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!
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25 Travel Essentials to Add to Your Packing List
Not sure what to pack for your vacation? Here are 25 travel essentials I bring on every trip. I hope they become a favorite on your packing list as well!
