25 Travel Essentials to Add to Your Packing List
Not sure what to pack for vacation? Below are 25 travel essentials I bring on every trip. I hope they become a favorite on your packing list as well!
Bring on the Bags
1. Suitcase: It’s all about finding the perfect luggage. And mine is the Samsonite Omni Spinner Set. However, other traveler favorites include Away, Osprey, Eagle Creek, and Desley.
2. Luggage Tag: Have your luggage standout on the carousel with a unique tag. Whether you go with a colorful print or something a little more subtle, it will set your bag apart from the rest.
3. Packing Cubes: The perfect way to stay organized and fit even more in your suitcase. I currently use Bagail, but Eagle Creek, Shacke Pak, and Gonex all have amazing reviews too!
4. Crossbody Bag: They’re not only lightweight, but easy to hold onto in crowds. And if you bring one with lots of storage space and anti-theft features like my PacSafe bag, you’ve hit the travel bag jackpot!
5. Backpack: I switch between the Travelon Heritage and the PacSafe Citysafe. And because I carry my important items in my backpack, safety and peace of mind are priceless.
All Things Technology
6. Travel Tripod: Capture your solo adventures or a group shot with a mini flexible tripod. It’s versatile and compact, so you can still document the moment even when you don’t have someone to snap the photo.
8. Voltage Adapter: The universal key to plugging in your items to a foreign outlet. Note: This is not the same as a voltage converter. So anything you plug in to an adapter needs to be dual voltage (110-240V).
9. Portable Speaker: Perfect for camping, hanging out at the hotel, or hiking. For portable speaker newbies, they’re small but mighty. So make sure you don’t accidently give your neighbor a concert too.
10. Headphones: Add earbuds or over-the-ear headphones to your bag for in-flight entertainment, exercise, or to not wake up your travel buddy while binge-watching Netflix before bed.
Goodies to Get Ready
11. Toiletry Bag: Basically a packing cube, but for your skincare, toothbrush, and shampoo! To stay organized, try a toiletry bag with multiple sections and a hook to hang up in the bathroom.
12. Travel Steamer: Wrinkles no more thanks to a dual voltage mini steamer! It’s quick, compact, and works on most fabric. Prefer an iron? As your accommodation if they have one onsite.
13. Folding Mirror: Sharing a bathroom or need better lighting? A folding mirror adjusts to your desired angle and is easy to store. Tip: Pack it in your carry-on so the glass doesn’t crack in transit.
14. Dual Voltage Hair Tools: Traveling abroad? Before use, check that the label says 100/240V. In need of a dual voltage styling tool? Give one of these straighteners, curling irons, or blow dryers a try!
15. Waterproof Sandals: Don’t forget a pair for cold climates too! Say what? No matter the season, sandals are easy to slip on for a dip in the hot tub, showering, or a quick trip to the lobby.
Explore the Sites With Ease
16. Travel Wallet: Save space in your bag with a pocket size RFID-blocking wallet. And while it’s not as slim as a cardholder, this style will come handy for local cash and coins.
17. Sunglasses: Whether you’re hitting the slopes or the beach, sunglasses are a necessity no matter the weather. Just throw them in a case so they don’t get scratched or broken in transport.
18. Comfortable Shoes: There’s nothing worse than blisters the first day of a trip. So bring your tried and true or break in that new pair before you touch down. And bring bandaids just in case!
19. Umbrella: Even if the forecast looks gorgeous, add a compact umbrella in your day bag. They’re not only a lifesaver in unexpected rain, but also for shade during extra sunny days!
20. Reusable Water Bottle: Save money by filling up your water bottle at the hotel or airport. If tap water isn’t safe to drink, buy a gallon jug at the store to refill throughout your holiday.
Other Must-Haves
21. Playing Cards: Who needs WiFi when you can play cards? From the great outdoors to a new city, enjoy while you’re waiting on food, having a round of drinks, on the airplane, or during a night in.
22. Neck Pillow: If you have trouble sleeping on planes or just want additional comfort, try a neck pillow. I use Trtl as it takes up less space than other styles and works with my height and desired neck support!
23. Medicine: Make your own mini first aid kit. That way if you get a cold, have a headache, or get a cut, you’ll be prepared. Then update it for each trip based on your destination.
24. Travel Towel: Ideal for camping, beach trips, or hostels. Plus, they’re quick dry and compact. Which means they might not be as thick or fluffy as a regular towel, but it’s worth the perks!
25. On-the-Go Detergent: Need to wash your clothes? Use this to clean them in the sink. Have access to a washing machine? Throw some laundry detergent pods in a travel safe container to bring with you.
What are some of your travel essentials? Share your packing must-haves with me in the comments below!
-
50 Travel Tips to Become the Ultimate Jet-Setter
Explore 50 of my favorite travel tips to pack like a pro, capture incredible photos, save money for a trip, stay safe as a solo traveler, and more.
-
6 Top-Rated Dual Voltage Travel Hair Straighteners & Flat Irons
Searching for hair straighteners or flat irons that work abroad? View 6 top-rated favorites that are dual voltage and perfect for travel.
-
A Rundown on Regional Pizza Styles Across the United States
America has so many unique types of pizza. Get the full scoop on some of the regional pizza styles across the United States to try during your travels.
