo travel, then a laptop can come in handy in a variety of situations.
3. Packing Cubes
Want to make packing less stressful? You need some packing cubes in your life!
Packing cubes are great for making the most of your luggage space while keeping your items organized. They also add an extra layer of protection in case your toiletries leak – something that nobody likes to deal with, especially after a long flight!
I like the compression ones as I can get a lot more clothes in them!
4. Eye Mask
Never underestimate the joy an eye mask can bring. When you’re feeling jet-lagged or you’re on a flight and want to get some sleep, an eye mask can help you get the rest you need. It can help you get into a routine quicker and adjust to local time, ready to make the most of your travels.
I like a simple silk one, over a cotton one personally.
5. Prescription Goggles
Do you wear glasses? Then you are going to need a pair of goggles in addition to your prescription sunglasses as one of your travel essentials.
They may not be as clear as your regular glasses while underwater, but you will still be able to see the fish and coral if you decide to go snorkeling!
6. Quality SPF
It’s important to protect your skin at all times, but when you’re traveling, you need to pay extra attention to your skin. The type of SPF you put on your face can make a big difference, helping you keep your skin oil-free and feeling hydrated.
Choose the right SPF for your skin type and apply regularly to keep your skin protected no matter where you are.
7. Portable Power Pack
Traveling can be unpredictable. Between flight delays, long journeys, and power cuts, you could easily find yourself without power on the move. Having a portable power pack means you can charge all of your devices easily on the move, making it easier for you to stay connected.
The most up-to-date power packs are capable of charging multiple devices many times over, providing you with a reliable solution that’s there when you need it.
8. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
When you travel, you want to experience all the great things a destination has to offer. But that doesn’t mean you want to experience the noise all the time. Having some noise-cancelling headphones can be a great asset for traveling.
They can help you get to sleep on a plane or in a noisy destination – helping you enjoy some peace when you need it. There are a lot of fantastic noise-canceling headphones for different budgets, so why not treat yourself to some the next time you plan a getaway?
9. Travel Pillow
It’s not always easy to sleep in new surroundings, especially when you’re traveling. Having a travel pillow with you can be especially handy if you’re backpacking, or you’re taking a long-haul flight.
Travel pillows are nice and compact, but they provide a lot of comfort – even on those difficult journeys. You could also take some sleep pillow spray to help you relax and get a good night’s sleep.
10. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential daily, but it can be easy to forget to drink water when you’re traveling. A reusable cool bottle is a must-have travel essential that can keep water cold for up to 24 hours, ideal when you’re in a hot or humid climate.
I don’t travel without my HydroFlask, it goes everywhere with me and I have 3 different sizes! Fill your bottle with clean water before you set off for the day to help you stay hydrated.
11. Good Walking Sneakers
Traveling can involve a lot of walking, so having some sensible shoes for walking is essential. I live and die by my clouds. I wear them while running and also walking while traveling.
Taking some workout clothes with you can also give you a great excuse to work out while you’re traveling. Keeping fit while traveling isn’t always easy, but the right shoes and some lightweight workout gear will keep you fit wherever you go.
12. Travel Bottles
It’s nice to enjoy some home comforts while you’re traveling. One of the ways you can feel great while away from home is to take some miniatures of your favorite toiletries.
Get yourself some travel-sized bottles you can reuse again and again, and fill them with your must-have products from home to help you enjoy some simple comforts while you’re traveling.
13. Sim Card
Most phone providers charge a lot for roaming, leaving you with a hefty bill to pay when you return from your travels. If you can’t get a good deal on your roaming charges, then the next best option is to make sure your phone is unlocked and able to accept other SIM cards or E-sims.
In addition, buying a local SIM at your destination can also allow you to benefit from cheaper data rates, saving you money and allowing you to continue to use your phone overseas.
Take a look at some of the best international SIM cards to help you find the right one for your travel needs.
14. E-Book Reader
When you travel, you want to travel as light as possible, which is why gadgets like an e-book reader are great. Very lightweight, with the option to store hundreds of books, you’ll always have something to read. Avoid over-filling your luggage and downsize your reading material into one hand-held device.
Whether you travel frequently or just now and then, it’s helpful to have a list of travel essentials you know you can take with you. Some items provide comfort and convenience, while others can help make your time more enjoyable, especially when you’re on a long flight, car ride, or train journey.
I hope this lists helps you not to forget travel essentials on your next trip! Think smarter the next time you travel by adding some of the above to your packing list.
Additional Packing Lists:
